bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyber Threats to Smart Grids: Review, Taxonomy, Potential Solutions, and Future Directions
Authors: Ding Jianguo , Qammar Attia , Zhang Zhimin , Karim Ahmad , Ning Huansheng
Published: September 2022

Smart Grids (SGs) are governed by advanced computing, control technologies, and networking infrastructure. However, compromised cybersecurity of the smart grid not only affects the security of existing energy systems but also directly impacts national security. The increasing number of cyberattacks against the smart grid urgently necessitates more robust security protection technologies to maintain the security of the grid system and its operations. The purpose of this review paper is to provide a thorough understanding of the incumbent cyberattacks’ influence on the entire smart grid ecosystem. In this paper, we review the various threats in the smart grid, which have two core domains: the intrinsic vulnerability of the system and the external cyberattacks. Similarly, we analyze the vulnerabilities of all components of the smart grid (hardware, software, and data communication), data management, services and applications, running environment, and evolving and complex smart grids. A structured smart grid architecture and global smart grid cyberattacks with their impact from 2010 to July 2022 are presented. Then, we investigated the the thematic taxonomy of cyberattacks on smart grids to highlight the attack strategies, consequences, and related studies analyzed. In addition, potential cybersecurity solutions to smart grids are explained in the context of the implementation of blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques. Finally, technical future directions based on the analysis are provided against cyberattacks on SGs.
Numerical Simulation and Evaluation on Continuum Damage Models of Rocks
Authors: Zhao Leilei , Cui Zhendong , Peng Ruidong , Si Kai
Published: September 2022

Damage mechanics play an important role in the analysis of rock deformation and failure. Numerous damage variables have been proposed and the corresponding continuum damage models were suggested. Knowing how to apply these theoretical models appropriately in numerical simulations is the key to whether they can be adopted to solve practical problems. The continuum damage models were grouped into empirical damage models, statistical damage models, and elastoplastic damage models in this article. Their applicability and limitations were studied according to some numerical simulations of the most basic uniaxial compression test of a cylinder rock sample. Three representative damage models were chosen from the literature and applied to FEM numerical simulations by introducing a self-developed program. The stress-strain curves due to damage were obtained from the numerical simulation results and compared to those from the experimental results. The damage distribution and evolution of different damage models were investigated to evaluate their influences on rock deformation. It can be concluded that strain-softening stages presented by both the empirical damage models and the statistical damage models are caused by subtracting the elastic modulus gradually while those presented by the elastoplastic damage models are caused by reducing plastic yield stress gradually. Damage-elastic coupling cannot well reflect the irreversibility of damage. The elastoplastic damage models combine damage with plastic history, and thus the irreversibility of damage can be represented. Furthermore, the compulsory reduction of the elastic modulus can probably lead to extreme element distortion and even an unreasonable negative modulus when damage is very serious, which inevitably causes the numerical simulation to fail prematurely under complex stress states. Although the elastoplastic damage models are recommended at present rather than the other models, a more appropriate definition of the damage variable can be expected that should track the whole deformation and failure process. Knowing how to treat the adverse effect of local deterioration due to damage is the challenge numerical simulations have to face when they are applied in the actual project with complex stress states.
Subsurface Water Retention Technology Promotes Drought Stress Tolerance in Field-Grown Tomato
Authors: Lahbouki Soufiane , Meddich Abdelilah , Ben-Laouane Raja , Outzourhit Abdelkader , Pari Luigi
Published: September 2022

