bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geological Structure Features of Carbonate Formations and Their Impact on the Efficiency of Developing Hydrocarbon Deposits
Authors: Grishchenko Vadim Aleksandrovich , Mukhametshin Vyacheslav Sharifullovich , Rabaev Ruslan Uralovich
Published: November 2022

The development of deposits with a complex geological structures is often accompanied by a set of problems associated with optimal decision making. The efficiency of the entire development system depends on the completeness and the quality of the analysis of reservoir parameters. This paper presents methodological approaches for the study of carbonate deposits, and the development of further steps to increase the efficiency of reserve recovery. The secondary transformation of reservoir rocks, resulting in channels of increased conductivity, cracks, and caverns, plays a special role in the nature of the recovery of hydrocarbon reserves from such deposits. Secondary cavernosity leads to violations of the linear laws of fluid filtration in a porous medium, and complicates the field performance prediction based on geological and hydrodynamic modeling. The studied geological structure was detailed using the example of carbonate deposits composed of oil and water- saturated formations, taking into account the results of core studies and the interpretation of geophysical well studies. Furthermore, the parameters of production wells made it possible to confirm that the oil saturated and underlying water saturated formations have hydrodynamic connectivity due to the presence of vertical micro cracks. At the same time, the thickness of the bridge between the reservoirs directly affects the initial water cutting of well production, and further growth dynamics of the water ratio are associated with the structural factors determining the initial oil content of the reservoir. The combination of the obtained dependencies and the distribution model of the reservoir properties along the area made it possible to build a complex map reflecting the predicted development efficiency in certain areas. The integration of the results of various field studies on the injection well stock established that a significant part of the water flows was injected into the water saturated formation, which reduces the efficiency of formation pressure maintenance in the target formation. As a result, in order to reduce the low efficiency injection volume, switching to a more rigid waterflooding system, in terms of the ratio of production and injection wells, is proposed with a further decrease in the injection pressure inside the wells.
Dynamic 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine Change: Implication for Aging of Non-Human Primate Brain
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Li Xiao-Jiang , Lin Li
Published: November 2022

Profiling of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) in the brain regions of rhesus monkey at different ages reveals accumulation and tissue-specific patterns of 5hmC with aging. Region-specific differentially hydroxymethylated regions (DhMRs) are involved in neuronal functions and signal transduction. These data suggest that 5hmC may be a key regulator of gene transcription in neurodevelopment and thus a potential candidate for the epigenetic clock. Importantly, non-human primates are the ideal animal models for investigation of human aging and diseases not only because they are more genetically similar to humans but also epigenetically.
Spatial-Coherent Dynamics and Climatic Signals in the Radial Growth of Siberian Stone Pine (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) in Subalpine Stands along the Western Sayan Mountains
Authors: Zhirnova Dina F. , Belokopytova Liliana V. , Krutovsky Konstantin V. , Kholdaenko Yulia A. , Babushkina Elena A. , Vaganov Eugene A.
Published: November 2022

Siberian stone pine (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) is one of the keystone conifers in Siberian taiga, but its radial growth is complacent and thus rarely investigated. We studied its growth in subalpine stands near the upper timberline along the Western Sayan Mountains, Southern Siberia, because climatic responses of trees growing on the boundaries of species distribution help us better understand their performance and prospects under climate change. We performed dendroclimatic analysis for six tree-ring width chronologies with significant between-site correlations at distances up to 270 km (r = 0.57–0.84, p < 0.05). We used ERA-20C (European Reanalysis of the Twentieth Century) daily climatic series to reveal weak but spatially coherent responses of tree growth to temperature and precipitation. Temperature stably stimulated growth during the period from the previous July–August to current August, except for an adverse effect in April. Precipitation suppressed growth during periods from the previous July–September to December (with reaction gradually strengthening) and from the current April to August (weakening), while the snowfall impact in January–March was neutral or positive. Weather extremes probably caused formation of wide tree rings in 1968 and 2002, but narrow rings in 1938, 1947, 1967, 1988, and 1997. A subtle increase in the climatic sensitivity of mature trees was observed for all significant seasonal climatic variables except for the temperature in the previous October–January. The current winter warming trend is supposedly advantageous for young pine trees based on their climatic response and observed elevational advance.
Mechanical Property Prediction of Larix gmelinii Wood Based on Vis-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Chunxu , Li Yaoxiang , Zhao Yanzheng , Zhang Zheyu , Wang Zichun
Published: November 2022

