bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Study of Buck-Boost, SEPIC, Cuk and Zeta DC-DC Converters Using Different MPPT Methods for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Seguel Julio López , Seleme Seleme I. , Morais Lenin M. F.
Published: October 2022

The power produced in a photovoltaic (PV) system is highly dependent on meteorological conditions and the features of the connected load. Therefore, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods are crucial to optimize the power delivered. An MPPT method needs a DC-DC converter for its implementation. The proper selection of both the MPPT technique and the power converter for a given scenario is one of the main challenges since they directly influence the overall efficiency of the PV system. This paper presents an exhaustive study of the performance of four step-down/step-up DC-DC converter topologies: Buck-Boost, SEPIC, Zeta and Cuk, using three of the most commonly implemented MPPT techniques: incremental conductance (IncCond), perturb and observe (P&O) and fuzzy logic controller (FLC). Unlike other works available in the literature, this study compares and discusses the performance of each MPPT/converter combination in terms of settling time and tracking efficiency of MPPT algorithms, and the conversion efficiency of power converters. Furthermore, this work jointly considers the effects of incident radiation variations, the temperature of the PV panel and the connected load. The main contribution of this work, other than selecting the best combination of converter and MPPT strategy applied to typical PV systems with DC-DC power converters, is to formulate a methodology of analysis to support the design of efficient PV systems. The results obtained from simulations performed in Simulink/MATLAB show that the FLC/Cuk set consistently achieved the highest levels of efficiency, and the FLC/Zeta combination presents the best transient behavior. The findings can be used as a valuable reference for the decision to implement a particular MPPT/converter configuration among those included in this study.
Experimental Research on the Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics of Subcritical and Supercritical Water in the Vertical Upward Smooth and Rifled Tubes
Authors: Du Xiaocheng , Li Weiteng , Zhang Xirong , Chen Jingrong , Chen Tingyu , Yang Dong
Published: October 2022

Experiments were conducted to investigate the heat transfer and flow characteristics of the vertical upward smooth and rifled tubes from subcritical to supercritical pressure. The distributions of wall temperature and heat transfer coefficient (HTC) were obtained, and the HTC correlations and friction resistance coefficient correlations were fitted with experimental data. In addition, the influences of heat flux and type of tube on heat transfer performance were analyzed. The research shows that heat flux has different influences on the heat transfer characteristics under different pressures. The increase in heat flux improves the heat transfer characteristics in the nucleate boiling region, yet it leads to the advance in heat transfer deterioration. However, for supercritical water, the increase in heat flux reduces the heat transfer ability. In addition, using the rifled tube not only improves the heat transfer performance, but also inhibits the occurrence of heat transfer deterioration. The fitted correlations have great predictive ability for the heat transfer coefficient and friction resistance coefficient, and the average relative fitting errors are limited to 20%.
Optimizing Fuel Efficiency on an Islanded Microgrid under Varying Loads
Authors: Lee Joo , Craparo Emily , Oriti Giovanna , Krener Arthur
Published: October 2022

Past studies of microgrids have been based on measurements of fuel consumption by generators under static loads. There is little information on the fuel efficiency of generators under time-varying loads. To help analyze the impact of time-varying loads on optimal generator operation and fuel consumption, we formulate a mixed-integer linear optimization model to plan generator and energy storage system (ESS) operation to satisfy known demands. Our model includes fuel consumption penalty terms on time-varying loads. We exercise the model on various scenarios and compare the resulting optimal fuel consumption and generator operation profiles. Our results show that the change in fuel efficiency between scenarios with the integration of ESS is minimal regardless of the imposed penalty placed on the generator. However, without the assistance of the ESS, the fuel consumption increases dramatically with the penalty imposed on the generator. The integration of an ESS improves fuel consumption because the ESS allows the generator to minimize power output fluctuation. While the presence of a penalty term has a clear impact on generator operation and fuel consumption, the exact type and weight of the penalty appears insignificant; this may provide useful insight for future studies in developing a real-time controller.
A Step-Up Converter with Large Voltage Gain and Low Voltage Rating on Capacitors
Authors: Ramirez-Carrillo Miguel , Ortega-Cisneros Susana , Rosas-Caro Julio C. , Rivera Jorge , Valdez-Resendiz Jesus E. , Mayo-Maldonado Jonathan C. , Valderrabano-Gonzalez Antonio
Published: October 2022

Step-up converters are widely used in many applications, such as renewable energy generation with photovoltaic panels and fuel cell stacks. In many cases, the required voltage gain is larger for those applications than a traditional boost converter can achieve. Several large-voltage gain converters have been recently studied. This paper introduces a converter topology in which the voltage gain is larger than a traditional boost converter. The main advantages of the proposed topology are: (i) it provides a large voltage gain without the use of an extreme duty cycle; (ii) its capacitors require a smaller voltage to be sustained compared with other, similar state-of-the-art converters; (iii) the voltage among the ground input and output is not pulsating; and (iv) it can be synthesized with commercial, off-the-shelf half-bridge packed transistors. The proposed converter can be employed in different applications, such as distributed generation and microgrids. This paper presents the steady-state analysis of the proposed converter in the continuous conduction mode, a short comparison with similar topologies, and their voltage on capacitors. Computer-based simulation results are provided to verify the principle of the proposed converter in different operating conditions.
Study of Heat Flux Density of Dish Solar Cavity Heat Absorber
Authors: Liu Haiting , Deng Jiewen , Guan Yue , Wang Liwei
Published: October 2022

