bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Thermodynamic Analysis of a Novel Solar CBS-PVT System Using Film-Based Beam Splitting Technology
Authors: Wang Gang , Liu Jialin , Chen Zeshao
Published: December 2023

An innovative solar concentrating beam splitting photovoltaic thermal (CBS-PVT) system using a half-trough concentrator (HTC) and a film spectrum filter (FSF) is proposed and studied in this study. The FSF used for this system is designed and its average reflectivity and transmissivity are 0.272 and 0.728 for the full spectrum range. Performance evaluation results of the CBS-PVT system reveal the design correctness of the system. When the N-S solar tracking error (STE) rises to 0.15°, the optical efficiency of the entire CSB-PVT system can be kept at 0.8653, showing good adaptable capacity to the STE. The operation feasibility analysis shows that the PV efficiency of the PV subsystem (PVS) is 0.314 and the overall system efficiency overall is 0.26. Parametric analysis results indicate that when the solar thermal collector tube (TCT) operating temperature rises, the total power and overall efficiency of the CSB-PVT system both rise first and then decrease. When the TCT temperature is about 225 °C, the CBS-PVT system reaches its maximum output power of 1003.6 W and the maximum overall efficiency of 0.261. When the PV cell module (PVCM) temperature increases, the total power and overall efficiency of the CBS-PVT system decrease linearly. When the PVCM temperature rises to 50 °C, the two parameters decrease to 952.9 W and 0.248.
External Debt Determinants: Do Macroeconomic and Institutional Ones Matter for Selected ASEAN Developing Countries?
Authors: Harsono Edi , Kusumawati Andi , Nirwana Nirwana
Published: December 2023

Developing nations have the task of effectively managing their external debt. The government is urged to comprehend the decisive component in managing its external debt, despite the varying viewpoints among economists. In addition, the world sees the need for institutional quality to optimize its economic policy. Institutional quality shows accountability, stability, effectiveness, quality, law, and trust. Our research examines the determinant factors of external debt and discusses the policy to manage external debt. We regress the inflation rate, exchange rate, interest rate, trade openness, and institutional quality on external debt. This study also uses moderated regression analysis to examine the interaction between institutional quality and macroeconomic indicators on external debt. We selected 52 samples from five ASEAN developing countries from 2008 to 2019. The first study found that the inflation rate, interest rate, and institutional quality have a negative impact on external debt, while the exchange rate and trade openness have a positive impact on external debt. Next, we were surprised that institutional quality could not moderate the relationship between the inflation rate, exchange rate, and interest rate on external debt. Further, it only moderated the relationship between trade openness and external debt. In the end, we discuss the external debt determinants from the selected ASEAN developing countries with the theories.
The Issue of Measuring Household Consumption Expenditure
Authors: Madudova Emilia , Corejova Tatiana
Published: December 2023

Household consumption expenditure is an important measure of economic activity as it reflects the spending behavior of households and their purchasing power. The measurement of household consumption expenditure is critical for analyzing economic growth, inflation, and overall economic performance. In order to create budgets and financial plans, it is necessary to know and understand the relationship between the size of households in terms of the number of members, the number of children, and their consumption needs. The aim of the research was to determine the statistical significance of the relationship between household size and consumer spending at the national (Slovak Republic) level and also to analyze the relationship between household size and spending on food as a significant component of consumer spending. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to examine the relationship between household size and consumer spending. Regression analysis with linear regression and fitting was used to determine the relationship between consumer spending and household size with different numbers of children. The results analyze the correlations and test the hypothesis of a significant difference in the types of consumption expenditure in relation to different household sizes (number of children). Results confirm significant differences in consumption expenditure between different household sizes, which confirms the importance of these results.
Disciplinary Competencies Overview of the First Cohorts of Undergraduate Students in the Biotechnology Engineering Program under the Tec 21 Model
Authors: Mejía-Manzano Luis Alberto , Vázquez-Villegas Patricia , Díaz-Arenas Iván Eric , Escalante-Vázquez Edgardo J. , Membrillo-Hernández Jorge
Published: December 2023

