bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental and Economic Assessment of a Novel Solvolysis-Based Biorefinery Producing Lignin-Derived Marine Biofuel and Cellulosic Ethanol
Authors: Obydenkova Svetlana , Defauw Lucie , Kouris Panos , Smeulders David , Boot Michael , van der Meer Yvonne
Published: July 2022

Methanol is considered to be a viable option for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in shipping, the second-highest emitter after road freight. However, the use of fossil methanol is insufficient to meet climate change targets, while renewable methanol is yet unavailable on a commercial scale. This paper presents a novel biorefinery concept based on biomass solvolysis to produce crude lignin oil (CLO) from forest residues, a drop-in biofuel for methanol-propelled ships, and evaluates its environmental and economic profiles. In the base scenario, CLO can achieve emission saving of 84% GHG compared to fossil alternatives, and a minimum selling price (MSP) of $821 per ton of methanol equivalent (ME), i.e., within the range of the current bio-methanol production costs. The emission of GHGs of co-produced ethanol can be reduced by 67% compared to fossil analogues. The increase of renewable electricity share to 75% is capable of shrinking emissions by 1/5 vs. the base case, while fossil methanol losses, e.g., of that in cellulose pulp, can boost emissions by 63%. Low-pressure steam use in the biomass pretreatment, as well as biorefinery capacity increase by a factor of 2.5, have the greatest potential to reduce MSP of CLO to $530 and $614 per ton of ME, respectively.
Biochar, Ochre, and Manure Maturation in an Acidic Technosol Helps Stabilize As and Pb in Soil and Allows Its Vegetation by Salix triandra
Authors: Simiele Melissa , Lebrun Manhattan , Bourgerie Sylvain , Trupiano Dalila , Scippa Gabriella Stefania , Morabito Domenico
Published: July 2022

Past mining extraction activities still have a negative impact in the present time, the resulting metal(loid) contaminated soils affecting both the environment and human health. Assisted phytostabilization technology, combining soil conditioner application to immobilize metal(loid)s and plant growth to reduce erosion and leaching risks, is a useful strategy in the restoration of metal(loid) contaminated lands. However, contaminants will respond differently to a particular amendment, having their own specific characteristics. Therefore, in multi-contaminated soils, soil conditioner combination has been suggested as a good strategy for metal(loid) immobilization. In the present study, in a mesocosm experiment, organic (biochar and manure) and inorganic (ochre) amendments were evaluated in single and combined applications for their effect on metal(loid) stabilization and Salix triandra growth improvement, in an arsenic and lead highly contaminated soil. Specifically, the effects of these amendments on soil properties, metal(loid) behavior, and plant growth were evaluated after they aged in the soil for 6 months. Results showed that all amendments, except biochar alone, could reduce soil acidity, with the best outcomes obtained with the three amendments combined. The combination of the three soil conditioners has also led to reducing soil lead availability. However, only ochre, alone or combined with the other soil fertilizers, was capable of immobilizing arsenic. Moreover, amendment application enhanced plant growth, without affecting arsenic accumulation. On the contrary, plants grown on all the amended soils, except plants grown on soil added with manure alone, showed higher lead concentration in leaves, which poses a risk of return of lead into the soil when leaves will shed in autumn. Considering that the best plant growth improvement, together with the lowest increase in lead aerial accumulation, was observed in manure-treated soil, the addition of manure seems to have potential in the restoration of arsenic and lead contaminated soil.
Impact of Heavy Metals in Eggs and Tissues of C. caretta along the Sicilian Coast (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Savoca Dario , Arculeo Marco , Arizza Vincenzo , Pace Andrea , Melfi Raffaella , Caracappa Santo , Caracappa Giulia , Vullo Cecilia , Cambera Irene , Visconti Giulia , Giudice Vittoria , D’Oca Gaetano , Messina Salvatore , Maccotta Antonella
Published: July 2022

In this study we compared the heavy metal concentration found in different tissues and eggs of the loggerhead sea turtle and evaluated the potential ecotoxicological risk for this important species. Eighteen heavy metal elements were determined in different tissues (liver, gonads, fat, kidney, heart, brain, and spleen) of nine individuals of Caretta caretta found stranded along the coasts of Messina (Sicily, Italy) and in the shell and yolk of six eggs from the island of Linosa (Sicily, Italy). For the analysis of the heavy metals, we used the analytical procedures in accordance with the EPA 200.8 method supplemented by EPA 6020b with three replicates for each measurement. The elements analysed showed different organotropism even if the liver showed higher levels of bioaccumulation. Turtles’ tissues showed the highest values of iron in the liver, followed by zinc in the heart and arsenic in the kidney. Regarding eggs, zinc, iron, and barium were dominant in the yolk and iron, boron, and copper in the eggshell. From the analyses carried out the worrying levels of arsenic and cadmium in the kidneys and liver of C. caretta raise questions about the risk related to exposure to these non-essential elements. This study highlights the importance of multi-element biomonitoring by increasing knowledge on the biodistribution of 18 heavy metals and the related potential risks for C. caretta. We also exploring for the first time the presence of several heavy metals in the eggs and their possible implication for the survival of the species.
A Comparative Study of the Bending Properties of Dahurian Larch and Japanese Larch Grown in Korea
Authors: Kim Seong-Hyun , Purusatama Byantara Darsan , Kim Jong-Ho , Lee Seung-Hwan , Kim Nam-Hun
Published: July 2022

