bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study of Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics in a Simplified Dual Fluid Reactor
Authors: Elgendy Hisham , Czerski Konrad
Published: June 2023

This study presents the design and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of a mini demonstrator for a dual fluid reactor (DFR). The DFR is a novel concept currently under investigation. The DFR is characterized by the implementation of two distinct liquid loops dedicated to fuel and coolant. It integrates the principles of molten salt reactors and liquid metal cooled reactors; thus, it operates in a high temperature and fast neutron spectrum, presenting a distinct approach in the field of advanced nuclear reactor design. The mini demonstrator serves as a scaled-down version of the actual reactor, primarily aimed at gaining insights into the CFD analysis intricacies of the reactor while minimizing computational costs. The CFD modeling of the MD intends to add valuable data for the purpose of modeling validation against experiments to be conducted on the MD. These experiments can be used for DFR licensing and design optimization. The coolant and fuel utilized in the mini demonstrator are of low Prandtl number (Pr = 0.01) liquid lead, operating at two distinct inlet temperatures, namely 873 K and 1473 K. The study showed a rapid increase in turbulence due to intense mixing and abrupt changes in flow areas and directions, despite the relatively low inlet velocities. Hot spots characterized by elevated temperatures were identified, analyzed, and justified based on their spatial distribution and flow conditions. Flow swirling within pipes was identified and a remedy approach was suggested. Inconsistent mass flow rates were observed among the fuel pipes, with higher rates observed in the lateral pipes. Although lower fuel temperatures were observed in the lateral pipes, they consistently exhibited higher heat exchange characteristics. The study concludes by giving physical insights into the heat transfer and flow behavior, and proposing design considerations for the dual fluid reactor to enhance structural safety and durability, based on the preliminary analysis conducted.
Analysis of GHG Emission from Cargo Vehicles in Megacities: The Case of the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico
Authors: Vallarta-Serrano Stephany Isabel , Galindo-Muro Ana Bricia , Cespi Riccardo , Bustamante-Bello Rogelio
Published: June 2023

Cities consume most of the energy used worldwide and are the largest emitters of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that cause global warming, mainly from the road transport sector. In megacities, the light vehicle fleet is responsible for most of the emissions in the sector. Among this fleet, light commercial vehicles (CVs), which have grown to support instant delivery services demand, are also responsible for emissions and traffic congestion. Due to the urgency to reduce transport impacts, emission mitigation strategies are required. Aligned with this aim, this article evaluates GHG emissions along the entire process of energy production, called the operating trajectory, and also known as Well-To-Wheel (WTW), in four combinations of transportation modes for last-mile delivery services, using light CVs, such as electric or diesel vans, and electric cargo bikes (E-bikes). The analysis is firstly conducted in a local area of Mexico City and subsequently compared to other countries around the world. In this respect, the main result of this article shows that in the case study conducted in the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico, the energy consumption of a given route for an electric van combined with E-bikes generates 24% less GHG emissions than a diesel van combined with E-bikes. Therefore, the achievement of effective mitigation strategies for GHG emissions reduction through vehicle electrification requires WTW emission analysis and quantification, optimal route design, a combination of sustainable transport modes and clean energy generation.
Integrated Catalytic Upgrading of Biomass-Derived Alcohols for Advanced Biofuel Production
Authors: Shanmugam Sabarathinam , Hari Anjana , Pugazhendhi Arivalagan , Kikas Timo
Published: June 2023

Sustainable biofuel production is necessary to meet the daunting challenge of “fueling” growing economies with a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Although its higher oxygen content often hinders the direct conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) into energy-dense biofuels, microbial biofuel production from LCB still has potential. The production of primary alcohols by acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) fermentation has been practiced for more than a century to attain near-theoretical maximum. However, ABE produced conventionally by native microorganisms is not equivalent to fossil fuel-based aviation fuels in terms of energy density, volatility, and cost-efficiency. Various strategies have been adapted for the microbial synthesis of advanced fuels from renewable feedstock with the advancements in genetic engineering. Yet, the presence of inhibitors and the inefficiency of microbes to utilize or transport the sugar mixtures from LCB often impede titer and yield. However, ABE mixtures can act as platform chemicals to synthesize high-value biofuels by biocatalytic or chemo-catalytic applications. Chemical catalysts, in particular, are used to produce higher alcohols ranging from 3-carbon to 20-carbon fuels from the ABE fermentation mixture. This article reviews the recent trends in the production of higher biofuels from ABE mixtures using biological and chemical catalysts. Focus is placed on genomic and metabolic engineering strategies implemented to upgrade microbes for higher biofuel production via the fermentation of renewable feedstocks. This paper also summarizes the advancements in the chemical conversion route of an ABE fermentation mixture into higher biofuels. Finally, the review provides insights into future research toward commercializing renewable and sustainable higher biofuels and chemicals.
Experimental Investigation on the Relationship between Biot’s Coefficient and Hydrostatic Stress for Enhanced Oil Recovery Projects
Authors: Zamani Mohammad Ahmad Mahmoudi , Knez Dariusz
Published: June 2023

