bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composition and Injection Angle Effects on Combustion of an NH3/H2/N2 Jet in an Air Crossflow
Authors: Cecere Donato , Cimini Matteo , Carpenella Simone , Caldarelli Jan , Giacomazzi Eugenio
Published: October 2024

This study explores the combined effects of fuel composition and injection angle on the combustion behavior of an NH3/H2/N2 jet in an air crossflow by means of high-fidelity Large Eddy Simulations (LESs). Four distinct fuel mixtures derived from ammonia partial decomposition, with hydrogen concentrations ranging from 15% to 60% by volume, are injected at angles of 90° and 75° relative to the crossflow, and at operating conditions frequently encountered in micro-gas turbines. The influence of strain on peak flame temperature and NO formation in non-premixed, counter-flow laminar flames is first examined. Then, the instantaneous flow features of each configuration are analyzed focusing on key turbulent structures, and time-averaged spatial distributions of temperature and NO in the reacting region are provided. In addition, statistical analysis on the formation pathways of NO and H2 is performed, revealing unexpected trends: in particular, the lowest hydrogen content flame yields higher temperatures and NO production due to the enhancement of the ammonia-to-hydrogen conversion chemical mechanism, thus promoting flame stability. As the hydrogen concentration increases, this conversion decreases, leading to lower NO emissions and unburned fuel, particularly at the 75° injection angle. Flames with a 90° injection angle exhibit a more pronounced high-temperature recirculation zone, further driving NO production compared with the 75° cases. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing ammonia–hydrogen fuel blends for high-efficiency, low-emission combustion in gas turbines and other applications, highlighting the need for a careful balance between fuel composition and injection angle.
The Impact of Industrial Robots on Green Total Factor Energy Efficiency: Empirical Evidence from Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhao Chuanyue , Zhu Zhishuang , Wang Yujuan , Du Junhong
Published: October 2024

Improving energy utilization efficiency is a crucial means to achieve energy conservation, emission reduction, and green development. At present, to establish a high-quality development framework and satisfy the growing need for a better life among all its people, China must steadfastly pursue the path of green development. Although China’s substantial economic scale and achievements in ecological civilization construction provide favorable conditions for green transformation, there remains a significant gap compared to developed countries in the application of green and clean technologies. Confronted with technological bottlenecks, leveraging emerging technologies such as industrial robots from the new round of scientific and technological revolutions to improve the green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) is of critical importance to China’s green development. This study explores the potential impact of industrial robots on enhancing China’s GTFEE. It begins by reviewing the current research landscape in this field, highlighting its shortcomings, and theorizing potential impact pathways of industrial robots. Subsequently, the paper analyzes data from 2010 to 2019 on the usage of industrial robots and GTFEE across 276 cities at the prefectural level or above in China. Through empirical regression models that incorporate control variables and interaction terms, the study investigates the specific impacts of industrial robots on energy efficiency and their mechanisms of action. The results indicate that industrial robots significantly enhance the GTFEE of Chinese cities, especially in the Northeastern region. Industrial robots notably improve the GTFEE in resource-based cities, old industrial bases, and low-carbon pilot cities. Additionally, robots indirectly boost GTFEE by increasing labor productivity. Enhanced levels of green innovation and environmental regulations also positively moderate the effectiveness of industrial robots in improving energy efficiency. The findings of this research can assist local government agencies in coordinating and implementing policies that are conducive to green development, making better use of industrial robots to serve the people, and are of significant importance for promoting the transformation of China’s economy and society towards high-quality development.
Research on the Dynamic Leaking and Diffusion Law of Hydrogen-Blended Natural Gas under the Soil–Atmosphere Coupled Model
Authors: Ren Shuai , Huang Jingyi , Ban Jiuqing , Long Jiyong , Wang Xin , Liu Gang
Published: October 2024

With the breakthrough in mixing hydrogen into natural gas pipelines for urban use, the widespread application of hydrogen-blended natural gas (HBNG) in energy delivery is imminent. However, this development also introduces significant safety concerns due to notable disparities in the physical and chemical properties between methane and hydrogen, heightening the risks associated with gas leaks. Current models that simulate the diffusion of leaked HBNG from buried pipelines into the atmosphere often employ fixed average leakage rates, which do not accurately represent the dynamic nature of gas leakage and diffusion. This study uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) 2024R1 software to build a three-dimensional simulation model under a soil–atmosphere coupling model for HBNG leakage and diffusion. The findings reveal that, in the soil–atmosphere coupling model, the gas diffusion range under a fixed leakage rate is smaller than that under a dynamic leakage rate. Under the same influencing factors in calm wind conditions, the gas primarily diffuses in the vertical direction, whereas under the same influencing factors in windy conditions, the gas mainly diffuses in the horizontal direction.
A Novel Formula for Calculating the Dynamic Torque of an Engine Based on Its Geometric Parameters and Static Measurements
Authors: Bera Piotr , Drzewosz Agata
Published: October 2024

