bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Handheld LIBS for Li Exploration: An Example from the Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt, USA
Authors: Wise Michael A. , Harmon Russell S. , Curry Adam , Jennings Morgan , Grimac Zach , Khashchevskaya Daria
Published: January 2022

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), which has recently emerged as tool for geochemical analysis outside the traditional laboratory setting, is an ideal tool for Li exploration because it is the only technique that can measure Li in minerals, rocks, soils, and brines in-situ in the field. In addition to being used in many products essential to modern life, Li is a necessary element for a reduced carbon future and Li–Cs–Ta (LCT) granitic pegmatites are an important source of Li. Such pegmatites can have varying degrees of enrichment in Li, Rb, Cs, Be, Sn, Ga, Ta>Nb, B, P, and F. We focus here on the LCT pegmatites of the Carolina Tin-Spodumene Belt (CTSB) situated in the Kings Mountain Shear Zone, which extends from South Carolina into North Carolina. The CTSB hosts both barren and fertile pegmatites, with Li-enriched pegmatites containing spodumene, K-feldspar, albite, quartz, muscovite, and beryl. We illustrate how handheld LIBS analysis can be used for real-time Li analysis in the field at a historically important CTSB pegmatite locality in Gaston County, N.C. in four contexts: (i) elemental detection and identification; (ii) microchemical mapping; (iii) depth profiling; and (iv) elemental quantitative analysis. Finally, as an example of a practical exploration application, we describe how handheld LIBS can be used to measure K/Rb ratios and Li contents of muscovite and rapidly determine the degree of pegmatite fractionation. This study demonstrates the potential of handheld LIBS to drastically reduce the time necessary to acquire geochemical data relevant to acquiring compositional information for pegmatites during a Li pegmatite exploration program.
Optimization of Aggregate Production Circuit through Modeling of Crusher Operation
Authors: Gawenda Tomasz , Saramak Daniel
Published: January 2022

The paper concerns investigation of the effect of impact crusher operation on selected qualitative characteristics of mineral aggregate products. Qualitative characteristics of crushing products in terms of size reduction ratio and fine particles contents were analyzed from the point of view of operational parameters of the impact crusher. An investigative program was carried out on a plant scale and two primary parameters of the impactor were analyzed: velocity of the crusher rotor and the width of the outlet gap. The models of the crushing device operation were built separately for each type of the tested material, as well as for general conditions.
Single Step Laser-Induced Deposition of Plasmonic Au, Ag, Pt Mono-, Bi- and Tri-Metallic Nanoparticles
Authors: Mamonova Daria V. , Vasileva Anna A. , Petrov Yuri V. , Koroleva Alexandra V. , Danilov Denis V. , Kolesnikov Ilya E. , Bikbaeva Gulia I. , Bachmann Julien , Manshina Alina A.
Published: January 2022

Multimetallic plasmonic systems usually have distinct advantages over monometallic nanoparticles due to the peculiarity of the electronic structure appearing in advanced functionality systems, which is of great importance in a variety of applications including catalysis and sensing. Despite several reported techniques, the controllable synthesis of multimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles in soft conditions is still a challenge. Here, mono-, bi- and tri-metallic nanoparticles were successfully obtained as a result of a single step laser-induced deposition approach from monometallic commercially available precursors. The process of nanoparticles formation is starting with photodecomposition of the metal precursor resulting in nucleation and the following growth of the metal phase. The deposited nanoparticles were studied comprehensively with various experimental techniques such as SEM, TEM, EDX, XPS, and UV-VIS absorption spectroscopy. The size of monometallic nanoparticles is strongly dependent on the type of metal: 140–200 nm for Au, 40–60 nm for Ag, 2–3 nm for Pt. Bi- and trimetallic nanoparticles were core-shell structures representing monometallic crystallites surrounded by an alloy of respective metals. The formation of an alloy phase took place between monometallic nanocrystallites of different metals in course of their growth and agglomeration stage.
Preparation and Characterization of a Glycyrrhizic Acid-Based Drug Delivery System for Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy
Authors: Pashkina Ekaterina , Evseenko Veronika , Dumchenko Natalya , Zelikman Maxim , Aktanova Alina , Bykova Maria , Khvostov Mikhail , Dushkin Aleksandr , Kozlov Vladimir
Published: January 2022

The most effective method of treating allergic diseases, aimed not at relieving symptoms, but at eliminating the cause of the disease, is allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). To reduce the risk of side effects and improve the delivery of allergens to the mucosa, various delivery systems, such as liposomes, dendrimers, nanoparticles, etc., can be used. To date, there are data on the creation of delivery systems based on glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and its derivatives, but such a delivery system has not been used for allergen-specific therapy until now. It is also known that GA has an anti-inflammatory effect, shifts the balance towards Th1, and increases the number of Treg cells, meaning that it could potentially enhance the anti-allergic effect of AIT and reduce the risk of unwanted side effects. Thus, the study of the immunomodulatory effect of the supramolecular complexes (micelles) of GA with extracts of allergens holds promise for the development of new drugs for AIT.
Improved One- and Multiple-Photon Excited Photoluminescence from Cd2+-Doped CsPbBr3 Perovskite NCs
Authors: Skurlov Ivan D. , Yin Wenxu , Ismagilov Azat O. , Tcypkin Anton N. , Hua Haohang , Wang Haibo , Zhang Xiaoyu , Litvin Aleksandr P. , Zheng Weitao
Published: January 2022

