bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Gradients and Vegetation Types Alter the Effects of Leaf Traits on the Dominance of Woody Angiosperm Species
Authors: Zhou Jieyang , Kang Xiaomei , Liu Yanjun , Duan Lijie , Bu Haiyan , Li Weiqin , Zhang Aoran , Li Yanan , Qi Wei
Published: April 2023

Leaf traits can reflect plant photosynthetic capacity, resource utilization strategy and adaptability to the environment. However, whether species’ leaf traits are tightly related to the functioning of their community and how that relationship varies with environmental gradients remain largely unexplored. We measured 6 leaf traits, including petiole fineness (PF), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf area (LA), leaf length–width ratio (LLWR), leaf nitrogen content (LN) and leaf phosphorus content (LP), of 733 populations (415 species) of 19 woody angiosperm communities in the eastern Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau across multiple climatic zones or vegetation types. Through meta-analysis and relative importance analysis, the relationship between leaf traits of species and their community dominance and its change with environments were analyzed. The results showed that species dominance was correlated positively with their LA and LP, suggesting that species with high light interception and resource utilization capacity can easily become dominant species in woody angiosperm communities. Along the altitudinal gradient, the effect of PF and SLA on species dominance increased and changed significantly in their pattern, from positive or nonsignificant in temperate forests to negative in alpine and subalpine shrubs, suggesting that increasing petiole mechanical support and lamina protection cost is a dominant leaf growth strategy in stressful high-altitude environments. Our findings demonstrate that the demand for efficient light acquisition and/or utilization and species adaptability or tolerance to specific environmental stress are key mechanisms by which leaf traits govern community composition and functioning.
Effects of the Larch–Ashtree Mixed Forest on Contents of Secondary Metabolites in Larix olgensis
Authors: Jiang Hong , Yan Shanchun , Meng Zhaojun , Zhao Shen , Jiang Dun , Li Peng
Published: April 2023

To understand the insect resistance mechanism of the larch, Larix olgensis, in a mixed forest, larch (Larix olgensis) seedlings and ashtree (Fraxinus mandshurica) seedlings were planted with mixed banding forests in the proportion of 1:1 (BMF1:1), 3:3 (BMF3:3) and 5:5 (BMF5:5), in pots and in the field. One year later, the content of secondary metabolites in the needles of each larch treatment were tested with an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The results showed that the allelopathic effect of F. mandshuricas (ashtree) on L. olgensis (larch) could increase the content of secondary metabolites in larch needles. It was found that the flavonoid content in the needles of BMF5:5 was higher than that in the needles of BMF1:1 and BMF3:3 (p < 0.05). The tannin content in the needles of FBMF3:3 and FBMF5:5 was significantly higher than that of FBMF1:1, whereas the tannin content in the needles of PBMF3:3 reached 1.27 mg/g, which was the highest (p < 0.05). The lignin content in the needles of FBMF3:3 reached 2.27 mg/g, which was significantly more increased than that in the control group in a dose-dependent manner, while that in the needles of PBMF3:3 and PBMF5:5 was higher than that in the needles of PBMF1:1 (p < 0.05). The tannin and lignin content in the needles of FBMF was higher than that of PBMF. However, there was no difference in the content of flavonoids in the needles of FBMF and PBMF. These results suggest that banding mixed larches and ashtrees can significantly increase the content of secondary metabolites (phenolic compounds) in the needles of L. olgensis and improve its chemical defense, and the allelopathic effect of ashtrees on larches is related to the mixed proportion. Thus, the effect of mixed banding forests in the proportion of 3:3 and 5:5 is better.
Threshold Cryptography-Based Secure Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication in 5G-Enabled Intelligent Transportation Systems
Authors: Weerasinghe Nuwan , Usman Muhammad Arslan , Hewage Chaminda , Pfluegel Eckhard , Politis Christos
Published: April 2023

Implementing 5G-enabled Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) intelligent transportation systems presents a promising opportunity to enhance road safety and traffic flow while facilitating the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) based solutions. Yet, security and privacy concerns pose significant challenges that must be addressed. Therefore, researchers have focused on improving the security and integrity of vehicle data sharing, with a particular emphasis on V2X application layer security and privacy requirements. This is crucial given that V2X networks can consist of vehicles manufactured by different companies and registered in various jurisdictions, which may only be within communication range for a few seconds. Thus, it is necessary to establish a trusting relationship between vehicles quickly. The article proposes a threshold cryptography-based key exchange protocol that meets the key requirements for V2X data sharing and privacy, including the rapid establishment of trust, the maintenance of vehicle anonymity, and the provision of secure messages. To evaluate the feasibility and performance of the proposed protocol, a tailored testbed that leverages the NS-3 network simulator, a commercial 5G network, and public cloud infrastructure is used. Overall, the proposed protocol provides a potential solution for addressing security and privacy concerns in V2X networks, which is essential for successfully implementing and adopting this technology.
Domain Adaptation Speech-to-Text for Low-Resource European Portuguese Using Deep Learning
Authors: Medeiros Eduardo , Corado Leonel , Rato Luís , Quaresma Paulo , Salgueiro Pedro
Published: April 2023

