bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical Study of the Structural Stability, Chemical Reactivity, and Protein Interaction for NMP Compounds as Modulators of the Endocannabinoid System
Authors: Rangel-Galván Maricruz , Castro María Eugenia , Perez-Aguilar Jose Manuel , Caballero Norma A. , Rangel-Huerta Alejandro , Melendez Francisco J.
Published: January 2022

The cannabinoid receptors (CB1/CB2) and the T-type calcium channels are involved in disorders associated with both physiological pain and depressive behaviors. Valuable pharmacological species carbazole derivatives such as the NMP-4, NMP-7, and NMP-181 (Neuro Molecular Production) regulate both biological entities. In this work, DFT calculations were performed to characterize theoretically their structural and chemical reactivity properties using the BP86/cc-pVTZ level of theory. The molecular orbital contributions and the chemical reactivity analysis reveal that a major participation of the carbazole group is in the donor-acceptor interactions of the NMP compounds. The DFT analysis on the NMP compounds provides insights into the relevant functional groups involved during the ligand-receptor interactions. Molecular docking analysis is used to reveal possible sites of interaction of the NMP compounds with the Cav3.2 calcium channel. The interaction energy values and reported experimental evidence indicate that the site denominated as “Pore-blocking”, which is formed mainly by hydrophobic residues and the T586 residue, is a probable binding site for the NMP compounds.
Bioaccessibility and Oxidative Stability of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Supplements, Sardines and Enriched Eggs Studied Using a Static In Vitro Gastrointestinal Model
Authors: Floros Stylianos , Toskas Alexandros , Pasidi Evagelia , Vareltzis Patroklos
Published: January 2022

Modern dietary habits have created the need for the design and production of functional foods enriched in bioactive compounds for a healthy lifestyle. However, the fate of many of these bioactive compounds in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract has not been thoroughly investigated. Thus, in the present study, the bioaccessibility of omega-3 fatty acids was examined. To that end, different foods and supplements underwent simulated digestion following the INFOGEST protocol. The selected samples were foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids both in free and bound form—i.e., dietary fish oil supplements, heat-treated fish, and eggs enriched with omega-3 fatty acids. The oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) was measured at each stage of the digestion process using peroxide value (PV) and TBARS and by quantifying individual omega-3 fatty acids using a gas chromatograph with flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The final bioaccessibility values of omega-3 fatty acids were determined. Changes in the quantity of mono-saturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) were recorded as well. The results indicated a profound oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids, giving rise to both primary and secondary oxidation products. Additionally, stomach conditions seemed to exert the most significant effect on the oxidation of PUFAs during digestion, significantly decreasing their bioaccessibility. The oxidation rate of each fatty acid was found to be strongly correlated with its initial concentration. Finally, the oxidation pattern was found to be different for each matrix and emulsified lipids seemed to be better protected than non-emulsified lipids. It is concluded that digestion has a profound negative effect on omega-3 bioaccessibility and therefore there is a need for improved protective mechanisms.
Comparison of Metal-Based Nanoparticles and Nanowires: Solubility, Reactivity, Bioavailability and Cellular Toxicity
Authors: Wall Johanna , Seleci Didem Ag , Schworm Feranika , Neuberger Ronja , Link Martin , Hufnagel Matthias , Schumacher Paul , Schulz Florian , Heinrich Uwe , Wohlleben Wendel , Hartwig Andrea
Published: January 2022

While the toxicity of metal-based nanoparticles (NP) has been investigated in an increasing number of studies, little is known about metal-based fibrous materials, so-called nanowires (NWs). Within the present study, the physico-chemical properties of particulate and fibrous nanomaterials based on Cu, CuO, Ni, and Ag as well as TiO2 and CeO2 NP were characterized and compared with respect to abiotic metal ion release in different physiologically relevant media as well as acellular reactivity. While none of the materials was soluble at neutral pH in artificial alveolar fluid (AAF), Cu, CuO, and Ni-based materials displayed distinct dissolution under the acidic conditions found in artificial lysosomal fluids (ALF and PSF). Subsequently, four different cell lines were applied to compare cytotoxicity as well as intracellular metal ion release in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Both cytotoxicity and bioavailability reflected the acellular dissolution rates in physiological lysosomal media (pH 4.5); only Ag-based materials showed no or very low acellular solubility, but pronounced intracellular bioavailability and cytotoxicity, leading to particularly high concentrations in the nucleus. In conclusion, in spite of some quantitative differences, the intracellular bioavailability as well as toxicity is mostly driven by the respective metal and is less modulated by the shape of the respective NP or NW.
Microwave-Assisted Vacuum Synthesis of TiO2 Nanocrystalline Powders in One-Pot, One-Step Procedure
Authors: Paradisi Enrico , Rosa Roberto , Baldi Giovanni , Dami Valentina , Cioni Andrea , Lorenzi Giada , Leonelli Cristina
Published: January 2022

A new method for fast and simple synthesis of crystalline TiO2 nanoparticles with photocatalytic activity was developed by carrying out a classic sol–gel reaction directly under vacuum. The use of microwaves for fast heating of the reaction medium further reduces synthesis times. When the solvent is completely removed by vacuum, the product is obtained in the form of a powder that can be easily redispersed in water to yield a stable nanoparticle suspension, exhibiting a comparable photocatalytic activity with respect to a commercial product. The present methodology can, therefore, be considered a process intensification procedure for the production of nanotitania.
Tailoring the Nonlinear Optical Response of Some Graphene Derivatives by Ultraviolet (UV) Irradiation
Authors: Stathis Aristeidis , Bouza Zoi , Papadakis Ioannis , Couris Stelios
Published: January 2022

