bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidants, ACE I Inhibitory Peptides, and Physicochemical Composition, with a Special Focus on Trace Elements and Pollutants, of SPRING Spawning Atlantic Herring (Clupea harengus) Milt and Hydrolysates for Functional Food Applications
Authors: Atanassova Miroslava R. , Stangeland Janne K. , Lausen Simon E. , Dahl Thomas H. , Barnung Trygg , Larssen Wenche E.
Published: November 2024

Norwegian spring spawning (NVG) herring milt is a raw material with high nutritional and functional values. However, its incorporation into food presents physicochemical and sensory challenges. Its high DNA content, the presence of TMA/TMAO and possibly heavy metal and/or environmental pollutants, and its bitter taste due to amino acids or peptides requires a careful approach to food development. Hydrolysis with food-grade enzymes enable an improvement in both the functional and sensory properties of the substrate and the increased stability of the raw materials and end products. HLPC, GC-MS, and in vitro protocols were used for the characterisation of manually extracted material (sample code: HMC) and milt from a fish-filleting line from early spring/late autumn catches. Three different food-grade protein hydrolysates were prepared from these raw materials (sample codes: H1, H2, and H3) as a means to estimate their functional food development potential. Combinations of three commercial enzymatic preparations were applied, targeting specific sensory properties. Parameters related to consumer safety (e.g., the presence of heavy metals and TMA/TMAO); beneficial health effects, such as antioxidant or antihypertensive bioactivities (measured using in vitro TAC, ORAC, DPPH, and ACE I inhibitory activity assays); the presence of beneficial fatty acids and micronutrients; and the protein quality were studied. On the basis of their total amino acid compositions, freeze-dried herring milt and hydrolysates could provide high-quality protein with most of the essential amino acids and taurine. Powdered milt has a particularly high fatty acid profile of bioavailable omega-3 fatty acids (2024.06 mg/100 g docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) and 884 mg/100 g eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3)). The experimentally measured levels of arsenic (3.9 ± 1.2 mg/kg) and cadmium (0.15 ± 0.05 mg/kg) were higher than the levels of the other two heavy metals (mercury and lead). The bioactivity is concentration-dependent. Overall, this work presents complementary information for the future utilisation of C. harengus powdered milt (possibly obtained directly from a fish-filleting line) and some of its protein hydrolysates as food ingredients.
The Effectiveness of Biofloc Technology and Its Application Prospects in Sea Cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) Aquaculture: A Review
Authors: Xiao Haoran , Li Shufeng , Wang Zitong , Tian Ye , Zuo Qiwei , Tian Fenglin , Wang Yongjie , Zhao Chong , Ding Jun
Published: November 2024

This review aims to advance the development of biofloc technology (BFT), providing more sustainable and efficient practices for the farming of the Japanese sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus). BFT is a sustainable aquaculture method that promotes nutrient recycling and effective carbon source management, offering significant advantages such as improving water quality, enhancing growth performance, and boosting the physiological activity and disease resistance of cultured animals. In A. japonicus farming, the optimal carbon source is glucose, and the ideal carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio ranges between 15 and 20. Microbial additives, such as the Bacillus species, have been shown to enhance biofloc formation and growth, as well as the immune responses in A. japonicus. However, the technology also faces limitations, including finding suitable biofloc culture protocols that match the physiological habits of A. japonicus and potential challenges with biofloc stability under varying environmental conditions. Based on existing research, this review discusses these limitations in the farming of A. japonicus. Additionally, it compares biofloc farming models for other economically important aquatic species. By addressing these key aspects, this review offers insights to enhance BFT performance, ultimately contributing to more efficient and sustainable A. japonicus aquaculture practices.
Numerical Optimization of Drucker-Prager-Cap Model Parameters in Powder Compaction Employing Particle Swarm Algorithms
Authors: Davarpanah Sanaz , Allili Madjid , Mousavi Ajarostaghi Seyed Soheil
Published: November 2024

A growing number of scholars are drawn to using numerical approaches powered by computer simulations as a potential solution to industrial problems. Replicating the compaction process in powder metallurgy with accuracy is one such issue. The Drucker-Prager-Cap model requires parameter calibration as the most used method for simulating powder compaction. This paper addresses this issue and presents a new technique for doing so. Utilizing Abaqus software 2020, the compaction process was simulated for the benchmark powder, which is the alloy Ag57.6-Cu22.4-Sn10-In10. The difference between simulation results and experimental data was reduced by applying the Particle Swarm Optimization technique in Python. The suggested approach may accurately forecast the Drucker-Prager-Cap model parameters, as demonstrated by comparing the optimized parameters utilizing the research’s method with their experimental values. The findings revealed how well the suggested approach in this study calibrated the DPC model, yielding three parameters—Young’s modulus, material cohesion, and hydrostatic pressure yield stress—with respective RMSEs of 1.95, 0.12, and 324.64 concerning their experimental values.
Optimized Liquid Medium Formulation for Sanghuangporus vaninii and Biological Activity of the Exopolysaccharides
Authors: Huang Haichen , Li Xiaomin , Lu Qi , Xu Hui , Sun Huijuan , Zhang Junli , Wu Xiaoping , Fu Junsheng
Published: November 2024

