bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in the Applications of Nanomaterials for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Epelle Emmanuel I. , Okoye Patrick U. , Roddy Siobhan , Gunes Burcu , Okolie Jude A.
Published: November 2022

Freshwater is in limited supply, and the growing population further contributes to its scarcity. The effective treatment of wastewater is essential now more than ever, because waterborne infections significantly contribute to global deaths, and millions of people are deprived of safe drinking water. Current wastewater treatment technologies include preliminary, primary, secondary, and tertiary treatments, which are effective in removing several contaminants; however, contaminants in the nanoscale range are often difficult to eliminate using these steps. Some of these include organic and inorganic pollutants, pharmaceuticals, pathogens and contaminants of emerging concern. The use of nanomaterials is a promising solution to this problem. Nanoparticles have unique properties allowing them to efficiently remove residual contaminants while being cost-effective and environmentally friendly. In this review, the need for novel developments in nanotechnology for wastewater treatment is discussed, as well as key nanomaterials and their corresponding target contaminants, which they are effective against. The nanomaterials of focus in this review are carbon nanotubes, graphene-based nanosheets, fullerenes, silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles and iron nanoparticles. Finally, the challenges and prospects of nanoparticle utilisation in the context of wastewater treatment are presented.
Essential Business Visits and Social Vulnerability during New York City’s Initial COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Laefer Debra F. , Protopapas Delphine
Published: November 2022

New York City (NYC) was deeply impacted by COVID-19 in spring 2020, with thousands of new cases daily. However, the pandemic’s effects were not evenly distributed across the city, and the specific contributors have not yet been systematically considered. To help investigate that topic, this study analyzed the interaction of people with neighborhood businesses and other points of interest (POIs) in parts of three NYC neighborhoods in the spring of 2020 during the peak of the first COVID-19 wave through anonymized cellphone data and direct the observation of 1313 individuals leaving healthcare facilities. This study considered social vulnerability index (SVI) levels, population density, and POI visit behaviors from both cellphone data and firsthand observations of behavior around select NYC health facilities in different boroughs as various proxies. By considering equivalent businesses or groups of businesses by neighborhood, POI visits better aligned with COVID-19 infection levels than SVI. If tracking POI visit levels proves a reliable direct or relative proxy for disease transmission when checked against larger datasets, this method could be critical in both predictions of future outbreaks and the setting of customer density limits.
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Processed Soybean Waste for the Development of Synbiotic Yogurt
Authors: Asghar Aasma , Afzaal Muhammad , Nosheen Farhana , Saeed Farhan , Nayik Gulzar Ahmad , AL-Farga Ammar , Alansari Wafa S. , Eskandrani Areej A. , Shamlan Ghalia
Published: November 2022

Soybean has good nutritional and functional properties, which are essential for human physiology. Okara, a residue from soybean processing industries has a distinct profile of nutrients and phytochemicals. Therefore, the current study was planned to investigate the functional importance of okara. In the first phase of this study, okara was isolated from soybean and characterized in terms of protein, fat, ash, soluble dietary fiber, and insoluble dietary fiber. Furthermore, the okara flour was characterized using FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), and micrograph images were obtained using SEM (scanning electron microscope). In the second phase of study, synbiotic (prebiotics + probiotics) yogurt was prepared with 3% concentrations of okara. Treatments were named as OFYo (control), OFY1 (probiotics), and OFY2 (3% okara + probiotics). Yogurt was subjected to physicochemical, antioxidant, microbiological, and sensory analysis. The addition of okara significantly affected nutritional and antioxidant attributes of yogurt (p < 0.05). The results indicated that adding 3% okara affected the protein, fat, water holding capacity, and color. Total phenolic contents, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) activity and ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) activity increased due to the addition of okara. Likewise, the highest total viable count (8.25 log CFU/mL) and probiotic count (8.98 log CFU/mL) were noted in yogurt with 3% okara. Okara has dietary fibers; this dietary fiber acts as a prebiotic source for probiotic L. Rhamnosus. This shows that okara has a different prebiotic potential. The addition of okara has promising potential for the development of functional food.
Sensitivity Analysis and Anaerobic Digestion Modeling: A Scoping Review
Authors: Barahmand Zahir , Samarakoon Gamunu
Published: November 2022

A growing awareness of global climate change has led to an increased interest in investigating renewable energy sources, such as the anaerobic digestion of biomass. This process utilizes a wide range of microbial communities to degrade biodegradable material in feedstock through a complex series of biochemical interactions. Anaerobic digestion exhibits nonlinear dynamics due to the complex and interacting biochemical processes involved. Due to its dynamic and nonlinear behavior, uncertain feedstock quality, and sensitivity to the process’s environmental conditions, anaerobic digestion is highly susceptible to instabilities. Therefore, in order to model and operate a biogas production unit effectively, it is necessary to understand which parameters are most influential on the model outputs. This also reduces the amount of estimation required. Through a scoping review, the present study analyzes the studies on the application of sensitivity analysis in anaerobic digestion modeling. Both local and global sensitivity analysis approaches were carried out using different mathematical models. The results indicate that anaerobic digestion model no.1 (ADM1) was the most commonly used model for analyzing sensitivity. Both local and global sensitivity analyses are widely employed to investigate the influence of key model parameters such as kinetic, stoichiometric, and mass transfer parameters on model outputs such as biogas production, methane concentration, pH, or economic viability of the plant.
Phytochemical Analysis, Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Aloe vera Aqueous Extract against Selected Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria Involved in Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Arsene Mbarga M. J. , Viktorovna Podoprigora I. , Sergei Goriainov V. , Hajjar Fadi , Vyacheslavovna Yashina N. , Vladimirovna Zhigunova A. , Aleksandrovna Vasilyeva E. , Nikolayevich Senyagin A. , Sachivkina Nadezhda
Published: November 2022

In bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), the gap between the development of new antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance is dramatically increasing, especially in Gram-negative (Gram–) bacteria. All healthy products that can be used per se or that may be sources of antibacterial compounds should be considered in the fight against this major public health threat. In the present study, the phytochemical composition of Aloe vera extract was investigated by HPLC–MS/MS, and we further evaluated its antibacterial and antibiofilm formation activity against selected resistant Gram– bacteria involved in UTIs, namely, Achromobacter xylosoxidans 4892, Citrobacter freundii 426, Escherichia coli 1449, Klebsiella oxytoca 3003, Moraxella catarrhalis 4222, Morganella morganii 1543, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 3057, and a reference strain E. coli ATCC 25922. Inhibition zones (IZs) of the extract were determined using the well diffusion method, minimum inhibitory (MIC), and bactericidal (MBC) concentration by the two-fold serial microdilution assay, and antibiofilm formation activity by the crystal violet attachment assay. Aloe-emodin and its derivatives were the major constituent (75.74%) of A. vera extract, the most important of them being aloesin (30.22%), aloe-emodin-diglucoside (12.58%), and 2′-p-methoxycoumaroylaloeresin B (9.64%). The minerals found in the extract were sulfur (S), silicon (Si), chlorine (Cl), potassium (K), and bromine (Br). Except for the clinical strain E. coli 1449, which was totally non-susceptible, A. vera demonstrated noteworthy antibacterial activity with MIC and MBC values ranging from 0.625 to 5 mg/mL and 5 to 10 mg/mL, respectively. A. vera also demonstrated dose-dependent antibacterial effects, and the reference strain E. coli ATCC 25922 was the most susceptible with MIC = 0.625 and IZ = 19 mm at 20 mg/mL. The antibiofilm formation potential of A. vera extract was strong at 2MIC and MIC (93–100% of biofilm formation inhibition), moderate at MIC/2 (32–41%), weak at MIC/4 (14–21%), and nil at MIC/8.
High-Pressure Water Jet System Treatment of Argan Nut Shell and Enzymatic Hydrolysis for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Zeghlouli Jihane , Christophe Gwendoline , Ogura Kota , Sawamura Naoki , Guendouz Amine , Modafar Cherkaoui El , Michaud Philippe , Delattre Cédric
Published: November 2022

Argan nut shell represents the most generated by-product during the process of the extraction of argan oil. For the first time, argan nut shell was characterized and assessed as a new potential feedstock for bioethanol production using a combination of mechanical and enzymatic pretreatment. Argan shell samples were first disintegrated using the Star Burst system, which involves a high-pressure water jet system. Then, the pretreated argan nut shell was subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis using Viscozyme L (30 FBGU/g). Afterwards, the fermentation of the hydrolysate by Saccharomyces cerevisiae was investigated. Argan nut shell, as a feedstock plentiful in carbohydrates, conferred a high yield of saccharification (90%) and an optimal ethanol bioconversion (45.25%) using Viscozyme L (30 FBGU/g) at 2%w/v of argan feedstock.
Movement and Activity Patterns of Non-Native Wels Catfish (Silurus glanis Linnaeus, 1758) at the Confluence of a Large River and Its Colder Tributary
Authors: Nyqvist Daniel , Calles Olle , Forneris Gilberto , Comoglio Claudio
Published: November 2022

The establishment and proliferation of non-native fish species can have a range of effects within the local ecosystem, including alteration of food webs, nutrient cycling, pathogen dynamics and predation, sometimes also resulting in changed behavior and distribution of native fish species. Knowledge about movements and activity patterns is important to understand the dynamics of non-native animals in their new environment. The Wels catfish (Silurus glanis Linnaeus, 1758) is considered an invasive species in many places in Western Europe, and regional control programs are in place. Here, using radiotelemetry, we study the movements and activity patterns of invasive Wels catfish at an invasion front within the Po River (Italy); namely, at the confluence between the main river, where the species is abundant, and a colder tributary, the Dora Baltea River, where it is absent. In addition, we also investigate potential spatiotemporal overlap between Wels catfish and native and endangered marble trout (Salmo marmoratus Cuvier, 1829) in the area. A total of nine Wels catfish and eight marble trout were tagged. The Wels catfish showed a very high degree of residency within the study area in the Po River, close to the mouth the colder tributary. Despite this, only one catfish entered the lower reaches of the tributary and did so only occasionally during August. No catfish moved further upstream in the tributary. It is likely that lower temperatures in combination with more challenging hydrodynamic conditions made the tributary unattractive to the catfish. The catfish were active during all times of the day but substantially more so during evenings and at nights. Some, but not all, tagged catfish moved to areas in the main stem upstream of the confluence with the tributary. A large proportion of the tagged marble trout made occasional or longer visits to the Po River, with several individuals becoming resident, but without apparent mortality, in the tagged catfish home range. The high residency of the Wels catfish suggests that removal efforts may do well to initially focus on areas close to the habitats of species under conservation concern.
Host Fish Suitability for Freshwater Bivalve Anodonta woodiana Breeding Programs
Authors: Chen Xiubao , Duan Guochao , Yan Mingjun , Liu Hongbo , Jiang Tao , Yang Jian
Published: November 2022

