bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of the ‘BMS’ Package for R with Focus on Jointness
Authors: Amini Shahram , Parmeter Christopher F.
Published: February 2020

We provide a general overview of Bayesian model averaging (BMA) along with the concept of jointness. We then describe the relative merits and attractiveness of the newest BMA software package, BMS, available in the statistical language R to implement a BMA exercise. BMS provides the user a wide range of customizable priors for conducting a BMA exercise, provides ample graphs to visualize results, and offers several alternative model search mechanisms. We also provide an application of the BMS package to equity premia and describe a simple function that can easily ascertain jointness measures of covariates and integrates with the BMS package.
On ‘Economies of Sequence’ in the Architectural Theory of Agglomeration: A Case of the Kyoto Tourism Industry
Authors: Kuchiki Akifumi
Published: February 2020

This paper focuses on an architecture-based theory of agglomeration. An agglomeration is composed of a number of segments such as physical infrastructure facilitation including airports and stations. ‘Economies of sequence’ can be defined as the sequencing of the segments toward the efficient building of an agglomeration. The main three findings are as follows: first, foreign nationals from Kansai International Airport Granger-cause the number of tourists to Kyoto Prefecture, foreign nationals from Kansai International Airport Granger-cause the number of foreign tourists to Kyoto City, and passengers at JR Kyoto Station Granger-cause the number of tourists to Kyoto City; second, the number of foreign tourists Granger-causes revenues in the tourism industry in the cases of Malaysia, the United States of America, and China; and third, the promotion of the tourism industry to redevelop Kyoto station mall in 1997, the “Kyoto Winter Special” campaign in 2003, and the global “Travel & Leisure” destination SNS (social networking service) promotion in 2015 were effective in building the segments of a tourist agglomeration. In conclusion, the economies of sequence of the segments of a tourism industry agglomeration are as follows: the first priority is to reduce transportation costs for tourists through the renovation of airports and stations, and the next segments for enhancing the level of cultural elements are a branding strategy through the promotion of the tourist industry by campaigns and projects using social network systems.
EARL—Embodied Agent-Based Robot Control Systems Modelling Language
Authors: Winiarski Tomasz , Węgierek Maciej , Seredyński Dawid , Dudek Wojciech , Banachowicz Konrad , Zieliński Cezary
Published: February 2020

The paper presents the Embodied Agent-based Robot control system modelling Language (EARL). EARL follows a Model-Driven Software Development approach (MDSD), which facilitates robot control system development. It is based on a mathematical method of robot controller specification, employing the concept of an Embodied Agent, and a graphical modelling language: System Modelling Language (SysML). It combines the ease of use of SysML with the precision of mathematical specification of certain aspects of the designed system. It makes the whole system specification effective, from the point of view of the time needed to create it, conciseness of the specification and the possibility of its analysis. By using EARL it is possible to specify systems both with fixed and variable structure. This was achieved by introducing a generalised system model and presenting particular structures of the system in terms of modelling block configurations adapted by using instances. FABRIC framework was created to support the implementation of EARL-based controllers. EARL is compatible with component based robotic middlewares (e.g., ROS and Orocos).
Simple Setup for Measuring the Response to Differential Mode Noise of Common Mode Chokes
Authors: González-Vizuete Pablo , Domínguez-Palacios Carlos , Bernal-Méndez Joaquín , Martín-Prats María A.
Published: February 2020

This work presents a technique to measure the attenuation of differential mode noise provided by common mode chokes. The proposed setup is a simpler alternative to the balanced setup commonly employed to that end, and its main advantage is that it avoids the use of auxiliary circuits (baluns). We make use of a modal analysis of a high-frequency circuit model of the common mode choke to identify the natural modes actually excited both in the standard balanced setup and in the simpler alternative setup proposed here. This analysis demonstrates that both setups are equivalent at low frequencies and makes it possible to identify the key differences between them at high frequencies. To analyze the scope and interest of the proposed measurement technique we have measured several commercial common mode chokes and we have thoroughly studied the sensitivity of the measurements taken with the proposed setup to electric and magnetic couplings. We have found that the proposed setup can be useful for quick assessment of the attenuation provided by a common mode choke for differential mode noise in a frequency range that encompasses the frequencies where most electromagnetic compatibility regulations impose limits to the conducted emissions of electronic equipment.
Nonuniform Heat Transfer Model and Performance of Molten Salt Cavity Receiver
Authors: Lu Jianfeng , Wang Yarong , Ding Jing
Published: February 2020

