bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Potential of Water Treatment Sludges in the Removal of Emerging Pollutants
Authors: Dias Rita , Sousa Diogo , Bernardo Maria , Matos Inês , Fonseca Isabel , Vale Cardoso Vitor , Neves Carneiro Rui , Silva Sofia , Fontes Pedro , Daam Michiel A. , Maurício Rita
Published: February 2021

Presently, water quantity and quality problems persist both in developed and developing countries, and concerns have been raised about the presence of emerging pollutants (EPs) in water. The circular economy provides ways of achieving sustainable resource management that can be implemented in the water sector, such as the reuse of drinking water treatment sludges (WTSs). This study evaluated the potential of WTS containing a high concentration of activated carbon for the removal of two EPs: the steroid hormones 17β-estradiol (E2) and 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2). To this end, WTSs from two Portuguese water treatment plants (WTPs) were characterised and tested for their hormone adsorbance potential. Both WTSs showed a promising adsorption potential for the two hormones studied due to their textural and chemical properties. For WTS1, the final concentration for both hormones was lower than the limit of quantification (LOQ). As for WTS2, the results for E2 removal were similar to WTS1, although for EE2, the removal efficiency was lower (around 50%). The overall results indicate that this method may lead to new ways of using this erstwhile residue as a possible adsorbent material for the removal of several EPs present in wastewaters or other matrixes, and as such contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets.
A Rheological Model for Evaluating the Behavior of Shear Thickening of Highly Flowable Mortar
Authors: Li Mengyuan , Han Jianguo , Zhou Yuqi , Yan Peiyu
Published: February 2021

Neither the modified Bingham model nor the Herschel–Bulkley model can be used to characterize and calculate the performance of shear thickening of highly flowable mortar because of their incalculability of the rheological parameters. A new exponential rheological model was established to solve the characterization and calculation of shear thickening of the lubrication layer (highly flowable mortar) during the pumping of concrete in this paper. This new exponential rheological model has three rheological parameters, namely, yield stress, consistency coefficient, and consistency exponent. They can quantitatively describe the yield stress, differential viscosity, and shear thickening degree of highly flowable mortar. The calculating results of the rheological parameters of the newly established model for the mortars with different compositions showed that the consistency exponent of mortar decreased with the increase of its sand-binder ratio or the dosage of fly ash in the binder. This indicates that the shear thickening degree of mortar decreases. The consistency exponent of mortar initially decreases and subsequently increases with the increase in silica fume content or the dosage of the superplasticizer. It illustrates that the degree of the shear thickening of mortar initially decreased and subsequently increased. These varying patterns were confirmed by the rheological experiment of mortars.
Inactivation and Membrane Damage Mechanism of Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water on Pseudomonas deceptionensis CM2
Authors: Liu Xiao , Zhang Mingli , Meng Xi , He Xiangli , Zhao Weidong , Liu Yongji , He Yu
Published: February 2021

Pseudomonas is considered as the specific spoilage bacteria in meat and meat products. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inactivation efficiency and mechanisms of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) against Pseudomonas deceptionensis CM2, a strain isolated from spoiling chicken breast. SAEW caused time-dependent inactivation of P. deceptionensis CM2 cells. After exposure to SAEW (pH 5.9, oxidation–reduction potential of 945 mV, and 64 mg/L of available chlorine concentration) for 60 s, the bacterial populations were reduced by 5.14 log reduction from the initial load of 10.2 log10 CFU/mL. Morphological changes in P. deceptionensis CM2 cells were clearly observed through field emission-scanning electron microscopy as a consequence of SAEW treatment. SAEW treatment also resulted in significant increases in the extracellular proteins and nucleic acids, and the fluorescence intensities of propidium iodide and n-phenyl-1-napthylamine in P. deceptionensis CM2 cells, suggesting the disruption of cytoplasmic and outer membrane integrity. These findings show that SAEW is a promising antimicrobial agent.
Versatile Reactivity of MnII Complexes in Reactions with N-Donor Heterocycles: Metamorphosis of Labile Homometallic Pivalates vs. Assembling of Endurable Heterometallic Acetates
Authors: Polunin Ruslan , Evstifeev Igor , Cador Olivier , Golhen Stéphane , Gavrilenko Konstantin , Lytvynenko Anton , Efimov Nikolay , Minin Vadim , Bogomyakov Artem , Ouahab Lahcène , Kolotilov Sergey , Kiskin Mikhail , Eremenko Igor
Published: February 2021

