bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying tripartite relationship among cortical thickness, neuroticism, and mood and anxiety disorders
Authors: Rozovsky Renata , Bertocci Michele , Iyengar Satish , Stiffler Richelle S. , Bebko Genna , Skeba Alexander S. , Brady Tyler , Aslam Haris , Phillips Mary L.
Published: April 2024

The number of young adults seeking help for emotional distress, subsyndromal-syndromal mood/anxiety symptoms, including those associated with neuroticism, is rising and can be an early manifestation of mood/anxiety disorders. Identification of gray matter (GM) thickness alterations and their relationship with neuroticism and mood/anxiety symptoms can aid in earlier diagnosis and prevention of risk for future mood and anxiety disorders. In a transdiagnostic sample of young adults (n = 252;177 females; age 21.7 ± 2), Hypothesis (H) 1:regularized regression followed by multiple regression examined relationships among GM cortical thickness and clinician-rated depression, anxiety, and mania/hypomania; H2:the neuroticism factor and its subfactors as measured by NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R) were tested as mediators. Analyses revealed positive relationships between left parsopercularis thickness and depression (B = 4.87,p = 0.002), anxiety (B = 4.68,p = 0.002), mania/hypomania (B = 6.08,p ≤ 0.001); negative relationships between left inferior temporal gyrus (ITG) thickness and depression (B = − 5.64,p ≤ 0.001), anxiety (B = − 6.77,p ≤ 0.001), mania/hypomania (B = − 6.47,p ≤ 0.001); and positive relationships between left isthmus cingulate thickness (B = 2.84,p = 0.011), and anxiety. NEO anger/hostility mediated the relationship between left ITG thickness and mania/hypomania; NEO vulnerability mediated the relationship between left ITG thickness and depression. Examining the interrelationships among cortical thickness, neuroticism and mood and anxiety symptoms enriches the potential for identifying markers conferring risk for mood and anxiety disorders and can provide targets for personalized intervention strategies for these disorders.
Bidirectional mediation of bone mineral density and brain atrophy on their associations with gait variability
Authors: Zhang Xin , Lu Heyang , Fan Min , Tian Weizhong , Wang Yingzhe , Cui Mei , Jiang Yanfeng , Suo Chen , Zhang Tiejun , Jin Li , Xu Kelin , Chen Xingdong
Published: April 2024

This mediation analysis aimed to investigate the associations among areal bone mineral density, mobility-related brain atrophy, and specific gait patterns. A total of 595 participants from the Taizhou Imaging Study, who underwent both gait and bone mineral density measurements, were included in this cross-sectional analysis. We used a wearable gait tracking device to collect quantitative gait parameters and then summarized them into independent gait domains with factor analysis. Bone mineral density was measured in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Magnetic resonance images were obtained on a 3.0-Tesla scanner, and the volumes of brain regions related to mobility were computed using FreeSurfer. Lower bone mineral density was found to be associated with higher gait variability, especially at the site of the lumbar spine (β = 0.174, FDR = 0.001). Besides, higher gait variability was correlated with mobility-related brain atrophy, like the primary motor cortex (β = 0.147, FDR = 0.006), sensorimotor cortex (β = 0.153, FDR = 0.006), and entorhinal cortex (β = 0.106, FDR = 0.043). Bidirectional mediation analysis revealed that regional brain atrophy contributed to higher gait variability through the low lumbar spine bone mineral density (for the primary motor cortex,P = 0.018; for the sensorimotor cortex,P = 0.010) and the low lumbar spine bone mineral density contributed to higher gait variability through the primary motor and sensorimotor cortices (P = 0.026 and 0.010, respectively).
Ecological risk assessment and spatial–temporal differentiation of soil and water resources in the Hefei metropolitan area
Authors: Zhao Shuhang , He Gang , Li Jie , Yang Xia , Hou Xiaoyu , Wu Ting , Zhang Shangyun
Published: April 2024

There are important ways to solve the ecological risk problems of regional water resources and soil resources, and to promote the benign development of soil and water resources, involving scientific evaluation of the ecological risk of soil and water resources in Hefei metropolitan area, clarifying the intrinsic evolution law of ecological risk and identifying the characteristics of spatial and temporal variations. Based on the conceptual model of “ST-QS-RR”, the evaluation indicator system is constructed, the CRITIC method is used to assign weights, and the TOPSIS method, kernel density method, markov chain and resistance model are used to measure and analyse the spatial and temporal characteristics of ecological risk of soil and water resources, and to explore the main factors that cause ecological risk of soil and water resources. The results of the study show that: (1) Hefei metropolitan area and its cities show a steady decline and the characteristics of “high in the north and low in the south, high in the west and low in the east”. (2) Most of the subsystems in the Hefei metropolitan area and the cities show a decreasing trend, with its resistance factors mainly concentrated in the QS system. (3) There is club convergence in Hefei metropolitan area. When the type of adjacent domain is higher, the change of risk type is more sensitive.
Recent advances in atomic cluster synthesis: a perspective from chemical elements
Authors: Tsukamoto Takamasa
Published: April 2024

