bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Nanohybrids and Nanocomposites Development for the Removal of Environmental Pollutants and Bioremediation
Authors: Rando Giulia , Sfameni Silvia , Galletta Maurilio , Drommi Dario , Cappello Simone , Plutino Maria Rosaria
Published: August 2022

World population growth, with the consequent consumption of primary resources and production of waste, is progressively and seriously increasing the impact of anthropic activities on the environment and ecosystems. Environmental pollution deriving from anthropogenic activities is nowadays a serious problem that afflicts our planet and that cannot be neglected. In this regard, one of the most challenging tasks of the 21st century is to develop new eco-friendly, sustainable and economically-sound technologies to remediate the environment from pollutants. Nanotechnologies and new performing nanomaterials, thanks to their unique features, such as high surface area (surface/volume ratio), catalytic capacity, reactivity and easy functionalization to chemically modulate their properties, represent potential for the development of sustainable, advanced and innovative products/techniques for environmental (bio)remediation. This review discusses the most recent innovations of environmental recovery strategies of polluted areas based on different nanocomposites and nanohybrids with some examples of their use in combination with bioremediation techniques. In particular, attention is focused on eco-friendly and regenerable nano-solutions and their safe-by-design properties to support the latest research and innovation on sustainable strategies in the field of environmental (bio)remediation.
A Two-Photon Fluorescent Probe for the Visual Detection of Peroxynitrite in Living Cells and Zebrafish
Authors: Xu Zhencai , Qian Jin , Ge Yufeng , Wang Yalan , Chen Hongwei
Published: August 2022

Peroxynitrite (ONOO−), as an important reactive oxygen species (ROS), holds great potential to react with a variety of biologically active substances, leading to the occurrence of various diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In this work, we developed a novel mitochondria-localized fluorescent probe, HDBT-ONOO−, which was designed as a mitochondria-targeting two-photon fluorescence probe based on 1,8-naphthylimide fluorophore and the reactive group of 4-(bromomethyl)-benzene boronic acid pinacol ester. More importantly, the probe exhibited good biocompatibility, sensitivity, and selectivity, enabling its successful application in imaging the generation of intracellular and extracellular ONOO−. Furthermore, exogenous and endogenous ONOO− products in live zebrafish were visualized. It is greatly expected that the designed probe can serve as a useful imaging tool for clarifying the distribution and pathophysiological functions of ONOO− in cells and zebrafish.
Effects of Different Processing Methods Based on Different Drying Conditions on the Active Ingredients of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge
Authors: Zhang Liuwei , Zhang Xuemei , Begum Naheeda , Xia Pengguo , Liu Jingling , Liang Zongsuo
Published: August 2022

Compared to the traditional processing method, fresh processing can significantly enhance the preservation of biologically active ingredients and reduce processing time. This study evaluated the influences of fresh and traditional processing based on different drying conditions (sun drying, oven drying and shade drying) on the active ingredients in the roots and rhizomes of S. miltiorrhiza. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was utilized to determine the contents of six active ingredients in the roots and rhizomes of S. miltiorrhiza. The data were analyzed by fingerprint similarity evaluation, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). The results suggest that compared to the traditional processing method, the fresh processing method may significantly increase the preservation of biologically active ingredients. Furthermore, the findings demonstrated that among the three drying methods under fresh processing conditions, the shade-drying (21.02–26.38%) method is most beneficial for retaining the active ingredients in the roots and rhizomes of S. miltiorrhiza. Moreover, the fingerprint analysis identified 17 common peaks, and the similarity of fingerprints among samples processed by different methods ranged from 0.989 to 1.000. Collectively, these results suggest novel processing methods that may improve the yield of active ingredients for S. miltiorrhiza and may be implemented for industrial production.
Co-Pyrolysis of Cotton Stalks and Low-Density Polyethylene to Synthesize Biochar and Its Application in Pb(II) Removal
Authors: Yuan Xiaowei , Zhang Xuejun , Lv Huijie , Xu Yonggang , Bai Tianxia
Published: August 2022

It is inevitable that reclaimed cotton stalks will contain a certain amount of plastic film due to the wide application of plastic mulching during the process of cotton cultivation, and this makes it inappropriate to return it to the field or for it to be processed into silage. In this study, biochars were prepared by the co-pyrolysis of cotton stalk with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in the proportions of 1:0, 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1 (w/w) at 400 °C, 450 °C, and 500 °C and maintaining them for 1 h. The effects of the co-pyrolysis of cotton stalk with LDPE on the properties of biochars (e.g., pH, yield, elemental analysis, specific surface area, etc.) and the Pb(II) removal capacity were analyzed. Co-pyrolysis cotton stalks with LDPE could delay the decomposition of LDPE but could promote the decomposition of cotton stalk. At 400 °C and 450 °C, the addition of LDPE decreased the H/C ratio, while no significant difference was found between the pristine biochar and the blended biochar pyrolyzed at 500 °C. An FTIR analysis indicated that the surface functional groups of biochar were not affected by the addition of LDPE, except for CH3 and CH2. The results of the SEM showed that LDPE could cover the surface of biochar when pyrolyzed at 400 °C, while many macropores were found in the blended biochar that was pyrolyzed at 450 °C and 500 °C, thus increasing its surface area. The blended biochar that was pyrolyzed at 500 °C was more effective in the removal of Pb(II) than the cotton-stalk-derived biochar, which was dominated by monolayer adsorption with a maximum adsorption capacity of approximately 200 mg·g−1. These results suggested that the co-pyrolysis of cotton stalks and LDPE may be used to produce biochar, which is a cost-effective adsorbent for heavy metal removal from aqueous solutions.
Intramolecular Phosphine-Promoted Knoevenagel Based Redox-Reaction
Authors: Feuge Niklas , Namyslo Jan C. , Kaufmann Dieter E. , Wilhelm René
Published: August 2022

