bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preservice Teachers’ Reflection Processes When Collaboratively Reflecting on Videotaped Classroom Teaching
Authors: Rothe Lisanne , Göbel Kerstin
Published: December 2024

It is imperative that (preservice) teachers engage in continuous reflection on their pedagogical practice to foster their continuous professional development. Teaching videos are therefore used in teacher education programmes to stimulate reflection. The authentic presentation of teaching through videos enables (preservice) teachers to reflect on certain aspects of teaching. To enhance the reflection quality of (preservice) teachers, it is essential that they receive structured support throughout the reflection process. The following article examines the reflection processes of preservice teachers who took part in the FLECTT project (Collegial video-based reflection on teaching in Reflecting Teams) at the University of Duisburg-Essen. During their practical semester, preservice teachers had the opportunity to reflect on videotapes of their own teaching in a collegial reflection setting. As only a few studies have investigated processes of collegial video-based reflection of preservice teachers, the following study addresses this research desideratum and investigates the reflection processes by means of an explorative, qualitative study. The findings suggest that preservice teachers engage intensively with the teaching video. They reflect on their personal experiences and develop new alternative courses of action. However, it seems to be crucial that the participants are familiar with the specific setting in order to be able to participate effectively in the reflection process. In addition, the high level of engagement with the teaching video seems to have an effect on the concentration or fatigue of the preservice teachers.
LSTM-Based MPPT Algorithm for Efficient Energy Harvesting of a Solar PV System Under Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Bandara Anushka , Ratnayake Keshawa , Dissanayake Ramitha , Udawatte Harith , Godaliyadda Roshan , Ekanayake Parakrama , Ekanayake Janaka
Published: December 2024

Solar energy is one of the most favorable renewable energy sources and has undergone significant development in the past few years. This paper investigates a novel concept of harvesting the maximum power of a photovoltaic (PV) system using a long-short term memory (LSTM) to forecast the irradiance value and a feedforward neural network (FNN) to predict the maximum power point (MPP) voltage. This study paves a way to mitigate avoidable inefficiencies that hinder the optimal performance of a PV system, due to the intermittent nature of solar energy. MATLAB/Simulink software platform was used to validate the proposed algorithm with real irradiance data from different geographical and weather conditions. Furthermore, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm was implemented in a laboratory setup. The simulation results portray the superiority of the proposed method in terms of tracking performance and dynamic response through a comprehensive case study conducted with five other state-of-the-art MPPT methods selected from conventional, AI based, and bio-inspired MPPT categories. In addition to that, faster response time and lesser oscillations around the MPP were observed, even during volatile weather conditions and partial shading.
Comparative Investigation of Traditional Machine-Learning Models and Transformer Models for Phishing Email Detection
Authors: Meléndez René , Ptaszynski Michal , Masui Fumito
Published: December 2024

Phishing emails pose a significant threat to cybersecurity worldwide. There are already tools that mitigate the impact of these emails by filtering them, but these tools are only as reliable as their ability to detect new formats and techniques for creating phishing emails. In this paper, we investigated how traditional models and transformer models work on the classification task of identifying if an email is phishing or not. We realized that transformer models, in particular distilBERT, BERT, and roBERTa, had a significantly higher performance compared to traditional models like Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and Naive Bayes. The process consisted of using a large and robust dataset of emails and applying preprocessing and optimization techniques to maximize the best result possible. roBERTa showed an outstanding capacity to identify phishing emails by achieving a maximum accuracy of 0.9943. Even though they were still successful, traditional models performed marginally worse; SVM performed the best, with an accuracy of 0.9876. The results emphasize the value of sophisticated text-processing methods and the potential of transformer models to improve email security by thwarting phishing attempts.
Research on Low-Voltage Ride-Through and Intelligent Optimization Control of Wind Turbines Based on Hybrid Power Prediction Models
Authors: Su Xianlong , Gao Jinming
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a dual-loop back-to-back converter coordination control scheme with a DC-side voltage as the primary control target, along with a CROW unloading control strategy for low voltage ride-through (LVRT) capability enhancement. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed system topology and control strategy are verified through MATLAB/Simulink simulations. Furthermore, a hybrid short-term wind power prediction model based on data-driven and deep learning techniques (CEEMDAN-CNN-Transformer-XGBoost) is introduced in the wind turbine control system. The coordination control strategy seamlessly integrates wind power prediction, pitch angle adjustment, and the control system, embodying a predictive-driven intelligent optimization control approach. This method significantly improves prediction accuracy and stability, theoretically reduces unnecessary pitch angle adjustments, lowers mechanical stress, and enhances system adaptability in complex operating conditions. The research findings provide a valuable theoretical foundation and technical reference for the intelligent and efficient operation of wind power generation systems.
Fully Polarized Wideband Omnidirectional RF Harvester with Highly Efficient DC Power Combination
Authors: Jing Jianwei , Yang Bo , Yan Liping , Shinohara Naoki , Liu Changjun
Published: December 2024

