bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moroccan Public Buildings and the RTCM: Insights into Compliance, Energy Performance, and Regulation Improvement
Authors: El Asri Najat , Abdou Nawal , Mharzi Mohammed , Maghnouj Abdelmajid
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the compliance of Moroccan public buildings with the thermal regulation (RTCM). It analysis public building envelope typology, the conformity and the impact of RTCM conformity on energy performance across the six climatic zones defined by the RTCM. The outcomes of this research may serve as a decision-support instrument by identifying areas where the thermal regulation is already validated and the potential impact that a public building could undergo by implementing these provisions. Additionally, this study can be viewed as a crucial analysis contributing to the enhancement of the existing regulation. The study emphasizes various extraneous stipulations present within the prevailing regulation. In this work, we have attempted to categorize these stipulations into two distinct groups: recommendations for refinement to be integrated into the regulatory framework, and essential measures to ensure successful implementation of the regulation in the realm of building energy efficiency.
A Review of Sensing Technologies for New, Low Global Warming Potential (GWP), Flammable Refrigerants
Authors: Reshniak Viktor , Cheekatamarla Praveen , Sharma Vishaldeep , Yana Motta Samuel
Published: September 2023

Commercial refrigeration systems currently utilize refrigerants with global warming potential (GWP) values ranging from 1250 to 4000. The advent of low GWP alternatives (GWP <150) is expected to significantly curtail direct emissions from this segment and greatly influence the ongoing electrification and decarbonization efforts. Most of the low GWP alternatives exhibit flammability risk and hence require robust sensing solutions for a reliable and safe operation of the equipment. This review article aims to provide an overview of different sensing mechanisms suitable for potential applications in systems employing flammable refrigerants, particularly those designated as A2L class. A summary of different A2L refrigerants and their properties is provided followed by a broad review of different classes of sensors, their working principle, transduction method, features, advantages, and limitations. Additionally, key performance characteristics of accuracy, selectivity, sensitivity, dynamic characteristic, and durability among other properties are discussed. Finally, areas of improvement and corresponding approaches are suggested for potential sensors in the successful adoption of A2L class refrigerants.
Zero-Carbon and Carbon-Neutral Fuels: A Review of Combustion Products and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Jin Chao , Li Xiaodan , Xu Teng , Dong Juntong , Geng Zhenlong , Liu Jia , Ding Chenyun , Hu Jingjing , El ALAOUI Ahmed , Zhao Qing , Liu Haifeng
Published: September 2023

The use of zero-carbon and carbon-neutral fuels reduces emissions of conventional pollutants, but their emissions can be toxic and have various adverse effects on human health. This article reviews the possible combustion products of zero-carbon and carbon-neutral fuels, as well as their cytotoxic effects and potential health risks. At the same time, the review outlines biological models and toxicity detection methods commonly used in pollutant toxicity studies. Metals, nitrogen oxides (NOX), and ammonia (NH3) emitted from the combustion of metal fuels, hydrogen fuels, and ammonia fuels in zero-carbon fuels are harmful to human health. Exhaust emissions from carbon-neutral fuels, particularly biodiesel, and their blends with gasoline/diesel are cytotoxic, leading to severe cellular damage, such as oxidative damage, inflammatory responses, DNA damage, cell death, or apoptosis. Moreover, the normal function of the human body’s respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, digestive, urinary, and nervous systems may also be impacted by these fuel emissions according to cytotoxic research. Cytotoxicity of fuel combustion products is usually related to the fuel type, time, dose, and cell line used in the experiment. This review provides some ideas for the exhaust emission management of zero-carbon and carbon-neutral fuels and human health assessment. It also presents a theoretical and experimental basis for further research, including in vivo experiments.
Cu@PtRu Core–Shell Nanostructured Electrocatalysts Anchored on Reduced Graphene Oxide toward Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Gomes Walber dos Santos , Noce Rodrigo della , de Matos Tamires de Sousa , Andrade Flávio Vargas , Molfetta Fábio Alberto , Iúdice de Souza José Pio
Published: September 2023

This work reports the influence of a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) support on the catalytic performance of Cu@PtRu/rGO electrocatalysts toward methanol oxidation in an acidic medium. These electrocatalysts are synthesized via a two-step reduction method; the first step utilizes ethylene glycol for the reduction of Cu2+ ions, forming Cu/rGO. In the second step, spontaneous redox reactions take place, in a process known as galvanic displacement, where the Pt2+ and Ru3+ species are reduced to form PtRu layers, and the copper is partially oxidized to the solution. Then, the Cu@PtRu/rGO core–shell is produced, comprising Cu in the inner structure (core) and PtRu on the outer part (shell). To compare the catalytic performance of the prepared nanocatalysts (NCs), Pt/C, PtRu/C, and Cu@PtRu/C are also synthesized on Vulcan XC-72R carbon. All catalysts are characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA) are employed to measure the electrochemical performance. The core–shell/rGO combination is superior in catalytic activity to the traditional Pt/C, PtRu/C, and Cu@PtRu/C catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction. These results suggest that Cu@PtRu/rGO exhibits a high bulk activity for methanol electrooxidation, a high stability, and a high tolerance to CO poisoning, meaning it is possible to reduce the platinum loading in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs).
Laboratory Study on Adhesive Ash Deposition Characteristics of Ammonium Bisulfate in Conditions Simulating an Air Preheater for Hard Coal Combustion
Authors: Chen Xiaoqiang , Ji Xinye , Feng Jinjin , Heng Lijun , Zhao Lingling
Published: September 2023

