bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and Performance of Free-Hand Single-Photon Computed Tomography/Ultrasonography for Preoperative Parathyroid Adenoma Localization: A Pilot Study
Authors: Champendal Mélanie , Jreige Mario , Nicod Lalonde Marie , Pires Jorge José A. , Matter Maurice , Sykiotis Gerasimos P. , Prior John O.
Published: June 2023

The aim of this prospective pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of a new hybrid imaging modality, free-hand single-photon computed tomography/ultrasonography (fhSPECT/US), for preoperative localization of parathyroid adenomas and to compare its performance with conventional ultrasonography and SPECT/CT. Twelve patients diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism underwent sequentially US and parathyroid scintigraphy, including SPECT/CT, followed by fhSPECT/US, allowing for real-time fusion between US and freehand-generated gamma-camera images. The fhSPECT/US detection rates were correlated with histopathology, when available, or with the imaging modality showing the most lesions. Based on a per patient analysis, the detection rate was significantly different when comparing SPECT/CT to fhSPECT/US (p = 0.03), and not significantly different when comparing SPECT/CT to US (p = 0.16) and US to fhSPECT/US (p = 0.08). Based on a per-lesion analysis, the detection rate of SPECT/CT was significantly higher than that of US (p = 0.01) and fhSEPCT/US (p = 0.003), and there was no significant difference in detection rate when comparing US to fhSPECT/US (p = 0.08). The main perceived limitations of fhSPECT/US in lesion detection were: (i) lesions localized at a depth ≥4.5 cm; (ii) imperfect image fusion due to tissue compression; (iii) limited spatial manipulation ability of the SPECT mobile camera handheld probe; and (iv) a wide spread of detected activity. In conclusion, clinical use of fhSPECT/US for localization of parathyroid adenomas is feasible, but shows lower sensitivity than conventional modalities and requires technical improvements.
Ultra-High-Resolution Photon-Counting Detector CT Arthrography of the Ankle: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Luetkens Karsten Sebastian , Grunz Jan-Peter , Kunz Andreas Steven , Huflage Henner , Weißenberger Manuel , Hartung Viktor , Patzer Theresa Sophie , Gruschwitz Philipp , Ergün Süleyman , Bley Thorsten Alexander , Feldle Philipp
Published: June 2023

This study was designed to investigate the image quality of ultra-high-resolution ankle arthrography employing a photon-counting detector CT. Bilateral arthrograms were acquired in four cadaveric specimens with full-dose (10 mGy) and low-dose (3 mGy) scan protocols. Three convolution kernels with different spatial frequencies were utilized for image reconstruction (ρ50; Br98: 39.0, Br84: 22.6, Br76: 16.5 lp/cm). Seven radiologists subjectively assessed the image quality regarding the depiction of bone, hyaline cartilage, and ligaments. An additional quantitative assessment comprised the measurement of noise and the computation of contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR). While an optimal depiction of bone tissue was achieved with the ultra-sharp Br98 kernel (S ≤ 0.043), the visualization of cartilage improved with lower modulation transfer functions at each dose level (p ≤ 0.014). The interrater reliability ranged from good to excellent for all assessed tissues (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.805). The noise levels in subcutaneous fat decreased with reduced spatial frequency (p < 0.001). Notably, the low-dose Br76 matched the CNR of the full-dose Br84 (p > 0.999) and superseded Br98 (p < 0.001) in all tissues. Based on the reported results, a photon-counting detector CT arthrography of the ankle with an ultra-high-resolution collimation offers stellar image quality and tissue assessability, improving the evaluation of miniscule anatomical structures. While bone depiction was superior in combination with an ultra-sharp convolution kernel, soft tissue evaluation benefited from employing a lower spatial frequency.
Methods of Assessing Nailfold Capillaroscopy Compared to Video Capillaroscopy in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis—A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Ma Zechen , Mulder Douwe Johannes , Gniadecki Robert , Cohen Tervaert Jan Willem , Osman Mohammed
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Nailfolds of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) provide an opportunity to directly visualize microvascular remodeling in SSc. Nailfold video capillaroscopy (NVC) remains the gold standard for assessing nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC). However, access to NVC is limited by expense and expertise. This review aims to synthesize current research on other NFC devices compared to NVC. Methods: The literature search included the primary research of adult patients with SSc as defined by the 2013 ACR/EULAR criteria. Methods of assessing NFC included stereomicroscopy/wide-field microscopy, ophthalmoscopy, dermatoscopy, smartphone devices, and digital USB microscopy. Primary outcomes included both qualitative (normal vs. abnormal nailfolds, overall pattern recognition, presence/absence of giant capillaries, hemorrhages, and abnormal morphology) and quantitative (capillary density and dimension) measures. Results: The search yielded 471 studies, of which 9 were included. Five studies compared NVC to dermatoscopy, two compared it to widefield/stereomicroscopy, one to smartphone attachments, and one to USB microscopy. In dermatoscopy studies, NVC had a higher percentage of images that were interpretable (63–77% vs. 100%), classifiable (70% vs. 84%), or gradable (70% vs. 79.3%) across three studies. Dermatoscopy had a lower sensitivity (60.2% vs. 81.6%) and higher specificity (92.5% vs. 84.6%) compared to NVC. One stereomicroscopy study found a significant difference between methods in capillary density in limited cutaneous SSc, while another found correlations in all parameters between stereomicroscopy and NVC. One smartphone lens had good agreement with NVC on abnormal capillary morphology and density. USB microscopy was able to differentiate between SSc and healthy controls using mean capillary width but not by capillary density. Discussion: A dermatoscope may serve as a more portable and affordable screening tool to identify a normal “scleroderma pattern”, and images that need further corroboration by NVC. NFC parameters reported are heterogenous and the standardization of these parameters is important, especially in non-gold-standard devices.
ExtRanFS: An Automated Lung Cancer Malignancy Detection System Using Extremely Randomized Feature Selector
Authors: V. R. Nitha , Chandra S. S. Vinod
Published: June 2023