Aims: Sanghuangporus vaninii (S. vaninii) is a rare medicinal mushroom that is rich in polysaccharides, triterpenes, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds. It has good potential development value. Methods and Results: We performed single factor experiments and Box-Behnken response surface methodology to optimize the liquid fermentation medium formulation for S. vaninii with mycelial biomass as the indicator. The in vitro antioxidant and anti-cancer capacity of the exopolysaccharides of S. vaninii were estimated. The optimal liquid fermentation media composition for the MS-4, MS-6, and MS-8 strains of Sanghuangporus vaninii consisted of 25.86 ± 0.068 g/L maltose, 7.3 ± 0.043 g/L yeast extract, and 0.71 ± 0.005 g/L dandelion powder. The average mycelial biomass of S. vaninii under optimal conditions was 12.61 g/L. The mycelial biomass of the Sanghuangporus vaninii strains in the optimized formulation was 109–191% higher than that obtained with the basic potato dextrose broth (PDB). The exopolysaccharides of Sanghuangporus vaninii exhibited an ABTS radical scavenging activity with an EC50 of 0.021 ± 0.017 mg/mL and a DPPH radical scavenging activity with an EC50 of 0.076 ± 0.043 mg/mL. In anti-cancer assays, these exopolysaccharides demonstrated an IC50 value of 1.98 ± 0.36 mg/mL against PC-3 human prostate cancer cells, indicating significant bioactivity, highlighting their potential as functional food ingredients. Conclusions: In this study, the formula of liquid fermentation of S. vaninii strains was optimized, which lays a theoretical foundation for increasing the yield of S. vaninii and its application in industry. Moreover, our data showed the clinical potential of the S. vaninii exopolysaccharides as antioxidants and anti-cancer drugs.
MycoTWIN Working Group Discussion: A Multi-Actor Perspective on Future Research Directions for Mycotoxins and Toxigenic Fungi Along the Food and Feed Chain
Authors: Loi Martina , Moretti Antonio , Lippolis Vincenzo , Özer Hayrettin , Pembeci Kodolbas Ceyda , Yener Elif , Demirtaş İlknur , Vila-Donat Pilar , Manyes Lara , Lattanzio Veronica M. T.
Published: November 2024

Mycotoxin research is facing unprecedented challenges, starting from the urgent need to cope with the consequences of climate change, the global shortage of grain due to unstable political scenarios, and the major transformation of the supply chains after the COVID-19 pandemic. In this scenario, the mycotoxin contamination of human and animal foods is still unavoidable, thus representing a major challenge to global food security. Next to this, the shift to sustainable and circular food production might be accompanied by an increase in food safety issues involving mycotoxins, e.g., when new technologies are applied to reuse side streams from the food industry, it is not known if and how mycotoxins accumulate in these by-products. MycoTWIN is an EU-funded Horizon 2020 project which fosters knowledge transfer and scientific cooperation within the Mediterranean area, involving worldwide experts, decision makers, and stakeholders in the field of mycotoxigenic fungi and mycotoxins. The MycoTWIN project hosted working group meetings, whose aim was to propose operational plans and/or scientific strategic plans to shape the future research directions to better cope with these challenges. In the working group cycle “Future proof approaches for the management of toxigenic fungi and associated mycotoxins along the food chain”, a multi-actor group was guided in co-creation exercises to elaborate on future research directions and propose relevant actions to be implemented for the present to long-term time periods. The discussion focused on three main topics relevant to the assessment and management of risks associated with mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi: (i) needs for the harmonization of molecular and chemical methods and data analysis, (ii) from lab research to marketable solutions: how to fill the gap, and (iii) gaps in data quality for risk assessment.
Is Boiling Bitter Greens a Legacy of Ancient Crete? Contemporary Foraging in the Minoan Refugium of the Lasithi Plateau
Authors: Alrhmoun Mousaab , Sulaiman Naji , Haq Shiekh Marifatul , Abidullah Syed , Prakofjewa Julia , Krigas Nikos , Pieroni Andrea , Sõukand Renata
Published: November 2024