In the current labor market, developing STEM skills in students is a priority for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The present research assesses the Competence Achievement Degree (CAD) of four disciplinary competencies in undergraduate Biotechnology Engineering students at a private university in Mexico. Descriptive statistics of CADs, considering sociodemographic and academic variables (age, gender, nationality, campus region, provenance, admission origin, and load), are presented. Data, filtered through Python, was statistically analyzed with Minitab software. The disciplinary competence of Innovation Management (BT4) was the strongest among undergraduate students in the 2019 and 2020 cohorts. Meanwhile, the other three competencies (BT1: Bioproduct Development, BT2: Bioreactor Design, and BT3: Bioprocess Design) had CADs above 90%. Although there was no statistical difference between the cohorts for BT1, the average CADs for both cohorts differed for BT4. The CADs differed from the Competence Average Grades (CAGs) for all competencies. However, the 2020 cohort showed the lowest correlation between CADs and CAGs and a few significant associations with the tested variables. These assessments will help to focus on the factors and key elements that influence CAD and subsequently establish and conduct appropriate actions to improve the quality of the academic program.
A Transient Event-Capturing Circuit and Adaptive PI Control for a Voltage Mode Superbuck Converter
Authors: Wang Yinyu , Huang Baoqiang , Wang Yuanxun , Xu Haoran , Zhang Desheng , Tong Qiaoling
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a transient event-capturing circuit and adaptive PI control to monitor and improve the transient response of a superbuck converter. The transient event-capturing circuit is composed of coupling and capturing circuits. The coupling circuit converts the output voltage to the sensed voltage, whereas the DC and ripple components are eliminated. By counting the up-crossing and down-crossing numbers of the sensed voltage, the capturing circuit classifies the output voltage response into different transient events according to oscillation cycles. The transient events carry the stability information that can be used to adjust the bandwidth and phase margin. Finally, an adaptive PI controller is implemented with the proposed transient event-capturing circuit to improve the stability and transient response. Experimental results of the 100 W superbuck converter verify the effectiveness of the adaptive PI controller for improving the transient response and stability. The adaptive PI controller eliminates the oscillations due to deviated parameters and operating conditions. The maximum oscillation amplitude is reduced from 2 V to 400 mV at the reference voltage change.
A Novel Electric Motor Fault Diagnosis by Using a Convolutional Neural Network, Normalized Thermal Images and Few-Shot Learning
Authors: Li Qing-Yuan , Wong Pak-Kin , Vong Chi-Man , Fei Kai , Chan In-Neng
Published: December 2023

Motors constitute one critical part of industrial production and everyday life. The effective, timely and convenient diagnosis of motor faults is constantly required to ensure continuous and reliable operations. Infrared imaging technology, a non-invasive industrial fault diagnosis method, is usually applied to detect the equipment status in extreme environments. However, conventional Infrared thermal images inevitably show a large amount of noise interference, which affects the analysis results. In addition, each motor may only possess a small amount of fault data in practice, as collecting an infinite amount of motor data to train the diagnostic system is impossible. To overcome these problems, a novel automatic fault diagnosis system is proposed in this study. Data features are enhanced by a normalization module based on color bars first, as the same color in various infrared thermal images represent different temperatures. Then, the few-shot learning method is used to diagnose the faults of unseen electric motors. In the few-shot learning method, the minimum dataset size required to expand system universality is fifteen pieces, effectively solving the universality problem of artificial-to-natural data migration. The method saves a large amount of training data resources and the experimental training data collection. The accuracy of the fault diagnosis system achieved 98.9% on similar motor datasets and 91.8% on the dataset of motors that varied a lot from the training motor, which proves the high reliability and universality of the system.
Variable-Step-Size Efficient Proportionate Affine Projection Sign Algorithms
Authors: Li Guoliang , Zhou Xingli , Cao Xin , Zhang Hongbin
Published: December 2023

For sparse system identification, a memory-improved proportionate affine projection sign algorithm with a simplified, generalized correntropy induced metric (SGCI-M-IPAPSA) has good filtering performance. However, the SGCI-M-IPAPSA is based on a fixed step size and is not always the best choice. To overcome the limitation of a fixed step size in filtering precision and convergence speed under non-Gaussian impulsive interferences, in this paper, we apply the combined-step-size idea and a variable-step-size method based on the mean-square deviation to the SGCI-M-IPAPSA, respectively, and propose two new robust algorithms to enhance the filtering performance of the SGCI-M-IPAPSA. In addition, by combining the combined-step-size and proposed variable-step-size methods, we propose a fresh combined variable-step-size way and apply it to the SGCI-M-IPAPSA. The convergence of the proposed algorithms is also elaborated, and a conditional decision on the mean-square error is used to cope with abrupt changes. The better performances of the proposed algorithms than the conventional SGCI-M-IPAPSA in terms of the filtering accuracy and convergence rate are demonstrated with non-Gaussian impulsive interferences for sparse system identification, abrupt changes and colored inputs.
Autonomous-Vehicle Intersection Control Method Based on an Interlocking Block
Authors: Niu Yuxin , Chang Yizhuo , Li Hongbo , Feng Xiaoyuan , Ren Yilong
Published: December 2023

Non-signalized intersections have only ever been suitable for low traffic flow; however, with the development of autonomous driving technology and new control methods, the operation efficiency of this kind of intersection may be improved. In view of the shortcomings of existing non-signalized intersection control methods in multilane situations and inspired by railway trains, an interlocking-block intersection control model is proposed. In this study, vehicles between parallel lanes are combined into a few combos, and the combo shape can be determined according to a pairing model and the interlocking angle range, and the gaps between the front and rear vehicles are simulated as blocks in a railway system, which are added into the intersection control model as virtual blocked cars (VBCs) for optimization. In setting the optimization objectives, the connotation and realization of fairness are discussed. Experimental results show that compared with signalized intersections, roundabouts, and non-signalized intersections without control, the interlocking-block intersection control model greatly reduces vehicle delay. Compared with an existing model, the calculation speed in a multilane situation has been greatly improved, while the vehicle delay is similar.
Ghosting: Abandonment in the Digital Era
Authors: Daraj Lateefa Rashed , Buhejji Mariam Rashid , Perlmutter Gretta , Jahrami Haitham , Seeman Mary V.
Published: December 2023