In the present work the impact of in situ photoreduction, by means of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, on the nonlinear optical response (NLO) of some graphene oxide (GO), fluorographene (GF), hydrogenated fluorographene (GFH) and graphene (G) dispersions is studied. In situ UV photoreduction allowed for the extended modification of the degree of functionalization (i.e., oxidization, fluorination and hydrogenation), leading to the effective tuning of the corresponding sp2/sp3 hybridization ratios. The nonlinear optical properties of the studied samples prior to and after UV irradiation were determined by means of the Z-scan technique using visible (532 nm), 4 ns laser excitation, and were found to change significantly. More specifically, while GO’s nonlinear optical response increases with irradiation time, GF and GFH present a monotonic decrease. The graphene dispersions’ nonlinear optical response remains unaffected after prolonged UV irradiation for more than an hour. The present findings demonstrate that UV photoreduction can be an effective and simple strategy for tuning the nonlinear optical response of these graphene derivatives in a controllable way, resulting in derivatives with custom-made responses, thus more suitable for different photonic and optoelectronic applications.
Solution-Processed Smooth Copper Thiocyanate Layer with Improved Hole Injection Ability for the Fabrication of Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wen Ming-Ru , Yang Sheng-Hsiung , Chen Wei-Sheng
Published: January 2022

Copper thiocyanate (CuSCN) has been gradually utilized as the hole injection layer (HIL) within optoelectronic devices, owing to its high transparency in the visible range, moderate hole mobility, and desirable environmental stability. In this research, we demonstrate quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) with high brightness and current efficiency by doping 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ) in CuSCN as the HIL. The experimental results indicated a smoother surface of CuSCN upon F4TCNQ doping. The augmentation in hole mobility of CuSCN and carrier injection to reach balanced charge transport in QLEDs were confirmed. A maximum brightness of 169,230 cd m−2 and a current efficiency of 35.1 cd A−1 from the optimized device were received by adding 0.02 wt% of F4TCNQ in CuSCN, revealing promising use in light-emitting applications.
The Impact of the Surface Modification on Tin-Doped Indium Oxide Nanocomposite Properties
Authors: Fattahi Arash , Koohsari Peyman , Shadman Lakmehsari Muhammad , Ghandi Khashayar
Published: January 2022

This review provides an analysis of the theoretical methods to study the effects of surface modification on structural properties of nanostructured indium tin oxide (ITO), mainly by organic compounds. The computational data are compared with experimental data such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) data with the focus on optoelectronic and electrocatalytic properties of the surface to investigate potential relations of these properties and applications of ITO in fields such as biosensing and electronic device fabrication. Our analysis shows that the change in optoelectronic properties of the surface is mainly due to functionalizing the surface with organic molecules and that the electrocatalytic properties vary as a function of size.
Effects of Mg Doping at Different Positions in Li-Rich Mn-Based Cathode Material on Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Makhonina Elena , Pechen Lidia , Medvedeva Anna , Politov Yury , Rumyantsev Aleksander , Koshtyal Yury , Volkov Vyacheslav , Goloveshkin Alexander , Eremenko Igor
Published: January 2022

Li-rich Mn-based layered oxides are among the most promising cathode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries, yet they suffer from capacity fading and voltage decay during cycling. The electrochemical performance of the material can be improved by doping with Mg. However, the effect of Mg doping at different positions (lithium or transition metals) remains unclear. Li1.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13O2 (LR) was synthesized by coprecipitation followed by a solid-state reaction. The coprecipitation stage was used to introduce Mg in TM layers (sample LR-Mg), and the solid-state reaction (st) was used to dope Mg in Li layers (LR-Mg(st)). The presence of magnesium at different positions was confirmed by XRD, XPS, and electrochemical studies. The investigations have shown that the introduction of Mg in TM layers is preferable in terms of the electrochemical performance. The sample doped with Mg at the TM positions shows better cyclability and higher discharge capacity than the undoped sample. The poor electrochemical properties of the sample doped with Mg at Li positions are due to the kinetic hindrance of oxidation of the manganese-containing species formed after activation of the Li2MnO3 component of the composite oxide. The oxide LR-Mg(st) demonstrates the lowest lithium-ion diffusion coefficient and the greatest polarization resistance compared to LR and LR-Mg.
Nanoarchitectonics for High Adsorption Capacity Carboxymethyl Cellulose Nanofibrils-Based Adsorbents for Efficient Cu2+ Removal
Authors: Si Rongrong , Chen Yehong , Wang Daiqi , Yu Dongmei , Ding Qijun , Li Ronggang , Wu Chaojun
Published: January 2022

