bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Degree of Electrification in Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Authors: Martinez-Boggio Santiago , Monsalve-Serrano Javier , García Antonio , Curto-Risso Pedro
Published: April 2023

Because of the rising demand for CO2 emission limits and the high cost of fuel, the electrification of heavy-duty vehicles has become a hot topic. Manufacturers have tried a variety of designs to entice customers, but the outcomes vary depending on the application and availability of recharging. Without affecting vehicle range, plug-in hybrids provide a potential for the automobile industry to reach its CO2 reduction objectives. However, the actual CO2 emission reductions will largely rely on the energy source, user behavior, and vehicle design. This research compares a series plug-in hybrid medium-duty truck against two baselines: nonhybrid and pure electric commercial trucks. As well as evaluating and contrasting the different tools to quantify CO2 emissions, this manuscript offers fresh information on how to simulate various powertrain components used in electrified vehicles. According to the findings, plug-in hybrids with batteries larger than 50 kWh can reduce emissions by 30%, while still meeting the 2030 well-to-wheel CO2 regulations. The recommended battery size for plug-in hybrid is 100 kWh, and for electric vehicles it is 320 kWh. The range of a plug-in hybrid is 18% longer than that of nonhybrid, 6% longer than that of a full hybrid, and 76% longer than that of a pure electric powertrain with a fully charged battery.
Phase Field Study of Cr-Oxide Growth Kinetics in the Crofer 22 APU Alloy Supported by Wagner’s Theory
Authors: Wang Kai , Spatschek Robert
Published: April 2023

The Crofer 22 APU alloy is a frequently used metallic material to manufacture interconnects in solid oxide fuel cells. However, the formation and evaporation of Cr2O3 not only increases the electrical resistance but also leads to the Cr-related degradation over the service time. In order to investigate the growth kinetics of Cr-oxide, i.e., Cr2O3, the multi-phase field model coupled with reliable CALPHAD databases is employed. The phase field simulation results are benchmarked with the predictions of Wagner’s theory. Moreover, we evidence the influence of the temperature and Cr concentration on the ferritic matrix phase and the oxygen concentration at the Cr2O3/gas interface on the growth kinetics of Cr-oxide, paving the way for further investigations of Cr-related solid oxide fuel cell degradation processes.
Multi-Timescale Optimal Operation Strategy for Renewable Energy Power Systems Based on Inertia Evaluation
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Yifan , Zhao Zhenghui , Zhou Zhiquan , Hou Zhihao
Published: April 2023

To enhance the operational dependability of renewable energy power systems with high proportions, this study proposes a multi-timescale optimization strategy based on the inertia evaluation model. Firstly, the inertia evaluation model is established based on the factors influencing the inertia demand of the power system, and the concept of the inertia margin coefficient is introduced. Secondly, to address the uncertainties associated with sustainable energy output and the cost of carbon emissions, a multi-timescale optimization operation model is formulated for day-ahead, intraday, and real-time operations, aimed at economic optimization. The output status of each unit is obtained and adjusted in a timely manner in the next stage, while meeting the system’s inertia demand, to derive the final scheduling strategy. Lastly, a sensitivity analysis of the inertia margin coefficient is conducted through simulations to validate the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of the proposed scheduling strategy.
Testing Method for Electric Bus Auxiliary Heater Emissions
Authors: Pettinen Rasmus , Anttila Joel , Muona Tommi , Pihlatie Mikko , Åman Rafael
Published: April 2023

Auxiliary diesel heaters are commonly used in all types of vehicles in cold climates and conditions around the world. Electric buses used in public transport utilise diesel-burning auxiliary heaters to provide thermal comfort for passengers under cold weather conditions while maintaining the operational range otherwise reduced by electric heating. However, the downside of utilising diesel burners is that they cause similar exhaust pollutants to conventional diesel vehicles. Because the emission control for auxiliary heaters is lax, the diesel burners typically lack any exhaust aftertreatment (EAT), resulting in potentially high local emissions. As the public transport sectors around the world seem to transit from traditional internal combustion engine-vehicles to battery electric applications, the significance of the emissions caused by diesel auxiliary heaters is continuously increasing. EVs are generally considered zero-emission vehicles but the implementation of diesel burners is evidently conflicting with this concept. Nevertheless, publicly available experimental results from studies around this topic are surprisingly limited. The data of the few available publications are not directly comparable because there is no direct procedure or protocol for determining the exhaust pollutants from auxiliary heaters in real-world conditions at present. As a result, assessing the direct effect of the pollutants caused by electric vehicles utilising auxiliary heaters in the public transport is challenging. This study addresses this problem by introducing two methods for measuring auxiliary heater emissions; first, a field-test method that is applicable for a quick screening of the emissions of multiple heater units; secondly, a laboratory test method for a more detailed emission characterisation in a simulated real-world operation environment. In these experiments, the primarily objective was to study the emissions of the auxiliary heaters, including CO2, CO, NOx and soot. The heater operation was found to be cyclic with numerous start-ups during its typical operation. The cyclic operation resulted in concurrent emission peaks in CO and soot. Measurements of actual operation showed auxiliary heater utilisation rates similar to the controlled measurements, although the whole temperature range of the controlled measurements was not reached in real-world conditions. The measurements conducted during the field screening revealed high variations between emissions of individual units. A further screening of auxiliary heaters would provide a better outlook for the mitigation of their emissions.
Urban Transportation Concept and Sustainable Urban Mobility in Smart Cities: A Review
Authors: Mavlutova Inese , Atstaja Dzintra , Grasis Janis , Kuzmina Jekaterina , Uvarova Inga , Roga Dagnija
Published: April 2023

