bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SHFL: K-Anonymity-Based Secure Hierarchical Federated Learning Framework for Smart Healthcare Systems
Authors: Asad Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad , Jilani Syeda Fizzah , Shaukat Saima , Tsukada Manabu
Published: November 2022

Dynamic and smart Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructures allow the development of smart healthcare systems, which are equipped with mobile health and embedded healthcare sensors to enable a broad range of healthcare applications. These IoT applications provide access to the clients’ health information. However, the rapid increase in the number of mobile devices and social networks has generated concerns regarding the secure sharing of a client’s location. In this regard, federated learning (FL) is an emerging paradigm of decentralized machine learning that guarantees the training of a shared global model without compromising the data privacy of the client. To this end, we propose a K-anonymity-based secure hierarchical federated learning (SHFL) framework for smart healthcare systems. In the proposed hierarchical FL approach, a centralized server communicates hierarchically with multiple directly and indirectly connected devices. In particular, the proposed SHFL formulates the hierarchical clusters of location-based services to achieve distributed FL. In addition, the proposed SHFL utilizes the K-anonymity method to hide the location of the cluster devices. Finally, we evaluated the performance of the proposed SHFL by configuring different hierarchical networks with multiple model architectures and datasets. The experiments validated that the proposed SHFL provides adequate generalization to enable network scalability of accurate healthcare systems without compromising the data and location privacy.
Experimental Study of Cavitation Development and Secondary Circulation Flow between Two Eccentric Cylinders
Authors: Monakhov Anatoliy , Bukharin Nikolay
Published: November 2022

The flow of a hydrophobic fluid in the gap between eccentric cylinders has been experimentally studied. The experimental setup was designed and built for this study. Experimental setup consists of two eccentric cylinders with the ability to rotate and a camera, a microscope, and a pressure sensor. The conditions for gaseous cavitation occurrence during the rotation of the outer cylinder was considered in this study. The discreteness of gaseous cavitation occurrence in the form of individual bubbles is shown. When cavitation bubbles merge, the charge is redistributed at the gas–liquid interface, and bubble luminescence is observed. It has been shown that near the surface of the inner cylinder, in the area of flow expansion and compression, reverse flows occur.
E-nose, E-tongue Combined with GC-IMS to Analyze the Influence of Key Additives during Processing on the Flavor of Infant Formula
Authors: Chi Xuelu , Guo Hongxia , Zhang Yangdong , Zheng Nan , Liu Huimin , Wang Jiaqi
Published: November 2022

In order to analyze the influence of key additives during processing on the flavor of infant formula, the headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry, electronic tongue, and electronic nose techniques were used to evaluate flavor during the processing of stage 1 infant formula milk powder (0–6 months), including the analysis of seven critical additives. A total of 41 volatile compounds were identified, involving 12 aldehydes, 11 ketones, 9 esters, 4 olefins, 2 alcohols, 2 furans, and 1 acid. The electronic nose metal oxide sensor W5S had the highest response, followed by W1S and W2S, illustrating that these three sensors had great effects on distinguishing samples. The response results of the electronic tongue showed that the three sensory attributes of bitter, salty, and umami, as well as the richness of aftertaste, were more prominent, which contributed significantly to evaluating the taste profile and distinguishing among samples. Raw milk is an essential control point in the flavor formation process of stage 1 infant formula milk powder. Demineralized whey powder is the primary source of potential off-flavor components in hydrolyzed milk protein infant formula. This study revealed the quality characteristics and flavor differences of key additives in the production process of stage 1 infant formula milk powder, which could provide theoretical guidance for the quality control and sensory improvement of the industrialized production of infant formula.
Development and Utilization of Corn Processing by-Products: A Review
Authors: Jiao Yan , Chen Hao-Dong , Han He , Chang Ying
Published: November 2022

As an important food crop, corn has an important impact on people’s lives. The processing of corn produces many by-products, such as corn gluten meal, corn husk, and corn steep liquor, which are rich in protein, oil, carbohydrates, and other nutrients, all of which are inexpensive. Their accumulation in large quantities during the production process not only results in a burden on the environment but also the loss of potentially valuable food materials that can be processed. In fact, the by-products of corn processing have been partially used in functional foods, nutrients, feed, and other industries. There is no doubt that the secondary utilization of these by-products can not only solve the problem of waste pollution caused by them, but also produce high value-added products and improve the economic benefits of corn. This paper describes in detail the processing and higher-value utilization of the five main by-products: corn gluten meal, corn husks, corn steep liquor, corn germ, and fuel ethanol by-product. The utilization status of corn processing by-products was discussed roundly, and the development trend of corn processing by-products in China and other countries was analyzed, which provided the reference for the development of the corn deep processing industry.
Foaming and Physicochemical Properties of Commercial Protein Ingredients Used for Infant Formula Formulation
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Cheng Jianjun , Xie Qinggang , Jiang Shilong , Sun Yuxue
Published: November 2022