The freshwater bivalve Anodonta woodiana is native to China and widely distributed in Asia, Europe, and North America. However, natural populations of A. woodiana in China have dramatically declined recently. Several fish species have been used as potential hosts in breeding programs; nonetheless, the optimal host species is yet to be identified. In this study, we examined the suitability of five potential host fish species (bighead carp, common carp, crucian carp, yellow catfish, and tilapia) for A. woodiana under laboratory conditions. No significant difference was found in the number of glochidia attached to the five fish species; however, tilapia hosted more transformed juveniles than bighead carp, common carp, or yellow catfish (p < 0.05), with bighead carp hosting the least (p < 0.05). Yellow catfish had the highest host capacity index (the number of successfully transformed juveniles/the weight of the host fish × the survival rate of the host fish), 133 times higher than bighead carp and 1.3–2.9 times higher than the other species. The shell length and height of freshly transformed juveniles from yellow catfish were significantly larger than those of other host fish (p < 0.05). The juvenile index (shell length × shell height) of yellow catfish was significantly higher than that of other fish species (p < 0.05). In conclusion, yellow catfish appears to be the most suitable host fish out of the five species tested here.
Magnetohydrodynamics Simulation of the Nonlinear Behavior of Single Rising Bubbles in Liquid Metals in the Presence of a Horizontal Magnetic Field
Authors: Corrado Marino , Sato Yohei
Published: November 2022

Rising bubbles in liquid metals in the presence of magnetic fields is an important phenomenon in many engineering processes. The nonlinear behavior of the terminal rise velocities of the bubbles as a function of increasing field strength has been observed experimentally, but it remains poorly understood. We offer an explanation of the phenomenon through numerical calculations. A single rising bubble in stagnant liquid metal in the presence of an applied horizontal magnetic field is simulated. The observed nonlinear behavior is successfully reproduced; the terminal velocity increases with the increase in the magnetic field strength in the lower magnetic field regions but decreases in higher regions. It is shown that, in the lower region, the increase in the average bubble rise velocity results from the suppression of the fluctuations in the bubble trajectory in the vertical plane perpendicular to the magnetic field, as a consequence of the Lorentz force resulting from the component of induced electric current due to the magnetic field, which (approximately) acts in the opposite direction to that of the flow velocity. For higher magnetic field strengths, the Lorentz force induces a broadened wake in the vertical plane parallel to the applied magnetic field, resulting in a decrease in the rise velocity.
Microbiome Analysis of Traditional Grain Vinegar Produced under Different Fermentation Conditions in Various Regions in Korea
Authors: Kong Haram , Kim Sun-Hee , Jeong Woo-Soo , Kim So-Young , Yeo Soo-Hwan
Published: November 2022

The fermentation of traditional vinegar is a spontaneous and complex process that involves interactions among various microorganisms. Here, we used a microbiome approach to determine the effects of networks, such as fermentation temperature, location, physicochemical and sensory characteristics, and bacterial profile, within traditional grain vinegar samples collected from various regions of Korea. Acetic acid and lactic acid were identified as the major metabolites of grain vinegar, and sourness and umami were determined as taste fingerprints that could distinguish between vinegar samples. Acetobacter ghanensis and Lactobacillus acetotolerans were the predominant bacterial species, and the functional composition of the microbiota revealed that the nucleotide biosynthesis pathway was the most enriched. These results reveal that vinegar samples fermented outdoors are more similar to each other than vinegar samples fermented at 30 °C, when comparing the distance matrix for comprehending bacterial networks among samples. This study may help obtain high-quality vinegar through optimized fermentation conditions by suggesting differences in sensory characteristics according to the fermentation environment.
Bibliometric Review on the Volatile Organic Compounds in Meat
Authors: Ni Qianlin , Amalfitano Nicolò , Biasioli Franco , Gallo Luigi , Tagliapietra Franco , Bittante Giovanni
Published: November 2022