This entry synthesizes the multidisciplinary literature on ghosting published through late 2023 across psychological and social science journals. Search terms include “ghosting” and “online dating”. Both quantitative and qualitative studies are included. The rise in ghosting can be attributed to advancements in technology and the increased popularity of dating apps. It is defined as an abrupt one-sided ending, without explanation, of an established friendship/romantic or other communication connection. The prevalence of ghosting has increased, as reported by both ghosters (i.e., persons who stopped responding) and ghostees (i.e., persons who were “dumped”). Individuals characterized by dark triad traits (i.e., psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism) are more likely than others to be ghosters. These individuals have a history of using ghosting as their preferred method of ending relationships without concern for its negative impact on ghostees or, indeed, on themselves. The psychological effects of ghosting can influence mental health, although most individuals ultimately find ways of coping.
Estimation of Water Consumption of Haloxylon ammodendron Sand-Fixing Forest in Minqin Oasis-Desert Ecotone of China Based on Leaf Index, China
Authors: Qiang Yuquan , Zhang Mingjun , Zhang Yu , Zhang Jinchun , Zhao Peng , Fu Guiquan
Published: December 2023

In order to accurately estimate the water consumption of a Minqin desert Haloxylon ammodendron sand fixation forest, we used thermal equilibrium stem flow measurement to monitor the stem flow dynamics of Minqin desert H. ammodendron (5, 10, 15, and 20 years old, respectively, denoted as H5, H10, H15, and H20). In this study, we chose the growth index of assimilated branches (expressed as Ab in the following text) as the scalar quantity for expansion, and then estimated the water consumption of the H. ammodendron sand fixation forest by fitting the correlation between the water consumption of single H. ammodendron plants and the surface area and dry weight of single Ab. The results showed that the growth of assimilated H. ammodendron branches and the plant’s monthly water consumption were synchronized, and that the growth of Ab and water consumption were significantly higher during the fast-growth period of H. ammodendron (July) compared to during the leaf-expanding (May) and leaf-falling periods (October). After correlation analysis, it was determined that there was a linear function between the surface area and dry weight of Ab and water consumption in H. ammodendron. The simulated water consumption values (kg) of H. ammodendron sand fixation forests were greatly affected by stand density and branching configuration, and the simulated values of H. ammodendron assimilated branch growth (cm) were slightly smaller than the measured values for forests of different ages, while the simulated values of assimilated branch surface area (cm2) had a much smaller relative error (8.92%) on average. Therefore, it is feasible to use the surface area and dry weight of Ab to calculate the water consumption of H. ammodendron sand fixation forests. This can enable the reliable estimation of the water consumption of H. ammodendron forests and provide a reference for desert vegetation sand fixation afforestation and its ecological water management.
Perceived Life Satisfaction and Illegal Forest Use in the Virunga Landscape of Rwanda and Uganda
Authors: Sabuhoro Edwin , Lyakurwa Gasto Jerome
Published: December 2023

Understanding the direct and positive impact of conservation incentive programs in the tropics is essential. Typically, conservation incentive programs in the tropics aim to enhance residents’ access to material resources, with the ultimate goal of improving human well-being. These programs are also intended to reduce human-induced threats to wildlife. However, access to material livelihood resources as a means to improved life satisfaction is a human-centered goal that may or may not benefit wildlife conservation. Using structural equation modeling, this paper examines the potential of life satisfaction to significantly reduce illegal forest use behavior of residents neighboring the Virunga Landscape parks in Uganda and Rwanda. The findings indicate that improved life satisfaction significantly reduces livelihood-based illegal forest use. However, improved life satisfaction was not found to reduce illegal forest use driven by traditional values and practices. The findings also indicate that illegal forest use driven by traditional values and practices significantly increases illegal forest use for livelihoods. Ultimately, this study suggests that although incentive-based programs in the Virunga Landscape may be helping to reduce illegal forest use for livelihoods, they may not be addressing traditional forest use practices. This paper recommends supplementing conservation incentive programs with community education programs and law enforcement to effectively control the dimensions of illegal forest use and its negative impacts on wildlife.
Fermentation Quality and Aerobic Stability Evaluation of Rice Straw Silage with Different Ensiling Densities
Authors: Liu Haopeng , Li Xinbao , Hu Junfeng , Zhao Jie , Xu Guofeng , Dong Dong , Jia Yushan , Shao Tao
Published: December 2023

