bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile Fabrication of Graphene Oxide Nanoribbon-Based Nanocomposite Papers with Different Oxidation Degrees and Morphologies for Tunable Fire-Warning Response
Authors: Qiu Wei-Wei , Yu Zhi-Ran , Zhou Ling-Yun , Lv Ling-Yu , Chen Heng , Tang Long-Cheng
Published: June 2022

Smart fire-warning sensors based on graphene oxide (GO) nanomaterials, via monitoring their temperature-responsive resistance transition, have attracted considerable interest for several years. However, an important question remains as to whether or not different oxidation degrees of the GO network can produce different impacts on fire-warning responses. In this study, we synthesized three types of GO nanoribbons (GONRs) with different oxidation degrees and morphologies, and thus prepared flame retardant polyethylene glycol (PEG)/GONR/montmorillonite (MMT) nanocomposite papers via a facile, solvent free, and low-temperature evaporation-induced assembly approach. The results showed that the presence of the GONRs in the PEG/MMT promoted the formation of an interconnected nacre-like layered structure, and that appropriate oxidation of the GONRs provided better reinforcing efficiency and lower creep deformation. Furthermore, the different oxidation degrees of the GONRs produced a tunable flame-detection response, and an ideal fire-warning signal in pre-combustion (e.g., 3, 18, and 33 s at 300 °C for the three PEG/GONR/MMT nanocomposite papers), superior to the previous GONR-based fire-warning materials. Clearly, this work provides a novel strategy for the design and development of smart fire-warning sensors.
Review of Metasurfaces and Metadevices: Advantages of Different Materials and Fabrications
Authors: Hsu Wei-Lun , Chen Yen-Chun , Yeh Shang Ping , Zeng Qiu-Chun , Huang Yao-Wei , Wang Chih-Ming
Published: June 2022

Flat optics, metasurfaces, metalenses, and related materials promise novel on-demand light modulation within ultrathin layers at wavelength scale, enabling a plethora of next-generation optical devices, also known as metadevices. Metadevices designed with different materials have been proposed and demonstrated for different applications, and the mass production of metadevices is necessary for metadevices to enter the consumer electronics market. However, metadevice manufacturing processes are mainly based on electron beam lithography, which exhibits low productivity and high costs for mass production. Therefore, processes compatible with standard complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor manufacturing techniques that feature high productivity, such as i-line stepper and nanoimprint lithography, have received considerable attention. This paper provides a review of current metasurfaces and metadevices with a focus on materials and manufacturing processes. We also provide an analysis of the relationship between the aspect ratio and efficiency of different materials.
Numerical Study of 3D MHD Mixed Convection and Entropy Generation in Trapezoidal Porous Enclosure Filled with a Hybrid Nanofluid: Effect of Zigzag Wall and Spinning Inner Cylinder
Authors: Maneengam Apichit , Bouzennada Tarek , Abderrahmane Aissa , Ghachem Kaouther , Kolsi Lioua , Younis Obai , Guedri Kamel , Weera Wajaree
Published: June 2022

A numerical study was performed to analyze the impact of the combination of several factors on heat transfer rate, flow behavior, and entropy generation in a hybrid nanofluid occupying a porous trapezoid enclosure containing a rotating inner tube. The governing equations were discretized and solved using the Finite Element Method using Comsol multiphysics. The effects of the Darcy and Hartman number, nanoparticle volume fraction (from 0 to 6%), the utilization of various zigzag patterns of the hot wall, and the rotation speed of the inner tube (Ω = 100. 250 and 500) are illustrated and discussed in this work. The outputs reveal that flow intensity has an inverse relationship with Hartman number and a direct relationship with the Darcy number and the velocity of the inner tube, especially at high numbers of undulations of the zigzag hot wall (N = 4); also, intensification of heat transfer occurs with increasing nanoparticle volume fraction, Darcy number and velocity of the inner tube. In addition, entropy generation is strongly affected by the mentioned factors, where increasing the nanoparticle concentration augments the thermal entropy generation and reduces the friction entropy generation; furthermore, the same influence can be obtained by increasing the Hartman number or decreasing the Darcy number. However, the lowest entropy generation was found for the case of Ø = 0, Ha = 0 and Da = 0.01.
Corrosion-Engineered Morphology and Crystal Structure Regulation toward Fe-Based Efficient Oxygen Evolution Electrodes
Authors: Wang Ying , Yang Zhengbang , Zhang Zhonghua , He Ming
Published: June 2022

The rational regulation of catalysts with a well-controlled morphology and crystal structure has been demonstrated effective for optimizing the electrochemical performance. Herein, corrosion engineering was employed for the straightforward preparation of FeAl layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets and Fe3O4 nanooctahedrons via the feasible modification of dealloying conditions. The FeAl-LDH nanosheets display an excellent catalytic performance for oxygen evolution reactions in 1 M KOH solution, such as low overpotentials (333 mV on glass carbon electrode and 284 mV on Ni foam at 10 mA cm−2), a small Tafel slope (36 mV dec−1), and excellent durability (24 h endurance without deactivation). The distinguished catalytic features of the FeAl-LDH nanosheets comes from the Al and Fe synergies, oxygen vacancies, and well-defined two-dimensional (2D) layered LDH structure.
Stable Resistive Switching in ZnO/PVA:MoS2 Bilayer Memristor
Authors: Sun Tangyou , Shi Hui , Gao Shuai , Zhou Zhiping , Yu Zhiqiang , Guo Wenjing , Li Haiou , Zhang Fabi , Xu Zhimou , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: June 2022