Protein, as one of the main ingredients for infant formula, may be closely related to the undesirable foam formed during the reconstitution of infant formula. Demineralized whey powder (D70 and D90), whey protein concentrate (WPC), and skimmed milk powder (SMP) are the four protein ingredients commonly used in infant formula formulation. The foaming and physicochemical properties of these four protein ingredients from different manufacturers were analyzed in the present study. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in foaming properties were found between the samples from different manufacturers. SMP showed a highest foaming capacity (FC) and foam stability (FS), followed by D70, D90, and WPC. Although the protein composition was similar based on reducing SDS-PAGE, the aggregates varied based on non-reducing SDS-PAGE, probably resulting in the different foaming properties. Particle size, zeta potential, and solubility of the protein ingredients were assessed. The protein structure was evaluated by circular dichroism, surface hydrophobicity, and free sulfhydryl. Pearson’s correlation analysis demonstrated that FC and FS were positively correlated with random coil (0.55 and 0.74), β-turn (0.53 and 0.73), and zeta potential (0.55 and 0.51) but negatively correlated with β-strand (−0.56 and −0.71), free sulfhydryl (−0.56 and −0.63), particle size (−0.45 and −0.53), and fat content (−0.50 and −0.49). The results of this study could provide a theoretical guidance for reducing formation of foam of infant formula products during reconstitution.
Changes in Starch In Vitro Digestibility and Properties of Cassava Flour Due to Pulsed Electric Field Processing
Authors: Conde Ladie Anne , Kebede Biniam , Leong Sze Ying , Oey Indrawati
Published: November 2022

The research aimed to investigate the effect of pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment on cassava flour at mild intensities (1, 2, and 4 kV/cm) combined with elevated levels of specific energy input (250–500 kJ/kg). Influences on starch digestibility, morphological characteristics, birefringence, short-range order and thermal properties were evaluated. Application of PEF at energy input no greater than 250 kJ/kg had negligible influence on the different starch digestion fractions of cassava flour but raised the rapidly digestible starch fraction at a combined electric field strength >1 kV/cm and energy input >350 kJ/kg. Morphological evaluation revealed that at this PEF combination, cassava starch’s external structure was consistently altered with swelling and disintegration, albeit some granules remained intact. Consequently, this led to disruption in the internal crystalline structure, supported by progressive loss of birefringence and significantly lower absorbance ratio at 1047/1022 cm−1. These physical and microstructural changes of the inherent starch promoted the shift in gelatinization temperatures to a higher temperature and reduced the gelatinization enthalpy. The study demonstrated that PEF can be utilized to change the starch fraction of cassava flour, which is driven by electric field strength and specific energy input, causing changes in the starch-related properties leading to increased digestibility.
Enhancing Antioxidants Extraction from Agro-Industrial By-Products by Enzymatic Treatment
Authors: Leite Paulina , Belo Isabel , Salgado José Manuel
Published: November 2022

Nowadays, agro-industrial by-products are of increasing interest as a source of antioxidant compounds. Thus, alternative green techniques to extract antioxidant compounds have been pursued. The use of enzymes to release bioactive compounds through antioxidant activity reduces the environmental impact caused by traditional extraction systems using organic solvents. A crude enzymatic extract containing carbohydrolases was produced by solid-state fermentation (SSF) of an olive pomace and brewery spent-grain combination. The crude extract was evaluated at different temperatures and pH values and its thermostability was studied. Results showed that β-glucosidase and cellulase were more stable than xylanase, particularly cellulase, which kept 91% of its activity for 72 h at 45 °C. The extract was also applied in enzymatic treatments (ET) to liberate antioxidant compounds from winery, olive mill and brewery by-products under optimal conditions for enzymatic activities. The highest antioxidant activity was found in extracts obtained after enzymatic treatment of exhausted olive pomace (EOP). Enzymatic crude extract produced by SSF was successfully applied in the extraction of antioxidant compounds from winery, olive mill and brewery by-products. Thus, integrating SSF and enzymatic technologies is a valuable approach to implement circular economy practices in the agro-food industry.
Freeze-Dried Powder of Fermented Chili Paste—New Approach to Cured Salami Production
Authors: Păucean Adriana , Kádár Csaba Balázs , Simon Elemér , Vodnar Dan Cristian , Ranga Floricuța , Rusu Iulian Eugen , Vișan Vasile-Gheorghe , Socaci Sonia-Ancuța , Man Simona , Chiș Maria Simona , Pop Anamaria , Tanislav Anda E. , Mureșan Vlad
Published: November 2022

Fermented chili powders were obtained through the freeze-drying of fermented chili pastes and used as a condiment, acidifier, antioxidant, colorant, and microbial starter carrier in fermented salami production. Fermented chili powders were examined regarding carbohydrates, organic acids, vitamin C, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and aroma profile. High concentrations of lactic (10.57–12.20%) and acetic acids (3.39–4.10%) were recorded. Vitamin C content was identified in the range of 398–1107 mg/100 g, with maximum values for C. annuum cv. Cayenne chili powder. Phenolic compounds showed values between 302–771 mg/100 g. Total carotenoid content was identified between 544–2462 µg/g, with high concentrations of capsanthin esters. Aroma profile analysis evidenced specific compounds (1-hexanol, 2-hexanol, hexenal, E-2-hexenal) with sensory importance and a more complex spectrum for Capsicum chinense cultivar. Plant-specific lactic acid bacteria showed dominance both in fermented chili paste, chili powder, and salami. Lactic and acetic acids from the fermented chili powder reduced the pH of the filling immediately, having a stabilizing effect on the meat. Nor molds or pathogens were identified in outer limits. Based on these results, fermented chili powders could be used as starter carriers in the production of fermented meat products for exceptional sensory properties and food safety management.
Non-Conventional Yeast: Behavior under Pure Culture, Sequential and Aeration Conditions in Beer Fermentation
Authors: Postigo Vanesa , O’Sullivan Tadhg , Elink Schuurman Tom , Arroyo Teresa
Published: November 2022