The solar cavity heat absorber is the core component of a solar thermal power generation system; its structure and installation position directly affect the efficiency of the heat absorber. To study the influence of these factors on the performance of the heat absorber, in this paper, a numerical simulation of dish solar collector optics is constructed based on the Monte Carlo method, and the distribution characteristics of heat flux density under different heat absorber structures and installation positions are analyzed. The results show that the heat flux density on the inner wall surface of the absorber has a linear relationship with the solar radiation intensity; under the same cavity depth, the energy received by the cylindrical, dome, and inverted cone absorbers is easier to deposit on the top. The heat flux density on the top surface of the inner cavity presents an annular distribution law. As the position of the heat absorber moves away from the dish solar collector surface, the top energy is gradually transferred to the circumferential surface. When the heat absorber is in position B, the total power ratio of different heat absorber structures entering the cavity can reach 99%. At this time, the circular type of heat absorber is more conducive to the full heat absorption of the working medium.
Modeling of Magnetic Properties of Rare-Earth Hard Magnets
Authors: Przybył Anna , Gębara Piotr , Gozdur Roman , Chwastek Krzysztof
Published: October 2022

Magnetic properties of hard magnets are currently attracting a great deal of attention. In the paper, the modified Harrison model was used to describe the saturating hysteresis loops of three praseodymium–dysprosium ribbons that differed in their chemical composition and processing conditions. Microstructural studies (TEM and diffraction patterns) were performed for the ribbons under consideration. The Harrison model incorporates a number of physically tangible concepts such as the anhysteretic curve, bifurcations, and bi-stability. The modification of the original approach consisted of adding an additional degree of freedom in the modeling by freeing the restraints present in the original version, in which both coercivity and remanence are functions of temperature only.
Intelligent Monitoring of Photovoltaic Systems via Simplicial Empirical Models and Performance Loss Rate Evaluation under LabVIEW: A Case Study
Authors: Taghezouit Bilal , Harrou Fouzi , Larbes Cherif , Sun Ying , Semaoui Smail , Arab Amar , Bouchakour Salim
Published: October 2022

The capacity of photovoltaic solar power installations has been boosted last years by reaching a new record with 175 GWdc of newly installed solar power in 2021. To guarantee reliable performances of photovoltaic (PV) plants and maintain target requirements, faults have to be reliably detected and diagnosed. A method for an effective and reliable fault diagnosis of PV plants based on the behavioral model and performance analysis under the LabVIEW environment is presented in this paper. Specifically, the first phase of this study consists of the behavioral modeling of the PV array and the inverter in order to estimate the electricity production and analyze the performance of the 9.54 kWp Grid Connected PV System (GCPVS). Here, the results obtained from the empirical models were validated and calibrated by experimental data. Furthermore, a user interface for modeling and analyzing the performance of a PV system under LabVIEW has been designed. The second phase of this work is dedicated to the design of a simple and efficient diagnostic tool in order to detect and recognize faults occurring in the PV systems. Essentially, the residuals obtained using the parametric models are analyzed via the performance loss rates (PLR) of four electrical indicators (i.e., DC voltage, DC current, DC power, and AC power). To evaluate the proposed method, numerous environmental anomalies and electrical faults affecting the GCPVS were taken into account. Results demonstrated the satisfactory prediction performance of the considered empirical models to predict the considered variables, including DC current, DC power, and AC power with an R2 of 0.99. Moreover, the obtained results show that the detection and recognition of faults were successfully achieved.
A Vehicle-to-Infrastructure beyond Visual Range Cooperative Perception Method Based on Heterogeneous Sensors
Authors: Luo Tong , Chen Long , Luan Tianyu , Li Yang , Li Yicheng
Published: October 2022

With the development of autopilot, the performance of intelligent vehicles is constrained by their inability to perceive blind and beyond visual range areas. Vehicle-to-infrastructure cooperative perception has become an effective method for achieving reliable and higher-level autonomous driving. A vehicle-to-infrastructure cooperative beyond visual range and non-blind area method, based on heterogeneous sensors, was proposed in this study. Firstly, a feature map receptive field enhancement module with spatial dilated convolution module (SDCM), based on spatial dilated convolution, was proposed and embedded into the YOLOv4 algorithm. The YOLOv4-SDCM algorithm with SDCM module achieved a 1.65% mAP improvement in multi-object detection performance with the BDD100K test set. Moreover, the backbone of CenterPoint was improved with the addition of self-calibrated convolutions, coordinate attention, and residual structure. The proposed Centerpoint-FE (Feature Enhancement) algorithm achieved a 3.25% improvement in mAP with the ONCE data set. In this paper, a multi-object post-fusion matching method of heterogeneous sensors was designed to realize the vehicle-to-infrastructure cooperative beyond visual range. Experiments conducted at urban intersections without traffic lights demonstrated that the proposed method effectively resolved the problem of beyond visual range perception of intelligent vehicles.
Performance Analysis of PEMFC with Single-Channel and Multi-Channels on the Impact of the Geometrical Model
Authors: Rosli Masli Irwan , Lim Bee Huah , Majlan Edy Herianto , Husaini Teuku , Daud Wan Ramli Wan , Lim Soh Fong
Published: October 2022