Wild greens (WGs) play a significant role in Mediterranean diets (MDs), reflecting botanical and cultural diversities, mainly influenced by a complex conglomerate of local human ecologies. This study investigates local ecological knowledge (LEK) linked to traditional gathering and consumption of WGs in the Lasithi Plateau of eastern Crete, where human genetic studies one decade ago showed very peculiar patterns, hypothesising that the Minoan civilisation took refuge there before it disappeared. A field ethnobotanical study was conducted to document the diversity of WGs and their detailed local culinary uses in the Lasithi area by interviewing 31 study participants. Fifty-nine folk taxa (species and subspecies) were recorded, corresponding to fifty-eight botanical taxa. A quotation index was measured to assess the cultural significance of WGs in the study areas; logistic regression analysis was adopted to understand the impact of sensory classifications of WGs and their local cooking methods. Lasithi’s foraging showed a notable prevalence of bitter-tasting WGs, which play a central role in local cognition and culinary practices. This bitterness aspect of WGs, potentially influenced by cultural preferences and genetic factors, probably suggests a connection to the ancient Lasithi’s inhabitants, i.e., Minoan dietary habits. We found that bitterness is the predominant sensory attribute in Lasithi, characterising 45.76% of the WGs. These findings underscore the complex interplay between local ecologies and biodiversity, LEK, and dietary traditions, highlighting the importance of WGs in understanding the evolution of foraging and plant culinary diversities across the Mediterranean.
Vegetable Salad Improves Lipid and Glucose Metabolism and Enhances Absorption of Specific Nutrients in Vegetables
Authors: Utari Diah Mulyawati , Kartiko-Sari Indri , Miyazaki Toshitaka , Umezawa Hiroko , Takeda Yumi , Oe Mariko , Wang Wei , Kamoshita Sumiko , Shibasaki Motomi , Matsuoka Ryosuke , Yamamoto Shigeru
Published: November 2024

Vegetables are low in energy and rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber; various health benefits associated with their intake have been reported. Salads are one of the most convenient ways to consume vegetables and can be made simply by pouring mayonnaise, dressing, olive oil, or other condiments over a selection of vegetables. There are also many reports on the ways in which vegetable intake can improve health. However, there is no comprehensive review summarizing the health functions of vegetables when consumed as a salad. The effects of vegetable salads on amounts of vegetable intake, lifestyle-related diseases, and the absorption of specific nutrients through mayonnaise, as well as the effects of the order in which vegetable salad and carbohydrates are consumed, have been reported. In this review, the health functions of vegetable salad consumption are reported.
Plant-Based Food: From Nutritional Value to Health Benefits
Authors: Xue Jiyuan , Yin Yongqi
Published: November 2024

The United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals present a transformative vision for addressing challenges related to food security, nutrition, and health, with plant-based foods poised to play a crucial role [...]
Evaluation of the Sensory Quality and Shelf Life of a Bioactive Essence Rich in Monounsaturated Fatty Acids and Antioxidants, Obtained from Eco-Sustainable Iberian Ham
Authors: Bruna-García Eva , Miguel-Castro Marta , Isabel-Redondo Beatriz
Published: November 2024

Food sustainability through traditional food production and the reuse of food by-products is one of the characteristics most valued by consumers. The production of Iberian ham is linked to the vaporization and sustainability of the dehesa and the conservation and maintenance of the rural environment, but there are some by-products that are not destined for direct consumption. In this context, previous studies have used trimmed fat to obtain a bioactive essence rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, it is important to keep in mind that the consumer’s decision is influenced by the nutritional/health and sensory characteristics of the product and its shelf life. The objective of the present study was to evaluate consumer acceptance and/or preference of different essences obtained from the trimmed fat of sliced Iberian ham and to determine the microbiological and physicochemical stability of the selected sustainable essence over time. The results showed that this essence is generally accepted by consumers and is microbiologically stable over time.
The Heating Under Micro Variable Pressure (HUMVP) Process to Decrease the Level of Saponin in Quinoa: Evidence of the Antioxidation and the Inhibitory Activity of α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase
Authors: Wu Ligen , Wang Anna
Published: November 2024

To reduce the level of saponin while preserving essential nutrients and antioxidative properties in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), this study delves into the optimization of the HUMVP process and thoroughly examines its effects on antioxidation as well as its inhibitory influence on α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The optimal HUMVP conditions involved wetting quinoa grains with 6% water (pH = 6.0) and subjecting them to a 4 min treatment under 0.35 MPa pressure. The values of •OH, DPPH, and ABTS•+ scavenging rate of the extracts from the quinoa sample (named Q2HUMVP) treated under the optimum HUMVP process were 70.02, 87.13, and 50.95%, respectively. Furthermore, the treatment preserved 95.20% of polyphenols and 73.06% of flavonoids, while the saponin content was reduced to 23.13% of that in raw quinoa. Notably, Q2HUMVP extracts demonstrated superior inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase compared to dehulled quinoa samples. The inhibition exhibited by the quinoa sample extracts on α-amylase and α-glucosidase was found to be reversible.
On the Rigorous Correspondence Between Operator Fractional Powers and Fractional Derivatives via the Sonine Kernel
Authors: Liu Zelin , Yu Xiaobin , Yin Yajun
Published: November 2024

