bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hermetic Packaging Based on Cu–Sn and Au–Au Dual Bonding for High-Temperature Graphene Pressure Sensor
Authors: Wang Junqiang , Zhang Haikun , Chen Xuwen , Li Mengwei
Published: July 2022

A chip-level hermetic package for a high-temperature graphene pressure sensor was investigated. The silicon cap, chip and substrate were stacked by Cu–Sn and Au–Au bonding to enable wide-range measurements while guaranteeing a high hermetic package. Prior to bonding, the sample was treated with Ar (5% H2) plasma. The Cu–Sn bonding was firstly performed at 260 °C for 15 min with a pressure of 9.9 MPa, and the corresponding process conditions for Au–Au bonding has increased to 300 °C, 20 min and 19.8 MPa respectively. The average shearing strength was 14.3 MPa, and an excellent leak rate of 1.72 × 10−4 Pa·cm3/s was also achieved. After high-temperature storage (HTS) at 350 °C for 10 h, the resistance of graphene decreased slightly because the dual bonding provided oxygen-free environment for graphene. The leakage rate of the device slightly increased to 2.1 × 10−4 Pa·cm3/s, and the average shear strength just decreased to 13.5 MPa. Finally, under the pressure range of 0–100 MPa, the graphene pressure sensor exhibited a high average sensitivity of 3.11 Ω/MPa. In conclusion, the dual bonding that combined Cu–Sn and Au–Au is extremely suitable for hermetic packaging in high-temperature graphene pressure sensors.
Photo-Thermal Tuning of Graphene Oxide Coated Integrated Optical Waveguides
Authors: Qu Yang , Yang Yunyi , Wu Jiayang , Zhang Yuning , Jia Linnan , El Dirani Houssein , Crochemore Romain , Sciancalepore Corrado , Demongodin Pierre , Grillet Christian , Monat Christelle , Jia Baohua , Moss David J.
Published: July 2022

We experimentally investigate power-sensitive photo-thermal tuning (PTT) of two-dimensional (2D) graphene oxide (GO) films coated on integrated optical waveguides. We measure the light power thresholds for reversible and permanent GO reduction in silicon nitride (SiN) waveguides integrated with one and two layers of GO. For the device with one layer of GO, the power threshold for reversible and permanent GO reduction are ~20 and ~22 dBm, respectively. For the device with two layers of GO, the corresponding results are ~13 and ~18 dBm, respectively. Raman spectra at different positions of a hybrid waveguide with permanently reduced GO are characterized, verifying the inhomogeneous GO reduction along the direction of light propagation through the waveguide. The differences between the PTT induced by a continuous-wave laser and a pulsed laser are also compared, confirming that the PTT mainly depend on the average input power. These results reveal interesting features for 2D GO films coated on integrated optical waveguides, which are of fundamental importance for the control and engineering of GO’s properties in hybrid integrated photonic devices.
Wideband Substrate Integrated Waveguide Chip Filter Using Spoof Surface Plasmon Polariton
Authors: Pan Dongzhe , You Bin , Wen Xuan , Li Xungen
Published: July 2022

This article presents a novel wideband bandpass filter based on the integration of a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) and a spoof surface plasmon polariton (SSPP). An SIW cavity with periodic arrays of meander-slot units is etched on the top metallic layer to achieve the characteristics of a multi-order filter with good performance. The passbands can be flexibly selected by varying the geometric parameters of the SIW and SSPP to adjust the lower and upper sidebands independently. Using a redistribution layer (RDL) process, a novel 3D capacitive interconnection called a through-dielectric capacitor (TDC) is proposed and collaboratively designed with an interdigital capacitor to achieve capacitive source-load cross-coupling. The proposed filter has a center frequency of 60 GHz, with a wide 3-dB fractional bandwidth of about 45.8%. The improved simulated sideband suppression has a 30 dB rejection at 40 GHz and 75.4 GHz, corresponding to a 30-dB rectangular coefficient of 1.28.
A Technique for Rapid Bacterial-Density Enumeration through Membrane Filtration and Differential Pressure Measurements
Authors: Shen Xinhui , Teo Ting Wei , Kong Tian Fook , Marcos
Published: July 2022

