bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Resolution Remote Sensing Image Segmentation Algorithm Based on Improved Feature Extraction and Hybrid Attention Mechanism
Authors: Huang Min , Dai Wenhui , Yan Weihao , Wang Jingyang
Published: August 2023

Segmentation of high-resolution remote sensing images is one of the hottest topics in deep learning. Compared to ordinary images, high-resolution remote sensing images possess characteristics such as higher intra-class diversity and lower inter-class separability. Additionally, the objects in these images are complex and have smaller sizes. Aiming at the classical segmentation network in remote sensing images, there are some problems, such as inaccurate edge object segmentation, inconsistent segmentation of different types of objects, low detection accuracy, and a high false detection rate. This paper proposes a new hybrid attention model (S-CA), a new coordinate efficient channel attention module (C-ECA), and a new small-target feature extraction network (S-FE). The S-CA model enhances important spatial and channel features in shallow layers, allowing for more detailed feature extraction. The C-ECA model utilizes convolutional layers to capture complex dependencies between variations, thereby better capturing feature information at each position and reducing redundancy in feature channels. The S-FE network can capture the local feature information of different targets more effectively. It enhances the recognition and classification capabilities of various targets and improves the detection rate of small targets. The algorithm is used for segmentation in high-resolution remote sensing images. Experiments were conducted on the public dataset GID-15 based on Gaofen-2 satellite remote sensing images. The experimental results demonstrate that the improved DeepLabV3+ segmentation algorithm for remote sensing images achieved a mean intersection over union (mIoU), mean pixel accuracy (mPA), and mean precision (mP) of 91.6%, 96.1%, and 95.5%, respectively. The improved algorithm is more effective than current mainstream segmentation networks.
Migratory Perception in Edge-Assisted Internet of Vehicles
Authors: Cai Chao , Chen Bin , Qiu Jiahui , Xu Yanan , Li Mengfei , Yang Yujia
Published: August 2023

Autonomous driving technology heavily relies on the accurate perception of traffic environments, mainly through roadside cameras and LiDARs. Although several popular and robust 2D and 3D object detection methods exist, including R-CNN, YOLO, SSD, PointPillar, and VoxelNet, the perception range and accuracy of an individual vehicle can be limited by blocking from other vehicles or buildings. A solution is to harness roadside perception infrastructures for vehicle–infrastructure cooperative perception, using edge computing for real-time intermediate features extraction and V2X networks for transmitting these features to vehicles. This emerging migratory perception paradigm requires deploying exclusive cooperative perception services on edge servers and involves the migration of perception services to reduce response time. In such a setup, competition among multiple cooperative perception services exists due to limited edge resources. This study proposes a multi-agent reinforcement learning (MADRL)-based service scheduling method for migratory perception in vehicle–infrastructure cooperative perception, utilizing a discrete time-varying graph to model the relationship between service nodes and edge server nodes. This MADRL-based approach can efficiently address the challenges of service placement and migration in resource-limited environments, minimize latency, and maximize resource utilization for migratory perception services on edge servers.
Parameter Estimation Techniques for Photovoltaic System Modeling
Authors: Singla Manish Kumar , Gupta Jyoti , Nijhawan Parag , Singh Parminder , Giri Nimay Chandra , Hendawi Essam , Abu El-Sebah Mohamed I.
Published: August 2023

In improving PV system performance, the parameters associated with electrical photovoltaic equivalent models play a pivotal role. However, due to the increased mathematical complexities and non-linear traits of PV cells, the precise prediction of these parameters is a challenging task. To estimate the parameters associated with PV models, a reliable, robust, and accurate optimization technique is needed. This paper introduces a new algorithm, Rat Swarm Optimizer (RSO), for obtaining the optimum PV cell and module parameters. The proposed method maintains an adequate balance between the exploration and exploitation phases to overcome premature particle issues. The results obtained using RSO are compared with those of other algorithms, i.e., Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Ant Lion Optimizer (ALO), Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO), and Grasshopper Optimization (GOA), in this work. The modified one-diode model (MODM) and modified two-diode model (MTDM) are used to analyze the parameters of the mono-crystalline PV cell using the suggested RSO. The obtained findings imply that the parameters estimated by the suggested RSO are more accurate than those calculated by the other algorithms taken into consideration in the paper. The statistical results are compared, and it is clear that RSO is a very accurate, fast, and dependable approach for the parameter estimation of PV cells.
Time–Energy Correlation for Multithreaded Matrix Factorizations
Authors: Bylina Beata , Piekarz Monika
Published: August 2023