In the present study, carboxymethyl cellulose nanofibrils (CMCNFs) with different carboxyl content (0.99–2.01 mmol/g) were prepared via controlling the ratio of monochloroacetic acid (MCA) and sodium hydroxide to Eucalyptus bleached pulp (EBP). CMCFs-PEI aerogels were obtained using the crosslinking reaction of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and CMCNFs with the aid of glutaraldehyde (GA). The effects of pH, contact time, temperature, and initial Cu2+ concentration on the Cu2+ removal performance of CMCNFs-PEI aerogels was highlighted. Experimental data showed that the maximum adsorption capacity of CMCNF30-PEI for Cu2+ was 380.03 ± 23 mg/g, and the adsorption results were consistent with Langmuir isotherm (R2 > 0.99). The theoretical maximum adsorption capacity was 616.48 mg/g. After being treated with 0.05 M EDTA solution, the aerogel retained an 85% removal performance after three adsorption–desorption cycles. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results demonstrated that complexation was the main Cu2+ adsorption mechanism. The excellent Cu2+ adsorption capacity of CMCNFs-PEI aerogels provided another avenue for the utilization of cellulose nanofibrils in the wastewater treatment field.
Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Cytotoxicity in Liver Carcinoma Cells Induced by Silver Nanoparticles Biosynthesized Using Schinus molle Extract
Authors: Hailan Waleed Ali , Al-Anazi Khalid Mashay , Farah Mohammad Abul , Ali Mohammad Ajmal , Al-Kawmani Ahmed Ali , Abou-Tarboush Faisal Mohammed
Published: January 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and is ranked as the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Schinus molle (S. mole) L. is an important medicinal plant that contains many bioactive compounds with pharmacological properties. The role of S. molle leaf extract in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was determined. The biosynthesized AgNPs were thoroughly characterized by UV–vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effect of the biosynthesized AgNPs using S. molle (SMAgNPs) against HepG2 liver cancer cells was investigated. Reactive oxygen species generation, apoptosis induction, DNA damage, and autophagy activity were analyzed. The results clearly showed that the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 by significantly (p < 0.05) inducing oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, apoptosis, and autophagy in a dose- and time-dependent manner. These findings may encourage integrating the potential of natural products and the efficiency of silver nanoparticles for the fabrication of safe, environmentally friendly, and effective anticancer agents.
Coconut Carbon Dots: Progressive Large-Scale Synthesis, Detailed Biological Activities and Smart Sensing Aptitudes towards Tyrosine
Authors: Chauhan Pooja , Mundekkad Deepa , Mukherjee Amitava , Chaudhary Savita , Umar Ahmad , Baskoutas Sotirios
Published: January 2022

In the recent era, carbon dots (C-dots) have been extensively considered as a potential tool in drug delivery analysis. However, there have been fewer reports in the literature on their application in the sensing of amino acids. As part of our ongoing research on coconut-husk-derived C-dots, we synthesized C-dots under different temperature conditions and utilized them in the field of amino acid sensing and found them to be highly selective and sensitive towards tyrosine. The detailed characterization of the prepared C-dots was carried out. The developed C-dots exhibit good values of quantum yield. BSA, HSA and glutamic acid were utilized to explore the binding efficiency of C-dots with biologically active components. Hemolysis, blood clotting index activity and cell viability assays using the prepared C-dots were evaluated and they were found to be biocompatible. Therefore, the C-dots described in this work have high potential to be utilized in the field of amino acid sensing, especially L-tyrosine. The limit of detection and the binding constant for the developed C-dots in the presence of tyrosine were found to be 0.96 nM and 296.38 nM−1, respectively. The efficiency of the developed C-dots was also investigated in the presence of various other amino acids and different water mediums in order to enhance the working scope of the developed sensors.
Facile Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Preparation of Conductive Ink
Authors: Hong Gui Bing , Luo Yi Hua , Chuang Kai Jen , Cheng Hsiu Yueh , Chang Kai Chau , Ma Chih Ming
Published: January 2022

In the scientific industry, sustainable nanotechnology has attracted great attention and has been successful in facilitating solutions to challenges presented in various fields. For the present work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared using a chemical reduction synthesis method. Then, a low-temperature sintering process was deployed to obtain an Ag-conductive ink preparation which could be applied to a flexible substrate. The size and shape of the AgNPs were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The experiments indicated that the size and agglomeration of the AgNPs could be well controlled by varying the reaction time, reaction temperature, and pH value. The rate of nanoparticle generation was the highest when the reaction temperature was 100 °C within the 40 min reaction time, achieving the most satisfactorily dispersed nanoparticles and nanoballs with an average size of 60.25 nm at a pH value of 8. Moreover, the electrical resistivity of the obtained Ag-conductive ink is controllable, under the optimal sintering temperature and time (85 °C for 5 min), leading to an optimal electrical resistivity of 9.9 × 10−6 Ω cm. The results obtained in this study, considering AgNPs and Ag-conductive ink, may also be extended to other metals in future research.
Recent Trends in Nano-Fertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture under Climate Change for Global Food Security
Authors: Verma Krishan K. , Song Xiu-Peng , Joshi Abhishek , Tian Dan-Dan , Rajput Vishnu D. , Singh Munna , Arora Jaya , Minkina Tatiana , Li Yang-Rui
Published: January 2022

