bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Effect of Secondary Air Layout on CO Reduction Performance in a 75 t/h Biomass CFB Boiler Burning Wheat Straw
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Yanmin , Mei Lin , Yu Xiaoliang , Lv Xun , Wang Jinping , Yan Jin , Sun Rongyue
Published: April 2023

Biomass fuels play an important role in the field of fluidized bed combustion, but due to the diversity and uncertainty of fuels, there are usually some problems of high CO emission that cannot be directly solved by combustion adjustment. In this paper, a 75 t/h biomass fluidized bed was taken as the research object. It was observed from the field test that the gas incomplete combustion loss reached 12.13% when mono-combustion of wheat straw was conducted, and the CO concentration in the exhaust gas exceeded 30k ppm. Combined with the CPFD numerical simulation, the combustion characteristics and influence of secondary air layout on CO reduction performance were discussed in detail. The results revealed that the gas temperature gradually increased along furnace height under the initial condition, and the maximum temperature was more than 1000 °C at furnace outlet. The air curtain of the secondary air jets was insufficient, and the wheat straw rose rapidly as it entered into the furnace. By arranging adjacent secondary air ports above each fuel-feeding inlet, the residence time of particles in the furnace could be significantly increased, thus, the furnace temperature distribution was more reasonable and the CO emission was reduced by 58.6%.
Integrated Energy Microgrid Economic Dispatch Optimization Model Based on Information-Gap Decision Theory
Authors: Fan Xiaowei , Chen Yongtao , Wang Ruimiao , Luo Jiaxin , Wang Jingang , Cao Decheng
Published: April 2023

To address the problems of “difficult to consume” renewable energy and the randomness of power output, we propose the CHP unit joint-operation model with power to gas (P2G) and carbon capture system (CCS) technologies and analyze the operation cost, carbon emission, and “electric-heat coupling” characteristics of this model. A dispatch optimization model is constructed based on the information-gap decision theory under the strategy to further consider the interval uncertainty of renewable energy unit output and load forecast. The optimized-dispatching model effectively solves the fate of renewable unit output and electric-thermal load and provides dispatching strategies for decision-makers to balance risk and capital management.
Artificial Intelligence Methods in Hydraulic System Design
Authors: Filo Grzegorz
Published: April 2023

Reducing energy consumption and increasing operational efficiency are currently among the leading research topics in the design of hydraulic systems. In recent years, hydraulic system modeling and design techniques have rapidly expanded, especially using artificial intelligence methods. Due to the variety of algorithms, methods, and tools of artificial intelligence, it is possible to consider the prospects and directions of their further development. The analysis of the most recent publications allowed three leading technologies to be indicated, including artificial neural networks, evolutionary algorithms, and fuzzy logic. This article summarizes their current applications in the research, main advantages, and limitations, as well as expected directions for further development.
Comprehensive Thermodynamic Analysis of He–Xe in Microchannels with Different Structures
Authors: Sun Zijian , Zhang Haochun , Sun Qiqi , Zhang Cheng
Published: April 2023

He–Xe, with a 40 g/mol molar mass, is considered one of the most promising working media in a space-confined Brayton cycle. The thermodynamic performance of He–Xe in different configuration channels is investigated in this paper to provide a basis for the optimal design of printed circuit board plate heat exchanger (PCHE). In this paper, the factors affecting the temperature distribution of the He–Xe flow field are analyzed based on the flow heat transfer mechanism. It is found that the flow patterns in the logarithmic and outer zones determine the temperature distribution pattern of the flow field. A series of numerical simulations verify the above conclusions, and it is found that reasonable channel structure and operating conditions can significantly improve the thermodynamic performance of the He–Xe flow. Based on the above findings, the Zig channel is optimized, obtaining Sine and Serpentine channels with different structural characteristics. Comprehensive thermodynamic comparisons of the helium–xenon flow domains inside channels are performed, and the Serpentine channel with a shape factor of tan 52.5° is found with the best performance. This work aims to improve the understanding of the thermodynamic performance of He–Xe in microchannels and provide theoretical support for further optimization of PCHE employing He–Xe.
Performance Assessment of the Heat Recovery System of a 12 MW SOFC-Based Generator on Board a Cruise Ship through a 0D Model
Authors: Micoli Luca , Russo Roberta , Coppola Tommaso , Pietra Andrea
Published: April 2023

The present work considers a 12 MW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) power plant integrated with a heat recovery system installed on board an LNG-fuelled cruise ship of about 175,000 gross tonnes and 345 m in length. The SOFC plant is fed by LNG and generates electrical power within an integrated power system configuration; additionally, it provides part of the thermal energy demand. A zero-dimensional (0D) Aspen Plus model has been built-up to simulate the SOFC power plant and to assess the performances of the proposed heat recovery system. The model has been validated by comparing the results obtained with data from the literature and commercial SOFC modules. The integrated system has been optimized in order to maximize steam production since it is the most requested thermal source on board. The main design outcome is that the steam produced is made by the recovered water from the SOFC exhaust by about 50–60%, thus reducing the onboard water storage or production. Additionally, results indicate that such an integrated system could save up to about 14.4% of LNG.
Research on Smart Power Sales Strategy Considering Load Forecasting and Optimal Allocation of Energy Storage System in China
Authors: Liu Hongli , Wang Luoqi , Li Ji , Shao Lei , Zhang Delong
Published: April 2023