Automatic speech recognition (ASR), commonly known as speech-to-text, is the process of transcribing audio recordings into text, i.e., transforming speech into the respective sequence of words. This paper presents a deep learning ASR system optimization and evaluation for the European Portuguese language. We present a pipeline composed of several stages for data acquisition, analysis, pre-processing, model creation, and evaluation. A transfer learning approach is proposed considering an English language-optimized model as starting point; a target composed of European Portuguese; and the contribution to the transfer process by a source from a different domain consisting of a multiple-variant Portuguese language dataset, essentially composed of Brazilian Portuguese. A domain adaptation was investigated between European Portuguese and mixed (mostly Brazilian) Portuguese. The proposed optimization evaluation used the NVIDIA NeMo framework implementing the QuartzNet15×5 architecture based on 1D time-channel separable convolutions. Following this transfer learning data-centric approach, the model was optimized, achieving a state-of-the-art word error rate (WER) of 0.0503.
Effective Strengthening of RC Beams Using Bamboo-Fibre-Reinforced Polymer: A Finite-Element Analysis
Authors: Siew Jia Ning , Tan Qi Yan , Lim Kar Sing , Gimbun Jolius , Tee Kong Fah , Chin Siew Choo
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a finite-element model of the structural behaviour of reinforced concrete (RC) beams with and without openings externally strengthened with bamboo-fibre-reinforced composite (BFRC) plates. The simulation was performed using ABAQUS Unified FEA 2021HF8 software. The stress–strain relationship of the RC was modelled using a model code for concrete structures, whereas the concrete-damaged plasticity model was used to simulate concrete damage. The predicted crack pattern of the beams was comparable to that from experimental observations. The ultimate load-bearing capacity of RC beams in flexure was predicted with an error of up to 1.50%, while the ultimate load-bearing capacity of RC beams with openings in shear was predicted with an error ranging from 1.89 to 13.43%. The most successful arrangement for strengthening a beam with openings in the shear zone was to place BFRC plates perpendicular to the crack on both sides of the beam’s surface, which increased the beam’s original load-bearing capacity by 110.06% compared to that of the control beam (CB). The most effective method for strengthening RC beams in flexure is to attach a BFRC plate to the entire bottom soffit of the RC beam. This maximises the ultimate load-bearing capacity at the expense of the beam’s ductility.
Fire Retardance Methods and Materials for Phase Change Materials: Performance, Integration Methods, and Applications—A Literature Review
Authors: Diaconu Bogdan , Cruceru Mihai , Anghelescu Lucica
Published: April 2023

Thermal control methods based on phase change materials have a wide range of applications, from thermal management to latent heat storage for renewable energy systems, with intermittent availability. Organic PCMs have some advantages over inorganics; however, their major drawback is flammability. In critical applications, such as buildings, electric vehicles, and aerospace applications, flammability is an issue that must be addressed in order to comply with safety standards. This review paper covers current studies assessing the PCM response to fire or excessive temperature, methods for ensuring flame retardancy, and their impact on the PCMs key characteristics: phase transition temperature range, latent heat, heat transfer rate, and compatibility with other system materials. A special focus is set on the preparation methods and the effectiveness of the flame-retardance achievement method. Some research gaps and further research directions are identified and discussed.
Impact of Milk Storage and Heat Treatments on In Vitro Protein Digestibility of Soft Cheese
Authors: Rinaldi Simona , Di Giovanni Sabrina , Palocci Giuliano , Contò Michela , Steri Roberto , Tripaldi Carmela
Published: April 2023

Cheese is an important source of protein in the human diet, and its digestibility depends on its macro and microstructure. This study investigated the effect of milk heat pre-treatment and pasteurization level on the protein digestibility of produced cheese. An in vitro digestion method was used considering cheeses after 4 and 21 days of storage. The peptide profile and amino acids (AAs) released in digestion were analyzed to evaluate the level of protein degradation following in vitro digestion. The results showed the presence of shorter peptides in the digested cheese from pre-treated milk and 4-day ripening while this trend was not observed after 21 days of storage, showing the effect of storage period. A significantly higher content of AAs was found in digested cheese produced from milk subjected to a higher temperature of pasteurization, and there was a significant increase in total AA content in the cheese after 21 days of storage, confirming the positive effect of ripening on protein digestibility. From these results emerges the importance of the management of heat treatments on the digestion of proteins in soft cheese.
Formulation and Physical Stability of High Total Solids Lentil Protein-Stabilised Emulsions for Use in Plant Protein-Based Young Child Formulae
Authors: Malterre Nicolas , Bot Francesca , O’Mahony James A.
Published: April 2023

