bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Deep Learning Approach for Brain Tumor Firmness Detection Based on Five Different YOLO Versions: YOLOv3–YOLOv7
Authors: Alhussainan Norah Fahd , Ben Youssef Belgacem , Ben Ismail Mohamed Maher
Published: March 2024

Brain tumor diagnosis traditionally relies on the manual examination of magnetic resonance images (MRIs), a process that is prone to human error and is also time consuming. Recent advancements leverage machine learning models to categorize tumors, such as distinguishing between “malignant” and “benign” classes. This study focuses on the supervised machine learning task of classifying “firm” and “soft” meningiomas, critical for determining optimal brain tumor treatment. The research aims to enhance meningioma firmness detection using state-of-the-art deep learning architectures. The study employs a YOLO architecture adapted for meningioma classification (Firm vs. Soft). This YOLO-based model serves as a machine learning component within a proposed CAD system. To improve model generalization and combat overfitting, transfer learning and data augmentation techniques are explored. Intra-model analysis is conducted for each of the five YOLO versions, optimizing parameters such as the optimizer, batch size, and learning rate based on sensitivity and training time. YOLOv3, YOLOv4, and YOLOv7 demonstrate exceptional sensitivity, reaching 100%. Comparative analysis against state-of-the-art models highlights their superiority. YOLOv7, utilizing the SGD optimizer, a batch size of 64, and a learning rate of 0.01, achieves outstanding overall performance with metrics including mean average precision (99.96%), precision (98.50%), specificity (97.95%), balanced accuracy (98.97%), and F1-score (99.24%). This research showcases the effectiveness of YOLO architectures in meningioma firmness detection, with YOLOv7 emerging as the optimal model. The study’s findings underscore the significance of model selection and parameter optimization for achieving high sensitivity and robust overall performance in brain tumor classification.
In and out Beauty and Sensitive Skin, a Psychophysiological Exploration: Myth or Reality?
Authors: Falcao Leila , Nachat-Kappes Rachida , Filaire Edith
Published: March 2024

Knowing that biomolecules, such as β-amyrin and α-amyrin, have some pharmacological effects, the aim of this study was directed towards exploring the protective effect of Tomato Peel and Seed Extract (TPSE) for its soothing function but also for its capacity to modulate the adrenal axis, which is involved in stress response. Ex vivo tests were carried out on skin explants to evaluate the effectiveness of TPSE formulated at 0.5% on Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and IL-10 release, Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR), and Caspase 14 expression. An in vivo study combined a clinical evaluation of skin homogeneity and psychological parameters as well as an analysis of salivary cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations. All measurements were carried out at the beginning and after 28 days of applying a TPSE face cream. TPSE regulated not only the release of CGRP, IL-10, and the expression of Caspase 14, reflecting anti-neurogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, but also modulated KORs. Twenty-eight days of TPSE application induced a significant decrease in intensity and extent erythrosis, a lower output of salivary cortisol, and a significant increase in pleasant emotions when compared to placebo. These results provide encouragement to continue exploring the impact of cosmetic ingredients on psychophysiological parameters to improve skin health and well-being.
The Season and Decade of Birth Affect Dairy Cow Longevity
Authors: Bobadilla Pablo Ernesto , López-Villalobos Nicolás , Sotelo Fernando , Damián Juan Pablo
Published: March 2024

Dairy cow longevity is associated with three key areas: animal welfare, the economy, and the environment. In pastoral dairy systems, cows are exposed to environmental hardships and variations in feed supply associated with the seasonal growth of pastures. The objectives of this study were to generate base parameters for longevity and evaluate the effect of season and decade of birth on herd life (HL) and length of productive life (LPL) for dairy cows in pasture-based production. Records from the Dairy Herd Improvement Database at the Instituto Nacional para el Control y Mejoramiento Lechero (Uruguay) were extracted. The dataset contained 313,146 cows born between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2019, classified by decade and season of birth. HL and LPL were calculated for each cow. The effects of season of birth, decade of birth, and the interaction between them on HL and LPL were evaluated using a generalized mixed model. The mean HL was 73.4 and mean LPL was 42.0 months. Cows born in spring had longer LPL and HL (p < 0.001). Cows born in the 2010s had significantly shorter HL (12.8 months) and LPL (9.14 months) (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the season and decade of birth have an impact on the longevity of cows in pastoral-based systems. This study is the first to demonstrate the effect of season of birth on long-term longevity.
Anti-Shigellosis Activity and Mechanisms of Action of Extracts from Diospyros gilletii Stem Bark
Authors: Nguelo Talla Audrey Carrel , Madiesse Kemgne Eugénie Aimée , Ngouana Vincent , Noumboue Kouamou Bijou-Lafortune , Nzeye Ngameni Listone Monelle , Pinlap Brice Rostan , Dongmo Melogmo Yanick Kevin , Nguena-Dongue Branly-Natalien , Pone Kamdem Boniface , Keilah Lunga Paul , Fekam Boyom Fabrice
Published: March 2024

