bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of PFRC Fracture Subjected to High Temperature by Means of a Trilinear Softening Diagram
Authors: Suárez Fernando , Enfedaque Alejandro , Alberti Marcos G. , Gálvez Jaime C.
Published: September 2023

Fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC) has been used for decades in certain applications in the construction industry, such as tunnel linings and precast elements, but has experienced important progress in recent times, boosted by the inclusion of guidelines for its use in some national and international standards. Traditional steel fibres have been studied in depth and their performance is well-known, although in recent years new materials have been proposed as possible alternatives. Polyolefin macro-fibres, for instance, have been proven to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete and the parameters that define their behaviour (fibre length, fibre proportion or casting method, for instance) have been identified. These fibres overcome certain traditional problems related to steel fibres, such as corrosion or their interaction with magnetic fields, which can limit the use of steel in some applications. The behaviour of polyolefin fibre-reinforced concrete (PFRC) has been numerically reproduced with success through an embedded cohesive crack formulation that uses a trilinear softening diagram to describe the fracture behaviour of the material. Furthermore, concrete behaves well under high temperatures or fire events, especially when it is compared with other construction materials, but the behaviour of PFRC must be analysed if the use of these fibres is to be extended. To this end, the degradation of PFRC fracture properties has been recently experimentally analysed under a temperature range between 20 °C and 200 °C. As temperature increases, polyolefin fibres modify their mechanical properties and their shape, which reduce their performance as reinforcements of concrete. In this work, those experimental results, which include results of low (3 kg/m3) and high (10 kg/m3) proportion PFRC specimens, are used as reference to study the fracture behaviour of PFRC exposed to high temperatures from a numerical point of view. The experimental load-deflection diagrams are reproduced by modifying the trilinear diagram used in the cohesive model, which helps to understand how the trilinear diagram parameters are affected by high temperature exposure. Finally, some expressions are proposed to adapt the initial trilinear diagram (obtained with specimens not exposed to high temperature) in order to numerically reproduce the fracture behaviour of PFRC affected by high temperature exposure.
Thermal Treatment of a Commercial Polycyanoacrylate Adhesive Addressed for Instant Glass Restoration, for Investigating Its Ageing Tolerance
Authors: Vouvoudi Evangelia C. , Tamias George A. , Chatzicharistou Evangelia A. , Achilias Dimitris S.
Published: September 2023

In the present study, the results of an experimental work on the thermal endurance and decomposition products of the commercial restorative adhesive Loctite® Super Attak Glass, being applied on glass surfaces, are presented. The clarity of the cyanoacrylate polymer and its rapid anionic polymerization reaction are outcomes of the chemistry of the monomer and its activity. First, evaluation of the reversibility of this glue was examined through the solubility tests. It was verified that the adhesive is reversible since it is diluted in several solvents. Later, by applying pyrolysis conjugated with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (Py–GC/MS), the thermal profile of the polymer is recorded in its neat form and in its aged state (weathered under the influence of UV-irradiation or thermal treatment at 50 and 75 °C). The decomposition products are detected and identified and, finally, possible reactions are investigated. Emphasis is placed on those that could be considered harmful to cultural heritage materials and objects. The fragments by the pyrolytic reactions identified mainly concern esters, less aldehydes and alcohols, small nitrogen compounds, and in some cases unsaturated hydrocarbons with higher molecular weight. Additives such as radical polymerization inhibitors and stabilizers, as well as some plasticizers, were also detected.
Modified Membranes for Redox Flow Batteries—A Review
Authors: Tsehaye Misgina Tilahun , Tufa Ramato Ashu , Berhane Roviel , Deboli Francesco , Gebru Kibrom Alebel , Velizarov Svetlozar
Published: September 2023

In this review, the state of the art of modified membranes developed and applied for the improved performance of redox flow batteries (RFBs) is presented and critically discussed. The review begins with an introduction to the energy-storing chemical principles and the potential of using RFBs in the energy transition in industrial and transport-related sectors. Commonly used membrane modification techniques are briefly presented and compared next. The recent progress in applying modified membranes in different RFB chemistries is then critically discussed. The relationship between a given membrane modification strategy, corresponding ex situ properties and their impact on battery performance are outlined. It has been demonstrated that further dedicated studies are necessary in order to develop an optimal modification technique, since a modification generally reduces the crossover of redox-active species but, at the same time, leads to an increase in membrane electrical resistance. The feasibility of using alternative advanced modification methods, similar to those employed in water purification applications, needs yet to be evaluated. Additionally, the long-term stability and durability of the modified membranes during cycling in RFBs still must be investigated. The remaining challenges and potential solutions, as well as promising future perspectives, are finally highlighted.
Recent Studies of Membranes for Liquids Separation and Water Treatment
Authors: Ezazi Mohammadamin , Quazi M. M. , Taheri Hossein
Published: September 2023

