bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of thermal conduction and non-local transport of relevance to space physics with insights from laser–plasma theory
Authors: Arber T. D. , Goffrey T. , Ridgers C.
Published: April 2023

Models of solar and space plasmas require an accurate model for thermal transport. The simplest such model is to assume that the fluid approach is valid and that local transport models can be used. These local transport coefficients are derived under the assumption that the electron mean-free path is “small” compared to the temperature scale length. When this approximation breaks down, non-local transport models or thermal flux limiters must be used to maintain a physically realistic model. This article will review the background theory of how small is “small” for the mean-free path and what options there are for including non-local transport within the fluid framework. Much of this recent work has been motivated by laser–plasma theory, where mean-free paths can be large and the Spitzer–Harm approach is never used.
In vitro micronucleus assay: Method for assessment of nanomaterials using cytochalasin B
Authors: Farabaugh Christopher S. , Doak Shareen , Roy Shambhu , Elespuru Rosalie
Published: April 2023

Graphical Abstract

Figure created using BioRender.com by Dr. Michael J. Burgum (In Vitro Toxicology group, Swansea University).
Performance Analysis and Design of Direct Ammonia Fuel Tubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cell for Shipborne Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Wang Zhe , Zhao Fan , Ma Yue , Xia Rui , Han Fenghui
Published: April 2023

Ammonia is being considered as a promising alternative to hydrogen fuel in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) due to its stability and ease of storage and transportation. This study investigates the feasibility of using ammonia fuel in a tubular SOFC for shipborne unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The paper develops a 3D model of a tubular-anode-supported SOFC single cell and conducts numerical simulations to analyze the impact of different operating conditions on SOFC performance. The study optimizes the SOFC’s performance by adjusting its working parameters and overall structure, revealing that increasing temperature and porosity enhance performance, but excessively high values can cause deterioration and instability in the cell. The study also finds that the cathode-supported (CS)-SOFC outperforms the anode-supported (AS)-SOFC, mainly due to its thicker cathode layer, providing better sealing and oxygen supply, resulting in a more uniform current density distribution. The paper provides valuable insights into the potential use of ammonia fuel for shipborne UAVs and offers a foundation for future research and development in the field of SOFCs. The results indicate that increasing the temperature and porosity of the SOFC can enhance battery performance, but excessive values can cause deterioration and instability in the cell. The study also highlights the impact of different operating conditions on SOFC performance, with a significant performance improvement observed in the range of 0.6–0.8 V. Additionally, the CS-SOFC outperforms the AS-SOFC due to its thicker cathode layer, but both have significant potential for development.
Forced Response Analysis of an Embedded Compressor Rotor Induced by Stator Disturbances and Rotor–Stator Interactions
Authors: Zheng Yun , Gao Qingzhe , Yang Hui
Published: April 2023

Accurate predictions of the blade response in a multi-row compressor is one of the most important tasks within the design process of compressor blades. Some recent studies have shown that the decoupled method considering only the stator disturbances cannot obtain accurate results for cases with strong rotor–stator interactions, especially for the interaction between the rotor and downstream stator, and the coupled method with multi-row configurations is necessary. Factors determine what computational domains to model need to be clarified to find a balance between accuracy requirements and computational costs. To this end, this study conducted full-annulus unsteady calculations with decoupled and coupled configurations to investigate the forced response of an embedded compressor rotor induced by upstream and downstream stator disturbances and rotor–stator interactions, respectively. The results show that the upstream IGV disturbances were dominated by the wake, and the IGV and S1 potential fields had little effect on the R1 response. Meanwhile, the IGV–R1 interactions and S1–R1 interactions were dominated by one cut-on mode, respectively. The comparisons of the blade vibration amplitude and the unsteady pressure field calculated by decoupled and coupled methods revealed the mechanism of the forced response, namely, for the R1 response induced by upstream aerodynamic disturbances, the dominant excitation source was the IGV wake, and the blade vibration amplitude can be predicted by the decoupled method. In terms of the response induced by downstream disturbances, the cut-on S1-R1-interaction mode was dominant and the use of the decoupled method without considering its influence will lead to an inaccurate prediction. This study concluded that the formation process of rotor–stator interactions was the key factor that determines whether the decoupled method or coupled method should be used, and analogized a process independent of the downstream stator disturbance. The results can provide a preliminary configuration for accurate and efficient blade response predictions and explain the reason why including downstream stator vanes is very important.
Low-Cost Mn-Based Cathode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Yi Hongming , Liang Ying , Qian Yunlong , Feng Yuchuan , Li Zheng , Zhang Xue
Published: April 2023

