bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra-Short-Term Wind Power Forecasting Based on the MSADBO-LSTM Model
Authors: Zhao Ziquan , Bai Jing
Published: November 2024

To address the challenges of the strong randomness and intermittency of wind power generation that affect wind power grid integration, power system scheduling, and the safe and stable operation of the system, an improved Dung Beetle Optimization Algorithm (MSADBO) is proposed to optimize the hyperparameters of the Long Short-Term Memory neural network (LSTM) for ultra-short-term wind power forecasting. By applying Bernoulli mapping for population initialization, the model’s sensitivity to wind power fluctuations is reduced, which accelerates the algorithm’s convergence speed. Incorporating an improved Sine Algorithm (MSA) into the forecasting model for this nonlinear problem significantly improves the position update strategy of the Dung Beetle Optimization Algorithm (DBO), which tends to be overly random and prone to local optima. This enhancement boosts the algorithm’s exploration capabilities both locally and globally, improving the rapid responsiveness of ultra-short-term wind power forecasting. Furthermore, an adaptive Gaussian–Cauchy mixture perturbation is introduced to interfere with individuals, increasing population diversity, escaping local optima, and enabling the continued exploration of other areas of the solution space until the global optimum is ultimately found. By optimizing three hyperparameters of the LSTM using the MSADBO algorithm, the prediction accuracy of the model is greatly enhanced. After simulation validation, taking winter as an example, the MSADBO-LSTM predictive model achieved a reduction in the MAE metric of 40.6% compared to LSTM, 20.12% compared to PSO-LSTM, and 3.82% compared to DBO-LSTM. The MSE decreased by 45.4% compared to LSTM, 40.78% compared to PSO-LSTM, and 16.62% compared to DBO-LSTM. The RMSE was reduced by 26.11% compared to LSTM, 23.05% compared to PSO-LSTM, and 8.69% compared to DBO-LSTM. Finally, the MAPE declined by 79.83% compared to LSTM, 31.88% compared to PSO-LSTM, and 29.62% compared to DBO-LSTM. This indicates that the predictive model can effectively enhance the accuracy of wind power forecasting.
Analysis of Key Factors Affecting Case-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance in Thermal Modeling of Power Devices
Authors: Wei Kaixin , Shi Peiji , Bao Pili , Liu Chuanchao , Qin Yanzhou
Published: November 2024

In the application of power converters, the ambient temperature (Ta) experiences significant fluctuations. For the case-to-ambient resistance (Rca), apart from the influence of the material’s inherent properties, factors such as heat dissipation structure, working environment, and operational state can all have an impact on the Rca. Notably, while there are a limited number of models that consider environmental changes, existing models for calculating the Rca predominantly overlook the influence of varying working conditions or boundary conditions on the self-thermal resistance. Based on simulation and experimental analyses, the methods to calculate the Rca are outlined, and the key factors, inclusive of the coupling effects that influence the Rca in the thermal modeling of power devices, are thoroughly discussed.
Knock Detection with Ion Current and Vibration Sensor: A Comparative Study of Logistic Regression and Neural Networks
Authors: Björnsson Ola , Tunestål Per
Published: November 2024

Knock detection is critical for maintaining engine performance and preventing damage in spark-ignition engines. This study explores the use of ion current and knock indicators derived from a vibration sensor (KIv) and ion current (KIi) to improve knock detection accuracy. Traditional threshold-based methods rely on KIv, but they are susceptible to mechanical noise and cylinder variations. In this work, we applied both logistic regression and neural networks, including fully connected (FCNN) and convolutional neural networks (CNN), to classify knock events based on these indicators. The CNN models used ion current as the primary input, with an extended version incorporating both KIv and KIi into the fully connected layers. The models were evaluated using area under the curve (AUC) as the primary performance metric. The results show that the CNN model with additional inputs outperformed the other models, achieving a better and more consistent performance across cylinders. The dual-input logistic regression and CNN models demonstrated reduced cylinder-to-cylinder variation in classification performance, providing a more consistent knock detection accuracy across all cylinders. These findings suggest that combining ion current and knock indicators enhances knock detection reliability, offering a robust solution for real-time applications in engine control systems.
Understanding the Historical Trend of Final Energy Intensity of GDP During Economic Transitions: The Case of Portugal (1960–2014)
Authors: Ecclesia Marco Vittorio , Domingos Tiago
Published: November 2024

Reducing the energy intensity of economies is key to meeting sustainable development goals. In the past, energy intensity has generally decreased or has shown inverted U-shape patterns. However, most global energy scenarios project unrealistically increasing relative decoupling rates of primary and final energy when compared to the observed historical trends. Here, we develop a final energy intensity decomposition which considers both productive and non-productive sectors, includes both traditional and commercial sources, and uses the exergy metric to aggregate different energy flows. We study the Portuguese economy between 1960 and 2014, a period of major energy and economic transitions. First, we find that the strong decrease of final energy intensity during the period of highest economic growth (1960–1974) is mainly driven by the following: (1) the efficiency increase in the residential sector, due to the transition from traditional sources (firewood) to electricity; (2) the relatively slow growth of energy use in the residential sector; and (3) the efficiency improvements in the productive sectors. We find that the second factor was determined by the fact that increasing per capita economic consumption was not channeled through private energy use. Second, excluding the last decade, private transportation had a growing effect on final energy intensity throughout the whole time range. Overall, we find that, essentially, remarkable technical improvements in terms of increasing final-to-useful energy efficiency made possible a relative decoupling at the final stage.
Research on Medium- and Long-Term Hydropower Generation Forecasting Method Based on LSTM and Transformer
Authors: Zhang Guoyong , Li Haochuan , Wang Lingli , Wang Weiying , Guo Jun , Qin Hui , Ni Xiu
Published: November 2024