Nano-fertilizers (NFs) significantly improve soil quality and plant growth performance and enhance crop production with quality fruits/grains. The management of macro-micronutrients is a big task globally, as it relies predominantly on synthetic chemical fertilizers which may not be environmentally friendly for human beings and may be expensive for farmers. NFs may enhance nutrient uptake and plant production by regulating the availability of fertilizers in the rhizosphere; extend stress resistance by improving nutritional capacity; and increase plant defense mechanisms. They may also substitute for synthetic fertilizers for sustainable agriculture, being found more suitable for stimulation of plant development. They are associated with mitigating environmental stresses and enhancing tolerance abilities under adverse atmospheric eco-variables. Recent trends in NFs explored relevant agri-technology to fill the gaps and assure long-term beneficial agriculture strategies to safeguard food security globally. Accordingly, nanoparticles are emerging as a cutting-edge agri-technology for agri-improvement in the near future. Interestingly, they do confer stress resistance capabilities to crop plants. The effective and appropriate mechanisms are revealed in this article to update researchers widely.
Incorporation of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles into Collagen Formulation for 3D Electrospun Scaffolds
Authors: Estévez Manuel , Montalbano Giorgia , Gallo-Cordova Alvaro , Ovejero Jesús G. , Izquierdo-Barba Isabel , González Blanca , Tomasina Clarissa , Moroni Lorenzo , Vallet-Regí María , Vitale-Brovarone Chiara , Fiorilli Sonia
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, there is an ever-increasing interest in the development of systems able to guide and influence cell activities for bone regeneration. In this context, we have explored for the first time the combination of type-I collagen and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) to design magnetic and biocompatible electrospun scaffolds. For this purpose, SPIONs with a size of 12 nm were obtained by thermal decomposition and transferred to an aqueous medium via ligand exchange with dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). The SPIONs were subsequently incorporated into type-I collagen solutions to prove the processability of the resulting hybrid formulation by means of electrospinning. The optimized method led to the fabrication of nanostructured scaffolds composed of randomly oriented collagen fibers ranging between 100 and 200 nm, where SPIONs resulted distributed and embedded into the collagen fibers. The SPIONs-containing electrospun structures proved to preserve the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles alone, making these matrices excellent candidates to explore the magnetic stimuli for biomedical applications. Furthermore, the biological assessment of these collagen scaffolds confirmed high viability, adhesion, and proliferation of both pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs).
Multiscale Investigation of the Structural, Electrical and Photoluminescence Properties of MoS2 Obtained by MoO3 Sulfurization
Authors: Panasci Salvatore E. , Koos Antal , Schilirò Emanuela , Di Franco Salvatore , Greco Giuseppe , Fiorenza Patrick , Roccaforte Fabrizio , Agnello Simonpietro , Cannas Marco , Gelardi Franco M. , Sulyok Attila , Nemeth Miklos , Pécz Béla , Giannazzo Filippo
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we report a multiscale investigation of the compositional, morphological, structural, electrical, and optical emission properties of 2H-MoS2 obtained by sulfurization at 800 °C of very thin MoO3 films (with thickness ranging from ~2.8 nm to ~4.2 nm) on a SiO2/Si substrate. XPS analyses confirmed that the sulfurization was very effective in the reduction of the oxide to MoS2, with only a small percentage of residual MoO3 present in the final film. High-resolution TEM/STEM analyses revealed the formation of few (i.e., 2–3 layers) of MoS2 nearly aligned with the SiO2 surface in the case of the thinnest (~2.8 nm) MoO3 film, whereas multilayers of MoS2 partially standing up with respect to the substrate were observed for the ~4.2 nm one. Such different configurations indicate the prevalence of different mechanisms (i.e., vapour-solid surface reaction or S diffusion within the film) as a function of the thickness. The uniform thickness distribution of the few-layer and multilayer MoS2 was confirmed by Raman mapping. Furthermore, the correlative plot of the characteristic A1g-E2g Raman modes revealed a compressive strain (ε ≈ −0.78 ± 0.18%) and the coexistence of n- and p-type doped areas in the few-layer MoS2 on SiO2, where the p-type doping is probably due to the presence of residual MoO3. Nanoscale resolution current mapping by C-AFM showed local inhomogeneities in the conductivity of the few-layer MoS2, which are well correlated to the lateral changes in the strain detected by Raman. Finally, characteristic spectroscopic signatures of the defects/disorder in MoS2 films produced by sulfurization were identified by a comparative analysis of Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectra with CVD grown MoS2 flakes.
Low Dark Current and Performance Enhanced Perovskite Photodetector by Graphene Oxide as an Interfacial Layer
Authors: Hassan Ali , Azam Muhammad , Ahn Yeong Hwan , Zubair Muhammad , Cao Yu , Khan Abbas Ahmad
Published: January 2022

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite photodetectors are gaining much interest recently for their high performance in photodetection, due to excellent light absorption, low cost, and ease of fabrication. Lower defect density and large grain size are always favorable for efficient and stable devices. Herein, we applied the interface engineering technique for hybrid trilayer (TiO2/graphene oxide/perovskite) photodetector to attain better crystallinity and defect passivation. The graphene oxide (GO) sandwich layer has been introduced in the perovskite photodetector for improved crystallization, better charge extraction, low dark current, and enhanced carrier lifetime. Moreover, the trilayer photodetector exhibits improved device performance with a high on/off ratio of 1.3 × 104, high responsivity of 3.38 AW−1, and low dark current of 1.55 × 10−11 A. The insertion of the GO layer also suppressed the perovskite degradation process and consequently improved the device stability. The current study focuses on the significance of interface engineering to boost device performance by improving interfacial defect passivation and better carrier transport.
Synthesis and Characterization of Sulfur and Sulfur-Selenium Nanoparticles Loaded on Reduced Graphene Oxide and Their Antibacterial Activity against Gram-Positive Pathogens
Authors: Niranjan Rashmi , Zafar Saad , Lochab Bimlesh , Priyadarshini Richa
Published: January 2022