In this work, an omnidirectional RF energy harvester with wideband coverage (1.5–2.7 GHz), all-polarization, and high-efficiency DC combining is proposed. The harvester integrates six microstrip rectenna elements with varying directions and polarizations. The harvester strategically combines six microstrip rectenna elements with different orientations and polarizations to enhance the stability of omnidirectional energy harvesting. The rectifier employs impedance compression matching techniques, incorporating open-circuited and short-circuited transmission lines to achieve a compact, broadband rectification. Experimental results show that the rectifier maintains an RF-to-DC conversion efficiency exceeding 50% within a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz to 2.7 GHz at an input power of 0 dBm, achieving a maximum efficiency of 62%. The maximum DC-combining efficiency of the rectifier array reaches 92%. These findings indicate that the harvester performs effectively with RF energy of all polarizations from various directions.
New Fuels and Advanced Combustion Modes for Innovative Internal Combustion Engines: An Overview
Authors: Lanni Davide , Galloni Enzo
Published: December 2024

Internal combustion engines (ICEs) currently account for approximately 25% of global power generation. Notably, this technology still plays a crucial role in a large segment of the transportation sector. In this editorial, a short overview of the latest developments and current research trends related to internal combustion engines is presented. Furthermore, the 11 contributions of this Special Issue are introduced. They cover three main topics: the use of new fuels for internal combustion engines for both automotive and railway applications; testing of additives for ICEs fed with conventional fuels; and CFD simulation applied to the analysis and design of ICE components.
Co-Design Optimization and Total Cost of Ownership Analysis of an Electric Bus Depot Microgrid with Photovoltaics and Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Verbrugge Boud , Geury Thomas , Hegazy Omar
Published: December 2024

Due to the increasing share of battery electric buses (BEBs) in cities, depots need to be adapted to the increasing load demand. The integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) into a depot can increase the self-consumption, but optimal sizing is required for a cost-efficient and reliable operation. Accordingly, this paper introduces a co-design optimization framework for a depot microgrid, equipped with photovoltaics (PVs) and an energy storage system (ESS). Three European cities are considered to evaluate the effect of different environmental conditions and electricity prices on the optimal microgrid design. Accurate models of the different subsystems are created to estimate the load demand and the power generation. Different energy management strategies (EMSs), developed to properly control the power flow within the microgrid, are compared in terms of operational costs reduction, one of which was also experimentally validated using a hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) test setup. In addition, the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the depot microgrid is analyzed, showing that an optimally designed depot microgrid can reduce the charging-related expenses for the public transport operator (PTO) by 30% compared to a scenario in which only the distribution grid supplies the BEB depot.
Sliding Mode Control and Immersion & Invariance Observer for Grid-Tied Inverters in Photovoltaic Applications: Continuous Operation for Power Quality Enhancement
Authors: Flota-Bañuelos Manuel , Miranda-Vidales Homero , Cruz Braulio , Aviles-Viñas Jaime , Ricalde Luis , Medina Jorge
Published: December 2024

This work proposes a model-based control scheme using a sliding mode controller (SMC) and an immersion and invariant (I&I) observer. The objective of the proposed control scheme is to be applied to a three-phase grid-tied inverter, which could operate as a shunt active power filter when the photovoltaic array is not generating power (night-time operation). The grid-tied inverter always remains operational, ensuring continuous support of the power quality improvement, as well as current harmonic compensation due to nonlinear loads and power factor correction. An external control loop is included to keep the voltage of the DC-link capacitor regulated. As can be explained in detail along with the work, a battery stack is avoided in this proposed research. Thus, a decision stage is added to the control scheme to select the night or day operation. Simulation results are carried out using Altair-PSIM© to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme in several scenarios.
Research on Energy Management Strategies Based on Bargaining Game for Range-Extended Electric Vehicle Considering Battery Life
Authors: Gao Zhenhai , Liu Jiewen , Long Shiqing , Su Zihang , Liu Hanwu , Chang Cheng , Song Wang
Published: December 2024