A Knoevenagel based redox-reaction promoted by intramolecular phosphine sources is presented for the first time. The influence of different diketones, aldehydes, bases and acids was investigated. The effects of different substituents were evaluated based on their electronical influence on the diketone structure. With the obtained results a mechanism is proposed, giving information about transition states formed during the reaction, which can lead to different products. This type of an internal redox transformation with a phosphine oxide moiety remaining in the molecule after the redox reaction represents a new type of reaction.
In Silico Screening of Quorum Sensing Inhibitor Candidates Obtained by Chemical Similarity Search
Authors: Shekarappa Sharath Belenahalli , Rimac Hrvoje , Lee Julian
Published: August 2022

Quorum sensing (QS) is a bacterial communication using signal molecules, by which they sense population density of their own species, leading to group behavior such as biofilm formation and virulence. Autoinducer-2 (AI2) is a QS signal molecule universally used by both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Inhibition of QS mediated by AI2 is important for various practical applications, including prevention of gum-disease caused by biofilm formation of oral bacteria. In this research, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed for molecules that are chemically similar to known AI2 inhibitors that might have a potential to be quorum sensing inhibitors. The molecules that form stable complexes with the AI2 receptor protein were found, suggesting that they could be developed as a novel AI2 inhibitors after further in vitro validation. The result suggests that combination of ligand-based drug design and computational methods such as MD simulation, and experimental verification, may lead to development of novel AI inhibitor, with a broad range of practical applications.
A Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Method to Study the Interaction between Membrane Proteins and Low-Molecular-Weight Compound Mixtures
Authors: Ogiso Hideo , Suno Ryoji , Kobayashi Takuya , Kawami Masashi , Takano Mikihisa , Ogasawara Masaru
Published: August 2022

Molecular interaction analysis is an essential technique for the study of biomolecular functions and the development of new drugs. Most current methods generally require manipulation to immobilize or label molecules, and require advance identification of at least one of the two molecules in the reaction. In this study, we succeeded in detecting the interaction of low-molecular-weight (LMW) compounds with a membrane protein mixture derived from cultured cells expressing target membrane proteins by using the size exclusion chromatography-mass spectrometry (SEC-MS) method under the condition of 0.001% lauryl maltose neopentyl glycol as detergent and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization. This method allowed us to analyze the interaction of a mixture of medicinal herbal ingredients with a mixture of membrane proteins to identify the two interacting ingredients. As it does not require specialized equipment (e.g., a two-dimensional liquid chromatography system), this SEC-MS method enables the analysis of interactions between LMW compounds and relatively high-expressed membrane proteins without immobilization or derivatization of the molecules.
Nitrogen-Doped Porous MXene (Ti3C2) for Flexible Supercapacitors with Enhanced Storage Performance
Authors: Tao Xin , Zhang Linlin , He Xuedong , Fang Lingzi , Wang Hongyan , Zhang Li , Yu Lianghao , Zhu Guang
Published: August 2022

Flexible supercapacitors (FSCs) are limited in flexible electronics applications due to their low energy density. Therefore, developing electrode materials with high energy density, high electrochemical activity, and remarkable flexibility is challenging. Herein, we designed nitrogen-doped porous MXene (N-MXene), using melamine-formaldehyde (MF) microspheres as a template and nitrogen source. We combined it with an electrospinning process to produce a highly flexible nitrogen-doped porous MXene nanofiber (N-MXene-F) as a self-supporting electrode material and assembled it into a symmetrical supercapacitor (SSC). On the one hand, the interconnected mesh structure allows the electrolyte to penetrate the porous network to fully infiltrate the material surface, shortening the ion transport channels; on the other hand, the uniform nitrogen doping enhances the pseudocapacitive performance. As a result, the as-assembled SSC exhibited excellent electrochemical performance and excellent long-term durability, achieving an energy density of 12.78 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 1080 W kg−1, with long-term cycling stability up to 5000 cycles. This work demonstrates the impact of structural design and atomic doping on the electrochemical performance of MXene and opens up an exciting possibility for the fabrication of highly FSCs.
HIF in Gastric Cancer: Regulation and Therapeutic Target
Authors: Li Mengqing , Li Guan , Yang Xiaodong , Yin Weihua , Lv Guoqing , Wang Shubin
Published: August 2022