Due to a high energy density and satisfactory longevity, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely applied in the fields of consumer electronics and electric vehicles. Cathodes, an essential part of LIBs, greatly determine the energy density and total cost of LIBs. In order to make LIBs more competitive, it is urgent to develop low-cost commercial cathode materials. Among all cathode materials, Mn-based cathode materials, such as layered LiNi0.5Mn0.5O2 and Li-rich materials, spinel LiMn2O4 and LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, olivine-type LiMnPO4 and LiMn0.5Fe0.5PO4, stand out owing to their low cost and high energy density. Herein, from the perspective of industrial application, we calculate the product cost of Mn-based cathode materials, select promising candidates with low cost per Wh, and summarize the structural and electrochemical properties and improvement strategies of these low-cost Mn-based cathode materials. Apart from some common issues for Mn-based cathode materials, such as Jahn–Teller distortions and Mn dissolution, we point out the specific problems of each material and provide corresponding improvement strategies to overcome these drawbacks.
Upper-Limb Kinematic Behavior and Performance Fatigability of Elderly Participants Performing an Isometric Task: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Silva-Migueis Helena , Martínez-Jiménez Eva María , Casado-Hernández Israel , Dias Adriano , Monteiro Ana Júlia , Martins Rodrigo B. , Bernardes João Marcos , López-López Daniel , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: April 2023

Upper-limb position-sustained tasks (ULPSIT) are involved in several activities of daily living and are associated with high metabolic and ventilatory demand and fatigue. In older people, this can be critical to the performance of daily living activities, even in the absence of a disability. Objectives: To understand the ULPSIT effects on upper-limb (UL) kinetics and performance fatigability in the elderly. Methods: Thirty-one (31) elderly participants (72.61 ± 5.23 years) performed an ULPSIT. The UL average acceleration (AA) and performance fatigability were measured using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and time-to-task failure (TTF). Results: The findings showed significant changes in AA in the X- and Z-axes (p < 0.05). AA differences in women started earlier in the baseline cutoff in the X-axis, and in men, started earlier between cutoffs in the Z-axis. TTF was positively related to AA in men until 60% TTF. Conclusions: ULPSIT produced changes in AA behavior, indicative of movement of the UL in the sagittal plane. AA behavior is sex related and suggests higher performance fatigability in women. Performance fatigability was positively related to AA only in men, where movement adjustments occurred in an early phase, though with increased activity time.
Male Germ Cell Telomeres and Chemical Pollutants
Authors: Chieffi Baccari Gabriella , Iurato Giuseppe , Santillo Alessandra , Dale Brian
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, male infertility has been correlated with the shortening of sperm telomeres. Telomeres regulate the reproductive lifespan by mediating the synapsis and homologous recombination of chromosomes during gametogenesis. They are composed of thousands of hexanucleotide DNA repeats (TTAGGG) that are coupled to specialized shelterin complex proteins and non-coding RNAs. Telomerase activity in male germ cells ensures that the telomere length is maintained at maximum levels during spermatogenesis, despite telomere shortening due to DNA replication or other genotoxic factors such as environmental pollutants. An emerging body of evidence has associated an exposure to pollutants with male infertility. Although telomeric DNA may be one of the important targets of environmental pollutants, only a few authors have considered it as a conventional parameter for sperm function. The aim of this review is to provide comprehensive and up-to-date data on the research carried out so far on the structure/function of telomeres in spermatogenesis and the influence of environmental pollutants on their functionality. The link between pollutant-induced oxidative stress and telomere length in germ cells is discussed.
Technological Aspects and Evaluation Methods for Polymer Matrices as Dental Drug Carriers
Authors: Kida Dorota , Konopka Tomasz , Jurczyszyn Kamil , Karolewicz Bożena
Published: April 2023

The development of polymer matrices as dental drug carriers takes into account the following technological aspects of the developed formulations: the composition and the technology used to manufacture them, which affect the properties of the carriers, as well as the testing methods for assessing their behavior at application sites. The first part of this paper characterizes the methods for fabricating dental drug carriers, i.e., the solvent-casting method (SCM), lyophilization method (LM), electrospinning (ES) and 3D printing (3DP), describing the selection of technological parameters and pointing out both the advantages of using the mentioned methods and their limitations. The second part of this paper describes testing methods to study the formulation properties, including their physical and chemical, pharmaceutical, biological and in vivo evaluation. Comprehensive in vitro evaluation of carrier properties permits optimization of formulation parameters to achieve prolonged retention time in the dynamic oral environment and is essential for explaining carrier behavior during clinical evaluation, consequently enabling the selection of the optimal formulation for oral application.
RNA Therapeutics: A Healthcare Paradigm Shift
Authors: Niazi Sarfaraz K.
Published: April 2023