In order to create a sustainable future for the urban environment in s=Smart cities, it is necessary to develop a concept of urban transport, partially reduce the use of traditional transport, primarily cars, as well as the environmental pressure on society, which is essential to move to a sustainable urban future. In the latest discussions on the future of the urban transport system, the quality of the environment, and the possibility of its improvement are discussed, this issue became especially relevant with the onset of the pandemic, when the lockdowns were introduced. The problem of sustainable transport in urban areas has been recognized in academic studies, searching for appropriate models and solutions. The article presents the latest literature review and illustrates the newest trends with several examples. VOS Viewer software has been used to classify the different keywords, according to their co-citation, following clustering techniques. By analyzing the research conducted by other researchers, it has been possible to structure the ecosystem and trends in the Urban Transportation Concept, also mentioning likely future trends. Based on the literature analysis of the Sustainable Urban Transport, the authors of the study found that a large group of researchers deal with technical solutions and innovative business models, while the essential behavioral aspects are examined in less detail. Extensive literature analysis allowed the authors to select several solutions to achieve the transformation towards sustainable transportation in urban areas: new vehicle technologies and their environmental factors’ analysis, geographic information systems, the analytic hierarchy process method, the time series analysis of road traffic accidents using multiplicative models, electrification and use of Friedman Analysis of Variance by Ranks, as well as innovations in sharing mobility.
Transportation Systems Modeling, Simulation and Analysis with Reference to Energy Supplying
Authors: Kierzkowski Artur , Tubis Agnieszka A.
Published: April 2023

Transport plays an important role in the economy of a given country or region [...]
Experimental Study on the Oxidation Reaction of Coal-Pyrite and Mineral-Pyrite with the Participation of Fe(III) and Bacteria under Acidic Conditions
Authors: Ma Mengya , Wang Wenfeng , Zhang Kun , Shi Zhixiang
Published: April 2023

As one of the crucial factors contributing to coal spontaneous combustion, the oxidation of pyrite is a complex process involving multiple reactions, particularly in the presence of oxidants (Fe3+ and O2) and bacteria. However, experimental results based on mineral-pyrite are not entirely applicable to coal-pyrite due to their differences in formation environments and compositions. This study selected two types of coal-pyrite and one type of mineral-pyrite as research to conduct oxidation experiments with the participation of oxidant (Fe3+) and bacteria (Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans), respectively, to obtain the following conclusions. Under natural conditions, the chemical oxidation rate of pyrite is slow, but the addition of oxidant Fe3+ and bacteria can significantly accelerate the oxidation rate. The promotion effect of oxidant Fe3+ on the oxidation reaction is stronger than that of bacteria. Under the same conditions, the oxidation rate of coal-pyrite samples is slightly higher than that of mineral-pyrite, due to the relatively higher impurities content, poorer crystal structure, and humic acid in the coal seams. Additionally, different compositions of coal-pyrite samples can lead to various oxidation degrees under different conditions. Therefore, the oxidation process and mechanism of pyrite in coal seams are complex and affected by many factors, which need further study to prevent coal spontaneous combustion accurately and effectively.
Integration Optimization of Integrated Solar Combined Cycle (ISCC) System Based on System/Solar Photoelectric Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Zuxian , Duan Liqiang , Wang Zhen , Ren Yujie
Published: April 2023

Integrated solar combined cycle (ISCC) systems play a pivotal role in the utilization of non-fossil energy; however, the efficient application of solar energy has emerged as a primary issue in the study of ISCC systems. Therefore, it is extremely urgent to propose the best optimization scheme for ISCC under different operating conditions. In this paper, according to the idea of temperature matching and cascade utilization, the optimization of the ISCC system is carried out with the genetic algorithm for the whole working conditions, and the optimization schemes with the highest photoelectric efficiency and system efficiency under different working conditions are derived. In comparison with two optimization schemes with different objective functions, the conclusion can be drawn that: At 100% gas turbine load—30% DNI and 100% gas turbine load—100% DNI working conditions, respectively, the maximum system efficiency of 56.32% and the maximum solar photoelectric efficiency of 35.5% are attained. With the decreasing of gas turbine load, the solar energy integration position will gradually change from the topping cycle to the bottom cycle; with the gas turbine load variation from 100% to 75%, the optimal photoelectric efficiency model prefers two-stage integration, and up to 141.3 MW of solar energy could be integrated, which is greater than the maximum value of 127.1 MW for the optimal system efficiency model. Regarding the heat collection choice of bottom cycle, the optimal photoelectric efficiency model prefers the high-pressure boiler (HPB), while the optimal system efficiency model prefers the high-pressure superheater (HPS). The comparison between the optimal solution and the actual cases confirms the correctness of the optimization results and provides guidance for the subsequent ISCC study.
Influence of Different Planting Combinations on the Amino Acid Concentration in Pericarp of Zanthoxylum planispinum ‘Dintanensis’ and Soil
Authors: Li Yitong , Yu Yanghua , Song Yanping , Wei Changsheng
Published: April 2023