HIF means hypoxia-inducible factor gene family, and it could regulate various biological processes, including tumor development. In 2021, the FDA approved the new drug Welireg for targeting HIF-2a, and it is mainly used to treat von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, which demonstrated its good prospects in tumor therapy. As the fourth deadliest cancer worldwide, gastric cancer endangers the health of people all across the world. Currently, there are various treatment methods for patients with gastric cancer, but the five-year survival rate of patients with advanced gastric cancer is still not high. Therefore, here we reviewed the regulatory role and target role of HIF in gastric cancer, and provided some references for the treatment of gastric cancer.
PANI–WO3·2H2O Nanocomposite: Phase Interaction and Evaluation of Electronic Properties by Combined Experimental Techniques and Ab-Initio Calculation
Authors: de Souza Carolino Adriano , Moraes Biondo Matheus , Ţălu Ştefan , da Fonseca Filho Henrique Duarte , Campelo Pedro Henrique , Bezerra Jaqueline de Araújo , Mota Cicero , da Frota Hidembergue Ordozgoith , Bagnato Vanderlei Salvador , Inada Natalia Mayumi , Sanches Edgar Aparecido
Published: August 2022

The development of conjugated polymer-based nanocomposites by adding metallic particles into the polymerization medium allows the proposition of novel materials presenting improved electrical and optical properties. Polyaniline Emeraldine-salt form (ES–PANI) has been extensively studied due to its controllable electrical conductivity and oxidation states. On the other hand, tungsten oxide (WO3) and its di-hydrated phases, such as WO3·2H2O, have been reported as important materials in photocatalysis and sensors. Herein, the WO3·2H2O phase was directly obtained during the in-situ polymerization of aniline hydrochloride from metallic tungsten (W), allowing the formation of hybrid nanocomposites based on its full oxidation into WO3·2H2O. The developed ES–PANI–WO3·2H2O nanocomposites were successfully characterized using experimental techniques combined with Density Functional Theory (DFT). The formation of WO3·2H2O was clearly verified after two hours of synthesis (PW2 nanocomposite), allowing the confirmation of purely physical interaction between matrix and reinforcement. As a result, increased electrical conductivity was verified in the PW2 nanocomposite: the DFT calculations revealed a charge transfer from the p-orbitals of the polymeric phase to the d-orbitals of the oxide phase, resulting in higher conductivity when compared to the pure ES–PANI.
Ultrasonic Extraction of 2-Acetyl-1-Pyrroline (2AP) from Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. Using Ethanol as Solvent
Authors: Azhar Aisyah Nur Hanis , Amran Nurul Aini , Yusup Suzana , Mohd Yusoff Mohd Hizami
Published: August 2022

2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) is the compound that gives out the typical aroma and flavour of pandan leaves (Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb.). This research incorporates ultrasonic extraction to extract the aromatic compound in pandan leaves. The parameters varied in this study are the extraction time, sonicator amplitude, concentration of solvent and the mass of pandan leaves. The experiment was conducted using a central composite design (CCD) model generated by the response surface methodology (RSM). From the extraction process, it can be deduced that the effect of leaves’ mass is comparably higher than other parameters, while sonicator amplitude gives the most negligible impact on the process. The obtained p-value was 0.0014, which was less than 0.05. The high R-squared 0.9603 and adjusted R-squared 0.8809 indicate the model is well agreed with the actual data. The optimal control variables of ultrasonic extraction of 2AP are at an extraction time of 20 min, 60% of solvent concentration, amplitude of 25% and 12.5 g of pandan leaves, which produced 60.51% of yield of the extract and 1.43 ppm of 2AP. It is found that the mass of pandan leaves and the concentration of solvent have a significant impact on the extraction process of 2AP.
Modulation of High-Fat Diet-Induced Brain Oxidative Stress by Ferulate-Rich Germinated Brown Rice Ethyl Acetate Extract
Authors: Azmi Nur Hanisah , Ismail Norsharina , Imam Mustapha Umar , Ooi Der Jiun , Oslan Siti Nur Hazwani
Published: August 2022

The oxidative stress resulting from the production of reactive oxygen species plays a vital role in inflammatory processes and is associated with neurodegenerative changes. In view of the ability of germinated brown rice (GBR) to improve learning and memory, this present study aimed to investigate the mechanistic basis of GBR’s neuroprotection in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced oxidative changes in adult Sprague–Dawley rats. Ferulate-rich GBR ethyl acetate extract (GBR-EA; 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight) was supplemented orally for the last 3 months of 6 months HFD feeding during the study. GBR-EA supplementation was found to improve lipid profile and serum antioxidant status, when compared to the HFD group. Elevated mRNA expressions of SOD1, SOD2, SOD3, Catalase, and GPX were demonstrated in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of GBR-EA treated animals. The pro-inflammatory changes induced by HFD in the hippocampus were attenuated by GBR-EA through the downregulation of CRP and TNF- α and upregulation of PPAR-γ. GBR also reduced the hippocampal mRNA expression and enzyme level of acetylcholinesterase. In conclusion, this study proposed the possible transcriptomic regulation of antioxidant and inflammation in neurodegenerative processes resulting from high cholesterol consumption, with an emphasis on GBR’s potential to ameliorate such changes.
An LSPR Sensor Integrated with VCSEL and Microfluidic Chip
Authors: Cao Fang , Zhao Xupeng , Lv Xiaoqing , Hu Liangchen , Jiang Wenhui , Yang Feng , Chi Li , Chang Pengying , Xu Chen , Xie Yiyang
Published: August 2022