COVID-19 brought about the mRNA vaccine and a paradigm shift to a new mode of treating and preventing diseases. Synthetic RNA products are a low-cost solution based on a novel method of using nucleosides to act as an innate medicine factory with unlimited therapeutic possibilities. In addition to the common perception of vaccines preventing infections, the newer applications of RNA therapies include preventing autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Down syndrome; now, we can deliver monoclonal antibodies, hormones, cytokines, and other complex proteins, reducing the manufacturing hurdles associated with these products. Newer PCR technology removes the need for the bacterial expression of DNA, making mRNA a truly synthetic product. AI-driven product design expands the applications of mRNA technology to repurpose therapeutic proteins and test their safety and efficacy quickly. As the industry focuses on mRNA, many novel opportunities will arise, as hundreds of products under development will bring new perspectives based on this significant paradigm shift—finding newer solutions to existing challenges in healthcare.
Dopaminergic Modulation of Prefrontal Cortex Inhibition
Authors: Di Domenico Danila , Mapelli Lisa
Published: April 2023

The prefrontal cortex is the highest stage of integration in the mammalian brain. Its functions vary greatly, from working memory to decision-making, and are primarily related to higher cognitive functions. This explains the considerable effort devoted to investigating this area, revealing the complex molecular, cellular, and network organization, and the essential role of various regulatory controls. In particular, the dopaminergic modulation and the impact of local interneurons activity are critical for prefrontal cortex functioning, controlling the excitatory/inhibitory balance and the overall network processing. Though often studied separately, the dopaminergic and GABAergic systems are deeply intertwined in influencing prefrontal network processing. This mini review will focus on the dopaminergic modulation of GABAergic inhibition, which plays a significant role in shaping prefrontal cortex activity.
Cerebral Sinus Vein Thrombosis and Gender: A Not Entirely Casual Relationship
Authors: Ciarambino Tiziana , Crispino Pietro , Minervini Giovanni , Giordano Mauro
Published: April 2023

Cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT) is a relatively rare acute disorder of cerebral circulation, but it can potentially be associated with serious sequelae and a poor prognosis. The neurological manifestations associated with it are often not adequately taken into consideration given the extreme variability and nuances of its clinical presentation and given the need for radiological methods suitable for this type of diagnosis. CSVT is usually more common in women, but so far there are little data available in the literature on sex-specific characteristics regarding this pathology. CSVT is the result of multiple conditions and is therefore to be considered a multifactorial disease where at least one risk factor is present in over 80% of cases. From the literature, we learn that congenital or acquired prothrombotic states are to be considered extremely associated with the occurrence of an acute episode of CSVT and its recurrences. It is, therefore, necessary to fully know the origins and natural history of CSVT, in order to implement the diagnostic and therapeutic pathways of these neurological manifestations. In this report, we summarize the main causes of CSVT considering the possible influence of gender, bearing in mind that most of the causes listed above are pathological conditions closely linked to the female sex.
Pre-Processing a Polymer Blend into a Polymer Alloy by KinetiSol Enables Increased Ivacaftor Amorphous Solid Dispersion Drug Loading and Dissolution
Authors: Thompson Stephen A. , Davis Daniel A. , Miller Dave A. , Kucera Sandra U. , Williams Robert O.
Published: April 2023

This study compares the effects of pre-processing multiple polymers together to form a single-phase polymer alloy prior to amorphous solid dispersion formulation. KinetiSol compounding was used to pre-process a 1:1 (w/w) ratio of hypromellose acetate succinate and povidone to form a single-phase polymer alloy with unique properties. Ivacaftor amorphous solid dispersions comprising either a polymer, an unprocessed polymer blend, or the polymer alloy were processed by KinetiSol and examined for amorphicity, dissolution performance, physical stability, and molecular interactions. A polymer alloy ivacaftor solid dispersion with a drug loading of 50% w/w was feasible versus 40% for the other compositions. Dissolution in fasted simulated intestinal fluid revealed that the 40% ivacaftor polymer alloy solid dispersion reached a concentration of 595 µg/mL after 6 h, 33% greater than the equivalent polymer blend dispersion. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance revealed changes in the ability of the povidone contained in the polymer alloy to hydrogen bond with the ivacaftor phenolic moiety, explaining the differences in the dissolution performance. This work demonstrates that the creation of polymer alloys from polymer blends is a promising technique that provides the ability to tailor properties of a polymer alloy to maximize the drug loading, dissolution performance, and stability of an ASD.
Application of Lolium multiflorum as an Efficient Raw Material in the Production of Adsorbent for Removal of Methylene Blue
Authors: da Silva Elenara Oliveira , Valério Filho Alaor , de Araujo Emanuelle Butato , Andrade Taís Douglas , dos Santos Maele Costa , Zottis Ricardo , da Rosa Gabriela Silveira , de Almeida André Ricardo Felkl
Published: April 2023

