bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Holistic Approach to Power Systems Using Innovative Machine Learning and System Dynamics
Authors: Ibrahim Bibi , Rabelo Luis , Sarmiento Alfonso T. , Gutierrez-Franco Edgar
Published: July 2023

The digital revolution requires greater reliability from electric power systems. However, predicting the growth of electricity demand is challenging as there is still much uncertainty in terms of demographics, industry changes, and irregular consumption patterns. Machine learning has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly with the latest developments in deep learning. Such tools can predict electricity demand and, thus, contribute to better decision-making by energy managers. However, it is important to recognize that there are no efficient methods for forecasting peak demand growth. In addition, features that add complexity, such as climate change and economic growth, take time to model. Therefore, these new tools can be integrated with other proven tools that can be used to model specific system structures, such as system dynamics. This research proposes a unique framework to support decision-makers in dealing with daily activities while attentively tracking monthly peak demand. This approach integrates advances in machine learning and system dynamics. This integration has the potential to contribute to more precise forecasts, which can help to develop strategies that can deal with supply and demand variations. A real-world case study was used to comprehend the needs of the environment and the effects of COVID-19 on power systems; it also helps to demonstrate the use of leading-edge tools, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), to predict electricity demand. Three well-known CNN variants were studied: a multichannel CNN, CNN-LSTM, and a multi-head CNN. This study found that the multichannel CNN outperformed all the models, with an R2 of 0.92 and a MAPE value of 1.62% for predicting the month-ahead peak demand. The multichannel CNN consists of one main model that processes four input features as a separate channel, resulting in one feature map. Furthermore, a system dynamics model was introduced to model the energy sector’s dynamic behavior (i.e., residential, commercial, and government demands, etc.). The calibrated model reproduced the historical data curve fairly well between 2005 and 2017, with an R2 value of 0.94 and a MAPE value of 4.8%.
Enhancing Energy Transition through Sector Coupling: A Review of Technologies and Models
Authors: Wang Qichen , Hou Zhengmeng , Guo Yilin , Huang Liangchao , Fang Yanli , Sun Wei , Ge Yuhan
Published: July 2023

In order to effectively combat the effects of global warming, all sectors must actively reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a sustainable and substantial manner. Sector coupling has emerged as a critical technology that can integrate energy systems and address the temporal imbalances created by intermittent renewable energy sources. Despite its potential, current sector coupling capabilities remain underutilized, and energy modeling approaches face challenges in understanding the intricacies of sector coupling and in selecting appropriate modeling tools. This paper presents a comprehensive review of sector coupling technologies and their role in the energy transition, with a specific focus on the integration of electricity, heat/cooling, and transportation, as well as the importance of hydrogen in sector coupling. Additionally, we conducted an analysis of 27 sector coupling models based on renewable energy sources, with the goal of aiding deciders in identifying the most appropriate model for their specific modeling needs. Finally, the paper highlights the importance of sector coupling in achieving climate protection goals, while emphasizing the need for technological openness and market-driven conditions to ensure economically efficient implementation.
Carbon Peak Scenario Simulation of Manufacturing Carbon Emissions in Northeast China: Perspective of Structure Optimization
Authors: Xu Caifen , Zhang Yu , Yang Yangmeina , Gao Huiying
Published: July 2023

The manufacturing industry is the pillar industry of China’s economy and a major carbon emitter, and its carbon emission reduction efforts directly determine whether the country’s carbon emission reduction target can be successfully met. In the context of the goals of the carbon peak and carbon neutrality policy, we examine the impact of manufacturing structure optimization on carbon emissions from 2003 to 2020 through a spatial econometric model, taking the old industrial centers in Northeast China as an example. We then apply a machine learning model to simulate manufacturing carbon emissions during the carbon peak stage and identify the optimal path for carbon emission reduction, which is important for promoting manufacturing carbon emission reduction in Northeast China. Since the goal of low-carbon economic development has gradually replaced the goal of maximizing economic efficiency in recent years, manufacturing structure optimization has come to focus on energy saving and emission reduction. Therefore, we define manufacturing structure optimization from the dual perspective of technology and energy consumption to broaden the existing research perspective. The results show the following: (1) The overall trend in manufacturing structure optimization in Northeast China is steadily improving, and the level of manufacturing structure optimization from the technology perspective is higher than that from the energy consumption perspective. (2) Manufacturing structure optimization and manufacturing carbon emissions in Northeast China both show a positive spatial correlation. Manufacturing structure optimization in Northeast China can effectively promote carbon emission reduction, and it also has a spatial spillover effect. (3) The carbon emission reduction effect of manufacturing structure optimization from the energy consumption perspective is better than that from the technology perspective, and the carbon emission reduction effect under the institutional innovation scenario is better than that under the baseline scenario and the technological innovation scenario. Focusing on manufacturing structure optimization from both technology and energy consumption perspectives, as well as continuously improving technological innovation and institutional innovation, can help to achieve manufacturing carbon emission reduction in Northeast China.
Clean Energy Stocks: Resilient Safe Havens in the Volatility of Dirty Cryptocurrencies
Authors: Dias Rui , Alexandre Paulo , Teixeira Nuno , Chambino Mariana
Published: July 2023

