bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecotoxicity of Pesticides Approved for Use in European Conventional or Organic Agriculture for Honeybees, Birds, and Earthworms
Authors: Goritschnig Lena , Burtscher-Schaden Helmut , Durstberger Thomas , Zaller Johann G.
Published: July 2024

Pesticides affect biota inside and outside agricultural fields due to their intrinsic mode of action. This study investigated whether pesticide active substances (AS) approved for conventional agriculture in Europe differ in their ecotoxicity from AS approved for organic agriculture. The evaluation was based on official ecotoxicological data for surrogate honeybee, bird, and earthworm species, which also serve as a reference for official environmental risk assessments in the pesticide authorization process. In October 2022, 268 chemical-synthetic AS approved for conventional and 179 nature-based AS approved for organic agriculture were listed in the EU Pesticide Database. Ecotoxicological data were only available for 254 AS approved for use in conventional agriculture and 110 AS approved for use in organic agriculture. The results showed a higher ecotoxicity of conventional AS: 79% (201 AS), 64% (163 AS) and 91% (230 AS) were moderately to acutely toxic to honeybees, birds, and earthworms, respectively, compared to 44% (48 AS), 14% (15 AS) and 36% (39 AS) of AS approved for organic agriculture. We have only considered the potential ecotoxicities of individual substances in this assessment; actual exposure in the field, where multiple AS formulations with other chemicals (including impurities) are applied, will be different. Nevertheless, these results emphasize that an increase in organic agriculture in Europe would reduce the ecotoxicological burden on biodiversity and associated ecosystem services.
Development of a 3D Digital Model of End-of-Service-Life Buildings for Improved Demolition Waste Management through Automated Demolition Waste Audit
Authors: Omer Muhammad , Wang Yong C. , Quintana Roma Mikel , Bedrich Stanislav , Nežerka Václav , Ferriz-Papi Juan , Moros Montanes Jesus J. , Diez Ortiz Ines
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the development of a 3D digital model of end-of-service-life buildings to facilitate a step change in preparation of pre-demolition protocols that can eliminate problems of inadequate documentation and extensive time spent in preparing pre-demolition audits. The 3D digital model consists of the following four main components: (i) digitization of paper-based drawings and their conversion to CAD; (ii) automated generation of a 3D digital model from CAD; (iii) corrections to the 3D digital model to account for changes in the lifetime of a building; (iv) a sub-model for performing pre-demolition audit. This paper proposes the innovative approaches of incorporating a minimal amount of human intervention to overcome numerous difficulties in automated drawing analysis, application of augmented reality (AR) in corrections to the 3D digital model, and data compatibility for pre-demolition audit. These processes are demonstrated using one building as case study. Using the digital model, a pre-demolition audit can be prepared in minutes rather than the many days required in current practice without a digital model. The accurate quantification of the quantities and locations of different demolition waste materials and products in buildings to be demolished will enable a systematic and quantitative evaluation of potentials of material and product reuse and eliminate contamination of different demolition waste streams (which may contain hazardous waste), which is the main cause of environmental degradation and downcycling of demolition waste materials.
Epigenetic Regulation of Mammalian Cardiomyocyte Development
Authors: Mensah Isaiah K. , Gowher Humaira
Published: July 2024

The heart is the first organ formed during mammalian development and functions to distribute nutrients and oxygen to other parts of the developing embryo. Cardiomyocytes are the major cell types of the heart and provide both structural support and contractile function to the heart. The successful differentiation of cardiomyocytes during early development is under tight regulation by physical and molecular factors. We have reviewed current studies on epigenetic factors critical for cardiomyocyte differentiation, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelers, and noncoding RNAs. This review also provides comprehensive details on structural and morphological changes associated with the differentiation of fetal and postnatal cardiomyocytes and highlights their differences. A holistic understanding of all aspects of cardiomyocyte development is critical for the successful in vitro differentiation of cardiomyocytes for therapeutic purposes.
Microbial Consortium of Jeju Traditional Fermented Foods and Their Cosmetic Ingredient Potential
Authors: Bae Sung-Eun , Bae Sungmin , Park Sung Jin , Lee Pomjoo , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: July 2024