Reaction of 2,2′-bipyridine (2,2′-bipy) or 1,10-phenantroline (phen) with [Mn(Piv)2(EtOH)]n led to the formation of binuclear complexes [Mn2(Piv)4L2] (L = 2,2′-bipy (1), phen (2); Piv− is the anion of pivalic acid). Oxidation of 1 or 2 by air oxygen resulted in the formation of tetranuclear MnII/III complexes [Mn4O2(Piv)6L2] (L = 2,2′-bipy (3), phen (4)). The hexanuclear complex [Mn6(OH)2(Piv)10(pym)4] (5) was formed in the reaction of [Mn(Piv)2(EtOH)]n with pyrimidine (pym), while oxidation of 5 produced the coordination polymer [Mn6O2(Piv)10(pym)2]n (6). Use of pyrazine (pz) instead of pyrimidine led to the 2D-coordination polymer [Mn4(OH)(Piv)7(µ2-pz)2]n (7). Interaction of [Mn(Piv)2(EtOH)]n with FeCl3 resulted in the formation of the hexanuclear complex [MnII4FeIII2O2(Piv)10(MeCN)2(HPiv)2] (8). The reactions of [MnFe2O(OAc)6(H2O)3] with 4,4′-bipyridine (4,4′-bipy) or trans-1,2-(4-pyridyl)ethylene (bpe) led to the formation of 1D-polymers [MnFe2O(OAc)6L2]n·2nDMF, where L = 4,4′-bipy (9·2DMF), bpe (10·2DMF) and [MnFe2O(OAc)6(bpe)(DMF)]n·3.5nDMF (11·3.5DMF). All complexes were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Desolvation of 11·3.5DMF led to a collapse of the porous crystal lattice that was confirmed by PXRD and N2 sorption measurements, while alcohol adsorption led to porous structure restoration. Weak antiferromagnetic exchange was found in the case of binuclear MnII complexes (JMn-Mn = −1.03 cm−1 for 1 and 2). According to magnetic data analysis (JMn-Mn = −(2.69 ÷ 0.42) cm−1) and DFT calculations (JMn-Mn = −(6.9 ÷ 0.9) cm−1) weak antiferromagnetic coupling between MnII ions also occurred in the tetranuclear {Mn4(OH)(Piv)7} unit of the 2D polymer 7. In contrast, strong antiferromagnetic coupling was found in oxo-bridged trinuclear fragment {MnFe2O(OAc)6} in 11·3.5DMF (JFe-Fe = −57.8 cm−1, JFe-Mn = −20.12 cm−1).
Direct Transesterification for Biodiesel Production and Testing the Engine for Performance and Emissions Run on Biodiesel-Diesel-Nano Blends
Authors: Khan T. M. Yunus
Published: February 2021

In the current research, the biodiesel was prepared from feedstocks of Neem oil and Karanja oil employing a single step direct transesterification method using acid-base catalysts simultaneously. The fuel properties of both Neem and Karanja biodiesel along with different biodiesel-diesel blends were studied and compared. Biodiesel produced from Neem oil was found better in terms of kinematic viscosity, calorific value and cloud point for all its blends with diesel compared to Karanja biodiesel-diesel blends. Experiments were conducted to study the effects of addition of graphene nano particles on fuel properties of biodiesel-diesel blends. The B20 biodiesel-diesel blend was selected, which was blended with graphene nano particles in different proportions (35, 70, 105 ppm) to get different stable and symmetric B20-nano blends. The fuel properties except kinematic viscosity were further improved with higher dosages of nano particles with the biodiesel-diesel blend. The performance and emissions tests were conducted on 4-stroke variable compression ratio diesel engine. Higher concentrated B20-nano blends of Neem (NOME20GO105) and Karanja (KOME20GO105) resulted in 31 and 30.9% of brake thermal efficiency, respectively, compared with diesel of 32.5%. The brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was reduced by 10 and 11% for NOME20GO105 and KOME20GO105, respectively, compared to their respective B20 blends. Similarly, carbon monoxide (CO) was reduced significantly by 27 and 29% for NOME20GO105 and KOME20GO105, respectively.
Functionalization of Commercial Electrospun Veils with Zinc Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Bavasso Irene , Sbardella Francesca , Bracciale Maria Paola , Lilli Matteo , Tirillò Jacopo , Di Palma Luca , Felici Anna Candida , Sarasini Fabrizio
Published: February 2021

The present research is focused on the synthesis of hexagonal ZnO wurtzite nanorods for the decoration of commercially available electrospun nylon nanofibers. The growth of ZnO was performed by a hydrothermal technique and for the first time on commercial electrospun veils. The growth step was optimized by adopting a procedure with the refresh of growing solution each hour of treatment (Method 1) and with the maintenance of a specific growth solution volume for the entire duration of the treatment (Method 2). The overall treatment time and volume of solution were also optimized by analyzing the morphology of ZnO nanostructures, the coverage degree, the thermal and mechanical stability of the obtained decorated electrospun nanofibers. In the optimal synthesis conditions (Method 2), hexagonal ZnO nanorods with a diameter and length of 53.5 nm ± 5.7 nm and 375.4 nm ± 37.8 nm, respectively, were obtained with a homogeneous and complete coverage of the veils. This easily scalable procedure did not damage the veils that could be potentially used as toughening elements in composites to prevent delamination onset and propagation. The presence of photoreactive species makes these materials ideal also as environmentally friendly photocatalysts for wastewater treatment. In this regard, photocatalytic tests were performed using methylene blue (MB) as model compound. Under UV light irradiation, the degradation of MB followed a first kinetic order data fitting and after 3 h of treatment a MB degradation of 91.0% ± 5.1% was achieved. The reusability of decorated veils was evaluated and a decrease in photocatalysis efficiency was detected after the third cycle of use.
Strong Terahertz Absorption of Monolayer Graphene Embedded into a Microcavity
Authors: Guo Xuguang , Xue Lejie , Yang Zhenxing , Xu Mengjian , Zhu Yiming , Shao Dixiang , Fu Zhanglong , Tan Zhiyong , Wang Chang , Cao Juncheng , Zhang Chao
Published: February 2021