Rapid urbanization and industrialization in the past decades have resulted in vast amounts of wastewater containing pollutants such as inorganic chemicals, pathogens, pharmaceuticals, plant nutrients, petrochemical products, and microplastics [...]
Wetting-Based Comparison of Ag, Carbon Black, and MoS2 Composite Membranes for Photothermal Membrane Distillation
Authors: Eljaddi Tarik , Cabassud Corinne
Published: September 2023

Photothermal membrane distillation is a new-generation desalination process that can take advantage of the ability of specific materials to convert solar energy to heat at the membrane surface and thus to overcome temperature polarization. The development of appropriate photothermal membranes is challenging because many criteria need to be considered, including light to heat conversion, permeability and low wetting, and fouling, as well as cost. Based on our experience with wetting characterization, this study compares photothermal membranes prepared using different well-known or promising materials, i.e., silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), carbon black, and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), in terms of their structural properties, permeability, wettability, and wetting. Accordingly, membranes with different proportions of photothermal NPs are prepared and fully characterized in this study. Wetting is investigated using the detection of dissolved tracer intrusion (DDTI) method following membrane distillation operations with saline solutions. The advantages of MoS2 and carbon black-based photothermal membranes in comparison with polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membranes include both a permeability increase and a less severe wetting mechanism, with lower wetting indicators in the short term. These materials are also much cheaper than Ag NPs, having higher permeabilities and presenting less severe wetting mechanisms.
Study of the Free Randomly Moving Electron Transport Peculiarities in Metals
Authors: Palenskis Vilius , Jonkus Vytautas
Published: September 2023

In this study, we review some aspects of the application of free randomly moving (RM) electron density and its probability density function distribution to the main free electron transport characteristics of elemental metals. It is shown that metal atom thermal vibrations not only produce free RM electrons, but also produce the same number of electronic defects (weakly shielded ions). The general expressions for the drift mobility, diffusion coefficient, and mean free path of randomly moving electrons are presented. It is shown that the scattering of free RM electrons is mainly due to electronic defects, which cause the distortion of the periodic potential (or the charge density) distribution in the periodic lattice. The resistivity of the elemental metal is caused by electronic defect scattering, taking into account the exchange in the thermal energies between phonons and free RM electrons. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the Hall effect measurement data: the Hall coefficient is presented for two types of RM electrons and holes, taking into account electron-like and hole-like densities of states. The paramagnetism and diamagnetism of the free RM electrons are simply explained using the definition of free RM electron density.
Electrochemical and Surface Characterisation of Carbon Steel Exposed to Mixed Ce and Iodide Electrolytes
Authors: El-Hashemy Mohammed A. , Easton Christopher D. , Seeber Aaron , Cole Ivan S. , Hughes Anthony E.
Published: September 2023

The protection of ferrous metals in acidic environments is important in many industries. Extending the pH range of organic inhibitors to low pH has been achieved with the addition of iodide ions, which facilitate adsorption. It was of interest to see whether similar outcomes could be achieved with inorganic inhibitors. To this end, this paper examines the influence of potassium iodide addition on the level of corrosion protection provided by Ce(NO3)3 in 3.5% NaCl electrolytes over a pH range of 2.5 to 8. Potentiodynamic polarization was used to assess percentage inhibitor efficiency (IE%), and scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the corrosion product. It was found that KI alone provided only poor corrosion inhibition except at pH 2.5, where nearly 85IE% was achieved. Its addition to the cerium electrolytes was generally in excess of 90% and over 97% for the optimum concentration. The addition of KI seemed to change the mechanism of formation of corrosion products from predominantly Fe2O3 to a mixture of FeOOH, Fe3O4, and Fe2O3, which were more adherent. Corrosion protection was extended to pH 4, but under the conditions explored here, no additional protection was evident at pH 2.5.
Implementation of ABAQUS User Subroutines for Viscoplasticity of 316 Stainless Steel and Zircaloy-4
Authors: Yue Xiaowei , Zhou Jinxiong
Published: September 2023

This paper describes the formulations for the viscoplasticity of metals based on the Chaboche and Delobelle model. The implementations of the viscoplastic models were detailed herein and then implemented via user subroutines for material models (UMAT) in ABAQUS. Two typical metals, i.e., 316 Stainless Steel and Zircaloy-4, were chosen as examples and their viscoplastic behaviors were captured. Numerical simulations are compared to reported experiments in order to validate the models and the UMAT codes. The typical viscoplastic behaviors of both metals, such as stress relaxation and creep, were captured well through the available experiments. We have publicized all the data and codes.
The Effects of Using Evogen Biogas Additive on the Microbiome and Performance of Full-Scale Biogas Plant
Authors: Sfetsas Themistoklis , Panou Manthos , Chioti Afroditi G. , Prokopidou Nikoleta , Dalla Ioanna
Published: September 2023