The ash blockage of the rotary air preheater is a serious problem of the coal-fired boiler that urgently needs to be solved, which is caused by the adhesive deposition of ammonium bisulfate (ABS) and the fly ash. A comprehensive experimental study was performed to investigate the adhesive ash deposition characteristics based on an experimental platform established. The influences of the gas temperature, the gas velocity, the mass ratio of the ABS to the fly ash (R), and the ash particle size on the ash deposition characteristics were mainly analyzed and discussed under different conditions. The experimental results indicate that the liquid ABS is the root cause of the ash particles adhering to the heat transfer elements of the air preheater. The experimental results indicate that when the gas temperature is in the range of 420–493 K, the ABS ash deposition intensity and the ABS adhesion rate both increase with the increase in the gas temperature. When it is 493 K, the ABS adhesion rates of the corrugated plate and the positioning plate both reach maximum values, which are 31.7% and 27.9%, respectively. With the decrease in gas velocity, the total ash deposition intensity, the ABS ash deposition intensity, the ABS adhesion rate, and the growth rate of the ABS adhesion all increase. The content of ABS in the fly ash is also an important factor. When R rises, the ash deposition intensity and the ABS adhesion rate increase significantly. The particle size of the fly ash has little influence on the total ash deposition intensity, but has a great influence on the ABS ash deposition intensity and the ABS adhesion rate. With the increase in the particle size in the range of 30.8–100 μm, the ABS ash deposition intensity decreases by nearly 50%, and the ABS adhesion rates of plates A and B decrease by about 43.9% and 49.6%, respectively. According to the study results, some effective measures can be taken to solve the ash blocking problem of the rotary air preheater, including using the steam air heater, optimizing the operation parameters of the soot blower, and inhibiting ABS formation.
Comparative Analysis of Real-Emitted Particulate Matter and PM-Bound Chemicals from Residential and Automotive Sources: A Case Study in Poland
Authors: Szramowiat-Sala Katarzyna , Styszko Katarzyna , Samek Lucyna , Kistler Magdalena , Macherzyński Mariusz , Ryšavý Jiří , Krpec Kamil , Horák Jiří , Kasper-Giebl Anne , Gołaś Janusz
Published: September 2023

The awareness of environmental pollution has been continuously growing in recent decades and is currently reaching its maximum. Europe and most developed countries are determined to ensure safe breathing air for their citizens, and the measures to do so are stricter than ever before. Combustion procedures remain the primary means of producing energy and warmth in Poland. Among the notable constituents of flue gases produced as a result of fuel combustion, solid particles (or particulate matter) hold significant prominence. The paper presents the chemical characterisation of particulate matter emitted from stationary and automotive emission sources. Stationary emission sources included the combustion process of fossil fuels (soft wood, bituminous coal, ecopea coal, culm) in domestic heating units and the process of combustion of bituminous coal in a power plant. Automotive emission sources included light duty and medium duty vehicles fuelled by diesel. Exhaust toxicity tests were carried out maintaining the real conditions of PM emission. In all field measurements particulate matter was gravimetrically measured and collected on quartz or glass fibre filters. Subsequently, the content of carbonaceous fraction, inorganic ions, and metals and metalloids was analyzed using different analytical techniques. The chemical composition of the particulate matter differed depending on the emission source. With respect to stationary combustion sources, the main factors determining solid particle emission are related primarily to the fuel quality. The duty of vehicles was also a factor that influenced the chemical characterisation of the particulate matter emitted from the engines.
Electricity Market Dynamics and Regional Interdependence in the Face of Pandemic Restrictions and the Russian–Ukrainian Conflict
Authors: Szeberényi András , Bakó Ferenc
Published: September 2023

Electricity constitutes a significant part of the consumption basket of European households and companies. Since energy products are essential components of almost all products and services, any change in energy prices directly impacts the general price level of those products and services. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of power exchange data between 2019 and 2022. For the analysis, we examined the data of 15 countries. In the research, we compared electricity prices in European power exchanges using the Jaccard similarity index and the overlap coefficient, using the DAM hourly prices between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2022. We transformed the time series into networks using the visibility graph procedure and compared the networks of the studied countries using the two comparison methods with the degree distribution functions. Our aim is to examine how the market anomalies caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian–Ukrainian conflict affect European electricity markets and how quickly the repercussions spread across the studied countries’ exchanges, and whether they show persistent or anti-persistent characteristics. The results support that similar market effects significantly influence the pattern of price changes among the countries. The methods forming the basis of the research can provide significant assistance in analyzing market trends and contribute to a better understanding of market processes.
Studies on the Source and Phase Characteristics of Oil and Gas: Evidence from Hydrocarbon Geochemistry in the Pingbei Area of Xihu Sag, the East China Sea Shelf Basin, China
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Jianfa , Liu Kaixuan , Fu Rao , Chen Cong , Wang Yingxun , Zhu Xinjian , Chen Xiaodong , Zhang Tonglei , He Liwen
Published: September 2023