Larix gmelinii is the major tree species in Northeast China. The wood properties of different Larix gmelinii are quite different and under strong genetic controls, so it can be better improved through oriented breeding. In order to detect the longitudinal compressive strength (LCS), modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) in real-time, fast and non-destructively, a prediction model of wood mechanical properties with high precision and stability is constructed based on visible-near-infrared spectroscopy (Vis-NIRS) technology. The featured wavelengths were selected with the algorithms of competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), successive projection algorithm (SPA), uninformative variable elimination (UVE), synergy interval partial least squares (SiPLS) and their combinations. The prediction models were then developed based on the partial least square regression (PLSR). The predictive ability of models was evaluated with coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE). It indicated that CARS performed the best among the four methods examined in terms of wavelength-variable selection. The combined featured wavelength selecting method of SiPLS-CARS showed better performance than the single wavelength selection method. The optimal models of LCS, MOR and MOE are the SiPLS-CARS-PLSR model, with the R2 of the calibration set and the validation set are both greater than 0.99, and RMSE the smallest. The NIR optimal models for wood mechanical properties predictions has high predictive accuracy and good robustness.
Relationships between the Visual Quality and Color Patterns: Study in Peri-Urban Forests Dominated by Cotinus coggygria var. cinerea Engl. in Autumn in Beijing, China
Authors: Cao Yujuan , Li Yanming , Li Xinyu , Wang Xing , Dai Ziyun , Duan Minjie , Xu Rui , Zhao Songting , Liu Xiuping , Li Jiale , Xie Junfei
Published: November 2022

The spatial pattern of color patches plays a crucial role in affecting the visual quality of peri-urban forests dominated by Cotinus coggygria var. cinerea Engl. in autumn. The impact mechanism has been studied to facilitate algorithm-based automatic visual quality estimation. The color patterns of 120 photographs were calculated after color quantization and automatic color substitution. The scenic beauty of the forest was estimated by 698 respondents. Multiple correlations between visual quality and color pattern metrics were explored with stepwise regression. Principal component analysis (PCA) was also employed to investigate the impact mechanism of color patterns on visual quality. Number of patches (NP), largest patch index (LPI), mean patch area (AREA_MN), patch size standard deviation (AREA_SD), and Shannon’s evenness index (SHEI) were the main factors affecting the visual quality of the Cotinus coggygria forest. AREA_MN correlated positively with visual quality, while NP, LPI, AREA_SD, and SHEI correlated negatively. Moreover, AREA_SD had the most significant impact on the visual quality of the landscape, while SHEI, LPI, and AREA_MN had the second-highest impact. The evenness and the size of color patches significantly affected the visual quality of the forest landscapes. Balancing the diversity and evenness of color patches plays a decisive role in creating a forest landscape with high visual quality.
Species Composition and Diversity of Middle-Aged Trees among Different Urban Green Space Types and Tree Age Classes in Changchun, Northeast China
Authors: Yang Yibo , Sheng Xuewen , Zhai Chang , Wang Zihan , Wu Junjie , Zhang Dan
Published: November 2022

Middle-aged trees refer to trees aged between 50 and 99 years, which are the reserve resources of old trees (trees ≥ 100 years of age). They are vital parts of the urban ecosystem, with important ecological, landscape, cultural, and historical value. Conservation of middle-aged trees in urban areas is important for the development of large old trees in the future. In this study, we investigated the middle-aged trees in Changchun city and analyzed the species composition and diversity characteristics of different urban green space types and tree age classes. The results showed that there were 72 species and 22,376 plants of middle-aged trees in Changchun city, and the coniferous species prevailed. The top five species with a high importance value (IV) were Pinus tabuliformis var. mukdensis, Lavix olgensis, Salix matsudana, Ulmus pumila, and Abies holophylla. Green space type and tree age were important factors influencing the richness and diversity of middle-aged trees. Tree growth spaces were relatively sufficient, and land use was stable for park green spaces (PGS) and attached green spaces (AGS), which resulted in the abundant, richer, and diverse species richness (SR) of middle-aged trees. Road green spaces (RGS) and square green spaces (SGS) had fewer trees and lower species richness, Margalef richness index (dMa), Shannon–Wiener index (He) and evenness index (Je) which could be attributed to the high intensity of human interference and poor environmental quality. The SR of middle-aged trees decreased with an increase in age class, and the values of SR in Age Class 80–89 years and Age Class 90–99 years were lower than in Age Class 50–59 years. Age Class 70–79 years had the lowest values of dMa, He, and Je, which need to be protected urgently. The results of this study can provide a basis for the conservation and management of middle-aged trees in urban areas and the choice of species for urban greening.
Attention and Emotion Recovery Effects of Urban Parks during COVID-19—Psychological Symptoms as Moderators
Authors: Jin Ziliang , Wang Jiangping , Liu Xu
Published: November 2022

Previous research that compared the restorative effects of natural settings with poor-quality urban settings may have exaggerated the restorative benefits of greenspace. Few studies have been conducted to examine the restorative benefits of green streets and other types of park landscapes on attention and emotion. In addition, it is not clear how negative psychological symptoms (e.g., stress, depression) affect natural’s restorative benefits, especially as the current COVID-19 pandemic has added to people’s psychological burden. In this study, 125 participants were randomly assigned to view one of five videos (green street, lawn, plaza, forest, waterside) for a break after completing an emotion and attention fatigue induction task. Attention function and emotion were measured using the backward digit span test and the Self-Assessment Manikin scale. Stress and depressive symptoms experienced over the last month were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale(PSS-10) and the Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ-9). Our results indicate that the four park settings showed significant attention function recovery and valence improvement compared to the green streets, while subjects’ arousal changed only over time. Hardscapes (plazas) could provide the same attentional and emotional restorative benefits as natural landscapes (forests, watersides, lawns). In addition, we also found that the mood-improving benefits of natural environments may decrease with increasing depressive symptoms, although chronic stress symptoms did not show the same trend.
Postural Assessment of Three Wood Measurement Options by the OWAS Method: Digital Solutions Seem to Be Better
Authors: Borz Stelian Alexandru , Papandrea Salvatore F. , Marcu Marina Viorela , Bacenetti Jacopo , Proto Andrea R.
Published: November 2022