This review focuses on all substances that are regarded as cluster materials and makes a new attempt to provide a comprehensive understanding through categorizing and summarizing clusters based on their constituent elements in the periodic table.
Correction: Clodronate-nintedanib-loaded exosome–liposome hybridization enhances the liver fibrosis therapy by inhibiting Kupffer cell activity
Authors: Ji Keqin , Fan Mingrui , Huang Dong , Sun Lingna , Li Bingqin , Xu Ruoting , Zhang Jiajing , Shao Xuan , Chen Yanzuo
Published: April 2024

Correction for ‘Clodronate-nintedanib-loaded exosome–liposome hybridization enhances the liver fibrosis therapy by inhibiting Kupffer cell activity’ by Keqin Ji et al., Biomater. Sci., 2022, 10, 702–713, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1BM01663F.
Taurocholic acid ameliorates hypertension through the activation of TGR5 in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus
Authors: Li Ying , Gao Ya-Nan , Zhu Ying-Bao , Lu Wen-Fang , Yu Jia-Yue , Dong Yuan-Yuan , Xu Meng-Yue , Peng Bo , Wu Jun-Zhe , Su Qing , Bai Juan , Shi Xiao-Lian , Kang Yu-Ming , Li Hong-Bao , Xu Meng-Lu
Published: April 2024

Insufficient TCA may contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertension. PVN supplementation of TCA can activate TGR5 in neurons and microglia, downregulate inflammatory responses, suppress oxidative stress, and eventually ameliorate hypertension.
Phenoxy imine NOON complexes of heavy alkaline earth ions for the ring-opening polymerisation of cyclic esters
Authors: Jones Rebecca L. , Turner Zoë R. , Buffet Jean-Charles , O'Hare Dermot
Published: April 2024

The polymerisation of lactide monomers by heavier alkaline earth complexes supported by a phenoxy-imine NOON ligand, DippLM(thf)x (DippL = ([2,7-(CNDipp)-1,8-O-C10H4]2− where Dipp = 2,6-iPr-C6H3; M = Ca (1), Sr (2) and Ba (3)) is described.
IUPAC recommended experimental methods and data evaluation procedures for the determination of radical copolymerization reactivity ratios from composition data
Authors: Autzen Anton A. A. , Beuermann Sabine , Drache Marco , Fellows Christopher M. , Harrisson Simon , van Herk Alex M. , Hutchinson Robin A. , Kajiwara Atsushi , Keddie Daniel J. , Klumperman Bert , Russell Gregory T.
Published: April 2024

The IUPAC method uses monomer composition, conversion, and copolymer composition to find reactivity ratios. Shown the optimal reactivity ratios in red and a 95% Confidence Interval in blue.
Evolving better solvate electrolytes for lithium secondary batteries
Authors: Philippi Frederik , Middendorf Maleen , Shigenobu Keisuke , Matsuyama Yuna , Palumbo Oriele , Pugh David , Sudoh Taku , Dokko Kaoru , Watanabe Masayoshi , Schönhoff Monika , Shinoda Wataru , Ueno Kazuhide
Published: April 2024

Electrolytes are a key component of lithium batteries with significant potential for improvement. Here we present strategies to navigate the large chemical space of electrolytes by combining the strengths of theoretical and experimental approaches.
A comparative analysis of cooked smoked cockerel products derived from male layer-type chickens (Lohmann Brown Classic hybrid) and dual-purpose cocks (based on Bresse Gauloise)
Authors: Dragoev Stefan , Balev Desislav , Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava , Kolev Nikolay , Popova Teodora , Ignatova Maya , Petkov Evgeni
Published: April 2024

Breeding of chickens is divided in two categories: meat production with focus on the males, and egg production – targeting the females. Culling of male layer-type chickens is a long-standing practice but is now ban some European countries. The dual-purpose cocks (based on Bresse Gauloise) are potential solution to the problem with banned culling practices. The aim of this work is to compare the cooked smoked cockerel products derived from male layer-type chickens (MLC) and dual-purpose cocks (DPC). The highest sensory scores were awarded to the thighs and fillets of the DPC. The hardness, springiness, gumminess, and chewiness, were greater in the thighs of the MLC. In contrast, these parameters were lower in the fillets. The degree of proteolysis in the thighs and fillets of the MLC was greater. The protein content in the tight was not affected by the breed of the cockerels. In contrast higher protein content in MLC fillets was found. Fat or ash content was not affected significantly by the breed of the cockerels. Overall, both breeds of cockerels used for the production of cooked smoked products had a similar and sufficiently high yield, establishing an opportunity for their industrial utilization.
Physicochemical studies and electrophoretic profile of freeze-dried quail eggs
Authors: Dyankova Svetla , Doneva Maria , Solak Ayten , Miteva Daniela , Nacheva Iliana , Loginovska Kamelia , Solakov Nikolay
Published: April 2024