The Pingbei area is the main accumulation area of oil and gas in the Xihu Sag. The phase characteristics of oil and gas in this area are complex, and the understanding of their genesis is still unclear. In this paper, based upon discussions of crude oil and natural gas geochemical data, integrated with local geological features, we discuss the sources, migration, and phase state characteristics of oil and gas in the Pingbei area of the Xihu Sag. The study results show that the crude oil and natural gas in the Pingbei area are coal-derived and the oil and gas produced by the humic organic matter during the mature stage. The oil and gas source correlation showed that crude oil and natural gas have good affinity with the Eocene Pinghu Formation (PH) coal-bearing source rocks. Crude oil has the characteristics of near-source accumulation and short-distance migration while natural gas is supplied from a dual source: the coal-derived hydrocarbon rocks of PH in the deep part of the study area, supplemented by the coal-derived hydrocarbon rocks of PH on the bottom of the slope, and adjacent hydrocarbon-bearing sub sag. The distribution characteristics and geochemical migration indices of hydrocarbon show that the oil generated from the hydrocarbon source rocks of PH in the deep Pingbei area mainly migrates vertically along the fault connecting the reservoir and the source rocks to the trap, where it accumulates, while the natural gas exhibits deep and large faults that mainly migrate vertically, supplemented by its lateral migration along the composite transport system composed of faults and sandstone layers in the slope zone. The whole area presents the phase characteristics of “upper oil and lower gas, west oil and east gas”. The mechanisms of produced-exhausted and geochromatographic effects (PGE), as well as evaporative fractionation (EF) and phase-controlled migration fractionation (PMF), result in the obvious discrepancy of hydrocarbon’s properties on the vertical profiles.
PCA-Enhanced Methodology for the Identification of Partial Discharge Locations
Authors: Iorkyase Ephraim , Tachtatzis Christos , Atkinson Robert
Published: September 2023

Partial discharge (PD) that occurs due to insulation breakdown is a precursor to plant failure. PD emits electromagnetic pulses which radiate through space and can be detected using appropriate sensing devices. This paper proposed an enhanced radiolocation technique to locate PD. This approach depends on sensing the radio frequency spectrum and the extraction of PD location features from PD signals. We hypothesize that the statistical characterization of the received PD signals generates many features that represent distinct PD locations within a substation. It is assumed that the waveform of the received signal is altered due to attenuation and distortion during propagation. A methodology for the identification of PD locations based on extracted signal features has been developed using a fingerprint matching algorithm. First, the original extracted signal features are used as inputs to the algorithm. Secondly, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is used to improve PD localization accuracy by transforming the original extracted features into s new informative feature subspace (principal components) with reduced dimensionality. The few selected PCs are then used as inputs into the algorithm to develop a new PD localization model. This work has established that PCA can provide robust PC representative features with spatially distinctive patterns, a prerequisite for a good fingerprinting localization model. The results indicate that the location of a discharge can be determined from the selected PCs with improved localization accuracy compared to using the original extracted PD features directly.
Analysis of Ice Formation during Start-Up of PEM Fuel Cells at Subzero Temperatures Using Experimental and Simulative Methods
Authors: Schmitz Maximilian , Bahr Matthias , Gößling Sönke , Pischinger Stefan
Published: September 2023

Freeze start is a challenge in the commercialization of PEM fuel cells. In this study, ice formation in cell layers is investigated through experiments and simulations. Segmentation of the fuel cell on the test bench allows to determine the local distributions of current density and high frequency resistance over the active cell area. The location and timing of ice formation are analyzed in the experiments. It is shown that the formation of ice lenses can be detected by local measurements of the high frequency resistances. Then, a multiphysical CFD model is built and validated with the measurements and the commonalities and differences between the model results and the experiments are studied. It is shown that the model determines the freeze start behavior very well in wide operating ranges. Together with the findings from the experimental investigations, the model will finally be used to investigate local ice formation in detail.
The Effects of Off-Farm Employment on Non-Timber Forest Product Plantations
Authors: Zhou Wei , Dai Jing-Yi , Zhang Zi-Qiang , Tian Pu-Yu
Published: September 2023

