bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arsenopyrite Dissolution and Bioscorodite Precipitation by Acidithiobacillus ferrivorans ACH under Mesophilic Condition
Authors: Barahona Sergio , Herrera Erick , Jara Andrea , Castro-Severyn Juan , Gallardo Karem , Fuentes Gerardo , Dorador Cristina , Saavedra Claudia , Remonsellez Francisco
Published: April 2022

Arsenopyrite is the most abundant arsenic-bearing sulfide mineral in the lithosphere, usually associated with sulfide gold ores. The recovery of this highly valuable metal is associated with the release of large quantities of soluble arsenic. One way to mitigate the effects of high concentrations of arsenic in solution is to immobilize it as scorodite precipitate, a more stable form. Hence, we addressed the scorodite formation capacity (under mesophilic conditions) of psychrotolerant Acidithiobacillus ferrivorans ACH isolated from the Chilean Altiplano. Bio-oxidation assays were performed with 1% arsenopyrite concentrate as unique energy source and produced solids were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and QEMSCAN analysis. Interestingly, the results evidenced scorodite generation as the main sub-product after incubation for 15 days, due to the presence of the microorganism. Moreover, the QEMSCAN analysis support the XRD, detecting a 3.5% increase in scorodite generation by ACH strain and a 18.7% decrease in arsenopyrite matrix, implying an active oxidation. Finally, we presented the first record of arsenopyrite oxidation capacity and the stable scorodite production ability by a member of A. ferrivorans species under mesophilic conditions.
Core Orientation Technology Based on Drilling Trajectory Projection and Its Application in In Situ Stress Measurement of the Deepest Shaft in China
Authors: Ma Chunde , Tan Guanshuang , Li Xibing , Xu Jiaqing , Chen Jiangzhan
Published: April 2022

Deep borehole cores are an important material basis for understanding deep stress conditions and rockburst risk; however, the complex environment of deep boreholes poses many challenges to traditional core orientation techniques, thus limiting the application of cores in fields such as in situ stress measurement. A technical method of restoring the original spatial attitude of nonoriented geological cores on the ground was proposed based on the inherent “trajectory projection consistency” relationship between the borehole and the corresponding core. A prototype machine of core ground reorientation was developed. Using this method and machine, ground reorientation was performed on cores drilled from the deepest shaft in China. Subsequently, the reoriented core acoustic emission (AE) method was conducted to identify the in situ stress within the project area. Meanwhile, measurement accuracy was verified by the stress relief method. The results show that the in situ stress distributions, including the azimuth and the trends in principal stresses by the two methods, are in good agreement and indicate that the historical maximum principal stress in the case of the mine has little abrupt variability with that of the present day. The research results can be used as the design basis for the safe construction of the deepest shaft.
Multi-Morphological Characteristics of a Crushed Granitic Rock of Varying Sizes
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Xu Zhengyang , Cheng Yan
Published: April 2022

Crushed rock fragments are usually a mixture of particles with different sizes and morphologies comprising particle shape and surface texture scales. The significant role of particle morphology in the engineering behavior of granular materials has been increasingly appreciated. However, studies on morphology are mainly on particles of similar sizes, and the few studies that reported particles with varying sizes are limited to particle shape scale alone, especially when 3D morphological characteristics are considered. In this paper, we investigate the multi-scale morphological characteristics of crushed rock with a size ranging from sand to gravel by employing a 3D laser scanner and micro-Computed Tomography (μCT) using quantifiers of sphericity, aspect ratio, and roundness for particle shape, and fractal dimension for surface texture. Crushed granitic rock is used as the testing material to elucidate the morphological characteristics of crushed materials, which are not uncommon in geotechnical applications. For the tested crushed granitic rock, as particle size decreases, the overall shape becomes slightly angular, the corner of the particle becomes more rounded, and the surface becomes smoother. Differences in the morphological descriptors for small particles, mainly those with singular mineral composition, have also been observed and might be explained in terms of hardness and fracture features. The observed dependence of morphological descriptors on particle size and mineralogy bears significance for investigations using reconstructed particles of different sizes using 3D-printing techniques and numerical methods.
Deep Insight on the Occurrence Feature of Iron Minerals in a Cyanide Leaching Residue and Its Effective Recovery with Magnetic Separation
Authors: Jiang Yaxiong , Chen Luzheng , Duan Shenghong , Gao Qifang , Yi Fan , Xian Yongjun
Published: April 2022

