bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of an Improved STSMC Method to the Bidirectional DC–DC Converter in Photovoltaic DC Microgrid
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Liu Xiaona , Jiang Shaojie , Zhao Zengnan , Wang Ning , Liang Xiaoyu , Zhang Minghui , Wang Lihua
Published: February 2022

In a photovoltaic DC microgrid, the intermittent power supply of the distributed generation and the fluctuation of the load power will cause the instability of the bus voltage. An improved super-twisting sliding mode control method based on the super-twisting algorithm is proposed to solve this problem. In this paper, a bidirectional half-bridge buck–boost converter was selected as the research topic. The proposed control method replaces the sign function with the saturation function to further mitigate the chattering effect. The stability of the proposed control method was proven to be finite-time convergent using the Lyapunov theory control. Compared with PI control, linear sliding mode control, and terminal sliding mode control, the proposed control method reduces the system overshoot by up to 33% and greatly improves the response speed; compared with the traditional super-twisting sliding mode control method, the system overshoot is reduced by 6.8%, and the response speed is increased by 38%. The experimental results show that the proposed control method can reduce the fluctuation range of the bus voltage, shorten the time of bus voltage stability, effectively stabilize the bus voltage of the photovoltaic DC microgrid, and maintain strong robustness.
Enhanced Energy Savings with Adaptive Watchful Sleep Mode for Next Generation Passive Optical Network
Authors: Butt Rizwan Aslam , Akhunzada Adnan , Faheem Muhammad , Raza Basit
Published: February 2022

A single watchful sleep mode (WSM) combines the features of both cyclic sleep mode (CSM) and cyclic doze mode (CDM) in a single process by periodically turning ON and OFF the optical receiver (RX) of the optical network terminal (ONT) in a symmetric manner. This results in almost the same energy savings for the ONTs as achieved by the CSM process while significantly reducing the upstream delays. However, in this study we argue that the periodic ON and OFF periods of the ONT RX is not an energy efficient approach, as it reduces the ONT Asleep (AS) state time. Instead, this study proposes an adaptive watchful sleep mode (AWSM) in which the RX ON time of ONT is minimized during ONT Watch state by choosing it according to the length of the traffic queue of the type 1 (T1) traffic class. The performance of AWSM is compared with standard WSM and CSM schemes. The investigation reveals that by minimizing the RX ON time, the AWSM scheme achieves up to 71% average energy saving per ONT at low traffic loads. The comparative study results show that the ONT energy savings achieved by AWSM are 9% higher than the symmetric WSM with almost the same delay and delay variance performance.
Splicing Method of Micro-Nano-Scale Pore Radius Distribution in Tight Sandstone Reservoir
Authors: Zhang Shiming , Yu Chunlei , Su Junwei , Liu Dengke
Published: February 2022

Accurate characterization of the micro- and nano-pore radius values in a tight sandstone reservoir is the key work to reasonably evaluate reservoir properties. The previous exploration of pore-stitching methods is mainly based on the morphological extension of similar segments. However, few scholars compare and verify the image and non-image stitching methods, so they cannot clarify the application scope of different pore-stitching methods. In this study, the pore structures of eight selected tight sandstone samples were evaluated using high-pressure mercury injection, nuclear magnetic resonance, scanning electron microscope, and the helium porosity test. Then, the C-value fitting, interpolation fitting, and morphological fitting were used to establish high-pressure mercury injection and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) pore distribution curves to evaluate the differences among the micro-nano-scale pore radius values determined by the three fitting methods. Finally, the pore radius distribution is extracted from the binary image of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). After correcting the helium porosity data, the application scope of different fitting methods is evaluated by using the mean standard deviation verification method, and the optimal solution of the stitching method of pore radius distribution in each application scope is found. Compared to other studies, this research demonstrated three relatively simple methods for the determination of the full range of pore size distributions, providing a reliable method to evaluate the prerequisites of the range of application. This study provides a new idea for the micro-nano-scale pore radius splicing method of a tight sandstone reservoir, and the research results can provide a reference for the actual reservoir evaluation of oil and gas fields.
Level-Shift PWM Control of a Single-Phase Full H-Bridge Inverter for Grid Interconnection, Applied to Ocean Current Power Generation
Authors: Garcia-Reyes Luis A. , Beltrán-Telles Aurelio , Bañuelos-Ruedas Francisco , Reta-Hernández Manuel , Ramírez-Arredondo Juan M. , Silva-Casarín Rodolfo
Published: February 2022

A small prototype of a 5-level single-phase full H-bridge inverter for ocean current applications is presented. The inverter was designed applying level-shift control in pulse-width modulation (LS-PWM), and experimental tests were conducted using a variety of modulation subschemes, including in-phase disposition (IPD), alternate-phase opposition–disposition (APOD), and phase opposition–disposition (POD). The test results were examined for harmonic content and voltage total harmonic distortion (THDV). The results suggest that the inverter presents a viable solution with significant potential for the development of a larger three-phase inverter model that can be used to connect ocean current power sources to the electrical grid.
Energy Sustainability of a Cluster of Buildings with the Application of Smart Grids and the Decentralization of Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Garlík Bohumír
Published: February 2022