Shigellosis is a pathological condition that affects the digestive system and possibly causes diarrhoea. Shigella species, which are responsible for this disease, are highly contagious and spread through contaminated food and water. The increasing development of resistance by Shigella species necessitates the urgent need to search for new therapies against diarrhoea-causing shigellosis. The scientific validation of medicinal plants, such as Diospyros gilletii, which is used for the traditional treatment of diarrhoeal conditions is worthwhile. The present study aims to investigate the antibacterial activity of extracts from D. gilletii against selected Shigella species. Extracts from D. gilletii stem bark were prepared by maceration using various solvents. The antibacterial activity of D. gilletii extracts was evaluated in Shigella dysenteriae, S. flexneri, S. boydii, and S. sonnei using a microdilution method, whereas a cytotoxicity test was performed on Vero and Raw cells using resazurin-based colorimetric assays. Bacterial membrane-permeability studies were evaluated using propidium iodide (PI)- and 1-N-phenyl-naphthylamine (NPN)-uptake assays, whereas inhibition and eradication tests on bacterial biofilms were carried out by spectrophotometry. As a result, methanol, ethanol and hydroethanol (water: ethanol; 30:70, v/v) extracts of D. gilletii inhibited the growth of S. boydii, S. flexneri and S. sonnei, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 125 to 500 µg/mL, without toxicity to Vero and Raw cells. Time-kill kinetics revealed bactericidal orientation at 2 MIC and 4 MIC and a bacteriostatic outcome at 1/2 MIC. The mechanistic basis of antibacterial action revealed that D. gilletii extracts inhibited and eradicated Shigella biofilms and promoted the accumulation of NPN and PI within the inner and outer membranes of bacteria to increase membrane permeability, thereby causing membrane damage. This novel contribution toward the antibacterial mechanisms of action of D. gilletii extracts against Shigella species substantiates the use of this plant in the traditional treatment of infectious diarrhoea.
Discharge Coefficients of Standard Spillways at High Altitudes
Authors: Rendón Víctor , Sánchez-Juny Martí , Estrella Soledad , Sanz-Ramos Marcos , Rucano Percy , Huarca Pulcha Alan
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an experimental campaign conducted next to the Condoroma dam, in Perú, at 4075 m a.s.l. The tests carried out in this paper were conducted in a 21 m long channel located at the toe of Condoroma dam. The setup consisted of a series of standard profile spillways with a vertical upstream face of up to five different dimensionless heights (P/Hd) ranging from 0.5 to 2. The experimental results indicated that, the P/Hd ratio influences the discharge coefficients in Condoroma, and P/Hd ≥ 1 values are recommended for the design of the spillway profile. In addition, for all the P/Hd ratios studied, the discharge coefficients adjusted to the Condoroma altitude were lower than those reported by classical formulations used in conventional spillway designs. Finally, a generalized equation is proposed to estimate the discharge coefficient for standard spillways located in dams at similar elevations above sea level.
Quality Control Methods Using Quality Characteristics in Development and Operations
Authors: Kato Daiju , Ishikawa Hiroshi
Published: March 2024

Since the Software Quality Model was defined as an international standard, many quality assurance teams have used this quality model in a waterfall model for software development and quality control. As more software is delivered as a cloud service, various methodologies have been created with an awareness of the link between development productivity and operations, enabling faster development. However, most development methods are development-oriented with awareness of development progress, and there has been little consideration of methods that achieve quality orientation for continuous quality improvement and monitoring. Therefore, we developed a method to visualize the progress of software quality during development by defining quality goals in the project charter using the quality model defined in international standards, classifying each test by quality characteristics, and clarifying the quality ensured by each test. This was achieved by classifying each test by quality characteristics and clarifying the quality ensured by each test. To use quality characteristics as KPIs, it is necessary to manage test results for each test type and compare them with past build results. This paper explains how to visualize the quality to be assured and the benefits of using quality characteristics as KPIs and proposes a method to achieve rapid and high-quality product development.
Decoding the Relationship of Artificial Intelligence, Advertising, and Generative Models
Authors: Lim Camille Velasco , Zhu Yu-Peng , Omar Muhammad , Park Han-Woo
Published: March 2024

Although artificial intelligence technologies have provided valuable insights into the advertising industry, more comprehensive studies that properly examine the applications of AI in advertising using scientometric network analysis are needed. Using publications from journals indexed in the Web of Science, we seek to analyze the emergence of AI through the examination of keyword co-occurrences and co-authorship. Our goal is to identify essential concepts and influential research that have significantly impacted the advertising business. The findings highlight noteworthy patterns, indicating the growing importance of machine learning tools and techniques such as deep learning, and advanced natural language processing methods like word2vec, GANs, and others, as well as their societal impacts as they continue to define the future of advertising practices.
Creating Location-Based Mobile Applications for Tourism: A Virtual AR Guide for Western Macedonia
Authors: Evagelou Athanasios , Kleftodimos Alexandros , Lappas Georgios
Published: March 2024