Agricultural activities depend heavily on irrigation in arid and semi-arid climates, which are one of the most water-limited areas, reducing agricultural productivity. As the climate changes, the lack of precipitation is expected to aggravate in these areas, requiring careful management of water use. Subsurface water retention technology (SWRT) may hold promise as a management tool to save water use and improve crop drought resistance. In this context, the effect of SWRT on tomato yield, growth, physiology, and biochemical characteristics, as well as soil characteristics under two regimes of water (100% field capacity (FC) and 50% FC) in open field conditions, was investigated. The results here suggest that drought affected tomato performance. Nevertheless, SWRT application significantly increased tomato yield (38%), chlorophyll fluorescence (3%), gas exchange (39%), and chlorophyll total content (49%), as well as soil fertility characteristics, with significant increases in organic matter (23%) and assimilable phosphorus contents (25%) compared with the control. Furthermore, it resulted in a significant reduction in enzymatic antioxidant activities and polyphenol and significant improvement in fruit quality by increasing protein content. This technique should be used as a valuable strategy to save irrigation water and mitigate the negative effects of water deficiency on tomato plants in arid and semi-arid regions.
Verification of Utilizing Nanowaste (Glass Waste and Fly Ash) as an Alternative to Nanosilica in Epoxy
Authors: Salman Awham Jumah , Jawad Zahraa Fakhri , Ghayyib Rusul Jaber , Kareem Fadhaa Atheer , Al-khafaji Zainab
Published: September 2022

Silica is considered one of the most prevalent components in the Earth’s shell and is synthesized for use in technological applications. Nevertheless, new methods for finding a better, cheaper, and more ecologically friendly supply of silica with less energy consumption are unavoidable. This study investigates whether nanopowders made from waste with a great silica amount (fly ash and glass) can be utilized as fillers in an epoxy glue to enhance its characteristics. Four different contents (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) of nano–fly ash, nanoglass, and nanosilica powder were introduced into the samples. Fourier transform infrared analysis, differential scanning calorimetry analysis, viscosity testing, and microhardness testing were conducted for nanoglass/epoxy and nano–fly ash/epoxy samples, which were compared with the silica/epoxy samples. Results indicated that the nanoglass and nano–fly ash powder have the same impact as nanosilica on the characteristics of epoxy. The hardness and viscosity of epoxy increased with the increase in the added filler. At 20 wt%, the hardness value of the nanoglass/epoxy composites was greater than that of the nanosilica/epoxy and fly ash/epoxy composites by about 15% and 7%, respectively. The results also indicated that the highest viscosity values were obtained when using nano–fly ash powder of 20 wt%. Furthermore, the modification of the epoxy by the nanoparticles had no significant effect on the values of the glass transition temperatures.
Screening of Low-Dosage Methanol as a Hydrate Promoter
Authors: Pandey Jyoti , Khan Saad , von Solms Nicolas
Published: September 2022

We report a quantitative study of the effect of low-concentration methanol (MeOH) on the formation and dissociation of hydrates based on CH4 and CO2/N2 guest molecules. The kinetic promotion and dissociation ability of MeOH is also compared with the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS, 100 ppm, 50 ppm). The effects of concentration changes (1 wt% and 5 wt%), pressure (p = 80–120 bar), guest molecules (CH4 and CO2), and temperature (1 °C and below 0 °C) are investigated using slow constant ramp (SCR) and isothermal (IT) temperature schemes. The results show that the kinetics are affected by the guest molecule and MeOH concentration. For CH4 gas, 5 wt% MeOH shows better promotion, while for CO2/N2 gas mixtures, 1 wt% MeOH gives better promotion. This conclusion agrees well with our previous results demonstrating optimal CH4 recovery and CO2 storage in the presence of 5 wt% MeOH. The promoting and inhibiting properties of MeOH could be beneficial in CH4 production from gas hydrate using CO2-rich gas injection, as delayed hydrate film formation in the presence of MeOH could improve both CH4 recovery and CO2 storage.
SIMO DC-DC Converter for E-Vehicle and Regenerative Braking Based on Simulation and Model Investigation
Authors: Suresh Saahithi , Raghu C N , Dash Ritesh , Kalvakurthi Jyotheeswara Reddy , Athikkal Sivaprasad , Subburaj Vivekanandan
Published: September 2022