The temperature distribution and thermal efficiency of a molten salt cavity receiver are investigated by a nonuniform heat transfer model based on thermal resistance analysis. For the cavity receiver MSEE in Sandia National Laboratories, thermal efficiency in this experiment is about 87.5%, and the calculation value of 86.93–87.79% by a present nonuniform model fits very well with the experimental result. Different from the uniform heat transfer model, the receiver surface temperature in the nonuniform heat transfer model is remarkably higher than the backwall temperature. The incident radiation flux plays a primary role in thermal performance of cavity receiver, and thermal efficiency approaches to maximum under optimal incident radiation flux. In order to increase thermal efficiency, various methods are proposed and studied, including heat convection enhancement by an increase of flow velocity or the decrease of the tube diameter and number of tubes in the panel, and heat loss decline by a decrease of view factor, surface emissivity and insulation conductivity. According to calculation results by different modes of the nonuniform heat transfer model, the thermal efficiency of the cavity receiver is reduced by nonuniform heat transfer caused by variable fluid temperature or variable circumferential temperature, so thermal efficiency calculated by variable fluid temperature and variable circumferential temperature is lower than that calculated by average fluid temperature and bilateral uniform circumferential temperature for 0.86%.
Thermodynamic and Economic Analysis of Trigeneration System Comprising a Hierarchical Gas-Gas Engine for Production of Electricity, Heat and Cold
Authors: Bartnik Ryszard , Buryn Zbigniew , Hnydiuk-Stefan Anna , Skomudek Waldemar , Otawa Aleksandra
Published: February 2020

This paper presents the results of analysis of energy and economic efficiency of the hierarchical gas-gas engine, with a note that a trigeneration system was analyzed, in which the production of electricity, heat and cold are combined. This solution significantly increases the energy efficiency of the gas and gas system compared to a system without cold production. The analysis includes a system comprising a compressor chiller which is driven by an electric motor in the system, as well as a system applying the mechanical work that is carried out via a rotating shaft of rotor-based machines, i.e., a gas turbine and a turboexpander. The comfort of the regulation of the refrigerating power rather promotes the use of a solution including an electric motor. Analysis contains also a schematic diagram of the system with a absorption chiller, which is driven by low-temperature enthalpy of exhaust gases extracted from a hierarchical gas-gas engine. Application of turboexpander with heat regeneration in the trigeneration system is also analyzed. Based on the multi-variant economic and thermodynamic calculations, the most favorable system variant was determined using, among others, the specific cost of cold production.
Numerical Analysis of Heat Transfer Mechanism of Thermal Runaway Propagation for Cylindrical Lithium-ion Cells in Battery Module
Authors: Tang Zhiguo , Song Anqi , Wang Shoucheng , Cheng Jianping , Tao Changfa
Published: February 2020

An electrochemical-thermal coupling model combined with an electrically connected cylindrical cell model was built to produce a structural design that prevents thermal runaway propagation of cells on the battery module. Additionally, the characteristics of different modes of heat transfer of each cell during thermal runaway propagation of the battery module in an open environment were studied by changing the spacing of adjacent cells, the solder joint area, and the cross-sectional area of the electrode tab. Heat conduction is usually the main heat transfer mode for cells directly connected to the thermal runaway cell, while radiation heat transfer is the main heat exchange mode for cells that are not directly connected to thermal runaway cell. Increasing spacing can prevent thermal runaway propagation by the three heat transfer modes. Similarly, a smaller total solder joint area and cross-sectional area of the electrode tab can inhibit thermal runaway propagation through heat conduction transfer modes if conditions permit.
Optimization Model of Key Equipment Maintenance Scheduling for an AC/DC Hybrid Transmission Network Based on Mixed Integer Linear Programming
Authors: Cai Jie , Guo Shuyu , Liao Shuang , Chen Xing , Miao Shihong , Li Yaowang
Published: February 2020

The unbalanced distribution of resource and consuming centers in China has prompted the AC/DC hybrid transmission technology. The maintenance scheduling of an AC/DC hybrid transmission network is the key technology to ensure its safety and reliability. In this study, the mutual influence mechanism of an AC/DC system in a maintenance period was analyzed in detail. The overhead transmission line and transformer are key equipment within an AC/DC hybrid transmission network, and an optimization model of the key equipment maintenance scheduling was established. The objective of the model was to improve the system reliability during the maintenance scheduling. By considering the constraints of maintenance cost, maintenance resources, and maintenance workload, the maintenance scheduling of overhead transmission lines and transformer branches was obtained. The over-limit situation of power flow and the weakness of the system during the maintenance period was evaluated. The “double-layer substitution method” was adopted to convert the nonlinear constraints into its bilinear formulation such that it could then be solved. The random number sampling method was used to quantify the system reliability, and the commercial optimization software was used to solve the optimized scheduling. Based on the improved IEEE RTS-79 system and the Hubei Province electrical system, the simulation results showed the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Dynamic Performance Simulation and Stable Current Collection Analysis of a Pantograph Catenary System for Trolley Wire Overhead Electrically Actuated LHD
Authors: Li Yinping , Jin Tianxu , Liu Li , Yuan Kun
Published: February 2020