Hydropower generation is influenced by various factors such as precipitation, temperature, and installed capacity, with hydrometeorological factors exhibiting significant temporal variability. This study proposes a hydropower generation forecasting method based on Transformer and SE-Attention for different provinces. In the model, the outputs of the Transformer and SE-Attention modules are fed into an LSTM layer to capture long-term data dependencies. The SE-Attention module is reintroduced to enhance the model’s focus on important temporal features, and a linear layer maps the hidden state of the last time step to the final output. The proposed Transformer-LSTM-SE model was tested using provincial hydropower generation data from Yunnan, Sichuan, and Chongqing. The experimental results demonstrate that this model achieves high accuracy and stability in medium- and long-term hydropower forecasting at the provincial level, with an average accuracy improvement of 33.79% over the LSTM model and 24.30% over the Transformer-LSTM model.
Identifying Superior Growth and Photosynthetic Traits in Eighteen Oak Varieties for Southwest China
Authors: Qi Zengzhen , Huang Xiang , Peng Yang , Wu Hongyi , Xu Zhenfeng , Tan Bo , Zhong Yu , Zhu Peng , Gong Wei , Chen Gang , Chen Xiaohong , Hui Wenkai
Published: November 2024

Quercus, commonly known as oak, has great potential as one of the most widely cultivated plant species. However, the lack of superior varieties is a bottleneck for its usage and application in Southwest China. Here, this study aims to explore the growth and photosynthetic traits of 18 oak varieties with the goal of identifying the adaptable superior varieties for the region, focusing on nutrient growth, leaf morphology, chlorophyll content, and photosynthetic parameters over a 32-week growth period. The results showed that a significant diversity was observed among the varieties. Growth rhythm and fitted curves divided the 18 oak varieties into three patterns. Additionally, for the leaf morphological parameters, Q. denta boasted the maximum leaf area (167.24 cm2), leaf width (13.62 cm), and leaf aspect ratio (156.6); Q. mongo showed the greatest leaf length (20.37 cm); while Q. acutis had the largest leaf form factor (3.44) and leaf gap (0.39). Chlorophyll content was based on three-time-points investigation, with higher levels observed in Q. mongo, Q. robur 4, Q. wutai, Q. denta, Q. acutis, and Q. robur 1. The transpiration rate (E) (5.03 mmol m−2), stomatal conductance (gsw) (0.22 mol m−2 s−1), and total water vapor conductance (gtw) (0.19 mol m−2 s−1) were dominantly obtained in Q. robur 1, while Q. denta exhibited the highest intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) (564.67 µmol mol−1). Conversely, Q. wutai displayed a significantly higher leaf chamber CO2 concentration (Ca) (502.11 µmol mol−1). Furthermore, growth traits showed a correlation with leaf morphological and photosynthetic traits. PCA analysis grouped the oak varieties into five clusters, with Q. acutis, Q. robur 1, Q. palus 3, Q. denta, Q. nutta, Q. mongo, and Q. wutai identified as superior varieties. These findings not only offer promising oak candidate varieties for Southwest China, but also provide insights for establishing efficient breeding program for other woody plants.
Effect of Commercial Bioprotective Lactic Cultures on Physicochemical, Microbiological, and Textural Properties of Yogurt
Authors: Mélo Elói Duarte de , e Silva Pedro Ivo Soares , do Oriente Suelma Ferreira , Almeida Renata Duarte , Pessoa Julia Morais , França Kepler Borges , de Gusmão Thaísa Abrantes Souza , de Gusmão Rennan Pereira , Lisboa Oliveira Hugo M. , Nascimento Amanda Priscila Silva
Published: November 2024

The present study investigated the effects of the commercial biopreservatives FRESHQ-11 (Lactobacillus rhamnosus), labeled as F, and HOLDBAC YM-B LYO 100 DCU (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Propionibacterium freudenreichii subsp. shermanii), labeled as H, at different dosages on the pH, titratable acidity (%), fungal inhibition, and textural parameters of yogurt during 28 days of storage at 7 ± 1 °C. The study compared these biopreservatives with yogurt containing only the chemical preservative potassium sorbate at the maximum allowed concentration (C1) and yogurt without any chemical preservatives (C2), with the goal of identifying alternatives to reduce or replace potassium sorbate. Yogurts were formulated with biopreservatives at concentrations of 0.1% and 0.2% (v/v) and with potassium sorbate at 0.015% and 0.03%. The results indicated that yogurts containing biopreservatives had significantly lower pH and higher titratable acidity (%) than C2 (p < 0.05). Syneresis significantly decreased over the 28-day storage period at 7 ± 1 °C (p < 0.05). Additionally, yogurts with bioprotective cultures exhibited significantly lower textural parameters (p < 0.05) compared to C1 and C2. This study underscores the potential of biopreservatives as viable replacements for potassium sorbate, with these formulations being comparable to C1 in inhibiting molds and yeasts, particularly when L. rhamnosus was used at 0.2% v/v. This finding is promising for future pilot and industrial-scale applications.
Waste Bombyx Mori Silk Textiles as Efficient and Reuseable Bio-Adsorbents for Methylene Blue Dye Removal and Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Jayamaha Hansadi , Schorn Isabel , Shepherd Larissa M.
Published: November 2024