A low-performance fuel cell significantly hinders the application and commercialization of fuel cell technology. Computational fluid dynamics modeling could predict and evaluate the performance of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with less time consumption and cost-effectiveness. PEMFC performance is influenced by the distribution of reactants, water, heat, and current density. An uneven distribution of reactants leads to the localization of current density that produces heat and water, which are the by-products of the reaction to be concentrated at the location. The simplification of model geometry can affect performance prediction. Numerical investigations are commonly validated with experimental results to validate the method’s accuracy. Poor prediction of PEMFC results has not been discussed. Thus, this study aims to predict the effect of geometry modeling on fuel cell performance. Two contrasting 3D model dimensions, particularly single-channel and small-scale seven-channel models were employed. Both 3D models are correlated with a multi-channel model to assess the effect of modeling dimension on the PEMFC performance. Similar stoichiometry and channel dimensions were imposed on each model, where theoretically, the PEMFC performance should be identical. The simulation findings showed that the single-channel model produced a higher current density per cm2. From the contours of water and current density, the single-channel model does not show flow distribution. Thus, this leads to a higher current density generation than the small-scale model. The prediction of PEMFC performance is not thorough for the single-channel model. Therefore, the prediction of PEMFC performance is adaptable in a small-scale or comprehensive flow field.
Wood Quality along the Trunk Height of Birch and Aspen Growing in the Restoring Forests of Central Russia
Authors: Platonov Aleksey D. , Snegireva Svetlana N. , Drapalyuk Michael V. , Novikov Arthur I. , Kantyeva Ekaterina V. , Novikova Tatyana P.
Published: October 2022

The structure of forests has changed with an increase in soft-wooded broadleaved species over the past decade. The demand for hard-wooded broadleaved species can be met by replacing them with compressed wood of soft-wooded broadleaved species. Existing compressed wood technologies do not fully take into account the density variations that exist along the height of a tree trunk. In this study, we examined the variability of birch and aspen microstructures along the height of the trunk, including vessels per square millimeter and the diameter (tangential and radial) of the vessel lumina. The research was carried out on aspen and birch species growing in Central Russia. The vessels per square millimeter in both species increased from the base to the top of the trunk and their diameters decreased from the base to the top of the trunk. Birch demonstrated greater changes in these values than aspen. There was a strong relationship between the diameter of the vessel lumina and the trunk height. A decrease in the density of the stemwood from the base to the top of the trunk was caused by an increase in the vessels per square millimeter. These results affected the density of the stemwood and determined the degree of compression as well as the initial size of the blanks required to obtain material with uniform quality indicators, regardless of the source location of the raw materials in the tree trunk.
Stuck between the Mandibles of an Insect and of a Rodent: Where Does the Fate of Ash-Dominated Riparian Temperate Forests Lie?
Authors: Rosner Samuel , Dupuch Angélique , Lorenzetti François
Published: October 2022

The beaver (Castor canadensis Khul) is a key species that is known to shape the composition of riparian forests. Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) can be abundant in these forests. However, invasion by the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) in North America threatens their survival. The disappearance of ash will have a large impact on the riparian forest composition in itself. It is not known what the consequences would be for the remaining forest if ash plays an important role in the beaver diet. Inventory plots across an ash gradient were measured in Plaisance National Park, Quebec, Canada, to collect data and to establish if (1) trees and saplings of this genus were selected or avoided by beavers, (2) if other genera had a lower or a greater probability of being consumed compared to ash, and (3) if ash density could affect the probability of consumption of other genera. Of all genera present in the park, ash trees were selected in the highest number of plots. Only two genera, Carpinus and Populus, had a higher probability of being consumed than ash. These genera are not abundant in the park, and neither in riparian forests of the temperate biome, and thus are not good candidates to replace ash as a staple for beavers. The most abundant genus in riparian temperate forests, along with ash, is Acer. In this study, Acer trees were not selected, and as for Acer saplings, were less likely to be consumed than ash. Mixed results were obtained about genera that could become more likely to be consumed as ash density decreases. It would seem that the disappearance of ash would not cause a switch to a single or a few genera in the future, which may be due to the high diversity of genera present in temperate riparian forests. However, ash may not disappear completely due to its capacity to sprout following the death of the aboveground portion of ash trees. This scenario is discussed in light of the susceptibility of intermediate-sized ash stems to be colonized by the emerald ash borer and of the greater likelihood of beavers to feed on these same-sized stems.
The Consumption of Amino Acids and Production of Volatile Aroma Compounds by Yarrowia lipolytica in Brewers’ Wort
Authors: Sørensen Anders Bagger , Petersen Mikael Agerlin , Garde Arvid , Arneborg Nils
Published: October 2022