A single independent voltage source (Vin or Vbat) is used to regulate the speed of an E-vehicle (EV) with the same interval of switching pulses to generate different voltage ratios by charging/discharging the flying capacitors using a novel single-input multi-output (SIMO) DC-DC switched capacitor converter. In this work, various speed transmissions are generated for controlling the speed of EVs. The selected and regulated battery voltage are generated using the SIMO DC-DC converter. The proposed converter is used to generate seven different transmission in total, of which four transmissions are used for motoring (forwarding operation) and the other three transmissions act as regenerative braking. For motoring operation, the battery, fuel cell, and photovoltaic cell are used as a sources of energy, and for the regenerative braking, the regenerated voltage is fed back to store the battery. The SIMO DC-DC converter is used to support electronic accessories, such as LED lights, the EV audio system and other accessories, including mobile and laptop battery charging. The energy recovered during regenerative braking is used to charge the battery via a proposed SIMO DC-DC converter for different speed transmissions. In addition, simulation, modeling, and analysis are used to validate the proposed system. It is intended for a fixed voltage of 12 V and output voltages ranging from 12 to 48 V. The PSIM simulation tool is used to validate the system. The validation demonstrates that the suggested converter shows good evidence for both braking and regenerative braking operations.
Research on Power System Dispatching Operation under High Proportion of Wind Power Consumption
Authors: Luo Zhimin , Ma Jinlong , Jiang Zhiqiang
Published: September 2022

For the multi-energy power system composed of thermal power, wind power, and a pumped-storage power station aiming at minimizing coal consumption of the power grid, an optimal dispatch model is established in this paper. Its advantage is to allow the power grid to accept a high proportion of new energy while ensuring power demand. The dynamic programming method is used to solve the problem. In the solution process, the traditional dynamic programming method is improved by introducing the penalty function and the dynamic value of the state variable, which can ensure the reliability of the power supply while achieving the optimization goal, as well as realize the full utilization of energy. Using the example of a high proportion of wind power systems with a pumped-storage power station as the energy storage mode and considering the relevant constraints after the heating transformation of the thermal power plant, our built model solves these challenges. The results show that when the maximum pumping power of the pumped-storage power station reaches 1138 MW and the maximum generating power reaches 755 MW, the wind curtailment and power rationing during the off-peak period of heating can be reduced from the previous 58,158 MWH and 46,838 MWH to almost 0, and the wind curtailment and power rationing during the peak period of heating can be reduced from the previous 77,656 MWH and 53,780 MWH to almost 0, so as to realize the flexible operation of the power grid.
A Novel Proposal for Optimal Performance of Blanket Gas System for FPSOs
Authors: Hwang Soon-kyu , Jung Byung-gun , Ahn Jong-kap
Published: September 2022

The energy required for the transportation of raw materials and the production of most manufactured goods depends on crude oil. For these reasons, FPSOs (Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading) have become the primary production units of crude oil offshore. It is leading to an increase in the number and expanding of the production and storage facilities of the FPSOs. An increase in the oil production at the topside facilities of FPSOs will contain more gases, which leads to a rise in blow-by gas. Changes to the blanket gas system may be necessary as the flow rate of the blow-by gas is expected to increase. The purpose of this paper is to suggest a novel blanket gas system with a proper control method for controlling the cargo tank pressure when the blow-by gas is occurring. Unlike the existing system, in this proposal, the purge header that supplies the inert gas is possible for a use of the vent purpose in the situation where the blow-by gas is generated. By using the vent header and purge header for the purpose of venting, the pipe size can be drastically reduced. To quickly convert the purge header for the purpose of venting, the application of an appropriate control method is essential. A simulation was carried out for confirming the efficacy of the pressure control and the processible blow-by gas quantity compared to the existing system. In addition, as the amount of blow-by gas increased, a study on the possibility of installing large pipes used in the existing system configuration and the dual pipes suggested by this proposal was investigated. As a result of the simulation, this proposal presented better results in terms of both the pressure control performance of the cargo tanks and the arrangement of the piping compared to the existing system.
Continuous Reconfiguration Framework for Photovoltaic Array under Variable Partial Shading Conditions: Heuristic-Based Algorithms with Optimizing Switching Operation
Authors: Nguyen-Duc Tuyen , Nguyen-Dang Duong , Le-Viet Thinh , Fujita Goro
Published: September 2022