Many adsorbent materials are being studied for dye and oil removal from the environment. Bio-based materials such as silk are promising candidates due to their enhanced affinity for dyes and intrinsic hydrophobicity. This work extensively studies various silk textiles as dye and oil adsorbents. For comparison, we use electrospun fiber mats and hollow silk microparticle-treated silk fabrics. Our work is motivated by two factors: (i) massive amounts of silk waste is being discarded annually from textile factories, and (ii) the limited studies on the adsorption phenomena of pristine silk textiles. Based on our findings, 12 mg of silk filament yarn has a 90% methylene blue (MB) removal efficiency within 10 min of exposure for concentrations up to 100 ppm and exhibits adsorption capacities of 145 mg/g for 800 ppm concentrations. The adsorption kinetics obey a pseudo-second order, where the rate-controlling step is chemisorption, and isotherms follow the Langmuir model with homogenous monolayer adsorption. Furthermore, noil woven fabrics with contact angles of 1400 have oil adsorbent capacities that are double the fabric weight. Our work confirms that silk waste textiles are efficient and reusable bio-adsorbents for MB dye and oil removal, outperforming materials made with additional and energy-intensive techniques such as silk dissolution and electrospinning.
Gene Expression Comparison Between the Injured Tubercule Skin of Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) and the Scale Skin of Brill (Scophthalmus rhombus)
Authors: Estêvão João , Blanco-Hortas Andrés , Rubiolo Juan A. , Aramburu Óscar , Fernández Carlos , Gómez-Tato Antonio , Power Deborah M. , Martínez Paulino
Published: November 2024

Turbot and brill are two congeneric commercial flatfish species with striking differences in skin organization. The calcified appendages in turbot skin are conical tubercles, while in brill, they are elasmoid scales. A skin injury involving epidermal and dermal levels was evaluated 72 h post-injury to compare the skin regeneration processes between both species. An immune-enriched 4x44k turbot oligo-microarray was used to characterize the skin transcriptome and gene expression profiles in both species. RNA-seq was also performed on the brill samples to improve transcriptome characterization and validate the microarray results. A total of 15,854 and 12,447 expressed genes were identified, respectively, in the turbot and brill skin (10,101 shared) using the oligo-microarray (11,953 and 9629 annotated). RNA-seq enabled the identification of 11,838 genes in brill skin (11,339 annotated). Functional annotation of skin transcriptomes was similar in both species, but in turbot, it was enriched on mechanisms related to maintenance of epithelial structure, mannosidase activity, phospholipid binding, and cell membranes, while in brill, it was enriched on biological and gene regulation mechanisms, tissue development, and transferase and catalytic activities. The number of DEGs identified after skin damage in brill and turbot was 439 and 143, respectively (only 14 shared). Functions related to catabolic and metabolic processes, visual and sensorial perception, response to wounding, and wound healing were enriched in turbot DEGs, while metabolism, immune response, oxidative stress, phospholipid binding, and response to stimulus were enriched in brill. The results indicate that differences may be related to the stage of wound repair due to their different skin architecture. This work provides a foundation for future studies directed at skin defense mechanisms, with practical implications in flatfish aquaculture.
Application of Xylo-Oligosaccharide-Rich Gel Emulsion as a Fat Replacer in Sausages
Authors: Paschoa João L. F. , Ávila Patrícia F. , da Costa Gilmar F. , Ribeiro Ana Paula B. , Grimaldi Renato , da Cunha Rosiane L. , Pollonio Marise A. R. , Goldbeck Rosana
Published: November 2024

Xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) are functional oligosaccharides obtained from xylan present in lignocellulosic material. This study investigated the effects of replacing pork fat with functional xylo-oligosaccharide gel emulsion (XGE) on the chemical and physical structure of developed meat products. The product’s centesimal composition, energy value, pH, color parameters, and microstructure were analyzed. The results showed that replacing pork fat with XGE reduced the total lipid content by approximately 30%, and provided a desirable lipidic profile with reduced thrombogenicity and atherogenicity indices. A microstructure analysis showed that products with partial and full pork fat replacement presented a more compact structure than the control formulation. Thus, XGE is a viable alternative to replace pork fat in meat products since it maintains similar physicochemical and technological properties to the original products and contributes to the development of healthier meat products with prebiotic properties, lower fat content, and, consequently, lower energetic value.
Honey Adulteration Detection via Ultraviolet–Visible Spectral Investigation Coupled with Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Geană Elisabeta-Irina , Isopescu Raluca , Ciucure Corina-Teodora , Gîjiu Cristiana Luminița , Joșceanu Ana Maria
Published: November 2024