Augmented reality (AR) applications are currently used in many fields for communication and educational purposes. Tourism is also a sector where augmented reality is used for destination marketing and cultural heritage promotion. This study will focus on mobile location-based AR applications and their potential in tourism. Such applications can guide tourists to places of interest and enhance their overall experience. The aim of this paper is to present a mobile application that was created for tourists visiting the region of Western Macedonia, Greece. The application was developed in order to guide the users in the region, entertain them, and educate them about the region’s sights, cultural heritage, and other special characteristics. The paper also aims to present a large set of features that are present in the application, including various types of AR (marker-based, markerless, and location-based) in order to provide designers who wish to create AR applications for tourism with new ideas. The application was validated by a usability test, and its features were evaluated by 39 participants who completed a questionnaire with 29 Likert-scale items. This procedure revealed the level of acceptance for the application features, and valuable feedback was also received during a discussion with the participants about how the application could be upgraded in the future.
Accessibility, Functioning, and Activities of Daily Living with Visual Impairment amongst Adults from Minority Ethnic Communities in the UK
Authors: Kempapidis Theofilos , Heinze Nikki , Green Asharee K. , Gomes Renata S. M.
Published: March 2024

Visual impairment (V.I.) has been associated with a negative impact on activities of daily living (ADL) and navigation outside the home. Adults from minority ethnic communities are projected to make up an increasing proportion of the V.I. population in the UK, yet the evidence relating to their experiences of living with V.I. is limited. This article uses data collected by the V.I. Lives Survey, between December 2019 and November 2020. Using secondary analysis of anonymised survey data, this article explores self-reported functioning relating to ADL, navigation outside of the home, and use of technology to access information in a matched control sample of adults from minority ethnic (MEC) and white communities (WC). The findings showed that most issues relating to self-efficacy, accessibility of public environments, and technology were significantly more important to MEC than WC participants. A significantly higher proportion of MEC participants required frequent help with cooking, received support for ADL from siblings and other family members, and had their shopping delivered. WC participants were significantly more likely to receive help with shopping from their spouse/partner and use public transport as much as they liked. Future research will need to confirm these findings in a larger sample and explore the reasons for them.
A Blockwise Bootstrap-Based Two-Sample Test for High-Dimensional Time Series
Authors: Yang Lin
Published: March 2024

We propose a two-sample testing procedure for high-dimensional time series. To obtain the asymptotic distribution of our ℓ∞-type test statistic under the null hypothesis, we establish high-dimensional central limit theorems (HCLTs) for an α-mixing sequence. Specifically, we derive two HCLTs for the maximum of a sum of high-dimensional α-mixing random vectors under the assumptions of bounded finite moments and exponential tails, respectively. The proposed HCLT for α-mixing sequence under bounded finite moments assumption is novel, and in comparison with existing results, we improve the convergence rate of the HCLT under the exponential tails assumption. To compute the critical value, we employ the blockwise bootstrap method. Importantly, our approach does not require the independence of the two samples, making it applicable for detecting change points in high-dimensional time series. Numerical results emphasize the effectiveness and advantages of our method.
Developing Creative Potential in School Children through Museums as Cultural Institutions: A Case Study in Madrid, Spain
Authors: Ponce-Delgado Abel , Pocevičienė Rasa , Rubira-García Rainer
Published: March 2024

This study has the aim of providing a theoretical–methodological strategy for the design and implementation of educational programs that favor the development of children’s creative potential in the context of museums as cultural institutions. It was carried out in two schools with the collaboration of the National Museum of Natural Sciences and the Royal Botanical Garden in Madrid, Spain, during an entire academic year. The emphasis of the procedure is based on multi-stakeholder participation and a multidisciplinary approach through workshops based on a collaborative methodology that promotes communication between the school as an institution, the teachers, and the museum facilitators, during the various phases of the intervention. The work with the children is supported by the creative problem-solving (CPS) methodology through the development of workshops in the museums, where the children were able to be the protagonists and manage their own learning process. The obtained results show the relevance of assuming a set of methodological principles and resources that can be replicated in future intervention programs, among which the school–museum collaborative communication, creative problem solving, the use of activity records, and the role of games and fantasy as mediators in the stimulation of creativity stand out.
The Translation and Preliminary Psychometric Validation of the Ghosting Questionnaire in Urdu
Authors: Husain Waqar , Sadiqa Asma , Zahid Eman , Idrees Fatima , Ammar Achraf , Saif Zahra , Trabelsi Khaled , Pandi-Perumal Seithikurippu R. , Seeman Mary V. , Jahrami Haitham
Published: March 2024

Background: “Ghosting” refers to the practice of abruptly cutting off all contact with a person with whom you have been in constant correspondence. The break comes without warning and without understandable provocation. The term most commonly applies to online romantic relationships. The motives for and effects of ghosting have been studied, and validated research questionnaires have been developed; however, there are no such questionnaires available for Urdu speakers. The purpose of this study was to adapt the “Ghosting Questionnaire (GQ)” for use in Pakistan and India, two of the world’s most populous countries—a process that involves translation, adaptation, and validation. Methods: The study’s methodology involved translating the GQ into Urdu using both forward and backward translation techniques. Convergent validity, test–retest reliability, internal consistency, confirmatory factor analysis, and goodness of fit were all components of the psychometric analyses. Conclusions: The Urdu version of the GQ demonstrated a good internal consistency, with the Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega both exceeding 0.90. It also showed a high test–retest reliability—(0.96). The one-factor structure was confirmed by the confirmatory factor analysis, which agreed with the original English version of the GQ.
Self-Evaluation of Trajectory Predictors for Autonomous Driving
Authors: Karle Phillip , Furtner Lukas , Lienkamp Markus
Published: March 2024