In this study, the effect of different planting combinations on the amino acid concentration in the pericarp of Zanthoxylum planispinum ‘dintanensis’ (hereafter referred to as Z. planispinum) was studied, and the response of amino acid concentration to soil factors was clarified. The aim of this study was to screen optimal planting combinations and provide a theoretical basis for improving pericarp quality. Five planting combinations of Z. planispinum in a karst rocky desertification area were selected as the research objects, and the concentration and accumulation of free amino acids in the pericarp of Z. planispinum were analyzed. Then, combined with existing soil quality data, the pericarp quality of Z. planispinum was comprehensively evaluated by principal component analysis, and the effect of soil factors on amino acid concentrations was clarified by redundancy analysis. The results are as follows: (1) except for arginine, serine, proline, alanine, tyrosine and cystine, the concentrations of other free amino acids significantly differed among the five planting combinations. In general, the planting combination has a great influence on the concentration of free amino acids in the pericarp of Z. planispinum, especially essential amino acids; (2) free amino acid concentration in the pericarp of Z. planispinum mostly increased in combination with Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep. (hereafter referred to as S. tonkinensis) and decreased in combination with Prunus salicina Lindl; (3) principal component analysis showed that the concentration of free amino acid in the pericarp of Z. planispinum was generally at a high level when combined with S. tonkinensis or Lonicera japonica Thunb. (hereafter referred to as L. japonica). Among them, the amino acids in the pericarp of Z. planispinum with S. tonkinensis were closer to the ideal protein standard of FAO/WHO; (4) soil-available potassium, available phosphorus, microbial biomass nitrogen, available calcium and microbial biomass phosphorus in soil factors had significant effects on amino acid concentration after a redundancy analysis. It can be seen that the available nutrients and soil microbial biomass contribute greatly to the amino acid concentration of the pericarp. According to the soil quality and the amino acid quality of the pericarp, planting with L. japonica can improve the amino acid quality of the pericarp of Z. planispinum, as well as selecting Z. planispinum + L. japonica as the optimal planting combination.
Agroforestry Ecosystem Structure and the Stability Improvement Strategy in Control of Karst Desertification
Authors: Jiang Shilian , Xiong Kangning , Xiao Jie , Yang Yiling , Huang Yunting , Wu Zhigao
Published: April 2023

Agroforestry systems (AFS) are priority semi-natural ecosystems in fragile ecological zones. The complexity and diversity of their species structure play a crucial role in maintaining AFS stability. To explore the optimization of improvement strategies in AFS’ structure and stability for control of karst desertification (KD), in this study, we chose typical desertification control areas in the southern China karst region. The study included homegarden (HG), agrisilviculture (ASV), and multipurpose woodlots (MWLs) as three AFS. We quantified the AFS’ structural characteristics using descriptive statistics and spatial structure parameters. We used the fuzzy integrated evaluation method with structural and functional indicators as guidelines, and stand structure, plant species diversity, soil fertility, and environmental factors as first-level evaluation indicators. The entropy weight method calculates the weights of indicators at all levels. The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method establishes an evaluation index system to evaluate the grading of AFS’ stability. The results showed that: (i) The species composition of the AFS in the KD control areas had a simple structure, the overall diversity level was low, and the diversity level of herbaceous plants was better than that of woody plants. (ii) The overall distribution curves of diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height (TH), and crown width (CW) of woody plants in the AFS in the KD control areas were slight to the left, with a single-peaked pattern, mostly randomly and unevenly distributed in space, with a low degree of tree species isolation and relatively weak stand stability. (iii) There was variability in the stability classes of different types of AFS, overall reflecting the ranking HG > ASV > MWLs. (iv) When structural optimization was applied, corresponding measures can be taken according to farmers’ wishes for different types of AFS and their primary business purposes. The improvement of stability depends mainly on the utility of the structural optimization applied coupled with positive human interference (for example, pruning, dwarfing, and dense planting). This study provides a scientific reference for maintaining the stability of AFS and promoting service provision.
Distribution and Prolonged Diapause of the Rowan Seed Predators Argyresthia conjugella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) and Megastigmus brevicaudis (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) and their Parasitoids in Norway
Authors: Trandem Nina , Westrum Karin , Hofsvang Trond , Kobro Sverre
Published: April 2023