The occurrence features of ultrafine iron minerals in a cyanide leaching residue produced from a superlarge gold mining company in Yunnan Province were determined with chemical composition analysis, iron phase analysis, and mineral liberation analysis (MLA). The results show that the residue contains 26.74% iron, mainly occurring in the form of magnetite (26.33%) and limonite (69.41%), in which 67.40% magnetite and 73.00% limonite particles are fully liberated with particle sizes ranging from 9.6 µm to 75.0 µm. The rest are adjacent and wrapped intergrowths. Low-intensity magnetic separation and pulsating high-gradient magnetic separation were, respectively, proposed to recover magnetite and limonite from the residue, and under the optimized conditions, a high-grade magnetite concentrate assaying 64.05% Fe with 85.59% magnetite recovery and a qualified limonite concentrate assaying 50.94% Fe with 54.33% limonite recovery were, respectively, produced. The iron recovery for −30 µm fraction in the magnetite and limonite concentrates reached as high as 51.46%. It was found that the iron recovery for −30µm ultrafine fraction is lower than those of coarser fractions, as a result of the relatively enhanced hydrodynamic drag acting onto the particles, compared with the magnetic force. Entrainment occurs between the ultrafine iron minerals and gangues, thereby reducing the iron grade for the ultrafine fraction. This research outcome would provide a valuable reference for the economic and effective utilization of iron resources from such residues.
Light-Activated Hydroxyapatite Photocatalysts: New Environmentally-Friendly Materials to Mitigate Pollutants
Authors: Rocha Rafael Lisandro P. , Honorio Luzia Maria C. , Bezerra Roosevelt Delano de S. , Trigueiro Pollyana , Duarte Thiago Marinho , Fonseca Maria Gardennia , Silva-Filho Edson C. , Osajima Josy A.
Published: April 2022

This review focuses on a reasoned search for articles to treat contaminated water using hydroxyapatite (HAp)-based compounds. In addition, the fundamentals of heterogeneous photocatalysis were considered, combined with parameters that affect the pollutants’ degradation using hydroxyapatite-based photocatalyst design and strategies of this photocatalyst, and the challenges of and perspectives on the development of these materials. Many critical applications have been analyzed to degrade dyes, drugs, and pesticides using HAp-based photocatalysts. This systematic review highlights the recent state-of-the-art advances that enable new paths and good-quality preparations of HAp-derived photocatalysts for photocatalysis.
In Silico Prediction of Cross-Reactive Epitopes of Tropomyosin from Shrimp and Other Arthropods Involved in Allergy
Authors: Saetang Jirakrit , Tipmanee Varomyalin , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: April 2022

Tropomyosin in shellfish is considered a major cross-reactive allergen in house dust mites and cockroaches; however, the specific epitopes have not been elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the consensus antigenic determinant among shrimp, house dust mites, and cockroaches using in silico methods. The protein sequences of tropomyosin, including Der f 10, Mac r 1, Pen a 1, Pen m 1, Per a 7, and Bla g 7, were retrieved from the UniProt database. The 3D structures were derived from the AlphaFold or modeled using the Robetta. The determination of linear epitopes was performed by AlgPRED and BepiPRED for B cell epitope, and NetMHCIIpan and NetMHCII for T cell epitope, while Ellipro was used to evaluate conformational epitopes. Fourteen peptides were discovered as the consensus linear B cell epitopes, while seventeen peptides were identified as linear T cell epitopes specific to high-frequency HLA-DR and HLA-DQ alleles. The conformational determination of B cell epitopes provided nine peptides, in which residues 209, 212, 255–256, and 258–259 were found in both linear B cell and linear T cell epitope analysis. This data could be utilized for further in vitro study and may contribute to immunotherapy for allergic diseases associated with tropomyosin.
Bis-Cinnamamide Derivatives as APE/Ref-1 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Human Melanoma
Authors: Alhazmi Razan , Tong Shirley , Darwish Shaban , Khanjani Elina , Khungar Bharti , Chawla Swati , Zheng Zhonghui , Chamberlin Richard , Parang Keykavous , Yang Sun
Published: April 2022

Human malignant melanoma exhibits imbalances in redox status, leading to activation of many redox-sensitive signaling pathways. APE/Ref-1 is a multifunctional protein that serves as a redox chaperone that regulates many nuclear transcription factors and is an important mechanism in cancer cell survival of oxidative stress. Previous studies showed that APE/Ref-1 is a potential druggable target for melanoma therapy. In this study, we synthesized a novel APE/Ref-1 inhibitor, bis-cinnamoyl-1,12-dodecamethylenediamine (2). In a xenograft mouse model, compound 2 treatment (5 mg/kg) significantly inhibited tumor growth compared to the control group, with no significant systemic toxicity observed. We further synthesized compound 2 analogs to determine the structure-activity relationship based on their anti-melanoma activities. Among those, 4-hydroxyphenyl derivative (11) exhibited potent anti-melanoma activities and improved water solubility compared to its parental compound 2. The IC50 of compound 11 was found to be less than 0.1 μM. Compared to other known APE/Ref-1 inhibitors, compound 11 exhibited increased potency in inhibiting melanoma proliferation. As determined by luciferase reporter analyses, compound 2 was shown to effectively inhibit H2O2-activated AP-1 transcription activities. Targeting APE/Ref-1-mediated signaling using pharmaceutical inhibitors is a novel and effective strategy for melanoma treatment with potentially high impact.
Pathophysiological Role and Medicinal Chemistry of A2A Adenosine Receptor Antagonists in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Merighi Stefania , Borea Pier Andrea , Varani Katia , Vincenzi Fabrizio , Travagli Alessia , Nigro Manuela , Pasquini Silvia , Suresh R. Rama , Kim Sung Won , Volkow Nora D. , Jacobson Kenneth A. , Gessi Stefania
Published: April 2022

