bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intratumoral Heterogeneity in Lung Cancer
Authors: Lv Xiaodi , Mao Zixian , Sun Xianjun , Liu Baojun
Published: May 2023

The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer (LC) is always a challenge. The difficulty in the decision of therapeutic schedule and diagnosis is directly related to intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) in the progression of LC. It has been proven that most tumors emerge and evolve under the pressure of their living microenvironment, which involves genetic, immunological, metabolic, and therapeutic components. While most research on ITH revealed multiple mechanisms and characteristic, a systemic exposition of ITH in LC is still hard to find. In this review, we describe how ITH in LC develops from the perspective of space and time. We discuss elaborate details and affection of every aspect of ITH in LC and the relationship between them. Based on ITH in LC, we describe a more accurate multidisciplinary therapeutic strategy on LC and provide the newest opinion on the potential approach of LC therapy.
Boosting Catalytic Combustion of Ethanol by Tuning Morphologies and Exposed Crystal Facets of α-Mn2O3
Authors: Liu Wangwang , Men Yong , Ji Fei , Shi Feng , Wang Jinguo , Liu Shuang , Magkoev Tamerlan T. , An Wei
Published: May 2023

Three types of α-Mn2O3 catalysts with different well-defined morphologies (cubic, truncated octahedra and octahedra) and exposed crystal facets have been successfully prepared via hydrothermal processes, and evaluated for ethanol total oxidation with low ethanol concentration at low temperatures. The α-Mn2O3-cubic catalyst shows a superior catalytic reaction rate than that of α-Mn2O3-truncated octahedra and α-Mn2O3-octahedra under high space velocity of 192,000 mL/(g·h). Based on the characterization results obtained from XRD, BET, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, FT-IR, H2-TPR, XPS, ethanol-TPD, and CO-TPSR techniques, the observed morphology-dependent reactivity of α-Mn2O3 catalysts can be correlated to the good low-temperature reducibility, abundant surface Mn4+ and adsorbed reactive oxygen species, which was originated from the exposed (001) crystal planes. Through tuning the morphology and exposed (001) crystal facet of α-Mn2O3, a highly active ethanol oxidation catalyst with high selectivity and excellent stability is obtained. The developed approach may be applied broadly to the development of the design principles for high-performance low-cost and environmentally friendly Mn-based oxidation catalysts.
Appraisal of the Genus Pleurastrum (Chlorophyta) Based on Molecular and Climate Data
Authors: Sciuto Katia , Wolf Marion A. , Mistri Michele , Moro Isabella
Published: May 2023

Two green microalgal strains, CCCryo 469-16 and CCCryo 470-16, were isolated from samples of Antarctic microflora. Their morphology and 18S rRNA sequences indicated a phylogenetic relationship with strains of the genera Chlorococcum Meneghini, Macrochloris Korshikov, and Pleurastrum Chodat. The last genus is considered particularly problematic as it underwent several revisions. Moreover, its type strain, P. insigne SAG 30.93, was recently demonstrated to coincide genetically with the authentic strain of Chlorococcum oleofaciens from an 18S rRNA phylogeny. This deprived the genus Pleurastrum of an important type reference. Thus, the molecular markers rbcL, tufA, and ITS were employed to identify the Antarctic isolates more precisely. Several other microalgae related to our isolates were obtained from international culture collections for comparison. The obtained results allowed the re-establishment of strain P. insigne SAG 30.93 as the reference strain and the definition of the molecular borders of both genera Pleurastrum and Chlorococcum. Based on our findings, several Chlorococcum species are now re-attributed to Pleurastrum, as well as Macrochloris rubrioleum, here re-named Pleurastrum rubrioleum comb. nov., to which the Antarctic isolates also belong. Finally, a relationship between Pleurastrum lineages and climate zones was established.
The Readiness to Harness the Floristic Uniqueness of Mauritius in Biomedicine
Authors: Rummun Nawraj , Neergheen Vidushi S.
Published: May 2023

Resistance to the existing arsenal of therapeutic agents significantly impedes successful drug therapy. One approach to combat this burgeoning global crisis is to provide novel and more effective clinical agents. Terrestrial plants have long been exploited as a source of novel drug candidates. In this line, the endemic floral diversity of the Republic of Mauritius cannot be ignored. However, developing drugs from these plants is a multi-stepped, lengthy process that requires multistakeholder involvement from scientists, policymakers, and conservationists as well as the local community. This review aims at summarising the reported bioactivities of the endemic plants. The electronic databases were searched using relevant keywords. A total of 33 original research articles were considered. A repertoire of 17 families comprising 53 Mauritian-endemic plant species has been reported for their anticancer activity (n = 20), antimicrobial activity (n = 36), antidiabetic activity (n = 3), and clinical enzyme inhibitory activity (n = 25). Five plant extracts, namely Acalypha integrifolia, Labourdonaisia glauca, Eugenia tinifolia, Syzygium coriaceum, and Terminalia bentzoë, have been earmarked as worthy to be further investigated for their anticancer potential. Moreover, two Psiadia species, namely P. arguta and P. terebinthina, have shown promising antimicrobial activity. This review highlights the extracts’ potent anticancer and antimicrobial activities, focussing on their proposed mechanism of action. Moreover, the need for metabolite profiling for identifying bioactive ingredient(s) is emphasised.
Current Insights into the Significance of the Renal Resistive Index in Kidney and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Darabont Roxana , Mihalcea Diana , Vinereanu Dragos
Published: May 2023