Driving experience and anticipatory driving are essential skills for humans to operate vehicles in complex environments. In the context of autonomous vehicles, the software must offer the related features of scenario understanding and motion prediction. The latter feature of motion prediction is extensively researched with several competing large datasets, and established methods provide promising results. However, the incorporation of scenario understanding has been sparsely investigated. It comprises two aspects. First, by means of scenario understanding, individual assumptions of an object’s behavior can be derived to adaptively predict its future motion. Second, scenario understanding enables the detection of challenging scenarios for autonomous vehicle software to prevent safety-critical situations. Therefore, we propose a method incorporating scenario understanding into the motion prediction task to improve adaptivity and avoid prediction failures. This is realized by an a priori evaluation of the scenario based on semantic information. The evaluation adaptively selects the most accurate prediction model but also recognizes if no model is capable of accurately predicting this scenario and high prediction errors are expected. The results on the comprehensive scenario library CommonRoad reveal a decrease in the Euclidean prediction error by 81.0% and a 90.8% reduction in mispredictions of our method compared to the benchmark model.
Development of a Homogenized Finite Element Model for Pouch Lithium-Ion Battery Cells Considering Porosity and Pressure Sensitivity
Authors: Jeong Hyun-Yong , Park Jinwoo
Published: March 2024

In light of the growing safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries integrated in electric automobiles, there is an escalating need to explore the mechanical behavior of lithium-ion batteries under diverse loading conditions using finite element simulations. In this paper, a homogenized finite element model was proposed to predict the material behavior of pouch lithium-ion cells using finite element simulations under various loading conditions. This homogenized model consisted of four layers of solid elements wrapped by shell elements, and it was made to consider especially the porosity and the pressure sensitivity of a pouch cell. The material properties of this homogenized model were calibrated based on the out-of-plane compression, in-plane confined compression, and 3-point bending test data for a single cell. The simulations using the model exhibited good agreement with the experimental load-displacement data not only for a single cell but also for two stacked cells. Additionally, the effects of the pouch and the vacuum on the mechanical behavior were examined.
Assessment of Energy Self-Sufficiency of Wastewater Treatment Plants—A Case Study from Poland
Authors: Masłoń Adam , Czarnota Joanna , Szczyrba Paulina , Szaja Aleksandra , Szulżyk-Cieplak Joanna , Łagód Grzegorz
Published: March 2024

Currently, one of the main goals is to make municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) energy-neutral. However, advanced wastewater treatments and sewage sludge processing are still classified as highly energy-intensive. In this study, the energy self-sufficiency potential assessment of the WWTP located in Krosno (Poland) was evaluated. Moreover, the possible paths for improving the energy balance of the analyzed facility are presented in this paper. The performed evaluation indicated that in 2016–2019, the energy consumption at WWTP Krosno varied from 0.25 to 0.71 kWh/m3 of wastewater (average 0.51 kWh/m3), and the highest energy utilization values in each year were recorded around the summer season. An analysis of the data showed that as the pollutant load flowing into the WWTP increased, its energy utilization decreased. Such results indicate that the treatment cost per cubic meter decreases as the load increases due to the capital cost being the same. The estimated self-sufficiency of the facility in the years analyzed was 50.5%. The average energy recovery from 1 m3 of wastewater was 0.27 kWh/m3, and the average energy recovery from 1 m3 of biogas was 1.54 kWh/m3. Since the energy balance of this wastewater treatment plant, determined primarily by the continuously increasing cost of energy purchases, has to be improved, two courses of action were identified that will allow for increasing self-sufficiency. The co-digestion strategy was indicated as the easiest solution to implement, given the on-going anaerobic stabilization of sewage sludge at this WWTP. Moreover, the possible co-substrates that can be obtained from local suppliers were indicated. The second course of action, which requires a thorough economic analysis, is sludge pre-treatment, which might improve sewage sludge properties, resulting in a more favorable biogas yield.
Strategies for Improving the Resiliency of Distribution Networks in Electric Power Systems during Typhoon and Water-Logging Disasters
Authors: Ma Nan , Xu Ziwen , Wang Yijun , Liu Guowei , Xin Lisheng , Liu Dafu , Liu Ziyu , Shi Jiaju , Chen Chen
Published: March 2024