Ergonomic assessment and validation are important in designing sustainable forest operations. Measurement and grading play a central role in the wood supply chain and updated solutions have started to emerge for such activities. Procuring biometric data by mobile scanning platforms has been shown to have a high potential in replacing traditional wood measurement methods, but no assessments were carried out to see if these solutions are sustainable from an ergonomics point of view. Based on more than 63 k still images, this study evaluates the working postures of three measurement options, namely, traditional measurement, scanning by a smartphone, and scanning by a commercial laser scanner. The OWAS method was used as an assessment framework to compute the postural risk indexes. A correspondence analysis was implemented to explore the association between the studied work tasks and severity of exposure, and the postural similarity of tasks was evaluated by the Canberra metric. The use of digital measurement solutions seems to be better from a postural point of view since their risk indexes were well below 200. In contrast, traditional wood measurement tasks produced postural risk indexes that were close to 250. By considering the body components, digital measurement solutions seemed to indicate a distinct postural profile. Moreover, the digital solutions stood well apart in the range of the first two action categories, indicating no urgent need for postural improvement, which was not the case for manual measurements. The main conclusion of the study is that state-of-the-art digital solutions are better from a postural point of view. For full validation, population-level studies should be carried out.
Development of Non-Dairy Synbiotic Fruit Beverage Using Adansonia digatata (baobab) Fruit Pulp as Prebiotic
Authors: Fowoyo Patience T. , Ogunbanwo Samuel T. , Popoola Oluwatoyosi O. , Adeniji Paulina O.
Published: November 2022

Probiotics improve gut health; however, their intake through diet is mainly in the form of dairy products, which represents a challenge to lactose-intolerant individuals and vegetarians. This study aimed to determine the prebiotic potential of baobab and to evaluate the potential of using fermented baobab-based beverages as functional foods. The prebiotic content of baobab fruit pulp was determined. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from raw milk samples, identified through phenotypic and molecular methods, and evaluated for their probiotic potential. Three potential non-dairy synbiotic functional beverages using baobab fruit pulp fermented with potential probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum and mixed with milk, water, and apple juice separately were produced. The growth and survival of probiotic L. fermentum in the beverages at room (25 °C) and refrigeration (4 °C) temperatures for 3 weeks were determined. Baobab fruit pulp contained phytochemicals, vitamins, fatty acids, inulin, and fructooligosaccharides. Sequence alignment of the LAB isolates identified homologous sequences of Lacticaseibacillus casei, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lentilactobacillus buchneri, and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus with 97.2–98.5% similarity. All the lactic acid bacteria did not produce DNAse and gelatinase enzymes, exhibited antagonistic activity against test pathogenic organisms, and demonstrated tolerance to bile salt, simulated gastric juice, and acid. The viability of L. fermentum increased from an initial inoculum size of 106–108 CFU/mL in the baobab-based beverages and remained constant at 108 CFU/mL both at room and refrigeration temperatures. However, after three weeks, the viability of L. fermentum in the synbiotic beverages reduced to 107 CFU/mL. Refrigerated synbiotic beverages had more viable L. fermentum cells (8.04–8log10 CFU/mL) than those stored at room temperatures (7.95–7.7log10 CFU/mL) after three weeks of storage. This study has shown that baobab fruit pulp has prebiotic potential and can be used in the production of a non-dairy functional beverage.
Production of the Food Enzyme Acetolactate Decarboxylase (ALDC) from Bacillus subtilis ICA 56 Using Agro-Industrial Residues as Feedstock
Authors: Oliveira Ravena Casemiro , Maciel Vania Maria Melo , Hissa Denise Cavalcante , França Ítalo Waldimiro , Gonçalves Luciana Rocha Barros
Published: November 2022

During the beer brewing process, some compounds are formed in the primary fermentation step and may affect the final quality of beer. These compounds, called off flavors, such as diacetyl, are produced during fermentation and are related to a buttery taste. The use of acetolactate decarboxylase (ALDC) in the traditional beer brewing process may significantly increase productivity since it allows for a faster decrease in the adverse flavor caused by diacetyl. However, production costs directly impact its application. For this reason, we analyzed the effect of different cultivation media on ALDC production by Bacillus subtilis ICA 56 and process economics. Different carbon and nitrogen sources, including agro-industrial residues, were evaluated. The best result was obtained using sugarcane molasses and corn steep solids (CSS), allowing a 74% reduction in ALDC production cost and an enzyme activity of 4.43 ± 0.12 U·mL−1. The enzymatic extract was then characterized, showing an optimum temperature at 40 °C and stability at different pH levels, being able to maintain more than 80% of its catalytic capacity between pH values of 3.6 and 7.0, with higher enzymatic activity at pH 6.0 (50 mM MES Buffer), reaching an ALDC activity of 5.30 ± 0.06 U·mL−1.
Effects of Fermentation on the Physicochemical Properties and Aroma of Lamb Liver Paste
Authors: Liu Ting , Zhang Taiwu , Yang Lirong , Zhang Yanni , Kang Letian , Yang Le , Zhai Yujia , Jin Ye , Zhao Lihua , Duan Yan
Published: November 2022