Non-timber forest product plantations (NTFP plantations), also known as “economic forests” in China, refer to forest plantations cultivated for the production of non-timber products such as fruits, nuts, oils, seasonings, and medicinal materials. With a rapid increase in the total area in the past two decades, NTFP plantations have become an important type of forestland use in China. The shift of agricultural labor to the non-agricultural sector caused by rising salaries in China will inevitably have a great impact on land use, forestry, and agricultural production. To understand the effects of off-farm employment on the development of NTFP plantations in China, a total of 709 valid household questionnaires from Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces were collected. Heckman’s two-stage model was employed in the empirical analysis. The results of the study show that off-farm employment has a significant positive effect on both the probability that a household has planted NTFP plantations and the plantation area. Households engaged in off-farm employment would prefer to plant NTFP plantations. Moreover, the higher the degree of participation in off-farm employment, the more likely households are to choose to plant NTFP plantations. The area of NTFP plantations would increase with the increase in off-farm employment degrees. Besides, the age and education level of the household head show a positive effect on the NTFP plantation planting. The implication of the results is that with a continuing increase in the proportion of off-farm employment, NTFP plantation cultivation could also continue to expand. Funds are still an important constraint for households to choose to plant NTFP plantations. Therefore, if policymakers want to promote the development of NTFP plantations on collectively owned forestland, they should first resolve households’ financial constraints.
Post-Restoration Forest Management Issues in East Asia under Climate Change: Based on the Special Issue “Economic and Societal Losses Due to Environmental Impacts on Forestry Productivity”
Authors: Sato Noriko , Yoshimura Tetsuhiko
Published: September 2023

Forests provide diverse ecosystem services to people. Consequently, initiatives have been undertaken to restore deforested areas. In East Asian countries, particularly those within the Asian Monsoon region, deforestation has contributed to natural disasters such as sediment run-off, landslides, and flooding, which are exacerbated by torrential rainfall. Restoring forest cover is a critical aspect of national land conservation. To achieve this goal, state-led afforestation initiatives have been launched. Successful afforestation efforts have also been considered an indicator of economic development. However, Japan, which implemented afforestation projects successfully in the 1950s and 1970s, has experienced the under-utilization of its forests due to significant changes in economic and societal conditions since afforestation took place. During the 2010s, the Japanese government promoted the industrialization of forestry, encouraging final felling and reforestation. However, there have been issues with immature forest operation methods and low forestry productivity. Furthermore, in the context of intensifying climate change, heavy rainfall-induced disasters have become more intense, with an increased threat to human safety. Research efforts from the natural and social science fields in Japan have helped identify issues that need to be addressed concerning forests where plantation trees are now utilizable. There is a need to identify improved methods of forestry practice that reduce the risk of climate change-related disasters and establish related forest policies.
Influences of Wood Decomposition Associated with Tree Types on Soil Nutrient Concentrations and Enzyme Activities
Authors: Ji Xiang-Yu , Xu Qian , Zhao Zhu-Qi , Zheng Yu-Xiong , Deng Lei , Hu Zhen-Hong
Published: September 2023

Wood decomposition is a biogeochemical process fundamental to element cycling in forest ecosystems, which could alter the nutrient concentrations and enzyme activities of the underlying forest soils. Wood traits, which vary by tree species, can influence decomposition aboveground, but it is not well understood how wood decomposition associated with different tree types (i.e., angiosperm and gymnosperm species) influences underlying soil nutrient concentrations and enzyme activities. In this study, we evaluated how tree type (for four angiosperm vs. four gymnosperm species) affects underlying soil total carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) concentrations; microbial biomass C, N, and P concentrations; and C-, N-, and P-acquiring enzymes activities. We found that decomposing wood significantly increased soil total P, and microbial biomass C and P concentrations. However, the differences in the nutrient concentrations of soil and microbial biomass beneath decomposing wood were not different between angiosperm and gymnosperm species. Surprisingly, the activities of soil C-, N-, and P-acquiring enzymes beneath the decomposing wood differed significantly between angiosperm and gymnosperm species. The soils beneath decomposing angiosperm wood had higher P-acquiring enzyme activity, while the soils beneath gymnosperm wood had higher C- and N-acquiring enzyme activities. The soils beneath angiosperm and gymnosperm wood had a similar C-limitation for microbial metabolism, but the microbial metabolism in soils beneath angiosperm wood was more P-limited compared to soils beneath gymnosperm wood. In conclusion, our findings highlight that the tree types of decomposing wood may affect underlying soil enzyme activities and enzyme characteristics, improving our ability to accurately predict the role of wood decomposition on forest nutrient cycles.
Phytoremediation Effect and Soil Microbial Community Characteristics of Jiulong Iron Tailings Area, Jiangxi
Authors: Lingyu Hou , Wenzheng Wang , Liguo Song , Qian Wang , Xiangrong Liu , Yanlin Zhang , Qiwu Sun
Published: September 2023

The aim of this paper was to explore the remediation effect and mechanism of Wetland pine (Pinus elliottii), Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook), and Alder (Alnus cremastogyne Burkill) on heavy metal contaminated soil in the iron tailings of Jiulong Iron Tailings Area. At the same time, the specificity of plant rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil microbial community structure and ecological function were analyzed based on macrogenomic sequencing. The results showed that the dominant microbial genera in J1 (control) was Acidobacteria, followed by Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. The microbial genera with the highest percentage of relative abundance in J2, J3, J4, J5, and J6 (J2, Wetland Pine rhizosphere; J3, Wetland Pine non-rhizosphere; J4, Chinese fir rhizosphere; J5, Alder rhizosphere; J6, Alder non-rhizosphere) were Proteobacteria, followed by Acidobacteria, and Actinobacteria. It was found that Proteobacteria promoted heavy metal solubilization, activated heavy metals, and converted their forms to improve plant uptake of heavy metals. This proves that the microorganisms of Proteobacteria are the key microbial genera in the study of regional heavy metal remediation. The antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in microorganisms can respond to the inducement of heavy metals. Here, we investigated the relationship between the abundance of soil microorganisms ARGs and heavy metal pollution in Jiulong Iron Tailings Area. There are significant differences in the quantity and category of ARGs in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples of the three tree species. The results of this study provide the foundation for the theory and practice of remediation of heavy metal contamination in soils of iron tailing areas in Jiulong Iron Tailings Area in similar stand conditions.
Acetate Production by Moorella thermoacetica via Syngas Fermentation: Effect of Yeast Extract and Syngas Composition
Authors: Harahap Budi Mandra , Ahring Birgitte K.
Published: September 2023