Biogas production from organic waste is a promising renewable energy source, but achieving optimal production and digester stability can be challenging. This study investigated the impact of the Evogen microbial additive on biogas production and digester status in two biogas plants (BG01 and BG02). Microbial abundance and physicochemical parameters were analyzed to assess the effects. The results show distinct microbial community shifts in Evogen-treated digesters, with increased abundance of methanogenic archaea and hydrolytic bacteria, indicating improved anaerobic digestion. Evogen supplementation positively influenced digester performance, as evidenced by higher alkalinity buffer capacity (FOS/TAC ratios), indicating enhanced acidification and methanogenesis, along with reductions in total solids and volatile solids, demonstrating improved organic matter degradation. Evogen-treated digesters exhibited significantly higher biogas production and improved process stability, as indicated by volatile fatty acids (VFAs) profiling. The dominance of Firmicutes, Synergistetes, Proteolytic Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria highlighted their roles in substrate degradation and VFA production. The findings contribute to optimizing biogas production systems and understanding complex microbial interactions within anaerobic digesters. The addition of Evogen influenced microbial community composition and dynamics, potentially altering substrate utilization, metabolic interactions and overall community structure.
Process Mineralogy Characteristics and Flotation Optimization of a Low-Grade Oxidized Lead and Zinc Ore from Lanping Mine
Authors: Yu Anmei , Ding Zhan , Yuan Jiaqiao , Feng Qicheng , Wen Shuming , Bai Shaojun
Published: September 2023

The beneficiation of low-grade oxidized lead and zinc ore from the Lanping mine has attracted extensive interest in the mineral processing field due to the extremely rich resource reserves and the challenge in lead and zinc recovery. This study’s objective is to analyze the process mineralogy characteristics and to conduct the flotation optimization of this ore. Mineralogy parameters of the ore, such as mineral composition, mineral liberation degree, and intergrowth relationship, were investigated using an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF), an X-ray powder diffractometer (XRD), and an electronic probe microanalyzer (EPMA). The effect of the main experimental factors on the lead and zinc flotation is determined and compared. The results confirm that the low content of lead and zinc and the complex co-occurrence relationships between minerals bring a challenge to the efficient separation of the ore. Furthermore, a flow sheet consisting of “lead preferred flotation-zinc flotation” is performed, and an all-open flotation process consisted of “two-times lead rougher-one-time lead cleaner-two-times zinc rougher-one-time zinc cleaner” is finally employed for the beneficiation of this ore with the aids of mixed depressants and cationic-anionic collectors for zinc recovery. The Pb grade in the lead rougher concentrate is 2.83%, and the Pb recovery is 57.56%. The Zn grade reaches 28.64% with a recovery of 83.45%. Thus, the findings provide important technical supports for the processing of similar ores.
Green Biocidal Nanotechnology Use for Urban Stone-Built Heritage—Case Study from Oradea, Romania
Authors: Ilies Dorina Camelia , Blaga Lucian , Ilies Alexandru , Pereș Ana Cornelia , Caciora Tudor , Hassan Thowayeb H. , Hodor Nicolaie , Turza Alexandru , Taghiyari Hamid R. , Barbu-Tudoran Lucian , Dahal Ranjan Kumar , Dejeu Paula , Safarov Bahodirhon , Hossain Mallik Akram
Published: September 2023

Heritage buildings clad with natural rock endure over time destruction caused by weathering mechanisms, pollution from urban areas, biodeterioration due to organisms, microorganisms, and also the anthropic factor. On the surface of the limestone samples taken from the ornamental natural rock with which the outside of Markovits-Mathéser house, Oradea, Romania, is clad, two species of fungi were inoculated in the laboratory: Aspergillus spp. and Cladosporium spp. Wollastonite was then applied, and from the imaging analysis (SEM), the inhibition of fungi by it is clearly observed (48 h after its application), which was also confirmed using the image segmentation method. It was also noted that the hydrophilicity of the aqueous suspension of wollastonite resulted in the absorption of water in the substrate, which in turn resulted in the drying out and surface breakage of the specimens. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of the two phases (calcite and quartz) as in the starting sample, and also an additional phase assigned to wollastonite in the later phase of the experiment. An amorphous component, due to the applied gel composition, was also reported. This research highlights the fact that there are good premises for aqueous suspension of wollastonite to have a biocidal character for Aspegillus spp. and Cladosporium spp., when applied on natural stone used in the construction of heritage buildings located in temperate climates; due to its easy application, green and ecofriendly properties, and also low cost of acquisition and application.
Variational Mode Decomposition for Raman Spectral Denoising
Authors: Bian Xihui , Shi Zitong , Shao Yingjie , Chu Yuanyuan , Tan Xiaoyao
Published: September 2023