With the deepening reform of the power system, power sales companies need to adopt new power sales strategies to provide customers with better economic marketing solutions. Customer-side configuration of an energy storage system (ESS) can participate in power-related policies to reduce the comprehensive cost of electricity for commercial and industrial customers and improve customer revenue. For power sales companies, this can also attract new customers, expand sales and quickly capture the market. However, most of the ESS evaluation models studied so far are based on historical data configuration of typical daily storage capacity and charging and discharging scheduling instructions. In addition, most models do not adequately consider the performance characteristics of the ESS and cannot accurately assess the economics of the energy storage model. This study proposes an intelligent power sales strategy based on load forecasting with the participation of optimal allocation of ESS. Based on long short-term memory (LSTM) artificial neural network for predictive analysis of customer load, we evaluate the economics of adding energy storage to customers. Based on the premise of the two-part tariff, the ESS evaluation model is constructed with the objective of minimizing the annual comprehensive cost to the user by considering the energy tariff and the savings benefits of the basic tariff, assessing the annualized cost of ESS over its entire life cycle, and the impact of battery capacity decay on economics. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is introduced to solve the model. By simulating the arithmetic example for real customers, their integrated electricity costs are significantly reduced. Moreover, this smart power sales strategy can provide different sales strategies according to the expected payback period of customers. This smart sales strategy can output more accurate declared maximum demand values than other traditional sales strategies, providing a more economical solution for customers.
Precipitation of Barium Sulphate during the Waterflooding Process in Polish Offshore Oilfields—Case Analysis
Authors: Gruszka Michał , Nagy Stanisław
Published: April 2023

The fundamentals of scaling during waterflooding of an oilfield are presented. Mineral precipitation is described using both the kinetics approach, with the corresponding equations given, and the thermodynamic models’ theoretical foundation discussed—mainly specific ion interaction and Pitzer models. This paper focuses on the process of mixing incompatible waters during both water injection and production from an oilfield, as this was identified as a primary reason for barium sulphate precipitation. Two methods of minimizing the risk of solid phase deposition during the mixing of water using the addition of inhibitors and removal of sulfur compounds through a membrane system before water injection into the bed are shown. In addition, formation damage to the near-well zone is discussed with its implications for field operators. Using thermodynamics, especially equations based on the HKF-SRK modified model, this paper describes typical conditions for barium sulphate precipitation during hydrocarbon production on a Polish offshore oilfield. The case study is presented using scaling tendency (ST) and solid concentration values to distinguish the most vulnerable places of solid deposition, both topside and subsurface. The importance of avoiding the mixing of incompatible waters is documented and shown in comparison to a non-mixing scenario.
An Overview of Oak Species in Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future Research Perspectives
Authors: Muhammad Noor , Castillejo María Ángeles , Rey Maria-Dolores , Jorrín-Novo Jesús V.
Published: April 2023

Quercus spp. have formed broad-leaved evergreen forests in the Hindu Kush and Himalayan regions of Pakistan. Seven species of the genus Quercus (Q. baloot Griff., Q. dilatata Royle., Q. glauca Thunb., Q. incana Roxb., Q. robur Linn., Q. semecarpifolia Smith., and Q. leucotrichophora A. Camus.) have been identified. These species have received little attention compared with other economically valuable plant species in Pakistan, which has been mainly linked to traditional medicine and the identification of phytonutrients to evaluate their bioactivities and toxicological effects. Quercus spp. are promising for commercial applications, so government policy should encourage their management and conservation. However, they are currently threatened by severe human activities and climate change. The goal of this review is to highlight the relevance of these forgotten species, describing overall aspects related to their distribution, morphology, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, and threats. To date, no proper and comprehensive molecular studies on the populations of these species found in Pakistan have been conducted, which is a critical gap as molecular studies are essential for conservation and management strategies. Finally, we discuss future directions in molecular approaches for Quercus that follow the strategies that are being used for other species of the genus Quercus that are not found in Pakistan.
Forest Fire Prediction Based on Long- and Short-Term Time-Series Network
Authors: Lin Xufeng , Li Zhongyuan , Chen Wenjing , Sun Xueying , Gao Demin
Published: April 2023