Green investors have expressed concerns about the environment and sustainability due to the high energy consumption involved in cryptocurrency mining and transactions. This article investigates the safe haven characteristics of clean energy stock indexes in relation to three cryptocurrencies, taking into account their respective levels of “dirty” energy consumption from 16 May 2018 to 15 May 2023. The purpose is to determine whether the eventual increase in correlation resulting from the events of 2020 and 2022 leads to volatility spillovers between clean energy indexes and cryptocurrencies categorized as “dirty” due to their energy-intensive mining and transaction procedures. The level of integration between clean energy stock indexes and cryptocurrencies will be inferred by using Gregory and Hansen’s methodology. Furthermore, to assess the presence of a volatility spillover effect between clean energy stock indexes and “dirty-classified” cryptocurrencies, the t-test of the heteroscedasticity of two samples from Forbes and Rigobon will be employed. The empirical findings show that clean energy stock indexes may offer a viable safe haven for dirty energy cryptocurrencies. However, the precise associations differ depending on the cryptocurrency under examination. The implications of this study’s results are significant for investment strategies, and this knowledge can inform decision-making procedures and facilitate the adoption of sustainable investment practices. Investors and policy makers can gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between investments in renewable energy and the cryptocurrency market.
A Review on the Cost Analysis of Hydrogen Gas Storage Tanks for Fuel Cell Vehicles
Authors: Shin Hyun Kyu , Ha Sung Kyu
Published: July 2023

The most practical way of storing hydrogen gas for fuel cell vehicles is to use a composite overwrapped pressure vessel. Depending on the driving distance range and power requirement of the vehicles, there can be various operational pressure and volume capacity of the tanks, ranging from passenger vehicles to heavy-duty trucks. The current commercial hydrogen storage method for vehicles involves storing compressed hydrogen gas in high-pressure tanks at pressures of 700 bar for passenger vehicles and 350 bar to 700 bar for heavy-duty trucks. In particular, hydrogen is stored in rapidly refillable onboard tanks, meeting the driving range needs of heavy-duty applications, such as regional and line-haul trucking. One of the most important factors for fuel cell vehicles to be successful is their cost-effectiveness. So, in this review, the cost analysis including the process analysis, raw materials, and manufacturing processes is reviewed. It aims to contribute to the optimization of both the cost and performance of compressed hydrogen storage tanks for various applications.
Improved Design of Fuse Tube for Environmental Protection Cabinet Based on Electric-Field Simulation
Authors: You Yimin , Qiao Rui , Li Shaojie , Zhou Shunxiong , Zhou Shenjun , Peng Zhenbo
Published: July 2023

Since the insulation performance of air is not as good as that of SF6 and other gases, it is necessary to conduct an in-depth study on the insulation characteristics of the fuse tube in order to meet the requirements of normal breaking and to design a structural improvement scheme for a 12 kV environmental protection cabinet fuse tube that is suitable for using air as the insulating medium. In this study, the insulation performance of the fuse tube before improvement was studied, and the electric-field distribution of the 12 kV fuse tube placed in the air-insulated switchgear was analyzed. The results showed that the electric-field was heavily concentrated in the air gap of the fuse tube plug and around the ground rod. In this study, the structure of the fuse tube was specifically designed. By spraying conductive paint on the intersection surface of different media, equipotentiality was achieved, and a reasonable metal shielding structure was added to the site where the field intensity was concentrated so as to improve the distribution of the electric-field and avoid the breakdown caused by the concentration of field intensity. Through several improved designs, the maximum electric-field strength of the fuse tube of an environmental protection cabinet can be effectively reduced, and the insulation requirements of relevant standards can be met. A partial discharge test for the improved fuse tube was carried out, and the local discharge quantity of the improved fuse tube met the industry requirements, which verified the rationality of the fuse-tube-improvement scheme.
Numerical Simulation Study on Underground Gas Storage with Cushion Gas Partially Replaced with Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Kowalski Jan , Klimkowski Lukasz , Nagy Stanislaw
Published: July 2023