Metal halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) attract much attention for light-emitting applications due to their exceptional optical properties. More recently, perovskite NCs have begun to be considered a promising material for nonlinear optical applications. Numerous strategies have recently been developed to improve the properties of metal halide perovskite NCs. Among them, B-site doping is one of the most promising ways to enhance their brightness and stability. However, there is a lack of study of the influence of B-site doping on the nonlinear optical properties of inorganic perovskite NCs. Here, we demonstrate that Cd2+ doping simultaneously improves both the linear (higher photoluminescence quantum yield, larger exciton binding energy, reduced trap states density, and faster radiative recombination) and nonlinear (higher two- and three-photon absorption cross-sections) optical properties of CsPbBr3 NCs. Cd2+ doping results in a two-photon absorption cross-section, reaching 2.6 × 106 Goeppert-Mayer (GM), which is among the highest reported for CsPbBr3 NCs.
A Water-Stable 2-Fold Interpenetrating cds Net as a Bifunctional Fluorescence-Responsive Sensor for Selective Detection of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) Ions
Authors: Tsai Meng-Jung , Liao Kuo-Shun , Wu Jing-Yun
Published: January 2022

Reactions of ZnSO4∙7H2O, N-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)-4-(pyridin-4-yl)-1,8-naphthalimide (NI-mbpy-34), and 5-bromobenzene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (Br-1,3-H2bdc) afforded a luminescent coordination polymer, [Zn(Br-1,3-bdc)(NI-mbpy-34)]n (1), under hydro(solvo)thermal conditions. Single-crystal X-ray structure analysis revealed that 1 features a three-dimensional (3-D) 2-fold interpenetrating cds (or CdSO4) net topology with the point symbol of (65·8), where the Zn(II) centers are considered as 4-connected square-planar nodes. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) patterns and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis confirmed that 1 shows high chemical and thermal stabilities. Notably, 1 displayed solvent dependent photoluminescence properties; the fluorescence intensity and emission maximum of 1 in different solvent suspensions varied when a solvent was changed. Furthermore, the H2O suspension of 1 exhibited blue fluorescence emission and thus can be treated as a selective and sensitive fluorescent probe for turn-on detection of Cr3+ cations through absorbance caused enhancement (ACE) mechanism and turn-off detection of Cr2O72−/CrO42− anions through collaboration of the absorption competition and energy transfer process, with limit of detection (LOD) as low as μM scale.
Machine Learning-Assisted Computational Screening of Metal-Organic Frameworks for Atmospheric Water Harvesting
Authors: Li Lifeng , Shi Zenan , Liang Hong , Liu Jie , Qiao Zhiwei
Published: January 2022

Atmospheric water harvesting by strong adsorbents is a feasible method of solving the shortage of water resources, especially for arid regions. In this study, a machine learning (ML)-assisted high-throughput computational screening is employed to calculate the capture of H2O from N2 and O2 for 6013 computation-ready, experimental metal-organic frameworks (CoRE-MOFs) and 137,953 hypothetical MOFs (hMOFs). Through the univariate analysis of MOF structure-performance relationships, Qst is shown to be a key descriptor. Moreover, three ML algorithms (random forest, gradient boosted regression trees, and neighbor component analysis (NCA)) are applied to hunt for the complicated interrelation between six descriptors and performance. After the optimizing strategy of grid search and five-fold cross-validation is performed, three ML can effectively build the predictive model for CoRE-MOFs, and the accuracy R2 of NCA can reach 0.97. In addition, based on the relative importance of the descriptors by ML, it can be quantitatively concluded that the Qst is dominant in governing the capture of H2O. Besides, the NCA model trained by 6013 CoRE-MOFs can predict the selectivity of hMOFs with a R2 of 0.86, which is more universal than other models. Finally, 10 CoRE-MOFs and 10 hMOFs with high performance are identified. The computational screening and prediction of ML could provide guidance and inspiration for the development of materials for water harvesting in the atmosphere.
Surface Charge Transfer Doping of MoS2 Monolayer by Molecules with Aggregation-Induced Emission Effect
Authors: Sun Ruihao , Sun Shiyu , Liang Xiu , Gong Hongyu , Zhang Xingshuang , Li Yong , Gao Meng , Li Dongwei , Xu Guanchen
Published: January 2022

Surface charge transfer doping has attracted much attention in modulating the optical and electrical behavior of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), where finding controllable and efficient dopants is crucial. Here, 1,1,2,2-tetraphenylethylene (TPE) derivative molecules with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect were selected as adjustable dopants. By designing nitro and methoxyl functional groups and surface coating, controlled p/n-type doping can be achieved on a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown monolayer, MoS2. We investigated the electron transfer behavior between these two dopants and MoS2 with fluorescence, Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectra and transient absorption spectra. 1,1,2,2-Tetrakis(4-nitrophenyl)ethane (TPE-4NO2) with a negative charge aggregation can be a donor to transfer electrons to MoS2, while 1,1,2,2-Tetrakis(4-methoxyphenyl)ethane (TPE-4OCH3) is the opposite and electron-accepting. Density functional theory calculations further explain and confirm these experimental results. This work shows a new way to select suitable dopants for TMDCs, which is beneficial for a wide range of applications in optoelectronic devices.
Enhanced Field Emission of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Cathode Prepared by Screen Printing with a Silver Paste Buffer Layer
Authors: Jiang Ruirui , Liu Jianlong , Yang Kaiqiang , Zhao Jing , Zeng Baoqing
Published: January 2022