Traditional operational calculus, while intuitive and effective in addressing problems in physical fractal spaces, often lacks the rigorous mathematical foundation needed for fractional operations, sometimes resulting in inconsistent outcomes. To address these challenges, we have developed a universal framework for defining the fractional calculus operators using the generalized fractional calculus with the Sonine kernel. In this framework, we prove that the α-th power of a differential operator corresponds precisely to the α-th fractional derivative, ensuring both accuracy and consistency. The relationship between the fractional power operators and fractional calculus is not arbitrary, it must be determined by the specific operator form and the initial conditions. Furthermore, we provide operator representations of commonly used fractional derivatives and illustrate their applications with examples of fractional power operators in physical fractal spaces. A superposition principle is also introduced to simplify fractional differential equations with non-integer exponents by transforming them into zero-initial-condition problems. This framework offers new insights into the commutative properties of fractional calculus operators and their relevance in the study of fractal structures.
Multifractal Methods in Characterizing Pore Structure Heterogeneity During Hydrous Pyrolysis of Lacustrine Shale
Authors: Liang Xiaofei , Hu Qinhong , Pu Xiugang , Li Wei , Wang Qiming , Sun Mengdi , Han Wenzhong
Published: November 2024

By using gas physisorption and multifractal theory, this study analyzes pore structure heterogeneity and influencing factors during thermal maturation of naturally immature but artificially matured shale from the Kongdian Formation after being subjected to hydrous pyrolysis from 250 °C to 425 °C. As thermal maturity increases, the transformation of organic matter, generation, retention, and expulsion of hydrocarbons, and formation of various pore types, lead to changes in pore structure heterogeneity. The entire process is divided into three stages: bitumen generation stage (250–300 °C), oil generation stage (325–375 °C), and oil cracking stage (400–425 °C). During the bitumen generation stage, retained hydrocarbons decrease total-pore and mesopore volumes. Fractal parameters ΔD indicative of pore connectivity shows little change, while Hurst exponent H values for pore structure heterogeneity drop significantly, indicating reduced pore connectivity due to bitumen clogging. During the peak oil generation stage, both ΔD and H values increase, indicating enhanced pore heterogeneity and connectivity due to the expulsion of retained hydrocarbons. In the oil cracking stage, ΔD increases significantly, and H value rises slowly, attributed to the generation of gaseous hydrocarbons further consuming retained hydrocarbons and organic matter, forming more small-diameter pores and increased pore heterogeneity. A strongly negative correlation between ΔD and retained hydrocarbon content, and a strongly positive correlation with gaseous hydrocarbon yield, highlight the dynamic interaction between hydrocarbon phases and pore structure evolution. This study overall provides valuable insights for petroleum generation, storage, and production.
Development of Body Weight Management Among the Hungarian Population
Authors: Szilágyi Cintia , Soós Mihály , Kiss Marietta
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Nowadays, body weight management has gained significant consumer attention due to the health megatrend. It plays a key role in preventing diseases, maintaining health, and creating a balanced diet, as well as in mental and physical health. Overweight and obesity are serious problems that can result in various non-communicable diseases; thus, managing the body weight of those who are overweight or obese without pathological changes would help reduce the prevalence of these diseases. By reducing body weight, not only individual health expenses but also public health costs could be reduced. To do so, it is necessary to assess at what levels consumers perceive their own health status, as well as the extent to which they pay attention to body weight management. Our research aimed to contribute to the foundation of public intervention programs by exploring some characteristics of body weight management among Hungarian consumers. Methods: We used a large-sample questionnaire survey involving a total of 550 people. Various statistical methods were used to analyze the data, including descriptive statistics, association tests, and hypothesis tests. Results: According to our results, those who want to lose weight are more engaged in managing their body weight than those who are satisfied with their weight or who want to gain weight, often aiming to reach an ideal weight through diet and exercise, and are willing to invest more in healthier lifestyles, both in terms of their diet and physical activity. In this regard, we did not find significant differences between the genders. Conclusions: Based on our findings, we can conclude that dietitians and doctors should play a more active role in guiding lifestyle changes since the majority of our respondents do not consider them credible sources of information on healthy eating, and they do not consult them on this topic. On the other hand, however, a much larger proportion seek information from them regarding regular physical activity, and after personal trainers, they are considered the second most authentic source of information.
Identifying the Bundle/Care Development Process in Clinical Risk Management: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sebastiani Emanuele , Scacchetti Marina , Cesare Manuele , Maurici Massimo , Loiudice Michele Tancredi
Published: November 2024