Modeling and prediction of forest fire occurrence play a key role in guiding forest fire prevention. From the perspective of the whole world, forest fires are a natural disaster with a great degree of hazard, and many countries have taken mountain fire prediction as an important measure for fire prevention and control, and have conducted corresponding research. In this study, a forest fire prediction model based on LSTNet is proposed to improve the accuracy of forest fire forecasts. The factors that influence forest fires are obtained through remote sensing satellites and GIS, and their correlation is estimated using Pearson correlation analysis and testing for multicollinearity. To account for the spatial aggregation of forest fires, the data set was constructed using oversampling methods and proportional stratified sampling, and the LSTNet forest fire prediction model was established based on eight influential factors. Finally, the predicted data were incorporated into the model and the predicted risk map of forest fires in Chongli, China was drawn. This paper uses metrics such as RMSE to compare with traditional machine learning methods, and the results show that the LSTNet model proposed in this paper has high accuracy (ACC 0.941). This study illustrates that the model can effectively use spatial background information and the periodicity of forest fire factors, and is a novel method for spatial prediction of forest fire susceptibility.
Improving the Nutritional Value of Plant Protein Sources as Poultry Feed through Solid-State Fermentation with a Special Focus on Peanut Meal—Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Li Chong , Li Shuzhen , Zhu Yanbin , Chen Si , Wang Xiaoying , Deng Xuejuan , Liu Guohua , Beckers Yves , Cai Huiyi
Published: April 2023

The poultry industry has been and is still suffering considerable challenges because of the increasing price of soybean meal. Therefore, it is imperative to find alternative, high-quality plant protein sources. Peanut meal (PNM), a by-product of peanut oil extraction, is abundant in crude protein (40.1–50.9%), making it a potential plant protein source. However, nutritional and non-nutritional limitations are detrimental to its application in poultry diets, such as an imbalance in amino acid composition, phytate and the risk of aflatoxins pollution. As a processing technique, solid-state fermentation has been used to reduce phytate and improve the nutrient availability of plant protein sources in the feed industry. It is a promising approach to improving the application of PNM in poultry diets. There are several advantages to the solid-state fermentation of PNM, such as low-cost equipment, high productivity, the stability of the product and the minimization of energy consumption. Currently, there is still a lack of synthesized information on the application of solid-state fermented PNM in poultry. This review summarized the limiting factors for PNM application in poultry feed and the improvement of solid-state fermentation on the nutritional value of plant protein sources so as to evaluate the feasibility of improving the nutritional value of PNM as poultry feed through solid-state fermentation. We hope to shed some light on the selection of protein resources in future research.
Protective Effects of Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther against Methylglyoxal-Induced Liver Damage and Microflora Imbalances Caused by High-Fructose Induction
Authors: Lee Bao-Hong , Shen Siou-Ru , Lee Pei-Sheng , Huang Xin-Sen , Chang Wen-Chang , Wu She-Ching
Published: April 2023

Methylglyoxal (MG) is a highly reactive dicarbonyl aldehyde and a major precursor of advanced glycation end products that result in oxidative stress. Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther (WGP) is a herbal medicine of Taiwan with the hepatoprotective property. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of the water extract of WGP on MG-induced liver damage in a rat model. The results showed that WGP lowered the total cholesterol level and the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. WGP could help normalize the MG level. The amelioration of inflammatory factors such as transformation growth factor-β1 was observed in the WGP treatment group. In another animal model, a high-fructose diet (HFD) was used to induce intestinal dysfunction in C57BL/6 mice. The results indicated that the HFD induction resulted in intestinal dysbiosis, including inflammation, microflora imbalances, and reductions in tight-junction proteins. However, both WGP and its active compound gallic acid could improve intestine function. According to the above, WGP can improve hyperlipidemia in the liver, inhibit inflammatory cytokine production, and regulate intestinal flora in mice, as well as enhance the intestinal barrier. These findings provide a basis for the development of health products.
Microbial Communities of Flor Velums and the Genetic Stability of Flor Yeasts Used for a Long Time for the Industrial Production of Sherry-like Wines
Authors: Mardanov Andrey V. , Gruzdev Eugeny V. , Beletsky Alexey V. , Ivanova Elena V. , Shalamitskiy Maksim Yu. , Tanashchuk Tatiana N. , Ravin Nikolai V.
Published: April 2023

Flor yeast strains represent a specialized group of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts used for the production of sherry-like wines by biological wine aging. We sequenced the genome of the industrial flor yeast strain I-329 from a collection of microorganisms for winemaking “Magarach” and the metagenomes of two flor velums based on this strain and continuously maintained for several decades. The winery uses two processes for the production of sherry-like wine: batch aging and a continuous process similar to the criaderas–solera system. The 18S rRNA gene profiling and sequencing of metagenomes of flor velums revealed the presence of the yeasts Pichia membranifaciens and Malassezia restricta in minor amounts along with the dominant S. cerevisiae I-329 flor yeast. Bacteria Oenococcus oeni and Lentilactobacillus hilgardii together accounted for approximately 20% of the velum microbiota in the case of a batch process, but less than 1% in the velum used in the continuous process. Collection strain I-329 was triploid for all chromosomes except diploid chromosomes I and III, while the copy numbers of all chromosomes were equal in industrial velums. A comparative analysis of the genome of strain I-329 maintained in the collection and metagenomes of industrial velums revealed only several dozens of single nucleotide polymorphisms, which indicates a long-term genetic stability of this flor yeast strain under the harsh conditions of biological wine aging.
Consumer’s Attitude towards Display Google Ads
Authors: Al Khasawneh Mohammad , Sharabati Abdel-Aziz Ahmad , Al-Haddad Shafig , Al-Daher Rania , Hammouri Sarah , Shaqman Sima
Published: April 2023