A high emission current with relatively low operating voltage is critical for field emission cathodes in vacuum electronic devices (VEDs). This paper studied the field emission performance of single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) cold cathodes prepared by screen printing with a silver paste buffer layer. The buffer layer can both enforce the adhesion between the SWCNTs and substrate, and decrease their contact resistance, so as to increase emission current. Compared with paste mixing CNTs and screen printed cathodes, the buffer layer can avoid excessive wrapping of CNTs in the silver slurry and increase effective emission area to reduce the operating voltage. The experimental results show that the turn-on field of the screen-printed SWCNT cathodes is 0.9 V/μm, which is lower than that of electrophoretic SWCNT cathodes at 2.0 V/μm. Meanwhile, the maximum emission current of the screen-printed SWCNT cathodes reaches 5.55 mA at DC mode and reaches 10.4 mA at pulse mode, which is an order magnitude higher than that of electrophoretic SWCNTs emitters. This study also shows the application insight of small or medium-power VEDs.
Enhancement of Sensitivity with High−Reflective−Index Guided−Wave Nanomaterials for a Long−Range Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor
Authors: Wu Leiming , Che Kai , Xiang Yuanjiang , Qin Yuwen
Published: January 2022

A guided−wave long−range surface plasmon resonance (GW−LRSPR) sensor was proposed in this investigation. In the proposed sensor, high−refractive−index (RI) dielectric films (i.e., CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskite, silicon) served as the guided−wave (GW) layer, which was combined with the long−range surface plasmon resonance (LRSPR) structure to form the GW−LRSPR sensing structure. The theoretical results based on the transfer matrix method (TMM) demonstrated that the LRSPR signal was enhanced by the additional high#x2212;RI GW layer, which was called the GW−LRSPR signal. The achieved GW−LRSPR signal had a strong ability to perceive the analyte. By optimizing the low− and high−RI dielectrics in the GW−LRSPR sensing structure, we obtained the highest sensitivity (S) of 1340.4 RIU−1 based on a CH3NH3PbBr3 GW layer, and the corresponding figure of merit (FOM) was 8.16 × 104 RIU−1 deg−1. Compared with the conventional LRSPR sensor (S = 688.9 RIU−1), the sensitivity of this new type of sensor was improved by nearly 94%.
Molecular Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer with an Emphasis on Recent Advances in Biomarkers, as Well as Nanotechnology-Based Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Al-Joufi Fakhria , Setia Aseem , Salem-Bekhit Mounir , Sahu Ram , Alqahtani Fulwah , Widyowati Retno , Aleanizy Fadilah
Published: January 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious disease that affects millions of people throughout the world, despite considerable advances in therapy. The formation of colorectal adenomas and invasive adenocarcinomas is the consequence of a succession of genetic and epigenetic changes in the normal colonic epithelium. Genetic and epigenetic processes associated with the onset, development, and metastasis of sporadic CRC have been studied in depth, resulting in identifying biomarkers that might be used to predict behaviour and prognosis beyond staging and influence therapeutic options. A novel biomarker, or a group of biomarkers, must be discovered in order to build an accurate and clinically useful test that may be used as an alternative to conventional methods for the early detection of CRC and to identify prospective new therapeutic intervention targets. To minimise the mortality burden of colorectal cancer, new screening methods with higher accuracy and nano-based diagnostic precision are needed. Cytotoxic medication has negative side effects and is restricted by medication resistance. One of the most promising cancer treatment techniques is the use of nano-based carrier system as a medication delivery mechanism. To deliver cytotoxic medicines, targeted nanoparticles might take advantage of differently expressed molecules on the surface of cancer cells. The use of different compounds as ligands on the surface of nanoparticles to interact with cancer cells, enabling the efficient delivery of antitumor medicines. Formulations based on nanoparticles might aid in early cancer diagnosis and help to overcome the limitations of traditional treatments, including low water solubility, nonspecific biodistribution, and restricted bioavailability. This article addresses about the molecular pathogenesis of CRC and highlights about biomarkers. It also provides conceptual knowledge of nanotechnology-based diagnostic techniques and therapeutic approaches for malignant colorectal cancer.
Artificial Neural Network Modelling for Optimizing the Optical Parameters of Plasmonic Paired Nanostructures
Authors: Verma Sneha , Chugh Sunny , Ghosh Souvik , Rahman B. M. Azizur
Published: January 2022