Lung cancer is an abnormality where the body’s cells multiply uncontrollably. The disease can be deadly if not detected in the initial stage. To address this issue, an automated lung cancer malignancy detection (ExtRanFS) framework is developed using transfer learning. We used the IQ-OTH/NCCD dataset gathered from the Iraq Hospital in 2019, encompassing CT scans of patients suffering from various lung cancers and healthy subjects. The annotated dataset consists of CT slices from 110 patients, of which 40 were diagnosed with malignant tumors and 15 with benign tumors. Fifty-five patients were determined to be in good health. All CT images are in DICOM format with a 1mm slice thickness, consisting of 80 to 200 slices at various sides and angles. The proposed system utilized a convolution-based pre-trained VGG16 model as the feature extractor and an Extremely Randomized Tree Classifier as the feature selector. The selected features are fed to the Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) Classifier for detecting whether the lung cancer is benign, malignant, or normal. The accuracy, sensitivity, and F1-Score of the proposed framework are 99.09%, 98.33%, and 98.33%, respectively. To evaluate the proposed model, a comparison is performed with other pre-trained models as feature extractors and also with the existing state-of-the-art methodologies as classifiers. From the experimental results, it is evident that the proposed framework outperformed other existing methodologies. This work would be beneficial to both the practitioners and the patients in identifying whether the tumor is benign, malignant, or normal.
Development and Validation of a Nomograph Model for Post-Operative Central Nervous System Infection after Craniocerebral Surgery
Authors: Cheng Li , Bai Wenhui , Song Ping , Zhou Long , Li Zhiyang , Gao Lun , Zhou Chenliang , Cai Qiang
Published: June 2023

Purpose: A nomograph model of predicting the risk of post-operative central nervous system infection (PCNSI) after craniocerebral surgery was established and validated. Methods: The clinical medical records of patients after cranial surgery in Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2020 to September 2022 were collected, of whom 998 patients admitted to Shouyi Hospital District were used as the training set and 866 patients admitted to Guanggu Hospital District were used as the validation set. Lasso regression was applied to screen the independent variables in the training set, and the model was externally validated in the validation set. Results: A total of 1864 patients after craniocerebral surgery were included in this study, of whom 219 (11.75%) had PCNSI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age > 70 years, a previous history of diabetes, emergency operation, an operation time ≥ 4 h, insertion of a lumbar cistern drainage tube ≥ 72 h, insertion of an intracranial drainage tube ≥ 72 h, intraoperative blood loss ≥ 400 mL, complicated with shock, postoperative albumin ≤ 30 g/L, and an ICU length of stay ≥ 3 days were independent risk factors for PCNSI. The area under the curve (AUC) of the training set was 0.816 (95% confidence interval (95%CI), 0.773–0.859, and the AUC of the validation set was 0.760 (95%CI, 0.715–0.805). The calibration curves of the training set and the validation set showed p-values of 0.439 and 0.561, respectively, with the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. The analysis of the clinical decision curve showed that the nomograph model had high clinical application value. Conclusion: The nomograph model constructed in this study to predict the risk of PCNSI after craniocerebral surgery has a good predictive ability.
Proposal of Modified Lung-RADS in Assessing Pulmonary Nodules of Patients with Previous Malignancies: A Primary Study
Authors: Song Feipeng , Fu Binjie , Liu Mengxi , Liu Xiangling , Liu Sizhu , Lv Fajin
Published: June 2023

