bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Studies of c- and m-Plane AlN Seeds Grown by Physical Vapor Transport
Authors: Yao Xiaogang , Kong Zhen , Liu Shengfu , Wang Yong , Shao Yongliang , Wu Yongzhong , Hao Xiaopeng
Published: December 2022

The ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor AlN has attracted a great deal of attention owing to its wide application potential in the field of electronics and optoelectronic devices. In this report, based on the mechanism of the physical vapor transport (PVT) growth of AlN crystal, the c- and m-plane AlN seed crystals were prepared simultaneously through special temperature field design. It is proved that AlN crystals with different orientations can be obtained at the same temperature field. The structure parameter of AlN crystal was obtained through the characteristic evaluations. In detail, XPS was used to analyze the chemical states and bonding states of the surface of seed crystals. The content of oxygen varied along with distinct orientations. Raman spectrum documented a small level of compressive stress on these crystal seeds. Tested results confirmed that the prepared AlN crystal seeds had high quality.
Fuzzy Extension of Crisp Metric by Means of Fuzzy Equivalence Relation
Authors: Grigorenko Olga , Šostak Alexander
Published: December 2022

We develop an alternative approach to the fuzzy metric concept, which we obtain by fuzzy extension of a crisp metric d on a set X by means of a fuzzy equivalence relation E on the set IR+. We call it an E-d metric and study its properties and relations with “classical” fuzzy metrics. Our special interest is in the topologies and fuzzy topologies induced by E-d metrics.
An Innovative Blockchain-Based Secured Logistics Management Architecture: Utilizing an RSA Asymmetric Encryption Method
Authors: Ugochukwu Nwosu Anthony , Goyal S. B. , Rajawat Anand Singh , Islam Sardar M. N. , He Jiao , Aslam Muhammad
Published: December 2022

Purpose: The recent development in logistics due to the dawn of Logistics 4.0 has made global logistics providers more dependent on intelligent technologies. In this era, these technologies assist in data collection and transmission of logistical data and pose many security and privacy threats in logistics management systems. The customer’s private information, which is shared among the logistics stakeholders for optimal operation, faces unauthorized access due to a lack of privacy. This, amongst others, is a critical problem that needs to be addressed with blockchain. Blockchain is a disruptive technology that is transforming different sectors, and it has the potential to provide a solution to the issues mentioned above, with its unique features such as immutability, transparency, and anonymity. Method: This study designed a blockchain-based logistics management architecture on a decentralized peer-2-peer network using Ethereum smart contracts. The proposed system deployed the Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA) asymmetric encryption method to protect the logistics system from cyber-attacks and secure customers’ private information from unauthorized access. Findings: Furthermore, the security and privacy of the proposed system are evaluated based on the theorem. The proof shows that the system can provide security to the logistics system and privacy to customers’ private data. The performance evaluation is based on throughput and latency. It shows that the proposed system is better than the baseline system, and the comparatives analysis shows that the proposed system is more secure and efficient than the existing systems. Implication and Limitation: The proposed system offers a better solution to the security/privacy of the logistics management system and provides recommendations to key stakeholders involved in the logistics industry while adopting blockchain technology. Apart from the study’s methodological limitation, it is also limited by a lack of reference materials.
A Rare Kimura’s Disease in the Oral Cavity with Severe Sleep Apnea: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Lei Xiaoyue , Yu Dan , Feng Xiaoyan , Shen Yiyang , Zhu Huiyong
Published: December 2022

Kimura’s disease (KD) is a rare chronic inflammatory disorder that commonly occurs in Asian males. It mainly presents as painless subcutaneous masses or lymphadenopathy in the head and neck region. The incidence of KD in the oral cavity is quite rare. We reported a rare case of a 53-year-old male who had KD in his soft palate, hard palate and bilateral tonsils associated with severe sleep apnea. This patient underwent radiotherapy and exhibited a good response to the treatment. Throughout the 12-month follow-up period, the patient’s condition remained satisfactory. Of the other 14 reviewed cases of KD in the oral cavity, the lesions can occur in the buccal mucosa, hard and soft palate, and mouth floor with specific clinical features. We further summarized their manifestations and treatments in order to guide the future identification and management of KD with lesions in the oral cavity.
Mechanism of HMBR in Reducing Membrane Fouling under Different SRT: Effect of Sludge Load on Microbial Properties
Authors: Yao Ying , Wang Yanju , Liu Qiang , Li Ying , Yan Junwei
Published: December 2022