The majority of global conventional oil reservoirs have been dramatically depleted during the last few decades. To increase the oil production rate, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques are commonly utilized. The ratio of the recovered oil volume to the rock volume change is defined as Biot’s coefficient. During the EOR operations, Biot’s coefficient continuously changes due to the fluid injection and oil production; however, so far, only porosity-dependent or constant values of Biot’s coefficient have been incorporated in the EOR calculations, which is not valid since the role of external stress changes is overlooked. In this research, the Biot’s coefficient of a sandstone formation was measured through the acoustic wave propagation technique. A stress-dependent equation of Biot’s coefficient was achieved for application in the EOR calculations. The findings illustrated that Biot’s coefficient decreases logarithmically with the hydrostatic stress. Moreover, the Biot’s coefficient varied from 0.52 to 0.60 for an applied hydrostatic stress of 3.50 MPa to 21 MPa. Furthermore, it was found that there was no anisotropy of Biot’s coefficient in the sandstone formations. The extracted empirical correlation can be utilized for EOR projects in which the recovered oil volume is of paramount importance economically.
Valuing Forestry Agronomic Potential under Seasonal Mean-Reverting Prices
Authors: León Ángel , Marín Eyda , Toscano David
Published: June 2023

In the valuation of forest resources, the alternative use of the land is one of the central themes. In most cases it is made without taking into account the uncertainty and the possible flexibility of the alternative use. Within these alternatives, the strategy of shifting to a more profitable and sustainable crop is a well-studied topic in forest research. Although the transformation opportunity could add great value to the project, the valuation of this flexibility is obviated by traditional discounted cashflow criteria (NPV). The application of real options theory (ROT) makes it possible to assess this flexibility based on the uncertainty that the transformation entails. However, the hypotheses that are made about the future evolution of the underlying asset, in this case the value of the new crop, may condition the precision of the result. Usually some researchers model these conversions under the hypothesis of geometric Brownian motion (GBM), hypotheses that are not plausible when the new crop has a strong seasonal component. In this work, an adapted model framework is proposed to evaluate forest transformation opportunity into another crop when land use has both high agronomic potential and high seasonal component, a context in which classic real options framework is not applicable. As a work based on a theoretical model, after methodological motivation, the strawberry crop is chosen as alternative due to its seasonal component. Using private data for this crop, we model through the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process, with mean-reversion (MR) to a seasonal component, and then we use of Longstaff and Schwartz’s algorithm to calculate the option value. The results show that when considering flexibility in option valuation it leads to an increase on the return of more than 4%. Furthermore, robustness analysis evidence shows that option value is very sensitive to seasonal component, reinforcing previous evidence that suggests that the MR process offers a more accurate and appropriate valuation over the traditional GBM in the arena of agronomic potential valuation. Specifically, the result of valuing this transformation through the MR process is between 1.5 and 1.7 times the value of the NPV, which results in approximately a 13% annual return. If GBM had been used, the valuation would have been a 72% annual return, an unrealistic result in this context, due to the non-consideration of the seasonal mean-reverting prices process.
Strategies for Tree Improvement under Stress Conditions
Authors: Luo Jie , Hu Wentao
Published: June 2023

Forests are vital ecosystems, covering a significant portion of the Earth’s land area and providing essential ecological services and valuable products for human society [...]
A Review on Start-Up Phase Optimization of Kitchen Waste Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Yan Yi-Juan , Li Xiang , Lu Chen-Shun , Kobayashi Takuro , Zhen Guang-Yin , Hu Yong
Published: June 2023

Kitchen waste has been confirmed as an appropriate substrate for anaerobic digestion, although means of alleviating the difficulties and time-consuming nature of the start-up phase need to be further explored. Based on the mechanism of anaerobic digestion, we discuss the factors influencing the anaerobic start-up phase of kitchen waste. By controlling the temperature, pH, organic loading rate, inoculation ratio and other parameters, the high activity of methane-producing archaea and other bacteria can be intensified, thereby increasing the biogas yield. Furthermore, we introduce the methods of substrate pretreatment, operating condition optimization and conductive material addition. Finally, we put forward future perspectives and research gaps related to accelerating the start-up phase of anaerobic bioreactors utilized for kitchen waste biodegradation.
Discovery of a Novel β-xylosidase with Xylanase Activity and Its Application in the Production of Xylitol from Corncob Xylan
Authors: Liang Meng , Lin Yu , Sun Lixin , Pang Hao , Wei Hang , Huang Ribo , Wei Yutuo , Du Liqin
Published: June 2023

