bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electricity Market Reforms for Energy Transition: Lessons from China
Authors: Cheng Yuk-shing , Chung Man-kit , Tsang Kam-pui
Published: January 2023

In response to the rising importance of the climate agenda, many countries have restructured their electricity markets to facilitate the utilization of renewable energy. China is an interesting case because it has expanded its utilization of wind and solar energy with unmatched speed. This review starts with an analysis of the 2002 reforms that uncoupled electricity production from transmission. The investigation covers the period leading up to the 2022 proposal, which aimed to build a nationally integrated electricity market. The analysis suggests that a careful alignment of incentives for key market players to produce and consume renewable energy is vital during the process of energy transition. The introduction of feed-in tariffs in 2009 for wind energy, which were subsequently extended to solar energy, stimulated a high growth in installed capacity. However, a high electricity curtailment rate resulted. Since 2018, the Chinese government has resorted to curtailment caps and renewable portfolio standards to increase the utilization of renewable electricity. After the announcement of the “dual carbon goals” in 2020, the Chinese government launched a series of reforms that aimed to nurture growth in the green electricity market and the formation of a nationally integrated electricity market. The removal of interregional trade barriers is a key element of China’s current electricity market reforms and will be crucial to determining whether China can achieve its climate goals.
Research of Turbine Tower Optimization Based on Criterion Method
Authors: Li Dan , Bao Hongbing , Zhao Ning
Published: January 2023

Tower cost makes up an important part in the whole wind turbine construction especially for offshore wind farms. The main method to reduce tower cost is to reduce tower weight by optimum design. This paper proposes a two-level optimization criterion method for the optimal design of steel conical tower considering different structural reliability and uncertainty, along with the discreteness of design variables such as tower thickness and bolt type. In the first level, the tower shell geometry can be obtained by section design method; in the second level, bolted connections and flanges are designed based on the results of the first level. Then, summarized analysis and iterative calculation is performed to obtain optimum tower design with constant strength and rigidness. This method will play an important role in offshore customized turbine design.
Aerodynamic Performance Enhancement of an Axisymmetric Deflector Applied to Savonius Wind Turbine Using Novel Transient 3D CFD Simulation Techniques
Authors: Aboujaoude Hady , Bogard Fabien , Beaumont Fabien , Murer Sébastien , Polidori Guillaume
Published: January 2023

Many recent studies show that the performance of Savonius turbines can be considerably increased by using wind deflectors. Axisymmetric deflectors are particularly interesting; they concentrate the wind flow in all directions. This study aims to aerodynamically optimize the truncated cone deflector shape through transient 3D CFD simulations using sliding mesh techniques. To reduce the mesh size and thus the simulation time, symmetrical boundary conditions were applied to rotating body faces. A mesh grid sensitivity study was conducted to define the optimum mesh size. Additionally, hybrid numerical approaches combining coupled and SIMPLE solvers were particularly influential in reducing computational time. Concave- and convex-arced-shaped faces deflectors were compared to the original truncated cone deflector, showing an increase in the performance for the convex type and a decrease for the concave one. Then, eight cases involving convex spline shape deflectors were simulated. All these deflectors had an equal volume to the original truncated cone deflector. One of the cases showed a 20% average increase in the performance over the original deflector. This result shows the importance of the geometrical shapes in the design of axisymmetric deflectors.
Numerical Study on Protective Measures for a Skid-Mounted Hydrogen Refueling Station
Authors: Zhao Zeying , Liu Min , Xiao Guoping , Cui Tiancheng , Ba Qingxin , Li Xuefang
Published: January 2023

Hydrogen refueling stations are one of the key infrastructure components for the hydrogen-fueled economy. Skid-mounted hydrogen refueling stations (SHRSs) can be more easily commercialized due to their smaller footprints and lower costs compared to stationary hydrogen refueling stations. The present work modeled hydrogen explosions in a skid-mounted hydrogen refueling station to predict the overpressures for hydrogen-air mixtures and investigate the protective effects for different explosion vent layouts and protective wall distances. The results show that the explosive vents with the same vent area have similar overpressure reduction effects. The layout of the explosion vent affects the flame shape. Explosion venting can effectively reduce the inside maximum overpressure by 61.8%. The protective walls can reduce the overpressures, but the protective walls should not be too close to the SHRS because high overpressures are generated inside the walls due to the confined shock waves. The protective wall with a distance of 6 m can effectively protect the surrounding people and avoid the secondary overpressure damage to the container.
The Impact of the Urban Heat Island on the Sensation of Thermal Comfort and Electricity Consumption in Sfax in Central-Eastern Tunisia during the Hot Season
Authors: Ghribi Marwen , Dahech Salem
Published: January 2023