The seed predator Argyresthia conjugella Zeller has rowan as its preferred host plant. In years of poor fruiting in rowan, it oviposits on apples. To improve the knowledge of this apple pest, rowanberries were collected from localities all over Norway from 1971 to 1985, and seed predators and their parasitoids were allowed to emerge for up to five years. Two species of seed predators, A. conjugella and Megastimus brevicaudis Ratzeburg, and seven species of parasitic Hymenoptera were common. The distribution of these species is shown on EIS (European Invertebrate Survey) maps of Norway. The biology of the parasitoids is summarized based on the published literature and their behavior during emergence. The tendency for delayed emergence, which is an indication of prolonged diapause, was more pronounced in M. brevicaudis than in A. conjugella, the former appearing in all five years. Five of the parasitoids also delayed their emergence, and three of them to a high degree, up to five years. Prolonged diapause must be taken into account in studies of rowanberry insect guilds.
Study of the Movement of Chips during Pine Wood Milling
Authors: Yang Chunmei , Liu Tongbin , Ma Yaqiang , Qu Wen , Ding Yucheng , Zhang Tao , Song Wenlong
Published: April 2023

Circumferential milling is used in wood processing, yet it generates vast quantities of dust and chips in a single pass, highlighting the need to predict chip dispersion and prevent associated hazards. This article presents findings from a theoretical and experimental analysis of chip size and kinematics of pine wood during cutting. A chip diffusion boundary surface model was established and its key parameters were determined through CCD testing. Results reveal that chip diffusion can be divided into three distinct areas based on motion state: main diffusion, random diffusion, and vortex. Notably, spindle speed and feed rate are most influential on the orthogonal diffusion angle of the main diffusion zone, whereas cutting depth most heavily impacts the top view diffusion angle. Chip scattering on the table showed an exponential increase in average chip size with sampling distance, whereas the boundary surface model accurately characterizes chip motion and demonstrates a reasonable degree of reliability, offering potential in predicting chip morphology and diffusion state. This model has important implications for wood milling practices, particularly in controlling chip dispersion.
Short-Term Effects of Bamboo Biochar and Oyster Shell Powder on Soil Organic Carbon Fraction, Microbial Respiration, and Enzymatic Stoichiometry in a Lei Bamboo Plantation
Authors: Ji Haonan , Yuan Gensheng , Liu Yang , Yu Jinzhu , Li Songhao , Wu Qifeng , Qin Hua , Chen Junhui
Published: April 2023

Both biochar and oyster shell powder have been known as promising amendments to ameliorate soil acidity and enhance soil fertility. However, it is still unclear how their application alone and in combination affect the soil organic carbon (C) fraction and microbial activity in subtropical bamboo plantations. Therefore, to investigate the effects of biochar and oyster shell powder on soil microbial respiration, organic C fractions, microbial biomass, and enzyme activities related to C, N and P cycling, topsoil samples were collected from plots in a bamboo (Phyllostachys praecox) plantation that has been amended with oyster shell powder at 4 t ha−1 (T), bamboo biochar at 10 t ha−1 (B), and their combination (TB, with 4 t ha−1 T and 10 t ha−1 B) for 8 months. Our results showed that T alone significantly increased soil microbial respiration by 21.5%, whereas B alone and TB significantly decreased soil microbial respiration and metabolic quotient compared with T. T alone also increased soil pH, the size of labile C pool and the activities of β−glucosidase and cellobiosidase, whereas TB rather than B increased soil pH, the recalcitrant C pool size and declined these enzyme activities relative to T. T alone significantly enhanced microbial C limitation by 28.6% and decreased P limitation by 13.0%, while TB decreased microbial C limitation and increased microbial C use efficiency (CUE). Structural equation modeling indicated that T enhanced soil microbial respiration through increasing soil pH and enzyme activity, while biochar co-addition weakened the stimulation of T on microbial respiration by increasing soil recalcitrant C pool size and microbial metabolic quotient. Our study suggests that adding bamboo biochar together with oyster shell powder could be a better strategy to decrease soil C loss and ameliorate soil acidity in bamboo plantations compared with the application of oyster shell powder alone.
Dynamics of Microbial Communities in Nitrite-Free and Nutritionally Improved Dry Fermented Sausages
Authors: Ferrer-Bustins Núria , Martín Belén , Llauger Mar , Bou Ricard , Bover-Cid Sara , Jofré Anna
Published: April 2023