The pantograph catenary system plays an important role in the power performance of electric mining vehicles. A pantograph catenary system combining both a pantograph and a catenary is one of the most promising solutions. As a case study, this paper discusses the dynamic performance and the stable current collection of a pantograph catenary system for a 14 ton underground overhead wire electrical actuated load, haul, dump machine (LHD). First, based on the optimized finite element simulation process, finite element models of the pantograph system and the catenary system are established. Second, the motion equation of the catenary is improved, and the finite element model of the pantograph catenary system is established. Finally, a dynamic simulation experiment is performed to determine the dynamic performance of the pantograph catenary system. The results show that when the radius of the contact wire is set to 0.00564 m and the tension of contact wire is set to 30 KN, the current collection indexes of the pantograph catenary system meet the requirements of stable current collection and are superior to the simulation results of related references. Therefore, the validity of the finite element model is verified; thus, the pantograph catenary system can stably charge and supply energy for the trolley wire overhead electrically actuated LHD and ensure sufficient power.
Table Olives More than a Fermented Food
Authors: Perpetuini Giorgia , Prete Roberta , Garcia-Gonzalez Natalia , Khairul Alam Mohammad , Corsetti Aldo
Published: February 2020

Table olives are one of the oldest vegetable fermented foods in the Mediterranean area. Beside their economic impact, fermented table olives represent also an important healthy food in the Mediterranean diet, because of their high content of bioactive and health-promoting compounds. However, olive fermentation is still craft-based following traditional processes, which can lead to a not fully predictable final product with the risk of spontaneous alterations. Nowadays, food industries have to face consumer demands for safe and healthy products. This review offers an overview about the main technologies used for olive fermentation and the role of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts characterizing this niche during the fermentation. Particular attention is offered to the selection and use of microorganisms as starter cultures to fasten and improve the safety of table olives. The development and implementation of multifunctional starter cultures in order to obtain heath-oriented table olives is also discussed.
Evaluation of Perceptual Interactions between Ester Aroma Components in Langjiu by GC-MS, GC-O, Sensory Analysis, and Vector Model
Authors: Niu Yunwei , Liu Ying , Xiao Zuobing
Published: February 2020

The volatile compounds of three Langjiu (“Honghualangshi, HHL”, “Zhenpinlang, ZPL”, and “Langpailangjiu, LPLJ”) were studied by gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that a total of 31, 30, and 30 ester compounds making a contribution to aroma were present in the HHL, ZPL, and LPLJ samples, respectively. From these esters, 16 compounds were identified as important odour substances, and their odour activity values (OAVs) were greater than 1. The key ester components were selected as: ethyl acetate, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl 3-methyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, and ethyl phenylacetate by aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA), odour activity value (OAV), and omission testing. Five esters were studied for perceptual interactions while using Feller’s additive model, OAV, and a vector model. Among these mixtures, they all have an enhancing or synergistic effect. Among these mixtures, one mixture presented an additive effect and nine mixtures showed a synergistic effect.
Not Seeing the Forest for the Trees: The Impact of Multiple Labelling on Consumer Choices for Olive Oil
Authors: Pérez y Pérez Luis , Gracia Azucena , Barreiro-Hurlé Jesús
Published: February 2020

Multiple quality labels that signal whether a particular food has special characteristics relating to geographical origin or production method have become standard within European food policy. The aim of this paper was to investigate how two of these labels in particular influence consumers’ food choices. We assessed consumers’ preferences for an extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) displaying EU quality labels and focus on whether they are complements or substitutes. In order to do so, we used a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to estimate main and two-way interactions effects with data from a self-administrated survey in a Spanish region. Results indicate that while consumers positively value both the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and the organic labels, the valuation for PDO is almost double that of the valuation of the organic label. Furthermore, the findings show that for a majority of consumers considered both labels substitutes, while a small group considered them complements. These findings can help producers identify an optimal labelling strategy to maximize returns on certification investments.
Improvement of the Flavanol Profile and the Antioxidant Capacity of Chocolate Using a Phenolic Rich Cocoa Powder
Authors: González-Barrio Rocío , Nuñez-Gomez Vanesa , Cienfuegos-Jovellanos Elena , García-Alonso Francisco Javier , Periago-Castón Mª Jesús
Published: February 2020

Chocolate is made from cocoa, which is rich in (poly)phenols that have a high antioxidant capacity and are associated with the prevention of chronic diseases. In this study, a new production process was evaluated in order to obtain a dark chocolate enriched in (poly)phenols using a cocoa powder with an improved flavanol profile. The antioxidant capacity (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) assay) and the flavanol profile (HPLC-DAD and HPLC-FL) was determined. The analysis of the enriched chocolate showed that the total flavan-3-ols (monomers) content was 4 mg/g representing a 3-fold higher than that quantified in the conventional one. Total levels of dimers (procyanidin B1 and B2) were 2.4-fold higher in the enriched chocolate than in the conventional, with a total content of 6 mg/g. The total flavanol content (flavan-3-ols and procyanidins) in the enriched chocolate was increased by 39% compared to the conventional one which led to a 56% increase in the antioxidant capacity. The new flavanol-enriched dark chocolate is expected to provide greater beneficial effect to consumers. Moreover, the amount of flavonols provided by a single dose (ca. 200 mg per 10 g) would allow the use of a health claim on cardiovascular function, a fact of interest for the cocoa industry.
Effects of Context and Virtual Reality Environments on the Wine Tasting Experience, Acceptability, and Emotional Responses of Consumers
Authors: Torrico Damir D. , Han Yitao , Sharma Chetan , Fuentes Sigfredo , Gonzalez Viejo Claudia , Dunshea Frank R.
Published: February 2020