This study follows on from the work on the urban climate of Sfax and its energy repercussions. The spatial configuration of the urban heat island (UHI) and the spatial distribution of the thermal comfort indices, the heat index (HI), the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) and the temperature humidity wind index (THW), resulting from the car survey method, essentially show the impact of land use and the distance from the coastline on the spatial distribution of air temperatures. A maximum difference of 7 °C between the city centre and the countryside is measured in very hot summer weather. During the night phase, the apparent temperatures are oppressive, particularly in the city centre, where HI and THW comfort indices exceeding 40 °C were calculated. Compared to the HI and UTCI, the THW demonstrates a much stronger variation due to the influence of wind between open areas and the downtown area. The intensity of thermal discomfort decreases as one moves towards the rural area (−15 °C compared to the centre), hence the impact on the consumption of electrical energy dedicated to air conditioning. The central part is the most energy-intensive area compared to the peripheral areas, especially during hot days when the use of air conditioners becomes constant, day and night.
Entropy Generation of CuO-Water Nanofluid in a Cavity with an Intruded Rectangular Fin
Authors: Mountrichas Periklis , Zhao Wendi , Randeva Mehtab Singh , Das Prodip K.
Published: January 2023

Entropy generation and heat transfer in cavities have received significant interest due to the ever-increasing demand for enhancing thermal performances in many scientific and engineering fields. In particular, nanofluids are being used increasingly in engineering applications and real-life problems, as they exhibit significantly better thermal properties than basic heat transfer fluids, for example, water, oil, or ethylene glycol. This study investigates the entropy generation and heat transfer of a nanofluid in a confined cavity with a moving top wall and a rectangular fin at the bottom. Here, a macro-homogeneous model based on a previously developed model is employed for investigating the mixed convective flow and heat transfer of CuO-water nanofluid. Various fin geometries, Rayleigh numbers, Reynolds numbers, and nanofluid concentrations have been employed. Present results indicate that the heat transfer rate can be improved, while entropy generation can be minimized using nanofluids instead of conventional heat transfer fluids.
Improvement of Frequency Support for a DFIG Using a Virtual Synchronous Generator Strategy at Large Power Angles
Authors: Hu Zhishuai , Ren Yongfeng , Meng Qingtian , Yun Pingping , Fang Chenzhi , Pan Yu
Published: January 2023

The frequency regulation rate and operation stability of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based on a virtual synchronous generator (VSG) strategy decreases under large-power-angle conditions, which reduces the grid frequency support capacity. This paper proposes the compound adaptive parameter (CAP) and coordinated primary frequency regulation (CPFR) strategies to improve the grid frequency support capacity in terms of multiple dimensions of the transient properties, operation condition range, and regulation duration. Mathematical and small signal models of the DFIG-VSG system are constructed. The effect of large-power-angle conditions on the transient properties under grid frequency perturbations is analyzed based on these models, and the CAP strategy for excitation control and virtual damping is formulated. The constraints of the rotor kinetic energy and the load increase capacity of the grid-side converter are analyzed, and the CPFR strategy is formulated based on this. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed strategies is verified via simulations of single-machine and wind farm scenarios under grid frequency perturbation.
Recent Progresses on Vanadium Sulfide Cathodes for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Enze , Li Huifang , Zhang Yizhou , Wang Xiaojun , Liu Zhiming
Published: January 2023

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are considered one of the promising large-scale energy storage devices of the future because of their high energy density, simple preparation process, efficient and safe discharge process, abundant zinc reserves, and low cost. However, the development of cathode materials with high capacity and stable structure has become one of the key elements to further development of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Vanadium-based compounds, as one of the cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries, have various structures and high reversible capacities. Among them, vanadium-based sulfides have higher academic ability, better electrochemical activity, lower ion diffusion potential barrier, and a faster ion diffusion rate. As a result, vanadium-based sulfides have received extensive attention and research. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of vanadium-based sulfides applied in aqueous zinc-ion batteries, highlighting their effective strategies for designing optimized electrochemical performance and the underlying electrochemical mechanisms. Finally, an overview is provided of current vanadium-based sulfides and their prospects, and other perspectives on vanadium-based sulfide cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries are also discussed.
Computational Modeling of a Small-Scale, Solar Concentrating Device Based on a Fresnel-Lens Collector and a Flat Plate Receiver with Cylindrical Channels
Authors: Vouros Alexandros , Mathioulakis Emmanouil , Papanicolaou Elias , Belessiotis Vassilis
Published: January 2023

The energy efficiency of a small-scale solar concentrating thermal device is investigated, based on Monte-Carlo Ray-Tracing (MCRT) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling. The device consists of a Fresnel lens collector—engraved on a 1 m rectangular plate—and a 10 cm sized plate receiver, with drilled cylindrical channels with a diameter of 10 mm. Inlet velocities and heat transfer fluid (HTF) temperatures lie within the range of 0.25–1 m/s and 100–200 °C, respectively. The configurations examined involve the utilization of a selective coating on the absorbing surface of the receiver, increasing the channel diameter to 15 mm and the receiver size to 20 cm, and insertion of a glass envelope in front of the absorbing surface. Energy efficiency increases with increasing fluid velocity up to 80%, a level beyond which no further improvement is observed. The coating contributes to a reduction in heat losses; it brings substantial benefits for the lower velocities examined. The increase in channels diameter also contributes to an increase in the energy efficiency, while the increase in receiver dimensions leads to the opposite effect. The glass cover does not improve the performance of the collector, due to substantial optical losses.
Thermodynamic Analysis of an Ethylene Reliquefaction System Using the Entropy-Cycle Method
Authors: Sokolovska-Yefymenko Viktoriia , Morozyuk Larisa , Ierin Volodymyr , Yefymenko Oleksandr
Published: January 2023