The Artificial Neural Network (ANN) has become an attractive approach in Machine Learning (ML) to analyze a complex data-driven problem. Due to its time efficient findings, it has became popular in many scientific fields such as physics, optics, and material science. This paper presents a new approach to design and optimize the electromagnetic plasmonic nanostructures using a computationally efficient method based on the ANN. In this work, the nanostructures have been simulated by using a Finite Element Method (FEM), then Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used for making predictions of associated sensitivity (S), Full Width Half Maximum (FWHM), Figure of Merit (FOM), and Plasmonic Wavelength (PW) for different paired nanostructures. At first, the computational model is developed by using a Finite Element Method (FEM) to prepare the dataset. The input parameters were considered as the Major axis, a, the Minor axis, b, and the separation gap, g, which have been used to calculate the corresponding sensitivity (nm/RIU), FWHM (nm), FOM, and plasmonic wavelength (nm) to prepare the dataset. Secondly, the neural network has been designed where the number of hidden layers and neurons were optimized as part of a comprehensive analysis to improve the efficiency of ML model. After successfully optimizing the neural network, this model is used to make predictions for specific inputs and its corresponding outputs. This article also compares the error between the predicted and simulated results. This approach outperforms the direct numerical simulation methods for predicting output for various input device parameters.
Lignin Nanoparticles and Alginate Gel Beads: Preparation, Characterization and Removal of Methylene Blue
Authors: Luo Tong , Hao Yanping , Wang Chao , Jiang Weikun , Ji Xingxiang , Yang Guihua , Chen Jiachuan , Janaswamy Srinivas , Lyu Gaojin
Published: January 2022

A novel and effective green system consisting of deep eutectic solvent (DES) was proposed to prepare lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) without any lignin modification. The LNPs are obtained through the dialysis of the kraft lignin-DES solution. The particle size distribution, Zeta potential and morphology of the LNPs are characterized by using dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The average diameter of LNPs is in the range 123.6 to 140.7 nm, and the LNPs show good stability and dispersibility in water. The composite beads composed of LNPs and sodium alginate (SA) are highly efficient (97.1%) at removing methylene blue (MB) from the aqueous solution compared to 82.9% and 77.4% by the SA/bulk kraft lignin composite and pure SA, respectively. Overall, the LNPs-SA bio-nanocomposite with high adsorption capacity (258.5 mg/g) could be useful in improving water quality and other related applications.
Review on Natural, Incidental, Bioinspired, and Engineered Nanomaterials: History, Definitions, Classifications, Synthesis, Properties, Market, Toxicities, Risks, and Regulations
Authors: Barhoum Ahmed , García-Betancourt María Luisa , Jeevanandam Jaison , Hussien Eman A. , Mekkawy Sara A. , Mostafa Menna , Omran Mohamed M. , S. Abdalla Mohga , Bechelany Mikhael
Published: January 2022

Nanomaterials are becoming important materials in several fields and industries thanks to their very reduced size and shape-related features. Scientists think that nanoparticles and nanostructured materials originated during the Big Bang process from meteorites leading to the formation of the universe and Earth. Since 1990, the term nanotechnology became very popular due to advances in imaging technologies that paved the way to specific industrial applications. Currently, nanoparticles and nanostructured materials are synthesized on a large scale and are indispensable for many industries. This fact fosters and supports research in biochemistry, biophysics, and biochemical engineering applications. Recently, nanotechnology has been combined with other sciences to fabricate new forms of nanomaterials that could be used, for instance, for diagnostic tools, drug delivery systems, energy generation/storage, environmental remediation as well as agriculture and food processing. In contrast with traditional materials, specific features can be integrated into nanoparticles, nanostructures, and nanosystems by simply modifying their scale, shape, and composition. This article first summarizes the history of nanomaterials and nanotechnology. Followed by the progress that led to improved synthesis processes to produce different nanoparticles and nanostructures characterized by specific features. The content finally presents various origins and sources of nanomaterials, synthesis strategies, their toxicity, risks, regulations, and self-aggregation.
Nanosurgical Manipulation of Titin and Its M-Complex
Authors: Sziklai Dominik , Sallai Judit , Papp Zsombor , Kellermayer Dalma , Mártonfalvi Zsolt , Pires Ricardo H. , Kellermayer Miklós S. Z.
Published: January 2022

Titin is a multifunctional filamentous protein anchored in the M-band, a hexagonally organized supramolecular lattice in the middle of the muscle sarcomere. Functionally, the M-band is a framework that cross-links myosin thick filaments, organizes associated proteins, and maintains sarcomeric symmetry via its structural and putative mechanical properties. Part of the M-band appears at the C-terminal end of isolated titin molecules in the form of a globular head, named here the “M-complex”, which also serves as the point of head-to-head attachment of titin. We used high-resolution atomic force microscopy and nanosurgical manipulation to investigate the topographical and internal structure and local mechanical properties of the M-complex and its associated titin molecules. We find that the M-complex is a stable structure that corresponds to the transverse unit of the M-band organized around the myosin thick filament. M-complexes may be interlinked into an M-complex array that reflects the local structural and mechanical status of the transversal M-band lattice. Local segments of titin and the M-complex could be nanosurgically manipulated to achieve extension and domain unfolding. Long threads could be pulled out of the M-complex, suggesting that it is a compact supramolecular reservoir of extensible filaments. Nanosurgery evoked an unexpected volume increment in the M-complex, which may be related to its function as a mechanical spacer. The M-complex thus displays both elastic and plastic properties which support the idea that the M-band may be involved in mechanical functions within the muscle sarcomere.
Ethanol Solvothermal Treatment on Graphitic Carbon Nitride Materials for Enhancing Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Performance
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Anh , Nguyen Thi Kim Anh , Dao Duc Quang , Shin Eun Woo
Published: January 2022