Initially, the renal resistive index (RRI) was investigated with the aim of improving diagnosis in kidney diseases, but this goal was not met. Recently, many papers have highlighted the prognostic significance of the RRI in chronic kidney disease: specifically, in estimating the revascularization success of renal artery stenoses or the evolution of the graft and the recipients in renal transplantation. Moreover, the RRI has become significant in the prediction of acute kidney injury in critically ill patients. Studies in renal pathology have revealed correlations of this index with parameters of systemic circulation. The theoretical and experimental premises of this connection were then reconsidered, and studies analyzing the link between RRI and arterial stiffness, central and peripheral pressure, and left ventricular flow were conducted with this purpose. Many data currently indicate that RRI is influenced more by pulse pressure and vascular compliance than by renal vascular resistance—assuming that RRI reflects the complex interplay between systemic circulation and renal microcirculation and should be considered a marker of systemic cardiovascular risk beyond its prognostic relevance for kidney disease. In this review, we overview the clinical research that reveals the implications of RRI in renal and cardiovascular disease.
Hilab System Device in an Oncological Hospital: A New Clinical Approach for Point of Care CBC Test, Supported by the Internet of Things and Machine Learning
Authors: Gasparin Aléxia Thamara , Araujo Claudiane Isabel Franco , Cardoso Mônica Ribas , Schmitt Patricia , Godoy Juliana Beker , Reichert Eduarda Silva , Pimenta Maria Eduarda , Gonçalves Caroline Bretas , Santiago Erika Bergamo , Silva Ivan Lucas Reis , Gaideski Bruno de Paula , Cardoso Milena Andreuzo , Silva Fernanda D’Amico , Sommer Viviane da Rosa , Hartmann Luis Felipe , Perazzoli Carolina Rodrigues de Araujo , Farias João Samuel de Holanda , Beltrame Olair Carlos , Winter Nicole , Nicollete Diego Rinaldi Pavesi , Lopes Silvia Nathalia Bueno , Predebon João Victor , Almeida Bernardo Montesanti Machado de , Rogal Júnior Sérgio Renato , Figueredo Marcus Vinícius Mazega
Published: May 2023

The complete blood count (CBC) is a highly requested test that is generally restricted to centralized laboratories, which are limited by high cost, being maintenance-demanding, and requiring costly equipment. The Hilab System (HS) is a small, handheld hematological platform that uses microscopy and chromatography techniques, combined with machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), to perform a CBC test. This platform uses ML and AI techniques to add higher accuracy and reliability to the results besides allowing for faster reporting. For clinical and flagging capability evaluation of the handheld device, the study analyzed 550 blood samples of patients from a reference institution for oncological diseases. The clinical analysis encompassed the data comparison between the Hilab System and a conventional hematological analyzer (Sysmex XE-2100) for all CBC analytes. The flagging capability study compared the microscopic findings from the Hilab System and the standard blood smear evaluation method. The study also assessed the sample collection source (venous or capillary) influences. The Pearson correlation, Student t-test, Bland–Altman, and Passing–Bablok plot of analytes were calculated and are shown. Data from both methodologies were similar (p > 0.05; r ≥ 0.9 for most parameters) for all CBC analytes and flagging parameters. Venous and capillary samples did not differ statistically (p > 0.05). The study indicates that the Hilab System provides humanized blood collection associated with fast and accurate data, essential features for patient wellbeing and quick physician decision making.
Identification of m7G-Related LncRNA Signature for Predicting Prognosis and Evaluating Tumor Immune Infiltration in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Jiawei , Yang Pusheng , Yu Lanting , Xie Ni , Wu Ying , Li Baiwen
Published: May 2023

N7-Methylguanosine (m7G) modification holds significant importance in regulating posttranscriptional gene expression in epigenetics. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to play a crucial role in cancer progression. m7G-related lncRNA may be involved in the progression of pancreatic cancer (PC), although the underlying mechanism of regulation remains obscure. We obtained RNA sequence transcriptome data and relevant clinical information from the TCGA and GTEx databases. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional risk analyses were performed to build a twelve-m7G-associated lncRNA risk model with prognostic value. The model was verified using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Kaplan–Meier analysis. The expression level of m7G-related lncRNAs in vitro was validated. Knockdown of SNHG8 increased the proliferation and migration of PC cells. Differentially expressed genes between high- and low-risk groups were identified for gene set enrichment analysis, immune infiltration, and potential drug exploration. We conducted an m7G-related lncRNA predictive risk model for PC patients. The model had independent prognostic significance and offered an exact survival prediction. The research provided us with better knowledge of the regulation of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in PC. The m7G-related lncRNA risk model may serve as a precise prognostic tool and indicate prospective therapeutic targets for PC patients.
Dissipation during the Gating Cycle of the Bacterial Mechanosensitive Ion Channel Approaches the Landauer Limit
Authors: Çetiner Uğur , Raz Oren , Britt Madolyn , Sukharev Sergei
Published: May 2023