Reliability of nonvolatile resistive switching devices is the key point for practical applications of next-generation nonvolatile memories. Nowadays, nanostructured organic/inorganic heterojunction composites have gained wide attention due to their application potential in terms of large scalability and low-cost fabrication technique. In this study, the interaction between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and two-dimensional material molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with different mixing ratios was investigated. The result confirms that the optimal ratio of PVA:MoS2 is 4:1, which presents an excellent resistive switching behavior. Moreover, we propose a resistive switching model of Ag/ZnO/PVA:MoS2/ITO bilayer structure, which inserts the ZnO as the protective layer between the electrode and the composite film. Compared with the device without ZnO layer structure, the resistive switching performance of Ag/ZnO/PVA:MoS2/ITO was improved greatly. Furthermore, a large resistive memory window up to 104 was observed in the Ag/ZnO/PVA:MoS2/ITO device, which enhanced at least three orders of magnitude more than the Ag/PVA:MoS2/ITO device. The proposed nanostructured Ag/ZnO/PVA:MoS2/ITO device has shown great application potential for the nonvolatile multilevel data storage memory.
The Dose- and Time-Dependent Cytotoxic Effect of Graphene Nanoplatelets: In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Bavorova Hana , Svadlakova Tereza , Fiala Zdenek , Pisal Rishikaysh , Mokry Jaroslav
Published: June 2022

Graphene-based nanomaterials received attention from scientists due to their unique properties: they are highly conductive, mechanically resistant and elastic. These materials can be used in different sectors of society from electronic energy storage in industry to biomedical applications. This study evaluates the influence of graphene nanoplatelets in vitro and in vivo. The toxicological influence of graphene nanoplatelets (GPs) was analyzed by cytotoxic methods, the change of cell proliferation was assessed in real-time, and the effect of GPs on a living organism was evaluated in an animal model using histopathological examination. We analyzed two types of GP administration: intratracheal and peroral. We found dose- and time-dependent cytotoxic effects of GPs in vitro; the concentration above 50 μg/mL increased the cytotoxicity significantly. The real-time analysis confirmed these data; the cells exposed to a high concentration of GPs for a longer time period resulted in a decrease in cell index which indicated lower cell viability. Histopathological examination revealed thickened alveolar septa and accumulation of GPs in the endocardium after intratracheal exposure. Peroral administration did not reveal any morphological changes. This study showed the dose- and time-dependent cytotoxic potential of graphene nanoplatelets in in vitro and in vivo models.
Visible-Light Active Flexible and Durable Photocatalytic Antibacterial Ethylene-co-vinyl Acetate—Ag/AgCl/α-Fe2O3 Composite Coating
Authors: Vihodceva Svetlana , Šutka Andris , Otsus Maarja , Vija Heiki , Grase Liga , Kahru Anne , Kasemets Kaja
Published: June 2022

When particles are mixed in polymer, particle surfaces become passivated by polymer matrix, leading to significantly reduced photocatalytic and, thus, also reduced antibacterial activity, as the catalytic particles become isolated from the outer environment and microorganisms reaching the surface. Herein, we demonstrate a facile and rapid approach for coating preparation at room temperature, yielding good adhesion of particles in combination with the particles’ interface location. Flexible ethylene-co-vinyl acetate Ag/AgCl/α-Fe2O3 composite coatings were prepared by the spin-coating method. The synthesized photocatalytically active coating surface exhibited a distinct and rapid inhibition of bacterial growth, with at least a 7-log reduction of gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus viability after 30 min of visible-light illumination. We also analyzed the shedding of the Ag-ions and reactive oxygen species production from the composite coating and showed that reactive oxygen species played the main role in the photocatalytic bacterial inactivation, destroying the bacteria cell as proven by the Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy.
Recent Progress in the Design, Characterisation and Application of LaAlO3- and LaGaO3-Based Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrolytes
Authors: Filonova Elena , Medvedev Dmitry
Published: June 2022

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are efficient electrochemical devices that allow for the direct conversion of fuels (their chemical energy) into electricity. Although conventional SOFCs based on YSZ electrolytes are widely used from laboratory to commercial scales, the development of alternative ion-conducting electrolytes is of great importance for improving SOFC performance at reduced operation temperatures. The review summarizes the basic information on two representative families of oxygen-conducting electrolytes: doped lanthanum aluminates (LaAlO3) and lanthanum gallates (LaGaO3). Their preparation features, chemical stability, thermal behaviour and transport properties are thoroughly analyzed in terms of their connection with the target functional parameters of related SOFCs. The data presented here will serve as a starting point for further studies of La-based perovskites, including in the fields of solid state ionics, electrochemistry and applied energy.
Light-Emitting Diodes Based on InGaN/GaN Nanowires on Microsphere-Lithography-Patterned Si Substrates
Authors: Dvoretckaia Liliia , Gridchin Vladislav , Mozharov Alexey , Maksimova Alina , Dragunova Anna , Melnichenko Ivan , Mitin Dmitry , Vinogradov Alexandr , Mukhin Ivan , Cirlin Georgy
Published: June 2022