Terahertz reflection behaviors of metallic-grating-dielectric-metal (MGDM) microcavity with a monolayer graphene embedded into the dielectric layer are theoretically investigated. A tunable wideband reflection dip at about the Fabry–Pérot resonant frequency of the structure is found. The reflectance at the dip frequency can be electrically tuned in the range of 96.5% and 8.8%. Because of the subwavelength distance between the metallic grating and the monolayer graphene, both of the evanescent grating slit waveguide modes and the evanescent Rayleigh modes play key roles in the strong absorption by the graphene layer. The dependence of reflection behaviors on the carrier scattering rate of graphene is analyzed. A prototype MGDM-graphene structure is fabricated to verify the theoretical analysis. Our investigations are helpful for the developments of electrically controlled terahertz modulators, switches, and reconfigurable antennas based on the MGDM-graphene structures.
Optical Nanoantennas for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Duarte Francisco , Torres João Paulo N. , Baptista António , Marques Lameirinhas Ricardo A.
Published: February 2021

In the last decade, the development and progress of nanotechnology has enabled a better understanding of the light–matter interaction at the nanoscale. Its unique capability to fabricate new structures at atomic scale has already produced novel materials and devices with great potential applications in a wide range of fields. In this context, nanotechnology allows the development of models, such as nanometric optical antennas, with dimensions smaller than the wavelength of the incident electromagnetic wave. In this article, the behavior of optical aperture nanoantennas, a metal sheet with apertures of dimensions smaller than the wavelength, combined with photovoltaic solar panels is studied. This technique emerged as a potential renewable energy solution, by increasing the efficiency of solar cells, while reducing their manufacturing and electricity production costs. The objective of this article is to perform a performance analysis, using COMSOL Multiphysics software, with different materials and designs of nanoantennas and choosing the most suitable one for use on a solar photovoltaic panel.
A Short Review on the Electrochemical Performance of Hierarchical and Nitrogen-Doped Activated Biocarbon-Based Electrodes for Supercapacitors
Authors: Reis Glaydson Simões dos , Oliveira Helinando Pequeno de , Larsson Sylvia H. , Thyrel Mikael , Claudio Lima Eder
Published: February 2021

Cheap and efficient carbon electrodes (CEs) for energy storage systems (ESS) such as supercapacitors (SCs) and batteries are an increasing priority issue, among other things, due to a globally increasing share of intermittent electricity production (solar and wind) and electrification of transport. The increasing consumption of portable and non-portable electronic devices justifies research that enables environmentally and economically sustainable production (materials, processing techniques, and product design) of products with a high electrochemical performance at an acceptable cost. Among all the currently explored CEs materials, biomass-based activated carbons (AC) present enormous potential due to their availability and low-cost, easy processing methods, physicochemical stability, and methods for self-doping. Nitrogen doping methods in CEs for SCs have been demonstrated to enhance its conductivities, surface wettability, and induced pseudocapacitance effect, thereby delivering improved energy/power densities with versatile properties. Herein, a short review is presented, focusing on the different types of natural carbon sources for preparing CEs towards the fabrication of SCs with high electrochemical performance. The influences of ACs’ pore characteristics (micro and mesoporosity) and nitrogen doping on the overall electrochemical performance (EP) are addressed.
Incorporation of CNF with Different Charge Property into PVP Hydrogel and Its Characteristics
Authors: Im Wanhee , Park Shin Young , Goo Sooim , Yook Simyub , Lee Hak Lae , Yang Guihua , Youn Hye Jung
Published: February 2021

Cellulose nanofibril (CNF)-added polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) hydrogels were prepared using different types of CNFs and their properties were investigated. CNFs with different morphology and surface charge properties were prepared through quaternization and carboxymethylation pretreatments. The quaternized CNF exhibited the narrow and uniform width, and higher viscoelastic property compared to untreated and carboxymethylated CNF. When CNF was incorporated to PVP hydrogel, gel contents of all hydrogels were similar, irrespective of CNF addition quantity or CNF type. However, the absorptivity of the hydrogels in a swelling medium increased by adding CNF. In particular, the quaternized CNF-added PVP hydrogel exhibited the highest swelling ability. Unlike that of hydrogels with untreated and carboxymethylated CNFs, the storage modulus of PVP hydrogels after swelling significantly increased with an increase in the content of the quaternized CNF. These indicate that a PVP hydrogel with a high absorptivity and storage modulus can be prepared by incorporating the proper type of CNF.
Novel Surfactant-Free Water Dispersion Technique of TiO2 NPs Using Focused Ultrasound System
Authors: Hwangbo Seon Ae , Kwak Minjeong , Kim Jaeseok , Lee Tae Geol
Published: February 2021

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are used in a wide variety of products, such as renewable energy resources, cosmetics, foods, packaging materials, and inks. However, large quantities of surfactants are used to prepare waterborne TiO2 nanoparticles with long-term dispersion stability, and very few studies have investigated the development of pure water dispersion technology without the use of surfactants and synthetic auxiliaries. This study investigated the use of focused ultrasound to prepare surfactant-free waterborne TiO2 nanoparticles to determine the optimal conditions for dispersion of TiO2 nanoparticles in water. Under 395–400 kHz and 100–105 W conditions, 1 wt% TiO2 colloids were prepared. Even in the absence of a surfactant, in the water dispersion state, the nanoparticles were dispersed with a particle size distribution of ≤100 nm and did not re-agglomerate for up to 30 days, demonstrating their excellent dispersion stability.
Effect of Matrix-Modulating Enzymes on the Cellular Uptake of Magnetic Nanoparticles and on Magnetic Hyperthermia Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer Models In Vivo
Authors: Tansi Felista L. , Fröbel Filipp , Maduabuchi Wisdom O. , Steiniger Frank , Westermann Martin , Quaas Rainer , Teichgräber Ulf K. , Hilger Ingrid
Published: February 2021