Although β-xylosidases with xylanase activity are preferential for the hydrolysis of xylan and production of xylitol, reports on their use are scarce. In this study, a multifunctional β-xylosidase (XYL4) was identified. In addition to β-xylosidase activity, XYL4 also exhibited xylanase and low α-arabinosidase activity. The enzyme was able to hydrolyze bagasse xylan, oat spelt xylan, birchwood xylan, beechwood xylan, and corncob xylan, and showed the highest hydrolysis activity for corncob xylan. Structural modeling analysis indicated that XYL4 had an additional PA14 domain, which may play a key role in binding xylan substrates. Moreover, XYL4 was used to hydrolyze corncob xylan to produce xylose. When enzymatic hydrolysis and whole-cell catalysis were used to hydrolyze 100 g/L of corncob xylan, the xylose yields were 60.26% and 35.85%, respectively. Then, the Candida tropicalis was inoculated with the above hydrolysates for fermentation to produce xylitol. Using enzymatic hydrolysis and whole-cell catalysis, xylitol yields of 77.56% and 73.67% were obtained by C. tropicalis after the optimization of fermentation, respectively.
Silica Fume Enhances the Mechanical Strength of Alkali-Activated Slag/Fly Ash Pastes Subjected to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Dai Weidong , Wang Yachao
Published: June 2023

The fireproof design of geopolymers through adjusting multi-component metallurgical solid wastes has attracted increasing attention, due to their potential low carbon emission, cost effectiveness, and role in environmental conservation. Herein, the effects of silica fume (SF) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of alkali-activated slag/FA (fly ash) pastes subjected to elevated temperatures (150, 500, 850, and 1200 °C) are investigated to clarify whether or not SF has a positive role in the mechanical strength of the slag/FA (slag/FA = 30:70, wt.%) geopolymer during building fires. The results show that the replacement of FA with 10 wt.% SF (silica fume) promotes the increasing pore volume with a diameter of 0.2~3 μm, leading to an increase in the compressive or flexural strength below 850 °C, “right shifts” of the endothermic peak, and uniform and compact fracture surfaces. Meanwhile, gehlenite and labradorite are generated after exposure above 850 °C. The bloating effect of the SF-containing sample occurs at 1200 °C, leading to a greater deformation due to the further restructuring of the amorphous geopolymer chain N–A–S–H or N–(Ca)–A–S–H composed of [SiO4]4− and [AlO4]5−. This paper explores an effective approach to improving geopolymers’ fireproof performance by adjusting the formulation of solid waste.
An Optimized Environmental DNA Method to Improve Detectability of the Endangered Sichuan Taimen (Hucho bleekeri)
Authors: Deng Jie , Zhang Hongxing , Wang Qijun , Kong Fei , Zhao Hu , Zhang Lu , Jiang Wei
Published: June 2023

Environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques have emerged as a cost-effective and non-invasive strategy for monitoring the distribution of endangered aquatic species. Despite their numerous advantages, operational uncertainty at each step of the process represents a significant challenge that can impact the reliability of results. Hence, the optimization of the eDNA analytic protocol is of utmost importance. In this study, the rare and endangered fish species Sichuan taimen was chosen as the target species to evaluate the concordance between different approaches (tissue, pond, and field water samples) for eDNA detection. The results showed that membrane filtration, collection of a 2-L water sample, and utilization of the DNeasy Tissue and Blood DNA extraction kit were suitable for the analysis of DNA in water samples. Furthermore, the mtDNA D-loop region demonstrated potential as a specific molecular marker for the precise identification of Sichuan taimen. Our results indicated that TaqMan fluorescence PCR can serve as the optimal detection method for reliable identification of target DNA even at extremely low concentrations in the field. This study established an optimized eDNA analysis protocol for Sichuan taimen detection, which will provide the basis for future resource investigations aimed at protection of this endangered aquatic species.
Sugarcane Pulp Take-Out Containers Produce More Microparticles in Acidic Foods
Authors: Hu Yi , Mo Chun-Ru , Wang Zhi-Wei , Yu Wen-Wen , Hu Chang-Ying
Published: June 2023

In the current study, the production of microparticles released from fifteen commercial sugarcane pulp (SCP) take-out containers into different food simulants under different conditions was investigated, where deionized water (DI water), 4% acetic acid (4% HAc), and 95% ethanol (95% EtOH) were used to simulate aqueous, acidic, and fatty foods, respectively. Results showed that compared with DI water and 95% EtOH, 4% HAc caused the degradation of sugarcane fibers, thereby releasing the highest number of microparticles. The overall migration values of the sugarcane pulp take-out containers in 4% HAc were above the prescribed limit of 10 mg/dm2. Furthermore, it was estimated that consumers may intake 36,400–231,700 microparticles in a take-out container at one time, of which the proportion of particles with a particle size between 10 and 500 μm was the highest, ranging from 26,470 to 216,060 items. Moreover, the Al and Fe are the main metals in these take-out containers, ranging between 35.16 and 1244.04 and 44.71 and 398.52 mg/kg, respectively, followed by Pb, Ti, and Sr. This study provides important information that the safety of both the production of microparticles and the metallic elements should be considered for SCP take-out containers when in contact with food.
Pore Evolution in Cell Walls of Food Tissue during Microwave-Assisted Drying: An In-Depth Investigation
Authors: Joardder Mohammad U. H. , Karim Azharul
Published: June 2023