The aim of the research is a comparative physicochemical and electrophoretic analysis of lyophilized egg white (albumen), egg yolk and whole egg (mélange) from quail eggs, obtained by processing at three different freezing temperatures before lyophilization. The conditions of freezing and the parameters of lyophilization, in which products with the best physicochemical properties are obtained, have been established. The protein content varies from 87.76% (egg white) to 31.09% (yolk), and the amount of lipids is 0.21% and 52.94%, respectively. All egg powders have low residual moisture – from 1.92% to 3.49%. The content of essential amino acids is significantly higher in the lyophilized egg white - 44.07g/100g than in the lyophilized yolk - 16.29g/100g. The results of the electrophoretic analysis (SDS–PAGE) showed a reliable match in the protein profile of the raw and freeze-dried quail eggs. Therefore, the proteins in the egg white and yolk remain unchanged after freeze-drying. This technology is a suitable approach for the utilization of unrealized quail eggs while preserving the composition, nutritional value and beneficial biological qualities. In addition to the functional advantages, freeze-dried egg powders are convenient to transport and have a significantly extended shelf life.
Examining coagulation conditions for the utilization of technical albumen. A preliminary study
Authors: Saraliev Plamen , Balev Desislav , Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava , Kolev Nikolay , Dragoev Stefan
Published: April 2024

Egg processing, a major source of high-value protein for the food industry, is on the rise. However, it generates significant waste. Utilizing egg by-products, especially technical albumen, offers ways to create value-added products. The aim of this study is to examined different coagulation conditions for the utilization of technical albumen. Four types of coagulation were examined. The first type required pH correction using an acid solution (30% citric, lactic, or acetic acid) until the pH ranged from 4.8 to 5.2, followed by thermal coagulation using steam. The second type involved mixing the technical albumen with various percentages of 96% ethanol, ranging from 1% to 10%, followed by coagulation using steam. The third type was a combination of the first two. The precipitates were collected in porous fibre and pressed for 15 minutes at 350 gr/cm2. Citric acid led to grainy, high-yield precipitates; lactic and acetic acid yielded more homogenous precipitates with increased dry matter loss. Only the 7.5% addition of ethanol resulted in relatively high precipitate yield. The combination of pH correction and ethanol addition didn’t enhance yield. Understanding the correlation between the composition of the technical albumen and applied coagulation condition necessitates further analysis.
Study of the influence of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei AS-10 on the development of a traditional starter for Bulgarian yoghurt
Authors: Sergeev Sergey , Goranov Bogdan , Ivanov Galin , Slavchev Alexander
Published: April 2024

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of lactic acid bacteria development involved in starter cultures for the production of lactic acid products. On the basis of the data obtained, concerning its influence on a traditional starter for Bulgarian yoghurt, it is possible to interpret its development in a symbiotic culture, its influence on the organoleptic profile of yoghurt and the rate of development of the lactic acid process. To achieve the set objective, cultivation of the selected lactic acid strains was carried out. The data on the rate of development in the different phases, represented by the acid formation curve for a symbiotic traditional culture for Bulgarian yoghurt containing Lactobacillus delbrueckit ssp bulgaricus u Streptococcus thermophilus, with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei AS-10 added to them, were reported. The conclusions drawn allow the correct and predictable use of the investigated lactic acid bacteria strain in starter cultures for the production of lactic acid products.
Fatty acid composition of Kashkaval cheese with reduced sodium chloride content
Authors: Balabanov Alexandar , Ivanov Galin , Balabanova Tatyana , Uzunova Galina , Ivanova Mihaela
Published: April 2024

The aim of the present study was to investigate the changes in the fatty acid profile and acid value of milkfat during ripening of Kashkaval cheese with reduced sodium chloride content. Three batches of Kashkaval cheese (with low 0.7%; medium 1.5% and standard 3.1% NaCl content) were produced. Analyses were carried out on days 1 and 45 of ripening. Based on the results obtained, it was established that lipolysis in Kashkaval cheese during ripening was significantly delayed (p<0.05) in all samples. A slight increase in Kashkaval fatty acid value during ripening was established. Not statistically significant changes in the fatty acid composition of the tested samples during the 45-day ripening period were found. The average values for saturated fatty acids (SFA) were 81.08 mg/100g and for the monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were 11.03 and 1.04 mg/100g between control group (KSs with 3.1% NaCl content) and experimental groups (KMs with reduced NaCl content of 1.5% and KLs with a low NaCl content of 0.7 %) respectively. The predominant fatty acids (FA) were palmitic (C16, 37.56±1.13 mg/100g), myristic (C14, 16.98±0.51 mg/100g), stearic (C18, 15.35±0.46 mg/100g) and oleic acid (C18:1, 10.47±0.31 mg/100g). At the end of the ripening period, Kashkaval cheese with low content of NaCl had a slightly higher acid value of 3.03±0.58 mg KOH/g in comparison with cheese samples with medium and standard NaCl content of 1.72±0.01 and 1.11±0.01 mg KOH/g respectively.
Porosity and hardness of corn extrudates using dry tomato pomace
Authors: Dimitrov Nikolay , Koleva Anna , Simitchiev Apostol , Petrova Todorka , Kakalova Miroslava , Nikolova Milena
Published: April 2024