The probiotic fermentation of lamb liver paste is a new method with which to utilize sheep by-products and address the issue of waste. In this study, a pH meter, chromaticity meter, texture analyzer, and gas chromatograph–mass spectrometer (GC–MS) were used to determine various indicators. The objective was to investigate the effect of fermentation on the physical properties and aroma of lamb liver paste. The results showed that the L* (brightness), a* (redness), and b* (yellowness) of the samples were significantly higher in the starter fermentation group than in the other two groups after storage for 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days (p < 0.05). In addition, cohesiveness, adhesion, and chewiness were lower in the starter fermentation group after 7 days (p < 0.05). TVB-N and fat were lower in the starter fermentation group compared to the sterilization group at 28 days. pH was significantly lower in the starter fermentation group at the beginning of storage, and lactic acid bacteria numbers were significantly higher than in the sterilization groups (p < 0.05). Important aroma compounds, such as 2-undecenal, 1-octen-3-ol, and anethole, were significantly higher in the starter fermentation group than in the sterilization group (p < 0.05). Fermented lamb liver paste is a new by-product that exhibits a high degree of freshness and a low degree of fat oxidation during storage. This study provides a theoretical basis for future industrial production.
Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Activities of Nickel-Doped Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles
Authors: Sebastiammal Saleth , Fathima Arul Sigamani Lesly , Henry Johnson , Wadaan Mohammad Ahmad , Mahboob Shahid , Wadaan Arwa Mohammad , Manzoor Irfan , Gopinath Kasi , Rajeswary Mohan , Govindarajan Marimuthu
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research was to investigate the possible antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anticancer effects of nickel (Ni2+)-doped hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized using the sol–gel approach. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy (Raman), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and elemental analysis were used to characterize the Ni2+-doped HApNPs. X-ray diffraction investigation showed that the nanoscale structure of Ni2+-doped HApNPs was hexagonal, with an average crystallite size of 39.91 nm. Ni2+-doped HApNPs were found to be almost spherical in form and 40–50 nm in size, as determined by FESEM analysis. According to EDAX, the atomic percentages of Ca, O, P, and Ni were 20.93, 65.21, 13.32, and 0.55, respectively. Ni2+-doped HApNPs exhibited substantial antibacterial properties when tested in vitro against several pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Shigella flexneri, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibacterial activity, at 50 mg tested concentration, demonstrated superior effects on G-ve bacteria than G+ve pathogens. The antifungal activity of Oidium caricae, Aspergillus flavus, and A. niger revealed a zone of inhibition of 23, 11, and 5 mm, respectively. These actions rely on the organism’s cell wall structure, size, and shape. Incorporating Ni2+ into HApNPs allows them to function as powerful antioxidants. Ni2+-doped HApNPs had a good cytotoxic impact against the HeLa cell line, which improved with increasing concentration and was detected at a 68.81 µg/mL dosage. According to the findings of this study, the Ni2+-doped HApNPs are extremely promising biologically active candidates owing to their improved functional features.
Uncovering the Effects of Ammonium Sulfate on Neomycin B Biosynthesis in Streptomyces fradiae SF-2
Authors: Li Xiangfei , Yu Fei , Liu Kun , Zhang Min , Cheng Yihan , Wang Fang , Wang Shan , Han Rumeng , Xue Zhenglian
Published: November 2022

The aminoglycoside antibiotic neomycin has broad antibacterial properties and is widely used in medicine and agriculture. With the discovery of neomycin’s potential applications in treating tumors and SARS-CoV-2, it is necessary to accelerate the biosynthesis of neomycin. In the present study, we investigated the effects of various inorganic salts on neomycin B (the main active neomycin) biosynthesis in Streptomyces fradiae SF-2. We found that 60 mM (NH4)2SO4 could promote neomycin B biosynthesis and cell growth most effectively. Further comparative transcriptomic analyses revealed that 60 mM (NH4)2SO4 inhibited the EMP and TCA cycles and enhanced the expression of neo genes involved in the neomycin B biosynthesis pathway. Finally, a neomycin B potency of 17,399 U/mL in shaking flasks was achieved by overexpressing neoE and adding 60 mM (NH4)2SO4, corresponding to a 51.2% increase compared with the control S. fradiae SF-2. In the present study, the mechanism by which (NH4)2SO4 affects neomycin biosynthesis was revealed through transcriptomics, providing a reference for the further metabolic engineering of S. fradiae SF-2 for neomycin B production.
Regionality of Australian Apple Cider: A Sensory, Chemical and Climate Study
Authors: Way Madeleine L. , Jones Joanna E. , Longo Rocco , Dambergs Robert G. , Swarts Nigel D.
Published: November 2022