The operation of the photovoltaic (PV) system under partial shading conditions (PSC) is complicated since the output characteristic of the PV system is profoundly affected by the heterogeneous irradiance of PSC. This paper proposes a dynamic reconfiguration framework to tackle PSC in the PV array. Continuous operation of the dynamic PV array reconfiguration under cloud-induced partial shading is considered by developing an emulator of the moving cloud. In addition, the Particle Swarm Optimization and Rao algorithms are improved to obtain the optimal PV array configuration under PSC. The operation of switching is enhanced by simultaneously considering the total switching times and the operation of highly active switches. The simulation results on the 9×9 PV array demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in terms of reducing the number of local maximum power points on the power-voltage characteristic, enhancing power output, and relieving stress on the switching operation of the PV array under different PSC.
Combined Operation of Wind-Pumped Hydro Storage Plant with a Concentrating Solar Power Plant for Insular Systems: A Case Study for the Island of Rhodes
Authors: Arnaoutakis Georgios E. , Kefala Georgia , Dakanali Eirini , Katsaprakakis Dimitris Al.
Published: September 2022

Insular power systems are a special case of infrastructure for power production due to their particular land morphology with extensive hills and ridges. For a higher renewable energy share in the power production, a dedicated design according to local constraints is required. The high wind and solar resources of such cases can be utilized with offshore wind turbines and concentrating solar power, respectively. In addition, pumped-hydro storage is a mature and suitable technology for such terrain. A case study is presented in the island of Rhodes to obtain a renewable energy penetration higher than 70%. The technical and financial requirements for this implementation support the design of this system, while the introduction of concentrating solar power enables significant energy savings during the periods of peak demand of the island. An annual RES penetration close to 80% can be achieved with the combined operation of both plants. The economic viability of the required investment can be ensured with selling prices of the produced electricity in the range of 0.20 EUR/kWh.
Growth, Productivity, Biomass and Carbon Stock in Eucalyptus saligna and Grevillea robusta Plantations in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Kasekete Désiré Katembo , Ligot Gauthier , Mweru Jean-Pierre Mate , Drouet Thomas , Rousseau Mélissa , Moango Adrien , Bourland Nils
Published: September 2022

Initiated by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) more than a decade ago in North Kivu, single-species plantations of Eucalyptus saligna and Grevillea robusta constitute, with other village plantations, the current legal source of wood-energy for the communities bordering the Virunga National Park (PNVi). This study assesses the growth and productivity of these plantations in two sites with different soil and climatic conditions to predict their production over time. The study also assesses the carbon stock and long-term CO2 fixation in the biomass of the studied plantations to deduce their contribution to climate change mitigation. Non-destructive inventories were carried out during three consecutive years in 20 E. saligna and 12 G. robusta plantations in Sake and Kirumba. Analysis of the data revealed that both species have similar diametric growth while height growth and productivity were significantly higher in the E. saligna plantations. The productivity of E. saligna was also higher in Kirumba than in Sake, while that of G. robusta was higher in Sake than in Kirumba. The differences observed were mainly related to species, silviculture, altitude and concentration of bioavailable elements in the soils. The analysis of productivity evolution over time allowed us to determine optimal rotations at 8 and 12 years, respectively, for E. saligna and G. robusta plantations. The relationships between biomass or carbon stock and tree diameter were not different between the studied species but were significantly different at the stand level. If silviculture was standardized and plantations carefully monitored, carbon stock and long-term CO2 fixation would be higher in G. robusta plantations than in E. saligna plantations. These results indicate that while for productivity reasons E. saligna is the favoured species in wood-energy plantations to quickly meet the demand of the growing and disadvantaged population living in the vicinity of PNVi, carefully monitored G. robusta plantations could be more interesting in terms of carbon credits. To simultaneously optimise wood-energy production and carbon storage in the plantations initiated in North Kivu, E. saligna and G. robusta should be planted in mixture. In addition, species and site characteristics adapted silvicultural management practices must be applied to these plantations, which are very important for the region, its population and its park. Finally, the economic profitability as well as the sustainability of the plantations should be assessed in the longer term in North Kivu.
Increasing Biomethane Production in MSW Anaerobic Digestion Process by Chemical and Thermal Pretreatment and Process Commercialization Evaluation
Authors: Naeiji Esfandiyar , Noorpoor Alireza , Ghnavati Hossein
Published: September 2022