Meat flavor is an important aspect of meat quality that also influences consumer demand, and is therefore very important for the meat industry. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute in large part to the flavor of meat, and while increasing numbers of articles are published on this topic, reviews of these articles are very scarce. Therefore, our aim was to perform a bibliometric analysis of the scientific publications on VOCs in meat over the period 2000–2020. We selected 611 scientific sources from the Scopus database related to VOCs in meat (seafood excluded). The bibliometric information retrieved included journals, authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and citations. From this analysis, we drew up a list of the most important journals, authors, countries, and institutions, and the trends in VOC research on meat. We conducted a social network analysis (SNA) to identify the collaborations among the many authors and countries, and a keyword analysis to generate a network map of the authors’ keywords. We also determined which meat species were most frequently chosen as research subjects, traced the evolution of the various methods/instruments used, and explored the research tendencies. Finally, we point out the need for further research in defining meat quality, improving meat flavor, identifying adulterants, and certifying the authenticity of meat.
Metabolic Regulation Effect and Potential Metabolic Biomarkers of Pre-Treated Delphinidin on Oxidative Damage Induced by Paraquat in A549 Cells
Authors: Ye Yongli , Ji Jian , Huang Yaoguang , Zhang Yinzhi , Sun Xiulan
Published: November 2022

Delphinidin (Del) is an anthocyanin component with high in vitro antioxidant capacity. In this study, based on the screening of a cell model, gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF/MS) was used to evaluate the effect of Del pre-protection on the metabolite levels of intracellular oxidative stress induced by paraquat (PQ). According to the cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) responses of four lung cell lines to PQ induction, A549 cell was selected and treated with 100 μM PQ for 12 h to develop a cellular oxidative stress model. Compared with the PQ-induced group, the principal components of the Del pretreatment group had significant differences, but not significant with the control group, indicating that the antioxidant activity of Del can be correlated to the maintenance of metabolite levels. Del preconditioning protects lipid-related metabolic pathways from the disturbance induced by PQ. In addition, the levels of amino acid- and energy-related metabolites were significantly recovered. Del may also exert an antioxidant effect by regulating glucose metabolism. The optimal combinations of biomarkers in the PQ-treatment group and Del-pretreatment group were alanine-valine-urea and alanine-galactose-glucose. Cell metabolome data provided characteristic fingerprints associated with the antioxidant activity of Del.
Anti-Arthritic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Andaliman Extract and Nanoandaliman in Inflammatory Arthritic Mice
Authors: Setiadi Anselmus Yakobus Lukita Adiandra , Karmawan Listya Utami , Yanti Yanti
Published: November 2022

Inflammatory arthritis is a severe joint disease that causes long-lasting pain that reduces a patient’s quality of life. Several commercial medicines have been used to reduce the inflammation in arthritis. However, they have side effects that affect other organs and increase the infection rate in the patient. Therefore, searching for alternative medicines from natural herbs to use as a substitute for chemical drugs and reduce the side effects of drugs has become the focus of investigation. Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC., known as andaliman, is an endemic spice that originates from Tapanuli, North Sumatera (Indonesia). Our previous study confirmed that andaliman exerts anti-inflammatory and xanthin oxidase enzymatic inhibitory activities. Unfortunately, there are no in vivo studies on the efficacy of andaliman in reducing inflammation in arthritis. This research aimed to produce an andaliman extract rich in essential oils, to formulate andaliman extract in a nanoemulsion product, and to test their anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory effects on suppressing the gene expression of inflammatory arthritis in vivo. Several steps were used to conduct this experiment, including andaliman extraction, bioactive compound identification, nanoandaliman formulation, in vivo inflammatory arthritis mice modeling using complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), and gene expression quantification using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Andaliman extract and nanoandaliman effectively reduced arthritic scores in CFA-induced arthritic mice. Both treatments also demonstrated anti-inflammatory potential via blocking several arthritic inflammatory gene expressions from cartilage tissue and brain in CFA-induced mice. Nanoandaliman at low dose (25 mg/kg bw) exerted a higher suppressive effect against the gene expression of cox-2, il-ib, inos, and mmp-1 compared to that of andaliman extract. At high dose (100 mg/kg bw), andaliman extract effectively inhibited the expression of il-ib, inos, and mmp-1 genes in arthritic mice. These data suggest that nanoandaliman may be an alternative, natural anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory candidate for the management of inflammatory arthritis.
Detection of the Inoculated Fermentation Process of Apo Pickle Based on a Colorimetric Sensor Array Method
Authors: Wang Mengyao , Liu Jiawei , Huang Lu , Liu Haiying
Published: November 2022

Apo pickle is a traditional Chinese fermented vegetable. However, the traditional fermentation process of Apo pickle is slow, easy to ruin, and cannot be judged with regard to time. To improve fermentation, LP-165 (L. Plantarum), which has a high salt tolerance, acidification, and growth capacity, was chosen as the starter culture. Meanwhile, a colorimetric sensor array (CSA) sensitive to pickle volatile compounds was developed to differentiate Apo pickles at varying degrees of fermentation. The color components were extracted from each dye in the color change profiles and were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The fermentation process of the Apo pickle was classified into four phases by LDA. The accuracy of backward substitution verification was 99% and the accuracy of cross validation was 92.7%. Furthermore, the partial least squares regression (PLSR) showed that data from the CSA were correlated with pH total acid, lactic acid, and volatile acids of the Apo pickle. These results illustrate that the CSA reacts quickly to inoculated Apo pickle and could be used to detect fermentation.
Development and Chemical-Sensory Characterization of Chickpeas-Based Beverages Fermented with Selected Starters
Authors: Mefleh Marina , Faccia Michele , Natrella Giuseppe , De Angelis Davide , Pasqualone Antonella , Caponio Francesco , Summo Carmine
Published: November 2022