Any change in the composition or physicochemical parameters of honey outside the standardized intervals may be deemed fraud, irrespective of direct introduction of certain substances or feeding honeybees with syrups. Simple and rapid tools along with more sophisticated ones are required to monitor fraudulent practices in the honey trade. In this work, UV–Vis spectroscopy was used to identify and quantify six Romanian honey types (five monofloral and one polyfloral) mixed with commercially available corn syrup, corn syrup with plant extracts, inverted syrup, and fruit syrup at different concentrations (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%). Relevant spectral features were used to develop a neural model, which was able to pinpoint adulteration, regardless of the honey and adulterant type. The proposed model was able to detect adulteration levels higher than 10%, thereby serving as a cost-effective and reliable tool to monitor honey quality.
Nutrient Content Prediction and Geographical Origin Identification of Bananas by Combining Hyperspectral Imaging with Chemometrics
Authors: Xiao Honghui , Li Chunlin , Wang Mingyue , Huan Zhibo , Mei Hanyi , Nie Jing , Rogers Karyne M. , Wu Zhen , Yuan Yuwei
Published: November 2024

The nutritional quality of bananas and their geographical origin authenticity are very important for trade. There is an urgent need for rapid, non-destructive testing to improve the origin and quality assurance for importers, distributors, and consumers. In this study, 99 banana samples from a range of producing countries were collected. Hyperspectral data were combined with chemometric methods to construct quantitative and qualitative models for bananas, predicting soluble solids content (SSC), potassium content (K), and country of origin. A second derivative analysis combined with competitive adaptive weighted sampling (CARS) and random frog jumping (RF) was selected as the best pre-treatment method for the prediction of SSC and K content, respectively. Partial least squares (PLS) models achieved R2p values of 0.8012 and 0.8606 for SSC and K content, respectively. Chinese domestic and imported bananas were classified with a prediction accuracy of 95.83% using partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and an RF method that screened the spectral variables after a second pretreatment. These results showed that hyperspectral imaging technology could be effectively used to non-destructively predict the nutrient contents of bananas and identify their geographical origin. In the future, this technology can be applied to determine the nutritional quality composition and geographical origin of bananas from other countries.
Effects of 1-Methylcyclopropene Treatment on Postharvest Quality and Metabolism of Different Kiwifruit Varieties
Authors: Zhao Yanni , Yan Meiru , Zhang Kun , Wu Xuan , Wang Zi , Shao Ting , Lei Jing , Chen Xuefeng , Liu Huan
Published: November 2024

The kiwifruit (Actinidia) is an important nutritional and economic fruit crop. However, the short edible window period of kiwifruit has seriously affected its market value. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), as a novel ethylene inhibitor, is widely applied to delay fruit ripening and senescence. To our knowledge, there are limited studies on the effects of 1-MCP on fruit quality and metabolism of different kiwifruit varieties. Three kiwifruit cultivars (i.e., ‘Xuxiang’, ‘Huayou’, and ‘Hayward’) widely cultivated in China were chosen as our research objects. The variations of storage quality and metabolic characteristics of kiwifruits treated with various 1-MCP concentration (0 μL/L, 0.5 μL/L, and 1.0 μL/L) were systematically investigated. The results showed that 1-MCP treatment significantly improved the quality of kiwifruit during storage. Among them, for ‘Xuxiang’ and ‘Hayward’ varieties, 1.0 μL/L 1-MCP treatment could delay the decrease in fruit firmness, the increase in maturity index and cellulase activity, and inhibit the decrease in ascorbic acid (AsA) level. However, the 0.5 μL/L 1-MCP had a great influence on the chlorophyll content and maturity index of the ‘Huayou’ cultivar, and the preservation effect was satisfactory. In addition, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) based metabolomics studies revealed that 1-MCP treatment affected carbohydrates metabolism, fatty acids metabolism, and amino acids metabolism in different kiwifruit varieties. Correlation analysis indicated that sugars metabolism has the closest relationship with postharvest physiological quality. This research indicated that the effectiveness of 1-MCP treatments was dependent on fruit variety and treatment concentration. Furthermore, these findings provide a theoretical foundation for extending the shelf life of different kiwifruit varieties.
Nutritional Composition, Fatty Acid Content, and Mineral Content of Nine Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Inbred Varieties
Authors: Pontieri Paola , Troisi Jacopo , Calcagnile Matteo , Aramouni Fadi , Tilley Michael , Smolensky Dmitriy , Guida Marco , Del Giudice Fabio , Merciai Antonio , Samoylenko Iryna , Chessa Alberto L. , Aletta Mariarosaria , Alifano Pietro , Del Giudice Luigi
Published: November 2024

