bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General Purpose Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Models for Target-Controlled Infusion of Anaesthetic Drugs: A Narrative Review
Authors: Vandemoortele Ophélie , Hannivoort Laura N. , Vanhoorebeeck Florian , Struys Michel M. R. F. , Vereecke Hugo E. M.
Published: April 2022

Target controlled infusion (TCI) is a clinically-available and widely-used computer-controlled method of drug administration, adjusting the drug titration towards user selected plasma- or effect-site concentrations, calculated according to pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PKPD) models. Although this technology is clinically available for several anaesthetic drugs, the contemporary commercialised PKPD models suffer from multiple limitations. First, PKPD models for anaesthetic drugs are developed using deliberately selected patient populations, often excluding the more challenging populations, such as children, obese or elderly patients, of whom the body composition or elimination mechanisms may be structurally different compared to the lean adult patient population. Separate PKPD models have been developed for some of these subcategories, but the availability of multiple PKPD models for a single drug increases the risk for invalid model selection by the user. Second, some models are restricted to the prediction of plasma-concentration without enabling effect-site controlled TCI or they identify the effect-site equilibration rate constant using methods other than PKPD modelling. Advances in computing and the emergence of globally collected databases has allowed the development of new “general purpose” PKPD models. These take on the challenging task of identifying the relationships between patient covariates (age, weight, sex, etc) and the volumes and clearances of multi-compartmental pharmacokinetic models applicable across broad populations from neonates to the elderly, from the underweight to the obese. These models address the issues of allometric scaling of body weight and size, body composition, sex differences, changes with advanced age, and for young children, changes with maturation and growth. General purpose models for propofol, remifentanil and dexmedetomidine have appeared and these greatly reduce the risk of invalid model selection. In this narrative review, we discuss the development, characteristics and validation of several described general purpose PKPD models for anaesthetic drugs.
Deep-ADCA: Development and Validation of Deep Learning Model for Automated Diagnosis Code Assignment Using Clinical Notes in Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Masud Jakir Hossain Bhuiyan , Shun Chiang , Kuo Chen-Cheng , Islam Md. Mohaimenul , Yeh Chih-Yang , Yang Hsuan-Chia , Lin Ming-Chin
Published: April 2022

Currently, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes are being used to improve clinical, financial, and administrative performance. Inaccurate ICD coding can lower the quality of care, and delay or prevent reimbursement. However, selecting the appropriate ICD code from a patient’s clinical history is time-consuming and requires expert knowledge. The rapid spread of electronic medical records (EMRs) has generated a large amount of clinical data and provides an opportunity to predict ICD codes using deep learning models. The main objective of this study was to use a deep learning-based natural language processing (NLP) model to accurately predict ICD-10 codes, which could help providers to make better clinical decisions and improve their level of service. We retrospectively collected clinical notes from five outpatient departments (OPD) from one university teaching hospital between January 2016 and December 2016. We applied NLP techniques, including global vectors, word to vectors, and embedding techniques to process the data. The dataset was split into two independent training and testing datasets consisting of 90% and 10% of the entire dataset, respectively. A convolutional neural network (CNN) model was developed, and the performance was measured using the precision, recall, and F-score. A total of 21,953 medical records were collected from 5016 patients. The performance of the CNN model for the five different departments was clinically satisfactory (Precision: 0.50~0.69 and recall: 0.78~0.91). However, the CNN model achieved the best performance for the cardiology department, with a precision of 69%, a recall of 89% and an F-score of 78%. The CNN model for predicting ICD-10 codes provides an opportunity to improve the quality of care. Implementing this model in real-world clinical settings could reduce the manual coding workload, enhance the efficiency of clinical coding, and support physicians in making better clinical decisions.
A Practical Assessment of Using sUASs (Drones) to Detect and Quantify Wright Fishhook Cactus (Sclerocactus wrightiae L.D. Benson) Populations in Desert Grazinglands
Authors: Bates Thomas H. , Anderson Val J. , Johnson Robert L. , Allphin Loreen , Rooks Dustin , Petersen Steven L.
Published: April 2022

Obtaining accurate plant population estimates has been integral in listing, recovery, and delisting species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973 and for monitoring vegetation in response to livestock grazing. Obtaining accurate population estimates remains a daunting and labor-intensive task. Small unmanned aircraft systems (sUASs or drones) may provide an effective alternative to ground surveys for rare and endangered plants. The objective of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of sUASs (DJI Phantom 4 Pro) for surveying the Wright fishhook cactus (Sclerocactus wrightiae), a small (1–8 cm diameter) endangered species endemic to grazinglands in the southwest desert of Utah, USA. We assessed sUAS-based remotely sensed imagery to detect and count individual cacti compared to ground surveys and estimated optimal altitudes (10 m, 15 m, or 20 m) for collecting imagery. Our results demonstrated that low altitude flights provided the best detection rates (p < 0.001) and counts (p < 0.001) compared to 15 m and 20 m. We suggest that sUASs can effectively locate cactus within grazingland areas, but should be coupled with ground surveys for higher accuracy and reliability. We also acknowledge that these technologies may have limitations in effectively detecting small, low-growing individual plants such as the small and obscure fishhook cactus species.
Flexible Porous Silicon/Carbon Fiber Anode for High−Performance Lithium−Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Gang , Zhu Xiaoyi , Li Xiaohua , Jia Dongchen , Li Dong , Ma Zhaoli , Li Jianjiang
Published: April 2022