The Landauer principle sets a thermodynamic bound of kBT ln 2 on the energetic cost of erasing each bit of information. It holds for any memory device, regardless of its physical implementation. It was recently shown that carefully built artificial devices can attain this bound. In contrast, biological computation-like processes, e.g., DNA replication, transcription and translation use an order of magnitude more than their Landauer minimum. Here, we show that reaching the Landauer bound is nevertheless possible with biological devices. This is achieved using a mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) from E. coli as a memory bit. MscS is a fast-acting osmolyte release valve adjusting turgor pressure inside the cell. Our patch-clamp experiments and data analysis demonstrate that under a slow switching regime, the heat dissipation in the course of tension-driven gating transitions in MscS closely approaches its Landauer limit. We discuss the biological implications of this physical trait.
Monetary Policy Implications on Macroeconomic Performance in the Common Monetary Area: A Panel-SVAR Framework
Authors: Shumba Theron , Mukorera Sophia
Published: May 2023

The CMA (Common Monetary Area) is a quadrilateral monetary arrangement encompassing South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, and Eswatini. The four countries have undergone a gradual improvement in regional economic integration for the effective economic coordination of their policymaking. Despite the monetary coordination, the countries are still experiencing poor economic performance. This study traces how a shock or an unanticipated change in the anchor country’s central bank’s policy instrument, in this case, South Africa, affects the macroeconomic performance in the entire CMA region. Employing a Panel Structural Vector Autoregressive model (Panel-SVAR) and annual data from 1980–2021, the findings show that a positive shock in the repo rate from South Africa significantly affected important macroeconomic performance indicators. The results indicate that a shock in the anchor country’s repo rate is followed by a significant decline in RGDP_G, a decrease in inflation, a decrease in money supply, and an increase in lending rate in the entire CMA region. The study recommends that CMA monetary authorities and policymakers need to formulate policies toward cushioning the effects of unanticipated monetary policy shock from the anchor country as well as global shocks.
The Impact of Dyslexia Box: A Case Study on Students in an Integration Class in Greece
Authors: Gaitanidi Lamprini-Anna , Corujo-Vélez Carmen , Vega-Gea Esther
Published: May 2023

This study evaluates the impact of a Greek intervention tool called Dyslexia Box, which is aimed at helping students with dyslexia acquire necessary language skills. It mainly focuses on the development of phonological awareness, reading, and writing. The sample comprises 13 students with dyslexia and other difficulties. The intervention program consists of 32 activities, which were applied twice to each student over 10 weeks (students who achieved excellent performance on the first implementation of an activity did not repeat the corresponding activity, as it was considered that the cognitive goal had already been achieved). In order to record student performance, an observation key was created for each activity. The results indicate that the specific tool is easy-to-use and achieves the proposed learning objectives. Specifically, it helps students with and without dyslexia overcome their learning difficulties concerning phonological awareness and/or manage their processing of the oral and written language, since they all achieved better performance at the second implementation of the tool.
Optimizing Power Demand Side Response Strategy: A Study Based on Double Master–Slave Game Model of Multi-Objective Multi-Universe Optimization
Authors: Hu Diandian , Wang Tao
Published: May 2023

In the pilot provinces of China’s electricity spot market, power generation companies usually adopt the separate bidding mode, which leads to a low willingness of demand-side response and poor flexibility in the interaction mechanism between supply and demand. Based on the analysis of the demand response mechanism of the power day-ahead market with the participation of power sales companies, this paper abstracted the game process of the “power grid-sales company-users” tripartite competition in the electricity market environment into a two-layer (purchase layer/sales layer) game model and proposed a master–slave game equilibrium optimization strategy for the day-ahead power market under the two-layer game. The multi-objective multi-universe optimization algorithm was used to find the Pareto optimal solution of the game model, a comprehensive evaluation was constructed, and the optimal strategy of the demand response was determined considering the peak cutting and valley filling quantity of the power grid, the profit of the electricity retailers, the cost of the consumers, and the comfort degree. Examples are given to simulate the day-ahead electricity market participated in by the electricity retailers, analyze and compare the benefits of each market entity participating in the demand response, and verify the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Medium-Range Aircraft Conceptual Design from a Local Air Quality and Climate Change Viewpoint
Authors: Abu Salem Karim , Palaia Giuseppe , Quarta Alessandro A. , Chiarelli Mario R.
Published: May 2023

This paper presents an overall performance assessment of hybrid-electric medium-range transport aircraft, with the aim to evaluate the potential of such a propulsion technology towards the reduction in the environmental impact of aviation transport, in terms of both local air quality degradation in airport areas and climate change. The proposed approach presents distinct analyses of the environmental impact of transport aircraft, distinguishing climate-changing effects from local pollution effects so that the integration of hybrid-electric propulsion is carried out to face the two issues specifically. The proposed analysis, although of conceptual nature, presents a clear scenario in which, given the technological limitations of batteries, the use of hybrid-electric propulsion on medium-haul aircraft can only be useful to reduce local pollution. In contrast, other solutions are needed to mitigate the climate-changing impact.
Prospects and Challenges of the Machine Learning and Data-Driven Methods for the Predictive Analysis of Power Systems: A Review
Authors: Strielkowski Wadim , Vlasov Andrey , Selivanov Kirill , Muraviev Konstantin , Shakhnov Vadim
Published: May 2023