Microwave (MW) heating is a unique approach that, unlike conduction- and convection-based heating, can provide volumetric heating. Complex microstructural changes in food materials occur because of simultaneous heat and mass transfer during drying, significantly affecting food structure and quality. Food properties, drying methods, and other drying parameters all have an impact on the microstructure of food samples, which in turn affects drying kinetics and food quality. However, no study has been undertaken to investigate the development of nano–micro-pores (NM-pores) on the cell walls and their relationship with the moisture migration mechanism. This study presents a novel investigation of the microstructural changes in food during microwave drying, with a focus on the formation of nano–micro-pores (NM-pores) on cell walls and their impact on moisture transport kinetics. The utilized hot air was maintained at a temperature of 70 °C, whereas microwave (MW) power levels of 100 W, 200 W, 300 W, and 400 W were used in microwave drying. The findings of the study indicate that the development of NM-pores occurs only during intermittent microwave drying (IMCD), while the cell wall of the food samples tends to burn or collapse in continuous microwave drying (CMD) due to the high heat generated. Additionally, no NM-pores were observed in the cell wall during convective drying. During IMCD with microwave power ranging from 100 W to 400 W, a range of pore sizes from 0.1 μm to 8.5 μm were observed. Due to the formation of NM-pores and collapses, MW drying takes around 10–20 times less time than convective drying to remove the same quantity of moisture. The effective moisture diffusivity values were found to be the highest in CMD at 4.70 × 10−07 m2/s and the lowest in CD at 2.43 × 10−09 m2/s. IMCD showed a moderate diffusivity of 2.45 × 10−08 m2/s. This study investigates the formation of NM-pores on cell walls during microwave drying and their impact on moisture transport kinetics and establishes correlations between microstructure modifications and moisture migration pathways.
Consumer Evaluation of Agricultural Products Produced in Areas Affected by Natural Disasters: A Case Study of Damaged Apples in Japan
Authors: Miyama Eriko , Morita Tamaki
Published: June 2023

This study examines how consumers perceive agricultural products affected by natural disasters, using apples in Japan as a case study. Typhoons and other natural disasters frequently damage the surface of apples during the production season, causing significant harm to farmers’ businesses, particularly when a large typhoon hits the production area. To maintain the sustainability of agricultural production, consumers need to purchase damaged crops at a certain price. To assess the effect of product attributes, such as appearance and price, and personal attributes of respondents, we conducted a choice-based conjoint analysis using a mixed logit model. The estimated results using the main effect and cross-section models show that consumers generally devalue apples when they have scratches. However, by using consumer co-operatives on a daily basis and disseminating simple information about the relationship between scratches and natural disasters, we could mitigate this devaluation tendency and thus contribute to sustainable agricultural production.
Salinity Treatments Promote the Accumulations of Momilactones and Phenolic Compounds in Germinated Brown Rice
Authors: Hasan Mehedi , Quan Nguyen Van , Anh La Hoang , Khanh Tran Dang , Xuan Tran Dang
Published: June 2023

This is the first investigation, conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD), to determine the effects of different salinity levels (75 and 150 mM) and germination periods (3, 4, and 5 days) on momilactone and phenolic accumulations in germinated brown rice (GBR) var. Koshihikari. Particularly, the identification of bioactive compounds was confirmed using electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy (1H and 13C). Momilactone A (MA) and momilactone B (MB) amounts were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (UPLC–ESI-MS), whereas other compounds were quantified by spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Accordingly, GBR under B2 treatment (75 mM salinity for 4 days) showed the greatest total phenolic and flavonoid contents (14.50 mg gallic acid and 11.06 mg rutin equivalents, respectively, per g dry weight). GBR treated with B2 also accumulated the highest quantities of MA, MB, ρ-coumaric, ferulic, cinnamic, salicylic acids, and tricin (18.94, 41.00, 93.77, 139.03, 46.05, 596.26, and 107.63 µg/g DW, respectively), which were consistent with the strongest antiradical activities in DPPH and ABTS assays (IC50 = 1.58 and 1.78 mg/mL, respectively). These findings have implications for promoting the value of GBR consumption and rice-based products that benefit human health.
Investigation of Components in Roasted Green Tea That Inhibit Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Formation
Authors: Goto Iori , Saga Satoshi , Ichitani Masaki , Kimijima Manami , Narisawa Naoki
Published: June 2023

Streptococcus mutans form oral biofilms (BFs) and cause dental caries. Roasted green tea (RGT) is prepared by roasting the tea plant, and RGT-specific polyphenols are produced during the roasting process. Catechins, polyphenols in green tea, have BF inhibitory activity against S. mutans; therefore, RGT-specific polyphenols are also expected to have this activity. However, there are few reports on the structural and functional properties of RGT. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory activity of RGT against S. mutans BF formation and to investigate the active compounds. RGT extract fractionation and BF inhibitory assay were performed. Strong activity was confirmed in the RGT fractions that had medium-high hydrophobicity, were rich in phenolic hydroxyl groups, and lacked catechins. A peak comprising compounds with molecular weights of 918 (mw918) and 1050 (mw1050) was purified from the fraction. Since BF inhibitory activity was confirmed for this peak, these compounds were considered to be part of the active ingredients. The mw918 polyphenol was detected only in RGT and it was thought to be produced during the roasting process. The results of this research will serve as a basis for the future application of RGT as a safe and effective anti-caries agent.
Diet Quality Index and Food Choice Motives in Vietnam: The Roles of Sensory Appeal, Mood, Convenience, and Familiarity
Authors: Trinh Huong Thi , Dao Binh Thi Thanh , Huynh Tuyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Mai Thi Tuyet , Nguyen Trang Mai , Vuong Vy Thao , Duong Thanh Thi , Haan Stef de
Published: June 2023