The optimal design of a building and city, including the balance of their energy performance, must include requirements from a wide range of areas, especially electrical engineering, informatics, technical equipment of buildings, construction and architecture, psychology and many other fields. It is the optimal design, simulation and modelling that are most reflected in the energy requirements of buildings while meeting the requirements of energy sustainability. The impact of buildings and cities on the environment is crucial and unmistakable. It should be emphasized that an inappropriately (architecturally or technologically) designed building with state-of-the-art control technology will still have worse properties than an optimally designed building without a control system. This inspired us to design a building energy model (BEM) with the implementation of a Smart Grid in a decentralized sustainable energy system, which is a microgrid from renewable energy sources (RES). This inspired us to conduct an analysis of simulation models (simultaneous simulations) to show the possibility of their application in the process of fully satisfying energy needs in a given urban region. The main goal is to design an original methodology for the design of smart “Nearly Zero Energy Buildings” (NZEB) and subsequent energy sustainability solutions. This led us to use Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER), PV*SOL (2D solar software design tool for the photovoltaic system performance), Monte Carlo and DesignBuilder. The EMB was designed based on the Six Sigma design quality management methodology. In the process of integrating Smart Grids with energy efficiency solutions for buildings, an original optimization basis was designed for smart buildings and smart urban areas. The proposed EMB was verified in an experiment.
Opportunities for the Application of 3D Printing in the Critical Infrastructure System
Authors: Budzik Grzegorz , Tomaszewski Krzysztof , Soboń Andrzej
Published: February 2022

The present article presents an analysis of the potential application of 3D printing in the critical infrastructure system. An attempt has been made to develop case studies for selected critical infrastructure areas, particularly with reference to the area of energy supply. The need for 3D printing applications is identified based on expert research in the energy industry. It identifies the application schemes determined by the technical and logistical possibilities associated with 3D printing in its broadest sense. A review of additive technologies with a view to their application in selected phases of critical infrastructure operation, including in crisis situations, is also carried out. Furthermore, a methodology for incorporating 3D printing into the existing critical infrastructure system is proposed. As a result, the following research hypothesis is adopted: the use of 3D printing can be an important part of measures to ensure the full functionality and efficiency of critical infrastructures, particularly in crisis situations.
Management of Energy Conversion Processes in Membrane Systems
Authors: Batko Kornelia M. , Ślęzak-Prochazka Izabella , Ślęzak Andrzej , Bajdur Wioletta M. , Włodarczyk-Makuła Maria
Published: February 2022

The internal energy (U-energy) conversion to free energy (F-energy) and energy dissipation (S-energy) is a basic process that enables the continuity of life on Earth. Here, we present a novel method of evaluating F-energy in a membrane system containing ternary solutions of non-electrolytes based on the Kr version of the Kedem–Katchalsky–Peusner (K–K–P) formalism for concentration polarization conditions. The use of this formalism allows the determination of F-energy based on the production of S-energy and coefficient of the energy conversion efficiency. The K–K–P formalism requires the calculation of the Peusner coefficients Kijr and Kdetr (i, j ∈ {1, 2, 3}, r = A, B), which are necessary to calculate S-energy, the degree of coupling and coefficients of energy conversion efficiency. In turn, the equations for S-energy and coefficients of energy conversion efficiency are used in the F-energy calculations. The Kr form of the Kedem–Katchalsky–Peusner model equations, containing the Peusner coefficients Kijr and Kdetr, enables the analysis of energy conversion in membrane systems and is a useful tool for studying the transport properties of membranes. We showed that osmotic pressure dependences of indicated Peusner coefficients, energy conversion efficiency coefficient, entropy and energy production are nonlinear. These nonlinearities were caused by pseudophase transitions from non-convective to convective states or vice versa. The method presented in the paper can be used to assess F-energy resources. The results can be adapted to various membrane systems used in chemical engineering, environmental engineering or medical applications. It can be used in designing new technologies as a part of process management.
The Heterogeneous Relationship between Pollution Charges and Enterprise Green Technology Innovation, Based on the Data of Chinese Industrial Enterprises
Authors: Wang Mingyue , Li Yingming , Wang Zitong , Li Junqiang
Published: February 2022

Enterprises’ green technology innovation is critical to achieving the “win-win” of enterprise competitiveness and environmental protection. The impact of environmental regulation on green technology innovation by enterprises has been widely considered, but the conclusion has not yet been determined, and needs to be studied in detail. To this end, we studied the impact of pollution charge policy on different types of green technology innovation by industrial enterprises in China. We found that (1) the impact of pollution charges on most types of green technology innovation by enterprises has increased significantly over time; (2) the pollution charge policy has a certain inhibition effect on the end-of-pipe technology innovation, but can promote the process improvement of reducing industrial wastewater emissions; (3) there is a U-shaped relationship between the pollution charges and some green technological innovation (e.g., emission intensity of SO2, industrial wastewater emission intensity, and industrial wastewater removal intensity), which is dynamically adjusted over time; and (4) the larger the enterprise’s solid assets, the faster the asset depreciation will inhibit the enterprise from adopting the green process innovation strategy.
Research on Energy-Capture Characteristics of a Direct-Drive Wave-Energy Converter Based on Parallel Mechanism
Authors: Yao Tao , Wang Yulong , Wang Zhihua , Li Tongxian , Tan Zhipeng
Published: February 2022

