bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple Siamese Model with Long Short-Term Memory for User Authentication with Field-Programmable Gate Arrays
Authors: Choi Hyun-Sik
Published: July 2024

Recent studies have focused on user authentication methods that use biometric signals such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and photo-plethysmography (PPG). These authentication technologies have advantages such as ease of acquisition, strong security, and the capability for non-aware authentication. This study addresses user authentication using electromyogram (EMG) signals, which are particularly easy to acquire, can be fabricated in a wearable form such as a wristwatch, and are readily expandable with technologies such as human–machine interface. However, despite their potential, they often exhibit lower accuracy (approximately 90%) than traditional methods such as fingerprint recognition. Accuracy can be improved using complex algorithms and multiple biometric authentication technologies; however, complex algorithms use substantial hardware resources, making their application to wearable devices difficult. In this study, a simple Siamese model with long short-term memory (LSTM) (SSiamese-LSTM) is proposed to achieve a high accuracy of over 99% with limited resources suitable for wearable devices. The hardware implementation was accomplished using field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In terms of accuracy, EMG measurement results from Chosun University were used, and data from 100 individuals were employed for verification. The proposed digital logic will be integrated with an EMG sensor in the form of a watch that can be used for user authentication.
Pathways to the Large-Scale Adoption of Residential Photovoltaics in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshehri Abeer , James Patrick , Bahaj AbuBakr
Published: June 2024

This survey of predominantly middle–high-income owner-occupier households in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) assessed household perspectives to residential photovoltaics (PVs) (n = 268). Higher-income households were statistically more likely to (i) accept financial payback times of more than 12 months for the CAPEX cost of a PV system, and (ii) be prepared to contribute up to SAR 10,000 (USD 2666) towards the CAPEX cost of a system. A multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that a high household education level and the dwelling tenure (owner) are key variables that positively influence PV acceptability. Median apartment and villa households in this survey had annual electricity demands of 22,969 kWh and 48,356 kWh, respectively. The available roof area per apartment and villa was assessed, considering parapet shading and roof furniture limitations (the presence of AC units, etc.), at 20 m2 and 75 m2, respectively. This would accommodate either a 4 kWp apartment system or a 10 kWp villa system mounted horizontally. Time-of-use tariffs or grant subsidies towards the cost of a PV system will be required to enable the surveyed households to meet their stated economic conditions for purchasing a PV system. This indicates that PV policies in KSA will need to be adapted to encourage the uptake of PVs.
Recent Developments in Hydrocyclone Technology for Oil-in-Water Separation from Produced Water
Authors: Ekechukwu Okwunna Maryjane , Asim Taimoor , Hawez Haval Kukha
Published: June 2024

The treatment of produced water is a major challenge faced by oil and gas industries worldwide. As a result of the increase in industrial activities, the generation of produced water has increased significantly. The most commonly used method for produced water oil–water separation is de-oiling hydrocyclone technology due to its simple construction, compact design, easy maintenance, and high efficiency. A wide breadth of scientific research studies has been carried out on performance evaluation, design optimisation, geometric parametrisation, external interventions, etc., to enhance the performance of hydrocyclones. These studies mostly rely on either experimental data obtained from the field, in laboratories under a controlled environment, or the application of numerical techniques for oil-in-water separation. Considering the extensive research studies published on hydrocyclone technology, this study aims to provide a comprehensive review of recent technological advancements in hydrocyclone technology in order to identify key areas where scientific research efforts should be concentrated. This will help make well-informed decisions for strategic investments in this wide area of research. Furthermore, it will widen the scope of applicability of hydrocyclones in the industrial sector.
Real-Time Implementable Integrated Energy and Cabin Temperature Management for Battery Life Extension in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Mauro Mattia , Biswas Atriya , Fiorillo Carlo , Wang Hao , Spessa Ezio , Miretti Federico , Ahmed Ryan , Bonfitto Angelo , Emadi Ali
Published: June 2024

Among many emerging technologies, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have emerged as a prominent and highly supported solution to stringent emissions regulations. However, despite their increasing popularity, key challenges that might jeopardize their further spread are the lack of charging infrastructure, battery life degradation, and the discrepancy between the actual and promised all-electric driving range. The primary focus of this paper is to formulate an integrated energy and thermal comfort management (IETM) strategy. This strategy optimally manages the electrical energy required by the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit, the most impacting auxiliary in terms of battery load, to minimize battery life degradation over any specific drive cycle while ensuring the actual cabin temperature hovers within the permissible tolerance limit from the reference cabin temperature and the driver-requested traction power is always satisfied. This work incorporates a state-of-health (SOH) estimation model, a high-fidelity cabin thermodynamics model, and an HVAC model into the forward-approach simulation model of a commercially available BEV to showcase the impact and efficacy of the proposed IETM strategy for enhancing battery longevity. The instantaneous optimization problem of IETM is solved by the golden-section search method leveraging the convexity of the objective function. Simulated results under different driving scenarios show that the improvement brought by the proposed ITEM controller can minimize battery health degradation by up to 4.5% and energy consumption by up to 2.8% while maintaining the cabin temperature deviation within permissible limits from the reference temperature.
Assessment of Environmental Management Performance in Wineries: A Survey-Based Analysis to Create Key Performance Indicators
Authors: López-Santiago Jesús , Md Som Amelia , Ruiz-Garcia Luis , Zubelzu Mínguez Sergio , Gómez Villarino María Teresa
Published: July 2024