Coastal cities often face typhoons and urban water logs, which can cause power outages and significant economic losses. Therefore, it is necessary to study the impact of these disasters on urban distribution networks and improve their flexibility. This paper presents a method for predicting power-grid failure rates in typhoons and water logs and suggests a strategy for improving network elasticity after the disaster. It is crucial for the operation and maintenance of power distribution systems during typhoon and water-logging disasters. By mapping the wind speed and water depth at the corresponding positions in the evolution of wind and water logging disasters to the vulnerability curve, the failure probability of the corresponding nodes is obtained, the fault scenario is generated randomly, and the proposed dynamic reconstruction method, which can react in real-time to the damage the distribution system received, has been tested on a modified 33-node and a 118-node distribution network, with 3 and 11 distribution generators loaded, respectively. The results proved that this method can effectively improve the resiliency of the distribution network after a disaster compared with the traditional static reconstruction method, especially in the case of long-lasting wind and flood disasters that have complex and significant impacts on the distribution system, with about 26% load supply for the 33-node system and nearly 95% for the 118-node system.
Risk Factors for Poland to Achieve the European Commission’s Recycling and Landfill Targets and Their Effects on Waste-to-Energy Conversion: A Review
Authors: Zajemska Monika , Korombel Anna , Ławińska Olga
Published: March 2024

Poland is highly likely, as per a European Commission report, to fall short of meeting the 2025 targets related to the preparation for re-use and recycling of municipal waste and packaging waste. The risk of not meeting the municipal waste recycling targets stands at 27%, while for packaging waste, it is estimated at 30%. Recycling rates play a pivotal role in gauging the efficiency of waste management systems, as well as in monitoring progress toward a circular economy. Taking into account the considerable likelihood of Poland not achieving the recycling targets, the authors of the paper found it imperative to identify the risk factors associated with Poland’s failure to meet the European Commission’s recycling and landfill targets within the waste-to-energy context. Additionally, they sought to evaluate the potential for the development of the waste-to-energy concept in Poland. The research objectives were fulfilled through the literature review method. By employing the classification of factors outlined in a SWOT analysis, the authors highlighted which of the identified risk factors could or should be considered strengths or weaknesses, opportunities or threats to the Polish recycling process. Mapping out future courses of action will enable decision-makers in Poland to address the weaknesses in recycling, capitalize on opportunities arising from the socio-economic situation in Poland, and formulate plans to mitigate the identified threats. Undertaking such initiatives has the potential to enhance recycling rates in Poland and facilitate the broader application of waste-to-energy practices.
Study on Rotor-Bearing System Vibration of Downhole Turbine Generator under Drill-String Excitation
Authors: Yao Benchun , Tian Zhen , Zhan Xu , Li Changyun , Yu Hualong
Published: March 2024

Downhole turbine generators (DHTG) installed within drill-string are susceptible to internal and external excitation during the drilling process, causing significant dynamic loads on bearings, and thereby reducing the bearing’s service life. In this study, a finite element model of an unbalanced rotor-bearing system (RBS) of DHTG with multi-frequency excitations, based on the Lagrangian motion differential equation, is established. The responses of the RBS under different drill-string excitations in terms of time-domain response, whirl orbit, and spectrum are analyzed. For a constant rotor speed, lateral harmonic translational and lateral oscillation both transform the whirl orbit to quasi-periodic, while axial rotation only changes the response amplitude. Changing the duration of pulse excitation leads to different response forms. Then, the dynamic characteristics of the RBS supported by a squeeze film damper (SFD) are investigated. The results indicate that SFD effectively reduces the displacement response amplitude and bearing force near the critical speed. As the axial rotation angular velocity of the drill-string increases, the first critical speed and displacement response decrease, while the variation of lateral oscillation frequency and amplitude has limited impact on them. The established model provides a means for analyzing the dynamic characteristics of DHTG’s RBS under drill-string excitations during the design stage.
Concept and Design of a Velocity Compounded Radial Four-Fold Re-Entry Turbine for Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) Applications
Authors: Streit Philipp , Weiß Andreas P. , Stümpfl Dominik , Špale Jan , Anderson Lasse B. , Novotný Václav , Kolovratník Michal
Published: March 2024

The energy sector faces a pressing need for significant transformation to curb CO2 emissions. For instance, Czechia and Germany have taken steps to phase out fossil thermal power plants by 2038, opting instead for a greater reliance on variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Nonetheless, thermal power plants will still have roles, too. While the conventional multistage axial turbine design has been predominant in large-scale power plants for the past century, it is unsuitable for small-scale decentralized projects due to complexity and cost. To address this, the study investigates less common turbine types, which were discarded as they demonstrated lower efficiency. One design is the Elektra turbine, characterized by its velocity compounded radial re-entry configuration. The Elektra turbine combines the advantages of volumetric expanders (the low rotational speed requirement) with the advantages of a turbine (no rubbing seals, no lubrication in the working fluid, wear is almost completely avoided). Thus, the research goal of the authors is the implementation of a 10 kW-class ORC turbine driving a cost-effective off-the-shelf 3000 rpm generator. The paper introduces the concept of the Elektra turbine in comparison to other turbines and proposes this approach for an ORC working fluid. In the second part, the 1D design and 3D–CFD optimization of the 7 kW Elektra turbine working with Hexamethyldisiloxane (MM) is performed. Finally, CFD efficiency characteristics of various versions of the Elektra are presented and critically discussed regarding the originally defined design approach. The unsteady CFD calculation of the final Elektra version showed 46% total-to-static isentropic efficiency.
Length-Weight-Age Relationship of Schizothorax eurystomus Kessler, 1872 and Comparison to Other Snow Trout Species in Central Asia
Authors: Karimov Erkin , Zeiringer Bernhard , Coeck Johan , Verhelst Pieterjan , Karimov Bakhtiyor , Omonov Otabek , Schletterer Martin , Hayes Daniel S.
Published: March 2024