In this study, we analyzed the microbial community of traditional fermented foods of Jeju Island to identify the distribution of useful microorganisms and confirm their anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic effects to determine their potential use as cosmetic ingredients. Firstly, we examined the microbial communities of Omphalius rusticus Jeotgal (OR), Spratelloides gracilis Jeotgal (SG), Chromis notata Jeotgal (CN), Turbo cornutus Jeotgal (TC), Trichiurus lepturus intestine Jeotgal (TL), Branchiostegus japonicus Sweet Rice Punch (BJ), Salted Anchovy Sauce (SA), Jeju Soy Sauce (JSS), and Jeju Soybean Paste (JSP). We found that Latilactobacillus sakei (87.2%), Tetragenococcus halophilus (37.7%), T. halophilus (96.8%), Bacillus subtilis (23.4%), T. halophilus (71.3%), L. sakei (53.7%), Lentibacillus sp. (42.9%), Enterococcus durans (14.6%), and E. durans (32.8%) were the dominant species. Secondly, to study the nine Jeju fermented foods’ anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic effects, we employed RAW 264.7 and B16F10 cells, classic cell models for inflammation and melanogenesis studies. Ethyl acetate extracts of the nine Jeju fermented foods all inhibited nitric oxide (NO) and melanin production in a concentration-dependent manner. Thirdly, to test the applicability of the nine Jeju fermented foods to human skin, we used the MTT assay to assess their cytotoxic effects on human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). Finally, the topical applicability of the nine Jeju fermented foods was tested through primary skin irritation, and it was found that they did not cause any adverse effects. Therefore, extracts from the nine Jeju fermented foods have potential applications as ingredients in anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic products and can be used in the cosmetic industry.
Comparison of Perimeter Delineation Methods for Remote Sensing Fire Spot Data in Near/Ultra-Real-Time Applications
Authors: Bhuian Hanif , Dastour Hatef , Ahmed Mohammad Razu , Hassan Quazi K.
Published: July 2024

Forest fires cause extensive damage to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human property, posing significant challenges for emergency response and resource management. The accurate and timely delineation of forest fire perimeters is crucial for mitigating these impacts. In this study, methods for delineating forest fire perimeters using near-real-time (NRT) remote sensing data are evaluated. Specifically, the performance of various algorithms—buffer, concave, convex, and combination methods—using VIIRS and MODIS datasets is assessed. It was found that increasing concave α values improves the matching percentage with reference areas but also increases the commission error (CE), indicating overestimation. The results demonstrate that combination methods generally achieve higher matching percentages, but also higher CEs. These findings highlight the trade-off between improved perimeter accuracy and the risk of overestimation. The insights gained are significant for optimizing sensor data alignment techniques, thereby enhancing rapid response, resource allocation, and evacuation planning in fire management. This research is the first to employ multiple algorithms in both individual and synergistic approaches with NRT or ultra-real-time (URT) active fire data, providing a critical foundation for future studies aimed at improving the accuracy and timeliness of forest fire perimeter assessments. Such advancements are essential for effective disaster management and mitigation strategies.
Time Delay Estimation for Acoustic Temperature Measurement of Loose Coal Based on Quadratic Correlation PHAT-β Algorithm
Authors: Liu Yin , Guo Jun , Gao Wenjing , Wen Hu , Cai Guobin , Jin Yongfei , Wang Kaixuan
Published: July 2024

The acoustic temperature measurement method has a broad application prospect due to its advantages of high precision, non-contact, etc. It is expected to become a new method for hidden fire source detection in mines. The acoustic time of flight (TOF) can directly affect the accuracy of acoustic temperature measurement. We proposed a quadratic correlation-based phase transform weighting (PHAT-β) algorithm for estimating the time delay of the acoustic temperature measurement of a loose coal. Validation was performed using an independently built experimental system for acoustic temperature measurement of loose coals under multi-factor coupling. The results show that the PHAT-β algorithm estimated acoustic TOF values closest to the reference line as the sound travelling distance increased. The results of coal temperature inversion experiments show that the absolute error of the PHAT-β algorithm never exceeds 1 °C, with a maximum value of 0.862 °C. Using the ROTH weighted error maximum, when the particle of the coal samples is 3.0–5.0 cm, the absolute error maximum is 4.896 °C, which is a difference of 3.693 °C from the error minimum of 1.203 °C in this particle size interval. The accuracy of six algorithms was ranked as PHAT-β > GCC > PHAT > SCOT > HB > ROTH, further validating the accuracy and reliability of the PHAT-β algorithm.
Slow Translation of a Composite Sphere in an Eccentric Spherical Cavity
Authors: Chen Yi C. , Keh Huan J.
Published: July 2024

This semi-analytical study is presented examining the quasi-steady creeping flow caused by a soft (composite) spherical particle, which is a hard (impermeable) sphere core covered by a porous (permeable) layer, translating in an incompressible Newtonian fluid within a non-concentric spherical cavity along the line joining their centers. To solve the Brinkman and Stokes equations for the flow fields inside and outside the porous layer, respectively, general solutions are constructed in two spherical coordinate systems attached to the particle and cavity individually. The boundary conditions at the cavity wall and particle surface are fulfilled through a collocation method. Numerical results of the normalized drag force exerted by the fluid on the particle are obtained for numerous values of the ratios of core-to-particle radii, particle-to-cavity radii, the distance between the centers to the radius difference of the particle and cavity, and the particle radius to porous layer permeation length. For the translation of a soft sphere within a concentric cavity or near a small-curvature cavity wall, our drag results agree with solutions available in the literature. The cavity effect on the drag force of a translating soft sphere is monotonically increasing functions of the ratios of core-to-particle radii and the particle radius to porous layer permeation length. While the drag force generally rises with an increase in the ratio of particle-to-cavity radii, a weak minimum (surprisingly, smaller than that for an unconfined soft sphere) may occur for the case of low ratios of core-to-particle radii and of the particle radius to permeation length. This drag force generally increases with an increase in the eccentricity of the particle position, but in the case of low ratios of core-to-particle radii and particle radius to permeation length, the drag force may decrease slightly with increasing eccentricity.
Comparative Analysis of Texture Characteristics, Sensory Properties, and Volatile Components in Four Types of Marinated Tofu
Authors: Yang Bing , Zhang Wanli , Wang Heng , Wang Shenli , Yan Jing , Dong Zijie , Zhao Penghui , Ren Fazheng , Chen Lishui
Published: July 2024