The incorporation of fiber-rich non-starchy wastes from various industries, into ready-to-eat extrudates, changes their structure and therefore affects their physical properties. The study explored the impact of varying levels of tomato pomace (ranging from 0% to 20%), moisture content in the mixture (ranging from 14.5% to 21.4% on a wet basis), and screw speed (ranging from 156 to 224 rpm) on the hardness of corn extrudates, as well as on parameters such as the number of pores, pore area, average pore size, and pore circularity. It was observed that, the inclusion of tomato pomace increases the hardness of the extrudates by decreasing the average pore size. On the other hand, the average pore size increases, and the hardness decreases with the increase of the screw speed. It was also observed that the higher initial moisture content of the mixtures increases the hardness and results in a more porous structure in the extruded products. The results show that the amount of tomato pomace and the process parameters significantly influence the structure of the extrudates.
Effect of sucrose replacement on physicochemical parameters and sensory characteristics of instant coffee drinks
Authors: Hadjikinova Raina , Petrova Ivanka
Published: April 2024

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world. There has been a trend in consumer behaviour over the last few years - a change in the traditional way of consuming coffee. Instant coffee drinks of the “3 in 1” type, which consumers prefer because of the convenience of consumption, are gaining more and more popularity. One of the main ingredients in the composition of this type of drinks is sugar. Its partial or complete replacement with suitable alternatives leads to a change in the sensory profile of instant coffee drinks and the overall perception by consumers. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the influence of isomalt as a sugar substitute in the composition of instant coffee drinks of the type “3 in 1” on their sensory profile and some of their physico-chemical parameters. Results show that isomalt is a suitable substitute for sugar in the composition of instant coffee drinks.
Effect of cherry products addition on beer fermentation
Authors: Shopska Vesela , Nedyalkov Petar , Shikov Vasil , Kaneva Maria
Published: April 2024

Fruits has been used in brewing as a source of sugars, colour and flavour. Cherry (Prunus avium L.) products such as juice and pomace can be used in brewing in order to increase beer biological value. In this study, cherry juice and pomace in concentration of 15 % were added at first and seventh day of beer fermentation. The effect of cherry products addition was investigated by measuring the content of yeast metabolites (ethanol, aldehydes, higher alcohols, esters, and vicinal diketones) in cherry beers and control sample without cherries. The alcohol content in all the cherry beers was higher than the control sample. The cherry juice addition at the beginning of fermentation led to the formation of more secondary metabolites than the control. Cherry juice addition at the seventh day of fermentation resulted in a decrease in higher alcohols and esters concentration, but in an increase in carbonyls concentration compared to the control. Cherry pomace addition led to a significant increase in esters and vicinal diketones concentration. Aldehydes concentration was not affected by cherry pomace addition. Higher alcohols were influenced only by pomace addition at the seventh day of fermentation. Sensory evaluation was also made because yeast metabolites affected beer flavour and aroma.
Investigation of the technological profile of illegally distributed tobacco derivatives and smoking products
Authors: Nikolov Nikolay , Nikolova Violeta , Popova Venelina , Dyulgerski Yovko , Bozhinova Radka
Published: April 2024

The current investigation includes technological assessment and interpretation of the profile of tobaccos, tobacco derivatives and smoking products illegally distributed in Bulgaria, as officially provided for expertise in the Tobacco and Tobacco Products Institute (TTPI) by external contractors (legitimate state structures) in 2021. The physical and chemical properties of the tobacco objects, depending on their nature, were determined according to standardized methods. The biggest share in the analyses (139 in total) took the determination of tobacco cut width (39%) and particle size fractionation (37%), which supported the observation that the illicit tobacco market in Bulgaria is recently dominated by cut tobacco for hand-rolled cigarettes. In the cut tobacco predominated long and medium-sized strands, but in widely varying proportions (42.27-81.78% and 9.98-38.46%, respectively), with cut width in 0.59-1.06 mm range. The sieve analysis and the expert examination of the tobacco derivatives revealed that they were undoubtedly technological tobacco waste, and, respectively, that accentuated data must be communicated to consumers about the risks associated with the smoking of such tobacco articles. It was found that all illicitly traded fine-cut tobacco blends produced considerably higher tar (12.25-16.05 mg/cig) and CO (12.74-16.94 mg/cig) emissions than the limits set for conventional cigarettes.
Biodegradation of pyrene during submerged cultivation of Trametes versicolor
Authors: Brazkova Mariya , Angelova Galena , Stefanova Petya , Krastanov Albert
Published: April 2024

Pyrene is one of the most persistent pollutants belonging to the group of high molecular weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Due to the presence of fused benzene rings these compounds are extremely difficult for biodegradation. The white-rot fungi possess remarkably high potential when it comes to the biodegradation of toxic organic substances with aromatic rings due to their unique lignin-degrading enzymatic complex. In the present study, pyrene with concentrations up to 200 ppm was added to the nutrient medium during submerged cultivation of the higher basidiomycete mushroom Trametes versicolor NBIMCC 8939. The experiment continued for 20 days and samples were taken every 5 days. Analysis of the activities of the enzymes laccase and manganese-dependent peroxidase were performed as well as determination of the residual pyrene concertation and identification of the by-products of the degradation process. It was established that the highest pyrene removal was achieved when the lowest initial concentration was introduced to the medium. The strain T. versicolor NBIMCC 8939 was able to biodegrade 12% of the initially introduced 50 ppm pyrene in the medium.
Optimization of the extraction procedure of polyphenols from red Pinot Noir grape seeds
Authors: Ivanov Yavor
Published: April 2024