The context of Display Google ads and its components has significant importance to previous studies. However, the full understanding of the variables that influence both Display Google ads avoidance and intention to click has not been thoroughly acknowledged. Thus, this study aims to outline an entire understanding of the different variables that lead Display Google ads to be avoided or clicked on. A detailed review of previous studies has been completed to illustrate a thorough image of Display Google ads. Accordingly, this study developed a theoretical model combining four variables (Display Google ads’ Prior Experience, Originality, Relevance, and Credibility) that lead to affecting Display Google ads’ Avoidance and Intention to Click, with one mediator (Consumer’s Attitude). A quantitative methodology has been employed, in which an online survey has been used to collect data, which were collected from 358 respondents, then coded against AMOS. The data analysis results show that three independent variables positively impact the intention to click; however, credibility has the highest value, then relevance and originality, consequently., while Display Google ads prior experience had no impact on the intention to click. Finally, the research concluded different practical and theoretical implications, and future potential research, and limitations.
Sex Ratio, Spawning Period, and Sexual Group Maturity of the Largehead Hairtail Trichiurus japonicus (Teleostei: Trichiuridae) in Korean Waters
Authors: Shin So Ryung , Kim Hyeon Jin , Kim Jae Won , Kwon Dae-Hyeon , Choi Junghwa , Park Jung Jun , Lee Jung Sick
Published: April 2023

This study was performed to obtain information on the sex ratio, spawning period, and size at sexual maturity for fishery management of the largehead hairtail Trichiurus japonicus in Korean waters. The overall sex ratio (female, F; male, M) was 1:0.46 (n = 1274 females:589 males, 68.4% female) and as fish increased in length, the proportion of females increased. The oocyte development pattern was group-synchronous development, for which oocyte groups at different stages can be identified within the same ovary. The average gonadosomatic index (GSI) showed two peaks in June (3.03) and August (3.10) in females and in May (1.81) and September (2.24) in males. The median value of GSI showed two peaks in May (2.65F, 1.78M) and September (2.55F, 1.87M) for both females and males. As a result of analyzing the GSI and the monthly gonadal developmental stages, the main spawning season was estimated to be bi-annual (May–June and September–October). The anal length of fish at 50% sexual maturity was analyzed using a logistic regression model and was determined to be 16.38 cm (female) and 18.31 cm (male).
Revealing the Sequence Characteristics and Molecular Mechanisms of ACE Inhibitory Peptides by Comprehensive Characterization of 160,000 Tetrapeptides
Authors: Ma Mingzhe , Feng Yinghui , Miao Yulu , Shen Qiang , Tang Shuting , Dong Juan , Zhang John Z. H. , Zhang Lujia
Published: April 2023

Chronic diseases, such as hypertension, cause great harm to human health. Conventional drugs have promising therapeutic effects, but also cause significant side effects. Food-sourced angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides are an excellent therapeutic alternative to pharmaceuticals, as they have fewer side effects. However, there is no systematic and effective screening method for ACE inhibitory peptides, and the lack of understanding of the sequence characteristics and molecular mechanism of these inhibitory peptides poses a major obstacle to the development of ACE inhibitory peptides. Through systematically calculating the binding effects of 160,000 tetrapeptides with ACE by molecular docking, we found that peptides with Tyr, Phe, His, Arg, and especially Trp were the characteristic amino acids of ACE inhibitory peptides. The tetrapeptides of WWNW, WRQF, WFRV, YYWK, WWDW, and WWTY rank in the top 10 peptides exhibiting significantly high ACE inhibiting behaviors, with IC50 values between 19.98 ± 8.19 μM and 36.76 ± 1.32 μM. Salt bridges, π–π stacking, π–cations, and hydrogen bonds contributed to the high binding characteristics of the inhibitors and ACE. Introducing eight Trp into rabbit skeletal muscle protein (no Trp in wide sequence) endowed the protein with a more than 90% ACE inhibition rate, further suggesting that meat with a high content of Trp could have potential utility in hypertension regulation. This study provides a clear direction for the development and screening of ACE inhibitory peptides.
Metagenomic and Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis of the Effect of Sporisorium reilianum Polysaccharide on Improving Obesity
Authors: Guo Yunlong , Liu Meihong , Liu Xin , Zheng Mingzhu , Xu Xiuying , Liu Xiaokang , Gong Jiyu , Liu Huimin , Liu Jingsheng
Published: April 2023