Effective energy management techniques are essential for the full utilization of energy in the field of extended-range electric vehicle research, with the goals of lowering energy consumption and exhaust emissions, enhancing driving comfort, and extending battery life. To achieve optimal comprehensive usage costs, this article uses bargaining game theory to design an adaptive energy management strategy (EMSad-bg) that focuses on battery life. In the study, a power system model was first built based on AVL/Cruise software and MATLAB/Simulink software. The impact of discount factors on strategy results was analyzed through simulation experiments. The results showed that the discount factor for auxiliary power unit (APU) focused more on energy optimization, while the discount factor for battery focused more on optimizing the degradation of battery life. When the initial state of charge (SoC) is high, the specific value of the discount factor also has a significant impact on the battery SoC value at the end of the trip. To improve the strategy’s adaptability to various initial SoC values, a fuzzy controller was created that can adaptively modify the discount factor based on the battery SoC. The results of the simulation experiment demonstrate that the bargaining game strategy taking SoC into account has more pronounced advantages in terms of overall usage cost when compared to the strategy of the fixed discount factor. The creation of an EMSad-bg that takes battery life into account based on a bargaining game can serve as a helpful model for the creation of a clever EMS that lowers the total cost of operating a vehicle.
Adaptive Disturbance Rejection and Power Smoothing Control for Offshore Hydraulic Wind Turbines Based on Pitch and Motor Tilt Angles
Authors: Yang Guisheng , Chen Lijuan , Cai Pengyang , Gao Wei , Ai Chao
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates an adaptive disturbance rejection control (ADRC) strategy for dual-variable power smoothing for hydraulic wind turbine systems deployed in marine environments. Initially, fluctuations in wind speed induce variations in the output torque and rotational speed of the wind turbine; this study examines the interaction between these two variables and subsequently decouples them. An innovative dual-variable anti-disturbance control strategy is proposed, which independently regulates the pitch angle of the rotor and the swing angle of the variable motor to mitigate fluctuations in both speed and torque, thereby achieving a smoother system output power. The simulation results obtained through MATLAB/Simulink (Version R2022a) indicate that employing the proposed control strategy leads to an 8.31% reduction in power generation compared to optimal power tracking strategies while enhancing output power stability by 56.67%. Furthermore, the effective smoothing of power fluctuations is accomplished without necessitating energy storage devices. Finally, the effectiveness of the power smooth output control strategy proposed in this paper was verified based on a semi-physical simulation experimental platform for a 30 kW hydraulic wind turbine. The control method proposed in this paper provides a theoretical basis for the promotion and application of hydraulic wind turbines with stable power output.
Digital Twin System Framework and Implementation for Grid-Integrated Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yu Jeong-Un , Cho Kyu-Sang , Park Sung-Won , Son Sung-Yong
Published: December 2024

Research on digital twins (DTs) in the power system field has mainly focused on implementing DTs for specific resources, while few studies on electric vehicle (EV)-based DT implementation have considered integration and interoperability between systems. This study introduces a DT-based EV system operation framework to address the aforementioned research gap. The framework implements individual EVs, charging stations, and charging station operators (CPOs) as DTs, enabling integrated operation with the power grid. The DT-based EV agent supports independent decision-making on power service participation by considering location information, distance, charging amount, spare time, and incentives. In addition, the CPO can establish an optimal incentive strategy to induce EV users to participate in grid power services. The proposed DT systems map information between EVs, charging stations, and the grid, enabling analysis and verification of the impact of participants on charging station operation, grid stability, and economic efficiency in an independent environment. The effectiveness and usability of the proposed framework were verified through a case study on an incentive-based demand response program.
Application of the FDTD Method to the Analysis of Electromagnetic Wave Propagation in Systems with Concrete and Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Choroszucho Agnieszka , Szczegielniak Tomasz , Kusiak Dariusz , Jaskot Anna
Published: December 2024

Wireless communication very often causes problems due to its quality. Problems with the network are very important when installing wireless networks inside buildings. The reason is the effects created during the propagation of electromagnetic waves inside rooms due to, among other factors, the construction of the walls and the building materials used. At the stage of network design, it is possible to use numerical methods, which allow for multivariate and fast analysis. This article presents a multivariate analysis of the impact of the variability in the electrical parameters of concrete and reinforced concrete on the propagation of electromagnetic waves and the value of the electric field intensity. The subject of the analysis was a wall composed of a homogeneous material (concrete) or non-homogeneous material (concrete with reinforcement). In the case of the homogeneous wall, the analysis was performed taking into account four electric permittivity values and a wide range of conductivity values. The analysis was performed at two frequencies used in wireless communication (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). The analysis was performed using the time method based on Maxwell’s equations—the finite difference time domain method (FDTD). The results of the numerical analysis were compared with the results obtained from the presented analytical relationships. In the next step, four models and calculations were obtained for systems with a reinforced concrete wall, taking into account the variability in the spacing between the bars, the diameter of the reinforcement and the number of rows of reinforcement. The analysis of complex systems was performed at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The aim of the presented analysis was to check how the change in the value of the electric permittivity of concrete affects the values of the field intensity and its effect on the analysis of systems composed of concrete with reinforcement. In the case of concrete, it was observed that, for conductivity above 0.9 S/m, regardless of the electric permittivity, all characteristics had a similar course. For low concrete loss, the greatest differences in the electric field intensity were observed at a frequency of 2.4 GHz rather than at 5 GHz. On the other hand, the analysis of systems with reinforced concrete showed, among other aspects, that models with two rows of bars and spacing of 0.15 m, regardless of the reinforcement diameter, were characterized by lower values of the electric field intensity compared to the variants with one row of bars.
Research on Circulating Current Suppression Control of Parallel Inverters
Authors: Fan Yibiao , Tong Lixia , Wang Xiaoping , Cai Xiaowei , Fu Zhihe , Zhou Junhui , Huang Shuangmao , Mao Xingkui
Published: December 2024