Gasifiers produce a gaseous mixture of CO/CO2/H2, also known as synthesis gas (syngas), containing varying compositions and ratios depending on the lignocellulose material types, gasifier design, and gasification conditions. Different physicochemical and thermodynamic properties of each gas type in the various syngas blends can influence syngas fermentation performance for the production of chemicals such as acetate. This study examined the effect of syngas composition (CO, CO/H2, CO/CO2/H2, and CO/H2) and its corresponding ratio on acetate production using Moorella thermoacetica, a thermophilic homoacetogen as the biocatalyst. We also investigated the effect of yeast extract addition for enhancing acetate production. A syngas fermentation study performed at a total pressure of 19 psig (2.29 atm) demonstrated that syngas fermentation in the absence of CO (30%CO2/70%H2) or at low CO proportions (21%CO/24%CO2/55%H2) resulted in the highest volumetric productivity of acetate (0.046 ± 0.001 and 0.037 ± 0.001 g/L/h, respectively). Interestingly, syngas fermentation without CO reached the highest YP/X of 22.461 ± 0.574 g-acetate/g-biomass, indicating that more acetate was produced compared to cell biomass. Higher biomass production was obtained when the CO proportion was increased up to 75% in CO/H2 fermentation. However, the cell growth and acetate production dramatically decreased with increasing CO proportion up to 99.5% CO as the sole constituent of the syngas. Even so, acetate production using 99.5% CO could be improved by adding 2 g/L yeast extract.
Enhanced DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity and Enriched γ-Aminobutyric Acid in Mulberry Juice Fermented by the Probiotic Lactobacillus brevis S3
Authors: Gong Luchan , Li Tingting , Feng Jian , Yin Jiamin , Zou Xiaozhou , Wang Jun , Wang Bowen
Published: September 2023

Mulberries, known for their high sugar content and rich bioactive compounds, have attracted attention for their potential health benefits. γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid with multiple physiological functions. To increase the GABA content and enhance the antioxidant capacity in fermented mulberry beverages, we screened a high-yielding strain, Lactobacillus brevis S3, known for its probiotic properties. L. brevis S3 demonstrated an excellent tolerance to simulated gastric acid, gastric juice, intestinal fluid, bile salts, osmotic pressure, and phenol, making it a safe and valuable probiotic candidate for mulberry fermentation. We attempted the addition of different nutritional components to enhance the GABA content in mulberry juice, including 1% yeast extract; 0.5% peptone; 0.01% metal ion complex (magnesium sulfate, manganese sulfate, and ferrous sulfate); combinations of yeast extract and peptone, and all three components. Mulberry juice supplemented with all three components reached a viable cell count of 1.2 × 1010 CFU/mL after 72 h. The antioxidant capacity and GABA titer were enhanced. The DPPH free radical scavenging capacity increased by 1.62 times, and the GABA content reached 7.48 g/L. By utilizing L. brevis S3 with excellent probiotic properties and supplementation with nutritional components, it is possible to produce low-sugar mulberry functional beverages with a high DPPH free radical scavenging capacity that are rich in GABA.
FL-LoRaMAC: A Novel Framework for Enabling On-Device Learning for LoRa-Based IoT Applications
Authors: Aggarwal Shobhit , Nasipuri Asis
Published: September 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) enables us to gain access to a wide range of data from the physical world that can be analyzed for deriving critical state information. In this regard, machine learning (ML) is a valuable tool that can be used to develop models based on observed physical data, leading to efficient analytical decisions, including anomaly detection. In this work, we address some key challenges for applying ML in IoT applications that include maintaining privacy considerations of user data that are needed for developing ML models and minimizing the communication cost for transmitting the data over the IoT network. We consider a representative application of the anomaly detection of ECG signals that are obtained from a set of low-cost wearable sensors and transmitted to a central server using LoRaWAN, which is a popular and emerging low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) technology. We present a novel framework utilizing federated learning (FL) to preserve data privacy and appropriate features for uplink and downlink communications between the end devices and the gateway to optimize the communication cost. Performance results obtained from computer simulations demonstrate that the proposed framework leads to a 98% reduction in the volume of data that is required to achieve the same level of performance as in traditional centralized ML.
Prospective Areas of Digital Economy in the Context of ICT Usages: An Empirical Study in Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan Mohammad Rakibul Islam , Uddin K. M. Salah , Milon Md Noor Uddin
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study is to assess the current and future potential of the digital economy in Bangladesh, with the goal of fostering national development and prosperity by the year 2041. Concurrently, this study examines the various aspects of the digital economy through the lens of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and emerging technologies, specifically focusing on the utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) in Bangladesh. The methodology section employs a qualitative approach to ascertain the research objectives, utilizing secondary data. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of the contemporary status of the digital economy, focusing on emerging trends that have a significant impact on the national gross domestic product (GDP). Companies and individuals possess an understanding of the digital economy, which has the potential to mitigate the digital divide and establish a robust connection between technology and the economy. The research contributes to a more thorough understanding that Bangladesh is ranked 40th out of 193 nations at present; with the advancement of the digital economy, it will move up to 24th place in 2034. Future research can perhaps be expanded by adopting a qualitative methodology to explore the concept of a smart Bangladesh.
Quantification and Detection of Ground Garlic Adulteration Using Fourier-Transform Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectra
Authors: Daszykowski Michal , Kula Michal , Stanimirova Ivana
Published: September 2023