Magnetic hyperthermia can cause localized thermal eradication of several solid cancers. However, a localized and homogenous deposition of high concentrations of magnetic nanomaterials into the tumor stroma and tumor cells is mostly required. Poorly responsive cancers such as the pancreatic adenocarcinomas are hallmarked by a rigid stroma and poor perfusion to therapeutics and nanomaterials. Hence, approaches that enhance the infiltration of magnetic nanofluids into the tumor stroma convey potentials to improve thermal tumor therapy. We studied the influence of the matrix-modulating enzymes hyaluronidase and collagenase on the uptake of magnetic nanoparticles by pancreatic cancer cells and 3D spheroids thereof, and the overall impact on magnetic heating and cell death. Furthermore, we validated the effect of hyaluronidase on magnetic hyperthermia treatment of heterotopic pancreatic cancer models in mice. Treatment of cultured cells with the enzymes caused higher uptake of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) as compared to nontreated cells. For example, hyaluronidase caused a 28% increase in iron deposits per cell. Consequently, the thermal doses (cumulative equivalent minutes at 43 °C, CEM43) increased by 15–23% as compared to heat dose achieved for cells treated with magnetic hyperthermia without using enzymes. Likewise, heat-induced cell death increased. In in vivo studies, hyaluronidase-enhanced infiltration and distribution of the nanoparticles in the tumors resulted in moderate heating levels (CEM43 of 128 min as compared to 479 min) and a slower, but persistent decrease in tumor volumes over time after treatment, as compared to comparable treatment without hyaluronidase. The results indicate that hyaluronidase, in particular, improves the infiltration of magnetic nanoparticles into pancreatic cancer models, impacts their thermal treatment and cell depletion, and hence, will contribute immensely in the fight against pancreatic and many other adenocarcinomas.
Comparison of Effects of Sodium Chloride and Potassium Chloride on Spray Drying and Redispersion of Cellulose Nanofibrils Suspension
Authors: Yang Guihua , Ma Guangrui , He Ming , Ji Xingxiang , Li Weidong , Youn Hye Jung , Lee Hak Lae , Chen Jiachuan
Published: February 2021

Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were exposed to the same levels of potassium chloride (KCl) and sodium chloride (NaCl) before being subjected to spray drying. The effect of NaCl and KCl on the size of atomized droplets and the hydrogen bond retardation between CNFs was investigated by characterizing product morphology, particle size distribution, dispersion stability in aqueous system, and surface chemistry. The results showed that the CNF suspensions treated with KCl could be atomized into smaller droplets during spray drying, and then CNF powder with smaller sizes could be obtained. As the agglomeration was less, and the CNF with KCl addition had good dispersion stability after redispersion compared with CNF treated by NaCl. Therefore, KCl treatment was an effective method to reduce the agglomeration of CNF during spray drying.
Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB)-Loaded SiO2–Ag Mesoporous Nanocomposite as an Efficient Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Abduraimova Aiganym , Molkenova Anara , Duisembekova Assem , Mulikova Tomiris , Kanayeva Damira , Atabaev Timur Sh.
Published: February 2021

To date, Ag-based nanomaterials have demonstrated a high potential to overcome antibiotic resistance issues. However, bare Ag nanomaterials are prone to agglomeration in the biological environment, which results in a loss of antibacterial activity over time. Furthermore, it is still challenging to collect small-sized Ag nanomaterials right after the synthesis process. In this study, spherical-shaped Ag nanoparticles (NPs) (~6–10 nm) were attached on the surface of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) (~100–110 nm). Antibacterial activity tests suggested that the obtained nanocomposite can be used as a highly efficient antibacterial agent against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) recalculated to pure Ag weight in nanocomposite was found to be ~1.84 µg/mL (for Escherichia coli) and ~0.92 µg/mL (for Staphylococcus aureus)—significantly smaller compared to values reported to date. The improved antibacterial activity of the prepared nanocomposite can be attributed to the even distribution of non-aggregated Ag NPs per volume unit and the presence of CTAB in the nanocomposite pores.
Luminescent Yb3+,Er3+-Doped α-La(IO3)3 Nanocrystals for Neuronal Network Bio-Imaging and Nanothermometry
Authors: Dantelle Géraldine , Reita Valérie , Delacour Cécile
Published: February 2021

Dual-light emitting Yb3+,Er3+-codoped α-La(IO3)3 nanocrystals, known to exhibit both second harmonic signal and photoluminescence (PL), are evaluated as optical nanoprobes and thermal sensors using both conventional microscopes and a more sophisticated micro-PL setup. When loaded in cortical and hippocampal neurons for a few hours at a concentration of 0.01 mg/mL, a visible PL signal arising from the nanocrystals can be clearly detected using an epifluorescent conventional microscope, enabling to localize the nanocrystals along the stained neurons and to record PL variation with temperature of 0.5% K−1. No signal of cytotoxicity, associated with the presence of nanocrystals, is observed during the few hours of the experiment. Alternatively, a micro-PL setup can be used to discriminate the different PL lines. From ratiometric PL measurements, a relative thermal sensitivity of 1.2% K−1 was measured.
Heteroaggregates of Polystyrene Nanospheres and Organic Matter: Preparation, Characterization and Evaluation of Their Toxicity to Algae in Environmentally Relevant Conditions
Authors: Rowenczyk Laura , Leflaive Joséphine , Clergeaud Fanny , Minet Antoine , Ferriol Jessica , Gauthier Laury , Gigault Julien , Mouchet Florence , Ory David , Pinelli Eric , Albignac Magali , Roux Clément , Mingotaud Anne Françoise , Silvestre Jérôme , Ten-Hage Loïc , ter Halle Alexandra
Published: February 2021