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are the main causative agents of membrane fouling, and the use of a hybrid membrane bioreactor (HMBR) can mitigate this by reducing the EPS content. Four bench scale sets of HMBRs were used simultaneously to treat domestic wastewater. The effect of sludge retention times (SRT) on membrane fouling in HMBRs and the underlying mechanism were investigated by comparing and analyzing the changes in sludge load, microbial characteristics, EPS distribution characteristics, and transmembrane pressure under different SRTs. Results revealed that, among the four SRTs (10 d, 20 d, 30 d, and 60 d), the best removal rates of chemical oxygen demand and total nitrogen were observed for an SRT of 30 d, with average removal rates of 95.0% and 57.1%, respectively. The best results for ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus removal were observed at an SRT of 20 d, with average removal rates of 84.3% and 99.5%, respectively. SRT can affect sludge load by altering the biomass, which significantly impacts the microbial communities. The highest microbial diversity was observed at an SRT of 30 d (with a BOD sludge load of 0.0310 kg/kg∙d), with Sphingobacteriales exhibiting the highest relative abundance at 19.6%. At this SRT setting, the microorganisms produced the least amount of soluble EPS and loosely bond EPS by metabolism, 3.41 mg/g and 4.52 mg/g, respectively. Owing to the reduced EPS content, membrane fouling was effectively controlled and the membrane module working cycle was effectively enhanced up to 99 d, the longest duration among the four SRTs.
A Study on the Uniform Distribution and Counting Method of Raw Cow’s Milk Somatic Cells
Authors: Zhou Wei , Li Xingyu , Su Wanyun , Zheng Hongbiao , An Guangxin , Li Zhilin , Li Shanshan
Published: December 2022

The somatic cell count (SCC) in raw milk is an important basis for determining whether a cow is suffering from mastitis. To address the problem of an uneven distribution of somatic cells due to cell-adherent sedimentation, among other reasons, during milk sampling, which in turn results in unrepresentative somatic cell counting, a method is proposed for obtaining a uniform distribution of somatic cells and improving the counting accuracy based on a nine-cell grid microfluidic chip. Firstly, a simulation was performed to verify the uniformity of the somatic cell distribution within the chip observation cavities. Secondly, a nine-cell grid microfluidic chip was prepared and a negative-pressure injection system integrating staining and stirring was developed to ensure that the somatic cells were uniformly distributed and free from air contamination during the injection process. As well as the structure of the chip, a microscopic imaging system was developed, and the nine chip observation cavities were photographed. Finally, the somatic cells were counted and the uniformity of the somatic cell distribution was verified using image processing. The experimental results show that the standard deviation coefficient of the SCC in each group of nine images was less than 1.61%. The automatic counting accuracy of the system was between 97.07% and 99.47%. This research method lays the foundation for the detection and prevention of mastitis in cows.
Controlled Transport of Magnetic Particles and Cells Using C-Shaped Magnetic Thin Films in Microfluidic Chips
Authors: Abedini-Nassab Roozbeh , Emamgholizadeh Ali
Published: December 2022

Single-cell analysis is an emerging discipline that has shown a transformative impact in cell biology in the last decade. Progress in this field requires systems capable of accurately moving the cells and particles in a controlled manner. Here, we present a microfluidic platform equipped with C-shaped magnetic thin films to precisely transport magnetic particles in a tri-axial rotating magnetic field. This innovative system, compared to the other rivals, offers numerous advantages. The magnetic particles repel each other to prevent undesired cluster formation. Many particles move synced with the external rotating magnetic field, which results in highly parallel controlled particle transport. We show that the particle transport in this system is analogous to electron transport and Ohm’s law in electrical circuits. The proposed magnetic transport pattern is carefully studied using both simulations and experiments for various parameters, including the magnetic field characteristics, particle size, and gap size in the design. We demonstrate the appropriate transport of both magnetic beads and magnetized living cells. We also show a pilot mRNA-capturing experiment with barcode-carrying magnetic beads. The introduced chip offers fundamental potential applications in the fields of single-cell biology and bioengineering.
Phononic-Crystal-Based Particle Sieving in Continuous Flow: Numerical Simulations
Authors: Huang Laixin , Zhou Juan , Kong Deqing , Li Fei
Published: December 2022

Sieving specific particles from mixed samples is of great value in fields such as biochemistry and additive manufacturing. In this study, a particle sieving method for microfluidics was proposed based on a phononic crystal plate (PCP), the mechanism of which originates from the competition between the trapping effect of the resonant PCP-induced acoustic radiation force (ARF), disturbance effect of acoustic streaming (AS), and flushing effect of the continuous inlet flow on particles suspended in microfluidic channels. Specifically, particles with different sizes could be separated under inlet flow conditions owing to ARF and AS drag forces as functions of the particle diameter, incident acoustic pressure, and driving frequency. Furthermore, a comprehensive numerical analysis was performed to investigate the impacts of ARF, AS, and inlet flow conditions on the particle motion and sieving efficiency, and to explore proper operating parameters, including the acoustic pressure and inlet flow velocity. It was found that, for each inlet flow velocity, there was an optimal acoustic pressure allowing us to achieve the maximum sieving efficiency, but the sieving efficiency at a low flow velocity was not as good as that at a high flow velocity. Although a PCP with a high resonant frequency could weaken the AS, thereby suiting the sieving of small particles (<5 μm), a low channel height corresponding to a high frequency limits the throughput. Therefore, it is necessary to design a PCP with a suitable resonant frequency based on the size of the particles to be sieved. This investigation can provide guidance for the design of massive acoustic sorting mi-crofluidic devices based on phononic crystals or acoustic metamaterials under continuous flow.
Biosynthesis of Gold Nanoparticles and Its Effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ali Syed Ghazanfar , Jalal Mohammad , Ahmad Hilal , Umar Khalid , Ahmad Akil , Alshammari Mohammed B. , Khan Haris Manzoor
Published: December 2022

