bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Detection of a Small Magnetic Particle Using Thin Film Magneto-Impedance Sensor with Subjecting to Strong Normal Field
Authors: Nakai Tomoo
Published: July 2022

This paper deals with the detection of small magnetization using a thin film magneto-impedance sensor with subjecting to strong normal field. The sensor was made by soft magnetic amorphous thin-film with uniaxial magnetic anisotropy in the width direction of the element. It was reported that the sensor has very high sensitivity, such as pico-tesla order, when it is driven by hundreds of MHz. In this paper, a sensitive measurement method aiming for detection of a small particle or a cluster of nano-particles, having low-remanence, is proposed. The point is the application of strong normal field in the measurement area including sensor element and particle. The normal strong field is applied in the normal direction of the sensor plane in the value almost hundreds of mT. Instead of such strong normal field, the sensor keeps high sensitivity, because of the demagnetizing force in the thickness direction. A theoretical estimation for clarifying an efficiency of the method, experimental results of sensor property and sensitivity with subjecting to the normal field, and also a confirmation of detection of a small particle using the proposed method is reported. As a special mention, detection fundamentals when a applied surface normal field has a distribution and also a particle would run through in the vicinity of sensor is discussed.
Options for Increasing the Rate of Bioleaching of Arsenic Containing Copper Concentrate
Authors: Artykova Alena , Elkina Yuliya , Nechaeva Aleksandra , Melamud Vitaliy , Boduen Anna , Bulaev Aleksandr
Published: July 2022

In the present work the effect of alkaline sulfide leaching (ASL) on the extraction of copper and zinc from low-grade copper concentrate containing chalcopyrite, tennantite, sphalerite, and pyrite during batch and continuous bioleaching experiments was studied. It was demonstrated that ASL and further bioleaching may be a promising approach for treatment of copper–zinc concentrates containing tennantite as this approach allows increasing copper extraction degree in comparison to one-stage bioleaching by 1.6–2.3 times. Thus, ASL was shown to be effective for pretreatment of tennantite containing concentrates to improve bioleaching for copper extraction. At the same time, ASL led to decrease in zinc extraction by 1.4–1.5 times. Therefore, the development of combined hydrometallurgical processes including ASL and bioleaching for effective metal leaching requires further studies to avoid negative effect on zinc extraction.
Regulation of Immune Homeostasis via Muramyl Peptides-Low Molecular Weight Bioregulators of Bacterial Origin
Authors: Guryanova Svetlana V.
Published: July 2022

Metabolites and fragments of bacterial cells play an important role in the formation of immune homeostasis. Formed in the course of evolution, symbiotic relationships between microorganisms and a macroorganism are manifested, in particular, in the regulation of numerous physiological functions of the human body by the innate immunity receptors. Low molecular weight bioregulators of bacterial origin have recently attracted more and more attention as drugs in the prevention and composition of complex therapy for a wide range of diseases of bacterial and viral etiology. Signaling networks show cascades of causal relationships of deterministic phenomena that support the homeostasis of multicellular organisms at different levels. To create networks, data from numerous biomedical and clinical research databases were used to prepare expert systems for use in pharmacological and biomedical research with an emphasis on muramyl dipeptides. Muramyl peptides are the fragments of the cell wall of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Binding of muramyl peptides with intracellular NOD2 receptors is crucial for an immune response on pathogens. Depending on the microenvironment and duration of action, muramyl peptides possess positive or negative regulation of inflammation. Other factors, such as genetic, pollutions, method of application and stress also contribute and should be taken into account. A system biology approach should be used in order to systemize all experimental data for rigorous analysis, with the aim of understanding intrinsic pathways of homeostasis, in order to define precise medicine therapy and drug design.
Pseudomonas ST1 and Pantoea Paga Strains Cohabit in Olive Knots
Authors: Vuletin Selak Gabriela , Raboteg Božiković Marina , Abrouk Danis , Bolčić Marija , Žanić Katja , Perica Slavko , Normand Philippe , Pujic Petar
Published: July 2022

Two bacteria belonging to the Pseudomonas and Pantoea genera were isolated from olive knots. Both bacterial strains were omnipresent in this study’s olive orchard with high susceptibility of the autochthonous olive genotypes indicating coevolution of bacteria with host plants. Genomes of two endemic bacteria show conserved core genomes and genome plasticity. The Pseudomonas ST1 genome has conserved virulence-related genes including genes for quorum sensing, pilus, and flagella biosynthesis, two copies of indole acetic acid biosynthesis (IAA) operons, type I-VI secretions systems, and genes for alginate and levan biosynthesis. Development of knots depends only on the presence of the Pseudomonas ST1 strain which then allows Pantoea paga strain co-infection and cohabitation in developed knots. The two bacteria are sensitive to a large number of antimicrobials, antibiotics, H2O2, and Cu (II) salts that can be efficiently used in propagation of bacterial free olive cultivars.
Q Fever—A Neglected Zoonosis
Authors: Ullah Qudrat , Jamil Tariq , Saqib Muhammad , Iqbal Mudassar , Neubauer Heinrich
Published: July 2022