The use of wild yeasts, isolated from different environments, is becoming the most interesting option for the production of new beers. The objective of this study is to evaluate the potential of seven non-conventional yeast strains from five different species (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Hanseniaspora guilliermondii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Torulaspora delbrueckii, and Zygosaccharomyces bailii) isolated from Madrid agriculture to produce type ale beer. Wild yeast strains were evaluated at laboratory and pilot plant scales under different fermentation conditions (pure, aerated, and sequential culture). Strain S. cerevisiae SafAle S-04 was used as a reference. Throughout the fermentation of beer, volatile compounds were determined by GC and residual sugars by HPLC, among other parameters. The yeast strains used for the fermentation in pure culture conditions were unable to ferment maltose and maltotriose (0.73–1.18% v/v of ethanol). The results of the study under aerated conditions showed varying levels of higher alcohol and ester concentrations. It should be noted that the strain CLI 1057 (S. cerevisiae) fermented maltose in the presence of oxygen (Kluyver effect). This strain also showed a high production of 4-vinyl guaiacol, making it suitable for producing beers with a phenolic profile. Finally, three strains (H. guilliermondii, Z. bailii, and T. delbrueckii) were evaluated in sequential culture together with commercial strain and found to improve the organoleptic characteristics of the brewed beer. These approaches offer the opportunity to add new product characteristics to the beers.
Consumers Respond Positively to the Sensory, Health, and Sustainability Benefits of the Rare Sugar Allulose in Yogurt Formulations
Authors: Mora Margaux R. , Wang Zhixin , Goddard Julie M. , Dando Robin
Published: November 2022

Increased added sugar consumption is associated with type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Low and no-calorie alternative sweeteners have long been used as an aid in the reduction of added sugar. Unfortunately, these alternative sweeteners often have notable sensory deficits when compared to sucrose. Furthermore, many alternative sweeteners have synthetic origins, while consumers are increasingly turning to foods from natural origins, and from more sustainable sources. Such sweeteners include the rare sugar allulose, which can be manufactured from common agricultural waste and dairy co-product streams, and is reported to have a sensory profile similar to sucrose. This study aimed to determine the influence of the rare sugar allulose on consumer perception of sweetened vanilla yogurt. Participants were recruited to evaluate 4 vanilla yogurts sweetened with either sucrose, allulose, stevia or sucralose, and to rate their liking of the samples overall, and for flavor, texture, and their purchase intent. Statistical analysis of hedonic data from 100 consumers suggested that allulose performed similarly to sucrose in liking and purchase intent, and superior to other sweeteners tested in this study, with fewer off-flavors. Moreover, when consumers were queried on their purchase intent after learning details on the sweetener for each formulation, allulose scored significantly higher than all other formulations in purchase intent. This study highlights the potential of the rare sugar allulose as a low calorie, zero glycemic index, natural and better tasting sugar replacement in sweetened yogurt.
Investigating the Tocopherol Contents of Walnut Seed Oils Produced in Different European Countries Analyzed by HPLC-UV: A Comparative Study on the Basis of Geographical Origin
Authors: Mitsikaris Petros D. , Kokokiris Lambros , Pritsa Agathi , Papadopoulos Athanasios N. , Kalogiouri Natasa P.
Published: November 2022

A rapid HPLC-UV method was developed for the determination of tocopherols in walnut seed oils. The method was validated and the LODs ranged between 0.15 and 0.30 mg/kg, while the LOQs were calculated over the range of 0.50 to 1.00 mg/kg. The accuracy values ranged between 90.8 and 97.1% for the within-day assay (n = 6) and between 90.4 and 95.8% for the between-day assay (n = 3 × 3), respectively. The precision of the method was evaluated and the RSD% values were lower than 6.1 and 8.2, respectively. Overall, 40 samples of walnuts available on the Greek market, originating from four different European countries (Greece, Ukraine, France, and Bulgaria), were processed into oils and analyzed. One-way ANOVA was implemented in order to investigate potential statistically significant disparities between the concentrations of tocopherols in the walnut oils on the basis of the geographical origin, and Tukey’s post hoc test was also performed to examine exactly which varieties differed. The statistical analysis of the results demonstrated that the Ukrainian walnut seed oils exhibited significantly higher total concentrations compared to the rest of the samples.
Effects of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Extracts on Oxidative Stability and Sensory Quality in Meat Products (Frankfurters)
Authors: Zhu Yingying , Li Xiaohan , Da Chunyan , Liang Panyu , Jin Shuangshuang , Tang Changbo
Published: November 2022