The demand for high-quality plant protein products is increasing and the aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of increasing the total solids content on the formation and stability of lentil protein stabilised oil-in-water emulsions. A series of emulsions were formulated using different proportions of total solids: 23, 26, 29, 32, and 35% (w/v). The emulsions were formulated using three ingredients—lentil protein, sunflower oil, and maltodextrin—which made up 15.85, 27.43, and 56.72% (w/w) of the total solids, respectively. The changes in apparent viscosity, particle size distribution, and colour during thermal processing were evaluated, with the physical stability investigated using an analytical centrifuge. The apparent viscosity of the solutions increased with total solids content (25.6 to 130 mPa.s−1), as did redness colour intensity (a* value increased from 5.82 ± 0.12 to 7.70 ± 0.09). Thermal processing resulted in greater destabilisation for higher total solids samples, as evidenced by greater changes in particle size, along with decreased redness colour. These results bring a better understanding of high total solids plant protein emulsions and factors affecting their stability, which could be used for the development of cost-effective and sustainable processing solutions in the production of plant protein young child formulae.
A Review of Ketogenic Dietary Therapies for Epilepsy and Neurological Diseases: A Proposal to Implement an Adapted Model to Include Healthy Mediterranean Products
Authors: Ferraris Cinzia , Guglielmetti Monica , Neri Lenycia , Allehdan Sabika , Mohsin Albasara Jamila , Fareed Alawadhi Hajar , Trentani Claudia , Perna Simone , Tagliabue Anna
Published: April 2023

Based on the growing evidence of the therapeutic role of high-fat ketogenic dietary therapies (KDTs) for neurological diseases and on the protective effect of the Mediterranean diet (MD), it could be important to delineate a Mediterranean version of KDTs in order to maintain a high ketogenic ratio, and thus avoid side effects, especially in patients requiring long-term treatment. This narrative review aims to explore the existing literature on this topic and to elaborate recommendations for a Mediterranean version of the KDTs. It presents practical suggestions based on MD principles, which consist of key elements for the selection of foods (both from quantitative and qualitative prospective), and indications of the relative proportions and consumption frequency of the main food groups that constitute the Mediterranean version of the KDTs. We suggest the adoption of a Mediterranean version of ketogenic diets in order to benefit from the multiple protective effects of the MD. This translates to: (i) a preferential use of olive oil and vegetable fat sources in general; (ii) the limitation of foods rich in saturated fatty acids; (iii) the encouragement of high biological value protein sources; (iv) inserting fruit and vegetables at every meal possible, varying their choices according to seasonality.
Preparation, Multispectroscopic Characterization, and Stability Analysis of Monascus Red Pigments—Whey Protein Isolate Complex
Authors: Lai Huafa , Wang Jiahao , Liao Shengjia , Liu Gang , Wang Liling , He Yi , Gao Chao
Published: April 2023

Monascus red pigments (MRPs) are mainly used as natural food colorants; however, their application is limited due to their poor stability. To expand their areas of application, we investigated the binding constants and capacity of MRPs to whey protein isolate (WPI) and whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) and calculated the surface hydrophobicities of WPI and WPH. MRPs were combined with WPI and WPH at a hydrolysis degree (DH) of 0.5% to form the complexes (DH = 0.0%) and (DH = 0.5%), respectively. Subsequently, the structural characteristics of complex (DH = 0.5%) and WPI were characterized and the color retention rates of both complexes and MRPs were investigated under different pretreatment conditions. The results showed that the maximum binding constant of WPI with MRPs was 0.670 ± 0.06 U−1 and the maximum binding capacity was 180 U/g. Furthermore, the thermal degradation of complex (DH = 0.0%), complex (DH = 0.5%), and MRPs in a water bath at 50–100 °C followed a first-order kinetic model. Thus, the interaction of WPI with MRPs could alter the protein conformation of WPI and effectively protect the stability of MRPs.
Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis by Rumex vesicarius Extract and Its Applicability against Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Elsebaie Essam Mohamed , El-Wakeil Nora Hamdy Mouhamed , Khalil Azhar Mostafa Mohamed , Bahnasy Rasha M. , Asker Galila Ali , El-Hassnin Marwa Fawzy , Ibraheim Suzan S. , El-Farsy Marwa Fawzi Ahmed , Faramawy Asmaa Antar , Essa Rowida Younis , Badr Mohamed Reda
Published: April 2023

The consumption of foods polluted with different foodborne pathogens such as fungus, viruses, and bacteria is considered a serious cause of foodborne disease in both humans and animals. Multidrug-resistant foodborne pathogens (MRFP) cause morbidity, death, and substantial economic loss, as well as prolonged hospitalization. This study reports on the use of aqueous Rumex leaf extract (ARLE) in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (ARLE-AgNPs) with versatile biological activities. The synthesized ARLE-AgNPs had spherical shapes with smooth surfaces and an average hydrodynamic size of 27 nm. ARLE-AgNPs inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli ATCC25721, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC27843, Streptococcus gordonii ATCC49716, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC700813, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC4342. The ARLE-AgNPs were more active against Escherichia coli ATCC25721 than other harmful bacterial strains (26 ± 3 mm). The zone of inhibition for antibacterial activity ranged between 18 ± 3 mm and 26 ± 3 mm in diameter. The nanoparticles’ MIC values varied from 5.19 µg/mL to 61 µg/mL, while their MBC values ranged from 46 µg/mL to 119 µg/mL. The nanoparticles that were created had antioxidant potential. The cytotoxic activity was tested using normal fibroblast cell lines (L-929), and the enhanced IC50 value (764.3 ± 3.9 g/mL) demonstrated good biological compatibility. These nanoparticles could be evolved into new antibacterial compounds for MRFP prevention.
Edible Quality Analysis of Different Areca Nuts: Compositions, Texture Characteristics and Flavor Release Behaviors
Authors: Yang Bowen , Chen Haiming , Chen Weijun , Chen Wenxue , Zhong Qiuping , Zhang Ming , Pei Jianfei
Published: April 2023