Ensiling density has significant importance for the quality and preservation of silage. Appropriate ensiling density could improve the nutritional value, extend the storage time of silage and reduce the risk of mold and spoilage. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of ensiling densities on the fermentation quality and aerobic stability of rice straw. The rice straw was obtained after threshing, then chopped and ensiled into a 10 L laboratory silo with three ensiling densities (high density at 700 g/L, medium density at 600 g/L and low density at 500 g/L). Five silos per density were opened after 3, 5, 7, 14, 30 and 60 days of ensiling, and then, the fermentation quality and aerobic stability were analyzed. During ensiling, high density had the highest lactic acid content, and the lowest pH and ammonia nitrogen. There was no difference (p > 0.05) in the propionic acid, butyric acid and ethanol contents among all silage, and the contents of propionic acid and butyric acid were trace amounts. On day 60 of ensiling, the Flieg’s point of high density and medium density were higher than the low density. During aerobic exposure, the continuous lactic acid decrease and pH increase were observed in all silage. The aerobic bacteria and yeasts count in the high density and medium density were lower than that in the low density. The aerobic stability of the high density (26 h) and the medium density (24 h) were higher than that of the low density (13 h). It was suggested that if the ensiling density is higher than 600 g/L, it could effectively improve the fermentation quality and aerobic stability of rice straw.
Optimization of Pseudomonas aurantiaca ST-TJ4 Fermentation Medium and Its Control Effect on Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Kong Wei-Liang , Zhang Yu , Wu Xiao-Qin
Published: December 2023

Previous research has indicated that Pseudomonas aurantiaca ST-TJ4 possesses a notable antagonistic impact on Phytophthora cinnamomi and holds promising potential for biocontrol. In this study, a combination of a single-factor experiment, a Plackett–Burman design and a response surface approach was employed to investigate the optimal formula of ST-TJ4 fermentation medium. Furthermore, the stability of ST-TJ4 fermentation filtrate and its biocontrol effect on Ph. cinnamomi in vivo were also evaluated. The results revealed that the optimal culture conditions for ST-TJ4 involved the use of 20.59 g/L of glucose and 18.76 g/L of yeast extract powder. Following optimization, the fermentation filtrate of ST-TJ4 exhibited an inhibition rate of 76.5%, representing a 15% increase compared to previous levels. Additionally, phzA, phzB, phzD, phzE, phzF and phzO genes involved in the synthesis of phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA) and 2-hydroxyphenazine (2-OH-PHZ) were also upregulated. The ST-TJ4 fermentation filtrate demonstrated strong alkali resistance, weak acid resistance and favorable temperature and UV light stability. Furthermore, in vitro inoculation experiments confirmed that optimizing the fermentation medium reduced Ps. cinnamomi’s ability to infect the leaves of Rhododendron pulchrum.
Efficient Production of Succinic Acid from Sugarcane Bagasse Hydrolysate by Actinobacillus succinogenes GXAS137
Authors: Qin Yan , Li Yi , Liang Ge , Shen Naikun , Xian Liang , Wang Qingyan
Published: December 2023

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) is an abundant agricultural waste, rich in cellulose and hemicellulose, that could be used as an ideal raw material for succinic acid (SA) production. A two-step chemical pretreatment, involving alkali extraction and alkaline hydrogen peroxide treatment, was utilized to treat SCB, followed by multi-enzyme hydrolysis to obtain a reducing sugar hydrolysate mainly composed of glucose and xylose. Optimization of the multi-enzyme hydrolysis of pretreated SCB resulted in a final reducing sugar concentration of 78.34 g/L. In order to enhance the bioconversion of SCB to SA and to reduce the production costs, the initial reducing sugar concentration, nitrogen source, and MgCO3 content were further optimized. The results demonstrated that the inexpensive corn steep liquor powder (CSLP) could be utilized as an alternative nitrogen source to yeast extract for the production of SA; and the optimal concentrations of initial reducing sugar, CSLP, and MgCO3 were 70 g/L, 18 g/L, and 60 g/L, respectively. When fed-batch fermentation was conducted in a 2 L stirred bioreactor, approximately 72.9 g/L of SA was produced, with a yield of 83.2% and a productivity of 1.40 g/L/h. The high SA concentration, yield, and productivity achieved in this study demonstrate the potential of SCB, an agricultural waste, as a viable alternative substrate for Actinobacillus succinogenes GXAS137 to produce SA. This lays a solid foundation for the resource utilization of agricultural waste and cost-effective industrial-scale production of SA in the future.
Innovative Flexural Repair Technique of Pre-Damaged T-Beams Using Eco-Friendly Steel-Fibre-Reinforced Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Khalifa Ashraf , El-Thakeb Abo El-Wafa , El-Sebai Ahmed , Elmannaey Ahmed
Published: December 2023

This paper presents an innovative flexural repair technique for pre-damaged reinforced concrete T-beams using eco-friendly steel-fibre-reinforced geopolymer concrete (SFRGPC). The study considers various parameters such as repair layer depth, location and configuration, and the use of additional reinforcement in one beam. The beams were preloaded to 50% of their ultimate flexural capacity. Extensive measurements were taken, including crack initiation and propagation, crack width, initial stiffness, load deflection, peak loads, ductility index, and strain values. The structural performance of the repaired T-beams under flexural loading was predicted using an analytical model. The repaired beams showed an increase in carrying capacity, stiffness, and ductility, but the failure mode was identical to the control samples. The study shows that SFRGPC shows great promise as a technique for not only repairing pre-damaged reinforced concrete beams but also for their strengthening. The best results were obtained with three-sided jackets with fibrous geopolymer concrete only, resulting in a load-carrying capacity increase of 25.8% compared to reference T-beams. The bonding between SFRGPC and existing concrete was effective, with no slippage or disintegration at the interface. The repaired beams’ structural behaviour and performance under flexural loads were successfully predicted using the analytical model, with a precision of about 98%.
Broadband Scattering Characteristic Quantization Technique for Single Fish Based on a Split-Beam Echosounder
Authors: Ai Qiuming , Li Haisen , Yao Jin , Li Chao , Tao Jiangping
Published: December 2023