Oxidation is one of the most common causes of the deterioration of meat and meat products. At the same time, synthetic antioxidants are becoming less accepted by consumers due to the potential health hazards they might cause. Therefore, a new trend to substitute these synthetic antioxidants with natural antioxidants has emerged. This study adds flavonoid extracts from Cyclocarya paliurus (C. paliurus) as a natural antioxidant for meat products (Frankfurters). The results showed that flavonoid extracts from C. paliurus had strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity. This is proportional to concentration, and the addition of extracts could significantly (p < 0.05) delay the lipid oxidation in the samples. In addition, we did not observe hazardous effects on the samples’ pH and texture as a result of adding flavonoid extracts. We observed that flavonoid extracts from C. paliurus at concentrations of 0.06% and 0.12% did not affect the color and sensory evaluation of the samples. At a concentration of 0.18% and 0.24%, the flavonoid extracts had a negative impact on the color and sensory evaluation of the samples, likely due to the yellow-brown color of the extract itself. The findings showed that a low concentration of 0.12% flavonoid extracts from C. paliurus in meat products could effectively prevent lipid oxidation without affecting the sensory quality.
Encapsulation of Benzyl Isothiocyanate with β-Cyclodextrin Using Ultrasonication: Preparation, Characterization, and Antibacterial Assay
Authors: Li Hongbo , Ming Xujia , Wang Zhen , Li Jiaqi , Liang Yunxia , Xu Dan , Liu Zhenbin , Hu Liangbin , Mo Haizhen
Published: November 2022

Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) is widely utilized in multiple biomedical fields, due to its significant antibacterial properties and low toxicity. However, poor water solubility and pungent odor has limited its application in the food industry. In this study, we first prepared inclusion complexes of BITC in GLU-β-CD and HP-β-CD using ultrasound, which is able to overcome the hindrance of poor water solubility and high volatility. Then, the BITC-β-CD inclusion complexes were characterized by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectra (1H-NMR), infrared absorption spectra (IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to confirm their stability. Further, the evaluation of antibacterial and antitumor effects of the BITC-β-CD inclusion complexes showed that they had great bactericidal activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus cells, and also inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells in vitro. In addition, our results indicated that BITC-β-CD complexes were able to inhibit the growth of S. aureus in broccoli juice and extend the shelf life of broccoli juice, demonstrating the potential of β-cyclodextrin to improve the stability and controlled release of BITC. Taken together, our results show that BITC-β-CD complexes have good potential for application in the food industry.
Influence of Drought Stress on Physiological Responses and Bioactive Compounds in Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.): Opportunity for a Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Delfine Sebastiano , Fratianni Alessandra , D'Agostino Annacristina , Panfili Gianfranco
Published: November 2022

Food production from agriculture depends on irrigation, mainly in poor rainfall zones, such as the Mediterranean region. Chicory is an important food crop component of the Mediterranean diet. Considering the increasing incidence of drought due to climate change, this study was carried out in order to investigate the effect of moderate drought stress on photosynthesis, leaf gaseous exchange, growth, and tocol and carotenoid composition of chicory under field conditions. Chicory was subjected to rainfed condition stress in a randomized block design. At 50 days of treatment, drought stress caused about 48% reduction in dry matter, 30% in leaf relative water content, and about 25% in photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance, whereas mesophyll conductance was not affected. A strong relationship between photosynthetic rates and stomatal conductance was observed. In the rainfed chicory, at the end of treatment, an increase (about 20%) in carotenoid and tocopherol content was found, thus, giving further insight into the positive effect of moderate drought stress on these compounds. This finding suggests that under proper rainfed conditions, it is possible to increase and save the quality of dry chicory, although yield loss occurs.
Cause and Effect Analysis between Influencing Factors Related to Environmental Conditions, Hunting and Handling Practices and the Initial Microbial Load of Game Carcasses
Authors: Korkmaz Birsen , Maaz Denny , Reich Felix , Gremse Carl , Haase Annina , Mateus-Vargas Rafael H. , Mader Anneluise , Rottenberger Ingo , Schafft Helmut A. , Bandick Niels , Nöckler Karsten , Alter Thomas , Lahrssen-Wiederholt Monika , Steinhoff-Wagner Julia
Published: November 2022

Environmental, hunting and handling factors affect the microbial load of hunted game and the resulting meat products. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the influence of several factors on the initial microbial load (IML) of game carcasses during the early hunting chain. Eviscerated roe deer body cavities (n = 24) were investigated in terms of total viable count and the levels of Pseudomonas spp., Lactobacillus spp., Enterobacteriaceae and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Furthermore, a risk analysis based on the obtained original IML data, literature search and a Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) was performed. The IML could be explained in a regression model by factors including the higher body weight (BW), damaged gastrointestinal tract by the shot, ambient temperature or rain. The levels of Lactobacillus spp. (p = 0.0472), Enterobacteriaceae (p = 0.0070) and E. coli (p = 0.0015) were lower on the belly flap surface when gloves were used during evisceration. The literature search revealed that studies examining influencing factors (IF) on the IML of game carcasses found contradictory effects of the comparable IF on IML. Potential handling failures may lead to a higher IML of game carcasses during the early hunting chain ranked by FMEA. Several handling practices for game carcasses are recommended, such as ensuring efficient cooling of heavier BW carcasses to limit bacterial growth or eviscerating heavier carcasses before lighter ones.
Aloe Vera-Fermented Beverage Ameliorates Obesity and Gut Dysbiosis in High-Fat-Diet Mice
Authors: Fu Shijie , Dang Yanting , Xu Huilin , Li Aimin , Zhou Xiaoman , Gao Xiaodong , Li Zijie
Published: November 2022