Legume protein ingredients are receiving continuous interest for their potential to formulate plant-based dairy analogs. In this study, a legume-based slurry was produced from an Apulian black chickpeas (BCP) protein concentrate and fermented with three starter cultures, Streptococcus thermophilus (ST), a co-culture of ST with Lactococcus lactis (STLL) and a co-culture of ST with Lactobacillus plantarum (STLP). The effect of fermentation on the biochemical, texture and sensorial parameters was evaluated. The same beverage without inoculum was used as a control (CTRL). All the obtained fermented beverages were characterized by high protein (120.00 g kg−1) and low-fat contents (17.12 g kg−1). Fermentation contributed to a decrease in the contents of phytic acid by 10 to 79% and saturated fatty acids by 30 to 43%, with the STLP fermentation exercising the major effect. The three culture starters influenced the texture and sensorial attributes and the profile of the volatile compounds differently. Fermentation increased the lightness, consistency, cohesivity and viscosity of the formulated beverages. On a sensorial level, STLL had a major effect on the acidity, sourness and astringency, while both ST and STLP affected the creaminess, solubility and stickiness. Legumes and grass aromas were masked in LAB-fermented samples, probably due to a new VOC formation. The functional properties of LAB fermentation, along with the high protein content of the black chickpeas concentrate, provide the opportunity to formulate a clean label and safe plant-based fermented beverage with higher nutritional value compared to the others currently found in the market.
Fermentation Conditions Affect the Synthesis of Volatile Compounds, Dextran, and Organic Acids by Weissella confusa A16 in Faba Bean Protein Concentrate
Authors: Tuccillo Fabio , Wang Yaqin , Edelmann Minnamari , Lampi Anna-Maija , Coda Rossana , Katina Kati
Published: November 2022

Fermentation with Weissella confusa A16 could improve the flavor of various plant-based sources. However, less is known about the influence of fermentation conditions on the profile of volatile compounds, dextran synthesis and acidity. The present work investigates the synthesis of potential flavor-active volatile compounds, dextran, acetic acid, and lactic acid, as well as the changes in viscosity, pH, and total titratable acidity, during fermentation of faba bean protein concentrate with W. confusa A16. A Response Surface Methodology was applied to study the effect of time, temperature, dough yield, and inoculum ratio on the aforementioned responses. Twenty-nine fermentations were carried out using a Central Composite Face design. A total of 39 volatile organic compounds were identified: 2 organic acids, 7 alcohols, 8 aldehydes, 2 alkanes, 12 esters, 3 ketones, 2 aromatic compounds, and 3 terpenes. Long fermentation time and high temperature caused the formation of ethanol and ethyl acetate and the reduction of hexanal, among other compounds linked to the beany flavor. Levels of dextran, acetic acid, and lactic acid increased with increasing temperature, time, and dough yield. Optimal points set for increased dextran and reduced acidity were found at low temperatures and high dough yield. Such conditions would result in hexanal, ethyl acetate and ethanol having a relative peak area of 35.9%, 7.4%, and 4.9%, respectively.
Assessment of the Mineral Composition and the Selected Physicochemical Parameters of Dietary Supplements Containing Green Tea Extracts
Authors: Ośko Justyna , Szewczyk Adrian , Berk Paulina , Prokopowicz Magdalena , Grembecka Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

Our aim was to assess the mineral composition as well as the physicochemical quality of green tea-based dietary supplements (capsules and tablets) with respect to average weight, size and shape, friability, breaking force and disintegration time. Products were analysed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry for Ca, K, Mg, Na, Cr, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Pb and Cd. Approximately 60% of the analysed supplements met the requirements of European and Polish regulations. The dietary supplements passed weight variation tests, but not all products had compliant capsule sizes. One product in tablet form failed the friability test, and eleven dietary supplements in tablet form failed the disintegration test. The supplements were characterised by a varied elemental composition, with the highest values found for Ca, Fe, Zn and Mn. The recommended daily allowance realisation for Fe and Zn in two dietary supplements (capsule form) exceeded 100%. As a result of the estimation of the monthly intake of toxic metals, it was concluded that the tested products do not pose a risk to consumer health. Significant relationships (p < 0.001) were found for K, Mg, Na, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn. The application of factor and cluster analyses allowed the verification of the similarity of green tea extracts contained in dietary supplements to the natural raw material, green tea leaves, used as a reference material.
Additive Effects of L-Arginine with Potassium Carbonate on the Quality Profile Promotion of Phosphate-Free Frankfurters
Authors: Cao Chuanai , Xu Yining , Liu Meiyue , Kong Baohua , Zhang Fengxue , Zhang Hongwei , Liu Qian , Zhao Jinhai
Published: November 2022