We demonstrate a cross−linked, 3D conductive network structure, porous silicon@carbon nanofiber (P−Si@CNF) anode by magnesium thermal reduction (MR) and the electrospinning methods. The P−Si thermally reduced from silica (SiO2) preserved the monodisperse spheric morphology which can effectively achieve good dispersion in the carbon matrix. The mesoporous structure of P–Si and internal nanopores can effectively relieve the volume expansion to ensure the structure integrity, and its high specific surface area enhances the multi−position electrical contact with the carbon material to improve the conductivity. Additionally, the electrospun CNFs exhibited 3D conductive frameworks that provide pathways for rapid electron/ion diffusion. Through the structural design, key basic scientific problems such as electron/ion transport and the process of lithiation/delithiation can be solved to enhance the cyclic stability. As expected, the P−Si@CNFs showed a high capacity of 907.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and excellent cycling performance, with 625.6 mAh g−1 maintained even after 300 cycles. This work develops an alternative approach to solve the key problem of Si nanoparticles’ uneven dispersion in a carbon matrix.
Investigation of Scanning Strategies and Laser Remelting Effects on Top Surface Deformation of Additively Manufactured IN 625
Authors: Paraschiv Alexandru , Matache Gheorghe , Constantin Nicolae , Vladut Mihai
Published: April 2022

The main drawbacks of the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) process are the surface quality and dimensional accuracy of manufactured parts due to the edge and corner effects. These effects can be diminished by using an appropriate balance of the process parameters and scanning strategies. This paper focuses on the assessment of reducing the edge and corner effects that occur in additively manufactured IN 625 alloy via the LPBF technique by varying the hatch angle rotation (by 45°, 67°, and 90°) and volumetric energy density (VED), and using the laser top surface remelting technique (LSR). The edge and corner effects of the cubic samples were quantitatively evaluated on the top surface by 3D laser surface scanning. It was found that the edge and corner effects became more pronounced in the cases of samples built with no contour and hatch angles of 45° and 67°, while the smallest deformations were obtained when the hatch angle was rotated by 90°. Moreover, the heights of both the edge and corner ridges increase as the number of remeltings passing the top layer increases. Conversely, when a lower VED was used for melting the top layer(s) of the samples, the edge and corner ridges were slightly reduced.
Physical and Magnetic Properties of ThMn12-Type Sm(Fe0.8Co0.2)10Si2 Melt-Spun Ribbons
Authors: Qian Hui-Dong , Lim Jung Tae , Kim Jong-Woo , Yang Yang , Zhou Tian Hong , Jeon Han Kook , Park Jihoon , Choi Chul-Jin
Published: April 2022

The magnetic properties of ThMn12-type Fe-rich compounds were investigated by producing Sm(Fe0.8Co0.2)10Si2 ribbons. The produced ribbons, with different conditions by varying the melt-spinning conditions, were characterized to investigate physical and magnetic properties. Weight fraction of ThMn12-type phase decreased from 94.5 to 57.1 wt. % as the melt-spinning wheel speed increased from 6.5 to 39 m/s, and corresponding magnetizations and coercivities were substantially varied; the coercivity increased up to 0.175 T from 0.058 T by increasing the wheel speed from 6.5 to 26 m/s, and their magnetization also increased from 89.81 Am2/kg to 105.58 Am2/kg, even though the content of ThMn12-type phase decreased. Morphologies of the ribbons were also observed to verify the melt-spinning effects on the surface conditions and grain sizes. It was found that the particle and grain sizes in the ribbons became smaller and striped patterns appeared as the wheel speed increased. The grain size decreased from about 1 μm to 250 nm by increasing the wheel speed from 6.5 to 39 m/s.
Enhanced Strength and Electrical Conductivity in Graphite-Cement Mortars with Carbonized Titanium-Bearing Blast Furnace Slag as an Aggregate
Authors: Tang Chenjun , Xuan Ming , Deng Kexing , Ran Songlin
Published: April 2022

Titanium-containing carbide slag (TCS) is the product obtained by high-temperature carbothermal reduction in Titanium-bearing blast furnace slag (TBFS), which contains a large amount of TiC phase with excellent electrical conductivity. In this paper, conductive cement mortar was prepared with TCS as an aggregate and graphite as a conductive phase. The content of graphite on the compressive strength and electrical resistivity of the prepared cement mortar was investigated. The results showed that the replacement of standard sand with TCS as an aggregate not only significantly reduced the electrical resistivity of the cement mortar, but also improved its compressive strength. When the graphite content was 10 wt%, the cement mortar with TCS as the aggregate exhibited excellent comprehensive performance with the 28d compressive strength of 34.0 MPa and the electrical resistivity of 2.9 Ω m in dry condition, respectively. The results of this paper provided a new way both for the utilization of TBFS and the preparation of conductive cement mortars.
Studies of High-Temperature Fatigue Behavior and Mechanism for Nickel-Based Superalloy Inconel 625
Authors: Wu Zhenxing , Chen Xuedong , Fan Zhichao , Zhou Yu , Dong Jie
Published: April 2022