Aloe vera has been proven to have various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity functions. However, the effects of Aloe vera-fermented beverages (AFB) on obesity and its complications are still not clear. In this study, HepG2 cells in high-fat environment and high-fat diet (HFD) mice were used to investigate the potential obesity-preventing function of AFB. We found that AFB intervention decreased the amount of lipid droplets of HepG2 cells, suppressed the body weight gain and adipose accumulation, and reduced the serum contents of total cholesterol (TC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and interleukin 10 (IL-10) of HFD-mice. In addition, it also changed the composition of the gut microbiota. The ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes was decreased, while the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae, Alistipes and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group was increased after the administration of AFB compared with HFD-mice. These results demonstrated that AFB can prevent diet-induced obesity (DIO) and provides a new option to modulate obesity-related gut dysbiosis.
Hypoglycemic Activity of Self-Assembled Gellan Gum-Soybean Isolate Composite Hydrogel-Embedded Active Substance-Saponin
Authors: Wu Tao , Cheng Jinghuan , Zhang Jinxuan , Zhao Hongxi , Sui Wenjie , Zhu Qiaomei , Jin Yan , Zhang Min
Published: November 2022

In order to avoid hemolysis caused by direct dietary of kidney tea saponin, complex gels based on gellan gum (GG) and soybean isolate protein (SPI) loaded with saponin were created in the present study by using a self-assembly technique. Studies were conducted on the rheological characteristics, encapsulation effectiveness, molecular structure, microstructure, and hypoglycemic activity of GG/SPI-saponin gels. Increasing the concentration of SPI helped to enhance the strength and energy storage modulus (G′) of the gels, and the incorporation of high acylated saponin allowed the whole gel to undergo sol–gel interconversion. The encapsulation efficiency showed that GG/SPI-saponin was 84.52 ± 0.78% for saponin. Microstructural analysis results suggested that GG and SPI were bound by hydrogen bonds. The in vitro digestion results also indicated that saponin could be well retained in the stomach and subsequently released slowly in the intestine. In addition, the in vitro hypoglycemic activity results showed that the IC50 of encapsulated saponin against α-glucosidase and α-amylase were at 2.4790 mg/mL and 1.4317 mg/mL, respectively, and may be used to replace acarbose for hypoglycemia.
Effect of Inter-Row Peanut Growing in the Vineyard on the Quality of ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ Grape Fruits and Wines in Northwest China
Authors: Peng Jing , Wei Wei , Lu Haocheng , Chen Wu , Li Shude , Cheng Chifang , Wang Jun , Duan Changqing , He Fei
Published: November 2022

In order to solve the problem of premature grape ripening due to global warming, inter-row peanut growing in viticulture was applied. In this two-year (2018–2019) study, the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) was used to cover the ground between rows in the vineyards located in the semi-arid Northwest China, Xinjiang. The results showed that reflected solar radiation and temperature around the fruit zone with the peanuts growing were decreased. Compared with clean tillage, the grapes with covering peanuts had lower total soluble solids (TSS) and higher titratable acidity (TA) in the berries. Lower alcohol content and higher total acid (TA) was also found in their corresponding wines. Inter-row peanut growing treatment significantly decreased the contents of flavonols in the grapes and their wines in the two consecutive years, but no significant effect on flavanols was observed in the resulting wines. Norisoprenoids and esters in the grapes and the wines were increased with the peanut growing treatment, respectively. Additionally, compared to clean tillage, the peanut covering significantly improved the sensory value of the wines, especially the aroma complexity of the wines. This study helps us to better understand the feasibility of applying inter-row peanut growing in the viticulture of ground management in the semi-arid climate of Northwest China.
Research on the Authenticity of Mutton Based on Machine Vision Technology
Authors: Zhang Chunjuan , Zhang Dequan , Su Yuanyuan , Zheng Xiaochun , Li Shaobo , Chen Li
Published: November 2022

To realize the real-time automatic identification of adulterated minced mutton, a convolutional neural network (CNN) image recognition model of adulterated minced mutton was constructed. Images of mutton, duck, pork and chicken meat pieces, as well as prepared mutton adulterated with different proportions of duck, pork and chicken meat samples, were acquired by the laboratory’s self-built image acquisition system. Among all images were 960 images of different animal species and 1200 images of minced mutton adulterated with duck, pork and chicken. Additionally, 300 images of pure mutton and mutton adulterated with duck, pork and chicken were reacquired again for external validation. This study compared and analyzed the modeling effectiveness of six CNN models, AlexNet, GoogLeNet, ResNet-18, DarkNet-19, SqueezeNet and VGG-16, for different livestock and poultry meat pieces and adulterated mutton shape feature recognition. The results show that ResNet-18, GoogLeNet and DarkNet-19 models have the best learning effect and can identify different livestock and poultry meat pieces and adulterated minced mutton images more accurately, and the training accuracy of all three models reached more than 94%, among which the external validation accuracy of the optimal three models for adulterated minced mutton images reached more than 70%. Image learning based on a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) model can identify different livestock meat pieces and adulterated mutton, providing technical support for the rapid and nondestructive identification of mutton authenticity.
Synergetic Effect of Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Lachancea thermotolerans in Acidification and Aroma Compounds in Airén Wines
Authors: Escott Carlos , Vaquero Cristian , Loira Iris , López Carmen , González Carmen , Morata Antonio
Published: November 2022