This study assesses the adoption and operational effectiveness of Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) in Italian wineries, focusing on ISO 14001:2015. It evaluates commitment, planning, communication strategies, emergency preparedness, and employee training practices. Using a comprehensive survey-based methodology, the research elucidates the dynamics of EMS implementation across various scales of winery operations. The research reveals a strong commitment among wineries to environmental objectives such as waste reduction and efficient electricity and water use. However, significant deficiencies were identified in EMS policy implementation, emergency preparedness, and the uptake of ISO 14001:2015 certification, with larger wineries showing more robust engagement in environmental training than smaller ones. The study incorporates five key performance indicators (KPIs) and a predictive model using logistic regression and Random Forest to analyze the likelihood of ISO 14001 certification based on the analyzed variables. The model highlights established processes, environmental policies, and frequent reviews as significant predictors of certification. These findings contribute original value by identifying critical leverage points and barriers affecting EMS effectiveness within the wine sector. The research uncovers nuanced interactions between the scale of operations and management engagement influencing EMSs’ success. It proposes novel, survey-based KPIs essential for assessing EMS performance in wineries, demonstrating their practical utility in pinpointing areas for improvement. The research limitations include potential biases from varying participation rates among surveyed wineries, affecting extrapolation to the broader Italian wine industry. Despite these limitations, the study provides substantive practical implications, suggesting that wineries can enhance both environmental sustainability and a competitive edge by addressing gaps in EMS implementation.
Geospatial Analysis of Relief Degree of Land Surface in the Forest-Steppe Ecotone in Northern China
Authors: Hu Lili , Feng Zhongke , Shen Chaoyong , Hai Yue , Li Yiqiu , Chen Yuan , Chen Panpan , Zhang Hanyue , Wang Shan , Wang Zhichao
Published: June 2024

The Relief Degree of Land Surface (RDLS) is an important index to evaluate regional environment. It has a significant effect on the local climate, geologic hazards, the path and speed of fire spreading, the migrations of wild animals, and the runoff path and speed of precipitation. The forest-steppe ecotone in northern China is one of ecological fragile zones. In-depth study of the RDLS of the forest-steppe ecotone in northern China will help to implement ecological projects scientifically and promote the construction of the national ecological security barrier. The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM-GL1 30 m) data were used to determine the optimal analysis window for RDLS based on the mean change-point method, and the elevation difference was extracted based on the window analysis method. The RDLS model was used to extract RDLS of the forest-steppe ecotone and analyzed with the help of a spatial auto-correlation model. The correlation between mean elevation, relative elevation difference, and RDLS was also analyzed. The results show that the optimal analysis window size for RDLS was 29 × 29, corresponding to an area of 0.76 km2. The RDLS under the optimal analysis window extracted from SRTM-GL1 (30 m) ranged from 0.084 to 3.516. The RDLS had significant spatial clustering, with high RDLS mainly distributed in the mountainous areas and low RDLS mainly distributed in mountain-to-plain transition zone; the RDLS between different administrative units and different watersheds had obvious variability. Overall, the RDLS was characterized as decreasing, increasing, and then decreasing from the south to north, while it was high in the west and low in the east. And the RDLS was linearly positively correlated with mean elevation and relative elevation difference. In the future, the implementation of major ecological projects in the forest-steppe ecotone in northern China, such as soil and water conservation, afforestation tree species selection, ecological corridor design, ecological management, geological disaster prevention, and forest fire prevention, should fully consider the local topographic conditions. These research results can provide topographic references for the implementation of ecological planning and engineering in this area and similar areas. It contributes to sustainable development and maximization of ecological benefits and promotes the establishment of a national ecological security barrier.
Predicted Future Changes in the Mean Seasonal Carbon Cycle Due to Climate Change
Authors: Morichetti Mauro , Vangi Elia , Collalti Alessio
Published: June 2024

Through photosynthesis, forests absorb annually large amounts of atmospheric CO2. However, they also release CO2 back through respiration. These two, opposite in sign, large fluxes determine how much of the carbon is stored or released back into the atmosphere. The mean seasonal cycle (MSC) is an interesting metric that associates phenology and carbon (C) partitioning/allocation analysis within forest stands. Here, we applied the 3D-CMCC-FEM model and analyzed its capability to represent the main C-fluxes, by validating the model against observed data, questioning if the sink/source mean seasonality is influenced under two scenarios of climate change, in five contrasting European forest sites. We found the model has, under current climate conditions, robust predictive abilities in estimating NEE. Model results also predict a consistent reduction in the forest’s capabilities to act as a C-sink under climate change and stand-aging at all sites. Such a reduction is predicted despite the number of annual days as a C-sink in evergreen forests increasing over the years, indicating a consistent downward trend. Similarly, deciduous forests, despite maintaining a relatively stable number of C-sink days throughout the year and over the century, show a reduction in their overall annual C-sink capacity. Overall, both types of forests at all sites show a consistent reduction in their future mitigating potential.
Evaluating the Performance of Yarrowia lipolytica 2.2ab in Solid-State Fermentation under Bench-Scale Conditions in a Packed-Tray Bioreactor
Authors: Barrios-Nolasco Alejandro , Castillo-Araiza Carlos Omar , Huerta-Ochoa Sergio , Reyes-Arreozola María Isabel , Buenrostro-Figueroa José Juan , Prado-Barragán Lilia Arely
Published: July 2024