Background: A bundle is a set of three to five evidence-based interventions designed to improve the quality and outcomes of care processes. Numerous international studies have evaluated the effectiveness of Bundles/Care Bundles (BCB) in reducing morbidity and mortality. The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) has defined the concept of a bundle but has not outlined the development process. Objective: To identify the BCB development process in clinical risk scenarios from September 2005 to September 2023. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify studies describing the BCB development process in managing clinical risk situations. The databases consulted included PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL, along with manual searches on institutional websites. Relevant studies concerning the BCB development process were included. Results: A total of 1372 studies were retrieved, of which 16 were included. Duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts were analyzed. The identified methods for BCB development include IHI guidelines, expert opinions, international guidelines, and flowcharts. The most common BCBs relate to the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia, surgical site infections, catheter-associated infections, and sepsis. Conclusions: This study has identified the development processes of Care Bundles (BCBs) in clinical risk scenarios, highlighting how these tools facilitate compliance monitoring among members of the healthcare team. The review has revealed effective methods for designing evidence-based BCBs. However, the scarcity of studies on the methodology for developing BCBs is a limitation, suggesting the need for further research. In Italy, there is a growing interest in the use of care packages. It is essential to encourage research that optimizes the effectiveness of intervention strategies.
Differences in Physical Activity and Self-Rated Health Levels Based on Satisfaction with Physical Environment of Local Communities: From School to Lifelong Physical Education
Authors: Chang Byung-Kweon , Park Se-Won , Lee Seung-Man
Published: November 2024

Background: In Korea, substantial disparities exist in physical environments across regions, exacerbating the polarization between metropolitan and provincial areas and urban and rural regions. Objectives: This study examines the differences in the physical activity and self-rated health of local communities in relation to satisfaction with the physical environment. By identifying and addressing these underlying causes of health disparities, the study provides foundational data to inform policy efforts. Methods: The study utilized data from the 2023 Community Health Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. It included 231,752 individuals aged 19 and older (105,754 men and 125,998 women) selected through a two-stage probability proportional systematic sampling method. One-on-one online interviews were conducted from 16 May to 31 July 2023. The physical environment was assessed based on public satisfaction with safety, natural and living environments, public transportation, and medical services. Study variables included subjective health status and physical activity, with subvariables for physical activity encompassing the duration of vigorous and moderate physical activity, walking, and flexibility exercises. For data analysis, MANOVA and ANOVA were conducted, with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results: Considerable variations in physical activity were observed based on satisfaction with the local community environment. Regarding self-rated health, significant differences were found in safety levels, living environment, and medical services. Satisfaction with the physical environment positively influenced physical activity and self-rated health. Conclusion: Therefore, it is imperative to reduce disparities in the physical environment between regions and enhance residents’ satisfaction.
Impact of an Asian Community-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program on Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Tay Matthew Rong Jie , Wong Chin Jung , Chadachan Vijayalaxmi
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Inpatient exercise-based rehabilitation has been shown to improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer survivors. However, there is a lack of studies on the impact of community-based cancer rehabilitation programs on health-related quality of life, especially in Asian countries. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study involving patients with cancer at an outpatient community-based rehabilitation center. There were 197 patients who were recruited and enrolled in a physician-led rehabilitation program which included physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists and exercise physiologists. Results: Most of the patients had a diagnosis of breast cancer (61.4%), while 76 (38.6%) had a diagnosis of other cancers. On initial assessment, we found a mean Distress Thermometer (DT) level of 3.37 (SD = 2.41) and a mean Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General-7 Item Version (FACT-G7) score of 11.83 (SD = 4.01). On follow-up assessment after 3–6 months of rehabilitation, there was a significant reduction in mean DT level to 2.42 (SD = 2.25) and an improvement in mean FACT-G7 score to 13.09 (SD = 4.77). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that significant factors for improvement in FACT-G7 scores were age (p = 0.046) and number of exercise therapy sessions (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates the positive impact of a community-based cancer rehabilitation program on HRQOL among cancer patients.
Color Stability and Antioxidant Capacity of Crataegus monogyna Jacq. Berry Extract Influenced by Different Conditions
Authors: Cristea Elena , Ghendov-Mosanu Aliona , Pintea Adela , Sturza Rodica , Patras Antoanela
Published: November 2024