Strain-controlled continuous fatigue and creep–fatigue tests were carried out at 700 °C and 800 °C on Inconel 625 alloy. The effects of strain rate and tensile-hold time on cyclic stress response and fatigue life were investigated. Then, the microstructural analysis and the fractographic analysis of fatigue-fractured specimens were performed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The cyclic stress responses during high-temperature fatigue and the creep–fatigue–oxidation damage mechanism were discussed. The results showed that the strain rate and the tensile-hold time had little effect on the fatigue life at 700 °C, but there was a significant impact at 800 °C due to the creep–fatigue–oxidation interaction. The cyclic plastic deformation accelerated the precipitation of the γ″ phase, resulting in a continuous cyclic hardening and negative strain rate sensitivity. The fatigue failures at 700 °C under continuous fatigue conditions occurred with a transgranular fracture mode, while a transgranular-intergranular hybrid fracture manner was found at 800 °C. Furthermore, a frequency-modified total strain energy density model was proposed to consider the effects of creep and oxidation on fatigue life, and the predicted fatigue lives were located within the 1.5 times error band.
Carbide Precipitation during Processing of Two Low-Alloyed Martensitic Tool Steels with 0.11 and 0.17 V/Mo Ratios Studied by Neutron Scattering, Electron Microscopy and Atom Probe
Authors: Claesson Erik , Magnusson Hans , Kohlbrecher Joachim , Thuvander Mattias , Lindberg Fredrik , Andersson Magnus , Hedström Peter
Published: April 2022

Two industrially processed low-alloyed martensitic tool steel alloys with compositions Fe-0.3C-1.1Si-0.81Mn-1.5Cr-1.4Ni-1.1Mo-0.13V and Fe-0.3C-1.1Si-0.81Mn-1.4Cr-0.7Ni-0.8Mo-0.14V (wt.%) were characterized using small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and atom probe tomography (APT). The combination of methods enables an understanding of the complex precipitation sequences that occur in these materials during the processing. Nb-rich primary carbides form at hot working, while Fe-rich auto-tempering carbides precipitate upon quenching, and cementite carbides grow during tempering when Mo-rich secondary carbides also nucleate and grow. The number density of Mo-rich carbides increases with tempering time, and after 24 h, it is two to three orders of magnitude higher than the Fe-rich carbides. A high number density of Mo-rich carbides is important to strengthen these low-alloyed tool steels through precipitation hardening. The results indicate that the Mo-rich secondary carbide precipitates are initially of MC character, whilst later they start to appear as M2C. This change of the secondary carbides is diffusion driven and is therefore mainly seen for longer tempering times at the higher tempering temperature of 600 °C.
Acoustic Wave-Driven Liquid Metal Expansion
Authors: Hyun Youngbin , Lee Jeong-Bong , Chung Sangkug , Kim Daeyoung
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we report a volume expansion phenomenon of a liquid metal droplet naturally oxidized in an ambient environment by applying an acoustic wave. An oxidized gallium-based liquid metal droplet was placed on a paper towel, and a piezo-actuator was attached underneath it. When a liquid metal droplet was excited by acoustic wave, the volume of liquid metal was expanded due to the inflow of air throughout the oxide crack. The liquid metal without the oxide layer cannot be expanded with an applied acoustic wave. To confirm the effect of the expansion of the oxidized liquid metal droplet, we measured an expansion ratio, which was calculated by comparing the expanded size in the x (horizontal), y (vertical) axis to the initial size of the liquid metal droplet, using a high-speed camera. For various volumes of the droplet, when we applied various voltages in the range of 5~8 Vrms with 18.5~24.5 kHz using the piezo-actuator, we obtained a maximum expansion ratio of 2.4 in the x axis and 3.8 in the y axis, respectively. In addition, we investigated that the time to reach the maximum expansion in proportion to the volume size of liquid metal differed by five times from 4 s to 20 s, and that the time to maintain the maximum expansion differed from 23 s to 2.5 s, which was inversely proportional to the volume size. We also investigated the expansion ratios depending on the exposure time to the atmosphere. Finally, a circuit containing LED, which can be turned on by expanded liquid metal droplet, was demonstrated.
Cost-Efficient Approaches for Fulfillment of Functional Coverage during Verification of Digital Designs
Authors: Dinu Alexandru , Danciu Gabriel Mihail , Ogrutan Petre Lucian
Published: April 2022

Digital integrated circuits play an important role in the development of new information technologies and support Industry 4.0 from a hardware point of view. There is great pressure on electronics companies to reduce the time-to-market for product development as much as possible. The most time-consuming stage in hardware development is functional verification. As a result, many industry and academic stakeholders are investing in automating this crucial step in electronics production. The present work aims to automate the functional verification process by means of genetic algorithms that are used for generating the relevant input stimuli for full simulation of digital design behavior. Two important aspects are pursued throughout the current work: the implementation of genetic algorithms must be time-worthy compared to the application of the classical constrained-driven generation and the verification process must be implemented using tools accessible to a wide range of practitioners. It is demonstrated that for complex designs, functional verification powered by the use of genetic algorithms can go beyond the classical method of performing verification, which is based on constrained-random stimulus generation. The currently proposed methods were able to generate several sets of highly performing stimuli compared to the constraint-random stimulus generation method, in a ratio ranging from 57:1 to 205:1. The performance of the proposed approaches is comparable to that of the well-known NSGA-II and SPEA2 algorithms.
Enhanced Light Output Power on Near-Infrared Light-Emitting Diodes with TITO/Ag Multilayer Reflector
Authors: Lee Hyung-Joo , Jang In-Kyu , Kim Dae-Kwang , Cha Yu-Jung , Cho Sung Woon
Published: April 2022