In this article, we present a microfluidic technique for the rapid enumeration of bacterial density with a syringe filter to trap bacteria and the quantification of the bacterial density through pressure difference measurement across the membrane. First, we established the baseline differential pressure and hydraulic resistance for a filtration membrane by fully wetting the filter with DI water. Subsequently, when bacteria were infused and trapped at the pores of the membrane, the differential pressure and hydraulic resistance also increased. We characterized the infusion time required for the bacterial sample to achieve a normalized hydraulic resistance of 1.5. An equivalent electric-circuit model and calibration data sets from parametric studies were used to determine the general form of a calibration curve for the prediction of the bacterial density of a bacterial sample. As a proof of concept, we demonstrated through blind tests with Escherichia coli that the device is capable of determining the bacterial density of a sample ranging from 7.3 × 106 to 2.2 × 108 CFU/mL with mean and median accuracies of 87.21% and 91.33%, respectively. The sample-to-result time is 19 min for a sample with lower detection threshold, while for higher-bacterial-density samples the measurement time is further shortened to merely 8 min.
Dynamical Design and Gain Performance Analysis of a 3-DoF Micro-Gyro with an Anchored Leverage Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Kunpeng , Wang Sai , Hao Shuying , Zhang Qichang , Feng Jingjing
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we apply the leverage amplification principle to improve the gain of a three-degrees-of-freedom (3-DoF) micro-gyro. The gain of the micro-gyro can be improved by designing linear and nonlinear micro-gyros with an anchored lever mechanism (ALM). First, the sensor system of the micro-gyro is designed as a complete 2-DOF system with an ALM. The effect of the leverage rate (LR) on the mass ratio and frequency coupling parameter (FCP) of the complete 2-DOF sense system is studied. We analyze the variation rule of the gain of the lever’s input and output as the LR increases. Afterwards, the bandwidth and gain performance of linear and nonlinear micro-gyros with an ALM is investigated by applying the arbitrarily tunable characteristics of peak spacing of the complete 2-DOF system. The influence of LR, FCP, nonlinear strength, damping, and peak spacing on bandwidth and gain of the 3-DOF micro-gyro is analyzed. The results indicate that both LR and FCP have a large effect on the gain and bandwidth of a micro-gyro with an ALM. The LR parameter mainly improves the gain of the micro-gyro, and the FCP parameter mainly adjusts the bandwidth performance. Adding levers can effectively improve the gain performance of the linear micro-gyro. The linear micro-gyro with an ALM can improve the gain by 4.5 dB compared to the one without an ALM. The nonlinear micro-gyro with an ALM combines two characteristics: the nonlinear micro-gyro can improve the bandwidth, while the lever structure can improve the gain. Compared with the linear micro-gyro without an ALM, the gain can be increased by 17.6 dB, and the bandwidth can be improved as well. In addition, the bandwidth of a micro-gyro with an ALM is related to the gain difference between the peaks of the lever output. The increase in the gain difference leads to a flattening of the left peak, which effectively broadens the bandwidth. For nonlinear micro-gyros with an ALM, the bandwidth can be further improved by increasing the nonlinear stiffness coefficient, and better gain and bandwidth can be obtained using a vacuum package.
Zircon U-Pb Ages and Geochemistry of the Granite in the Xintianling Tungsten Deposit, SE China: Implications for Geodynamic Settings of the Regional Tungsten Mineralization
Authors: Yang Wu , Zhang Min , Yan Jun , Chen Xiaocui
Published: July 2022

The Xintianling tungsten deposit is a super-large deposit in the Nanling tungsten–tin mineralization belt, which is genetically associated with the early-stage hornblende-biotite monzonitic granite of Qitianling pluton. The orebodies predominantly occur as veins and lenses within skarn rocks between Xintianling granite and limestone (Shidengzi group). In this work, whole-rock major and trace elements and zircon U–Pb ages of the Xintianling granite were studied in an attempt to investigate the geochronological framework, petrogenesis, tectonism, and metallogenesis with regard to the deposit. The petrographic and geochemical analyses indicated that the Xintianling granite consists of three intrusive units of medium- and coarse-grained biotite granite, fine-grained biotite granite, and granite porphyry, of which the biotite granite was strongly associated with mineralization. Biotite granite rocks are highly K-calc-alkaline and weakly peraluminous, with A/CNK ratios ranging from 0.99 to 1.05. Late-granite porphyry is aluminum-supersaturated with a high evolution degree, whose geochemical characteristics suggest that it is either an I- or S-type granite. LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb dating revealed that medium- and coarse-grained biotite granite (162.3 ± 1.2 Ma, MSWD = 1.3), fine-grained biotite granite (161.8 ± 1.3 Ma, MSWD = 1.8), and granite porphyry (154.3 ± 1.6 Ma, MSWD = 2.4) formed in the late Jurassic. The emplacement of the Qitianling A-type granite and associated tungsten-tin polymetallic mineralization is a continuous evolution process, and they are products of the large-scale mineralization of the Nanling in the middle–late Jurassic (150–160 Ma). Under the tectonic setting of the Mesozoic lithospheric extension, asthenosphere upwelling along deep-fault, intensive mantle–crust interaction processes probably provide not only the high heat flow, but also partly mantle-derived material for large-scale W-Sn-polymetallic mineralization in this area.
Age of the Tuchengzi Formation in Western Liaoning Province and the Jurassic–Cretaceous Boundary from the Continuous Core Records of Well YD1, Jinyang Basin
Authors: Sun Shou-Liang , Chen Shu-Wang , Yang Zhong-Jie , Zhang Tao , Li Yong-Fei , Zhu Ji-Chang , Wu Huai-Chun , Wang Tian-Tian , Zheng Yue-Juan , Ding Qiu-Hong
Published: July 2022

The Tuchengzi Formation is widely distributed in western Liaoning Province with a clear top and bottom. It is the focal area for the delineation of the terrestrial Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary in China. Based on continuous core samples taken from well YD1, detailed lithostratigraphic sequences and zircon uranium–lead (U-Pb) dating WERE used to investigate the Tuchengzi Formation. The zircon U-Pb ages of the tuff samples taken from the First and Third Members of the Tuchengzi Formation ranged from 153.8 to 137.16 Ma, indicating that they were formed in the late Middle Jurassic–Early Cretaceous. Dating results from the bottom of the Second Member of the Tuchengzi Formation indicate that the sedimentary time of the stratum is no later than 145.7 ± 2.1 Ma. We concluded that the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary of the Jinyang Basin in western Liaoning province may be located at the interface at a depth of 464 m in well YD1. This conclusion is consistent with the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary that has been presumed by other researchers based on paleontological assemblage features found in recent years, and can provide useful geological marker beds for the future study of the terrestrial Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary. In addition, the authors also systematically sorted the potential development areas and layers of the terrestrial Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary line, which may also provide useful geological marker beds for the future study of the terrestrial Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary.
The Numerical Simulation and Characterization of Complex Fracture Network Propagation in Multistage Fracturing with Fractal Theory
Authors: Zhang Peng , Pu Chunsheng , Shi Xian , Xu Zhiqian , Ye Zhengqin
Published: July 2022