Wine tasting is a multidimensional experience that includes contextual information from tasting environments. Formal sensory tastings are limited by the use of booths that lack ecological validity and engagement. Virtual reality (VR) can overcome this limitation by simulating different environmental contexts. Perception, sensory acceptability, and emotional responses of a Cabernet Sauvignon wine under traditional sensory booths, contextual environments, and VR simulations were evaluated and compared. Participants (N = 53) performed evaluations under five conditions: (1) traditional booths, (2) bright-restaurant (real environment with bright lights), (3) dark-restaurant (real environment with dimly lit candles), (4) bright-VR (VR restaurant with bright lights), and (5) dark-VR (VR restaurant with dimly lit candles). Participants rated the acceptability of aroma, sweetness, acidity, astringency, mouthfeel, aftertaste, and overall liking (9-point hedonic scale), and intensities of sweetness, acidity, and astringency (15-point unstructured line-scale). Results showed that context (booths, real, or VR) affected the perception of the wine’s floral aroma (dark-VR = 8.6 vs. booths = 7.5). Liking of the sensory attributes did not change under different environmental conditions. Emotional responses under bright-VR were associated with “free”, “glad”, and “enthusiastic”; however, under traditional booths, they were related to “polite” and “secure”. “Nostalgic” and “daring” were associated with dark-VR. VR can be used to understand contextual effects on consumer perceptions.
Effects of Various Drying Methods on Physicochemical Characteristics and Textural Features of Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys Polyactis)
Authors: Kim Bo-Sub , Oh Boung-Jun , Lee Jeung-Hee , Yoon Young Seung , Lee Hae-In
Published: February 2020

The physicochemical characteristics and textural properties of yellow croaker treated by hot air drying (HAD), low temperature vacuum drying (LVD), and freeze drying (FD) methods were studied. The dried fish by LVD had the lowest moisture content and highest protein. The volatile basic nitrogen values of dried fish by HAD, LVD, and FD were 66.27, 34.38, and 33.03 mg/100 g sample, respectively. The predominant amino acids of dried fish treated by LVD and FD were lysine, taurine, alanine, and glutamic acid, and the predominant ones by HAD were the remaining amino acids analyzed in this study, except lysine, taurine, alanine, and glutamic acid. By using the color parameters, the L* and b* values by LVD showed light brown and yellow colors of the fish. The textural properties of dried fish by LVD were softer and more chewable than those of HAD and FD. In the stereo-micrographs, the flesh of dried fish by LVD compared to others showed minimization of texture damage, resilient tissues, much fish oil, and were light brown in color. Taken together, these results suggest that LVD rather than HAD and FD provide good qualities of dried fish in terms of physicochemical characteristics and textural properties.
A Multifaceted Explanation of the Predisposition to Buy Organic Food
Authors: Sarabia-Andreu Francisco , Sarabia-Sánchez Francisco J. , Parra-Meroño María Concepción , Moreno-Albaladejo Pablo
Published: February 2020

This study explores whether implicit and explicit attitudes toward organic products explain consumers’ predisposition to buy organic food, considering the hedonic and utilitarian dimensions of attitudes. The data are from an online survey, which included a section on implicit attitudes (measured using an Implicit Association Test) and a section on explicit attitudes. Two products were analyzed using 557 responses from a panel of consumers: chocolate (hedonic-oriented food) and milk (a utilitarian-oriented food). Confirmatory factor analysis and multigroup structural equations were applied to assess the proposed model. Three findings may be highlighted. First, in the model with the lowest entropy, the hedonic and utilitarian dimensions are considered to be independent. Second, different types of attitudes play different roles depending on the product. Finally, implicit attitudes influence the predisposition to buy organic food in the case of pleasure-seeking food but not utilitarian-oriented food. Thus, there is convergence between implicit and explicit attitudes for hedonic-oriented foods and divergence between such attitudes for utilitarian-oriented foods. This study’s value lies in the novel use of implicit attitudes, which have generally been neglected in attitudinal models in the organic food domain.
Attitudinal Determinants of Beef Consumption in Venezuela: A Retrospective Survey
Authors: Arenas de Moreno Lilia , Jerez-Timaure Nancy , Valerio Hernández Jonathan , Huerta-Leidenz Nelson , Rodas-González Argenis
Published: February 2020

Consumer surveys were conducted in the Western, Central, and Eastern regions of Venezuela to determine buying expectations, motivations, needs, perceptions, and preferences of beef consumers, and their acceptance of domestic (and foreign) beef, as affected by different intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Data (n = 693) were gathered by face-to-face interviews on the way out of fresh markets, butcher stores, supermarkets, and, in some cases, at home by using a 45-question structured questionnaire. Responses were subjected to factorial analysis of correspondence (FA) and hierarchical cluster analysis. From the FA, the first two factors explain 74% of the common variance. Factor 1 comprises intrinsic attributes such as color, smell, tenderness, flavor, juiciness, and freshness; while Factor 2 contains extrinsic attributes, mostly related to the origin. The FA profiling data showed that it is possible to concentrate on the traits that consumers usually use as a criterion to perceive beef quality, and to purchase beef. Using cluster analysis, four groups of consumers were mainly distinguished by region, intrinsic attributes, and credence attributes related to production system, aging, traceability, and hygiene. Results from this study will be helpful in designing strategies for recovering and enhancing the future, domestic beef demand.
Campylobacteriosis Agents in Meat Carcasses Collected from Two District Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Igwaran Aboi , I. Okoh Anthony
Published: February 2020