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) berry is a horticultural product containing antioxidants and pigments. Its extract can be used as a food dye and antioxidant in food engineering. The aim of present study is to research the effects of different possible conditions (temperature, pH, interacting ions, and storage conditions) on the color and antioxidant capacity of hawthorn berry extract. Color was assessed by monitoring the CIELab parameters, while antioxidant capacity was measured using the reaction with ABTS and DPPH radicals. The total phenolic content in berry powder was 1146 mg GAE/100 g and the main polyphenols identified by HPLC were epicatechin, ferulic acid methyl ester, catechin, procyanidins B1 and B2, and various phenolic acids. The main carotenoids, also quantified by HPLC, were mutatoxanthin, lutein, α-cryptoxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, cis-β-carotene, all-trans-β-carotene, and lycopene. The values of the overall color difference suggest that storage affected the color of the hawthorn extract more than any of the thermal treatments. Alkaline pH values affected color by changing the blue/yellow component, but also luminosity and the green/red parameter. The antioxidant capacity decreased in acidic and neutral media and increased in mildly alkaline media at pH 8.1. The possible presence of interacting salts as potassium nitrate and sodium chloride did not produce any significant changes in antioxidant capacity, while calcium chloride lowered it, but only at 0.001 M. The interaction with the studied salts had little effect on the extract’s color. The obtained results demonstrated that hawthorn berry extracts can be used in the food industry as natural dyes, as it was proven to have very good antioxidant capacity and color stability after different thermal, pH, interacting salt, or storing conditions.
A Bibliometric Analysis of the Supercritical CO2 Extraction of Essential Oils from Aromatic and Medicinal Plants: Trends and Perspectives
Authors: El Ahmadi Kawthar , El Allaoui Hasnae , El Abdouni Aouatif , Bouhrim Mohamed , Eto Bruno , Dira Imane , Shahat Abdelaaty A. , Herqash Rashed N. , Haboubi Khadija , El Bastrioui Mohamed , El Hammoudani Yahya
Published: November 2024

This bibliometric analysis investigates the scope and evolution of research on the supercritical CO2 extraction of essential oils from aromatic and medicinal plants. Utilizing the Scopus database, we examine publications from 1995 to 2024, revealing advancements in extraction technologies and collaborative efforts across 42 countries. Key findings include the increasing publication rates signifying the method’s growing acceptance and the pivotal role of countries like China and Italy in influencing the research trajectory. The study employs R Studio for data analysis and VOSviewer for network visualizations, uncovering the centrality of terms like “carbon dioxide”, “essential oils”, and “supercritical extraction” in the research discourse. The results offer insights into the method’s efficiency and highlight potential directions for future research in sustainable extraction practices.
Classification of Seed Dormancy in Pedicularis hallaisanensis Hurusawa: An Endemic and Endangered Species Native to Korea
Authors: Park Hyeong-Bin , Eun-Hwang Jung , Young-Jeon Dae , Woo-Lee Chang , Joon-Park Hwan , Kim Seongjun , Kim Young-Joong , Yoon Young-Jun
Published: November 2024

Pedicularis hallaisanensis Hurusawa, native to Mt. Halla and Gaya, is an endangered endemic species. To support conservation efforts, this study investigated its germination characteristics and kind of seed dormancy. The seeds of P. hallaisanensis had fully developed linear embryos at dispersal, with no additional embryo growth observed. Water imbibition was observed prior to germination. The seeds were water-permeable. The seeds did not germinate at four temperature treatments (4 °C/1 °C, 15 °C/6 °C, 20 °C/10 °C, and 25 °C/15 °C). However, cold stratification and gibberellic acid treatments broke seed dormancy. Total germination was 15%, 15%, and 45% at 12, 16, and 20 weeks of cold stratification, respectively. Total germination at 25 °C /15 °C for GA treatments were 0%, 25%, 25%, and 80% at 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/L, respectively. This study showed that the seeds of P. hallaisanensis have intermediate physiological dormancy, requiring 20 weeks of cold stratification or more than 2000 mg/L GA concentration to maximize total germination. These results are useful for understanding ecophysiological mechanisms related to the species’ habitat and for mass propagation to conserve this endangered species.
Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis Reveals the Effect of Temperature on the Vegetative Mycelium of Morchella sextelata
Authors: Hu Xinyu , Ma Leran , Liu Junhe , Zhang Tianyuan , Wang Zhen
Published: November 2024

Morchella, a highly valued medicinal and edible mushrooms, is experiencing an increasing demand; however, its cultivation is significantly influenced by climatic conditions and soil characteristics. Consequently, elucidating the mechanisms underlying Morchella mycelium’s response to temperature stress holds substantial importance for enhancing Morchella cultivation practices. In this study, we used Morchella sextelata as the research object and employed integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses to evaluate the effects of cultivation temperatures set at 33 °C, 20 °C, and 4 °C on the vegetative mycelium of Morchella. Through these comprehensive analyses, we identified 2998 differentially expressed genes alongside 678 differentially accumulated metabolites. Utilizing Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), we constructed a co-expression network that revealed hub genes and metabolites within each module. Furthermore, through KEGG pathway analysis, we pinpointed significant metabolic pathways responsive to temperature stress—particularly those involved in purine metabolism, RNA degradation, two-component systems, ABC transporters, and pyruvate metabolism. Overall findings indicated that elevated temperatures exerted a more pronounced effect on M. sextelata mycelium compared to lower temperatures. These insights enhance our comprehension of the adaptive mechanisms of M. sextelata to thermal variations while providing valuable references for optimizing environmental temperature regulation in their cultivation as well as offering clues for selecting varieties capable of thriving under diverse thermal conditions.
Research on the Index Calculation Method for the Impact of Drought on Water Quality in the Nakdong River, Korea
Authors: Jo Bu Geon , Lim Jaeyeon , Lee Joo-Heon , Kim Young Do
Published: November 2024