Aiming at the capture and conversion of multidirection wave energy, a multifreedom direct-drive wave-energy converter (WEC) based on a parallel mechanism is studied. The dynamic model of WEC was conducted based on force analysis and hydrodynamic theory, and the inverse kinematic solutions of each branch chain of the mechanism were obtained following the space vector method. Furthermore, the kinetics response of the linear generator branch chain was obtained. Moreover, the influence on the capture efficiency of the device’s geometric structure scale was investigated under different sea conditions. To evaluate the performance of the WEC, a linear generator model was simulated and analyzed by COMSOL Multiphysics. A laboratory prototype was manufactured. The test results indicated that the multifreedom device can achieve better power conversion performance than traditional single degree of freedom (DOF) devices. This study provides ideas for the design and development of large multi-DOF wave-energy-conversion devices.
Detailed Assessment of Nasal Inter-Chamber Anatomical Variations and Its Effect on Flow Apportionment and Inhalation Exposure Patterns
Authors: Sun Qinyuan , Tian Lin , Tu Jiyuan , Dong Jingliang
Published: February 2022

Although many parametric studies have been conducted in developing standardized nasal geometry and analysing associated airflow dynamics, most of them are based on symmetrical nasal chambers assumption, while the inter-chamber variations due to the morphological asymmetry of the two nasal chambers are much less investigated. To address this issue, this paper presents an inter-chamber anatomical variability study by developing a shape comparison method to quantify inter-chamber anatomical differences. Then the anatomical deviation is correlated with the flow apportionment and the associated nanoparticle deposition patterns using CFD method. Results show that noticeable inter-chamber difference is observed especially in the inferior and middle passages where most inhaled flow is distributed to. Additionally, the shape of vestibule notch and septum deviation contributes to the discrepancy flow behaviour between two chambers. Consequently, these differences lead to variations in regional nanoparticle deposition, especially for 1 nm particles in the olfactory region, where the inter-chamber differences can reach up to 400%. Our results suggest that the inter-chamber anatomical variation should be considered when developing standardized nasal models.
Antioxidant and Immunomodulatory Properties of Chia Protein Hydrolysates in Primary Human Monocyte–Macrophage Plasticity
Authors: Villanueva-Lazo Alvaro , Montserrat-de la Paz Sergio , Grao-Cruces Elena , Pedroche Justo , Toscano Rocio , Millan Francisco , Millan-Linares Maria C.
Published: February 2022

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) seed has high potential in the development of functional food due to its protein content with a special amino acid profile. Among the hematopoietic-derived cells, monocytes are endowed with high plasticity, responsible for their pro- and anti-inflammatory function in M1 and M2 phenotype polarization, respectively. Indeed, monocytes are involved in several oxidative- and inflammatory-associated disorders such as cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This study was designed to investigate the role of chia protein hydrolysates (CPHs) in primary human monocyte–macrophage plasticity response using biochemical, RT-qPCR, and ELISA assays. Our results showed that CPHs reduce ROS and nitrite output, as pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, and enhance the expression and release of anti-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, CPHs reverse LPS-associated M1 polarization into M2. These findings open new opportunities for developing nutritional strategies with chia as a dietary source of biopeptides to prevent the development and progression of oxidative- and inflammatory-related diseases.
Assessment of Contents and Health Impacts of Four Metals in Chongming Asparagus—Geographical and Seasonal Aspects
Authors: Xu Naifeng , Zhang Hongxia , Jia Jingze , Li Hao , Zhu Zhaoxiang , Fu Shuge , Wang Yuanfeng
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the contents of four typical metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, and As) in asparagus, water, and soil from Chongming Island were quantitatively determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The contents of these metals in asparagus showed a common rule of Pb > As > Cd > Hg in different harvest seasons and regions. Significant seasonal differences were found in the contents by difference analysis, but no obvious regional differences were observed. Furthermore, the asparagus did not accumulate these four metals from the soil in Chongming Island by the assessment of bio-concentration factor. The asparagus was proved safe by the analysis of single-factor pollution index and Nemerow pollution index. Through combining the analysis of the above indexes and the geological accumulation index, we found that 51.62% of soil samples were mildly polluted by cadmium. The results of health risk analysis showed that the risk value of children was higher than that of adults under oral exposure, but the four metals in asparagus possessed no obvious risk to health. The above assessments illustrate that the daily consumption of asparagus in Chongming Island will not cause potential health impacts. It is of benefit to ensure the quality and economic interests of asparagus planting in Chongming Island through the investigation of this study.
Effects of Biochar Amendment and Nitrogen Fertilizer on RVA Profile and Rice Grain Quality Attributes
Authors: Ali Izhar , Iqbal Anas , Ullah Saif , Muhammad Ihsan , Yuan Pengli , Zhao Quan , Yang Mei , Zhang Hua , Huang Min , Liang He , Gu Minghua , Jiang Ligeng
Published: February 2022