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the length-weight relationship, condition factors, and age of Schizothorax eurystomus in the Shakhimardan River basin in Central Asia, along with a comparative perspective to other Schizothorax species in the region. The study found that S. eurystomus exhibits positive allometric growth, which is consistent with similar patterns observed in this species from the Syr Darya River basin. The two analyzed condition factors showed mean values within the normal range, indicating good feeding and environmental conditions. However, significant disparities between minimum and maximum values of these factors indicated varied growth conditions which may be influenced by anthropogenic factors. Age estimation using opercular bones showed variations in the total length among fish of the same age, and a clear age distribution pattern across different sites. Younger fish predominantly inhabited the shallower, warmer, and lower sections of the river, which is impacted by agricultural water diversion, while older specimens were found in areas with higher discharge and deeper pools. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the life history traits of S. eurystomus, underlining the need for sustainable fishery management and conservation strategies in the Shakhimardan River basin. The findings also emphasize the importance of considering habitat quality and anthropogenic pressures regarding understanding both fish population dynamics and growth patterns.
Chemical Cues Released by Predators’ Consumption of Heterospecific Prey Alter the Embryogenesis of Zebrafish
Authors: Lin Ainuo , Li Yaxi , Yan Zhi , Zhang Huilin , Jiang Baozhen , Chen Jingjing , Wang Derui , Wang Huan , Li Xiaodong , Lu Zhen , Li Ke
Published: March 2024

Environmentally cued hatching is prevalent, diverse, and crucial to many animals’ survival. Fish embryos use a variety of chemical cues to initiate hatching to avoid potential predators, yet the function of chemical cues released from the predatory consumption of heterospecific prey is largely unknown. Zebra cichlids (Metriaclima estherae) are ferocious predators that can feed on medaka (Oryzias latipes), though it is impossible for this to occur in their natural habitat. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos have been employed as experimental subjects due to their sensitivity to a variety of chemical signals. In this study, zebrafish embryos were subjected to three types of chemical signals: predator cues (PCs, released from cichlids), heterospecific cues (HCs, released from medaka), and heterospecific dietary cues (HDCs, released from cichlids that have ingested medaka). As a result, the hatching times of zebrafish embryos were accelerated by 6.8% and 12.6% by PCs and HDCs, respectively. PCs and HDCs cause significantly reduced morphology in zebrafish embryos, including regarding total length, eye length, dorsal fin length, trunk height, caudal fin height, and body cavity, and increase yolk sac height. The PCs and HDCs diminished the larvae’s motion at 120 and 144 h post fertilization (hpf), which could be attributed to non-developmental embryogenesis. Overall, the impacts of HDCs on embryonic hatching, developmental morphology, and locomotor were more pronounced in comparison with PCs. Our findings demonstrate that predators’ dietary cues, even those released after predation on heterospecific prey, can modify embryogenesis, highlighting the critical functions of chemical signals in predation risk assessment using embryos.
Effects of Extrusion Technology on Physicochemical Properties and Microstructure of Rice Starch Added with Soy Protein Isolate and Whey Protein Isolate
Authors: Liu Xiaofei , Zhao Xiangxiang , Ma Chunmin , Wu Ming , Fan Qiqi , Fu Yu , Zhang Guang , Bian Xin , Zhang Na
Published: March 2024

In order to improve the retrogradation of rice starch (RS) and the quality of rice products, soy protein isolate (SPI), whey protein isolate (WPI), and rice flour were mixed and further extruded into mixed flour. The physicochemical properties and morphology of starch of extruded rice flour (ERS) and starch of extruded mixtures of SPI, WPI, and rice flour (SPI-WPI-ERS) were analyzed. The distribution of amylopectin chain length, molecular weight, microstructure, crystallinity, short-range ordered structure, pasting properties, and thermodynamic properties of RS, ERS, and SPI-WPI-ERS were measured. The results showed that, compared with rice starch, the proportion of long-chain starch, total starch content, and molecular weight were decreased in ERS and SPI-WPI-ERS, but the proportion of short-chain and amylose content was increased. The short-range order structure was destroyed. The water absorption of ERS and SPI-WPI-ERS was much higher than rice starch at 55 °C, 65 °C, and 75 °C, but lower than that of rice starch at 95 °C. Therefore, the retrogradation characteristics of SPI-WPI-ERS were improved. The setback of rice starch products was reduced and the setback of SPI-WPI-ERS was lower than that of ERS. Overall, the retrogradation of rice starch was delayed by adding exogenous protein and extrusion technology, and the application range of rice flour in staple food products was broadened.
Importance of Intracellular Energy Status on High-Hydrostatic-Pressure Inactivation of sake Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Shigematsu Toru , Kuwabara Taisei , Asama Yuki , Suzuki Rinta , Ikezaki Minami , Nomura Kazuki , Hori Saori , Iguchi Akinori
Published: March 2024

