bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetrical Rotor Skewing Optimization in Switched Reluctance Machines Using Differential Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Torres Jorge , Moreno-Torres Pablo , Navarro Gustavo , Blanco Marcos , Nájera Jorge , Santos-Herran Miguel , Lafoz Marcos
Published: May 2021

Minimizing torque ripple in electrical machines for a given application is not a straightforward task, especially when the application imposes certain constraints. There are many techniques to improve torque ripple, either design-based or control-based. In this paper, a new geometry for switched reluctance machines based on rotor poles skewing is proposed to minimize torque ripple. This paper describes a methodology to design an asymmetrical skew rotor—switched reluctance machine using a multi-objective differential evolutionary algorithm. The main parameters of the optimization process are defined, as is the optimization methodology to obtain an improved design with less torque ripple than a conventional one. Moreover, the analytical formulas used in the optimization method, as well as the optimization technique, are deduced and explained in detail. The mathematical model used to simulate the electrical machine and the power converter are also described. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite element analyses were also conducted to assess whether 3D effects (end-effect and axial fringing field) affected the results. Finally, a particular case of a high-voltage direct current-controlled generator in the base of the More Electric Aircraft (MEA) concept or an energy storage system as an electrical machine was analyzed, and the results for the improved configuration were compared with those for the conventional one.
Research on the Optimization Design of Solar Energy-Gas-Fired Boiler Systems for Decentralized Heating
Authors: Tao Ming , Yu Yanzhe , Zhang Huan , Ye Tianzhen , You Shijun , Zhang Mengting
Published: May 2021

Solar energy-gas-fired boiler heating systems attract widespread attention due to their eco-friendly technologies and reasonable prices. In order to promote the application of a solar energy-gas-fired boiler system for decentralized heating, this study proposed a holistic method to optimize the combination of equipment specifications and control strategies of the system. A detailed mathematical model of the hybrid energy system was developed and validated by experiments to simulate various operating conditions and evaluate the optimal design results. A case study was conducted in Tianjin, China, and optimal schemes were obtained. The influence of different factors on the system’s annual comprehensive energy efficiency ratio (AEER) and annual cost (AC) were studied by sensitivity analysis; the results showed that the solar collector area was extremely valuable for the optimization of AEER and AC. The results of this study provide a reference for the optimization design of the solar energy-gas-fired boiler system, which is beneficial to the promotion of the utilization of solar energy.
Capacity Value from Wind and Solar Sources in Systems with Variable Dispatchable Capacity—An Application in the Brazilian Hydrothermal System
Authors: Amado Nilton Bispo , Pelegia Erick Del Bianco , Sauer Ildo Luís
Published: May 2021

The most robust methods to determine the capacity contribution from intermittent sources combine load curve, variable generation profile, and dispatchable generators’ data to calculate any new inserted variable source’s capacity value in the power system. However, these methods invariably adopt the premise that the system’s dispatchable generators’ capacity is constant. That is an unacceptable limitation when the energy mix has a large share of hydroelectric sources. Hydroelectric plants are dispatchable sources with variable maximum power output over time, varying mainly according to the reservoirs’ level. This article develops a method that makes it possible to calculate the capacity value from renewable resources when the dispatchable generation units of an electric system have variable capacity. The authors apply the method to calculate the capacity value from solar and wind sources in Brazil as an exercise. By abandoning the hypothesis of constant dispatchable capacity, the developed approach is in principle extensible for other energy-limited resources, such as batteries and concentrating solar power (CSP). This can be a strategy to incorporate energy-limited capacity sources into the planning and operation models as reliable capacity sources.
Assessment of Energy Use Based on an Implementation of IoT, Cloud Systems, and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Coman Ciprian Mihai , Florescu Adriana , Oancea Constantin Daniel
Published: May 2021

Nowadays products are developed at a rapid pace, with shorter and shorter times between concept and go to market. With the advancement in technology, product designers and manufacturers can use new approaches to obtain information about their products and transform it into knowledge that they can use to improve the product. We developed the Poket Framework platform to facilitate the generation of product knowledge. In order to increase the reliability and safety in operation of electrical equipment, an evaluation is proposed, through tests and studies, using the original Poket Framework platform. Thus, several tests and studies were performed, which included testing and analyzing the correct integration in several use cases and remote data acquisition, and testing and analysis of the Poket Framework using literature established data sets of household appliances and electrical systems. Possible evolutions and Poket platform extensions are also considered.
Mask-Ematics: Modeling the Effects of Masks in COVID-19 Transmission in High-Risk Environments
Authors: Morciglio Anthony , Zhang Bin , Chowell Gerardo , Hyman James M. , Jiang Yi
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed an unprecedented burden on public health and strained the worldwide economy. The rapid spread of COVID-19 has been predominantly driven by aerosol transmission, and scientific research supports the use of face masks to reduce transmission. However, a systematic and quantitative understanding of how face masks reduce disease transmission is still lacking. We used epidemic data from the Diamond Princess cruise ship to calibrate a transmission model in a high-risk setting and derive the reproductive number for the model. We explain how the terms in the reproductive number reflect the contributions of the different infectious states to the spread of the infection. We used that model to compare the infection spread within a homogeneously mixed population for different types of masks, the timing of mask policy, and compliance of wearing masks. Our results suggest substantial reductions in epidemic size and mortality rate provided by at least 75% of people wearing masks (robust for different mask types). We also evaluated the timing of the mask implementation. We illustrate how ample compliance with moderate-quality masks at the start of an epidemic attained similar mortality reductions to less compliance and the use of high-quality masks after the epidemic took off. We observed that a critical mass of 84% of the population wearing masks can completely stop the spread of the disease. These results highlight the significance of a large fraction of the population needing to wear face masks to effectively reduce the spread of the epidemic. The simulations show that early implementation of mask policy using moderate-quality masks is more effective than a later implementation with high-quality masks. These findings may inform public health mask-use policies for an infectious respiratory disease outbreak (such as one of COVID-19) in high-risk settings.
Analytical and Numerical Verification of Vibration Design in Timber Concrete Composite Floors
Authors: Perković Nikola , Rajčić Vlatka , Barbalić Jure
Published: May 2021