The yeast Yarrowia lipolytica is well known for its versatile production of metabolites from various substrates, but, although isolated from, e.g., wild-fermented Belgian Sour beers, it is rarely considered a starter culture in fermented beverages. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the ability of Y. lipolytica to ferment brewers’ wort containing iso-α-acid for 7 days at low and high aeration and at 20 °C and 30 °C, with a special focus on amino acid consumption and production of volatile aroma compounds. Y. lipolytica was able to grow in the wort under all four conditions, although the growth was inhibited. Furthermore, it only consumed glucose and fructose, and no ethanol was formed. Moreover, under high aeration conditions, Y. lipolytica consumed 75–80% of the amino acids in the wort. Interestingly, no esters were produced during the fermentations, and only five higher alcohols (1-propanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-3-buten-1-ol, and 2-phenylethanol), two aldehydes (3-methylbutanal and (E)-2-nonenal), two ketones (cyclopentanone and 9-oxabicyclo [6.1.0]nonan-4-one), one fatty acid (3-methyl-butanoic acid), and one benzene derivate (1,2,4-trimethyl-benzene) were produced. These results may contribute to the potential use of Y. lipolytica in a traditional brewery for the production of novel beers; e.g., alcohol-free beer.
Analysis of Data from Surveys for the Identification of the Factors That Influence the Migration of Small Companies to eCommerce
Authors: Villegas-Ch. William , Criollo-C Santiago , Gaibor-Naranjo Walter , Palacios-Pacheco Xavier
Published: October 2022

Currently, medium and small businesses face a significant change in the way consumers purchase their services, products, or goods. This change is fundamentally due to the pandemic caused by the 2019 coronavirus disease, during which people were forced to use information and communication technologies to satisfy their needs and interact with other people. After the pandemic, people’s dependence on technology increased exponentially, to such an extent that the Internet has become the channel through which any product can be purchased in an agile and varied way, from the comfort of home, and regardless of schedules. Therefore, for companies, moving from the traditional market to eCommerce is a necessity, but the change must take place efficiently. Therefore, identifying the factors that influence consumers to access a brand, a service, or a product is a characteristic of eCommerce. This paper presents an analysis of the factors that influence the use of electronic commerce. For this, a review of similar works was carried out for the design of surveys and the identification of the critical points considered by consumers. These data were analyzed in a granular way with tools used in business intelligence to improve decision making in the migration to a digital market.
Chestnut Lily Beverage (CLB) Processing Using Ultrasound-Assisted Nisin: Microbiota Inactivation and Product Quality
Authors: Cui Yao , Liu Jianxue , Han Sihai , Li Peiyan , Luo Denglin , Guo Jinying
Published: October 2022

We evaluated the effects of ultrasound (US) and ultrasound combined with nisin (NUS) treatments on the properties of chestnut lily beverages (CLB) using conventional thermal pasteurisation (TP) as a control. After CLB samples were treated with US and NUS for 20, 40, or 60 min, the polyphenol oxidase activity (PPO), microbial inactivation effect, colour, pH value, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of the CLB were observed. It was found that the inactivation rate of PPO in CLB after NUS treatment was higher than that in the US, indicating that NUS treatment aggravated PPO inactivation. Treatment time was important in the inactivation of microorganisms by US and NUS; NUS had a lethal synergistic lethal effect on microorganisms in CLB and when compared with US, NUS reduced changes in the CLB colour value. Notably, the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of the US- and NUS-treated CLB significantly increased relative to the TP group. These results that suggest NUS has a potential application value in the development of CLB because it reduces the risk of microorganism contamination and helps improve the quality of CLB. This study provides technical support and a theoretical basis for the improved production of CLB.
Pre-Harvest Benzothiadiazole Spraying Promotes the Cumulation of Phenolic Compounds in Grapes
Authors: Jiang Yumei , Sam Faisal Eudes , Li Jixin , Bi Yang , Ma Tengzhen , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2022

Benzothiadiazole (BTH) is a commercial chemical elicitor that can induce an innate immune response in grapevines and improve the phenolic components and color quality of grapes and corresponding products. The literature on the influence of BTH on the accumulation and metabolism of phenols from grapes is extensive. However, many unknown bio-mechanisms involved have been poorly investigated, which opens a gateway for pioneering research that needs to be done in this field. To this purpose, this review aims to analyze and explore the gaps in current research so that subsequent studies may be geared towards them.
Metagenomics to Detect and Characterize Viruses in Food Samples at Genome Level? Lessons Learnt from a Norovirus Study
Authors: Buytaers Florence E. , Verhaegen Bavo , Gand Mathieu , D’aes Jolien , Vanneste Kevin , Roosens Nancy H. C. , Marchal Kathleen , Denayer Sarah , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J.
Published: October 2022