The bending properties of Dahurian and Japanese larch grown in Korea were comparatively studied to facilitate the effective utilization of both species. The modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) of the heartwood and sapwood of both species were observed in the tangential and radial directions using Korean standards. Overall, Dahurain larch showed better bending properties than Japanese larch. In the tangential direction, Dahurian larch had better properties than Japanese larch, but there was no difference in the radial direction between the species. In both species, the bending properties of the heartwood were better than those of the sapwood. In Dahurian larch, the bending properties in the tangential direction were greater than those in the radial direction, but there was no difference in either direction with Japanese larch. The bending properties of both species in both directions were positively correlated with latewood percentage and air-dry density. Bending properties in the radial direction had a negative correlation with the growth ring width, but there was no correlation between the growth ring width and bending properties in the tangential direction for both species. Finally, the MOE of both species was significantly correlated with the MOR.
Effects of Lactic Acid Bacteria-Inoculated Corn Silage on Bacterial Communities and Metabolites of Digestive Tract of Sheep
Authors: Han Hongyan , Wang Chao , Huang Zhipeng , Zhang Ying , Sun Lin , Xue Yanlin , Guo Xusheng
Published: July 2022

Silage is widely used as ruminant feed all over the world. Lactic acid bacteria inoculants are commonly applied in silage production to improve preservation efficiency. To investigate the effects of lactic acid bacteria-inoculated silage on the bacterial communities and metabolites of the digestive tract, twenty-four local hybrid rams (a hybrid of Small Tail Han sheep and Mongolian sheep with an average initial BW 27.8 ± 3.05 kg) were randomly divided into four groups fed with corn stalk (S), corn stalk silage, corn stalk silage treated with Lentilactobacillusplantarum (P), or corn stalk silage treated with L. buchneri (B). The results showed that compared with the control and B groups, the inoculant with P significantly increased silage dry matter (DM) content, while the pH value was significantly higher than that in group B, and the aerobic stability was significantly lower than that in group B. Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the two dominant phyla of digestive tract microbiota in sheep. Compared with corn stalk, sheep fed with corn stalk silage showed a higher relative abundance of Prevotella. P-treated silage decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes at the phylum level in rumen fluid. Silage treated with P or B increased the relative abundance of Prevotella, Ruminococcus, and Fibrobacter at the genus level in the rumen. A total of 498 differential metabolites in the rumen were detected when comparing the corn stalk and corn stalk silage groups. A total of 257 and 141 differential metabolites were detected when comparing the untreated silage and silages treated with P and B, respectively. These metabolites in the sheep rumen were correlated with bacterial communities, especially Butyrivibrio, Fibrobacter, and Prevotella. In conclusion, the addition of P and B during ensiling could change the fermentation and metabolites in the rumen by influencing the bacterial community. The change induced by these inoculants might be beneficial for animals’ performance and the health of ruminants.
A Parametric Study of Fire Risks of Green Roofs to Adjacent Buildings
Authors: Gerzhova Nataliia , Dagenais Christian , Ménard Sylvain , Blanchet Pierre , Côté Jean
Published: July 2022

The susceptibility of plants to burn raises concerns about fire hazard that green roofs may pose to buildings. Main concerns relate to cases when such roofs are poorly maintained or stressed by drought conditions which leads to drying out of plants and the accumulation of dead organic material, greatly increasing the availability of fuel load. Existing standard safety measures aim to prevent the spread of fire through the vegetation cover. However, fire spread by thermal radiation is not considered. In this study, fire risk of exposure of adjacent buildings to radiant heat flux produced by fire on green roofs was assessed. Based on generally accepted maximum tolerable radiant heat flux to exposed facades of 12.5 kW/m2, the minimum safe separation distances were obtained for different conditions. Wildland fire behavior model was used to determine flame lengths which is the necessary parameter for a radiation model. Several vegetation types, moisture content scenarios and wind speeds were taken as variables. It was found that by providing the vegetation with reasonably high moisture content the fire risk can be greatly reduced, especially for grass-covered roofs. Since wind also has a strong effect on flame size, considering the exposure of a green roof to wind can bring better understanding of fire risk to adjacent buildings. At no-wind condition and at extremely low moisture content separation distances are as short as 3.1 m for dense shrubs and 2.4 m for tall dense grass.
Prediction of Critical Heat Flux for Subcooled Flow Boiling in Annulus and Transient Surface Temperature Change at CHF
Authors: Liu Wei
Published: July 2022