Background: In addition to the diameters of pulmonary nodules, the number and morphology of blood vessels in pure ground-glass nodules (pGGNs) were closely related to the occurrence of lung cancer. Moreover, the benign and malignant signs of nodules were also valuable for the identification of nodules. Based on these two points, we tried to revise Lung-RADS 2022 and proposed our Modified Lung-RADS. The aim of the study was to verify the diagnostic performance of Modified Lung-RADS for pulmonary solid nodules (SNs) and pure ground-glass nodules (pGGNs) in patients with previous malignancies. Methods: The chest CT and clinical data of patients with prior cancer who underwent pulmonary nodulectomies from 1 January 2018 to 30 November 2021 were enrolled according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 240 patients with 293 pulmonary nodules were included in this study. In contrast with the original version, the risk classification of pGGNs based on the GGN–vascular relationships (GVRs), and the SNs without burrs and with benign signs, could be downgraded to category 2. The sensitivity, specificity, and agreement rate of the original Lung-RADS 2022 and Modified Lung-RADS for pGGNs and SNs were calculated and compared. Results: Compared with the original version, the sensitivity and agreement rate of the Modified version for pGGNs increased from 0 and 23.33% to 97.10% and 92.22%, respectively, while the specificity decreased from 100% to 76.19%. As regards SNs, the specificity and agreement rate of the Modified version increased from 44.44% to 75.00% (p < 0.05) and 88.67% to 94.09% (p = 0.052), respectively, while the sensitivity was unchanged (98.20%). Conclusions: In general, the diagnostic efficiency of Modified Lung-RADS was superior to that of the original version, and Modified Lung-RADS could be a preliminary attempt to improve Lung-RADS 2022.
SCARA5 Is Overexpressed in Prostate Cancer and Linked to Poor Prognosis
Authors: Flockerzi Fidelis Andrea , Hohneck Johannes , Saar Matthias , Bohle Rainer Maria , Stahl Phillip Rolf
Published: June 2023

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, showing a wide range of clinical behaviors. Therefore, several treatment options arise out of the diagnosis “prostate cancer”. For this reason, it is desirable to find novel prognostic and predictive markers. In former studies, we showed that THSD7A expression is associated with unfavorable prognostic parameters in prostate cancer and is linked to a high expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Recently, scavenger receptor class A member 5 (SCARA5) was reported to be the downstream gene of THSD7A in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. SCARA5 is believed to play an important role in the development and progression of several different tumor types. Most studies describe SCARA5 as a tumor suppressor. There is also evidence that SCARA 5 interacts with FAK. To examine the role of SCARA5 as a potential biomarker in prostate cancer, a total of 461 prostate cancers were analyzed via immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays. Furthermore, we compared the expression level of SCARA5 with our previously collected data on THSD7A and FAK. High SCARA5 expression was associated with advanced tumor stage (p < 0.001), positive nodal status (p < 0.001) and high Gleason-score (p < 0.001). At least, strongly SCARA5-positive cancers were associated with THSD7A-positivity. There was no significant association between SCARA5 expression level and FAK expression level. To our knowledge, we are the first to investigate the role of SCARA5 in prostate cancer and we demonstrated that SCARA5 might be a potential biomarker in prostate cancer.
Cyber4Drone: A Systematic Review of Cyber Security and Forensics in Next-Generation Drones
Authors: Sihag Vikas , Choudhary Gaurav , Choudhary Pankaj , Dragoni Nicola
Published: June 2023

Cyber Security and forensics for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) pose unique requirements, solutions, and challenges. As UAVs become increasingly prevalent for legitimate and illegal use, ensuring their security and data integrity is important. Solutions have been developed to tackle these security requirements. Drone forensics enables the investigation of security incidents involving UAVs, aiding in identifying attackers or determining the cause of accidents. However, challenges persist in the domain of UAV security and forensics. This paper surveys drone threat models, security, and privacy aspects. In particular, we present the taxonomy of drone forensics for investigating drone systems and talk about relevant artifacts, tools, and benchmark datasets. While solutions exist, challenges such as evolving technology and complex operational environments must be addressed through collaboration, updated protocols, and regulatory frameworks to ensure drones’ secure and reliable operation. Furthermore, we also point out the field’s difficulties and potential future directions.
Non-Native Gifted Students in a Finnish Teacher Training School: A Case Study
Authors: Stargardter Jessica , Laine Sonja , Tirri Kirsi
Published: June 2023

It is a global challenge to meet the needs of non-native gifted students in the classroom. This case study investigates how Finland, a country with a high-achieving school system and a growing multicultural student population, serves its non-native gifted students. In interviews at a Finnish teacher training school, non-native gifted students and their parents and teachers described their school experiences. The interviews were analyzed for patterns in two categories: instructional strategies and curriculum design. The findings highlight the fact that Finland’s education system is based on egalitarian approaches to learning in inclusive educational settings. The results show that teachers are differentiating for their gifted students and parents and students recognize this.
FedSpy: A Secure Collaborative Speech Steganalysis Framework Based on Federated Learning
Authors: Tian Hui , Wang Huidong , Quan Hanyu , Mazurczyk Wojciech , Chang Chin-Chen
Published: June 2023

Deep learning brings the opportunity to achieve effective speech steganalysis in speech signals. However, the speech samples used to train speech steganalysis models (i.e., steganalyzers) are usually sensitive and distributed among different agencies, making it impractical to train an effective centralized steganalyzer. Therefore, in this paper, we present an effective framework, named FedSpy, using federated learning, which enables multiple agencies to securely and jointly train the speech steganalysis models without sharing their speech samples. FedSpy is a flexible and extensible framework that can work effectively in conjunction with various deep-learning-based speech steganalysis methods. We evaluate the performance of FedSpy by detecting the most widely used Quantization Index Modulation-based speech steganography with three state-of-the-art deep-learning-based steganalysis methods representatively. The results show that FedSpy significantly outperforms the local steganalyzers and achieves good detection accuracy comparable to the centralized steganalyzer.
A Novel Error-Correcting Particle Swarm Optimization Back Propagation Fault Diagnosis Method for Microgrid
Authors: Wang Lijing , Yang Fan , Xu Fengxia , Wang Zifei , Li Jiwei , Yao Wenjing
Published: June 2023