In this study, a boil-off gas reliquefaction system that is a part of liquid ethylene gas (LEG) carriers is evaluated. The reliquefaction system is formed by two thermally interconnected two-stage refrigeration cycles. The working fluid of the bottoming cycle is ethylene; the working fluid of the topping cycle is propylene. The research is based on determining the irreversibilities in the reliquefaction system cycles using the entropy-cycle method of thermodynamic analysis. The impact of the process performance in the main components on the reliquefaction system energy efficiency has been evaluated by the entropy-cycle method. The greatest thermodynamic irreversibility is observed in the two-stage compression process of the bottoming cycle (9%), total throttling irreversibility in the reliquefaction system (8.5%), and vapor superheating at the suction into the low stage of the two-stage compressor of the bottoming cycle (8%). The results of the study showed that it is necessary to improve the design of expansion devices using the replacement of throttle devices with ejectors when designing cascade ethylene reliquefaction plants. In addition, when operating such systems much attention should be paid to the condition of the insulation of cargo pipelines and the parameters of the cooling system of the cargo compressor.
Traumatic Optic Neuropathy: Update on Management
Authors: Hosseini Siyanaki Mohammad Reza , Azab Mohammed A. , Lucke-Wold Brandon
Published: January 2023

Traumatic optic neuropathy is one of the causes of visual loss caused by blunt or penetrating head trauma and is classified as both direct and indirect. Clinical history and examination findings usually allow for the diagnosis of traumatic optic neuropathy. There is still controversy surrounding the management of traumatic optic neuropathy; some physicians advocate observation alone, while others recommend steroid therapy, surgery, or both. In this entry, we tried to highlight traumatic optic neuropathy’s main pathophysiologic mechanisms with the most available updated treatment. Recent research suggests future therapies that may be helpful in traumatic optic neuropathy cases.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Epigenomes in 2022
Authors:   Epigenomes Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Distinct Rainfall Interception Profiles among Four Common Pacific Northwest Tree Species
Authors: Fischer Dylan G. , Vieira Spencer T. , Jayakaran Anand D.
Published: January 2023

Forest tree canopies have a critical influence on water cycles through the interception of precipitation. Nevertheless, radial patterns of canopy interception may vary interspecifically. We analyzed canopy interception using catchments along radial transects underneath four common forest tree species (Acer macrophyllum, Alnus rubra, Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Thuja plicata) in the Pacific Northwest over two years. Near the center of the canopy in the leaf-off season, interception was 51.6%–67.2% in conifer species and only 20.1%–40.1% in broadleaf species, and interception declined to 19.9–29.9 for all species near the edge of the canopy. One deciduous species (A. rubra) showed spatially uniform interception during the leaf-off period (19.9%–20.96%), while another varied from 23.1%–40.1%. Patterns were more pronounced in the leaf-on period (under high vapor pressure deficit conditions), where conifers intercepted 36.5%–95.9% of precipitation, depending on the species and position under the canopy. Deciduous species similarly intercepted 42.1%–67.7% of rainfall, depending on species and canopy position. Total throughfall was curvilinearly related to the amount of rainfall near canopy centers for conifer trees but less so for deciduous trees. Soil moisture was predictably related to interception across and within species. These data highlight interspecific differences in radial interception patterns, with consequences for soil moisture, hydrologic processes, and ecosystem function.
Degradation Kinetics of Lignocellulolytic Enzymes in a Biogas Reactor Using Quantitative Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Küchler Jan , Willenbücher Katharina , Reiß Elisabeth , Nuß Lea , Conrady Marius , Ramm Patrice , Schimpf Ulrike , Reichl Udo , Szewzyk Ulrich , Benndorf Dirk
Published: January 2023

The supplementation of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes can be used to enhance the performance of biogas production in industrial biogas plants. Since the structural stability of these enzyme preparations is essential for efficient application, reliable methods for the assessment of enzyme stability are crucial. Here, a mass-spectrometric-based assay was established to monitor the structural stability of enzymes, i.e., the structural integrity of these proteins, in anaerobic digestion (AD). The analysis of extracts of Lentinula edodes revealed the rapid degradation of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes, with an approximate half-life of 1.5 h. The observed low structural stability of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes in AD corresponded with previous results obtained for biogas content. The established workflow can be easily adapted for the monitoring of other enzyme formulations and provides a platform for evaluating the effects of enzyme additions in AD, together with a characterization of the biochemical methane potential used in order to determine the biodegradability of organic substrates.
Improving the Performance of Lightweight Crumb Rubber Mortar Using Synthetic, Natural, and Hybrid Fiber Reinforcements
Authors: Zainal S. M. Iqbal S. , Mattius Debbie , Baba Zulhelmi , Rizalman Ahmad Nurfaidhi , Hejazi Farzad
Published: January 2023