The relationship between time and energy is an important aspect related to energy savings in modern multicore architectures. In this paper, we investigated and analyzed the correlation between time and energy. We compared the execution time and energy consumption of the LU factorization algorithms (versions with and without pivoting) and Cholesky with the Math Kernel Library (MKL) on a multicore machine. To reduce the energy of these multithreaded factorizations, the Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) technique was used. This technique allows the clock frequency to be scaled without changing the implementation. In particular, we studied the correlations between time and energy using two metrics: Energy Delay Product (EDP) and Greenup, Powerup, and Speedup (GPS-UP). An experimental evaluation was performed on an Intel Xeon Gold multicore machine as a function of the number of threads and the clock speed. Our test results showed that scalability in terms of execution time, expressed by the Speedup metric, had values close to a linear function as the number of threads increased. In contrast, the scalability in terms of energy consumption, expressed by the Greenup metric, had values close to a logarithmic function as the number of threads increased. The use of the EDP and GPS-UP metrics allowed us to evaluate the impact of the optimized code (DVFS and increase in the number of threads) on the time and energy consumption and to determine a better green category representing energy savings without losing performance.
Energy Demand Modeling for the Transition of a Coal-Dependent City to a Low-Carbon City: The Case of Ulaanbaatar City
Authors: Battulga Sarnai , Dhakal Shobhakar
Published: August 2023

Cities have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy. However, many cities continue to rely on fossil fuels, while renewable energy sources are not used or are unable to meet the demand that fossil fuels provide. Depending on the geographic location, climate, and resources, cities must find their own path to energy sustainability. The city of Ulaanbaatar is one of the coal-dependent cities, its electricity and heat consumption mainly coming from coal. In this study, the future final energy demand of a coal-dependent city is identified and analyzed to make it a low-carbon city. Long-term energy demand projections for Ulaanbaatar to 2050 are conducted using the model for analysis of energy demand (MAED) model. Four scenarios are developed based on the existing local and national policies in the socio-economic and energy sectors, as well as more ambitious policy and technology measures recommended by various studies in the MAED_D model. The final energy demand is calculated to be 548, 460, 334, and 264 PJ in 2050 for BAU, REF, NDC, and RM scenarios, respectively, compared to 135 PJ in 2020. The results show that the high penetration of electricity and renewable energy, energy efficiency measures, and energy intensity reduction in all sectors can significantly reduce the future energy demand and help the transition towards a low-carbon city.
Analysis of Secondary Controller on MTDC Link with Solar PV Integration for Inter-Area Power Oscillation Damping
Authors: Oni Oluwafemi Emmanuel , Longe Omowunmi Mary
Published: August 2023

Integration of renewable energy sources is important in limiting the continuous environmental degradation and emissions caused by energy generation from fossil fuels and thus becoming a better alternative for a large-scale power mix. However, an adequate analysis of the interaction with the alternating current (AC) network during network disturbance, especially during inter-area power (IAP) oscillations is needed. Insufficient damping of oscillations can significantly impact the reliability and effective operation of a whole power system. Therefore, this paper focuses on the stability of the modified Kundur two-area four-machine (MKTAFM) system. A robust secondary controller is proposed and implemented on a line commutated converter (LCC)-based multi-terminal high voltage direct current (MTDC) system. The solution consists of a local generator controller and the LCC MTDC (LMTDC) system, voltage-dependent current order limiter, and extinction angle controller. The proposed robust controller is designed for the LMTDC systems to further dampen the inter-area power oscillations. Three operational scenarios were implemented in this study, which are the local generator controller and double circuits AC line, local generator controller with LMTDC controllers, and local generator controller with LMTDC controllers and secondary controller. The simulation result carried out on PSCAD/EMTDC recorded better damping of the inter-area power oscillation with LMTDC. A considerable improvement of 100% damping of the IAP oscillations was observed when a secondary controller was implemented on the LMTDC.
Analysis on DC Fault Current Limiting Operation of Twice-Quench Trigger Type SFCL Using Transformer Considering Magnetizing Current and Current Limiting Reactor
Authors: Lim Sung-Hun , Park Min-Ki , Park Sung-Hoon , Chung Jae-Woo
Published: August 2023

As the penetration of distributed energy resources (DER) has increased, research on direct current (DC) power transmission and distribution has been actively performed. The DC system has the advantage of high-power transmission efficiency. However, it has a very large and rapid increase in fault current in the DC system directly after a fault occurs. As one of the countermeasures, studies on the application of the superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) into the DC system have been conducted to protect major facilities from DC fault current, which is expected to alleviate the power burden on the DC circuit breaker through its quench operation. Among the studied DC SFCLs, the trigger-type DC SFCL using a transformer, which can achieve the peak DC fault current-limiting operation, has been suggested. However, the DC fault current-limiting operation, in the case of the DC SFCL with a current-limiting reactor (CLR), was analyzed to not be effectively executed in the steady state since the transient state directly follows the fault occurrence. In this paper, the DC fault current-limiting operation of a twice-quench trigger type SFCL using a transformer considering magnetizing current and its CLR was analyzed. Through DC fault current-limiting experiments according to the inductance of its current-limiting reactor (CLR), the effective current-limiting design of twice-quench trigger type SFCL using a transformer was described.
Modified Active-Clamped Current-Fed DC–DC Push–Pull Converter
Authors: Miranda-Terán Eldin Mario , Tofoli Fernando Lessa , Torrico Bascopé Grover Victor , Torrico Bascopé Rene Pastor
Published: August 2023