The work introduces a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensor chip integrated with vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). Using VCSEL as the light source, the hexagonal gold nanoparticle array was integrated with anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) as the mask on the light-emitting end face. The sensitivity sensing test of the refractive index solution was realized, combined with microfluidic technology. At the same time, the finite-difference time- domain (FDTD) algorithm was applied to model and simulate the gold nanostructures. The experimental results showed that the output power of the sensor was related to the refractive index of the sucrose solution. The maximum sensitivity of the sensor was 1.65 × 106 nW/RIU, which gives it great application potential in the field of biomolecular detection.
Synthesis and Characterization of Dendronized Gold Nanoparticles Bearing Charged Peripheral Groups with Antimicrobial Potential
Authors: Perli Gabriel , Bertuzzi Diego , Souto Dênio , Ramos Miguel , Braga Carolyne , Aguiar Samile , Ornelas Catia
Published: August 2022

Dendronized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized bearing charged peripheral groups. Two novel AB3-type dendrons were synthesized with a thiol group at the focal point followed by their attachment to AuNPs. Dendrons were designed to have nine charged peripheral groups (carboxyl or amine), glycol solubilizing, units and one thiol moiety at the focal point. Both dendrons and all intermediates were synthesized in high yields and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). The amine- and carboxyl-terminated dendrons were used to functionalize gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) previously stabilized with citrate. The nanoparticles’ diameters and their colloidal stability were investigated using dynamic light scattering (DLS). The size and morphology of the dendronized AuNPs were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed individual particles with no aggregation after replacement of citrate by the dendrons, in agreement with the DLS data. The absorption spectroscopy reveals a prominent plasmonic band at 560 nm for all AuNPs. The zeta potential further confirmed the expected charged structures of the dendronized AuNPs. Considering all the physical–chemical properties of the charged dendronized AuNPs developed in this work, these AuNPs might be used as a weapon against multi-drug resistant bacterial infections.
Effect of Nanoparticle Size and Concentration on Pool Boiling Heat Transfer with TiO2 Nanofluids on Laser-Textured Copper Surfaces
Authors: Hadžić Armin , Može Matic , Arhar Klara , Zupančič Matevž , Golobič Iztok
Published: August 2022

The enhancement of boiling heat transfer has been extensively shown to be achievable through surface texturing or fluid property modification, yet few studies have investigated the possibility of coupling both enhancement approaches. The present work focuses on exploring the possibility of concomitant enhancement of pool boiling heat transfer by using TiO2-water nanofluid in combination with laser-textured copper surfaces. Two mass concentrations of 0.001 wt.% and 0.1 wt.% are used, along with two nanoparticle sizes of 4–8 nm and 490 nm. Nanofluids are prepared using sonification and degassed distilled water, while the boiling experiments are performed at atmospheric pressure. The results demonstrate that the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) using nanofluids is deteriorated compared to using pure water on the reference and laser-textured surface. However, the critical heat flux (CHF) is significantly improved at 0.1 wt.% nanoparticle concentration. The buildup of a highly wettable TiO2 layer on the surface is identified as the main reason for the observed performance. Multiple subsequent boiling experiments using nanofluids on the same surface exhibited a notable shift in boiling curves and their instability at higher concentrations, which is attributable to growth of the nanoparticle layer on the surface. Overall, the combination of nanofluids boiling on a laser-textured surface proved to enhance the CHF after prolonged exposure to highly concentrated nanofluid, while the HTC was universally and significantly decreased in all cases.
Quasi-Solid-State Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Assembled by Composite Polymer Electrolyte and Nitrogen Doped Porous Carbon Fiber Composite Cathode
Authors: Liang Xinghua , Zhang Yu , Ning Yujuan , Huang Dongxue , Lan Linxiao , Li Siying
Published: August 2022

Solid-state lithium sulfur batteries are becoming a breakthrough technology for energy storage systems due to their low cost of sulfur, high energy density and high level of safety. However, its commercial application has been limited by the poor ionic conductivity and sulfur shuttle effect. In this paper, a nitrogen-doped porous carbon fiber (NPCNF) active material was prepared by template method as a sulfur-host of the positive sulfur electrode. The morphology was nano fiber-like and enabled high sulfur content (62.9 wt%). A solid electrolyte membrane (PVDF/LiClO4/LATP) containing polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and lithium aluminum titanium phosphate (Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3) was prepared by pouring and the thermosetting method. The ionic conductivity of PVDF/LiClO4/LATP was 8.07 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 25 °C. The assembled battery showed good electrochemical performance. At 25 °C and 0.5 C, the first discharge specific capacity was 620.52 mAh g−1. After 500 cycles, the capacity decay rate of each cycle was only 0.139%. The synergistic effect between the composite solid electrolyte and the nitrogen-doped porous carbon fiber composite sulfur anode studied in this paper may reveal new approaches for improving the cycling performance of a solid-state lithium-sulfur battery.
Practical Approaches to Apply Ultra-Thick Graphite Anode to High-Energy Lithium-Ion Battery: Carbonization and 3-Dimensionalization
Authors: Park Junsu , Suh Seokho , Tamulevičius Sigitas , Kim Daesoo , Choi Dongin , Jeong Sungho , Kim Hyeong-Jin
Published: August 2022