In this proof-of-concept study on food contaminated with norovirus, we investigated the feasibility of metagenomics as a new method to obtain the whole genome sequence of the virus and perform strain level characterization but also relate to human cases in order to resolve foodborne outbreaks. We tested several preparation methods to determine if a more open sequencing approach, i.e., shotgun metagenomics, or a more targeted approach, including hybrid capture, was the most appropriate. The genetic material was sequenced using Oxford Nanopore technologies with or without adaptive sampling, and the data were analyzed with an in-house bioinformatics workflow. We showed that a viral genome sequence could be obtained for phylogenetic analysis with shotgun metagenomics if the contamination load was sufficiently high or after hybrid capture for lower contamination. Relatedness to human cases goes well beyond the results obtained with the current qPCR methods. This workflow was also tested on a publicly available dataset of food spiked with norovirus and hepatitis A virus. This allowed us to prove that we could detect even fewer genome copies and two viruses present in a sample using shotgun metagenomics. We share the lessons learnt on the satisfactory and unsatisfactory results in an attempt to advance the field.
Tea Polyphenols and Their Preventive Measures against Cancer: Current Trends and Directions
Authors: Trisha Anuva Talukder , Shakil Mynul Hasan , Talukdar Suvro , Rovina Kobun , Huda Nurul , Zzaman Wahidu
Published: October 2022

Cancer is exerting an immense strain on the population and health systems all over the world. Green tea because of its higher simple catechin content (up to 30% on dry weight basis) is greatly popular as an anti-cancer agent which is found to reduce the risks of cancer as well as a range of other diseases. In addition, several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that green tea possesses copious health benefits like anti-diabetic, anti-obese, anti-inflammatory, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, etc. This review highlights the anti-carcinogenic effects of green tea catechins integrating the recent information to gain a clear concept. Special emphasis was given to the effectiveness of green tea polyphenols (GTP) in the prevention of cancer. Overall, green tea has been found to be effective to reduce the risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, oral cancer, etc. However, sufficient information was not found to support that green tea consumption reduces the risk of lung cancer, esophageal cancer, or stomach cancer. The exciting data integrated into this article will increase interest in future researchers to garner more fruitful information on the relevant topics.
Improving the Gel Quality of Threadfin Bream (Nemipterus spp.) Surimi Using Salted Duck Egg White Powder
Authors: Wasinnitiwong Naphat , Tavakoli Samad , Benjakul Soottawat , Hong Hui
Published: October 2022

The effect of salted duck egg white powder (SDEWP) as a source of salt at different salt equivalent (SE) levels (0–2.5% SE) on gel qualities and texture properties of threadfin bream surimi was investigated. SDEWP possessed a high protein (64.59%) and salt (34.86%) concentration. The breaking force of surimi gel increased by the amount of SDEWP (p < 0.05). The addition of SDEWP up to 1.5% SE into the surimi gel has significantly increased the deformation (13.8%) and decreased the expressible moisture content (38.5%). Hardness, gumminess, and chewiness were augmented as higher levels of SDEWP were added, whereas cohesiveness decreased when the SDEWP above 1.5% SE was used. The incorporation of SDEWP had no significant effect on the springiness (p < 0.05). Less proteolytic degradation was observed in the surimi gel fortified with SDEWP. A higher amount of added SDEWP enhanced the whiteness of the surimi gel (p < 0.05). A denser and more ordered gel network was attained when SDEWP with 1.5% SE was added. SDEWP could be exploited as a source for salt and non-fish proteins in threadfin bream surimi, in which SDEWP containing 1.5% SE could significantly improve the quality of surimi gel.
Milk Quality Parameters of Raw Milk in Ecuador between 2010 and 2020: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Puga-Torres Byron , Aragón Vásquez Eduardo , Ron Lenin , Álvarez Vanessa , Bonilla Salomé , Guzmán Aldair , Lara Diego , De la Torre David
Published: October 2022

With the objective of evaluating the quality parameters of raw milk in Ecuador between 2010 and 2020, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 73 studies on raw milk produced in different regions of Ecuador was performed. Under the random effects model, effect size and heterogeneity were determined vs. climatic region both among analyses and studies, with Cochran’s Q, I2 and Tau (π) statistics. For all the variables, it was observed that there was great heterogeneity (I2 > 90%) among the studies; additionally, it was found that climatic region had an influence only among the variables arsenic, mercury, pH and total solids, and it was greater in the coastal region than the Inter-Andean region. The mean values of the physicochemical characteristics of the milk (titratable acidity, ash, cryoscopy, fat, lactose, pH, protein, non-fat solids and total solids) in the great majority of these studies were within the range allowed by Ecuadorian regulations. As for the hygienic quality of raw milk (total bacterial count, somatic cell count and presence of reductase), although the mean values were within those determined by local legislation, it should be noted that the range established by Ecuadorian regulations is relatively much higher compared to other regulations, which possibly means that there is a high presence of bacteria and somatic cells in raw milk. Finally, the presence of several adulterants (added water) and contaminants (AFM1, antibiotics and heavy metals) was confirmed in the milk, in addition to other substances such as eprinomectin, zearalenone and ptaquilosides, whose presence can be very dangerous, because they can be hepatotoxic, immunotoxic and even carcinogenic. In conclusion, there is great variability among the studies reviewed, with the physicochemical characteristics being the most compliant with Ecuadorian legislation; the hygienic characteristics, adulterants and contaminants of raw milk require greater attention by producers and local authorities, so that they do not harm the health of consumers and the profitability of producers in Ecuador.
The Environmental Impact of an Italian-Mediterranean Dietary Pattern Based on the EAT-Lancet Reference Diet (EAT-IT)
Authors: Tucci Massimiliano , Martini Daniela , Marino Mirko , Del Bo’ Cristian , Vinelli Valentina , Biscotti Paola , Parisi Carlotta , De Amicis Ramona , Battezzati Alberto , Bertoli Simona , Porrini Marisa , Riso Patrizia
Published: October 2022