Antimicrobial resistance has posed a serious health concern worldwide, which is mainly due to the excessive use of antibiotics. In this study, gold nanoparticles synthesized from the plant Tinospora cordifolia were used against multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The active components involved in the reduction and stabilization of gold nanoparticles were revealed by gas chromatography–mass spectrophotometry(GC-MS) of the stem extract of Tinospora cordifolia. Gold nanoparticles (TG-AuNPs) were effective against P. aeruginosa at different concentrations (50,100, and 150 µg/mL). TG-AuNPs effectively reduced the pyocyanin level by 63.1% in PAO1 and by 68.7% in clinical isolates at 150 µg/mL; similarly, swarming and swimming motilities decreased by 53.1% and 53.8% for PAO1 and 66.6% and 52.8% in clinical isolates, respectively. Biofilm production was also reduced, and at a maximum concentration of 150 µg/mL of TG-AuNPs a 59.09% reduction inPAO1 and 64.7% reduction in clinical isolates were observed. Lower concentrations of TG-AuNPs (100 and 50 µg/mL) also reduced the pyocyanin, biofilm, swarming, and swimming. Phenotypically, the downregulation of exopolysaccharide secretion from P. aeruginosa due to TG-AuNPs was observed on Congo red agar plates
The Influence of Alkali Metals on the Doping of Poly(p-phenylene) Oligomers
Authors: Péres Laura Oliveira , da Rochas Rodrigues Rebeca , Louarn Guy
Published: December 2022

In this study, we report on crystallographic studies that were performed on Na- and K-doped terphenyl and quaterphenyl. The data obtained via X-ray scattering and transmission electron diffraction show that, for both K-doped terphenyl and quaterphenyl samples, there is an increase in the c parameter. However, in regard to Na-doped terphenyl, there is a c parameter decrease along with an a parameter increase, which may be accounted for by the polymerization of this oligomer. Moreover, in order to complete the crystallographic study, a Raman analysis was conducted to describe the localization of the radical anions and the local distortions induced by the electric charges during the doping process.
Determination of Leuprolide–Fatty Acid Conjugate in Rat Plasma Using LC-MS/MS and Its Pharmacokinetics after Subcutaneous Administration in Rats
Authors: Seong Gi-Sang , Seo Seong-Wook , Cho Ji Young , Lee Kye Wan , Lee Beom-Jin , Yoon In-Soo , Jin Hyo-Eon
Published: December 2022

Leuprolide is a synthetic nonapeptide drug (pyroGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-d-Leu-Leu-Arg-Pro-NHEt) that acts as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. The continuous administration of therapeutic doses of leuprolide inhibits gonadotropin secretion, which is used in androgen-deprivation therapy for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, central precocious puberty, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and other sex-hormone-related conditions. To improve the pharmacokinetic properties of peptide drugs, a fatty acid was conjugated with leuprolide for long-term action. In this study, we developed a simple ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of leuprolide and leuprolide–oleic acid conjugate (LOC) levels. The developed method was validated in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability according to the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines, and the parameters were within acceptable limits. Subsequently, the pharmacokinetics of leuprolide and LOCs were evaluated. In vivo rat subcutaneous studies revealed that conjugation with fatty acids significantly altered the pharmacokinetics of leuprolide. After the subcutaneous administration of fatty-acid-conjugated leuprolide, the mean absorption time and half-life were prolonged. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study showing the effects of fatty acid conjugates on the pharmacokinetics of leuprolide using a newly developed UPLC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of leuprolide and LOCs.
Bioethanol Production from Lignocellulosic Biomass—Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Broda Magdalena , Yelle Daniel J. , Serwańska Katarzyna
Published: December 2022

Regarding the limited resources for fossil fuels and increasing global energy demands, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change, there is a need to find alternative energy sources that are sustainable, environmentally friendly, renewable, and economically viable. In the last several decades, interest in second-generation bioethanol production from non-food lignocellulosic biomass in the form of organic residues rapidly increased because of its abundance, renewability, and low cost. Bioethanol production fits into the strategy of a circular economy and zero waste plans, and using ethanol as an alternative fuel gives the world economy a chance to become independent of the petrochemical industry, providing energy security and environmental safety. However, the conversion of biomass into ethanol is a challenging and multi-stage process because of the variation in the biochemical composition of biomass and the recalcitrance of lignin, the aromatic component of lignocellulose. Therefore, the commercial production of cellulosic ethanol has not yet become well-received commercially, being hampered by high research and production costs, and substantial effort is needed to make it more widespread and profitable. This review summarises the state of the art in bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass, highlights the most challenging steps of the process, including pretreatment stages required to fragment biomass components and further enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation, presents the most recent technological advances to overcome the challenges and high costs, and discusses future perspectives of second-generation biorefineries.
Characterization of Effects of Different Tea Harvesting Seasons on Quality Components, Color and Sensory Quality of “Yinghong 9” and “Huangyu” Large-Leaf-Variety Black Tea
Authors: Ye Fei , Guo Xinbo , Li Bo , Chen Haiqiang , Qiao Xiaoyan
Published: December 2022