The global market for tires is ever-growing, and partially replacing sand with crumb rubber (CR) as fine aggregates in concrete could reduce environmental pollution. However, the main barrier to the complete usage of recycled tire crumbs in construction is the deterioration effect of CR on the mechanical properties of cement-based composites. Therefore, this paper attempts to improve the fresh and hardened properties of crumb rubber mortar (CRM) by incorporating polypropylene-polyethylene synthetic fibers with coconut and kenaf natural fibers as reinforcements. A total of 18 mix designs were developed with varying fiber combinations and rubber crumb replacement. Subsequently, parametric studies with chemical admixture were conducted at 3, 7, and 28 days to improve the flowability and resulting mechanical properties of the fiber-reinforced CRM. According to the results, the single and hybrid fibers positively improved the mechanical properties of cement mortar at 5–15% CR replacement. It can be concluded that adding single and hybrid fibers enhanced the performance of cement mortar modified with tire crumb rubber aggregates by providing varying degrees of improvement.
Investigation of Fiber-Based Bag Filter Coated with Metal Oxides for Dust Adsorption
Authors: Mariappan Kadarkarainadar Marichelvam , Mariappan Geetha
Published: January 2023

The production of cement increases every year, which leads to the emission of dust/gas/ particulate matter. The emission of unfiltered dust would create a significant environmental impact. Hence, it is the responsibility of industries to control the emission of dust. Air filters and electrostatic precipitators (ESP) play a significant role in controlling pollutants. Synthetic filter media which are dangerous to our environment are widely used in most industries. The disposal of synthetic filters is an arduous task as the biodegradability of synthetic materials is poor. Hence, it is essential to develop an eco-friendly air filter material. In this paper, a new type of bag filter was designed by using natural sisal fiber as filtering media. The biodegradability of sisal fiber is better than the synthetic polyester media and also sisal fiber is less expensive. The natural fibers were coated with zinc oxide and iron oxide nanoparticles to improve the dust adsorption rate. Various tests were conducted as per standards to validate the performance of the filler media. The results were impressive. Hence, the proposed sisal fiber-based filter media can be used in cement industries for dust adsorption to minimize the environmental impact.
Bulk Viscosity of Dilute Gases and Their Mixtures
Authors: Sharma Bhanuday , Kumar Rakesh , Pareek Savitha
Published: January 2023

In this work, we use the Green–Kubo method to study the bulk viscosity of various dilute gases and their mixtures. First, we study the effects of the atomic mass on the bulk viscosity of dilute diatomic gas by estimating the bulk viscosity of four different isotopes of nitrogen gas. We then study the effects of addition of noble gas on the bulk viscosity of dilute nitrogen gas. We consider mixtures of nitrogen with three noble gases, viz., neon, argon, and krypton at eight different compositions between pure nitrogen to pure noble gas. It is followed by an estimation of bulk viscosity of pure oxygen and mixtures of nitrogen and oxygen for various compositions. In this case, three different composition are considered, viz., 25% N2 + 75% O2, 50% N2 + 50% O2, and 78% N2 + 22% O2. The last composition is aimed to represent the dry air. A brief review of works that study the effects of incorporation of bulk viscosity in analysis of various flow situations has also been provided.
Konjac Glucomannan: An Emerging Specialty Medical Food to Aid in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Fang Yimeng , Ma Jiahui , Lei Pengyu , Wang Lei , Qu Junying , Zhao Jing , Liu Fan , Yan Xiaoqing , Wu Wei , Jin Libo , Ji Hao , Sun Da
Published: January 2023

There are many factors causing T2DM; thus, it is difficult to prevent and cure it with conventional treatment. In order to realize the continuous intervention of T2DM, the treatment strategy of combining diet therapy and traditional medication came into being. As a natural product with the concept of being healthy, konjac flour and its derivatives are popular with the public. Its main component, Konjac glucomannan (KGM), can not only be applied as a food additive, which greatly improves the taste and flavor of food and extends the shelf life of food but also occupies an important role in T2DM. KGM can extend gastric emptying time, increase satiety, and promote liver glycogen synthesis, and also has the potential to improve intestinal flora and the metabolic system through a variety of molecular pathways in order to positively regulate oxidative stress and immune inflammation, and protect the liver and kidneys. In order to establish the theoretical justification for the adjunctive treatment of T2DM, we have outlined the physicochemical features of KGM in this article, emphasizing the advantages of KGM as a meal for special medical purposes of T2DM.
Combined Effect of Drying Temperature and Varied Gelatin Concentration on Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Ginger Oil Incorporated Chitosan Based Edible Films
Authors: Bhatia Saurabh , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Ullah Sana , Al-Azri Mohammed Said , Bekhit Alaa El-Din Ahmed , Karam Layal , Albratty Mohammed , Aldawsari Mohammed F. , Anwer Md. Khalid
Published: January 2023