Carbon dioxide capture, use, and storage (CCUS) issues are currently gaining more attention due to climate change. One of the CCUS methods may be the use of CO2 as cushion gas in underground gas storage (UGS). Typically, high-permeability structures are preferable for gas storage purposes. High permeability ensures good flow in reservoirs and well bottom-hole pressure maintenance. However, in the case of the use of CO2 as a part of the cushion gas, it mixes with natural gas within the reservoir pore space, and high permeability, with the resulting “ease of flow”, can accelerate the migration of CO2 to the near-well zone. For this reason, the analysis of the effect of permeability on CO2 content in withdrawal gas and the overall performance of UGS seems to be of high importance. In this study, we used a compositional numerical simulator to evaluate the effects of not only permeability but also pore structure on gas storage of this type. The simulations covered depletion of the reservoir and 10 cycles of UGS operation. Our results show that the structure (and thus permeability) has a great influence on the migration of CO2 within a reservoir, the mixing zone, and CO2 content in withdrawal gas.
Strategies for Continuous Balancing in Future Power Systems with High Wind and Solar Shares
Authors: Nordström Henrik , Söder Lennart , Flynn Damian , Matevosyan Julia , Kiviluoma Juha , Holttinen Hannele , Vrana Til Kristian , van der Welle Adriaan , Morales-España Germán , Pudjianto Danny , Strbac Goran , Dobschinski Jan , Estanqueiro Ana , Algarvio Hugo , Martín Martínez Sergio , Gómez Lázaro Emilio , Hodge Bri-Mathias
Published: July 2023

The use of wind power has grown strongly in recent years and is expected to continue to increase in the coming decades. Solar power is also expected to increase significantly. In a power system, a continuous balance is maintained between total production and demand. This balancing is currently mainly managed with conventional power plants, but with larger amounts of wind and solar power, other sources will also be needed. Interesting possibilities include continuous control of wind and solar power, battery storage, electric vehicles, hydrogen production, and other demand resources with flexibility potential. The aim of this article is to describe and compare the different challenges and future possibilities in six systems concerning how to keep a continuous balance in the future with significantly larger amounts of variable renewable power production. A realistic understanding of how these systems plan to handle continuous balancing is central to effectively develop a carbon-dioxide-free electricity system of the future. The systems included in the overview are the Nordic synchronous area, the island of Ireland, the Iberian Peninsula, Texas (ERCOT), the central European system, and Great Britain.
Numerical Study on Sensitivity of Turbofan Engine Performance to Blade Count of Centrifugal Compressor Impeller
Authors: Bednarz Arkadiusz , Kabalyk Kirill , Jakubowski Robert , Bartłomowicz Rafał
Published: July 2023

The aim of this publication was to investigate the effects the blade count of a high-pressure centrifugal compressor’s impeller has on the performance of the DGEN 380 turbine engine at take-off. The study began with the development of a zero-dimensional thermo-fluid model of the engine. The model was matched with experimental data from the WESTT CS/BV virtual test bench for the baseline count and then implemented to analyse the engine behaviour at alternative counts. The corresponding changes in the compressor pressure ratio and efficiency were modelled in a commercial 3D CFD software and transferred to the zero-dimensional model with proper scaling. The results proved that the baseline design lied in the optimal range of thrust-specific fuel consumption. The increase in the blade count led to a crisis of the aerodynamic loading at the splitters, so that no further rise in the pressure ratio could be achieved. The results of the study could be implemented by mechanical engineers while solving the tasks of the maintenance and modernisation of gas turbines with radial compressors.
Relationship between Corona Discharge Thrust and Applied Voltage’s Polarity
Authors: Gu Liang , Tan Wei , He Juan , Jiang Zheng , Chen Xingang , Ren Wenfa , Jin Zhuangzhuang
Published: July 2023

The thrust from corona discharge might be a promising propulsion technology in future aviation due to its advantage of not requiring mechanical moving parts. Although the thrust from corona discharge has been researched by many scholars, the effect of the applied voltage’s polarity on the thrust has received little attention. This polarity effect might be very important for some special electrohydrodynamic thrusters. This paper firstly built a test platform to reveal the effect of the applied voltage’s polarity on both the thrust and the corona current from a pair of symmetrically distributed needle electrodes. Then the applied voltage’s polarity on the electrical field distribution between a pair of needle-plate electrodes was simulated. Finally, the relationship between the space ions at the tip of the needle electrode and the thrust are discussed. The results show that a negative needle electrode with a smaller curvature radius has a stronger thrust than a positive one with a larger curvature radius, and a stronger thrust corresponds to a higher corona current. The local electric field is enhanced by the space ions at the tip of a negative needle electrode, while it is weakened by a positive needle electrode. This results in the polarity of thrust.
Research on Thermal Management Coupling by CPCM and Liquid Cooling for Vehicle Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Yijin , Du Changqing , Wang Zichen
Published: July 2023

This study addresses the issue of heat dissipation in 18,650 cylindrical lithium-ion battery packs and proposes a novel heat dissipation model that combines paraffin wax-expanded graphite composite phase change material (CPCM) with liquid cooling. Initially, a comparison is conducted between the heat dissipation effects of the battery pack under natural convection and the heat dissipation achieved through the utilization of CPCM. Subsequently, the CPCM model is employed to identify the optimal battery arrangement. Subsequently, a heat dissipation model is developed by coupling CPCM with liquid cooling. The simulation outcomes obtained using COMSOL software demonstrate that employing the paraffin-expanded graphite CPCM liquid cooling coupled heat dissipation model can achieve a reduction in battery spacing to 0 mm while maintaining the maximum surface temperature of the battery between 20–45 °C and improving the temperature uniformity of the battery during 1–3 C cyclic charging and discharging. This approach ensures the battery pack’s normal operation, enhances safety, and prolongs the battery pack’s service life.
Method for Evaluating the Reliability and Competitive Failure of Wind Turbine Gearbox Bearings Considering the Fault Incubation Point
Authors: Yang Weixin , Wang Yu , Liang Kai , Zhang Yangfan , Lin Shiyu , Zhao Hongshan
Published: July 2023