Recently, Pt-loaded graphic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) materials have attracted great attention as a photocatalyst for hydrogen evolution from water. The simple surface modification of g-C3N4 by hydrothermal methods improves photocatalytic performance. In this study, ethanol is used as a solvothermal solvent to modify the surface properties of g-C3N4 for the first time. The g-C3N4 is thermally treated in ethanol at different temperatures (T = 140 °C, 160 °C, 180 °C, and 220 °C), and the Pt co-catalyst is subsequently deposited on the g-C3N4 via a photodeposition method. Elemental analysis and XPS O 1s data confirm that the ethanol solvothermal treatment increased the contents of the oxygen-containing functional groups on the g-C3N4 and were proportional to the treatment temperatures. However, the XPS Pt 4f data show that the Pt2+/Pt0 value for the Pt/g-C3N4 treated at ethanol solvothermal temperature of 160 °C (Pt/CN-160) is the highest at 7.03, implying the highest hydrogen production rate of Pt/CN-160 is at 492.3 μmol g−1 h−1 because the PtO phase is favorable for the water adsorption and hydrogen desorption in the hydrogen evolution process. In addition, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data and the photoluminescence spectra emission peak intensify reflect that the Pt/CN-160 had a more efficient charge separation process that also enhanced the photocatalytic activity.
Numerical Analysis of Unsteady Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Comprising CNTs-Ferrousoxide/Water with Variable Magnetic Field
Authors: Khan Muhammad Sohail , Mei Sun , Shabnam  , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai , Noeiaghdam Samad , Shah Said Anwar , Khan Aamir
Published: January 2022

The introduction of hybrid nanofluids is an important concept in various engineering and industrial applications. It is used prominently in various engineering applications, such as wider absorption range, low-pressure drop, generator cooling, nuclear system cooling, good thermal conductivity, heat exchangers, etc. In this article, the impact of variable magnetic field on the flow field of hybrid nano-fluid for the improvement of heat and mass transmission is investigated. The main objective of this study is to see the impact of hybrid nano-fluid (ferrous oxide water and carbon nanotubes) CNTs-Fe3O4, H2O between two parallel plates with variable magnetic field. The governing momentum equation, energy equation, and the magnetic field equation have been reduced into a system of highly nonlinear ODEs by using similarity transformations. The parametric continuation method (PCM) has been utilized for the solution of the derived system of equations. For the validity of the model by PCM, the proposed model has also been solved via the shooting method. The numerical outcomes of the important flow properties such as velocity profile, temperature profile and variable magnetic field for the hybrid nanofluid are displayed quantitatively through various graphs and tables. It has been noticed that the increase in the volume friction of the nano-material significantly fluctuates the velocity profile near the channel wall due to an increase in the fluid density. In addition, single-wall nanotubes have a greater effect on temperature than multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Statistical analysis shows that the thermal flow rate of (Fe3O4-SWCNTs-water) and (Fe3O4-MWCNTs-water) rises from 1.6336 percent to 6.9519 percent, and 1.7614 percent to 7.4413 percent, respectively when the volume fraction of nanomaterial increases from 0.01 to 0.04. Furthermore, the body force accelerates near the wall of boundary layer because Lorentz force is small near the squeezing plate, as the current being almost parallel to the magnetic field.
Water Formation Reaction under Interfacial Confinement: Al0.25Si0.75O2 on O-Ru(0001)
Authors: Cored Jorge , Wang Mengen , Akter Nusnin , Darbari Zubin , Xu Yixin , Karagoz Burcu , Waluyo Iradwikanari , Hunt Adrian , Stacchiola Dario , Head Ashley Rose , Concepcion Patricia , Lu Deyu , Boscoboinik Jorge Anibal
Published: January 2022

Confined nanosized spaces at the interface between a metal and a seemingly inert material, such as a silicate, have recently been shown to influence the chemistry at the metal surface. In prior work, we observed that a bilayer (BL) silica on Ru(0001) can change the reaction pathway of the water formation reaction (WFR) near room temperature when compared to the bare metal. In this work, we looked at the effect of doping the silicate with Al, resulting in a stoichiometry of Al0.25Si0.75O2. We investigated the kinetics of WFR at elevated H2 pressures and various temperatures under interfacial confinement using ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The apparent activation energy was lower than that on bare Ru(0001) but higher than that on the BL-silica/Ru(0001). The apparent reaction order with respect to H2 was also determined. The increased residence time of water at the surface, resulting from the presence of the BL-aluminosilicate (and its subsequent electrostatic stabilization), favors the so-called disproportionation reaction pathway (*H2O + *O ↔ 2 *OH), but with a higher energy barrier than for pure BL-silica.
Synthesis, In Vitro Testing, and Biodistribution of Surfactant-Free Radioactive Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Daruich de Souza Carla , Bueno Barbezan Angelica , Arcos Rosero Wilmmer Alexander , Nascimento dos Santos Sofia , Vergaças de Sousa Carvalho Diego , Zeituni Carlos Alberto , Soares Bernardes Emerson , Perez Vieira Daniel , Spencer Patrick Jack , Simões Ribeiro Martha , Chuery Martins Rostelato Maria Elisa
Published: January 2022