Food choices that shape human diets and health are influenced by various socio-economic factors. Vietnam struggles to meet many nutrition targets where links between food choice and diet have not been widely explored. This study assesses the food choice motives, based on a 28-item food choice questionnaire (FCQ), and the diet quality of 603 adults in three sites (urban, peri-urban, and rural) in northern Vietnam. We assess diet quality using the Diet Quality Index–Vietnam (DQI-V) which consists of variety, adequacy, moderation, and balance components. Using factor analysis, we grouped FCQ items into five factors: health focus, sensory appeal, mood ethics, convenience, and familiarity. The structural equation modeling indicates that food choice motives significantly impact the DQI-V and its components but in different directions. The results show that sensory appeal has a positive association with the overall DQI-V score, while having a negative impact on the variety component. Findings present a potential trade-off issue for interventions and policies related to food products. Nutrition knowledge is positively associated with all elements of diet quality across all three study sites. Vietnamese agrobiodiversity could be better utilized to increase dietary diversity. Differentiated policies are necessary to address the poor dietary diversity and adequacy in northern Vietnam.
A Light-Ray Approach to Fractional Fourier Optics
Authors: Fogret Éric , Pellat-Finet Pierre
Published: June 2023

A light ray in space is characterized by two vectors: (i) a transverse spatial vector associated with the point where the ray intersects a given spherical cap; (ii) an angular-frequency vector which defines the ray direction of propagation. Given a light ray propagating from a spherical emitter to a spherical receiver, a linear equation is established that links its representative vectors on the emitter and on the receiver. The link is expressed by means of a matrix which is not homogeneous, since it involves both spatial and angular variables (having distinct physical dimensions). Indeed, the matrix becomes a homogeneous rotation matrix after scaling the previous variables with appropriate dimensional coefficients. When applied to diffraction, in the framework of a scalar theory, the scaling operation results directly in introducing fractional-order Fourier transformations as mathematical expressions of Fresnel diffraction phenomena. Linking angular-frequency vectors and spatial frequencies results in an interpretation of the notion of a spherical angular spectrum. Accordance of both homogeneous and non-homogeneous ray matrices with the Huygens–Fresnel principle is examined. The proposed ray-matrix representation of diffraction is also applied to coherent imaging through a lens.
The Effects of Stochastic Circular Pores on Splitting Tensile Behavior of Concrete Based on the Multifractal Theory
Authors: Wang Jie , Wang Mingyang , Tao Junlin
Published: June 2023

Concrete naturally contains a large number of circular-like stochastic pores which weaken the tensile strength of concrete and change the crack propagation path. This study investigates the influences of the size distribution and the spatial distribution of stochastic pores on the fracture behavior of concrete based on the splitting tensile test. The mesoscale model of concrete containing coarse aggregate, mortar, interface transition zone (ITZ), and circular pores is established to simulate the crack initiation, propagation, and coalescence of concrete. Concrete samples with a single hole are prepared to verify the effectiveness of the numerical simulation method. Numerical tests are conducted on numerous mesoscale concrete samples with various porosities, pore size distributions, and pore spatial distributions. The numerical simulation results indicate that the tensile strength decreases with the increase of pore size at the same porosity. Based on multifractal theory, a quantitative indicator to describe the spatial distribution uniformity of concrete stochastic pores is proposed. There is a positive correlation between the spatial distribution uniformity of stochastic pores and the tensile strength. The stochastic circular pores can have a profound effect on the concrete’s fracture pattern, which results in three typical macro-crack patterns in the numerical simulation of the splitting tensile test. The presented results deepen the understanding of the influence of stochastic circular pores on the tensile mechanical properties of concrete and provide a reference for the design of concrete structures.
A Preliminary Study on the Release of Bioactive Compounds from Rice Starch Hydrogels Produced by High-Pressure Processing (HPP)
Authors: D’Aniello Anna , Koshenaj Katerina , Ferrari Giovanna
Published: June 2023