A titanium–indium tin oxide (TITO) multilayer reflector was investigated to improve the light efficiency of high-power, near-infrared, light-emitting diodes (NIR-LEDs). The TITO/Ag was fabricated by combining a patterned TITO and an omnidirectional reflector (ODR). For fabricating a high-power NIR-LED, the wafer bond process required the TITO reflective structure, which has patterns filled by AlAu contact metal, bonded directly to the Ag reflector deposited on the silicon wafer. Among Ag-based single- and multilayer reflectors, the TITO/Ag showed the highest reflectance (R = 96%), which was favorable for wafer-bonded high-power NIR-LEDs. Therefore, the TITO/Ag reflector enabled the production of wafer-bonded NIR-LED chips that exhibit superior output performance (190 mW) compared with conventional cases using a single Ag reflector.
Manganese Oxide Minerals from the Xiangtan Manganese Deposit in South China and Their Application in Formaldehyde Removal
Authors: Zhao Liqun , Niu Sida , Niu Xianglong , Chen Tong , Wang Yingchao , Li Lei , Huang Fei , Wu Huaying , Mo Lingchao , Zhang Min
Published: April 2022

Because of the nano-scale tunnel constructed by the active Mn-O octahedron in cryptomelane, cryptomelane-type manganese oxides have high activity in the oxidation of several volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Natural cryptomelane, in the form of supergene oxide manganese ore, carpets much of South China. In the lower part of the Datangpo Formation of Nanhua System on the southeastern Yangtze Platform, cryptomelane is one of the major manganese oxides in black shale of the Xiangtan manganese deposit in this deposit. Formaldehyde is a dominant indoor pollutant among volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and applications of synthetic cryptomelane have been reported to eliminate it. To study the removal capacity of naturally outcropping cryptomelane, representative samples of manganese oxide (the primary mineral component of cryptomelane) from the Xiangtan Mn deposit were analyzed in this study. The chemical composition, crystal structure and micromorphology of the manganese oxide minerals were explored using ICP-AES, XRD, EPMA, SEM and HR-TEM techniques. Fine-grained and poorly crystalline, these minerals consist primarily of cryptomelane, along with minor amounts of pyrolusite, hollandite, lithiophorite, limonite and quartz. Natural cryptomelane is a monoclinic crystal, and its cell parameters are refined. The results of catalytic tests revealed that natural cryptomelane has obvious catalytic activity in the oxidation of formaldehyde in a static environment under room temperature. This study may provide a natural mineral material as an inexpensive and efficient catalyst for the purification of formaldehyde in industrial or indoor air treatment.
TRIM4Post-Mining: Transition Information Modelling for Attractive Post-Mining Landscapes—A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Benndorf Jörg , Restrepo Diego Alejandro , Merkel Natalie , John Andre , Buxton Mike , Guatame-Garcia Adriana , Dalm Marinus , de Waard Bob , Flores Hernan , Möllerherm Stefan , Pizano Wagner Luis Alberto , Schmidt Steffen , Knobloch Andreas , Nolte Harm , Kreßner Martin
Published: April 2022

TRIM4Post-Mining is a H2020/RFCS-funded project that brings together a consortium of European experts from industry and academia to develop an integrated information modelling system. This is designed to support decision making and planning during the transition from coal exploitation to a revitalized post-mining landscape, enabling infrastructure development for agricultural and industrial utilization, and contributing to the recovery of energy and materials from coal mining dumps. The smart system will be founded upon a high-resolution spatiotemporal database, utilizing state-of-the-art multi-scale and multi-sensor monitoring technologies that characterize dynamic processes in coal waste dumps related to timely, dependent deformation and geochemical processes. It will integrate efficient methods for operational and post-mining monitoring, comprehensive spatiotemporal data analytics, feature extraction, and predictive modelling; this will allow for the identification of potential contamination areas and the forecasting of geotechnical risks and ground conditions. For the interactive exploration of alternative land-use planning scenarios—in terms of residual risks, technical feasibility, environmental and social impact, and affordability—up-to-date data and models will be embedded in an interactive planning system based on Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technology, forming a TRIM—a Transition Information Modelling System. This contribution presents the conceptual approach and main constituents, and describes the state-of-the-art and detailed anticipated methodological approach for each of the constituents. This is supported by the presentation of the first results and a discussion of future work. An anticipated second contribution will focus on the main findings, technology readiness and a discussion of future work.
Computational Insight into Biotransformation Profiles of Organophosphorus Flame Retardants to Their Diester Metabolites by Cytochrome P450
Authors: Jia Yue , Yao Tingji , Ma Guangcai , Xu Qi , Zhao Xianglong , Ding Hui , Wei Xiaoxuan , Yu Haiying , Wang Zhiguo
Published: April 2022