The A2A adenosine receptor is a protein belonging to a family of four GPCR adenosine receptors. It is involved in the regulation of several pathophysiological conditions in both the central nervous system and periphery. In the brain, its localization at pre- and postsynaptic level in striatum, cortex, hippocampus and its effects on glutamate release, microglia and astrocyte activation account for a crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This ailment is considered the main form of dementia and is expected to exponentially increase in coming years. The pathological tracts of AD include amyloid peptide-β extracellular accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation, causing neuronal cell death, cognitive deficit, and memory loss. Interestingly, in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that A2A adenosine receptor antagonists may counteract each of these clinical signs, representing an important new strategy to fight a disease for which unfortunately only symptomatic drugs are available. This review offers a brief overview of the biological effects mediated by A2A adenosine receptors in AD animal and human studies and reports the state of the art of A2A adenosine receptor antagonists currently in clinical trials. As an original approach, it focuses on the crucial role of pharmacokinetics and ability to pass the blood–brain barrier in the discovery of new agents for treating CNS disorders. Considering that A2A receptor antagonist istradefylline is already commercially available for Parkinson’s disease treatment, if the proof of concept of these ligands in AD is confirmed and reinforced, it will be easier to offer a new hope for AD patients.
A Ten-Year Perspective on Twist-Bend Nematic Materials
Authors: Mandle Richard J.
Published: April 2022

The discovery of the twist-bend nematic phase (NTB) is a milestone within the field of liquid crystals. The NTB phase has a helical structure, with a repeat length of a few nanometres, and is therefore chiral, even when formed by achiral molecules. The discovery and rush to understand the rich physics of the NTB phase has provided a fresh impetus to the design and characterisation of dimeric and oligomeric liquid crystalline materials. Now, ten years after the discovery of the NTB phase, we review developments in this area, focusing on how molecular features relate to the incidence of this phase, noting the progression from simple symmetrical dimeric materials towards complex oligomers, non-covalently bonded supramolecular systems.
Two Antimicrobial Heterodimeric Tetrahydroxanthones with a 7,7′-Linkage from Mangrove Endophytic Fungus Aspergillus flavus QQYZ
Authors: Zang Zhenming , Yang Wencong , Cui Hui , Cai Runlin , Li Chunyuan , Zou Ge , Wang Bo , She Zhigang
Published: April 2022

Mangrove endophytic fungi represent significant and sustainable sources of novel metabolites with unique structures and excellent biological activities, attracting extensive chemical investigations. In this research, two novel heterodimeric tetrahydroxanthones, aflaxanthones A (1) and B (2), dimerized via an unprecedented 7,7′-linkage, a sp3-sp3 dimeric manner, were isolated from the mangrove endophytic fungus Aspergillus flavus QQYZ. Their structures were elucidated through high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, the absolute configurations of them were determined by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction combined with calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra and a 1D potential energy scan. These compounds were evaluated for antifungal activities in vitro and exhibited broad-spectrum and potential antifungal activities against several pathogenic fungi with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the range of 3.13–50 μM. They also performed moderate antibacterial activities against several bacteria with MIC values in the range of 12.5–25 μM. This research enriched the resources of lead compounds and templates for marine-derived antimicrobial drugs.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Fatty Acid Isoamyl Monoesters from Soybean Oil Deodorizer Distillate: A Renewable and Ecofriendly Base Stock for Lubricant Industries
Authors: de Araujo-Silva Rafael , Vieira Ana Carolina , de Campos Giordano Roberto , Fernandez-Lafuente Roberto , Tardioli Paulo Waldir
Published: April 2022

In this study, soybean oil deodorizer distillate (SODD), a mixture of free fatty acids and acylglycerides, and isoamyl alcohol were evaluated as substrates in the synthesis of fatty acid isoamyl monoesters catalyzed by Eversa (a liquid formulation of Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase). SODD and the products were characterized by the chemical and physical properties of lubricant base stocks. The optimal conditions to produce isoamyl fatty acid esters were determined by response surface methodology (RSM) using rotational central composite design (RCCD, 23 factorial + 6 axial points + 5 replications at the central point); they were 1 mol of fatty acids (based on the SODD saponifiable index) to 2.5 mol isoamyl alcohol, 45 °C, and 6 wt.% enzymes (enzyme mass/SODD mass). The effect of the water content of the reactional medium was also studied, with two conditions of molecular sieve ratio (molecular sieve mass/SODD mass) selected as 39 wt.% (almost anhydrous reaction medium) and 9 wt.%. Ester yields of around 50 wt.% and 70 wt.% were reached after 50 h reaction, respectively. The reaction products containing 43.7 wt.% and 55.2 wt.% FAIE exhibited viscosity indices of 175 and 163.8, pour points of −6 °C and −9 °C, flash points of 178 and 104 °C, and low oxidative stability, respectively. Their properties (mainly very high viscosity indices) make them suitable to be used as base stocks in lubricant formulation industries.
An Insight into All Tested Small Molecules against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Albedinis: A Comparative Review
Authors: Kaddouri Yassine , Benabbes Redouane , Ouahhoud Sabir , Abdellattif Magda , Hammouti Belkheir , Touzani Rachid
Published: April 2022