The TCC concept has been studied and developed over the past decades. The variety of solutions shows the meaningfulness and functionality of this system, as well as the continuous work of scientists over time. To benefit from these advantages, the composite needs to provide sufficient stiffness to meet the serviceability criteria and load capacity to resist loading at every stage of the building life. An example of connector types and load slip curves according to EN 1995 is given. This paper discusses possible limitations related to residential areas, and additionally, the possible solutions that EN 1995 does not discuss in the case of resonant response (f1 < 8 Hz). The theoretical studies were accompanied by numerical analyses considering certain simplifications suitable for practical use.
Comparison and Phylogenetic Analyses of Nine Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Zingibereae
Authors: Liang Heng , Chen Juan
Published: May 2021

Zingibereae is a large tribe in the family Zingiberaceae, which contains plants with important medicinal, edible, and ornamental values. Although tribes of Zingiberaceae are well circumscribed, the circumscription of many genera within Zingibereae and the relationships among them remain elusive, especially for the genera of Boesenbergia, Curcuma, Kaempferia and Pyrgophyllum. In this study, we investigated the plastome variation in nine species representing five genera of Zingibereae. All plastomes showed a typical quadripartite structure with lengths ranging from 162,042 bp to 163,539 bp and contained 132–134 genes, consisting of 86–88 coding genes, 38 transfer RNA genes and eight ribosomal RNA genes. Moreover, the characteristics of the long repeats sequences and simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were detected. In addition, we conducted phylogenomic analyses of the Zingibereae and related taxa with plastomes data from additional 32 species from Genbank. Our results confirmed that Stahlianthus is closely related to Curcuma, supporting the idea of merging it into Curcuma. Kaempferia, Boesenbergia and Zingiber were confirmed as close relatives and grouped together as the Kaempferia group. Pyrgophyllum is not allied with the Curcuma clade but instead is embedded within the Hedychium clade. Our results demonstrate the power of plastid phylogenomics in improving the phylogenetic relationships within Zingibereae and provide a new insight into plastome evolution in Zingibereceae.
Carbon Sequestration Potential of Agroforestry Systems in Degraded Landscapes in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Siarudin Mohamad , Rahman Syed Ajijur , Artati Yustina , Indrajaya Yonky , Narulita Sari , Ardha Muhammad Juan , Larjavaara Markku
Published: May 2021

When restoring degraded landscapes, approaches capable of striking a balance between improving environmental services and enhancing human wellbeing need to be considered. Agroforestry is an important option for restoring degraded land and associated ecosystem functions. Using survey, key informant interview and rapid carbon stock appraisal (RaCSA) methods, this study was conducted in five districts in West Java province to examine potential carbon stock in agroforestry systems practiced by smallholder farmers on degraded landscapes. Six agroforestry systems with differing carbon stocks were identified: gmelina (Gmelina arborea Roxb.) + cardamom (Amomum compactum); manglid (Magnolia champaca (L.) Baill. ex Pierre) + cardamom; caddam (Neolamarckiacadamba (Roxb.) Bosser) + cardamom; caddam + elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.); mixed-tree + fishpond; and mixed-tree lots. Compared to other systems, mixed-tree lots had the highest carbon stock at 108.9 Mg ha−1. Carbon stock variations related to species density and diversity. Farmers from research sites said these systems also prevent soil erosion and help to restore degraded land. Farmers’ adoption of agroforestry can be enhanced by the implementation of supportive policies and measures, backed by scientific research.
EngraveChain: A Blockchain-Based Tamper-Proof Distributed Log System
Authors: Shekhtman Louis , Waisbard Erez
Published: May 2021