Biotransformation of organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) mediated by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) has a potential correlation with their toxicological effects on humans. In this work, we employed five typical OPFRs including tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP), tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCIPP), tri(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), triethyl phosphate (TEP), and 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate (EHDPHP), and performed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to clarify the CYP-catalyzed biotransformation of five OPFRs to their diester metabolites. The DFT results show that the reaction mechanism consists of Cα-hydroxylation and O-dealkylation steps, and the biotransformation activities of five OPFRs may follow the order of TCEP ≈ TEP ≈ EHDPHP > TCIPP > TDCIPP. We further performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to unravel the binding interactions of five OPFRs in the CYP3A4 isoform. Binding mode analyses demonstrate that CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of TDCIPP, TCIPP, TCEP, and TEP can produce the diester metabolites, while EHDPHP metabolism may generate para-hydroxyEHDPHP as the primary metabolite. Moreover, the EHDPHP and TDCIPP have higher binding potential to CYP3A4 than TCIPP, TCEP, and TEP. This work reports the biotransformation profiles and binding features of five OPFRs in CYP, which can provide meaningful clues for the further studies of the metabolic fates of OPFRs and toxicological effects associated with the relevant metabolites.
One-Pot Synthesis of (E)-2-(3-Oxoindolin-2-ylidene)-2-arylacetonitriles
Authors: Aksenov Nicolai A. , Aksenov Alexander V. , Kurenkov Igor A. , Kirillov Nikita K. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Arutiunov Nikolai A. , Aksenova Daria S. , Rubin Michael
Published: April 2022

A highly efficient and expeditious one-pot approach towards 2-(3-oxoindolin-2-yl)acetonitriles was designed, which involves a base-assisted aldol reaction of ortho-nitroacetophenones, followed by hydrocyanation, triggering an unusual reductive cyclization reaction.
Biodegradable Nanoparticles Loaded with Levodopa and Curcumin for Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Mogharbel Bassam Felipe , Cardoso Marco André , Irioda Ana Carolina , Stricker Priscila Elias Ferreira , Slompo Robson Camilotti , Appel Julia Maurer , de Oliveira Nathalia Barth , Perussolo Maiara Carolina , Saçaki Claudia Sayuri , da Rosa Nadia Nascimento , Dziedzic Dilcele Silva Moreira , Travelet Christophe , Halila Sami , Borsali Redouane , de Carvalho Katherine Athayde Teixeira
Published: April 2022

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder. Levodopa (L-DOPA) remains the gold-standard drug available for treating PD. Curcumin has many pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-amyloid, and antitumor properties. Copolymers composed of Poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) and biodegradable polyesters such as Poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can self-assemble into nanoparticles (NPs). This study describes the development of NH2–PEO–PCL diblock copolymer positively charged and modified by adding glutathione (GSH) on the outer surface, resulting in a synergistic delivery of L-DOPA curcumin that would be able to pass the blood–brain barrier. Methods: The NH2–PEO–PCL NPs suspensions were prepared by using a nanoprecipitation and solvent displacement method and coated with GSH. NPs were submitted to characterization assays. In order to ensure the bioavailability, Vero and PC12 cells were treated with various concentrations of the loaded and unloaded NPs to observe cytotoxicity. Results: NPs have successfully loaded L-DOPA and curcumin and were stable after freeze-drying, indicating advancing into in vitro toxicity testing. Vero and PC12 cells that were treated up to 72 h with various concentrations of L-DOPA and curcumin-loaded NP maintained high viability percentage, indicating that the NPs are biocompatible. Conclusions: NPs consisting of NH2–PEO–PCL were characterized as potential formulations for brain delivery of L-DOPA and curcumin. The results also indicate that the developed biodegradable nanomicelles that were blood compatible presented low cytotoxicity.
Topological Refraction in Kagome Split-Ring Photonic Insulators
Authors: Li Huichang , Luo Chen , Zhang Tailin , Xu Jianwei , Zhou Xiang , Shen Yun , Deng Xiaohua
Published: April 2022

A valley-Hall-like photonic insulator based on C3v Kagome split-ring is proposed. Theoretical analysis and numerical calculations illustrate that C3v symmetry can be broken not only by global rotation α but also individual rotation θ of the split rings, providing topological phase transitions. Furthermore, refraction of the edge state from the interface into the background space at Zigzag termination is explored. It is shown that positive/negative refraction of the outgoing beam depends on the type of valley (K or K′), from which the edge state is projected. These results provide a new way to manipulate terahertz wave propagation and facilitate the potential applications in directional collimation, beam splitting, negative refraction image, etc.
S-Doped NiFe2O4 Nanosheets Regulated Microbial Community of Suspension for Constructing High Electroactive Consortia
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Song Bo , Yao Chongchao , Zhang Zhihao , Wang Lei , Zhang Jing
Published: April 2022