Circulating current suppression can effectively improve the reliability and redundancy of parallel inverter systems. The mechanism and influencing factors of the low- and high-frequency zero-sequence circulating current (ZSCC) are analyzed in this study. Based on a mechanism analysis and the built mathematical model, the composite control strategy of zero-sequence voltage difference (ZSVD) compensation and virtual inductance is proposed to suppress the low- and high-frequency ZSCC. In the composite control strategy, the low-frequency ZCSS (LF-ZCSS) is suppressed by the ZSVD compensation method, and the HF-ZCSS is suppressed by the virtual inductance method. The ZSVD compensation is incorporated into the SVPWM as an input to regulate the modulation and suppress the LF-ZCSS, and virtual inductance is introduced into the current control loop to suppress the HF-ZCSS. A parallel system prototype composed of two 6 kW inverters is constructed. The experiments show that the ZSCC of the parallel system is reduced by 45%, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed composite control strategy.
3E Comparative Analysis of Brayton–ORC Cycle Using Two Thermal Sources: Solar Energy and Coconut Shell Biomass
Authors: Tovar José Manuel , Ochoa Guillermo Valencia , Molina Branda
Published: December 2024

Solar energy and biomass offer sustainable alternatives to meet the energy demand and reduce the environmental impact of fossil fuels. In this study, through mass and energy balances, a comparative analysis of energy, exergy, and environmental impact (LCA) was conducted on two renewable thermal sources: solar energy and coconut shell biomass, both coupled to a supercritical CO2 Brayton cycle (sCO2) with an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) for waste heat recovery. The sCO2–ORC–biomass configuration showed higher exergy efficiency (41.1%) and lower exergy destruction (188.88 kW) compared to the sCO2–ORC–solar system (23.76% and 422.63 kW). Thermal efficiency (50.6%) and net power output (131.73 kW) were similar for both sources. However, the solar system (204,055.57 kg CO2-equi) had an 85.6% higher environmental impact than the biomass system (109,933.63 kg CO2-equi). Additionally, the construction phase contributed ~95% of emissions in both systems, followed by decommissioning (~4.5%) and operation (~0.1%). Finally, systems built with aluminum generate a higher carbon footprint than those with copper, with differences of 2% and 3.2% in sCO2–ORC–solar and sCO2–ORC–biomass, respectively. This study and an economic analysis make these systems viable thermo-sustainable options for clean energy generation.
Effect of Treatment of Beech Seeds with Copper Nanoparticles on Seed Coat Mycoflora
Authors: Beza Marcin , Behnke-Borowczyk Jolanta , Studnicki Marcin , Aleksandrowicz-Trzcińska Marta
Published: December 2024

Seeds harbor a complex fungal community, of which some members may be pathogenic. For this reason, seeds are often treated with fungicides before sowing. Plant protection is constantly looking for environmentally friendly technological solutions and nanotechnology can provide a solution that is a green and environmentally friendly alternative to fungicide treatment. The aim of this study was to conduct a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the composition of fungal communities inhabiting the seed coats of healthy and damaged European beech seeds and to assess the effect of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on the composition of these communities. The seeds were soaked in a solution of CuNPs at a concentration of 50 ppm for 30 min. There were four groups of seeds: control—not treated with CuNPs, seeds examined 1 day after CuNP (CuNP_1day) treatment, seeds examined 3 weeks after CuNP (CuNP_3weeks) treatment, and damaged seeds—not treated. A community analysis was conducted based on the ITS1 region using Illumina sequencing. In total, we found 70 taxa of fungi and Oomycota. The community on the control seeds numbered 38 taxa, on damaged seeds—67, on seeds treated with CuNPs after 1 day—40, and after 3 weeks—15, respectively. In terms of biological diversity and species composition, the community on damaged seeds differed significantly from that on CuNP_3weeks seeds and both of these treatments differed from the remaining two. On the damaged seeds, the dominant species were as follows: Botritis cinerea Pers., Globisporangium intermedium (de Bary) Uzuhashi, Tojo & Kakish., and Pythium dissotocum Drechsler. The communities of the other seed groups were dominated by Fusicoccum quercus Oudem. and Apiognomonia errabunda (Roberge ex Desm.) Höhn., which proved resistant to CuNPs. Taxa belonging to the Oomycota, fungi of the genera Fusarium, Mucor, and Penicillium, were sensitive to CuNPs and did not occur on CuNP_3weeks seeds. The significant reduction in the number of taxa and the most favorable structure of trophic groups being found on the CuNP_3weeks seeds suggest that NPs could potentially replace traditional fungicides for seed treatment.
Economic Analysis of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) Production Under Different Solar Energy Alternatives in a Commercial Biofloc System in Colombia
Authors: Cala-Delgado Daniel Leonardo , Ismael da Costa Jesaías , Garcia Fabiana
Published: December 2024