Raw meats are sometimes contaminated with Campylobacter species from animal faeces, and meats have repeatedly been implicated in foodborne infections. This study evaluated the prevalence, virulence genes, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and resistance gene determinants in Campylobacter species isolated from retailed meat carcasses. A total of 248 raw meat samples were collected from butcheries, supermarkets, and open markets; processed for enrichment in Bolton broth; and incubated at 42 °C for 48 h in 10% CO2. Thereafter, the broths were streaked on modified charcoal cefoperazone deoxycholate agar (mCCDA) plates and incubated at the same conditions and for the same amount of time. After incubation, colonies were isolated and confirmed by Polymerase chain reaction using specific oligonucleotide sequences used for the identification of the genus Campylobacter, species, and their virulence markers. The patterns of antimicrobial resistance profiles of the identified isolates were studied by disk diffusion method against 12 antibiotics, and relevant resistance genes were assessed by PCR. From culture, 845 presumptive Campylobacter isolates were obtained, of which 240 (28.4%) were identified as genus Campylobacter. These were then characterised into four species, of which C. coli had the highest prevalence rate (22.08%), followed by C. jejuni (16.66%) and C. fetus (3.73%). The virulence genes detected included iam (43.14%), cadF (37.25%), cdtB (23.53%), flgR (18.63%), and flaA (1.96%), and some of the isolates co-harboured two to four virulence genes. Of the 12 antibiotics tested, the highest phenotypic resistance displayed by Campylobacter isolates was against clindamycin (100%), and the lowest level of resistance was observed against imipenem (23.33%). The frequency of resistance genes detected included catll (91.78%), tetA (68.82%), gyra (61.76%), ampC (55%), aac(3)-IIa (aacC2)a (40.98%), tetM (38.71%), ermB (18.29%), tetB (12.90%), and tetK (2.15%). There is a high incidence of Campylobacter species in meat carcasses, suggesting these to be a reservoir of campylobacteriosis agents in this community, and as such, consumption of undercooked meats in this community is a potential health risk to consumers.
Effects of Photoperiod Regime on Meat Quality, Oxidative Stability, and Metabolites of Postmortem Broiler Fillet (M. Pectoralis major) Muscles
Authors: Tuell Jacob R. , Park Jun-Young , Wang Weichao , Cooper Bruce , Sobreira Tiago , Cheng Heng-Wei , Kim Yuan H. Brad
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of photoperiod on meat quality, oxidative stability, and metabolites of broiler fillet (M. Pectoralis major) muscles. A total of 432 broilers was split among 4 photoperiod treatments [hours light(L):dark(D)]: 20L:4D, 18L:6D, 16L:8D, and 12L:12D. At 42 days, a total of 48 broilers (12 broilers/treatment) was randomly selected and harvested. At 1 day postmortem, fillet muscles were dissected and displayed for 7 days. No considerable impacts of photoperiods on general carcass and meat quality attributes, such as carcass weight, yield, pH, water-holding capacity, and shear force, were found (p > 0.05). However, color and oxidative stability were influenced by the photoperiod, where muscles from 20L:4D appeared lighter and more discolored, coupled with higher lipid oxidation (p < 0.05) and protein denaturation (p = 0.058) compared to 12L:12D. The UPLC–MS metabolomics identified that 20 metabolites were different between the 20L:4D and 12L:12D groups, and 15 were tentatively identified. In general, lower aromatic amino acids/dipeptides, and higher oxidized glutathione and guanine/methylated guanosine were observed in 20L:4D. These results suggest that a photoperiod would result in no considerable impact on initial meat quality, but extended photoperiods might negatively impact oxidative stability through an alteration of the muscle metabolites.
The Influence of Millet Flour on Antioxidant, Anti-ACE, and Anti-Microbial Activities of Wheat Wafers
Authors: Jakubczyk Anna , Ćwiek Paula , Rybczyńska-Tkaczyk Kamila , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula , Złotek Urszula
Published: February 2020