Bayoud disease affects date palms in North Africa and the Middle East, and many researchers have used various methods to fight it. One of those methods is the chemical use of synthetic compounds, which raises questions centred around the compounds and common features used to prepare targeted molecules. In this review, 100 compounds of tested small molecules, collected from 2002 to 2022 in Web of Sciences, were divided into ten different classes against the main cause of Bayoud disease pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis (F.o.a.) with structure–activity relationship (SAR) interpretations for pharmacophore site predictions as (δ−···δ−), where 12 compounds are the most efficient (one compound from each group). The compounds, i.e., (Z)-1-(1.5-Dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-3-yl)-3-hydroxy but-2-en-1-one 7, (Z)-3-(phenyl)-1-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-3-yl)-3-hydroxyprop-2-en-1-one 23, (Z)-1-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-3-yl)-3-hydroxy-3-(pyridine-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one 29, and 2,3-bis-[(2-hydroxy-2-phenyl)ethenyl]-6-nitro-quinoxaline 61, have antifungal pharmacophore sites (δ−···δ−) in common in N1---O4, whereas other compounds have only one δ− pharmacophore site pushed by the donor effect of the substituents on the phenyl rings. This specificity interferes in the biological activity against F.o.a. Further understanding of mechanistic drug–target interactions on this subject is currently underway.
Current Sample Preparation Methodologies for Determination of Catecholamines and Their Metabolites
Authors: Shi Nian , Bu Xinmiao , Zhang Manyu , Wang Bin , Xu Xinli , Shi Xuezhong , Hussain Dilshad , Xu Xia , Chen Di
Published: April 2022

Catecholamines (CAs) and their metabolites play significant roles in many physiological processes. Changes in CAs concentration in vivo can serve as potential indicators for the diagnosis of several diseases such as pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. Thus, the accurate quantification of CAs and their metabolites in biological samples is quite important and has attracted great research interest. However, due to their extremely low concentrations and numerous co-existing biological interferences, direct analysis of these endogenous compounds often suffers from severe difficulties. Employing suitable sample preparation techniques before instrument detection to enrich the target analytes and remove the interferences is a practicable and straightforward approach. To date, many sample preparation techniques such as solid-phase extraction (SPE), and liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) have been utilized to extract CAs and their metabolites from various biological samples. More recently, several modern techniques such as solid-phase microextraction (SPME), liquid–liquid microextraction (LLME), dispersive solid-phase extraction (DSPE), and chemical derivatizations have also been used with certain advanced features of automation and miniaturization. There are no review articles with the emphasis on sample preparations for the determination of catecholamine neurotransmitters in biological samples. Thus, this review aims to summarize recent progress and advances from 2015 to 2021, with emphasis on the sample preparation techniques combined with separation-based detection methods such capillary electrophoresis (CE) or liquid chromatography (LC) with various detectors. The current review manuscript would be helpful for the researchers with their research interests in diagnostic analysis and biological systems to choose suitable sample pretreatment and detection methods.
Preparation, Characterization, and Electrochemical Performance of the Hematite/Oxidized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Nanocomposite
Authors: Banbela Hadeel M. , Alharbi Laila M. , Al-Dahiri Reema H. , Jaremko Mariusz , Abdel Salam Mohamed
Published: April 2022

In this research work, a hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanoparticle was prepared and then mixed with oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (O-MWCNT) to form a stable suspension of an α-Fe2O3/O-MWCNTs nanocomposite. Different characterization techniques were used to explore the chemical and physical properties of the α-Fe2O3/O-MWCNTs nanocomposite, including XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis, and SEM. The results revealed the successful formation of the α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles, and the oxidation of the MWCNT, as well as the formation of stable α-Fe2O3/O-MWCNTs nanocomposite. The electrochemical behaviour of the α-Fe2O3/O-MWCNTs nanocomposite was investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and the results revealed that modification of α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with O-MWCNTs greatly enhanced electrochemical performance and capacitive behaviour, as well as cycling stability.
Vasodilatory Effect of Alpinia officinarum Extract in Rat Mesenteric Arteries
Authors: Haam Chae Eun , Byeon Seonhee , Choi Soo Jung , Lim Soyeon , Choi Soo-Kyoung , Lee Young-Ho
Published: April 2022

Background: Alpinia officinarum (A. officinarum) is known to exhibit a beneficial effect for anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. However, no sufficient research data are available on the cardiovascular effect of A. officinarum. Thus, in this study, we investigate whether A. officinarum extract has direct effects on vascular reactivity. Methods: To examine whether A. officinarum extract affects vascular functionality, we measured isometric tension in rat mesenteric resistance arteries using a wire myograph. After arteries were pre-contracted with high-K+ (70 mM), phenylephrine (5 µM), or U46619 (1 µM), A. officinarum extract was treated. Results: A. officinarum extract induced vasodilation in a concentration-dependent manner, and this effect was endothelium independent. To further investigate the mechanism, we incubated arteries in a Ca2+-free and high-K+ solution, followed by the cumulative addition of CaCl2 (0.01–2.5 mM) with or without A. officinarum extract (30 µg/mL). Pre-treatment of A. officinarum extract reduced the contractile responses induced by cumulative administration of Ca2+, which suggests that extracellular Ca2+ influx was inhibited by the treatment of A. officinarum extract. These results were associated with a reduction in phosphorylated MLC20 in VSMCs treated with A. officinarum extract. Furthermore, eucalyptol, an active compound of A. officinarum extract, had a similar effect as A. officinarum extract, which causes vasodilation in mesenteric resistance arteries. Conclusion: A. officinarum extract and its active compound eucalyptol induce concentration-dependent vasodilation in mesenteric resistance arteries. These results suggest that administration of A. officinarum extract could exert beneficial effects to treat high blood pressure.
Nano-PSO Administration Attenuates Cognitive and Neuronal Deficits Resulting from Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Qubty Doaa , Frid Kati , Har-Even Meirav , Rubovitch Vardit , Gabizon Ruth , Pick Chaim G
Published: April 2022