To investigate complex fracturing and the influencing factors of simultaneous fracture propagation in horizontal wells, a three-cluster fracture propagation model that is controlled by fracture surface displacement parameters is established. When performing multistage fracturing on reservoirs with a relatively high development degree of natural fractures, staged multicluster fracturing in horizontal wells is one of the commonly used technical methods for volume fracturing. Two frequently encountered problems are multifracture extension and interfracture stress interference between fractures. The characteristics of the coal mechanics parameters of coalbed methane (CBM) blocks in northwestern China are analyzed by probability statistics to obtain the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio. With the interactive development environment of the MATLAB-PYTHON-FEM platform, a numerical model of fracture network expansion under the staged fracturing of horizontal wells is constructed. The stress interference level between fractures and the fractal expansion mechanism of fracture networks are analyzed under different influencing factors, including the fractal dimensions of natural joints, fracturing fluid pumping rate, and inhomogeneity coefficient of the in situ stress.
Difficulties and Recent Achievements in Flotation Separation of Fluorite from Calcite—An Overview
Authors: Huang Junwei , Zhang Qiwu , Li Hongchao , Wang Chao
Published: July 2022

As an important strategic non-metallic mineral resource, fluorite has been widely used in various industrial fields, such as metallurgy, optics and semiconductor manufacturing, as well as fluorine-related chemical engineering. Since the major gangue minerals of fluorite ore are silicate and carbonate ones, flotation is the main beneficiation method for the concentration. Compared with the relatively easy operation for silicate-type fluorite ore, fluorite concentration from calcite has always been the most difficult challenge in the field of mineral processing. In this review, analyses of the fundamental reasons for the difficulties of flotation separation of fluorite from calcite are performed, from the similar surface properties of both calcium minerals to the deterioration by the interference of dissolved ions in the pulp during grinding and flotation. Recent achievements in the flotation separation of fluorite from calcite as the main contents are comprehensively summarized, covering all aspects of flotation reagents of collectors, depressants and modifiers. Finally, successful examples of industrial practices for fluorite and calcite flotation separation are introduced. This overview provides a detailed and comprehensive reference source for the current research status of fluorite and calcite flotation separation, and some suggestions for future research are provided.
Advances on Exploration Indicators of Mineral VNIR-SWIR Spectroscopy and Chemistry: A Review
Authors: Zhou Yan , Wang Tiangang , Fan Feipeng , Chen Shizhong , Guo Weimin , Xing Guangfu , Sun Jiandong , Xiao Fan
Published: July 2022

Establishing exploration vectors to infer the properties of ore-forming fluids, locate blind ore bodies with the aid of visible to near-infrared (VNIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectroscopy, and infer the chemistry of minerals, is a new research interest for economic geology. Common alterations and clay minerals, including sericite, chlorite, epidote, alunite, kaolinite, tourmaline, etc., are ideal objects for the study of exploration indicators due to their sensitivity to variations in the nature of hydrothermal fluid. The diagnostic spectral feature and chemistry vary spatially and systematically with physicochemical change. VNIR spectroscopy can characterize the REE-bearing clay minerals directly. Obtaining spectral or chemical parameters with the aid of VNIR-SWIR spectroscopy, electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) or laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) can help to establish exploration vectors. This paper systematically summarizes recent advances in mineral exploration indicators (MEIs) of VNIR-SWIR spectroscopy and chemistry, and compares them in different regions or deposits. We found that some MEI spatial variation trends are random, even the same type of deposit can show an opposite trend. The controlling factors that limit the application of the established MEIs are vague. Conducting further research on petrology and mineralogy with the aids of observation under microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), TESCAN Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA), and EPMA are suggested to discover alteration mineral assemblage, alteration stages, and behaviors of “the pathfinder elements” related to mineralization. Based on the above research, the physicochemical properties of ore-forming fluids and their control over MEIs can be inferred. Refining the theoretical basis is critical to understanding and popularization of spectral and chemical MEIs.
Metal–Metal Correlation of Biodegraded Crude Oil and Associated Economic Crops from the Eastern Dahomey Basin, Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Saeed , Opuwari Mimonitu , Titinchi Salam , Cyster Lilburne
Published: July 2022