Solid-State Fermentation (SSF) offers a valuable process for converting agri-food by-products (AFBP) into high-value metabolites, with Yarrowia lipolytica 2.2ab (Yl2.2ab) showing significant potential under laboratory-scale controlled conditions; however, its assessment in larger-scale bioreactor scenarios is needed. This work evaluates Yl2.2ab’s performance in a bench-scale custom-designed packed-tray bioreactor. Key features of this bioreactor design include a short packing length, a wall-cooling system, and forced aeration, enhancing hydrodynamics and heat and mass transfer within the tray. Preliminary studies under both abiotic and biotic conditions assessed Yl2.2ab’s adaptability to extreme temperature variations. The results indicated effective oxygen transport but poor heat transfer within the tray bed, with Yl2.2ab leading to a maximum growth rate of 28.15 mgx gssdb−1 h−1 and maximum production of proteases of 40.10 U gssdb−1 h−1, even when temperatures at the packed-tray outlet were around 49 °C. Hybrid-based modeling, incorporating Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Pseudo-Continuous Simulations (PCSs), elucidated that the forced-aeration system successfully maintained necessary oxygen levels in the bed. However, the low thermal conductivity of AFBP posed challenges for heat transfer. The bioreactor design presents promising avenues for scaling up SSF to valorize AFBP using Yl2.2ab’s extremophilic capabilities.
Online Monitoring of the Temperature and Relative Humidity of Recycled Bedding for Dairy Cows on Dairy Farms
Authors: Wei Yong , Liu Kun , Li Yaao , Li Zhixing , Zhao Tianyu , Zhao Pengfei , Qi Yayin , Li Meiying , Wang Zongyuan
Published: July 2024

In large-scale dairy farming, the use of high-temperature-fermented dairy manure bedding instead of rice husk-based bedding and other commercial types of bedding is widely favored. Strip-stacking aerobic fermentation is the main production method of dairy manure bedding, but it has problems including unstable fermentation and the secondary breeding of pathogens. In this work, a multi-probe, integrated, online monitoring system for temperature and relative humidity was used for fermentation process optimization. The effects of the temporal and spatial distribution of fermentation temperature and relative humidity on the nutrient content curve and the moisture and ash content of manure bedding materials were systematically studied. The effect of the fermentation process on the retention rate of effective bedding materials (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) was analyzed. The experiments proved that high-quality bedding material can be obtained through reasonable stacking fermentation. The fabricated bedding material has a total dry base content consisting of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin of 78%, an ash content of 6%, and a nutrient content of 17%. The obtained bedding material was produced to increase the bed rest rate and continuously inhibit the bedding bacteria content, keeping it at a low level for 5 days. This study proves that temperature and humidity monitoring can guide the optimization of the strip-stacking fermentation process of dairy manure and that it can be applied to large-scale farms to improve fermentation parameters.
Edge Cloud Computing and Federated–Split Learning in Internet of Things
Authors: Duan Qiang , Lu Zhihui
Published: June 2024

The wide deployment of the Internet of Things (IoT) necessitates new machine learning (ML) methods and distributed computing paradigms to enable various ML-based IoT applications to effectively process huge amounts of data [...]
Trusted Composition of Internet of Medical Things over Imperfect Networks
Authors: Ahmad Ehsan , Larson Brian , Banga Abdulbasid
Published: June 2024

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) represents a specialized domain within the Internet of Things, focusing on medical devices that require regulatory approval to ensure patient safety. Trusted composition of IoMT systems aims to ensure high assurance of the entire composed system, despite potential variability in the assurance levels of individual components. Achieving this trustworthiness in IoMT systems, especially when using less-assured, commercial, off-the-shelf networks like Ethernet and WiFi, presents a significant challenge. To address this challenge, this paper advocates a systematic approach that leverages the Architecture Analysis & Design Language (AADL) along with Behavior Language for Embedded Systems with Software (BLESS) specification and implementation. This approach aims to provide high assurance on critical components through formal verification, while using less-assured components in a manner that maintains overall system determinism and reliability. A clinical case study involving an automated opioid infusion monitoring IoMT system is presented to illustrate the application of the proposed approach. Through this case study, the effectiveness of the systemic approach in achieving trusted composition of heterogeneous medical devices over less-assured networks is demonstrated.
Exploring the Architectural Composition of Cyber Ranges: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stamatopoulos Dionysios , Katsantonis Menelaos , Fouliras Panagiotis , Mavridis Ioannis
Published: June 2024