In this study, three different brands of commercially available marinated tofu were analyzed and compared with homemade products to explore the effect of key flavor substances on their sensory quality, sensory properties, texture characteristics, and volatile components. The texture characteristics and flavor substances of the three brands of commercially available marinated tofu were significantly different from those of homemade products. A total of 64 volatile components were identified by headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS), mainly including 11 hydrocarbons, 11 alcohols, 10 ketones, 15 aldehydes, 4 esters, 1 acid, and 12 other volatile substances. Among these, nine key flavor compounds (ROAV > 1, VIP > 1) were identified using the relative odor activity value (ROAV) combined with a partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and variable importance in projection, including α-Pinene, β-Myrcene, α-Phellandrene, 1-Penten-3-one, Butanal, 3-Methyl butanal, acetic acid ethyl ester, 1,8-Cineol, and 2-Pentyl furan. The correlation heatmap showed that sensory evaluation was positively correlated with hardness, gumminess, chewiness, and springiness while negatively correlated with 2-Pentyl furan, α-Pinene, resilience, α-Phellandrene, 1-Penten-3-one, acetic acid ethyl ester, and 1,8-Cineol. Overall, this study provides a theoretical reference for developing new instant marinated tofu snacks.
Effects of Stir-Frying and Heat–Moisture Treatment on the Physicochemical Quality of Glutinous Rice Flour for Making Taopian, a Traditional Chinese Pastry
Authors: Xie Qiuping , Wu Shanshan , Lai Shiyu , Ye Fayin
Published: July 2024

Taopian is a traditional Chinese pastry made from cooked glutinous rice flour. The effects of heat–moisture treatment (110 °C, 4 h; moisture contents 12–36%, w/w) on the preparation of cooked glutinous rice flour and taopian made from it were compared with the traditional method of stir-frying (180 °C, 30 s). The color of heat–moisture-treated (HMT) flours was darker. HMT flours exhibited a larger mean particle size (89.5–124 μm) and a greater relative crystallinity of starch (23.08–42.92%) and mass fractal dimension (1.77–2.28). The flours exhibited water activity in the range of 0.589–0.631. Although the oil-binding capacity of HMT flours was largely comparable to that of stir-fried flours, HMT flours exhibited a lower water absorption index. Accordingly, the taopian produced with HMT flours exhibited a lower brightness, accompanied by a stronger reddening and yellowing. In addition, more firmly bound water was observed in the taopian produced with HMT flour. The taopian made with HMT flour with a moisture content of 24% exhibited moderate hardness, adhesiveness and cohesiveness and received the highest score for overall acceptability (6.80). These results may be helpful to improve the quality of taopian by applying heat–moisture treatment in the preparation of cooked glutinous rice flour.
Optimization of Processing Parameters for Continuous Microwave Drying of Crab Apple Slices via Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kamruzzaman Md , Shen Liuyang , Zhang Yuhan , Xue Liangliang , Fu Kesen , Zhu Haihui , Zheng Xianzhe
Published: July 2024

To improve product quality and obtain suitable processing parameters for crab apple slices (CASs) produced by continuous microwave drying (CMD), the effects of processing parameters, including slice thickness, microwave power, air velocity, and conveyor belt speed, on the evaluation indexes in terms of temperature, moisture content, color (L*, a*, b*), hardness, brittleness, and total phenolic content of CASs were investigated via the response surface method. The results indicated that microwave power has the greatest effect on the evaluation indexes applied to the CASs under CMD, followed by air velocity, slice thickness, and conveyor belt speed. To produce the desired product quality, the appropriate parameters for CMD of CASs were optimized as 1.25 mm slice thickness, 14,630 W microwave power, 0.50 m·s−1 air velocity, and 0.33 m·min−1 conveyor belt speed. Following that, the moisture content under CMD was found to be 13.53%, the desired color, hardness 0.79 g, brittleness 12.97 (number of peaks), and the total phenolic content 5.48 mg·g−1. This research provides a theoretical framework for optimizing the processing parameters of CASs using the response surface method.
Desserts Enriched with a Nanoemulsion Loaded with Vitamin D3 and Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Older People
Authors: Riquelme Natalia , Robert Paz , Arancibia Carla
Published: July 2024