Harvesting seasons are crucial for the physicochemical qualities of large-leaf-variety black tea. To investigate the effect of harvesting seasons on physicochemical qualities, the color and sensory characteristics of black tea produced from “Yinghong 9” (Yh) and its mutant “Huangyu” (Hy) leaves were analyzed. The results demonstrated that Hy had better chemical qualities and sensory characteristics, on average, such as a higher content of tea polyphenols, free amino acids, caffeine, galloylated catechins (GaCs) and non-galloylated catechins (NGaCs), while the hue of the tea brew (ΔE*ab and Δb*) increased, which meant that the tea brew was yellower and redder. Moreover, the data showed that the physicochemical qualities of SpHy (Hy processed in spring) were superior to those of SuHy (Hy processed in summer) and AuHy (Hy processed in autumn), and 92.6% of the total variance in PCA score plots effectively explained the separation of the physicochemical qualities of Yh and Hy processed in different harvesting seasons. In summary, Hy processed in spring was superior in its physicochemical qualities. The current results will provide scientific guidance for the production of high-quality large-leaf-variety black tea in South China.
Selective Grafting of Protease-Resistant Adhesive Peptides on Titanium Surfaces
Authors: Zamuner Annj , Pasquato Antonella , Castagliuolo Ignazio , Dettin Monica , Brun Paola
Published: December 2022

In orthopedic, dental, and maxillofacial fields, joint prostheses, plates, and screws are widely used in the treatment of problems related to bone tissue. However, the use of these prosthetic systems is not free from complications: the fibrotic encapsulation of endosseous implants often prevents optimal integration of the prostheses with the surrounding bone. To overcome these issues, biomimetic titanium implants have been developed where synthetic peptides have been selectively grafted on titanium surfaces via Schiff base formation. We used the retro-inverted sequence (DHVPX) from [351–359] human Vitronectin and its dimer (D2HVP). Both protease-resistant peptides showed increased human osteoblast adhesion and proliferation, an augmented number of focal adhesions, and cellular spreading with respect to the control. D2HVP-grafted samples significantly enhance Secreted Phosphoprotein 1, Integrin Binding Sialoprotein, and Vitronectin gene expression vs. control. An estimation of peptide surface density was determined by Two-photon microscopy analysis on a silanized glass model surface labeled with a fluorescent analog.
Palm Raceme as a Promising Biomass Precursor for Activated Carbon to Promote Lipase Activity with the Aid of Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Abed Khalid M. , Hayyan Adeeb , Elgharbawy Amal A. M. , Hizaddin Hanee F. , Hashim Mohd Ali , Hasan Hassimi Abu , Hamid Mahar Diana , Zuki Fathiah M. , Saleh Jehad , Aldaihani Ahmad GH
Published: December 2022

This study concerns the role of activated carbon (AC) from palm raceme as a support material for the enhancement of lipase-catalyzed reactions in an aqueous solution, with deep eutectic solvent (DES) as a co-solvent. The effects of carbonization temperature, impregnation ratio, and carbonization time on lipase activity were studied. The activities of Amano lipase from Burkholderia cepacia (AML) and lipase from the porcine pancreas (PPL) were used to investigate the optimum conditions for AC preparation. The results showed that AC has more interaction with PPL and effectively provides greater enzymatic activity compared with AML. The optimum treatment conditions of AC samples that yield the highest enzymatic activity were 0.5 (NaOH (g)/palm raceme (g)), 150 min, and a carbonization temperature of 400 °C. DES was prepared from alanine/sodium hydroxide and used with AC for the further enhancement of enzymatic activity. Kinetic studies demonstrated that the activity of PPL was enhanced with the immobilization of AC in a DES medium.
Hyperpolarizabilities of Push–Pull Chromophores in Solution: Interplay between Electronic and Vibrational Contributions
Authors: Hrivnák Tomáš , Medveď Miroslav , Bartkowiak Wojciech , Zaleśny Robert
Published: December 2022

Contemporary design of new organic non-linear optical (NLO) materials relies to a large extent on the understanding of molecular and electronic structure–property relationships revealed during the years by available computational approaches. The progress in theory—hand-in-hand with experiment—has enabled us to identify and analyze various physical aspects affecting the NLO responses, such as the environmental effects, molecular vibrations, frequency dispersion, and system dynamics. Although it is nowadays possible to reliably address these effects separately, the studies analyzing their mutual interplay are still very limited. Here, we employ density functional theory (DFT) methods in combination with an implicit solvent model to examine the solvent effects on the electronic and harmonic as well as anharmonic vibrational contributions to the static first hyperpolarizability of a series of push–pull α,ω-diphenylpolyene oligomers, which were experimentally shown to exhibit notable second-order NLO responses. We demonstrate that the magnitudes of both vibrational and electronic contributions being comparable in the gas phase significantly increase in solvents, and the enhancement can be, in some cases, as large as three- or even four-fold. The electrical and mechanical anharmonic contributions are not negligible but cancel each other out to a large extent. The computed dynamic solute NLO properties of the studied systems are shown to be in a fair agreement with those derived from experimentally measured electric-field-induced second-harmonic generation (EFISHG) signals. Our results substantiate the necessity to consider concomitantly both solvation and vibrational effects in modeling static NLO properties of solvated systems.
SPME-GC-MS and PTR-ToF-MS Techniques for the Profiling of the Metabolomic Pattern of VOCs and GC-MS for the Determination of the Cannabinoid Content of Three Cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. Pollen
Authors: Taiti Cosimo , Masi Elisa , Cicaloni Vittoria , Vinciguerra Vittorio , Salvini Laura , Garzoli Stefania
Published: December 2022