Aiming to resolve the problem where the reliability of gearbox bearings of wind turbines is easily affected by random impact, this paper puts forward a reliability evaluation method for the competitive failure of gearbox bearings of wind turbines considering the fault incubation point. Firstly, we use Weibull distribution to simulate the fault latent process of wind turbine gearbox bearings. Secondly, a natural degradation model of gearbox bearing is established based on the Wiener process. Then, we model the random impact arrival frequency and impact intensity through a homogeneous Poisson process and normal distribution, respectively. Finally, based on considering the fault incubation point, the natural degradation of the bearing, the instantaneous degradation caused by impact, and the decline in the impact resistance of the bearing, a reliability evaluation model of gearbox bearings of wind turbines is established. A high-speed bearing of a gearbox from a wind farm in northern China is selected for simulation analysis. The results show that the proposed method can better describe the reliability decline process of the gearbox bearings of wind turbines, which has a specific guiding significance for the maintenance of wind turbines.
Battery Storage Systems Control Strategies with Intelligent Algorithms in Microgrids with Dynamic Pricing
Authors: Alves Guilherme Henrique , Guimarães Geraldo Caixeta , Moura Fabricio Augusto Matheus
Published: July 2023

The current microgrid (MG) needs alternatives to raise the management level and avoid waste. This approach is important for developing the modern electrical system, as it allows for better integration of distributed generation (DG) and battery energy storage systems (BESSs). Using algorithms based on artificial intelligence (AI) for the energy management system (EMS) can help improve the MG operation to achieve the lowest possible cost in buying and selling electricity and, consequently, increase energy conservation levels. With this, the research proposes two strategies for managing energy in the MG to determine the instants of charge and discharge of the BESS. A heuristic method is employed as a reference point for comparison purposes with the fuzzy logic (FL) operation developed. Furthermore, other algorithms based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) are proposed using the non-linear autoregressive technique to predict the MG variables. During the research, the developed algorithms were evaluated through extensive case studies, with simulations that used data from the PV system, load demands, and electricity prices. For all cases, the AI algorithms for predictions and actions managed to reduce the cost and daily consumption of electricity in the main electricity grids compared with the heuristic method or with the MG without using BESSs. This indicates that the developed power management strategies can be applied to reduce the costs of grid-connected MG operations. It is important to highlight that the simulations were executed in an adequate time, allowing the use of the proposed algorithms in dynamic real-time situations to contribute to developing more efficient and sustainable electrical systems.
Soil Bacteria and Soil Fungi Respond Differently to the Changes in Aboveground Plants along Slope Aspect in a Subalpine Coniferous Forest
Authors: He Luoshu , Ma Suhui , Zhu Biao , Ji Chengjun
Published: July 2023

In a locale-scale mountainous forest, changes in slope aspect can cause microclimate heterogeneity, which can impact both soil environment and plant community, and influence the soil microbial communities as well. However, the relationship between the aboveground plant community and belowground soil microbial communities and the change in slope aspect is not well understood. A case study was carried out in a subalpine coniferous forest in western China to investigate the above- and belowground relationship of three slope aspects, the north-facing slope, the flat site and the south-facing slope. The plant community attributes were evaluated by the community survey, considering species diversity and the plant total basal area of trees and shrubs to represent the plant productivity. Soil bacteria were determined based on 16S rRNA gene and soil fungi on a nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) using high-throughput Illumina sequencing. The results showed that slope aspects significantly affect the aboveground plant productivity and diversity, and the community composition and structure of both aboveground plants and soil bacteria and soil fungi. Soil bacteria and soil fungi correlated differently with aboveground plant community changes in the slope aspects in terms of diversity and community composition and structure. A structural equation model (SEM) revealed that slope aspects caused by aboveground plant productivity changes correlated significantly with the soil fungal community composition and structure, while the soil bacterial community was rather weakly correlated with the plant community, and its changes in community composition and structure were mainly affected by the soil properties and soil fungal community. Further studies considering plant functional traits, soil microbial functional groups, and seasonal changes may reveal a deeper correlation between the aboveground plants and belowground soil microbials at the local scale in subalpine coniferous forests.
Initial Growth of Large, Outplanted, Container-Grown Rooted Cuttings of Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) with Leaf Removal Treatment for Alleviating Transplant Shock and Stem Incline
Authors: Tanaka Sayaka , Ito Satoshi , Hirata Ryoko , Yamagishi Kiwamu , Mizokuchi Takuro , Yamagawa Hiromi , Nomiya Haruto
Published: July 2023