The HHP inactivation behaviors of Niigata sake yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain S9arg and its aerobic respiratory-deficient mutant strains were investigated after cultivating them in a YPD media containing 2% to 15% glucose, as well as in moromi mash, in a laboratory-scale sake brewing process. The piezotolerance of strain S9arg, shown after cultivation in a YPD medium containing 2% glucose, decreased to become piezosensitive with increasing glucose concentrations in YPD media. In contrast, the piezosensitivity of a mutant strain UV1, shown after cultivation in the YPD medium containing 2% glucose, decreased to become piezotolerant with increasing glucose concentrations in the YPD medium. The intracellular ATP concentrations were analyzed for an S. cerevisiae strain with intact aerobic respiratory ability, as well as for strain UV1. The higher concentration of ATP after cultivation suggested a higher energy status and may be closely related to higher piezotolerance for the yeast strains. The decreased piezotolerance of strain S9arg observed after a laboratory-scale sake brewing test may be due to a lower energy status resulting from a high glucose concentration in moromi mash during the early period of brewing, as well as a lower aeration efficiency during the brewing process, compared with cultivation in a YPD medium containing 2% glucose.
Comparative Study on the Impact of Different Extraction Technologies on Structural Characteristics, Physicochemical Properties, and Biological Activities of Polysaccharides from Seedless Chestnut Rose (Rosa sterilis) Fruit
Authors: Chen Kaiwen , Zhang Qiuqiu , Yang Shengzhen , Zhang Shengyan , Chen Guangjing
Published: March 2024

Seedless chestnut rose (Rosa sterilis S. D. Shi, RS) is a fresh type of R. roxburghii Tratt with copious functional components in its fruit. Polysaccharides are recognized as one of the vital bioactive compounds in RS fruits, but their antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties have not been extensively explored. Hence, in this study, accelerated solvent extraction (RSP-W), citric acid (RSP-C), 5% sodium hydroxide/0.05% sodium borohydride (RSP-A), and 0.9% sodium chloride (RSP-S) solution extraction were individually utilized to obtain RS fruit polysaccharides. The physicochemical properties, structural characteristics, and biological activities were then compared. Results indicated that extraction methods had significant influences on the extraction yield, uronic acid content, monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, particle size, thermal stability, triple-helical structure, and surface morphology of RSPs apart from the major linkage bands and crystalline characteristics. The bioactivity tests showed that the RSP-S, which had the greatest amount of uronic acid and a comparatively lower molecular weight, exhibited more potent antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory property. Furthermore, all RSPs inhibited α-glucosidase through a mixed-type manner and quenched their fluorescence predominantly via a static quenching mechanism, with RSP-S showing the highest binding efficiency. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for utilizing RSPs as functional ingredients in food industries.
Confronting Views of Companies and Authorities on Food Safety Issues—A Cross-Country Survey
Authors: Djekic Ilija , Hambardzumyan Garegin , Nikolić Aleksandra , Mujčinović Alen , Nakov Dimitar , Nikolova Aleksandra Silovska , Semenova Anastasia A. , Kuznetsova Oksana A. , Oz Fatih , Oz Emel , Terjung Nino , Volker Heinz , Tomasevic Igor
Published: March 2024

This study investigated food safety issues as perceived by food companies and food safety authorities in six countries in Europe and Central Asia. A total of 66 companies and 16 authorities participated in the survey. The results provide important insights related to what the main food safety priorities are, how they are addressed in the countries that participated in the survey, and what the role of the main stakeholders is in the food value chain. Almost 50% of food companies identified ‘food fraud’ as the most influential food safety attribute. One-third of food safety authorities recognized ‘food safety management system’ as the most influential food safety attribute. Principal component analysis separated food safety statements into two dimensions named ‘food safety hazards and risks’ and ‘food safety system’. Although there are slight differences in food safety statements between the two stakeholders, i.e., food companies and food safety authorities, it is the country of origin that plays a more important role in understanding their views. Food companies will need to implement a systemic approach and transform the entire food value chain continuum while considering new food safety challenges. It is expected that food safety authorities will have to play a more proactive role in the future.
Bioactive Compounds from Fruit and Vegetable Waste: Extraction and Possible Utilization
Authors: Castillejo Noelia , Martínez-Zamora Lorena
Published: March 2024

Globally, there is a serious problem with fruit and vegetable waste, which can result from improper food handling or storage techniques or from the disposal of inedible portions of produce [...]
Insight into the Relationship between the Causes of Off-Odour and Microorganism Communities in Xuanwei Ham
Authors: Wang Haoyi , Yin Xiaoyu , Zhang Lu , Wang Xuejiao , Zhang Jiliang , Wen Rongxin , Cao Jianxin
Published: March 2024