This work aimed to carry out a preliminary study on the release of bioactive compounds loaded into starch-based hydrogels produced by high-pressure processing (HPP). As a study case, the experiments were carried out on rice starch HPP hydrogels. Rice starch (20% w/w) and green tea extract (2% w/w), suspended in distilled water, were treated by HPP at processing conditions enabling starch gelatinisation, namely 600 MPa for 15 min at room temperature. Additional experiments were carried out on samples that were further loaded with glycerol (5% w/w). Gel formation was assessed by analysing the gelatinisation extent, structuring level, and swelling power of the samples. At the processing conditions utilised, stable hydrogels were obtained even in the presence of the extract and/or the glycerol in the starch suspension. As expected, the colour of the hydrogels formed was affected by the addition of green tea extract in the starch solution. HPP starch hydrogels were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) to determine the interactions between the different compounds utilised in the formulation. Moreover, the release kinetics of bioactive compounds from HPP rice starch hydrogels was evaluated using a vertical Franz diffusion cells system, simulating a transdermal pattern. The diffusion of bioactive compounds was measured spectrophotometrically and via HPLC analysis. A controlled release of bioactive compounds from the hydrogel structure was detected, suggesting that small molecules, such as polyphenols, positively interacted with the rice starch HPP hydrogel network that allowed a smooth and constant release of these bioactive compounds over time.
A Significant Increasing Risk Association between Cigarette Smoking and XPA and XPC Genes Polymorphisms
Authors: Almushawwah Safiah , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Alamri Abdullah M. , Semlali Abdelhabib
Published: June 2023

Cigarette smoking (CS) is a major cause of various serious diseases due to tobacco chemicals. There is evidence suggesting that CS has been linked with the DNA damage repair system, as it can affect genomic stability, inducing genetic changes in the genes involved in the repair system, specifically the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway, affecting the function and/or regulation of these genes. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), along with CS, can affect the work of the NER pathway and, therefore, could lead to different diseases. This study explored the association of four SNPs in both XPA and XPC genes with CS in the Saudi population. The Taq Man genotyping assay was used for 220 healthy non-smokers (control) and 201 healthy smokers to evaluate four SNPs in the XPA gene named rs10817938, rs1800975, rs3176751, and rs3176752 and four SNPs in the XPC gene called rs1870134, rs2228000, rs2228001, and rs2607775. In the XPA gene, SNP rs3176751 showed a high-risk association with CS-induced diseases with all clinical parameters, including CS duration, CS intensity, gender, and age of smokers. On the other hand, SNP rs1800975 showed a statistically significant low-risk association with all clinical parameters. In addition, rs10817938 showed a high-risk association only with long-term smokers and a low-risk association only with younger smokers. A low-risk association was found in SNP rs3176752 with older smokers. In the XPC gene, SNP rs2228001 showed a low-risk association only with female smokers. SNP rs2607775 revealed a statistically significant low-risk association with CS-induced diseases, concerning all parameters, except for male smokers. However, SNP rs2228000 and rs1870134 showed no association with CS. Overall, the study results demonstrated possible significant associations (effector/and protector) between CS and SNPs polymorphisms in DNA repair genes, such as XPA and XPC, except for rs2228000 and rs1870134 polymorphisms.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Triplophysa labiata (Kessler, 1874) Mitogenome and Its Phylogenetic Implications within the Triplophysa Genus
Authors: Wang Chengxin , Luo Site , Yao Na , Wang Xinyue , Song Yong , Chen Shengao
Published: June 2023

In order to resolve the long-standing controversy surrounding the relationships within the Triplophysa genus, we conducted an extensive analysis of the complete mitogenome of Triplophysa labiata using DNBSEQ short reads. Additionally, we reconstructed the phylogeny of the Nemacheilidae family using mitogenome data. By comparing all available mitogenomes within the Triplophysa genus, we gained valuable insights into its evolutionary history. Our findings revealed that the mitogenome sequence of T. labiata is circular, spanning a length of 16,573 bp. It encompasses 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), 2 ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), and a control region (D-loop). Among the PCGs, the start codon ATG was commonly observed, except in cox1, while the stop codons TAA/TAG/T were found in all PCGs. Furthermore, purifying selection was evident across all PCGs. Utilizing maximum likelihood (ML) methods, we employed the 13 PCGs and the concatenated nucleotide sequences of 30 Triplophysa mitogenomes to infer the phylogeny. Our results strongly supported the division of the Triplophysa genus into four primary clades. Notably, our study provides the first evidence of the close relationship between T. labiata and T. dorsalis. These findings serve as a significant foundation for future investigations into the mitogenomics and phylogeny of Nemacheilidae fishes, paving the way for further advancements in this field of research.
Aging Mother–Adult Daughter Differentiation, Psychological Well-Being, and Parental Status
Authors: Jeon Sesong
Published: June 2023

Despite the understanding that differentiation is a lifelong process crucial for psychological adaptation, there is limited knowledge regarding how parent–child differentiation in adulthood is associated with the psychological well-being of both parents and adult children. Furthermore, empirical research has yielded inconclusive results regarding whether the parental status of adult children influences the parent–child relationship. Consequently, the current study focuses on the moderating effect of adult daughters’ parental status on the association between aging mother–adult daughter differentiation and psychological well-being. The study utilized data from 167 pairs of Korean aging mothers and adult daughters to examine two main aspects: (1) the relationship between aging mother–adult daughter differentiation and psychological well-being; and (2) the moderating role of adult daughters’ parental status on the relationship between aging mother–adult daughter differentiation and psychological well-being. The findings revealed that both the differentiation of adult daughters and mothers was positively associated with their respective psychological well-being. However, no significant cross-interactional effects of aging mother–adult daughter differentiation on psychological well-being were observed. Notably, there was a positive moderating effect of the adult daughter’s parental status on the association between aging mother–adult daughter differentiation and psychological well-being for aging mothers.
Eceriferum Genes in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum): Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis Reveal Their Potential Functions during Domestication
Authors: Pan Feng , Li Xin , Zhong Deping , Lu Xiaoxiao , Pan Chunyang , Hu Junling , Su Wenyue , Zhang Hui , Zhang Chen , Shi Lianfeng , Guo Yanmei , Huang Zejun , Wang Xiaoxuan , Du Yongchen , Liu Lei , Li Junming
Published: June 2023