This work presents a modified version of the current-fed dc–dc push–pull converter associated with an active clamping circuit for mitigating voltage spikes on the primary-side switches. Unlike the traditional push–pull topology, saturation due to asymmetrical gating signals applied to the active switches is not likely to occur in the high-frequency transformer because the converter allows for connecting a blocking capacitor in series with the primary winding. In addition, the leakage inductance will not cause high voltage spikes on the primary-side semiconductors owing to the clamping capacitors. Since all active switches operate under the zero-voltage switching (ZVS) condition, one can obtain a high efficiency over a wide load range when comparing the structure with its hard-switching counterpart. Experimental results obtained from a laboratory prototype rated at 1 kW are presented and discussed to validate the theoretical claims.
Centralized Offshore Hydrogen Production from Wind Farms in the Baltic Sea Area—A Study Case for Poland
Authors: Ligęza Klaudia , Łaciak Mariusz , Ligęza Bartłomiej
Published: August 2023

In Poland, hydrogen production should be carried out using renewable energy sources, particularly wind energy (as this is the most efficient zero-emission technology available). According to hydrogen demand in Poland and to ensure stability as well as security of energy supply and also the realization of energy policy for the EU, it is necessary to use offshore wind energy for direct hydrogen production. In this study, a centralized offshore hydrogen production system in the Baltic Sea area was presented. The goal of our research was to explore the possibility of producing hydrogen using offshore wind energy. After analyzing wind conditions and calculating the capacity of the proposed wind farm, a 600 MW offshore hydrogen platform was designed along with a pipeline to transport hydrogen to onshore storage facilities. Taking into account Poland’s Baltic Sea area wind conditions with capacity factor between 45 and 50% and having obtained results with highest monthly average output of 3508.85 t of hydrogen, it should be assumed that green hydrogen production will reach profitability most quickly with electricity from offshore wind farms.
In Situ Combustion: A Comprehensive Review of the Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Antolinez Juan D. , Miri Rahman , Nouri Alireza
Published: August 2023

In situ combustion or fire flooding is a promising enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique designed to produce heavy oils and bitumen. This method involves the in-place heating and combustion of hydrocarbons, resulting in reduced viscosity and increased mobility for improved flow toward the production wellbore. Despite its potential, widespread commercial implementation of in situ combustion has been hindered due to technical and economic challenges like inadequate project design and improper reservoir selection. This literature review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of in situ combustion by addressing its principles, historical development, combustion processes, underlying kinetics, and testing methods. Additionally, the review tackles existing gaps in the literature, as well as the challenges associated with modeling and implementation in field applications. It also suggests solutions drawn from historical field experiences of the technology. Finally, the review paper proposes comprehensive screening guidelines derived from various literature sources for the implementation of in situ combustion. This framework underscores the technique’s potential for efficient and sustainable hydrocarbon extraction, shaping its future as a transformative enhanced oil recovery technology.
Design of an Intelligent Shop Scheduling System Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Zhang Maoyun , Jiang Yuheng , Wan Chuan , Tang Chen , Chen Boyan , Xi Huizhuang
Published: August 2023

In order to optimize the functionality of automated guidance vehicles (AGVs) in logistics workshops, a wireless charging and task-based logistics intelligent dispatch system was developed based on the Internet of Things. This system aimed to improve freight efficiency in the workshop’s logistics system. The scheduling system successfully addressed the round-trip scheduling issue between AGVs and multiple tasks through two degrees of improvement: the application of AGVs and task path planning. To handle conflict coordination and AGV cluster path planning, a shortest path planning algorithm based on the A* search algorithm was proposed, and the traffic control law was enhanced. The initial population of genetic algorithms, which used greedy algorithms to solve problems, was found to be too large in terms of task distribution. To address this, the introduction of a few random individuals ensured population diversity and helped avoid local optima. Numerical experiments demonstrated a significantly accelerated convergence rate towards the optimal solution.
Individual Tree Aboveground Biomass Estimation Based on UAV Stereo Images in a Eucalyptus Plantation
Authors: Liu Yao , Lei Peng , You Qixu , Tang Xu , Lai Xin , Chen Jianjun , You Haotian
Published: August 2023