In light of the ever-increasing complexity of cyber–physical systems (CPSs) and information technology networking systems (ITNs), cyber ranges (CRs) have emerged as a promising solution by providing theoretical and practical cybersecurity knowledge for participants’ skill improvement toward a safe work environment. This research adds to the extant respective literature, exploring the architectural composition of CRs. It aims to improve the understanding of their design and how they are deployed, expanding skill levels in constructing better CRs. Our research follows the PRISMA methodology guidelines for transparency, which includes a search flow of articles based on specific criteria and quality valuation of selected articles. To extract valuable research datasets, we identify keyword co-occurrences that selected articles are concentrated on. In the context of literature evidence, we identify key attributes and trends, providing details of CRs concerning their architectural composition and underlying infrastructure, along with today’s challenges and future research directions. A total of 102 research articles’ qualitative analyses reveal a lack of adequate architecture examination when CR elements and services interoperate with other CR elements and services participating, leading to gaps that increase the administration burden. We posit that the results of this study can be leveraged as a baseline for future enhancements toward the development of CRs.
Indigenous Fire Data Sovereignty: Applying Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles to Fire Research
Authors: Adams Melinda M.
Published: July 2024

Indigenous Peoples have been stewarding lands with fire for ecosystem improvement since time immemorial. These stewardship practices are part and parcel of the ways in which Indigenous Peoples have long recorded and protected knowledge through our cultural transmission practices, such as oral histories. In short, our Peoples have always been data gatherers, and as this article presents, we are also fire data gatherers and stewards. Given the growing interest in fire research with Indigenous communities, there is an opportunity for guidance on data collection conducted equitably and responsibly with Indigenous Peoples. This Special Issue of Fire presents fire research approaches and data harvesting practices with Indigenous communities as we “Reimagine the Future of Living and Working with Fire”. Specifically, the article provides future-thinking practices that can achieve equitable, sustainable, and just outcomes with and for stakeholders and rightholders (the preferred term Indigenous Peoples use in partnerships with academics, agencies, and NGOs). This research takes from the following key documents to propose an “Indigenous fire data sovereignty” (IFDS) framework: (1) Articles declared in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as identified by the author and specified in Indigenous-led and allied Indigenous fire research in Australia, Canada, and the U.S.; (2) recommendations specific to cultural fire policy and calls for research in the 2023 Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission report; (3) research and data barriers and opportunities produced in the 2024 Good Fire II report; and threads from (4) the Indigenous Fire Management conceptual model. This paper brings together recommendations on Indigenous data sovereignty, which are principles developed by Indigenous researchers for the protection, dissemination, and stewardship of data collected from Tribal/Nation/Aboriginal/First Nations Indigenous communities. The proposed IFDS framework also identifies potential challenges to Indigenous fire data sovereignty. By doing so, the framework serves as an apparatus to deploy fire research and data harvesting practices that are culturally informed, responsible, and ethically demonstrated. The article concludes with specific calls to action for academics and researchers, allies, fire managers, policymakers, and Indigenous Peoples to consider in exercising Indigenous fire data sovereignty and applying Indigenous data sovereignty principles to fire research.
Acoustic Characteristics of Spawning Biological Sounds of Brown Croaker (Miichthys miiuy)
Authors: Kim Hansoo , Yoon Young Geul , Cho Sungho , Kim Sunhyo , Kim Mira , Kang Donhyug
Published: July 2024

Marine organisms make sounds for various reasons, including spawning and avoidance, which are species-specific. Traditionally, Korean fishermen in the northwest Pacific Ocean have listened for spawning sounds to locate spawning grounds of Brown croaker (Miichthys miiuy), one of the important commercial fish species. We measured the spawning sounds recorded in October, the croakers’ spawning season (August to October). The mean signal duration with standard deviation was 0.184 ± 0.027 s, and the mean pulse interval was 0.022 ± 0.001 s. The zero-to-peak mean sound pressure level was 165.2 ± 0.7 dB. The peak frequency was 459.2 ± 93.8 Hz, with maximum and minimum frequencies observed at 863.0 ± 225.9 Hz and 231.2 ± 67.9 Hz. The spawning sounds occurred around sunset (16:00–21:00, local time) and only when the water temperature was above 22 °C. These findings help interpret the environmental ecology and manage the fishery resources of the Brown croaker spawning grounds.
Spatiotemporal Variation and Predictors of the Purpleback Flying Squid (Sthenoteuthis oualaniensis) Distribution Surrounding the Xisha and Zhongsha Islands during a Fishing Moratorium
Authors: Wang Liangming , Yang Changping , Shan Binbin , Liu Yan , Zou Jianwei , Sun Dianrong , Guo Tao
Published: July 2024