A reliable log system is a prerequisite for many applications. Financial systems need to have transactions logged in a precise manner, medical systems rely on having trusted medical records and security logs record system access requests in order to trace malicious attempts. Keeping multiple copies helps to achieve availability and reliability against such hackers. Unfortunately, maintaining redundant copies in a distributed manner in a byzantine setting has always been a challenging task, however it has recently become simpler given advances in blockchain technologies. In this work, we present a tamper-resistant log system through the use of a blockchain. We leverage the immutable write action and distributed storage provided by the blockchain as a basis to develop a secure log system, but we also add a privacy preserving layer that is essential for many applications. We detail the security and privacy aspects of our solution, as well as how they relate to performance needs in relevant settings. Finally, we implement our system over Hyperledger Fabric and demonstrate the system’s value for several use cases. In addition, we provide a scalability analysis for applying our solution in a large-scale system.
Radio Coverage and Device Capacity Dimensioning Methodologies for IoT LoRaWAN and NB-IoT Deployments in Urban Environments
Authors: Aldabbagh Ghadah , Dimitriou Nikos , Alkhuraiji Samar , Bamasag Omaimah
Published: May 2021

This paper focuses on the study of IoT network deployments, in both unlicensed and licensed bands, considering LoRaWAN and NB-IoT standards, respectively. The objective is to develop a comprehensive and detailed network planning and coverage dimensioning methodology for assessing key metrics related to the achieved throughput and capacity for specific requirements in order to identify tradeoffs and key issues that are related to the applicability of IoT access technologies for representative use case types. This paper will provide a concise overview of key characteristics of IoT representative IoT access network standards that are considered for being deployed in unlicensed and licensed bands and will present a methodology for modeling the characteristics of both access network technologies in order to assess their coverage and capacity considering different parameters.
Potential Alternative to Nitrite in Roasted Lamb for Sensory Attributes: Atmospheric Nonthermal Plasma Treatment
Authors: Chen Ruixia , Zhang Dequan , Liu Huan , Wang Zhenyu , Hui Teng
Published: May 2021

Reducing or replacing sodium nitrite without compromising the sensory attributes of meat products has always been a focus of the meat industry. In this study, five treatments, CT (without nitrite and plasma treatment), NT (with nitrite treatment), PT15, PT30, and PT45 (without nitrite and with plasma treatment for 15, 30, and 45 min, respectively), were designed to investigate the effect of atmospheric nonthermal plasma treatment replacing nitrite on the sensory attributes of roasted lamb. Results showed that PT45 decreased the residual nitrite of roasted lamb by 30% compared with NT, and nitrite was not detected in the PT15 and PT30 samples. The inhibition effect of plasma treatment on the lipid oxidation reached values from 86.69% to 89.89% compared with NT. Compared with CT, the redness of plasma-treated samples was increased by 9.30% to 31.40%, and the redness of NT samples was increased by 30.87%. In addition, the volatile compounds (OAVs > 1) of the PT30 sample were higher than those of the NT sample. The overall sensory score of the PT30 sample was higher than that of the CT sample and was similar to that of the NT samples. In conclusion, the sensory attributes of roasted lamb were enhanced by plasma treatment, and the 30 min plasma treatment is recommended.
Bioactive Compounds in Waste By-Products from Olive Oil Production: Applications and Structural Characterization by Mass Spectrometry Techniques
Authors: Abbattista Ramona , Ventura Giovanni , Calvano Cosima Damiana , Cataldi Tommaso R. I. , Losito Ilario
Published: May 2021

In recent years, a remarkable increase in olive oil consumption has occurred worldwide, favoured by its organoleptic properties and the growing awareness of its health benefits. Currently, olive oil production represents an important economic income for Mediterranean countries, where roughly 98% of the world production is located. Both the cultivation of olive trees and the production of industrial and table olive oil generate huge amounts of solid wastes and dark liquid effluents, including olive leaves and pomace and olive oil mill wastewaters. Besides representing an economic problem for producers, these by-products also pose serious environmental concerns, thus their partial reuse, like that of all agronomical production residues, represents a goal to pursue. This aspect is particularly important since the cited by-products are rich in bioactive compounds, which, once extracted, may represent ingredients with remarkable added value for food, cosmetic and nutraceutical industries. Indeed, they contain considerable amounts of valuable organic acids, carbohydrates, proteins, fibers, and above all, phenolic compounds, that are variably distributed among the different wastes, depending on the employed production process of olive oils and table olives and agronomical practices. Yet, extraction and recovery of bioactive components from selected by-products constitute a critical issue for their rational valorization and detailed identification and quantification are mandatory. The most used analytical methods adopted to identify and quantify bioactive compounds in olive oil by-products are based on the coupling between gas- (GC) or liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS), with MS being the most useful and successful detection tool for providing structural information. Without derivatization, LC-MS with electrospray (ESI) or atmospheric pressure chemical (APCI) ionization sources has become one of the most relevant and versatile instrumental platforms for identifying phenolic bioactive compounds. In this review, the major LC-MS accomplishments reported in the literature over the last two decades to investigate olive oil processing by-products, specifically olive leaves and pomace and olive oil mill wastewaters, are described, focusing on phenolics and related compounds.
Optimization of an Untargeted DART-HRMS Method Envisaging Identification of Potential Markers for Saffron Authenticity Assessment
Authors: Angelis Elisabetta De , Pilolli Rosa , Bejjani Alice , Guagnano Rocco , Garino Cristiano , Arlorio Marco , Monaci Linda
Published: May 2021