The food industry is challenged to develop nutritious and palatable foods that satisfy older people’s needs. So, this work aimed to study the incorporation of nanoemulsions enriched with vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids into two desserts (yogurt and fruit puree), characterizing their nutritional profile, viscosity, and color properties and evaluating their in vitro bioaccessibility and sensory response. The results showed that adding nanoemulsion modified the nutrition profile of desserts due to increasing lipids and calories. The desserts’ physical properties were also affected, with a decrease in viscosity and a lightening of color. Regarding digestion, the enriched desserts presented a low release of free fatty acids (14.8 and 11.4%, respectively). However, fruit puree showed the highest vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acid in vitro bioaccessibility (48.9 and 70.9%, respectively). In addition, older consumers found this dessert more acceptable than yogurt due to the adequate intensity of its sensory attributes (aroma, flavor, sweetness, and consistency). Therefore, the fruit puree can be enriched with nanoemulsions loaded with vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids to improve the bioaccessibility of lipid bioactive compounds and sensory performance, offering a health-enhancing option for older consumers.
Fortification of Pea and Potato Protein Isolates in Oat-Based Milk Alternatives; Effects on the Sensory and Volatile Profile
Authors: McCarron Roisin , Methven Lisa , Grahl Stephanie , Elliott Ruan , Lignou Stella
Published: July 2024

Oat-based milk alternatives (OMAs) are an important alternative to bovine milk, with prevalence of lactose intolerance, as well as soy and nut allergies limiting consumers options. However, OMAs are typically lower in protein content than both bovine milk and soy-based alternatives, with protein quality limited by low lysine levels, which can reduce protein digestibility. Addition of alternative plant proteins may increase the quantity of protein, as well as balancing the amino acid profile. However, plant-based proteins have additional sensory qualities and off-flavours, which may lead to undesirable characteristics when introduced to OMAs. This study aimed to assess the effect of pea and potato protein addition on the sensory profile, volatile profile, colour, and particle size in an OMA control product. Results demonstrated that pea protein contributed to a bitter and metallic taste, astringent aftertaste, and a significantly increased overall aroma correlated with higher levels of key volatiles. Whilst potato protein resulted in less flavour changes, it did lead to increased powdery mouthfeel and mouthcoating supported by a substantially increased particle size. Both protein fortifications led to detectable colour changes and a staler flavour. Fortification of OMA product with the pea protein led to significant sensory, volatile and physical changes, whilst the potato protein led to predominantly physical changes. Further investigation into alternative plant-based proteins is necessary to optimise sensory qualities whilst increasing protein content and the amino acid profile.
Gen Z’s Willingness to Adopt Plant-Based Diets: Empirical Evidence from Greece, India, and the UK
Authors: Raptou Elena , Tsiami Amalia , Negro Giulia , Ghuriani Veena , Baweja Pooja , Smaoui Slim , Varzakas Theodoros
Published: July 2024

Comprising the largest population cohort on this planet, Gen Z presents a future-oriented consumer segment driven by climate change and food. This study sought to investigate Gen Z’s perceptions toward plant-based foods and diets and explore the relationship that attitude components, meal preparation involvement, personal and lifestyle factors, and perceived barriers in adopting a plant-based diet have with willingness to adopt green-eating practices. Using cross-sectional data from university students in Greece, India, and the UK, various tools were employed to determine the factors influencing youths’ consumer behavior toward animal-protein substitutes. PCA indicated the underlying dimensions of students’ viewpoints on plant-based foods, whereas hierarchical and k-means clustering provided the cluster structure. An ordered probit model was estimated to delineate Gen Z’s willingness to adopt plant-based diets and distinguish among mostly unwilling, somewhat willing, and mostly willing youths. Our findings identified two consumer segments, namely proponents and opponents of plant-based foods and diets, with statistically significant differences in the perceived health benefits of plant-based diets, attachment to animal-based proteins, perceived exclusion of animal-based foods, dissatisfaction with plant-based foods’ attributes, and demand for ensuring adequate protein intake. The ordered probit model estimates showed that there is a “homogeneity” in the factors influencing youths’ intention to adopt plant-based diets, with attitude components, meal preparation indicators, perceived barriers to eating “green”, and personal factors, such as self-assessed knowledge of healthy eating and physical activity, being strongly associated with students’ willingness to switch to plant-based diets in all three countries. Mapping potential obstacles and enablers in terms of shifting to more green-eating behaviors, our findings could add information to better understand the factors affecting food choice and youths’ transition to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Authenticity of Honey: Characterization, Bioactivities and Sensorial Properties Series II
Authors: Escuredo Olga , Seijo M. Carmen
Published: July 2024

Honey is a food product globally appreciated by consumers due to its extremely reduced processing requirements and its nutritional properties [...]
The Challenges and Strategies of Food Security under Global Change
Authors: Guiné Raquel P. F.
Published: July 2024

Food insecurity corresponds to a deficit in households’ access to appropriate food, either in quantity and/or quality, due to limited financial resources or other factors [...]
Physical Treatments Modified the Functionality of Carrot Pomace
Authors: Richards Jordan , Lammert Amy , Madden Jack , Kang Iksoon , Amin Samir
Published: July 2024