As an economic species widely distributed in the South China Sea (SCS), the purpleback flying squid (Sthenoteuthis oualaniensis) still has a large potential for exploitation, and the variations in its use as a resource are highly correlated with environmental and other factors. In this study, using a generalized additive model (GAM) and gradient forest analysis (GFA), in conjunction with environmental factors, the distribution of purpleback flying squid surrounding the Xisha and Zhongsha islands during the fishing moratorium period was investigated. The results indicated that catch per unit effort (CPUE) had a gradual increase from May to July 2023 in the primary fishing area surrounded the Xisha Islands during May to June, then moved southward towards 13–15° N after July. CPUE is used as an important indicator to reflect the abundance of the fishery, while the GFA results show that CPUE has a better fit than catch in this study. Therefore, the subsequent analysis focused on CPUE. Longitude and sea surface temperature (SST) were of relative higher importance, followed by sea surface salinity (SSS), latitude, chlorophyll a concentration (Chla), sea surface height (SSH), and mixed layer depth (MLD). Longitude and CPUE had a significant, positive correlation. The CPUE gradually increased with latitude within 14–16° N. The CPUE increased slowly as SST increased from 29.5 to 30.5 °C in the primary fishing area. The Chla in this fishing zone was 0–0.2 mg/m3 and displayed a significant positive association with CPUE. Conversely, SSS, SSH, and MLD had negative correlations with CPUE. These findings will promote the sustainable utilization of purpleback flying squid in the SCS.
What Are the Sensory Attributes Associated with Consumer Acceptance of Yellow Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus citrinopileatus)?
Authors: Oh Minji , Ju Jin-Hee , Ju Seyoung
Published: July 2024

The oyster mushroom is cultivated globally, renowned for its unique texture and umami flavor, as well as its rich content of nutrients and functional ingredients. This study aims to identify the descriptive sensory characteristics, assess the consumer acceptability of new superior lines and cultivars of yellow oyster mushrooms, in addition to exploring the relationship between these descriptive characteristics and consumer acceptability. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares regression (PLSR). Twenty attributes were delineated, including three related to appearance/color (gray, yellow, and white), four associated with the smell/odor of fresh mushroom (oyster mushroom, woody, fishy, and seafood smells), three pertaining to the smell/odor of cooked mushrooms (mushroom, umami, and savory smells), four describing flavor/taste (sweet, salty, umami, and savory tastes), and five for texture/mouthfeel (chewy, smooth, hard, squishy, and slippery textures). Consumer acceptability tests involved 100 consumers who evaluated overall liking, appearance, overall taste, sweetness, texture, savory taste, MSG taste, smell, color, purchase intention, and recommendation. The general oyster mushroom (548 samples) scored highest in acceptability. Seven attributes, namely fresh mushroom smell, seafood smell (fresh), fishy smell (fresh), umami smell (cooked), nutty smell (cooked), salty taste, and MSG taste with the exception of appearance showed significant differences among samples (p < 0.001). The three yellow oyster mushroom samples were strongly associated with attributes like hardness, softness (texture), sweet taste (745 samples), MSG taste, salty taste, squishy texture, and fishy smell (483 and 629 samples). The development of sensory lexicons and increasing consumer acceptance of new superior lines and cultivars of yellow oyster mushroom will likely enhance sensory quality and expand the consumer market, aligning with consumer needs and preferences.
A Portable Automated Microfluidic Platform for Point-of-Care Testing for Multiple Mycotoxins in Wine
Authors: Liu Jun , Zeng Shiyu , Zhu Haoyu , Wan Xinhua , Sohan A. S. M. Muhtasim Fuad , Yin Binfeng
Published: July 2024

Food safety requires point-of-care testing (POCT) for mycotoxins, since their presence in wine significantly impacts the wine industry and poses a severe threat to human life. Traditional detection methods are usually limited to detecting one mycotoxin and cannot achieve high-throughput, automated, and rapid quantitative analysis of multiple mycotoxins in real samples. Here, we propose a portable automated microfluidic platform (PAMP) integrating a chemiluminescence (CL) imaging system and a microfluidic chip to realize POCT for multiple mycotoxins in real samples, simplifying complex manual operations, shortening the detection time, and improving the detection sensitivity. Specially, silicone films were used as substrates on microfluidic chips to incubate mycotoxin conjugations, and the streptavidin–biotin (SA-B) system and an indirect immunoassay were implemented on silicone films to improve the sensitivity of reaction results. Interestingly, these methods significantly improved detection results, resulting in sensitive detection of mycotoxins, including zearalenone (ZEA) ranging from 1 to 32 ng/mL, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) ranging from 0.2 to 6.4 ng/mL, and ochratoxin A (OTA) ranging from 2 to 64 ng/mL. The recovery of samples reached 91.39–109.14%, which verified the reliability and practicability of the PAMP. This PAMP enables sensitive and rapid detection of multiple mycotoxins in markets or wineries that lack advanced laboratory facilities. Therefore, it is essential to develop a portable microfluidic platform for POCT to detect mycotoxins in real samples.
Benzyl Isothiocyanate and Resveratrol Synergistically Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Liu Jianan , Zhang Qian , Hao Hongshun , Bi Jingran , Hou Hongman , Zhang Gongliang
Published: July 2024