The environmental fate and behavior of nanoplastics (NPs) and their toxicity against aquatic organisms are under current investigation. In this work, relevant physicochemical characterizations were provided to analyze the ecotoxicological risk of NPs in the aquatic compartment. For this purpose, heteroaggregates of 50 nm polystyrene nanospheres and natural organic matter were prepared and characterized. The kinetic of aggregation was assimilated to a reaction-limited colloid aggregation mode and led to the formation of heteroaggregates in the range of 100–500 nm. Toxicities of these heteroaggregates and polystyrene nanospheres (50 and 350 nm) were assessed for a large range of concentrations using four benthic and one planktonic algal species, in regards to particle states in the media. Heteroaggregates and nanospheres were shown to be stable in the exposure media during the ecotoxity tests. The algal species exhibited very low sensitivity (growth and photosynthetic activity), with the noteworthy exception of the planktonic alga, whose growth increased by more than 150% with the heteroaggregates at 1 µg L−1. Despite the lack of a strong direct effect of the NPs, they may still impair the functioning of aquatic ecosystems by destabilizing the competitive interactions between species. Moreover, further work should assess the toxicity of NPs associated with other substances (adsorbed pollutants or additives) that could enhance the NP effects.
Effect of the Size and Shape of Ho, Tm:KLu(WO4)2 Nanoparticles on Their Self-Assessed Photothermal Properties
Authors: Nexha Albenc , Pujol Maria Cinta , Carvajal Joan Josep , Díaz Francesc , Aguiló Magdalena
Published: February 2021

The incorporation of oleic acid and oleylamine, acting as organic surfactant coatings for a novel solvothermal synthesis procedure, resulted in the formation of monoclinic KLu(WO4)2 nanocrystals. The formation of this crystalline phase was confirmed structurally from X-ray powder diffraction patterns and Raman vibrational modes, and thermally by differential thermal analysis. The transmission electron microscopy images confirm the nanodimensional size (~12 nm and ~16 nm for microwave-assisted and conventional autoclave solvothermal synthesis) of the particles and no agglomeration, contrary to the traditional modified sol-gel Pechini methodology. Upon doping with holmium (III) and thulium (III) lanthanide ions, these nanocrystals can generate simultaneously photoluminescence and heat, acting as nanothermometers and as photothermal agents in the third biological window, i.e., self-assessed photothermal agents, upon excitation with 808 nm near infrared, lying in the first biological window. The emissions of these nanocrystals, regardless of the solvothermal synthetic methodology applied to synthesize them, are located at 1.45 μm, 1.8 μm and 1.96 μm, attributed to the 3H4 → 3F4 and 3F4 → 3H6 electronic transition of Tm3+ and 5I7 → 5I8 electronic transition of Ho3+, respectively. The self-assessing properties of these nanocrystals are studied as a function of their size and shape and compared to the ones prepared by the modified sol-gel Pechini methodology, revealing that the small nanocrystals obtained by the hydrothermal methods have the ability to generate heat more efficiently, but their capacity to sense temperature is not as good as that of the nanoparticles prepared by the modified sol-gel Pechnini method, revealing that the synthesis method influences the performance of these self-assessed photothermal agents. The self-assessing ability of these nanocrystals in the third biological window is proven via an ex-vivo experiment, achieving thermal knowledge and heat generation at a maximum penetration depth of 2 mm.
Glass-Forming Ability and Thermal Properties of Al70Fe12.5V12.5X5(X = Zr, Nb, Ni) Amorphous Alloys via Minor Alloying Additions
Authors: Liu Xuan , Wang Xingfu , Si Yongli , Han Fusheng
Published: February 2021

The Al70Fe12.5V12.5Ni5, Al70Fe12.5V12.5Zr5 and Al70Fe12.5V12.5Nb5 alloys were prepared via mechanical alloying. The influence of Zr, Nb or Ni addition on the glass-forming ability of Al-Fe-V amorphous alloys have been investigated. The structure of Al70Fe12.5V12.5Ni5 was amorphous and Al70Fe12.5V12.5Zr5 was not completely amorphous by transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. Different criteria were used to evaluate the influence of the addition of alloy elements on the Glass-forming ability. The Al70Fe12.5V12.5Ni5 amorphous alloys exhibits higher glass-forming ability and activation energies of crystallization. Comparison of the effective atomic size ratio and mixture enthalpy on the glass-forming ability of these amorphous alloys demonstrates that the effective atomic size ratio value becomes more significant than the values of mixture enthalpy.
L-Arginine Reduces Nitro-Oxidative Stress in Cultured Cells with Mitochondrial Deficiency
Authors: Barros Camila D. S. , Livramento Jomênica B. , Mouro Margaret G. , Higa Elisa Mieko Suemitsu , Moraes Carlos T. , Tengan Celia Harumi
Published: February 2021