The present study investigated the additive effects of L-Arginine (L-Arg) with potassium carbonate (PC) on the quality characteristics of phosphate-free frankfurters. The results showed that L-Arg combined with PC could act as a viable phosphate replacer by decreasing cooking loss and improving the textural properties of phosphate-free frankfurters (p < 0.05), mainly because of its pH-raising ability. Moreover, L-Arg could assist PC in effectively retarding lipid oxidation in phosphate-free frankfurters during storage (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 0.1% L-Arg combined with 0.15% PC was found to exhibit the best optimal phosphate-replacing effect. This combination could also overcome quality defects and promote the sensory attributes of phosphate-free frankfurters to the maximum extent. Therefore, our results suggest that L-Arg combined with PC can be considered a feasible alternative for the processing of phosphate-free frankfurters with an improved quality profile and superior health benefits.
Occurrence of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Flours and Different Plant Powders Used in Cuisine
Authors: Koreneková Júlia , Krahulcová Monika , Cverenkárová Klára , Červenčík Karol , Bírošová Lucia
Published: November 2022

In recent years, several alimentary diseases have been connected with the consumption or tasting of raw flour and dough. Microbiological quality concern is also raising due to increased consumer demand for plant powders, while some of them can be consumed without prior thermal processing. In this study, we have focused on the occurrence of antibiotic-resistant coliform bacteria and enterococci in flour, plant powder and dough from Slovak retail. Our results indicated the presence of both total and antibiotic-resistant coliform bacteria and enterococci in the flour and powder samples. Lower numbers of the total, as well as resistant bacteria, were detected in flours compared to plant powders. Coliform bacteria isolates were predominantly identified as Klebsiella spp. and Enterobacter spp. Ampicillin resistance appeared in 97% of isolates followed by chloramphenicol resistance (22%) and tetracycline resistance (17%). The presence of the blaSHV gene was confirmed in 13% of isolates. The tetA and tetE genes were present in 25% of isolates of coliform bacteria. The presence of enterococci was detected only in plant powders. Antibiotic-resistant strains were identified as the following: Enterococcus casseliflavus, E. gallinarium and E. faecium. Despite the isolates showing resistance to vancomycin, the presence of the vanA gene was not detected. The majority of antibiotic-resistant isolates belonged to the group of medium biofilm producers. None of these isolates showed efflux pump overproduction. Antibiotic-resistant coliform bacteria and enterococci were not detected in the processed doughs.
Chitosan–Sodium Caseinate Composite Edible Film Incorporated with Probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum: Physical Properties, Viability, and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Wai Seat Ni , How Yu Hsuan , Saleena Lejaniya Abdul Kalam , Degraeve Pascal , Oulahal Nadia , Pui Liew Phing
Published: November 2022

Single-use synthetic plastics that are used as food packaging is one of the major contributors to environmental pollution. Hence, this study aimed to develop a biodegradable edible film incorporated with Limosilactobacillus fermentum. Investigation of the physical and mechanical properties of chitosan (CS), sodium caseinate (NaCas), and chitosan/sodium caseinate (CS/NaCas) composite films allowed us to determine that CS/NaCas composite films displayed higher opacity (7.40 A/mm), lower water solubility (27.6%), and higher Young’s modulus (0.27 MPa) compared with pure CS and NaCas films. Therefore, Lb. fermentum bacteria were only incorporated in CS/NaCas composite films. Comparison of the physical and mechanical properties of CS/NaCas composite films incorporated with bacteria with those of control CS/NaCas composite films allowed us to observe that they were not affected by the addition of probiotics, except for the flexibility of films, which was improved. The Lb. fermentum incorporated composite films had a 0.11 mm thickness, 17.9% moisture content, 30.8% water solubility, 8.69 A/mm opacity, 25 MPa tensile strength, and 88.80% elongation at break. The viability of Lb. fermentum after drying the films and the antibacterial properties of films against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 were also evaluated after the addition of Lb. fermentum in the composite films. Dried Lb. fermentum composite films with 6.65 log10 CFU/g showed an inhibitory effect against E. coli and S. aureus (0.67 mm and 0.80 mm inhibition zone diameters, respectively). This shows that the Lb.-fermentum-incorporated CS/NaCas composite film is a potential bioactive packaging material for perishable food product preservation.
Effects of Process Parameters on the Quality of Suantang Beef
Authors: Liu Fangrui , Wang Chan , Li Cuiqin , He Laping , Wang Xiao , Zeng Xuefeng , Dai Yifeng
Published: November 2022