Terroir is an important concept linking sensory attributes to geographically specific environmental conditions. Whilst typically applied to wine, the concept of terroir could be applied to cider. To investigate the influence of the production region on base cider total phenolic content and sensory attributes, ciders were made using ‘Fuji’ apples sourced from three major apple growing regions in Australia. Total Phenolic Content was measured using a spectrophotometry method recently validated for use in cider. A trained panel performed descriptive sensory analysis by scoring the intensity of 12 pre-determined attributes across the ciders. The intensity of sensory attributes were found to vary significantly between regions. For instance, cider made from apples grown in Stanthorpe was scored significantly higher than ciders made from apples sourced from Batlow and Huon Valley for the attribute ‘Alcoholic’. Cider made with apples from Batlow was scored significantly higher for the attribute ‘Yeasty’ compared to cider made using apples from the Huon Valley. Cider made with apples from Stanthorpe had significantly greater total phenolic content, titratable acidity, sugar content and alcohol by volume than the two other locations. These results suggest that terroir can influence apple cider, as ciders were able to be differentiated by sensory analysis based on the geographical region from where the apples were grown.
Influence of Stirrup Spacing on the Strengthening and Rehabilitating of RC T-beams Using Near-Surface Mounted Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Strips
Authors: Abdel-Jaber Ma’en , Abdel-Jaber Mu’tasim , Katkhuda Hasan , Shatarat Nasim , Sulaiman Alaa , El-Nimri Rola
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to investigate the effect of using different configurations of near-surface mounted carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (NSM-CFRP) strips on the shear strength of strengthened and rehabilitated reinforced concrete (RC) T-beams with different internal shear stirrup spacing. The internal shear stirrup spacing was 50 and 150 mm. The NSM-CFRP strips were at an inclination of 45° and spaced at 75 and 150 mm. A total of eight beams were tested in this study: two beams without NSM-CFRP as control beams for the purpose of comparison; three beams were strengthened by NSM-CFRP; and three beams were rehabilitated by NSM-CFRP. The experimental shear capacities were compared with the theoretical values predicted by the ACI 440.2R-17. The results indicated that the use of NSM-CFRP strips enhanced the shear capacity for all beams compared to their corresponding control beams. The enhancements in the shear capacity increased with the decrease in the spacing of the internal shear stirrups and NSM-CFRP strips. The ACI 440.2R-17 was conservative in predicting the theoretical shear capacities.
Minimum Values of Voltage, Current, or Power for the Ignition of Fire
Authors: Babrauskas Vytenis
Published: November 2022

Under some circumstances, fires can be ignited by electric current. The two main mechanisms for this are arcing/sparking and hot surfaces. However, it has been viewed for a long time that this will not happen if the voltage, current, energy, or power are too low. The concept of a minimum ignition energy (MIE) characterizing the ignitability of flammable gas atmospheres is well established, and extensive published data are available. However, a corresponding ignition energy criterion for solids (minimum energy fluence) has been shown not to be valid. Some additional systematic experimental data (minimum voltage, current, power) have been collected for the spark ignition of gas atmospheres. However, it is found that the results are strongly dependent on the test conditions. Exceedingly scant data are available for the minimum electrical conditions for ignition of solid materials. Two concepts—intrinsic safety, and Class 2 or 3 power supplies—have long been available as safety measures against ignition from electrical circuit sources. However, ignition has been demonstrated to be possible with Class 2 power supplies. Ignition of solid material from a 1.2 V battery has been documented in the literature. Wide-ranging experimental research is urged to expand the knowledge base in this important area of electrical safety.
Seasonal Variation of Biochemical Composition and Non-Volatile Taste Active Compounds in Pearl Oyster Pinctada fucata martensii from Two Selective Strains
Authors: Zhang Xingzhi , Ren Peng , Guan Junliang , Gu Zhifeng , Yang Yi , Wang Aimin , Liu Chunsheng
Published: November 2022

Recently, a new pearl oyster Pinctada fucata martensii strain has begun to be cultured as seafood. In the present study, the seasonal variation (February and June) in biochemical composition and flavor compounds in two P. f. martensii strains (strain for pearl production was abbreviated to PP, and seafood was abbreviated to PE) were detected to compare the nutritional and flavor differences between them, and to provide a reference for the seasonal preference of consumers for eating P. f. martensii. The ratio of soft tissues in PE-Feb was significantly higher than that in PP-Feb (p < 0.05). The contents of ash, crude protein, and crude lipid were higher in PP than those in PE in the same season, while significantly higher contents of glycogen in the PE strain were observed compared to the PP strain in the same season (p < 0.05). The major amino acids (such as Glu and Asp) and PUFA (such as DHA and EPA) were almost the same in two P. f. martensii strains in the same season, while the contents of these nutrients were significantly higher in February compared to June (p < 0.05). Taurine content in PE-Feb was the highest (19.58 mg/g wet weight), followed by PP-Jun, PP-Feb, and PE-Jun. The umami and sweet FAA contents of the same P. f. martensii strain in February were significantly higher than those in June (p < 0.05). The AMP content in PP-Jun was the highest (64.17 mg/100 g wet weight), followed by PP-Feb, PE-Jun, and PE-Feb. Succinic acid was the major organic acid, and its content in February was significantly higher than in June (p < 0.05). The betaine content in PP-Feb was the highest (23.02 mg/g of wet weight), followed by PE-Feb (20.43 mg/g of wet weight), PP-Jun (16.28 mg/g of wet weight), and PE-Jun (12.33 mg/g of wet weight), and significant differences were observed among these four groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the edible P. f. martensii strain harvest in February is rich in protein, glycogen, PUFA (DHA and EPA), taurine, succinic acid, and betaine, which could provide healthy nutrition and a good flavor for humans.
Identification and Characterization of Heme Oxygenase-1 from Litopenaeus vannamei Involved in Antioxidant and Anti-Apoptosis under Ammonia Stress
Authors: Huang Yongxiong , Li Qi , Yang Shiping , Yuan Yunhao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Jiang Baijian , Lv Jing , Zhong Jian , Jian Jichang
Published: November 2022