As a fast and non-destructive spectroscopic analysis technique, Raman spectroscopy has been widely applied in chemistry. However, noise is usually unavoidable in Raman spectra. Hence, denoising is an important step before Raman spectral analysis. A novel spectral denoising method based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) was introduced to solve the above problem. The spectrum is decomposed into a series of modes (uk) by VMD. Then, the high-frequency noise modes are removed and the remaining modes are reconstructed to obtain the denoised spectrum. The proposed method was verified by two artificial noised signals and two Raman spectra of inorganic materials, i.e., MnCo ISAs/CN and Fe-NCNT. For comparison, empirical mode decomposition (EMD), Savitzky–Golay (SG) smoothing, and discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) are also investigated. At the same time, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was introduced as evaluation indicators to verify the performance of the proposed method. The results show that compared with EMD, VMD can significantly improve mode mixing and the endpoint effect. Moreover, the Raman spectrum by VMD denoising is more excellent than that of EMD, SG smoothing and DWT in terms of visualization and SNR. For the small sharp peaks, some information is lost after denoising by EMD, SG smoothing, DWT and VMD while VMD loses fewest information. Therefore, VMD may be an alternative method for Raman spectral denoising.
Accessing Properties of Molecular Compounds Involved in Cellular Metabolic Processes with Electron Paramagnetic Resonance, Raman Spectroscopy, and Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Postnikov Eugene B. , Wasiak Michał , Bartoszek Mariola , Polak Justyna , Zyubin Andrey , Lavrova Anastasia I. , Chora̧żewski Mirosław
Published: September 2023

In this work, we review some physical methods of macroscopic experiments, which have been recently argued to be promising for the acquisition of valuable characteristics of biomolecular structures and interactions. The methods we focused on are electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. They were chosen since it can be shown that they are able to provide a mutually complementary picture of the composition of cellular envelopes (with special attention paid to mycobacteria), transitions between their molecular patterning, and the response to biologically active substances (reactive oxygen species and their antagonists—antioxidants—as considered in our case study).
Exploring the Biomedical Applications of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Perilla frutescens Flavonoid Extract: Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Cell Toxicity Properties against Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Hou Tianyu , Guo Yurong , Han Wanyu , Zhou Yang , Netala Vasudeva Reddy , Li Huizhen , Li He , Zhang Zhijun
Published: September 2023

The present study reports the biomimetic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a simple, cost effective and eco-friendly method. In this method, the flavonoid extract of Perilla frutescens (PFFE) was used as a bioreduction agent for the reduction of metallic silver into nanosilver, called P. frutescens flavonoid extract silver nanoparticles (PFFE-AgNPs). The Ultraviolet–Visible (UV-Vis) spectrum showed a characteristic absorption peak at 440 nm that confirmed the synthesis of PFFE-AgNPs. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis of the PFFE-AgNPs revealed that flavonoids are involved in the bioreduction and capping processes. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns confirmed the face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure of PFFE-AgNPs. A transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis indicated that the synthesized PFFE-AgNPs are 20 to 70 nm in size with spherical morphology and without any aggregation. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies showed that the average hydrodynamic size was 44 nm. A polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.321 denotes the monodispersed nature of PFFE-AgNPs. Further, a highly negative surface charge or zeta potential value (−30 mV) indicates the repulsion, non-aggregation, and stability of PFFE-AgNPs. PFFE-AgNPs showed cytotoxic effects against cancer cell lines, including human colon carcinoma (COLO205) and mouse melanoma (B16F10), with IC50 concentrations of 59.57 and 69.33 μg/mL, respectively. PFFE-AgNPs showed a significant inhibition of both Gram-positive (Listeria monocytogens and Enterococcus faecalis) and Gram-negative (Salmonella typhi and Acinetobacter baumannii) bacteria pathogens. PFFE-AgNPs exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity by quenching 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) free radicals with IC50 values of 72.81 and 92.48 µg/mL, respectively. In this study, we also explained the plausible mechanisms of the biosynthesis, anticancer, and antibacterial effects of PFFE-AgNPs. Overall, these findings suggest that PFFE-AgNPs have potential as a multi-functional nanomaterial for biomedical applications, particularly in cancer therapy and infection control. However, it is important to note that further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of these nanoparticles in vivo, as well as to explore their potential in other areas of medicine.
Artificial Synapse Emulated by Indium Tin Oxide/SiN/TaN Resistive Switching Device for Neuromorphic System
Authors: Ju Dongyeol , Kim Sunghun , Kim Sungjun
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we fabricate an ITO/SiN/TaN memristor device and analyze its electrical characteristics for a neuromorphic system. The device structure and chemical properties are investigated using transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Uniform bipolar switching is achieved through DC sweep under a compliance current of 5 mA. Also, the analog reset phenomenon is observed by modulating the reset voltage for long-term memory. Additionally, short-term memory characteristics are obtained by controlling the strength of the pulse response. Finally, bio-inspired synaptic characteristics are emulated using Hebbian learning rules such as spike-rate-dependent plasticity (SRDP) and spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP). As a result, we believe that the coexistence of short-term and long-term memories in the ITO/SiN/TaN device can provide flexibility in device design in future neuromorphic applications.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Pt/SnO2 for the Catalytic Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol to 4-Aminophenol
Authors: Đurasović Izabela , Štefanić Goran , Dražić Goran , Peter Robert , Klencsár Zoltán , Marciuš Marijan , Jurkin Tanja , Ivanda Mile , Stichleutner Sándor , Gotić Marijan
Published: September 2023