Considering the large number of volatile molecules that characterize Cannabis sativa L., adequate investigation supported by the application of robust and effective analytical methods is essential to better understand the impact of these low- and medium-molecular-weight molecules on the entire phytocomplex. This work aimed to characterize the volatile fraction of the chemical profile of three different cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. pollen, grown in Italy, which were thoroughly investigated by the application of two complementary techniques: SPME-GC-MS and PTR-ToF-MS. Furthermore, in order to provide more information on the chemical profile of the matrices under study, the cannabinoid content of the hexane extracts was also measured by GC-MS. Until now, no similar study, in terms of survey techniques applied, has been performed on C. sativa pollen. The obtained results showed a high content of volatile molecules, which differentiated the three matrices. The data relating to the content of cannabinoids were also interesting as they showed that one of the three cultivars was richer than the others. Finally, an in-depth statistical survey was performed to better compare the investigated samples and identify the molecules that most contribute to differentiating them. The findings of this study may be useful for integrating the compositional information on C. sativa L.
In Silico Comparative Exploration of Allergens of Periplaneta americana, Blattella germanica and Phoenix dactylifera for the Diagnosis of Patients Suffering from IgE-Mediated Allergic Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Kausar Mohd Adnan , Bhardwaj Tulika , Anwar Sadaf , Alenazi Fahaad , Ali Abrar , Alshammari Khalid Farhan , AboElnaga Shimaa Mohammed Hasnin , Singh Rajeev , Najm Mohammad Zeeshan
Published: December 2022

The burden of allergic illnesses is continuously rising, and patient diagnosis is a significant problem because of how intricately hereditary and environmental variables interact. The past three to four decades have seen an outbreak of allergies in high-income countries. According to reports on the illness, asthma affects around 300 million individuals worldwide. Identifying clinically important allergens for the accurate classification of IgE-mediated allergy respiratory disease diagnosis would be beneficial for implementing standardized allergen-associated therapy. Therefore, the current study includes an in silico analysis to identify potential IgE-mediated allergens in date palms and cockroaches. Such an immunoinformatic approach aids the prioritization of allergens with probable involvement in IgE-mediated allergic respiratory diseases. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) was used for molecular dynamic simulations, antigen–antibody docking analyses, epitope identifications, and characterizations. The potential of these allergens (Per a7, Per a 1.0102, and Bla g 1.0101) in IgE-mediated allergic respiratory diseases was explored through the evaluation of physicochemical characteristics, interaction observations, docking, and molecular dynamics simulations for drug and vaccine development.
Enhancing the Coherent Phonon Transport in SiGe Nanowires with Dense Si/Ge Interfaces
Authors: Cheng Yajuan , Xiong Shiyun , Zhang Tao
Published: December 2022

The manipulation of phonon transport with coherent waves in solids is of fundamental interest and useful for thermal conductivity design. Based on equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations and lattice dynamics calculations, the thermal transport in SiGe superlattice nanowires with a tuned Si/Ge interface density was investigated by using the core-shell and phononic structures as the primary stacking layers. It was found that the thermal conductivity decreased with the increase of superlattice period lengths (Lp) when Lp was larger than 4 nm. This is because introducing additional Si/Ge interfaces can enhance phonon scattering. However, when Lp<4 nm, the increased interface density could promote heat transfer. Phonon density-of-state analysis demonstrates that new modes between 10 and 14 THz are formed in structures with dense Si/Ge interfaces, which is a signature of coherent phonon transport as those modes do not belong to bulk Si or Ge. The density of the newly generated modes increases with the increase of interface density, leading to an enhanced coherent transport. Besides, with the increase of interface density, the energy distribution of the newly generated modes becomes more balanced on Si and Ge atoms, which also facilitates heat transfer. Our current work is not only helpful for understanding coherent phonon transport but also beneficial for the design of new materials with tunable thermal conductivity.
Effective Low-Energy Hamiltonians and Unconventional Landau-Level Spectrum of Monolayer C3N
Authors: Shahbazi Mohsen , Davoodi Jamal , Boochani Arash , Khanjani Hadi , Kormányos Andor
Published: December 2022