Resistance to antimicrobial agents in Gram-positive bacteria has become a major concern in the last decade. Recently, nanoparticles (NP) have emerged as a potential solution to antibiotic resistance. We synthesized three reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoparticles, namely rGO, rGO-S, and rGO-S/Se, and characterized them using X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Raman analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed spherical shape nanometer size S and S/Se NPs on the rGO surface. Antibacterial properties of all three nanomaterials were probed against Gram-positive pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis, using turbidometeric and CFU assays. Among the synthesized nanomaterials, rGO-S/Se exhibited relatively strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive microorganism tested in a concentration dependent manner (growth inhibition >90% at 200 μg/mL). Atomic force microscopy of rGO-S/Se treated cells displayed morphological aberrations. Our studies also revealed that rGO composite NPs are able to deposit on the bacterial cell surface, resulting in membrane perturbation and oxidative stress. Taken together, our results suggest a possible three-pronged approach of bacterial cytotoxicity by these graphene-based materials.
Fabrication of Nanopore in MoS2-Graphene vdW Heterostructure by Ion Beam Irradiation and the Mechanical Performance
Authors: Wu Xin , Yang Ruxue , Chen Xiyue , Liu Wei
Published: January 2022

Nanopore structure presents great application potential especially in the area of biosensing. The two-dimensional (2D) vdW heterostructure nanopore shows unique features, while research around its fabrication is very limited. This paper proposes for the first time the use of ion beam irradiation for creating nanopore structure in 2D vdW graphene-MoS2 heterostructures. The formation process of the heterostructure nanopore is discussed first. Then, the influence of ion irradiation parameters (ion energy and ion dose) is illustrated, based on which the optimal irradiation parameters are derived. In particular, the effect of stacking order of the heterostructure 2D layers on the induced phenomena and optimal parameters are taken into consideration. Finally, uniaxial tensile tests are conducted by taking the effect of irradiation parameters, nanopore size and stacking order into account to demonstrate the mechanical performance of the heterostructure for use under a loading condition. The results would be meaningful for expanding the applications of heterostructure nanopore structure, and can arouse more research interest in this area.
Preparation and Characterization of Nano-CaCO3/Ceresine Wax Composite Shell Microcapsules Containing E-44 Epoxy Resin for Self-Healing of Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Du Wei , Li Erwang , Lin Runsheng
Published: January 2022

As an intelligent material, microcapsules can efficiently self-heal internal microcracks and microdefects formed in cement-based materials during service and improve their durability. In this paper, microcapsules of nano-CaCO3/ceresine wax composite shell encapsulated with E-44 epoxy resin were prepared via the melt condensation method. The core content, compactness, particle size distribution, morphologies, chemical structure and micromechanical properties of microcapsules were characterized. The results showed that the encapsulation ability, mechanical properties and compactness of microcapsules were further improved by adding nano-CaCO3 to ceresine wax. The core content, elastic modulus, hardness and weight loss rate (60 days) of nano-CaCO3/ceresine wax composite shell microcapsules (WM2) were 80.6%, 2.02 GPA, 72.54 MPa and 1.6%, respectively. SEM showed that WM2 was regularly spherical with a rough surface and sufficient space inside the microcapsules to store the healing agent. The incorporation of WM2 to mortar can greatly improve the self-healing ability of mortar after pre-damage. After 14 days of self-healing, the compressive strength recovery rate, proportion of harmful pores and chloride ion diffusion coefficient recovery rate increased to 90.1%, 45.54% and 79.8%, respectively. In addition, WM2 also has good self-healing ability for mortar surface cracks, and cracks with initial width of less than 0.35 mm on the mortar surface can completely self-heal within 3 days.
Optimization of the Sb2S3 Shell Thickness in ZnO Nanowire-Based Extremely Thin Absorber Solar Cells
Authors: Hector Guislain , Eensalu Jako S. , Katerski Atanas , Roussel Hervé , Chaix-Pluchery Odette , Appert Estelle , Donatini Fabrice , Acik Ilona Oja , Kärber Erki , Consonni Vincent
Published: January 2022

Extremely thin absorber (ETA) solar cells made of ZnO/TiO2/Sb2S3 core–shell nanowire heterostructures, using P3HT as the hole-transporting material (HTM), are of high interest to surpass solar cell efficiencies of their planar counterpart at lower material cost. However, no dimensional optimization has been addressed in detail, as it raises material and technological critical issues. In this study, the thickness of the Sb2S3 shell grown by chemical spray pyrolysis is tuned from a couple of nanometers to several tens of nanometers, while switching from a partially to a fully crystallized shell. The Sb2S3 shell is highly pure, and the unwanted Sb2O3 phase was not formed. The low end of the thickness is limited by challenges in the crystallization of the Sb2S3 shell, as it is amorphous at nanoscale dimensions, resulting in the low optical absorption of visible photons. In contrast, the high end of the thickness is limited by the increased density of defects in the bulk of the Sb2S3 shell, degrading charge carrier dynamics, and by the incomplete immersion of the P3HT in the structure, resulting in the poor hole collection. The best ETA solar cell with a short-circuit current density of 12.1 mA/cm2, an open-circuit voltage of 502 mV, and a photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 2.83% is obtained for an intermediate thickness of the Sb2S3 shell. These findings highlight that the incorporation of both the absorber shell and HTM in the core–shell heterostructures relies on the spacing between individual nanowires. They further elaborate the intricate nature of the dimensional optimization of an ETA cell, as it requires a fine-balanced holistic approach to correlate all the dimensions of all the components in the heterostructures.
Sorption of Nanomaterials to Sandstone Rock
Authors: Scheurer Christian , Hincapie Rafael E. , Neubauer Elisabeth , Metz Astrid , Ness Daniel
Published: January 2022