In this study, we present a new approach for the synthesis of Pt/SnO2 catalysts using microwave radiation. Pt(IV) and Sn(IV) inorganic precursors (H2PtCl6 and SnCl4) and ammonia were used, which allowed the controlled formation of platinum particles on the anisotropic SnO2 support. The synthesized Pt/SnO2 samples are mesoporous and exhibit a reversible physisorption isotherm of type IV. The XRD patterns confirmed the presence of platinum maxima in all Pt/SnO2 samples. The Williamson-Hall diagram showed SnO2 anisotropy with crystallite sizes of ~10 nm along the c-axis (< 00l >) and ~5 nm along the a-axis (< h00 >). SEM analysis revealed anisotropic, urchin-like SnO2 particles. XPS results indicated relatively low average oxidation states of platinum, close to Pt metal. 119Sn Mössbauer spectroscopy indicated electronic interactions between Pt and SnO2 particles. The synthesized samples were used for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) in the presence of excess NaBH4. The catalytic activity of the Pt/SnO2 samples for the reduction of 4-NP to 4-AP was optimized by varying the synthesis parameters and Pt loading. The optimal platinum loading for the reduction of 4-NP to 4-AP on the anisotropic SnO2 support is 5 mol% with an apparent rate constant k = 0.59 × 10–2 s–1. The Pt/SnO2 sample showed exceptional reusability and retained an efficiency of 81.4% after ten cycles.
High-Linearity Wireless Passive Temperature Sensor Based on Metamaterial Structure with Rotation-Insensitive Distance-Based Warning Ability
Authors: Wang Chenying , Chen Luntao , Tian Bian , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: September 2023

A wireless passive temperature sensor based on a metamaterial structure is proposed that is capable of measuring the temperature of moving parts. The sensor structure consists of an alumina ceramic substrate with a square metal double split-ring resonator fixed centrally on the ceramic substrate. Since the dielectric constant of the alumina ceramic substrate is temperature sensitive, the resonant frequency of the sensor is altered due to changes in temperature. A wireless antenna is used to detect the change in the resonant frequency of the sensor using a wireless antenna, thereby realizing temperature sensing operation of the sensor. The temperature sensitivity of the sensor is determined to be 205.22 kHz/°C with a strong linear response when tested over the temperature range of 25–135 °C, which is evident from the R2 being 0.995. Additionally, the frequency variation in this sensor is insensitive to the angle of rotation and can be used for temperature measurement of rotating parts. The sensor also has a distance warning functionality, which offers additional safety for the user by providing early warning signals when the heating equipment overheats after operating for extended durations.
Characterising Hydroxyapatite Deposited from Solution onto Novel Substrates: Growth Mechanism and Physical Properties
Authors: Murphy Bríd , Baez Jhonattan , Morris Mick A.
Published: September 2023

Whilst titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chrome alloys are the most common materials for use in orthopaedic implant devices, there are significant advantages in moving to alternative non-metallic substrates. Substrates such as polymers may have advantageous mechanical biological properties whilst other substrates may bring unique capability. A key challenge in the use of non-metal products is producing substrates which can be modified to allow the formation of well-adhered hydroxyapatite films which promote osteointegration and have other beneficial properties. In this work, we aim to develop methodology for the growth of hydroxyapatite films on surfaces other than bulk metallic parts using a wet chemical coating process, and we provide a detailed characterisation of the coatings. In this study, hydroxyapatite is grown from saturated solutions onto thin titanium films and silicon substrates and compared to results from titanium alloy substrates. The coating process efficacy is shown to be dependent on substrate roughness, hydrophilicity, and activation. The mechanism of the hydroxyapatite growth is investigated in terms of initial attachment and morphological development using SEM and XPS analysis. XPS analysis reveals the exact chemical state of the hydroxyapatite compositional elements of Ca, P, and O. The characterisation of grown hydroxyapatite layers by XRD reveals that the hydroxyapatite forms from amorphous phases, displaying preferential crystal growth along the [002] direction, with TEM imagery confirming polycrystalline pockets amid an amorphous matrix. SEM-EDX and FTIR confirmed the presence of hydroxyapatite phases through elemental atomic weight percentages and bond assignment. All data are collated and reviewed for the different substrates. The results demonstrate that once hydroxyapatite seeds, it crystallises in the same manner as bulk titanium whether that be on a titanium or silicon substrate. These data suggest that a range of substrates may be coated using this facile hydroxyapatite deposition technique, just broadening the choice of substrate for a particular function.
Low-Vacuum Catalyst-Free Physical Vapor Deposition and Magnetotransport Properties of Ultrathin Bi2Se3 Nanoribbons
Authors: Sondors Raitis , Niherysh Kiryl , Andzane Jana , Palermo Xavier , Bauch Thilo , Lombardi Floriana , Erts Donats
Published: September 2023