Suantang beef is a traditional delicious Chinese food cooked in Suantang (ST, a sour soup fermented by microorganisms). However, the impact of ST on beef quality is unclear, and the process of ST beef lacks unified technical standards. In the presented study, we found that the additional amount of salt, cooking time, meat thickness, and beef–ST ratio significantly affect the quality of ST beef. After optimization, it was found that when salt addition was 1%, cooking time was 3 min, meat thickness was 2 cm, and beef–ST ratio was 40%, the color determined by colorimeter, texture determined by texture analyzer, and sensory scores of beef cooked by ST were improved compared with boiled beef. ST decreased the pH value and cathepsin L activity of beef, increased the content of organic acid, and changed the protein composition of beef. ST made the beef have higher hardness, and have better chewiness and cohesion. At the same time, ST reduced the disagreeable odors of beef and improved beef flavor. In addition, 88 volatile compounds were detected in ST beef by HS-SPME/GC-MS. According to odor, threshold, and odor activity value (OAV), 24 critical aroma-active compounds were confirmed in ST beef. This study provides a basis for the potential industrialized production of ST beef.
Evolution of Morphology, Fractal Dimensions, and Structure of (Titanium) Aluminosilicate Gel during Synthesis of Zeolites Y and Ti-Y
Authors: Petcu Gabriela , Dobrescu Gianina , Atkinson Irina , Ciobanu Madalina , Blin Jean-Luc , Parvulescu Viorica
Published: November 2022

Zeolite Y and Ti-containing zeolite Y (1%, 2% and 5% TiO2) were synthesized by a hydrothermal seed-assisted method. In order to evidence the evolution of morphology, structure, and fractal dimensions during the zeolitization process at certain time intervals, a small volume from the reaction medium was isolated and frozen by lyophilization. The obtained samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The fractal dimension values of the isolated samples, calculated from SAXS data, evidenced a transition from small particles with a smooth surface (2.021) to compact structures represented by zeolite crystallites with rough surfaces (2.498) and specific organization for zeolite Y. The formation of new structures during hydrothermal treatment, the increase in crystallite size and roughness due to the continuous growth were suggested by variation of fractal dimensions values, SEM microscopy images and X-ray diffractograms. The incorporation of titanium in low concentration into the zeolite Y framework led to the obtaining of low fractal dimensions of 2.034–2.275 (smooth surfaces and compact structures). On the other hand, higher titanium concentration (2%) led to an increase in fractal dimensions indicating structures with rougher surfaces and well-defined self-similarity properties. A mechanism for zeolite synthesis was proposed by correlation of the results obtained through morphological, structural, and fractal analysis.
New Challenges Arising in Engineering Problems with Fractional and Integer Order-II
Authors: Baskonus Haci Mehmet , Sánchez Ruiz Luis Manuel , Ciancio Armando
Published: November 2022

Modern science is one of the most-used commodities globally, and it is especially important in determining the sources of various threats faced by the world [...]
A Modified Sol–Gel Synthesis of Anatase {001}-TiO2/Au Hybrid Nanocomposites for Enhanced Photodegradation of Organic Contaminants
Authors: Usman Abubakar Katsina , Cursaru Diana-Luciana , Brănoiu Gheorghe , Şomoghi Raluca , Manta Ana-Maria , Matei Dănuţa , Mihai Sonia
Published: November 2022

A sol–gel synthesis technique was employed for the preparation of anatase phase {001}-TiO2/Au hybrid nanocomposites (NCs). The scalable, schematic, and cost-efficient method was successfully modified using HF and NH4OH capping agents. The photocatalytic activity of the as-synthesized {001}-TiO2/Au NCs were tested over 2-cycle degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye and pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs) of ibuprofen and naproxen under direct sunlight illumination at 35 °C and 44,000 lx. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), fast Fourier transform (FFT), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS) were employed for the characterization of the as-prepared sample. The characterization results from the TEM, XPS, and XRD studies established both the distribution of Au colloids on the surface of TiO2 material, and the presence of the highly crystalline structure of anatase {001}-TiO2/Au NCs. Photodegradation results from the visible light irradiation of MB indicate an enhanced photocatalytic performance of Au/TiO2 NCs over TiO2. The results from the photocatalytic activity test performed under direct sunlight exposure exhibited promising photodegradation efficiencies. In the first cycle, the sol–gel synthesized material exhibited relatively better efficiencies (91%) with the MB dye and ibuprofen, while the highest degradation efficiency for the second cycle was 79% for the MB dye. Pseudo first-order photodegradation rates from the first cycle were determined to be comparatively slower than those from the second degradation cycle.
The Effect of Hydrogels with Different Chemical Compositions on the Behavior of Alkali-Activated Slag Pastes
Authors: Prabahar Joshua , Vafaei Babak , Ghahremaninezhad Ali
Published: November 2022

The effect of in-house synthesized hydrogels with different chemical compositions on the properties of alkali-activated slag pastes was examined. It was found that the teabag test and modified teabag test as a direct method and the flow test as an indirect method showed a similar trend in hydrogel absorption; however, the absorption values differ noticeably between the direct and indirect methods. The alkali-activated slag pastes with hydrogels demonstrated a significant reduction in autogenous shrinkage compared to the pastes without hydrogels. The creation of macrovoids by the hydrogels and change in pore structure resulted in a decrease in compressive strength and electrical resistivity of the pastes with hydrogels. The absorption and desorption of hydrogels in the pastes were tracked using X-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), and it was shown that the onset of hydrogel desorption approximately coincided with the final setting time of the pastes.
Encapsulation of Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Pomace Polyphenols in Soybean Extract-Based Hydrogel Beads as Carriers of Polyphenols and pH-Monitoring Devices
Authors: Viscusi Gianluca , Lamberti Elena , Gerardi Carmela , Giovinazzo Giovanna , Gorrasi Giuliana
Published: November 2022