This study addressed the critical issue of food waste, particularly focusing on carrot pomace, a by-product of carrot juice production, and its potential reutilization. Carrot pomace, characterized by high dietary fiber content, presents a sustainable opportunity to enhance the functional properties of food products. The effects of physical pretreatments—high shearing (HS), hydraulic pressing (HP), and their combination (HSHP)—alongside two drying methods (freeze-drying and dehydration) on the functional, chemical, and physical properties of carrot pomace were explored. The results indicated significant enhancements in water-holding capacity, fat-binding capacity, and swelling capacity, particularly with freeze-drying. Freeze-dried pomace retained up to 33% more carotenoids and demonstrated an increase of up to 22% in water-holding capacity compared to dehydrated samples. Freeze-dried pomace demonstrated an increase of up to 194% in fat-binding capacity compared to dehydrated samples. Furthermore, HSHP pretreatment notably increased the swelling capacity of both freeze-dried (54%) and dehydrated pomace (35%) compared to pomace without pretreatments. Freeze-drying can enhance the functional properties of dried carrot pomace and preserve more carotenoids. This presents an innovative way for vegetable juice processors to repurpose their processing by-products as functional food ingredients, which can help reduce food waste and improve the dietary fiber content and sustainability of food products.
Detection of Anthocyanins in Potatoes Using Micro-Hyperspectral Images Based on Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Wang Fuxiang , Li Qiying , Deng Weigang , Wang Chunguang , Han Lei
Published: July 2024

The color potato has the function of both a food and vegetable. The color potato not only contains various amino acids and trace elements needed by the human body but also contains anthocyanins. Anthocyanins have many functions, such as antioxidation, inflammation inhibition, vision improvement, and cancer prevention, so colored potatoes are deeply loved by consumers and have good market prospects. However, at present, the detection of anthocyanin content in color potatoes mainly depends on chemical methods, which are time-consuming and laborious, so it is necessary to study a fast and accurate detection method. In this study, microscopic hyperspectral equipment was used to collect the spectral information of the outer skin and inner skin of potatoes. The original spectrum, pretreatment spectrum, and characteristic spectrum variables of the outer skin and inner skin were predicted by the convolution neural network (CNN) algorithm and partial least squares regression (PLS) algorithm, respectively, and the performance of the model was evaluated by the prediction set correlation coefficient (Rp), prediction set root mean square error (RMSEP), correction set correlation coefficient (Rc), correction set root mean square error (RMSEC), and residual prediction deviation (RPD). The results revealed that the inner skin Raw + CNN model constructed under raw spectral data is optimal with Rc = 0.9508, RMSEC = 0.0374%, Rp = 0.9461, RMSEP = 0.2361% and RPD = 4.4933. The inner skin Savitzky-Golay (SG) + Detrend (DET) + CNN model constructed from pre-processed spectral data is optimal with Rc = 0.9499, RMSEC = 0.0359%, Rp = 0.9439, RMSEP = 0.2384%, RPD = 4.6516. The inner skin DET + competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) +CNN model constructed from the feature-based spectral data was optimal with Rc = 0.9527, RMSEC = 0.0708%, Rp = 0.9457, RMSEP = 0.2711%, and RPD = 4.1623. It can be seen that the Rp, RMSEP, Rc, RMSEC, and RPD values for modeling the spectral information of the inner skin were higher than those of the outer skin under the three different spectral data. The prediction accuracy of the model built by the CNN algorithm was better than the conventional algorithm PLS, the application of the CNN algorithm in inner skin can achieve accurate prediction of anthocyanin content in potato.
Impact of Food Waste on Society, Specifically at Retail and Foodservice Levels in Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Todd Ewen Cameron David , Faour-Klingbeil Dima
Published: July 2024

Food loss and waste pose significant challenges in both industrial and agricultural food production sectors. In recent decades, their environmental and economic impacts have intensified due to increasing food demand, heightened production activities, and varying standards across the global supply chain. Specifically, the complexities surrounding the causes of food waste at the retail and household levels persist as a multifaceted issue, constituting a crucial topic in food policy. This is driven by various interplaying aspects, such as food security, safety, quality, and environmental sustainability, including greenhouse gas emissions from decaying food, water pollution from leaching, and the proliferation of landfills. Additionally, consumer concerns and financial losses exacerbate the urgency of addressing this issue. Therefore, this paper aims to highlight these complexities as a focal point of its discussion by the examination of interconnected causes of food waste and potential solutions and initiatives to reduce food waste occurring at these critical points in the food supply chain. Less attention has been paid to retail and foodservice than production and consumer sectors, and this review specifically focuses on these industries, where food waste is more important than food loss. This review also looks at examples in developing countries which have received less attention until now. We believe that because of the complexity of the process to reduce food waste across the food supply chain, and the many stakeholders involved, the goal of a 50% reduction by 2030 set by the United Nations will be difficult to achieve on time.
PQMLE and Generalized F-Test of Random Effects Semiparametric Model with Serially and Spatially Correlated Nonseparable Error
Authors: Li Shuangshuang , Chen Jianbao , Chen Danqing
Published: July 2024