In the present work, ginger essential oil (GEO) loaded chitosan (CS) based films incorporated with varying concentrations of gelatin (GE) were fabricated and dried at different conditions (25 °C and 45 °C). The physio-chemical, mechanical and antioxidant potential of the films were determined. Films dried at 45 °C showed better physical attributes and less thickness, swelling degree (SD), moisture content, water vapor permeability (WVP), more transparency, and better mechanical characteristics. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the chemical composition and interaction between the functional groups of the film components. X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) findings revealed that samples dried at 45 °C had more crystalline structure, were thermally stable, and smoother. Antioxidant results showed that films dried at low temperature showed comparatively more (p < 0.0001) antioxidant activity. Additionally, an increase in gelatin concentration improved the tensile strength and swelling factor (p < 0.05), however, had no significant impact on other parameters. The overall results suggested better characteristics of GEO-loaded CS-GE based edible films when dried at 45 °C.
Rice Labeling according to Grain Quality Features Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Michael , Mendoza Alberto , González Lucy T. , Lima Vieira Alan , Pellerano Roberto Gerardo , Gomes Neto José Anchieta , Ferreira Edilene Cristina
Published: January 2023

Rice is an important source of nutrition and energy consumed around the world. Thus, quality inspection is crucial for protecting consumers and increasing the rice’s value in the productive chain. Currently, methods for rice labeling depending on grain quality features are based on image and/or visual inspection. These methods have shown subjectivity and inefficiency for large-scale analyses. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is an analytical technique showing attractive features due to how quick the analysis can be carried out and its capability of providing spectra that are true fingerprints of the sample’s elemental composition. In this work, LIBS performance was evaluated for labeling rice according to grain quality features. The LIBS spectra of samples with their grain quality numerically described as Type 1, 2, and 3 were measured. Several spectral processing methods were evaluated when modeling a k-nearest neighbors (k-NN) classifier. Variable selection was also carried out by principal component analysis (PCA), and then the optimal k-value was selected. The best result was obtained by applying spectrum smoothing followed by normalization by using the first fifteen principal components (PCs) as input variables and k = 9. Under these conditions, the method showed excellent performance, achieving sample classification with 94% overall prediction accuracy. The sensitivities ranged from 90 to 100%, and specificities were in the range of 92–100%. The proposed method has remarkable characteristics, e.g., analytical speed and analysis guided by chemical responses; therefore, the method is not susceptible to subjectivity errors.
Evaluating Rice Bran Oil as a Dietary Energy Source on Production Performance, Nutritional Properties and Fatty Acid Deposition of Breast Meat in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Al-Abdullatif Abdulaziz , Hussein Elsayed , Suliman Gamaleldin , Akasha Musab , Al-Badwi Mohammed , Ali Hatem , Azzam Mahmoud
Published: January 2023

The effects of rice bran oil (RBO) as an alternative dietary energy source on nutritional properties and fatty acid deposition in broiler chickens are scarce in the literature. One-day-old chickens (broiler Ross 308) were assigned in a completely randomized design with three treatment diets and nine replicates of four chickens per replicate. A basal control diet contained 4~5% palm oil (T1) in the starter and finisher phases, respectively. Treatments 2 to 3 were fed diets formulated with 50% (T2) and 100% (T3) of RBO as a fat source instead of palm oil (PO). Replacing dietary PO with RBO improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR) by 6% (p = 0.017) over the total period of the experiment (1–38 d of age). The feeding of RBO (T3) showed the highest (p < 0.001) cooking loss values in the breast meat. However, compared with other groups, the blend of PO and RBO group (T2) displayed a lower cooking loss value in the thigh meat. In breast meat, the protein content was lowered (p = 0.007), while the fat content was higher (p < 0.001) in male broiler chickens fed dietary RBO (T2 and T3). Total inclusion of dietary RBO (T3) decreased (p = 0.034) the proportion of saturated fatty acids (ΣSFAs) but increased (p = 0.02) linoleic acid. In addition, α-linolenic acid (ALA) increased (p < 0.001) in male broiler chickens fed dietary RBO (T2 and T3), and the highest deposit level occurred by the total inclusion of RBO (T3). Total omega 3 fatty acids (∑n-3) increased (p = 0.013), while the ratio of n-6 to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) decreased (p = 0.046) in male broiler chickens fed dietary RBO (T3) as compared with the control diet (PO; T1). In conclusion, compared with dietary PO (control diet, T1), the total inclusion of dietary RBO at 50 kg/metric ton feed (T3) increased ∑n-3, ALA, and reduced n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio in the breast meat, but cooking loss values were larger in breast and thigh meats. The blend of dietary PO and RBO (T2) was better for both production performance targets (feed intake and FCR), cooking loss values, and deposition of ALA in the breast meat. The inclusion of dietary RBO into broiler diets needs further study, but the present experiment aids in expanding research knowledge to make that possible.
Novel Liquor-Based Hot Sauce: Physicochemical Attributes, Volatile Compounds, Sensory Evaluation, Consumer Perception, Emotions, and Purchase Intent
Authors: Aleman Ricardo S. , Marcía Jhunior A. , Montero-Fernández Ismael , King Joan , Pournaki Shirin Kazemzadeh , Hoskin Roberta Targino , Moncada Marvin
Published: January 2023