Q fever remains a neglected zoonosis in many developing countries including Pakistan. The causing agent Coxiella (C.) burnetii is resistant to environmental factors (such as drying, heat and many disinfectants), resulting in a long-lasting infection risk for both human and animals. As the infection is usually asymptomatic, it mostly remains undiagnosed in animals until and unless adverse pregnancy outcomes occur in a herd. In humans, the infection leads to severe endocarditis and vascular infection in chronic cases. Limited data are available on molecular epidemiology and evolution of this pathogen, especially in ruminants. Genomic studies will help speculating outbreak relationships in this scenario. Likewise, pathogenesis of C. burnetii needs to be explored by molecular studies. Awareness programs and ensuring pasteurization of the dairy milk before human consumption would help preventing Q fever zoonosis.
Analysis of the Diversity of Xylophilus ampelinus Strains Held in CIRM-CFBP Reveals a Strongly Homogenous Species
Authors: Portier Perrine , Taghouti Géraldine , Bertrand Paul-Emile , Briand Martial , Dutrieux Cécile , Lathus Audrey , Fischer-Le Saux Marion
Published: July 2022

Xylophilus ampelinus is the causal agent of blight and canker on grapevine. Only a few data are available on this species implying that the occurrence of this pathogen may be underestimated, and its actual ecological niche may not be understood. Moreover, its genetic diversity is not well known. To improve our knowledge of this species, an analysis of the complete genome sequences available in NCBI was performed. It appeared that several sequences are misidentified. The complete genome sequence of the type strain was obtained and primers designed in order to sequence gyrB and rpoD genes for the strains held in CIRM-CFBP. The genetic barcoding data were obtained for 93 strains, isolated over 35 years and from several geographical origins. The species revealed to be strongly homogenous, displaying nearly identical sequences for all strains. However, the oldest strains of this collection were isolated in 2001 therefore, a new isolation campaign and epidemiological surveys are necessary, along with the obtention of new complete genome sequences for this species.
Epidemiological Study on Salmonella Prevalence in Sow Herds Using Direct and Indirect Detection Methods
Authors: Hollmann Isabell , Lingens Jan Berend , Wilke Volker , Homann Christian , Teich Klaus , Buch Juhle , Chuppava Bussarakam , Visscher Christian
Published: July 2022

In piglet production, the beginning of pork production, Salmonella prevalence requires greater attention as having an impact on the subsequent production steps. The aim of this study was to investigate Salmonella prevalence in three sow herds with attached piglet rearing units. Salmonella prevalence was investigated either directly by boot swabs and feces or indirectly by serum samples taken during gilt integration, the peripartal period, and piglet rearing. Boot swabs and feces were analyzed by real-time PCR and subsequent microbiology. Results indicated that high biosecurity measures in sow husbandry do not necessarily result in a low Salmonella prevalence. Furthermore, the sow herds’ Salmonella prevalence should not be used to infer the situation in the associated piglet rearing. The proportion of positive boot swabs was 10.5, 3.6, and 21.3% for sows (gilts and peripartal) with an inverse situation in piglet rearing with 50.0, 63.3, and 5.8% positive swabs for farms A, B, and C, respectively. Boot swabs are suitable as a direct sampling method to gain an overview of Salmonella prevalence in both sows and piglets. Indirect serum antibody testing can be useful, although it should be evaluated considering age-dependent levels of antibody titres.
A Modeling Approach for Beach-Bar Sand Reservoirs Based on Depositional Mode and Sandbody Volume
Authors: Li Wanbing , Li Shaohua , Qu Quangong , Zhang Huafeng , Zhao Junying , Dou Mengjiao
Published: July 2022

Beach-bar sand in lacustrine facies represents one of the most significant reservoirs. Depending on the depositional characteristics, it can be further divided into two different sedimentary microfacies, beach sand and the bar sand. Favorable reservoirs are often developed in bar sand. The lower section of the upper part of the 4th member of the Shahejie Formation in the Gao89-1 block is a typical nearshore shallow water beach-bar deposit. Oil distribution is influenced by lithofacies and physical properties. In order to better characterize the heterogeneity within beach-bar sandbodies, a modeling method based on the depositional mode and sandbody volume is proposed. Firstly, a sandbody model is established. On this basis, an algorithm for distinguishing between beach and bar sand based on vertical thickness is proposed. The model is post processed based on the sandbody volume to remove unreasonable sandbodies. The method allows for a more realistic three-dimensional geological model of the beach-bar sands in the study area than the classical two-point geostatistical, object-based, and multi-point simulation method. A facies-controlled modeling approach is used to establish a petrophysical property model on this foundation; the result shows that the property models better reflect the characteristics of the petrophysical distribution in the Gao89-1 block.
Coal and Gangue Active Identification Method Using Microwave Irradiation-Infrared Detection
Authors: Liu Chuang , Mitri Hani S. , Li Huamin
Published: July 2022