The utilization of broadband quantization data increases the possibility of practical applications for fish target recognition based on the acoustic scattering theory. However, the quantification of broadband data is more complex than that of narrowband systems, requiring consideration of the broadband characteristics of split-beam transducers, seawater absorption, and circuits. This paper elucidates the scatterer acoustic field equation, transducer power equation, and signal processing flow in split-beam broadband quantization technology for engineering applications. A broadband calculation model based on transducer parameters is proposed to enhance the generalization ability of broadband quantization technology to different types of sonar. The classical echo integration method is combined with Fourier transform to meet the requirements of target strength (TS) estimation under broadband signals. This paper includes a series of experiments to prove the rationality and effectiveness of the method. The results demonstrate that the provided calculation model can more accurately reflect the backscattering characteristics of the scatterer, but certain errors remain. This article analyzes the sources of errors and validates the effectiveness of the new TS calculation method.
Study of Insect Impact on an Aerodynamic Body Using a Rotary Wing Simulator
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Mohammadamin , Amirfazli Alidad
Published: December 2023

Laminar flow aircraft may potentially save fuel and reduce the emission of pollutants and greenhouse gases. However, laminar flow aircraft face challenges caused by contaminations on the wings, such as insect impact residue. To study insect residue on an aircraft airfoil, a new setup was developed that used rotary wings and shot an insect toward the leading edge. This setup kept insects intact before impact while airflow was maintained throughout the experiment. Additionally, the setup enabled the long-term observation of the impact residue while the test speed was adjusted. Two experiments were carried out to investigate inconsistencies from past studies about insect rupture velocity and the effect of airflow on residue. Drosophila Hydei was the insect used, and aluminum was used as the baseline substrate, which was also coated with polyurethane, acrylic, and two superhydrophobic coatings. Instead of a threshold velocity for the minimum rupture velocity of the insect, a range from initial insect rupture to the velocity at which insects ruptured in all instances was determined (i.e., 17–30 m/s). Furthermore, the presence of a coating (polyurethane) on the airfoil did not affect the minimum rupture velocity. It was observed that airflow, which has been previously mentioned as a mitigation method, did not change the residue amount after coagulation for all coatings.
Development of Chinese-Style Sausage Enriched with Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz) Using Taguchi Method: Applying Modern Optimization to Indigenous People’s Traditional Food
Authors: Chung Pei-Ling , Lufaniyao Ku-Sang , Gavahian Mohsen
Published: December 2023

Djulis (Taiwanese quinoa) has gained popularity among researchers due to its biological characteristics and rich nutritional value. Incorporating Djulis is expected to enhance the sausage’s texture, flavor, and storage stability due to the presence of antioxidants and nutritional components. However, limited studies focus on product development based on this emerging health-promoting ingredient in the food industry. This study aims to develop Chinese-style sausage enriched with Djulis using the Taguchi L9(34) orthogonal matrix methodology and evaluate the influence of four factors, including un-hulled to hulled Djulis ratios of 0, 50, 100% (A), backfat-to-lean meat ratios of 0/100, 30/70, 50/50% (B), cooking temperature of 55, 75, 95 °C (C), and nitrite content of 0.03, 0.05, 0.07 g/kg (D) on products’ sensory and physicochemical properties. The optimal Taguchi formulation was then verified and compared with conventionally formulated sausage (original sausage) in terms of hardness, springiness, gumminess, CIE color values, and peroxide value (POV). The optimal formulation was A3B2C2D3, which consisted of 16.8% hulled Djulis, 30/70 backfat-to-lean meat ratio, 75 °C cooking temperature, and 0.03 g/kg nitrite content. The most influential independent parameters were identified as B > A > C > D, placing Djulis incorporation as the first runner-up, just after the backfat-to-lean meat ratio. Optimized condition verification identified the Signal-to-Noise ratio (S/N) of 16.63. Comparing the optimized Djulis-enriched sample and the original sausage indicated similar CIE L*, a*, b*, hardness, and springiness but different gumminess according to Texture Profile Analysis (TPA). The Djulis-enriched sausage at the optimized formulation had a significantly lower POV compared to the control sample (4.65 vs. 9.64 meq/kg), which was found to be correlated with Djulis antioxidant effects with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) free radical antioxidant activity of 62.37%. This suggests that Djulis effectively mitigates sausage organoleptic deterioration. Djulis sausage, with natural antioxidants and reduced fat content, could cater to consumer preferences and enhance the market for the food industry and indigenous farmers.
Water Effective Diffusion Coefficient in Dairy Powder Calculated by Digital Image Processing and through Machine Learning Algorithms of CLSM Micrographs
Authors: Maidannyk Valentyn A. , Simonov Yuriy , McCarthy Noel A. , Ho Quang Tri
Published: December 2023