Lithium-ion batteries with ultra-thick electrodes have high energy density and low manufacturing costs because of the reduction of the inactive materials in the same battery volume. However, the partial usage of the full capacity and the low rate capability are caused by poor ionic and electronic conduction. In this work, the effects of two approaches, such as electrode binder carbonization by heat treatment and 3-dimensionalization by the laser structuring of ultra-thick graphite anodes to lithium-ion batteries for high energy density, are investigated. During the heat treatment, the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder is carbonized to form fluorinated graphitic carbons, thereby increasing the number of lithium-ion storage sites and the improvement of the electrode capacity by 14% (420 mAh g−1 and 20 mAh cm−2). Further, the carbonization improves the rate capability by 31% at 0.1 C by simultaneously reducing the ionic and electronic resistances. Furthermore, after the laser structuring of the carbonized electrode, the areal discharge capacity increases to 50% at the increasing current rates, resulting from drastically improved ionic conduction. In addition to the electrochemical characteristics, these two approaches contribute considerably to the fast wetting of the electrolyte into the ultra-thick electrode. The carbonization and laser structuring of the ultra-thick graphite anodes are practical approaches for high-energy batteries to overcome the thickness limitation.
CO Methanation over NiO-CeO2 Mixed-Oxide Catalysts Prepared by a Modified Co-Precipitation Method: Effect of the Preparation pH on the Catalytic Performance
Authors: Bendieb Aberkane Amar , Yeste María Pilar , Djazi Fayçal , Cauqui Miguel Ángel
Published: August 2022

In this study, a series of NiO-CeO2 mixed-oxide catalysts have been prepared by a modified co-precipitation method similar to the one used for the synthesis of hydrotalcites. The syntheses were carried out at different pH values (8, 9 and 10), in order to determine the influence of this synthetic variable on the properties of the obtained materials. These materials were characterized by using different techniques, such as TGA, XRD, ICP, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, H2 temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), and electron microscopy, including high-angle annular dark-field transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-TEM) and EDS. The characterization results revealed the influence of the preparation method, in general, and of the pH value, in particular, on the textural properties of the oxides, as well as on the dispersion of the Ni species. The catalyst prepared at a higher pH value (pH = 10) was the one that exhibited better behavior in the CO methanation reaction (almost 100% CO conversion at 235 °C), which is attributed to the achievement, under these synthetic conditions, of a combination of properties (metal dispersion, specific surface area, porosity) more suitable for the reaction.
Fabrication and Conductive Mechanism Analysis of Stretchable Electrodes Based on PDMS-Ag Nanosheet Composite with Low Resistance, Stability, and Durability
Authors: Li Chengwei , Huang Kai , Yuan Tingkang , Cong Tianze , Fan Zeng , Pan Lujun
Published: August 2022

A flexible and stretchable electrode based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-Ag nanosheet composite with low resistance and stable properties has been investigated. Under the synergistic effect of the excellent flexibility and stretchability of PDMS and the excellent electrical conductivity of Ag nanosheets, the electrode possesses a resistivity as low as 4.28 Ωm, a low resistance variation in the 0–50% strain range, a stable electrical conductivity over 1000 cycles, and a rapid recovery ability after failure caused by destructive large stretching. Moreover, the conductive mechanism of the flexible electrode during stretching is explained by combining experimental tests, theoretical models of contact point-tunneling effect, and finite element simulation. This research provides a simple and effective solution for the structure design and material selection of flexible electrodes, and an analytical method for the conductive mechanism of stretchable electrodes, which has potential for applications in flexible electronic devices, smart sensing, wearable devices, and other fields.
The 3D Printing Behavior of Photocurable Ceramic/Polymer Composite Slurries Prepared with Different Particle Sizes
Authors: Ryu Kukhyeon , Kim Jinho , Choi Junghoon , Kim Ungsoo
Published: August 2022