The study investigates the economic aspects of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) production using biofloc technology under different electrical energy sources. Conducted at the El Vergel Fish Farming Association in Arauca, Colombia, the study examines four energy treatments: conventional energy (CE), combined conventional and photovoltaic energy (CPVE), full photovoltaic energy (PVE), and simulation of photovoltaic energy generating surplus for nighttime use (PVES). The water quality and zootechnical performance met the species requirements, with dissolved oxygen decreasing as fish size increased. The PVE treatment had the highest initial investment due to solar panels and battery costs, but it also had the lowest operating energy costs. However, the overall costs of the PVE treatment increased due to depreciation and maintenance. Feed was the largest production cost, followed by labor in most treatments, while depreciation was a major cost for the PVE treatment. The total operating cost (TOC) of the photovoltaic energy systems (PVE and PVES) was lower compared to that of conventional energy (CE), with PVES showing the highest cost savings. The reduction in energy costs highlights the potential for solar energy systems to enhance the economic viability of aquaculture production, making these systems a favorable option for sustainable production in the long term.
Digestive Physiology, Nutrition and Feeding of Arapaima gigas: A Review
Authors: Palomino Ramos Alfredo Ruben , Moyano López Francisco Javier
Published: December 2024

The Arapaima gigas, a native fish species in the Amazon basin, presents particular biological and zootechnical characteristics, along with substantial economic value, that make it a promising candidate for its production within intensive aquaculture systems. To date, different studies have been conducted to (a) increase the understanding of its digestive physiology in relation to feeding habits, (b) determine its nutritional requirements at different developmental stages, (c) assess the potential use of alternative ingredients in diets, and (d) elucidate its feeding behavior patterns in captivity to improve feeding strategies. However, important gaps still remain in the available information related to the above-mentioned aspects that compromise the formulation of efficient and balanced aquafeeds used in the different production phases of this species. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge regarding digestive physiology, nutritional requirements and feeding strategies of A. gigas with the main objective of identifying areas that require further research for application in developing suitable and sustainable feeds for the species.
Comparison of Untargeted and Markers Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds with SIFT-MS and SPME-GC-MS to Assess Tea Traceability
Authors: Reyrolle Marine , Desauziers Valérie , Pigot Thierry , Gautier Lydia , Le Bechec Mickael
Published: December 2024

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and presents a great aromatic diversity depending on the origin of the production and the transformation process. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) greatly contribute to the sensory perception of tea and are excellent markers for traceability and quality. In this work, we analyzed the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by twenty-six perfectly traced samples of tea with two analytical techniques and two data treatment strategies. First, we performed headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) as the most widely used reference method for sanitary and quality controls of food. Next, we analyzed the samples with selected-ion flow-tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS), an emerging method for direct analysis of food products and aroma. We compared the performances of both techniques to trace the origin and the transformation processes. We selected the forty-eight most relevant markers with HS-SPME-GC-MS and evaluated their concentrations with a flame ionization detector (FID) on the same instrument. This set of markers permitted separation of the origins of samples but did not allow the samples to be differentiated based on the color. The same set of markers was measured with SIFT-MS instrument without success for either origin separation or color differentiation. Finally, a post-processing treatment of raw data signals with an untargeted approach was applied to the GC-MS and SIFT-MS dataset. This strategy allowed a good discrimination of origin and color with both instruments. Advantages and drawbacks of volatile profiles with both instruments were discussed for the traceability and quality assessment of food.
Recent Advances in Cellulose Nanofiber Modification and Characterization and Cellulose Nanofiber-Based Films for Eco-Friendly Active Food Packaging
Authors: Sun Jiaojiao , Yang Xi , Bai Yifan , Fang Zhisheng , Zhang Shuai , Wang Xiaoyu , Yang Yali , Guo Yurong
Published: December 2024