The direct integration of epitaxial III-V and III-N heterostructures on Si substrates is a promising platform for the development of optoelectronic devices. Nanowires, due to their unique geometry, allow for the direct synthesis of semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LED) on crystalline lattice-mismatched Si wafers. Here, we present molecular beam epitaxy of regular arrays n-GaN/i-InGaN/p-GaN heterostructured nanowires and tripods on Si/SiO2 substrates prepatterned with the use of cost-effective and rapid microsphere optical lithography. This approach provides the selective-area synthesis of the ordered nanowire arrays on large-area Si substrates. We experimentally show that the n-GaN NWs/n-Si interface demonstrates rectifying behavior and the fabricated n-GaN/i-InGaN/p-GaN NWs-based LEDs have electroluminescence in the broad spectral range, with a maximum near 500 nm, which can be employed for multicolor or white light screen development.
Calcium Phosphate Nanoclusters for the Repair of Tooth Enamel Erosion
Authors: Wang Chia-Hsien , Mutalik Chinmaya , Yougbaré Sibidou , Teng Nai-Chia , Kuo Tsung-Rong
Published: June 2022

The artificial repair of tooth enamel is still an urgent requirement because it has a complicated and well-arranged structure. Herein, calcium phosphate nanoclusters (CaP NCs) were synthesized, via a facile approach, for application in the repair of tooth enamel erosion. Structural and optical characterizations validated the successful preparation of spherical CaP NCs, with an average size of 2.1 ± 0.11 nm. By evaporating the ethanol and triethylamine (TEA) solvents, pure CaP was produced, which was further used to repair the tooth enamel. Simulated caries lesions were achieved via phosphoric acid etching to cause damage to enamel rods. After repair, the damaged enamel rods were directly covered with CaP. According to microhardness testing, after repair with CaP NCs, the hardness value of the tooth enamel with acid etching increased to a similar level to that of normal tooth enamel. The results of the microhardness test indicated that CaP NCs revealed great potential for repairing tooth enamel erosion. Our work demonstrates a promising potential for treating the early stage of tooth erosion with CaP NCs. Based on these findings, we believe that stable CaP NCs can be employed as a precursor for the tunable, effective repair of tooth enamel in the near future.
Combined Effect of Microstructure, Surface Energy, and Adhesion Force on the Friction of PVA/Ferrite Spinel Nanocomposites
Authors: Darwish Moustafa A. , Zubar Tatiana I. , Kanafyev Oleg D. , Zhou Di , Trukhanova Ekaterina L. , Trukhanov Sergei V. , Trukhanov Alex V. , Henaish Ahmed Maher
Published: June 2022

Nanocomposite films based on spinel ferrite (Mg0.8Zn0.2Fe1.5Al0.5O4) in a PVA matrix were obtained. An increase in the spinel concentration to 10 wt.% caused an avalanche-like rise in roughness due to the formation of nanoparticle agglomerates. The lateral mode of atomic force microscopy (AFM) allowed us to trace the agglomeration dynamics. An unexpected result was that the composite with 6 wt.% of filler had a low friction coefficient in comparison with similar composites due to the successfully combined effects of low roughness and surface energy. The friction coefficient decreased to 0.07 when the friction coefficient of pure PVA was 0.72. A specially developed method for measuring nano-objects’ surface energy using AFM made it possible to explain the anomalous nature of the change in tribological characteristics.
Safety of Lavender Oil-Loaded Niosomes for In Vitro Culture and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Vilela Janice de M. V. , Moghassemi Saeid , Dadashzadeh Arezoo , Dolmans Marie-Madeleine , Azevedo Ricardo B. , Amorim Christiani A.
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: Essential oils have long been used as therapeutic agents. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil (LO) is an antispasmodic, anticonvulsant, relaxant, painkilling, and antimicrobial essential oil investigated as a natural substance for biomedical therapies. Nanoparticles have shown significant promise in improving drug delivery and efficacy. Considering these benefits, the aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of LO and lavender oil niosomes (LONs) in stem cells and myofibroblast models cultured in vitro. (2) Methods: Adipose tissue-derived stem cells and myometrial cells were cultured with LO or LONs at different concentrations (0, 0.016%, 0.031%, and 0.063%) and toxicity was evaluated with PrestoBlue™ and live/dead assay using calcein and ethidium homodimer. (3) Results: Cell viability was similar to controls in all groups, except in 0.063% LO for myometrial cells, which showed lower viability than the control medium. (4) Conclusion: These results suggest that both LO and LONs are safe for cell culture and may be used for pharmaceutical and biomedical therapies in future applications in regenerative medicine.
Probing the Mechanical Properties of Porous Nanoshells by Nanoindentation
Authors: Valencia Felipe J. , Aurora Viviana , Ramírez Max , Ruestes Carlos J. , Prada Alejandro , Varas Alejandro , Rogan José
Published: June 2022