The use of machine learning and data-driven methods for predictive analysis of power systems offers the potential to accurately predict and manage the behavior of these systems by utilizing large volumes of data generated from various sources. These methods have gained significant attention in recent years due to their ability to handle large amounts of data and to make accurate predictions. The importance of these methods gained particular momentum with the recent transformation that the traditional power system underwent as they are morphing into the smart power grids of the future. The transition towards the smart grids that embed the high-renewables electricity systems is challenging, as the generation of electricity from renewable sources is intermittent and fluctuates with weather conditions. This transition is facilitated by the Internet of Energy (IoE) that refers to the integration of advanced digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI) into the electricity systems. It has been further enhanced by the digitalization caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that also affected the energy and power sector. Our review paper explores the prospects and challenges of using machine learning and data-driven methods in power systems and provides an overview of the ways in which the predictive analysis for constructing these systems can be applied in order to make them more efficient. The paper begins with the description of the power system and the role of the predictive analysis in power system operations. Next, the paper discusses the use of machine learning and data-driven methods for predictive analysis in power systems, including their benefits and limitations. In addition, the paper reviews the existing literature on this topic and highlights the various methods that have been used for predictive analysis of power systems. Furthermore, it identifies the challenges and opportunities associated with using these methods in power systems. The challenges of using these methods, such as data quality and availability, are also discussed. Finally, the review concludes with a discussion of recommendations for further research on the application of machine learning and data-driven methods for the predictive analysis in the future smart grid-driven power systems powered by the IoE.
Multi-Response Optimization of Thermochemical Pretreatment of Soybean Hulls for 2G-Bioethanol Production
Authors: Gil Rolón Martín , Leonardi Rodrigo J. , Bolzico Bruna C. , Seluy Lisandro G. , Benzzo Maria T. , Comelli Raúl N.
Published: May 2023

Soybean is a major crop used in the production of human food. The soybean hull (SH) is also known as the seed coat and it constitutes about 5–8% of the total seed on a dry weight basis, depending on the variety and the seed size. Dilute sulfuric acid was employed for the thermochemical pretreatment of SH prior to enzymatic saccharification and alcoholic fermentation. Empirical modeling of response surface, severity factor and multi-response desirability function methodology, were used to perform the process optimization. Temperature, acid concentration and reaction time were defined as operational variables, while furfural, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and solubilized hemicellulose and cellulose were defined as response variables. Mathematical models satisfactorily described the process and optimal conditions were found at 121 °C; 2.5% w/v H2SO4 and 60 min. More than 80% and 90% of hemicelluloses and celluloses, respectively, were able to solubilize at this point. The fermentation performance of an industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain was also evaluated. The glucose available in the hydrolysates was completely consumed in less than 12 h, with an average ethanol yield of 0.45 gethanol/gglucose. Thus, the thermochemical conditioning of SH with dilute sulfuric acid is a suitable operation for 2G-bioethanol production.
Zero- and Low-Alcohol Fermented Beverages: A Perspective for Non-Conventional Healthy and Sustainable Production from Red Fruits
Authors: Brugnoli Marcello , Cantadori Elsa , Arena Mattia Pia , De Vero Luciana , Colonello Andrea , Gullo Maria
Published: May 2023

The growing health consciousness among consumers is leading to an increased presence of functional foods and beverages on the market. Red fruits are rich in bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins with high antioxidant activity. In addition, red fruits contain sugars and are rich in phenolic compounds, vitamin C, dietary fibers, and manganese. Due to these characteristics, they are also suitable substrates for fermentation. Indeed, nowadays, microbial transformation of red fruits is based on alcoholic or lactic fermentation, producing alcoholic and non-alcoholic products, respectively. Although products fermented by acetic acid bacteria (AAB) have been thoroughly studied as a model of health benefits for human beings, little evidence is available on the acetic and gluconic fermentation of red fruits for obtaining functional products. Accordingly, this review aims to explore the potential of different red fruits, namely blackberry, raspberry, and blackcurrant, as raw materials for fermentation processes aimed at producing low- and no-alcohol beverages containing bioactive compounds and no added sugars. AAB are treated with a focus on their ability to produce acetic acid, gluconic acid, and bacterial cellulose, which are compounds of interest for developing fruit-based fermented beverages.
Advanced Study of Columns Confined by Ultra-High-Performance Concrete and Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Confinements
Authors: Susilorini Rr. M. I. Retno , Kusumawardaningsih Yuliarti
Published: May 2023