The areca nut is one of the most important cash crops in the tropics and has substantial economic value. However, the research information about the edible quality of different areca nuts is still insufficient. This study compared the composition, texture characteristics and flavor release behaviors of four different areca nuts (AN1, AN2, AN3 and AN4) and two commercially dried areca nuts (CAN1 and CAN2). Results showed that AN1 had higher soluble fiber and lower lignin, which was the basis of its lower hardness. Meanwhile, the total soluble solid (TSS) of AN1 was the highest, which indicated that AN1 had a moister and more succulent mouthfeel. After the drying process, the lignification degree of AN1 was the lowest. Through textural analyses, the hardness of AN1 was relatively low compared to the other dried areca nuts. AN1, CAN1 and CAN2 had higher alkaline pectin content and viscosity, and better flavor retention, which indicated better edible quality. The present study revealed the differences of various areca nuts and provided vital information to further advance the study of areca nuts.
Response Surface Optimization of Extraction Conditions for the Active Components with High Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activity and Identification of Key Metabolites from Acer truncatum Seed Oil Residue
Authors: Meng Ruonan , Ou Kaixiang , Chen Ling , Jiao Yu , Jiang Fangjie , Gu Ronghui
Published: April 2023

The State Council of China has called for the comprehensive development and utilization of Acer truncatum resources. However, research on one of its by-products, namely seed oil residue (ASR), from seed oil extraction is seriously insufficient, resulting in a waste of these precious resources. We aimed to optimize the conditions of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using a response surface methodology to obtain high acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory components from ASR and to tentatively identify the active metabolites in ASR using non-targeted metabolomics. Based on the results of the independent variables test, the interaction effects of three key extracting variables, including methanol concentration, ultrasonic time, and material-to-liquid ratio, were further investigated using the Box–Behnken design (BBD) to obtain prior active components with high AChE inhibitory activity. UPLC-QTOF-MS combined with a multivariate method was used to analyze the metabolites in ASR and investigate the causes of activity differences. Based on the current study, the optimal conditions for UAE were as follows: methanol concentration of 85.06%, ultrasonic time of 39.1 min, and material-to-liquid ratio of 1.06:10 (g/mL). Under these optimal conditions, the obtained extracts show strong inhibitions against AChE with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 0.375 to 0.459 µg/mL according to an Ellman’s method evaluation. Furthermore, 55 metabolites were identified from the ASR extracted using methanol in different concentrations, and 9 biomarkers were subsequently identified as potential compounds responsible for the observed AChE inhibition. The active extracts have potential to be used for the development of functional foods with positive effects on Alzheimer’s disease owing to their high AChE inhibition activity. Altogether, this study provides insights into promoting the comprehensive utilization of A. truncatum resources.
Utilization of Dairy By-Products as a Source of Functional and Health Compounds—The Role of Ovine Colostrum and Milk Whey on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Ceniti Carlotta , Ambrosio Rosa Luisa , Bria Jessica , Di Vito Anna , Tilocca Bruno , Anastasio Aniello , Britti Domenico , Morittu Valeria Maria , Chiarella Emanuela
Published: April 2023

Nowadays, the search for food products that promote consumers’ health has gained interest, and dairy by-products, due to their biological quality, could have a prominent position among products with health benefits. However, little is known about their activity on cancer cells. This study aimed to provide evidence about the effect of ovine colostrum and milk whey on K562 cells, a model of the human chronic myeloid leukemia cell line. The exposure of K562 cells to a single administration of sheep by-products at different concentrations for three days and three treatments for three days was carried out. Using a flow cytometric approach, we found that CD235a expression remained stable in the cells exposed to ovine whey (milk and colostrum) at concentrations ranging from 1 ng/mL to 100 μg/mL, after three days from one or three administrations, respectively. A significant reduction in fluorescent cells was observed in the populations exposed to 1 mg/mL of both milk and colostrum at the same time points. In these conditions, the size and granularity of the leukemic cells also changed, with a substantial reduction in the number of actively dividing cells in the S phase of the cell cycle. This phenomenon was highlighted by the Annexin V/PI cytofluorimetric test, which is able to provide quantitative results regarding the population of cells in early or late apoptosis or necrotic cells after exposure to a single dose or three doses of colostrum or sheep whey for three days, respectively. This report showed that both colostrum and milk whey were able to modify the phenotypic profile and cell cycle of the K562 cell line, inducing apoptosis at the highest concentration.
Lentinus edodes Powder Improves the Quality of Wheat Flour Gluten Sticks
Authors: Xie Suya , Li Hongbo , Li Na , Liu Zhenbin , Xu Dan , Hu Liangbin , Mo Haizhen
Published: April 2023