The ability to predict critical heat flux (CHF) is of considerable interest for high-heat equipment, including nuclear reactors. CHF prediction from a mechanistic model for subcooled flow boiling in rod bundles still remains unsolved. In this paper, we try to predict the CHF in an annulus, which is the most basic flow geometry simplified from a fuel bundle, using a liquid sublayer dryout model. The prediction is validated with both water and R113 data, showing an accuracy within ±30%. After the CHF in an annulus is calculated successfully, a near-wall vapor–liquid structure is proposed on the basis of the liquid sublayer dryout model. Modeling of heat transfer modes over the heating surface at CHF is performed, and predictions of the changes in liquid sublayer thickness and heater surface temperature at the CHF occurrence point are carried out by solving the heat conduction equation in cylindrical coordinates with a convective boundary condition, which changes with the change in flow pattern over the heating surface. Transient changes in the liquid sublayer thickness and surface temperature at the CHF occurrence point are reported.
Note on the Early Thermoelastic Stage Preceding Rayleigh–Bénard Convection in Soft Materials
Authors: Rahouadj Rachid , Nouar Chérif , Pereira Antonio
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we focus on the first stage of transition to Rayleigh–Bénard convection in soft-jammed systems (yield stress fluids) confined in a parallelepiped box heated from the bottom. Up to yielding, the material is in a solid-state with a constant elastic modulus. By means of a linear thermoelastic model, an analytical solution for stresses and strains induced by the gravity and the temperature gradient is derived. The analytical solution allows us to emphasize the appropriate dimensionless parameters. The onset of plastic deformation is then investigated using the classical yield criteria (Tresca, von Mises and Drucker–Prager). This analysis is subsequently applied to experimental data of the literature dealing with Rayleigh–Bénard convection in Carbopol micro gels.
The Role of Pin Fin Array Configurations and Bubble Characteristics on the Pool Boiling Heat Transfer Enhancement
Authors: Pranoto Indro , Rahman Muhammad Aulia , Waluyo Joko
Published: July 2022

Pool boiling surface modification by pin fin array has demonstrated a practical but effective cooling enhancement. Whilst the main challenge is to determine the best configuration of the pin fin dimensions and positioning, it is known that the result varies among the working conditions. To obtain a more general formulation, it is utterly vital to obtain a deep understanding of the pool boiling mechanism during the phase-change process. This study aimed to analyze the role of pin fin array configuration on the pool boiling phenomenon by generating visualization and non-dimensional analysis. The results illustrated three different regimes occurring during the boiling process: natural convection, isolated bubble, and merged bubble. For all regimes, the average heat transfer performance was enhanced as the fin gap rose to 17% and 63% for circular and rectangular pin fins, respectively. Furthermore, Grashof (Gr) and Bond (Bo) numbers were calculated to quantitatively describe the effect on the bubble dynamics. From these approaches, it was found that the insulated bubble regime provides a better means of cooling by around 60% due to the better bubble dynamics.
Amplification of Wave Groups in the Forced Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Maleewong Montri , Grimshaw Roger H. J.
Published: July 2022

In many physical contexts, notably including deep-water waves, modulation instability in one space dimension is often studied by using the nonlinear Schrödinger equation. The principal solutions of interest are solitons and breathers which are adopted as models of wave packets. The Peregrine breather in particular is often invoked as a model of a rogue wave. In this paper, we add a linear growth term to the nonlinear Schrödinger equation to model the amplification of propagating wave groups. This is motivated by an application to wind-generated water waves, but this forced nonlinear Schrödinger equation potentially has much wider applicability. We describe a series of numerical simulations which in the absence of the forcing term would generate solitons and/or breathers. We find that overall the effect of the forcing term is to favour the generation of solitons with amplitudes growing at twice the linear growth rate over the generation of breathers.
Raw and Cooked Quality of Gilthead Seabream Fillets (Sparus aurata, L.) after Mild Processing via Osmotic Dehydration for Shelf Life Extension
Authors: Alexi Niki , Sfyra Konstantina , Basdeki Eugenia , Athanasopoulou Evmorfia , Spanou Aikaterini , Chryssolouris Marios , Tsironi Theofania
Published: July 2022

The current study aimed to explore the effects of mild processing for shelf-life extension on the raw an-d cooked quality of gilthead seabream fillets stored at 2 °C. Control and Treated (via osmotic dehydration) fillets were sampled at the beginning (D1), middle (D5) and end (D7) of commercial shelf life. The raw quality was evaluated via the quality index method (QIM), microbial measurements and for D1 through tetrad discrimination testing. The cooked quality was evaluated for the same samples via sensory descriptive analyses with a trained panel. The tetrad results indicated similar characteristics between treatments for raw fillets on D1 and a 29% shelf-life extension for Treated fillets vs. the Control ones, defined by Quality Index Method and microbial measurements. The raw quality was reflected in the cooked quality of the tissue, with the Treated fillets exhibiting less intense spoilage-related sensory attributes as well as enhanced or retained freshness-related attributes throughout storage, when compared to the Control ones. A range of treatment induced sensory characteristics, partly associated to Maillard reactions, were developed in the Treated fillets. Overall, the treatment affected positively both the raw and cooked quality of the fillet, showing promising results as a shelf-life extension method for fish fillet preservation.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and Garlic (Allium sativum) Essential Oils and Chipotle Pepper Oleoresin (Capsicum annum) on Beef Hamburgers
Authors: Olivas-Méndez Paulina , Chávez-Martínez América , Santellano-Estrada Eduardo , Guerrero Asorey Luis , Sánchez-Vega Rogelio , Rentería-Monterrubio Ana Luisa , Chávez-Flores David , Tirado-Gallegos Juan Manuel , Méndez-Zamora Gerardo
Published: July 2022