This study demonstrates the rapid and cost-effective possibility of quantifying adulterant amounts (corn flour or corn starch) in ground and dried garlic samples. Prepared mixtures with different concentrations of selected adulterant were effectively characterized using Fourier-transform near-infrared reflectance spectra (FT-NIR), and multivariate calibration models were developed using two methods: principal component regression (PCR) and partial least squares regression (PLSR). They were constructed for optimally preprocessed FT-NIR spectra, and PLSR models generally performed better regarding model fit and predictions than PCR. The optimal PLSR model, built to estimate the amount of corn flour present in the ground and dried garlic samples, was constructed for the first derivative spectra obtained after Savitzky–Golay smoothing (fifteen sampling points and polynomial of the second degree). It demonstrated root mean squared errors for calibration and validation samples equal to 1.8841 and 1.8844 (i.e., 1.88% concerning the calibration range), respectively, and coefficients of determination equal to 0.9955 and 0.9858. The optimal PLSR model constructed for spectra after inverse scattering correction to assess the amount of corn starch had root mean squared errors for calibration and validation samples equal to 1.7679 and 1.7812 (i.e., 1.77% and 1.78% concerning the calibration range), respectively, and coefficients of determination equal to 0.9961 and 0.9873. It was also possible to discriminate samples adulterated with corn flour or corn starch using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The optimal PLS-DA model had a very high correct classification rate (99.66%), sensitivity (99.96%), and specificity (99.36%), calculated for external validation samples. Uncertainties of these figures of merit, estimated using the Monte Carlo validation approach, were relatively small. One-class classification partial least squares models, developed to detect the adulterant type, presented very optimistic sensitivity for validation samples (above 99%) but low specificity (64% and 45.33% for models recognizing corn flour or corn starch adulterants, respectively). Through experimental investigation, chemometric data analysis, and modeling, we have verified that the FT-NIR technique exhibits the required sensitivity to quantify adulteration in dried ground garlic, whether it involves corn flour or corn starch.
Kombucha: Challenges for Health and Mental Health
Authors: Batista Patrícia , Rodrigues Penas Maria , Vila-Real Catarina , Pintado Manuela , Oliveira-Silva Patrícia
Published: September 2023

Background: Increasing research into probiotics is showing potential benefits for health in general and mental health in particular. Kombucha is a recent beverage and can be considered a probiotic drink, but little is known about its effects on physical and mental health. This product is experiencing growth in the market; however, there are no scientific results to support its potential for physical and mental health. Aim: This review article aims to draw attention to this issue and to highlight the lack of studies in this area. Key findings and conclusions: The lack of legislation for the correct marketing of this product may also constrain clinical studies. However, clinical studies are of utmost importance for an in-depth understanding of the effects of this product on the human body. More research is needed, not only to better understand the impact of Kombucha on the human body, but also to ensure the application of regulatory guidelines for its production and marketing and enable its safe and effective consumption.
Droplet-Based Microfluidics as a Platform to Design Food-Grade Delivery Systems Based on the Entrapped Compound Type
Authors: Bianchi Jhonatan Rafael de Oliveira , de la Torre Lucimara Gaziola , Costa Ana Leticia Rodrigues
Published: September 2023

Microfluidic technology has emerged as a powerful tool for several applications, including chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. Due to the laminar regime, droplet-based microfluidics enable the development of diverse delivery systems based on food-grade emulsions, such as multiple emulsions, microgels, microcapsules, solid lipid microparticles, and giant liposomes. Additionally, by precisely manipulating fluids on the low-energy-demand micrometer scale, it becomes possible to control the size, shape, and dispersity of generated droplets, which makes microfluidic emulsification an excellent approach for tailoring delivery system properties based on the nature of the entrapped compounds. Thus, this review points out the most current advances in droplet-based microfluidic processes, which successfully use food-grade emulsions to develop simple and complex delivery systems. In this context, we summarized the principles of droplet-based microfluidics, introducing the most common microdevice geometries, the materials used in the manufacture, and the forces involved in the different droplet-generation processes into the microchannels. Subsequently, the encapsulated compound type, classified as lipophilic or hydrophilic functional compounds, was used as a starting point to present current advances in delivery systems using food-grade emulsions and their assembly using microfluidic technologies. Finally, we discuss the limitations and perspectives of scale-up in droplet-based microfluidic approaches, including the challenges that have limited the transition of microfluidic processes from the lab-scale to the industrial-scale.
The Effect of Freeze–Thaw Cycles on the Microscopic Properties of Dumpling Wrappers
Authors: Pan Zhili , Bai Yibo , Xu Lina , Zhang Yanjie , Lei Mengmeng , Huang Zhongmin
Published: September 2023