Semiparametric panel data models are powerful tools for analyzing data with complex characteristics such as linearity and nonlinearity of covariates. This study aims to investigate the estimation and testing of a random effects semiparametric model (RESPM) with serially and spatially correlated nonseparable error, utilizing a combination of profile quasi-maximum likelihood estimation and local linear approximation. Profile quasi-maximum likelihood estimators (PQMLEs) for unknowns and a generalized F-test statistic FNT are built to determine the beingness of nonlinear relationships. The asymptotic properties of PQMLEs and FNT are proven under regular assumptions. The Monte Carlo results imply that the PQMLEs and FNT performances are excellent on finite samples; however, missing the spatially and serially correlated error leads to estimator inefficiency and bias. Indonesian rice-farming data is used to illustrate the proposed approach, and indicates that landarea exhibits a significant nonlinear relationship with riceyield, in addition, high-yieldvarieties, mixed-yieldvarieties, and seedweight have significant positive impacts on rice yield.
Fractal Characteristics and Energy Evolution Analysis of Rocks under True Triaxial Unloading Conditions
Authors: Pan Cheng , Liu Chongyan , Zhao Guangming , Yuan Wei , Wang Xiao , Meng Xiangrui
Published: July 2024

To investigate the mechanical properties and energy evolution laws of rocks under true triaxial unloading conditions, a study was conducted using a true triaxial rock testing system on three different types of rocks: coal, sandy mudstone, and siltstone. The study examined the mechanical behavior, failure patterns, and fractal dimensions of these rocks under true triaxial unloading conditions. The tests revealed significant variations in stress–strain curves and failure patterns among the different rock types. Observation indicated that rocks with lower peak strength exhibited higher fractal dimensions and increased fragmentation upon failure. Subsequently, based on the experimental data of siltstone, the impact of the unloading rate and particle size distribution on the energy evolution under true triaxial single-sided unloading paths was further investigated using the three-dimensional particle flow software PFC3D 6.0, revealing the micro-mechanisms of rock energy evolution. The study revealed that when the initial stress unloading level was low, the total energy and strain energy at the peak strength exhibited a strong linear relationship with the unloading rate. Before the stress peak, the dissipative energy was mainly composed of frictional energy. After the stress peak, the dissipative energy consisted of frictional energy, damping energy, and kinetic energy. The heterogeneity of rock significantly affected the distribution of dissipative energy, with an increase in rock heterogeneity leading to a decrease in frictional energy and an increase in kinetic energy.
Kink, Dark, Bright, and Singular Optical Solitons to the Space–Time Nonlinear Fractional (41)-Dimensional Davey–Stewartson–Kadomtsev–Petviashvili Model+
Authors: Alsharidi Abdulaziz Khalid , Junjua Moin-ud-Din
Published: July 2024

The new types of exact solitons of the space–time fractional nonlinear (4+1)-dimensional Davey–Stewartson–Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (DSKP) model are achieved by applying the unified technique and modified extended tanh-expansion function technique. A novel definition of the fractional derivative known as the truncated M-fractional derivative is also used. This model describes both the non-elastic and elastic interactions between internal waves. This model is used to represent intricate nonlinear phenomena like shallow-water waves, plasma physics, and others. The obtained results are in the form of kink, singular, bright, periodic, and dark solitons. The observed results are verified and represented by 2D and 3D graphs. The observed results are not present in the literature due to the use of fractional derivatives. The impact of the truncated M-fractional derivative on the observed results is also represented by graphs. Hence, our observed results are fruitful for the future study of these models. The applied techniques are simple, fruitful, and reliable in solving the other models in applied mathematics.
Time-Stepping Error Estimates of Linearized Grünwald–Letnikov Difference Schemes for Strongly Nonlinear Time-Fractional Parabolic Problems
Authors: Qin Hongyu , Li Lili , Li Yuanyuan , Chen Xiaoli
Published: July 2024

A fully discrete scheme is proposed for numerically solving the strongly nonlinear time-fractional parabolic problems. Time discretization is achieved by using the Grünwald–Letnikov (G–L) method and some linearized techniques, and spatial discretization is achieved by using the standard second-order central difference scheme. Through a Grönwall-type inequality and some complementary discrete kernels, the optimal time-stepping error estimates of the proposed scheme are obtained. Finally, several numerical examples are given to confirm the theoretical results.
Strength and Fractal Characteristics of Artificial Frozen–Thawed Sandy Soft Soil
Authors: Kong Bowen , Yan Yuntian , He Huan , Yu Jing , Zou Baoping , Chen Qizhi
Published: July 2024