We examined the effectiveness of partial leaf removal for alleviating transplant shock and reducing the risk of stem tilting in large-rooted cuttings of container-grown sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) with high shoot:root ratios. Different intensities of leaf removal (0%, 25%, 50% and 75%) were applied to large sugi rooted cuttings immediately after outplanting, and the stomatal conductance (gs), growth, and degree of stem incline (DSI) during the first growing season were compared to short-rooted cuttings. The 75% removal treatment was associated with high gs values (ca. 1.7–3.0 times of the other treatments) in the early stage of plantation establishment indicating the alleviation of water stress; however, this advantage disappeared within three months after planting. The stems with lower defoliation rates (i.e., 0% and 25%) tended to have large DSI values (about twice those of the 50% and 75% treatments) at an early stage of plantation establishment; however, this effect had almost disappeared within three months. The change in the DSI values and the height-to-diameter ratio (H/D) demonstrated that stem tilting was closely related to a high stem slenderness. The results of the present study showed that the effect of leaf removal on the alleviation of transplant shock and stem tilting was limited. Conversely, both stem elongation and diameter growth tended to be delayed at higher defoliation rates (27%–38% declines in elongation rate and 69%–30% declines in diameter growth compared to the 0% leaf removal treatment, respectively) due to the loss of photosynthetic organs. The large initial H/D also decreased the elongation rate immediately after planting. We consider that it would be better to reduce the initial H/D at the production of the cuttings before outplanting, rather than reducing the risk of stem tilting by leaf removal at the time of outplanting.
Maxent Modeling for Predicting the Potential Geographical Distribution of Castanopsis carlesii under Various Climate Change Scenarios in China
Authors: Zhong Xiaoru , Zhang Lu , Zhang Jiabiao , He Liren , Sun Rongxi
Published: July 2023

Castanopsis carlesii (Hemsl.) Hayata. 1917 is an established subtropical evergreen broad-leaved tree species with rapid growth rates and a strong plasticity to environmental changes. It is widely distributed in East Asia; however, it is unclear how climate change influences the distribution of this tree species. Based on 210 valid occurrence records and 10 environmental variables, we used maximum entropy model (Maxent) to predict its potential geographical distribution under present and three future climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP245 and SSP585) in both the 2050s and 2070s, and determined the influence of climate on the distribution of C. carlesii. The area under the curve (AUC) value of the simulated training and the test were 0.949 and 0.920, respectively, indicating an excellent forecast. The main climatic factors affecting the distribution of C. carlesii are mainly precipitation, especially that of the driest month (Bio14, 75.5%), and annual precipitation (Bio12, 14.3%); its total contribution rate is 89.8%. However, the impact of average mean temperature is lesser in comparison (Bio1, 5.7%). According to the present-day predictions, C. carlesii has a suitable habitat of 208.66 × 104 km2 across most of the tropical and subtropical regions south of the Yangtze River. The medium and high suitability areas are mainly in Taiwan, Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Hainan and Guangxi Provinces. With the climate projected to warm in the future, the distribution area of C. carlesii exhibited a tendency of northward expansion along the Qinling–Huaihe line, mainly manifested as the increase in low and medium suitable areas. The area of high-suitable areas decreased significantly under the three climate scenarios both for the 2050s and 2070s, and only a few areas showed contraction of suitable areas. Therefore, expansion areas can be used for cultivation or introduction trials, while contraction areas require enhanced preservation and collection of genetic resources. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for formulating the adaptation and protection strategies to cope with future climate change as well as theoretical guidance for the introduction, cultivation and sustainable development of C. carlesii.
Antioxidant Capacity of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Yeasts from Xinjiang Traditional Fermented Dairy Products
Authors: Abduxukur Dilihumar , Tursuntay Adila , Zhu Xiaoying , Wang Xiaoyi , Rahman Nurgvl
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to screen strains with antioxidant potential from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts isolated from traditional Xinjiang fermentation products. (2) Methods: Twenty-three strains of LAB and twelve strains of yeast isolated from traditional fermented dairy products from different regions of Xinjiang were selected, and the strains with antioxidant ability were initially screened by measuring the hydroxyl radical scavenging, superoxide anion scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS+ radical scavenging, anti-lipid peroxidation, and ferrous ion chelating abilities of their bacterial bodies, cell-free extracts, and fermentation broth. They were further screened by measuring their superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase (CAT) activities to identify strains with more powerful oxidative abilities. (3) Results: The results show that Lacticaseibacillus paracasei NM-12, Enterococcus faecium UM-12 and NM-11, and Pichia fermentans QY-4 had effective antioxidant enzyme activities. The SOD activity of these strains reached 4.846 ± 0.21 U/mL, 9.105 ± 0.428 U/mL, 8.724 ± 0.365 U/mL, and 6.518 ± 0.223 U/mL; the GPX activity reached 0.1396 ± 0.009 U/mL, 0.1123 ± 0.006 U/mL, 0.014 ± 0.007 U/m, and 0.0919 ± 0.006 U/mL; and the CAT activity reached 19.934 ± 3.072 U/mL, 3.749 ± 0.926 U/mL, 92.095 ± 1.017 U/mL, and 97.289 ± 0.535 U/mL, respectively (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (NM-11), Enterococcus faecium (UM-12, NM-11), and Pichia fermentans (QY-4), isolated from traditional fermented dairy products, are probiotics with high antioxidant activity and potential applications in the food and fermentation industries.
Effects of Temperature Shifts on Microbial Communities and Biogas Production: An In-Depth Comparison
Authors: Sudiartha Gede Adi Wiguna , Imai Tsuyoshi , Mamimin Chonticha , Reungsang Alissara
Published: July 2023