Sorghum is a self-pollinating species belonging to the Poaceae family characterized by a resistance to drought higher than that of corn. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) has been grown for centuries as a food crop in tropical areas where it has an increasing importance, particularly as a cereal option for people with celiac disease. Over the past fifty years, food-grade varieties and hybrid seeds with white pericarp have been developed, particularly in the United States, to maximize sorghum food quality. Nutrient composition, including moisture, protein, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fat content, fatty acid composition, and mineral content, was determined for nine inbred varieties with a stabilized food-grade sorghum genotype selected in the USA and grown under typical Mediterranean conditions. Differences in these nutritional components were observed among the varieties considered. Notable differences were found for monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while saturated fatty acids were similar in all varieties. Oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids were the most abundant fatty acids in all nine lines. Differences were also noted in mineral content, particularly for K, Mg, Al, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Ba. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) demonstrated the absence of gliadin-like peptides in all the sorghum varieties analyzed, confirming, thus, that these analyzed varieties are safe for consumption by celiac patients. Knowledge of the nutritional values of sorghum lines is relevant for breeding programs devoted to sorghum nutritional content and for beneficial properties to human health.
The Impact of Green Tea Kombucha on the Intestinal Health, Gut Microbiota, and Serum Metabolome of Individuals with Excess Body Weight in a Weight Loss Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fraiz Gabriela Macedo , Bonifácio Dandara Baia , Lacerda Udielle Vermelho , Cardoso Rodrigo Rezende , Corich Viviana , Giacomini Alessio , Martino Hércia Stampini Duarte , Esteban-Echeverría Sergio , Romo-Hualde Ana , Muñoz-Prieto David , Barros Frederico Augusto Ribeiro de , Milagro Fermín I. , Bressan Josefina
Published: November 2024

Green tea kombucha (GTK) has emerged as a promising probiotic fermented beverage. Few studies have investigated its effect on human health, mainly focusing on intestinal health, microbiota composition, and metabolomics. The present study is a pioneer in investigating the effect of GTK consumption in individuals with excess body weight. This is a randomized controlled trial, lasting ten weeks, with two groups placed under an energy-restricted diet: control (CG, n = 29), kombucha (KG, n = 30; 200 mL/d). Biological samples and questionnaires were collected before and after the intervention. Microbiota analysis used an amplification of the V4 region of 16S rRNA. Serum untargeted metabolomics used HPLC-TOF mass spectrometry. Intestinal permeability considered the urine excretion of lactulose and mannitol, plasma zonulin, and LPS-binding protein. After the intervention, no differences related to intestinal permeability and microbiota were found between groups, but only the CG had increased fecal pH, lactulose/mannitol ratio, and zonulin. In addition to this, the KG reported lower gastrointestinal symptoms related to motility compared to the CG, and discriminant metabolites (e.g., diethyl malonate) were found strictly in the KG. GTK did not significantly improve gut microbiota and intestinal permeability. However, GTK ameliorated gastrointestinal symptoms and positively influenced the serum metabolome, which may contribute to enhancing the metabolic health of individuals with excess body weight.
Enhancing Medium-Chain Fatty Acid Delivery Through Bigel Technology
Authors: Machado Manuela , Costa Eduardo M. , Silva Sara , Sousa Sérgio C. , Gomes Ana Maria , Pintado Manuela
Published: November 2024

This study presents the development and characterization of medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA)-loaded bigels, using coconut oil as the MCFA source. The bigels exhibited high oil binding capacity, ranging from 87% to 98%, effectively retaining MCFAs within the matrix, with lauric acid (C12) being the main component detected within the bigels at 178.32 ± 0.10 mg/g. Physicochemical analysis, including FTIR and scanning electron microscopy, confirmed stable fatty acid incorporation and a cohesive, smooth structure. The FTIR spectra displayed O-H and C=O stretching vibrations, indicating hydrogen bonding within the matrix, while the SEM images showed uniform lipid droplet distribution with stable phase separation. Thermal stability tests showed that the bigels were stable for 5 days at 50 °C, with oil retention and structural integrity unchanged. Rheological testing indicated a solid-like behavior, with a high elastic modulus (G′) that consistently exceeded the viscous modulus (G″), which is indicative of a strong internal structure. In simulated gastrointestinal digestion, the bigels achieved significantly higher MCFA retention than the pure oil, particularly in the gastric phase, with recovery percentages of 38.1% for the bigels and 1.7% for the oil (p < 0.05), suggesting enhanced bioavailability. Cell-based cytotoxicity assays showed low cytotoxicity, and permeability testing in a co-culture Caco-2/HT29-MTX model revealed a controlled, gradual MCFA release, with approximately 10% reaching the basolateral side over 6 h. These findings highlight MCFA-loaded bigels as a promising platform for nutraceutical applications; they provided stability, safety, and controlled MCFA release, with significant potential for functional foods aimed at enhancing fatty acid bioavailability.
Investigation of In Situ Gelation Behavior and Enhanced Oil Recovery Ability of Polymer Gel Used for Controlling CO2 Channeling in Tight Fractured Reservoir
Authors: He Hong , Liu Yibo , Zhao Guang , Liu Yifei , Pei Haihua , Zhou Wei
Published: November 2024