In the process of the longwall top coal caving method, automatic distinction between coal and gangue at the working face is one of the most critical factors for the success of the operation. An active coal and gangue identification method using microwave irradiation combined with infrared detection is proposed in this paper. Coal and gangue are irradiated with microwave to actively enhance the external differences between them, and then the quantitative data of the difference are quickly collected by a noncontact infrared thermal imager, to perform identification of coal and gangue. Using theoretical analysis and laboratory experiments, the physical and chemical properties of coal and gangue are analyzed in order to reveal the thermal sensitivity of coal and gangue to microwave irradiation. The influences of the coal and gangue particle size, microwave irradiation time and microwave frequency on the thermal sensitivity to microwave irradiation are investigated. The experimental results show that the average temperature rise in coal is approximately 1.5 times that in gangue material under the same microwave irradiation conditions. This supports the feasibility of this identification method, and provides theoretical and experimental bases for achieving rapid and accurate identification of coal and gangue in top coal caving operations.
Ligand and Structure-Based Virtual Screening in Combination, to Evaluate Small Organic Molecules as Inhibitors for the XIAP Anti-Apoptotic Protein: The Xanthohumol Hypothesis
Authors: Mavra Angeliki , Petrou Christos C. , Vlasiou Manos C.
Published: July 2022

Herein, we propose two chalcone molecules, (E)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(p-tolyl) prop-2-en-1-one and (E)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl) prop-2-en-1-one, based on the anticancer bioactive molecule Xanthohumol, which are suitable for further in vitro and in vivo studies. Their ability to create stable complexes with the antiapoptotic X-linked IAP (XIAP) protein makes them promising anticancer agents. The calculations were based on ligand-based and structure-based virtual screening combined with the pharmacophore build. Additionally, the structures passed Lipinski’s rule for drug use, and their reactivity was confirmed using density functional theory studies. ADMET studies were also performed to reveal the pharmacokinetic potential of the compounds. The candidates were chosen from 10,639,400 compounds, and the docking protocols were evaluated using molecular dynamics simulations.
Template Synthesis (Self-Assembly) of Macrocycles: Theory and Practice
Authors: Mikhailov Oleg V.
Published: July 2022

For more than 60 years, in coordination chemistry (and since the beginning of the 21st century, in molecular nanotechnology, too), there has been very significant interest in template synthesis reactions, in which the design of coordination compounds (metal complexes) with complex ligands is carried out not according to the classical scheme [metal ion + ligand → complex], but according to scheme [metal ion + “building blocks” of the future ligand (the so-called ligand synthons or ligsons) → complex] [...]
Quantitative Analysis and Differential Evaluation of Radix Bupleuri Cultivated in Different Regions Based on HPLC-MS and GC-MS Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Wang Zhenhuan , Zhao Huanxi , Tian Lu , Zhao Mengya , Xiao Yusheng , Liu Shuying , Xiu Yang
Published: July 2022

The quality of Radix Bupleuri is greatly affected by its growing environment. In this study, Radix Bupleuri samples that were harvested from seven different regions across northwest China were examined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) to reveal significant differences in quality contributed by the cultivation region. An HPLC-MS method was firstly established and used in the multiple reaction monitoring mode for the quantitative analysis of five saikosaponins in Radix Bupleuri so as to evaluate the difference in the absolute content of saikosaponins attributable to the cultivation region. The effect on the components of Radix Bupleuri was further investigated based on the profiles of the representative saponins and volatile compounds, which were extracted from the Radix Bupleuri samples and analyzed by HPLC-MS and GC-MS. Multivariate statistical analysis was employed to differentiate the Radix Bupleuri samples cultivated in different regions and to discover the differential compositions. The developed quantitative method was validated to be accurate, stable, sensitive, and repeatable for the determination of five saikosaponins. Further statistical tests revealed that the collected Radix Bupleuri samples were distinctly different from each other in terms of both saponins and volatile compounds, based on the provinces where they were grown. In addition, twenty-eight saponins and fifty-eight volatile compounds were identified as the differentially accumulated compositions that contributed to the discrimination of the Radix Bupleuri samples. The Radix Bupleuri samples grown in Shouyang county showed the highest content of saikosaponins. All of the results indicated that the cultivation region significantly affected the accumulation and diversity of the main chemical components of Radix Bupleuri. The findings of this research provide insights into the effect of the cultivation region on the quality of Radix Bupleuri and the differentiation of Radix Bupleuri cultivated in different regions based on the use of HPLC-MS and GC-MS combined with multivariate statistical analysis.
Detection of Bisphenol A and Four Analogues in Atmospheric Emissions in Petrochemical Complexes Producing Polypropylene in South America
Authors: Fernández Joaquín Hernández , Guerra Yoleima , Cano Heidi
Published: July 2022

Because of its toxicity and impacts on the environment and human health, bisphenol A (BPA) has been controlled in numerous industrialized nations, increasing demand for bisphenol analogues (BP) for its replacement. However, the consequences of these chemicals on the environment and the health of persons exposed to their emissions are still being researched. The emissions from polypropylene manufacturing facilities in Colombia and Brazil were evaluated in this study, and the presence of bisphenol A and four BPs was detected among the gaseous compounds released, with total concentrations of BPs (∑BP) between 92 and 1565 ng g−1. As the melt flow index (MFI) of the polymer rises, so does the quantity of volatiles in its matrix that are eliminated during deodorization, indicating that the MFI and the amount of bisphenol released have a directly proportional connection.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Flavonoids from Juglans mandshurica Maxim.: Artificial Intelligence-Based Optimization, Kinetics Estimation, and Antioxidant Potential
Authors: Chu Guodong , Liang Rui , Wan Chenmeng , Yang Jing , Li Jing , Wang Ruinan , Du Linna , Lin Ruixin
Published: July 2022