The need for concrete with ‘super’ strength and ‘super’ ductility for greater sustainability has been answered by the existence of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC). Over the last decades, UHPFRC has been implemented in actual concrete structures, as well as used to retrofit structural elements, including columns. However, the use of UHPC and UHPFRC confinement to strengthen normal concrete columns is still limited. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the advanced performance of columns using UHPC and UHPFRC confinement in the context of the strength and ductility of such columns, such as load capacity, stress–strain behavior, and the crack pattern in the failure mode. This research is an advanced study of several investigations previously carried out by other authors on the characteristics of UHPC and UHPFRC, as well as columns confined by UHPC and UHPFRC. The methods used in this research are experimental and analytical. The experimental results were compared to analytical calculations for validation. This research produced 12 short-column specimens confined by UHPC (CF0 series) and UHPFRC (CF1 and CF2 series) that contained 0%, 1%, and 2% fiber and were also tested for axial loading and various eccentricities as follows: e = 0, 35, and 70 mm. The results found that the normal strength concrete (NSC) columns confined by UHPC and UHPFRC could sustain a higher maximum load and stress, and also sustain greater vertical deformation and strain compared to the control specimens. It was noted that specimen CF2-35 had the highest load capacity, vertical deformation, maximum stress, and maximum vertical strain compared to specimen C-0 (control column with no confinement). The specimen CF2-35 (column confined by UHPC with a 2% fiber volume with an eccentricity of 35 mm) also exhibited a ductile failure mode and very minor cracks. It was also found that 75% of the specimens had 0–39% errors and 25% had 0–13% errors. The research proved that the addition of a volume of 2% fiber to the UHPFRC minimizes the crack of the failure mode and prevents confinement spalling of the column. This research has led to the conclusion that UHPC and UHPFRC confinements will increase the strength and ductility of columns.
Experimental Analysis of Local Condensation Heat Transfer Characteristics of CF3I Inside a Plate Heat Exchanger
Authors: Rahman Md. Mahbubur , Bal Djiby , Kariya Keishi , Miyara Akio
Published: May 2023

Due to its low global warming potential (GWP) and good environmental properties, CF3I can be a suitable component of refrigerant mixtures in the field of refrigeration and air conditioning. In this work, the local condensation heat transfer characteristics of CF3I were experimentally investigated in a plate heat exchanger (PHE). The condensation heat transfer experiments were carried out under conditions of vapor qualities from 1.0 to 0.0, at saturation temperatures of 25–30 °C, mass fluxes of 20–50 kg/m2s, and heat fluxes of 10.4–13.7 kW/m2. Local heat transfer coefficients were found to vary in both the horizontal and vertical directions of the plate heat exchanger showing similar trends in all mass fluxes. In addition, the characteristics of local heat flux and wall temperature distribution as a function of distance from the inlet to the outlet of the refrigerant channel were explored in detail. The comparison of the experimental data of CF3I with that of R1234yf in the same test facility showed that the heat transfer coefficients of CF3I were comparable to R1234yf at a low vapor quality and a mass flux of 20 kg/m2s. However, R1234yf exhibited a transfer coefficient about 1.5 times higher at all vapor qualities and a mass flux of 50 kg/m2s. The newly developed correlation predicts well the experimentally obtained data for both CF3I and R1234yf within ±30%.
The Influence of Pichia kluyveri Addition on the Aroma Profile of a Kombucha Tea Fermentation
Authors: van Wyk Niël , Binder Julia , Ludszuweit Marie , Köhler Sarah , Brezina Silvia , Semmler Heike , Pretorius Isak S. , Rauhut Doris , Senz Martin , von Wallbrunn Christian
Published: May 2023

Traditional kombucha is a functional tea-based drink that has gained attention as a low or non-alcoholic beverage. The fermentation is conducted by a community of different microorganisms, collectively called SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) and typically consists of different acetic acid bacteria and fermenting yeast, and in some cases lactic acid bacteria that would convert the sugars into organic acids—mostly acetic acid. In this study, the effect of including a Pichia kluyveri starter culture in a kombucha fermentation was investigated. P. kluyveri additions led to a quicker accumulation of acetic acid along with the production of several acetate esters including isoamyl acetate and 2-phenethyl acetate. A subsequent tasting also noted a significant increase in the fruitiness of the kombucha. The significant contribution to the aroma content shows the promise of this yeast in future microbial formulations for kombucha fermentations.
Physicochemical Evaluation of Cushuro (Nostoc sphaericum Vaucher ex Bornet & Flahault) in the Region of Moquegua for Food Purposes
Authors: Méndez-Ancca Sheda , Pepe-Victoriano Renzo , Gonzales Hebert Hernán Soto , Zambrano-Cabanillas Abel Walter , Marín-Machuca Olegario , Rojas José Carlos Zapata , Maquera Maribel Maquera , Huanca Rosmery Fernandez , Aguilera Jorge González , Zuffo Alan Mario , Ratke Rafael Felippe
Published: May 2023