The aim of the present study was to investigate antioxidant, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory, and anti-microbial activities of wheat wafers enriched with 1%, 2%, or 3% (w/w) of millet flour (M1, M2, or M3, respectively). All samples were characterized by a richer composition of protein, polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and reducing sugar in comparison with the control sample. The highest content of the components, i.e., 1.03 mg mL−1, 0.021 mg mL−1, 2.26 mg mL−1, 0.17 µg mL−1, and 0.63 mg mL−1, respectively, was detected in sample M3. The same sample was characterized by 803.91 and 42.79% of water and oil absorption capacity, respectively. The additive did not change the rheological features of the wafers. The 3% addition of millet flour to the wafer formulation induced the highest antioxidant activity against DPPH, Fe2+ chelation, and ACE inhibitory activity of hydrolysates (IC50 = 191.04, 0.46, and 157.73 µg mL−1, respectively). The highest activities were determined in the M3 fraction <3.0 kDa (IC50 = 3.46, 0.26, and 16.27 µg mL, respectively). In turn, the M2 fraction was characterized by the highest antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 75 µg mL−1.
Sensory and Chemical Drivers of Wine Consumers’ Preference for a New Shiraz Wine Product Containing Ganoderma lucidum Extract as a Novel Ingredient
Authors: Nguyen Anh N.H. , Johnson Trent E. , Jeffery David W. , Capone Dimitra L. , Danner Lukas , Bastian Susan E.P.
Published: February 2020

This study explored wine consumers’ preferences towards a novel Australian Shiraz wine product containing Ganoderma lucidum (GL). Wine consumers (n = 124) were asked to complete a questionnaire and participate in a blind tasting of six GL wine products (differing in the amount and timing of GL extract additions). Based on individual liking scores for each GL wine product that was tasted, four hedonic clusters C1 (n = 44, preferred control and low levels of GL additions), C2 (n = 28, preferred control only), C3 (n = 26, generally preferred all GL additions) and C4 (n = 26, preferred 1 g/L additions and 4 g/L post-fermentation) were identified. Sensory attributes of the GL wine products were also profiled with rate-all-that-apply (n = 65) and the 31 sensory attributes that significantly differentiated the wines underwent principal component analysis with the hedonic clusters overlaid to explain consumers’ preferences. There was a clear separation between hedonic clusters. Sensory attributes and volatile flavor compounds that significantly differentiated the wines were subjected to partial least squares regression, which indicated the important positive drivers of liking among the hedonic clusters. Pepper and jammy aroma, 3-methylbutanoic acid (linked to fruity notes) and non-fruit aftertaste positively drove C2′s preference, whereas spice flavor and hexanoic acid (known for leafy and woody descriptors) drove C3′s liking. There were no positive drivers for C1′s liking but bitter taste, cooked vegetable, and toasty aromas drove this cluster’ dislike. C4 preferred brown appearance, tobacco aroma, and jammy and cooked vegetable flavors. These findings provide the wine industry with deeper insights into consumers’ liking towards new GL wine products targeted at the Australasian market.
Sensory Analysis of a Processed Food Intended for Vitamin A Supplementation
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Cavender George , Lewandowski Kristina , Cox Ginnefer , Paton Chad
Published: February 2020

Provitamin A and pre-formed vitamin A compounds are essential micronutrients for humans. However, vitamin A deficiency (VAD) affects the health status of nearly 50% of populations in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa and is especially pronounced in preschool children and pregnant women. The objective of this research was to determine an acceptable flavor/ingredient combination to produce a palatable food product that incorporates sweet potatoes, peanut paste, and chickpeas. We sought to determine the acceptability of the three product formulations and to determine the influence of demographic data on ratings for the sensory attributes of each sample. To address VAD issues, three formulations of a product incorporating sweet potato puree (to increase β-carotene content), pure peanut butter (to provide fat for β-carotene absorption), and chickpeas (to provide a complete protein source), were developed: (1) an unflavored control, and two formulations with added natural seasonings: (2) curry-flavored, and (3) pumpkin spice-flavored. Sensory analysis of the three products showed that the curry-flavored product received the highest acceptability in terms of overall liking, flavor, texture, and appearance (p < 0.001). Since the demographic effect was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), it is highly likely that the curry-flavored product can be implemented in other countries or areas with high acceptability.
Screening of Polyphenols and Antioxidative Activity in Industrial Beers
Authors: Habschied Kristina , Lončarić Ante , Mastanjević Krešimir
Published: February 2020

Antioxidative molecules, such as polyphenols can preserve and prolong the freshness of packaged beers. The aim of this work was to assess the content of polyphenolic compounds (by Folin-Ciocalteu and standard European Brewery Convention method) in different types of industrially produced beers (lager, pilsner, black and dark), packaged in brown glass bottles. The results of this research indicate that there are significant changes in polyphenol concentrations in correlation with beer type. Polyphenolic content was highest in dark and black beers. Antioxidative activity was also more pronounced in dark and black beers. Most prominent phenolic acid in all samples was gallic acid. Two samples of dark and three samples of black beers had >10 mg/100 mL of this polyphenol, with maximal value of 14.22 mg/100 mL in sample CK (black beer). This would indicate that black beers are richer in polyphenolic content than the light (lager and pilsner) beers and the moderate consumption of such beer could contribute to the health of consumers.
Use of IHF-QD Microscopic Analysis for the Detection of Food Allergenic Components: Peanuts and Wheat Protein
Authors: Kalčáková Ludmila , Tremlová Bohuslava , Pospiech Matej , Hostovský Martin , Dordević Dani , Javůrková Zdeňka , Běhalová Hana , Bartlová Marie
Published: February 2020