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) of flavonoids (JMBF) from Juglans mandshurica Maxim., an important industrial crop in China, was investigated in the present study. To improve the extraction efficiency of JMBF, suitable UAE was proposed after optimization using a hybrid response surface methodology–artificial neural network–genetic algorithm approach (RSM–ANN–GA). The maximum extraction yield (6.28 mg·g−1) of JMBF was achieved using the following optimum UAE conditions: ethanol concentration, 62%; solid–liquid ratio, 1:20 g·mL−1; ultrasonic power, 228 W; extraction temperature, 60 °C; extraction time, 40 min; total number of extractions, 1. Through the investigation of extraction kinetics, UAE offered a higher saturated concentration (Cs) for JMBF in comparison to traditional solvent extraction (TSE). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that deeper holes were generated in J. mandshurica powder under the action of ultrasound, indicating that ultrasound significantly changed the structure of the plant materials to facilitate the dissolution of active substances. Extracts obtained using UAE and TSE were compared by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, the results of which revealed that the functional group of bioactive compounds in the extract was unaffected by the ultrasonication process. Moreover, JMBF was further shown to exhibit significant antioxidant properties in vitro. This study provides a basis for the application of JMBF as a natural antioxidant.
In Vitro and In Vivo Antidiabetic Activity, Phenolic Content and Microscopical Characterization of Terfezia claveryi
Authors: Abu-Odeh Ala’ , Shehadeh Mayadah , Suaifan Ghadeer A. R. Y. , Karameh Nida , Abdel Rahman Diana , Kandil Yasser
Published: July 2022

Terfezia claveryi (T. claveryi) is used by traditional healers in the Middle East region to treat several diseases, including diabetes. The present study evaluated the total phenolic and investigated the blood-glucose-lowering potential of different aqueous extracts of this selected truffle using in vitro and in vivo models. The phytochemical profile was examined using UPLC-MS. The macerate and the microwave-assisted extract were the richest in phenolic compounds. All T. claveryi extracts exhibited a remarkable α-glucosidase inhibitory effect in vitro, with an IC50 of 2.43, 3.26, 5.18 and 3.31 mg/mL for the aqueous microwave-assisted extract macerate, infusion and decoction, respectively. On the other hand, in the high-fat diet alloxan-induced diabetic mice model, all tested crude aqueous extracts exhibited a significant antihyperglycemic activity (p < 0.05). Four hours after the administration of the 250 mg/kg dose, the macerate was able to induce a 29.4% blood-glucose-lowering effect compared to a 24.8% reduction induced by the infusion, which was sustained for a further two hours. The hypoglycemic effect (29.3% and 32.4%) was also recorded six hours after the administration of the single dose 500 mg/kg of the macerate and the infusion, respectively. Truffle extracts exhibited antidiabetic activity both in vitro and in vivo, providing a rationale for the traditional use as a natural hypoglycemic.
Fit-for-Purpose Assessment of QuEChERS LC-MS/MS Methods for Environmental Monitoring of Organotin Compounds in the Bottom Sediments of the Odra River Estuary
Authors: Kucharski Dawid , Stasiuk Robert , Drzewicz Przemysław , Skowronek Artur , Strzelecka Agnieszka , Mianowicz Kamila , Giebułtowicz Joanna
Published: July 2022

Organotin compounds (OTCs) are among the most hazardous substances found in the marine environment and can be determined by either the ISO 23161 method based on extraction with non-polar organic solvents and gas chromatography analysis or by the recently developed QuEChERS method coupled to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). To date, the QuEChERS LC/MS and ISO 23161 methods have not been compared in terms of their fit-for-purpose and reliability in the determination of OTCs in bottom sediments. In the case of ISO 23161, due to a large number of interferences gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was not suitable for the determination of OTCs contrary to more selective determination by gas chromatography with an atomic emission detector. Moreover, it has been found that the derivatization of OTCs to volatile compounds, which required prior gas chromatography determination, was strongly affected by the sediments’ matrices. As a result, a large amount of reagent was needed for the complete derivatization of the compounds. Contrary to ISO 23161, the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method did not require the derivatization of OTC and is less prone to interferences. Highly volatile and toxic solvents were not used in the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method. This makes the method more environmentally friendly according to the principles of green analytical chemistry. QuEChERS LC-MS/MS is suitable for fast and reliable environmental monitoring of OTCs in bottom sediments from the Odra River estuary. However, determination of di- and monobutyltin by the QuEChERS LC-MS/MS method was not possible due to the constraints of the chromatographic system. Hence, further development of this method is needed for monitoring di- and monobutyltin in bottom sediments.
pH and Magnetism Dual-Responsive Pickering Emulsion Stabilized by Dynamic Covalent Fe3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Ren Gaihuan , Li Zhanzhao , Lu Dongxu , Li Bo , Ren Lulu , Di Wenwen , Yu Hongqin , He Jianxin , Sun Dejun
Published: July 2022