To expound on the correlation between the microorganism communities and the formation of off-odour in Xuanwei ham, the microorganism communities and volatile compounds were investigated in the biceps femoris (BF) and semimembranosus (SM) of Xuanwei ham with different quality grades (normal ham and spoiled ham). The single molecule real-time sequencing showed that differential bacteria and fungi were more varied in normal hams than in spoiled hams. Headspace solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography (HS-SPME-GC-MS) results indicated that aldehydes and alcohols were significantly higher in spoiled hams than those in normal hams (p < 0.05). The off-odour of spoiled hams was dominated by ichthyic, malodourous, sweaty, putrid, sour, and unpleasant odours produced by compounds such as trimethylamine (SM: 13.05 μg/kg), hexanal (BF: 206.46 μg/kg), octanal (BF: 59.52 μg/kg), methanethiol (SM: 12.85 μg/kg), and valeric acid (BF: 15.08 μg/kg), which are positively correlated with Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Pseudomonas sp., Aspergillus ruber, and Moraxella osloensis. Furthermore, the physicochemical property and quality characteristics results showed that high moisture (BF: 56.32 g/100 g), pH (BF: 6.63), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (SM: 1.98 MDA/kg), and low NaCl content (SM: 6.31%) were also responsible for the spoilage of hams with off-odour. This study provided a deep insight into the off-odour of Xuanwei ham from the perspective of microorganism communities and a theoretical basis for improving the flavour and overall quality of Xuanwei hams.
Deep Eutectic Solvents as New Extraction Media for Flavonoids in Mung Bean
Authors: Gao Jingyu , Xie Longli , Peng Yu , Li Mo , Li Jingming , Ni Yuanying , Wen Xin
Published: March 2024

Mung beans contain abundant flavonoids like vitexin and isovitexin, which contribute to their strong bioactivities, such as antioxidant effects, so efforts should focus on extracting bioactive flavonoids as well as aligning with the goal of green extraction for specific applications. Deep eutectic solvent coupled with ultrasound-assisted extraction (DES-UAE) was applied to extract flavonoids from mung beans, and eight different DESs were compared on the extraction yield. In addition, the traditional extraction method with 30% ethanol was performed as the reference. The results showed that ethylene glycol-glycolic acid achieved the highest yield among all the DESs, 1.6 times that of the reference values. Furthermore, the DES-UAE parameters were optimized as a 60 mL/g liquid–solid ratio, 30% water content in DES, 200 W ultrasonic power, 67 °C ultrasonic temperature, and 10 min extraction time, leading to the DES extract with the maximum extraction yield of 2339.45 ± 42.98 μg/g, and the significantly stronger DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging ability than the traditional extract. Therefore, employing DES and ultrasonic extraction together offers a green method for extracting flavonoids from mung beans, advancing the development and utilization of plant-derived effective components in a sustainable manner.
A GIS-Based Approach for Shallow Landslides Risk Assessment in the Giampilieri and Briga Catchments Areas (Sicily, Italy)
Authors: Vegliante Giulio , Baiocchi Valerio , Falconi Luca Maria , Moretti Lorenzo , Pollino Maurizio , Puglisi Claudio , Righini Gaia
Published: March 2024

Shallow landslides pose a widely growing hazard and risk, globally and particularly in Mediterranean areas. The implementation of adequate adaptation and mitigation measures necessarily requires the development of practical and affordable methodologies and technologies for assessing the shallow landslides hazard and its territorial impact. The assessment of shallow landslide hazard maps involves two different and sequential steps: the susceptibility and the runout analysis, respectively, aimed at the identification of the initiation and the propagation areas. This paper describes the application in the Giampilieri and Briga Villages area (Sicily, Italy) of a shallow landslide risk process at a basin scale with an innovative approach in the runout assessment segment. The runout analysis was conducted using specific GIS tools employing an empirical–geometric approach at a basin scale. The exposure and vulnerability values of the elements at risk were assigned using a qualitative and semi-quantitative approach, respectively. The results highlight the effectiveness of the procedure in producing consistent runout hazard and risk assessments in the valley areas where the more important and vulnerable exposed elements are located. This study contributes to addressing the public administration demand for valuable and user-friendly tools to manage and drive regional planning.
Dissipated Energy and Pore Pressure Generation Patterns in Sands and Non-Plastic Silts Subjected to Cyclic Loadings
Authors: Polito Carmine P. , Martin James R.
Published: March 2024

The factors that influence dissipated energy and pore pressure generation patterns with respect to the cycle ratio and dissipated energy ratio were analyzed using the results of cyclic triaxial and cyclic direct simple shear tests. These analyses revealed several interesting differences in pore pressure generation patterns when related to cycle ratio than to dissipated energy ratio. Soils with different pore pressure generation patterns when plotted against the cycle ratio were found to have nearly identical pore pressure generation patterns when plotted against the dissipated energy ratio. The differences exist as the result of the fundamental differences between cycle ratio and dissipated energy ratio. The fundamental difference is that pore pressure generation is directly linked to the process of energy dissipation; it is not inherently linked to cycles of loading. Therefore, to achieve an understanding of the pore pressure response of a soil that is independent of the specifics of the applied loading, one needs to evaluate it in terms of energy dissipation, not in terms of cycles of loading, especially irregular loadings.