Torque is the fundamental working parameter of the internal combustion engine (ICE). In a spark ignition (SI) ICE, static torque is a function of rotational speed and throttle angle. However, ICE inertia, the distance between the throttle and cylinders, the time interval between subsequent intake strokes and increased oil viscosity in the warm-up phase limit the use of this characteristic in dynamic states. The novel and simple formula for calculating ICE torque in dynamic working states, presented in the article, includes all the mentioned factors. The new formula is based on ICE static tests where the torque, speed, throttle angle and airflow are measured. On the basis of the intake manifold geometry, the phenomena occurring in this component are described to determine the delay in the ICE response to throttle position changes. Moreover, the influence of ICE inertia is included. Finally, the formula includes the ICE warm-up period, which is characterized by high friction losses that decrease ICE torque. The proposed formula is validated by comparing model performance in dynamic working states with measurements. The results show a high level of accuracy: the delay in ICE response differs by less than 0.01 s, and the calculated torque differs by less than 5%.
Studying Dynamical and Hydraulic Characteristics of the Hydraulically Suspended Passive Shutdown Subassembly (HS-PSS) and Validating with a Prototypic Test Sample
Authors: Kuang Bo , Wang Xin , Hou Jieming , Hu Wenjun
Published: October 2024

The pool-type demonstrative China Fast Reactor 600 (CFR-600) adopted a series of improved safety designs, among which the hydraulic suspended passive shutdown subassembly (HS-PSS) is employed for inherent safety enhancement, especially suitable against unprotected loss of flow accident (ULOF). In this article, functional requirements for HS-PSS design in hydro-dynamic aspects are proposed, with the corresponding performance indicators discussed. To address these functional requirements, qualitative analysis on the equilibrium solution properties of the nonlinear dynamical model equation of the hydraulic moving body (HMB) in the HS-PSS are conducted, which leads to the determination of an applicable design parameter domain of the HMB for its practical design from the broad range of structural and parametric design options available for HS-PSS. Furtherly, hydraulically characterizing and modeling the constituent paths and consequent fluid network, hydraulic characteristics of the HS-PSS, as well as the coupled hydro-dynamic motion behaviors of the HMB for suspension and dropping states, were simulated and test-validated. Considering the HS-PSS hydro-dynamic behaviors, key indicators such as critical flowrate, drop time, hydraulic self-tightening performance, as well as the hydraulic characteristics curve are for fulfilling the functional requirements. Meanwhile, through sensitivity study of some structural parameters‘ impact on hydraulic characteristics, some most sensible structural parameters for adjusting and optimizing detailed design are observed. The work is quite significant in supporting the conceptual design of the HS-PSS as well as its engineering improvement.
Improved Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization of Optimal Diet for Diabetic Patients
Authors: Ahourag Abdellah , Bouhanch Zakaria , El Moutaouakil Karim , Touhafi Abdellah
Published: October 2024

The dietary recommendations for individuals with diabetes focus on maintaining a balanced nutritional intake to manage blood sugar levels. This study suggests a nutritional strategy to improve glycemic control based on an analysis of a dietary optimization problem. The goal is to minimize the overall glycemic loads (GLs) of specific foods. Two variations of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) method, as well as random quantum process optimization (GQPSO), are introduced. The findings demonstrate that the quantum and random methods are more effective than the traditional techniques in reducing the glycemic loads of diets and addressing nutritional deficiencies while also aligning nutrient intake with the recommended levels. The resolution of this diet optimization model, executed multiple times with adjustments to the parameters of both methods, enables dynamic exploration and provides a wide range of diverse and effective food choices.
Effects of the Spatial Pattern of Forest Vegetation on Urban Cooling in Large Metropolitan Areas of China: A Multi-Scale Perspective
Authors: Xu Jie , Yu Yiqi , Zhou Wen , Yu Wendong , Wu Tao
Published: October 2024

Urban forests are expected to mitigate the urban heat island (UHI) effect in megacities. The mechanism and factors influencing the cooling effect of urban forest have been extensively discussed; however, the spatial scale effect of cooling heterogeneity of the urban forest is still uncertain. Based on Landsat 8/9 OLI/TIRS imagery, the relationship between land surface temperature (LST) and the spatial patterns of forest vegetation in Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin was investigated at different spatial scales, including patch level, rural–urban gradient, and multiple spatial extents. The results indicated that the cooling effect of forest vegetation is stronger than that of grassland. The combination of the three indicators—Area, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and the percentage of neighboring greenspace (NGP)—can largely explain the differences in cooling intensity between forest vegetation patches. The results suggest that the cooling effect of forest vegetation was affected by air humidity, and the cooling intensity of forest vegetation is stronger in coastal cities than in inland cities. In dry cities, the impact of the patch area on the cooling intensity of forest patches is greater than the NDVI, while the opposite is true in humid coastal cities. The LST variations in the urban–rural gradient can largely be explained by the landscape composition. This study proposes to apply larger spatial extents (e.g., 450 m × 450 m grid in this study) to investigate the relationship between landscape configuration metrics (e.g., Aggregation and Cohesion in this study) and the LST; and to use smaller spatial extents (e.g., 90 m × 90 m grid in this study) to reveal the relationship between area and shape related metrics. This study extends our scientific understanding of scaling effects to the relationship between landscape metrics and the LST.
In-Depth Characterization of the Volatile Aroma Profile and Other Characteristics of White Wine Produced by Sequential Inoculation with a Lachancea thermotolerans Starter Yeast Strain
Authors: Delač Salopek Doris , Vrhovsek Urska , Carlin Silvia , Radeka Sanja , Lukić Igor
Published: October 2024