Polymer gels are one of the most common plugging agents used for controlling CO2 channeling and improving sweep efficiency and oil recovery in tight fractured reservoirs. However, the in situ gelation behavior and enhanced oil recovery ability of polymer gel in fractured porous media is still unclear. Thus, in this study, the bulk and in situ gelation behavior of crosslinked phenolic resin gel in a long stainless microtube as the fractured porous media was investigated. The enhanced oil recovery ability of phenolic resin gel used for CO2 channeling was investigated by means of a fractured core model. Results show that, with the increase of polymer and crosslinker concentrations, the bulk gelation time shortens and gel strength improves during the static gelation process. With the increase of polymer concentration and temperature, the in situ static gelation time and dynamic gelation time of the gel system in the microtube are shortened, and the breakthrough pressure gradient increases after gelation. Compared with the in situ static gelation behavior, the in situ dynamic gelation time is prolonged and the breakthrough pressure gradient decreases after gelation. The in situ static gelation time in the microtube is 1.2 times that of bulk gelation time in an ampoule bottle, and the in situ dynamic gelation time is nearly 3 times that of ampoule bottles. When the injected slug volume was 1.0 FV (fracture volume), as the polymer concentration increased from 3000 mg·L−1 to 4000 mg·L−1, the incremental oil recovery increased from 3.53% to 4.73%.
FAN1 Deletion Variant in Basenji Dogs with Fanconi Syndrome
Authors: Farias Fabiana H. G. , Mhlanga-Mutangadura Tendai , Guo Juyuan , Hansen Liz , Johnson Gary S. , Katz Martin L.
Published: November 2024

Background: Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of renal proximal tubule transport characterized by metabolic acidosis, amino aciduria, glucosuria, and phosphaturia. There are acquired and hereditary forms of this disorder. A late-onset form of Fanconi syndrome in Basenjis was first described in 1976 and is now recognized as an inherited disease in these dogs. In part because of the late onset of disease signs, the disorder has not been eradicated from the breed by selective mating. A study was therefore undertaken to identify the molecular genetic basis of the disease so that dogs could be screened prior to breeding in order to avoid generating affected offspring. Methods: Linkage analysis within a large family of Basenjis that included both affected and unaffected individuals was performed to localize the causative variant within the genome. Significant linkage was identified between chromosome 3 (CFA3) makers and the disease phenotype. Fine mapping restricted the region to a 2.7 Mb section of CFA3. A whole genome sequence of a Basenji affected with Fanconi syndrome was generated, and the sequence data were examined for the presence of potentially deleterious homozygous variants within the mapped region. Results: A homozygous 317 bp deletion was identified in the last exon of FAN1 of the proband. 78 Basenjis of known disease status were genotyped for the deletion variant. Among these dogs, there was almost complete concordance between genotype and phenotype. The only exception was one dog that was homozygous for the deletion variant but did not exhibit signs of Fanconi syndrome. Conclusions: These data indicate that the disorder is very likely the result of FAN1 deficiency. The mechanism by which this deficiency causes the disease signs remains to be elucidated. FAN1 has endonuclease and exonuclease activity that catalyzes incisions in regions of double-stranded DNA containing interstrand crosslinks. FAN1 inactivation may cause Fanconi syndrome in Basenjis by sensitization of kidney proximal tubule cells to toxin-mediated DNA crosslinking, resulting in the accumulation of genomic and mitochondrial DNA damage in the kidney. Differential exposure to environmental toxins that promote DNA crosslink formation may explain the wide age-at-onset variability for the disorder in Basenjis.
Configuration of Low-Cost Miniature Heat Pulse Probes to Monitor Heat Velocity for Sap Flow Assessments in Wheat (Triticum durum L.)
Authors: Parra-Camara Oscar , Méndez-Barroso Luis A. , Pinto R. Suzuky , Garatuza-Payán Jaime , Yépez Enrico A.
Published: November 2024

Heat velocity (Vh) is a key metric to estimate sap flow which is linked to transpiration rate and is commonly measured using thermocouples implanted in plant stems or tree trunks. However, measuring transpiration rates in the Gramineae family, characterized by thin and hollow stems, is challenging. Commercially available sensors based on the measurement of heat velocity can be unaffordable, especially in developing countries. In this work, a real-time heat pulse flux monitoring system based on the heat ratio approach was configured to estimate heat velocity in wheat (Triticum durum L.). The heat velocity sensors were designed to achieve optimal performance for a stem diameter smaller than 5 mm. Sensor parameterization included the determination of casing thermal properties, stabilization time, and time to achieve maximum heat velocity which occurred 30 s after applying a heat pulse. Heat velocity sensors were able to track plant water transport dynamics during phenological stages with high crop water demand (milk development, dough development, and end of grain filling) reporting maximum Vh values in the order of 0.004 cm s−1 which scale to sap flow rates in the order of 3.0 g h−1 comparing to reports from other methods to assess sap flow in wheat.
Random Forest Analysis of Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditures Associated with Cardiometabolic Diseases, Lifestyle, Lipid Profile, and Genetic Information in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Leite Jean Michel R. S. , Trindade Lucas A. I. , Pereira Jaqueline L. , de Souza Camila A. , Soler Júlia M. Pavan , Mingroni-Netto Regina C. , Fisberg Regina M. , Rogero Marcelo M. , Sarti Flavia M.
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: There is a lack of empirical studies of out-of-pocket health expenditures associated with dyslipidemias, which are major cardiovascular risk factors, especially in underrepresented admixed populations. The study investigates associations of health costs with lipid traits, GWAS-derived genetic risk scores (GRSs), and other cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods: Data from the observational cross-sectional 2015 ISA-Nutrition comprised lifestyle, environmental factors, socioeconomic and demographic variables, and biochemical and genetic markers related to the occurrence of cardiometabolic diseases. GWAS-derived genetic risk scores were estimated from SNPs previously associated with lipid traits. There was phenotypic and genetic information available for 490 independent individuals, which was used as inputs for random forests and logistic regression to explain private quantitative and categorical health costs. Results: There were significant correlations between GRSs and their respective lipid phenotypes. The main relevant variables across techniques and outcome variables comprised income per capita, principal components of ancestry, diet quality, global physical activity, inflammatory and lipid markers, and LDL-c GRS and non-HDL-c GRS. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of quartile-based categorical health expenditure without GRSs was 0.76. GRSs were not significant for this categorical outcome. Conclusions: We present an original contribution to the investigation of determinants of private health expenditures in a highly admixed population, providing insights on associations between genetic and socioeconomic dimensions of health in Brazil. Ancestry information was also among the main factors contributing to health expenses, providing a novel view of the role of genetic ancestry on cardiometabolic risk factors and its potential impact on health costs.
From the Operating Theater to the Pathology Laboratory: Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis of the Biological Samples Transfer
Authors: De Micco Francesco , De Benedictis Anna , Scendoni Roberto , Tambone Vittoradolfo , Di Palma Gianmarco , Alloni Rossana
Published: November 2024