Rehydration of dairy powders is a complex and essential process. A relatively new quantitative mechanism for monitoring powders’ rehydration process uses the effective diffusion coefficient. This research focused on modifying a previously used labor-intensive method that will be able to automatically measure the real-time water diffusion coefficient in dairy powders based on confocal microscopy techniques. Furthermore, morphological characteristics and local hydration of individual particles were identified using an imaging analysis procedure written in Matlab©—R2023b and image analysis through machine learning algorithms written in Python™-3.11. The first model includes segmentation into binary images and labeling particles during water diffusion. The second model includes the expansion of data set selection, neural network training and particle markup. For both models, the effective diffusion follows Fick’s second law for spherical geometry. The effective diffusion coefficient on each particle was computed from the dye intensity during the rehydration process. The results showed that effective diffusion coefficients for water increased linearly with increasing powder particle size and are in agreement with previously used methods. In summary, the models provide two independent machine measurements of effective diffusion coefficient based on the same set of micrographs and may be useful in a wide variety of high-protein powders.
Gold Nanoparticle-Based Colorimetric Biosensing for Foodborne Pathogen Detection
Authors: Park Sang-Hyun , You Youngsang
Published: December 2023

Ensuring safe high-quality food is an ongoing priority, yet consumers face heightened risk from foodborne pathogens due to extended supply chains and climate change in the food industry. Nanomaterial-based assays are popular and have recently been developed to ensure food safety and high quality. This review discusses strategies for utilizing gold nanoparticles in colorimetric biosensors. The visible-signal biosensor proves to be a potent sensing technique for directly measuring targets related to foodborne pathogens in the field of food analysis. Among visible-signal biosensors, the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) biosensor has garnered increasing attention and experienced rapid development in recent years. This review succinctly introduces the origin of LSPR theory, providing detailed insights into its fundamental principles. Additionally, this review delves into the application of nanotechnology for the implementation of the LSPR biosensor, exploring methods for utilizing gold nanoparticles and elucidating the factors that influence the generation of visible signals. Several emerging technologies aimed at simple and rapid immunoassays for onsite applications have been introduced in the food industry. In the foreseeable future, field-friendly colorimetric biosensors could be adopted in food monitoring systems. The onsite and real-time detection of possible contaminants and biological substances in food and water is essential to ensure human health and safety.
Encapsulation of Bioactive Compounds from Germinated Mung Bean by Freeze-Drying, Release Kinetics, and Storage Stability
Authors: Vu Anh Thuy , Kha Tuyen Chan , Phan Huan Tai
Published: December 2023

This research explores the application of germinated mung bean extract, rich in GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) and polyphenols, in enhancing human health. Recognizing the instability of these bioactive compounds in environmental conditions, encapsulation emerges as a pivotal technique to broaden their applications in food and pharmaceuticals. Utilizing response surface methodology and Box–Behnken design, the freeze-drying formulation for encapsulating the aqueous extract was optimized. Second-order polynomial models were developed, exhibiting statistical adequacy in predicting key variables such as encapsulation efficiency for GABA (EE-GABA) and total polyphenol content (EE-TPC), as well as encapsulation yield for GABA (EY-GABA) and total polyphenol content (EY-TPC). The established optimal formulation was validated, resulting in predicted values for EE-GABA, EE-TPC, EY-GABA, and EY-TPC. The release kinetics of encapsulated particles were investigated, highlighting the suitability of the Korsmeyer–Peppas and Higuchi models. Assessing the stability of the encapsulated powder under varying temperatures and humidities revealed degradation rates, half-life, and activation energy, with moisture equilibrium established at 4.70%, indicative of long-term stability. In conclusion, the encapsulated germinated mung bean powder demonstrates high stability, making it a promising candidate for integration into food products and functional ingredients.
Electrochemical Storage Behavior of a High-Capacity Mg-Doped P2-Type Na2/3Fe1−yMnyO2 Cathode Material Synthesized by a Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Islam Mobinul , Ahmed Md. Shahriar , Han Daseul , Bari Gazi A. K. M. Rafiqul , Nam Kyung-Wan
Published: December 2023