The yeast Lachancea thermotolerans has the ability to produce notable amounts of lactic acid and reduce alcoholic strength in fermentation, so it has a considerable potential for mitigating negative impacts of climate changes in winemaking. In this study, a treatment with L. thermotolerans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in sequential inoculation was compared to a control S. cerevisiae monoculture fermentation of Malvazija istarska (aka Malvasia Istriana) white grape must. Standard physico-chemical parameters of the obtained wines were determined by the OIV methods. Targeted (GC/FID and GC/MS) and untargeted (GC×GC/TOF-MS) gas chromatographic techniques were combined for the analysis of volatile compounds. Phenolic compounds were analyzed by UPLC/QqQ-MS/MS, and proteins by RP-HPLC-DAD, while a sensory analysis of wines was performed by a panel of trained and certified tasters. L. thermotolerans co-fermentation treatment increased the concentration of lactic acid and decreased alcoholic strength. L. thermotolerans increased the concentrations of geraniol, β-ionone, isobutanol, isobutyric acid, ethyl isobutyrate, several major acetates, ethyl lactate, and diethyl succinate, followed by many minor compounds. This wine also contained more hydroxycinnamoyl tartrates, while control S. cerevisiae wine had higher levels of free hydroxycinnamates. The effects on PR proteins were minor. L. thermotolerans co-fermentation slightly enhanced the sensory perception of tropical fruit, herbaceous, tobacco, and buttery odor notes, as well as fullness of body. With the largest number of identified volatile compounds up to date and other results obtained, this study contributes to the better understanding of oenological and especially aromatic potential of L. thermotolerans in white wine production.
Development of Starter Inoculum for Controlled Arabica Coffee Fermentation Using Coffee By-Products (Pulp and Mucilage Broth), Yeast, and Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Polanía Rivera Anna María , López Silva Jhennifer , Torres-Valenzuela Laura Sofía , Plaza Dorado José Luis
Published: October 2024

Recent research has highlighted the effectiveness of starter inocula in fermentation processes. In this sense, this study examines the use of an inoculum composed of coffee pulp, mucilage broth, and microorganisms such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, and S. thermophilus in fermenting Castillo variety coffee. An inoculum was prepared, measuring variables such as the pH, acidity, °Brix, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast viability. Following optimization, the inoculum was evaluated in a fermentation process, evaluating the pH, °Brix, acidity, microbiological analysis, ochratoxin A, and cup quality post-drying and roasting. The findings demonstrated a significant reduction in the pH from 4.47 to 4.05 and in the °Brix from 15.8 to 8.45, indicating efficient organic acid production and sugar degradation. Acidity levels increased from 20.02 mg/g to 42.69 mg/g, while microbial viabilities remained above 107 CFUs/g, suggesting effective biomass production. The process effectively reduced the microbial load without detecting ochratoxin A. Sensory evaluations confirmed the enhanced cup quality, validating the positive impact of inoculum use in coffee fermentation. The results support the use of coffee pulp and mucilage broth as effective substrates for the growth of the evaluated microorganisms, and the application of starter cultures containing lactic acid bacteria and yeast can elevate the coffee to a specialty grade.
Raman Scattering for Tensile Testing of Polyacrylonitrile-Based and Pitch-Based Single Carbon Fibers
Authors: Naito Kimiyoshi , Nagai Chiemi
Published: October 2024

The tensile properties of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based and pitch-based single carbon fibers were assessed using Raman scattering. Parameters and ratios related to Raman scattering and stress measurement for the G- and D-bands were analyzed. These include the peak values of Raman shifts (RG, RD), full width at half maximum (FWHMG, FWHMD), peak value slopes (|AG|, |AD|), peak value intercepts (BG, BD), the intensity ratio (ID/IG), the peak value ratio (RD/RG), the full width at half maximum ratio (FWHMD/FWHMG), the slope ratio (AD/AG), and the intercept ratio (BD/BG). These parameters and ratios were determined by analyzing the PAN-based and pitch-based carbon fibers and were correlated to the tensile modulus (E), interlayer spacing (d002), lattice spacing (d10), and crystalline size (Lc and La). In addition, a linear relationship was identified between the Raman scattering, stress measurement parameters, ratios and E, d002, d10, as well as between the Raman scattering, stress measurement parameters, ratios and La and LC on the log–log scale.
Application of Non-Saccharomyces Yeast for the Production of Low-Alcohol Beer
Authors: Klimczak Krystian , Cioch-Skoneczny Monika , Ciosek Aneta , Poreda Aleksander
Published: October 2024