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), is one of the most common causes of neurological damage in young populations. It is widely considered as a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD) disease. These diseases are characterized in part by the accumulation of disease-specific misfolded proteins and share common pathological features, such as neuronal death, as well as inflammatory and oxidative damage. Nano formulation of Pomegranate seed oil [Nano-PSO (Granagard TM)] has been shown to target its active ingredient to the brain and thereafter inhibit memory decline and neuronal death in mice models of AD and genetic Creutzfeldt Jacob disease. In this study, we show that administration of Nano-PSO to mice before or after TBI application prevents cognitive and behavioral decline. In addition, immuno-histochemical staining of the brain indicates that preventive Nano-PSO treatment significantly decreased neuronal death, reduced gliosis and prevented mitochondrial damage in the affected cells. Finally, we examined levels of Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) and Synaptophysin (SYP) in the cortex using Western blotting. Nano-PSO consumption led to higher levels of SIRT1 and SYP protein postinjury. Taken together, our results indicate that Nano-PSO, as a natural brain-targeted antioxidant, can prevent part of TBI-induced damage.
Cationic N,N-Dimethylglycine Ester Prodrug of 2R-α-Tocotrienol Promotes Intestinal Absorption via Efficient Self-Micellization with Intrinsic Bile Acid Anion
Authors: Watase Daisuke , Setoguchi Shuichi , Nagata-Akaho Nami , Goto Shotaro , Yamakawa Hirofumi , Yamada Ayano , Koga Mitsuhisa , Karube Yoshiharu , Matsunaga Kazuhisa , Takata Jiro
Published: April 2022

The intestinal absorption of hydrophobic compounds is severely influenced by their transportation rate through the unstirred water layer in the intestinal lumen. A member of the vitamin E family, α-Tocotrienol (α-T3) has remarkable pharmacological effects, but its intestinal absorption is hampered due to its hydrophobicity. Here, we prepared three ester derivatives of 2R-α-T3, and we selected a suitable prodrug compound using rat plasma and liver microsomes. The micellization profile of the selected compound in the presence of taurocholic acid (TCA) was evaluated. After gastrostomy administration of the prodrug candidate or α-T3 solution containing TCA, AUC values were determined for α-T3 in plasma obtained from bile duct-ligated rats. Among the three types in the efficiency of the reconversion to the parent drug, α-T3 N,N-dimethylglycinate (α-T3DMG) was the best prodrug; α-T3DMG formed mixed micelles via ion pairs with anionic TCA. The solubility of α-T3DMG in n-octanol/water depended on its ratio to TCA. The AUC after α-T3DMG administration to ligated rats was 2-fold higher than that after α-T3 administration, suggesting a smooth interaction with intrinsic bile acids. In conclusion, utilization of the prodrug synthesized using N,N-dimethylglycine ester may be a beneficial approach to promote intestinal absorption of α-T3 via self-micellization with intrinsic bile acid.
Skeletal Torsion Tunneling and Methyl Internal Rotation: The Coupled Large Amplitude Motions in Phenyl Acetate
Authors: Ferres Lynn , Evangelisti Luca , Maris Assimo , Melandri Sonia , Caminati Walther , Stahl Wolfgang , Nguyen Ha Vinh Lam
Published: April 2022

The rotational spectrum of phenyl acetate, CH3COOC6H5, is measured using a free jet absorption millimeter-wave spectrometer in the range from 60 to 78 GHz and two pulsed jet Fourier transform microwave spectrometers covering a total frequency range from 2 to 26.5 GHz. The features of two large amplitude motions, the methyl group internal rotation and the skeletal torsion of the CH3COO group with respect to the phenyl ring C6H5 (tilted at about 70°), characterize the spectrum. The vibrational ground state is split into four widely spaced sublevels, labeled as A0, E0, A1, and E1, each of them with its set of rotational transitions and with additional interstate transitions. A global fit of the line frequencies of the four sublevels leads to the determination of 51 spectroscopic parameters, including the ΔEA0/A1 and ΔEE0/E1 vibrational splittings of ~36.4 and ~33.5 GHz, respectively. The V3 barrier to methyl internal rotation (~136 cm−1) and the skeletal torsion B2 barrier to the orthogonality of the two planes (~68 cm−1) are deduced.
A Free-Standing α-MoO3/MXene Composite Anode for High-Performance Lithium Storage
Authors: Guo Zihan , Wang Dong , Wang Zhiwei , Gao Yanfang , Liu Jinrong
Published: April 2022