In this study, ryegrass straw agricultural residue (Lolium multiflorum L.) was employed as an adsorbent material to remove methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. Four adsorbents were produced using phosphoric acid and pyrolysis as activating agents. The samples were analyzed with TGA, FTIR, SEM, and XRD techniques. A rapid adsorption of the MB was obtained with the ryegrass treated with 40% H3PO4, reaching equilibrium in 2 min. Moreover, a maximum adsorption capacity of 80.79 mg g−1 and a removal efficiency of 99% were achieved. The results demonstrate a good performance of adsorbents from ryegrass for removing dye contaminants, such as methylene blue, from the aqueous solutions.
Effects of Additional Granola in Children’s Breakfast on Nutritional Balance, Sleep and Defecation: An Open-Label Randomized Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Matsumoto Yuma , Sasaki Hiroyuki , Masutomi Hirofumi , Ishihara Katsuyuki , Shibata Shigenobu , Hirao Kazuko , Furutani Akiko
Published: April 2023

The contribution of breakfast to daily nutrient intake is low, particularly among children, at only about 20%, and it is difficult to determine whether children are receiving adequate nutrients at breakfast. Although alterations in breakfast content are considered to affect lifestyle habits such as sleep and defecation, there have been few intervention studies in children. The relationship between nutritional balance, dietary intake, and lifestyle habits in children remains unclear. We conducted an intervention study on elementary school children’s breakfasts and observed the effects of improving the nutritional balance of breakfast on sleep parameters and defecation status. An intervention study was conducted with 26 elementary school students in Tokyo. The study design was an open-label randomized cross-over trial. Subjects consumed their usual breakfast during the control period and a granola snack containing soy protein in addition to their usual breakfast during the intervention period. Questionnaires regarding breakfast, sleep, and bowel movements were administered during each period. Based on the answers to these questionnaires, we compared the nutritional sufficiency of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals (29 in total), as well as changes in sleep parameters and defecation status. The additional consumption of granola snacks increased the breakfast intake of 15 nutrients. The changes were particularly significant for iron, vitamin B1, vitamin D, and dietary fiber. During the intervention, sleep duration was decreased and wake-up time became earlier. In terms of defecation, the intervention did not change stool characteristics, but the frequency of defecations per week increased on average by 1.2 per week. These results suggest that the nutritional balance and the amount of breakfast are linked to sleep and defecation and that improving breakfast content can lead to lifestyle improvements in children.
Neonatal Outcomes of Term Infants Born with Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid
Authors: Dani Carlo , Ciarcià Martina , Barone Vittoria , Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Mecacci Federico , Pasquini Lucia , Pratesi Simone
Published: April 2023

Background Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is considered an alarming sign of possible fetal compromise and it has recently been reported that neonatal outcome correlates with the degree of meconium thickness. Methods We retrospectively studied 400 term infants allocated in clear amniotic fluid and grade 1, 2, and 3 MSAF groups on the basis of color and thickness of AF. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the potential independent effect of delivery with MSAF of different severity on the risk of a composite adverse neonatal outcome. Results We found that delivery with grade 2 (OR 16.82, 95% Cl 2.12–33.52; p = 0.008) and 3 (OR 33.79, 95% Cl 4.24–69.33; p < 0.001) MSAF is independently correlated with the risk of adverse neonatal outcome, such as the occurrence of at least one of the following: need of resuscitation in the delivery room, blood cord pH < 7.100, occurrence of meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPH), transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and sepsis. Conclusions There is a positive correlation between the severity of amniotic fluid meconium staining and thickness and the outcomes of term infants. Therefore, the evaluation and grading of MSAF during labor is useful in order to plan for the presence of a neonatologist at delivery for immediate and proper neonatal care.
A Mini-Review on the Thermal Fatigue Properties of Copper Materials Applied at the Front-End of Synchrotron Radiation Facilities
Authors: Sun Yunfei , Li Tong , Lan Lan , Chen Jiahua , Zhu Wanqian , Xue Song , Jin Limin
Published: April 2023

Oxygen-free high-conductivity copper (OFHC), chromium-zirconium copper (CuCrZr), and Glidcop® AL-15 are widely used in the high heat load absorber elements at the front end of synchrotron radiation facilities. It is necessary to choose the most suitable material according to the actual engineering conditions (such as the specific heat load, material performance, and costs). In the long-term service period, the absorber elements have to bear hundreds or kilowatts of high heat load and its “load-unload” cyclic loading mode. Therefore, the thermal fatigue and thermal creep properties of the materials are critical and have been extensively studied. In this paper, based on the published pieces of the literature, the thermal fatigue theory, experimental principles, methods, test standards, test types of equipment, and key indicators of the thermal fatigue performance of typical copper metal materials used in the front end of synchrotrons radiation Facilities are reviewed, as well as the relevant studies carried out by the well-known synchrotron radiation institutions. In particular, the fatigue failure criteria for these materials and some effective methods for improving the thermal fatigue resistance performance of the high-heat load components are also presented.
Is There an Impact of Digital Transformation on Consumer Behaviour? An Empirical Study in the Financial Sector
Authors: Uribe-Linares Giovanna Patzy , Ríos-Lama Cristian Armando , Vargas-Merino Jorge Alberto
Published: April 2023