In this contribution, we present a study of the mechanical properties of porous nanoshells measured with a nanoindentation technique. Porous nanoshells with hollow designs can present attractive mechanical properties, as observed in hollow nanoshells, but coupled with the unique mechanical behavior of porous materials. Porous nanoshells display mechanical properties that are dependent on shell porosity. Our results show that, under smaller porosity values, deformation is closely related to the one observed for polycrystalline and single-crystalline nanoshells involving dislocation activity. When porosity in the nanoparticle is increased, plastic deformation was mediated by grain boundary sliding instead of dislocation activity. Additionally, porosity suppresses dislocation activity and decreases nanoparticle strength, but allows for significant strain hardening under strains as high as 0.4. On the other hand, Young’s modulus decreases with the increase in nanoshell porosity, in agreement with the established theories of porous materials. However, we found no quantitative agreement between conventional models applied to obtain the Young’s modulus of porous materials.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Annealed Ge2Sb2Te5 Films Grown on Flexible Polyimide
Authors: Bertelli Marco , Díaz Fattorini Adriano , De Simone Sara , Calvi Sabrina , Plebani Riccardo , Mussi Valentina , Arciprete Fabrizio , Calarco Raffaella , Longo Massimo
Published: June 2022

The morphological, structural, and electrical properties of as-grown and annealed Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) layers, deposited by RF-sputtering on flexible polyimide, were studied by means of optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and electrical characterization. The X-ray diffraction annealing experiments showed the structural transformation of GST layers from the as-grown amorphous state into their crystalline cubic and trigonal phases. The onset of crystallization of the GST films was inferred at about 140 °C. The vibrational properties of the crystalline GST layers were investigated via Raman spectroscopy with mode assignment in agreement with previous works on GST films grown on rigid substrates. The electrical characterization revealed a good homogeneity of the amorphous and crystalline trigonal GST with an electrical resistance contrast of 8 × 106.
Three-Dimensional Dendritic Au–Ag Substrate for On-Site SERS Detection of Trace Molecules in Liquid Phase
Authors: Shao Yunpeng , Li Sha , Niu Yue , Wang Zezhou , Zhang Kai , Mei Linyu , Hao Yaowu
Published: June 2022

The development of a facile surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor for the on-site detection of trace molecules in liquid phase is a compelling need. In this paper, a three-dimensional (3D) dendritic Au–Ag nanostructure was constructed by a two-step electro displacement reaction in a capillary tube for the on-site liquid phase detection of trace molecules. The multiplasmon resonance mechanism of the dendritic Au–Ag structure was simulated using the finite-difference time domain (FDTD) method. It was confirmed that the highly branched 3D structure promoted the formation of high-density “hot spots” and interacted with the gold nanoparticles at the dendrite tip, gap, and surface to maximize the spatial electric field, which allowed for high signal intensification to be observed. More importantly, the unique structure of the capillary made it possible to achieve the on-site detection of trace molecules in liquids. Using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) solution as a model molecule, the 3D dendritic Au–Ag substrate exhibited a high detection sensitivity (10−13 mol/L). Furthermore, the developed sensor was applied to the detection of antibacterial agents, ciprofloxacin (CIP), with clear Raman characteristic peaks observed even at concentrations as low as 10−9 mol/L. The results demonstrated that the 3D dendritic Au–Ag sensor could successfully realize the rapid on-site SERS detection of trace molecules in liquids, providing a promising platform for ultrasensitive and on-site liquid sample analysis.
Polypyrrole Modified MoS2 Nanorod Composites as Durable Pseudocapacitive Anode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Jia Miao , Qi Tong , Yuan Qiong , Zhao Peizhu , Jia Mengqiu
Published: June 2022

As a typical two-dimensional layered metal sulfide, MoS2 has a high theoretical capacity and large layer spacing, which is beneficial for ion transport. Herein, a facile polymerization method is employed to synthesize polypyrrole (PPy) nanotubes, followed by a hydrothermal method to obtain flower-rod-shaped MoS2/PPy (FR-MoS2/PPy) composites. The FR-MoS2/PPy achieves outstanding electrochemical performance as a sodium-ion battery anode. After 60 cycles under 100 mA g−1, the FR-MoS2/PPy can maintain a capacity of 431.9 mAh g−1. As for rate performance, when the current densities range from 0.1 to 2 A g−1, the capacities only reduce from 489.7 to 363.2 mAh g−1. The excellent performance comes from a high specific surface area provided by the unique structure and the synergistic effect between the components. Additionally, the introduction of conductive PPy improves the conductivity of the material and the internal hollow structure relieves the volume expansion. In addition, kinetic calculations show that the composite material has a high sodium-ion transmission rate, and the external pseudocapacitance behavior can also significantly improve its electrochemical performance. This method provides a new idea for the development of advanced high-capacity anode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
Compositional Effects of Additively Manufactured Refractory High-Entropy Alloys under High-Energy Helium Irradiation
Authors: Lang Eric , Burns Kory , Wang Yongqiang , Kotula Paul G. , Kustas Andrew B. , Rodriguez Sal , Aitkaliyeva Assel , Hattar Khalid
Published: June 2022