Gut microbiota plays an important role in the pathophysiology of obesity. Fungal polysaccharide can improve obesity, but the potential mechanism needs further study. This experiment studied the potential mechanism of polysaccharides from Sporisorium reilianum (SRP) to improve obesity in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) using metagenomics and untargeted metabolomics. After 8 weeks of SRP (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day) intervention, we analyzed the related index of obesity, gut microbiota, and untargeted metabolomics of rats. The obesity and serum lipid levels of rats treated with SRP were reduced, and lipid accumulation in the liver and adipocyte hypertrophy was improved, especially in rats treated with a high dose of SRP. SRP improved the composition and function of gut microbiota in rats fed with a high-fat diet, and decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroides at the phylum level. At the genus level, the abundance of Lactobacillus increased and that of Bacteroides decreased. At the species level, the abundance of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus helveticus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus increased, while the abundance of Lactobacillus reuteri and Staphylococcus xylosus decreased. The function of gut microbiota mainly regulated lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism. The untargeted metabolomics indicated that 36 metabolites were related to the anti-obesity effect of SRP. Furthermore, linoleic acid metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, and the phenylalanine metabolism pathway played a role in improving obesity in those treated with SRP. The study results suggest that SRP significantly alleviated obesity via gut-microbiota-related metabolic pathways, and SRP could be used for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Comparison of Sensory Profiling by Descriptive Analysis, Free-Choice Profiling, and Polarized Sensory Positioning on Bottled Water
Authors: Heo JeongAe , Kim Sang Sook , Kim Mi-Ran , Kwak Han Sub
Published: April 2023

Consumer-oriented rapid profiling methodologies, including free-choice profiling (FCP) and polarized sensory positioning (PSP), have been studied in recent decades, highlighting alternative aspects of conventional descriptive analysis (DA). In the present study, water samples were evaluated using DA, FCP, and PSP with open-ended questions to compare the sensory profiles. Ten bottled water samples and one filtered water sample were evaluated by a trained panel for DA (n = 11), a semi-trained panel for FCP (n = 16), and naïve consumers for PSP (n = 63). The results were analyzed using principal component analysis for DA and multiple factor analysis for FCP and PSP data. The water samples were discriminated by their total mineral content, which was mainly associated with heavy mouthfeel. The overall discrimination patterns for the samples were similar between FCP and PSP, whereas DA showed different patterns. Sample discrimination through confidence ellipses from DA, FCP, and PSP showed that two consumer-oriented methodologies distinguished samples more clearly than DA. Throughout this study, consumer-oriented profiling methodologies were able to be used to investigate sensory profiles and provide rich information on consumer-derived sensory attributes even for subtly different samples.
A Robust Homogeneous Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay for Rapid Determination of Erythromycin in Milk
Authors: Duan Changfei , Zhang Huiyan , Zhang Yingjie , Li Qiang , Li Peipei , Mari Ghulam Mujtaba , Eremin Sergei A. , Shen Jianzhong , Wang Zhanhui
Published: April 2023

Erythromycin (ERY) is one of the most common macrolides applied in veterinary medicine to treat diseases or as a feed additive for animal growth promotion. Long-term irrational use of ERY could lead to residues in animal-derived food and the emergence of drug-resistant strains, posing potential threats to human health. In this study, a highly sensitive, specific, robust, and rapid fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) for the determination of ERY in milk has been described. Herein, to achieve high sensitivity, five tracers of ERY with different fluorescein structures were synthesized and paired with three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Under the optimized conditions, the combination of mAb 5B2 and tracer ERM-FITC achieved the lowest IC50 value in the FPIA with 7.39 μg/L for ERM. The established FPIA was used to detect ERY in milk, revealing a limit of detection (LOD) of 14.08 μg/L with recoveries of 96.08–107.77% and coefficients of variations (CVs) of 3.41–10.97%. The total detection time of the developed FPIA was less than 5 min from the addition of samples to the result readout. All the above results showed that the proposed FPIA in this study was a rapid, accurate, and simple method for the screening of ERY in milk samples.
Agro-Food Waste as an Ingredient in Functional Beverage Processing: Sources, Functionality, Market and Regulation
Authors: Pérez-Marroquín Xóchitl Alejandra , Estrada-Fernández Ana Guadalupe , García-Ceja Adelfo , Aguirre-Álvarez Gabriel , León-López Arely
Published: April 2023

Waste generated from the agro-food industry represents a concerning environmental, social and economic issue. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations defines food waste as all food that decreases in quantity or quality to the extent that it is thrown out by food service providers and consumers. The FAO reports that 17% of worldwide food production may be wasted. Food waste may include fresh products, food close to the expiration date discarded by retailers and food products from household kitchens and eating establishments. However, food waste offers different possibilities to extract functional ingredients from different sources, such as dairy, cereals, fruits, vegetables, fibers, oils, dye and bioactive compounds. The optimization of agro-food waste as an ingredient will help in the development and innovation of food products to generate functional food and beverages to prevent and treat several diseases in consumers.
Optimization of Extraction Process, Preliminary Characterization and Safety Study of Crude Polysaccharides from Morindae Officinalis Radix
Authors: Chen Yaxian , Cai Yini , Zhao Zhimin , Yang Depo , Xu Xinjun
Published: April 2023