Ceramic polymer composite slurries were prepared using nano- and micro-sized Al2O3 in order to analyze rheological properties, sedimentation, and curing behavior. Slurries with different Al2O3 particle sizes were prepared with varying concentrations of photoinitiator, and subjected to different exposure times to prepare a printing object. All slurries exhibit shear-thinning behavior, and the viscosity increases with decreasing Al2O3 particle size. The 100 nm Al2O3 slurry is confirmed to be more sol-like, while the 500 nm and 2 μm Al2O3 slurries have a gel-like structure. As the Al2O3 particle size increases, a thick sedimentation layer forms due to rapid settling, but as the distance between particles increases, the UV light scattering reduces, and the curing rate increases. The exposure time range viable for printing, and the dimension conformity of the printed specimen with the design file, is improved by increasing the Al2O3 particle size. In the case of 500 nm and 2 μm Al2O3 slurries, the maximum heat flow, curing enthalpy, and conversion rate are high with respect to photoinitiator concentration, in the order of 1.0 > 0.1 > 3.0 wt.%. When the photoinitiator concentration exceeds 1 wt.%, it appears to affect the reactivity of the slurry.
Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube/Graphite Powder Film for Wearable Pressure Sensors with High Sensing Performance
Authors: Yan Shubin , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Jilai , Xu Haoqian , Wen Feng , Li Tingsong , Cui Jiamin , Liu Pengwei , Shen Lifang , Cui Yang , Ren Yifeng
Published: August 2022

With the continuous progress of artificial intelligence and other manufacturing technologies, there is promising potential for wearable piezoresistive sensors in human physiological signal detection and bionic robots. Here, we present a facile solution-mixing process to fabricate a multiwalled carbon nanotube/graphite powder (MWCNT@Gp) film, which has high sensitivity and great linearity and is more oriented to flexible piezoresistive sensors. The sensor consists of two parts: a spinosum microstructure shaped by a sandpaper template and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as the top substrate and interdigital electrodes as the bottom substrate. The experiments we have conducted show that these two parts provide good protection to the MWCNTs@Gp film and improve sensor sensitivity. Additionally, the sensitivity of the optimal ratio of multiwalled carbon nanotubes and graphite powder is analyzed. The 5%MWCNT@5%Gp composites were found to have relatively good conductivity, which is convenient for the fabrication of conductive films of piezoresistive sensors. Finally, we conducted application experiments and found that the flexible piezoresistive sensor can detect minute signals of human motion and different pressure points. This indicates the feasibility of portable sensors in electronic skin and smart devices.
Modeling and X-ray Analysis of Defect Nanoclusters Formation in B4C under Ion Irradiation
Authors: Mirzayev Matlab , Donkov Alexander , Popov Evgeni , Demir Ertugrul , Jabarov Sakin , Chkhartishvili Levan , Adeojo Samuel , Doroshkevich Aleksandr , Sidorin Alexey , Asadov Asif , Thabethe Thabsile , Khandaker Mayeen , Alamri Sultan , Osman Hamid , Trukhanov Alex , Trukhanov Sergei
Published: August 2022

In the presented work, B4C was irradiated with xenon swift heavy ions at the energy of 167 MeV. The irradiation of the substrate was done at room temperature to a fluence of 3.83 × 1014 ion/cm2. The samples were then analyzed with the X-ray diffraction technique to study the structural modification, as it can probe the region of penetration of xenon atoms due to the low atomic number of the two elements involved in the material under study. The nano-cluster formation under ion irradiation was observed. Positron lifetime (PLT) calculations of the secondary point defects forming nanoclusters and introduced into the B4C substrate by hydrogen and helium implantation were also carried out with the Multigrid instead of the K-spAce (MIKA) simulation package. The X-ray diffraction results confirmed that the sample was B4C and it had a rhombohedral crystal structure. The X-ray diffraction indicated an increase in the lattice parameter due to the Swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation. In B12-CCC, the difference between τ with the saturation of H or He in the defect is nearly 20 ps. Under the same conditions with B11C-CBC, there is approximately twice the value for the same deviation.
Multi-Effects Coupled Nanogenerators
Authors: Yang Ya
Published: August 2022

Nanoenergies, including mechanical, thermal and solar energies, can be found in our surroundings [...]
Malnutrition in Older Adults—Effect on Falls and Fractures: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kupisz-Urbanska Malgorzata , Marcinowska-Suchowierska Ewa
Published: August 2022

Malnutrition in older adults impacts health status, increased mortality, and morbidity. Malnutrition may increase the development of geriatric syndromes and contribute to a higher prevalence of falls and osteoporotic fractures that lead to loss of independence and an increased rate of institutionalization. The role of malnutrition in the pathogenesis of other geriatric syndromes seems to be well established. However, the data concerning nutritional interventions are confounding. Moreover, long-term undernutrition seems to be one of the factors that strongly influences the efficacy of interventions. This review outlines the current literature on this topic, and aims to guide physicians to make proper decisions to prevent the vicious cycle of falls, fractures, and their negative outcomes in patients with malnutrition.
Front-of-Package Labels on Unhealthy Packaged Foods in India: Evidence from a Randomized Field Experiment
Authors: Singh S. K. , Taillie Lindsey Smith , Gupta Ashish , Bercholz Maxime , Popkin Barry , Murukutla Nandita
Published: August 2022