Compared to traditional power grids, microgrids have a more flexible operating mode. There are various distributed power sources within the microgrid, and different types of distributed power sources have different control methods. Once a short-circuit fault occurs in the microgrid, these characteristics will increase the difficulty of microgrid fault diagnosis and reduce the accuracy of microgrid fault diagnosis. This paper proposes an error-correcting particle swarm optimization back propagation microgrid fault diagnosis method for the diagnosis of short-circuit faults in microgrids that identifies the accuracy of alarm signals, corrects unreasonable signals, and obtains the correct fault set of the microgrid through the temporal logic relationship between each protection. Using the particle swarm optimization back propagation (PSO-BP) neural network algorithm to train fault alarm signals, fast convergence can be achieved, and accurate diagnostic results can be obtained after the sixth generation training is completed. As this fault diagnosis algorithm is applied to line protection equipment, it can be used to diagnose all types of short-circuit faults. This algorithm is easy to implement and has a small data scale, which is conducive to efficient and concise fault diagnoses in microgrids.
Enhancing User Experience through Optimization Design Method for Elderly Medication Reminder Mobile Applications: A QFD-Based Research Approach
Authors: Fang Meichen , Yang Wei , Li Hui , Pan Younghwan
Published: June 2023

Poor medication adherence among older adults is a widespread problem worldwide. As the population ages, the design of smartphone medication management apps is critical to improving medication adherence among older adults. Taking the design of an elderly medication reminder APP as an example, this study proposes a sustainable design research method that integrates the KANO model, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Quality Function Deployment (QFD), and PUGH decision matrix. The method collects user demands through in-depth interviews, and applies the KANO model to classify these demands. The hierarchical structure of user needs is established by using AHP, and the priority is sorted according to the weight and importance determined by the judgment matrix. QFD is used to translate user needs into design requirements, and the house of quality matrix identifies key design requirements. Finally, design alternatives are evaluated using Pugh’s concept selection method. The results of this study demonstrate that the integration of KANO-AHP-QFD-PUGH can be effective as a sustainable optimal design approach for the user experience of a medication reminder application for the elderly. This integrated method not only facilitates innovative optimization and sustainability of application design methods but also provides valuable theoretical and practical insights for future drug-assisted design for elderly users.
A Systematic Literature Review on the Applications of Robots and Natural Language Processing in Education
Authors: Younis Hussain A. , Ruhaiyem Nur Intan Raihana , Ghaban Wad , Gazem Nadhmi A. , Nasser Maged
Published: June 2023

Natural language processing (NLP) is the art of investigating others’ positive and cooperative communication and rapprochement with others as well as the art of communicating and speaking with others. Furthermore, NLP techniques may substantially enhance most phases of the information-system lifecycle, facilitate access to information for users, and allow for new paradigms in the usage of information-system services. NLP also has an important role in designing the study, presenting two fields converging on one side and overlapping on the other, namely the field of the NAO-robot world and the field of education, technology, and progress. The selected articles classified the study into four categories: special needs, kindergartens, schools, and universities. Our study looked at accurate keyword research. They are artificial intelligence, learning and teaching, education, NAO robot, undergraduate students, and university. In two fields of twelve journals and citations on reliable/high-reputation scientific sites, 82 scientific articles were extracted. From the Scientific Journal Rankings (SJR) website, the study samples included twelve reliable/high-reputation scientific journals for the period from 2014 to 2023 from well-known scientific journals with a high impact factor. This study evaluated the effect of a systematic literature review of NAO educational robots on language programming. It aimed to be a platform and guide for researchers, interested persons, trainees, supervisors, students, and those interested in the fields of NAO robots and education. All studies recognized the superiority and progress of NAO robots in the educational field. They concluded by urging students to publish in highly influential journals with a high scientific impact within the two fields of study by focusing on the study-sample journals.
Engaging Learners in Educational Robotics: Uncovering Students’ Expectations for an Ideal Robotic Platform
Authors: Kyprianou Georgios , Karousou Alexandra , Makris Nikolaos , Sarafis Ilias , Amanatiadis Angelos , Chatzichristofis Savvas A.
Published: June 2023