In this study, the hot water extraction process of crude polysaccharides from Morindae officinalis radix (cMORP) was conducted and optimized through a single-factor test and orthogonal experimental design. With the optimal extraction process (extraction temperature of 80 °C, extraction time of 2 h, liquid/solid ratio of 15 mL/g, and number of extraction of 1), the cMORP was obtained by the ethanol precipitation method. The chemical properties and preliminary characterization of the cMORP were analyzed by chemical or instrumental methods. Furthermore, to indicate a preliminary study on safety, a single oral dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight (BW) was administered orally to Kunming (KM) mice for acute toxicity, and the cMORP was administered orally to KM mice once a day at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg BW for 30 days. General behaviors, body weight variations, histopathology, relative organ weights, and hematological and serum biochemical parameters were observed and recorded. The results suggested there were no toxicologically significant changes. Based on the safety study, cMORP can be initially considered non-toxic with no acute oral toxicity up to 5000 mg/kg BW and safe at up to 100 mg/kg BW in KM mice for 30 days.
Optimization of Mixed Inulin, Fructooligosaccharides, and Galactooligosaccharides as Prebiotics for Stimulation of Probiotics Growth and Function
Authors: Kaewarsar Ekkachai , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Lailerd Narissara , Makhamrueang Netnapa , Peerajan Sartjin , Sirilun Sasithorn
Published: April 2023

Prebiotics have become an important functional food because of their potential for modulating the gut microbiota and metabolic activities. However, different prebiotics can stimulate the growth of different probiotics. The optimization of prebiotics was focused on in this study in order to stimulate the representative probiotics’ growth (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (previously Lactobacillus rhamnosus) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis) and their function. The culture medium was supplemented with three prebiotics, including inulin (INU), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS). All prebiotics can clearly stimulate the growth of probiotic strains in both monoculture and co-culture. The specific growth rates of L. rhamnosus and B. animalis subsp. lactis were shown in GOS (0.019 h−1) and FOS (0.023 h−1), respectively. The prebiotic index (PI) scores of INU (1.03), FOS (0.86), and GOS (0.84) in co-culture at 48 h were significantly higher than the control (glucose). The mixture of prebiotics to achieve high quality was optimized using the Box–Behnken design. The optimum prebiotic ratios of INU, FOS, and GOS were 1.33, 2.00, and 2.67% w/v, respectively, with the highest stimulated growth of probiotic strains occurring with the highest PI score (1.03) and total short chain fatty acid concentration (85.55 µmol/mL). The suitable ratio of mixed prebiotics will function as a potential ingredient for functional foods or colonic foods.
In-Depth Chemical Characterization of Punica granatum L. Seed Oil
Authors: Cairone Francesco , Salvitti Chiara , Iazzetti Antonia , Fabrizi Giancarlo , Troiani Anna , Pepi Federico , Cesa Stefania
Published: April 2023

Fruit seeds belonging to the pomegranate cultivar “Granata” were subjected to extraction and oily component analysis, with the aim of obtaining information about their composition. The presence of conjugated isomers of linolenic acid (CLNA isomers) in the oily phase extracted from the seeds gives a high added value to this part of the fruit, which is too often considered and treated as waste. The separated seeds were subjected to a classic Soxhlet extraction with n-hexane or extraction with supercritical CO2, assisted by ethanol. The resulting oils were evaluated by 1H and 13C-NMR and AP-MALDI-MS techniques. Differences in the triacylglycerols composition, with particular regard to punicic acid and other CLNA content, were studied in depth. Results showed the prevalence of punicic acid in the triacylglycerol mixture up to the 75%, with clear preponderance in the extract by supercritical fluids. Consequently, other CLNA isomers are, altogether, two-fold less represented in the supercritical extract than in the Soxhlet one. The two oily residues were subjected to solid phase extraction (SPE) and to HPLC-DAD analysis for the polyphenolic isolation and characterization. In addition to HPLC analysis, which showed different content and composition, DPPH analysis to evaluate the antiradical potential showed that the extract obtained with supercritical CO2 was much more active.
Inhibition of Perilla frutescens Essential Oil on Pellicle Formation of Candida tropicalis and Pichia kluyveri and Its Effect on Volatile Compounds in Sichuan Pickles
Authors: Cai Ting , Shi Pei , Zhang Shan , Xiang Wenliang , Liu Junyu , Lin Zixi , Tang Jie
Published: April 2023

Pellicle formation is the most typical characteristic of deteriorating fermented vegetable products. Perilla frutescens essential oil (PEO) is widely used as a useful natural preservative. However, few studies have addressed the antifungal activity and mechanism of PEO in pellicle formation microorganisms, and it is still unclear whether it can inhibit pellicle formation and affect its volatile compounds in Sichuan pickles. The current study showed that PEO can inhibit pellicle formation during fermentation of Sichuan pickles as it had significant antifungal activity against the pellicle formation microorganisms Candida tropicalis SH1 and Pichia kluyveri SH2. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PEO against C. tropicalis SH1 and P. kluyveri SH2 was determined to be 0.4 μL/mL, and the minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) were 1.6 μL/mL and 0.8 μL/mL, respectively. The antifungal mechanism was activated as a result of damage to the cell membrane, an increase in the cell permeability, a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential, and the inhibition of ATPase activity. Meanwhile, the addition of PEO to Sichuan pickles can enrich the profiles of volatile compounds during fermentation, including limonene, myrcene, 1,8-cineole, linalool, perilla ketone, heptanal, hexanal, α-thujone and β-terpineol and thus improve the overall sensory acceptability. These results indicated that PEO has the potential to be used as a novel food preservative to control pellicle formation in fermented vegetables.
Effect of Multiple Rounds of Enrichment on Metabolite Accumulation and Microbiota Composition of Pit Mud for Baijiu Fermentation
Authors: Li Dong , Ye Guangbin , Zong Xuyan , Zou Wei
Published: April 2023