New forms of cancer treatment, which are effective, have simple manufacturing processes, and easily transportable, are of the utmost necessity. In this work, a methodology for the synthesis of radioactive Gold-198 nanoparticles without the use of surfactants was described. The nuclear activated Gold-198 foils were transformed into H198AuCl4 by dissolution using aqua regia, following a set of steps in a specially designed leak-tight setup. Gold-198 nanoparticles were synthesized using a citrate reduction stabilized with PEG. In addition, TEM results for the non-radioactive product presented an average size of 11.0 nm. The DLS and results for the radioactive 198AuNPs presented an average size of 8.7 nm. Moreover, the DLS results for the PEG-198AuNPs presented a 32.6 nm average size. Cell line tests showed no cytotoxic effect in any period and the concentrations were evaluated. Furthermore, in vivo testing showed a high biological uptake in the tumor and a cancer growth arrest.
Bacterial Cellulose (BC) and BC Composites: Production and Properties
Authors: Volova Tatiana G. , Prudnikova Svetlana V. , Kiselev Evgeniy G. , Nemtsev Ivan V. , Vasiliev Alexander D. , Kuzmin Andrey P. , Shishatskaya Ekaterina I.
Published: January 2022

The synthesis of bacterial cellulose (BC) by Komagataeibacter xylinus strain B-12068 was investigated on various C-substrates, under submerged conditions with stirring and in static surface cultures. We implemented the synthesis of BC on glycerol, glucose, beet molasses, sprat oil, and a mixture of glucose with sunflower oil. The most productive process was obtained during the production of inoculum in submerged culture and subsequent growth of large BC films (up to 0.2 m2 and more) in a static surface culture. The highest productivity of the BC synthesis process was obtained with the growth of bacteria on molasses and glycerol, 1.20 and 1.45 g/L per day, respectively. We obtained BC composites with silver nanoparticles (BC/AgNPs) and antibacterial drugs (chlorhexidine, baneocin, cefotaxime, and doripenem), and investigated the structure, physicochemical, and mechanical properties of composites. The disc-diffusion method showed pronounced antibacterial activity of BC composites against E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 25923.
3D Modeling of Silver Doped ZrO2 Coupled Graphene-Based Mesoporous Silica Quaternary Nanocomposite for a Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensing Effects
Authors: Fatema Kamrun Nahar , Lim Chang-Sung , Liu Yin , Cho Kwang-Youn , Jung Chong-Hun , Oh Won-Chun
Published: January 2022

We described the novel nanocomposite of silver doped ZrO2 combined graphene-based mesoporous silica (ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2,) in bases of low-cost and self-assembly strategy. Synthesized ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Raman spectroscopy, Nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS). The ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 as an enzyme-free glucose sensor active material toward coordinate electro-oxidation of glucose was considered through cyclic voltammetry in significant electrolytes, such as phosphate buffer (PBS) at pH 7.4 and commercial urine. Utilizing ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2, glucose detecting may well be finished with effective electrocatalytic performance toward organically important concentrations with the current reaction of 9.0 × 10−3 mAcm−2 and 0.05 mmol/L at the lowest potential of +0.2 V, thus fulfilling the elemental prerequisites for glucose detecting within the urine. Likewise, the ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 electrode can be worked for glucose detecting within the interferometer substances (e.g., ascorbic corrosive, lactose, fructose, and starch) in urine at proper pH conditions. Our results highlight the potential usages for qualitative and quantitative electrochemical investigation of glucose through the ZrO2-Ag-G-SiO2 sensor for glucose detecting within the urine concentration.
Hybrid Biochar/Ceria Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization and Activity Assessment for the Persulfate-Induced Degradation of Antibiotic Sulfamethoxazole
Authors: Papatheodorou Golfo , Ntzoufra Paraskevi , Hapeshi Evroula , Vakros John , Mantzavinos Dionissios
Published: January 2022

Biochar from spent malt rootlets was employed as the template to synthesize hybrid biochar-ceria materials through a wet impregnation method. The materials were tested for the activation of persulfate (SPS) and subsequent degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX), a representative antibiotic, in various matrices. Different calcination temperatures in the range 300–500 °C were employed and the resulting materials were characterized by means of N2 adsorption and potentiometric mass titration as well as TGA, XRD, SEM, FTIR, DRS, and Raman spectroscopy. Calcination temperature affects the biochar content and the physicochemical properties of the hybrid materials, which were tested for the degradation of 500 μg L−1 SMX with SPS (in the range 200–500 mg L−1) in various matrices including ultrapure water (UPW), bottled water, wastewater, and UPW spiked with bicarbonate, chloride, or humic acid. Materials calcined at 300–350 °C, with a surface area of ca. 120 m2 g−1, were the most active, yielding ca. 65% SMX degradation after 120 min of reaction in UPW; materials calcined at higher temperatures as well as bare biochar were less active. Degradation decreased with increasing matrix complexity due to the interactions amongst the surface, the contaminant, and the oxidant. Experiments in the presence of scavengers (i.e., methanol, t-butanol, and sodium azide) revealed that sulfate and hydroxyl radicals as well as singlet oxygen were the main oxidative species.
Long-Term Space Nutrition: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tang Hong , Rising Hope Hui , Majji Manoranjan , Brown Robert D.
Published: January 2022