Herein, we describe pH and magnetism dual-responsive liquid paraffin-in-water Pickering emulsion stabilized by dynamic covalent Fe3O4 (DC-Fe3O4) nanoparticles. On one hand, the Pickerinfigureg emulsions are sensitive to pH variations, and efficient demulsification can be achieved by regulating the pH between 10 and 2 within 30 min. The dynamic imine bond in DC-Fe3O4 can be reversibly formed and decomposed, resulting in a pH-controlled amphiphilicity. The Pickering emulsion can be reversibly switched between stable and unstable states by pH at least three times. On the other hand, the magnetic Fe3O4 core of DC-Fe3O4 allowed rapid separation of the oil droplets from Pickering emulsions under an external magnetic field within 40 s, which was a good extraction system for purifying the aqueous solution contaminated by rhodamine B. The dual responsiveness enables Pickering emulsions to have better control of their stability and to be applied more broadly.
Memory Effects in Nanolaminates of Hafnium and Iron Oxide Films Structured by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Kalam Kristjan , Otsus Markus , Kozlova Jekaterina , Tarre Aivar , Kasikov Aarne , Rammula Raul , Link Joosep , Stern Raivo , Vinuesa Guillermo , Lendínez José Miguel , Dueñas Salvador , Castán Helena , Tamm Aile , Kukli Kaupo
Published: July 2022

HfO2 and Fe2O3 thin films and laminated stacks were grown by atomic layer deposition at 350 °C from hafnium tetrachloride, ferrocene, and ozone. Nonlinear, saturating, and hysteretic magnetization was recorded in the films. Magnetization was expectedly dominated by increasing the content of Fe2O3. However, coercive force could also be enhanced by the choice of appropriate ratios of HfO2 and Fe2O3 in nanolaminated structures. Saturation magnetization was observed in the measurement temperature range of 5–350 K, decreasing towards higher temperatures and increasing with the films’ thicknesses and crystal growth. Coercive force tended to increase with a decrease in the thickness of crystallized layers. The films containing insulating HfO2 layers grown alternately with magnetic Fe2O3 exhibited abilities to both switch resistively and magnetize at room temperature. Resistive switching was unipolar in all the oxides mounted between Ti and TiN electrodes.
Effect and Mechanism of PINK1/Parkin-Mediated Mitochondrial Autophagy in Rat Lung Injury Induced by Nano Lanthanum Oxide
Authors: Chen Chunyu , Zhou Chenxi , Zhang Wenli , Liu Haiping , Wang Mengfei , Li Feng , Li Qingzhao , Cao Yanhua
Published: July 2022

Nano lanthanum oxide particles (La2O3 NPs) are important nanoparticle materials which are widely used in photoelectric production, but their potential health hazards to the respiratory system are not clear. The purpose of this study was to explore the possible mechanism of lung injury induced by La2O3 NPs. In this study, 40 SPF male SD rats were randomly divided into low-, medium-, and high-dose groups and control groups, with 10 animals in each group. Rats were poisoned by tracheal injection. The low-, medium-, and high-dose groups were given La2O3 NPs suspension of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, respectively, and the control group was given an equal volume of high-temperature sterilized ultrapure water. The rats in each group were exposed once a week for 12 consecutive times. The gene transcription and protein expression levels of PINK1 and parkin in rat lung tissue were mainly detected. Compared with the control group, the gene transcription and protein expression levels of PINK1 and Parkin in the exposed group were significantly higher (p < 0.05). La2O3 NPs may activate PINK1/parkin-induced mitochondrial autophagy.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Spent Coffee Ground Extracts: Process Modelling and Optimization
Authors: Zuorro Antonio , Iannone Annalaura , Miglietta Selenia , Lavecchia Roberto
Published: July 2022

Large amounts of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are produced annually worldwide. SCGs contain high levels of phenolics and other bioactive compounds that make them a potential source of reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles. This study investigates the use of SCG extracts as a green strategy to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). SCG extracts were obtained using aqueous ethanol as the solvent and then contacted with a silver nitrate solution under the selected conditions. A central composite design coupled with response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effects of solvent composition (C = 30–70% v/v), silver-to-phenolic ratio (R = 3–7 mol/mol), temperature (T = 25–55 °C) and pH (10–12) on the production of AgNPs. Characterization of AgNPs by DLS, TEM and XRD techniques showed that they were highly crystalline with a narrow size distribution. Under optimal reaction conditions, AgNPs with an average size of about 10 nm and a zeta potential of −30.5 to −20.7 mV were obtained. Overall, the results of this study indicate that SCGs are a promising material for the green synthesis of small-sized and stable AgNPs.
Stimulated Emission up to 2.75 µm from HgCdTe/CdHgTe QW Structure at Room Temperature
Authors: Utochkin Vladimir V. , Kudryavtsev Konstantin E. , Dubinov Alexander A. , Fadeev Mikhail A. , Rumyantsev Vladimir V. , Razova Anna A. , Andronov Egor V. , Aleshkin Vladimir Ya. , Gavrilenko Vladimir I. , Mikhailov Nikolay N. , Dvoretsky Sergey A. , Teppe Frederic , Morozov Sergey V.
Published: July 2022