In recent years, demand for low-alcohol and alcohol-free beers has been rising. Of the many methods of producing such beers, many have expensive implementation requirements or drawbacks in terms of beer quality. The exploration of non-Saccharomyces yeast species presents a promising opportunity to overcome these challenges. These yeasts, with their diverse metabolic capabilities and unique flavor profiles, offer the potential to create innovative and flavorful low-alcohol beers. The study investigates the feasibility of using selected non-Saccharomyces yeasts for brewing low-alcohol beers, focusing on fermentation kinetics, physicochemical parameters, and the sensory attributes of the final product. The evaluated yeast species were Kluyveromyces lactis MG971263, Metschnikowia pulcherrima MG971247 and MG971250, Torulaspora delbrueckii MG971248, Wickerhamomyces anomalus MG971261, and W. onychis MG971246. Two strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were used as a control. The results of the study show that selected non-Saccharomyces yeast species might be used to produce low-alcohol beers. The non-Saccharomyces yeast allowed the researchers to obtain beers with an alcohol content in the range of 0.5–1.05%, while the control beer brewed with US-05 had an alcohol content of 3.77%. Among the evaluated strains, the strains M. pulcherrima MG971250 and T. delbrueckii MG971248 were found to be rated better in a sensory evaluation than the brewed and low-alcohol strains of S. cerevisiae.
Changing Our Food Habits One Bite at a Time: Exploring Young Flexitarians in a Country with a High Meat Intake
Authors: Kamin Tanja , Vezovnik Andreja , Bolko Irena
Published: October 2024

Flexitarian diets have gained attention for their potential positive impact on human health and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. However, a critical question remains: Can the segment of flexitarians significantly contribute to necessary changes in our current unsustainable food systems? Our study addresses this gap by examining meat consumption habits among young adults (n = 1023) in a country with traditionally high meat intake. Furthermore, we focus on a subset of flexitarians (n = 286). Our findings reveal two distinct groups of flexitarians: ethical (n1 = 140) and utilitarian (n2 = 148). Utilitarian flexitarians exhibit a stronger preference for meat (t(284)= −15.180, p < 0.001), greater food neophobia (t(284) = −4.785, p < 0.001), and lower environmental awareness (t(284) = 7.486, p < 0.001) compared to Ethical flexitarians. The Ethical group, predominantly female (χ2(1) = 13.366, p < 0.001), demonstrates higher life satisfaction (t(284) = 5.485, p < 0.001), better health perceptions (t(284) = 5.127, p < 0.001), and stronger beliefs in reducing meat consumption (t(284) = −8.968, p < 0.001). Additionally, Ethical flexitarians hold more positive views on plant-based meat, perceiving it as healthier (t(284) = 4.326, p < 0.001) and more ethical (t(284) = 4.942, p < 0.001), and show a greater willingness to adopt it (t(284) = 7.623, p < 0.001). While both groups possess similar knowledge and willingness regarding cultured meat and insects, Ethical flexitarians view cultured meat more favourably (t(250.976) = 2.964, p = 0.003). Our study provides insights into the evolving trends of flexitarianism within Central and Eastern European countries, where research on meat consumption and flexitarianism is scarce. These insights hold value for promoting behaviour change toward reduced meat consumption for both health and environmental reasons. Additionally, they offer guidance to the food industry, including producers, sellers, and providers of meals in educational and employment facilities.
Effectiveness, Challenges, and Environmental Impacts of New Food Strategies with Plant and Animal Protein Products
Authors: Mercês Ziane da Conceição das , Salvadori Natalia Maldaner , Evangelista Sabrina Melo , Cochlar Tatiana Barbieri , Strasburg Virgílio José , da Silva Vanuska Lima , Oliveira Viviani Ruffo de
Published: October 2024

Sustainable food practices are intrinsically linked to human nutrition in the preservation of the ecosystem. This study, therefore, evaluates the effectiveness, challenges, environmental impacts, and new food strategies related to plant and animal products, with a view to promoting more sustainable and healthy eating practices. The search stages were conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, and SciElo. The studies selected included those published from 2018 to 2024 and government documents, available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The 34 articles analyzed in this study showed the environmental impacts related to the production of plant and animal proteins, highlighting the urgency of implementing changes in this sector. However, factors such as land use, carbon footprint, and water footprint show remarkable differences depending on the type of crop cultivated, agricultural practices adopted, and stages involved in the supply chain. As final considerations, the analysis suggests that achieving sustainability in food systems requires an integrate approach that combines the optimization of plant protein production with a reduction in environmental impacts and the development of technologies that that support the efficiency and resilience of the industry. Meeting the nutritional needs of the population in a sustainable way will only be possible through regional actions and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities.
First Detection of Hepatitis E Virus RNA in Ovine Raw Milk from Herds in Central Italy
Authors: Ferri Gianluigi , Pennisi Luca , Malatesta Filiberto , Vergara Alberto
Published: October 2024

HEV mainly enters animal and human hosts through the orofecal route, which presents a critical health concern alongside the associated environmental variable. Among products of animal origin, milk (both ovine and bovine) can harbor HEV RNA, which can potentially be transmitted to consumers. In this study, a total of 220 raw ovine milk samples were collected from Apennine breed subjects farmed (transhumance method) in three different Italian provinces, L’Aquila, Pescara, and Teramo, located in the Abruzzo region (Central Italy). All the specimens were screened using one-step real-time RT-qPCR and nested RT-PCR assays. Among them, 5/220 or 2.27% harbored HEV RNA fragments belonging to the ORF1 and ORF2 codifying regions of the genotype 3c. The average viral amount discovered was 102 GE/mL. These subjects represented 2/57 or 3.51% of the Pescara herd, and 3/105 or 2.86% of the Teramo herd. Although HEV RNA was discovered in sheep fecal samples, the original data obtained in the present study represent the first HEV RNA detection in ovine raw milk from Italy.
Fucoidan–Vegetable Oil Emulsion Applied to Myosin of Silver Carp: Effect on Protein Conformation and Heat-Induced Gel Properties
Authors: Wang Wei , Yan Lijuan , Yi Shumin
Published: October 2024