High-Entropy Alloys (HEAs) are proposed as materials for a variety of extreme environments, including both fission and fusion radiation applications. To withstand these harsh environments, materials processing must be tailored to their given application, now achieved through additive manufacturing processes. However, radiation application opportunities remain limited due to an incomplete understanding of the effects of irradiation on HEA performance. In this letter, we investigate the response of additively manufactured refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) to helium (He) ion bombardment. Through analytical microscopy studies, we show the interplay between the alloy composition and the He bubble size and density to demonstrate how increasing the compositional complexity can limit the He bubble effects, but care must be taken in selecting the appropriate constituent elements.
Study of the Effect of Nitric Acid in Electrochemically Synthesized Silicon Nanocrystals: Tunability of Bright and Uniform Photoluminescence
Authors: Morales-Sánchez Alfredo , Cardona-Castro María Antonia , Licea-Jiménez Liliana , Palacios-Huerta Liliana , Coyopol Antonio , Pérez-García Sergio Alfonso , Alvarez-Quintana Jaime , Moreno Mario
Published: June 2022

In this work, we show a correlation between the composition and the microstructural and optical properties of bright and uniform luminescent porous silicon (PSi) films. PSi films were synthesized by electrochemical etching using nitric acid in an electrolyte solution. PSi samples synthesized with nitric acid emit stronger (up to six-fold greater) photoluminescence (PL) as compared to those obtained without it. The PL peak is shifted from 630 to 570 nm by changing the concentration ratio of the HF:HNO3:(EtOH-H2O) electrolyte solution, but also shifts with the excitation energy, indicating quantum confinement effects in the silicon nanocrystals (Si-NCs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis shows a uniform silicon content in the PSi samples that emit the strongest PL. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy reveals that the Si-NCs in these PSi samples are about ~2.9 ± 0.76 nm in size and are embedded in a dense and stoichiometric SiO2 matrix, as indicated by the Fourier transform infrared analysis. On the other hand, the PSi films that show PL of low intensity present an abrupt change in the silicon content depth and the formation of non-bridging oxygen hole center defects.
Unveiling Evolutionary Path of Nanogenerator Technology: A Novel Method Based on Sentence-BERT
Authors: Liu Huailan , Zhang Rui , Liu Yufei , He Cunxiang
Published: June 2022

In recent years, nanogenerator technology has developed rapidly with the rise of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other fields. Therefore, the quick identification of the evolutionary path of nanogenerator technology from a large amount of data attracts much attention. It is of great significance in grasping technical trends and analyzing technical areas of interest. However, there are some limitations in previous studies. On the one hand, previous research on technological evolution has generally utilized bibliometrics, patent analysis, and citations between patents and papers, ignoring the rich semantic information contained therein; on the other hand, its evolution analysis perspective is single, and it is difficult to obtain accurate results. Therefore, this paper proposes a new framework based on the methods of Sentence-BERT and phrase mining, using multi-source data, such as papers and patents, to unveil the evolutionary path of nanogenerator technology. Firstly, using text vectorization, clustering algorithms, and the phrase mining method, current technical themes of significant interest to researchers can be obtained. Next, this paper correlates the multi-source fusion themes through semantic similarity calculation and demonstrates the multi-dimensional technology evolutionary path by using the “theme river map”. Finally, this paper presents an evolution analysis from the perspective of frontier research and technology research, so as to discover the development focus of nanogenerators and predict the future application prospects of nanogenerator technology.
Modulation of Pulmonary Toxicity in Metabolic Syndrome Due to Variations in Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Biocorona Composition
Authors: Xia Li , Alqahtani Saeed , Ferreira Christina R. , Aryal Uma K. , Biggs Katelyn , Shannahan Jonathan H.
Published: June 2022

Nanoparticles (NPs) interact with biomolecules by forming a biocorona (BC) on their surface after introduction into the body and alter cell interactions and toxicity. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a prevalent condition and enhances susceptibility to inhaled exposures. We hypothesize that distinct NP-biomolecule interactions occur in the lungs due to MetS resulting in the formation of unique NP-BCs contributing to enhanced toxicity. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected from healthy and MetS mouse models and used to evaluate variations in the BC formation on 20 nm iron oxide (Fe3O4) NPs. Fe3O4 NPs without or with BCs were characterized for hydrodynamic size and zeta potential. Unique and differentially associated proteins and lipids with the Fe3O4 NPs were identified through proteomic and lipidomic analyses to evaluate BC alterations based on disease state. A mouse macrophage cell line was utilized to examine alterations in cell interactions and toxicity due to BCs. Exposures to 6.25, 12.5, 25, and 50 μg/mL of Fe3O4 NPs with BCs for 1 h or 24 h did not demonstrate overt cytotoxicity. Macrophages increasingly associated Fe3O4 NPs following addition of the MetS BC compared to the healthy BC. Macrophages exposed to Fe3O4 NPs with a MetS-BC for 1 h or 24 h at a concentration of 25 μg/mL demonstrated enhanced gene expression of inflammatory markers: CCL2, IL-6, and TNF-α compared to Fe3O4 NPs with a healthy BC. Western blot analysis revealed activation of STAT3, NF-κB, and ERK pathways due to the MetS-BC. Specifically, the Jak/Stat pathway was the most upregulated inflammatory pathway following exposure to NPs with a MetS BC. Overall, our study suggests the formation of distinct BCs due to NP exposure in MetS, which may contribute to exacerbated inflammatory effects and susceptibility.
Improvement of the Interface between the Lithium Anode and a Garnet-Type Solid Electrolyte of Lithium Batteries Using an Aluminum-Nitride Layer
Authors: Jiang Wen , Dong Lingling , Liu Shuanghui , Ai Bing , Zhao Shuangshuang , Zhang Weimin , Pan Kefeng , Zhang Lipeng
Published: June 2022