Grid-scale energy storage applications can benefit from rechargeable sodium-ion batteries. As a potential material for making non-cobalt, nickel-free, cost-effective cathodes, earth-abundant Na2/3Fe1/2Mn1/2O2 is of particular interest. However, Mn3+ ions are particularly susceptible to the Jahn–Teller effect, which can lead to an unstable structure and continuous capacity degradation. Modifying the crystal structure by aliovalent doping is considered an effective strategy to alleviate the Jahn–Teller effect. Using a sol–gel synthesis route followed by heat treatment, we succeeded in preparing an Mg-doped Na2/3Fe1−yMnyO2 cathode. Its electrochemical properties and charge compensation mechanism were then studied using synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy and in situ X-ray diffraction techniques. The results revealed that Mg doping reduced the number of Mn3+ Jahn–Teller centers and alleviated high voltage phase transition. However, Mg doping was unable to suppress the P2-P’2 phase transition at a low voltage discharge. An initial discharge capacity of about 196 mAh g−1 was obtained at a current density of 20 mAh g−1, and 60% of rate capability was maintained at a current density of 200 mAh g−1 in a voltage range of 1.5–4.3 V. This study will greatly contribute to the ongoing search for advanced and efficient cathodes from earth-abundant elements for rechargeable sodium-ion batteries operable at room temperature.
Graphene-Enhanced Methacrylated Alginate Gel Films for Sustainable Dye Removal in Water Purification
Authors: Teijido Rubén , Zhang Qi , Blanco Miren , Pérez-Álvarez Leyre , Lanceros-Méndez Senentxu , Vilas-Vilela José Luis , Ruiz-Rubio Leire
Published: December 2023

Self-standing nanocomposite films were prepared by three-dimensional UV-induced radical copolymerization of methacrylated alginate (MALG) with acrylic acid (AA) and reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) to improve both mechanical strength and dye adsorption capacity in wastewater decontamination operations. Dynamic mechanical–thermal analysis revealed variations in storage modulus: the higher the GO content, the higher the storage modulus (E′) values. Also, the higher the temperature (associated with a lower and lower water content of films), the larger values of E′ for the films of the same composition (E′(25 °C) = 676.6–1538.7 MPa; E′(100 °C) = 886.9–2066.6 MPa), providing insights into the compatibility between GO and the MALG/AA matrix, as well as, assessing the improvement in the nanocomposite’s final mechanical properties. These crosslinked films in a dry state exhibited rapid water uptake and relatively short drying times (ca. 30 min at room temperature for the MALG/AA/GO composites) resulting from the swelling–drying studies and water contact angle measurements. The efficacy of methylene blue removal from water assessed via UV–VIS spectrometry revealed excellent results, expressed as an adsorption yield of 70–80% and 85–98% after 30 h and 258 h, respectively, of immersion time of films into an MB aqueous solution of 12.5 mg/L (as the contaminated water model). The reusability of the same films was evaluated by consecutive extraction processes of MB from the composite membranes when the content of desorbed dye was also spectrophotometrically monitored and conducted in acidic conditions (HCl aqueous solutions of pH 2). Overall, the introduction of GO in the developed self-standing MALG/AA nanocomposite films exhibited enhanced mechanical properties and increased efficiency for dye removal applications. Their great reutilization potential was highlighted by low drying times and a good ability to release the dye initially adsorbed. Thus, the prepared films could be suitable materials for sustainable and effective water treatment technologies.
Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Analyses Reveal the Candidate Genes Regulating the Meat Quality Change by Castration in Yudong Black Goats (Capra hircus)
Authors: Yang Songjian , Zhang Xinyue , Li Xingchun , Zheng Jikang , Zhao Le , Fan Chengli , Zhao Yongju
Published: December 2023

Yudong black goats (YDGs) are a local breed in southwest China that possess unique meat qualities and produce a high meat yield, making them ideal models for studying goat meat quality. Castration may decrease off-odors, significantly change metabolites and improve meat quality. Using multi-omics techniques, this study focused on Yudong black goat wethers (YDW, n = 4) and Yudong black bucks (YDB, n = 4). The findings revealed that 33 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 279 significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) influenced goat meat quality by affecting fat accumulation and lipolysis regulatory processes. Herein, several candidate genes (IGF1, TNNT2, PPP2R2C, MAPK10 and VNN1, etc.) were identified that play a role in regulating meat quality, non-castrated and castrated, alongside a series of metabolites that may serve as potential meat quality biomarkers. Lipids (triglycerides, oxidized lipids_5-iso PGF2VI, ceramide (t18:1/36:2(2OH)) and Carnitine C20:5, etc.) were significantly higher in the castrated goats. These results revealed that lipids and hydrophilic metabolites were affected by castration, which might be beneficial in terms of goat meat quality. This study aimed to investigate the differences in meat quality between uncastrated and castrated male goats and the possible molecular regulatory mechanisms.
Weekend Headaches in School-Age Children
Authors: Triadou Daniel , Bar-Shalom Yoel , Pollak Mordechai , Gal Shoshana , Nathan Keren , Yakovlev Megi , Genizi Jacob
Published: December 2023