How to improve the gel properties of protein has become a research focus in the field of seafood processing. In this paper, a fucoidan (FU)–vegetable oil emulsion was prepared, and the mechanism behind the effect of emulsion on protein conformation and the heat-induced gel properties was studied. The results revealed that the FU–vegetable oil complex caused the aggregation and cross-linking of myosin, as well as increased the surface hydrophobicity and total sulfhydryl content of myosin. In addition, the addition of the compound (0.3% FU and 1% vegetable oil) significantly improved the gel strength, hardness, chewiness, and water-holding capacity of the myosin gel (p < 0.05). In particular, when the addition of camellia oil was 1%, the gel strength, hardness, chewiness, and water-holding capacity had the highest values of 612.47 g.mm, 406.80 g, 252.75 g, and 53.56%, respectively. Simultaneously, the emulsion (0.3% FU-1% vegetable oil) enhanced the hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interaction of the myosin gels. The image of the microstructure showed that the emulsion with 0.3% FU-1% vegetable oil improved the formation of the stable three-dimensional network structure. In summary, the FU–vegetable oil complex can promote unfolding of the protein structure and improve the gel properties of myosin, thus providing a theoretical basis for the development of functional surimi products.
Recent Advances in the CRISPR/Cas-Based Nucleic Acid Biosensor for Food Analysis: A Review
Authors: Sun Yanan , Wen Tianjian , Zhang Ping , Wang Minglian , Xu Yuancong
Published: October 2024

Food safety is a major public health issue of global concern. In recent years, the CRISPR/Cas system has shown promise in the field of molecular detection. The system has been coupled with various nucleic acid amplification methods and combined with different signal output systems to develop a new generation of CRISPR/Cas-based nucleic acid biosensor technology. This review describes the design concept of the CRISPR/Cas-based nucleic acid biosensor and its application in food analysis. A detailed overview of different CRISPR/Cas systems, signal amplification methods, and signal output strategies is provided. CRISPR/Cas-based nucleic acid biosensors have the advantages of high sensitivity, strong specificity, and timeliness, achieving fast analysis of a variety of targets, including bacteria, toxins, metal ions, pesticides, veterinary drugs, and adulteration, promoting the development of rapid food safety detection technology. At the end, we also provide our outlook for the future development of CRISPR/Cas-based nucleic acid biosensors.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Spanish Sheep Cheese: A Study on the Relationships between Ripening Times, Geographical Origins, Textural Parameters, and MRI Parameters
Authors: Segura José , Fernández-Valle María Encarnación , Cruz-Díaz Karen Paola , Romero-de-Ávila María Dolores , Castejón David , Remiro Víctor , Cambero María Isabel
Published: October 2024

The evolution of structural changes and the textural features during the ripening process of four varieties of Spanish sheep cheese were studied using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Specifically, longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation times and apparent diffusion coefficient maps were analyzed. Also, proton density was used to improve the description of the structure of the cheeses. The MRI results displayed important information about cheese matrix structure, associated with different manufacturing processes (industrial vs. traditional), ripening times (RTs, from 2 to 180 days), and geographical origins. A significant interaction between RT and cheese variety related to the variations in physicochemical and textural parameters was found. Linear regression models were developed per the abundant literature. Logarithmic regression models showed the highest R2 when monitoring the dependency on T1 and T2 parameters of water content, water activity, RT, and some texture parameters. Therefore, these results support that MRI is a useful technology to monitor the ripening process, predict textural behavior and physicochemical variables, and characterize the structure of different varieties of sheep cheese.
Sequencing Technologies in Forensic Microbiology: Current Trends and Advancements
Authors: Oliveira Manuela , Marszałek Kamila , Kowalski Michał , Frolova Alina , Łabaj Paweł P. , Branicki Wojciech , Madureira-Carvalho Áurea , da Silva Diana Dias , Dinis-Oliveira Ricardo Jorge
Published: October 2024

Forensic microbiology is a subject of interest and research development across the forensic community. Studies of pathogen outbreaks, biocrime or bioterrorism attacks, and analyses of crime scenes fall within this field. Significant progress has been made in evolving DNA sequencing technologies in recent decades. These newly emerged transformative tools have become available to both biomedicine and forensics. Based on the published literature, this review provides an overview of the current trends and developments of NGS (next-generation sequencing) technologies applied to forensic microbiology. These new methods present numerous advantages over traditional sequencing technology and are useful in several practical applications within this forensic field. This article then examines the main challenges and limitations of this technology in forensics, providing a comprehensive review of NGS technology capabilities in expanding the precision and effectiveness of microbial forensic investigations—with the aim of inspiring scientists, forensic experts, lawyers, public health professionals, and policymakers alike to approach this newly powerful sequencing tool appropriately.
Exploring the Ionized Core of the Proto-Planetary Nebula CRL 618 and Its Vicinity with ALMA
Authors: Fonfría José Pablo , Sánchez Contreras Carmen , Tafoya Daniel , Fernández-Ruiz Patricia , Castro-Carrizo Arancha , Alcolea Javier , Bujarrabal Valentín
Published: October 2024