Improving rice production in modern agriculture relies heavily on the overuse of chemical fertilizer, which adversely affects grain quality. Biochar (BC) application is well known for enhancing rice yield under reduced nitrogen (N) application. Therefore, we conducted a two-year field experiment in 2019 and 2020 to evaluate RVA profile characteristics, grain milling, and appearance qualities under four BC rates (0, 10, 20, 30 t ha−1) in combination with two N levels (135 and 180 kg ha−1). The results showed that BC at 30 t ha−1 along with 135 kg N ha−1 improved rapid visco-analyzer (RVA) profile attributes, including peak viscosity (4081.3), trough viscosity (3168.0), break down (913.3), final viscosity (5135.7), and set back (1967.7). Grain yield, grain rain length, milled rice rate, percent grains with chalkiness, amylose, and starch content were improved by 27%, 23%, 37%, 24%, 14%, and 8%, respectively, in the plots treated with the combination of 30 t BC ha−1 and 180 kg N ha−1. A positive coefficient of correlation was observed in RVA profile, milling, and apparent quality of rice with soil properties. These results suggested that BC at 20 to 30 t ha−1 in combination with 135 kg N ha−1 is a promising option for enhancing grain yield, RVA profile, appearance, and milling quality.
Characterization and Quantitative Comparison of Key Aroma Volatiles in Fresh and 1-Year-Stored Keemun Black Tea Infusions: Insights to Aroma Transformation during Storage
Authors: Tao Meng , Guo Wenli , Zhang Wenjun , Liu Zhengquan
Published: February 2022

The aroma of Keemun black tea (KBT) changes during storage. We investigated key aroma volatiles of fresh KBT (FKBT) and KBT stored for 1 year. Through gas chromatography–olfactometry–mass spectrometry/aroma extract dilution analysis (GC-O-MS/AEDA), 27 aroma volatiles with a flavor dilution (FD) value ≥16 were quantitated. In odor activity value (OAV) analysis, the two samples had nearly the same key aroma volatiles; (Z)-methyl epijasmonate was the exception. Dimethyl sulfide, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylpropanal, and linalool had especially high OAVs. Except for β-damascenone, volatiles with OAVs > 1 had higher concentrations in FKBT, which revealed that most key aroma compounds were lost during storage. Sweet, malty, floral, and green/grassy aromas corresponded directly to certain compounds. Lastly, the addition test indicated that the addition of several key aroma volatiles decreasing during storage could enhance the freshness of KBT aroma, which may be a potential to control the aroma style of KBT or other teas in industry.
Nutrient-Optimized Beef Enhances Blood Levels of Vitamin D and Selenium among Young Women
Authors: Haug Anna , Vermeer Cees , Ruud Lene , Monfort-Pires Milena , Grabež Vladana , Egelandsdal Bjørg
Published: February 2022

Bovine meat provides healthy nutrients but has also been negatively linked to greenhouse gases and non-communicable diseases. A double-blind intervention study was carried out to compare beef meat from bulls fed with feed supplemented with selenium, vitamin D, E, K (SeDEK-feed), and n-3, or REGULAR feed. Thirty-four young healthy women (19–29 years old) consumed 300 g of these beef types per day for 6 days in a cross-over design. Diet registrations, blood samples, anthropometric measurements, and clinical data were collected four times. Both beef diets were higher than their habitual diet in protein, fat, saturated fat, and several micronutrients; contained more vegetables and fewer carbohydrates and were followed by a higher feeling of satiety. The SeDEK beef had higher amounts of selenium, vitamin 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), E, and K (MK4), and increased serum selenium and 25(OH)D3 from the participants’ normal values if they were below 85 µg/L of selenium and 30 nmol of 25(OH)D3/L, respectively. Our study showed that optimized beef increased serum selenium in young women having moderate selenium levels and improved blood 25(OH)D3 in a woman having low to normal 25(OH)D3. Meat should be optimized to increase specific consumer groups’ needs for selenium and vitamin D.
Functional Properties of Collagen Extracted from Catfish (Silurus triostegus) Waste
Authors: Abbas Ayat A. , Shakir Khalida A. , Walsh Marie K.
Published: February 2022