We investigated the interaction of silica nanostructured particles and sandstone rock using various experimental approaches, such as fluid compatibility, batch sorption and single-phase core-floods. Diol and polyethylenglycol (PEG) surface-modified nanostructured silica materials were tested using two brines differing in ionic strength and with the addition of sodium carbonate (Na2CO3). Berea and Keuper outcrop materials (core plug and crushed samples) were used. Core-flood effluents were analysed to define changes in concentration and a rock’s retention compared to a tracer. Field Flow Fractionation (FFF) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) were performed to investigate changes in the effluent’s size distribution. Adsorption was evaluated using UV–visible spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The highest adsorption was observed in brine with high ionic strength, whereas the use of alkali reduced the adsorption. The crushed material from Berea rock showed slightly higher adsorption compared to Keuper rock, whereas temperature had a minor effect on adsorption behaviour. In core-flood experiments, no effects on permeability have been observed. The used particles showed a delayed breakthrough compared to the tracer, and bigger particles passed the rock core faster. Nanoparticle recovery was significantly lower for PEG-modified nanomaterials in Berea compared to diol-modified nanomaterials, suggesting high adsorption. SEM images indicate that adsorption spots are defined via surface roughness rather than mineral type. Despite an excess of nanomaterials in the porous medium, monolayer adsorption was the prevailing type observed.
Nanocomposite Materials: A Section of Nanomaterials
Authors: Sort Jordi
Published: January 2022

“Nanocomposite materials” is one of the main sections of Nanomaterials and it has contributed with more than 440 publications during the last two years to increase the reputation and recognition of the journal by the scientific community [...]
Metal Nanoclusters/Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Films as the Alternatives for Fabricating Remote-Type White Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liu Zhaoyu , Yao Dong , Liu Huiwen , Zhang Hao
Published: January 2022

Packing luminescent metal nanoclusters (MNCs) into polymers and fabricating novel MNCs/polymer composite materials is effective in obtaining high-performance light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Herein, water soluble Cu and Au nanoclusters are encapsulated in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) by a casting method. The obtained MNCs/PVA composite films are highly emissive with triple primary colors, and inherit the merits of PVA, such as transparency, flexibility, machinability, stability and self-healing ability. By employing the MNCs/PVA composite films as down-conversions, remote type monochromic and white LEDs are fabricated. The white LEDs (WLEDs) exhibit a maximum color rendering index (CRI) of 86 with a Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) color coordinate of (0.33,0.35). By varying the three MNCs/PVA film arrangement, the correlated color temperature (CCT) of the WLEDs is tuned from 5582 to 9490 K, which signifies the possibility of MNCs/PVA as alternative light-emitting materials for advanced illumination and display in the future.
Simultaneous Extraction of the Grain Size, Single-Crystalline Grain Sheet Resistance, and Grain Boundary Resistivity of Polycrystalline Monolayer Graphene
Authors: Park Honghwi , Lee Junyeong , Lee Chang-Ju , Kang Jaewoon , Yun Jiyeong , Noh Hyowoong , Park Minsu , Lee Jonghyung , Park Youngjin , Park Jonghoo , Choi Muhan , Lee Sunghwan , Park Hongsik
Published: January 2022

The electrical properties of polycrystalline graphene grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) are determined by grain-related parameters—average grain size, single-crystalline grain sheet resistance, and grain boundary (GB) resistivity. However, extracting these parameters still remains challenging because of the difficulty in observing graphene GBs and decoupling the grain sheet resistance and GB resistivity. In this work, we developed an electrical characterization method that can extract the average grain size, single-crystalline grain sheet resistance, and GB resistivity simultaneously. We observed that the material property, graphene sheet resistance, could depend on the device dimension and developed an analytical resistance model based on the cumulative distribution function of the gamma distribution, explaining the effect of the GB density and distribution in the graphene channel. We applied this model to CVD-grown monolayer graphene by characterizing transmission-line model patterns and simultaneously extracted the average grain size (~5.95 μm), single-crystalline grain sheet resistance (~321 Ω/sq), and GB resistivity (~18.16 kΩ-μm) of the CVD-graphene layer. The extracted values agreed well with those obtained from scanning electron microscopy images of ultraviolet/ozone-treated GBs and the electrical characterization of graphene devices with sub-micrometer channel lengths.
Recent Developments in the Application of Inorganic Nanomaterials and Nanosystems for the Protection of Cultural Heritage Organic Artifacts
Authors: Fistos Toma , Fierascu Irina , Fierascu Radu Claudiu
Published: January 2022