Spicy wheat flour gluten sticks are delicious and affordable puffed snacks for young adults and even minors in China, and have a relatively simple nutritional quality. L. edodes powder (LEP) is rich in nutrients and boasts a variety of biological activities. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrations of LEP addition on the quality of wheat flour gluten sticks. The gelatinization results of the products showed that the peak viscosity decreased from 454 cP to 251 cP; the breakdown value decreased from 169 cP to 96 cP; and the setback value decreased from 381 cP to 211 cP. With the increase in LEP, the radial expansion rate (RER) of L. edodes gluten sticks (LSGS) first increased and then decreased, reaching a maximum value of 1.388 in the 10% LEP group. The oil absorption rate (OAR) of LSGS increased from 5.124% to 14.852% with the increase in the amount of LEP. Additionally, texture profile analysis showed that the hardness value increased from 1148.898 to 2055.492 g; the chewiness value increased from 1010.393 to 1499.233; and the springiness value decreased from 1.055 to 0.612. Through X-ray diffraction (XRD), it was found that the crystal type was transformed from A-type crystal to B-type and V-type crystals. Low field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) results showed that the moisture distribution in the products was basically bound water. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that, with the increase in the LEP amount, the surface of the products changed from rough to smooth. Sensory evaluation results indicated that the products with 10% LEP helped to maintain better taste and quality of LSGS, with an average score of 7.628, which was the most popular among consumers. This study not only increases the possible raw materials for use in extruded puffed food, but also provides a new possibility for the production of high-quality edible fungi extruded products.
Comparative Study on Hydrolysis, Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties in Simulated Digestion System between Cooked Pork and Fish Meat
Authors: Chen Yuhan , Jing Hanzhi , Xiong Shanbai , Manyande Anne , Du Hongying
Published: April 2023

Pork and grass carp are commonly consumed animal protein sources, classified as red meat and white meat, respectively. This study aimed to better understand the differences in digestive behavior, nutrition, and functionality during digestion between these two types of meat after fat removal. The results showed that grass carp was more easily digested than pork, with a higher degree of hydrolysis, a smaller protein particle size, and a greater release of oligopeptides and amino acids (p < 0.05). During gastric digestion, all α-helix structures were destroyed, and the effect of the whole digestion process on the secondary and tertiary structure of pork protein was greater than that of grass carp. The antioxidant properties of the digestive fluids from the two types of meat showed different strengths in various assays, but the correlation analysis revealed that TCA-soluble peptides, random coil content, and particle size significantly influenced both types of meat. These findings provide new insights into the structural state and antioxidant properties of protein in meat digestion, which contribute to our understanding of the nutritional value of pork and grass carp.
Health Risk Exposure Assessment of Migration of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate and Perfluorooctanoic Acid from Paper and Cardboard in Contact with Food under Temperature Variations
Authors: You Shu-Han , Yu Chun-Chieh
Published: April 2023

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are extensively used in food-contact paper and cardboard. However, they may migrate from food-contact materials to food, and the migration rate may be increased at elevated temperatures. In addition, there is a positive association of PFOS/PFOA levels with total cholesterol. Therefore, this study aims to assess the human health risk of increased total cholesterol associated with long-term exposure to PFOS and PFOA migration from food-contact paper and cardboard under temperature variation scenarios in adults. An exposure assessment was performed using an uptake dose model to estimate the uptake doses of PFOS and PFOA for the high-, intermediate-, and low-exposure scenarios. Benchmark dose (BMD) modeling was conducted to describe the dose–response relationships between PFOS/PFOA and total cholesterol levels. Finally, a margin of exposure (MOE) approach was used to characterize the risk. The results of the exposure assessment showed that PFOS and PFOA uptake doses in the high-exposure scenarios were around one and two orders of magnitude greater than those in the intermediate- and low-exposure scenarios, respectively. Under high-exposure scenarios, the uptake levels of hundredth-percentile PFOS and PFOA at high temperatures may raise health concerns (MOE < 1). This study provides a methodology to assess the health risks associated with exposure to migration of food contaminants from various types of paper and cardboard that come into contact with food.
Production of Sensorily Acceptable Pasta Filata Cheese with Partial Substitution of Sheep’s Milk Powder in Different Forms
Authors: Biegalski Jakub , Cais-Sokolińska Dorota
Published: April 2023