As one of the three fastest-growing tree species in the world, eucalyptus grows rapidly, with a monthly growth rate of up to 1 m and a maximum annual growth rate of up to 10 m. Therefore, ways to accurately and quickly obtain the aboveground biomass (AGB) of eucalyptus in different growth stages at a low cost are the foundation of achieving eucalyptus growth-change monitoring and precise management. Although Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) can achieve high-accuracy estimations of individual eucalyptus tree biomasses, the cost of data acquisition is relatively high. While the AGB estimation accuracy of high-resolution images may be affected by a lack of forest vertical structural information, stereo images obtained using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can not only provide horizontal structural information but also vertical structural information through derived point data, demonstrating strong application potential in estimating the biomass of eucalyptus plantations. To explore the potential of UAV stereo images for estimating the AGB of individual eucalyptus trees and further investigate the impact of stereo-image-derived features on the construction of biomass models, in this study, UAVs equipped with consumer-grade cameras were used to obtain multitemporal stereo images. Different features, such as spectral features, texture, tree height, and crown area, were extracted to estimate the AGB of individual eucalyptus trees of five different ages with three algorithms. The different features extracted based on the UAV images had different effects on estimating AGB in individual eucalyptus trees. By estimating eucalyptus AGB using only spectrum features, we found that tree height had the greatest impact, with its R2 value increasing by 0.28, followed by forest age. Other features, such as spectrum, texture, and crown area, had relatively small effects. For the three algorithms, the estimation accuracy of the CatBoost algorithm was the highest, with an R2 ranging from 0.65 to 0.90, and the normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE) ranged from 0.08 to 0.15. This was followed by the random forest algorithm. The ridge regression algorithm had the lowest accuracy, with an R2 ranging from 0.34 to 0.82 and an NRMSE value ranging from 0.11 to 0.21. The AGB model that we established with forest age, TH, crown area, and HOM-B feature variables using the CatBoost algorithm had the best estimation accuracy, with an R2 of 0.90 and an NRMSE of 0.08. The results indicated that accurately estimating the AGB of individual eucalyptus trees can be achieved based on stereo images obtained using UAVs equipped with affordable, consumer-grade cameras. This paper can provide methodological references and technical support for estimating forest biomass, carbon storage, and other structural parameters based on UAV images.
Induced Drought Stress Response of European Beech Seedlings Treated with Hydrogel and Ectomycorrhizal Inoculum
Authors: Repáč Ivan , Belko Martin , Krajmerová Diana , Kmet’ Jaroslav , Pavlík Martin
Published: August 2023

Bareroot European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) seedlings are frequently used in reforestation programs in Central Europe. However, beech outplanting is often unsuccessful due to drought stress. In this study, the effects of a simulated water deficit and of a hydrogel and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) application were estimated on the development of 1 + 1 beech seedlings. The roots of 1-year-old bareroot seedlings were treated with the additives at the time of transplanting to pots in spring and then exposed to the whole growing season under different watering regimes: (i) full watering (FW; volumetric water content 70%), (ii) reduced watering (RW; 40%), (iii) periodic watering (PW; substrate rewetted to 70% after drying), and (iv) no watering (NW). Almost all FW seedlings survived the whole growing season, whereas all NW seedlings died after 17 weeks of desiccation. The survival and growth of FW and NW seedlings were significantly higher and lower, respectively, than those under both PW and RW treatments. The additives significantly increased survival in RW seedlings only but had no effect on growth. A promoting effect of FW on the chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters was found. The number and EMF colonization of the short roots were significantly lower in FW seedlings compared to the other watering treatments. The additives did not affect these parameters. The occurrence of neither treatment-specific EMF root morphotype nor fungi applied in the inoculum and traced by molecular analysis indicated the formation of ectomycorrhizas with native EMF in all treatments. The seedlings in the water-deficient treatments exhibited higher foliar nutrient concentrations than FW seedlings. The additives increased the concentration of nutrients in PW and phosphorus in NW seedlings. The results suggest the significant effect of the water supply, but a weaker effect of the additives tested on beech seedling development under experimental conditions.
Evaluation of Ecosystem Service Value of Homegarden in Chengdu Plain and Relevant Protection Strategy
Authors: Liu Qin , Yan Kun , Yan Yangyang
Published: August 2023

The Homegarden (HG) in Chengdu Plain is an important agricultural heritage in China, and is viewed as a sustainable land use pattern. HGs are damaged continuously under the backdrop of urbanization and land use changes, thus influencing ecosystem services and residents’ welfare. This study investigates the distribution characteristics of HGs in Chengdu and their ecosystem service value and proposes HG protection strategies on this basis. Results demonstrate that (1) there are 71,892 HGs in Chengdu, covering an area of 558.70 km2. The average density is 9.94 HGs/km2. (2) The total ecosystem service value of HGs is about USD 30562.70 million/year. Among them, the material product, regulating services, biodiversity maintenance value, and cultural services account for 15.46%, 37.90%, 14.19%, and 32.45%, respectively. (3) The number, area, and ecosystem service value of HGs in Chengdu decreased by 11.45%, 20.89%, and 6.92% in the last ten years, respectively. (4) The area of the extremely important protection zone of HGs accounts for 21.14%. We suggest giving priority attention to these areas. Protection strategies of HGs include, among others, formulating HG protection plans, keeping traditional features, maintaining biodiversity, and increasing the economic income of residents.
Seedling Morphological Characteristics on Survival, Uniformity, and Growth during a Full Short Rotation in Eucalyptus grandis x E. urophylla Plantation
Authors: Moreira Gabriela Gonçalves , Hakamada Rodrigo , Silva Renato Meulman Leite da , Lemos Cristiane Camargo Zani de , Florentino Antônio Leite , Gonçalves José Leonardo de Moraes
Published: August 2023