Saffron is one of the most expensive agricultural products in the world and as such, the most commonly adulterated spice, with undeclared plant-based surrogates or synthetic components simulating color and morphology. Currently, saffron quality is certificated in the international trade market according to specific ISO guidelines, which test aroma, flavor, and color strength. However, it has been demonstrated that specific adulterants such as safflower, marigold, or turmeric up to 20% (w/w) cannot be detected under the prescribed approach; therefore, there is still a need for advanced and sensitive screening methods to cope with this open issue. The current investigation aims to develop a rapid and sensitive untargeted method based on an ambient mass spectrometry ionization source (DART) and an Orbitrap™high-resolution mass analyzer to discriminate pure and adulterated saffron samples with either safflower or turmeric. The metabolic profiles of pure and adulterated model samples prepared at different inclusion levels were acquired. Unsupervised multivariate analysis was carried out based on hierarchical cluster analysis and principal component analysis as first confirmation of the discriminating potential of the metabolic profile acquired under optimized DART-HRMS conditions. In addition, a preliminary selection of potential markers for saffron authenticity was accomplished, identifying compounds able to discriminate the type of adulteration down to a concentration level of 5%.
The Flavor Chemistry of Fortified Wines—A Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Abreu Teresa , Perestrelo Rosa , Bordiga Matteo , Locatelli Monica , Daniel Coïsson Jean , Câmara José S.
Published: May 2021

For centuries, wine has had a fundamental role in the culture and habits of different civilizations. Amongst numerous wine types that involve specific winemaking processes, fortified wines possess an added value and are greatly honored worldwide. This review comprises the description of the most important characteristics of the main worldwide fortified wines—Madeira, Port, Sherry, Muscat, and Vermouth—structured in three parts. The first part briefly describes the chemistry of wine flavor, the origin of typical aroma (primary, secondary and tertiary), and the influencing parameters during the winemaking process. The second part describes some specificities of worldwide fortified wine, highlighting the volatile composition with particular emphasis on aroma compounds. The third part reports the volatile composition of the most important fortified wines, including the principal characteristics, vinification process, the evolution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the aging processes, and the most important odor descriptors. Given the worldwide popularity and the economic relevance of fortified wines, much research should be done to better understand accurately the reactions and mechanisms that occur in different stages of winemaking, mainly during the oxidative and thermal aging.
Shelf Life Extension of Chilled Pork by Optimal Ultrasonicated Ceylon Spinach (Basella alba) Extracts: Physicochemical and Microbial Properties
Authors: Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Buadoktoom Srirana , Leelapornpisid Pimporn , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Seesuriyachan Phisit , Chaiyaso Thanongsak , Leksawasdi Noppol , Rachtanapun Pornchai , Chaiwong Nareekan , Sommano Sarana Rose , Brennan Charles S. , Regenstein Joe M.
Published: May 2021

The effect of ultrasonication on the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of Ceylon spinach (Basella alba) extracts (CE) and the shelf life of chilled pork with CE were studied. The CE were ultrasonicated at different power levels (60–100%) for 10–40 min in an ultrasonic bath with the rise of antioxidant activities (p ≤ 0.05) proportional to the ultrasonication time. The additional investigation of antibacterial activities showed that the ultrasonicated extracts (100 mg/mL) could inhibit and inactivate Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli with the optimal condition of 80% power for 40 min. For shelf life testing, fresh pork treated with the ultrasonicated extracts at 100 and 120 mg/mL had lower values of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) than the control (without dipping). For food safety as measured by the total microbial count, the fresh pork dipped with 100–120 mg/mL CE extract could be kept at 0 °C for 7 days, 2 to 3 days longer than control meat at 0 and 4 °C, respectively. A sensory evaluation using a nine-point hedonic scale showed that fresh pork dipped with 100-mg/mL CE extracts was accepted by consumers. It is suggested that CE extracts can be applied in the food industry to enhance the quality and extend the shelf life of meat products.
The Sensory Quality and the Textural Properties of Functional Oolong Tea-Infused Set Type Yoghurt with Inulin
Authors: Świąder Katarzyna , Florowska Anna , Konisiewicz Zuzanna
Published: May 2021

Set type yoghurts are characterised by a semi-solid texture, which is created during the fermentation process. The tea infusion in this type of yoghurt production can influence the quality of the final product. Therefore, the aim of the experiment was to evaluate the influence of the addition of 3, 6 and 9% inulin to oolong tea-infused yoghurts on the sensory quality. It has been evaluated by trained experts using a Quantitative Descriptive Profile analysis and by consumers using hedonic scaling, as well as on instrumentally evaluated features such as texture, stability and visual parameters. The addition of oolong tea to yoghurt resulted in positive changes in the perception of sweet, peach and nectar odours and flavours, and also creaminess, as well as negative changes in the presence of a bitter taste, the whey presence and a colour intensification towards dark cream (p ≤ 0.05). The addition of inulin to the tested oolong tea yogurts caused a decrease in the whey presence and brightened the yoghurt’s colour (6% and 9%, p ≤ 0.05, respectively), as well as an improved creaminess and an increase in the sweet taste of the yoghurt. It was also observed that the addition of oolong tea deteriorated the instrumentally evaluated texture of the set yoghurts, while inulin at a higher concentration (9%, p ≤ 0.05) increased the firmness and adhesiveness. Moreover, the addition of inulin also had a positive effect on the yoghurt’s stability. The addition of inulin to oolong tea-infused set yoghurts may be valuable both as a source of prebiotic fibre in functional products and as a factor improving the quality of these products.
Cacao Pod Husk Flour as an Ingredient for Reformulating Frankfurters: Effects on Quality Properties
Authors: Delgado-Ospina Johannes , Martuscelli Maria , Grande-Tovar Carlos David , Lucas-González Raquel , Molina-Hernandez Junior Bernardo , Viuda-Martos Manuel , Fernández-López Juana , Pérez-Álvarez José Ángel , Chaves-López Clemencia
Published: May 2021