Hot sauces are popular peppery condiments used to add flavor and sensory excitement to gastronomical preparations. While hot sauce occupies a retail category well over a century old, a novel production method using liquor as the base preservative rather than traditional vinegar is now commercially available, and its uniqueness begs study. Hot sauces produced with tequila, rum, vodka, and bourbon were compared to traditional vinegar-based hot sauces concerning physicochemical properties, volatile compounds, microbiological quality, sensory scores, emotions, and purchase intent (PI). Under accelerated conditions, pH, titratable acidity (TA), water activity (Aw), viscosity, and color were analyzed weekly for 20 weeks, whereas rheological properties, coliforms and yeasts and molds were examined on weeks 1 and 20. Hexyl n-valerate, butanoic acid, 3-methyl-, hexyl ester, and 4-methylpentyl 3-methylbutanoate were found in high concentrations in the pepper mix as well as the hot sauce produced with vinegar. When compared to vinegar-based hot sauces, liquor-based hot sauces had similar Aw (p > 0.05), higher pH, viscosity, and L* values and lower TA, a*, and b* values (p < 0.05). Samples formulated with liquors increased the relaxation exponent derived from G’ values having a greater paste formation when compared to vinegar-based hot sauces. The sensory evaluation was carried out in Honduras. The liquor-based hot sauces had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on emotion and wellness terms. Bourbon and tequila samples had higher ratings than control samples in several wellness and emotion responses (active, energetic, enthusiastic, good, curious, pleased, stimulated, and wild). Adventurous, joyful, free, worried, refreshed, and healthy scores were not significantly (p > 0.05) different among treatments.
Lid Films of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)/Microfibrillated Cellulose Composites for Fatty Food Preservation
Authors: Hernández-García Eva , Chiralt Amparo , Vargas Maria , Torres-Giner Sergio
Published: January 2023

The present work evaluates the food packaging performance of previously developed films of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) reinforced with atomized microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) compatibilized by a reactive melt-mixing process. To this end, the novel green composite films were originally applied herein as lids in aluminum trays to preserve two dissimilar types of fatty foods, namely minced pork meat and sunflower oil. Results indicated that the PHBV/MFC films effectively preserved the physicochemical and microbiological quality of pork meat for one week of storage at 5 °C. In particular, the compatibilized green composite lid film yielded the lowest weight loss and highest oxidative stability, showing values of 0.935% and 0.78 malonaldehyde (MDA)/kg. Moreover, none of the packaged meat samples exceeded the acceptable Total Aerobial Count (TAC) level of 5 logs colony-forming units (CFU)/g due to the improved barrier properties of the lids. Furthermore, the green composite films successfully prevented sunflower oil oxidation in accelerated oxidative storage conditions for 21 days. Similarly, the compatibilized PHBV/MFC lid film led to the lowest peroxide value (PV) and conjugated diene and triene contents, with respective values of 19.5 meq O2/kg and 2.50 and 1.44 g/100 mL. Finally, the migration of the newly developed PHBV-based films was assessed using two food simulants, proving to be safe since their overall migration levels were in the 1–3 mg/dm2 range and, thus, below the maximum level established by legislation.
Design and Volatile Compound Profiling of Starter Cultures for Yogurt Preparation
Authors: Krastanov Albert , Georgiev Marin , Slavchev Aleksandar , Blazheva Denica , Goranov Bogdan , Ibrahim Salam A.
Published: January 2023

Stable symbiotic starter cultures were created using selected strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus with antimicrobial activity against pathogens and necessary antibiotic sensitivity, growth kinetic parameters, and metabolic profiles. The volatile compound profiles of the obtained starter cultures were determined and their specificity was proven depending on the ratio of monocultures in each combination. The influence of the freeze-drying process on the starter cultures in relation to the production of aromatic components was investigated and it was demonstrated that this process had a significant effect on the content of the aroma-forming substances in the fermented milk. However, the influence of the pre-cooling process and crude fat content from 1.5 to 3.0% did not notably affect the levels of volatile compounds synthesized by the selected starter cultures. Comprehensive data for all volatile aromatic metabolites in the fermented milk were also obtained. These designed symbiotic starter cultures can be used to produce traditional Bulgarian yogurt with increased functional and probiotic properties.
Non-Thermal Plasma Decontamination Using a Multi-Hollow Surface Dielectric Barrier Discharge: Impact of Food Matrix Composition on Bactericidal Efficacy
Authors: De Baerdemaeker Klaas , Van Reepingen Amber , Nikiforov Anton , De Meulenaer Bruno , De Geyter Nathalie , Devlieghere Frank
Published: January 2023