The objective of this work was to evaluate the losses in the process, survival, uniformity and growth during an entire short rotation of a clonal planting of Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla in Brazil as a function of the different morphological characteristics of the seedlings considered a proxy of seedling quality. Seedlings were classified in descending order of quality by the following treatments: A > B > C. Treatment D was composed of prime seedlings 180 days old in the nursery. Treatment A and B experienced a mortality rate of 3% 30 days after planting, while seedlings C and D showed a mortality rate of 8%. Throughout the entire planting process, treatment C had the highest total losses of 24%, which was 15% higher than the average of the other three treatments. The quality of seedlings, as determined by the IQD, positively correlated with stem diameter, leaf biomass, and PH50 at 60 days of age. However, these relationships lost significance at later ages, and the DQI could not explain the variation in volume and stand uniformity (PV50) along the rotation. Despite early differences, from 36 to 64 months, only old seedlings (Treat. D) showed a difference in wood volume to the other treatments.
Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Augments the Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Moisture Improvement Activities of Tetragonia tetragonoides through the Upregulation of Antioxidant Components
Authors: Kang Hyun , Hwang Jin-Woo , Lee Sung-Gyu
Published: August 2023

This study demonstrates that the fermentation of Tetragonia tetragonioides (T. tetragonioides) by Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) subsp. spizizenii enhances its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-moisturizing activities. Fermented T. tetragonioides extracts (FTEs) showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) of approximately 1.3 to 3.07 times in their total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and vanillic acid content compared to pre-fermentation T. tetragonioides extracts (TEs). Additionally, the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)- and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical-scavenging activities were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in FTEs than in TEs, showing an increase of about 1.25 to 1.64 times. The anti-inflammatory effects, evaluated through the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), revealed that FTEs exhibited significant (p < 0.05) NO inhibition activity at less than half the concentration of TEs. It is particularly noteworthy that the FTE at 200 μg/mL significantly suppressed the expression of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) proteins. In HaCaT cells, FTEs substantially (p < 0.001) increased the mRNA expression of filaggrin (FLG), hyaluronan synthase (HAS)-1, and HAS-3, indicating improved skin protection and moisturization. In conclusion, this study confirms that T. tetragonioides’ antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-moisturizing activities are enhanced by B. subtilis fermentation, suggesting the potential of FTEs as a cosmeceutical ingredient.
Investigation into Polyphenol Profile and Biological Activities of Enriched Persimmon/Apple Smoothies during Storage
Authors: Gil Katarzyna Angelika , Nowicka Paulina , Wojdyło Aneta , Tuberoso Carlo Ignazio Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Smoothies are becoming an increasingly popular product as a healthy alternative to snacks. The consumer expects from this product that, apart from its nutritional value, it will also be qualitatively stable during storage. Therefore, in this study, original smoothies obtained with persimmon fruit puree and apple juice (Dk/Md) enriched with Arbutus unedo fruits, Myrtus communis purple berry extract, Acca sellowiana, and Crocus sativus petal juice were evaluated for their polyphenol composition, antioxidant activity, and inhibition on targeted digestive enzymes, over six months of storage. The amount of polyphenols evaluated by UPLC-PDA analysis decreased in six months from 23.5% for both Dk/Md and enriched C. sativus smoothies to 42.5% for enriched A. sellowiana, with anthocyanins the most sensitive compounds (71.7–100% loss). Values of antioxidant assays generally strongly decreased during the first three months (up to ca. 60%) and to a lesser extent in the following three months (0.4–27%). In addition, inhibitory activity on α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase, especially on the last two enzymes, was negatively affected by time storage. The outcome of this study indicates that persimmon fruit is a good option for producing smoothies, and enrichment with other plant extracts can enhance the bioactive compound content and biological activities. It is recommended that appropriate storage strategies to preserve the properties of those smoothies should be developed.
Low Gluten Beers Contain Variable Gluten and Immunogenic Epitope Content
Authors: Nye-Wood Mitchell G. , Byrne Keren , Stockwell Sally , Juhász Angéla , Bose Utpal , Colgrave Michelle L.
Published: August 2023

Gluten content labels inform food choice and people practicing a gluten-free diet rely upon them to avoid illness. The regulations differ between jurisdictions, especially concerning fermented foodstuffs such as beer. Gluten abundance is typically measured using ELISAs, which have come into question when testing fermented or hydrolysed foodstuffs such as beer. Mass spectrometry can be used to directly identify gluten peptides and reveal false negatives recorded by ELISA. In this survey of gluten in control and gluten-free beers, gluten protein fragments that contain known immunogenic epitopes were detected using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in multiple beers that claim to be gluten-free and have sufficiently low gluten content, as measured by ELISA, to qualify as being gluten-free in some jurisdictions. In fact, several purportedly gluten-free beers showed equivalent or higher hordein content than some of the untreated, control beers. The shortcomings of ELISAs for beer gluten testing are summarised, the mismatch between ELISA and mass spectrometry results are explored, and the suitability of existing regulations as they pertain to the gluten content in fermented foods in different jurisdictions are discussed.
Application of Near Infrared Spectroscopy for the Rapid Assessment of Nutritional Quality of Different Strawberry Cultivars
Authors: Mancini Manuela , Mazzoni Luca , Leoni Elena , Tonanni Virginia , Gagliardi Francesco , Qaderi Rohullah , Capocasa Franco , Toscano Giuseppe , Mezzetti Bruno
Published: August 2023