Iron-based nanomaterials (NMs) are increasingly used to promote extracellular electron transfer (EET) for energy production in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs). However, the composition and roles of planktonic bacteria in the solution regulated by iron-based NMs have rarely been taken into account. Herein, the changes of the microbial community in the solution by S-doped NiFe2O4 anodes have been demonstrated and used for constructing electroactive consortia on normal carbon cloth anodes, which could achieve the same level of electricity generation as NMs-mediated biofilm, as indicated by the significantly high voltage response (0.64 V) and power density (3.5 W m−2), whereas with different microbial diversity and connections. Network analysis showed that the introduction of iron-based NMs made Geobacter positively interact with f_Rhodocyclaceae, improving the competitiveness of the consortium (Geobacter and f_Rhodocyclaceae). Additionally, planktonic bacteria regulated by S-doped anode alone cannot hinder the stimulation of Geobacter by electricity and acetate, while the assistance of lining biofilm enhanced the cooperation of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) and fermentative bacteria (FB), thus promoting the electroactivity of microbial consortia. This study reveals the effect of S-doped NiFe2O4 NMs on the network of microbial communities in MFCs and highlights the importance of globality of microbial community, which provides a feasible solution for the safer and more economical environmental applications of NMs.
Antifouling Mortars for Underwater Restoration
Authors: Ricca Michela , Ruffolo Silvestro Antonio , La Russa Mauro Francesco , Rispoli Concetta , Grifa Celestino , Sierra-Fernández Aranzazu , Fort Rafael , Randazzo Luciana
Published: April 2022

This research has focused on the assessment of the compositional features and mechanical and antifouling performances of two different mortars formulated for an underwater setting, and which contain Mg(OH)2 as an antifouling agent. Regarding the mechanical characterization, the uniaxial compressive strength and flexural strength were measured. The composition of the materials was explored by differential thermal/thermogravimetric analysis (DTA-TG), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRPD), and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) coupled with EDS microanalysis. The assessment of the biological colonization was evaluated with colorimetric analysis and image analysis. The results suggest that both mortars have good mechanical resistance once set underwater. Moreover, the adding of Mg(OH)2 improves the resistance toward biofouling; this was observed both in laboratory and sea-exposed specimens.
3D Multiple Triangular Prisms for Highly Sensitive Non-Contact Mode Triboelectric Bending Sensors
Authors: Han Gi Hyeon , Kim Sun Woo , Kim Jin Kyeom , Lee Seung Hyun , Jeong Myeong Hoon , Song Hyun Cheol , Choi Kyoung Jin , Baik Jeong Min
Published: April 2022

Here, a highly sensitive triboelectric bending sensor in non-contact mode operation, less sensitive to strain, is demonstrated by designing multiple triangular prisms at both sides of the polydimethylsiloxane film. The sensor can detect bending in a strained condition (up to 20%) as well as bending direction with quite high linear sensitivity (~0.12/degree) up to 120°, due to the electrostatic induction effect between Al and poly (glycerol sebacate) methacrylate. Further increase of the bending angle to 135° significantly increases the sensitivity to 0.16/degree, due to the contact electrification between them. The sensors are attached on the top and bottom side of the proximal interphalangeal and wrist, demonstrating a directional bending sensor with an enhanced sensitivity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cu2ZnSnSe4 by Non-Vacuum Method for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Sahu Meenakshi , Minnam Reddy Vasudeva Reddy , Patro Bharati , Park Chinho , Kim Woo Kyoung , Sharma Pratibha
Published: April 2022

Wet ball milling was used for the synthesis of Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) nanoparticles with a kesterite structure. The prepared nanoparticles were used for ink formulation. Surfactants and binders were added to improve the ink stability, prevent agglomeration, and enhance ink adhesion. The films deposited via spin coating were annealed at different temperatures using a rapid thermal processing system in the presence of selenium powder in an inert environment. Analytical techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, were used to confirm the formation of CZTSe nanoparticles with a single-phase, crystalline kesterite structure. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to study the surface morphology and chemical composition of the thin films before and after annealing, with and without the sodium solution. The optoelectrical properties were investigated using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and Hall measurements. All the prepared CZTSe thin films exhibited a p-type nature with an optical bandgap in the range of 0.82–1.02 eV. The open-circuit voltage and fill factor of the CZTSe-based devices increased from 266 to 335 mV and from 37.79% to 44.19%, respectively, indicating a decrease in the number of recombination centers after Na incorporation.
Harmonic Generation in Biased Semiconductor Superlattices
Authors: Pereira Mauro Fernandes
Published: April 2022

Semiconductor superlattices are proven nanomaterials for THz nonlinear optics by means of high order harmonic generation. Seminal approaches leading to a perfectly antisymmetric current-voltage (I–V.) curve predict the generation of odd harmonics only in the absence of a bias. However, even harmonics at high orders have been detected in several experiments. Their generation has been explained by considering deviations from the current flow symmetry that break the exact antisymmetry of the I–V. curve. In this paper, we focus on another issue found experimentally that has also not been explained, namely the harmonic power output asymmetry from negative to positive applied bias. Once more, breaking the I–V. flow symmetry explains the experiments and leads to a further tool to design the power output of these materials. Furthermore, a new approach for the Boltzmann Equation under relaxation-rate approximation eliminates numerical difficulties generated by a previous theory. This leads to very efficient analytical expressions that can be used for both fundamental physics/optics/material sciences and realistic device development and simulations.
Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside Ameliorates Palmitic-Acid-Induced Pancreatic Beta Cell Dysfunction by Modulating CHOP-Mediated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathways
Authors: Chen Yunan , Li Xueyan , Su Lei , Hu Qianrong , Li Wenli , He Jialin , Zhao Lina
Published: April 2022