Extensive research has been conducted on educational robotics (ER) platforms to explore their usage across different educational levels and assess their effectiveness in achieving desired learning outcomes. However, the existing literature has a limitation in regard to addressing learners’ specific preferences and characteristics regarding these platforms. To address this gap, it is crucial to encourage learners’ active participation in the design process of robotic platforms. By incorporating their valuable feedback and preferences and providing them with platforms that align with their interests, we can create a motivating environment that leads to increased engagement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) courses and improved learning outcomes. Furthermore, this approach fosters a sense of absorption and full engagement among peers as they collaborate on assigned activities. To bridge the existing research gap, our study aimed to investigate the current trends in the morphology of educational robotics platforms. We surveyed students from multiple schools in Greece who had no prior exposure to robotic platforms. Our study aimed to understand students’ expectations of an ideal robotic companion. We examined the desired characteristics, modes of interaction, and socialization that students anticipate from such a companion. By uncovering these attributes and standards, we aimed to inform the development of an optimal model that effectively fulfills students’ educational aspirations while keeping them motivated and engaged.
Fixed-Time Trajectory Tracking Control of Unmanned Surface Vessels with Prescribed Performance Constraints
Authors: Sui Bowen , Zhang Jianqiang , Li Yan , Liu Yiping , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: June 2023

This study proposes a fixed-time precision tracking control scheme for unmanned surface vessels with complex disturbances and unknown system dynamics. The control scheme is based on a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode and includes an adaptive fixed-time integral sliding mode lumped disturbance observer to precisely observe and compensate for lumped unknowns. To ensure system performance under both transient and steady-state conditions, a prescribed performance function was utilized to enable the trajectory tracking error to converge to a predetermined range. The proposed control scheme, called prescribed performance fixed-time precision tracking (PPFTPT), was designed to achieve precision tracking of a predetermined trajectory within a fixed time. The stability of the closed-loop system was analyzed using the Lyapunov stability theory. Simulation results using the Cybership II model confirmed the feasibility and superiority of the proposed PPFTPT scheme.
Blockchain-Enabled Intelligent Dispatching and Credit-Based Bidding for Microgrids
Authors: Zeng Yingming , Wei Lan , Cheng Yage , Zhang Haibin , Sun Wen , Wang Bing
Published: June 2023

As a new direction of smart grids, the smart microgrid is a self-sufficient energy system that can generate and distribute energy in limited areas. However, existing work faces issues such as data privacy security, single-power supply mode, and unreasonable scheduling, which bring challenges to the application of smart microgrids. In light of this, we formalize a blockchain-based smart microgrid system, preserving the tracking capability of the system and ensuring the privacy of user data. In addition, we propose an intelligent dispatching scheme, in which meteorological factors are considered in power prediction and a prediction results-based intelligent allocation algorithm is designed. Furthermore, we introduce a credit bidding mechanism, which can make companies participate in the dispatching more fairly and proportionately. Numerical results show that our proposed scheme performs well in terms of prediction results and the cost of intelligent dispatching.
Dynamic End-to-End Information Cascade Prediction Based on Neural Networks and Snapshot Capture
Authors: Han Delong , Meng Tao , Li Min
Published: June 2023

Knowing how to effectively predict the scale of future information cascades based on the historical trajectory of information dissemination has become an important topic. It is significant for public opinion guidance; advertising; and hotspot recommendation. Deep learning technology has become a research hotspot in popularity prediction, but for complex social platform data, existing methods are challenging to utilize cascade information effectively. This paper proposes a novel end-to-end deep learning network CAC-G with cascade attention convolution (CAC). This model can stress the global information when learning node information and reducing errors caused by information loss. Moreover, a novel Dynamic routing-AT aggregation method is investigated and applied to aggregate node information to generate a representation of cascade snapshots. Then, the gated recurrent unit (GRU) is employed to learn temporal information. This study’s validity and generalization ability are verified in the experiments by applying CAC-G on two public datasets where CAC-G is better than the existing baseline methods.
Screening of Ultraviolet-Induced Thermotolerant Yeast Mutants and Their Performance
Authors: Li Xiaodi , Lin Yan , Kong Hainan , Wang Zhiquan
Published: June 2023

The simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) technique holds promise for the conversion of lignocellulose to ethanol. However, the optimal fermentation temperature of yeast is lower than the enzymatic hydrolysis temperature of the saccharification process, which leads to the temperature of the actual production process of SSF usually being lower than 38 °C. In this work, two ultraviolet (UV)-induced mutations were performed step by step using Saccharomyces cerevisiae BY4742 as the original strain to enable the yeast to perform well at higher temperatures. Thermotolerant strains obtained through mutagenesis and screening, YUV1-1 and YUV2-2, were utilized for fermentation and SSF at a targeted temperature of 40 °C. They obtained ethanol yields comparable to those at 38 °C in SSF, whereas the ethanol yields of the original strain at 40 °C decreased by about 10% compared to those at 38 °C. This study proves that thermotolerant strains adapted to elevated fermentation and SSF temperatures can be obtained through UV mutagenesis and screening, thereby increasing the stability of the fermentation and SSF processes and lowering the subsequent distillation costs.
Sustainability Assessment of Food Waste Biorefineries as the Base of the Entrepreneurship in Rural Zones of Colombia
Authors: Cardona Carlos Ariel , Ortiz-Sanchez Mariana , Salgado Natalia , Solarte-Toro Juan Camilo , Orrego Carlos Eduardo , Perez Alexander , Acosta Carlos Daniel , Ledezma Eva , Salas Haminton , Gonzaga Javier , Delgado Steven
Published: June 2023