Grape seed extract (GSE) in the last years is commercialized as a valuable ingredient in the food industry. The aims of this study are to optimize the extraction procedure of polyphenols from seeds of red Pinot Noir grape and to evaluate the phenolic content, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the obtained extract. Two conventional methods (with shaker and magnetic stirrer) and two non-conventional methods (with ultrasonic bath and microwave oven) were used for the extraction of the polyphenols from seeds. The optimal conditions for the production of GSE were - magnetic stirrer, 70% aqueous ethanol, 3 h, room temperature. The extraction yield and total phenol content of the obtained extract were 12% and 111.22 mg gallic acid/g dry weight, respectively. The contents of total flavonoids (TF), procyanidins (PC), total anthocyanins and ascorbic acid of the GSE were determined. The obtained GSE was rich in TF (51.50 mg quercetin/g) and PC (170.45 mg catechin/g). Antioxidant capacities of the extract were evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (579.33 μM Trolox/g) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assays (2203.50 μM Trolox/g). The extract has a high antimicrobial effect against B. cereus and B. subtilis. The obtained Pinot Noir GSE will be suitable additive for food products.
Influence of the composition of the culture medium on the growth and sporulation of the probiotic strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens M
Authors: Gaytanska Yordanka , Denkova Zapryana , Goranov Bogdan , Denkova-Kostova Rositsa , Kostov Georgi
Published: April 2024

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens M is a non-pathogenic microorganism with probiotic properties isolated from mineral waters in the village of Yabаlkovo, Haskovo region, for inclusion in the composition of probiotics and probiotic foods. It has high antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, causing food toxic infections and intoxications, as well as against saprophytic microorganisms - bacteria and fungi, which makes it suitable as a biological preparation for plant protection. In order to perform these functions, it is necessary to obtain a spore concentrate. The composition of the nutrient medium for the cultivation and sporulation of the strain has been determined: MP nutrient broth with the addition of salts, in which the strain grew well and a high sporulation rate of 99% was achieved. Cultivation in a bioreactor has been carried out and the time to achieve a high degree of sporulation has been determined. The kinetic parameters of growth and sporulation of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens M in aerobic batch cultivation with a high concentration of spore forms have also been determined. It has been shown that the sporulation process in this strain starts after 12 h from the cultivation start.
Development of symbiotic starters of lactic acid bacteria, propionic acid bacteria and yeast for sourdough for bread and bakery products and their probation in industrial conditions
Authors: Prasev Ivan , Denkova-Kostova Rositsa , Goranov Bogdan , Denkova Zapryana , Gaytanska Yordanka , Koleva Anna , Kostov Georgi
Published: April 2024

Sourdough starter development includes examination of potential strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), propionic acid bacteria and yeasts, selection of suitable strains, development of combinations and examination of the relationships between the strains in each combination, selection of symbiotic combinations and their industrial probation to determine their qualities. Three sourdough starter combinations from selected lactobacilli (homo- and heterofermentative species) or selected lactobacilli and propionic acid bacteria were developed. The dynamics of the concentration of viable cells of the strains and the sourdough acidity in the back-slopping process up to the 96th hour were monitored. The rheological properties of the starter sourdoughs were characterized. The main dough obtained with sourdough was stronger, more elastic, the pieces of bread were taller. The developed sourdough starters were tested in the production of wheat, wheat-rye, spelt and spelled bread. The finished bread loaves had softer and lighter crumb, and pleasant and characteristic lactic acid aroma. It has been shown that the different bread types obtained with symbiotic starter sourdoughs had longer shelf life and increased microbiological safety. The best starter combination as well as the optimum concentration of starter sourdough for prevention of bacterial and fungal spoilage for each bread type has been determined.
Identification of antihypertensive peptides from lupine using a machine learning approach
Authors: Terziyska Margarita , Terziyski Zhelyazko , Desseva Ivelina , Garmidolova Alexandra , Mihaylova Dasha
Published: April 2024

Bioactive products with antihypertensive biological activity, isolated from natural sources, have been the subject of growing interest in recent years. This is due to their widespread use in medicine for the treatment and prevention of various diseases, as well as dietary supplements for athletes or their inclusion in diets for overweight people. One such source is Lupine. Lupine beans are delicious and useful. They can be used in food as a nutritional source of vegetable proteins. They are also rich in polyphenols, carotenoids, and phytosterols. The approaches to screen antihypertensive peptides, based on information technologies and more concretely on machine learning, doubtlessly have higher throughput and rapid speed than the in vivo and in vitro procedures. Therefore, the scientific literature abounds with articles offering various artificial intelligence algorithms for predicting food-derived antihypertensive peptides. In this study, an Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost) algorithm was developed for these purposes. The results showed that the AdaBoost model as a novel auxiliary tool is feasible to screen for antihypertensive peptides derived from food, with high throughput and high efficiency.
Sorption and mass exchange characteristics of extrudates enriched with cocoa bean shells
Authors: Kodinova Siyka , Toshkov Nesho , Bozadjiev Bojidar , Delchev Naiden
Published: April 2024