The aim of our study was to investigate whether the combination of benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and resveratrol (RES) has a synergistic effect on the inhibition of inflammation in colitis. The results revealed that the BITC and RES combination (BITC_RES) was more effective than either substance alone at significantly alleviating the symptoms of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice, including the prevention of colon shortening and loss of body weight, a reduction in the disease activity index, and prevention of colon damage. Similarly, compared with the DSS group, BITC_RES reduced myeloperoxidase (MPO) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels in the mouse colon by 1.4–3.0-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively. In addition, the combination of BITC and RES upregulated the inflammatory factor IL-10 by 1.3- and 107.4-fold, respectively, compared to the individual BITC and RES groups, whereas the proinflammatory factors, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, were downregulated by 1.1–7.4-, 0.7–3.6-, and 0.6–2.6-fold, respectively, in the BITC_RES group compared with the individual groups. Gut microbiome analysis indicated that BITC_RES remodeled the structure of gut bacteria at the phylum, family, and genus levels, upregulating the abundance of the phylum Bacteroidetes and the family Muribaculaceae and the genus norank_f_Muribaculaceae and downregulating the abundance of the phylum Firmicutes. Significant correlations between the relative levels of these proinflammatory cytokines and changes in the gut microbiota were found using Pearson’s correlation analysis. BITC and RES exhibited synergistic effects by reshaping the gut microbiota and modulating the level of serum cellular inflammatory factors, thus exerting a protective effect against colitis.
Unconventional Extraction and Storage Strategies in Order to Enhance the Shelf Life of Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Macaluso Monica , Mercanti Nicola , Pieracci Ylenia , Mangia Roberto , Verdini Piero Giorgio , Zinnai Angela
Published: July 2024

Virgin olive oil (VOO) is a globally esteemed product renowned for its chemical composition, nutritional value, and health benefits. Consumers seeking natural, nutritious, and healthy foods increasingly favor VOO. The optimization of the extraction system ensures the production of high-quality VOO with abundant antioxidant compounds that naturally protect it from degradation. Proper storage is crucial in maintaining the quality of VOO, prompting the exploration of novel extraction and preservation techniques. Factors such as light, temperature, and oxygen greatly influence the degradation process, resulting in reduced levels of natural antioxidants like polyphenols. Undesirable by-products and non-aromatic compounds may be formed, making the oil unacceptable over time. On the basis of all this consideration, this study aimed to evaluate the synergic use of two different gases (CO2 and argon) during the malaxation phase to limit radical development and delay lipid autoxidation. Additionally, unconventional preservation systems, namely argon headspace, shellac, and bottle in bag, were assessed over a period of 150 days. The results evidenced that the use of CO2 and argon during the malaxation process resulted in an improvement in the oil quality compared to the one obtained with the traditional system. However, in traditional oils, the alternative packaging systems determined interesting outcomes as they were able to positively affect different parameters, while the packaging effect was more mitigated in the test oils.
Recent Advances in Biological and Technological Research of Fresh Fruit and Vegetable
Authors: Fan Zhongqi
Published: July 2024

Fresh fruit and vegetables are sources of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber; however, due to their short postharvest life, a large portion of the produce is lost [...]
Effects of Binding between Ca in Hard Water and Phosphorus in Amylopectin on the Qualities of Boiled Rice and Rice Noodle Prepared by Soaking and Boiling in Hard Water
Authors: Nakamura Sumiko , Katsura Junji , Suda Akira , Maruyama Yasuhiro , Ohtsubo Ken’ichi
Published: July 2024

Recently, global warming has led to an increase in chalky rice grains. This has consequently resulted in the deterioration in quality of rice products. Although we previously reported that hard water, rich in Ca, is useful for the quality improvement of high-temperature-damaged rice grains, the mechanism was not elucidated sufficiently. Therefore, we used various kinds of rice cultivars, from waxy to high-amylose ones, for soaking and boiling in hard water and compared physical and chemical properties of the products. It was shown that the degree of quality improvement, such as final viscosities in pasting property, and textural properties of boiled rice, was more remarkable for high-amylose rice than low-amylose rice. As we found that the phosphorus contents showed positive correlations with amylose and long chains of amylopectin, we estimate that the effects are mainly due to binding of calcium and phosphorus. Because that high-amylose or long-chain-rich amylopectin rice cultivars showed high calcium contents in rice products, these rice cultivars would be very useful to supply calcium through dietary intake via hard water cooking.
Multiplicity of Normalized Solutions to a Fractional Logarithmic Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Lv Yan-Cheng , Li Gui-Dong
Published: July 2024

We study the existence and multiplicity of normalized solutions to the fractional logarithmic Schrödinger equation (−Δ)su+V(ϵx)u=λu+ulogu2inRN, under the mass constraint ∫RN|u|2dx=a. Here, N≥2, a,ϵ>0, λ∈R is an unknown parameter, (−Δ)s is the fractional Laplacian and s∈(0,1). We introduce a function space where the energy functional associated with the problem is of class C1. Then, under some assumptions on the potential V and using the Lusternik–Schnirelmann category, we show that the number of normalized solutions depends on the topology of the set for which the potential V reaches its minimum.
The Severity of Gastrointestinal Disorders and Autistic-Like Behaviors Could Be Associated with a Selective Humoral Response to Bovine Milk Caseins: A Case Series
Authors: Valenzuela-Zamora Ángel F. , Campos-Vega Rocío , López-Diaz José A. , Wall-Medrano Abraham
Published: June 2024