There is growing interest in the use of bio-based materials as viable alternatives to petrochemical-based packaging. However, the practical application of bio-based films is often hampered by their poor barrier and poor mechanical properties. In this context, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) have attracted considerable attention owing to their exceptional biodegradability, high aspect ratio, and large surface area. The extraction of CNFs from agricultural waste or non-food biomass represents a sustainable approach that can effectively balance cost and environmental impacts. The functionalization of CNFs improves the economics of raw materials and production processes while expanding their applications. This paper reviews recent advances in cellulose nanofibers, including their sources, surface modification, and characterization techniques. Furthermore, we systematically discuss the interactions of CNFs with different composites in the development of functional food films. Finally, we highlight the application of cellulose nanofiber films in food preservation. Due to their environmentally friendly properties, CNFs are a promising alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The aim of this paper is to present the latest discoveries and advances in CNFs while exploring the future prospects for edible food films, thereby encouraging further research and application of CNFs in the field of active food packaging.
Advances in the Application of Infrared in Food Processing for Improved Food Quality and Microbial Inactivation
Authors: Anumudu Christian , Onyeaka Helen , Ekwueme Chiemerie , Hart Abarasi , Isaac-Bamgboye Folayemi , Miri Taghi
Published: December 2024

Food processing is a fundamental requirement for extending the shelf life of food products, but it often involves heat treatment, which can compromise organoleptic quality while improving food safety. Infrared (IR) radiation has emerged as a transformative technology in food processing, offering a rapid, energy-efficient method for inactivating microbial cells and spores while preserving the nutritional and sensory attributes of food. Unlike traditional heating methods, IR technology enhances heating homogeneity, shortens processing time, and reduces energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. Additionally, IR processing minimizes water usage, prevents undesirable solute migration, and maintains product quality, as evidenced by its effectiveness in applications ranging from drying fruits and vegetables to decontaminating meat and grains. The advantages of IR heating, including its precise and even heat diffusion, ability to retain color and nutrient content, and capacity to improve the microbial safety of food, position it as a promising tool in modern food preservation. Nevertheless, there are gaps in knowledge with respect to optimal application of IR in foods, especially in the maintenance product quality and the impact of factors such as IR power level, temperature, wavelength (λ), food depth, and target microorganisms on the applicability of this novel technology in food systems. Recent research has attempted to address challenges to the application of IR in food processing such as its limited penetration depth and the potential for surface burns due to high energy which has delayed the widespread utilization of this technology in food processing. Thus, this review critically evaluates the application of IR in food safety and quality, focusing on factors that affect its effectiveness and its use to moderate food quality and safety while comparing its advantages/disadvantages over traditional thermal processing methods.
Anticoagulant Activity of the Polysaccharide Fromgonad of Abalone Haliotis discus hannai Ino: The Role of Conjugate Protein
Authors: Liu Qinhao , Yao Siyu , Ma Siyuan , Zhao Ting , Wang Zhenyu , Sun Liming , Du Ming
Published: December 2024

Few studies are concerned with the effect of the conjugat protein on the bioactivities of the abalone gonad polysaccharide (AGP). In this study, a series of treatments, including raw material (female and male) defatting, extraction temperature (25–121 °C), proteolysis, ultrafiltration, and ethanol precipitation, was conducted to investigate the role of the conjugate protein on AGP anticoagulant activity. All AGP extracts significantly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and thrombin time (TT). The strongest was observed in the female AGPs prepared at 50 and 121 °C. The most active is located at 30–300 kDa by ultrafiltration. After being exposed to neutral protease, quick shortening of APTT and TT was found in all AGPs. Further ethanol precipitating of found the longest APTT in the sediment, which contains most polysaccharides and proteins. Defatting lowered the activity of female AGP but increased that of males. Proteolysis also significantly weakened the clotting factor inhibition effect of the 50 °C female AGP, but heating seemed not affect the effect. Five fractions were obtained after the 50 °C female AGP was subjected to ion exchange column. Fraction V, with the highest protein and medium polysaccharide content, showed the strongest anticoagulant effect and was also much higher than AGSP, which was obtained by multi-step proteolysis. The findings supported positive effect of the conjugate protein in AGP anticoagulant activity.
Subsampling Blood Swabs as an Efficient and Good Practice for RapidHIT ID® Analyses
Authors: Siatka Christian , Privat Logan , Franzoni Anna , Rosso Michele , Hubac Sylvain , Hermitte Francis
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Rapid DNA instruments are gaining interest in the forensic community as a means of generating DNA profile information more quickly than standard laboratory workflows, and they have the potential to be carried out in decentralized structures of the main laboratory, such as in French overseas territories, where no laboratory facilities are installed. Although this system has been shown to be effective in analyzing rich traces (such as blood) sampled on a swab, it has the disadvantage of consuming the entire swab for analysis. Since it is impossible to double the sampling from very few blood stains, we designed a subsampling protocol of the main swab for analysis on RapidHIT ID® instruments. Methods: Two volumes of blood (10 µL and 150 µL) from four individuals were applied to a regular Copan flocked swab and then subsampled by three different operators using a Copan mini (subungual) flocked swab to recover a portion of the biological material. Results:The analysis of the mini swabs allows us to obtain a complete genetic profile regardless of the initial volume, with a better genetic profile intensity associated with a higher initial volume deposited on the regular swab. Conclusions: Therefore, this study presents a novel, effective, and adaptable subsampling method that has the potential to significantly improve forensic DNA analysis, particularly in remote or decentralized settings. It offers a flexible solution to current limitations of RapidHIT ID® technology and paves the way for future advancements in genetic forensic science.
Self-Convolution and Its Invariant Properties for the Kernel Function of the Aortic Fractal Operator
Authors: Luo Chaoqian , Yin Yajun , Peng Gang , Zhou Tianyi , Yu Xiaobin , Li Dongan
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we explore the self-convolution of the kernel function of the aortic fractal operator. Previous research has established a model named “physical fractal”, and confirmed that the hemodynamics of the aorta can be inscribed by a fractal operator and that the dominant component of the kernel function of the fractal operator is a weighted first-order Bessel function. These studies primarily focus on solving the fractal operator kernel function and examining the overall properties of the physical fractal. As we began to investigate the internal structure of physical fractals, we discovered that studying the powers of fractal operators is a necessary step. In this paper, we introduce the concept of kernel function self-convolution, establish its connection with the power of the fractal operator, and derive a series of invariant properties for the self-convolution of the aortic operator kernel function. These invariant properties, in turn, are deeply and intrinsically related to the invariant properties of the Bessel functions. The research findings of this paper enrich hemodynamics and biomechanics in physical fractal space and extend the scope of using fractal operators to characterize the dynamics of living organisms.
Feedback Sensitivity, Scholastic Adjustment and Prosocial Behavior: The Mediation Effect of Academic Self-Efficacy
Authors: Lunetti Carolina , Di Giunta Laura , Comitale Clementina , Favini Ainzara
Published: December 2024