The aim of the study was to analytically evaluate quantum dots in immunohistofluorescence (IHF-QD) microscopic imaging as detectors of food allergens—peanut and wheat. The experiment was designed as two in silico experiments or simulations: (a) models of pastry samples were prepared with the addition of allergenic components (peanut and wheat protein components) and without the addition of allergenic components, and (b) positive and negative commercial samples underwent food allergen detection. The samples from both simulations were tested by the ELISA and IHF-QD microscopic methods. The primary antibodies (secondary antibodies to a rabbit Fc fragment with labeled CdSe/ZnS QD) were labelled at 525, 585, and 655 nm emissions. The use of quantum dots (QDs) has expanded to many science areas and they are also finding use in food allergen detection, as shown in the study. The study indicated that differences between the ELISA and IHF-QD microscopic methods were not observable among experimentally produced pastry samples with and without allergenic components, although differences were observed among commercial samples. The important value of the study is certainly the differences found in the application of different QD conjugates (525, 585, and 655). The highest contrast was found in the application of 585 QD conjugates that can serve for the possible quantification of present food allergens—peanuts and wheat. The study clearly emphasized that QD can be used for the qualitative detection of food allergens and can represent a reliable analytical method for food allergen detection in different food matrixes.
The Functional Consequences of Eukaryotic Topoisomerase 1 Interaction with G-Quadruplex DNA
Authors: Berroyer Alexandra , Kim Nayun
Published: February 2020

Topoisomerase I in eukaryotic cells is an important regulator of DNA topology. Its catalytic function is to remove positive or negative superhelical tension by binding to duplex DNA, creating a reversible single-strand break, and finally religating the broken strand. Proper maintenance of DNA topological homeostasis, in turn, is critically important in the regulation of replication, transcription, DNA repair, and other processes of DNA metabolism. One of the cellular processes regulated by the DNA topology and thus by Topoisomerase I is the formation of non-canonical DNA structures. Non-canonical or non-B DNA structures, including the four-stranded G-quadruplex or G4 DNA, are potentially pathological in that they interfere with replication or transcription, forming hotspots of genome instability. In this review, we first describe the role of Topoisomerase I in reducing the formation of non-canonical nucleic acid structures in the genome. We further discuss the interesting recent discovery that Top1 and Top1 mutants bind to G4 DNA structures in vivo and in vitro and speculate on the possible consequences of these interactions.
Regulation of Mitotic Exit by Cell Cycle Checkpoints: Lessons From Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Matellán Laura , Monje-Casas Fernando
Published: February 2020

In order to preserve genome integrity and their ploidy, cells must ensure that the duplicated genome has been faithfully replicated and evenly distributed before they complete their division by mitosis. To this end, cells have developed highly elaborated checkpoints that halt mitotic progression when problems in DNA integrity or chromosome segregation arise, providing them with time to fix these issues before advancing further into the cell cycle. Remarkably, exit from mitosis constitutes a key cell cycle transition that is targeted by the main mitotic checkpoints, despite these surveillance mechanisms being activated by specific intracellular signals and acting at different stages of cell division. Focusing primarily on research carried out using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism, the aim of this review is to provide a general overview of the molecular mechanisms by which the major cell cycle checkpoints control mitotic exit and to highlight the importance of the proper regulation of this process for the maintenance of genome stability during the distribution of the duplicated chromosomes between the dividing cells.
NF-YA Overexpression in Lung Cancer: LUAD
Authors: Bezzecchi Eugenia , Ronzio Mirko , Semeghini Valentina , Andrioletti Valentina , Mantovani Roberto , Dolfini Diletta
Published: February 2020

The trimeric transcription factor (TF) NF-Y regulates the CCAAT box, a DNA element enriched in promoters of genes overexpressed in many types of cancer. The regulatory NF-YA is present in two major isoforms, NF-YAl (“long”) and NF-YAs (“short”). There is growing indication that NF-YA levels are increased in tumors. Here, we report interrogation of RNA-Seq TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas)—all 576 samples—and GEO (Gene Expression Ominibus) datasets of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). NF-YAs is overexpressed in the three subtypes, proliferative, inflammatory, and TRU (terminal respiratory unit). CCAAT is enriched in promoters of tumor differently expressed genes (DEG) and in the proliferative/inflammatory intersection, matching with KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) terms cell-cycle and signaling. Increasing levels of NF-YAs are observed from low to high CpG island methylator phenotypes (CIMP). We identified 166 genes overexpressed in LUAD cell lines with low NF-YAs/NF-YAl ratios: applying this centroid to TCGA samples faithfully predicted tumors’ isoform ratio. This signature lacks CCAAT in promoters. Finally, progression-free intervals and hazard ratios concurred with the worst prognosis of patients with either a low or high NF-YAs/NF-YAl ratio. In conclusion, global overexpression of NF-YAs is documented in LUAD and is associated with aggressive tumor behavior; however, a similar prognosis is recorded in tumors with high levels of NF-YAl and overexpressed CCAAT-less genes.
Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNAs and mRNAs Associated with Lactation in the Crop of Pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Ma Hui , Ni Aixin , Ge Pingzhuang , Li Yunlei , Shi Lei , Wang Panlin , Fan Jing , Isa Adamu Mani , Sun Yanyan , Chen Jilan
Published: February 2020