The presence of heavy metals in plants from oil sand deposits may reflect mineralization resulting from petroleum biodegradation. Petroleum composition and heavy metal analyses were performed using thermal desorption gas chromatography and atomic absorption spectrophotometry on oil sand and plant root samples from the same localities in the Dahomey Basin. The results from the oil sand showed mainly heavy-end hydrocarbon components, humps of unresolved complex mixtures (UCM), absences of C6-C12 hydrocarbon chains, pristane, and phytane, indicating severe biodegradation. In addition, they showed varying concentrations of vanadium (2.699–7.708 ppm), nickel (4.005–11.716 ppm), chromium (1.686–5.733 ppm), cobalt (0.953–3.223 ppm), lead (0.649–0.978 ppm), and cadmium (0.188–0.461 ppm). Furthermore, these heavy metals were present in Citrus, Theobroma Cacao, Elaeis guineensis, and Cola. The chromium, nickel, vanadium, lead, cobalt, and cadmium concentrations in the Citrus were 7.475, 4.981, 0.551, 0.001, 0.806, and 0.177 ppm, respectively. For the Theobroma Cacao, the concentrations of chromium, nickel, vanadium, lead, cobalt, and cadmium were 7.095, 16.697, 2.151, 0.023, 3.942, and 0.254 ppm. Elaeis guineensis also showed the presence of chromium (32.685 ppm), nickel (32.423 ppm), vanadium (11.983 ppm), lead (0.190 ppm), cobalt (4.425 ppm), and cadmium (0.262 ppm). The amounts of chromium, nickel, vanadium, lead, cobalt, and cadmium in the Cola were 9.687, 9.157, 0.779, 0.037, 0.695, and 0.023 ppm. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe and permissible limits for Cd (0.003 ppm), Cr (0.1 ppm), Ni (0.05 ppm), and Pb (0.1 ppm) in agricultural soils were all exceeded in the oil sand. The presence of these metals in the oil sands and their uptake by the plants could potentially be toxic, resulting in high mortality. The metal–metal correlation of the plant’s rootsto the oil sand indicates the nonanthropogenic origin of the heavy metals, which leads to the conclusion that their source is related to the hydrocarbon accumulation in the Afowo sand.
Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators in Neuroinflammation: Overview of Studies and Perspectives of Clinical Applications
Authors: Valente Mariarosaria , Dentoni Marta , Bellizzi Fabrizio , Kuris Fedra , Gigli Gian Luigi
Published: July 2022

Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are lipid mediators derived from poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) which have been demonstrated to have an important role in the inflammation environment, preventing an overreaction of the organism and promoting the resolution of inflammation. Our purpose was to point out the current evidence for specialized pro-resolving mediators, focusing on their role in neuroinflammation and in major neurological diseases.
Photonic Materials Cloud: An Online Interactive Open Tool for Creating, Comparing, and Testing Photonic Materials
Authors: Korsa Matiyas , Petersen Søren , Rahmani Neda , Shabani Alireza , Mishra Yogendra , Adam Jost
Published: July 2022

Recent advances in nanoscale fabrication and characterization further accelerated research on photonics and plasmonics, which has already attracted long-standing interest. Alongside morphological constraints, phenomena in both fields highly depend on the materials’ optical properties, dimensions, and surroundings. Building up the required knowledge and experience to design next-generation photonic devices can be a complex task for novice and experienced researchers who intend to evaluate the impact of subtle material and morphology variations while setting up experiments or getting a general overview. Here, we introduce the Photonic Materials Cloud (PMCloud), a web-based, interactive open tool for designing and analyzing photonic materials. PMCloud allows identification of the subtle differences between optical material models generated from a database, experimental data input, and inline-generated materials from various analytical models. Furthermore, it provides a fully interactive interface to evaluate their performance in important fundamental (numerical) optical experiments. We demonstrate PMCloud’s applicability to state-of-the-art research questions, namely the comparison of the novel plasmonic materials aluminium-doped zinc oxide and zirconium nitride and the design of an optical, dielectric thin-film Bragg reflector. PMCloud opens a rapid, freely accessible path towards prototyping optical materials and simple fundamental devices and may serve as an educational platform for photonic materials research.
Heteroatom-Doped Hierarchically Porous Biochar for Supercapacitor Application and Phenol Pollutant Remediation
Authors: Tang Diyong , Lu Li , Luo Zhipeng , Yang Baokun , Ke Jun , Lei Weidong , Zhen Hongran , Zhuang Yuan , Sun Jie , Chen Ke , Sun Jie
Published: July 2022

Biochars are considered as promising materials in energy storage and environmental remediation because of their unique physicochemical properties and low cost. However, the fabrication of multifunctional biochar materials with a well-developed hierarchical porous structure as well as self-doped functionalities via a facile strategy remains a challenge. Herein, we demonstrate a heteroatom-doped porous biochar, prepared by a hydrothermal pretreatment followed by a molten salt activation route. With the creation of a high specific surface area (1501.9 m2/g), a hierarchical porous structure, and the incorporation of oxygen-/nitrogen-functional groups, the as-prepared biochar (BC-24) exhibits great potential for supercapacitor application and organic pollutant elimination. The assembled biochar electrode delivers a specific capacitance of 378 F/g at 0.2 A/g with a good rate capability of 198 F/g at 10 A/g, and excellent cycling stability with 94.5% capacitance retention after 10,000 recycles. Moreover, BC-24 also exhibits superior catalytic activity for phenol degradation through peroxydisulfate (PDS) activation. The phenol (0.2 mM) can be effectively absorbed and then completely degraded within only 25 min over a wide pH range with low catalyst and PDS dosages. More importantly, TOC analysis indicates 81.7% of the phenol is mineralized within 60 min, confirming the effectiveness of the BC-24/PDS system. Quenching experiments and EPR measurements reveal that SO4·− and ·OH as well as 1O2 are involved in the phenol degradation, while the non-radical pathway plays the dominant role. This study provides valuable insights into the preparation of cost-effective carbon materials for supercapacitor application and organic contaminant remediation.
Tailoring of Optical Properties of Methacrylate Resins Enriched by HPHT Microdiamond Particles
Authors: Kowalewska Ewelina , Ficek Mateusz , Formela Krzysztof , Zieliński Artur , Kunuku Srinivasu , Sawczak Miroslaw , Bogdanowicz Robert
Published: July 2022