We derive low-energy effective k·p Hamiltonians for monolayer C3N at the Γ and M points of the Brillouin zone, where the band edge in the conduction and valence band can be found. Our analysis of the electronic band symmetries helps to better understand several results of recent ab initio calculations for the optical properties of this material. We also calculate the Landau-level spectrum. We find that the Landau-level spectrum in the degenerate conduction bands at the Γ point acquires properties that are reminiscent of the corresponding results in bilayer graphene, but there are important differences as well. Moreover, because of the heavy effective mass, n-doped samples may host interesting electron–electron interaction effects.
Fabrication of High-Performance Colorimetric Membrane by Incorporation of Polydiacetylene into Polyarylene Ether Nitriles Electrospinning Nanofibrous Membranes
Authors: Wang Pan , Liu Xidi , You Yong , Wang Mengxue , Huang Yumin , Li Ying , Li Kui , Yang Yuxin , Feng Wei , Liu Qiancheng , Chen Jiaqi , Yang Xulin
Published: December 2022

Polyarylene ether nitrile (PEN) is a novel high-performance engineering plastic with various applications, particularly in thermoresistance-required fields. In this study, a well-known stimuli-response polydiacetylene monomer, 10, 12-pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA), was encapsulated within electrospun PEN nanofibers to fabricate a colorimetric membrane with satisfactory thermal and corrosion resistance. To optimize the compatibility with PCDA, two PENswith distinct molecular chains were utilized: PEN−PPL and PEN−BPA. The chemical structure and elemental mapping analysis revealed that the PCDA component was successfully incorporated into the PEN fibrous. The PCDA bound significantly better to the PEN−PPL than to the PEN−BPA; due to the carboxyl groups present on the side chains of PEN−PPL, the surface was smooth and the color changed uniformly as the temperature rose. However, owing to its poor compatibility with PEN−BPA, the PCDA formed agglomerations on the fibers. The thermal analysis demonstrated that the membranes obtained after PCDA compounding maintained their excellent heat resistance. The 5% weight loss temperatures of composite nanofibrous membranes manufactured by PEN−PPL and PEN−BPA were 402 °C and 506 °C, respectively, and their glass transition temperatures were 219 °C and 169 °C, respectively, indicating that the blended membranes can withstand high temperatures. The evaluation of application performance revealed that the composite membranes exhibited good dimensional stability upon high thermal and corrosive situations. Specifically, the PEN−P−PCDA did not shrink at 170 °C. Both composite membranes were dimensionally stable when exposed to the alkali aqueous solution. However, PEN−P−PCDA is more sensitive to OH−, exhibiting color transition at pH > 8, whereas PEN−B−PCDA exhibited color transition at high OH− concentrations (pH ≥ 13), with enhanced alkali resistance stability owing to its nanofibrous architecture. This exploratory study reveals the feasibility of PEN nanofibers functionalized using PCDA as a desirable stimulus-response sensor even in high-temperature and corrosive harsh environments.
One-Pot Environmentally Friendly Synthesis of Nanomaterials Based on Phytate-Coated Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Efficient Removal of the Radioactive Metal Ions 90Sr, 90Y and (UO2)2+ from Water
Authors: Duel Paulino , Piña María de las Nieves , Morey Jeroni
Published: December 2022

We report the fast (three minutes) synthesis of green nanoparticles based on nanoparticles coated with the natural organic receptor phytate for the recognition and capture of 90Sr, 90Y, and (UO2)2+. The new material shows excellent retention for (UO2)2+, 97%; these values were 73% and 100% for 90Sr and 90Y, respectively. Recovery of the three radioactive metal ions occurs through a non-competitive process. The new hybrid material is harmless, easy to prepare, and immobilizes these radioactive contaminants in water with great efficiency.
Superhydrophobic and Electrochemical Performance of CF2-Modified g-C3N4/Graphene Composite Film Deposited by PECVD
Authors: Li Dayu , Lu Yuling , Zhang Chao
Published: December 2022

The physicochemical properties of functional graphene are regulated by compositing with other nano-carbon materials or modifying functional groups on the surface through plasma processes. The functional graphene films with g-C3N4 and F-doped groups were produced by controlling the deposition steps and plasma gases via radio frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RF-PECVD). The first principles calculation and electrochemistry characteristic of the functional graphene films were performed on Materials Studio software and an electrochemical workstation, respectively. It is found that the nanostructures of functional graphene films with g-C3N4 and F-doped groups were significantly transformed. The introduction of fluorine atoms led to severe deformation of the g-C3N4 nanostructure, which created gaps in the electrostatic potential of the graphene surface and provided channels for electron transport. The surface of the roving fabric substrate covered by pure graphene is hydrophilic with a static contact angle of 79.4°, but the surface is transformed to a hydrophobic state for the g-C3N4/graphene film with an increased static contact angle of 131.3° which is further improved to 156.2° for CF2-modified g-C3N4/graphene film exhibiting the stable superhydrophobic property. The resistance of the electron movement of CF2-modified g-C3N4/graphene film was reduced by 2% and 76.7%, respectively, compared with graphene and g-C3N4/graphene.
Engineered Faceted Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles for Therapeutic miRNA Delivery
Authors: Fu Yifei , Kolanthai Elayaraja , Neal Craig J. , Kumar Udit , Zgheib Carlos , Liechty Kenneth W. , Seal Sudipta
Published: December 2022