Dry fermented sausage innovation trends are linked to consumer preferences for clean label and sodium-reduced foods. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the formulation and production process temperature on the dynamics of bacterial communities in fuet-type dry fermented sausages using metataxonomics. Six fuet batches were manufactured, including formulations without and with the addition of nitrifying salts (replaced or not by pork liver auto-hydrolysate as a colouring agent), processed at 3 to 12 °C, and a partial replacement of NaCl by KCl, processed at 12 °C. Fermentation was performed spontaneously or by a starter culture. Physicochemical characterisation and culture-dependent and independent bacterial analyses were performed at day 0, 4 and 12, at the end of ripening (aw < 0.90) and after storage. Temperature was the most important factor determining the change in pH, aw and lactic acid bacteria levels while the presence of a starter culture promoted a pH decrease. Metataxonomic analysis showed that low temperature processes and the absence of nitrifying salts allowed the growth of spoilage-related species, while sausages submitted to a mild temperature containing a starter culture and nitrifying salts showed less bacterial diversity. Liver auto-hydrolysate added putative probiotic species to the product. This study provides valuable information to manufacturers who want to innovate safely.
The Effects of Transport Stress (Temperature and Vibration) on Blood Biochemical Parameters, Oxidative Stress, and Gill Histomorphology of Pearl Gentian Groupers
Authors: Fang Dan , Mei Jun , Xie Jing , Qiu Weiqiang
Published: April 2023

The transport of living fish is an important part of the fish farming process. The transport usually causes fish stress. This study evaluated the effects of transport temperature and vibration frequency on water quality, blood biochemical parameters, gill histomorphology, oxidative stress, and meat quality of pearl gentian groupers after transport. First, 1-year-old groupers (450 ± 25 g) were transported in plastic bags for 48 h, including the following treatments: no shaking, transported at 15 °C, shaking at 70 rpm, transported at 15 °C (15 °C/70 rpm); shaking at 120 rpm, transported at 15 °C (15 °C/120 rpm); no shaking, transported at 25 °C; shaking at 70 rpm, transported at 25 °C (25 °C/70 rpm); and shaking at 120 rpm, transported at 25 °C (25 °C/120 rpm). Serum, liver, gill, and muscle samples were collected for testing at 0, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h of exposure. During the 48 h transport, total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly increased in the transport group compared to the control group. In the early stage of transportation, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cortisol (COR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and glucose (GLU) in the transportation groups were significantly higher than those in the control group, while the water quality pH and dissolved oxygen (DO) levels decreased significantly. Compared with untransported fish, the total free amino acid (TFAA) content increased by 40.27% and 31.74% in the 25 °C/70 rpm and 25 °C/120 rpm groups, respectively. In addition, the results of hematoxylin–eosin staining and scanning electron microscopy showed that the epithelial cells in the high-speed group were swollen, the gill lamella was severely curved, and a large amount of mucus was secreted. This study explores the basic information of transportation, which will help to select the conditions that are more suitable for the successful transportation of pearl gentian groupers.
Impact of Potentially Toxic Compounds in Cow Milk: How Industrial Activities Affect Animal Primary Productions
Authors: Forcada Sergio , Menéndez-Miranda Mario , Boente Carlos , Rodríguez Gallego José Luis , Costa-Fernández José M. , Royo Luis J. , Soldado Ana
Published: April 2023

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) frequently coexist in soils near industrial areas and sometimes in environmental compartments directly linked to feed (forage) and food (milk) production. However, the distribution of these pollutants along the dairy farm production chain is unclear. Here, we analyzed soil, forage, and milk samples from 16 livestock farms in Spain: several PTEs and PAHs were quantified. Farms were compared in terms of whether they were close to (<5 km) or far away from (>5 km) industrial areas. The results showed that PTEs and PAHs were enriched in the soils and forages from farms close to industrial areas, but not in the milk. In the soil, the maximum concentrations of PTEs reached 141, 46.1, 3.67, 6.11, and 138 mg kg−1 for chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, respectively, while fluoranthene (172.8 µg kg−1) and benzo(b)fluoranthene (177.4 µg kg−1) were the most abundant PAHs. Principal component analysis of the soil PTEs suggested common pollution sources for iron, arsenic, and lead. In the forage, the maximum contents of chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead were 32.8, 7.87, 1.31, 0.47, and 7.85 mg kg−1, respectively. The PAH found in the highest concentration in the feed forage was pyrene (120 µg kg−1). In the milk, the maximum PTE levels were much lower than in the soil or the feed forages: 74.1, 16.1, 0.12, 0.28, and 2.7 µg kg−1 for chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, respectively. Neither of the two milk samples exceeded the 20 µg kg−1 limit for lead set in EU 1881/2006. Pyrene was the most abundant PAH found in the milk (39.4 µg kg−1), while high molecular weight PAHs were not detected. For PTEs, the results showed that soil–forage transfer factors were higher than forage–milk ratios. Our results suggest that soils and forages around farms near industries, as well as the milk produced from those farms, have generally low levels of PTE and PAH contaminants.
Impact of Pre-Storage Melatonin Application on the Standard, Sensory, and Bioactive Quality of Early Sweet Cherry
Authors: Cortés-Montaña Daniel , Bernalte-García María Josefa , Velardo-Micharet Belén , Serrano María , Serradilla Manuel Joaquín
Published: April 2023