The cocoa pod husk is considered a source of dietary fiber with a high content of water-soluble pectins, bioactive compounds which should be viewed as a by-product with the potential to be incorporated into food. This study aimed to investigate the effect of adding different cocoa pod husk flour (CPHF) levels as a starch replacement for reformulating frankfurters. Results showed that the addition of 1.5 and 3.0% pod husk proportionally increased the frankfurter’s fiber content by 0.49 ± 0.08 and 0.96 ± 0.19 g/100 g, which is acceptable for a product that does not contain fiber. Textural properties and sensory characteristics were affected when substituting the starch with CPHF, either totally or partially, although these samples had higher water content, hardness, and adhesiveness while springiness decreased. Non-adverse effects of nitrite on polyphenolic compounds content were evidenced in samples enriched with CPHF. The incorporation of CPHF did not significantly affect the color parameters (ΔE < 3). Finally, the panelists indicated a sensation of the unsalted sausage, suggesting that CPHF may have natural mucoadhesion properties. In conclusion, in formulated meat products such as sausages, plant co-products such as cacao pod husks could be a valid new ingredient to improve technological parameters, functional characteristics, and stability.
Novel Analysis on Aroma Compounds of Wine, Vinegar and Derived Products
Authors: Durán-Guerrero Enrique , Castro Remedios
Published: May 2021

Aroma is one of the main responsible for the acceptance of oenological products such as wine, vinegar and derived products [...]
Effects of Linseed Meal and Carotenoids from Different Sources on Egg Characteristics, Yolk Fatty Acid and Carotenoid Profile and Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Panaite Tatiana D. , Nour Violeta , Saracila Mihaela , Turcu Raluca P. , Untea Arabela E. , Vlaicu Petru Al.
Published: May 2021

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementing the diet of laying hens with linseed meal and carotenoids from different sources on egg characteristics, yolk fatty acid and carotenoid profile, and lipid peroxidation. A 4-week experiment was conducted on 168 Lohmann Brown layers (43 weeks of age), assigned to four dietary treatments (42 hens/group; 21 replicate/groups with 2 birds/pen) consisting of a control diet (C) and three diets simultaneously supplemented with 6% linseed meal and 2% dried kapia pepper (E1), 2% dried sea buckthorn pomace (E2) and 2% dried carrot (E3). Every 2 weeks, 18 eggs/group/period were collected randomly from each group and used to determine the egg quality and nutritional parameters. The results showed that dietary linseed meal and carotenoids sources improved egg color, carotenoids’ accumulation in egg yolk and fatty acid profile, especially the n-3 PUFA content. Dietary carotenoids supplementation reduced, n-6/n-3 ratio, cholesterol content of the egg yolk and improved yolk pH, egg thickness and yolk oxidative stability. In conclusion, the use of these sources of carotenoids in the linseed meal enriched diets could be an effective way to improve the nutritional properties of the eggs without affecting their quality and consumer’s safety.
You Are What You Eat: Application of Metabolomics Approaches to Advance Nutrition Research
Authors: Emwas Abdul-Hamid M. , Al-Rifai Nahla , Szczepski Kacper , Alsuhaymi Shuruq , Rayyan Saleh , Almahasheer Hanan , Jaremko Mariusz , Brennan Lorraine , Lachowicz Joanna Izabela
Published: May 2021

A healthy condition is defined by complex human metabolic pathways that only function properly when fully satisfied by nutritional inputs. Poor nutritional intakes are associated with a number of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and osteoporosis. In recent years, nutrition science has undergone an extraordinary transformation driven by the development of innovative software and analytical platforms. However, the complexity and variety of the chemical components present in different food types, and the diversity of interactions in the biochemical networks and biological systems, makes nutrition research a complicated field. Metabolomics science is an “-omic”, joining proteomics, transcriptomics, and genomics in affording a global understanding of biological systems. In this review, we present the main metabolomics approaches, and highlight the applications and the potential for metabolomics approaches in advancing nutritional food research.
Health Characteristics of Patients with Cystic Fibrosis whose Genotype Includes a Variant of the Nucleotide Sequence c.3140-16T>A and Functional Analysis of this Variant
Authors: Kondratyeva Elena , Bukharova Tatyana , Efremova Anna , Melyanovskaya Yuliya , Bulatenko Natalia , Davydenko Ksenia , Filatova Alexandra , Skoblov Mikhail , Krasovsky Stanislav , Petrova Nika , Polyakov Alexander , Adyan Tagui , Amelina Elena , Shadrina Vera , Zhekaite Elena , Zodbinova Aysa , Chernyak Alexander , Zinchenko Rena , Kutsev Sergei , Goldshtein Dmitry
Published: May 2021