The presented study analyzed the possibility of pasta filata cheese production using sheep’s milk powder in different forms and substitution amounts with fresh cow’s milk. For the production of the pasta filata cheeses that were analyzed in the research, sheep’s milk powder and reconstituted sheep’s milk were used for partial substitution with fresh cow’s milk in the amount of approx. 20, 30 and 40 percent (v/v). The obtained results showed that the more sheep’s milk in the form of powder in the mixture, the lower the cheese’s moisture content. The fat and protein content in the whey after the production of cheeses from mixtures was lower than after the production of cheeses from reconstituted sheep’s milk only. Cheeses produced entirely from reconstituted sheep’s milk displayed the highest fat loss. The greatest cheese yield was observed for cheeses from mixtures with sheep’s milk powder and entirely from reconstituted sheep’s milk. Pasta filata cheeses made from a mixture of cow’s milk and sheep’s milk powder that was not reconstituted were much less acceptable to consumers than reconstituted milk powder cheeses, especially those with 40% and 30% added powder. Sensory profile analysis showed that the addition of sheep’s milk to the mixture, regardless of the form, affected the appearance, consistency, and flavor of the produced pasta filata cheeses. Mixing cow’s milk with sheep’s milk powder created the possibility of modeling the final cheese quality and yield.
Facile Enhancement of Electrochemical Performance of Solid-State Supercapacitor via Atmospheric Plasma Treatment on PVA-Based Gel-Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyun , Jekal Suk , Kim Chan-Gyo , Chu Yeon-Ryong , Noh Jungchul , Kim Min Sang , Lee Neunghi , Song Woo-Jin , Yoon Chang-Min
Published: April 2023

A facile oxygen (O2) atmospheric plasma treatment is applied to a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix to enhance its wettability and hydrophilicity. The optimal plasma treatment conditions are determined by varying the applied plasma power and plasma treatment time. A PVA matrix treated with a plasma power of 120 W for 5 s shows the most hydrophilicity owing to successful formation of carbonyl (–CO, >C=O) functional groups without any structural degradation. The plasma-treated PVA matrix is used as the gel-polymer electrolyte of a solid-state supercapacitor (SSC) by immersing solid matrix into various liquid electrolytes, such as sodium sulfate (Na2SO4), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and potassium hydroxide (KOH). Compared with the pristine PVA-based device, PVA-120W5/Na2SO4-, PVA-120W5/H2SO4-, and PVA-120W5/KOH-based SSCs show 2.03, 2.05, and 2.14 times higher specific capacitances, respectively. The plasma-treated PVA matrix shows increased specific capacitance owing to the increased wettability, which in turn increases the ion transportation and reduces the electrical resistance. This study successfully demonstrates that the electrochemical performance of a SSC can be readily enhanced through plasma treatment for a short time (≤5 s).
Emulsion Electrospinning of PLLA/PVA/Chitosan with Hypericum perforatum L. as an Antibacterial Nanofibrous Wound Dressing
Authors: Mouro Cláudia , Gomes Ana P. , Gouveia Isabel C.
Published: April 2023

Chronic wounds are one of the most severe health problems that affect millions of people worldwide. These types of injuries impair healing and lead to life-threatening complications. Therefore, suitable wound dressing materials are essential to prevent the risk of infection and to provide an excellent healing environment. The present research reports the development of an electrospun Poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA)/Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/Chitosan (CS) wound dressing material, produced via emulsion electrospinning in a single step using homogeneous gel-like suspensions of two different and incompatible polymer solutions. The electrospun PLLA/PVA/CS fiber mats were loaded with two different amounts of Hypericum perforatum L. (HP) (2.5% and 5.0% owf). The results revealed that the produced electrospun PLLA/PVA/CS fiber mats displayed ideal properties as a wound dressing due to a total porosity, wettability, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and swelling properties similar to those reported for the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the skin, mainly when 2.5% owf HP was incorporated. Moreover, the electrospun PLLA/PVA/CS fiber mats containing HP were able to prevent the growth of gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) without causing cytotoxicity to normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF). These findings suggest that these electrospun dressing mats are helpful for preventing wound infections as well as an appropriate support and microenvironment for wound healing.
Prognostic Values of Gene Copy Number Alterations in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Alfahed Abdulaziz , Ebili Henry Okuchukwu , Almoammar Nasser Eissa , Alasiri Glowi , AlKhamees Osama A. , Aldali Jehad A. , Al Othaim Ayoub , Hakami Zaki H. , Abdulwahed Abdulhadi M. , Waggiallah Hisham Ali
Published: April 2023

Whilst risk prediction for individual prostate cancer (PCa) cases is of a high priority, the current risk stratification indices for PCa management have severe limitations. This study aimed to identify gene copy number alterations (CNAs) with prognostic values and to determine if any combination of gene CNAs could have risk stratification potentials. Clinical and genomic data of 500 PCa cases from the Cancer Genome Atlas stable were retrieved from the Genomic Data Commons and cBioPortal databases. The CNA statuses of a total of 52 genetic markers, including 21 novel markers and 31 previously identified potential prognostic markers, were tested for prognostic significance. The CNA statuses of a total of 51/52 genetic markers were significantly associated with advanced disease at an odds ratio threshold of ≥1.5 or ≤0.667. Moreover, a Kaplan–Meier test identified 27/52 marker CNAs which correlated with disease progression. A Cox Regression analysis showed that the amplification of MIR602 and deletions of MIR602, ZNF267, MROH1, PARP8, and HCN1 correlated with a progression-free survival independent of the disease stage and Gleason prognostic group grade. Furthermore, a binary logistic regression analysis identified twenty-two panels of markers with risk stratification potentials. The best model of 7/52 genetic CNAs, which included the SPOP alteration, SPP1 alteration, CCND1 amplification, PTEN deletion, CDKN1B deletion, PARP8 deletion, and NKX3.1 deletion, stratified the PCa cases into a localised and advanced disease with an accuracy of 70.0%, sensitivity of 85.4%, specificity of 44.9%, positive predictive value of 71.67%, and negative predictive value of 65.35%. This study validated prognostic gene level CNAs identified in previous studies, as well as identified new genetic markers with CNAs that could potentially impact risk stratification in PCa.
The Contributions of Marine Sediment Cores to Volcanic Hazard Assessments: Present Examples and Future Perspectives
Authors: Satow Chris , Watt Sebastian , Cassidy Mike , Pyle David , Deng Yuqiao Natalie
Published: April 2023