In this work, a simple catalyst-free physical vapor deposition method is optimized by adjusting source material pressure and evaporation time for the reliable obtaining of freestanding nanoribbons with thicknesses below 15 nm. The optimum synthesis temperature, time and pressure were determined for an increased yield of ultrathin Bi2Se3 nanoribbons with thicknesses of 8–15 nm. Physical and electrical characterization of the synthesized Bi2Se3 nanoribbons with thicknesses below 15 nm revealed no degradation of properties of the nanoribbons, as well as the absence of the contribution of trivial bulk charge carriers to the total conductance of the nanoribbons.
In-Situ Grown NiMn2O4/GO Nanocomposite Material on Nickel Foam Surface by Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Method and Used as Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Wang Shusen , Du Xiaomei , Liu Sen , Fu Yingqing , Huang Naibao
Published: September 2023

The NiMn2O4/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposite material was in situ grown on the surface of a nickel foam 3D skeleton by combining the solvent method with the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and annealing; then, its performance was investigated as a superior supercapacitor electrode material. When nickel foam was soaked in GO aqueous or treated in nickel ion and manganese ion solution by the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and annealing, gauze GO film or flower-spherical NiMn2O4 was formed on the nickel foam surface. If the two processes were combined in a different order, the final products on the nickel surface had a remarkably different morphology and phase structure. When GO film was first formed, the final products on the nickel surface were the composite of NiO and Mn3O4, while NiMn2O4/GO nanocomposite material can be obtained if NiMn2O4 was first formed (immersed in 2.5 mg/L GO solution). In a 6M KOH solution, the specific capacitance of the latter reached 700 F/g at 1 A/g which was superior to that of the former (only 35 F/g). However, the latter’s specific capacitance was still inferior to that of in-situ grown NiMn2O4 on nickel foam (802 F/g). Though the gauze-formed GO film, almost covering the preformed flower-spherical NiMn2O4, can also contribute a certain specific capacitance, it also restricted the electrolyte diffusion and contact with NiMn2O4, accounting for the performance decrease of the NiMn2O4/GO nanocomposite. A convenient method was raised to fabricate the nanocomposite of carbon and double metal oxides.
Thermophase Seebeck Coefficient in Hybridized Superconductor-Quantum-Dot-Superconductor Josephson Junction Side-Coupled to Majorana Nanowire
Authors: Gao Yumei , Zhang Xiaoyan , Yi Zichuan , Liu Liming , Chi Feng
Published: September 2023

The dc Josephson current is generated from phase difference between two superconductors separated by a mesoscopic thin film (Josephson junction) without external bias voltage. In the presence of a temperature gradient across the superconductors, a thermal phase is induced under the condition of open circuit. This is very similar to the Seebeck effect in the usual thermoelectric effect, and the thermal phase is thus named as thermophase Seebeck coefficient (TPSC). Here we find obvious enhancement and sign change of the TPSC unique to the Josephson junction composing of two superconductors connected to a semiconductor quantum dot (QD), which is additionally side-coupled to a nanowire hosting Majorana bound states (MBSs), the system denoted by S-MQD-S. These result arise from the newly developed states near the Fermi level of the superconductors due to the QD-MBS hybridization when the dot level is within the superconducting gap. The sign change of the TPSC provides a strong evidence of the existence of MBSs, and is absent if the QD is coupled to regular fermion, such as another QD (system denoted by S-DQD-S). We show that the magnitude and sign of the TPSC are sensitive to the physical quantities including interaction strength between the QD and MBSs, direct overlap between the MBSs, system equilibrium temperature, as well as hopping amplitude between the QD and the superconductors. The obtained results are explained with the help of the current-carrying density of the states (CCDOS), and may be useful in interdisciplinary research areas of Josephson and Majorana physics.
Advances in Surface-Enhanced and Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, Mapping and Methods Combined with Raman Spectroscopy for the Characterization of Perspective Carbon Nanomaterials
Authors: Kharlamova Marianna V.
Published: September 2023

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is based on the effect of the plasmonic enhancement of intensity of the Raman scattering of molecules in cases when they are adsorbed on a substrate [...]
Exploring Health Behaviours, Attitudes and Beliefs of Women and Men during the Preconception and Interconception Periods: A Cross-Sectional Study of Adults on the Island of Ireland
Authors: Cassinelli Emma H. , McClure Abby , Cairns Ben , Griffin Sally , Walton Janette , McKinley Michelle C. , Woodside Jayne V. , McGowan Laura
Published: September 2023