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common monogenic autosomal recessive disease, associated with pathogenic variants in the CFTR gene. The splicing variant c.3140-16T>A (3272-16T>A) has been described previously and, according to the Russian CF Patients Registry, occurs with a frequency of 0.34%. The phenotypic features of CF patients with the c.3140-16T>A variant were compared with those of patients with the genotype F508del/F508del. Patients with the allele c.3140-16T>A had higher average age and age at diagnosis, and the allele was present in a greater proportion of adults. Patients carrying the c.3140-16T>A allele were characterised by better physical development indicators, both in adults and in children, had preserved pancreatic function, as well as the absence of a number of complications, and required pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy less often than patients with the F508del/F508del genotype. Sweat test values also were lower in patients with the c.3140-16T>A genotype. According to the results of clinical and laboratory studies, the phenotype of patients with the genetic variant c.3140-16T>A can be considered “mild”. Functional CFTR protein activity in the presence of c.3140-16T>A was evaluated using intestinal current measurements (ICM) and the forskolin-induced swelling assay on organoids obtained from patients’ rectal biopsies. c.3140-16T>A had high residual CFTR channel activity and was amenable to effective pharmacological correction with thea VX-770 potentiator. To evaluate the effect of the variant on CFTR pre-mRNA splicing we performed a minigene assay, as well as RT-PCR analysis of RNA isolated from the nasal epithelium and rectal biopsy of patients. We showed that the c.3140-16T>A variant creates a novel acceptor AG dinucleotide within CFTR intron 19, resulting in a 14-nucleotide extension of exon 20. This frameshift produces a premature termination codon and triggers mRNA degradation by the nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) mechanism. Moreover, we observed that the c.3140-16T>A allele could produce a residual amount of normally spliced transcript, thus explaining the patient’s mild phenotype.
Response of Bovine Cumulus–Oocytes Complexes to Energy Pathway Inhibition during In Vitro Maturation
Authors: Lipinska Paulina , Sell-Kubiak Ewa , Pawlak Piotr , Madeja Zofia Eliza , Warzych Ewelina
Published: May 2021

Glucose or fatty acids (FAs) metabolisms may alter the ovarian follicle environment and thus determine oocyte and the nascent embryo quality. The aim of the experiment was to investigate the effect of selective inhibition of glucose (iodoacetate + DHEA) or FA (etomoxir) metabolism on in vitro maturation (IVM) of bovine COCs (cumulus–oocyte complexes) to investigate oocyte’s development, quality, and energy metabolism. After in vitro fertilization, embryos were cultured to the blastocyst stage. Lipid droplets, metabolome, and lipidome were analyzed in oocytes and cumulus cells. mRNA expression of the selected genes was measured in the cumulus cells. ATP and glutathione relative levels were measured in oocytes. Changes in FA content in the maturation medium were evaluated by mass spectrometry. Our results indicate that only glucose metabolism is substantial to the oocyte during IVM since only glucose inhibition decreased embryo culture efficiency. The most noteworthy differences in the reaction to the applied inhibition systems were observed in cumulus cells. The upregulation of ketone body metabolism in the cumulus cells of the glucose inhibition group suggest possibly failed attempts of cells to switch into lipid consumption. On the contrary, etomoxir treatment of the oocytes did not affect embryo development, probably due to undisturbed metabolism in cumulus cells. Therefore, we suggest that the energy pathways analyzed in this experiment are not interchangeable alternatives in bovine COCs.
kESVR: An Ensemble Model for Drug Response Prediction in Precision Medicine Using Cancer Cell Lines Gene Expression
Authors: Majumdar Abhishek , Liu Yueze , Lu Yaoqin , Wu Shaofeng , Cheng Lijun
Published: May 2021

Background: Cancer cell lines are frequently used in research as in-vitro tumor models. Genomic data and large-scale drug screening have accelerated the right drug selection for cancer patients. Accuracy in drug response prediction is crucial for success. Due to data-type diversity and big data volume, few methods can integrative and efficiently find the principal low-dimensional manifold of the high-dimensional cancer multi-omics data to predict drug response in precision medicine. Method: A novelty k-means Ensemble Support Vector Regression (kESVR) is developed to predict each drug response values for single patient based on cell-line gene expression data. The kESVR is a blend of supervised and unsupervised learning methods and is entirely data driven. It utilizes embedded clustering (Principal Component Analysis and k-means clustering) and local regression (Support Vector Regression) to predict drug response and obtain the global pattern while overcoming missing data and outliers’ noise. Results: We compared the efficiency and accuracy of kESVR to 4 standard machine learning regression models: (1) simple linear regression, (2) support vector regression (3) random forest (quantile regression forest) and (4) back propagation neural network. Our results, which based on drug response across 610 cancer cells from Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) and Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal (CTRP v2), proved to have the highest accuracy (smallest mean squared error (MSE) measure). We next compared kESVR with existing 17 drug response prediction models based a varied range of methods such as regression, Bayesian inference, matrix factorization and deep learning. After ranking the 18 models based on their accuracy of prediction, kESVR ranks first (best performing) in majority (74%) of the time. As for the remaining (26%) cases, kESVR still ranked in the top five performing models. Conclusion: In this paper we introduce a novel model (kESVR) for drug response prediction using high dimensional cell-line gene expression data. This model outperforms current existing prediction models in terms of prediction accuracy and speed and overcomes overfitting. This can be used in future to develop a robust drug response prediction system for cancer patients using the cancer cell-lines guidance and multi-omics data.
ATM: Main Features, Signaling Pathways, and Its Diverse Roles in DNA Damage Response, Tumor Suppression, and Cancer Development
Authors: Phan Liem Minh , Rezaeian Abdol-Hossein
Published: May 2021