Temperature plays a significant role in anaerobic digestion (AD) as it affects the microbial communities and ultimately controls the efficiency of the process. Few studies have looked at temperature-adjusted AD, but it is unclear how the temperature shifts affect biogas production and the dynamics of microorganisms involved in methanogenesis. This study tested two temperature shift scenarios in fed-batch mode using anaerobically digested sewage sludge and glucose-based substrate. The first scenario was acclimatized to upshifting temperatures from 42 °C to 48 °C while the second was acclimatized to downshifting temperatures from 55 °C to 45 °C. Both temperature shift scenarios resulted in a decrease in biogas production, especially at 45 °C. The upshifted scenario experienced a maximum decrease of 83%, and the downshifted scenario experienced a 16–33% decrease in methane production. Next-generation 16S rRNA sequencing revealed the domination of Methanoculleus in the upshifted scenario. However, a low correlation between the number of Methanoculleus and the other hydrogenotrophic methanogens to biogas production indicates inhibition in the hydrogenotrophic pathway. The downshifted scenario showed better biogas production due to the substantial domination of acetoclastic Methanosaeta and the low abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria. Hence, the temperature shift affects the microbial communities, significantly affecting biogas production performance.
A Trial for the Construction of a Cosmetic Pattern Map Considering Their Effects on Skin Microbiota—Principal Component Analysis of the Effects on Short-Chain Fatty Acid Production by Skin Microbiota Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Tanabe Kurumi , Moriguchi Chihiro , Fujiyama Nao , Shigematsu Yuka , Haraguchi Nanami , Hirano Yuto , Dai Huanghuang , Inaba Shigeki , Tokudome Yoshihiro , Kitagaki Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

Cosmetics in the world have various characteristics, but differences in their effects on skin-domesticated bacteria were not known. In this study, to obtain insights into their effect on skin microbiota, we established an anaerobic culture and short-chain fatty acid measurement system using Staphylococcus epidermidis, a representative bacterium of indigenous skin bacteria. This system was used to extract the characteristics of nine cosmetics and classify them. Cosmetics containing ferments of rice and soy were clustered in the vicinity, although one cosmetic containing soy ferment was clustered distantly from other similar cosmetics. Cosmetics from South Asia and those containing natural plant extracts were clustered in the vicinity. This trial could be utilized as a pattern map of cosmetics in terms of their effects on skin microbiota.
Estimates of the Effective Population Size and Genetic Structure of the Critically Endangered Ship Sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris) in the Chinese Section of the Ili River
Authors: Hu Guo , Chen Feng , Zhang Ying , Luan Peixian , Luo Zhiyuan , Niu Jiangong , Zheng Peng , Wang Sai , Zhang Tao , Shu Yongjun , Ji Feng
Published: July 2023

Ship sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris) is a critically endangered fish that is listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species. Sixteen individuals from the Chinese section of the Ili River were genotyped using genome re-sequencing technology. By applying a genomic relatedness estimation with 1,527,694 genome-wide SNP markers, we found that the coancestry coefficients showed a high level of relatedness between individuals. The effective population sizes over 500 generations were estimated, and this showed that the effective population sizes began to dramatically decline from about 14,840 to 171 individuals when going back four generations from the current population. Artificial reproduction techniques guided by genomic relatedness may be a valuable approach to the conservation of this critically endangered fish species.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Fermented Banana Peel Extracts for the Biosorption and Removal of Cadmium to Mitigate Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chou Lan-Chun , Tsai Cheng-Chih
Published: July 2023