The non-thermal plasma (NTP) treatment of food products as an alternative for thermal processing has been investigated over the last few years. This quasi-neutral gas contains a wide variety of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), which could be lethal for bacterial cells present in the product. However, apart from only targeting bacteria, the RONS will also interact with components present in the food matrix. Therefore, these food components will protect the microorganisms, and the NTP treatment efficiency will decrease. This effect was investigated by supplementing a plain agar medium with various representative food matrix components. After inoculation with Escherichia coli O157:H7 (STEC) MB3885, the plates were treated for 30 s by a multi-hollow surface dielectric barrier discharge (MSDBD) generated in either dry air or air at 75% humidity, at constant power (25.7 ± 1.7 W). Subsequently, the survival of the cells was quantified. It has been found that the addition of casein hydrolysate (7.1 ± 0.2 m%), starch (2.0 m%), or soybean oil (4.6 m%) decreased the inactivation effect significantly. Food products containing these biomolecules might therefore need a more severe NTP treatment. Additionally, with increasing humidity of the plasma input gas, ozone levels decreased, and the bactericidal effect was generally less pronounced.
Anxiolytic/Sedative Effect of Monoterpene (–)-Borneol in Mice and In Silico Molecular Interaction with GABAA Receptor
Authors: Amaral Maurício Pires de Moura do , Silva Junior Marcelo Pereira da , Lima Francisco das Chagas Alves , Gutierrez Stanley Juan Chavez , Arcanjo Daniel Dias Rufino , Oliveira Rita de Cássia Meneses
Published: January 2023

Anxiety is a normal behavioral component. When it is too frequent or appears in inappropriate contexts, it can be considered pathological. Benzodiazepines (BDZs) are drugs with clinical success in anxiety treatment. BDZs act as allosteric modulators of the γ- aminobutyric acid A receptor (GABAAR). However, these drugs cause adverse effects. Despite the therapeutic advances obtained with BDZs, the search for anxiolytics with fewer adverse effects is ongoing. Studies with monoterpene (–)-borneol [(–)-BOR] demonstrated pharmacological properties such as a partial agonist effect of GABAAR and an anticonvulsive effect. On the other hand, no work has been developed evaluating the anxiolytic/sedative potential. The objective of this study was to investigate the anxiolytic/sedative effects of (–)-BOR in animal models at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg (i.p.) and whether there was a molecular interaction with GABAAR. The anxiolytic effect of monoterpene (–)-BOR was tested on Swiss mice (25–30 g) in three anxiety models: the elevated plus maze test, the open field test, and the light-dark box test. The thiopental-induced sleep time model was a drug screen for the sedative and hypnotic activity related to GABAARs. In the molecular docking, the interaction between the GABAAR molecule and (–)-BOR was performed using the AutoDock 4.2.6 program. The results demonstrated that (–)-BOR has sedative and anxiolytic activity. The molecular docking study revealed that (–)-BOR can interact with GABAARs through hydrogen bonds.
COVID-19 Activities: Publicness and Strategic Concerns
Authors: Sandler Todd
Published: January 2023

This paper considers the diverse public good characteristics of COVID-19 activities along with their strategic implications. The underlying aggregator technologies, which relate individual contributions to the amount consumed, affect the prognosis for the supply of COVID-related activities. Weakest-link activities assume a particularly pivotal role in curbing the spread of COVID-19. For instance, the propagation of COVID-19 through new strains is disproportionately influenced by those countries with the smallest vaccination rates or least isolation actions. Diverse income distribution among at-risk countries raises the need to “shore up” weakest-link countries’ provision to lift global supply. Generally, shoring-up actions result in a Prisoner’s Dilemma with unfavorable collective action prospects. As the number of countries requiring shoring up increases, the less favorable is the prospect for addressing provision shortfalls. Also, as the number of capable countries to do the shoring up increases, the prospect for successful action diminishes. The paper also examines the strategic implications of other aggregators—e.g., best shot and better shot—associated with COVID-inhibiting actions. To address best-shot anti-COVID actions, countries must pool or coordinate actions to meet a threshold. A host of institutions—e.g., the World Health Organization or public-private partnerships—can facilitate shoring-up weakest-link activities or coordinating best-shot actions.
The Transformational Power of Frequency Phase Transfer Methods for ngEHT
Authors: Rioja María J. , Dodson Richard , Asaki Yoshiharu
Published: January 2023

(Sub) mm VLBI observations are strongly hindered by limited sensitivity, with the fast tropospheric fluctuations being the dominant culprit. We predict great benefits from applying next-generation frequency phase transfer calibration techniques for the next generation Event Horizon Telescope (ngEHT), using simultaneous multi-frequency observations. We present comparative simulation studies to characterise its performance, the optimum configurations, and highlight the benefits of including observations at 85 GHz along with the 230 and 340 GHz bands. The results show a transformational impact on the ngEHT array capabilities, with orders of magnitude improved sensitivity, observations routinely possible over the whole year, and ability to carry out micro-arcsecond astrometry measurements at the highest frequencies, amongst others. This will enable the addressing of a host of innovative open scientific questions in astrophysics. We present a solution for highly scatter-broadened sources such as SgrA*, a prime ngEHT target. We conclude that adding the 85 GHz band provides a pathway to an optimum and robust performance for ngEHT in sub-millimeter VLBI, and strongly recommmend its inclusion in the simultaneous multi-frequency receiver design.
Effect of Grape Seed Extract on Gelatin-Based Edible 3D-Hydrogels for Cultured Meat Application
Authors: Rao Kummara Madhusudana , Kim Hyeon Jin , Won Soyeon , Choi Soon Mo , Han Sung Soo
Published: January 2023