This scoping review aimed to identify current evidence and gaps in the field of long-term space nutrition. Specifically, the review targeted critical nutritional needs during long-term manned missions in outer space in addition to the essential components of a sustainable space nutrition system for meeting these needs. The search phrase “space food and the survival of astronauts in long-term missions” was used to collect the initial 5432 articles from seven Chinese and seven English databases. From these articles, two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts to identify 218 articles for full-text reviews based on three themes and 18 keyword combinations as eligibility criteria. The results suggest that it is possible to address short-term adverse environmental factors and nutritional deficiencies by adopting effective dietary measures, selecting the right types of foods and supplements, and engaging in specific sustainable food production and eating practices. However, to support self-sufficiency during long-term space exploration, the most optimal and sustainable space nutrition systems are likely to be supported primarily by fresh food production, natural unprocessed foods as diets, nutrient recycling of food scraps and cultivation systems, and the establishment of closed-loop biospheres or landscape-based space habitats as long-term life support systems.
Iodine Content of Wild and Farmed Seafood and Its Estimated Contribution to UK Dietary Iodine Intake
Authors: Sprague Matthew , Chau Tsz Chong , Givens David I.
Published: January 2022

Iodine is an important nutrient for human health and development, with seafood widely acknowledged as a rich source. Demand from the increasing global population has resulted in the availability of a wider range of wild and farmed seafood. Increased aquaculture production, however, has resulted in changes to feed ingredients that affect the nutritional quality of the final product. The present study assessed the iodine contents of wild and farmed seafood available to UK consumers and evaluated its contribution to current dietary iodine intake. Ninety-five seafood types, encompassing marine and freshwater fish and shellfish, of wild and farmed origins, were purchased from UK retailers and analysed. Iodine contents ranged from 427.4 ± 316.1 to 3.0 ± 1.6 µg·100 g−1 flesh wet weight (mean ± SD) in haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio), respectively, being in the order shellfish > marine fish > freshwater fish, with crustaceans, whitefish (Gadiformes) and bivalves contributing the greatest levels. Overall, wild fish tended to exhibit higher iodine concentrations than farmed fish, with the exception of non-fed aquaculture species (bivalves). However, no significant differences were observed between wild and farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and turbot (Psetta maxima). In contrast, farmed European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and seabream (Sparus aurata) presented lower, and Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) higher, iodine levels than their wild counterparts, most likely due to the type and inclusion level of feed ingredients used. By following UK dietary guidelines for fish consumption, a portion of the highest oily (Atlantic mackerel, Scomber scombrus) and lean (haddock) fish species would provide two-thirds of the weekly recommended iodine intake (980 µg). In contrast, actual iodine intake from seafood consumption is estimated at only 9.4–18.0% of the UK reference nutrient intake (140 µg·day−1) across different age groups and genders, with females obtaining less than their male equivalents.
Significance of the Modified NUTRIC Score for Predicting Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Tseng Chia-Cheng , Tu Chih-Yen , Chen Chia-Hung , Wang Yao-Tung , Chen Wei-Chih , Fu Pin-Kuei , Chen Chin-Ming , Lai Chih-Cheng , Kuo Li-Kuo , Ku Shih-Chi , Fang Wen-Feng
Published: January 2022

Nutritional status could affect clinical outcomes in critical patients. We aimed to determine the prognostic accuracy of the modified Nutrition Risk in Critically Ill (mNUTRIC) score for hospital mortality and treatment outcomes in patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) compared to other clinical prediction rules. We enrolled SCAP patients in a multi-center setting retrospectively. The mNUTRIC score and clinical prediction rules for pneumonia, as well as clinical factors, were calculated and recorded. Clinical outcomes, including mortality status and treatment outcome, were assessed after the patient was discharged. We used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve method and multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the prognostic accuracy of the mNUTRIC score for predicting clinical outcomes compared to clinical prediction rules, while 815 SCAP patients were enrolled. ROC curve analysis showed that the mNUTRIC score was the most effective at predicting each clinical outcome and had the highest area under the ROC curve value. The cut-off value for predicting clinical outcomes was 5.5. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, the mNUTRIC score was also an independent predictor of both clinical outcomes in SCAP patients. We concluded that the mNUTRIC score is a better prognostic factor for predicting clinical outcomes in SCAP patients compared to other clinical prediction rules.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties, Bioaccessibility and Intestinal Absorption of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum) Extract Encapsulated in Soy Phosphatidylcholine Liposomes
Authors: Alemán Ailén , Marín-Peñalver Daniel , de Palencia Pilar Fernández , Gómez-Guillén María del Carmen , Montero Pilar
Published: January 2022

A sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum) aqueous extract was prepared and loaded into soybean phosphatidylcholine liposomes. Both the free extract (FE), and the empty (L) and loaded (L-FE) liposomes were shown to be non-cytotoxic to THP-1 and Caco-2 cells. The anti-inflammatory effect was tested on THP-1 cells differentiated into macrophages. FE showed anti-inflammatory activity, revealed by the induced secretion of IL-10 cytokines in macrophages that were subsequently stimulated with LPS. Also, a decrease in TNF-α production by L was observed, evidencing that liposomes reduced the pro-inflammatory mediators’ secretion. The liposomes (L) showed protective anti-inflammatory activity and also were able to downregulate the inflammation. Furthermore, L-FE were also found to downregulate the inflammation response, as they were able to decrease TNF-α secretion in macrophages previously exposed to LPS. The simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of FE diminished the chlorogenic acid content (the main polyphenolic compound of the extract) by 40%, while in L-FE, the amount of this phenolic compound increased with respect to the undigested liposomes. The amount of bioaccessible chlorogenic, however, was similar for FE and L-FE. The percentage of chlorogenic acid absorbed through a Caco-2 cell monolayer after 3 h of incubation, was significantly similar for the extract and the liposomes (~1.5%), without finding significant differences once the extract and liposomes were digested.
Influence of a Nutrigenetic Intervention on Self-Efficacy, Emotions, and Rewarding Behaviors in Unhealthy Eating among Mexicans: An Exploratory Pilot Study
Authors: Rivera-Iñiguez Ingrid , Panduro Arturo , Villaseñor-Bayardo Sergio Javier , Sepulveda-Villegas Maricruz , Ojeda-Granados Claudia , Roman Sonia
Published: January 2022

The Genome-based Mexican (GENOMEX) diet is a strategy for preventing and managing obesity. Emotion and eating behavior in the context of a nutrigenetic intervention have not been thoroughly studied. We aimed to explore the influence of the GENOMEX diet on emotions, self-efficacy, and rewarding behaviors in unhealthy eating among subjects with risk factors for obesity-related chronic diseases. Twenty-eight subjects included in the six-month GENOMEX intervention answered questions regarding emotions that influence food consumption. Additionally, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the Reward-based eating drive scale (RED) were applied. In the study, minimal, mild, moderate, and severe depression were present in 46.4%, 39.3%, 10.7%, and 3.6%, respectively. RED did not change, but it correlated with a higher intake of fats (r2 = 0.684, β = 2.066, p = 0.003). Mood influenced unhealthy eating in 71.7% of subjects, and 76.9% experienced binge episodes triggered by anxiety. Sugars were the most consumed foods during binge episodes (42.2%). Both low self-efficacy levels and binge episodes were associated with high consumption of unhealthy foods. After the intervention, 10.7% of subjects reported a high level of self-efficacy. In conclusion, a culturally acceptable and genetically compatible regional Mexican food diet reduced negative emotions and unhealthy eating while increasing self-efficacy.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Supplemental Carnosine in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Menon Kirthi , de Courten Barbora , Magliano Dianna J. , Ademi Zanfina , Liew Danny , Zomer Ella
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we assess the cost-effectiveness of 1 g daily of carnosine (an over the counter supplement) in addition to standard care for the management of type 2 diabetes and compare it to standard care alone. Dynamic multistate life table models were constructed in order to estimate both clinical outcomes and costs of Australians aged 18 years and above with and without type 2 diabetes over a ten-year period, 2020 to 2029. The dynamic nature of the model allowed for population change over time (migration and deaths) and accounted for the development of new cases of diabetes. The three health states were ‘Alive without type 2 diabetes’, ‘Alive with type 2 diabetes’ and ‘Dead’. Transition probabilities, costs, and utilities were obtained from published sources. The main outcome of interest was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) in terms of cost per year of life saved (YoLS) and cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Over the ten-year period, the addition of carnosine to standard care treatment resulted in ICERs (discounted) of AUD 34,836 per YoLS and AUD 43,270 per QALY gained. Assuming the commonly accepted willingness to pay threshold of AUD 50,000 per QALY gained, supplemental dietary carnosine may be a cost-effective treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes in Australia.
Anxiolytic Effect and Improved Sleep Quality in Individuals Taking Lippia citriodora Extract
Authors: Martínez-Rodríguez Alejandro , Martínez-Olcina María , Mora Juan , Navarro Pau , Caturla Nuria , Jones Jonathan
Published: January 2022

The current fast-moving, hectic lifestyle has increased the number of individuals worldwide with difficulties in managing stress, which in turn is also affecting their sleep quality. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to assess a natural plant-based dietary supplement comprised of lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora) extract, purified in phenylpropanoids, in alleviating stress and improving quality of sleep. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted for 8 weeks, followed by a 4-week washout period. Both validated questionnaires and functional tests were performed during the study, whereas questionnaires were used after the washout. As a result, the group taking the lemon verbena extract significantly reduced their perception of stress after 8 weeks, which was corroborated by a significant decrease in cortisol levels. After the washout period, the subjects reported to present even lower stress levels, due to the lasting effect of the ingredient. As for sleep quality, the subjects taking the supplement reported feeling better rested, with a stronger effect observed in women. Sleep tracking using a wearable device revealed that the supplement users improved their times in the deeper stages of sleep, specifically their percentage of time in deep sleep and REM. In conclusion, lemon verbena extract purified in phenylpropanoids is revealed as a natural solution to help individuals to improve their stress and sleep quality.