Replacing the commercial graphite anode in Li-ion batteries with pseudocapacitor materials is an effective way to obtain high-performance energy storage devices. α-MoO3 is an attractive pseudocapacitor electrode material due to its theoretical capacity of 1117 mAh g−1. Nevertheless, its low conductivity greatly limits its electrochemical performance. MXene is often used as a 2D conductive substrate and flexible framework for the development of a non-binder electrode because of its unparalleled electronic conductivity and excellent mechanical flexibility. Herein, a free-standing α-MoO3/MXene composite anode with a high specific capacity and an outstanding rate capability was prepared using a green and simple method. The resultant α-MoO3/MXene composite electrode combines the advantages of each of the two components and possesses improved Li+ diffusion kinetics. In particular, this α-MoO3/MXene free-standing electrode exhibited a high Li+ storage capacity (1008 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1) and an outstanding rate capability (172 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), as well as a much extended cycling stability (500 cycles at 0.5 A g−1). Furthermore, a full cell was fabricated using commercial LiFePO4 as the cathode, which displayed a high Li+ storage capacity of 160 mAh g−1 with an outstanding rate performance (48 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1). We believe that our research reveals new possibilities for the development of an advanced free-standing electrode from pseudocapacitive materials for high-performance Li-ion storage.
High-Resolution Color Transparent Display Using Superimposed Quantum Dots
Authors: Dolatyari Mahboubeh , Alidoust Farid , Zarghami Armin , Rostami Ali , Mirtaheri Peyman , Mirtagioglu Hamit
Published: April 2022

In this paper, a high-resolution full-color transparent monitor is designed and fabricated using the synthesized quantum dots for the first time. For this purpose, about 100 compounds that had the potential to emit blue, green, and red lights were selected, and simulation was performed using the discrete dipole approximation (DDA) method, in which the shell layer was selected to be SiO2 or TiO2 in the first step. Among the simulated compounds with SiO2 or TiO2 shells, Se/SiO2 and BTiO3/SiO2 were selected as blue light emitters with high intensity and narrow bandwidth. Accordingly, CdSe/SiO2 nanoparticles were selected as green light emitters and Au/TiO2 for the red light. As the surface of the nanoparticles in their optical properties is important, reactivation of the nanoparticles’ surface is required to reach the high-intensity peak and resolution. To this end, in the second step, the surface of Se and CdSe nanoparticles reacted with ethanolamine, which can make a strong bond with cadmium atoms. The band structure and optical properties were obtained by the density functional theory (DFT) method. The Se/Ethanolamine and CdSe/Ethanolamine were experimentally synthesized to evaluate the theoretical results, and their optical properties were measured. To fabricate a transparent monitor, Se/Ethanolamine, CdSe/SiO2, and Au/TiO2 nanoparticles were dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solved in water and deposited on the glass by the doctor blading technique. Finally, high-resolution videos and images were displayed on the fabricated monitor.
Reduction in Toxicity of Polystyrene Nanoplastics Combined with Phenanthrene through Binding of Jellyfish Mucin with Nanoplastics
Authors: Geum Sun Woo , Yeo Min-Kyeong
Published: April 2022

Mucin (Mu), a biological substance extracted from jellyfish (Aurelia aurita), was used to reduce the toxic effect of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NP) combined with phenanthrene (Phe) in the aquatic environment of zebrafish (Danio rerio), among other aquatic organisms. Mu showed a high binding capacity, as it bound to 92.84% and 92.87% of the PS-NPs (concentration of 2.0 mg/L) after 0.5 h and 8 h, respectively. A zebrafish embryo development test was conducted to check for any reduction in toxicity by Mu. When exposed to PS-NP + Mu and PS-NP + Phe + Mu, respectively, the hatching rates were 88.33 ± 20.21% and 93.33 ± 2.89%, respectively; these results were not significantly different from those of the control group. However, the hatching rate with the addition of Mu increased, compared to that of the PS-NP (71.83 ± 13.36%) and Phe (37.50 ± 19.83%) treatments, and the morphological abnormality rate decreased. The presence of Mu was also found to obstruct the absorption of PS-NP and PS-NP + Phe by the zebrafish. When zebrafish embryos were exposed to PS-NP at a concentration of 5.0 mg/L, the hatching rate differed significantly from that of the control group, and the expression of CAT and p53 genes increased significantly, but the expression of Bcl-2 decreased significantly. An mRNA sequence analysis revealed that the gene expression levels of the test group containing Mu were similar to those of the control group. These results infer that Mu can be used as a biological material to collect and remove PS-NPs from aquatic environments and reduce toxicity.
Preparation and Characterization of TCPP-CaMMT Nanocompound and Its Composite with Polypropylene
Authors: Geng Junming , Lan Yanhua , Liu Shanshan , He Jiyu , Yang Rongjie , Li Dinghua
Published: April 2022

Based on the molecular dynamics method, the tris-(1-chloropropan-2yl) phosphate (TCPP)/montmorillonite (MMT) molecular model was established to study the binding energy and microstructure changes in TCPP and MMT. The theoretical simulation results showed that TCPP can enter the MMT layer and increase the layer spacing. From this, an organic intercalated Ca-montmorillonite TCPP-CaMMT was prepared by a very simple direct mixing method using flame retardant TCPP as a modifier. Polypropylene (PP) composites were prepared by TCPP, CaMMT, and TCPP-CaMMT. The microstructures of TCPP-CaMMT nanocompounds and PP composites were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results showed that TCPP-CaMMT nanocompounds could be exfoliated into nanosheets in PP. The flame retardancy and mechanical properties of PP/TCPP-CaMMT samples were studied by limited oxygen index (LOI) measurements and tensile tests. The PP/TCPP-CaMMT composites showed better LOI, tensile strength, and elongation at break than the machine-mixed PP/TCPP + CaMMT.
Broadband Quantum Dot Superluminescent Diode with Simultaneous Three-State Emission
Authors: Jiang Cheng , Wang Hongpei , Chen Hongmei , Dai Hao , Zhang Ziyang , Li Xiaohui , Yao Zhonghui
Published: April 2022