Plant cuticular wax plays an important role in resistance to environmental stresses. Eceriferum (CER) genes are involved in wax synthesis. However, little information is available for tomato species. In this study, 26 SlCER genes were identified in tomato (S. lycopersicum), and they were classified into four clades. The physicochemical properties and conserved motifs of their proteins were predicted. These SlCERs were mainly expressed in leaves, flowers or fruits, and most SlCERs played roles in response to abiotic stresses, especially drought stress. Furthermore, the changes in haplotypes indicated that SlCERs might have been involved in adapting to the environments for wild species S. pimpinellifolium before domestication. These findings would lay a foundation for future functional studies of SlCERs and also provide insights for anti-stress improvement in tomato in the near future.
Predictors of Problematic Video Gaming in Elementary School Boys with ADHD
Authors: Cvitković Daniela , Stanić Karla , Salkičević Pišonić Svjetlana
Published: June 2023

The aim of the study was to expand the current knowledge base on problematic video gaming and ADHD with four questions: (1) Are there differences in the length of video gaming between boys with ADHD and typically developing boys? (2) Are there differences in problematic video gaming between boys with ADHD and typically developing boys? (3) What are the predictors of problematic video gaming? (4) Does problematic video gaming affect academic performance while controlling for the effect of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms? Symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity scale (SNAP IV), the Problematic Video Game Scale, and the Video Game Patterns Questionnaire were administered to 127 parents of elementary school boys in Croatia, 57 of whom were parents of boys with a clinical ADHD diagnosis and 70 of whom were parents of typically developing boys. The results show that there are no differences in length of play and problematic video gaming between ADHD and typically developing boys. A hierarchical regression analysis showed that age, inattention symptoms, and length of play are predictors of problematic video gaming. Inattention symptoms and age are significant predictors of academic achievement whereas it seems that hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms are not predictors of problematic video gaming and academic achievement in boys.
Contact Dermatitis to Diabetes Medical Devices
Authors: Cichoń Mikołaj , Trzeciak Magdalena , Sokołowska-Wojdyło Małgorzata , Nowicki Roman J.
Published: June 2023

Skin adverse reactions to diabetes medical devices have been reported frequently over recent years. Adhesives attaching glucose sensors and continuous insulin infusion sets to the skin are proven to cause both allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis in patients with diabetes mellitus. Several allergens contained in adhesives and/or parts of medical devices are documented to cause allergic contact dermatitis, with acrylate chemicals being the most common culprit-especially isobornyl acrylate (IBOA), but also 2,2′-methylenebis(6-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) monoacrylate or cyanoacrylates. Epoxy resin, colophonium and nickel were also identified as causative allergens. However, repetitive occlusion, maceration of the skin and resulting disruption of the skin barrier seem to have an impact on the development of skin lesions as well. The purpose of this study is to highlight the burden of contact dermatitis triggered by diabetes medical devices and to show possible mechanisms responsible for the development of contact dermatitis in a group of diabetic patients.
A New Method to Detect Variants of SARS-CoV-2 Using Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Combined with a Bioluminescent Assay in Real Time (RT-LAMP-BART)
Authors: Iijima Takahiro , Sakai Jun , Kanamori Dai , Ando Shinnosuke , Nomura Tsutomu , Tisi Laurence , Kilgore Paul E. , Percy Neil , Kohase Hikaru , Hayakawa Satoshi , Maesaki Shigefumi , Hoshino Tomonori , Seki Mitsuko
Published: June 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), of which there are several variants. The three major variants (Alpha, Delta, and Omicron) carry the N501Y, L452R, and Q493R/Q498R mutations, respectively, in the S gene. Control of COVID-19 requires rapid and reliable detection of not only SARS-CoV-2 but also its variants. We previously developed a reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay combined with a bioluminescent assay in real time (RT-LAMP-BART) to detect the L452R mutation in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. In this study, we established LAMP primers and peptide nucleic acid probes to detect N501Y and Q493R/Q498R. The LAMP primer sets and PNA probes were designed for the N501Y and Q493R/Q498R mutations on the S gene of SARS-CoV-2. The specificities of RT-LAMP-BART assays were evaluated using five viral and four bacterial reference strains. The sensitivities of RT-LAMP-BART assays were evaluated using synthetic RNAs that included the target sequences, together with RNA-spiked clinical nasopharyngeal and salivary specimens. The results were compared with those of conventional real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) methods. The method correctly identified N501Y and Q493R/Q498R. Within 30 min, the RT-LAMP-BART assays detected up to 100–200 copies of the target genes; conventional real-time RT-PCR required 130 min and detected up to 500–3000 copies. Surprisingly, the real-time RT-PCR for N501Y did not detect the BA.1 and BA.2 variants (Omicron) that exhibited the N501Y mutation. The novel RT-LAMP-BART assay is highly specific and more sensitive than conventional real-time RT-PCR. The new assay is simple, inexpensive, and rapid; thus, it can be useful in efforts to identify SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.
Functional Analysis of a CTL-X-Type Lectin CTL16 in Development and Innate Immunity of Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Bi Jingxiu , Wang Yutao , Gao Rui , Liu Pingxiang , Jiang Yuying , Gao Lei , Li Bin , Song Qisheng , Ning Mingxiao
Published: June 2023