The inclusion of natural ingredients to preserve meat and meat products has increased in recent years. This study evaluated rosemary (REO) and garlic essential oils (GEO) as well as chipotle pepper oleoresin (CPO), alone or in combination, as preservatives on beef hamburgers (BH). Six treatments were evaluated: T1 (control, without additives), T2 (GEO 1%), T3 (REO 1%), T4 (CPO 0.5%), T5 (GEO 1% + CPO 0.5%) and T6 (REO 1% + CPO 0.5%). The microbiological quality, physicochemical characteristics, sensory evaluation, and lipid oxidation of hamburgers were evaluated. REO, GEO and CPO limited the growth of aerobic microorganisms, S. aureus, Salmonella spp., B. thermosphacta, moulds and yeasts, lactic acid bacteria and coliforms (p < 0.05); however, this effect depended on time. Furthermore, lipid oxidation decreased significantly (p < 0.5) in all treatments, except for T5 (GEO 1% + CPO 0.5%). Regarding sensory acceptance, consumers preferred BH with GEO in terms of colour, odour, flavour and overall appearance (p < 0.05). It is concluded that REO, GEO and CPO, alone or in combination, improve microbiological quality and inhibit the lipid oxidation of BH.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on the Internal Structure, Physicochemical Properties and Storage Stability of Whole Grain Highland Barley Flour
Authors: Dang Bin , Zhang Wen-Gang , Zhang Jie , Yang Xi-Juan , Xu Huai-De
Published: July 2022

In this study, to improve the processing performance of whole grain highland barley flour (whole grain HB flour), they were prepared by sand-roasting, far-infrared baking, steam explosion, and extrusion, and the effects of on functional properties and storage characteristics were measured. The results indicated that sand-roasting, far-infrared baking, and steam explosion all caused cracks and honeycomb structures in the outer layer and endosperm of the highland barley. The XRD analysis results indicated that highland barley starch treated by far-infrared baking exhibited typical A-type crystal structure, while sand-roasting, steam explosion, and extrusion presented the typical V-type. The results of DSC analysis revealed that the onset temperature (To), peak temperature (Tp), gelatinization enthalpy (ΔH), peak viscosity (PV), trough viscosity (TV), and final viscosity (FV) decreased significantly, while the swelling power, water-holding capacity and oil-holding capacity increased significantly. During the storage period, the moisture content and lipase activity of the whole grain HB flour after thermal treatment remained at a low level; the fatty acid value, peroxide value, and malondialdehyde value increased; finally, the cooked whole grain HB flour was unstable during storage. The functional properties of whole grain HB flour can be improved by steam explosion, and will then have better storage stability.
Development of Simplified Models for Non-Destructive Hyperspectral Imaging Monitoring of S-ovalbumin Content in Eggs during Storage
Authors: Yao Kunshan , Sun Jun , Cheng Jiehong , Xu Min , Chen Chen , Zhou Xin , Dai Chunxia
Published: July 2022

S-ovalbumin content is an indicator of egg freshness and has an important impact on the quality of processed foods. The objective of this study is to develop simplified models for monitoring the S-ovalbumin content of eggs during storage using hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and multivariate analysis. The hyperspectral images of egg samples at different storage periods were collected in the wavelength range of 401–1002 nm, and the reference S-ovalbumin content was determined by spectrophotometry. The standard normal variate (SNV) was employed to preprocess the raw spectral data. To simplify the calibration models, competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) was applied to select feature wavelengths from the whole spectral range. Based on the full and feature wavelengths, partial least squares regression (PLSR) and least squares support vector machine (LSSVM) models were developed, in which the simplified LSSVM model yielded the best performance with a coefficient of determination for prediction (R2P) of 0.918 and a root mean square error for prediction (RMSEP) of 7.215%. By transferring the quantitative model to the pixels of hyperspectral images, the visualizing distribution maps were generated, providing an intuitive and comprehensive evaluation for the S-ovalbumin content of eggs, which helps to understand the conversion of ovalbumin into S-ovalbumin during storage. The results provided the possibility of implementing a multispectral imaging technique for online monitoring the S-ovalbumin content of eggs.
Evaluation of Nutritional Components, Phenolic Composition, and Antioxidant Capacity of Highland Barley with Different Grain Colors on the Qinghai Tibet Plateau
Authors: Dang Bin , Zhang Wen-Gang , Zhang Jie , Yang Xi-Juan , Xu Huai-De
Published: July 2022