The rigorous assessment of volcanic hazards relies on setting contemporary monitoring observations within an accurate, longer-term geological context. Revealing that geological context requires the detailed fieldwork, mapping and laboratory analysis of the erupted materials. However, many of the world’s most dangerous volcanic systems are located on or near coasts (e.g., the Phlegraean Fields and Vesuvius in Italy), islands (e.g., the volcanic archipelagos of the Pacific, south-east Asia, and Eastern Caribbean), or underwater (e.g., the recently erupting Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcano), meaning that much of their erupted material is deposited on the sea bed. The only way to sample this material directly is with seafloor sediment cores. This perspectives paper outlines how marine sediment cores are a vital yet underused resource for assessing volcanic hazards by: (1) outlining the spatio-temporal scope of the marine volcanic record and its main deposit types, (2) providing existing examples where marine sediments have contributed to volcanic hazard assessments; (3) highlighting the Sunda Arc, Indonesia as an example location where marine sediment cores are yet to contribute to hazard assessments, and (4) proposing that marine sediment cores can contribute to our understanding of very large eruptions that have a global impact. Overall, this perspectives paper aims to promote the utility of marine sediment cores in future volcanic hazard assessments, while also providing some basic information to assist researchers who are considering integrating marine sediment cores into their volcanological research.
Variation in Implementing Dementia-Friendly Community Initiatives: Advancing Theory for Social Change
Authors: Scher Clara J. , Greenfield Emily A.
Published: April 2023

Dementia-friendly communities (DFC) have emerged as a global movement to make communities more supportive and inclusive of people living with dementia (PLWD) and their care partners. This study contributes to a nascent body of research on DFC initiatives by building theory on their local implementation. Based on an analysis of data from semi-structured interviews with 23 leaders of initiatives in Massachusetts (United States), we aimed to identify key dimensions of variation in the implementation of DFC initiatives. We found that all initiatives engaged in a common set of activities, such as the facilitation of training about dementia and improving services for PLWD. Although initiatives mostly engaged in these activities in ways that targeted the community at large, in some instances, they concentrated their efforts on enhancing the dementia-friendliness of their own organizations. We describe ways in which financial, social, and human capital operate as key factors that influence the initiatives’ primary focus (i.e., the community at large or their own organization). Our findings suggest the importance of helping DFC initiative leaders more explicitly specify the focal ecological level of their efforts throughout the trajectory of their work, especially in the context of resource considerations. Results also indicate ways in which DFC initiative efforts at one systems level can support those at other levels over time.
Task Shifting and Task Sharing Implementation in Africa: A Scoping Review on Rationale and Scope
Authors: Okoroafor Sunny C. , Christmals Christmal Dela
Published: April 2023

Numerous studies have reported task shifting and task sharing due to various reasons and with varied scopes of health services, either task-shifted or -shared. However, very few studies have mapped the evidence on task shifting and task sharing. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize evidence on the rationale and scope of task shifting and task sharing in Africa. We identified peer-reviewed papers from PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL bibliographic databases. Studies that met the eligibility criteria were charted to document data on the rationale for task shifting and task sharing, and the scope of tasks shifted or shared in Africa. The charted data were thematically analyzed. Sixty-one studies met the eligibility criteria, with fifty-three providing insights on the rationale and scope of task shifting and task sharing, and seven on the scope and one on rationale, respectively. The rationales for task shifting and task sharing were health worker shortages, to optimally utilize existing health workers, and to expand access to health services. The scope of health services shifted or shared in 23 countries were HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hypertension, diabetes, mental health, eyecare, maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health, surgical care, medicines’ management, and emergency care. Task shifting and task sharing are widely implemented in Africa across various health services contexts towards ensuring access to health services.
Perceptions of the Sense of Security, Belonging, and Acculturative Stress among International Students in China during COVID-19 Outbreak—An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Liu Aijun , Sheng Xiao , Pato Innocensia Dickson , Mutinda Gladys , Wu Yanping
Published: April 2023