On the one hand, the species Lachancea thermotolerans is known for its high genetic diversity, allowing for the existence of strains that produce high concentrations of lactic acid. In contrast, the species Metschnikowia pulcherrima is renowned for its high enzymatic activity capable of producing aromatic esters during fermentation. By enhancing acidity and boosting the concentration of aromatic compounds, both species are currently used to enhance the organoleptic profile of wines. In this regard, ternary fermentations with M. pulcherrima and L. thermotolerans were carried out and the wines produced were further analysed with GC-FID, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The outcomes showed that the species M. pulcherrima favored an increase in ethyl lactate (between 37 and 41 mg/L) along with an increased concentration of 2-phenylethyl alcohol (between 30 and 35 mg/L), whereas the species L. thermotolerans was able to produce 1 g/L of lactic acid in ternary fermentations. Additionally, pH levels were slightly lower in these fermentations and the color of the white wines produced showed less chemical oxidation as hue values were lower than the control. Finally, the ternary fermentations of L. thermotolerans and M. pulcherrima had higher overall rating in the tasting. In conclusion, ternary fermentations involving these two non-Saccharomyces species are suggested as a substitute for spontaneous fermentations in the production of wines from neutral varieties to express freshness more vividly. This biotechnology may be further favored by the possibility of applying emerging technologies for the removal of microorganisms in grapes and musts.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Soluble Dietary Fiber Obtained from Grapefruit Peel Insoluble Dietary Fiber and Its Effects on Blueberry Jam
Authors: Xie Jiayan , Peng Guanyi , Hu Xiaobo , Xie Jianhua , Chen Yi , Dong Ruihong , Si Jingyu , Yang Chaoran , Yu Qiang
Published: November 2022

Appropriate modification methods can increase the proportion of soluble dietary fiber (SDF). In this study, grapefruit peel insoluble dietary fiber (GP-IDF) was modified with the combined microwave and enzymatic method to obtain SDF. With regard to structural characterization, SDF from grapefruit peel IDF (GP-IDF-SDF) presented as a flat sheet with cracks, composed of a typical cellulose type I crystal, and had good stability below 200 °C. Galacturonic acid, arabinose and glucuronic acid were the main monosaccharide compositions, indicating that pectin might have been the principal component. Moreover, GP-IDF-SDF was excellent in water retention capacity (13.43 ± 1.19 g/g), oil retention capacity (22.10 ± 0.85 g/g) and glucose adsorption capacity (14.49 ± 0.068 mg/g). Thereafter, the effects of GP-IDF-SDF and commercial pectin addition on the color, rheology, texture and sensory properties of blueberry jam were compared. The results showed that the color of jam with GP-IDF-SDF was lighter. The addition of GP-IDF-SDF had less effects on the viscosity and gel strength of jam, but it enhanced the stability of jam. According to sensory data, the color, texture and spreadability of jam with GP-IDF-SDF or pectin were improved and more acceptable. Overall, GP-IDF-SDF had functional characteristics and played a positive role in jam, and it is expected to be a candidate for the development of functional food ingredients.
Effects of Dietary Omega-3 Enrichment on the Chemical Composition and the Pathogenic Microbiota of Ovine Milk
Authors: Tzora Athina , Voidarou Chrysoula (Chrysa) , Giannenas Ilias , Bonos Eleftherios , Fotou Konstantina , Nelli Aikaterini , Grigoriadou Katerina , Karamoutsios Achilleas , Basdagianni Zoitsa , Dokou Stella , Tsinas Anastasios , Skoufos Ioannis
Published: November 2022

The demand for ovine milk and ovine dairy products is constantly increasing due to their exceptional sensorial characteristics and their health benefits for consumers. However, dairy fat content and composition are of particular concern for consumers as well as the medical community, as there are risk factors for coronary disease, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and other serious diseases. For this reason, attempts have been made to control/regulate the fat composition of ovine milk by modifying sheep dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids. In this experimental trial, a group of sheep were fed for 30 days a diet enriched in flaxseeds and lupines, feed ingredients rich in omega-3 fatty acids, aiming to investigate the effects on fat composition and the microbiota of ovine milk. Chemical analysis of the collected milk showed that the omega-3 and omega-6 content was increased. On the opposite, the atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes decreased. Of importance was the semi-protective effect on the udder by the increased omega-3 dietary intake, as depicted by its impact on the biodiversity of the pathogenic microbiota. These findings suggest that ovine milk could be modified under specific conditions to be more appropriate for the consumption by people belonging to high-risk groups for various diseases.
Seepage-Fractal Characteristics of Fractured Media Rock Materials Due to High-Velocity Non-Darcy Flow
Authors: Zhao Xiaoming , Yang Binbin , Niu Yulong , Yang Changde
Published: November 2022