The impact of drought is intensifying due to climate change, leading to significant environmental consequences, particularly concerning river water quality. While drought is typically classified as meteorological or hydrological, studies assessing its environmental impacts remain limited. Drought-induced hydrological alterations in rivers often degrade water quality, necessitating the development of an environmental drought index. This study introduces a novel methodology for calculating an index to evaluate the effects of drought on river water quality, specifically applied to tributaries of the Nakdong River in South Korea. The index was constructed by reviewing existing water quality and drought indices, selecting relevant parameters, and weighting each factor following the National Sanitation Foundation Water Quality Index (NSFWQI) methodology. Factors integrated into the index encompass both meteorological and hydrological indicators, with priority given to variables measurable in real time. Real-time parameters—such as flow rate, cumulative precipitation, days without rainfall, and sensor-based metrics (pH, electrical conductivity [EC], dissolved oxygen [DO], and total organic carbon [TOC])—were incorporated. Additionally, for rivers with upstream dams, dam discharge data were included to reflect its influence on flow conditions. The applicability of the calculated index was assessed by comparing index values to observed water quality data. A class interval structure was implemented to enhance the index’s usability across diverse riverine conditions. Furthermore, the utility of the index was validated by comparing it to the basin’s target water quality, thereby assessing its sensitivity to drought-induced water quality deterioration. The environmental drought index proposed in this study enables the proactive and real-time monitoring of water quality under drought conditions. When applied to 10 tributaries of the Nakdong River, the index demonstrated a clear correlation between drought conditions and water quality deterioration. This index provides a practical tool for river management, facilitating early response strategies to mitigate water quality impacts associated with environmental drought.
Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Binder-Toner and Mixing Efficiency Ratios in an E-Waste Toner-Modified Composite Mixture Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Shah Syyed Adnan Raheel , Hussan Sabahat , Ben Kahla Nabil , Anwar Muhammad Kashif , Baluch Mansoor Ahmad , Nawaz Ahsan
Published: November 2024

E-waste toner (EWT), which is produced in large quantities by modern industries, has the potential to be utilized as a bitumen modifier to improve engineering properties and save costs. The current study focuses on exploring the optimization of EWT content to identify the most optimal proportions for achieving desirable levels of mechanical properties. This study also examined the effects of E-waste toner contents ranging from 0% to 30% on the fresh consistency of toner-modified and unmodified binder. The study utilized a central composite design (CCD) together with the response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the mix design variables, specifically the binder-toner ratio (BT) and mixing efficiency ratio (MER). The objective of this study was to examine the combined effects of these variables on the mechanical characteristics of EWT-modified asphalt mixtures. The mechanical responses were obtained through the performance of four responses such as Marshall stability (MS), Marshall flow (MF), indirect tensile strength (ITS), and stiffness tests. The findings suggest that the combined interaction of BT and MER ratios has an impact on their mechanical characteristics. However, the BT ratios had a significant impact on the volumetric attributes compared to MER. The RSM-based prediction models had an R-square over 0.86 across each response. This demonstrates that the inclusion of BT and MER ratios were accountable for a minimum of 86% of the alterations in the mechanical characteristics of EWT-modified asphalt. The multi-objective optimization analysis determined that the optimal proportions for the EWT-modified asphalt, in order to obtain the ideal consistency, were 0.249 ratio of BT and 1.63 ratio of MER with a desirability value of 0.97. Overall, it was found that RSM is a reliable technique for precisely forecasting the mechanical properties of EWT-modified asphalt, including BT and MER ratios.
Application of Capillary Barrier Systems for Slope Stabilization Under Extreme Rainfall: A Case Study of National Highway 10, India
Authors: Cheng Yusen , Li Yangyang
Published: November 2024

Global warming has led to an increase in extreme rainfall events, which often result in landslides, posing significant threats to infrastructure and human life. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Capillary Barrier System (CBS) in enhancing slope stability along a vulnerable section of India’s National Highway 10 (NH10) during maximum daily rainfall. The GEOtop model was employed to conduct water balance simulations and obtain the pore–water pressure (PWP), which was then used to calculate the Factor of Safety (FoS). Results showed that CBS effectively delayed the rise in PWP, leading to lower peak values and smaller areas of very high and high risk levels. Spatial distribution mapping further confirmed that CBS minimized very high risk zones. At three historical landslide points, CBS slopes generally maintained FoS values above 1, demonstrating enhanced stability and improved resilience to extreme rainfall. These findings highlight the potential of CBS as a viable strategy for slope reinforcement in regions susceptible to heavy rainfall.
Preliminary Assessments of Geotechnical Seismic Isolation Design Properties
Authors: Forcellini Davide
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a method to investigate the design properties of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI). This technique has been the object of many research contributions, both experimental and numerical. However, methods that may be used by practitioners for design procedures are still unavailable. The formulation presented herein may be used for preliminary assessments of two important properties: the thickness and the shear wave velocity. Three-dimensional advanced numerical simulations were performed with the state-of-the-art platform OpenSees in order to verify the analytical formulation on a benchmark case study. The elongation ratio has been taken as the relevant parameter to discuss the efficiency of GSI in decoupling the soil from the structure. The main findings consist of assessing the dependency of the elongation ratio on two parameters: the thickness and the shear velocity of the GSI layer. In this regard, a novel formulation was proposed in order to make preliminary design assessments that can be used by practitioners for practical applications.
Effects of Sodium–Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors on Serum Chloride Concentrations in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Jurin Ivana , Ivanović Mihajlović Vanja , Šakić Zrinka , Pavlov Marin , Šipić Tomislav , Vitlov Petra , Falak Hrvoje , Grizelj Danijela , Manola Šime , Udovičić Mario
Published: November 2024