Proto- and young planetary nebulae comprise dense circumstellar envelopes made of molecular gas and dust, some of which hide compact ionized cores that host stellar systems with hot objects, and show high-velocity bipolar outflows launched from inside their cores by means of still unknown mechanisms. We present high-angular-resolution Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) observations (HPBW ≃ 30–50 mas) of CRL 618 at 1.35 mm covering the H30α recombination line as well as ≃150 molecular lines. The ionized core is resolved, showing a size of ≃0.″8×0.″5 and is elongated along the east–west direction. This region exhibits a remarkable incomplete ring-like structure with two bright spots to the north and south that are separated by ≃0.″2 and shows deprojected velocity gradients ranging from 0.2 to 0.6 km s−1au−1. The 1 mm wavelength continuum emission is mostly produced by free–free emission with a small contribution from dust with an average spectral index of 0.28 (Sν∝να). The ionized core can roughly be modeled as a tilted hollow cylinder with a denser, incomplete equatorial band lacking its back side. Molecular emission traces the neutral component of the same structures enclosing the ionized matter.
Gel-Based Suspension Medium Used in 3D Bioprinting for Constructing Tissue/Organ Analogs
Authors: Luo Yang , Xu Rong , Hu Zeming , Ni Renhao , Zhu Tong , Zhang Hua , Zhu Yabin
Published: October 2024

Constructing tissue/organ analogs with natural structures and cell types in vitro offers a valuable strategy for the in situ repair of damaged tissues/organs. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a flexible method for fabricating these analogs. However, extrusion-based 3D bioprinting faces the challenge of balancing the use of soft bioinks with the need for high-fidelity geometric shapes. To address these challenges, recent advancements have introduced various suspension mediums based on gelatin, agarose, and gellan gum microgels. The emergence of these gel-based suspension mediums has significantly advanced the fabrication of tissue/organ constructs using 3D bioprinting. They effectively stabilize and support soft bioinks, enabling the formation of complex spatial geometries. Moreover, they provide a stable, cell-friendly environment that maximizes cell viability during the printing process. This minireview will summarize the properties, preparation methods, and potential applications of gel-based suspension mediums in constructing tissue/organ analogs, while also addressing current challenges and providing an outlook on the future of 3D bioprinting.
Germplasm Resources Evaluation of Cultured Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) in China Based on Whole Genome Resequencing
Authors: Guan Wenzhi , Jian Jieliang , Niu Baolong , Zhang Xinhui , Yu Jiongying , Xu Xiaojun
Published: October 2024

Background: Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), a valuable freshwater fish species, has experienced significant genetic decline in China due to prolonged domestic breeding and limited introduction of new genetic material. It is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of the genetic status of largemouth bass populations in China. Method: In this study, we conducted population genetic analyses on nine cultured largemouth bass populations using whole genome resequencing. Results: A total of 3.23 Tb of clean bases were generated, with average Q20 and Q30 values of 98.17% and 94.25%, respectively, and 2,140,534 high-quality SNPs were obtained. Relatively high genetic diversity was observed across all populations. Combined with linkage disequilibrium (LD) patterns, the Wanlu (WL) population possessed the highest genetic diversity, and the Longyou (LY) population possessed the lowest genetic diversity. Additionally, population structure analyses, including pairwise F-statistics, phylogenetic trees, PCA, and admixture analysis, revealed significant genetic differentiation, particularly between the WL, LY, and other 7 populations, while also indicating the occurrence of a common admixture event. Finally, TreeMix inferred migration events from the WL to the Chuanlu (CL) population and from the Taiwan breeding population (TWL) to the Guanglu (GL) population. Conclusions: These findings provide a critical foundation for developing conservation and breeding strategies for largemouth bass in China.
Differences in the Rates of Diagnoses of Mental and Behavioral Disorders Due to Psychoactive Substance Use by Sex and Age during Pre-Pandemic and COVID-19 Pandemic Periods in Kazakhstan
Authors: Akkuzinova Kamila , Inoue Ken , Toleuov Elaman , Moldagaliyev Timur , Seksenbayev Nursultan , Jamedinova Ulzhan , Ospanova Nargul , Dyussupov Altay
Published: October 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had profound impacts worldwide on individuals with mental and behavioral disorders, including disorders due to psychoactive substance use. We investigated how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the trends in these disorders in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Methods: We researched and compared ICD-10 data on mental and behavioral disorders due to substance use in Kazakhstan that were diagnosed in 2018–2019 (pre-pandemic) versus 2020–2021 (the pandemic period). Results: The data for the pandemic period were significantly different from those of the pre-pandemic in that (i) ‘other stimulant-related disorders (F15)’ and ‘other psychoactive substance-related disorders (F19)’ were increased in the younger age groups, (ii) the risk of ‘opioid-related disorders (F11)’ was decreased in the 30-year-old group in both males and females, and (iii) the risk of ‘alcohol-related disorders (F10)’ was increased in the 30-year-old group and decreased in the 20- and 50-year-old groups. In only the males, (iv) the risk of ‘other psychoactive substance-related disorders (F19)’ was increased in almost all of the age groups, and (v) the risk of ‘cannabis-related disorders (F12)’ was increased in the ≥50-year-olds. The pre-pandemic and pandemic periods thus involved changes due to COVID-19 in both males and females that were especially notable in males. Conclusions: These results indicate that further measures designed to prevent mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substances are necessary at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, and personnel in medicine/nursing, the government, private organizations, and the public need to collaborate to devise such measures.
Patients with Non-Specific Complaints in Emergency Departments: A Growing Patient Safety Concern in an Aging Population with Multimorbidity
Authors: Meier Ninna , Pedersen Kirstine Zinck , Andresen Linda Camilla , Andersen Ove
Published: October 2024