Semiconductor superluminescent light-emitting diodes (SLEDs) have emerged as ideal and vital broadband light sources with extensive applications, such as optical fiber-based sensors, biomedical sensing/imaging, wavelength-division multiplexing system testing and optoelectronic systems, etc. Self-assembled quantum dots (SAQDs) are very promising candidates for the realization of broadband SLED due to their intrinsic large inhomogeneous spectral broadening. Introducing excited states (ESs) emission could further increase the spectral bandwidth. However, almost all QD-based SLEDs are limited to the ground state (GS) or GS and first excited state (ES1) emission. In this work, multiple five-QD-layer structures with large dot size inhomogeneous distribution were grown by optimizing the molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) growth conditions. Based on that, with the assistance of a carefully designed mirror-coating process to accurately control the cavity mirror loss of GS and ESs, respectively, a broadband QD-SLED with three simultaneous states of GS, ES1 and second excited-state (ES2) emission has been realized, exhibiting a large spectral width of 91 nm with a small spectral dip of 1.3 dB and a high continuous wave (CW) output power of 40 mW. These results pave the way for a new fabrication technique for high-performance QD-based low-coherent light sources.
When Super-Resolution Localization Microscopy Meets Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Nandi Somen , Caicedo Karen , Cognet Laurent
Published: April 2022

We recently assisted in a revolution in the realm of fluorescence microscopy triggered by the advent of super-resolution techniques that surpass the classic diffraction limit barrier. By providing optical images with nanometer resolution in the far field, super-resolution microscopy (SRM) is currently accelerating our understanding of the molecular organization of bio-specimens, bridging the gap between cellular observations and molecular structural knowledge, which was previously only accessible using electron microscopy. SRM mainly finds its roots in progress made in the control and manipulation of the optical properties of (single) fluorescent molecules. The flourishing development of novel fluorescent nanostructures has recently opened the possibility of associating super-resolution imaging strategies with nanomaterials’ design and applications. In this review article, we discuss some of the recent developments in the field of super-resolution imaging explicitly based on the use of nanomaterials. As an archetypal class of fluorescent nanomaterial, we mainly focus on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), which are photoluminescent emitters at near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths bearing great interest for biological imaging and for information optical transmission. Whether for fundamental applications in nanomaterial science or in biology, we show how super-resolution techniques can be applied to create nanoscale images “in”, “of” and “with” SWCNTs.
Transition Metal Phosphides (TMP) as a Versatile Class of Catalysts for the Hydrodeoxygenation Reaction (HDO) of Oil-Derived Compounds
Authors: Al-Ali Latifa Ibrahim , Elmutasim Omer , Al Ali Khalid , Singh Nirpendra , Polychronopoulou Kyriaki
Published: April 2022

Hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) reaction is a route with much to offer in the conversion and upgrading of bio-oils into fuels; the latter can potentially replace fossil fuels. The catalyst’s design and the feedstock play a critical role in the process metrics (activity, selectivity). Among the different classes of catalysts for the HDO reaction, the transition metal phosphides (TMP), e.g., binary (Ni2P, CoP, WP, MoP) and ternary Fe-Co-P, Fe-Ru-P, are chosen to be discussed in the present review article due to their chameleon type of structural and electronic features giving them superiority compared to the pure metals, apart from their cost advantage. Their active catalytic sites for the HDO reaction are discussed, while particular aspects of their structural, morphological, electronic, and bonding features are presented along with the corresponding characterization technique/tool. The HDO reaction is critically discussed for representative compounds on the TMP surfaces; model compounds from the lignin-derivatives, cellulose derivatives, and fatty acids, such as phenols and furans, are presented, and their reaction mechanisms are explained in terms of TMPs structure, stoichiometry, and reaction conditions. The deactivation of the TMP’s catalysts under HDO conditions is discussed. Insights of the HDO reaction from computational aspects over the TMPs are also presented. Future challenges and directions are proposed to understand the TMP-probe molecule interaction under HDO process conditions and advance the process to a mature level.
Iron-Doped Bimodal Mesoporous Silica Nanomaterials as Sorbents for Solid-Phase Extraction of Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Environmental Water Samples
Authors: Pellicer-Castell Enric , Belenguer-Sapiña Carolina , El Haskouri Jamal , Amorós Pedro , Herrero-Martínez José Manuel , Mauri-Aucejo Adela R.
Published: April 2022