Collagen is used for a variety of biomedical and pharmaceutical uses, such as osteoarthritis-related pain management, hypertension, tissue engineering, and human implants, and is generally derived from porcine or bovine. Collagen from these animals has limitations due to the risk of disease transmission and religious constraints. Therefore, this study investigated the extraction of collagen from catfish (Silurus triostegus) waste. Acid-solubilized collagen and pepsin-solubilized collagen were extracted from catfish skin, fin, head, bone, and muscle. SDS-PAGE patterns of the extracted collagen showed that the protein molecular weights ranged from 97 to 200 kDa and skin, bone, and fin collagen consisted of 2 distinct α chains, which is typical of type 1 collagen. The proximate composition (moisture, protein, fat, and ash) and yield of the obtained extracts were determined. Skin collagen extracts were selected for further investigation due to the high collagen yield. The effects of the pH and salt concentration on solubility, and the denaturation temperature, FTIR spectra, reverse-phase HPLC, and SEM analysis were investigated to characterize the collagen samples. Based on the characterization of catfish skin collagen, this waste material has potential for use in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Chemometric Valorization of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) cv. ‘Albion’ for the Production of Functional Juice: The Impact of Physicochemical, Toxicological, Sensory, and Bioactive Value
Authors: Bebek Markovinović Anica , Putnik Predrag , Duralija Boris , Krivohlavek Adela , Ivešić Martina , Mandić Andačić Ivana , Palac Bešlić Iva , Pavlić Branimir , Lorenzo Jose Manuel , Bursać Kovačević Danijela
Published: February 2022

Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch. cv. ‘Albion’) were harvested at two stages of ripeness (75% vs. 100%) and their physicochemical, sensory, toxicological, and bioactive properties were evaluated before and after processing into juice. The fresh fruits and their by-products were also evaluated. During processing into juice, the color change was higher in the fully ripe fruits, confirming the encouraging prospects for using the less ripe strawberries for processing. The analysis of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Ni, As, Cd, Pb) was carried out, and in juice and by-product samples of 100% maturity, only Pb was higher than the MDK. Of the 566 pesticides analyzed, only cyprodinil was found in the by-products of the strawberries at 75% maturity, while pyrimethanil was detected in all samples. Fresh strawberries of both ripeness levels were rated similarly to the corresponding juices for all sensory attributes studied, indicating that sensory perception was not affected by processing. However, ripeness was found to be an important factor influencing most sensory attributes. The by-products were the materials with the highest levels of all bioactive compounds. Considering all quality parameters evaluated, the chemometric evaluation confirms the suitability of 75% ripe strawberries for processing into functional juice, which could be important for the juice industry.
Sustainable Re-Use of Brewer’s Spent Grain for the Production of High Protein and Fibre Pasta
Authors: Cuomo Francesca , Trivisonno Maria Carmela , Iacovino Silvio , Messia Maria Cristina , Marconi Emanuele
Published: February 2022

Brewer’s spent grains are one of the principal by-products of the brewing industry. For protein and fibre content, this by-product represents an interesting raw material to be reused for manufacturing many other products. To maximize the nutritional characteristics of this by-product, in this study, ingredients derived from brewer’s spent grains were included in the design of innovative dry pasta. Two brewer’s spent grains derivative ingredients, one enriched in proteins and the other in fibre were blended with semolina. Based on the rheological evaluation, the optimal amount of the two ingredients for producing pasta was determined. In particular, pasta responding to the claims “High Protein” and “High Fibre” was realized using the formulation enriched with 15% of protein-rich ingredient and the claim “High Fibre” and “Source of proteins” using the formulation enriched with 10% of fibre-rich ingredient. The final products were compared to 100% semolina and 100% wholegrain semolina pasta for composition, color, texture, and cooking quality, revealing excellent quality characteristics. The newly formulated pasta represents a successful match of technological aptitude, nutritional/sensorial quality, and sustainability.
Nutritional Composition and In Vitro Starch Digestibility of Crackers Supplemented with Faba Bean Whole Flour, Starch Concentrate, Protein Concentrate and Protein Isolate
Authors: Gangola Manu Pratap , Ramadoss Bharathi Raja , Jaiswal Sarita , Fabek Hrvoje , Tulbek Mehmet , Anderson Gerald Harvey , Chibbar Ravindra N.
Published: February 2022

The nutritional quality of common wheat-based foods can be improved by adding flours from whole pulses or their carbohydrate and protein constituents. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a pulse with high protein concentration. In this study, prepared faba bean (FB) flours were added to wheat based baked crackers. Wheat cracker recipes were modified by substituting forty percent wheat flour with flours from whole faba bean, starch enriched flour (starch 60%), protein concentrate (protein 60%) or protein isolate (protein 90%). Baked crackers were ground into meal and analyzed for their macronutrient composition, starch characteristics and in vitro starch hydrolysis. Faba bean supplemented crackers had lower (p ≤ 0.001) total starch concentrations, but proportionally higher protein (16.8–43%), dietary fiber (6.7–12.1%), fat (4.8–7.1%) and resistant starch (3.2–6%) (p ≤ 0.001) than wheat crackers (protein: 16.2%, dietary fiber: 6.3%, fat: 4.2, resistant starch: 1.2%). The increased amylose, amylopectin B1- chain and fat concentration from faba bean flour and starch flour supplementation in cracker recipe contributed to increased resistant starch. Flours from whole faba bean, starch or protein fractions improved the nutritional properties and functional value of the wheat-based crackers. The analytical analysis describing protein, starch composition and structure and in vitro enzymatic hydrolysis advance understanding of factors that account for the in vivo benefits of faba bean flours added to crackers in human physiological functions as also previously shown for pasta. The findings can be used to guide development of improve nutritional quality of similar wheat-based food products.
A Rapid Non-Destructive Hyperspectral Imaging Data Model for the Prediction of Pungent Constituents in Dried Ginger
Authors: Samrat Nahidul Hoque , Johnson Joel B. , White Simon , Naiker Mani , Brown Philip
Published: February 2022