The aim of the experimental work was to determine the sorption isotherms of wheat extrudates enriched with cocoa bean shells at different temperatures (10 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C) and water activities (0.11 to 0.85) using the static gravimetric method. Five three parameter models (Chung-Pfost, Halsey, Oswin, Henderson, GAB) were applied to survey the experimental data. It was established that the isotherms demonstrate Types II, according to the Brunauer’s classification and the Oswin and Chung-Pfost models were suitable for describing the relationship between the equilibrium moisture content and the water activity. The monolayer moisture content was established using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller equation and ranged within 5.08 % d.b. and 7.80 % d.b., respectively. The increase of temperature decreases the sorption characheristics of the examined extrudates. The specific surface area of sorption for wheat extrudates enriched with cocoa bean shells varies between 181.59 (m2/g) and 278.82 (m2/g). It was found that the increase of temperature of the matrix in the range of 10 °C to 40 °C decreases the values of monolayer moisture content and the specific surface area of sorption.
Mass-moisture exchange characteristics of carrots
Authors: Kiryakov Ivan , Georgieva Mariya , Tashev Atanas , Atanasov Dimitar
Published: April 2024

Some thermodynamic characteristics of carrots were calculated and analyzed based on known experimental data - the binding energy of water with the material and the specific isothermal moisture capacity. An innovative nomogram is presented, which can be successfully used for easy and quick determination of the binding energy of water. An empirical equation (third degree polynomial) for the specific isothermal moisture capacity is derived. All results in the paper will be used to design dryers and drying processes for this product.
Prospects for the development of the restaurant industry in hotel-restaurant complexes
Authors: Raeva Petya , Ivanova Snezhana
Published: April 2024

After Covid 19, hazards appeared for the development of the hotel and restaurant business. Some of the skilled personnel left this business and headed for more sustainable industries or abroad. Therefore, the aim of the work is to study the main factors affecting the survival and prospects for the development of the restaurant business in the hotel-restaurant complexes in Bulgaria. The main motivations of consumers for the future development of modern restaurants in the country aimed at increasing customer satisfaction have been studied. The research was conducted through qualitative and quantitative marketing research and SWOT analysis of available high-end hotels and dining and entertainment establishments in Bulgaria. Mathematical and statistical models were used to process the data of the respondents for each of the questions. The results are presented graphically. A comparative characterization of six hotel-restaurant chains in Bulgaria was made in terms of categorization, comfort, amenities and quality of service, and way of eating in the restaurants. The positive sides and their shortcomings and prospects for development in the current economic situation are reflected, and the consequences of the Covid 19 crisis are also taken into account.
Application of digital technologies in the logistics sector
Authors: Valeva Katia , Nikolova-Alexieva Valentina
Published: April 2024

In recent years, we have witnessed the growing role and importance of logistics in achieving accelerated economic growth at various levels - company, regional and national. Significant interest in logistics services on a global scale has caused the growth of e-commerce, especially during the period of the Covid-pandemic. The rapid development of digital technologies in recent years has had a significant impact on this process. The logistics sector is among the most strongly influenced by technological progress. The advantages of digitization of logistics operations are associated with cost reduction, process optimization, quality improvement, customer satisfaction and companies’ competitiveness. The management of logistics and logistics operations is brought to the highest strategic level in the hierarchy of companies and a mandatory condition for preserving and increasing their market share. The research aims to identify the digital technologies of Industry 4.0, which are about to have the strongest impact on the development of the logistics sector, within the framework of the fourth industrial revolution.
Crises – danger and opportunity for industrial companies
Authors: Konstantinova Snezhinka , Konarev Asen
Published: April 2024

The world economy has met the challenges of two crises in the current century: the 2007-2008 financial crisis and the 2020-2021 COVID-19 crisis. Crises inflict enormous damage on markets, destroy supply chains, change business activity, cause collapse in important consumer categories, etc. But crises are an accelerator of processes and create many opportunities: new markets and chains of added value, new options for growth, business restructuring, changing the business model, optimizing cash flows, etc. This report presents the results of an empirical study on the impact of the COVID crisis on the economy of public industrial companies. Four quantitative and qualitative economic indicators are used. The performance of different groups of companies during the crisis is compared. Trends have been revealed, conclusions have been drawn and recommendations for using the opportunities have been formed.
Mean-variance portfolio selection with non-linear wealth dynamics and random coefficients
Authors: Ji Shaolin , Jin Hanqing , Shi Xiaomin
Published: April 2024