In this opinion, we offer a new perspective on the important and persistent problem of diagnostic errors for patients with non-specific complaints (NSCs). As an increasing number of complex patients present clinicians with challenging diagnostic work in the time-pressured and high-volume contexts of EDs, we need to improve how clinicians and healthcare organizations can understand and perform safe diagnostics for patients with NSCs. The combination of a growing number of patients with NSCs and the ways in which clinicians use the categories ‘non-specific complaints’ and ‘non-specific diagnosis’ in diagnostic work in emergency departments presents a growing patient safety concern especially for older patients with multimorbidity that require the integration of clinical and organizational research. We argue why the growing numbers of patients with NSCs and clinicians’ use of these categories have implications for patient safety both within and beyond the acute care context. We end by pointing to the importance of an interdisciplinary patient safety research agenda, ideally followed by the development of targeted usable protocols for older multimorbid patients with non-specific complaints.
Development and Validation of the Communities Geriatric Mild Cognitive Impairment Risk Calculator (CGMCI-Risk)
Authors: Chen Jiangwei , Fang Qing , Yang Kehua , Pan Jiayu , Zhou Lanlan , Xu Qunli , Shen Yuedi
Published: October 2024

Objectives: The aim was to develop and validate the Communities Geriatric Mild Cognitive Impairment Risk Calculator (CGMCI-Risk), aiding community healthcare workers in the early identification of individuals at high risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods: Based on nationally representative community survey data, backward stepwise regression was employed to screen the variables, and logistic regression was utilized to construct the CGMCI-Risk. Internal validation was conducted using bootstrap resampling, while external validation was performed using temporal validation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to evaluate the CGMCI-Risk in terms of discrimination, calibration, and net benefit, respectively. Results: The CGMCI-Risk model included variables such as age, educational level, sex, exercise, garden work, TV watching or radio listening, Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL), hearing, and masticatory function. The AUROC was 0.781 (95% CI = 0.766 to 0.796). The calibration curve showed strong agreement, and the DCA suggested substantial clinical utility. In external validation, the CGMCI-Risk model maintained a similar performance with an AUROC of 0.782 (95% CI = 0.763 to 0.801). Conclusions: CGMCI-Risk is an effective tool for assessing cognitive function risk within the community. It uses readily predictor variables, allowing community healthcare workers to identify the risk of MCI in older adults over a three-year span.
The Effect of Biostimulants on Horticultural Crops
Authors: Loeza-Lara Pedro , Jiménez-Mejía Rafael , Santoyo Gustavo
Published: October 2024

The growing human population increasingly demands more food, which is tied to the concept of food security [...]
Maize Endophytic Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria Peribacillus simplex Can Alleviate Plant Saline and Alkaline Stress
Authors: Li Guoliang , Shi Miaoxin , Wan Wenhao , Wang Zongying , Ji Shangwei , Yang Fengshan , Jin Shumei , Zhang Jianguo
Published: October 2024

Soil salinization is currently one of the main abiotic stresses that restrict plant growth. Plant endophytic bacteria can alleviate abiotic stress. The aim of the current study was to isolate, characterize, and assess the plant growth-promoting and saline and alkaline stress-alleviating traits of Peribacillus simplex M1 (P. simplex M1) isolates from maize. One endophytic bacterial isolate, named P. simplex M1, was selected from the roots of maize grown in saline–alkali soil. The P. simplex M1 genome sequence analysis of the bacteria with a length of 5.8 Mbp includes about 700 genes that promote growth and 16 antioxidant activity genes that alleviate saline and alkaline stress. P. simplex M1 can grow below 400 mM NaHCO3 on the LB culture medium; The isolate displayed multiple plant growth-stimulating features, such as nitrogen fixation, produced indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and siderophore production. This isolate had a positive effect on the resistance to salt of maize in addition to the growth. P. simplex M1 significantly promoted seed germination by enhancing seed vigor in maize whether under normal growth or NaHCO3 stress conditions. The seeds with NaHCO3 treatment exhibited higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels than the maize in P. simplex M1 inoculant on maize. P. simplex M1 can colonize the roots of maize. The P. simplex M1 inoculant plant increased chlorophyll in leaves, stimulated root and leaf growth, increased the number of lateral roots and root dry weight, increased the length and width of the blades, and dry weight of the blades. The application of inoculants can significantly reduce the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increase the activity of plant antioxidant enzymes (Catalase (CAT), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and Peroxidase (POD)), which may thereby improve maize resistance to saline and alkaline stress. Conclusion: P. simplex M1 isolate belongs to plant growth-promoting bacteria by having high nitrogen concentration, indoleacetic acid (IAA), and siderophore, and reducing the content of ROS through the antioxidant system to alleviate salt alkali stress. This study presents the potential application of P. simplex M1 as a biological inoculant to promote plant growth and mitigate the saline and alkaline effects of maize and other crops.
An Analysis of Genetic Polymorphisms in 76 Genes Related to the Development of Ovarian Tumors of Different Aggressiveness
Authors: Szafron Laura A. , Sobiczewski Piotr , Dansonka-Mieszkowska Agnieszka , Kupryjanczyk Jolanta , Szafron Lukasz M.
Published: October 2024