The definition of a healthy and sustainable diet is nowadays considered pivotal, but data related to environmental outcomes are still debated. In this study, we compared the carbon (CF) and water footprints (WF) of an Italian-Mediterranean (EAT-IT) dietary pattern designed on the “Planetary diet”, with a pattern based on the Italian Dietary Guidelines (IDG). The influence of different food categories and food choices on environmental impact was assessed. To this aim, weekly dietary patterns were developed, considering food categories and related portions and frequencies of consumption. Results show that the EAT-IT dietary pattern, compared to the IDG, had a significantly lower CF (2.82 ± 1.07 and 3.74 ± 0.92 kg CO2/day, respectively) but not WF. Protein-rich foods were the main contributors to CF and WF in both dietary patterns. The increased substitution of frozen instead of fresh foods, imported instead of local fruits, greenhouse-grown instead of seasonal vegetables, and processed legume-based foods instead of unprocessed legumes caused an increasing worsening of the CF in both patterns, but with different magnitudes. Our analysis indicated that the EAT-IT dietary pattern can be considered sustainable for CF, but individual choices are likely to largely affect the final environmental outcomes.
Effect of Grafted Insect Protein with Palatinose on Quality Properties of Phosphate-Free Meat Emulsion
Authors: Kim Tae-Kyung , Kim Yea-Ji , Kim Jake , Yun Hyun-Jung , Kang Min-Cheol , Choi Yun-Sang
Published: October 2022

Due to concerns about the negative effects of phosphate on human health, the development of phosphate substitutes is an active area of research. Among the various methods, the structural modification of proteins has previously been established. In this study, we used grafting technology. Extracted insect protein was grafted with palatinose (GI), and 0.1 and 0.15% of GI were added to a phosphate-free meat emulsion mixed with 0.1% of eggshell powder (ES). The pH, myofibrillar protein solubility, and apparent viscosity increased with the addition of GI and ES (p < 0.05). Color values were also affected by GI and ES addition (decreased CIE L* and CIE a* and increased CIE b*; p < 0.05), while cooking loss was only improved by the addition of ES and not GI. Although the total fluid separated more than negative control (p < 0.05), the addition of ES improved emulsion stability and total expressible fluid separation and the fat separation reduced with addition of GI and ES (p < 0.05). Lipid oxidation was inhibited by the addition of GI and ES (p < 0.05). Moreover, the protein molecular weight distribution under 20 kDa was modified by the addition of GI, and the hardness and springiness of treatments decreased. In conclusion, the addition of GI and ES might be used to improve cooking loss, emulsion stability, and antioxidants, while the textural properties should be further researched.
Nitrites in Cured Meats, Health Risk Issues, Alternatives to Nitrites: A Review
Authors: Shakil Mynul Hasan , Trisha Anuva Talukder , Rahman Mizanur , Talukdar Suvro , Kobun Rovina , Huda Nurul , Zzaman Wahidu
Published: October 2022

Nitrite is one of the most widely used curing ingredients in meat industries. Nitrites have numerous useful applications in cured meats and a vital component in giving cured meats their unique characteristics, such as their pink color and savory flavor. Nitrites are used to suppress the oxidation of lipid and protein in meat products and to limit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms such as Clostridium botulinum. Synthetic nitrite is frequently utilized for curing due to its low expenses and easier applications to meat. However, it is linked to the production of nitrosamines, which has raised several health concerns among consumers regarding its usage in meat products. Consumer desire for healthier meat products prepared with natural nitrite sources has increased due to a rising awareness regarding the application of synthetic nitrites. However, it is important to understand the various activities of nitrite in meat curing for developing novel substitutes of nitrites. This review emphasizes on the effects of nitrite usage in meat and highlights the role of nitrite in the production of carcinogenic nitrosamines as well as possible nitrite substitutes from natural resources explored also.
Microbial Control of Raw and Cold-Smoked Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) through a Microwave Plasma Treatment
Authors: Weihe Thomas , Wagner Robert , Schnabel Uta , Andrasch Mathias , Su Yukun , Stachowiak Jörg , Noll Heinz Jörg , Ehlbeck Jörg
Published: October 2022