This study identified 11 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains that exhibited tolerance to heavy metal cadmium concentrations above 50 ppm for 48 h. Among these strains, T126-1 and T40-1 displayed the highest tolerance, enduring cadmium concentrations up to 500 ppm while still inhibiting bacterial growth by 50%. Moreover, the fermentation of banana peel using LAB significantly enhanced the clearance rate of cadmium (p < 0.05) compared to nonfermented banana peel. Additionally, the LAB-fermented banana peel exhibited higher 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and reduced power values. Strain T40-1 exhibited a significant improvement in its ability to chelate ferrous ions (p < 0.05). Regarding antibiotic resistance, both the T40-1 and TH3 strains demonstrated high resistance with a third-level inhibition rate against ampicillin and tetracycline. Cell viability tests revealed that incubation with the T40-1 and TH3 strains for a duration of 24 h did not result in any cellular damage. Moreover, these LAB strains effectively mitigated oxidative stress markers, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), caused by 2 ppm cadmium on cells. Furthermore, the LAB strains were able to reduce the inflammatory response, as evidenced by a decrease in interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels (p < 0.05). The use of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis provided valuable insight into the interaction between metal ions and the organic functional groups present on the cell wall of fermented banana peel. In summary, this study highlights the potential of the LAB strains T40-1 and TH3 in terms of their tolerance to the cadmium, ability to enhance cadmium clearance rates, and their beneficial effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell viability.
Biological Activities of p-Hydroxycinnamic Acids in Maintaining Gut Barrier Integrity and Function
Authors: Wang Zi-Ying , Yin Ying , Li Dong-Ni , Zhao Dan-Yue , Huang Jun-Qing
Published: July 2023

It is well established that p-Hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs), including ferulic, caffeic, sinapic, and p-coumaric acids, possess a characteristic phenylpropanoid C6-C3 backbone and account for about one-third of the phenolic compounds in our diet. HCAs are typically associated with various plant cell wall components, including mono-, di-, and polysaccharides, sterols, polyamines, glycoproteins, and lignins. Interestingly, enzymes produced by intestinal microbes liberate HCAs from these associations. HCAs are completely absorbed in their free form upon ingestion and undergo specific reactions upon absorption in the small intestine or liver. The gut epithelium, composed of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), acts as a physical barrier against harmful bacteria and a site for regulated interactions between bacteria and the gut lumen. Thus, maintaining the integrity of the epithelial barrier is essential for establishing a physiochemical environment conducive to homeostasis. This review summarizes the protective effects of HCAs on the intestinal barrier, achieved through four mechanisms: preserving tight junction proteins (TJPs), modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, exerting antioxidant activity, and regulating the intestinal microbiota.
Effect of Arabinoxylan from Wastewater Generated during Vital Wheat Gluten Production on Liver Metabolism in Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Luo Denglin , Li Xingguo , Geng Mengyuan , Zhang Yunhui , Lan Honglin , Li Jiale , Qi Caili , Bai Zhouya , Huang Jihong
Published: July 2023

Arabinoxylan (AX) is a dietary fiber that has been proven to have a significant antidiabetic effect. Liver metabolic disorders frequently coincide with the development of type 2 diabetes, but research on the hepatoprotective effects of AX in type 2 diabetic mice is lacking. As AX is abundant in the wastewater produced during vital wheat gluten protein production, this study used it as a raw material to evaluate its protective effect on liver function. The study employed an AX intervention in type 2 diabetic mice induced by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin and collected serum and liver tissue samples after 4 weeks. Serum and liver function indicators were measured using an automatic biochemistry analysis apparatus, and liver fat accumulation was observed using oil red O staining. Nontargeted metabolomics analysis of liver tissues was conducted using UHPLC-MS/MS. The results showed that AX significantly improved liver function indicators and histopathological damage, and regulated liver metabolic disorders by improving the differential metabolites of pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, as well as purine metabolism. This study demonstrated that AX may exert a significant hepatoprotective effect by regulating metabolic disorders.
Wolffia globosa-Based Nutritious Snack Formulation with High Protein and Dietary Fiber Contents
Authors: On-Nom Nattira , Promdang Prapatsorn , Inthachat Woorawee , Kanoongon Panyaporn , Sahasakul Yuraporn , Chupeerach Chaowanee , Suttisansanee Uthaiwan , Temviriyanukul Piya
Published: July 2023

Wolffia globosa (W. globosa) or duckweed is a small aquatic plant with high protein, dietary fiber, and lipid contents that can be combined with food products to develop nutritious snacks as one strategy to mitigate malnutrition. Here, response surface methodology (RSM) with mixture design was used to develop snacks from W. globosa freeze-dried powder (WP). The physical properties, proximate analysis, amino acid profiles, sensory evaluation, phytochemical analysis, antioxidant properties, and genotoxicity (Ames test) of the snacks were evaluated. The optimal W. globosa snack formula was 64% glutinous rice flour, 10% tapioca flour, and 26% WP, giving a highly desirable liking score of 1.00. Addition of WP increased crude protein, essential amino acids, and dietary fiber compared with the control snack by 51%, 147%, and 83%, respectively. According to the Thai recommended daily intakes, the developed W. globosa snack had high protein and dietary fiber. Phytochemical contents and antioxidant activities of the W. globosa snack such as total phenolic contents (TPCs), total flavonoid contents (TFCs), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) activity, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) activity were significantly higher than the control snack. The novel combination of WP with snack product ingredients greatly enhanced nutritional value.
Rapid Screening of Microalgae as Potential Sources of Natural Antioxidants
Authors: Wang Na , Pei Haiwei , Xiang Wenzhou , Li Tao , Lin Shengjie , Wu Jiayi , Chen Zishuo , Wu Houbo , Li Chuanmao , Wu Hualian
Published: July 2023