Dumplings are a traditional Chinese food welcomed by Chinese people. Research has indicated that process of quick-frozen wheat cultivars and their gliadins are all related to the quality and shelf-life of dumplings. Therefore, the effect of freeze–thaw cycles on the textural properties and microscopic characteristics of two types of quick-frozen dumpling wrappers (Zhaomai and Wenmai 19) and conformation of their gliadins were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy showed that Wenmai 19 dumpling wrappers had apparent damage after the first cycle, but Zhaomai wrappers did not reveal significant changes until the fourth cycle. The particle size distribution in the starch granules of Wenmai 19 wrappers varied in terms of mechanical damage, but Zhaomai delayed or avoided such effects. FT-IR found a loose protein structure of the gliadins. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that gliadins of Wenmai 19 degenerated more than those of Zhaomai. The crosslinking of gliadin and glutenin maintained a high-quality gluten network, thus protecting the gliadin stability from ice crystals. In turn, the gliadin maintained the strength of the gluten network. Therefore, raw flours with high-quality protein networks are more suitable for frozen dumplings. Freeze–thaw cycles dramatically decreased the textural characteristics of dumpling wrappers and the microscopic characteristics of their gliadin proteins. Concerning wheat cultivars with weak gluten, flours with high-quality protein networks are more suitable as raw materials for frozen dumplings.
In Situ Forming Bioartificial Hydrogels with ROS Scavenging Capability Induced by Gallic Acid Release with Potential in Chronic Skin Wound Treatment
Authors: Laurano Rossella , Torchio Alessandro , Ciardelli Gianluca , Boffito Monica
Published: September 2023

In normal chronic wound healing pathways, the presence of strong and persistent inflammation states characterized by high Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) concentrations is one of the major concerns hindering tissue regeneration. The administration of different ROS scavengers has been investigated over the years, but their effectiveness has been strongly limited by their short half-life caused by chronic wound environmental conditions. This work aimed at overcoming this criticism by formulating bioartificial hydrogels able to preserve the functionalities of the encapsulated scavenger (i.e., gallic acid—GA) and expand its therapeutic window. To this purpose, an amphiphilic poly(ether urethane) exposing -NH groups (4.5 × 1020 units/gpolymer) was first synthesized and blended with a low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. The role exerted by the solvent on system gelation mechanism and swelling capability was first studied, evidencing superior thermo-responsiveness for formulations prepared in saline solution compared to double demineralized water (ddH2O). Nevertheless, drug-loaded hydrogels were prepared in ddH2O as the best compromise to preserve GA from degradation while retaining gelation potential. GA was released with a controlled and sustained profile up to 48 h and retained its scavenger capability against hydroxyl, superoxide and 1′-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals at each tested time point. Moreover, the same GA amounts were able to significantly reduce intracellular ROS concentration upon oxidative stress induction. Lastly, the system was highly cytocompatible according to ISO regulation and GA-enriched extracts did not induce NIH-3T3 morphology changes.
Investigation of Crosslinking Parameters and Characterization of Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers: From Design to Product Performances
Authors: Pluda Stefano , Salvagnini Cecilia , Fontana Anna , Marchetti Anna , Di Lucia Alba , Galesso Devis , Guarise Cristian
Published: September 2023

Despite process similarities, distinctive manufacturing technologies offer hyaluronic acid dermal fillers with different in vitro physicochemical and rheological properties due to peculiar crosslinked hydrogel networks. A better understanding of dermal filler properties could provide specific clinical indications and expectations with more accurate performance correlations. In this study, with an emphasis on the degree of modification, hyaluronic acid concentration and molecular weight, these process parameters were able to modulate dermal filler properties, especially rheology. Moreover, an extensive characterization of commercial hyaluronic acid injectables of the Hyal System line was described to present product properties and help to elucidate related clinical effects. Standardized methodologies were applied to correlate in vitro parameters with feasible clinical indications. In view of an optimized dermal filler design, the results of the extrudability measurements allowed the quantification of the effect of hydrogel composition, rheological properties and needle size on injectability. Composition, dynamic viscosity and needle size showed an impactful influence on hydrogel extrudability. Finally, the positive influence of 200 KDa hyaluronic acid in comparison to fragments of ether-crosslinked hyaluronic acid on fibroblast recognition were shown with a migration assay.
Gene Expression Analysis of nc-RNAs in Bipolar and Panic Disorders: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bella Fabrizio , Muscatello Maria Rosaria Anna , D’Ascola Angela , Campo Salvatore
Published: September 2023