Severe gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) and food hypersensitivity are tightly associated in young individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Here, we explored the relationship of GIS (gastrointestinal severity index, ROMA IV criteria, Bristol scale), ASD-like behaviors (Childhood Autism Rating Scale), and certain sociodemographic/clinical traits (epidemiological survey) with serum immunoreactivity (IgG, IgA, IgE titers) towards bovine milk caseins (BMC; by ELISA) and subfractions (by immunoblotting) in thirty-one pediatric patients (~3–15 y, 77% male) with mild-to-severe GIS and ASD-like behaviors. In total, 42%, 25%, and 23% of all participants exhibited no (IgG−/IgA−), mono (IgG+/IgA−), or dual (IgG+/IgA+) immunoreactivity to BMC, respectively; the trend was significantly associated with the severity of the GIS and ASD-like behaviors, regurgitations, and self-reported allergies (OR: 1 → (1.9–3.1) → 13.5–16.0)]. No IgE+ response to BMC was found. Dual responders were α > κ > β-casein, though nonspecific reactivity to other protein fractions was also observed. The IgA+ > IgG+ but not IgE+ response to BMC (mainly α-casein) seems to be related to the severity of GIS and ASD-like behaviors, although a larger number of ASD patients are needed to draw a causal association.
Evaluation of Immunological Response to TLR2 and α-SMA in Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Miller Anthea , Lombardo Giorgia Pia , Rizzo Giuseppina , Kotanska Magdalena , Melita Giuseppinella , Pallio Socrate , Migliorato Alba , Cutroneo Giuseppina , Pergolizzi Simona
Published: June 2024

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) represent multifactorial chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. The main IBDs are Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). CD may cause perforation, stricture or transmural inflammation, which can occur discontinuously in the entire gastrointestinal tract (GIT). UC leads to mucosal inflammation as well as mucosal atrophy in the rectum and the colon. Innate immunity is considered the first line of defense against microbial invasion; among Toll-like receptors, TLR2 is the most important for defense against mycobacterial infection. TLR2 has been reported to have a lot of functions in infectious diseases and in other pathologies, such as chronic and acute inflammatory diseases. Alfa-Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) is an important biomarker in IBDs. All myofibroblasts express α-SMA, which has been found to be upregulated in CD and UC. Paraformaldehyde-fixed intestinal tissues, from patients with CD and patients with UC, were analyzed by immunostaining for TLR2 and α-SMA. Our results showed that, in the samples obtained from UC patients with inflamed mucosa, TLR2-positive epithelial cells concentrated on the mucosal surface and scattered immune cells in the connective tissue; furthermore, numerous α-SMA-positive cells (subepithelial myofibroblasts) were detected in the lamina propria and around glands, while some myofibroblasts co-localizing with α-SMA and TLR2 could be inflammatory macrophages. In CD patients, TLR2-positive enterocytes and α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts in the lamina propria of the villus have been observed. In control samples, a low positivity to α-SMA and TLR2 was observed in subepithelial myofibroblasts and scattered immune cells of the lamina propria. These data showed the recall of α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts during the inflammatory state; in addition, TLR2 expression has been observed to change in the intestinal epithelium in IBDs, demonstrating that alterations in the innate system response may contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases.
Microemulsion-Based Polymer Gels with Ketoprofen and Menthol: Physicochemical Properties and Drug Release Studies
Authors: Otto Filip , Froelich Anna
Published: July 2024

Ketoprofen is a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug frequently incorporated in topical dosage forms which are an interesting alternatives for oral formulations. However, due to the physiological barrier function of skin, topical formulations may require some approaches to improve drug permeation across the skin. In this study, ketoprofen-loaded microemulsion-based gels with the addition of menthol, commonly known for absorption-enhancing activity in dermal products, were investigated. The main objective of this study was to analyze the physicochemical properties of the obtained gels in terms of topical application and to investigate the correlation between the gel composition and its mechanical properties and the drug release process. Microemulsion composition was selected with the use of a pseudoternary plot and the selected systems were tested for electrical conductivity, viscosity, pH, and particle diameter. The polymer gels obtained with Carbopol® EZ-3 were subjected to rheological and textural studies, as well as the drug release experiment. The obtained results indicate that the presence of ketoprofen slightly decreased yield stress values. A stronger effect was exerted by menthol presence, even though it was independent of menthol concentration. A similar tendency was seen for hardness and adhesiveness, as tested in texture profile analysis. Sample cohesiveness and the drug release rate were independent of the gel composition.
Bio-Based Aerogels in Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Mandić Vilko , Bafti Arijeta , Panžić Ivana , Radovanović-Perić Floren
Published: July 2024