Empirical findings support the important role played by prosocial behavior and scholastic performance in significantly affecting adolescents’ long-term psychosocial adjustment. Furthermore, several studies showed the positive impact of academic self-efficacy in affecting adolescents’ social and academic functioning; however, no studies have investigated the effect of other important personality structures, such as students’ feedback sensitivity. The present study aims to investigate the effects of adolescents’ feedback sensitivity (reward sensitivity/punishment sensitivity) on their prosocial behavior and scholastic performance, also examining the potential indirect effect of academic self-efficacy on the association between reward/punishment sensitivity and prosocial behavior/scholastic performance. The participants were 132 adolescents from Rome (Italy). A structural equation model showed a positive and significant effect of academic self-efficacy on scholastic performance and prosocial behavior, a positive significant effect of punishment sensitivity on prosocial behavior, a positive significant effect of reward sensitivity on academic self-efficacy and a significant indirect effect of academic self-efficacy on the association between reward sensitivity and scholastic performance. The results of this study are useful in terms of practical implications to promote students’ adjustment.
Effect of Whey Protein Isolate and Soy Protein Isolate on Textural Properties and Syneresis of Frozen Traditional Chinese Hot Pot Egg Sausage Gels
Authors: Lin Hong-Ting Victor , Huang Luan-Hui , Tsai Jenn-Shou , Sung Wen-Chieh
Published: December 2024

Egg sausages, an essential component of traditional Chinese hot pot cuisine, have specific storage requirements and are predominantly distributed through refrigerated channels. A significant consideration in the freezing of egg sausages pertains to syneresis and textural modifications that manifest in the protein gel structure upon thawing. This research investigated the efficacy of incorporating whey protein isolate, soy protein isolate (at concentrations of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0%), and modified cassava starch (at concentrations of 1.0%, 2.0%, and 3.0%) to enhance the textural integrity and mitigate syneresis in frozen egg sausage gels. The research demonstrated that syneresis in frozen egg sausages could be significantly minimized from 9.01% to 1.16% through the incorporation of 3% modified cassava starch and 2% whey protein isolate, to 2.01% with 1.0% soy protein isolate, and to 3.05% with 1.0% whey protein isolate. Furthermore, the combination of modified cassava starch (3%) and whey protein isolate (2%) demonstrated enhanced textural characteristics in frozen egg sausages with 20% additional water content following a 15-day storage period. Notably, egg sausages formulated with 0.5% whey protein isolate exhibited superior sensory attributes, including springiness, texture, and overall acceptability, compared to other formulations. The incorporation of whey protein isolate yielded markedly improved sensory characteristics relative to soy protein isolate additions. The findings indicate that the incorporation of whey protein isolate (0.5–1.0%) in conjunction with modified cassava starch (3%) effectively improves textural properties while reducing syneresis in thawed egg sausages.
Valorization of Spent Coffee Grounds Oil for the Production of Wax Esters: Enzymatic Synthesis and Application in Olive Oil Oleogels
Authors: Papadaki Aikaterini , Kachrimanidou Vasiliki , Mandala Ioanna , Kopsahelis Nikolaos
Published: December 2024