Policies to require front-of-package labels (FOPLs) on packaged foods may help Indian consumers to better identify foods high in nutrients of concern, including sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, and discourage their consumption, which are outcomes that are critical for preventing rises in diet-related non-communicable disease. The objective was to test whether FOPLs helped Indian consumers identify “high-in” packaged foods and reduce intentions to purchase them. We conducted an in-person randomized experiment (n = 2869 adults between ages 18 and 60 years old) in six states of India in 2022. Participants were randomized to one of five FOPLs: a control label (barcode), warning label (octagon with “High in [nutrient]”), Health Star Rating (HSR), Guideline Daily Amount (GDA), or traffic light label. Participants then viewed a series of packaged foods high in sugar, saturated fat, or sodium with the assigned FOPL, and rated product perceptions and label reactions. Fewer than half of participants in the control group (39.1%) correctly identified all products high in nutrient(s) of concern. All FOPLs led to an increase in this outcome, with the biggest differences observed for the warning label (60.8%, p < 0.001), followed by the traffic light label (54.8%, p < 0.001), GDA (55.0%, p < 0.001), and HSR (45.0%, p < 0.01). While no FOPLs led to a reduction in intentions to purchase the packaged foods, the overall pattern of results suggested that warning labels are the most effective FOPL to help Indian consumers identify unhealthy foods.
The Circadian Regulation of Nutrient Metabolism in Diet-Induced Obesity and Metabolic Disease
Authors: Woodie Lauren N. , Oral Kaan T. , Krusen Brianna M. , Lazar Mitchell A.
Published: August 2022

Obesity and other metabolic diseases are major public health issues that are particularly prevalent in industrialized societies where circadian rhythmicity is disturbed by shift work, jet lag, and/or social obligations. In mammals, daylight entrains the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to a ≈24 h cycle by initiating a transcription/translation feedback loop (TTFL) of molecular clock genes. The downstream impacts of the TTFL on clock-controlled genes allow the SCN to set the rhythm for the majority of physiological, metabolic, and behavioral processes. The TTFL, however, is ubiquitous and oscillates in tissues throughout the body. Tissues outside of the SCN are entrained to other signals, such as fed/fasting state, rather than light input. This system requires a considerable amount of biological flexibility as it functions to maintain homeostasis across varying conditions contained within a 24 h day. In the face of either circadian disruption (e.g., jet lag and shift work) or an obesity-induced decrease in metabolic flexibility, this finely tuned mechanism breaks down. Indeed, both human and rodent studies have found that obesity and metabolic disease develop when endogenous circadian pacing is at odds with the external cues. In the following review, we will delve into what is known on the circadian rhythmicity of nutrient metabolism and discuss obesity as a circadian disease.
Activated Protein C Ameliorates Tubular Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species and Inflammation in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Rana Rajiv , Manoharan Jayakumar , Gupta Anubhuti , Gupta Dheerendra , Elwakiel Ahmed , Khawaja Hamzah , Fatima Sameen , Zimmermann Silke , Singh Kunal , Ambreen Saira , Gadi Ihsan , Biemann Ronald , Jiang Shihai , Shahzad Khurrum , Kohli Shrey , Isermann Berend
Published: August 2022

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is an emerging pandemic, paralleling the worldwide increase in obesity and diabetes mellitus. DKD is now the most frequent cause of end-stage renal disease and is associated with an excessive risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. DKD is a consequence of systemic endothelial dysfunction. The endothelial-dependent cytoprotective coagulation protease activated protein C (aPC) ameliorates glomerular damage in DKD, in part by reducing mitochondrial ROS generation in glomerular cells. Whether aPC reduces mitochondrial ROS generation in the tubular compartment remains unknown. Here, we conducted expression profiling of kidneys in diabetic mice (wild-type and mice with increased plasma levels of aPC, APChigh mice). The top induced pathways were related to metabolism and in particular to oxidoreductase activity. In tubular cells, aPC maintained the expression of genes related to the electron transport chain, PGC1-α expression, and mitochondrial mass. These effects were associated with reduced mitochondrial ROS generation. Likewise, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and sterile inflammation, which are known to be linked to excess ROS generation in DKD, were reduced in diabetic APChigh mice. Thus, aPC reduces mitochondrial ROS generation in tubular cells and dampens the associated renal sterile inflammation. These studies support approaches harnessing the cytoprotective effects of aPC in DKD.
Correction: Pekmezi et al. Rationale and Methods for a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Dyadic, Web-Based, Weight Loss Intervention among Cancer Survivors and Partners: The DUET Study. Nutrients 2021, 13, 3472
Authors: Pekmezi Dorothy W. , Crane Tracy E. , Oster Robert A. , Rogers Laura Q. , Hoenemeyer Teri , Farrell David , Cole William W. , Wolin Kathleen , Badr Hoda , Demark-Wahnefried Wendy
Published: August 2022

The authors would like to correct errors in their prior publication [...]
Eating Habits and Disease Risk Factors
Authors: Przybyłowicz Katarzyna Eufemia , Danielewicz Anna
Published: August 2022

Diet plays an inevitable role in human health and disease prevention [...]
Heat-Killed Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris H61 Altered the Iron Status of Young Women: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Comparative Study
Authors: Takaragawa Mizuki , Sakuraba Keishoku , Suzuki Yoshio
Published: August 2022