In general, wound healing is a highly ordered process, with distinct phases of inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. However, among diabetic patients, the progression through these phases is often impeded by increased level of oxidative stress and persistent inflammation. Our previous studies demonstrated that cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) conjugated with therapeutic microRNA146a (miR146a) could effectively enhance wound healing by targeting the NFκB pathway, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. In the present study, we consider the potential effects of nanomaterial surface-faceting and morphology on the efficacy of miRNA delivery. Compared with octahedral-CNPs and cubic-CNPs, rod-CNPs exhibited higher loading capacity. In addition, in comparing the influence of particle morphology on wound healing efficacy, several markers for bioactivity were evaluated and ascribed to the combined effects of the gene delivery and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging properties. In the cellular treatment study, rod-CNP-miR146a displayed the greatest miR146a delivery into cells. However, the reduction of IL-6 was only observed in the octahedral-CNP-miR146a, suggesting that the efficacy of the miRNA delivery is a result of the combination of various factors. Overall, our results give enlightenments into the relative delivery efficiency of the CNPs with different morphology enhancing miRNA delivery efficacy.
ROS- and pH-Responsive Polydopamine Functionalized Ti3C2Tx MXene-Based Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Nanocarriers with High Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Zhang Wei-Jin , Li Shuwei , Vijayan Veena , Lee Jun , Park Sung , Cui Xiuguo , Chung Ildoo , Lee Jaejun , Ahn Suk-kyun , Kim Jung , Park In-Kyu , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: December 2022

Premature drug release and poor controllability is a challenge in the practical application of tumor therapy, which may lead to poor chemotherapy efficacy and severe adverse effects. In this study, a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-cleavable nanoparticle system (MXene-TK-DOX@PDA) was designed for effective chemotherapy drug delivery and antibacterial applications. Doxorubicin (DOX) was conjugated to the surface of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES)-functionalized MXene via an ROS-cleavable diacetoxyl thioketal (TK) linkage. Subsequently, the surfaces of the MXene nanosheets were coated with pH-responsive polydopamine (PDA) as a gatekeeper. PDA endowed the MXene-TK-DOX@PDA nanoparticles with superior biocompatibility and stability. The MXene-TK-DOX@PDA nanoparticles had an ultrathin planar structure and a small lateral size of approximately 180 nm. The as-synthesized nanoparticles demonstrated outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency, superior photothermal stability, and a remarkable extinction coefficient (23.3 L g−1 cm−1 at 808 nm). DOX exhibited both efficient ROS-responsive and pH-responsive release performance from MXene-TK-DOX@PDA nanoparticles due to the cleavage of the thioketal linker. In addition, MXene-TK-DOX@PDA nanoparticles displayed high antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) within 5 h. Taken together, we hope that MXene-TK-DOX@PDA nanoparticles will enrich the drug delivery system and significantly expand their applications in the biomedical field
Implementation of Passing Vehicle Search Algorithm for Optimization of WEDM Process of Nickel-Based Superalloy Waspaloy
Authors: Chaudhari Rakesh , Ayesta Izaro , Doshi Mikesh , Khanna Sakshum , Patel Vivek K. , Vora Jay , López de Lacalle Luis Norberto
Published: December 2022

Nickel-based superalloys find their main use in missile engines, atomic devices, investigational aircraft, aerospace engineering, industrial applications, and automotive gas turbines, spacecraft petrochemical tools, steam power, submarines, and broader heating applications. These superalloys impose certain difficulties during the process fabrication owing to their levels of higher hardness. In the current study, the precise machining of Waspaloy was attempted through the wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) technique. A multi-objective optimization has been performed, and the influence of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been assessed using the passing vehicle search (PVS) algorithm. The effects of machining variables like current, Toff, and Ton were studied using the output measures of material removal rate (MRR), recast layer thickness (RLT), and surface roughness (SR). The Box–Behnken design was applied to generate the experimental matrix. Empirical models were generated which show the interrelationship among the process variables and output measures. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) method was used to check the adequacy, and suitability of the models and to understand the significance of the parameters. The PVS technique was executed for the optimization of MRR, SR, and RLT. Pareto fronts were derived which gives a choice to the user to select any point on the front as per the requirement. To enhance the machining performance, MWCNTs mixed dielectric fluid was utilized, and the effect of these MWCNTs was also analyzed on the surface defects. The use of MWCNTs at 1 g/L enhanced the performance of MRR, SR, and RLT by 65.70%, 50.68%, and 40.96%, respectively. Also, the addition of MWCNTs has shown that the machined surface largely reduces the surface defects.
Association between Sarcopenia and Nutritional Status in Chilean Older People Aged 65 Years and Older
Authors: Crovetto Mattassi Mirta , Henríquez Mella Camila , Pérez Bocaz Lissette
Published: December 2022