ATM is among of the most critical initiators and coordinators of the DNA-damage response. ATM canonical and non-canonical signaling pathways involve hundreds of downstream targets that control many important cellular processes such as DNA damage repair, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, metabolism, proliferation, oxidative sensing, among others. Of note, ATM is often considered a major tumor suppressor because of its ability to induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. However, in some advanced stage tumor cells, ATM signaling is increased and confers remarkable advantages for cancer cell survival, resistance to radiation and chemotherapy, biosynthesis, proliferation, and metastasis. This review focuses on addressing major characteristics, signaling pathways and especially the diverse roles of ATM in cellular homeostasis and cancer development.
Delineation of Molecular Lesions in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients at Diagnosis: Integrated Next Generation Sequencing and Cytogenomic Studies
Authors: Papuc Sorina Mihaela , Erbescu Alina , Cisleanu Diana , Ozunu Diana , Enache Cristina , Dumitru Ion , Lupoaia Andrus Elena , Gaman Mihaela , Popov Viola Maria , Dobre Maria , Stanca Oana , Angelescu Silvana , Berbec Nicoleta , Colita Andrei , Vladareanu Ana-Maria , Bumbea Horia , Arghir Aurora
Published: May 2021

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by a wide range of genetic defects. Cytogenetics, molecular and genomic technologies have proved to be helpful for deciphering the mutational landscape of AML and impacted clinical practice. Forty-eight new AML patients were investigated with an integrated approach, including classical and molecular cytogenetics, array-based comparative genomic hybridization and targeted next generation sequencing (NGS). Various genetic defects were identified in all the patients using our strategy. Targeted NGS revealed known pathogenic mutations as well as rare or unreported variants with deleterious predictions. The mutational screening of the normal karyotype (NK) group identified clinically relevant variants in 86.2% of the patients; in the abnormal cytogenetics group, the mutation detection rate was 87.5%. Overall, the highest mutation prevalence was observed for the NPM1 gene, followed by DNMT3A, FLT3 and NRAS. An unexpected co-occurrence of KMT2A translocation and DNMT3A-R882 was identified; alterations of these genes, which are involved in epigenetic regulation, are considered to be mutually exclusive. A microarray analysis detected CNVs in 25% of the NK AML patients. In patients with complex karyotypes, the microarray analysis made a significant contribution toward the accurate characterization of chromosomal defects. In summary, our results show that the integration of multiple investigative strategies increases the detection yield of genetic defects with potential clinical relevance.
Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha_1.0: A Long-Read Assembly of the Dog Reference Genome
Authors: Jagannathan Vidhya , Hitte Christophe , Kidd Jeffrey M. , Masterson Patrick , Murphy Terence D. , Emery Sarah , Davis Brian , Buckley Reuben M. , Liu Yan-Hu , Zhang Xiang-Quan , Leeb Tosso , Zhang Ya-Ping , Ostrander Elaine A. , Wang Guo-Dong
Published: May 2021

The domestic dog has evolved to be an important biomedical model for studies regarding the genetic basis of disease, morphology and behavior. Genetic studies in the dog have relied on a draft reference genome of a purebred female boxer dog named “Tasha” initially published in 2005. Derived from a Sanger whole genome shotgun sequencing approach coupled with limited clone-based sequencing, the initial assembly and subsequent updates have served as the predominant resource for canine genetics for 15 years. While the initial assembly produced a good-quality draft, as with all assemblies produced at the time, it contained gaps, assembly errors and missing sequences, particularly in GC-rich regions, which are found at many promoters and in the first exons of protein-coding genes. Here, we present Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha_1.0, an improved chromosome-level highly contiguous genome assembly of Tasha created with long-read technologies that increases sequence contiguity >100-fold, closes >23,000 gaps of the CanFam3.1 reference assembly and improves gene annotation by identifying >1200 new protein-coding transcripts. The assembly and annotation are available at NCBI under the accession GCF_000002285.5.
Glacial Ripping in Sedimentary Rocks: Loch Eriboll, NW Scotland
Authors: Hall Adrian M. , Mathers Hannah , Krabbendam Maarten
Published: May 2021