Background: Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a chronic, highly disabling mood disorder. Among the major comorbidities, Panic Disorder (PD) is often associated with BD. This could suggest a common genetic and pathophysiological background between these two conditions, as suggested by previous studies. Despite the widespread diffusion of these conditions, little is still known about the exact pathophysiological dynamics that underlies them. Non-coding RNAs have recently started to gain attention in psychiatry research, with several papers indicating the dysregulation of lncRNAs as a possible key factor in etiopathogenesis of several mental disorders. In the light of the above, the aim of this study is to evaluate the gene expression levels of MALAT1, PANDA, GAS5, HOTAIR lncRNAs and miR-221-5p microRNA, which are highly expressed in the CNS, in drug-naïve/drug-free bipolar and panic patients. Methods: the experimental plan envisaged the recruitment of sixteen patients with a first diagnosis of type one or type two BD and ten patients with PD. Patients with medical and/or psychiatric comorbidities were excluded. Peripheral venous blood was collected both from patients and healthy controls. Each of the patients recruited for the study was prescribed with therapy. Serum ncRNAs levels were remeasured after 5 months of therapy. Results: MALAT-1, GAS-5 and miR-221-5p are significantly up-regulated in BD after therapy, while PD group showed a down-regulation of all the ncRNAs investigated after therapy. Conclusions: gene expression levels of the ncRNAs miR-221, MALAT1, GAS5, which are implicated in inhibitory modulation of the glucocorticoid receptor, are significantly over-expressed in bipolar patients following therapy, while all ncRNAs are significantly over-expressed in the PD T1 patients group compared with healthy controls. Data concerning PD represent, to our knowledge, a novelty.
Hsp70 Gene Family in Sebastiscus marmoratus: The Genome-Wide Identification and Transcriptome Analysis under Thermal Stress
Authors: Han Xiaolu , Jin Shihuai , Shou Chenyan , Han Zhiqiang
Published: September 2023

Heat shock protein 70 kDa (Hsp70) is a highly conserved heat stress protein that is important in biotic processes and responses to abiotic stress. Hsp70 genes may be important in Sebastiscus marmoratus, for it is a kind of nearshore reef fish, and habitat temperature change is more drastic during development. However, genome-wide identification and expression analysis in the Hsp70 gene family of S. marmoratus are still lacking. Here, a total of 15 Hsp70 genes in the genome of S. marmoratus are identified, and their expression patterns were investigated using transcriptomic data from thermal stress experiments. The expansion and gene duplication events of Hsp70 genes from the Hspa4, Hspa8, and Hspa12a subfamilies in S. marmoratus are revealed by phylogenetic analysis. qRT-PCR expression patterns demonstrated that seven Hsp70 genes were significantly up-regulated and none were significantly down-regulated after heat treatment. Only the hsp70 gene was significantly up-regulated after cold treatment. The selection test further showed a purifying selection on the duplicated gene pairs, suggesting that these genes underwent subfunctionalization. Our results add novel insight to aquaculture and biological research on S. marmoratus, providing important information on how Hsp70 genes are regulated in Scorpaeniformes under thermal stress.
Origins of East Caucasus Gene Pool: Contributions of Autochthonous Bronze Age Populations and Migrations from West Asia Estimated from Y-Chromosome Data
Authors: Agdzhoyan Anastasia , Iskandarov Nasib , Ponomarev Georgy , Pylev Vladimir , Koshel Sergey , Salaev Vugar , Pocheshkhova Elvira , Kagazezheva Zhaneta , Balanovska Elena
Published: September 2023

The gene pool of the East Caucasus, encompassing modern-day Azerbaijan and Dagestan populations, was studied alongside adjacent populations using 83 Y-chromosome SNP markers. The analysis of genetic distances among 18 populations (N = 2216) representing Nakh-Dagestani, Altaic, and Indo-European language families revealed the presence of three components (Steppe, Iranian, and Dagestani) that emerged in different historical periods. The Steppe component occurs only in Karanogais, indicating a recent medieval migration of Turkic-speaking nomads from the Eurasian steppe. The Iranian component is observed in Azerbaijanis, Dagestani Tabasarans, and all Iranian-speaking peoples of the Caucasus. The Dagestani component predominates in Dagestani-speaking populations, except for Tabasarans, and in Turkic-speaking Kumyks. Each component is associated with distinct Y-chromosome haplogroup complexes: the Steppe includes C-M217, N-LLY22g, R1b-M73, and R1a-M198; the Iranian includes J2-M172(×M67, M12) and R1b-M269; the Dagestani includes J1-Y3495 lineages. We propose J1-Y3495 haplogroup’s most common lineage originated in an autochthonous ancestral population in central Dagestan and splits up ~6 kya into J1-ZS3114 (Dargins, Laks, Lezgi-speaking populations) and J1-CTS1460 (Avar-Andi-Tsez linguistic group). Based on the archeological finds and DNA data, the analysis of J1-Y3495 phylogeography suggests the growth of the population in the territory of modern-day Dagestan that started in the Bronze Age, its further dispersal, and the microevolution of the diverged population.