The next generation of all-solid-state batteries can feature battery safety that is unparalleled among conventional liquid batteries. The garnet-type solid-state electrolyte Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO), in particular, is widely studied because of its high Li-ion conductivity and stability in air. However, the poor interface-contact between Li and the electrolyte (garnet) severely limits the development of solid electrolytes. In this study, we synthesize cubic phase Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) using a secondary sintering method. In addition, a thin aluminum nitride (AlN) layer is introduced between the metal (Li) and the solid electrolyte. Theoretical calculations show that AlN has a high affinity for Li. Furthermore, it is shown that the AlN coating can effectively reduce the interface impedance between Li and the solid electrolyte and improve the lithium-ion transport. The assembled symmetric Li cells can operate stably for more than 3600 h, unlike the symmetric cells without AlN coating, which short-circuited after only a few cycles. The hybrid solid-state battery with a modified layer, which is assembled using LiFePO4 (LFP), still has a capacity of 120 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles, with a capacity retention rate of 98%. This shows that the introduction of an AlN interlayer is very helpful to obtain a stable Li/solid-electrolyte interface, which improves the cycling stability of the battery.
Brain Structural and Functional Alterations in Multiple Sclerosis-Related Fatigue: A Systematic Review
Authors: Barbi Chiara , Pizzini Francesca Benedetta , Tamburin Stefano , Martini Alice , Pedrinolla Anna , Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Giuriato Gaia , Martignon Camilla , Schena Federico , Venturelli Massimo
Published: June 2022

Fatigue is one of the most disabling symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS); it influences patients’ quality of life. The etiology of fatigue is complex, and its pathogenesis is still unclear and debated. The objective of this review was to describe potential brain structural and functional dysfunctions underlying fatigue symptoms in patients with MS. To reach this purpose, a systematic review was conducted of published studies comparing functional brain activation and structural brain in MS patients with and without fatigue. Electronic databases were searched until 24 February 2021. The structural and functional outcomes were extracted from eligible studies and tabulated. Fifty studies were included: 32 reported structural brain differences between patients with and without fatigue; 14 studies described functional alterations in patients with fatigue compared to patients without it; and four studies showed structural and functional brain alterations in patients. The results revealed structural and functional abnormalities that could correlate to the symptom of fatigue in patients with MS. Several studies reported the differences between patients with fatigue and patients without fatigue in terms of conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes and brain atrophy, specifically in the thalamus. Functional studies showed abnormal activation in the thalamus and in some regions of the sensorimotor network in patients with fatigue compared to patients without it. Patients with fatigue present more structural and functional alterations compared to patients without fatigue. Specifically, abnormal activation and atrophy of the thalamus and some regions of the sensorimotor network seem linked to fatigue.
Assessing the Health Risk and the Metal Content of Thirty-Four Plant Essential Oils Using the ICP-MS Technique
Authors: Iordache Andreea Maria , Nechita Constantin , Voica Cezara , Roba Carmen , Botoran Oana Romina , Ionete Roxana Elena
Published: June 2022

Natural ecosystems are polluted with various contaminants, and among these heavy metals raise concerns due to their side effects on both environment and human health. An investigation was conducted on essential oil samples, comparing similar products between seven producers, and the results indicated a wide variation of metal content. The recommended limits imposed by European Union regulations for medicinal plants are exceeded only in Mentha × pipperita (Adams, 0.61 mg/kg). Except for Thymus vulgaris, the multivariate analysis showed a strong correlation between toxic and microelements (p < 0.001). We verified plant species–specific bioaccumulation patterns with non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis. The model showed that Adams, Doterra, Hypericum, and Steaua Divina essential oils originated from plants containing high micro and macroelement (Cu, Mn, Mg, Na) levels. We noted that the cancer risk values for Ni were the highest (2.02 × 10−9–7.89 × 10−7). Based on the target hazard quotient, three groups of elements were associated with a possible risk to human health, including As, Hg, and Cd in the first group, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Co in the second, and Zn and Al in the third. Additionally, the challenge of coupling inter-element relationships through a network plot analysis shows a considerable probability of associating toxic metals with micronutrients, which can address cumulative risks for human consumers.
Relationship between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Risk of Diabetes Mellitus: A Mini-Review
Authors: Almarshad Muneerh I. , Algonaiman Raya , Alharbi Hend F. , Almujaydil Mona S. , Barakat Hassan
Published: June 2022