Ginger is best known for its aromatic odour, spicy flavour and health-benefiting properties. Its flavour is derived primarily from two compound classes (gingerols and shogaols), with the overall quality of the product depending on the interaction between these compounds. Consequently, a robust method for determining the ratio of these compounds would be beneficial for quality control purposes. This study investigated the feasibility of using hyperspectral imaging to rapidly determine the ratio of 6-gingerol to 6-shogoal in dried ginger powder. Furthermore, the performance of several pre-processing methods and two multivariate models was explored. The best-performing models used partial least squares regression (PSLR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), using multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) and second derivative Savitzky–Golay (2D-SG) pre-processing. Using the full range of wavelengths (~400–1000 nm), the performance was similar for PLSR (R2 ≥ 0.73, RMSE ≤ 0.29, and RPD ≥ 1.92) and LASSO models (R2 ≥ 0.73, RMSE ≤ 0.29, and RPD ≥ 1.94). These results suggest that hyperspectral imaging combined with chemometric modelling may potentially be used as a rapid, non-destructive method for the prediction of gingerol-to-shogaol ratios in powdered ginger samples.
Asparagus Roots: From an Agricultural By-Product to a Valuable Source of Fructans
Authors: Viera-Alcaide Isabel , Hamdi Amel , Guillén-Bejarano Rafael , Rodríguez-Arcos Rocío , Espejo-Calvo Juan Antonio , Jiménez-Araujo Ana
Published: February 2022

Asparagus roots are by-products from asparagus cultivation and they could be considered one of the best sources of fructans. These polymers are interesting food ingredients for their prebiotic and immuno-stimulating characteristics. The aim of this work is to characterize the fructan profile from the roots of several asparagus varieties grown at different locations and pickled at three vegetative statuses in order to valorize these by-products as fructan source. Fructans were extracted with hot water and fractionated into three pools according to their molecular weight (MW). Their average MW was studied by HPSEC and their degree of polymerization by HPAEC. The fructan content was up to 12.5% on fresh weight basis, depending on variety and sampling date. The relative abundance of the three pools also depended on the picking moment as after the spear harvest period their total content and MW increased. The average MW of the three fractions was similar among varieties with 4.8, 8.4 and 9 sugar units, although fructans up to 30 units were identified by HPAEC. These characteristics make them similar to the commercialized Orafti®-GR inulin, a common additive to food products. Therefore, the concept of asparagus roots as cultivation waste must be changed to a new feedstock for sustainable agriculture and industry.
Evaluation of Nutraceutical Properties of Eleven Microalgal Strains Isolated from Different Freshwater Aquatic Environments: Perspectives for Their Application as Nutraceuticals
Authors: Chiellini Carolina , Serra Valentina , Gammuto Leandro , Ciurli Adriana , Longo Vincenzo , Gabriele Morena
Published: February 2022

The increasing global population and the simultaneous growing attention to natural, sustainable, and healthier products are driving the food industry towards research on alternative food sources. In this scenario, microalgae are gaining worldwide attention as “functional feedstocks” for foods, feeds, supplements, and nutraceutical formulations, being a source of high-value metabolites including polyphenols and other antioxidant compounds. In this work, eleven microalgal strains from freshwater environments were evaluated for their nutraceutical properties, focusing on photosynthetic pigments, total polyphenols, and flavonoid content, as well as in vitro antioxidant activities. Data helped to select those strains showing the most promising features for simultaneous massive growth and bioactive compound production. Results highlighted that the microalgae have variable values for both biochemical parameters and antioxidant activities, mainly depending on the solvents and applied treatment rather than on the isolation sources or the phylogenetic attribution. According to our results, the putative best candidates for massive cultivation under laboratory conditions for the simultaneous extraction of different molecules with nutraceutical potential are strains F1 (Scenedesmaceae), F3 (Chlamydomonas debariana), R1 (Chlorella sorokiniana), and C2 (Chlorella-like).
The Mittag-Leffler Function for Re-Evaluating the Chlorine Transport Model: Comparative Analysis
Authors: Aljohani Abdulrahman F. , Ebaid Abdelhalim , Algehyne Ebrahem A. , Mahrous Yussri M. , Cattani Carlo , Al-Jeaid Hind K.
Published: February 2022