Digital transformation has become a notorious topic in the financial sector, as its implementation brings about a positive change in the user experience. Its relevance is seen in how scientists study it from different points of view, while it attracts the interest of financial institutions, as the understanding resulting from the research can improve the implementation of plans in the new digital era. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the impact of digital transformation on consumer behaviour in the financial sector. A quantitative explanatory level approach was used. The study population was finite, consisting of bank customers, considering a simple random probability sample of 385. The technique used was the survey and a questionnaire as a validated and reliable instrument. Digital transformation has been shown to have a significant impact on consumer behaviour in the financial sector, tested by Chi-square and ordinal logistic regression (χ2 = 0.000 < 0.05; Wald coefficient = 29.162 = 0.000; Nagelkerke’s R2 = 0.381), confirming that consumer behaviour is driven by digitisation activities. This work highlights the importance of managing digital transformation as a mediator of business success and, within action plans, taking steps to improve customer service as a precursor to customer loyalty.
Heat Transfer Coefficient Distribution—A Review of Calculation Methods
Authors: Duda Piotr
Published: April 2023

Determination of the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) distribution is important during the design and operation of many devices in microelectronics, construction, the car industry, drilling, the power industry and research on nuclear fusion. The first part of the manuscript shows works describing how a change in the coefficient affects the operation of devices. Next, various methods of determining the coefficient are presented. The most common method to determine the HTC is the use of Newton’s law of cooling. If this method cannot be applied directly, there are other methods that can be found in the open literature. They use analytical formulations, the lumped thermal capacity assumption, the 1D unsteady heat conduction equation for a semi-infinite wall, the fin model, energy conservation and the analogy between heat and mass transfer. The HTC distribution can also be calculated by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling if all boundary conditions with fluid and solid properties are known. Often, the surface on which the HTC is to be determined is not accessible for any measuring sensors, or their installation might disturb the analysed phenomenon. It also happens that calculations using direct or CFD methods cannot be performed due to the lack of required boundary conditions or sufficiently proven models to analyse the considered physical phenomena. Too long a calculation time needed by CFD tools may also be problematic if the method should be used in the online mode. One way to solve the above problem is to assume an unknown boundary condition and include additional information from the sensors located at a certain distance from the investigated surface. The problem defined in this way can be solved by inverse methods. The aim of the paper is to show the current state of knowledge regarding the importance of the heat transfer coefficient and the variety of methods that can be used for its determination.
Robust Eddy Viscosity Turbulence Modeling with Elliptic Relaxation and Compound Wall Treatment
Authors: Popovac Mirza
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a holistic Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence modeling framework for the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of complex wall-bounded turbulent flows. Based on the elliptic relaxation idea, the deployed eddy viscosity turbulence model reconstructs the near-wall stress anisotropy and nonviscous effects. The appropriate selection of the turbulent quantities that are being solved for, together with the zero value wall boundary condition for the related turbulent quantities, renders the model less sensitive to the near-wall grid nonuniformities and resolution. The unified near-wall velocity profile, obtained based on the boundary layer theory, is used to devise the compound near-wall treatment that ensures the robustness of the numerical simulation. The proposed turbulence modeling framework is implemented into the general-purpose open-source CFD code and validated against the generic test cases with satisfactory agreement.
Unraveling the COVID-19 Pandemic’s Impact on South Korea’s Macroeconomy: Unearthing Novel Transmission Channels within the Energy Sector and Production Technologies
Authors: He Yugang
Published: April 2023

As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Korea’s economy has experienced significant setbacks. Thus, this article examines the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on Korea’s key macroeconomic indicators via the transmission channels of oil prices and production technology. Using Bayesian estimation and impulse response functions for empirical investigation, the results suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the reduction in firm production, consumption of oil-based goods, employment, and investment. Increasingly, households rely on non-oil goods rather than oil-based ones. Similarly, the results suggest that the drop in production technology levels brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has a stronger impact on business output and investment but a lesser influence on household employment. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a decline in household non-oil consumption as well as household and business consumption of oil-based goods. To sum up, the existing Korean literature on this issue might be improved by including the findings offered in this article.
Investigation on Effective Thermal Conductivity of Fibrous Porous Materials as Vacuum Insulation Panels’ Core Using Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Chen Bangqi , Kan Ankang , Chen Zhaofeng , Zhang Jiaxiang , Yang Lixia
Published: April 2023

Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIPs) provide significant adiabatic performance for heat/cooling systems to reduce energy consumption. The application of fibrous porous material (FPM) as the ideal core of VIPs has gained global attention in recent decades. The microstructure and physical properties of FPMs, filled as novel VIPs’ core material, and holding superior thermal performance, affected effective thermal conductivity (ETC) greatly. Aiming to deeply understand heat transfer mechanisms, a holistic simulation method that combined with a developed 3D FPM structure generation method and a D3Q15-Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is proposed to simulate the heat transfer in FPM and to illuminate the influence factors of ETC on the microstructure of FPM in a vacuum. The improved and modified mesoscopic 3D fibrous random micro-structure generation approach involved five structural parameters: generation probability of nucleus growth, fiber length, diameter, coincidence rate, and orientation angle. The calculation model of ETC is established, and the discrete velocity, distribution, evolution, and boundary conditions of D3Q15-LBM are invested in detail. The model is validated with influences of different microstructure parameters. It indicated that FPM with finer diameter, smaller average pore size, and bigger orientation angle easily gain the lower ETC in a vacuum. The ETC was also affected by the orientation angles of fibers. The more the heat transfer direction is inconsistent with the length direction of the fiber, the better the adiabatic performance is. The reliability of the model is verified by comparison, and this work is a reference to optimize the fibrous core of VIPs.
Research on Multiple Load Short-Term Forecasting Model of Integrated Energy Distribution System Based on Mogrifier-Quantum Weighted MELSTM
Authors: Song Peng , Zhang Zhisheng
Published: April 2023

Accurate and efficient short-term forecasting of multiple loads is of great significance to the operation control and scheduling of integrated energy distribution systems. In order to improve the effect of load forecasting, a mogrifier-quantum weighted memory enhancement long short-term memory (Mogrifier-QWMELSTM) neural network forecasting model is proposed. Compared with the conventional LSTM neural network model, the model proposed in this paper has three improvements in model structure and model composition. First, the mogrifier is added to make the data fully interact with each other. This addition can help enhance the correlation between the front and rear data and improve generalization, which is the main disadvantage of LSTM neural network. Second, the memory enhancement mechanism is added on the forget gate to realize the extraction and recovery of forgotten information. The addition can help improve the gradient transmission ability in the learning process of the neural network, make the neural network remain sensitive to distant data information, and enhance the memory ability. Third, the model is composed of quantum weighted neurons. Compared with conventional neurons, quantum weighted neurons have significant advantages in nonlinear data processing and parallel computing, which help to improve the accuracy of load forecasting. The simulation results show that the weighted mean accuracy of the proposed model can reach more than 97.5% in summer and winter. Moreover, the proposed model has good forecasting effect on seven typical days in winter, which shows that the model has good stability.
Is the Polish Solar-to-Hydrogen Pathway Green? A Carbon Footprint of AEM Electrolysis Hydrogen Based on an LCA
Authors: Pawłowski Artur , Żelazna Agnieszka , Żak Jarosław
Published: April 2023

Efforts to direct the economies of many countries towards low-carbon economies are being made in order to reduce their impact on global climate change. Within this process, replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen will play an important role in the sectors where electrification is difficult or technically and economically ineffective. Hydrogen may also play a critical role in renewable energy storage processes. Thus, the global hydrogen demand is expected to rise more than five times by 2050, while in the European Union, a seven-fold rise in this field is expected. Apart from many technical and legislative barriers, the environmental impact of hydrogen production is a key issue, especially in the case of new and developing technologies. Focusing on the various pathways of hydrogen production, the essential problem is to evaluate the related emissions through GHG accounting, considering the life cycle of a plant in order to compare the technologies effectively. Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis is one of the newest technologies in this field, with no LCA studies covering its full operation. Thus, this study is focused on a calculation of the carbon footprint and economic indicators of a green hydrogen plant on the basis of a life cycle assessment, including the concept of a solar-to-hydrogen plant with AEM electrolyzers operating under Polish climate conditions. The authors set the range of the GWP indicators as 2.73–4.34 kgCO2eq for a plant using AEM electrolysis, which confirmed the relatively low emissivity of hydrogen from solar energy, also in relation to this innovative technology. The economic profitability of the investment depends on external subsidies, because, as developing technology, the AEM electrolysis of green hydrogen from photovoltaics is still uncompetitive in terms of its cost without this type of support.
Probiotic-Bacteria (Lactobacillus fermentum)-Wrapped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Shanmugam Rajeshkumar , Munusamy Tharani , Jayakodi Santhoshkumar , Al-Ghanim Khalid A. , Nicoletti Marcello , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Govindarajan Marimuthu
Published: April 2023