Preconception health is increasingly seen as a key target for improving population health in the UK and Ireland, yet little is known about the attitudes and beliefs of adults regarding preconception care strategies. This online cross-sectional survey aimed to explore the health behaviours, attitudes and beliefs of adults of reproductive age in regard to preconception health and care. The survey was developed by reviewing the previous literature and engaging with those from the target group. It is one of the first surveys to assess the attitudes and beliefs of adults of reproductive age across the Island of Ireland regarding preconception health and care. Results from 386 individuals with a mean age of 29.9 ± 10.3 years were included. A variety of health behaviours, attitudes and beliefs were investigated, with differences being identified between women and men and between participants with or without children (i.e., in the preconception or interconception stage). The majority of respondents held beliefs that preconception care was important, but there was greater emphasis on women than men in terms of the need to engage in health-promoting preconception health behaviours. This study highlights the need to improve preconception health awareness in women and men in the preconception and interconception stage. Findings indicate that efforts to improve preparation for pregnancy among adults of childbearing age are needed, to ensure optimal engagement in preconception health behaviours, with efforts being tailored based on sex and parental status.
Assessing Nutritional Status and Frailty among Poor Elderly Individuals in Requena del Tapiche, Peru
Authors: Murillo-Llorente María Teresa , Lafuente-Sarabia Blanca , Samper de la Paz Jennifer , Flores-Púa Merita , Tejeda-Adell Manuel , Legidos-García María Ester , Perez-Bermejo Marcelino
Published: September 2023

Frailty is a biological syndrome that leads to a loss of physiological reserve, increasing susceptibility to adverse health events. In the Peruvian Amazon, the elderly live with hardly any economic resources, presenting a caloric deficit that is related to functional and cognitive deterioration. Our objective was to identify the health needs of elderly people living in extreme poverty in Requena (Peru) by means of a geriatric assessment of the nutritional and functional spheres to design, in the future, a cooperation project appropriate to the needs detected. This is an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. Sixty participants were included, and sociodemographic and functional status variables were analyzed using the MNA and Barthel scales and the Get Up and Go test. The mean age of the participants was 79 ± 6.67 (women 55% and men 45%), where 60% had frailty. A statistically significant relationship was found between the MNA scores and Barthel test. Eighty-five percent were malnourished or at risk and thirteen percent had total or moderate dependence. We conclude that the nutritional status of the elderly was deficient. The high degree of living alone in which they live forces them to maintain their independence and their walking stability is normal. The situation of frailty exceeds the national average, a situation that has repercussions for their quality of life. We found a statistically significant association between nutritional status, dependence, and frailty. The better-nourished elderly are less frail and less dependent.
Orthorexia and Orthorexia Nervosa: A Comprehensive Examination of Prevalence, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Horovitz Omer , Argyrides Marios
Published: September 2023

Orthorexia nervosa is an emerging and controversial eating disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with healthy eating and an extreme fixation on food purity. Despite growing public interest in orthorexia, its classification as a distinct eating disorder remains a subject of ongoing debate in the mental health community. This paper comprehensively reviews the current literature on orthorexia nervosa, exploring the prevalence rates, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options. The paper offers an overview of orthorexia and its historical context and explores the challenges and considerations in diagnosing orthorexia and orthorexia nervosa. Specifically, the distinction between “orthorexia” and “orthorexia nervosa” is a debated issue in eating disorder research due to a lack of clear diagnostic criteria, making it challenging to accurately differentiate between an obsession with healthy eating and a more severe form with potential distress and impairment. Given the absence of formal diagnostic criteria, developing valid and reliable assessment tools is crucial to accurately identify and treat individuals experiencing these disorders. The paper’s final section covers the existing treatment approaches for orthorexia nervosa. Overall, the paper highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of orthorexia nervosa. This review contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding orthorexia and provides valuable insights for clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders in the mental health and eating disorders fields.
Improvements of Age-Related Cognitive Decline in Mice by Lactobacillus helveticus WHH1889, a Novel Strain with Psychobiotic Properties
Authors: Gao Kan , Chen Cailing , Ke Xueqin , Fan Qiuling , Wang Haifeng , Li Yanjun , Chen Su
Published: September 2023

A gradual decline in cognitive function occurs with age. Accumulating evidence suggests that certain probiotic strains exert beneficial effects on age-related cognitive decline. Our previous study revealed that Lactobacillus helveticus WHH1889 attenuated symptoms of anxiety and depression in depressed mice via shaping the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) metabolism and gut microbial community, indicating the psychobiotic potential of WHH1889. In the present study, the effects of WHH1889 on age-related cognitive decline were investigated. WHH1889 was orally administrated (1 × 109 CFU/day) for twelve weeks in aged mice, and their cognitive behaviors, neurochemical factors, cognitive-related gene expressions, neuroinflammation, and serum tryptophan pathway-targeted metabolic profiling, as well as gut microbiome composition were assessed. WHH1889 demonstrated improvement of the cognitive behaviors via the novel object recognition test (NORT), the active shuttle avoidance test (ASAT), the Y-maze test, and the passive avoidance test (PAT). The hippocampal neuronal loss; the declined concentrations of BDNF, 5-HT, and 5-HTP; the decreased gene expressions of neurodegeneration biomarkers; and the increased production of hippocampal inflammatory cytokines in aged mice were restored by WHH1889. In addition, WHH1889 increased the 5-HT/5HTP levels and decreased the serum levels of tryptophan-derived metabolites (e.g., kynurenine, xanthurenic acid, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid). Furthermore, WHH1889 was revealed to shape the gut microbiota community by reversing the relative abundances of Bacteroidota and Firmicutes. The present findings suggest that L. helveticus WHH1889 exerted cognitive improving effects on aged mice, which was associated with the modulation of 5-HT and 5-HTP metabolism and gut microbial composition. The supplementation of WHH1889 may therefore be a promising therapeutic agent for age-related cognitive deficits.
Postpartum Depression Is Associated with Maternal Sociodemographic and Anthropometric Characteristics, Perinatal Outcomes, Breastfeeding Practices, and Mediterranean Diet Adherence
Authors: Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Pavlidou Eleni , Dakanalis Antonios , Antasouras Georgios , Vorvolakos Theofanis , Mentzelou Maria , Serdari Aspasia , Pandi Aimilia-Lynn , Spanoudaki Maria , Alexatou Olga , Aggelakou Exakousti-Petroula , Giaginis Constantinos
Published: September 2023