In this work, sorbets based on UVM-7 mesoporous silica doped with Fe were synthesized and applied to solid-phase extraction of perfluoroalkyl substances from environmental water samples. These emerging pollutants were then determined by liquid chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometry detector. Thus, Fe-UVM-7 mesoporous silica materials with different contents of iron, as well as different pore sizes (by using alkyltrimethilamonium bromide surfactants with different organic tail lengths) were synthesized, and their structure was confirmed for the first time by transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption–desorption, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. After comparison, Fe50-UVM-7-C12 was selected as the best material for analyte retention, and several extraction parameters were optimized regarding the loading and elution step. Once the method was developed and applied to real matrices, extraction efficiencies in the range of 61–110% were obtained for analytes with C8–C14 chain length, both perfluoroalkyl carboxylates, and perfluoroalkyl sulfonates. Likewise, limits of detection in the range of 3.0–8.1 ng L−1 were obtained for all target analytes. In the analysis of real well-water samples, no target compounds were detected. Spiked samples were analyzed in comparison to Oasis WAX cartridges, and statistically comparable results were achieved.
Exploring the Role of Metabolites in Cancer and the Associated Nerve Crosstalk
Authors: Gu Inah , Gregory Emory , Atwood Casey , Lee Sun-Ok , Song Young Hye
Published: April 2022

Since Otto Warburg’s first report on the increased uptake of glucose and lactate release by cancer cells, dysregulated metabolism has been acknowledged as a hallmark of cancer that promotes proliferation and metastasis. Over the last century, studies have shown that cancer metabolism is complex, and by-products of glucose and glutamine catabolism induce a cascade of both pro- and antitumorigenic processes. Some vitamins, which have traditionally been praised for preventing and inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, have also been proven to cause cancer progression in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, recent findings have shown that the nervous system is a key player in tumor growth and metastasis via perineural invasion and tumor innervation. However, the link between cancer–nerve crosstalk and tumor metabolism remains unclear. Here, we discuss the roles of relatively underappreciated metabolites in cancer–nerve crosstalk, including lactate, vitamins, and amino acids, and propose the investigation of nutrients in cancer–nerve crosstalk based on their tumorigenicity and neuroregulatory capabilities. Continued research into the metabolic regulation of cancer–nerve crosstalk will provide a more comprehensive understanding of tumor mechanisms and may lead to the identification of potential targets for future cancer therapies.
Prebiotic Potential of Dietary Beans and Pulses and Their Resistant Starch for Aging-Associated Gut and Metabolic Health
Authors: Kadyan Saurabh , Sharma Aditya , Arjmandi Bahram H. , Singh Prashant , Nagpal Ravinder
Published: April 2022

Dietary pulses, including dry beans, lentils, chickpeas, and dry peas, have the highest proportion of fiber among different legume cultivars and are inexpensive, easily accessible, and have a long shelf-life. The inclusion of pulses in regular dietary patterns is an easy and effective solution for achieving recommended fiber intake and maintaining a healthier gut and overall health. Dietary pulses-derived resistant starch (RS) is a relatively less explored prebiotic ingredient. Several in vitro and preclinical studies have elucidated the crucial role of RS in fostering and shaping the gut microbiota composition towards homeostasis thereby improving host metabolic health. However, in humans and aged animal models, the effect of only the cereals and tubers derived RS has been studied. In this context, this review collates literature pertaining to the beneficial effects of dietary pulses and their RS on gut microbiome-metabolome signatures in preclinical and clinical studies while contemplating their potential and prospects for better aging-associated gut health. In a nutshell, the incorporation of dietary pulses and their RS in diet fosters the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and significantly enhances the production of short-chain fatty acids in the colon.
Doubtful Justification of the Gluten-Free Diet in the Course of Hashimoto’s Disease
Authors: Szczuko Małgorzata , Syrenicz Anhelli , Szymkowiak Katarzyna , Przybylska Aleksandra , Szczuko Urszula , Pobłocki Jakub , Kulpa Danuta
Published: April 2022

The popularization of the gluten-free diet brings with it a fashion for its use, which can harm the treatment of Hashimoto’s disease. The few studies in this regard do not confirm positive changes resulting from a gluten-free diet. At the same time, the presence of other comorbid autoimmune diseases in this group of patients is increasing. This may have important implications for the interpretation of test results and the need for a gluten-free diet in some patients. In this review, the PubMed database was searched for links between a gluten-free diet, Hashimoto’s disease, and autoimmune diseases. When analyzing the available literature, we found no basis for introducing a gluten-free diet for the standard management of Hashimoto patients. The recommended diet is instead an anti-inflammatory diet that levels the supply (to compensate for deficiencies) of vitamin D, iodine, and selenium, which are found in plant products rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, as illustrated in this article.
Disgust and Self-Disgust in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bektas Sevgi , Keeler Johanna Louise , Anderson Lisa M. , Mutwalli Hiba , Himmerich Hubertus , Treasure Janet
Published: April 2022

Disgust and self-disgust are aversive emotions which are often encountered in people with eating disorders. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of disgust and self-disgust in people with eating disorders using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The systematic review of the literature revealed 52 original research papers. There was substantial heterogeneity regarding the research question and outcomes. However, we found 5 articles on disgust elicited by food images, 10 studies on generic disgust sensitivity, and 4 studies on self-disgust, and we proceeded to a meta-analytic approach on these studies. We found that women with eating disorders have significantly higher momentary disgust feelings in response to food images (1.32; 95% CI 1.05, 1.59), higher generic disgust sensitivity (0.49; 95% CI 0.24, 0.71), and higher self-disgust (1.90; 95% CI 1.51, 2.29) compared with healthy controls. These findings indicate the potential clinical relevance of disgust and self-disgust in the treatment of eating disorders.