The control of the pathogenic load on foodstuffs is a key element in food safety. Particularly, seafood such as cold-smoked salmon is threatened by pathogens such as Salmonella sp. or Listeria monocytogenes. Despite strict existing hygiene procedures, the production industry constantly demands novel, reliable methods for microbial decontamination. Against that background, a microwave plasma-based decontamination technique via plasma-processed air (PPA) is presented. Thereby, the samples undergo two treatment steps, a pre-treatment step where PPA is produced when compressed air flows over a plasma torch, and a post-treatment step where the PPA acts on the samples. This publication embraces experiments that compare the total viable count (tvc) of bacteria found on PPA-treated raw (rs) and cold-smoked salmon (css) samples and their references. The tvc over the storage time is evaluated using a logistic growth model that reveals a PPA sensitivity for raw salmon (rs). A shelf-life prolongation of two days is determined. When cold-smoked salmon (css) is PPA-treated, the treatment reveals no further impact. When PPA-treated raw salmon (rs) is compared with PPA-untreated cold-smoked salmon (css), the PPA treatment appears as reliable as the cold-smoking process and retards the growth of cultivable bacteria in the same manner. The experiments are flanked by quality measurements such as color and texture measurements before and after the PPA treatment. Salmon samples, which undergo an overtreatment, solely show light changes such as a whitish surface flocculation. A relatively mild treatment as applied in the storage experiments has no further detected impact on the fish matrix.
Production of Corn Protein Hydrolysate with Glutamine-Rich Peptides and Its Antagonistic Function in Ulcerative Colitis In Vivo
Authors: Jing Yan , Liu Xiaolan , Wang Jinyu , Ma Yongqiang , Zheng Xiqun
Published: October 2022

Ulcerative colitis is a typical chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract, which has become a serious hazard to human health. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the antagonistic effect of corn protein hydrolysate with glutamine-rich peptides on ulcerative colitis. The sequential hydrolysis of corn gluten meal by Alcalase and Protamex was conducted to prepare the hydrolysate, and then the mouse ulcerative colitis model induced by dextran sulfate sodium was applied to evaluate its biological activities. The results indicated that the hydrolysate significantly improved weight loss (p < 0.05), reduced the colonic shortening and the disease activity index, diminished the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the colonic tissue, and reduced the permeability of the colonic mucosa in mice. In addition, the hydrolysate decreased the contents of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, increased the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 and oxidative stress markers GSH-Px and SOD in the animal tests. Moreover, the hydrolysate also regulated the abundance and diversity of the intestinal microbiota, improved the microbiota structure, and increased the content of beneficial bacteria including Lactobacillus and Pediococcus. These results indicated that the hydrolysate might be used as an alternative natural product for the prevention of ulcerative colitis and could be further developed into a functional food.
Cassava Starch Films with Anthocyanins and Betalains from Agroindustrial by-Products: Their Use for Intelligent Label Development
Authors: Otálora González Carlos M. , Schelegueda Laura I. , Pizones Ruiz-Henestrosa Víctor M. , Campos Carmen A. , Basanta María F. , Gerschenson Lía N.
Published: October 2022

The development of biodegradable packaging materials has become a widely addressed topic in recent years. Microparticles generated from Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra (red cabbage, RC) and Beta vulgaris L. var. conditiva (beetroot, BR) which contained anthocyanins or betalains, were included in the formulation of edible films based on cassava starch (CS) giving origin to films CSRC, CSBR, or CSBC (mixture of both particles). The inclusion of the filler determined an increase in the stress at rupture from 0.8 MPa (CS) to 1.2 MPa (CSRC) or 1.0 MPa (CSBC), of the contact angle from 2.6° to 13.8° (CSBR) or 19.6° (CSBC). The use of these films for developing a smart label for hake packaging and the study of the TBV-N content, the microbiological characteristics of the muscle, and the color changes of the label with time, allowed us to conclude that the films CSRC and CSBC would be suitable for sensing the deterioration of packaged and chilled hake and that the color change of the label CSBC was completely consistent with fish muscle deterioration. As the microparticles can be obtained from by-products of the production and industrialization of plant tissues, the composite films and the smart labels developed can contribute not only to the development of safe food but also to the addition of value to those residues and to environmental protection.
Solanum betaceum Fruits Waste: A Valuable Source of Bioactive Compounds to Be Used in Foods and Non-Foods Applications
Authors: Isla María Inés , Orqueda María Eugenia , Moreno María Alejandra , Torres Sebastián , Zampini Iris Catiana
Published: October 2022