Strawberry is the most cultivated berry fruit globally and it is really appreciated by consumers because of its characteristics, mainly bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. During the breeding process, it is important to assess the quality characteristics of the fruits for a better selection of the material, but the conventional approaches involve long and destructive lab techniques. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) could be considered a valid alternative for speeding up the breeding process and is not destructive. In this study, a total of 216 strawberry fruits belonging to four different cultivars have been collected and analyzed with conventional lab analysis and NIR spectroscopy. In detail, soluble solid content, acidity, vitamin C, anthocyanin, and phenolic acid have been determined. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models have been developed to classify strawberry fruits belonging to the four genotypes according to their quality and nutritional properties. NIR spectroscopy could be considered a valid non-destructive phenotyping method for monitoring the nutritional parameters of the fruit and ensuring the fruit quality, speeding up the breeding program.
The Relationship between Mortality from Cardiovascular Diseases and Total Drinking Water Hardness: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bykowska-Derda Aleksandra , Spychala Marcin , Czlapka-Matyasik Magdalena , Sojka Mariusz , Bykowski Jerzy , Ptak Mariusz
Published: August 2023

Background: Interest in water chemical activity, its content, and its impact on human health has greatly increased throughout the last decade. Some studies suggest that drinking water with high hardness may have preventative effects on cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to investigate the association between drinking water hardness and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Methods: The study selection process was designed to find the association between drinking water hardness and CVDs mortality. The search included both qualitative and quantitative research and was performed in three databases: Web of Science (Clarivate Analytics, Ann Arbor, MI, USA), PubMed (National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MA, USA), and Scopus (Elsevier, RELX Group plc, London, UK). The project was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), registration number: CRD42020213102. Results: Seventeen studies out of a total of twenty-five studies qualitatively analyzed indicated a significant relation between total water hardness and protection from CVD mortality. The quantitative analysis concluded that high drinking water hardness has a significantly lowering effect on mortality from CVDs, however, the heterogeneity was high. Conclusions: This systematic literature review shows that total water hardness could affect CVD prevention and mortality. Due to the many confounding factors in the studies, more research is needed.
Optimized Acetic Acid Production by Mixed Culture of Saccharomyces cerevisiae TISTR 5279 and Gluconobacter oxydans TBRC 4013 for Mangosteen Vinegar Fermentation Using Taguchi Design and Its Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Saelee Nisa , Cheong Ling-Zhi , Chaijan Manat
Published: August 2023

This research investigates the enhancement of acetic acid production in the mangosteen vinegar fermentation process through mixed-culture fermentation involving S. cerevisiae TISTR 5279 and G. oxydans TBRC 4013, alongside an analysis of the resulting mangosteen vinegar’s qualities and properties using Taguchi Experimental Design (TED). It focuses on key parameters, such as the juice concentration, inoculum ratio, and pasteurization conditions, to optimize acetic acid production. The findings highlight that the unpasteurized condition exerts the most significant influence on acetic acid production yield (p < 0.01), followed by the 3:1 inoculum ratio of S. cerevisiae TISTR 5279 to G. oxydans TBRC 4013 and a 10% mangosteen concentration. The achieved theoretical maximum yield of acetic acid on day 21 was 85.23 ± 0.30%, close to the predicted 85.33% (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the highest recorded acetic acid concentration reached 5.34 ± 0.92%. On day 14 of fermentation, the maximum productivity and yield were 3.81 ± 0.10 g/L/h and 0.54 ± 0.22 g/g, respectively. The resulting mangosteen vinegar exhibited elevated levels of total phenolic content (359.67 ± 47.26 mg GAE/100 mL), total flavonoid content (12.96 ± 0.65 mg CAE/100 mL), and anti-DPPH radical activity (17.67 ± 0.22%), suggesting potential health benefits. Beyond these chemical aspects, the mangosteen vinegar displayed distinct physical and chemical characteristics from the original mangosteen juice, possibly conferring additional health advantages. These findings are promising for industrial vinegar fermentation models and propose the potential use of the product as a valuable dietary supplement.
Effect of 2,5-Dicarbonyl-3-Isobutyl-Piperazine on 3-Isobutyl-2-Methoxypyrazine Biosynthesis in Wine Grape
Authors: Lei Yujuan , Ma Zhansheng , Wang Ping , Qin Xuchen , Guan Xueqiang , Zhang Zhenwen
Published: August 2023