Introduction: The frozen section intra-operative consultation is a pathology procedure that provides real-time evaluations of tissue samples during surgery, enabling quick and informed decisions. In the pre-analytical phase, errors related to sample collection, transport, and identification are common, and tools like failure mode, effects, and criticality analysis help identify and prevent risks. This study aims to enhance patient safety and diagnostic quality by analyzing risks and optimizing sample management. Materials and Methods: The failure mode, effects, and criticality analysis was conducted by a multidisciplinary team to analyze the workflow of frozen section sample handling from collection in the operating theater to acceptance at the pathology lab. Six steps were identified, each assigned tasks and responsibilities, with risks assessed through the risk priority number, calculated from severity, occurrence, and detectability. Severity was classified based on the WHO framework, ranging from “No Harm” to “Death”, to prioritize risks effectively. Results: The study identified 12 failure modes across 11 sub-processes, prioritized by risk. Key failures included missing patient identification, incorrect sample retrieval, missing labels, misdirected samples, and samples sent to the wrong lab. Discussion: Pre-analytical errors in pathology pose risks to diagnosis and patient care, with most errors occurring in this phase. A multidisciplinary team identified key issues, such as sample mislabeling and delays due to staff unavailability, and implemented corrective actions, including improved signage, staff re-training, and sample tracking systems. Monitoring and regular checks ensured ongoing adherence to protocols and reduced the risks of misidentification, transport delays, and procedural errors. Conclusions: The frozen section intra-operative consultation is vital in surgical pathology, with the pre-analytical phase posing significant risks due to potential errors in sample handling and labeling. Failure mode, effects, and criticality analysis has proven effective in identifying and prioritizing these failures, despite resource demands, by allowing corrective actions that enhance patient safety and healthcare quality.
Advanced Studies on the Quality Control and Metabolism of Bioactive Compounds in Postharvest Horticultural Crops
Authors: Ban Zhaojun , Chen Cunkun , Li Li
Published: November 2024

Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients such as vitamins C and A, minerals, electrolytes, and dietary fiber [...]
Distribution Pattern of Volatile Components in Different Organs of Chinese Chives (Allium tuberosum)
Authors: Chen Mengran , Zhao Chaosheng , Xiao Xuemei , Xie Bojie , Hanif Medhia , Li Ju , Khan Khuram Shehzad , Lyu Jian , Yu Jihua
Published: November 2024

Volatile compounds are important components of the flavor quality of Chinese chives, but the distribution of flavor components in different organs of Chinese chives is still unclear. In this experiment, two Chinese chive varieties, ‘Fu Jiu Bao F1’ and ‘Jiu Xing 22’, were taken as test materials, and the contents of volatile compounds in different stages and organs of Chinese chive were determined by HS-SPME/GC-MS technology. A total of 70 and 85 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected in various organs of two varieties at the commodity harvesting stage and physiological maturity stage, respectively. The total volatile compound content of Fu Jiu Bao F1 in the stage of commodity harvesting was higher than that of the physiological maturity stage, but Jiu Xing 22 showed the opposite trend. The organ distribution pattern of total volatile compounds in Fu Jiu Bao F1 and Jiu Xing 22 at the commodity harvesting stage was consistent, as follows: leaf > pseudostem > root. However, at the physiological maturity stage, the distribution pattern of Fu Jiu Bao F1 was different from that of Jiu Xing 22. Further, sulfur-containing compounds at different stages showed different organic distributions. Comprehensive analysis indicated that organic-common and organic-specific compounds varied from different cultivars and growth stages of Chinese chive, and organ differences in VOC distribution were greater than the varieties’ differences based on PCA analysis. The results of this study clarify the composition and organ distribution of volatile compounds in Chinese chive and provide a direction for the study of Chinese chive flavor quality.
Domestication and Human/Wildlife Mutualism
Authors: Pierotti Raymond
Published: November 2024