This paper studies the continuous time mean-variance portfolio selection problem with one kind of non-linear wealth dynamics. To deal with the expectation constraint, an auxiliary stochastic control problem is firstly solved by two new generalized stochastic Riccati equations from which a candidate portfolio in feedback form is constructed, and the corresponding wealth process will never cross the vertex of the parabola. In order to verify the optimality of the candidate portfolio, the convex duality (requires the monotonicity of the cost function) is established to give another more direct expression of the terminal wealth level. The variance-optimal martingale measure and the link between the non-linear financial market and the classical linear market are also provided. Finally, we obtain the efficient frontier in closed form. From our results, people are more likely to invest their money in riskless asset compared with the classical linear market.
Assessment of Arsenic (As) and Lead (Pb) Concentration in the Water and Sediments of the Angat River Network in Banga II, Plaridel, Bulacan
Authors: Santos Nanette , Venturina Lhian Maxene , Violago Mary Abelene
Published: April 2024

The Angat River Basin serves as a power and water source for Manila. However, the urbanization, industrialization and development in the surrounding areas could affect the water quality of the river. This study assessed the concentrations of arsenic and lead in the Angat River Network in Banga II, Plaridel, Bulacan, using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and colorimetry from January to March 2023. All samples were examined at F.A.S.T. Laboratories in Cubao, Quezon City. Throughout the three months, the results of the water samples remained constant and were within permissible limits set by WHO, EPA, and DENR. On the other hand, the sediment samples show monthly variations in their results, but the concentrations remained within the permissible limits set by WHO and WSRA. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the Angat River Network in Banga II, Plaridel, Bulacan, as classified by the DENR, still meets the safety standards of Class B/C, which is suitable for its intended usage after appropriate treatment.
Soil Moisture Content Sensor: Utilizing Bacterial Cells as Living Sensors
Authors: Nakamoto Trang , Nakamoto Dung , Tamenori Kenji , Taguchi Kozo
Published: April 2024

Soil moisture affects water and heat exchange between soil and air, weather and climate, and plant growth. Therefore, controlling and predicting soil moisture is vital for irrigation, nutrient supply, absorption, and crop productivity. Soil microbial fuel cell (SMFC) is a recent technology that generates electricity from soil microorganisms and chemicals. SMFC can be used to sense soil moisture and treat polluted soil. In this study, we designed a low-cost, portable, and easy-to-install SMFC for soil moisture sensing, and it was tested at four moisture levels: 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% soil water holding capacity (SWHC). The SMFC worked best at 60 - 80% SWHC, which is suitable moisture for many plants. The results suggest that the proposed SMFC can be a potential soil moisture sensor.
Exploring Water Quality and Toxicity: An Analysis of Cadmium and Lead Concentration in the Parañaque River
Authors: Atienza Alfonso Miguel , Padilla Jan Florenz , Santos Nanette
Published: April 2024

Rivers provide vital environmental functions, including transportation, irrigation, water supply, flood control, and habitat for aquatic life. Water contamination, resulting in poor water quality, is a pressing issue affecting communities’ health, safety, and environment worldwide, leading to health issues. This research study aimed to monitor the water quality of the Parañaque River and the potential toxicity of heavy metal concentrations, specifically Cadmium and Lead, from September to October 2022. Surface water samples were taken to assess the heavy metals’ concentration levels and water quality parameters: color, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total dissolved solids (TDS), and total suspended solids (TSS). The collection of water samples followed the standard method for surface water sampling listed in the Water Quality Monitoring Manual Volume 1 of Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB). The collected data were compared using descriptive statistics to the established water quality standards of DENR Administrative Order No. 2016-08. The analyses used a significance level of 0.05 or 5%. ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis were used to compare the sampling locations that showed no significant difference in the water quality of the three sampling sites at Parañaque River. Paired T-Test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test were used to compare the difference in the time of water sampling. The results showed a significant difference for all parameters between morning and afternoon sampling except DO, TSS, and TDS. The Parañaque River’s water quality, heavily polluted with domestic and industrial waste, bacteria, and other microorganisms, failed to meet DENR’s standards for Class C water, thus indicating its poor condition.
Float-Type Photocatalyst Made of Carbon Nitride Microtubes for Environmental Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Nanakida Kunya , Nakamoto Trang , Taguchi Kozo
Published: April 2024