The nutritional composition, polyphenol and anthocyanin composition, and antioxidant capacity of 52 colored highland barley were evaluated. The results showed that the protein content of highland barley in the black group was the highest, the total starch and fat contents in the blue group were the highest, the amylose content in the purple group was quite high, the fiber content in the yellow group was quite high, and the β-glucan content of the dark highland barley (purple, blue and black) was quite high. The polyphenol content and its antioxidant capacity in the black group were the highest, while the anthocyanin content and its antioxidant capacity in the purple highland barley were the highest. Ten types of monomeric phenolic substances were the main contributors to DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP antioxidant capacity. All varieties could be divided into four categories according to nutrition or function. The grain color could not be used as an absolute index to evaluate the quality of highland barley, and the important influence of variety on the quality of highland barley also needed to be considered. In actual production, suitable raw materials must be selected according to the processing purpose and variety characteristics of highland barley.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Profile of Sorghum (Sorghumbicolor (L.) Moench) and Pearl Millet (Pennisetumglaucum (L.) R.Br.) Grains Cultivated in the Far-North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Mawouma Saliou , Condurache Nina Nicoleta , Turturică Mihaela , Constantin Oana Emilia , Croitoru Constantin , Rapeanu Gabriela
Published: July 2022

Sorghum and pearl millet are grain crops that can grow in semi-arid climates, with nutritional and bioactive properties superior to those of major cereals such as rice, wheat, and maize. However, these properties vary a lot, depending on the genetic factors, growing conditions, and place of cultivation. Four sorghum and two pearl millet grains cultivars grown in the Far-North region of Cameroon were screened for their chemical composition and antioxidant profile. The proximate and mineral analyses were performed using AOAC standard methods. The antioxidant profile was assayed spectrophotometrically and details on the phenolic compounds were investigated using HPLC. The pearl millet cultivars, especially mouri, showed higher contents of proteins, lipids, ash, calcium, copper, iron, and zinc. The red sorghum specifically exhibited the greatest amounts of total polyphenols (82.22 mg GAE/g DE), total flavonoids (23.82 mg CE/g DE), and total 3-deoxyanthocyanidin (9.06 mg/g DE). The most abundant phenolic compound was gallic acid, while the most frequent were chlorogenic and ferulic acids. The maximum antioxidant activity against DPPH was observed in yellow-pale sorghum (87.71%), followed by red sorghum (81.15%). Among the studied varieties of cereals, mouri pearl millet and red sorghum were the best sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds, respectively. Their consumption should be encouraged to tackle nutrient deficiencies and non-communicable diseases within local populations.
Nutrition, Healthcare Benefits and Phytochemical Properties of Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Leaves Sourced from Three Countries (Reunion, Guinea, and Costa Rica)
Authors: Boukhers Imane , Boudard Frederic , Morel Sylvie , Servent Adrien , Portet Karine , Guzman Caroline , Vitou Manon , Kongolo Joelle , Michel Alain , Poucheret Patrick
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Manihot esculenta, cassava, is an essential food crop for human consumption in many parts of the world. Besides the wide use of its roots, cassava leaves have been used locally as green vegetables and for medicinal purposes. However, nutritional health data regarding cassava leaves is limited, therefore we investigated its composition and associated potential bioactivity interest for human health. (2) Methods: Cassava leaf bioactivity investigations focused on antioxidant properties (free radical scavenging) in association with immunomodulatory activities on inflammatory murine macrophages to measure the impact of cassava extract on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-6, Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha, Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1, Prostaglandin-E2 and mediators such as nitric oxide. (3) Results: Antioxidant and immunomodulatory bioactivities were significant, with a concentration-dependent inhibition of cytokines production by inflammatory macrophages; (4) Conclusions: Taken together, our results tend to suggest that Manihot esculenta leaves might be underrated regarding the potential nutrition-health interest of this vegetal matrix for both human nutrition and prophylaxis of metabolic disease with underlying low grade inflammation status.
Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) Flour Varieties as Promising New Ingredients for Gluten-Free Cookies
Authors: Hajas Lívia , Sipos László , Csobod Éva Csajbókné , Bálint Márta Veresné , Juhász Réka , Benedek Csilla
Published: July 2022