Heterostructures with thin Hg(Cd)Te/CdHgTe quantum wells (QWs) are attractive for the development of mid-infrared interband lasers. Of particular interest are room-temperature operating emitters for the short-wavelength infrared range (SWIR, typically defined as 1.7–3 μm). In this work, we report on the observation of stimulated emission (SE) in the 2.65–2.75 µm wavelength range at room temperature in an optically pumped HgCdTe QW laser heterostructure. We study a series of three samples with lengths ranging from 2.5 to 7 mm and discuss the effects related to the non-uniformity of the excitation beam profile. SE threshold intensity and the magnitude of pump-induced carrier heating are found to be effectively dependent on the chip size, which should be accounted for in possible designs of HgCdTe-based optical converters. We also pay attention to the problem of active medium engineering in order to push the SE wavelength towards the 3–5 µm atmospheric window and to lower the SE threshold.
Control of the Drying Patterns for Complex Colloidal Solutions and Their Applications
Authors: Lee Saebom , A. M. Tiara , Cho Gyoujin , Lee Jinkee
Published: July 2022

The uneven deposition at the edges of an evaporating droplet, termed the coffee-ring effect, has been extensively studied during the past few decades to better understand the underlying cause, namely the flow dynamics, and the subsequent patterns formed after drying. The non-uniform evaporation rate across the colloidal droplet hampers the formation of a uniform and homogeneous film in printed electronics, rechargeable batteries, etc., and often causes device failures. This review aims to highlight the diverse range of techniques used to alleviate the coffee-ring effect, from classic methods such as adding chemical additives, applying external sources, and manipulating geometrical configurations to recently developed advancements, specifically using bubbles, humidity, confined systems, etc., which do not involve modification of surface, particle or liquid properties. Each of these methodologies mitigates the edge deposition via multi-body interactions, for example, particle–liquid, particle-particle, particle–solid interfaces and particle–flow interactions. The mechanisms behind each of these approaches help to find methods to inhibit the non-uniform film formation, and the corresponding applications have been discussed together with a critical comparison in detail. This review could pave the way for developing inks and processes to apply in functional coatings and printed electronic devices with improved efficiency and device yield.
Easy Diameter Tuning of Silicon Nanowires with Low-Cost SnO2-Catalyzed Growth for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Keller Caroline , Djezzar Yassine , Wang Jingxian , Karuppiah Saravanan , Lapertot Gérard , Haon Cédric , Chenevier Pascale
Published: July 2022

Silicon nanowires are appealing structures to enhance the capacity of anodes in lithium-ion batteries. However, to attain industrial relevance, their synthesis requires a reduced cost. An important part of the cost is devoted to the silicon growth catalyst, usually gold. Here, we replace gold with tin, introduced as low-cost tin oxide nanoparticles, to produce a graphite–silicon nanowire composite as a long-standing anode active material. It is equally important to control the silicon size, as this determines the rate of decay of the anode performance. In this work, we demonstrate how to control the silicon nanowire diameter from 10 to 40 nm by optimizing growth parameters such as the tin loading and the atmosphere in the growth reactor. The best composites, with a rich content of Si close to 30% wt., show a remarkably high initial Coulombic efficiency of 82% for SiNWs 37 nm in diameter.
Superhydrophilic Nanotextured Surfaces for Dental Implants: Influence of Early Saliva Contamination and Wet Storage
Authors: Kunrath Marcel F. , Correia André , Teixeira Eduardo R. , Hubler Roberto , Dahlin Christer
Published: July 2022

Hydrophilic and nanotextured surfaces for dental implants have been reported as relevant properties for early osseointegration. However, these surface characteristics are quite sensitive to oral interactions. Therefore, this pilot study aimed to investigate the superficial alterations caused on hydrophilic nanotubular surfaces after early human saliva interaction. Titanium disks were treated using an anodization protocol followed by reactive plasma application in order to achieve nanotopography and hydrophilicity, additionally; surfaces were stored in normal atmospheric oxygen or wet conditioning. Following, samples were interacted with saliva for 10 min and analyzed regarding physical–chemical properties and cellular viability. Saliva interaction did not show any significant influence on morphological characteristics, roughness measurements and chemical composition; however, hydrophilicity was statistically altered compromising this feature when the samples were stored in common air. Cellular viability tested with pre-osteoblasts cell line (MC3T3-E1) reduced significantly at 48 h on the samples without wet storage after saliva contamination. The applied wet-storage methodology appears to be effective in maintaining properties such as hydrophilicity during saliva interaction. In conclusion, saliva contamination might impair important properties of hydrophilic nanotubular surfaces when not stored in wet conditions, suggesting the need of saliva-controlled sites for oral application of hydrophilic surfaces and/or the use of modified-package methods associated with their wet storage.
Tracking Bacterial Nanocellulose in Animal Tissues by Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Mota Renato , Rodrigues Ana Cristina , Silva-Carvalho Ricardo , Costa Lígia , Martins Daniela , Sampaio Paula , Dourado Fernando , Gama Miguel
Published: July 2022