C-type lectins (CTLs) are a class of proteins containing carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs), which are characteristic modules that recognize various glycoconjugates and function primarily in immunity. CTLs have been reported to affect growth and development and positively regulate innate immunity in Tribolium castaneum. However, the regulatory mechanisms of TcCTL16 proteins are still unclear. Here, spatiotemporal analyses displayed that TcCTL16 was highly expressed in late pupae and early adults. TcCTL16 RNA interference in early larvae shortened their body length and narrowed their body width, leading to the death of 98% of the larvae in the pupal stage. Further analysis found that the expression level of muscle-regulation-related genes, including cut, vestigial, erect wing, apterous, and spalt major, and muscle-composition-related genes, including Myosin heavy chain and Myosin light chain, were obviously down-regulated after TcCTL16 silencing in T. castaneum. In addition, the transcription of TcCTL16 was mainly distributed in the hemolymph. TcCTL16 was significantly upregulated after challenges with lipopolysaccharides, peptidoglycans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Recombinant CRDs of TcCTL16 bind directly to the tested bacteria (except Bacillus subtilis); they also induce extensive bacterial agglutination in the presence of Ca2+. On the contrary, after TcCTL16 silencing in the late larval stage, T. castaneum were able to develop normally. Moreover, the transcript levels of seven antimicrobial peptide genes (attacin2, defensins1, defensins2, coleoptericin1, coleoptericin2, cecropins2, and cecropins3) and one transcription factor gene (relish) were significantly increased under E. coli challenge and led to an increased survival rate of T. castaneum when infected with S. aureus or E. coli, suggesting that TcCTL16 deficiency could be compensated for by increasing AMP expression via the IMD pathways in T. castaneum. In conclusion, this study found that TcCTL16 could be involved in developmental regulation in early larvae and compensate for the loss of CTL function by regulating the expression of AMPs in late larvae, thus laying a solid foundation for further studies on T. castaneum CTLs.
Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus: New Insights
Authors: Dubsky Michal , Veleba Jiri , Sojakova Dominika , Marhefkova Natalia , Fejfarova Vladimira , Jude Edward B.
Published: June 2023

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is an important marker of future atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, especially in people with diabetes. This article summarizes the evidence on endothelial dysfunction in people with diabetes and adds different perspectives that can affect the presence and severity of ED and its consequences. We highlight that data on ED in type 1 diabetes are lacking and discuss the relationship between ED and arterial stiffness. Several interesting studies have been published showing that ED modulates microRNA, microvesicles, lipid levels, and the endoplasmatic reticulum. A better understanding of ED could provide important insights into the microvascular complications of diabetes, their treatment, and even their prevention.
Simultaneous Application of Red and Blue Light Regulate Carbon and Nitrogen Metabolism, Induces Antioxidant Defense System and Promote Growth in Rice Seedlings under Low Light Stress
Authors: Ren Maofei , Liu Shanzhen , Mao Guiling , Tang Chengzhu , Gai Panpan , Guo Xiaoli , Zheng Huabin , Wang Weiqin , Tang Qiyuan
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of light quality on growth, carbon and nitrogen metabolism, and antioxidant defense system of rice seedlings. Six light conditions were employed, including white (W), red (R), blue (B), combined LED of R and B at 3:1 (R3B1), combined LED of R and B at 1:1 (R1B1), as well as combined LED of R and B at 1:3 (R1B3). Combined application of red light and blue light could promote the growth of rice seedling leaves and roots under low light stress to varying degrees, increase the photosynthetic area by increasing the leaf area, improve the root characteristics by increasing the root volume, and increase the dry matter accumulation of rice seedlings. In addition, the combination of red light and blue light could increase carbon and nitrogen metabolites in rice seedling leaves, regulate the expression of genes related to carbon and nitrogen metabolism and enzyme activity, and enhance the antioxidant enzyme activity of rice seedlings. These results indicate that red light and blue light directly have synergistic effects which can regulate the carbon and nitrogen metabolism of rice seedlings, promote the morphogenesis of rice seedlings under low light stress, and promote growth, which has never been reported in previous studies. This study is a new discovery in the application of light quality in crop production and provides new avenues to enhance crop stress resistance. However, further study is needed to explore the physio-biochemical and molecular mechanisms of light quality in crop production.