L-Arginine (L-ARG) supplementation has been suggested as a therapeutic option in several diseases, including Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like syndrome (MELAS), arguably the most common mitochondrial disease. It is suggested that L-ARG, a nitric oxide (NO) precursor, can restore NO levels in blood vessels, improving cerebral blood flow. However, NO also participates in mitochondrial processes, such as mitochondrial biogenesis, the regulation of the respiratory chain, and oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of L-ARG on mitochondrial function, nitric oxide synthesis, and nitro-oxidative stress in cell lines harboring the MELAS mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutation (m.3243A>G). We evaluated mitochondrial enzyme activity, mitochondrial mass, NO concentration, and nitro-oxidative stress. Our results showed that m.3243A>G cells had increased NO levels and protein nitration at basal conditions. Treatment with L-ARG did not affect the mitochondrial function and mass but reduced the intracellular NO concentration and nitrated proteins in m.3243A>G cells. The same treatment led to opposite effects in control cells. In conclusion, we showed that the main effect of L-ARG was on protein nitration. Lowering protein nitration is probably involved in the mechanism related to L-ARG supplementation benefits in MELAS patients.
A Non-Probiotic Fermented Soy Product Reduces Total and LDL Cholesterol: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Jung Sarah M. , Haddad Ella H. , Kaur Amandeep , Sirirat Rawiwan , Kim Alice Y. , Oda Keiji , Rajaram Sujatha , Sabaté Joan
Published: February 2021

Traditional Asian fermented soy food products are associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk in prospective studies, but few randomized controlled trials have been conducted in at-risk populations. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a commercial non-probiotic fermented soy product on blood lipids in adults with cardiovascular risk biomarkers. In a randomized, crossover, intervention study, 27 men and women (aged 29–75 y) exhibiting at least two risk factors, consumed two packets (12.5 g each) daily of a fermented powdered soy product, or an isoenergic control powder made from germinated brown rice for 12 weeks each. The consumption of the fermented soy product resulted in a significantly greater mean change from baseline (compared to the germinated rice, all p < 0.05) in total cholesterol of −0.23 mmol/L (CI: −0.40, −0.06) compared with 0.14 mmol/L (CI: −0.03, 0.31), respectively; and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol −0.18 mmol/L (CI: −0.32, −0.04) compared with 0.04 mmol/L (CI: −0.01, 0.018) respectively. This was accompanied by an increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the germinated rice group, a decrease in apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in the fermented soy group, and a between-treatment effect in apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1); however, the ratio of the LDL:HDL and of Apo B:ApoA1 did not differ between the groups. The ratio of total cholesterol:LDL decreased in men in the fermented soy group (p < 0.001). Twenty-four-hour urine collection at the end of each treatment period resulted in an increased excretion expressed as a ratio in μmol/d between treatments of 10.93 (CI: 5.07, 23.54) for daidzein; 1.24 (CI: 1.14, 4.43) for genistein; and, 8.48 (CI: 4.28, 16.80) for glycitein, all p < 0.05. The fermented soy powder consumed by participants in this study without implementing other changes in their typical diets, decreased the total and LDL cholesterol, and may serve as a dietary strategy to manage blood lipids. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03429920.
Moderate Mocha Coffee Consumption Is Associated with Higher Cognitive and Mood Status in a Non-Demented Elderly Population with Subcortical Ischemic Vascular Disease
Authors: Fisicaro Francesco , Lanza Giuseppe , Pennisi Manuela , Vagli Carla , Cantone Mariagiovanna , Pennisi Giovanni , Ferri Raffaele , Bella Rita
Published: February 2021

To date, interest in the role of coffee intake in the occurrence and course of age-related neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders has provided an inconclusive effect. Moreover, no study has evaluated mocha coffee consumption in subjects with mild vascular cognitive impairment and late-onset depression. We assessed the association between different quantities of mocha coffee intake over the last year and cognitive and mood performance in a homogeneous sample of 300 non-demented elderly Italian subjects with subcortical ischemic vascular disease. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Stroop Colour-Word Interference Test (Stroop T), 17-items Hamilton Depression Rating Scalfe (HDRS), Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and Instrumental ADL were the outcome measures. MMSE, HDRS, and Stroop T were independently and significantly associated with coffee consumption, i.e., better scores with increasing intake. At the post-hoc analyses, it was found that the group with a moderate intake (two cups/day) had similar values compared to the heavy drinkers (≥three cups/day), with the exception of MMSE. Daily mocha coffee intake was associated with higher cognitive and mood status, with a significant dose-response association even with moderate consumption. This might have translational implications for the identification of modifiable factors for vascular dementia and geriatric depression.
Assessment of Dietary Habits Using the Diet Quality Index—International in Cerebrovascular and Cardiovascular Disease Patients
Authors: Cho In Young , Lee Kyung Min , Lee Yoojin , Paek Chuel Min , Kim Ha Jin , Kim Ju Young , Lee Kiheon , Han Jong Soo , Bae Woo Kyung
Published: February 2021

Improvement of dietary habits is recommended for the management of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases (CCVD). This study aimed to evaluate the dietary habits of CCVD patients and compare them with the general population by using the Diet Quality Index—International (DQI-I). Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2013–2016) were used. Cardiovascular diseases included myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, and heart failure; and cerebrovascular diseases included stroke, cerebral infarction, and hemorrhage. In total, 12,683 subjects over 20 years old were included, comprising 718 CCVD patients and 11,965 non-CCVD subjects. Survey-weighted multiple linear regression analyses with adjustment for covariates were used to compare DQI-I scores. The mean total DQI-I scores for the CCVD and non-CCVD groups were 66.7 ± 9.2 and 67.8 ± 9.2, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, the CCVD group had DQI-I scores significantly lower than the non-CCVD group (coefficient −1.13, p-value = 0.011). In the analysis of each DQI-I component, the CCVD group had lower scores for variety (coefficient −0.54, p-value = 0.004) and adequacy (coefficient −0.86, p-value = 0.001). In this study, using nationally representative data, dietary habits of CCVD patients were shown to be lower in quality than non-CCVD subjects. Therefore, evaluation and education of adequate dietary habits are needed in the management of CCVD patients.
Dietary Quality Associated with Self-Reported Diabetes, Osteoarthritis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis among Younger and Older US Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Using NHANES 2011–2016
Authors: Matsunaga Masako , Lim Eunjung , Davis James , Chen John J.
Published: February 2021