Studying the factors that cause diabetes and conducting clinical trials has become a priority, particularly raising awareness of the dangers of the disease and how to overcome it. Diet habits are one of the most important risks that must be understood and carefully applied to reduce the risk of diabetes. Nowadays, consuming enough home-cooked food has become a challenge, particularly with modern life performance, pushing people to use processed foods. Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption has grown dramatically over the last few decades worldwide. This growth is accompanied by the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. UPFs represent three main health concerns: (i) they are generally high in non-nutritive compounds such as sugars, sodium, and trans fat and low in nutritional compounds such as proteins and fibers, (ii) they contain different types of additives that may cause severe health issues, and (iii) they are presented in packages made of synthetic materials that may also cause undesirable health side-effects. The association between the consumption of UPF and the risk of developing diabetes was discussed in this review. The high consumption of UPF, almost more than 10% of the diet proportion, could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in adult individuals. In addition, UPF may slightly increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Further efforts are needed to confirm this association; studies such as randomized clinical trials and prospective cohorts in different populations and settings are highly recommended. Moreover, massive improvement in foods’ dietary guidelines to increase the awareness of UPF and their health concerns is highly recommended.
Ketogenic and Modified Mediterranean Diet as a Tool to Counteract Neuroinflammation in Multiple Sclerosis: Nutritional Suggestions
Authors: Di Majo Danila , Cacciabaudo Francesco , Accardi Giulia , Gambino Giuditta , Giglia Giuseppe , Ferraro Giuseppe , Candore Giuseppina , Sardo Pierangelo
Published: June 2022

Ketogenic Diet is a nutritional pattern often used as dietotherapy in inflammatory diseases, including neurological disorders. Applied on epileptic children since 1920, in recent years it has been taken into account again as a tool to both reduce inflammatory burdens and ameliorate the nutritional status of patients affected by different pathologies. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered an immune-mediated neuro-inflammatory disease and diet is a possible factor in its pathogenesis. The aim of this work is to investigate the main potential targets of MS-related impairments, in particular the cognitive deficits, focusing on the alteration of biomarkers such as the Brain Derived-Neurotrophic Factor and the Tryptophan/Kynurenine ratio that could play a role on neuroprotection and thus on MS progression. Furthermore, we here propose nutritional suggestions which are useful in the development of a ketogenic diet protocol that takes advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of low-carbohydrate foods from the Mediterranean diet to be applied to subjects with MS. In conclusion, this approach will allow one to develop the ketogenic diet combined with a modified Mediterranean diet as a possible tool to improve neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis.
Association of Serum Pyridoxal-5′-Phosphate, Pyridoxal, and PAr with Colorectal Cancer Risk: A Large-Scale Case-Control Study
Authors: Xu Lei , Fang Yu-Jing , Che Meng-Meng , Abulimiti Alinuer , Huang Chu-Yi , Zhang Cai-Xia
Published: June 2022

Previous epidemiological studies have focused on the association of dietary vitamin B6 or circulating pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) with colorectal cancer risk. This study aimed to investigate the vitamin B6 in relation to colorectal cancer risk combining the biomarkers of PLP, pyridoxal (PL) plus PLP, and PAr (the ratio of 4-pyridoxic acid over the sum of PLP and PL). A large-scale hospital-based case-control study was conducted in Guangdong Province, China, which included 1233 colorectal cancer cases and 1245 sex and age frequency-matched controls. Serum PLP, PL, and 4-pyridoxic acid (PA) were detected with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Unconditional logistic regression models were used to assess the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Serum PLP and the sum of PLP and PL were inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk, while PAr was positively associated with colorectal cancer risk. Comparing the highest with the lowest quartile, the adjusted OR (95% CI) was 0.26 (0.20–0.33, Ptrend < 0.001) for serum PLP, 0.51 (0.40–0.66, Ptrend < 0.001) for serum PLP plus PL, and 2.90 (2.25–3.75, Ptrend < 0.001) for PAr. Serum PLP and PAr had significantly stronger associations with colorectal cancer risk in the male group and smoking group. Our results supported the protective role of vitamin B6 in colorectal cancer risk among Chinese people. The positive association of PAr with colorectal cancer risk suggested the potential role of inflammation and oxidative stress in colorectal carcinogenesis.
Resveratrol Induces Autophagy and Apoptosis in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells by Activating the NGFR-AMPK-mTOR Pathway
Authors: Li Jiaqiao , Fan Yameng , Zhang Yan , Liu Yamei , Yu Yan , Ma Mao
Published: June 2022

Resveratrol (RSV) has been reported to induce autophagy and apoptosis in non-small-cell lung cancer A549 cells, and the nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) regulates autophagy and apoptosis in many other cells. However, the effect of NGFR on autophagy and apoptosis induced by RSV in A549 cells remains unclear. Here, we found that RSV reduced the cell survival rate in time- and concentration-dependent manners, activating autophagy and apoptosis. Lethal autophagy was triggered by RSV higher than 55 μM. The relationship between autophagy and apoptosis depended on the type of autophagy. Specifically, mutual promotion was observed between apoptosis and lethal autophagy. Conversely, cytoprotective autophagy facilitated apoptosis but was unaffected by apoptosis. RSV enhanced NGFR by increasing mRNA expression and prolonging the lifespan of NGFR mRNA and proteins. RSV antagonized the enhanced autophagy and apoptosis caused by NGFR knockdown. As the downstream pathway of NGFR, AMPK-mTOR played a positive role in RSV-induced autophagy and apoptosis. Overall, RSV-induced autophagy and apoptosis in A549 cells are regulated by the NGFR-AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway.
Once-Weekly Semaglutide Induces an Early Improvement in Body Composition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A 26-Week Prospective Real-Life Study
Authors: Volpe Sara , Lisco Giuseppe , Racaniello Davide , Fanelli Margherita , Colaianni Valentina , Vozza Alfredo , Triggiani Vincenzo , Sabbà Carlo , Tortorella Cosimo , De Pergola Giovanni , Piazzolla Giuseppina
Published: June 2022