The sustainability of food value chains is affected by the large amounts of waste produced with a high environmental impact. Food waste valorization applying the biorefinery concept has emerged as an alternative to reduce the generation of greenhouse gases and to promote the socio-economic development of value chains at local, regional, and national levels. This paper analyzes the sustainability of food waste biorefineries designed for boosting rural economic development in Colombia. These biorefineries were designed following a strategy based on a portfolio of bioprocesses involving fractions based on the composition of the raw materials. The valorization of six food residues produced in three representative rural areas of Colombia (i.e., Chocó, Caldas, and Sucre) was analyzed. Acai, annatto, sugarcane bagasse, rejected plantain and avocado, and organic kitchen food waste (OKFW) were selected as food wastes for upgrading. The biorefinery design strategy comprised five steps for filtering the most promising bioprocesses to be implemented. The OKFW was analyzed in detail, applying the design strategy to provide a step-by-step guide involving a portfolio of bioproducts, the technological maturity index, and the socio-economic context. This strategy implementation for OKFW valorization resulted in a scenario where biorefineries with levulinic acid production were the most feasible and sustainable, with high techno-economic performances and low environmental impacts. For the valorization of the other food residues, the processes with the greatest feasibility of being implemented in rural areas were bioactive compounds, oil, flour, and biogas production.
Bioelectrochemical Systems (BES) for Biomethane Production—Review
Authors: Horváth-Gönczi Noémi N. , Bagi Zoltán , Szuhaj Márk , Rákhely Gábor , Kovács Kornél L.
Published: June 2023

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) have great potential in renewable energy production technologies. BES can generate electricity via Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) or use electric current to synthesize valuable commodities in Microbial Electrolysis Cells (MECs). Various reactor configurations and operational protocols are increasing rapidly, although industrial-scale operation still faces difficulties. This article reviews the recent BES related to literature, with special attention to electrosynthesis and the most promising reactor configurations. We also attempted to clarify the numerous definitions proposed for BESs. The main components of BES are highlighted. Although the comparison of the various fermentation systems is, we collected useful and generally applicable operational parameters to be used for comparative studies. A brief overview links the appropriate microbes to the optimal reactor design.
Effects of Temperature and Moisture Levels on Vitamin A in Total Mixed Ration Silage
Authors: Tian Pengjiao , Hu Huiying , Zhang Xiya , Chen Mingqing , Wang Xiqing
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of temperature and moisture levels on vitamin A in the total mixed ration (TMR) silage. The moisture levels of TMR were adjusted to 450 g/kg, 525 g/kg and 600 g/kg. Each moisture level had three replications and fermented at 15 °C, 30 °C and 40 °C, respectively. The TMR was sampled after 0, 7, 14, 28 and 56 days of ensiling. The fermentation quality, chemical composition and vitamin A content were analyzed. Correlations between vitamin A and individual fermentation quality, chemical composition and microbial composition in TMR silages at different moisture levels and different temperatures were also analyzed separately. The results showed that the loss of vitamin A in TMR under different fermentation conditions differed significantly (p < 0.05). The increase in moisture level and temperature led to an increase in vitamin A loss, with the greatest loss of up to 68.5% when the moisture level of TMR was 600 g/kg and the storage temperature was 40 °C. In addition, there was a significant correlation (p < 0.05) between lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and aerobic bacteria and vitamin A content throughout the fermentation process, thus LAB and aerobic bacteria were associated with vitamin A loss. Thus, a coupling effect of LAB and aerobic bacteria lead to the loss of vitamin A in TMR silage under acidic conditions.
Modulation of Murrah Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Rumen Functions for In Vitro Fatty Acid Bio-Hydrogenation, Methane Production and Fermentation Pattern of Total Mixed Ration Supplemented with Allium sativum (Garlic) Essential Oils
Authors: Singh Ram Kumar , Dey Avijit , Thakur Shubham , Singh Mala , Lailer Puran Chand
Published: June 2023

The potential for plant-origin essential oils to modulate rumen functions for reducing bio-hydrogenation of fatty acids and methane production has been a significant area of research in recent times. This study investigated the effects supplementation of garlic (Allium sativum) essential oils have on in vitro bio-hydrogenation of fatty acids, methanogenesis and fermentation characteristics of total mixed ration in buffalo with the aim of enhancing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content in animal products as well as reducing environmental pollution. Allium sativum (AS) essential oils were examined at four levels [0 (Control), 33.33 µL (AS-1), 83.33 µL (AS-2) and 166.66 µL (AS-3) per litre of buffered rumen fluid] in a radio-frequency based automatic gas production system (ANKOM-RF). Two bottles per treatment per run over two incubation runs were undertaken to gain representative results. Oats hay and concentrate mixture (1:1) was used as a substrate (500 ± 5 mg) and incubated with 60 mL of buffered rumen fluid in 250 mL ANKOM bottles fitted with automatic an gas recording system at 39 °C for 24 h, following standard in vitro gas production protocols. The results demonstrated a reduction (p < 0.01) in lipid bio-hydrogenation, measured by lowered saturated fatty acids and enhanced unsaturated fatty acids on the supplementation of AS essential oils, irrespective of the dose levels. Moreover, the increased (p < 0.01) production of trans vaccenic (trans C18:1) acid (TVA) following graded dose supplementations of the AS essential oils increased the production of conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) in animal products. Although, reduced methane production (p < 0.01) was evidenced, the decrease in total gas production and feed digestibility (TDDM) demonstrated the strong antimicrobial properties of AS at all dose levels. The study reveals that the Allium sativam (Garlic) essential oils have the potential to be an agent for the reduction of the rumen biohydrogenation of fatty acids and methanogenesis. However, in vivo examination is necessary to validate the findings and confirm its suitability for use as an additive to enhance nutraceutical and organoleptic properties in animal products.
Grape Stalk Valorization: An Efficient Re-Use of Lignocellulosic Biomass through Hydrolysis and Fermentation to Produce Lactic Acid from Lactobacillus rhamnosus IMC501
Authors: D’ambrosio Sergio , Zaccariello Lucio , Sadiq Saba , D’Albore Marcella , Battipaglia Giovanna , D’Agostino Maria , Battaglia Daniele , Schiraldi Chiara , Cimini Donatella
Published: June 2023