In this work, novel bio-based hydrogel beads were fabricated by using soybean extract as raw waste material loaded with Lambrusco extract, an Italian grape cultivar. The phenolic profile and the total amount of anthocyanins from the Lambrusco extract were evaluated before encapsulating it in soybean extract-based hydrogels produced through an ionotropic gelation technique. The physical properties of the produced hydrogel beads were then studied in terms of their morphological and spectroscopic properties. Swelling degree was evaluated in media with different pH levels. The release kinetics of Lambrusco extract were then studied over time as a function of pH of the release medium, corroborating that the acidity/basicity could affect the release rate of encapsulated molecules, as well as their counter-diffusion. The pH-sensitive properties of wine extract were studied through UV-Vis spectroscopy while the colorimetric responses of loaded hydrogel beads were investigated in acidic and basic solutions. Finally, in the framework of circular economy and sustainability, the obtained data open routes to the design and fabrication of active materials as pH-indicator devices from food industry by-products.
Multidecadal Trend Analysis of Armenian Mountainous Grassland and Its Relationship to Climate Change Using Multi-Sensor NDVI Time-Series
Authors: Muradyan Vahagn , Asmaryan Shushanik , Ayvazyan Grigor , Dell’Acqua Fabio
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of links between satellite-measured vegetation vigor and climate variables in Armenian mountain grassland ecosystems in the years 1984–2018. NDVI is derived from MODIS and LANDSAT data, temperature and precipitation data are from meteorological stations. Two study sites were selected, representing arid and semi-arid grassland vegetation types, respectively. Various trend estimators including Mann–Kendall (MK) and derivatives were combined for vegetation change analysis at different time scales. Results suggest that temperature and precipitation had negative and positive impacts on vegetation growth, respectively, in both areas. NDVI-to-precipitation correlation was significant but with an apparent time-lag effect that was further investigated. No significant general changes were observed in vegetation along the observed period. Further comparisons between results from corrected and uncorrected data led us to conclude that MODIS and LANDSAT data with BRDF, topographic and atmospheric corrections applied are best suited for analyzing relationships between NDVI and climatic factors for the 2000–2018 period in grassland at a very local scale; however, in the absence of correction tools and information, uncorrected data can still provide meaningful results. Future refinements will include removal of anthropogenic impact, and deeper investigation of time-lag effects of climatic factors on vegetation dynamics.
Surface Water and Groundwater Suitability for Irrigation Based on Hydrochemical Analysis in the Lower Mayurakshi River Basin, India
Authors: Ghosh Susmita , Sarkar Biplab , Islam Aznarul , Shit Pravat Kumar , Quesada-Román Adolfo , Gazi Harun Al Rasid
Published: November 2022

The present work investigates the hydrochemical properties of the surface and groundwater of the Mayurakshi River Basin (India) for assessing their irrigation suitability with respect to irrigation hazards. The study involves 72 water samples classified as 48 surface water samples (pre-monsoon: 24; post-monsoon: 24) and 24 groundwater samples (pre-monsoon:12; post-monsoon: 12). Regarding the specific irrigation hazard, percent of sodium and soluble sodium percentage have demonstrated the groundwater vulnerability to sodium while the surface water is observed to be free from this kind of hazard. Similar findings have also been retained for magnesium hazard and the potential salinity hazard. Moreover, regarding the seasonality of the hazards, the post-monsoon season has depicted a higher level of irrigation hazards compared to the pre-monsoon season. The study found that the general evolution of groundwater hydrochemistry and the suitability of water for irrigation are principally governed by carbonate weathering, sand mining, stone crushing, and the development of brick kiln industries. Our methodology can be a good example for similar contexts, especially in developing and tropical countries.
Complementary and Alternative Medicines Used by Middle-Aged to Older Taiwanese Adults to Cope with Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Liu Yo-Yu , Yeh Yueh-Chiao
Published: November 2022

Background: This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) to manage stress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to community-dwelling adults between the ages of 46 and 75 years, and a total of 351 participants completed the questionnaire. Log-binominal regression analyses were fitted to explore the factors associated with the use of CAMs. Results: The mean age of the participants was 57.0 years, and 67.0% reported that they had used CAMs within the past three months. Middle-aged adults were more likely to use CAMs than late middle-aged adults and older adults (p < 0.001). Overall, the major CAMs utilized to relieve psychological stress were music therapies (37.6%), massage (31.1%), spinal manipulation (25.1%), relaxing therapies (24.2%), and reading scriptures or The Bible (23.9%). Religion and vegetarian diets were the most important factors influencing participants to use CAMs, especially music therapies, massage, and reading scriptures/The Bible. Conclusions: CAM use was very prevalent among middle-aged adults in Taiwan; in particular, music therapies were the most favored activities for reducing stress. Population-specific mental health interventions using music can be developed to improve stress management outcomes during public health emergencies.