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is a natural colorant with anti-diabetic properties, while its underlying mechanisms remain far from clear. Here, we investigated the protective role of C3G on palmitic acid (PA)-induced pancreatic beta cell dysfunction and further decipher its possible molecular mechanisms. Both primary isolated mouse islets and the INS-1E cell were used, and treated with a mixture of PA (0.5 mM) and C3G (12.5 µM, 25 µM, 50 µM) for different durations (12, 24, 48 h). We found that C3G could dose-dependently ameliorate beta cell secretory function and further alleviate cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, the primary role of the PKR-like ER kinase (PERK) endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway was detected by RNA sequencing, and the PERK-pathway-related protein expression, especially the pro-apoptotic marker C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression, was significantly downregulated by C3G treatment. The critical role of CHOP in mediating the protective effect of C3G was further validated by small interfering RNA. Conclusively, C3G could ameliorate PA-induced pancreatic beta cell dysfunction targeting the CHOP-related ER stress pathway, which might be used as a nutritional intervention for the preservation of beta cell dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The Impact of Omega-3 Supplements on Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Miller Luísa Martins , Piccinin Flávia Benetti , van der Velden Ubele , Gomes Sabrina Carvalho
Published: April 2022

Aim: This systematic review examined the additional effect of taking omega-3 supplements on periodontal therapy. Methods: The focused question was “What is the possible effect of omega-3 supplementation concomitant to non-surgical periodontal therapy on clinical periodontal parameters?” Databases Cochrane, Embase, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science (January-July 2021) were searched to identify appropriate studies. Randomized clinical trials (RCT) about non-surgical therapy with omega-3 supplementation, with at least 3 months of supplementation period were included. Cochrane risk of bias tool version 2 and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation were used. Results: A total of 1556 studies were found, of which eight studies met the inclusion criteria. All eight studies evaluated periodontal probing depth and clinical attachment loss; plaque and gingival inflammation were evaluated in seven studies. High variety of omega-3 dosage, different study lengths, questionable results from periodontal therapy (including test and control groups), high risk of bias and moderate quality of evidence prevented a satisfactory conclusion regarding the benefits of omega-3 supplementation. The studies’ high heterogeneity avoided meta-analysis. Conclusion: Notwithstanding all limitations, the promising effects of omega-3 supplementation presented in two six-month studies encourage performing RCT with better-defined treatment protocols and greater methodological rigor.
Consumption of Added Sugar among Chinese Toddlers and Its Association with Picky Eating and Daily Screen Time
Authors: Li Pin , Ren Zhongxia , Zhang Jian , Lan Hanglian , Szeto Ignatius Man-Yau , Wang Peiyu , Zhao Ai , Zhang Yumei
Published: April 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between daily screen time, picky eating, and consumption frequency of sugared foods and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). Methods: The research data came from the Young Investigation (YI) study conducted in 10 cities in China. This study used sociodemographic information, feeding behavior, picky eating reported by parents, and the consumption frequency of sugared foods and SSBs of 879 toddlers aged 1–3 years. The relationship between daily screen time and picky eating behavior was assessed using logistic regression. The zero-inflated negative binomial (ZINB) model was used to fit the consumption frequencies of sugared foods and SSBs. Results: In all, 13.1% (n = 115) of toddlers did not have sugared foods 1 month before the survey, while 73.3% (n = 644) of toddlers did not have SSBs 1 month before the survey. The consumption rate of sugared foods was relatively higher than SSBs (χ2 = 661.25, p < 0.001). After adjusting for social demographic information, no relationship was found between daily screen time and picky eating (OR = 1.437; 95% CI: 0.990,2.092). The ZINB model showed that, among children who ate sugared foods, children who were picky eaters ate them more often (IRR = 1.133; 95% CI: 1.095,1.172), but no association was found between picky eating and the chance of avoiding sugared foods (OR = 0.949; 95% CI: 0.613,1.471). Children who were picky eaters were less likely not to drink SSBs (OR = 0.664; 95% CI: 0.478,0.921). However, among children who consumed SSBs, picky eaters drank them less frequently (IRR = 0.599; 95% CI: 0.552,0.650). Children with a screen time of no less than 1 h/d ate sugared foods more frequently (IRR = 1.383; 95% CI: 1.164,1.644), and they were less likely to avoid sugared foods (OR = 0.223; 95% CI: 0.085,0.587). The longer the screen time per day was, the less likely children did not have SSBs (<1 h/d: OR = 0.272; 95% CI: 0.130, 0.569; ≥1 h/d: OR = 0.136; 95% CI: 0.057, 0.328). Conclusions: The consumption rate of sugared foods was higher than that of SSBs. Picky eating and daily screen time were related to the consumption frequency of added sugar among Chinese toddlers aged 1–3 years. Picky eaters consumed sugared foods more frequently and were more likely to drink SSBs. Children whose daily screen time reached 1 h/d were more likely to eat sugared foods and drink SSBs.
Correction: Bartha et al. How to Measure Adherence to a Mediterranean Diet in Dental Studies: Is a Short Adherence Screener Enough? A Comparative Analysis. Nutrients 2022, 14, 1300
Authors: Bartha Valentin , Exner Lea , Meyer Anna-Lisa , Basrai Maryam , Schweikert Daniela , Adolph Michael , Bruckner Thomas , Meller Christian , Woelber Johan Peter , Wolff Diana
Published: April 2022