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a stress-inducible enzyme with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. In this study, the HO-1 gene from Litopenaeus vannamei (Lv-HO-1) was identified. The open reading frame of Lv-HO-1 is 747 bp, encoding a peptide of 248 amino acids as well as a conserved HemO structural domain. Lv-HO-1 is 70–90% homological to crustaceans and about 50% homological to arthropods. The transcript levels of Lv-HO-1 were highest in the hepatopancreas and lower in other tissues. Knockdown of Lv-HO-1 led to structural destruction of the hepatopancreas. After ammonia exposure, Lv-HO-1 was significantly induced. Knockdown of Lv-HO-1 during ammonia exposure resulted in a significant decrease in antioxidant capacity and cellular autophagy levels compared to the control and increased apoptosis. The transcriptional levels of SOD and GSH-Px were considerably reduced (p < 0.05), as were the transcriptional levels of Atg3, Atg4, Atg5, and Atg10. The results indicated that Lv-HO-1 from L. vannamei can be induced by oxidative stress and may have important roles in regulating the host antioxidant system, reducing cell apoptosis.
Effect of Thermal and Non-Thermal Processing on Nutritional, Functional, Safety Characteristics and Sensory Quality of White Cabbage Powder
Authors: Waseem Muhammad , Akhtar Saeed , Qamar Muhammad , Saeed Wisha , Ismail Tariq , Esatbeyoglu Tuba
Published: November 2022

This study was aimed to improve nutritional, functional and consumer safety aspects of cabbage powder (CP). White cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba) was dehydrated to CP following microwave heating, blanching, alkali or acid washing treatments. The results for nutrients and mineral composition of raw and processed CP elucidated raw CP to exhibit significantly (p < 0.05) higher amounts of protein (12.2%), dietary fiber (25.2%), Na (52 mg/100 g), Ca (355 mg/100 g), K (286 mg/100 g), Fe (14 mg/100 g) and Zn (32 mg/100 g). Among different processing techniques, microwave treatment resulted in a higher rate of reduction for alkaloids, oxalates, tannins and phytates contents, i.e., 77%, 85%, 85%, and 86%, respectively. Likewise, microwave treatment was found more effective in reducing residual levels of neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, organophosphates including imidacloprid, cypermethrin, bifenthrin, chlorpyrifos and deltamethrin in cabbage in the range of 0.98–0.12 ppm, 1.22–0.23 ppm, 1.03–0.15 ppm, 1.97–0.43 ppm, and 2.12–0.36 ppm, respectively. CP supplementation at the rate of 5% in unleavened flatbreads was observed to maintain textural and sensory attributes of the product. The results suggest microwave heating as a cost-effective technique to reduce toxicants load in cabbage powder. Further, ~5% supplementation of CP in wheat flour may also improve nutritional and functional properties of the baked goods.
Exploration of Food Security Challenges towards More Sustainable Food Production: A Systematic Literature Review of the Major Drivers and Policies
Authors: Wahbeh Sabreen , Anastasiadis Foivos , Sundarakani Balan , Manikas Ioannis
Published: November 2022

Food security is a central priority for international policy as one of the world’s most significantly urgent targets to achieve. It is considered one of the most pressing issues in many countries, the degree of food security representing the level of self-sufficiency and well-being of citizens. In particular, in the current COVID-19 pandemic era, it has more than ever become a mission-critical goal. In this research, we report on the food security drivers and the current state of recommended policies addressing chronic food insecurity aimed at ensuring the sustainability of future food production. Mapping the determinants of food security contributes to a better understanding of the issue and aids in the development of appropriate food security policies and strategies to enhance the sustainability of food production in all facets; namely environmental, social, and economic. Adopting the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) data screening and selection guidelines and standards, we carried out a comprehensive, reliable, systematic, and rigorous review of research from the last ten years in order to identify the most frequently mentioned drivers and policies of food security in the literature available in two databases: Scopus and Web of Science (WOS). The number of extracted articles was 141 papers in total. An analysis revealed 34 drivers of food security and 17 most recommended policies for the mitigation of food insecurity. The existence of food loss and waste (FLW) policies was the primary driver of food security, followed by food security policies (FSP) in their different forms. However, FSP were the most recommended policies, followed by FLW policies. The identified food security drivers and recommended policies should be used by policy-makers to improve food security, thus contributing to sustainable food production. Our research findings, reflected in the latest version of the Global Food Security Index (GFSI), resulted in more tangible policy implications, suggesting the addition of two dimensions regarding food security. We also identified elements not listed under the GFSI that could be considered in its future revision, including environmental policies/indicators, consumer representation, and traceability throughout the entire supply chain. Overall, it can be concluded that food security is a complicated and multi-faceted issue that cannot be restricted to a single variable, necessitating the deeper integration of various multi-disciplinary interventions.
Muscle Tissue Quality of Raw and Sous-Vide Cooked Wild and Farmed Pikeperch
Authors: Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Kozłowski Krzysztof , Szczepkowski Mirosław , Zakęś Zdzisław
Published: November 2022