Monotony in a gluten-free (GF) diet can be a challenge because of a limited choice of acceptable cereal sources. This study investigates the potential of five types of differently coloured lentils in the development of GF cookies using rice flour as a reference. Raw materials (lentil flours) and cookies were characterised in terms of physicochemical parameters (e.g., crude protein content, total phenolics and flavonoids, antioxidant properties, colour, pH); additionally, geometry, baking loss and texture profile were determined for the cookies. A sensory acceptance test was also conducted to find out consumer preferences regarding rice versus different lentil cookies. Results showed that lentil cookies were superior to rice control in terms of higher crude protein (12.1–14.8 vs. 3.8 g/100 g), phenolic (136.5–342.3 vs. 61.5 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g) and flavonoid (23.8–75.9 vs. 13.1 mg catechin equivalents/100 g) content and antioxidant capacity (0.60–1.81 vs. 0.35 mmol trolox equivalents/100 g), as well as lower hydroxymethyl-furfural content (<1 vs. 26.2 mg/kg). Consumers preferred lentil cookies to rice ones (overall liking: 6.1–7.0 vs. 5.6, significant differences for red and brown lentils), liking especially their taste (6.3–7.0 vs. 5.5). Depending on the target parameter, whether physicochemical or sensory, these lentil flours can be promising raw materials for GF bakery products.
Dietary Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) Extract Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Chronic Experimental Colitis by Improving the Composition of Gut Microbiota in Mice
Authors: Ishida Tatsuya , Matsui Hiroyuki , Matsuda Yoshikazu , Shimono Takaki , Kanda Seiji , Nishiyama Toshimasa , Hosomi Ryota , Fukunaga Kenji , Yoshida Munehiro
Published: July 2022

Previously, we have reported that the intake of oyster extract (OE), prepared from Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas), can attenuate symptoms of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute experimental colitis in mice. Herein, we aimed to evaluate whether OE intake ameliorates chronic experimental colitis induced by repeated DSS administration in mice. Male C57BL/6J (4-week-old) mice were fed either the standard diet AIN93G (control diet) or the control diet containing 5.0% (w/w) OE (OE diet). After 21 days of diet feeding, chronic experimental colitis was induced by three cycles of 2.0% (w/w) DSS solution administration (5 days), followed by distilled water (5 days). Mice fed OE alleviated the shortened colonic length, increased the relative weight of the spleen, colonic histopathological score (regeneration), and blood in the stool score compared with mice fed control diet. A tendency to improve the α-diversity of fecal microbiota, which was exacerbated by colitis, was observed in mice fed OE. Correlation analysis suggested that the anti-colitis effect of OE intake could be related to the valeric acid content and relative abundances of Ruminococcus and Enterococcus in the feces. In conclusion, OE could ameliorate DSS-induced chronic experimental colitis by improving the gut environment, including the microbiota community and SCFA composition.
Preface of “Asymmetric Planetary Nebulae 8e”
Authors: Guerrero Martin A. , Parker Quentin A. , Soker Noam
Published: July 2022

Planetary nebulae (PNe) are the progeny of low- and intermediate-mass stars, at the exact time in their late evolution when they eject their hydrogen-rich envelopes and start their transition towards white dwarfs [...]
Evaluation of the Accessibility of Molecules in Hydrogels Using a Scale of Spin Probes
Authors: Matei Iulia , Ariciu Ana-Maria , Popescu Elena Irina , Mocanu Sorin , Neculae Alexandru Vincentiu Florian , Savonea Florenta , Ionita Gabriela
Published: July 2022

In this work, we explored by means of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy the accessibility of a series of spin probes, covering a scale of molecular weights in the range of 200–60,000 Da, in a variety of hydrogels: covalent network, ionotropic, interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) and semi-IPN. The covalent gel network consists of polyethylene or polypropylene chains linked via isocyanate groups with cyclodextrin, and the ionotropic gel is generated by alginate in the presence of Ca2+ ions, whereas semi-IPN and IPN gel networks are generated in a solution of alginate and chitosan by adding crosslinking agents, Ca2+ for alginate and glutaraldehyde for chitosan. It was observed that the size of the diffusing species determines the ability of the gel to uptake them. Low molecular weight compounds can diffuse into the gel, but when the size of the probes increases, the gel cannot uptake them. Spin-labelled Pluronic F127 cannot be encapsulated by any covalent gel, whereas spin-labelled albumin can diffuse in alginate gels and in most of the IPN networks. The EPR spectra also evidenced the specific interactions of spin probes inside hydrogels. The results suggest that EPR spectroscopy can be an alternate method to evaluate the mesh size of gel systems and to provide information on local interactions inside gels.
‘This Society Has Taken Me.’ Intensive Parenting and Fragile Belonging among Second-Generation Minority Danish Parents
Authors: Gilliam Laura
Published: July 2022

Based on life-history interviews and fieldwork among second-generation minority Danish parents from different ethnic backgrounds, this article explores changes in parenting norms and practices between first-generation and second-generation minority Danish parents. The second-generation parents generally experience that, compared to their own parents and contemporary first-generation parents, they have a more ‘open’ and ‘engaged’ relationship with their children and their schools, making them feel intimately shaped by Danish society. Contesting integration and governmentality approaches, the article takes an Eliasian figurational approach, illuminating the historical changes in and current characteristics of the relationship between state, school, children, and parents that shapes the Danish ‘state-school figuration’. It explores how these second-generation minorities’ entanglement in the interdependencies of this figuration—first as children and later as parents—makes it valuable and sensible for them to engage in the ‘intensive parenting’ applauded in Danish schools. Yet, due to these interdependencies, their intensive parenting involves both distancing themselves from and acting as cultural brokers for first-generation parents, as well as using their own insider knowledge to protect their children from negative influence, stigmatisation, and discrimination.
Identification and Characterization of PTE-2, a Stowaway-like MITE Activated in Transgenic Chinese Cabbage Lines
Authors: Jeon Young-Ji , Shin Yun-Hee , Cheon Su-Jeong , Park Young-Doo
Published: July 2022