Float-type carbon nitride microtubes (C3N4MT) were synthesized by a calcined hydrothermal process of melamine. Float-type C3N4MT was evaluated by SEM, TEM, and XRD. The XRD showed that float-type C3N4MT was similar to graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) created by calcining melamine. The SEM images revealed that float-type C3N4MT had a variety of tube structures of various sizes. In addition, the TEM images showed that the surface of float-type C3N4MT was covered with a porous structure. Because of its tubular and porous structure, its density was lighter; consequently, it could float on water. Float-type C3N4MT was placed in a liquid microbial growth medium (LB medium) mixed with soil bacteria inoculum to investigate its photocatalytic antibacterial performance on soil bacteria. Float-type C3N4MT was found to reduce the growth of soil bacteria by 15%. Also, float-type C3N4MT can receive more sunlight energy by floating on the water’s surface, giving it an advantage in antibacterial activity in muddy water. Therefore, the synthesized float-type C3N4MT can be used for environmental antibacterial applications.
Investigating the Optimization of Magnetic Biochar Production from Rubber Seed Shells for Enhanced Cr(VI) Removal Efficiency
Authors: Prangmoo Yasumin , Choolaaied Orasa , Phanchindawan Naree , Limmun Warunee , Chungcharoen Thatchapol
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to utilize agricultural and produce low-cost magnetic biochar from rubber-seed shells using ferric chloride (FeCl3) as a transition metal. The study employs Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on the Box-Behnken Design (BBD) to determine optimal production conditions for removing chromium (Cr(VI)). The effect of preparation conditions such as pyrolysis temperature (500-700 °C), duration (90-180 min), and impregnation (1-3 M) on the produced magnetic biochar was examined. The optimal condition was demonstrated based on yield percentage and Cr(VI) removal efficiencies. The study revealed that the optimal conditions for producing magnetic biochar from rubber seed shells were a pyrolysis temperature of 580 °C, a pyrolysis time of 130 min, and a FeCl3 concentration of 3 M. Under these conditions, a yield of 48.63% was achieved, and the removal efficiencies for Cr(VI) were 41.29%. This research suggests that utilizing agricultural waste products from rubber seed shells may be a viable and economical method for producing magnetic biochar, which can serve as an efficient adsorption agent.
Feasibility Study of Using Wave-PV-Wind Hybrid System for AL Hallaniyat Island
Authors: Al-Badi Abdullah , Al Wahaibi Abdulmajeed , Al-Badi Humaid
Published: April 2024

Al Hallaniyat Island is located in the southern part of Oman. The island has a low number of population and is currently fed by a number of diesel generators with a capacity of 1568 kW. Decreasing the emission of greenhouse gases is one of the main goals for the country’s vision of 2040 as well as Oman’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The purpose of this paper is to study the feasibility of replacing diesel generators with 100% renewable energy sources. The proposed energy source for the Island will be a hybrid system consisting of the wave energy converter, PV, wind and battery storage system. Real load data was used in the model with measured wind speed and solar radiation. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables software is used in this study. Several systems were proposed but the most economical one is PV-Wind-Wave-Battery system that resulted in levelized cost of energy of US$/kWh 0.1586 and Net Present Cost (NPC) of US$ 5,010,594. Having PV-Wave-Battery will result in levelized cost of energy of US$/kWh 0.174 whereas having Wind-Wave-Battery will increase the energy cost to US$/kWh 0.42.
On the Efficiency of Solar Radiation Conversion into Steam, Production of Clean Water, and Generation of Electrical Energy
Authors: Tran Quoc Thinh , Dmitriev Alexander , Mikhailova Inna
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the development of a model for evaluating the efficiency of converting solar radiation into thermal energy. The efficiency coefficient is represented as a function of multiple variables, including system geometry, time, properties of the working fluid, and external parameters. The developed model is a simplified version and is applicable to systems with a stationary working fluid undergoing heating and vaporization due to solar radiation. Calculations were performed based on the model using a gold-water nanofluid. The results of the calculations demonstrated the existence of an optimal range of optical thickness and nanoparticle concentration, where the working fluid is effectively heated and vaporized. It is shown that the efficiency of systems employing nanofluids as heat transfer fluids cannot be evaluated solely based on the absolute value of the heating efficiency coefficient. However, it can be assessed through its derivative with respect to time. The faster the heating efficiency coefficient decreases over time, the more efficient the system is in terms of heating, and the sooner it reaches a steady-state condition. The developed model serves as a foundation for the advancement of more sophisticated models that allow for the evaluation of various other factors, such as complex geometries with forced fluid flow, the nature of interactions between nanoparticles and the base fluid, as well as mechanisms of solar radiation conversion into thermal energy.
Efficiency of Heating and Evaporation of Graphene Nanofluid under Solar Radiation
Authors: Tran Quoc Thinh , Dmitriev Alexander , Mikhailova Inna
Published: April 2024

The conversion of solar radiation into steam is a crucial focus in today’s green energy, ecology, and clean water production. This study presents the first investigation of the heating and evaporation process of a rotating graphene nanofluid under the influence of solar simulator radiation. The study examined the influence of various factors on the heating and evaporation process of the graphene nanofluid, including the direction of irradiation, graphene concentration and rotation speed. It was demonstrated that the evaporation rate strongly depends on the graphene concentration and the irradiation method of the samples. The heating characteristics of graphene also depend on the irradiation method. It was shown that graphene heated to a higher temperature when in direct contact with radiation, while graphene within the bulk volume was heated less effectively than the base liquid. Moreover, the application of rotating graphene nanofluid in this research was found to enhance thermal efficiency by 2.5% compared to distilled water, with a graphene volume concentration of 0.1%. Consequently, various effects of the rotating graphene nanofluid volume on hydrodynamic, heat, and mass transfer parameters were identified, which hold significance for both fundamental and applied tasks in energy, chemical technology, and ecology.