Cultural heritage (CH) represents human identity and evidence of the existence and activities that people have left over time. In response to the action of aggressive degrading factors, different materials have been developed and used to protect cultural heritage artifacts. The discovery of optimal materials for this purpose also raises several problems, mainly related to their compatibility with the support material, the most important aspect being that they must preserve their aesthetic characteristics. In this context, the present review paper aims to provide a critical discussion about the possibilities of using different inorganic nanomaterials and recipes for the conservation of cultural heritage objects of organic nature (such as paper, wood, and other support materials). In addition, also are covered different aspect concerning protection mechanisms and application methods as well as future perspectives in this area.
COVID-19 Is Changing Our Understanding of the Neuroscience of Viral Infections: What We Can Do to Prepare for the Future?
Authors: Liow Kore Kai , Viereck Jason
Published: January 2022

In the approximately two years since the emergence of COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) myriad neurological symptoms have been reported that are seemingly unrelated to each other [...]
The Role of the Gut Microbiota on the Beneficial Effects of Ketogenic Diets
Authors: Attaye Ilias , van Oppenraaij Sophie , Warmbrunn Moritz V. , Nieuwdorp Max
Published: January 2022

The ketogenic diet is a dietary regime focused on strongly reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat intake; leading to a state of ketosis. The ketogenic diet has gained much popularity over the years due to its effects on promoting weight loss, increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing dyslipidaemia. All these factors play a crucial role in the development of cardio-metabolic diseases; one of the greatest health challenges of the time. Moreover, the ketogenic diet has been known to reduce (epileptic) seizure activity. It is still poorly understood how following a ketogenic diet can lead to these beneficial metabolic effects. However, in recent years it has become clear that diet and the gut microbiota interact with one another and thus influence host health. The goal of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the beneficial metabolic effects of the ketogenic diet and the role of gut microbiota in these effects.
Nutritional Factors Associated with Late-Onset Sepsis in Very Low Birth Weight Newborns
Authors: de Sousa Juliany Caroline Silva , de Carvalho Ana Verônica Dantas , Monte de Prada Lorena de Carvalho , Marinho Arthur Pedro , de Lima Kerolaynne Fonseca , Macedo Suianny Karla de Oliveira , Santos Camila Dayze Pereira , da Câmara Saionara Maria Aires , Barreto Anna Christina do Nascimento Granjeiro , Pereira Silvana Alves
Published: January 2022

Background: Delayed onset of minimal enteral nutrition compromises the immune response of preterm infants, increasing the risk of colonization and clinical complications (e.g., late-onset sepsis). This study aimed to analyze associations between late-onset sepsis in very low birth weight infants (<1500 g) and days of parenteral nutrition, days to reach full enteral nutrition, and maternal and nutritional factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with very low birth weight infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a reference maternity hospital of high-risk deliveries. Data regarding days of parenteral nutrition, days to reach full enteral nutrition, fasting days, extrauterine growth restriction, and NICU length of stay were extracted from online medical records. Late-onset sepsis was diagnosed (clinical or laboratory) after 48 h of life. Chi-squared, Mann–Whitney tests, and binary logistic regression were applied. Results: A total of 97 preterm infants were included. Of those, 75 presented late-onset sepsis with clinical (n = 40) or laboratory (n = 35) diagnosis. Maternal urinary tract infection, prolonged parenteral nutrition (>14 days), and extrauterine growth restriction presented 4.24-fold, 4.86-fold, and 4.90-fold higher chance of late-onset sepsis, respectively. Conclusion: Very low birth weight infants with late-onset sepsis had prolonged parenteral nutrition and took longer to reach full enteral nutrition. They also presented a higher prevalence of extrauterine growth restriction than infants without late-onset sepsis.
Food Sources of Key Nutrients, Meal and Dietary Patterns among Children Aged 4–13 Years in Ibadan, Nigeria: Findings from the 2019 Kids Nutrition and Health Study
Authors: Sanusi Rasaki A. , Wang Dantong , Ariyo Oluwaseun , Eyinla Toluwalope E. , Tassy Marie , Eldridge Alison L. , Ogundero Anuoluwapo , Leshi Oluwatosin , Lenighan Yvonne M. , Ejoh Shirley I. , Aleru Elizabeth
Published: January 2022

This study examined the contribution of food to nutrient intake, meal and dietary patterns among children aged 4–8 and 9–13 years in the city of Ibadan, Nigeria. Multi-pass 24-hour dietary recalls were used to assess intakes. Prudent and traditional Southwestern Nigerian dietary patterns were identified among children. The top foods and beverages were defined by frequency and amount consumed. Meal patterns were described by the eating occasions, while cluster analysis probed dietary patterns. About 88% of children had at least three meals including breakfast (95%), lunch (85%), dinner (92%) and midmorning meals (48%), while about 60% ate snacks at least once daily. Sources of energy and key nutrients were limited (yam, cassava, rice, maize, bread and beans/peas/legumes). The amount consumed per consumer of cassava products (192.2, 256.0 g), yam (169.7, 256.0 g), legumes (115.3, 150.7 g), corn/maize (160.4, 195.2), and rice (138.4, 182.3 g) were high, while beef (15.2, 17.9 g), eggs (50.6, 49.2 g), fish (27.5, 30.6 g), milk (24.2, 27.0 g) and nuts and seeds (18.2, 19.7 g) were low for children ages 4–8 and 9–13 years, respectively. In conclusion, while the frequency of meals suggests a healthy pattern, the top foods could not provide adequate nutrient (especially micronutrient) intake, which is key to the development of the target population.
Aerobic Fitness, B-Vitamins, and Weight Status Are Related to Selective Attention in Children
Authors: Raine Lauren B. , Watrous Jennifer N. H. , McDonald Katherine , Logan Nicole E. , Khan Naiman A. , Kramer Arthur F. , Hillman Charles H.
Published: January 2022