In regions with sandy soft soil strata, the subway foundation commonly undergoes freeze–thaw cycles during construction. This study focuses on analyzing the microstructural and fractal characteristics of frozen–thawed sandy soft soil to improve our understanding of its strength behavior and stability. Pore size distribution curves before and after freeze–thaw cycles were examined using nuclear magnetic resonance technology. Additionally, fractal theory was applied to illustrate the soil’s fractal properties. The strength properties of frozen remolded clay under varying freezing temperatures and sand contents were investigated through uniaxial compression tests, indicating that soil strength is significantly influenced by fractal dimensions. The findings suggest that lower freezing temperatures lead to a more dispersed soil skeleton, resulting in a higher fractal dimension for the frozen–thawed soil. Likewise, an increase in sand content enlarges the soil pores and the fractal dimension of the frozen–thawed soil. Furthermore, an increase in fractal dimension caused by freezing temperatures results in increased soil strength, while an increase in fractal dimension due to changes in sand content leads to a decrease in soil strength.
The Stability of a Tumor–Macrophages Model with Caputo Fractional Operator
Authors: Dehingia Kaushik , Boulaaras Salah
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a fractional-order model in the Caputo sense to describe the interaction between tumor and immune macrophages by assuming that the pro-tumor macrophages induce a Holling type-II response to the tumor. Then, the basic properties of the solutions to the model are studied. Local stability analysis is conducted at each of the equilibria in the model, and a numerical study is performed with varying activation rates of type-II or pro-tumor macrophages and the order of the fractional operator. The numerical findings suggest that type-I or anti-tumor macrophages can stabilize the system if the activation rate of type-II or pro-tumor macrophages is low. Still, for a higher value of the activation rate for type-II or pro-tumor macrophages, the proliferation of tumor cells is uncontrollable and the system becomes unstable. Furthermore, the stability of the system decreases as the order of the fractional operator increases.
Biodegradable Cassava Starch/Phosphorite/Citric Acid Based Hydrogel for Slow Release of Phosphorus: In Vitro Study
Authors: Chamorro Andrés F. , Palencia Manuel , Combatt Enrique M.
Published: July 2024

Phosphorous (P) is one the most important elements in several biological cycles, and is a fundamental component of soil, plants and living organisms. P has a low mobility and is quickly adsorbed on clayey soils, limiting its availability and absorption by plants. Here, biodegradable hydrogels based on Cassava starch crosslinked with citric acid (CA) were made and loaded with KH2PO4 and phosphorite to promote the slow release of phosphorus, the storing of water, and the reduction in P requirements during fertilization operations. Crosslinking as a function of CA concentrations was investigated by ATR-FTIR and TGA. The water absorption capacity (WAC) and P release, under different humic acid concentration regimens, were studied by in vitro tests. It is concluded that hydrogel formed from 10% w/w of CA showed the lowest WAC because of a high crosslinking degree. Hydrogel containing 10% w/w of phosphorite was shown to be useful to encouraging the slow release of P, its release behavior being fitted to the Higuchi kinetics model. In addition, P release increased as humic acid contents were increased. These findings suggest that these hydrogels could be used for encouraging P slow release during crop production.
Silica Gel Chromatographic Methods for Identification, Isolation and Purification of Gossypol Acetic Acid
Authors: Amara Amro Abd Al Fattah , El-Masry Mohamed Hesham , Salem Gamal Ali , Baghdadi Hoda Hassan
Published: July 2024

Several cottonseed varieties are cultivated in different countries. Each variety produces a different amount of gossypol as a natural toxic compound. The rising interest in cottonseed products (oil and feed) increases the demand for establishing simple methods for gossypol detection. Silica gel-based methods are ideal for its isolation, purification, and characterization. Silica gel-based methods are variants and can be used as simple methods for tracking plants’ compounds. In this study, gossypol was isolated, characterized, and purified as gossypol acetic acid in the form of yellow crystals. Methods used for its characterization were TLC, preparative TLC, silica gel column, UV/IR spectrophotometer, and HPLC (robust spherical silica gel). A comparative study between its amount in both the Egyptian and Chinese varieties was performed. Under the experimental conditions, the Egyptian’s cottonseed contains 8.705 gm/kg, while the Chinese’s cottonseed contains 5.395 gm/kg. The TLC used in this study proved to be fast, accurate, and inexpensive. It can be used for gossypol acetic acid evaluation and quantification. Additionally, using TLC as a pre-purification step will give a pre-judgment for the sample’s purity and quality. This step will protect the expensive HPLC silica gel-based column from any unexpected impurities. During each step, the silica gel itself could be simply removed by paper filtration. Collectively, the different silica gel-based methods as well as the other used methods are recommended for better Gossypol acetic acid isolation, purification, and characterization, as well as for maintaining HPLC columns.
Development of High-Efficiency Fertilizer by Hydrogels Obtained from Cassava Starch and Citric Acid for Slow Release of Ammonium and Potassium
Authors: Chamorro Andrés F. , Palencia Manuel , Arrieta Álvaro A.
Published: July 2024