Pit mud (PM) is the main component of Baijiu (traditional Chinese liquor), and its microorganisms are the primary sources of the aroma of Chinese strong-flavor Baijiu (SFB). Enrichment plays an important role in the selection of functional microorganisms in PM. Herein, the PM of SFB was submitted to six rounds of enrichment using clostridial growth medium (CGM), and changes in the metabolite accumulation and microbiota composition were evaluated. Based on the metabolite production and microbiota composition, the enrichment rounds were classified as the acclimation stage (round 2), main fermentation stage (rounds 3 and 4), and late fermentation stage (rounds 5 and 6). Species within the genus Clostridium dominated in the acclimation stage (65.84–74.51%). In the main fermentation stage, the dominant microbial groups were producers of butyric acid, acetic acid, and caproic acid, which included Clostridium (45.99–74.80%), Caproicibacter (1.45–17.02%), and potential new species within the order of Oscillataceae (14.26–29.10%). In the late stage of enrichment, Pediococcus dominated (45.96–79.44%). Thus, the main fermentation stage can be considered optimal for the isolation of acid-producing bacteria from PM. The findings discussed herein support the development and application of functional bacteria by bioaugmentation, and contribute to improving the quality of PM and SFB production.
Can Glyphosate and Temperature Affect the Nutritional Lipid Quality in the Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis?
Authors: Biandolino Francesca , Prato Ermelinda , Grattagliano Asia , Parlapiano Isabella
Published: April 2023

Mussels are an important source of the essential omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), which play a critical role in human health, preventing a variety of diseases. This study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the combined effect of glyphosate (Gly) and culturing temperature on the lipid content and fatty acid (FA) profile of the Mediterranean mussel M. galloprovincialis. In addition, a number of lipid nutritional quality indices (LNQIs) were applied as important tools to assess the nutritional value of food. Mussels were exposed for 4 days to two Gly concentrations (1 mg/L, 10 mg/L) and two temperatures (T°: 20–26 °C). Statistical analysis showed significant effects of T°C, Gly, and T°C × Gly interaction (p < 0.05) on the lipid and FA profiles of M. galloprovincialis. Mussels exposed to 10 mg/L Gly at 20 °C showed a decrease in eicosapentaenoic (EPA, from 14.6% to 12% of total FAs) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA, from 10% to 6.4% of total FAs), compared to the control mussels. Both stressors caused a considerable decrease in n-3 PUFAs, which resulted in a less favorable n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio. Overall, this study demonstrated a decline in the nutritive values of mussels, most prominently in groups exposed to 10 mg/L Gly at a temperature of 20 °C and in those exposed to a temperature of 26 °C. This was confirmed by such LNQIs as EPA + DHA, PUFA/Saturated FAs, atherogenic and thrombogenic indices (AI and TI), the health promoting index (HPI), and the unsaturation index (UI). Further investigations into chronic exposure to both stressors are desirable to predict the impacts on aquatic ecosystems and food quality.
Immunomodulatory Effect of Isocaloric Diets with Different Protein Contents on Young Adult Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Wu Liuting , An Rui , Xi Yuyue , Tang Zhiru , Li Tiejun , Xu Yetong , Pang Jiaman , Peng Xie , Sun Weizhong , Sun Zhihong
Published: April 2023

To understand the potential mechanisms of dietary protein on intestinal and host health, we studied the immunomodulatory effects of isocaloric diets with high or low crude protein (CP) contents on young adult Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. A total of 180 healthy male rats were randomly assigned to six groups (six replicate pens per treatment with five rats per pen) and fed diets with 10% CP, 14% CP, 20% CP (control), 28% CP, 38% CP, and 50% CP. Compared with the control diet, the rats fed the 14% CP diet significantly elevated lymphocyte cell counts in the peripheral blood and ileum, whereas the 38% CP diet significantly activated the expression of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in the colonic mucosa (p < 0.05). Moreover, the 50% CP diet reduced growth performance and fat deposition and increased the percentages of CD4+ T, B, and NK cells in the peripheral blood and the colonic mucosal expression of IL-8, TNF-α, and TGF-β. Overall, rats fed the 14% CP diet enhanced host immunity by increasing the numbers of immune cells, and the immunological state and growth of SD rats were negatively impacted by the diet containing 50% CP.
Effect of Rootstock on the Volatile Profile of Mandarins
Authors: Forner-Giner María Ángeles , Sánchez-Bravo Paola , Hernández Francisca , Primo-Capella Amparo , Cano-Lamadrid Marina , Legua Pilar
Published: April 2023