Glacial ripping is a newly recognized process sequence in which subglacial erosion is triggered by groundwater overpressure. Investigations in gneiss terrain in lowland Sweden indicate that ripping involves three stages of (i) hydraulic jacking, (ii) rock disruption under subglacial traction, and (iii) glacial transport of rock blocks. Evidence for each stage includes, respectively, dilated fractures with sediment fills, disintegrated roches moutonnées, and boulder spreads. Here, we ask: can glacial ripping also occur in sedimentary rocks, and, if so, what are its effects? The case study area is in hard, thinly bedded, gently dipping Cambrian quartz-arenites at Loch Eriboll, NW Scotland. Field surveys reveal dilated, sediment filled, bedding-parallel fractures, open joints, and brecciated zones, interpreted as markers for pervasive, shallow penetration of the quartz-arenite by water at overpressure. Other features, including disintegrated rock surfaces, boulder spreads, and monomict rubble tills, indicate glacial disruption and short distance subglacial transport. The field results together with cosmogenic isotope ages indicate that glacial ripping operated with high impact close to the former ice margin at Loch Eriboll at 17.6–16.5 ka. Glacial ripping thus can operate effectively in bedded, hard sedimentary rocks, and the accompanying brecciation is significant—if not dominant—in till formation. Candidate markers for glacial ripping are identified in other sedimentary terrains in former glaciated areas of the Northern Hemisphere.
The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Mandala Coloring, Made in Nature, on Chronic Widespread Musculoskeletal Pain: Randomized Trial
Authors: Choi Han , Hahm Suk-Chan , Jeon Yo-Han , Han Jin-Woo , Kim Soo-Yeon , Woo Jong-Min
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of mindfulness-based mandala coloring made within nature on individuals with chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain (CWP). Thirty-six participants were randomly allocated. In the experimental group, identical interventions and procedures were administered for each experiment. The control group members were untreated and remained in an urban environment. Overall, the experiment showed significant improvements in tender points (f = 8.791, p = 0.006), total stress level (f = 14.570, p = 0.001), depressive symptoms (f = 15.205, p = 0.001), anger symptoms (f = 7.263, p = 0.011) and salivary cortisol (f = 10.619, p = 0.003) in the experimental group. The results reflect that MBMC within nature is effective in reducing pain, psychological stress responses, and cortisol levels in individuals with CWP. The positive results could be a product of the experimental design rather than the treatment itself. A rigorous experimental design provides better understanding of MBMC within nature.
Investigation on the Effect of Oral Breathing on Cognitive Activity Using Functional Brain Imaging
Authors: Jung Ju-Yeon , Kang Chang-Ki
Published: May 2021

Oral breathing directly affects behavioral performance and dental health. Various relationships between oral breathing and periodontal disease have been well-described. However, the effect of oral breathing on cognitive performance remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of oral breathing on cognitive function using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Twenty-two healthy participants (mean age, 22.27 ± 1.42 years) performed a two-back (2B) working memory fMRI task using a 3T MRI scanner while breathing through their oral or nasal passage. Functional activity analysis was performed using a statistical parametric mapping software package. One-sample group analyses were performed in 2B > Rest contrast. Functional connectivity analysis was conducted using MATLAB-based imaging software. Mixed ANOVA analysis was performed. The results showed more brain activation and connection during nasal breathing than during oral breathing. For Nasal > Oral contrast, various functional connections are known to have a significant relationship with working memory, including the left cerebellum, left and right inferior parietal gyrus. This can be significant evidence to demonstrate that oral breathing is an inappropriate method for intellectual activity using brain imaging techniques. Therefore, this study suggests that changing various habits related to oral breathing is important for cognitive function.
Noninvasive Portable Hemoglobin Concentration Monitoring System Using Optical Sensor for Anemia Disease
Authors: Pintavirooj Chuchart , Ni Baorong , Chatkobkool Chaiwat , Pinijkij Kittitorn
Published: May 2021

Anemia is a condition in which red blood cells are not able to carry adequate oxygen to the body’s tissues, and is widely found in nearly a quarter of the world population. The typical method to screen for the iron-deficiency anemia, which is the major anemia found in the world, is to implement a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). However, even though this test gives a highly accurate result, it requires an invasive blood drawing and lab analyzing which could potentially cause physical pain, high risk of infection and take a long time to analyze. Therefore, this research presents an alternative method using an optical technique to measure hemoglobin concentration, which is the common indicator for diagnosing anemia. The light absorbance of the oxyhemoglobin at the wavelength of 660 nm and the deoxyhemoglobin at the wavelength of 880 nm were measured using the MAX30100 sensor. These wavelengths of light are obtained from red and infrared (IR) LEDs. The concept is based on the different absorption coefficients of blood at different electromagnetic wavelengths. This fact is used to indirectly calculate the hemoglobin concentration of blood through the modified Beer–Lambert law. Moreover, the result has been further converted to absolute hemoglobin concentration using a calibration curve derived from the cyanmethemoglobin test, which is the regular method for hemoglobin determination. Besides, the android application was also provided which can wirelessly record or monitor the data. The experiment shows that an accuracy of 90.9% can be achieved by our proposed noninvasive method. Therefore, the noninvasive portable hemoglobin concentration monitoring by the optical sensor has an acceptable result when compared with the invasive method, with less pain and lower risk of infection, as well as shorter processing time.