Children commonly encounter primary headaches, with various factors playing a role in their onset. The daily routine notably contributes to the occurrence of primary headaches in children. This study aims to profile children experiencing headaches on weekends (WH) in comparison to those primarily having headaches midweek (MWH). Out of 109 children visiting a pediatric headache clinic, 60 prospectively filled out questionnaires regarding their headaches. The average age was 11.8 years, and 63% were of female sex. Most of the children suffered from migraine headaches (60%), while the rest suffered from tension-type headaches (TTH, 15%), mixed headaches (17%), or undetermined headaches (8%). None of the children suffered from a headache only on the weekend. In contrast, 14 (23%) children suffered from a headache exclusively in midweek. Children with learning difficulties were similarly distributed between the WH and the MWH groups (48% and 52%, respectively). Children without learning difficulties suffered significantly more from MWH compared to WH (79% vs. 21%, respectively). In conclusion, children did not suffer from WH alone. Self-reported triggers were not significantly different in WH and MWH patients. Proper profiling of headache types and triggers may lead to more accurate management of these patients.
Healthy Lifestyle in Adolescence: Associations with Stress, Self-Esteem and the Roles of School Violence
Authors: González Moreno Alba , Molero Jurado María del Mar
Published: December 2023

A healthy lifestyle is considered by young people as the adoption of positive behaviors, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, or the decreased consumption of harmful substances. Living a healthy lifestyle during adolescence promotes a better quality of life and psychological well-being in adulthood. The objective of this research is to identify how a healthy lifestyle is related to stress, self-esteem, and school violence roles. The sample is composed of a total of 743 adolescents aged between 14 and 19 years. The instruments used were the Healthy Lifestyles Questionnaire (CEVS-II), the Student Stress Inventory (SSI-SM), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and an ad hoc questionnaire to evaluate school violence roles. The results obtained indicate that there are negative correlations between healthy lifestyle and stress, but positive correlations between healthy lifestyle and self-esteem. Adolescents who participate in situations of school violence have a higher mean of substance use and stress. However, those who do not experience such situations have higher mean self-esteem and lead a healthy lifestyle. In addition, the fact of suffering stress increases the probability of being a victim or an aggressor. Living a healthy lifestyle can have significant implications for health promotion and positive adolescent development.
Enhancing the Adult and Paediatric Palliative Care System: Spanish Professionals’ and Family Caregivers’ Suggestions for Comprehensive Improvement
Authors: Llop-Medina Laura , García-Muñoz Paula , Ródenas-Rigla Francisco , Garcés-Ferrer Jorge
Published: December 2023

This research critically explores deficiencies in the palliative care system, focusing on evaluation and treatment aspects for both adult and paediatric patients. Using a qualitative methodology, the study engages healthcare professionals and family caregivers to uncover perspectives on the existing state of palliative care. Conducted through three focus groups and a semi-structured in-depth interview with participants recruited from Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital, this research illustrates critical issues, highlighting the insufficient healthcare workforce and resources to meet the comprehensive needs of patients and their families. Recommendations include holistic care addressing social, emotional, psychological, socio-familiar, and economic dimensions, supported by embedded support groups and the enforcement of relationships with palliative associations. This study also advocates for improved health institutional coordination, social worker support, and ongoing health professional satisfaction monitoring. In paediatric care, specific demands involve specialised units, medical team continuity, 24 h paediatrician care, and a more professional paediatric approach. Beyond problem identification, this study offers valuable insights for shaping health policies and tools, incorporating new indicators and introducing grief bereavement support in clinical reports, contributing to the advancement of patient evaluation in palliative care.
Identification of Volatile Molecules and Bioactivity of Gruyt Craft Beer Enriched with Citrus aurantium var. dulcis L. Essential Oil
Authors: Taiti Cosimo , Di Sotto Antonella , Stefano Giovanni , Percaccio Ester , Iannone Matteo , Marianelli Andrea , Garzoli Stefania
Published: December 2023

In this work, for the first time, a gruyt beer and the same one after the addition of Citrus aurantium essential oil (AEO), were investigated to determine the composition of the volatile fraction. The applied analytical techniques, such as Head Space/Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS/SPME-GC-MS) and Proton Transfer Reaction-Time of Flight-Mass Spectrometer (PTR-ToF-MS), allowed us to identify the content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). From the comparison between the two beer samples, it showed that the one after the addition of AEO was particularly richened in limonene and a series of minor terpene compounds. AEO was also characterized by GC/MS analysis and the results showed that limonene reached 95%. Confocal microscopy was used to look at riboflavin autofluorescence in yeast cells. It was found that beer with AEO had twice as much fluorescence intensity as the control. A spectrophotometric analysis of total polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids, and a bioactivity screening, including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-Azinobis-(3-Ethylbenzthiazolin-6-Sulfonic Acid) (ABTS) radical scavenger, chelating, reducing, antiglycative ones, were also carried out. Moreover, the tolerability of the tested samples in human H69 cholangiocytes and the cytoprotection towards the tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBOOH)-induced oxidative damage were evaluated. Under our experimental conditions, the beers were found to be able to scavenge DPPH and ABTS radicals and chelate iron ions, despite weak antiglycative and reducing properties. The tested samples did not affect the viability of H69 cholangiocytes up to the highest concentrations; moreover, no signs of cytoprotection against the damage induced by tBOOH were highlighted. Adding AEO to beer resulted in a moderate enhancement of its DPPH scavenging and chelating abilities, without improvements in the other assays. Conversely, AEO and its major compound limonene were ineffective when assessed at the concentrations added to beer. This evidence suggests that the addition of AEO may enhance the organoleptic features of the beer and slightly potentiate some of its bioactivities.