This paper re-investigates the mathematical transport model of chlorine used as a water treatment model, when a variable order partial derivative is incorporated for describing the chlorine transport system. This model was introduced in the literature and governed by a fractional partial differential equation (FPDE) with prescribed boundary conditions. The obtained solution in the literature was based on implementing the Laplace transform (LT) combined with the method of residues and expressed in terms of regular exponential functions. However, the present analysis avoids such a method of residues, and thus a new analytical solution is introduced in this paper via Mittag-Leffler functions. Therefore, an effective approach is developed in this paper to solve the chlorine transport model with non-integer order derivative. In addition, our results are compared with several studies in the literature in case of integer-order derivative and the differences in results are explained.
Computational Solution of the Time-Fractional Schrödinger Equation by Using Trigonometric B-Spline Collocation Method
Authors: Hadhoud Adel R. , Rageh Abdulqawi A. M. , Radwan Taha
Published: February 2022

This paper proposes a numerical method to obtain an approximation solution for the time-fractional Schrödinger Equation (TFSE) based on a combination of the cubic trigonometric B-spline collocation method and the Crank-Nicolson scheme. The fractional derivative operator is described in the Caputo sense. The L1−approximation method is used for time-fractional derivative discretization. Using Von Neumann stability analysis, the proposed technique is shown to be conditionally stable. Numerical examples are solved to verify the accuracy and effectiveness of this method. The error norms L2 and L∞ are also calculated at different values of N and t to evaluate the performance of the suggested method.
Publisher’s Note: We Changed Page Numbers to Article Numbers for Articles Published in Gastroenterology Insights, Volumes 1–10
Authors:   Gastroenterology Insights Editorial Office
Published: February 2022

Gastroenterology Insights [...]
Characteristics of Sodium Alginate/Antarctic Krill Protein Composite Fiber Based on Cellulose Nanocrystals Modification: Rheology, Hydrogen Bond, Crystallization, Strength, and Water-Resistance
Authors: Shan Jicheng , Guo Jing , Guan Fucheng , Li Feng , Di Chunqiu
Published: February 2022

The purpose of adding cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) into sodium alginate (SA) and Antarctic krill protein (AKP) system is to use the ionic cross-linking of SA and AKP and the dynamic hydrogen-bonding between them and CNCs to construct multiple cross-linking structures, to improve the water-resistance and strength of SA/AKP/CNCs composite fiber. Based on the structural viscosity index in rheological theory, the ratio of spinning solution and temperature were optimized by studying the structural viscosity index of the solution under different CNCs content and temperature, then the composite fiber was prepared by wet spinning. We found that when the content of CNCs is 0.8% and 1.2%, the temperature is 45 °C and 55 °C, the structural viscosity is relatively low. Under the optimal conditions, the intermolecular hydrogen bonds decrease with the increase of temperature. Some of the reduced hydrogen bonds convert into intramolecular hydrogen bonds. Some of them exist as free hydroxyl; increasing CNCs content increases intermolecular hydrogen bonds. With the increase of temperature, the crystallinity of composite fiber increases. The maximum crystallinity reaches 27%; the CNCs content increases from 0.8% to 1.2%, the breaking strength of composite fiber increases by 31%. The water resistance of composite fiber improves obviously, while the swelling rate is only 14%.
PBeL—A Novel Problem-Based (e-)Learning for Geomatics Students
Authors: Retscher Guenther , Gabela Jelena , Gikas Vassilis
Published: February 2022

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, distance learning had to be increasingly implemented at universities, and more e-learning formats had to be applied. The LBS2ITS project carried out under the lead of the Department of Geodesy and Geoinformation at TU Wien (TUW), Austria, came at the right time for these tasks. Education in Location-Based Services (LBS) is put to a new level including interactive e-learning and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) pedagogy. In the courses modernization, special attention is paid to the development and/or update of the courses to be implemented with these two pedagogic forms. Thus, teaching with an emphasis on learning outcomes is a central theme in the LBS2ITS project. To achieve this goal, the active verbs used in updated Bloom’s taxonomy for teaching on learning outcomes, i.e., remembering, understanding, applying, analyzing, evaluating, and creating, are applied to achieve the six levels of thinking and the active nature of learning. LBS2ITS will build a fully immersive and integrated LBS teaching and learning experience with the LBS application of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in mind. The outcome will be an innovative digital learning environment supporting synthetic and real-world PBL learning experiences. In the course of the project, a workshop for introduction of these new developments was held. This paper provides an insight into the results and experiences from this workshop. As e-learning and PBL must be combined and integrated nowadays, the new term PBeL (Problem-Based e-Learning) is proposed and introduced in this paper. The development of this approach and background information on the theory and the LBS2ITS project are presented.
‘Analogy-Based Comprehensive Diabetes Education’ (ABCDE) Improves Glycemic Control of Diabetic Patients in an Underserved Population: Results of a Retrospective Chart Analysis
Authors: Sekhar Rajagopal V.
Published: February 2022