Under the influence of internal and external factors, a fracture network is easily generated in concrete and rock, which seriously endangers project safety. Fractal theory can be used to describe the formation and development of the fracture network and characterize its structure. Based on the flow balance in the node balance field, Forchheimer’s law is introduced to derive the control equation of high-velocity non-Darcy flow in the fracture network. The fracture network is established according to the geological parameters of Sellafield, Cumbria, England. A total of 120 internal fracture networks are intercepted according to 10 dimensions (1 m, 2 m, …, 10 m) and 12 directions (0°, 30°, …, 330°). The fractal dimension, equivalent hydraulic conductivity (K), and equivalent non-Darcy coefficient (β) of the fracture network are calculated, and the influence of the fractal dimension on K and β is studied. The results indicate that the fractal dimension of the fracture network has a size effect; with the increase in the size, the fractal dimension of the fracture network undergoes three stages: rapid increase, slow increase, and stabilization. In the rapid increase stage, K and β do not exist. In the slow increase stage, K exists and is stable, and β does not exist. In the stabilization stage, K and β both exist and are stable. The principal axes of the fitted seepage ellipses of K and β are orthogonal, and the main influencing factors are the direction and continuity of the fracture.
Fractional Biswas–Milovic Equation in Random Case Study
Authors: Almutairi Abdulwahab
Published: November 2022

We apply two mathematical techniques, specifically, the unified solver approach and the exp(−φ(ξ))-expansion method, for constructing many new solitary waves, such as bright, dark, and singular soliton solutions via the fractional Biswas–Milovic (FBM) model in the sense of conformable fractional derivative. These solutions are so important for the explanation of some practical physical problems. Additionally, we study the stochastic modeling for the fractional Biswas–Milovic, where the parameter and the fraction parameters are random variables. We consider these parameters via beta distribution, so the mathematical methods that were used in this paper may be called random methods, and the exact solutions derived using these methods may be called stochastic process solutions. We also determined some statistical properties of the stochastic solutions such as the first and second moments. The proposed techniques are robust and sturdy for solving wide classes of nonlinear fractional order equations. Finally, some selected solutions are illustrated for some special values of parameters.
A Fractal Approach to Nonlinear Topographical Features of Healthy and Keratoconus Corneas Pre- and Post-Operation of Intracorneal Implants
Authors: Bahramizadeh-Sajadi Shima , Katoozian Hamid Reza , Mehrabbeik Mahtab , Baradaran-Rafii Alireza , Jadidi Khosrow , Jafari Sajad
Published: November 2022

Fractal dimension (FD) together with advances in imaging technologies has provided an increasing application of digital images to interpret biological phenomena. In ophthalmology, topography-based images are increasingly used in common practices of clinical settings. They provide detailed information about corneal surfaces. Few-micron alterations of the corneal geometry to the elevation and curvature cause a highly multifocal surface, change the corneal optical power up to several diopters, and therefore adversely affect the individual’s vision. Keratoconus (KCN) is a corneal disease characterized by a local alteration of the corneal anatomical and mechanical features. The formation of cone-shaped regions accompanied by thinning and weakening of the cornea are the major manifestations of KCN. The implantation of tiny arc-like polymeric sections, known as intracorneal implants, is considered to be effective in restoring the corneal curvature. This study investigated the FD nature of healthy corneas (n = 7) and compared it to the corresponding values before and after intracorneal implant surgery in KCN patients (n = 7). The generalized Hurst exponent, Higuchi, and Katz FDs were computed for topography-based parameters of corneal surfaces: front elevation (ELE-front), back elevation (ELE-back), and corneal curvature (CURV). The Katz FD showed better discriminating ability for the diseased group. It could reveal a significant difference between the healthy corneas and both pre- and post-implantation topographies (p < 0.001). Moreover, the Katz dimension varied between the topographic features of KCN patients before and after the treatment (p < 0.036). We propose to describe the curvature feature of corneal topography as a “strange attractor” with a self-similar (i.e., fractal) structure according to the Katz algorithm.
Gelling Power Alteration on Kappa-Carrageenan Dispersion through Esterification Method with Different Fatty Acid Saturation
Authors: Wardhana Yoga W. , Aanisah Nuur , Sopyan Iyan , Hendriani Rini , Chaerunisaa Anis Y.
Published: November 2022

The physicochemical properties of κ-carrageenan gels and their ester forms derived from different fatty-acid saturations were characterized and compared with those of native κ-carrageenan. Furthermore, stearic and oleic acids were used as the saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra confirmed the introduction of the ester into the κ-carrageenan backbone. The thermogravimetric analysis showed that thermal stability increased along with the level of unsaturation, but there was a decrease in viscosity, hardness, and syneresis, which caused the consistency of the product to become more elastic. The results also showed that the ester form still has a swelling ability that is almost the same as that of κ-carrageenan. After being formulated into a gel dosage form, the product was successfully produced from the ester with unsaturated fatty acids, and it was more elastic than native κ-carrageenan and had good physical properties with spreadability that meets the requirements for topical preparations.
Plasmid Genomes Reveal the Distribution, Abundance, and Organization of Mercury-Related Genes and Their Co-Distribution with Antibiotic Resistant Genes in Gammaproteobacteria
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Yang Zilin , Zhang Guohui , Si Shengli , Wu Xianzhi , Cai Lin
Published: November 2022