The aim of the study was to compare the chemical and fatty acid composition, colour, and sensory quality of wild and farmed pikeperch. Raw wild pikeperch had a higher moisture and ash contents, as well as pH value, but lower fat and protein contents than farmed pikeperch. In sous-vide fillets, a higher fat and a lower protein content were noted in farmed fish. Slight differences in colour attributes between farmed and wild fish affected neither chroma nor hue in raw and sous-vide fillets. Wild and farmed fish fillets prepared using sous-vide were scored similarly in the sensory assessment. Although wild fish had a more beneficial fatty acid composition demonstrated by a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic, a higher fat concentration in farmed pikeperch resulted in obtaining similar or even higher concentration of these fatty acids in sous-vide fillets. Regardless of the origin of pikeperch it might be recommended as a valuable part of a daily diet.
Influence of Gelatin-Chitosan-Glycerol Edible Coating Incorporated with Chlorogenic Acid, Gallic Acid, and Resveratrol on the Preservation of Fresh Beef
Authors: Zou Jinhao , Liu Xueming , Wang Xuping , Yang Huaigu , Cheng Jingrong , Lin Yaosheng , Tang Daobang
Published: November 2022

Chlorogenic acid (CA), gallic acid (GA), and resveratrol (RES) were added to a gelatin (GEL)-chitosan (CHI)-glycerol (GLY) edible coating, and their effects on the coating of fresh beef preservation were investigated. The results revealed that CA had the most significant improvement effect on fresh beef preservation. The combination of GEL-CHI-GLY-CA preserved the color of the beef better and delayed the increase of the total volatile base nitrogen, even though its total phenolic content decreased at a faster rate during beef preservation. GA also improved the preservation effect as on the 12th day of storage, the beef samples treated with GEL-CHI-GLY-GA had the lowest thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (0.76 mg Malondialdehyde (MDA)/kg) and total viable count (6.0 log cfu/g). On the whole, though RES showed an improvement on beef preservation, the improvement was not as good as the other two polyphenols. After 12 days of storage, the beef samples treated with GEL-CHI-GLY-RES had a higher pH value (6.25) than the other two polyphenol treatmed groups. Overall, the three polyphenol-added combinations increased the shelf life of beef by approximately 3–6 days compared to the control group (treated GEL-CHI-GLY with distilled water).
Evaluation of Chemical Contaminants in Conventional and Unconventional Ragusana Provola Cheese
Authors: Liotta Luigi , Litrenta Federica , Lo Turco Vincenzo , Potortì Angela Giorgia , Lopreiato Vincenzo , Nava Vincenzo , Bionda Arianna , Di Bella Giuseppa
Published: November 2022

Organic contaminants belonging to various classes (plasticizers, bisphenols, pesticides, PCBs, and PAHs,) were analyzed in samples of provola cheese produced from Friesian dairy cows fed with a conventional diet (group CTR), and an unconventional diet (group BIO) enriched with olive cake (OC). The results show that for most determined contaminants, the differences between the two diets were very slight, indicating that the contamination does not depend on the olive cake integrated in the unconventional diet. The results also indicate that the minimal contamination could result from environmental contamination or the production process. It can be concluded that unconventional provola is as safe for the consumer as conventional provola.
Recent Advances in the Study of Wheat Protein and Other Food Components Affecting the Gluten Network and the Properties of Noodles
Authors: Zang Peng , Gao Yang , Chen Pu , Lv Chenyan , Zhao Guanghua
Published: November 2022

Upon hydrating and mixing wheat flour, wheat protein forms a network that strongly affects the structure and physicochemical properties of dough, thus affecting the properties of noodles. Different approaches have been taken to alter the gluten network structure in order to control the dough properties. In the current review, we summarize the structure and function of wheat protein, including glutenin and gliadin, and describe food components that may affect noodle quality by interacting with wheat protein. In fact, the ratio of glutenin to gliadin is closely related to the viscosity of dough, and disulfide bonds also contribute to the gluten network formation. Meanwhile, wheat protein coexists with starch and sugar in wheat dough, and thus the nature of starch may highly influence gluten formation as well. Salts, alkali, enzymes and powdered plant food can be added during dough processing to regulate the extensional properties of wheat noodles, obtaining noodles of high quality, with improved sensory and storage properties. This review describes specific methods to reinforce the wheat protein network and provides a reference for improving noodle quality.
Quality Attributes and Dielectric Properties of Sea Buckthorn Berries under Differing Freezing Regimes and Their Interrelationships
Authors: Li Moruo , Hu Jingming , Yang Mei , Yang Jinfa , Zhang Qianglin , Zubarev Yury A. , Zhao Wuyun , Bi Yang
Published: November 2022