Postpartum depression, with a prevalence ranging between 14% and 25% worldwide, has been considered an urgent health concern that negatively affects both mothers’ and their infants’ health. Postpartum depression may negatively affect maternal sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters and lifestyle factors. Nutrition has recently been identified as a crucial factor for the management and co-treatment of postpartum depression. This survey aims to determine the possible association of postpartum depression with mothers’ socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics, perinatal outcomes, breastfeeding practices, and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey, which was performed on 3941 women during the postpartum period. Postpartum depression was assessed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Anthropometric parameters and perinatal outcomes were retrieved from mothers’ medical records. Sociodemographic data and breastfeeding practices were recorded by face-to-face interviews between enrolled mothers and trained personnel. Mediterranean diet adherence was assessed by MedDietScore. Both univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression were applied for analyzing our data. Results. Postpartum depression was significantly associated with lower educational level, Greek nationality, higher prevalence of multiparity and overweight/obesity postpartum, higher incidence of caesarean section and not breastfeeding, and lower levels of MD adherence. In multivariate analysis, postpartum depression was independently associated with mothers’ educational level, postpartum BMI status, type of delivery, breastfeeding practices, and MD adherence after adjusting for multiple confounding factors. Conclusions: This study has provided evidence that elevated MD compliance was related to a decreased risk of postpartum depression. Additionally, postpartum depression was associated with multiple sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters, perinatal outcomes, and breastfeeding practices. Future well-designed, prospective studies with high-quality methodology should be performed to obtain conclusive results.
Recent Advances in Nutraceuticals for the Treatment of Sarcopenic Obesity
Authors: Kim Young-Chan , Ki Sang-Woo , Kim Hannah , Kang Sumin , Kim Hayoon , Go Gwang-woong
Published: September 2023

Sarcopenic obesity, low muscle mass, and high body fat are growing health concerns in the aging population. This review highlights the need for standardized criteria and explores nutraceuticals as potential therapeutic agents. Sarcopenic obesity is associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, hormonal changes, and reduced physical activity. These factors lead to impaired muscle activity, intramuscular fat accumulation, and reduced protein synthesis, resulting in muscle catabolism and increased fat mass. Myostatin and irisin are myokines that regulate muscle synthesis and energy expenditure, respectively. Nutritional supplementation with vitamin D and calcium is recommended for increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat content. Testosterone therapy decreases fat mass and improves muscle strength. Vitamin K, specifically menaquinone-4 (MK-4), improves mitochondrial function and reduces muscle damage. Irisin is a hormone secreted during exercise that enhances oxidative metabolism, prevents insulin resistance and obesity, and improves bone quality. Low-glycemic-index diets and green cardamom are potential methods for managing sarcopenic obesity. In conclusion, along with exercise and dietary support, nutraceuticals, such as vitamin D, calcium, vitamin K, and natural agonists of irisin or testosterone, can serve as promising future therapeutic alternatives.
SARS-CoV-2-Associated Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Case Report from Iraq
Authors: Al-Simaani Ruwaid Behnam Y. , Al-Kzayer Lika’a Fasih Y. , Ali Kenan Hussien , Al-Ani Mouroge H. , Nakazawa Yozo
Published: September 2023

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to evolve. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare post-COVID-19 complication that affects children with critical outcomes. Few MIS-C reports were available from Arab-Asian ethnicities. We here describe a presentation mimicking a head injury overlapping the manifestations of MIS-C in a child from Iraq. A 10-year-old boy presented with blunt trauma in a shock-like status, and a head injury was suspected. Since he was febrile two days before the trauma, another pathology was assumed. Imaging and laboratory evaluations were performed, and after excluding gross neurosurgical etiology, he was initially treated as a toxic shock syndrome. Meanwhile, he was deteriorating with continuous fever, impaired consciousness, and seizure on the following day. Although not considered initially, close monitoring with a multidisciplinary approach and serial investigations revealed that the child met the criteria of MIS-C. SARS-CoV-2 IgG was shown to be high, while the RT-PCR of COVID-19 was negative. Once he received immunoglobulin and methylprednisolone, he improved dramatically. In conclusion, this report aimed to increase awareness about MIS-C among health workers and emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary team approach in Iraq due to the importance of timely treatment.