Diamond particles have great potential to enhance the mechanical, optical, and thermal properties of diamond–polymer composites. However, the improved properties of diamond–polymer composites depend on the size, dispersibility, and concentration of diamond particles. In the present study, diamond–polymer composites were prepared by adding the microdiamond particles (MDPs) with different concentrations (0.2–1 wt.%) into polymers (acrylate resins) and then subjected to a photocuring process. The surface morphology and topography of the MDPs–polymer composites demonstrated a uniform high-density distribution of MDPs for one wt.% MPDs. Thermogravimetric analysis was employed to investigate the thermal stability of the MDPs–polymer composites. The addition of MDPs has significantly influenced the polymers’ thermal degradation. Absorption and emission spectra of thin layers were recorded through UV/Vis spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry. The obtained results revealed a significant increase in the fluorescence intensity of MDPs–polymer composites (at 1 wt.% of MDPs, a 1.5×, 2×, and 5× increase in fluorescence was observed for MDPs–green, MDPs–amber daylight, and MDPs–red resin, respectively) compared with the reference polymer resins. The obtained results of this work show the new pathways in producing effective and active 3D-printed optical elements.
Young Child Nutrition: Knowledge and Surveillance Gaps across the Spectrum of Feeding
Authors: Reverri Elizabeth J. , Arensberg Mary Beth , Murray Robert D. , Kerr Kirk W. , Wulf Karyn L.
Published: July 2022

The first 1000 days is a critical window to optimize nutrition. Young children, particularly 12–24 month-olds, are an understudied population. Young children have unique nutrient needs and reach important developmental milestones when those needs are met. Intriguingly, there are differences in the dietary patterns and recommendations for young children in the US vs. globally, notably for breastfeeding practices, nutrient and food guidelines, and young child formulas (YCFs)/toddler drinks. This perspective paper compares these differences in young child nutrition and identifies both knowledge gaps and surveillance gaps to be filled. Parental perceptions, feeding challenges, and nutrition challenges are also discussed. Ultimately, collaboration among academia and clinicians, the private sector, and the government will help close young child nutrition gaps in both the US and globally.
Association and Interaction Effect of BHMT Gene Polymorphisms and Maternal Dietary Habits with Ventricular Septal Defect in Offspring
Authors: Luo Manjun , Wang Tingting , Huang Peng , Zhang Senmao , Song Xinli , Sun Mengting , Liu Yiping , Wei Jianhui , Shu Jing , Zhong Taowei , Chen Qian , Zhu Ping , Qin Jiabi
Published: July 2022

This study attempted to learn the association between maternal betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT) gene polymorphisms, maternal dietary habits, and their interactions with the risk of ventricular septal defects (VSD) in offspring. A total of 426 mothers of VSD children and 740 control mothers were included in the study. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the level of associations and interaction effects. Our study suggested that mothers reporting excessive intake of smoked foods (aOR = 2.44, 95%CI: 1.89–3.13), barbecued foods (aOR = 1.86, 95%CI: 1.39–2.48), fried foods (aOR = 1.93, 95%CI: 1.51–2.46), and pickled vegetables (aOR = 2.50, 95%CI: 1.92–3.25) were at a significantly higher risk of VSD in offspring, instead, mothers reporting regular intake of fresh fruits (aOR = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.36–0.62), fish and shrimp (aOR = 0.35, 95%CI: 0.28–0.44), fresh eggs, (aOR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.45–0.71), beans (aOR = 0.68, 95%CI: 0.56–0.83), and milk products (aOR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.56–0.80) were at a lower risk of VSD in offspring. In addition, maternal BHMT gene polymorphisms at rs1316753 (CG vs. CC: aOR = 2.01, 95%CI: 1.43–2.83) and rs1915706 (CT vs. TT: (aOR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.33–2.46) were significantly associated with increased risk of VSD in offspring. Furthermore, a significant interaction between BHMT polymorphisms and maternal bean intake was identified in the study. In conclusion, Maternal BHMT polymorphisms at rs1316753 and rs1915706, dietary habits as well as their interaction were observed to be significantly associated with the risk of VSD in offspring.
Dietary Inulin Supplementation Affects Specific Plasmalogen Species in the Brain
Authors: Bizeau Jean-Baptiste , Albouery Mayssa , Grégoire Stéphane , Buteau Bénédicte , Martine Lucy , Crépin Marine , Bron Alain M. , Berdeaux Olivier , Acar Niyazi , Chassaing Benoit , Bringer Marie-Agnès
Published: July 2022

Plasmalogens (Pls) are glycerophospholipids that play critical roles in the brain. Evidence supports the role of diet and that of the gut microbiota in regulating brain lipids. We investigated the impact of dietary intake of inulin—a soluble fiber used as prebiotic—on the Pl content of the cortex in mice. No global modification in the Pl amounts was observed when evaluated by gas chromatographic analysis of dimethyl acetals (DMAs). However, the analysis of individual molecular species of Pls by liquid chromatography revealed a reduced abundance of major species of ethanolamine Pls (PlsEtn)―PE(P-18:0/22:6) and PE(P-34:1)―in the cortex of mice fed a diet supplemented with inulin. DMA and expression levels of genes (Far-1, Gnpat, Agps, Pla2g6 and Tmem86b) encoding key enzymes of Pl biosynthesis or degradation were not altered in the liver and in the cortex of mice exposed to inulin. In addition, the fatty acid profile and the amount of lyso forms derived from PlsEtn were not modified in the cortex by inulin consumption. To conclude, inulin affects the brain levels of major PlsEtn and further investigation is needed to determine the exact molecular mechanisms involved.
Alleviating Effects of Black Soybean Peptide on Oxidative Stress Injury Induced by Lead in PC12 Cells via Keap1/Nrf2/TXNIP Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Ning , Wen Liuding , Li Tiange , Yang Huijie , Qiao Mingwu , Wang Tianlin , Song Lianjun , Huang Xianqing , Li Mingming , Bukyei Erkigul , Wang Fangyu
Published: July 2022