In order to rapidly screen microalgae species as feedstocks for antioxidants, extracts were obtained from 16 microalgae strains (under 11 genera, 7 classes) using two methods: a one-step extraction with ethanol/water and a three-step fractionating procedure using hexane, ethylacetate, and water successively. Measuring the total phenol content (TPC), total carotenoid content (TCC), and antioxidant activity of the extracts, indicating TPC and TCC, played an important role in determining the antioxidant activity of the microalgae. A weighted scoring system was used to evaluate the antioxidant activity, and the scores of microalgal samples from two extraction methods were calculated using the same system. Among the investigated microalgae, Euglena gracilis SCSIO-46781 had the highest antioxidant score, contributing to high TPC and TCC, followed by Arthrospira platensis SCSIO-44012, Nannochloropsis sp. SCSIO-45224, Phaeodactylum tricornutum SCSIO-45120, and Nannochloropsis sp. SCSIO-45006, respectively. Additionally, the above-mentioned five strains are currently being applied in commercial production, indicating this system could be effective not only for screening microalgal antioxidants, but also for screening microalgal species/strains with strong adaptation to environmental stress, which is a critical trait for their commercial cultivation.
Efficient Removal of Heavy Metals from Aqueous Solution Using Licorice Residue-Based Hydrogel Adsorbent
Authors: Yin Xiaochun , Ke Ting , Zhu Hai , Xu Pei , Wang Huiyao
Published: July 2023

The removal of heavy metals through adsorption represents a highly promising method. This study focuses on the utilization of an abundant cellulose-rich solid waste, licorice residue (LR), as a natural material for hydrogel synthesis. To this end, LR-EPI hydrogels, namely, LR-EPI-5, LR-EPI-6 and LR-EPI-8, were developed by crosslinking LR with epichlorohydrin (EPI), specifically targeting the removal of Pb, Cu, and Cr from aqueous solutions. Thorough characterizations employing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the successful crosslinking of LR-EPIs by EPI, resulting in the formation of porous and loosely structured hydrogels. Batch studies demonstrated the high efficacy of LR-EPI hydrogels in removing the three heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. Notably, LR-EPI-8 exhibited the highest adsorption capacity, with maximum capacities of 591.8 mg/g, 458.3 mg/g, and 121.4 mg/g for Pb2+, Cr3+, and Cu2+, respectively. The adsorption processes for Pb2+ and Cu2+ were well described by pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Langmuir model. The adsorption mechanism of LR-EPI-8 onto heavy metal ions was found to involve a combination of ion-exchange and electrostatic interactions, as inferred from the results obtained through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and FTIR. This research establishes LR-EPI-8 as a promising adsorbent for the effective removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions, offering an eco-friendly approach for heavy metal removal and providing an environmentally sustainable method for the reutilization of Chinese herb residues. It contributes to the goal of “from waste, treats waste” while also addressing the broader need for heavy metal remediation.
Innovative Materials with Possible Applications in the Wound Dressings Field: Alginate-Based Films with Moringa oleifera Extract
Authors: Gheorghita Roxana , Filip Roxana , Lupaescu Ancuta-Veronica , Iavorschi Monica , Anchidin-Norocel Liliana , Gutt Gheorghe
Published: July 2023

For a long time, biopolymers have proven their effectiveness in the development of materials with various applications, lately those intended for the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, due to their high biocompatibility and non-toxic, non-allergenic, and non-immunogenic nature. The ability to incorporate various active substances in this matrix has yielded materials with characteristics that are far superior to those of classic, conventional ones. The beneficial effects of consuming Moringa oleifera have promoted the use of this plant, from Ayurvedic to classical medicine. The addition of such compounds in the materials intended for the treatment of surface wounds may represent the future of the development of innovative dressings. This study followed the development of materials based on sodium alginate and moringa powder or essential oil for use as dressings, pads, or sheets. Thus, three materials with the addition of 10–30% moringa powder and three materials with the addition of 10–30% essential oil were obtained. The data were compared with those of the control sample, with sodium alginate and plasticizer. The microtopography indicated that the materials have a homogeneous matrix that allows them to incorporate and maintain natural compounds with prolonged release. For example, the sample with 30% moringa essential oil kept its initial shape and did not disintegrate, although the swelling ratio value reached 4800% after 20 min. After testing the mechanical properties, the same sample had the best tensile strength (TS = 0.248 MPa) and elongation (31.41%), which is important for the flexibility of the dressing. The same sample exhibited a very high antioxidant capacity (60.78% inhibition). The materials obtained with moringa powder added presented good values of physical and mechanical properties, which supports their use as wound dressings for short-term application and the release of embedded compounds. According to the obtained results, all the biopolymeric materials with moringa added can be used as dressings for different wound types.