Pigeons have the ability to produce milk and feed their squabs. The genetic mechanisms underlying milk production in the crops of ’lactating’ pigeons are not fully understood. In this study, RNA sequencing was employed to profile the transcriptome of lncRNA and mRNA in lactating and non-‘lactating’ pigeon crops. We identified 7066 known and 17,085 novel lncRNAs. Of these lncRNAs, 6166 were differentially expressed. Among the 15,138 mRNAs detected, 6483 were differentially expressed, including many predominant genes with known functions in the milk production of mammals. A GO annotation analysis revealed that these genes were significantly enriched in 55, 65, and 30 pathways of biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions, respectively. A KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that 12 pathways (involving 544 genes), including the biosynthesis of amino acids, the propanoate metabolism, the carbon metabolism and the cell cycle, were significantly enriched. The results provide fundamental evidence for the better understanding of lncRNAs’ and differentially expressed genes’ (DEGs) regulatory role in the molecular pathways governing milk production in pigeon crops. To our knowledge, this is the first genome-wide investigation of the lncRNAs in pigeon crop associated with milk production. This study provided valuable resources for differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs, improving our understanding of the molecular mechanism of pigeon milk production.
Identification and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles and Its DNA Cargo Secreted During Murine Embryo Development
Authors: Simon Blanca , Bolumar David , Amadoz Alicia , Jimenez-Almazán Jorge , Valbuena Diana , Vilella Felipe , Moreno Inmaculada
Published: February 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known to transport DNA, but their implications in embryonic implantation are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate EVs production and secretion by preimplantation embryos and assess their DNA cargo. Murine oocytes and embryos were obtained from six- to eight-week-old females, cultured until E4.5 and analyzed using transmission electron microscopy to examine EVs production. EVs were isolated from E4.5-day conditioned media and quantified by nanoparticle tracking analysis, characterized by immunogold, and their DNA cargo sequenced. Multivesicular bodies were observed in murine oocytes and preimplantation embryos together with the secretion of EVs to the blastocoel cavity and blastocyst spent medium. Embryo-derived EVs showed variable electron-densities and sizes (20–500 nm) and total concentrations of 1.74 × 107 ± 2.60 × 106 particles/mL. Embryo secreted EVs were positive for CD63 and ARF6. DNA cargo sequencing demonstrated no differences in DNA between apoptotic bodies or smaller EVs, although they showed significant gene enrichment compared to control medium. The analysis of sequences uniquely mapping the murine genome revealed that DNA contained in EVs showed higher representation of embryo genome than vesicle-free DNA. Murine blastocysts secrete EVs containing genome-wide sequences of DNA to the medium, reinforcing the relevance of studying these vesicles and their cargo in the preimplantation moment, where secreted DNA may help the assessment of the embryo previous to implantation.
Cas3 Protein—A Review of a Multi-Tasking Machine
Authors: He Liu , St. John James Michael , Radovcic Marin , Ivancic-Bace Ivana , Bolt Edward L.
Published: February 2020

Cas3 has essential functions in CRISPR immunity but its other activities and roles, in vitro and in cells, are less widely known. We offer a concise review of the latest understanding and questions arising from studies of Cas3 mechanism during CRISPR immunity, and highlight recent attempts at using Cas3 for genetic editing. We then spotlight involvement of Cas3 in other aspects of cell biology, for which understanding is lacking—these focus on CRISPR systems as regulators of cellular processes in addition to defense against mobile genetic elements.
Working on Genomic Stability: From the S-Phase to Mitosis
Authors: Ovejero Sara , Bueno Avelino , Sacristán María P.
Published: February 2020

Fidelity in chromosome duplication and segregation is indispensable for maintaining genomic stability and the perpetuation of life. Challenges to genome integrity jeopardize cell survival and are at the root of different types of pathologies, such as cancer. The following three main sources of genomic instability exist: DNA damage, replicative stress, and chromosome segregation defects. In response to these challenges, eukaryotic cells have evolved control mechanisms, also known as checkpoint systems, which sense under-replicated or damaged DNA and activate specialized DNA repair machineries. Cells make use of these checkpoints throughout interphase to shield genome integrity before mitosis. Later on, when the cells enter into mitosis, the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is activated and remains active until the chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle apparatus to ensure an equal segregation among daughter cells. All of these processes are tightly interconnected and under strict regulation in the context of the cell division cycle. The chromosomal instability underlying cancer pathogenesis has recently emerged as a major source for understanding the mitotic processes that helps to safeguard genome integrity. Here, we review the special interconnection between the S-phase and mitosis in the presence of under-replicated DNA regions. Furthermore, we discuss what is known about the DNA damage response activated in mitosis that preserves chromosomal integrity.