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is involved in multiple functions in plants. However, its role in some metabolic pathways and exogenous application’s effect on fruits is still unclear. Furthermore, the effects of pre-storage melatonin treatment on sensory traits and consumer acceptance of cherries have yet to be studied. For this reason, the early sweet cherry cultivar ‘Samba’ harvested at the commercial ripening stage was treated with different melatonin concentrations (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mmol L−1) and stored for 21 days under controlled cold temperature and humidity. The standard quality, respiration rate, postharvest aptitude, sensory quality, phenols, and antioxidant systems (non-enzymatic and enzymatic) were analysed at 14 and 21 days of storage. Postharvest treatment with melatonin 0.5 mmol L−1 improved firmness and reduced weight loss and non-commercial fruit percentage while increasing respiration rate, lipophilic antioxidant activity, and ascorbate peroxidase enzyme activity. Furthermore, the treated cherries showed better sensory qualities, such as uniformity of colour and skin colour, as well as being sourer and showing better consumer acceptance and liking after 14 days of storage. Therefore, we conclude that the 0.5 mmol L−1 concentration is effective on the standard, sensory, and bioactive quality of early sweet cherries and can be considered an eco-friendly tool for maintaining the postharvest quality of early cherries.
Effect of Fermentation Humidity on Quality of Congou Black Tea
Authors: Zhang Sirui , Jiang Xinfeng , Li Chen , Qiu Li , Chen Yuqiong , Yu Zhi , Ni Dejiang
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the effect of different fermentation humidities (55%, 65%, 75%, 85% and 95%) on congou black tea quality and bioactivity. Fermentation humidity mainly affected the tea′s appearance, aroma and taste quality. The tea fermented at low humidity (75% or below) showed a decrease in tightness, evenness and moistening degree, as well as a heavy grassy and greenish scent, plus a green, astringent and bitter taste. The tea fermented at a high humidity (85% or above) presented a sweet and pure aroma, as well as a mellow taste, plus an increase of sweetness and umami. With increasing fermentation humidity, the tea exhibited a drop in the content of flavones, tea polyphenols, catechins (EGCG, ECG) and theaflavins (TF, TF-3-G), contrasted by a rise in the content of soluble sugars, thearubigins and theabrownins, contributing to the development of a sweet and mellow taste. Additionally, the tea showed a gradual increase in the total amount of volatile compounds and in the content of alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, aldehydes, ketones and acids. Moreover, the tea fermented at a low humidity had stronger antioxidant activity against 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and a higher inhibiting capability on the activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Overall results indicated the desirable fermentation humidity of congou black tea should be 85% or above.
Bigels as Delivery Systems of Bioactive Fatty Acids Present in Functional Edible Oils: Coconut, Avocado, and Pomegranate
Authors: Machado Manuela , Sousa Sérgio Cruz , Rodríguez-Alcalá Luís Miguel , Pintado Manuela , Gomes Ana Maria
Published: April 2023

Bioactive fatty acids possess several benefits for human health; however, these molecules show a reduced oxidative stability and consequently reduced bioavailability. This work aimed to develop novel bigels as a strategy to protect bioactive fatty acids present in three different vegetable oils with nutritional attributes (coconut oil, avocado oil, and pomegranate oil) during passage through the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Bigels were prepared using monoglycerides-vegetable oil oleogel and carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogel. These bigels were analyzed in terms of structure and rheological characteristics. According to the rheological properties, bigels exhibited a solid-like behavior since G’ was higher than G”. The results showed that the proportion of oleogel was essential to the viscosity of the final formulation as an increase in this fraction was responsible for an increase in viscosity. The fatty acids profile was evaluated before and after simulated GIT. The bigels protected the fatty acids against degradation; in the case of coconut oil, the reduction of key fatty acids was 3 times lower; for avocado oil, 2 times lower; and for pomegranate oil, 1.7 times lower. These results suggest that bigels can be used as part of an important strategy for bioactive fatty acid delivery for food applications.
RNA-Sequencing Characterization of lncRNA and mRNA Functions in Septic Pig Liver Injury
Authors: Zhang Jing , Xue Zhihui , Zhao Qingbo , Zhang Keke , Zhou Ao , Shi Liangyu , Liu Yulan
Published: April 2023

We assessed differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs and lncRNAs in the liver of septic pigs to explore the key factors regulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury. We identified 543 DE lncRNAs and 3642 DE mRNAs responsive to LPS. Functional enrichment analysis revealed the DE mRNAs were involved in liver metabolism and other pathways related to inflammation and apoptosis. We also found significantly upregulated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-associated genes, including the receptor protein kinase receptor-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (EIF2S1), the transcription factor C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). In addition, we predicted 247 differentially expressed target genes (DETG) of DE lncRNAs. The analysis of protein-protein interactions (PPI) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway detected key DETGs that are involved in metabolic pathways, such as N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2 (GALNT2), argininosuccinate synthetase 1 (ASS1), and fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase 1 (FBP1). LNC_003307 was the most abundant DE lncRNA in the pig liver, with a marked upregulation of >10-fold after LPS stimulation. We identified three transcripts for this gene using the rapid amplification of the cDNA ends (RACE) technique and obtained the shortest transcript sequence. This gene likely derives from the nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) gene in pigs. According to the identified DETGs of LNC_003307, we hypothesize that this gene regulates inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress in LPS-induced liver damage in pigs. This study provides a transcriptomic reference for further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying septic hepatic injury.
Justification of Discrimination against People with Mental Illness in Republic of Korea
Authors: Seo Mikyung , Lee Minhwa , Lee Jinhyang
Published: April 2023