Transposable elements (TEs) are DNA fragments that can be replicated or transposed within a genome. TEs make up a high proportion of the plant genome and contribute to genetic diversity and evolution, affecting genome structure or gene activity. Miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs) are short, non-autonomous class II DNA transposable elements. MITEs have specific sequences, target site duplications (TSDs), and terminal inverted repeats(TIRs), which are characteristics of the classification of MITE families. In this study, a Stowaway-like MITE, PTE-2, was activated in transgenic Chinese cabbage lines. PTE-2 was revealed by in silico analysis as the putative activated element in transgenic Chinese cabbage lines. To verify the in silico analysis data, MITE insertion polymorphism (MIP) PCR was conducted and PTE-2 was confirmed to be activated in transgenic Chinese cabbage lines. The activation tendency of the copy elements of PTE-2 at different loci was also analyzed and only one more element was activated in the transgenic Chinese cabbage lines. Analyzing the sequence of MIP PCR products, the TSD sequence and TIR motif of PTE-2 were identified and matched to the characteristics of the Stowaway-like MITE family. In addition, the flanking region of PTE-2 was modified when PTE-2 was activated.
Energy-Based Approach: Analysis of a Laterally Loaded Pile in Multi-Layered Non-Linear Elastic Soil Strata
Authors: Arvan Prakash Ankitha , Arockiasamy Madasamy
Published: July 2022

Several studies have been reported in published literature on analytical solutions for a laterally loaded pile installed in a homogeneous single soil layer. However, piles are rarely installed in an ideal homogeneous single soil layer. The present study describes a new continuum-based analysis or energy-based approach for predicting the pile displacement responses subjected to static lateral loads and moments considering the soil non-linearity. This analytical analysis treats the pile as an elastic Euler–Bernoulli beam and the soil as a three-dimensional (3D) continuum in which the non-linear elastic properties are described by a modulus degradation relationship. The principle of virtual work was applied to the energy equation of a pile–soil system in order to obtain the governing differential equation for the pile and soil displacements. An iterative procedure was adopted to solve the equations numerically using a finite difference method (FDM). The pile displacement response was obtained using the software MATLAB R2021a, and the results from the energy-based method were compared with those obtained from the field test data as well as the finite element analysis (FEA) based on the software ANSYS Workbench 2021R1. The present study investigated the effect of explicit incorporation of soil properties and layering through a parametric study in order to understand the importance of predicting appropriate pile displacement responses in a linear elastic soil system. The responses indicated that the effect of soil layers and their thicknesses, pile properties and the variation in soil moduli have a direct impact on the displacements of piles subjected to lateral loading. Hence, a proper emphasis has to be given to account for the soil non-linearity. Considering the effect of soil non-linearity, it is observed that the results obtained from the energy-based method agreed well with the field measured values and those obtained from the FEA. The results indicated a difference of approximately less than 7% between the proposed method and the FEA. The approach presented in this study can be further extended to piles embedded in multi-layered soil strata subjected to the combined action of axial loads, lateral loads and moments. Furthermore, the same approach can be extended to study the response of the soil to group piles.
The Prevalence of Low Handgrip Strength and Its Predictors among Outpatient Older Adults in a Tertiary Care Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Manjavong Manchumad , So-ngern Apichart , Limpawattana Panita , Manomaiwong Natapong , Kamsuanjig Thanisorn , Khammak Chudapha , Chokkhatiwat Pongsak , Srisuwannakit Kamolthorn
Published: July 2022

Background: Low muscle strength is linked to several adverse health outcomes. However, there are limited data regarding its prevalence and associated factors in Thai older adults. This study aimed to fill that gap. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with patients aged ≥ 60 years at the outpatient clinic of the internal medicine department of a tertiary care hospital from April 2020 to December 2021. Patient characteristics were collected, and a handgrip dynamometer was used to measure handgrip strength (HGS). Low HGS was defined according to the 2019 recommendations of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. Results: In total, 198 patients were recruited. The prevalence of low HGS was 51%. Median HGS was 17.8 kg and 27.7 kg in women and men, respectively. Every age per year increase, greater number of medications of any type, and lower Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score were independent factors associated with low HGS, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.1, 1.2, and 0.9, respectively. Conclusions: Low HGS was prevalent among older patients in this setting, indicating a high degree of possible sarcopenia. As there were some modifiable factors associated with low HGS, routine measurement, medication review, and cognitive evaluation are recommended for early diagnosis and management.
HPV Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer Screening among Women Living with HIV in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: What Do We Know and What Can Be Done?
Authors: Asare Matthew , Abah Elakeche , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Lowenstein Lisa , Lanning Beth
Published: July 2022