The metabolic pathway of 3-alkyl-2-methoxypyrazines (MPs) in grape remains largely unclear except for the final step. In this study, the 2,5-dicarbonyl-3-isobutyl-piperazine (DCIP), which is proposed as the key intermediate of 3-isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine (IBMP) biosynthesis, was incorporated into Cabernet Sauvignon clusters in situ using a soaking method. The IBMP concentration of grape and the expression patterns of VvOMTs in berry skin were monitored over two consecutive years. The results showed that the IBMP concentration of grape treated with DCIP was significantly increased at maturity in both years. The relative expression levels of VvOMT1 and VvOMT3 in berry skin were positively correlated with the IBMP accumulation. After DCIP incorporation, the relative expression level of VvOMT1 and particularly that of VvOMT3 were obviously up-regulated and closely mirrored the IBMP accumulation pattern in two consecutive years. Therefore, we speculate that DCIP may be a key intermediate involved in the biosynthesis of IBMP and plays an important role in regulating IBMP accumulation.
Reducing the Risk of Acrylamide and Other Processing Contaminant Formation in Wheat Products
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Halford Nigel G.
Published: August 2023

Wheat is a staple crop, consumed worldwide as a major source of starch and protein. Global intake of wheat has increased in recent years, and overall, wheat is considered to be a healthy food, particularly when products are made from whole grains. However, wheat is almost invariably processed before it is consumed, usually via baking and/or toasting, and this can lead to the formation of toxic processing contaminants, including acrylamide, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Acrylamide is principally formed from free (soluble, non-protein) asparagine and reducing sugars (glucose, fructose and maltose) within the Maillard reaction and is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen (probably carcinogenic to humans). It also has neurotoxic and developmental effects at high doses. HMF is also generated within the Maillard reaction but can also be formed via the dehydration of fructose or caramelisation. It is frequently found in bread, biscuits, cookies, and cakes. Its molecular structure points to genotoxicity and carcinogenic risks. PAHs are a large class of chemical compounds, many of which are genotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic and carcinogenic. They are mostly formed during frying, baking and grilling due to incomplete combustion of organic matter. Production of these processing contaminants can be reduced with changes in recipe and processing parameters, along with effective quality control measures. However, in the case of acrylamide and HMF, their formation is also highly dependent on the concentrations of precursors in the grain. Here, we review the synthesis of these contaminants, factors impacting their production and the mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce their formation in wheat products, focusing on the role of genetics and agronomy. We also review the risk management measures adopted by food safety authorities around the world.
New Healthy Low-Sugar and Carotenoid-Enriched/High-Antioxidant Beverage: Study of Optimization and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Fakhri Leila Abolghasemi , Ghanbarzadeh Babak , Falcone Pasquale M.
Published: August 2023

Lutein is a prominent biologically active carotenoid pigment with a polyene skeleton that has great benefits for human health. The study examined the synergistic effects of potentially functional components, including lutein carotenoid (LC), Mentha × Piperita extract (MPE), and Citrus × aurantifolia essential oil (CAEO), all three as bioactive components and antioxidants (AOs), on the physicochemical characteristics of a new low-sugar and carotenoid-enriched high-antioxidant beverage. Sucralose was utilized as a non-nutritive sweetener. Polynomial equations obtained by combined design methodology (CDM) were fitted to the experimental data of total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) and antioxidant potential of the beverages using multiple regression analysis with R2 (determination coefficient) values of 0.87, 0.89, and 0.97, respectively. Estimated response values for the TPC, TFC, and antioxidant potential (determined as 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) scavenging activity) of the optimum beverage formulation were 41.90 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per L−1, 27.51 mg quercetin equivalent (QE) per L−1, and 34.06%, respectively, with a desirability value of 0.74. The potentially functional components had a synergistic effect on the antioxidant potential. This healthy beverage can have the potential to enhance health benefits and may have therapeutic potential for diabetic patients.
Polysaccharide-Based Edible Films/Coatings for the Preservation of Meat and Fish Products: Emphasis on Incorporation of Lipid-Based Nanosystems Loaded with Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Kaveh Shima , Abedi Elahe , Phimolsiripol Yuthana
Published: August 2023

The high water and nutritional contents of meat and fish products make them susceptible to spoilage. Thus, one of the most important challenges faced by the meat industry is extending the shelf life of meat and fish products. In recent years, increasing concerns associated with synthetic compounds on health have limited their application in food formulations. Thus, there is a great need for natural bioactive compounds. Direct use of these compounds in the food industry has faced different obstacles due to their hydrophobic nature, high volatility, and sensitivity to processing and environmental conditions. Nanotechnology is a promising method for overcoming these challenges. Thus, this article aims to review the recent knowledge about the effect of biopolymer-based edible films or coatings on the shelf life of meat and fish products. This study begins by discussing the effect of biopolymer (pectin, alginate, and chitosan) based edible films or coatings on the oxidation stability and microbial growth of meat products. This is followed by an overview of the nano-encapsulation systems (nano-emulsions and nanoliposomes) and the effect of edible films or coatings incorporated with nanosystems on the shelf life of meat and fish products.
New Insights into Fracture Porosity Estimations Using Machine Learning and Advanced Logging Tools
Authors: Ifrene Ghoulem , Irofti Doina , Ni Ruichong , Egenhoff Sven , Pothana Prasad
Published: August 2023