Background and aims: In the past few years, some reports have shown that serum chloride concentration is a more powerful prognostic predictor than serum sodium levels in heart failure (HF). Elevated Na/Cl ratio has shown to be independently associated with all-cause death in acute HF. We evaluated changes in serum chloride concentrations and Na/Cl ratio in correlation with various clinical factors during 12 months of follow-up in patients in whom SGLT2is were initiated as part of HF therapy. Patients and methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted at University Hospital Dubrava and involving patients with HF. We included 241 participants between May 2021 and April 2023. All data were obtained before the introduction of SGLT2is, and the same parameters were obtained at 6 and 12 months of follow-up as well. Results: The results show that higher chloride concentration at both 6 and 12 months is an independent predictor of lower NT-proBNP levels. The chloride concentrations did not differ significantly between these groups in the follow-up period. There were no statistically significant differences in the Na/Cl ratio at different timepoints. The presence of cardiovascular risk factors did not significantly affect the increase in chloride concentration. Conclusions: Our results suggest that hypochloremia could be a potentially modifiable risk factor, given the influence of SGLT2is on chloride concentration, but also an ominous sign of a poor outcome in patients with HF. We believe that the determination of chloride concentrations should become routine in the monitoring of patients with HF.
Empowering EVAR: Revolutionizing Patient Understanding and Qualification with 3D Printing
Authors: Kargul Michał , Skórka Patryk , Gutowski Piotr , Kazimierczak Arkadiusz , Rynio Paweł
Published: November 2024

Background: This study addresses the need for enhanced patient education in the context of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and its treatment through endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Effective patient education is essential for improving comprehension and engagement, particularly for those facing complex medical conditions. Methods: A total of 55 patients scheduled for EVAR participated in the study. Patient-specific three-dimensional (3D)-printed models of the participants’ aneurysms were created using computed tomography angiogram (CTA) scans. The educational intervention included a structured session utilizing these 3D models, with assessments conducted before and after the session, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Statistical analyses evaluated the knowledge gain and its correlation with cognitive function. Results: The results showed a significant increase in knowledge scores post-education (p < 0.001), with a mean knowledge gain of 2.36 points. Patients rated the effectiveness of the 3D models highly on a Likert scale, with a mean score of 4.64 for improving their understanding of the medical condition and procedural aspects. A weak correlation was observed between MMSE scores and knowledge test results. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of patient-specific 3D models to enhance patient education in the context of EVAR, improving patients’ understanding of their medical condition and the procedure and thereby facilitating more informed decision-making.
Effects of Geometry and Supporting Silicone Layers on the Performance of Conductive Composite High-Deflection Strain Gauges
Authors: Jones Hailey E. , Baker Spencer A. , Christensen Jadyn J. , Hutchinson Tyler , Leany Heather A. , Mitchell Ulrike H. , Bowden Anton E. , Fullwood David T.
Published: November 2024

Piezoresistive sensors composed of nickel nanostrands, nickel-coated carbon fibers, and silicone can be used to measure large physical deflections but exhibit viscoelastic properties and creep, leading to a complex and nonlinear electrical response that is difficult to interpret. This study considers the impact of modifying the geometry and architecture of the sensors on their mechanical and electrical performance. Varying the sensor thickness leads to potentially significant differences in conductive fiber alignment, while adding external layers of pure silicone provides elastic support for the sensors, potentially reducing their extreme viscoelastic nature. The impact of such modifications on both mechanical and electrical behavior was assessed by analyzing strain to failure, the magnitude of hysteresis with cycling, the repeatability of the electro-mechanical response, the strain level at which resistance begins to monotonically decrease, and the drift in electrical response with cycling. The results indicate that thicker single-layer sensors have less electrical drift. Sensors with a multilayered architecture exhibit several improvements in behavior, such as increasing the range of the monotonic region by approximately 52%. These improvements become more significant as the thickness of the pure silicone layers increases.