Aims: This study aimed to analyze the process in which individual values and beliefs affected social distance against people with mental illness by mediating cognition, based on applying the justification–suppression model to the stigma of mental illness. Methods: An online survey was conducted with 491 adults aged 20 to 64 years. Their sociodemographic characteristics, personal values, and beliefs, justification for discrimination, and social distance were measured to assess their perceptions of, and behaviors towards, persons with mental illness. Path analysis was performed to examine the magnitude and significance of the hypothetical relationship between variables. Results: Protestant ethic values and morality significantly affected the justification of inability and dangerousness and attribute responsibility. Excluding attribute responsibility, the justification of inability and dangerousness significantly predicted social distance. In other words, the higher the Protestant ethic values, the higher the morality of binding, and the lower the morality of individualizing, the higher the level of justification based on inability and dangerousness. Such justification has been found to increase social distance from persons with mental illness. In addition, mediating effects were the largest in the path of the morality of binding → justification of dangerousness → social distance. Conclusions: The study proposes various strategies to deal with individual values, beliefs, and justification logic to reduce social distance against those with mental illness. These strategies include a cognitive approach and empathy, both of which inhibit prejudice.
Nature as a Huge Organism: Gottfried Reinhold Treviranus (1776–1837) and Early Ecology in German Romantic Science
Authors: Ruppel Sophie
Published: April 2023

The following article explores ideas of early ecological thinking within the natural sciences of early-19th-century Germany and discusses its possible roots. It tries to shed some light on the work of Gottfried Reinhold Treviranus who developed a holistic understanding of nature. The historical background and 18th-century ideas Treviranus relies on will be described—namely, the ‘great chain of being’, the idea of nature as a vast network of interconnected living beings and the question about the existence of vital forces that cause movement, growth or reproduction. Reference will especially be made to Gottfried Reinhold Treviranus’ main work, the six-volume Biologie oder Philosophie der lebenden Natur für Naturforscher und Aerzte (Biology or Philosophy of Living Nature for Natural Scientists and Physicians) published in Göttingen between 1802 and 1822 and the somewhat later synopsis Erscheinungen und Gesetze des organischen Lebens (Phenomena and Laws of Organic Life) printed in Bremen in 1831 and 1832.
Impact of Gravel Pits on Water Quality in Alluvial Aquifers
Authors: Karlović Igor , Marković Tamara , Smith Andrew C. , Maldini Krešimir
Published: April 2023

Gravel pits are considered potentially hazardous in terms of groundwater quality protection as they represent an open part of the aquifer system, increasing the aquifer’s vulnerability to contamination from the surface. The aim of this research was to determine the biogeochemical processes in gravel pits that have a positive effect on the groundwater quality in the alluvial aquifer in NW Croatia. The aquifer is situated below developed agricultural land, with high groundwater nitrate concentrations having been recorded over the last decades. The differences between two gravel pits and the surrounding groundwater were studied using in situ, hydrochemical, and isotopic parameters (δ15N-NO3 and δ18O-NO3), together with existing microbial data. The analyses of nitrogen species indicated that nitrate attenuation processes take place in gravel pits. Bacterial denitrification and nitrate uptake by algae were responsible for significant decreases in nitrate concentration. These processes were more effective in the inactive gravel pit, which has a longer water residence time and during warm periods, when microbial biomass, abundance, and activity were high. The seasonally variable microbial activity also affected trace metals, removing them from groundwater, possibly through the biosorption of metal ions. The presented research shows that the observed biogeochemical processes are associated with seasonal changes that affect the types and number of microbial communities and the chemical composition of water, resulting in gravel pits being groundwater remediation points.
COVID-19, Wellness and Life Satisfaction in Adolescence: Individual and Contextual Issues
Authors: de Matos Margarida Gaspar , Carvalho Marina , Branquinho Cátia , Noronha Catarina , Moraes Bárbara , Gaspar Tania , Guedes Fábio Botelho , Cerqueira Ana , Santos Osvaldo , Rodrigues Nuno Neto
Published: April 2023