Women are prone to iron deficiency because of increased iron excretion associated with menstruation. This is often treated by oral iron supplementation, although this treatment can cause side effects, such as stomach pain and nausea, with low absorption of ingested iron. Previously, a significant increase in serum iron was observed in association with the consumption of foods containing Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris H61 (H61). However, the causal relationship between H61 ingestion and elevated serum iron is still unclear. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to determine the effects of H61 ingestion on the iron status of young women. Healthy young Japanese women (18–25 years of age) ingested either heat-killed H61 or placebo for 4 weeks. Serum iron, transferrin saturation, and ferritin were significantly elevated in the H61 group but remained unchanged in the placebo group. Compared to before the intervention, iron intake remained unchanged during the intervention period, so the change in the iron status of the H61 group was not due to increased iron intake. These results suggest that heat-killed H61 may elevate iron status by enhancing iron absorption.
Effect of Dietary Fiber (Oat Bran) Supplement in Heart Rate Lowering in Patients with Hypertension: A Randomized DASH-Diet-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Ju Yang , Zhang Chenglin , Zhang Zhirong , Zhu Hongying , Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Ting , Ojo Omorogieva , Qiu Jingbo , Wang Xiaohua
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: The management goal for patients with essential hypertension (HTN) is not only to lower blood pressure (BP), but also to control increased heart rate (HR). In a previous study, it was found that dietary fiber (DF) supplementation can effectively reduce BP in patients with HTN. The aim of this study was to determine whether a DF supplement can lower HR in patients with HTN. (2) Methods: Seventy patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly allocated into the control group (n = 34) and the intervention group (n = 36). The regular DASH dietary care was delivered to both groups of patients. In addition, one bag of oat bran (30 g/d, containing DF 8.9 g) was delivered to the intervention group. The 24 h ambulatory heart rate was measured at baseline and 3 months. (3) Results: At 3 months, the 24 h maximum heart rate (24h maxHR) in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group. After the intervention, within-group comparisons in the intervention group revealed that there were significant reductions in the 24 h average heart rate (24h aveHR), 24h maxHR, average heart rate during day time (D-aveHR), minimum heart rate during day time (D-minHR), and maximum heart rate during day time (D-maxHR). Similar differences were not found in the control group. (4) Conclusions: Dietary fiber (oat bran) supplementation might be beneficial in lowering HR in patients with HTN.
Probiotics Administration in Cystic Fibrosis: What Is the Evidence?
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Testa Ilaria , Mariotti Zani Elena , Cunico Daniela , Torelli Lisa , Grandinetti Roberto , Fainardi Valentina , Pisi Giovanna , Principi Nicola
Published: August 2022

In the last 20 years, gut microbiota in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) has become an object of interest. It was shown that these patients had gut dysbiosis and this could explain not only the intestinal manifestations of the disease but also part of those involving the respiratory tract. The acquisition of previously unknown information about the importance of some bacteria, i.e., those partially or totally disappeared in the gut of CF patients, in the regulation of the activity and function of the gut and the lung was the base to suggest the use of probiotics in CF patients. The main aim of this paper is to discuss the biological basis for probiotic administration to CF patients and which results could be expected. Literature analysis showed that CF intestinal dysbiosis depends on the same genetic mutations that condition the clinical picture of the diseases and is aggravated by a series of therapeutic interventions, such as dietary modifications, the use of antibiotics, and the administration of antacids. All this translates into a significant worsening of the structure and function of organs, including the lung and intestine, already deeply penalized by the genetic alterations of CF. Probiotics can intervene on dysbiosis, reducing the negative effects derived from it. However, the available data cannot be considered sufficient to indicate that these bacteria are essential elements of CF therapy. Further studies that take into account the still unsolved aspects on how to use probiotics are absolutely necessary.
Vitamin D-Related Risk Factors for Maternal Morbidity during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Suárez-Varela Maria Morales , Uçar Nazlı , Peraita-Costa Isabel , Huertas María Flores , Soriano Jose Miguel , Llopis-Morales Agustin , Grant William B.
Published: August 2022

Vitamin D has well-defined classical functions related to metabolism and bone health but also has non-classical effects that may influence pregnancy. Maternal morbidity remains a significant health care concern worldwide, despite efforts to improve maternal health. Nutritional deficiencies of vitamin D during pregnancy are related to adverse pregnancy outcomes, but the evidence base is difficult to navigate. The primary purpose of this review is to map the evidence on the effects of deficiencies of vitamin D on pregnancy outcome and the dosage used in such studies. A systematic search was performed for studies on vitamin D status during pregnancy and maternal outcomes. A total of 50 studies came from PubMed, 15 studies came from Cochrane, and 150 studies came from Embase, for a total of 215 articles. After screening, 34 were identified as candidate studies for inclusion. Finally, 28 articles met the inclusion criteria, which originated from 15 countries. The studies included 14 original research studies and 13 review studies conducted between 2012 and 2021. This review was finally limited to the 14 original studies. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, and the quality and strength of the evidence was evaluated using the Navigation Guide Systematic Review Methodology (SING). We found evidence that supports the idea that supplementary vitamin D for pregnant women is important for reducing the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, early labor, and other complications. The data retrieved from this review are consistent with the hypothesis that adequate vitamin D levels might contribute to a healthy pregnancy.