Recently, fabricated nanoparticles (NPs), which can efficiently penetrate biological systems, have found increased usage in the health and hygiene industries. Microbial enzymes and proteins have recently shown their potential to act as reducing agents for the production of NPs, thereby providing an alternative to physical and chemical methods. Not only is this approach efficient and cost-effective, but it also produces a minimal ecological footprint. In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized using probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus fermentum) as the reducing and capping agent. Several analytical methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), were used to analyze the produced ZnO NPs. The SEM analysis confirmed the spherical form of the nanoparticles and estimated their average size to be between 100 and 120 nm. FT-IR analysis verified that the ZnO NPs’ surfaces contained many functional groups. X-ray diffraction examination evidenced that the biogenically produced nanoparticles were crystalline. AFM analysis revealed that the nanoparticles’ size was about 90–100 nm. The maximum absorption peak, determined via a UV–visible spectrophotometer, was 510 nm. The synthesized ZnO NPs’ antimicrobial activity against various bacterial strains was tested, and the highest level of antimicrobial activity was noted against a Vibrio harveyi strain. The maximum concentration, namely, 20 mM of ZnO NPs, showed the highest antimicrobial activity. These observations indicate that the synthesized ZnO NPs possess remarkable antimicrobial potency. This method is an efficient, environmentally friendly, cost-effective approach for producing ZnO NPs that are useful for various biomedical applications.
In Vitro Fermentation Characteristics of Pine Needles (Pinus densiflora) as Feed Additive
Authors: Hwang Young-A , Lee Woo-Do , Kim Juhyeon , Kim Solhee , Choi Min-Gyung , On Jeong-Yeon , Jeon Sang-Woo , Han Sung-Gu , Kim Soo-Ki
Published: April 2023

In this study, the fermentation characteristics of pine needles were investigated for the first time and the possibility of using them as plant-derived feed additives was confirmed. Four types of fermented pine needle were prepared: (1) natural fermentation (CON); (2) Lactobacillus plantarum SK4315 fermentation (LPF); (3) Saccharomyces cerevisiae SK3587 fermentation (SCF); and (4) co-culture fermentation (CCF). Fermentation lasted 48 h, and samples were taken at 4-h intervals until 12 h, then at 24 and 48 h. As analysis items, fermentation characteristics, antibacterial, antioxidant, and enzymatic activities were investigated. As a result, all pine needle cultures were fermented with changes in the number of viable cells and pH. LPF inhibited the growth of the most pathogens, and the activity became stronger with fermentation. Total polyphenol content (TPC) was the highest in the 48 h SCF and LPF samples, ABTS radical scavenging ability and intracellular antioxidant activity were higher in SCF. Enzymatic activities were different depending on each pine needle culture medium and the fermentation time. In summary, all pine needle cultures were normally fermented, and as fermentation progressed, LPF strengthened antibacterial activity and SCF strengthened antioxidant activity. This study confirmed the potential of fermented pine needles as a feed additive, showing an enhancement of biological activity.
Changes in the Quality of Myofibrillar Protein Gel Damaged by High Doses of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate as Affected by the Addition of Amylopectin
Authors: Chen Lin , Yang Rong , Fan Xiaojing , He Gongchen , Zhao Zhengshan , Wang Fangqu , Liu Yaping , Wang Mengyuan , Han Minyi , Ullah Niamat , Feng Xianchao
Published: April 2023

This work investigated the improvement of amylopectin addition on the quality of myofibrillar proteins (MP) gel damaged by high doses of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG, 80 μM/g protein). The results found that the addition of amylopectin partially alleviated the unfolding of MP induced by oxidation and EGCG, and enhanced the structural stability of MP. Amylopectin blocked the loss of the free amine group and thiol group, and increased the solubility of MP from 7.0% to 9.5%. The carbonyl analysis demonstrated that amylopectin addition did not weaken the antioxidative capacity of EGCG. It was worth noting that amylopectin significantly improved the gel properties of MP treated with a high dose of EGCG. The cooking loss was reduced from 51.2% to 35.5%, and the gel strength was reduced from 0.41 N to 0.29 N after adding high concentrations of amylopectin (A:E(8:1)). This was due to that amylopectin filled the network of MP gel after absorbing water and changed into a swelling state, and partially reduced interactions between EGCG and oxidized MP. This study indicated that amylopectin could be used to increase the polyphenol loads to provide a more lasting antioxidant effect for meat products and improve the deterioration of gel quality caused by oxidation and high doses of EGCG.
Structural Characterization, Technofunctional and Rheological Properties of Sesame Proteins Treated by High-Intensity Ultrasound
Authors: Gul Osman , Saricaoglu Furkan Turker , Atalar Ilyas , Gul Latife Betul , Tornuk Fatih , Simsek Senay
Published: April 2023