Mandarin production has increased in recent years, especially for fresh consumption, due to its ease of peeling, its aroma, and its content of bioactive compounds. In this sense, aromas play a fundamental role in the sensory quality of this fruit. The selection of the appropriate rootstock is crucial for the success of the crop and its quality. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the influence of 9 rootstocks (“Carrizo citrange”, “Swingle citrumelo CPB 4475”, “Macrophylla”, “Volkameriana”, “Forner-Alcaide 5”, “Forner-Alcaide V17”, “C-35”, “Forner-Alcaide 418”, and “Forner-Alcaide 517”) on the volatile composition of “Clemenules” mandarin. For this, the volatile compounds of mandarin juice were measured using headspace solid-phase micro-extraction in a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Seventy-one volatile compounds were identified in the analyzed samples, with limonene being the main compound. The results obtained showed that the rootstock used in the cultivation of mandarins affects the volatile content of the juice, with “Carrizo citrange”, “Forner-Alcaide 5”, “Forner-Alcaide 418”, and “Forner-Alcaide 517” being those that presented the highest concentration.
Research on the Construction of Grain Food Multi-Chain Blockchain Based on Zero-Knowledge Proof
Authors: Zhang Boyang , Xu Jiping , Wang Xiaoyi , Zhao Zhiyao , Chen Shichao , Zhang Xin
Published: April 2023

As the main food source of the world’s population, grain quality safety is of great significance to the healthy development of human beings. The grain food supply chain is characterized by its long life cycle, numerous and complex business data, difficulty defining private information, and difficult managing and sharing. In order to strengthen the ability of information application processing and coordination of the grain food supply chain under many risk factors, an information management model suitable for the grain food supply chain is studied based on the blockchain multi-chain technology. First, the information on key links in the grain food supply chain is analyzed to obtain privacy data classifications. Second, a multi-chain network model of the grain food supply chain is constructed, and based on this model, the hierarchical encryption and storage mode of private data as well as the relay cross-chain communication mode, are designed. In addition, a complete consensus process, including CPBFT, ZKP, and KZKP algorithms, is designed for the global information collaborative consensus under the multi-chain architecture. Finally, the model is verified through performance simulation, theory analysis, and prototype system verification in terms of its correctness, security, scalability, and consensus efficiency. The results show that this research model effectively reduces the storage redundancy and deals with problems of data differential sharing in traditional single-chain research, as well as provides a secure data protection mechanism, a credible data interaction mechanism, and an efficient multi-chain collaborative consensus mechanism. By attempting to apply blockchain multi-chain technology to the grain food supply chain, this study provides new research ideas for the trusted protection of data and information collaborative consensus in this field.
The Conformational Changes of Bovine Serum Albumin at the Air/Water Interface: HDX-MS and Interfacial Rheology Analysis
Authors: Han Fei , Shen Qian , Zheng Wei , Zuo Jingnan , Zhu Xinyu , Li Jingwen , Peng Chao , Li Bin , Chen Yijie
Published: April 2023

The characterization and dynamics of protein structures upon adsorption at the air/water interface are important for understanding the mechanism of the foamability of proteins. Hydrogen–deuterium exchange, coupled with mass spectrometry (HDX-MS), is an advantageous technique for providing conformational information for proteins. In this work, an air/water interface, HDX-MS, for the adsorbed proteins at the interface was developed. The model protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) was deuterium-labeled at the air/water interface in situ for different predetermined times (10 min and 4 h), and then the resulting mass shifts were analyzed by MS. The results indicated that peptides 54–63, 227–236, and 355–366 of BSA might be involved in the adsorption to the air/water interface. Moreover, the residues L55, H63, R232, A233, L234, K235, A236, R359, and V366 of these peptides might interact with the air/water interface through hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Meanwhile, the results showed that conformational changes of peptides 54–63, 227–236, and 355–366 could lead to structural changes in their surrounding peptides, 204–208 and 349–354, which could cause the reduction of the content of helical structures in the rearrangement process of interfacial proteins. Therefore, our air/water interface HDX-MS method could provide new and meaningful insights into the spatial conformational changes of proteins at the air/water interface, which could help us to further understand the mechanism of protein foaming properties.
The Impact of Divergent Algal Hydrocolloids Addition on the Physicochemical, Viscoelastic, Textural, and Organoleptic Properties of Cream Cheese Products
Authors: Vincová Anna , Šantová Kristýna , Kůrová Vendula , Kratochvílová Alena , Halámková Veronika , Suchánková Markéta , Lorencová Eva , Sumczynski Daniela , Salek Richardos Nikolaos
Published: April 2023

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the addition of different algal hydrocolloids (κ-carrageenan, ι-carrageenan, furcellaran, and sodium alginate) at three different concentrations (0.50, 0.75, and 1.00% w/w) on the physicochemical, viscoelastic, textural, and organoleptic properties of model cream cheese (CC) samples. On the whole, the highest viscoelastic moduli and hardness values of the CC samples were reported when κ-carrageenan was used. Furthermore, increasing the concentrations of the tested hydrocolloids led to increases in the viscoelastic moduli and hardness values of CC. Recommendations for softer-consistency CC production include the application of κ-carrageenan at a concentration of 0.50–0.75% (w/w) or the use of furcellaran and sodium alginate at a concentration of 1.00% (w/w). For the production of CC with a more rigid consistency, it is recommended to apply κ-carrageenan at a concentration higher than 0.75% (w/w).