Spent coffee grounds, the main by-product of the coffee-brewing process, were valorized as a renewable source of lipids for the synthesis of novel wax esters and as an alternative and sustainable oil-structuring agent for the production of oleogels. The lipase-catalyzed reactions were implemented using fatty alcohols both under solvent-free conditions and with limonene as an environmentally friendly solvent. Wax esters were evaluated for their ability to formulate olive oil oleogels through the determination of the physical properties of oleogels. Results showed that high conversion yields were achieved when cetyl and behenyl alcohols were applied under solvent-free conditions, achieving a maximum yield of 90.3% and 91.7%, respectively. In the presence of limonene, the highest conversion yields were 88.9% and 94.5% upon the use of cetyl and behenyl alcohols, respectively. The behenyl wax esters exhibited greater oil-structuring properties, regardless of whether they were derived from solvent or solvent-free conditions. Rheological curves showed that the produced oleogels exhibited a strong gel strength, which was enhanced as the wax ester concentration increased. Frequency sweep curves confirmed the formation of a stable three-dimensional oleogel network and revealed the low dependence of the storage modulus on frequency. Overall, this study demonstrated that producing wax esters from renewable lipid sources has the potential to serve as an effective circular economy paradigm for creating novel oleogels with a broad range of applications.
Impact of Salt and Alkali Stress on Forage Biomass Yield, Nutritive Value, and Animal Growth Performance: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Abebe Hunegnaw , Tu Yan
Published: December 2024

This review investigates the impact of saline and alkaline soils on forage biomass yield, nutritive value, and their subsequent effects on animal growth performance, which are critical for sustainable livestock production. Soil salinity and alkalinity, driven by environmental factors and human activities, significantly affect forage yield and quality, with notable consequences for ruminant nutrition. While some forage species exhibit enhanced crude protein (CP) content and improved leaf-to-stem ratios under salt stress, others suffer from reduced growth and biomass yield. Saline-affected forages are often characterized by lower acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) levels, enhancing their digestibility and making them a potentially valuable feed resource. However, high salinity levels pose significant challenges to consistent forage production in arid and semi-arid regions. Cultivating salt-tolerant forage species has emerged as a promising solution, offering a sustainable approach to addressing the dual challenges of soil salinity and livestock feed shortages. This review emphasizes the need for further research on salinity tolerance mechanisms and the development of resilient forage varieties. By integrating salt-tolerant forages and adopting effective management practices, livestock producers can ensure a reliable and high-quality feed supply while enhancing the growth performance of ruminant animals in salt-affected areas.
Physiological Mechanisms Underlying the Primary Respiratory Mechanism (PRM) and Cranial Rhythmic Impulse (CRI) in Osteopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mériaux François , Stubbe Laurent , Guyon Alice
Published: December 2024

Background: Cranial Rhythmic Impulse (CRI) or Primary Respiratory Mechanism (PRM), movement felt on the scalp or the rest of the body, respectively, is a fundamental concept used by osteopaths in their practice for their diagnosis and treatment. However, the physiological basis of this phenomenon remains unclear. Sutherland, the founder of cranial osteopathy, proposed in 1939 that PRM was due to the movement of the cranial bones pulled by the meninges, themselves pushed by the fluctuation of cerebrospinal fluid and the motility of the central nervous system. Since then, Sutherland’s theory has become dogma, despite scientific progress refuting it, and few osteopaths have attempted to find better explanations. Objective: This systematic review of Medline, Science Direct and the Cochrane Library indexed electronic databases explores current knowledge of the physiological mechanisms underlying the Primary Respiratory Movement (PRM) or Cranial Rhythmic Impulse (CRI). Methods: We entered the following identified keywords: “osteopathy in the cranial field”; “cranial rhythmic impulse”; and “primary respiratory mechanism”. We identified 193 studies, evaluated 115, and identified 28 articles that fulfilled our criteria. We classified the studies in terms of methodological rigor, types of studies and tools used. No study had three good-level items, and only five studies had two good-level items corresponding to the type of study and tools used. The protocol of the review has been registered on PROSPERO-CRD42023488497. Results: Out of the 28 articles, 20 referenced at least one of Sutherland’s hypotheses, often quoting the model to critique or challenge it, while 25 of them refer to other hypotheses and/or mechanisms underlying PRM/CRI: 11 concern vasomotion in blood vessels (7) and lymphatic vessels (6), 20 THM waves, 14 heart rate variability, 9 ventilation rate, 2 the extra-cellular matrix and 1 oxidative metabolism. Conclusions: Although Sutherland’s theory remains prevalent in general beliefs, in scientific literature, THM waves driven by autonomous system activity have gained prominence, emerging as the leading hypothesis. The results from this systematic review confirm the need for a paradigm shift for the CRI/PRM in osteopathy, and for more rigorous evaluation and communication on a model in step with evolving scientific data.