Background: To date, few studies have compared the dietary quality of US adults with diabetes mellitus (DM), osteoarthritis (OA), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by age groups. Methods: This study used cross-sectional data from adult participants from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2016 to identify dietary quality measured by Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 total and component scores and self-reported disease status for DM, OA, and RA. Associations between the disease status and HEI-2015 total/component scores among younger adults aged 20–59 years (n = 7988) and older adults aged 60 years and older (n = 3780) were examined using logistic regression models. These accounted for the complex survey design and were adjusted for self-reported disease status, sex, race/ethnicity, education levels, income status, weight status, physical activity levels, and smoking status. Results: Among younger adults, 7% had DM, 7% had OA, and 3% had RA. Among older adults, 20% had DM, 32% had OA, and 6% had RA. Moderate added sugar intake was associated with diabetes in all adults. Excess sodium intake was associated with DM among younger adults. Inadequate seafood and plant protein intake was associated with RA among younger adults, while a poor overall dietary pattern was associated with RA among older adults. Conclusions: The dietary quality of US adults varied by self-reported DM, OA, and RA status, and each varied by age group.
Circulating Metabolites Associated with Postprandial Satiety in Overweight/Obese Participants: The SATIN Study
Authors: Camacho-Barcia Lucía , García-Gavilán Jesús , Papandreou Christopher , Hansen Thea T. , Harrold Jo A. , Finlayson Graham , Blundell John E. , Sjödin Anders , Halford Jason C. G. , Bulló Mònica
Published: February 2021

Scope: To identify a metabolomic profile related to postprandial satiety sensations involved in appetite control would help for a better understanding of the regulation of food intake. Methods and Results: A cross-sectional analysis of plasma metabolites was conducted over 151 overweight/obese adults from the “Satiety Innovation”-SATIN study, a randomized clinical trial of a 12-week weight-loss maintenance period. Postprandial satiety sensations (3 h-iAUC) were assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) at the beginning and at the end of the study. Fasting plasma metabolites were profiled using a targeted multiplatform metabolomics approach before each appetite test meal. Associations between 124 metabolites and iAUC-satiety were assessed using elastic net linear regression analyses. The accuracy of the multimetabolite weighted models for iAUC-VAS was evaluated using a 10-fold cross-validation (CV) approach and the Pearson’s correlation coefficients were estimated. Five and three metabolites were selected in the first and the second assessments, respectively. Circulating glycine and linoleic acid concentrations were consistently and positively associated with higher iAUC-satiety in both visits. Sucrose and sphingomyelins (C32:2, C38:1) were negatively associated with iAUC-satiety in the first visit. The Pearson correlations coefficients between the metabolomic profiles and iAUC-satiety in the first and the second appetite assessments were 0.37 and 0.27, respectively. Conclusion: Higher glycine and linoleic acid were moderately but consistently associated with higher postprandial satiety in two different appetite assessments in overweight and obese subjects.
The Edible Brown Seaweed Sargassum horneri (Turner) C. Agardh Ameliorates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity, Diabetes, and Hepatic Steatosis in Mice
Authors: Murakami Shigeru , Hirazawa Chihiro , Ohya Takuma , Yoshikawa Rina , Mizutani Toshiki , Ma Ning , Moriyama Mitsuru , Ito Takashi , Matsuzaki Chiaki
Published: February 2021

Sargassum horneri (Turner) C. Agardh (S. horneri) is edible brown seaweed that grows along the coast of East Asia and has been traditionally used as a folk medicine and a local food. In this study, we evaluated the effects of S. horneri on the development of obesity and related metabolic disorders in C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet. S. horneri was freeze-dried, fine-powdered, and mixed with a high-fat diet at a weight ratio of 2% or 6%. Feeding a high-fat diet to mice for 13 weeks induced obesity, diabetes, hepatic steatosis, and hypercholesterolemia. Supplementation of mice with S. horneri suppressed high-fat diet-induced body weight gain and the accumulation of fat in adipose tissue and liver, and the elevation of the serum glucose level. In addition, S. horneri improved insulin resistance. An analysis of the feces showed that S. horneri stimulated the fecal excretion of triglyceride, as well as increased the fecal polysaccharide content. Furthermore, extracts of S. horneri inhibited the activity of pancreatic lipase in vitro. These results showed that S. horneri can ameliorate diet-induced metabolic diseases, and the effect may be partly associated with the suppression of intestinal fat absorption.
Beneficial Actions of Orostachys japonica and Its Compounds against Tumors via MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Hur Soyoung , Jang Eungyeong , Lee Jang-Hoon
Published: February 2021