Diabetes is the leading global cause for blindness, kidney failure and amputations. Preventing these complications requires optimal glycemic control, and it is imperative that diabetic patients understand the fundamental concepts of diabetes care. Although patients attend formal diabetes education classes, many do not comprehend basic concepts of diabetes, and are often noncompliant with diet, exercise and medications. A novel approach termed ‘analogy-based comprehensive diabetes education’ (ABCDE) was developed to educate HIV-patients with diabetes about basic concepts of diabetes care. The object of this manuscript is to report the results of a retrospective chart review on the impact of ABCDE on glycemic outcomes in 24 patients who had failed usual care (including formal diabetes education, physician visits, and diabetic medications), and were non-adherent with diet and medications. They received only the ABCDE without any changes in pharmacotherapy. The impact on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) was assessed at subsequent visits. HbA1c was found to decline by 22% and 33% after 3 and 6 months, respectively, with corresponding declines in FBG by 53% and 59%, respectively. These results suggest that ABCDE in outpatient diabetes clinics could be effective in behavior modification toward improving glycemic control, and warrants additional investigation.
Establishing a New ECMO Referral Center Using an ICU-Based Approach: A Feasibility and Safety Study
Authors: Gawda Ryszard , Piwoda Maciej , Marszalski Maciej , Lyp Katarzyna , Piwoda Jolanta , Maj Magdalena , Gawor Maciej , Molsa Maciej , Pietka Marek , Czarnik Tomasz
Published: February 2022

Background: A high-volume center with a multidisciplinary team is regarded as the optimal place for providing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). We hypothesize that an ECMO center can also be successfully created and subsequently developed entirely by intensivists in a mid-size mixed intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: A model was created for setting up a new ECMO referral center within the structure of an existing mixed ICU in a tertiary hospital. A retrospective analysis was carried out of the first 33 patients treated in the initial period of the center’s activity, from mid 2018 to the end of 2020. Results: An ECMO center was established and developed entirely based on the resources of an existing mixed ICU. Thirty-three patients were treated. They had an overall survival rate at 90 days of 60.6%. In veno-venous (VV) mode ECMO duration, ICU length of stay, and SOFA score were significantly higher than in veno-arterial mode. No significant differences in clinical characteristics were observed between survivors and non-survivors on VV-ECMO. Conclusions: A regional ECMO center can be set up as an integral part of a mixed ICU in a tertiary hospital. Extracorporeal therapy, such as continuous renal replacement therapy and mechanical ventilation can be managed entirely by intensivists. Further studies are needed to show that the ICU-based approach to setting up a new ECMO center is no less effective than the multidisciplinary approach.
A Narrative Review of the Launch and the Deployment of Telemedicine in Italy during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Giansanti Daniele , Morone Giovanni , Loreti Alice , Germanotta Marco , Aprile Irene
Published: February 2022

Telemedicine is making an important contribution to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and to supporting the health domain. Its use has registered initial problems with often-patchy practise. The objective of this study was to analyze the launch and deployment of telemedicine in Italy through a narrative review. The narrative review faced two points of view: (a) the first point of view revised the institutional initiatives of the Italian government developed to promote the use of telemedicine; (b) the second point of view reviewed the evolution of scientific literature in the sector, with reference to the Italian situation. In the second point of view, we applied both a standard narrative checklist and an eligibility approach. The first point of view reported an analysis of national documents aimed at promoting, through indications and recommendations, the use of telemedicine. The second point of view analyzed 39 qualified references. The analysis highlighted: (a) that initially, there was a disorientation, followed by reflections that emerged immediately after; (b) a telemedicine application not only in the traditional sectors (e.g., diabetology, cardiology, oncology, neurology) but also in new and fields never explored before; and (c) a high level of acceptance and a desire to continue in the after-pandemic future (which emerged in some studies through dedicated questionnaires). The study offers stimuli for both stakeholders and scholars to improve the use of telemedicine during the pandemic and in the future.
Assessing the Integrative Framework for the Implementation of Change in Nursing Practice: Comparative Case Studies in French Hospitals
Authors: Salma Israa , Waelli Mathias
Published: February 2022

The implementation of healthcare policies in healthcare organizations is a pivotal issue for managers. They generally require a change in professional practices. In previous work, we developed the Integrative Framework for Implementation of change in Nursing Practices (IFINP) to support implementation initiatives for such change in nursing practices. We aimed to assess the generalizability of IFINP in other organizational settings and explore links between strategic and socio-material factors during implementation. We used a comparative qualitative case study at three French hospitals to assess the implementation of certification procedures. Data were collected from 33 semi-structured interviews with managers and nurses. Narratives reflecting actions and interactions were extracted and deductively analyzed using IFINP components. The results showed that the framework was flexible and captured the different aspects of implementation actions and interactions at the three hospitals. Strong interferences were identified between mobilization mechanisms and strategic elements. Interferences were observed mostly between ‘reflexive monitoring and work articulation’, and ‘reflexive monitoring and sense-making’ mechanisms. Leadership was integrated into the different mechanisms, especially the ‘translation’ mechanism. The IFINP facilitated a greater understanding of strategic elements and associated relationships with social and material factors during implementation. It helps to provide a clear definition of the managers’ role when implementing new nurse practices.