The cyanobacterium Nostoc sp. contains considerable amounts of protein, iron, and calcium that could mitigate the problems of anemia and malnutrition in humans. However, the nutritional value of the edible species Nostoc sphaericum Vaucher ex Bornet & Flahault, which grows in the Moquegua region, is unknown. Descriptive research was developed, and samples were obtained from the community of Aruntaya, located in the region of Moquegua. Water samples were taken at two different points (spring and reservoir), and samples of the cyanobacteria were taken in the reservoir. The design used was completely randomized, with three repetitions. Sixteen characteristics associated with the water collected at two points were evaluated, and from the nutritional point of view, seven characteristics were evaluated in the collected algae. The physicochemical characteristics were determined using methods established in the Codex Alimentarius. For the morphological characterization at the macroscopic level, it was observed that the seaweed collected was spherical in shape, grayish-green in color, soft to the touch, and palatable. After carrying out the physicochemical and morphological characterization of the collected samples, it was verified that all were of N. sphaericum. When comparing the sixteen characteristics related to water at the two collection sites, highly significant differences (p < 0.01) were observed for most of the variables evaluated. The average data of the characteristics of the algae showed protein values of 28.18 ± 0.33%, carbohydrates of 62.07 ± 0.69%, fat of 0.71 ± 0.02%, fiber of 0.91 ± 0.02%, ash of 7.68 ± 0.10%, and moisture of 0.22 ± 0.01%. Likewise, calcium reported an average value of 377.80 ± 1.43 mg/100 g and iron of 4.76 ± 0.08 mg/100 g. High correlations (positive and negative) were obtained by evaluating seven characteristics associated with the reservoir water where the algae grew in relation to eight nutritional characteristics of the algae. In relation to the nutritional value, the amounts of protein, iron, and calcium exceed the main foods of daily intake. Therefore, it could be considered a nutritious food to combat anemia and malnutrition.
Role of Enzymatic Reactions in Meat Processing and Use of Emerging Technologies for Process Intensification
Authors: Abril Blanca , Bou Ricard , García-Pérez Jose V. , Benedito Jose
Published: May 2023

Meat processing involves different transformations in the animal muscle after slaughtering, which results in changes in tenderness, aroma and colour, determining the quality of the final meat product. Enzymatic glycolysis, proteolysis and lipolysis play a key role in the conversion of muscle into meat. The accurate control of enzymatic reactions in meat muscle is complicated due to the numerous influential factors, as well as its low reaction rate. Moreover, exogenous enzymes are also used in the meat industry to produce restructured products (transglutaminase), to obtain bioactive peptides (peptides with antioxidant, antihypertensive and gastrointestinal activity) and to promote meat tenderization (papain, bromelain, ficin, zingibain, cucumisin and actinidin). Emerging technologies, such as ultrasound (US), pulsed electric fields (PEF), moderate electric fields (MEF), high-pressure processing (HPP) or supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2), have been used to intensify enzymatic reactions in different food applications. This review aims to provide an overview of the enzymatic reactions taking place during the processing of meat products, how they could be intensified by using emerging technologies and envisage potential applications.
Brazzein and Monellin: Chemical Analysis, Food Industry Applications, Safety and Quality Control, Nutritional Profile and Health Impacts
Authors: Saraiva Ariana , Carrascosa Conrado , Ramos Fernando , Raheem Dele , Pedreiro Sónia , Vega Angelo , Raposo António
Published: May 2023

Recently, customers have been keener to buy products manufactured using all-natural ingredients with positive health properties, but without losing flavor. In this regard, the objective of the current study is to review the consumption of brazzein and monellin, their nutritional profiles and health effects, and their potential applications in the food industry. This poses challenges with sustainability and important quality and safety indicators, as well as the chemical processes used to determine them. To better understand the utilization of brazzein and monellin, the chemical analysis of these two natural sweet proteins was also reviewed by placing particular emphasis on their extraction methods, purification and structural characterization. Protein engineering is considered a means to improve the thermal stability of brazzein and monellin to enhance their application in food processing, especially where high temperatures are applied. When the quality and safety of these sweet proteins are well-investigated and the approval from safety authorities is secured, the market for brazzein and monellin as food ingredient substitutes for free sugar will be guaranteed in the future. Ultimately, the review on these two natural peptide sweeteners increases the body of knowledge on alleviating problems of obesity, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
Current Technologies and Uses for Fruit and Vegetable Wastes in a Sustainable System: A Review
Authors: Zhu Yingdan , Luan Yueting , Zhao Yingnan , Liu Jiali , Duan Zhangqun , Ruan Roger
Published: May 2023

The fruit and vegetable industry produces millions of tons of residues, which can cause large economic losses. Fruit and vegetable wastes and by-products contain a large number of bioactive substances with functional ingredients that have antioxidant, antibacterial, and other properties. Current technologies can utilize fruit and vegetable waste and by-products as ingredients, food bioactive compounds, and biofuels. Traditional and commercial utilization in the food industry includes such technologies as microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), and high hydrostatic pressure technique (HHP). Biorefinery methods for converting fruit and vegetable wastes into biofuels, such as anaerobic digestion (AD), fermentation, incineration, pyrolysis and gasification, and hydrothermal carbonization, are described. This study provides strategies for the processing of fruit and vegetable wastes using eco-friendly technologies and lays a foundation for the utilization of fruit and vegetable loss/waste and by-products in a sustainable system.
Time Domain NMR Approach in the Chemical and Physical Characterization of Hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.)
Authors: Gianferri Raffaella , Sciubba Fabio , Durazzo Alessandra , Gabrielli Paolo , Lombardi-Boccia Ginevra , Giorgi Francesca , Santini Antonello , Engel Petra , Di Cocco Maria Enrica , Delfini Maurizio , Lucarini Massimo
Published: May 2023