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a homofermentative probiotic strain that was previously demonstrated to grow on lignocellulosic-derived raw materials and to convert glucose into L-lactic acid (LA) with yields that vary between 0.38 and 0.97 g/g. Lactic acid is a key platform chemical, largely applied in different biotechnological fields (spanning from the pharmaceutical to the food sector) and also as a building block for the production of biodegradable polymers. In the present study, grape stalks were evaluated as sources of fermentable sugars for the growth of L. rhamnosus IMC501 and for the production of LA, since millions of hectoliters of wine are produced every year worldwide, generating a huge amount of waste. Although grape stalks are quite recalcitrant, the combination of a steam explosion pre-treatment with optimized two-step hydrolysis and commercial enzymes (Cellic-CTec2) allowed us to obtain a cellulose conversion efficiency of about 37% and to develop small-scale 2 L batch fermentation processes. Results successfully demonstrate that L. rhamnosus IMC501 can tolerate biomass-derived inhibitors and grow on grape stalk hydrolysate without the need for additional sources of nitrogen or other nutritional elements, and that the strain can convert all glucose present in the medium into LA, reaching the maximal theoretical yield.
NMR-Based Characterization of Wood Decay Fungi as Promising Novel Foods: Abortiporus biennis, Fomitopsis iberica and Stereum hirsutum Mycelia as Case Studies
Authors: Goppa Lorenzo , Spano Mattia , Baiguera Rebecca Michela , Cartabia Marco , Rossi Paola , Mannina Luisa , Savino Elena
Published: June 2023

Wood Decay Fungi (WDF) are fungi specialized in degrading wood. An interesting perspective is their use as a source of Novel Foods or food ingredients. Here, for the first time, the metabolite profiling of hydroalcoholic and organic extracts from A. biennis, F. iberica, S. hirsutum mycelia was investigated by NMR methodology. Amino acids (alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartate, betaine, GABA, glutamate, glutamine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine), sugars (galactose, glucose, maltose, trehalose, mannitol), organic acids (acetate, citrate, formate, fumarate, lactate, malate, succinate), adenosine, choline, uracil and uridine were identified and quantified in the hydroalcoholic extracts, whereas the 1H spectra of organic extracts showed the presence of saturated, mono-unsaturated and di-unsaturated fatty chains, ergosterol,1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine, and 1,2-diacyl-sasglycero-3-phosphatidylcholine. A. biennis extracts showed the highest amino acid concentration. Some compounds were detected only in specific species: betaine and mannitol in S. hirsutum, maltose in A. biennis, galactose in F. iberica, GABA in F. iberica and S. hirsutum, and acetate in A. biennis and S. hirsutum. S. hirsutum showed the highest saturated fatty chain concentration, whereas DUFA reached the highest concentration in A. biennis. A high amount of ergosterol was measured both in A. biennis and F. iberica. The reported results can be useful in the development of WDF-based products with a high nutritional and nutraceutical value.
Effects of Hard Water Boiling on Chalky Rice in Terms of Texture Improvement and Ca Fortification
Authors: Nakamura Sumiko , Ohtsubo Ken’ichi
Published: June 2023