There is an increasing prevalence of poor health behaviors during childhood, particularly in terms of physical activity and nutrition. This trend has occurred alongside a growing body of evidence linking these behaviors to cognitive function. B-vitamins are thought to be particularly important in the neural development that occurs during pregnancy, as well as in healthy cognitive aging. However, much less is known regarding the role of B-vitamins during childhood. Given that preadolescent childhood is a critical period for cognitive development, this study investigated the relationship between specific aspects of nutrition, particularly B-vitamins, and related health factors (e.g., body mass, fitness) on selective attention in children. Children (n = 85; 8–11 years) completed a selective attention task to assess inhibition. Participant’s dietary intake was collected using the Automated Self-Administered 24-h dietary assessment tool. Correlations between specific nutrients, BMI, fitness, and task performance were investigated. After accounting for demographic variables and total caloric intake, increased B-vitamin intake (i.e., thiamin and folic acid) was associated with shorter reaction times (p’s < 0.05), fitness was associated with greater response accuracy (p < 0.05), and increased BMI was related to increased variability in reaction times (p < 0.05). Together, these findings suggest that aspects of health may have unique contributions on cognitive performance. Proper physical health and nutrition are imperative for effective cognitive functioning in preadolescent children. Targeted efforts aimed at health education amongst this population could ensure proper cognitive development during school-age years, providing a strong foundation throughout life.
Malnutrition and Increased Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Elderly Patients Undergoing Elective Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Case-Control Study Nested in a Cohort
Authors: Martínez-Escribano Cristina , Arteaga Moreno Francisco , Pérez-López Marcos , Cunha-Pérez Cristina , Belenguer-Varea Ángel , Cuesta Peredo David , Blanco González Francisco Javier , Tarazona-Santabalbina Francisco J.
Published: January 2022

Background: Malnutrition increases worse outcomes during hospital admission for elective colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery in older adults. Methods: This work was designed an observational, monocentric, case-control study nested in a cohort of patients undergoing elective surgery for CRC disease at the Hospital Universitario de la Ribera (HULR) (Alzira, Valencia, Spain) between 2011 and 2019. The study considered patients with a CONUT score in the range of moderate to severe malnutrition (>4 points), with control patients with normal nutritional situations or mild malnutrition. Results: Moderate-to-severe malnutrition cases presented a greater length of stay (LOS), a higher incidence of adverse events (both medical and surgical complications), a higher incidence of surgical-wound infection, a greater need for blood transfusion, and a greater amount of transfused packed red blood cells. During hospitalization, the percentage of patients without nutritional risk decreased from 46 to 9%, and an increase in mild, moderate, and severe risk was observed. Patients with severe nutritional risk at hospital admission had significantly increased mortality at 365 days after discharge (HR: 2.96 (95% CI 1.14–7.70, p = 0.002)). After adjusting for sex, age, and Charlson index score, patients with severe nutritional risk at admission maintained a higher mortality risk (HR: 3.08 (95% CI 1.10–8.63, p = 0.032)). Conclusion: Malnutrition prevalence is high in older adults undergoing CRC elective surgery. Furthermore, this prevalence increases during hospital admission. Malnutrition is linked to worse outcomes, such as LOS, surgical and clinical complications, and mortality. For this reason, nutritional interventions are very important in the perioperative period
Effect of Standardized Hydrangea serrata (Thunb.) Ser. Leaves Extract on Body Weight and Body Fat Reduction in Overweight or Obese Humans: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Han Hee-Soo , Chung Kyung-Sook , Shin Yu-Kyong , Yu Jae-Sik , Kang Seung-Hyun , Lee Sun-Hee , Lee Kyung-Tae
Published: January 2022

Obesity is a major health problem that is caused by body fat accumulation and that can lead to metabolic diseases. Owing to several side effects of the currently used antiobesity drugs, natural plants have risen as safe and potential candidates to alleviate obesity. We have previously reported the antiobesity effect of Hydrangea serrata (Thunb.) Ser. leaves extract (WHS) and its underlying mechanisms. As an extension of our preclinical studies, this study aimed to investigate the effect of WHS on body weight and body fat reduction in overweight or obese humans. A total of 93 healthy overweight or obese males and females, aged 19–65 years, with body mass indexes (BMIs) ≥ 25 and <32 kg/m2, were recruited and received either an oral administration of 600 mg of WHS, or placebo tablets for 12 weeks. Daily supplementation with WHS decreased body weights, body fat masses, and BMIs compared with the placebo-treated group. The hip circumferences, visceral fat areas, abdominal fat areas, and visceral-to-subcutaneous ratios decreased after WHS supplementation. No significant side effects were observed during or after the 12 weeks of WHS intake. In conclusion, WHS, which has beneficial effects on body weight and body fat reduction, could be a promising antiobesity supplement that does not produce any side effects.