In this study, I discuss recent studies of human/wildlife mutualisms and suggest that several cases considered to represent domestication that has arisen through commensalism would be better considered as examples of mutualism between humans and various wild species. Species discussed include the only domesticated carnivores: cats (Felis sylvestris) and wolves (Canis lupus and C. dingo). I also discuss species over which there is considerable debate about whether they are domesticated or not: African (Loxodonta) and Asiatic elephants (Elphas). All of these species’ interactions include niche construction on the part of both species and influence human evolution at least a cultural level. I further argue that most contemporary domestic species currently exist in mutualistic relationships with humans because even though all of these species have been selected to benefit humans, all domestica species have also benefitted in terms of increased global and local population sizes and from more secure living conditions than can be found in their wild ancestors.
Trace Element Composition of Surface Water in Almaty City and Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Krasnopyorova Marina , Gorlachev Igor , Kharkin Pavel , Zheltov Dmitriy , Severinenko Mariya , Serikov Adilzhan
Published: November 2024

This investigation meticulously examined the elemental composition of 64 water samples collected during the seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter of the year 2023. The average seasonal concentrations of arsenic (As), beryllium (Be), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lithium (Li), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), selenium (Se), uranium (U), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), strontium (Sr), vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), and chlorine (Cl) as well as SO4 and dry residue were computed at 16 strategically selected sites along the Bolshaya and Malaya Almatinka, Esentai, and Kargalinka rivers situated in Almaty. The sampling locations were categorized into three distinct sectors: upper (adjacent to mountainous regions), middle (urban zone), and lower (exceeding city limits), thereby facilitating the examination of discrepancies in water quality and elemental concentrations. The results reveal that surface water resources in Almaty, particularly concerning As, Ni, Cr, U, and Pb, may present a considerable carcinogenic risk if utilized for consumption purposes. This is especially alarming given that these rivers constitute a vital source of drinking water for the inhabitants of the city. Specifically, at two sampling locations along the Bolshaya and Malaya Almatinka rivers in proximity to significant urban thoroughfares, untreated river water displayed an elevated carcinogenic risk (CR ~ 10−2). These results highlight the urgent necessity for enhanced water treatment and ongoing monitoring to safeguard public health.
Wildfire Smoke Exposure During Pregnancy: Consensus-Building to Co-Create a Community-Engaged Study
Authors: Young Kelsie , Brown Kim Alisa , Crocker Daniel Lynda , Duarte Katherine , Rohlman Diana
Published: November 2024

Relative to other Oregon counties, Klamath County experiences worse air quality due to wildfire smoke, as well as elevated rates of infant mortality and low birthweight. Klamath County Public Health (KCPH) raised concerns that wildfire smoke is a contributor to poor infant health. Thus, we built a multidisciplinary team and designed a community-engaged research (CEnR) project to capture community and individual-level exposure to wildfire smoke contaminants, alongside perinatal health outcomes. Through partnerships, we identified 24 individuals across academic, public health, and community organizations that met five times over three months to develop a study design. We initially used a modified Delphi method, but adjusted our approach to find multidisciplinary areas of agreement across a highly diverse team. Our team used structured meetings, surveys, and iterative feedback to build consensus on a study design. KCPH and our community partners reviewed and approved all proposed activities to ensure community input was integrated. The resultant study, trialed in Klamath County, included the use of environmental, residential, and personal samplers and health surveys with a cohort of pregnant individuals during the wildfire season. We discuss the advantages and challenges of building a multidisciplinary CEnR study in a rural county disproportionately impacted by wildfire smoke and infant mortality.
Role of R-Loop Structure in Efficacy of RNA Elongation Synthesis by RNA Polymerase from Escherichia coli
Authors: Timofeyeva Nadezhda A. , Tsoi Ekaterina I. , Novopashina Darya S. , Kuznetsova Aleksandra A. , Kuznetsov Nikita A.
Published: November 2024

The mechanism of transcription proceeds through the formation of R-loop structures containing a DNA–RNA heteroduplex and a single-stranded DNA segment that should be placed inside the elongation complex; therefore, these nucleic acid segments are limited in length. The attachment of each nucleotide to the 3′ end of an RNA strand requires a repeating cycle of incoming nucleoside triphosphate binding, catalysis, and enzyme translocation. Within these steps of transcription elongation, RNA polymerase sequentially goes through several states and is post-translocated, catalytic, and pre-translocated. Moreover, the backward movement of the polymerase, which is essential for transcription pausing and proofreading activity, gives rise to a backtracked state. In the present study, to analyze both the efficacy of transcription elongation complex (TEC) formation and the rate of RNA synthesis, we used a set of model R-loops that mimic the pre-translocated state, post-translocated state, backtracked state, and a misincorporation event. It was shown that TEC assembly proceeds as an equilibrium process, including the simultaneous formation of a catalytically competent TEC as well as a catalytically inactive conformation. Our data suggest that the inactive complex of RNA polymerase with an R-loop undergoes slow conformational changes, resulting in a catalytically competent TEC. It was revealed that the structural features of R-loops affect the ratio between active and inactive states of the TEC, the rate of conformational rearrangements required for the induced-fit transition from the inactive state to the catalytically competent TEC, and the rates of accumulation of both the total RNA products and long RNA products.