The fruit supply chain generates large amounts of waste that are often used as animal feed and in the production of both composts and fertilizers and biogas (anaerobic digestion). Since these types of procedures imply high economic costs related to drying, storage, and transport processes, more efficient and environmentally friendly utilization and recycling of this kind of waste are becoming significant for governments and industries. However, improper waste disposal increases the burden on the environment. Many of these fruit wastes, such as Solanum betaceum fruit waste, viz., peels, seeds, and pomace, could be considered potent bio-resource materials for several applications in the food and non-food industries due to their richness in valuable compounds. The basic composition of Solanum betaceum fruits seed has a high content of protein (20%), fiber (around 25%), sugar (11–20%) and low lipid content (0.4%), while S. betaceum peel has a low content of sugar (2–9%), protein (8–10%) and lipid (0.2–0.8%) and high fiber content (23%). Regarding the phytochemicals, the wastes have a high level of phenolics (0.2–0.6%) and pigments such as anthocyanins (0.06%). The inherent bioactive compounds of waste can be used as natural ingredients for foods, cosmetics, medicines, and the production of packaging materials production. Along this line, the present review covers all possible approaches for the valorization of S.betaceum waste in the food and non-food sectors.
Large-Scale Expansion of Porcine Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Based on Microcarriers System for Cultured Meat Production
Authors: Song Wenjuan , Liu Peipei , Li Huixia , Ding Shijie
Published: October 2022

Cultured meat is an innovative meat-production technology that does not rely on animal husbandry. As a new food component, cultured fat is of great significance to cultured meat. In this study, we isolated adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and identified the purity by immunofluorescence staining of ADSC-specific surface marker proteins CD44 and CD29 and showed that most of the cells were positive for CD29 and CD44. In addition, we detected the expression of FABP4 and Plin1 to confirm that ADSCs differentiated into mature adipocytes at 10 days post-induction. Subsequently, the culture conditions of ADSCs on microcarriers (MCs) were optimized and showed that cell density of living cells reached their highest after 5 days when continuously stirring at 50 rpm. Finally, the expression of FABP4 and PPARγ was detected to confirm the adipogenic differentiation ability of ADSCs on 2D and 3D culture systems and showed that ADSCs maintained their adipogenic differentiation ability after expansion on MCs. In conclusion, this research demonstrated that reliance on MCs to expand ADSCs was a promising approach for production of cultured fat.
Pomegranate Husk Scald Browning during Storage: A Review on Factors Involved, Their Modes of Action, and Its Association to Postharvest Treatments
Authors: Maghoumi Mahshad , Amodio Maria Luisa , Fatchurrahman Danial , Cisneros-Zevallos Luis , Colelli Giancarlo
Published: October 2022

The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), which contains high levels of health-promoting compounds, has received much attention in recent decades. Fruit storage potential ranges from 3 to 4 months in air and from 4 to 6 months in Controlled Atmospheres (CA) with 3–5% oxygen and 10–15% carbon dioxide. Storage life is limited by decay, chilling injury, weight loss (WL), and husk scald. In particular, husk scald (HS) limits pomegranate long-term storage at favorable temperatures. HS appears as skin browning which expands from stem end towards the blossom end during handling or long-term storage (10–12 weeks) at 6–10 °C. Even though HS symptoms are limited to external appearance, it may still significantly reduce pomegranate fruit marketability. A number of postharvest treatments have been proposed to prevent husk scald, including atmospheric modifications, intermittent warming, coatings, and exposure to 1-MCP. Long-term storage may induce phenolic compounds accumulation, affect organelles membranes, and activate browning enzymes such as polyphenol oxidases (PPO) and peroxidases (POD). Due to oxidation of tannins and phenolics, scalding becomes visible. There is no complete understanding of the etiology and biochemistry of HS. This review discusses the hypothesized mechanism of HS based on recent research, its association to postharvest treatments, and their possible targets.
Dynamic Change of Carbon and Nitrogen Sources in Colonized Apples by Penicillium expansum
Authors: Gong Di , Bi Yang , Zong Yuanyuan , Li Yongcai , Sionov Edward , Prusky Dov
Published: October 2022

Penicillium expansum is a necrotrophic pathogen, which actively kills host cells and obtains nutrients from dead cells to achieve infection. However, few reports have elucidated the differential levels of carbon and nitrogen sources over increasing distances of the leading edge in fungal colonized fruit tissues during colonization. Our results showed that the highest consumption of sucrose and fructose, as well as the accumulation of glucose, were found in the decayed region of P. expansum-colonized ‘Delicious’ apple fruit compared with the healthy region at the leading edge and the healthy region 6 mm away from the leading edge. As nitrogen sources, the contents of methionine, glutamate, leucine, valine, isoleucine and serine were the lowest in the decayed region compared with the healthy regions during colonization. In addition, the titratable acidity, oxalic acid, citric acid, succinic acid and malic acid showed the highest accumulation in the decayed region compared with the healthy regions. P. expansum colonization induced the accumulation of saturated fatty acids in the decayed region, while the level of unsaturated fatty acids was the lowest. These changes were not observed in the healthy regions. These results indicated that P. expansum kills cells in advance of its colonization in order to obtain the nutrients of the apple tissue from the distal leading tissue of the colonized apple. It is understood that more carbon and nitrogen sources are required for fungal colonization, and a stronger defense response against colonization occurred in the fruit, causing the transit of nutrients from the distal tissue to the infected sites.