Many researchers have found that Pb exposure can cause oxidative stress damage to the body’s tissue. Black soybean peptide (BSP) has a variety of physiological functions, especially in terms of oxidative stress. Nevertheless, the mitigation function of BSPs on Pb-induced oxidative stress damage in PC12 cells has not been clearly defined. In this study, cell viability was detected by CCK8. Oxidative stress indicators, such as ROS, GSH/GSSG, MDA, SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR, were tested with biochemical kit. Protein expression of Keap1, Nrf2, and TXNIP was measured by Western blot. Compared with the control group, Pb reduced the cell viability of PC12 cells. However, BSP treatment significantly increased the viability of PC12 cells induced by lead exposure (p < 0.05). Lead can enrich the contents of MDA and ROS, but decrease the amount of CAT, SOD, GR, GPx, and GSH/GSSG in PC12 cells, while BSP can alleviate it (p < 0.05). Lead can enhance the expression of Keap1 and TXNIP proteins, but reduce Nrf2 expression. In contrast, BSPs reversed this phenomenon (p < 0.05). BSPs can alleviate oxidative stress injury induced by lead in PC12 cells through the Keap1/Nrf2/TXNIP signaling pathway.
Development of Seed-Oil Based Dried Sausages, Considering Physicochemical and Nutritional Quality and the Role of Food Neophobia
Authors: Tarjuelo Laura , Pardo José Emilio , Álvarez-Ortí Manuel , Pardo-Giménez Arturo , Millán Cristina , Rabadán Adrián
Published: July 2022

A growing number of consumers now consider the consumption of processed meat products to be an essentially unhealthy habit. Hence, the reformulation of meat products is crucial. In this regard, the aim of this study is to reformulate “fuet”, a traditional Spanish dried sausage, by replacing the pork fat with emulsified seed oils (50–50%, 25–75% and 0–100%). Four seed oils were evaluated, including commercial seeds (poppy and chia) and other seeds considered subproducts (melon and pumpkin). Physical parameters, nutritional quality and consumer evaluation of the reformulated dried sausages were analyzed. Additionally, we considered the effects of food neophobia on consumer evaluation. The resulting fuets had a higher concentration of linoleic and linolenic acids, which varied according to the oil used. In the sensory analysis, non-neophobic consumers showed higher preference for the reformulated fuets, while all consumers gave their highest ratings to the fuets produced with pumpkin seed oil.
Nutrient-Derived Beneficial for Blood Pressure Dietary Pattern Associated with Hypertension Prevention and Control: Based on China Nutrition and Health Surveillance 2015–2017
Authors: Yang Yuxiang , Yu Dongmei , Piao Wei , Huang Kun , Zhao Liyun
Published: July 2022

Background: Greater adherence of Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) or the Mediterranean dietary pattern were reported to be beneficial for blood pressure. However, both were established based on Western populations. Our current study aimed to explore a dietary pattern which might be suitable for hypertension prevention and control among Chinese adults nationwide. Methods: A total of 61,747 Chinese adults aged over 18 years from China Nutrition and Health Surveillance 2015–2017 was included in this study. Using reduced-rank regression (RRR) method, a dietary pattern with higher intakes of those nutrients which are inversely associated with the risk of hypertension was identified. DASH-score was also calculated for each participant for further validate the dietary pattern derived by RRR method. Multi-adjustment logistic regression was applied to examine the association between above two dietary patterns and hypertension prevention and control. Results: Dietary pattern named Beneficial for Blood Pressure (BBP) diet was characterized by higher fresh vegetables and fruits, mushrooms/edible fungi, dairy products, seaweeds, fresh eggs, nuts and seeds, legumes and related products, aquatic products, coarse cereals, and less refined grains and alcohol consumption. After multiple adjustment, protective effects showed on both hypertension prevention and control (for prevention: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.842, 95% CI = 0.791–0.896; for control: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.762, 95% CI = 0.629–0.924). For the DASH-diet, significant results were also observed (for prevention: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.912, 95% CI = 0.854–0.973; for control: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.616–0.938). Conclusions: BBP-diet derived from Chinese adults has high conformity with the DASH-diet, and it might serve as an adjuvant method for both hypertension prevention and control.
The Potential of the Mediterranean Diet to Improve Mitochondrial Function in Experimental Models of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Khalil Mohamad , Shanmugam Harshitha , Abdallah Hala , John Britto Jerlin Stephy , Galerati Ilaria , Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Frühbeck Gema , Portincasa Piero
Published: July 2022