In the present paper, we investigated the characteristics of chalky rice grains generated by ripening under high temperature and compared them with whole grains. We evaluated 14 unpolished Japonica rice grains harvested in Japan in 2021, and these samples (original grains) were divided into two groups (a whole grain group and a chalky grain one). We found that not only activities of endogenous amylase and proteinase, but also cell wall-degrading enzymes, such as xylanase and cellulase, changed markedly between chalky grains and whole grains. Using rice grains blended with 30% of chalky grains as the material, we compared the sugar and mineral contents and textural properties of the rice grains soaked and boiled in either ordinary water or hard water, such as Evian or Contrex. It was shown that xylanase, in addition to amylase and proteinase, may play an important role in changing the texture of the boiled chalky rice grains. For the sake of preventing the above-mentioned deterioration in the texture of boiled grains of chalky rice, we tried to use hard water, such as Evian or Contrex, to soak and cook the chalky rice grains. It was shown that the hard water was useful for the prevention of texture deterioration of the boiled rice grains due to inhibition of the activities of endogenous hydrolytic enzymes, such as α-amylase, β-amylase, proteinase, and xylanase. Furthermore, we found that the hard water was useful in increasing the calcium absorption through the meal by 2.6 to 16.5 times.
Bioactive Compounds and Sensory Quality in Chips of Native Potato Clones (Solanum tuberosum spp. andigena) Grown in the High Andean Region of PERU
Authors: Ligarda-Samanez Carlos A. , Palomino-Rincón Henry , Choque-Quispe David , Moscoso-Moscoso Elibet , Arévalo-Quijano José C. , Huamán-Carrión Mary L. , Quispe-Quezada Uriel R. , Muñoz-Saenz Jenny C. , Gutiérrez-Gómez Edgar , Cabel-Moscoso Domingo J. , Sucari-León Reynaldo , Aroquipa-Durán Yolanda , García-Espinoza Antonina J.
Published: June 2023

Native potatoes (Solanum tuberosum spp. andigena) have diverse pigments and are cultivated in Peru’s high Andean regions; they are characterized by containing bioactive compounds that prevent various degenerative diseases. The study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and sensory quality in chips of native potato clones grown at 3496 m altitude, for which the potatoes were cut into slices and fried in extra virgin olive oil at 180 °C for 200 s. This was determined by proximal analysis, reducing sugars, minerals, color, antioxidant capacity (AC), total phenolic compounds (TPC), and anthocyanins in fresh and chips; an instrumental characterization by FTIR and SEM and sensory tests were also performed. The native potatoes presented low moisture and reduced sugar contents; when frying, their bioactive properties improved, increasing AC, TPC, and trace elements, such as K, Mg, Ca, P, Fe, and Zn. To conclude, fresh clones have high yields in the field and are an essential source of nutrients and bioactive; the salt-free chips of clone B presented better physicochemical properties and greater sensory acceptance, closely followed by clone A. Both clones could be used as raw material by food companies that produce snacks to benefit high Andean agricultural producers.
Multi-Scale Comparison of Physicochemical Properties, Refined Structures, and Gel Characteristics of a Novel Native Wild Pea Starch with Commercial Pea and Mung Bean Starch
Authors: Zhang Xiaojun , Tang Ning , Jia Xin , Geng Donghui , Cheng Yongqiang
Published: June 2023

In the present study, the morphology, refined structure, thermal properties, and dynamic rheological, texture, and digestive properties of common vetch starch, a potential new type of legume starch, were systematically investigated, and compared with commercially available pea and mung bean starch. The results showed that the composition and chemical structure of common vetch starch were similar to the pea and mung bean starch. However, the amylose content (35.69), A-chain proportion (37.62), and relative crystallinity (34.16) of common vetch starch were higher, and the particle size and molecular weight (44,042 kDa) were larger. The value of pasting properties and enthalpy change (ΔH) of gelatinization of common vetch starch was lower and higher than mung bean and pea starch, respectively, and a lower swelling power and pasting index indicate that common vetch starch had higher hot-paste and cold-paste stability. In addition, common vetch starch gel exhibited good rheology, cohesiveness, and anti-digestive properties. These results provide new insights into the broader application of common vetch starch.
Comparative Analysis of the Impact of Three Drying Methods on the Properties of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Dahongpao Powder and Solid Drinks
Authors: Li Shunjie , Mao Xiaoxue , Guo Long , Zhou Zhiqin
Published: June 2023

Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Dahongpao is a traditional Chinese citrus variety. Due to the high investment in storage and transport of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Dahongpao and the lack of market demand, the fresh fruit is wasted. The processing of fresh fruit into fruit drinks can solve the problem of storage and transport difficulties and open up new markets. Investigating the effects of different drying processes (hot air, freeze, and spray drying) on fruit powders is a crucial step in identifying a suitable production process. The experiment measured the effects of different drying methods (hot air drying, freeze drying, and spray drying) on the nutrient, bioactive substance, and physical characteristics of fruit powder. This study measured the influence of three different drying methods (hot air, freeze, and spray drying) on the nutritional, bioactive substance, and physical characteristics of fruit powder. The results showed that compared to vacuum freeze-drying at low temperature (−60 °C) and spray-drying at high temperatures (150 °C), hot air drying at 50 °C produced fruit powder with superior nutritional quality, higher levels of active substances, and better physical properties. Hot air drying produced fruit powder that had the highest content of amino acids (11.48 ± 0.08 mg/g DW), vitamin C (112.09 ± 2.86 μg/g DW), total phenols (14.78 ± 0.30 mg/g GAE DW), total flavonoids (6.45 ± 0.11 mg/g RE DW), organic acids, and antioxidant activity capacity. Additionally, this method yielded the highest amounts of zinc (8.88 ± 0.03 mg/Kg DW) and soluble sugars, low water content, high solubility, and brown coloration of the fruit powder and juice. Therefore, hot air drying is one of the best production methods for producing high-quality fruit powder in factory production.