Mercury (Hg) pollution poses human health and environmental risks worldwide, as it can have toxic effects and causes selective pressure that facilitates the spread of antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) among microbes. More and more studies have revealed that numerous Hg-related genes (HRGs) can help to resist and transform Hg. In the present study, we systematically analyzed the HRG distribution, abundance, organization, and their co-distribution with ARGs, using 18,731 publicly available plasmid genomes isolated from a Gammaproteobacteria host. Our results revealed that there were many Hg-resistant (mer) operon genes but they were not extensively distributed across plasmids, with only 9.20% of plasmids harboring HRGs. Additionally, no hgcAB genes (which methylate Hg to create methylmercury) were identified in any of the analyzed plasmids. The host source significantly influenced the number of HRGs harbored by plasmids; plasmids isolated from humans and animals harbored a significantly smaller number of HRGs than plasmids isolated from the wastewater and sludge. HRG clusters displayed an extremely high organizational diversity (88 HRG cluster types), though incidences of more than half of the HRG cluster types was <5. This indicates the frequent rearrangement among HRGs in plasmids. The 1368 plasmids harboring both HRGs and ARGs, were dominated by Klebsiella, followed by Escherichia, Salmonella, and Enterobacter. The tightness of the HRG and ARG co-distribution in plasmids was affected by the host sources but not by pathogenicity. HRGs were more likely to co-occur with specific ARG classes (sulfonamide, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin, and aminoglycoside resistance genes). Collectively, our results reveal the distribution characteristics of HRGs in plasmids, and they have important implications for further understanding the environmental risks caused by the spread of ARGs through the plasmid-mediated co-transfer of ARGs and HRGs.
Identification of New Genes and Genetic Variant Loci Associated with Breast Muscle Development in the Mini-Cobb F2 Chicken Population Using a Genome-Wide Association Study
Authors: He Yang , Shi Hongmei , Li Zijian , Kang Jiajia , Li Mengyuan , Liu Mengqian , Liu Yong , Zhao Jinbo , Dou Tengfei , Jia Junjing , Duan Yong , Wang Kun , Ge Changrong
Published: November 2022

Native chicken has become a favorite choice for consumers in many Asian countries recently, not only for its potential nutritional value but also for its deep ties to local food culture. However, low growth performance and limited meat production restrict their economic potential. Conducting a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for chicken-breast muscle development will help identify loci or candidate genes for different traits and potentially provide new insight into this phenotype in chickens and other species. To improve native chicken growth performance, especially breast muscle development, we performed a GWAS to explore the potential genetic mechanisms of breast muscle development in an F2 population constructed by reciprocal crosses between a fast-growing broiler chicken (Cobb500) and a slow-growing native chicken (Daweishan mini chicken). The results showed that 11 SNPs, which exceeded the 10% genome significance level (p = 1.79 × 10−8) were considered associated with breast muscle development traits, where six SNPS, NC_006126.5: g.3138376T>G, NC_006126.5: g.3138452A>G, NC_006088.5: g.73837197A>G, NC_006088.5: g.159574275A>G, NC_006089.5: g.80832197A>G, and NC_006127.5: g.48759869G>T was first identified in this study. In total, 13 genes near the SNPs were chosen as candidate genes, and none of them had previously been studied for their role in breast muscle development. After grouping the F2 population according to partial SNPs, significant differences in breast muscle weight were found among different genotypes (p < 0.05), and the expression levels of ALOX5AP, USPL1, CHRNA9, and EFNA5 among candidate genes were also significantly different (p < 0.05). The results of this study will contribute to the future exploration of the potential genetic mechanisms of breast muscle development in domestic chickens and also support the expansion of the market for native chicken in the world.
Regulation of DNA Methylation by Cannabidiol and Its Implications for Psychiatry: New Insights from In Vivo and In Silico Models
Authors: Domingos Luana B. , Silva Nicole R. , Chaves Filho Adriano J. M. , Sales Amanda J. , Starnawska Anna , Joca Sâmia
Published: November 2022

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotomimetic compound present in cannabis sativa. Many recent studies have indicated that CBD has a promising therapeutic profile for stress-related psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, schizophrenia and depression. Such a diverse profile has been associated with its complex pharmacology, since CBD can target different neurotransmitter receptors, enzymes, transporters and ion channels. However, the precise contribution of each of those mechanisms for CBD effects is still not yet completely understood. Considering that epigenetic changes make the bridge between gene expression and environment interactions, we review and discuss herein how CBD affects one of the main epigenetic mechanisms associated with the development of stress-related psychiatric disorders: DNA methylation (DNAm). Evidence from in vivo and in silico studies indicate that CBD can regulate the activity of the enzymes responsible for DNAm, due to directly binding to the enzymes and/or by indirectly regulating their activities as a consequence of neurotransmitter-mediated signaling. The implications of this new potential pharmacological target for CBD are discussed in light of its therapeutic and neurodevelopmental effects.