Cell-cultured meat, which is artificial meat made by in vitro cultivation of animal-derived cells, has attracted a lot of interest as a potential source of protein in the future. Porous hydrogels are crucial components that can be used as an artificial extracellular matrix (ECM) to provide cell growth for generating cultured meat. In this study, we highlight the effects of grape seed extract (proanthocyanidins, PC) on the physicochemical and biological functions (bovine satellite muscle cell (BSC) growth and adhesion) of an edible gelatin (GL)-based hydrogel. The freeze-dried hydrogels had good compressive characteristics with pore sizes ranging from 100 to 300 μm. BSCs were able to grow and attach to porous GL-PC hydrogels. These studies suggested that the developed hydrogels using edible materials and made by employing a low-cost method may serve in the cell growth of muscle cells for cultured meat applications.
New Paradigm in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Grafting Techniques Using 3D-Bioprinted Autologous Minimally Manipulated Homologous Adipose Tissue (3D-AMHAT) with Fibrin Gel Acting as a Biodegradable Scaffold
Authors: Bajuri Mohd Yazid , Kim Jeehee , Yu Yeongseo , Shahul Hameed Muhammad Shazwan
Published: January 2023

Adipose tissue is an abundant source of extracellular substances that support the tissue repair process. This pilot study was carried out to determine the efficacy of 3D-bioprinted autologous adipose tissue grafts on diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), with fibrin gel used to stabilise the graft. This was a single-arm pilot study in a tertiary hospital that provides diabetic wound care services. A total of 10 patients with a DFU were enrolled, and the primary endpoint was complete healing within 12 weeks. The secondary endpoints were wound size reduction, time to healing, and adverse events. Seven out of ten patients showed complete healing of their DFU within 12 weeks (at 2, 4, 5, 10, and 12 weeks, respectively). The wound size reduction rate was significantly and progressively reduced over time. According to our data, autologous adipose tissue grafting using a 3D bioprinter, with the addition of fibrin gel that acts as a scaffold, promotes wound healing with high-quality skin reconstruction. Throughout this study period, no adverse events were observed.
Ground Investigations and Detection and Monitoring of Landslides Using SAR Interferometry in Gangtok, Sikkim Himalaya
Authors: Bhasin Rajinder , Aslan Gökhan , Dehls John
Published: January 2023

The Himalayan state of Sikkim is prone to some of the world’s largest landslides, which have caused catastrophic damage to lives, properties, and infrastructures in the region. The settlements along the steep valley sides are particularly subject to frequent rainfall-triggered landslide events during the monsoon season. The region has also experienced smaller rock slope failures (RSF) after the 2011 Sikkim earthquake. The surface displacement field is a critical observable for determining landslide depth and constraining failure mechanisms to develop effective mitigation techniques that minimise landslide damage. In the present study, the persistent scatterers InSAR (PSI) method is employed to process the series of Sentinel 1-A/B synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images acquired between 2015 and 2021 along ascending and descending orbits for the selected areas in Gangtok, Sikkim, to detect potentially active, landslide-prone areas. InSAR-derived ground surface displacements and their spatio-temporal evolutions are combined with field investigations to better understand the state of activity and landslide risk assessment. Field investigations confirm the ongoing ground surface displacements revealed by the InSAR results. Some urban areas have been completely abandoned due to the structural damage to residential housing, schools, and office buildings caused by displacement. This paper relates the geotechnical investigations carried out on the ground to the data obtained through interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), focusing on the triggering mechanisms. A strong correlation between seasonal rainfall and landslide acceleration, as well as predisposing geological-structural setting, suggest a causative mechanism of the landslides.
The Usefulness of Tissue Calprotectin in Pediatric Crohn’s Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Szymanska Edyta , Szymanska Sylwia , Karkucińska-Więckowska Agnieszka , Wierzbicka Aldona , Kierkus Jaroslaw , Dadalski Maciej
Published: January 2023

Background: Fecal calprotectin (FCP) is a highly sensitive biomarker of intestinal inflammation widely used in diagnostics and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Immunohistochemical assessment of calprotectin in the bowel mucosa is not a diagnostic standard. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate tissue calprotectin (TCP) as a potential marker providing added insight for pediatric patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). Methods: Fecal and tissue calprotectin were measured in children with CD. The values were correlated with disease activity and histopathological changes of the patients’ endoscopic biopsies. Disease activity was assessed using the Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (PCDAI); fecal calprotectin (FCP) was measured with the ELISA test. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for calprotectin antigen was performed on the biopsy samples from six bowel segments, and the number of TCP cells was counted per high power field (HPF). Non-parametric statistical tests were used for data analysis. Results: Fifty-seven children with CD with a median age of 10.5 (1–17) years (yrs) were examined for fecal and tissue calprotectin. The patients’ median PCDAI score was 10 (0–63.5), while median FCP was 535 (30–600) μg/g. We observed a correlation between disease activity (PCDAI) and FCP, TCP in inflammatory lesions and in crypts. There was no association either between FCP and TCP or between TCP in epithelium and PCDAI. Conclusion: It seems that IHC detection of calprotectin in bowel mucosa to assess disease behavior may be useful. FCP is a gold-standard biomarker in the diagnosis, monitoring and prognosis of IBD, and its levels correlated well with clinical activity in our study group.