Fruit quality attributes interrelate with their dielectric properties, but such interrelationships in sea buckthorn berries under differing freezing regimes remain uninvestigated. Sea buckthorn (Hipophae rhamnoides L., cv. Shenqiuhong) berries were frozen at different temperatures (−13, −30, −35 and −40 °C) and stored for different periods (15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 d). Seven quality attributes and nine dielectric parameters were measured to evaluate the effect of different frozen storage regimes on those attributes and parameters. The results showed that shorter time and lower temperature contributed to the preservation of berries quality. The dielectric parameters values increased with decreasing temperature and with the increase of freezing duration. The quality prediction models were established by the principal component analysis of the dielectric properties at characteristic frequency. The results are expected to provide a way to evaluate quality of frozen sea buckthorn berries by dielectric properties.
Development and Application of Edible Coatings with Malva sylvestris L. Extract to Extend Shelf-Life of Small Loaf
Authors: Alexieva Iordanka , Baeva Marianna , Popova Aneta , Fidan Hafize , Goranova Zhivka , Milkova-Tomova Iliana
Published: November 2022

Edible coatings that have a recognized ecological effect are an alternative to retard the processes of moisture evaporation and mold growth in bakery products. The aim of the present research was to study the influence of Malva sylvestris L. (mallow) flowers’ extract on the antimicrobial activity of edible coatings of three types of polysaccharides, pectin/P/, xanthan/X/ and carboxymethylcellulose/C/, as well as to analyze their effect on the freshness and microbiological status of coated small loaves during storage. It was found that the presence of a mallow extract had a positive effect on the fungicidal and yeasticidal activities of the X and C coatings. The loaves were evaluated for their physical (moisture, color), textural (firmness and crumb firming kinetics) and microbiological characteristics. The coatings (P, X and C) with mallow extract had the strongest moisture-retaining effect on the loaves’ crumb. The coatings with X and with P (with/without mallow extract) significantly slowed down the crumb firming process, and the value of the rate constant for the crumb firming (k) is the lowest for the X coating—0.1815 day−1. The smallest changes in the crust color were reported when mallow-based coatings were used. They have also been proven to have the lowest microbial load when they are stored for up to three days. This study shows that polysaccharide edible coatings with an active mallow component have significant potential to extend the shelf life of bakery products.
Impact of Different Frozen Dough Technology on the Quality and Gluten Structure of Steamed Buns
Authors: Yang Bailu , Zhang Yining , Yuan Jiayi , Yang Minzhen , Yang Runqiang , Gu Zhenxin , Xie Chong , Zhou Qin , Jiang Dong , Zhou Jianzhong , Wang Pei
Published: November 2022

To advance the industrialization production of steamed buns, the current study explored the freeze-stability of unfermented, pre-fermented and par-steamed frozen dough. The results showed that the steamed bun made from unfermented dough with 2.0% yeast, the pre-fermented dough with a pre-fermented time of 30 min and the par-steamed dough with a pre-steamed time of 15 min showed the best sensory properties quality upon frozen storage. The gassing power of un- and pre-fermented dough gradually decreased, and dough with longer pre-fermented time exhibited more evident loss of gassing power. Freeze-induced depolymerization of gluten protein was the least distinct in the par-steamed dough, followed by the pre- and un-fermented dough, which was probably related to the superior freeze stability of glutenin-gliadin macro-crosslinks upon the pre-steaming stage. The surface hydrophobicity of gluten proteins of frozen dough decreased during the initial storage and was enhanced subsequently, which was related with the combined effects of the unfolding and synchronous aggregation induced by freezing and steaming, respectively. Moreover, the surface hydrophobicity of gluten in par-steamed frozen dough and steamed buns was more resistant to frozen storage, which was probably attributed to the established stable structure during the pre-steaming process.
Use of Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo) as a Source of Functional Fractions with Biological Activities
Authors: Morales Diego
Published: November 2022

Arbutus unedo, commonly named ‘strawberry tree’ (ST), is a Mediterranean native plant that represents a relevant source of biologically active fractions and compounds. ST fruits, traditionally used with culinary and medicinal purposes, along with other components (leaves, roots, honeys, etc.), have been subjected to varied extraction procedures to obtain enriched and bioactive products. This work reviewed the scientific literature, searching for studies that evaluated the potential health implications of ST fractions and attending to the tested biological activities (antioxidant, antiproliferative, hypoglycemic, immune-modulatory, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, etc.), the part of the tree, the experimental model, the specific bioactive compounds and the selected extraction protocol. Furthermore, the strengths and weaknesses of the current state of the published evidence were critically analysed. Although in vitro results demonstrated the potential of ST fractions, further research is encouraged in order to obtain in vivo evidence (animal and clinical studies), assess additional activities (hypocholesterolemic, microbiome-modulatory), maximize the use of advanced extraction technologies, purify and isolate specific bioactive compounds and broaden the analysis investigating phenolic and non-phenolic molecules and their bioavailability.