The abnormal expansion of body fat paves the way for several metabolic abnormalities including overweight, obesity, and diabetes, which ultimately cluster under the umbrella of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Patients with MetS are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, morbidity, and mortality. The coexistence of distinct metabolic abnormalities is associated with the release of pro-inflammatory adipocytokines, as components of low-to-medium grade systemic inflammation and increased oxidative stress. Adopting healthy lifestyles, by using appropriate dietary regimens, contributes to the prevention and treatment of MetS. Metabolic abnormalities can influence the function and energetic capacity of mitochondria, as observed in many obesity-related cardio-metabolic disorders. There are preclinical studies both in cellular and animal models, as well as clinical studies, dealing with distinct nutrients of the Mediterranean diet (MD) and dysfunctional mitochondria in obesity and MetS. The term “Mitochondria nutrients” has been adopted in recent years, and it depicts the adequate nutrients to keep proper mitochondrial function. Different experimental models show that components of the MD, including polyphenols, plant-derived compounds, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, can improve mitochondrial metabolism, biogenesis, and antioxidant capacity. Such effects are valuable to counteract the mitochondrial dysfunction associated with obesity-related abnormalities and can represent the beneficial feature of polyphenols-enriched olive oil, vegetables, nuts, fish, and plant-based foods, as the main components of the MD. Thus, developing mitochondria-targeting nutrients and natural agents for MetS treatment and/or prevention is a logical strategy to decrease the burden of disease and medications at a later stage. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the effects of the MD and its bioactive components on improving mitochondrial structure and activity.
Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation in Pregnancy: Findings from the Baseline Assessment of a Maternal Nutrition Service Programme in Bangladesh
Authors: Billah Sk Masum , Raynes-Greenow Camille , Ali Nazia Binte , Karim Farhana , Lotus Sharif Uddin , Azad Rashidul , Sari Mayang , Mustaphi Piyali , Maniruzzaman Md. , Rahman Shah Mohammad Mustafizur , Dibley Michael John , Kelly Patrick John , El Arifeen Shams
Published: July 2022

Effective coverage of antenatal iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation is important to prevent adverse maternal and newborn health outcomes. We interviewed 2572 women from two rural districts in Bangladesh who had a live birth in the preceding six months. We analysed the number of IFA tablets received and consumed during pregnancy and examined the factors influencing IFA consumption by multiple linear regression and user adherence-adjusted effective coverage of IFA (consuming ≥180 IFA tablets) by Poisson regression. Overall, about 80% of women consumed IFA supplements in any quantity. About 76% of women received antenatal care at least once, only 8% received ≥180 IFA tablets, and 6% had user adherence-adjusted coverage of antenatal IFA supplementation. Multivariable analysis showed a linear relationship between the number of antenatal care (ANC) visits and the number of IFA supplements consumed, which was modified by the timing of the first ANC visit. Women’s education, free IFA, and advice on IFA were also associated with higher IFA consumption. Interventions targeting at least eight ANC contacts, starting early in pregnancy, providing advice on the importance of IFA, and providing IFA supplements in higher quantity at ANC contacts are likely to increase effective coverage of antenatal IFA supplementation.
Impact of the Cultivation System and Plant Cultivar on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi of Spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. Spelta L.) in a Short-Term Monoculture
Authors: Bohacz Justyna , Korniłłowicz-Kowalska Teresa , Rybczyńska-Tkaczyk Kamila , Andruszczak Sylwia
Published: July 2022

Native communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) constitute a natural biofertilization, biocontrol, and bioprotection factor for most agricultural crops, including cereals. The present study investigated the native AMF population in cultivated spelt, i.e., a cereal that has not been analyzed in this respect to date. In particular, the aim of the study was to determine the number of spores and the degree of AMF root colonization in two spelt cultivars (Franckenkorn and Badengold) from a 3-year monoculture grown in two different cultivation systems: conventional tillage and no-tillage systems. The study showed considerable accumulation of AMF spores in the soil (on average 1325 in 100 g of air-dry soil), with a wide range of their numbers, and not a very high degree of endomycorrhizal colonization (on average from 3.0% to 31%). The intensity of AMF growth in the subsequent cultivation years gradually increased and depended on the cultivation system as well as the growth stage and cultivar of the spelt. It was found that both analyzed AMF growth indices in the no-tillage system were positively correlated with each other. Moreover, their values were higher in the no-tillage system than in the conventional system, with statistical significance only for the number of spores. This was mainly observed in the variant with the Franckenkorn cultivar. The effect of the growing season was evident in both cultivation systems and spelt cultivars. It was reflected by intensification of sporulation and mycorrhization of spelt roots by AMF in summer (maturation stage) compared with the spring period (flowering stage).
Impact of Sex on Proper Use of Inhaler Devices in Asthma and COPD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Calzetta Luigino , Aiello Marina , Frizzelli Annalisa , Ritondo Beatrice Ludovica , Pistocchini Elena , Rogliani Paola , Chetta Alfredo
Published: July 2022