Plant-derived proteins, such as those from sesame seeds, have the potential to be used as versatile food ingredients. End-use functionality can be further improved by high-intensity ultrasound treatments. The effects of high-intensity ultrasound on the properties of sesame protein isolates from cold-pressed sesame cake were evaluated. The SDS-PAGE demonstrated no significant changes in the molecular weight of proteins. Ultrasound treatments resulted in decreased particle size with a more uniform distribution, resulting in the exposure of hydrophobicity and free −SH groups and increased zeta potential. Although FTIR spectra of proteins were similar after ultrasonication, a partial increase in the intensity of the amide A band was observed. The ultrasound significantly (p < 0.05) affected the secondary structure of proteins. While optical micrographics revealed a dispersed structure with smaller particles after treatments, microstructural observations indicated more rough and irregular surfaces. Water solubility was improved to 80.73% in the sample subjected to 6 min of ultrasonication. Sesame protein solutions treated for 4 and 6 min exhibited viscoelastic structure (storage modulus (G′) > loss modulus (G′′)). In addition, the gelation temperature of proteins decreased to about 60–65 °C with increasing treatment time. Overall, ultrasound is a useful technique for the modification of sesame protein isolates.
Effect of Microwave Vacuum Freeze-Drying Power on Emulsifying and Structure Properties of Egg White Protein
Authors: Su Kenan , Liu Lili , Pan Xingyu , Chen Shuxing , Zhang Xiaodan , Cheng Weiwei , Xu Baocheng
Published: April 2023

The study investigated the effects of different microwave vacuum freeze-drying powers (100–500 W) on the emulsifying properties and structural characteristics of egg white protein, which is of great significance in enhancing the added value of EWP and promoting its application. Emulsification analysis revealed that the emulsification performance was significantly influenced by microwave power and reached its maximum at 300 W. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analyses showed that microwave vacuum freeze-drying treatment altered the secondary structure of EWP without changing its peptide structure. Fluorescence measurements indicated that the maximum fluorescence emission intensity decreased, and the maximum emission wavelength shifted towards blue as the power increased. Particle size, zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses showed that the average particle size of EWP reached the minimum value of 1203.66 nm, the absolute value of zeta potential reached the maximum value of 41.35 mV, and the thermal stability was strongest, with a more uniform and loose structure observed at 300 W. Texture profile analysis (TPA) showed that appropriate power treatment significantly enhanced the chewiness and viscoelasticity of egg white protein. Therefore, appropriate power treatment could effectively improve the emulsifying properties and stability.
Identification of Key Components Responsible for the Aromatic Quality of Jinmudan Black Tea by Means of Molecular Sensory Science
Authors: Wu Qingyang , Zhou Ziwei , Zhang Yining , Huang Huiqing , Ou Xiaoxi , Sun Yun
Published: April 2023

A fruity aroma is regarded as an important factor in the evaluation of black tea quality. However, the compounds contributing to a particularly fruity aroma still garner less attention. In this study, we aimed to identify the aroma-active compounds of the peach-like aroma of Jinmudan black tea (JBT). We used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to reveal the profile of the chemical compounds integrated into JBT and identified terpenoids, heterocyclic, and esters that contribute to its floral and fruity aroma. Under the PCA and PLS-DA modes, JBT and Fuyun NO. 6 black tea (FBT) can be divided into two classes, respectively (class 1 and class 2); several compounds, including indole, methyl salicylate, and δ-decalactone, have a higher VIP value (Variable Importance in Projection), and it has been found that δ-decalactone was the characteristic aromatic compound of peach fruit. Gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC-O) and the odor activity value (OAV) indicated that, in JBT, linalool, phenylacetaldehyde, and δ-decalactone could be considered aroma-active compounds (AACs). However, in FBT, the high content of heterocyclic compounds contribute to its caramel-like aroma. As for the biochemical compounds measurement, JBT has a higher content of theaflavins (TFs), thearubigins (TRs), and flavonoids. These results provide a theoretical basis for the quality and processing improvement in JBT.
Poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/Polyacrylamide pIPNs/Magnetite Composite Hydrogels: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Simeonov Marin , Apostolov Anton Atanasov , Georgieva Milena , Tzankov Dimitar , Vassileva Elena
Published: April 2023

Novel composite hydrogels based on poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/polyacrylamide pseudo-interpenetrating polymer networks (pIPNs) and magnetite were prepared via in situ precipitation of Fe3+/Fe2+ ions within the hydrogel structure. The magnetite formation was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, and the size of the magnetite crystallites was shown to depend on the hydrogel composition: the crystallinity of the magnetite particles increased in line with PAAM content within the composition of the pIPNs. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed an interaction between the hydrogel matrix, via the carboxylic groups of polyacrylic acid, and Fe ions, which strongly influenced the formation of the magnetite articles. The composites’ thermal properties, examined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), show an increase in the glass transition temperature of the obtained composites, which depends on the PAA/PAAM copolymer ratio in the pIPNs’ composition. Moreover, the composite hydrogels exhibit pH and ionic strength responsiveness as well as superparamagnetic properties. The study revealed the potential of pIPNs as matrices for controlled inorganic particle deposition as a viable method for the production of polymer nanocomposites.