Background: Body weight (BW) loss is an essential therapeutic goal in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are effective in reducing BW, but their effect on body composition has not yet been fully explored. The study aim was to assess the impact of Semaglutide on body composition in patients with T2D. Methods: Forty patients with T2D were treated with subcutaneous Semaglutide and evaluated at the baseline (T0) and after three (T3) and six (T6) months. Body composition was assessed by a phase-sensitive bioimpedance analyzer. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) thickness was also measured with an ultrasonographic method (US-VAT). Anthropometric variables, muscular strength, and laboratory tests were analyzed and compared. Results: A significant decrease in VAT, the fat mass index (FMI), and BW loss was observed at all observation times. US-VAT, the skeletal mass index (SMI), the fat-free mass index (FFMI), waist circumferences, and glycated hemoglobin had lessened after three months and remained stable at T6. No variations in muscle strength, the muscle quality index, and body water were found. Discussion: In a real-life setting, Semaglutide provided significant weight loss mainly due to a reduction in the FMI and VAT, with non-clinically relevant changes in the SMI, the FFMI, and muscle strength. Most importantly, the results were obtained after three months of treatment and persisted thereafter.
Oxidative Stress Protection by Canary Seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) Peptides in Caco-2 Cells and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Urbizo-Reyes Uriel , Kim Kee-Hong , Reddivari Lavanya , Anderson Joseph M. , Liceaga Andrea M.
Published: June 2022

During oxidative stress, degenerative diseases such as atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and certain cancers are likely to develop. Recent research on canary seed (Phalaris canariensis) peptides has demonstrated the high in vitro antioxidant potential. Thus, this study aimed to assess the cellular and in vivo antioxidant capacity of a low-molecular-weight (<3 kDa) canary seed peptide fraction (CSPF) using Caco-2 cells and the Caenorhabditis elegans model. The results show that the CSPF had no cytotoxicity effect on Caco-2 cells at any tested concentration (0.3–2.5 mg/mL). Additionally, the cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) of the CSPF was concentration-dependent, and the highest activity achieved was 80% by the CSPF at 2.5 mg/mL. Similarly, incubation with the CSPF significantly mitigated the acute and chronic oxidative damage, extending the lifespan of the nematodes by 88 and 61%, respectively. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the CSPF reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to safe levels after sub-lethal doses of pro-oxidant paraquat. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that the CSPF increased the expression of oxidative-stress-response-related gene GST-4. Overall, these results show that the CSPFs relied on GST-4 upregulation and scavenging of free radicals to confer oxidative stress protection and suggest that a CSPF can be used as a natural antioxidant in foods for health applications.
Muscle Recovery and Nutrition
Authors: Caballero-García Alberto , Córdova-Martínez Alfredo
Published: June 2022

Recovery strategies, both in the general population and in athletes, must be aimed at the main causes of fatigue [...]
Editorial of Special Issue “Diet and Nutrition during Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy”
Authors: Anderson Peter Meade
Published: June 2022

Diet and nutrition during chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be quite challenging for the cancer patient and their caregivers [...]
Camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel.) Seed Oil Regulating of Metabolic Phenotype and Alleviates Dyslipidemia in High Fat-Fed Mice through Serum Branch-Chain Amino Acids
Authors: Gao Jing , Ma Li , Ma Jie , Xia Siting , Gong Saiming , Yin Yulong , Chen Yongzhong
Published: June 2022

Camellia (Camellia oleifera Abel.) seed oil (CO) has been shown to effectively reduce the blood lipid level of its host due to its fatty acid content, but the specific molecular mechanism associated with the metabolic phenotype after digestion is not clear. Here, we further investigated the relationship between branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and the metabolic phenotype that may exhibit the anti-dyslipidemia effect of CO on mice fed a high-fat diet for 30 day C57BL/6J male mice were allocated to three groups: the control group (Cont), the high-fat feed group (HFD), and a high-fat feed group with CO treatment (CO). A serum sample was collected to detect lipid biomarkers and BCAA concentration. Notably, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), Total Cholesterol (TC), and Triglycerides (TG) showed a significant decrease, whereas High-density lipoprotein (HDL) increased in CO mice but not in the HFD group. The concentration of Isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), and valine (Val) was similar between the Cont and CO groups compared with the HFD group, exhibiting an inhibition induced by CO in mice fed with a high-fat diet. A metabolic phenotype from serum examined by non-targeted metabolite analysis using UHPLC/MS showed most metabolites exhibited lipid and BCAA metabolism. The results indicated that CO treatment notably regulated the metabolism of arachidonic acid and steroid biosynthesis in response to HFD-induced dyslipidemia. In addition, the expression of PPARγ genes that correlated with the BCAA and serum lipid biomarkers were compared, and significant inhibition was noticed, which might lead to the potential exposure of the anti-dyslipidemia mechanism of CO in HFD-fed mice. In conclusion, the expression of PPARγ genes, serum lipid level, BCAA concentration, and the metabolic phenotype was significantly positive in correlation with a high-fat diet, whereas oral CO improved the biomarkers and metabolism of some specific serum metabolites in HFD-fed mice.