Despite females being more often affected by asthma than males and the prevalence of COPD rising in females, conflicting evidence exists as to whether sex may modulate the correct inhaler technique. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of sex on the proper use of inhaler devices in asthma and COPD. A pairwise meta-analysis was performed on studies enrolling adult males and females with asthma or COPD and reporting data of patients making at least one error by inhaler device type (DPI, MDI, and SMI). The data of 6,571 patients with asthma or COPD were extracted from 12 studies. A moderate quality of evidence (GRADE +++) indicated that sex may influence the correct use of inhaler device in both asthma and COPD. The critical error rate was higher in females with asthma (OR 1.31, 95%CI 1.14–1.50) and COPD (OR 1.80, 95%CI 1.22–2.67) using DPI vs. males (p < 0.01). In addition, the use of SMI in COPD was associated with a greater rate of critical errors in females vs. males (OR 5.36, 95%CI 1.48–19.32; p < 0.05). No significant difference resulted for MDI. In conclusion, choosing the right inhaler device in agreement with sex may optimize the pharmacological treatment of asthma and COPD.
Nanocarriers: A Reliable Tool for the Delivery of Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Sabit Hussein , Abdel-Hakeem Mohamed , Shoala Tahsin , Abdel-Ghany Shaimaa , Abdel-Latif Mokhtar Mamdouh , Almulhim Jawaher , Mansy Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Nanomedicines have gained popularity due to their potential therapeutic applications, especially cancer treatment. Targeted nanoparticles can deliver drugs directly to cancer cells and enable prolonged drug release, reducing off-target toxicity and increasing therapeutic efficacy. However, translating nanomedicines from preclinical to clinical settings has been difficult. Rapid advancements in nanotechnology promise to enhance cancer therapies. Nanomedicine offers advanced targeting and multifunctionality. Nanoparticles (NPs) have several uses nowadays. They have been studied as drug transporters, tumor gene delivery agents, and imaging contrast agents. Nanomaterials based on organic, inorganic, lipid, or glycan substances and synthetic polymers have been used to enhance cancer therapies. This review focuses on polymeric nanoparticle delivery strategies for anticancer nanomedicines.
Silicon Oxycarbide Porous Particles and Film Coating as Strategies for Tenofovir Controlled Release in Vaginal Tablets for HIV Prevention
Authors: Martín-Illana Araceli , Cazorla-Luna Raúl , Notario-Pérez Fernando , Ruiz-Caro Roberto , Rubio Juan , Tamayo Aitana , Veiga María Dolores
Published: July 2022

Sustained release of antiretroviral drugs is currently the most encouraging strategy for the prevention of the sexual transmission of HIV. Vaginal tablets based on hydrophilic gelling polymers are an interesting dosage form for this purpose, since they can be developed to modify the release of the drug depending on the tablet swelling. Tenofovir is a drug with proven activity in the prevention of HIV-1 infection, and it is possible to have it loaded in the surface of γ-aminopropyl trimethoxy silane-functionalized oxycarbide particles. These particles can be incorporated into the tablets, thus providing a sustained release of the drug. Moreover, the presence of the particles modifies the microstructure of the gel formed, as observed in scanning electron microscopy and Hg porosimetry studies, resulting into a gel with a narrow pore size distribution between 10 and 100 µm. This implies a lower volume of fluid incorporated into the gel during swelling studies, and therefore improved mucoadhesion times in ex vivo test. The coating of the formulations with Eudragit® RS modifies the swelling behavior of the tablets, which not only is decreased in magnitude but also extended in time, and as consequence the drug release is also prolonged for up to 7 days.
Influence of the Binder Jetting Process Parameters and Binder Liquid Composition on the Relevant Attributes of 3D-Printed Tablets
Authors: Kreft Klemen , Lavrič Zoran , Stanić Tijana , Perhavec Petra , Dreu Rok
Published: July 2022

Binder jetting has the potential to revolutionize the way we produce medicine. However, tablets produced by binder jetting technology can be quite fragile and hard to handle. In this study, the printing process and ink composition were examined to optimize the mechanical properties of tablets. A model formulation containing the ketoprofen drug was developed and used as a base for optimization. Firstly, important printing parameters were identified with a fractional factorial design. Saturation and layer height critically influenced selected tablet properties. Relevant process parameters were optimized for tablet mechanical strength by using the D-optimization DoE approach. The best mechanical properties were achieved when saturation was set to 1 and layer height to 150 µm. On the other hand, binder ink composition did not appear to impact tablet mechanical strength as much as process parameters did. Three ethanol-water mixtures were tested at three tablet strength levels and no definitive conclusions could be drawn. The binder jetting process can be wasteful, especially if the unbound powder cannot be reused. To determine the suitability of powder blend recycling, the ketoprofen content was measured for 27 subsequent batches of tablets. While the trendline did indicate a slight reduction in ketoprofen content, the powder blend reuse can nevertheless be employed.
Effect of Lipid Composition on the Atheroprotective Properties of HDL-Mimicking Micelles
Authors: Hong Kristen , Yu Minzhi , Crowther Julia , Mei Ling , Olsen Karl , Luo Yonghong , Chen Yuqing Eugene , Guo Yanhong , Schwendeman Anna
Published: July 2022

Atherosclerosis progression is driven by an imbalance of cholesterol and unresolved local inflammation in the arteries. The administration of recombinant apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I)-based high-density lipoprotein (HDL) nanoparticles has been used to reduce the size of atheroma and rescue inflammatory response in clinical studies. Because of the difficulty in producing large quantities of recombinant ApoA-I, here, we describe the preparation of phospholipid-based, ApoA-I-free micelles that structurally and functionally resemble HDL nanoparticles. Micelles were prepared using various phosphatidylcholine (PC) lipids combined with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[azido(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPE-PEG2k) to form nanoparticles of 15–30 nm in diameter. The impacts of PC composition and PEGylation on the anti-inflammatory activity, cholesterol efflux capacity, and cholesterol crystal dissolution potential of micelles were investigated in vitro. The effects of micelle composition on pharmacokinetics and cholesterol mobilization ability were evaluated in vivo in Sprague Dawley rats. The study shows that the composition of HDL-mimicking micelles impacts their overall atheroprotective properties and supports further investigation of micelles as a therapeutic for the treatment of atherosclerosis.