Borderline ovarian tumors (BOTS) are rare neoplasms of intermediate aggressiveness between cystadenomas and low-grade ovarian cancers (lgOvCa), which they share some molecular resemblances with. In contrast to the most frequent and well-described high-grade ovarian carcinomas (hgOvCa), the molecular background of BOTS and lgOvCa is less thoroughly characterized. Here, we aimed to analyze genetic variants in crucial tumor suppressors and oncogenes in BOTS (with or without the BRAF V600E mutation), lgOvCa, and hgOvCa in two gene panels using next-generation sequencing. Then, we verified the existence of selected polymorphisms by Sanger sequencing. Finally, Western blot analyses were carried out to check the impact of the selected polymorphisms on the expression of the corresponding proteins. Our study contributes to the molecular characterization of ovarian neoplasms, demonstrating divergent polymorphic patterns pointing to distinct signaling pathways engaged in their development. Certain mutations seem to play an important role in BOTS without the BRAF V600E variant (KRAS) and in lgOvCa (KRAS and NRAS), but not in hgOvCa. Additionally, based on multivariable regression analyses, potential biomarkers in BOTS (PARP1) and hgOvCa (FANCI, BRCA2, TSC2, FANCF) were identified. Noteworthy, for some of the analyzed genes, such as FANCI, FANCD2, and FANCI, FANCF, TSC2, the status of BRCA1/2 and TP53, respectively, turned out to be crucial. Our results shed new light on the similarities and differences in the polymorphic patterns between ovarian tumors of diverse aggressiveness. Furthermore, the biomarkers identified herein are of potential use as predictors of the prognosis and/or response to therapy.
Overexpression of Glyoxalase 2 in Human Breast Cancer Cells: Implications for Cell Proliferation and Doxorubicin Resistance
Authors: Romaldi Brenda , Scirè Andrea , Minnelli Cristina , Frontini Andrea , Casari Giulia , Cianfruglia Laura , Mobbili Giovanna , de Bari Lidia , Antognelli Cinzia , Pallardó Federico V. , Armeni Tatiana
Published: October 2024

Glyoxalase 2 (Glo2) is an enzyme of the glyoxalase system whose pathway parallels glycolysis and which aims to remove methylglyoxal (MGO). This study analyzed the possible additional roles of the Glo2 enzyme in breast cancer (MCF7) and non-cancer (HDF) cell lines, investigating its presence at the nuclear level and its potential involvement in cell proliferation and chemotherapy resistance. The results revealed that Glo2 is overexpressed in cancer cells, and its expression is higher during the proliferative (S and G2/M) phases of the cell cycle. The study also examined a post-translational modification (PTM) in which Glo2 could be involved, with S-glutathionylation revealing that Glo2 enhances this PTM in cancer cells both in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Inhibition of Glo2 by p-NCBG resulted in increased sensitivity to doxorubicin, a common chemotherapeutic agent. This suggests that Glo2 increases cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy, potentially through its role in regulating oxidative stress. These results highlight Glo2 as a potential therapeutic target to improve the efficacy of existing treatments.
Oral Microbiome and CPT1A Function in Fatty Acid Metabolism in Oral Cancer
Authors: Praveen Zeba , Choi Sung-Weon , Lee Jong Ho , Park Joo Yong , Oh Hyun Jun , Kwon Ik Jae , Park Jin Hee , Kim Mi Kyung
Published: October 2024

The oral microbiome is crucial for human health. Although oral dysbiosis may contribute to oral cancer (OC), the detailed relationships between the microbiome and OC remain unclear. In this case-control study, we aimed to elucidate the connection between the oral microbiome and mechanisms potentially involved in oral cancer. The study analyzed 1022 oral saliva samples, including 157 from oral cancer patients and 865 from healthy controls, using 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) sequencing and a Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model to identify four bacterial genera significantly associated with oral cancer. In patients with oral cancer, the relative abundance of Streptococcus and Parvimonas was higher; Corynebacterium and Prevotella showed decreased relative abundance; and levels of fatty acid oxidation enzymes, including Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase, acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, diacylglycerol choline phosphotransferase, and H+-transporting ATPase, were significantly higher compared to controls. Conversely, healthy controls exhibited increased levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and CD4+T-helper cell counts. Survival analysis revealed that higher abundance of Streptococcus and Parvimonas, which correlated positively with interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and CPT1A, were linked to poorer disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates, while Prevotella and Corynebacterium were associated with better outcomes. These findings suggest that changes in these bacterial genera are associated with alterations in specific cytokines, CPT1A levels, SCFAs in oral cancer, with lower SCFA levels in patients reinforcing this link. Overall, these microbiome changes, along with cytokine and enzyme alterations, may serve as predictive markers, enhancing diagnostic accuracy for oral cancer.