In 2018 the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) updated the definition of sarcopenia, with loss of muscle strength being the primary feature. The objective is to describe and associate sarcopenia and nutritional status in a group of Chilean older adults aged 65 years and older. Methods: Descriptive, associative and comparative study, with a cross-sectional design and a quanti-qualitative approach. A number of 155 institutionalized and community-dwelling Chilean older people aged 65 years and older participated in the study (year 2018). Sarcopenia was diagnosed using the algorithm proposed by the EWGSOP2. Muscle strength, muscle quantity and physical performance were assessed; Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) were used. Variables were described according to sex and age groups (65–69; 70–79; and ≥80 years). The association between sarcopenia and nutritional status was studied by the application of multivariate logistic regression analysis with adjustments for age and sex. Results: 49.7% and 5.2% of older adults had probable sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia, respectively; 52.9% and 7% had malnutrition by excess and by deficit, respectively, according to their BMI; and 33.5% had malnutrition according to the MNA. Participants with obesity had 3.2 times more risk of presenting sarcopenia, versus subjects with normal nutritional status (OR: 3.2; 95% CI; 1.24; 8.26). Conclusion: Sarcopenia, as defined by the criteria of the EWGSOP2, depends on the nutritional status according to BMI in older people, with obese individuals being at greater risk of suffering from sarcopenia. Nearly 50% had probable sarcopenia, a condition that could be detected early with the purpose of taking preventive measures, such a nutritional approach.
Comparison between Self-Completed and Interviewer-Administered 24-Hour Dietary Recalls in Cancer Survivors: Sampling Bias and Differential Reporting
Authors: Conway Rana , Heuchan Gabriella , Croker Helen , Esser Sara , Ireland Victoria , Lally Phillippa , Beeken Rebecca , Fisher Abigail
Published: December 2022

Self-completed 24 h dietary recalls (24-HRs) are increasingly used for research and national dietary surveillance. It is unclear how difficulties with self-completion affect response rates and sample characteristics. This study identified factors associated with being unable to self-complete an online 24-HR but willing to do so with an interviewer. Baseline 24-HRs from the ASCOT Trial were analysed (n = 1224). Adults who had been diagnosed with cancer in the past seven years and completed treatment, were invited to self-complete 24-HRs online using myfood24®. Non-completers were offered an interviewer-administered 24-HR. One third of participants willing to provide dietary data, were unable to self-complete a 24-HR. This was associated with being older, non-white and not educated to degree level. Compared to interviewer-administered 24-HRs, self-completed 24-HRs included 25% fewer items and reported lower intakes of energy, fat, saturated fat and sugar. This study highlights how collection of dietary data via online self-completed 24-HRs, without the provision of an alternative method, contributes to sampling bias. As dietary surveys are used for service and policy planning it is essential to widen inclusion. Optimisation of 24-HR tools might increase usability but interviewer-administered 24-HRs may be the only suitable option for some individuals.
What Is Associated with Changes in Food Security among Low-Income Residents of a Former Food Desert?
Authors: Cantor Jonathan , Ghosh-Dastidar Bonnie , Hunter Gerald , Baird Matthew , Richardson Andrea S. , Siddiqi Sameer , Dubowitz Tamara
Published: December 2022

Lack of geographic access to foods has been postulated as a cause for food insecurity, which has been linked to poor nutrition, obesity, and chronic disease. Building on an established cohort of randomly selected households from a low-income, predominantly Black neighborhood, we examined household food security, distance to where study participants reported doing their major food shopping, and prices at stores where they shopped. Data from the Pittsburgh Hill/Homewood Research on Eating, Shopping, and Health study for years 2011, 2014 and 2018 was limited to residents of the neighborhood that began as a food desert (i.e., low access to healthy foods), but acquired a full-service supermarket in 2013. We calculated descriptive statistics and compared study participants in the former food desert neighborhood whose food security improved to those whose food security did not improve across survey waves. We estimated cross sectional linear regressions using all waves of data to assess food security level among study participants. Distance to major food shopping store was positively associated with food security (p < 0.05) while food-store prices were not significantly associated with food security. Findings suggest that for predominantly low-income residents, food secure individuals traveled further for their major food shopping.
Staple Food Preference and Obesity Phenotypes: The Regional Ethnic Cohort Study in Northwest China
Authors: Xu Kun , Zhang Binyan , Liu Yezhou , Mi Baibing , Wang Yutong , Shen Yuefan , Shi Guoshuai , Dang Shaonong , Liu Xin , Yan Hong
Published: December 2022

Staple food preference vary in populations, but evidence of its associations with obesity phenotypes are limited. Using baseline data (n = 105,840) of the Regional Ethnic Cohort Study in Northwest China, staple food preference was defined according to the intake frequency of rice and wheat. Overall and specifically abdominal fat accumulation were determined by excessive body fat percentage and waist circumference. Logistic regression and equal frequency substitution methods were used to evaluate the associations. We observed rice preference (consuming rice more frequently than wheat; 7.84% for men and 8.28% for women) was associated with a lower risk of excessive body fat (OR, 0.743; 95%CI, 0.669–0.826) and central obesity (OR, 0.886; 95%CI, 0.807–0.971) in men; and with lower risk of central obesity (OR, 0.898; 95%CI, 0.836–0.964) in women, compared with their wheat preference counterparties. Furthermore, similar but stronger inverse associations were observed in participants with normal body mass index. Wheat-to-rice (5 times/week) reallocations were associated with a 36.5% lower risk of normal-weight obesity in men and a 20.5% lower risk of normal-weight central obesity in women. Our data suggest that, compared with wheat, rice preference could be associated with lower odds ratios of certain obesity phenotypes in the Northwest Chinese population.