The authors would like to make a correction in a recently published paper [...]
Evaluation of the Effects of Skin-to-Skin Contact on Newborn Sucking, and Breastfeeding Abilities: A Quasi-Experimental Study Design
Authors: Huang Jia-Zhen , Chen Chi-Nien , Lee Chih-Ping , Kao Chien-Huei , Hsu Heng-Cheng , Chou An-Kuo
Published: April 2022

Mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact (SSC) after birth has numerous protective effects. Although positive associations between SSC and breastfeeding behavior have been reported, the evidence for such associations between early SSC and breastfeeding success was limited in high-income countries. This quasi-experimental intervention design study aimed to evaluate the impact of different SSC regimens on newborn breastfeeding outcomes in Taiwan. In total, 104 healthy mother–infant dyads (52 in the intervention group and 52 in the control group) with normal vaginal delivery were enrolled from 1 January to 30 July 2019. The intervention group received 60 min of immediate SSC, whereas the control group received routine care (early SSC with 20 min duration). Breastfeeding performance was evaluated by the IBFAT and BSES-Short Form. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. In the intervention group, the breastfeeding ability of newborns increased significantly after 5 min of SSC and after SSC. The intervention also improved the total score for breastfeeding self-efficacy (0.18 point; p = 0.003). GEE analysis revealed that the interaction between group and time was significant (0.65 point; p = 0.003). An initial immediate SSC regimen of 60 min can significantly improve neonatal breastfeeding ability and maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy in the short term after birth.
A Narrative Review of the Effects of Citrus Peels and Extracts on Human Brain Health and Metabolism
Authors: Matsuzaki Kentaro , Nakajima Akira , Guo Yuanqiang , Ohizumi Yasushi
Published: April 2022

As life expectancy increases, age-associated diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) become a major health problem. The onset of AD involves neurological dysfunction due to amyloid-β accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation in the brain. In addition, lifestyle-related diseases—such as dyslipidemia, diabetes, obesity, and vascular dysfunction—increase the risk of developing dementia. The world population ages, prompting the development of new strategies to maintain brain health and prevent the onset of dementia in older and preclinical patients. Citrus fruits are abundant polymethoxylated flavone and flavanone sources. Preclinical studies reported that these compounds have neuroprotective effects in models of dementia such as AD. Interestingly, clinical and epidemiological studies appear to support preclinical evidence and show improved cognitive function and reduced associated disease risk in healthy individuals and/or patients. This review summarizes the recent evidence of the beneficial effects of citrus peels and extracts on human cognition and related functions.
Reply to Jones et al. Comment on “Suresh et al. The Short-Term Effects and Tolerability of Low-Viscosity Soluble Fibre on Gastroparesis Patients: A Pilot Clinical Intervention Study. Nutrients 2021, 13, 4298”
Authors: Suresh Harsha , Zhou Jerry , Ho Vincent
Published: April 2022

We would like to thank Jones and colleagues for taking the time to comment [...]
Phase Angle and Handgrip Strength as a Predictor of Disease-Related Malnutrition in Admitted Patients: 12-Month Mortality
Authors: Fernández-Jiménez Rocío , Dalla-Rovere Lara , García-Olivares María , Abuín-Fernández José , Sánchez-Torralvo Francisco José , Doulatram-Gamgaram Viyey Kishore , Hernández-Sanchez Agustín M. , García-Almeida José Manuel
Published: April 2022

Background: Phase Angle (PhA) value measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) could be considered a good marker of the patient’s cell mass and cellular damage. Various studies have shown that the value of PhA is associated with an increased nutritional risk in several pathologies. However, not many studies have focused on the use of PhA as a screening tool in admitted patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prognostic value of PhA to determine disease-related malnutrition (DRM) and the risk that this entails for mortality and length of stay (LOS). Methods: 570 patients admitted to the hospital for different causes were included in this retrospective observational study. Patients’ nutritional risk was assessed by screening tests such as the Malnutrition Universal Screening tool (MUST) and Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), in addition to non-invasive functional techniques, such as BIA and handgrip strength (HGS), 24–48 h after admission. After performing an SGA as the gold standard to assess malnutrition, PhA and SPhA values were used to determine DRM. Furthermore, both samples: malnutrition status (MS) and non-malnutrition status (NMS) were compared, with SphA-Malnutrition corresponding to a diagnosis of malnutrition. Statistical analysis of the sample was conducted with JAMOVI version 2.2.2. Results: Patients with MS had lower PhA and SPhA than patients with NMS (p < 0.001). The ROC curve analysis (AUC = 0.81) showed a cut-off point for MS for PhA = 5.4° (sensitivity 77.51% and specificity 74.07%) and AUC = 0.776 with a cut-off point for SPhA = −0.3 (sensitivity 81.74% and specificity 63.53%). Handgrip strength (HGS) was also observed to be a good predictor in hospitalized patients. Carrying out a comparative analysis between MS and NMS, length of stay (LOS) was 9.0 days in MS vs. 5.0 days in NMS patients (OR 1.07 (1.04–1.09, p < 0.001)). A low SPhA-malnutrition value (SPhA < −0.3) was significantly associated with a higher mortality hazards ratio (HR 7.87, 95% CI 2.56–24.24, p < 0.001). Conclusion: PhA, SPhA and HGS are shown to be good prognostic markers of DRM, LOS and mortality and could therefore be useful screening tools to complement the nutritional assessment of admitted patients.