Tumors are one of the most life-threatening diseases, and a variety of cancer treatment options have been continuously introduced in order to overcome cancer and improve conventional therapy. Orostachys japonica (O. japonica), which is a perennial plant belonging to the genus Orostachys of the Crassulaceae family, has been revealed to exhibit pharmacological properties against various tumors in numerous studies. The present review aimed to discuss the biological actions and underlying molecular mechanisms of O. japonica and its representative compounds—kaempferol and quercetin—against tumors. O. japonica reportedly has antiproliferative, anti-angiogenic, and antimetastatic activities against various types of malignant tumors through the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, a blockade of downstream vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-VEGFR2 pathways, and the regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In addition, emerging studies have highlighted the antitumor efficacy of kaempferol and quercetin. Interestingly, it was found that alterations of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascades are involved in the pivotal mechanisms of the antitumor effects of O. japonica and its two compounds against cancer cell overgrowth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In summary, O. japonica could be considered a preventive and therapeutic medicinal plant which exhibits antitumor actions by reversing altered patterns of MAPK cascades, and kaempferol and quercetin might be potential components that can contribute to the efficacy and underlying mechanism of O. japonica.
No Effect of Lifestyle Intervention during Third Trimester on Brain Programming in Fetuses of Mothers with Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Schleger Franziska , Linder Katarzyna , Fritsche Louise , Pauluschke-Fröhlich Jan , Heni Martin , Weiss Magdalene , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Preissl Hubert , Fritsche Andreas
Published: February 2021

Maternal metabolism and intrauterine conditions influence development of health and disease in offspring, leading to metabolic, physiologic, and/or epigenetic adaptation of the fetus. Maternal gestational diabetes (GDM) leads to higher incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes in offspring. We have previously shown that fetuses of insulin-resistant mothers with GDM have a delayed reaction to auditory stimuli in the postprandial state, indicating a fetal central insulin resistance. We tested whether this effect could be influenced by a lifestyle intervention in mothers with GDM, including diet counselling and regular blood glucose measurements. We measured fetal brain activity over the course of a maternal glucose challenge, at two measurement time points (baseline at an average of 29 weeks of gestation and follow-up after 4 weeks) in mothers with GDM and mothers with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Data from eight mothers were able to be included. Fetuses of GDM mothers showed longer latencies than those of NGT mothers postprandially at both measurement time points during the third trimester and did not show a difference in response patterns between baseline and after 4 weeks. Maternal postprandial blood glucose and insulin values did not change from baseline to follow-up either. While the overall intervention seems to have been effective, it does not appear to have influenced the fetal postprandial brain responses. This might have been because interventions for GDM take place relatively late in pregnancy. Future research should focus on maternal lifestyle interventions as early as possible during gestation, or even prenatally.
Mediterranean Diet Maintained Platelet Count within a Healthy Range and Decreased Thrombocytopenia-Related Mortality Risk: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hernáez Álvaro , Lassale Camille , Castro-Barquero Sara , Ros Emilio , Tresserra-Rimbau Anna , Castañer Olga , Pintó Xavier , Vázquez-Ruiz Zenaida , Sorlí José V. , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Lapetra José , Gómez-Gracia Enrique , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M. , Fiol Miquel , Serra-Majem Lluis , Sacanella Emilio , Razquin Cristina , Corella Dolores , Guasch-Ferré Marta , Cofán Montserrat , Estruch Ramón
Published: February 2021

There is little information on the dietary modulation of thrombosis-related risk factors such as platelet count. We aimed to assess the effects of Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on platelet count and related outcomes in an older population at high cardiovascular risk. In participants of the PREDIMED (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea) study, we assessed whether an intervention with a MedDiet enriched with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts, relative to a low-fat control diet, modulated platelet count (n = 4189), the risk of developing thrombocytosis and thrombocytopenia (n = 3086), and the association between these alterations and all-cause mortality (median follow-up time: 3.0 years). Although platelet count increased over time (+0.98·109 units/L·year [95% confidence interval: 0.12; 1.84]), MedDiet interventions moderated this increase, particularly in individuals with near-high baseline count (both MedDiets combined: −3.20·109 units/L·year [−5.81; −0.59]). Thrombocytopenia incidence was lower in the MedDiet interventions (incidence rates: 2.23% in control diet, 0.91% in MedDiets combined; hazard ratio: 0.44 [0.23; 0.83]). Finally, thrombocytopenia was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio: 4.71 [2.69; 8.24]), but this relationship was attenuated in those allocated to MedDiet (p-interaction = 0.018). In brief, MedDiet maintained platelet counts within a healthy range and attenuated platelet-related mortality in older adults at high cardiovascular risk.
Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ): Are Antiresorptive Drugs the Main Culprits or Only Accomplices? The Triggering Role of Vitamin D Deficiency
Authors: Dalle Carbonare Luca , Mottes Monica , Valenti Maria Teresa
Published: February 2021

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a severe clinical condition characterized mostly but not exclusively by an area of exposed bone in the mandible and/or maxilla that typically does not heal over a period of 6–8 weeks. The diagnosis is first of all clinical, but an imaging feedback such as Magnetic Resonance is essential to confirm clinical suspicions. In the last few decades, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has been widely discussed. From the first case reported in 2003, many case series and reviews have appeared in the scientific literature. Almost all papers concerning this topic conclude that bisphosphonates (BPs) can induce this severe clinical condition, particularly in cancer patients. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism by which amino-BPs would be responsible for ONJ is still debatable. Recent findings suggest a possible alternative explanation for BPs role in this pattern. In the present work we discuss how a condition of osteomalacia and low vitamin D levels might be determinant factors.