During and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, several works reflected on young people’s physical and psychological health. The Dual Factor Model, which we refer to as the quadripartite model, is useful for understanding children’s and adolescents’ psychological health and differentiating them regarding their attitude toward the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this investigation, students from the fifth to twelfth year of schooling enrolled in the DGEEC study “Psychological Health and Wellbeing in Portuguese schools” were considered. Four groups were created based on life satisfaction (low or high) and psychological distress (with or without symptoms). The study included 4444 students (M = 13.39 years ± 2.41), of whom 47.8% were male. Of the participants, 27.2% were in the second cycle of primary education, and 72.8% were in lower and upper secondary education. Differences in gender and education level (as a proxy for age) were observed. Additionally, when considering students’ perceptions of changes in their lives following the COVID-19 pandemic (stayed the same, became worse, became better), these three groups were compared concerning personal and contextual variables, revealing significant differences at both the individual and contextual levels. Finally, the study discusses the influence of education and health professionals and the need for friendly public policies.
The Unseen—An Investigative Analysis of Thematic and Spatial Coverage of News on the Ongoing Refugee Crisis in West Africa
Authors: Senaratne Hansi , Mühlbauer Martin , Kiefl Ralph , Cárdenas Andrea , Prathapan Lallu , Riedlinger Torsten , Biewer Carolin , Taubenböck Hannes
Published: April 2023

The fastest growing regional crisis is happening in West Africa today, with over 8 million people considered persons of concern. A culmination of identity politics, climate-driven disasters, and extreme poverty has led to this humanitarian crisis in the region and is exacerbated by a lack of political will and misplaced media attention. The current state of the art does not present sufficient investigations of the thematic and spatial coverage of news media of this crisis in this region. This paper studies the spatial coverage of this crisis as reported in the media, and the themes associated with those locations, based on a curated dataset. For the time frame 12 March to 15 September 2021, 2017 news articles related to the refugee crisis in West Africa were examined and manually coded based on (1) the geographical locations mentioned in each article; (2) the themes found in the articles in reference to a location (e.g., Relocation of people in Abuja). The dataset introduces a thematic dimension, as never achieved before, to the conflict-ridden areas in West Africa. A comparative analysis with UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) data showed that 96.8% of refugee-related locations in West Africa were not covered by news during the considered time frame. Contrastingly, 80.4% of locations mentioned in the news do not appear in the UNHCR repository. Most news articles published during this time frame reported on Development aid or Political statements. Linear multiple regression analysis showed GDP per capita and political stability to be among the most influential determinants of news coverage.
Micro Transit Simulation of On-Demand Shuttles Based on Transit Data for First- and Last-Mile Connection
Authors: Poliziani Cristian , Hsueh Gary , Czerwinski David , Wenzel Tom , Needell Zachary , Laarabi Haitam , Schweizer Joerg , Rupi Federico
Published: April 2023

We simulate the introduction of shared, automated, and electric vehicles (SAEVs) providing on-demand shuttles service in a large-scale transport digital twin of the San Francisco Bay Area region (California, USA) based on transit supply and demand data, and using the mesoscopic agent-based Behavior, Energy, Autonomy, and Mobility beta software (BEAM) developed at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). The main goal of this study is to test the operations of this novel mobility service integrated with existing fixed-route public transportation service in a mesoscopic simulation of a real case scenario, while testing the BEAM beta software capabilities. In particular, we test the introduction of fleets of on-demand vehicles bound to operate within circular catchment areas centered on high-frequency transit stops, with the purpose of extending the reach of fixed-route transit by providing an alternative first- and last-mile connection at high-frequency public transport stations. Results show that on-demand automated shuttles represent the best solution for some users, increasing the overall transit ridership by 3%, and replacing mostly ride-hail trips, especially those connecting to transit stops, but also some walking trips. This type of service has the potential to reduce overall vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase transit accessibility, and save energy, but future research is needed to optimize this type of service and make it more attractive to travelers.
Querying Similar Multi-Dimensional Time Series with a Spatial Database
Authors: Liu Zheren , Kang Chaogui , Xing Xiaoyue
Published: April 2023

Similar time series search is one of the most important time series mining tasks in our daily life. As recent advances in sensor technologies accumulate abundant multi-dimensional time series data associated with multivariate quantities, it becomes a privilege to adapt similar time series searches for large-scale and multi-dimensional time series data. However, traditional similar time series search methods are mainly designed for one-dimensional time series, while advanced methods applicable for multi-dimensional time series data are largely immature and, more importantly, are not friendly to users from the domain of geography. As an alternative, we propose a novel method to search similar multi-dimensional time series with spatial databases. Compared with traditional methods that often conduct the similarity search based on features of the raw time series data sequence, the proposed method stores multi-dimensional time series as spatial objects in a spatial database, and then searches similar time series based on their spatial features. To demonstrate the validity of the proposed method, we analyzed the correlation between temporal features of the raw time series and spatial features of their corresponding spatial objects theoretically and empirically. Results indicate that the proposed method can not only support similar multi-dimensional time series searches but also markedly improve its efficiency under many specific scenarios. We believe that such a new paradigm will shed further light on the similarity search in large-scale multi-dimensional time series data, and will lower the barrier for users familiar with spatial databases to conduct complex time series mining tasks.