Fracture porosity is crucial for storage and production efficiency in fractured tight reservoirs. Geophysical image logs using resistivity measurements have traditionally been used for fracture characterization. This study aims to develop a novel, hybrid machine-learning method to predict fracture porosity using conventional well logs in the Ahnet field, Algeria. Initially, we explored an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model for regression analysis. To overcome the limitations of ANN, we proposed a hybrid model combining Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification and ANN regression, resulting in improved fracture porosity predictions. The models were tested against logging data by combining the Machine Learning approach with advanced logging tools recorded in two wells. In this context, we used electrical image logs and the dipole acoustic tool, which allowed us to identify 404 open fractures and 231 closed fractures and, consequently, to assess the fracture porosity. The results were then fed into two machine-learning algorithms. Pure Artificial Neural Networks and hybrid models were used to obtain comprehensive results, which were subsequently tested to check the accuracy of the models. The outputs obtained from the two methods demonstrate that the hybridized model has a lower Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) than pure ANN. The results of our approach strongly suggest that incorporating hybridized machine learning algorithms into fracture porosity estimations can contribute to the development of more trustworthy static reservoir models in simulation programs. Finally, the combination of Machine Learning (ML) and well log analysis made it possible to reliably estimate fracture porosity in the Ahnet field in Algeria, where, in many places, advanced logging data are absent or expensive.
Unveiling the Evolutionary State of Three B Supergiant Stars: PU Gem, ϵ CMa, and η CMa
Authors: Sánchez Arias Julieta Paz , Németh Péter , de Almeida Elisson Saldanha da Gama , Ruiz Diaz Matias Agustin , Kraus Michaela , Haucke Maximiliano
Published: August 2023

We aim to combine asteroseismology, spectroscopy, and evolutionary models to establish a comprehensive picture of the evolution of Galactic blue supergiant stars (BSG). To start such an investigation, we selected three BSG candidates for our analysis: HD 42087 (PU Gem), HD 52089 (ϵ CMa), and HD 58350 (η CMa). These stars show pulsations and were suspected to be in an evolutionary stage either preceding or succeding the red supergiant (RSG) stage. For our analysis, we utilized the 2-min cadence TESS data to study the photometric variability, and we obtained new spectroscopic observations at the CASLEO observatory. We used non-LTE radiative transfer models calculated with CMFGEN to derive their stellar and wind parameters. For the fitting procedure, we included CMFGEN models in the iterative spectral analysis pipeline XTgrid to determine their CNO abundances. The spectral modeling was limited to changing only the effective temperature, surface gravity, CNO abundances, and mass-loss rates. Finally, we compared the derived metal abundances with prediction from Geneva stellar evolution models. The frequency spectra of all three stars show stochastic oscillations and indications of one nonradial strange mode, fr= 0.09321 d−1 in HD 42087 and a rotational splitting centred in f2= 0.36366 d−1 in HD 52089. We conclude that the rather short sectoral observing windows of TESS prevent establishing a reliable mode identification of low frequencies connected to mass-loss variabilities. The spectral analysis confirmed gradual changes in the mass-loss rates, and the derived CNO abundances comply with the values reported in the literature. We were able to achieve a quantitative match with stellar evolution models for the stellar masses and luminosities. However, the spectroscopic surface abundances turned out to be inconsistent with the theoretical predictions. The stars show N enrichment, typical for CNO cycle processed material, but the abundance ratios did not reflect the associated levels of C and O depletion. We found HD 42087 to be the most consistent with a pre-RSG evolutionary stage, HD 58350 is most likely in a post-RSG evolution and HD 52089 shows stellar parameters compatible with a star at the TAMS.
Electrosprayed Stearic-Acid-Coated Ethylcellulose Microparticles for an Improved Sustained Release of Anticancer Drug
Authors: Ji Yuexin , Zhao Hua , Liu Hui , Zhao Ping , Yu Deng-Guang
Published: August 2023

Sustained release is highly desired for “efficacious, safe and convenient” drug delivery, particularly for those anticancer drug molecules with toxicity. In this study, a modified coaxial electrospraying process was developed to coat a hydrophobic lipid, i.e., stearic acid (SA), on composites composed of the anticancer drug tamoxifen citrate (TC) and insoluble polymeric matrix ethylcellulose (EC). Compared with the electrosprayed TC-EC composite microparticles M1, the electrosprayed SA-coated hybrid microparticles M2 were able to provide an improved TC sustained-release profile. The 30% and 90% loaded drug sustained-release time periods were extended to 3.21 h and 19.43 h for M2, respectively, which were significantly longer than those provided by M1 (0.88 h and 9.98 h, respectively). The morphology, inner structure, physical state, and compatibility of the components of the particles M1 and M2 were disclosed through SEM, TEM, XRD, and FTIR. Based on the analyses, the drug sustained-release mechanism of multiple factors co-acting for microparticles M2 is suggested, which include the reasonable selections and organizations of lipid and polymeric excipient, the blank SA shell drug loading, the regularly round shape, and also the high density. The reported protocols pioneered a brand-new manner for developing sustained drug delivery hybrids through a combination of insoluble cellulose gels and lipid using modified coaxial electrospraying.