‘Tonda Gentile Romana’ and ‘Tonda di Giffoni’ (Corylus avellana L.) are two Italian hazelnut cultivars, recognized under the quality labels “Protected Designation of Origin” (PDO) and “Protected Geographical Indication” (PGI), respectively. Hazelnut seeds are characterized by a complex microstructure and the presence of different physical compartments. This peculiarity has been studied and evidenced by Time Domain (TD) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) experiments. This technique allowed the assessment of the presence of different diffusion compartments, or domains, by evaluating the distribution of the spin–spin relaxation time (T2).The aim of this research was to develop a method based on 1H NMR relaxometry to study the mobility in fresh hazelnut seeds (‘Tonda di Giffoni’ and ‘Tonda Gentile Romana’), in order to determine differences in seed structure and matrix mobility between the two cultivars. TD-NMR measurements were performed from 8 to 55 °C in order to mimic post-harvest processing as well the microscopic textural properties of hazelnut. The Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) experiments showed five components for ‘Tonda Gentile Romana’ and four components for ‘Tonda di Giffoni’ relaxation times. The two slowest components of relaxation (T2,a about 30–40% of the NMR signal, and T2,b about 50% of the NMR signal) were attributed to the protons of the lipid molecules organized in the organelles (oleosomes), both for the ‘Tonda Gentile Romana’ and for the ‘Tonda di Giffoni’ samples. The component of relaxation T2,c was assigned to cytoplasmic water molecules, and showed a T2 value dominated by diffusive exchange with a reduced value compared to that of pure water at the same temperature. This can be attributed to the water molecules affected by the relaxation effect of the cell walls. The experiments carried out as a function of temperature showed, for ‘Tonda Gentile Romana’, an unexpected trend between 30 and 45 °C, indicating a phase transition in its oil component. This study provides information that could be used to strengthen the specifications underlying the definitions of “Protected Designation of Origin” (PDO) and “Protected Geographical Indication” (PGI).
Alcoholic Fermentation as a Source of Congeners in Fruit Spirits
Authors: Stanzer Damir , Hanousek Čiča Karla , Blesić Milenko , Smajić Murtić Mirela , Mrvčić Jasna , Spaho Nermina
Published: May 2023

Fermentation is a crucial process in the production of alcoholic beverages such as spirits, which produces a number of volatile compounds due to the metabolic activities of yeast. These volatile compounds, together with the volatile components of the raw materials and the volatile compounds produced during the distillation and aging process, play a crucial role in determining the final flavor and aroma of spirits. In this manuscript, we provide a comprehensive overview of yeast fermentation and the volatile compounds produced during alcoholic fermentation. We will establish a link between the microbiome and volatile compounds during alcoholic fermentation and describe the various factors that influence volatile compound production, including yeast strain, temperature, pH, and nutrient availability. We will also discuss the effects of these volatile compounds on the sensory properties of spirits and describe the major aroma compounds in these alcoholic beverages.
Phenolic Compounds of Rose Hips of Some Rosa Species and Their Hybrids Native Grown in the South-West of Slovenia during a Two-Year Period (2020–2021)
Authors: Kunc Nina , Hudina Metka , Osterc Gregor , Bavcon Jože , Ravnjak Blanka , Mikulič-Petkovšek Maja
Published: May 2023

The genus Rosa is very extensive and variable, so it remains very unpredictable and uninvestigated. This also holds true for values of secondary metabolites in rose hips, which are important for several purposes (human diet, protection of plants against pests, etc.). The aim of our study was to determine the content of phenolic compounds in the hips of R. × R. glauca, R. corymbifera, R. gallica and R. subcanina, which grow wild in nature in southwestern Slovenia. We examined the content of phenolic compounds in different parts of rose hips, in the flesh with skin and in the seeds, depending on the individual species, over a period of two years, 2020 and 2021. We also considered the influence of environmental conditions on the content of the mentioned compounds. In both years, the content of phenolic compounds was higher in the flesh with skin than in the seeds. Considering the total content of phenolic compounds in the flesh with skin, R. gallica stands out (15,767.21 mg/kg FW), but the hips of this species accumulated the lowest number of different phenolic compounds. The lowest content of total phenolic compounds (TPC) was found in R. corymbifera, in the year 2021 (3501.38 mg/kg FW). The content of TPC (in both observed years) in the seeds varied between 1263.08 mg/kg FW (R. subcanina) and 3247.89 mg/kg FW (R. × R. glauca). Among the anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-glucoside was determined, which was predominant in R. gallica (28.78 mg/kg FW), and at least was determined in R. subcanina (1.13 mg/kg FW). When comparing the two years of the period (2020–2021), we found that 2021 was more favorable for the formation of phenolic compounds in the seeds, but 2020 in the flesh with skin.
Molecular Docking of Natural Compounds for Potential Inhibition of AhR
Authors: Giordano Deborah , Facchiano Angelo , Moccia Stefania , Meola Anna Maria Iole , Russo Gian Luigi , Spagnuolo Carmela
Published: May 2023