Fertilizers with enhanced efficiency or high-efficiency fertilizers increase the nutrient availability, minimize losses, and reduce costs, thereby increasing crop yields and food production while mitigating environmental impacts. This research evaluates the synthesis of biodegradable hydrogels from cassava starch and citric acid for agrochemical applications. Hydrogels were synthesized using water as the solvent and applied for the controlled release of macronutrients (N and K). Four concentrations of nutrient-containing salts were tested (0.5 to 10.0% w/w). Materials were analyzed using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and swelling studies. The presence of nutrients reduced both the crosslinking efficacy and the water absorption capacity, with the latter dropping from 183.4 ± 0.6% to 117.9 ± 3.7% and 157.4 ± 25.0% for hydrogels loaded with NH4Cl and KCl, respectively. The cumulative release of K and N from the hydrogel was monitored for 144 h and examined using kinetics models, revealing that the releases follow Fickian’s diffusion and anomalous diffusion, respectively. Additionally, the material was formed using cassava with peel previously milled to reduce the production costs, and its potential for nutrient-controlled delivery was evaluated, with the finding that this hydrogel decreases the release rate of nitrogen. The results suggest that these biomaterials may have promising applications in the agrochemical industry in the making of high-efficiency fertilizers.
Streamlining Skin Regeneration: A Ready-To-Use Silk Bilayer Wound Dressing
Authors: Veiga Anabela , Silva Inês V. , Dias Juliana R. , Alves Nuno M. , Oliveira Ana L. , Ribeiro Viviana P.
Published: July 2024

Silk proteins have been highlighted in the past decade for tissue engineering (TE) and skin regeneration due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and exceptional mechanical properties. While silk fibroin (SF) has high structural and mechanical stability with high potential as an external protective layer, traditionally discarded sericin (SS) has shown great potential as a natural-based hydrogel, promoting cell–cell interactions, making it an ideal material for direct wound contact. In this context, the present study proposes a new wound dressing approach by developing an SS/SF bilayer construct for full-thickness exudative wounds. The processing methodology implemented included an innovation element and the cryopreservation of the SS intrinsic secondary structure, followed by rehydration to produce a hydrogel layer, which was integrated with a salt-leached SF scaffold to produce a bilayer structure. In addition, a sterilization protocol was developed using supercritical technology (sCO2) to allow an industrial scale-up. The resulting bilayer material presented high porosity (>85%) and interconnectivity while promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and infiltration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). SS and SF exhibit distinct secondary structures, pore sizes, and swelling properties, opening new possibilities for dual-phased systems that accommodate the different needs of a wound during the healing process. The innovative SS hydrogel layer highlights the transformative potential of the proposed bilayer system for biomedical therapeutics and TE, offering insights into novel wound dressing fabrication.
Stimulus-Responsive Hydrogels for Targeted Cancer Therapy
Authors: Solanki Raghu , Bhatia Dhiraj
Published: July 2024

Cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease and remains a global health challenge affecting millions of human lives worldwide. Despite advancements in conventional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the rise of multidrug resistance, tumor recurrence, and their severe side effects and the complex nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME) necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches. Recently, stimulus-responsive nanomedicines designed to target TME characteristics (e.g., pH alterations, redox conditions, enzyme secretion) have gained attention for their potential to enhance anticancer efficacy while minimizing the adverse effects of chemotherapeutics/bioactive compounds. Among the various nanocarriers, hydrogels are intriguing due to their high-water content, adjustable mechanical characteristics, and responsiveness to external and internal stimuli, making them promising candidates for cancer therapy. These properties make hydrogels an ideal nanocarrier for controlled drug release within the TME. This review comprehensively surveys the latest advancements in the area of stimulus-responsive hydrogels for cancer therapy, exploring various stimuli-responsive mechanisms, including biological (e.g., pH, redox), chemical (e.g., enzymes, glucose), and physical (e.g., temperature, light), as well as dual- or multi-stimuli responsiveness. Furthermore, this review addresses the current developments and challenges in hydrogels in cancer treatment. Our aim is to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of stimulus-responsive hydrogels for cancer treatment, offering novel perspectives on their development for cancer therapy and other medical applications.
Help or Hurt? The Impact of Digital Finance on the Physical Health of the Elderly in China
Authors: Luo Yaling , Zhou Lei , Zhang Weike
Published: July 2024

Under the backdrop of global aging, the escalating number of elderly individuals in poor health poses a growing social burden and impacts economic development and social stability. A fundamental question arises as to whether the advancements of digital finance (DF) can effectively enhance the physical health of the elderly. This study aims to investigate the impact of DF on the physical health of the elderly by utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) conducted in 2013, 2015, and 2018. The results reveal a significant positive impact of DF on enhancing the physical health of the elderly. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that this impact is particularly pronounced among the elderly with higher educational attainment, stronger intergenerational links, and those residing in central cities. A mechanism analysis further reveals that DF contributes to improving the physical health of the elderly by augmenting household disposable income, alleviating liquidity constraints, and enhancing the utilization of medical services. These findings offer valuable insights for the future development of DF and the implementation of policies promoting healthy aging and active aging.