Understanding the cross-cultural adaptation of students studying in foreign countries by exploring acculturative stress factors is crucial to ensure the smooth academic performance of the students and, in turn, to enhance the global reputation of their universities. Therefore, it is an area of interest for the authorities (Ministry) and the corresponding management of universities. Using a random sample of 138 international students in China, descriptive and logistic regressions were conducted to assess the levels and influence of acculturative stress factors on cross-cultural adaptation, specifically on international students’ sense of security and belonging during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The results revealed that students were most concerned about homesickness, which obtained the highest mean score. The regression results indicated that the perception of fear and discrimination significantly impacted international students’ sense of security. The perception of fear, guilt, and how long the student stayed in China also significantly affected the sense of belonging. We argue that the reflections provided herein are essential for universities to improve how they manage and handle international students to mitigate the effects of acculturative stress, particularly when additional stressful conditions are present, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Artificial Intelligence Based COVID-19 Detection and Classification Model on Chest X-ray Images
Authors: Althaqafi Turki , AL-Ghamdi Abdullah S. AL-Malaise , Ragab Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

Diagnostic and predictive models of disease have been growing rapidly due to developments in the field of healthcare. Accurate and early diagnosis of COVID-19 is an underlying process for controlling the spread of this deadly disease and its death rates. The chest radiology (CT) scan is an effective device for the diagnosis and earlier management of COVID-19, meanwhile, the virus mainly targets the respiratory system. Chest X-ray (CXR) images are extremely helpful in the effective diagnosis of COVID-19 due to their rapid outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and availability. Although the radiological image-based diagnosis method seems faster and accomplishes a better recognition rate in the early phase of the epidemic, it requires healthcare experts to interpret the images. Thus, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, such as the deep learning (DL) model, play an integral part in developing automated diagnosis process using CXR images. Therefore, this study designs a sine cosine optimization with DL-based disease detection and classification (SCODL-DDC) for COVID-19 on CXR images. The proposed SCODL-DDC technique examines the CXR images to identify and classify the occurrence of COVID-19. In particular, the SCODL-DDC technique uses the EfficientNet model for feature vector generation, and its hyperparameters can be adjusted by the SCO algorithm. Furthermore, the quantum neural network (QNN) model can be employed for an accurate COVID-19 classification process. Finally, the equilibrium optimizer (EO) is exploited for optimum parameter selection of the QNN model, showing the novelty of the work. The experimental results of the SCODL-DDC method exhibit the superior performance of the SCODL-DDC technique over other approaches.
Osteo-NeT: An Automated System for Predicting Knee Osteoarthritis from X-ray Images Using Transfer-Learning-Based Neural Networks Approach
Authors: Alshamrani Hassan A. , Rashid Mamoon , Alshamrani Sultan S. , Alshehri Ali H. D.
Published: April 2023

Knee osteoarthritis is a challenging problem affecting many adults around the world. There are currently no medications that cure knee osteoarthritis. The only way to control the progression of knee osteoarthritis is early detection. Currently, X-ray imaging is a central technique used for the prediction of osteoarthritis. However, the manual X-ray technique is prone to errors due to the lack of expertise of radiologists. Recent studies have described the use of automated systems based on machine learning for the effective prediction of osteoarthritis from X-ray images. However, most of these techniques still need to achieve higher predictive accuracy to detect osteoarthritis at an early stage. This paper suggests a method with higher predictive accuracy that can be employed in the real world for the early detection of knee osteoarthritis. In this paper, we suggest the use of transfer learning models based on sequential convolutional neural networks (CNNs), Visual Geometry Group 16 (VGG-16), and Residual Neural Network 50 (ResNet-50) for the early detection of osteoarthritis from knee X-ray images. In our analysis, we found that all the suggested models achieved a higher level of predictive accuracy, greater than 90%, in detecting osteoarthritis. However, the best-performing model was the pretrained VGG-16 model, which achieved a training accuracy of 99% and a testing accuracy of 92%.
Does Public Health Emergency Experience Have an Impact on Individual Reactions during COVID-19?
Authors: Zhang Chenggang , Ou Pengrui , Guo Pengfei
Published: April 2023

Local historical experience in public health emergencies has been perceived to largely affect COVID-19’s social influence. Specifically, individuals’ personal experience in public health emergencies would likely have an impact on their reactions to the next similar event. Herein, we combined life course and risk analysis frameworks to explore how individuals’ experiences influence current risk perception and protective behaviors. We collected 1000 questionnaires of random network samples in six Chinese provinces of different risk levels from 29 April to 8 May 2020, and used the propensity score matching (PSM) model and multivariable linear regression to process the data. We categorized individual public emergency experience into three patterns: (1) having ever witnessed a public health emergency, (2) having ever experienced a public health emergency, and (3) currently experiencing a public health emergency. The study indicates that individuals’ experiences had significant positive effects on protective behaviors against COVID-19. The average effects of the three patterns on behaviors were 0.371 (p < 0.001), 0.898 (p < 0.001) and 0.319 (p < 0.05), respectively. The study also shows that for those experiencing any one pattern, the effect of risk perception on protective behaviors appeared null in the early stage of the pandemic. We propose the potential interactive mechanism of risk factors in the life course at the individual level. Academically, this study develops the risk theory of perception and behavior and expands the application of the life course approach in the public health arena. Practically, our research indicates that public health emergency experiences are valuable for responding to a future pandemic and normalizing prevention policies.