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a highly conserved environmental sensor, historically known for mediating the toxicity of xenobiotics. It is involved in numerous cellular processes such as differentiation, proliferation, immunity, inflammation, homeostasis, and metabolism. It exerts a central role in several conditions such as cancer, inflammation, and aging, acting as a transcription factor belonging to the basic helix–loop–helix/Per-ARNT-Sim (bHLH-PAS) protein family. A key step in the canonical AhR activation is AhR-ARNT heterodimerization followed by the binding to the xenobiotic-responsive elements (XREs). The present work aims to investigate the potential AhR inhibitory activity of selected natural compounds. Due to the absence of a complete structure of human AhRs, a model consisting of the bHLH, the PAS A, and the PAS B domains was constructed. Blind and focused docking simulations revealed the presence of further binding pockets, different from the canonical one presented in the PAS B domain, which could be important for AhR inhibition due to the possibility to impede AhR:ARNT heterodimerization, either preventing conformational changes or masking crucial sites necessary for protein–protein interaction. Two of the compounds retrieved from the docking simulations, i.e., β-carotene and ellagic acid, confirmed their capacity of inhibiting benzo[a]pyrene (BaP)-induced AhR activation in in vitro tests on the human hepatoma cell line HepG2, validating the efficacy of the computational approach.
Fate of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli on Slices of an All-Beef Soppressata during Storage
Authors: Luchansky John B. , Shane Laura E. , Osoria Manuela , Vinyard Bryan T. , Shoyer Bradley A. , Campano Stephen G. , Porto-Fett Anna C. S.
Published: May 2023

Cells of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., or Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) were inoculated (ca. 4.0 log CFU/slice) onto slices (ca. 4 g each slice) of an all-beef soppressata (ca. pH 5.05 and aw 0.85). The storage of vacuum-sealed slices of inoculated soppressata at 4 °C or 20 °C for 90 days resulted in reductions of all three pathogens by ca. 2.2 to 3.1 or ca. ≥3.3 log CFU/slice, respectively. When pathogen levels decreased to below detection (≤1.18 log CFU/slice) by direct plating, it was possible to recover each of the target pathogens by enrichment, albeit more frequently from slices stored at 4 °C (p < 0.05) compared to 20 °C. In summary, the slices of the commercially produced beef soppressata selected for this study did not provide a favorable environment for either survival or outgrowth of surface-inoculated cells of L. monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., or STEC during storage.
Do Out-of-Pocket Payments for Care for Children under 5 Persist Even in a Context of Free Healthcare in Burkina Faso? Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Population-Based Survey
Authors: Tapsoba Ludovic D. G. , Yara Mimbouré , Nakovics Meike I. , Somda Serge M. A. , Lohmann Julia , Robyn Paul J. , Hamadou Saidou , Hien Hervé , De Allegri Manuela
Published: May 2023

Background: In April 2016, Burkina Faso began free healthcare for children aged from 0 to 5 years. However, its implementation faces challenges, and the goal of this study is to estimate the fees paid for this child care and to determine the causes of these direct payments. Methods: Data gathering involved 807 children aged from 0 to 5 years who had contact with the public healthcare system. The estimation of the determinants of out-of-pocket health payments involved the application of a two-part regression model. Results: About 31% of the children made out-of-pocket payments for healthcare (an average of 3407.77 CFA francs per case of illness). Of these, 96% paid for medicines and 24% paid for consultations. The first model showed that out-of-pocket payments were positively associated with hospitalization, urban area of residence, and severity of illness, were made in the East-Central and North-Central regions, and were negatively associated with the 7 to 23 month age range. The second model showed that hospitalization and severity of illness increased the amount of direct health payments. Conclusion: Children targeted by free healthcare still make out-of-pocket payments. The dysfunction of this policy needs to be studied to ensure adequate financial protection for children in Burkina Faso.
Current Healthcare Systems in Light of Hyperendemic NCDs and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Time to Change
Authors: Buhmeida Abdelbaset , Assidi Mourad , Budowle Bruce
Published: May 2023

Despite the significant achievements of current healthcare systems (CHCSs) in curing or treating several acute conditions, there has been far less success coping with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which have complex roots and nonconventional transmission vectors. Owing to the impact of the invisible hyperendemic NCDs and the COVID-19 pandemic, the limitations of CHCSs have been exposed. In contrast, the advent of omics-based technologies and big data science has raised global hope of curing or treating NCDs and improving overall healthcare outcomes. However, challenges related to their use and effectiveness must be addressed. Additionally, while such advancements intend to improve quality of life, they can also contribute the ever-increasing health disparity among vulnerable populations, such as low/middle-income populations, poorly educated people, gender-based violence victims, and minority and indigenous peoples, to name a few. Among five health determinants, the contribution of medical care to individual health does not exceed 11%. Therefore, it is time to implement a new well-being-oriented system complementary or parallel to CHCSs that incorporates all five health determinants to tackle NCDs and unforeseen diseases of the future, as well as to promote cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable healthy lifestyle choices that can reduce the current level of healthcare inequity.