Bio-aerogels have emerged as promising materials for energy storage, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional aerogels. This review addresses their syntheses, properties, and characterization challenges for use in energy storage devices such as rechargeable batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Derived from renewable sources (such as cellulose, lignin, and chitosan), bio-based aerogels exhibit mesoporosity, high specific surface area, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, making them advantageous for environmental sustainability. Bio-based aerogels serve as electrodes and separators in energy storage systems, offering desirable properties such as high specific surface area, porosity, and good electrical conductivity, enhancing the energy density, power density, and cycle life of devices. Recent advancements highlight their potential as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, replacing non-renewable carbon materials. Studies have shown excellent cycling stability and rate performance for bio-aerogels in supercapacitors and fuel cells. The yield properties of these materials, primarily porosity and transport phenomena, demand advanced characterization methods, and their synthesis and processing methods significantly influence their production, e.g., sol–gel and advanced drying. Bio-aerogels represent a sustainable solution for advancing energy storage technologies, despite challenges such as scalability, standardization, and cost-effectiveness. Future research aims to improve synthesis methods and explore novel applications. Bio-aerogels, in general, provide a healthier path to technological progress.
Genome-Wide Identification of the Whirly Gene Family and Its Potential Function in Low Phosphate Stress in Soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Li Zhimin , Zhai Xuhao , Zhang Lina , Yang Yifei , Zhu Hongqing , Lü Haiyan , Xiong Erhui , Chu Shanshan , Zhang Xingguo , Zhang Dan , Hu Dandan
Published: June 2024

The Whirly (WHY) gene family, functioning as transcription factors, plays an essential role in the regulation of plant metabolic responses, which has been demonstrated across multiple species. However, the WHY gene family and its functions in soybean remains unclear. In this paper, we conducted genome-wide screening and identification to characterize the WHY gene family. Seven WHY members were identified and randomly distributed across six chromosomes. The phylogenetic evolutionary tree of WHY genes in soybean and other species was divided into five clades. An in-depth analysis revealed that segmental duplications significantly contributed to the expansion of GmWHYs, and the GmWHY gene members may have experienced evolutionary pressure for purifying selection in soybeans. The analysis of promoter Cis-elements in GmWHYs suggested their potential significance in addressing diverse stress conditions. The expression patterns of GmWHYs exhibited tissue-specific variations throughout the different stages of soybean development. Additionally, six GmWHY genes exhibited different responses to low phosphate stress. These findings will provide a theoretical basis and valuable reference for the future exploration of WHY gene function.
The Whole Mitochondrial Genome Sequence of Dendrobium loddigesii Rolfe, an Endangered Orchid Species in China, Reveals a Complex Multi-Chromosome Structure
Authors: Tong Wenjun , Yu Dandan , Zhu Xiaojing , Le Zhifang , Chen Hui , Hu Feilong , Wu Shengmin
Published: June 2024

Dendrobium loddigesii is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with high medicinal and ornamental value. However, the characterization of its mitochondrial genome is still pending. Here, we assembled the complete mitochondrial genome of D. loddigesii and discovered that its genome possessed a complex multi-chromosome structure. The mitogenome of D. loddigesii consisted of 17 circular subgenomes, ranging in size from 16,323 bp to 56,781 bp. The total length of the mitogenome was 513,356 bp, with a GC content of 43.41%. The mitogenome contained 70 genes, comprising 36 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 31 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes. Furthermore, we detected 403 repeat sequences as well as identified 482 RNA-editing sites and 8154 codons across all PCGs. Following the sequence similarity analysis, 27 fragments exhibiting homology to both the mitogenome and chloroplast genome were discovered, accounting for 9.86% mitogenome of D. loddigesii. Synteny analysis revealed numerous sequence rearrangements in D. loddigesii and the mitogenomes of related species. Phylogenetic analysis strongly supported that D. loddigesii and D. Amplum formed a single clade with 100% bootstrap support. The outcomes will significantly augment the orchid mitochondrial genome database, offering profound insights into Dendrobium’s intricate mitochondrial genome architecture.
AMPK Deficiency Increases DNA Methylation and Aggravates Colorectal Tumorigenesis in AOM/DSS Mice
Authors: Sun Qi , Tian Qiyu , Bravo Iniguez Alejandro , Sun Xiaofei , Zhang Hui , Deavila Jeanene , Du Min , Zhu Mei-Jun
Published: June 2024

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is closely linked to metabolic diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests the regulatory role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in cancer metabolic reprogramming. In this study, wild-type and AMPK knockout mice were subjected to azoxymethane-induced and dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS)-promoted colitis-associated CRC induction. A stable AMPK-deficient Caco-2 cell line was also established for the mechanistic studies. The data showed that AMPK deficiency accelerated CRC development, characterized by increased tumor number, tumor size, and hyperplasia in AOM/DSS-treated mice. The aggravated colorectal tumorigenesis resulting from AMPK ablation was associated with reduced α-ketoglutarate production and ten-eleven translocation hydroxylase 2 (TET2) transcription, correlated with the reduced mismatch repair protein mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) protein. Furthermore, in AMPK-deficient Caco-2 cells, the mRNA expression of mismatch repair and tumor suppressor genes, intracellular α-ketoglutarate, and the protein level of TET2 were also downregulated. AMPK deficiency also increased hypermethylation in the CpG islands of Mlh1 in both colonic tissues and Caco-2 cells. In conclusion, AMPK deficiency leads to reduced α-ketoglutarate concentration and elevates the suppressive epigenetic modifications of tumor suppressor genes in gut epithelial cells, thereby increasing the risk of colorectal tumorigenesis. Given the modifiable nature of AMPK activity, it holds promise as a prospective molecular target for the prevention and treatment of CRC.