The potential of nanomaterials in food technology is nowadays well-established. However, their commercial use requires a careful risk assessment, in particular concerning the fate of nanomaterials in the human body. Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), a nanofibrillar polysaccharide, has been used as a food product for many years in Asia. However, given its nano-character, several toxicological studies must be performed, according to the European Food Safety Agency’s guidance. Those should especially answer the question of whether nanoparticulate cellulose is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. This raises the need to develop a screening technique capable of detecting isolated nanosized particles in biological tissues. Herein, the potential of a cellulose-binding module fused to a green fluorescent protein (GFP–CBM) to detect single bacterial cellulose nanocrystals (BCNC) obtained by acid hydrolysis was assessed. Adsorption studies were performed to characterize the interaction of GFP–CBM with BNC and BCNC. Correlative electron light microscopy was used to demonstrate that isolated BCNC may be detected by fluorescence microscopy. The uptake of BCNC by macrophages was also assessed. Finally, an exploratory 21-day repeated-dose study was performed, wherein Wistar rats were fed daily with BNC. The presence of BNC or BCNC throughout the GIT was observed only in the intestinal lumen, suggesting that cellulose particles were not absorbed. While a more comprehensive toxicological study is necessary, these results strengthen the idea that BNC can be considered a safe food additive.
Local Measures to Curb Dollar Store Growth: A Policy Scan
Authors: McCarthy Julia , Minovi Darya , Singleton Chelsea R.
Published: July 2022

In recent years, advocates have expressed concern about the exponential growth of dollar stores in low-income communities, given their limited stock of healthy foods, and several municipalities in the U.S. have passed novel policies to curb the proliferation of these stores. The purpose of this scan is to create a legal database to inform future healthy retail policies and programs. Legal mapping methods were used to identify local policies aimed at moderating dollar store proliferation. A search yielded 25 policies that met the inclusion criteria, all enacted between 2018 and 2020. Recent policies aiming to slow local dollar store growth were mostly passed in low-income communities of color. All identified policies were passed in either the Midwest or South. The majority of municipalities that passed the policies had populations where more than half of residents identified as non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic and where the poverty rate was greater than the national average. Twelve (48%) municipalities imposed temporary moratoria halting new dollar stores from opening, and ten (40%) banned new construction within a specified distance of an existing dollar store. Key themes identified from analysis of policies’ purpose statements included increasing healthy food availability, diversifying local businesses, and improving community safety. These findings may be useful to leaders in other communities seeking to potentially moderate the impact of dollar stores on community health, as well as researchers and policy makers seeking to evaluate the efficacy of existing policies.
Docosahexaenoic Acid as the Bidirectional Biomarker of Dietary and Metabolic Risk Patterns in Chinese Children: A Comparison with Plasma and Erythrocyte
Authors: Huang Zhi , Guo Ping , Wang Ying , Li Ziming , Yin Xiaochen , Chen Ming , Liu Yong , Hu Yuming , Chen Bo
Published: July 2022

Objective: The present study aims to measure docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in both the plasma and erythrocyte of a child population and compares them with respect to their associations with dietary and metabolic risk patterns. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and a total of 435 children ages 5–7 years old were recruited. Diet information was collected using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The physical indicators, blood pressure, and glycolipid metabolic indicators were determined. The plasma and erythrocyte DHA were analyzed using a gas chromatography mass spectrometer. Principal component analysis was used to identify dietary and metabolic risk patterns. Multivariate regression analyses were used to investigate the associations of DHA status with dietary and metabolic risk patterns. Results: A significant correlation between plasma and the erythrocyte DHA concentration was found (r = 0.232, p < 0.001). A diversified dietary pattern characterized that a high intake of diversified foods had a positive association with the plasma DHA level (β = 0.145, 95% CI: 0.045~0.244, p = 0.004). Children of obesity risk patterns with a high weight, pelvis breadth, BMI, upper arm circumference, and chest circumference had lower plasma DHA concentrations (OR = 0.873, 95% CI: 0.786~0.969, p = 0.011). Children with higher plasma and erythrocyte DHA concentrations were adhered to blood lipid risk patterns with high CHOL and LDL-C levels. The plasma DHA (OR = 1.271, 95% CI: 1.142~1.415, p < 0.001) had a stronger association with a blood lipid risk pattern than erythrocyte (OR = 1.043, 95% CI: 1.002~1.086, p = 0.040). Conclusions: The diversified dietary pattern had a higher plasma DHA concentration. Lower levels of plasma DHA were positively associated with obesity in children. DHA in plasma appears to be more strongly associated with blood lipid metabolism than erythrocyte. Plasma DHA may be a more sensitive bidirectional biomarker to evaluate the recently comprehensive diet intake and metabolic risk of children.
Biological Role of Nutrients, Food and Dietary Patterns in the Prevention and Clinical Management of Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Ortega Miguel A. , Fraile-Martínez Óscar , García-Montero Cielo , Alvarez-Mon Miguel Angel , Lahera Guillermo , Monserrat Jorge , Llavero-Valero Maria , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis , Molina Rosa , Rodríguez-Jimenez Roberto , Quintero Javier , De Mon Melchor Alvarez
Published: July 2022