Introduction. Self-sampling has the potential to increase cervical cancer (CC) screening among women with HIV in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, our understanding of how HPV self-collection studies have been conducted in women with HIV is limited. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the extent to which the HPV self-sampling has been applied among women with HIV in LMICs. Method: We conducted multiple searches in several databases for articles published between 2000 and January 2022. With the combination of keywords relating to HPV self-sampling, LMICs, and women with HIV, we retrieved over 9000 articles. We used pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to select relevant studies for this review. Once a study met the inclusion criteria, we created a table to extract each study’s characteristics and classified them under common themes. We used a qualitative descriptive approach to summarize the scoping results. Results: A total of 12 articles were included in the final review. Overall, 3178 women were enrolled in those studies and 2105 (66%) of them were women with HIV. The self-sampling participation rate was 92.6%. The findings of our study show that 43% of the women with HIV in 8 of the studies reviewed tested positive for high-risk HPV (hr-HPV) genotypes, indicating 4 out of 10 women with HIV in the studies are at risk of cervical cancer. The prevalence of the hr-HPV in women with HIV was 18% higher than that of HIV-negative women. Most women in the study found the self-sampling experience acceptable, easy to use, convenient, and comfortable. Self-sampling performance in detecting hr-HPV genotypes is comparable to clinician-performed sampling. However, limited access (i.e., affordability, availability, transportation), limited knowledge about self-screening, doubts about the credibility of self-sampling results, and stigma remain barriers to the wide acceptance and implementation of self-sampling. In conclusion, the findings of this review highlight that (a) the prevalence of hr-HPV is higher among women with HIV than HIV-negative women, (b) self-sampling laboratory performance is similar to clinician-performed sampling, (c) the majority of the women participated in self-sampling, which could likely increase the cervical cancer screening uptake, and (d) women with HIV reported a positive experience with self-sampling. However, personal, environmental, and structural barriers challenge the application of self-sampling in LMICs, and these need to be addressed.
Impact of Sub-Clinical and Clinical Compression Socks on Postural Stability Tasks among Individuals with Ankle Instability
Authors: Derby Hunter , Conner Nathan O. , Talukder Amit , Griffith Aaron , Freeman Charles , Burch Reuben , Simpson Jeffrey D. , Goble Daniel J. , Knight Adam C. , Chander Harish
Published: July 2022

Compression socks are used by a very diverse group of individuals and may potentially have a greater impact on physically diminished or impaired individuals as opposed to healthy individuals. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of sub-clinical (SC) and clinical (CL) compression socks among healthy (CON), copers (COP), and individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Postural stability was evaluated in 20 participants (11 males and 9 females) using Balance Tracking System Balance platform (BTrackS™) during the modified clinical test of sensory integration in balance (mCTSIB) and limits of stability (LOS) tests. Postural sway parameters were analyzed using a mixed model repeated measures analysis of variance 3 (group: CON, COP, and CAI) by 3 (compression condition: BF, SC, and CL) × 4 (balance condition: EO, EC, EOF, and ECF) for mCTSIB and a 3 (group: CON, COP, and CAI) by 3 (compression condition: BF, SC, CL) × 4 (balance condition: FL, BL, BR, FR) for LOS. Results revealed significantly greater postural stability with both SC and CL compression socks when compared to barefoot conditions. However, no significant differences were observed among groups for compression socks grades. Both SC and CL compression socks may be effective in increasing postural stability.
A Review on Evapotranspiration Estimation in Agricultural Water Management: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Wanniarachchi Susantha , Sarukkalige Ranjan
Published: July 2022

Evapotranspiration (ET) is a major component of the water cycle and agricultural water balance. Estimation of water consumption over agricultural areas is important for agricultural water resources planning, management, and regulation. It leads to the establishment of a sustainable water balance, mitigates the impacts of water scarcity, as well as prevents the overusing and wasting of precious water resources. As evapotranspiration is a major consumptive use of irrigation water and rainwater on agricultural lands, improvements of water use efficiency and sustainable water management in agriculture must be based on the accurate estimation of ET. Applications of precision and digital agricultural technologies, the integration of advanced techniques including remote sensing and satellite technology, and usage of machine learning algorithms will be an advantage to enhance the accuracy of the ET estimation in agricultural water management. This paper reviews and summarizes the technical development of the available methodologies and explores the advanced techniques in the estimation of ET in agricultural water management and highlights the potential improvements to enhance the accuracy of the ET estimation to achieve precise agricultural water management.
Diet Therapy and Public Health
Authors: Mchiza Zandile June-Rose
Published: July 2022

A major threat to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and Universal Health Coverage continues to be malnutrition [...]