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a growing disabling condition affecting around 280 million people worldwide. This complex entity is the result of the interplay between biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, and compelling evidence suggests that MDD can be considered a disease that occurs as a consequence of an evolutionary mismatch and unhealthy lifestyle habits. In this context, diet is one of the core pillars of health, influencing multiple biological processes in the brain and the entire body. It seems that there is a bidirectional relationship between MDD and malnutrition, and depressed individuals often lack certain critical nutrients along with an aberrant dietary pattern. Thus, dietary interventions are one of the most promising tools to explore in the field of MDD, as there are a specific group of nutrients (i.e., omega 3, vitamins, polyphenols, and caffeine), foods (fish, nuts, seeds fruits, vegetables, coffee/tea, and fermented products) or dietary supplements (such as S-adenosylmethionine, acetyl carnitine, creatine, amino acids, etc.), which are being currently studied. Likewise, the entire nutritional context and the dietary pattern seem to be another potential area of study, and some strategies such as the Mediterranean diet have demonstrated some relevant benefits in patients with MDD; although, further efforts are still needed. In the present work, we will explore the state-of-the-art diet in the prevention and clinical support of MDD, focusing on the biological properties of its main nutrients, foods, and dietary patterns and their possible implications for these patients.
Iron Deficiency and Overload Modulate the Inflammatory Responses and Metabolism of Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Perng Vivian , Navazesh Shya E. , Park Jungjae , Arballo Joseph R. , Ji Peng
Published: July 2022

Alveolar macrophages (AM) are critical to defense against respiratory pathogens. This study evaluated cellular iron imbalance to immunometabolism in endotoxin-polarized porcine AMs (PAMs). PAMs collected from five 6-week-old pigs were treated with a basal media, iron chelator, or ferric ammonium citrate to maintain iron replete or induce iron deficiency or overload, respectively. After 24 h treatment, PAMs were challenged with saline or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 6 h. Cells were analyzed for gene, protein, and untargeted metabolome. Cytokines were determined in culture media. Data were assessed using two-way ANOVA. Treatments successfully induced iron deficiency and overload. The mRNA of DMT1 and ZIP14 was increased up to 300-fold by LPS, but unaffected by iron. Surprisingly, both iron deprivation and overload attenuated LPS-induced inflammation, showing less TNFα production and lower mRNA of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines than iron-replete PAMs. Forty-eight metabolites were altered by either or both main effects. LPS enhanced the glycolysis and polyol pathways. Iron deprivation disrupted the TCA cycle. Iron overload increased intracellular cholesterol. Interestingly, iron deprivation augmented, whereas iron overload diminished, LPS-induced itaconic acid production, which has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, iron-deficient PAMs may be more resistant to intracellular pathogens which use PAMs as a conduit for infection.
How Parenting and Family Characteristics Predict the Use of Feeding Practices among Parents of Preschoolers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Beijing, China
Authors: Hu Denghui , Tang Yuxiang , Zheng Lutong , Min Kaiyuan , Su Fenghua , Wang Jing , Liao Wei , Yan Ruijie , Wang Yueqing , Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Juan
Published: July 2022

Parental coercive and structured feeding practices are linked with children’s weight gain. Thus, identifying their predictors will assist in childhood obesity prevention. We explored how parents’ concerns and perceptions of children’s weight, parenting stress, parenting competence, parents’ family roles, and only child status (of both parent and child) predict the use of restriction, pressure to eat, and monitoring practices among parents of preschoolers. Parent–child dyads (n = 2990) were recruited in Beijing in 2019. Parenting competence, parents’ weight perceptions and feeding practices were assessed using the Chinese version of Parenting Sense of Competence Scale and Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ), respectively. Parenting stress and other variables were collected through self-administered questionnaires. Multivariate linear associations between parents’ weight perceptions and feeding practices were significant among normal-weight children. Parents’ concerns about children being overweight were positively associated with restriction and monitoring, and negatively associated with pressure to eat. Higher levels of parenting stress and parenting competence significantly improved the adoption of restriction and pressure to eat. Parents’ only child status and that of children had an impact on parents’ feeding practices. The fathers’ feeding preferences were substantially different from what mothers preferred. In conclusion, such parenting and family characteristics significantly influenced feeding practices of preschoolers’ parents. These were long neglected in China.
Comparative Effects of Co-Ingesting Whey Protein and Glucose Alone and Combined on Blood Glucose, Plasma Insulin and Glucagon Concentrations in Younger and Older Men
Authors: Oberoi Avneet , Giezenaar Caroline , Rigda Rachael S. , Lange Kylie , Horowitz Michael , Jones Karen L. , Chapman Ian , Soenen Stijn
Published: July 2022

The ingestion of dietary protein with, or before, carbohydrate may be a useful strategy to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia, but its effect in older people, who have an increased predisposition for type 2 diabetes, has not been clarified. Blood glucose, plasma insulin and glucagon concentrations were measured for 180 min following a drink containing either glucose (120 kcal), whey-protein (120 kcal), whey-protein plus glucose (240 kcal) or control (~2 kcal) in healthy younger (n = 10, 29 ± 2 years; 26.1 ± 0.4 kg/m2) and older men (n = 10, 78 ± 2 years; 27.3 ± 1.4 kg/m2). Mixed model analysis was used. In both age groups the co-ingestion of protein with glucose (i) markedly reduced the increase in blood glucose concentrations following glucose ingestion alone (p < 0.001) and (ii) had a synergistic effect on the increase in insulin concentrations (p = 0.002). Peak insulin concentrations after protein were unaffected by ageing, whereas insulin levels after glucose were lower in older than younger men (p < 0.05) and peak insulin concentrations were higher after glucose than protein in younger (p < 0.001) but not older men. Glucagon concentrations were unaffected by age. We conclude that the ability of whey-protein to reduce carbohydrate-induced postprandial hyperglycemia is retained in older men and that protein supplementation may be a useful strategy in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes in older people.