One of the methods of municipal waste disposal and energy production is anaerobic digestion. This study investigates the effect of thermal and chemical pretreatment on the anaerobic digester’s biomethane production. The optimal condition was evaluated using RSM in two modes: maximum and minimum use of H2O2. The optimal state was obtained in the first case under 110.8 °C, 4.63% NaOH, 8% H2O2, and 111.9 °C, 4.47% NaOH, 2% H2O2 in the second case. Experimental results obtained 77%, 76.6% VS (volatile solid) reduction, and 89.1%, 88.7% SCOD (soluble chemical oxygen demand) reduction in the two optimum conditions, respectively. Experiment results were extrapolated to dry industrial digesters using a factor of 0.89% and durations including 30 days and 25 days. Then, the processes of biogas improvement were simulated. After biogas improvement, the economic analysis of the process was conducted with the definition of various scenarios. It was determined that, at current prices, pretreatment is not economically viable and that, with an increase in electricity prices to 0.09 $/kWh and 0.145 $/kWh, the digestion process with a NaOH 4.47% 112 °C pretreatment, chemical scrubbing, and digestion with NaOH 4.47% 112 °C, 2% H2O2 are sequentially economically viable.
Aerodynamic Study of a Drag Reduction System and Its Actuation System for a Formula Student Competition Car
Authors: Loução Ricardo , Duarte Gonçalo O. , Mendes Mário J. G. C.
Published: September 2022

This work presents a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis of a drag reduction system (DRS) used in a Formula Student competition vehicle, focusing on the interaction between the triple wing elements, as well as on the electrical actuators used to provide movement to the upper two flaps. The S1123 wing profile was chosen, and a 2D analysis of the wing profile was made. The trailing edge was rounded off to conform to Formula Student competition safety rules, resulting in around a 4% decrease in the lift coefficient and around a 12% increase in the drag coefficient for an angle of attack of 12°, compared to the original wing profile. The multi-element profile characteristics are: wing main plate with 4°, first flap 28°, and second flap 60°. To evaluate the wing operation, end plates and electrical linear actuators were added, generating a maximum lift coefficient of 1.160 and drag coefficient of 0.397, which provides around a 10% reduction in lift and a 9% increase in drag compared to the absence of the linear actuators. When activating the DRS, the flap rotation generates about a 78% decrease in the aerodynamic drag coefficient and 53% in the lift coefficient for the minimum aerodynamic drag setting.
Development and Testing of a Mathematical Model for Dynamic Network Simulation of the Oil Displacement Process
Authors: Filimonov Sergey A. , Pryazhnikov Maxim I. , Pryazhnikov Andrey I. , Minakov Andrey V.
Published: September 2022

Multiphase flows in porous media are widespread in nature and various technologies. One of the most common examples of this kind of task is the task of recovering oil from the rock. This article describes a mathematical model of the flow of a two-phase (immiscible) liquid based on a new approach of network hydrodynamics for a highly branched microchannel medium (simulating a porous space in the rock). The coupling of the flow and pressure fields in the network is performed using a well-proven SIMPLE algorithm in CFD problems; this approach allows us to use effective approaches to modeling 3D tasks. Phase transfer over the network is carried out by an explicit method with an adaptive time step. The article presents the results of verification of the model, with analytical calculations and in comparison with the results of experimental studies. As an experiment, the displacement of oil from a microchip (Dolomite: 3200284) simulating a porous medium was simulated. The good qualitative and quantitative compliance with the results calculated and the results of the experiment show the correct functioning of the model.
Conformational Changes in Proteins Caused by High-Pressure Homogenization Promote Nanoparticle Formation in Natural Bone Aqueous Suspension
Authors: Li Xue , He Zhifei , Xu Jingbing , Su Chang , Xiao Xu , Zhang Ling , Zhang Huanhuan , Li Hongjun
Published: September 2022

As a natural calcium resource, animal bone needs to be miniaturized to the nanoscale to improve palatability and absorption capacity. To explore the mechanism of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) in preparing natural bone aqueous nanosuspensions, the relationships between the changes in protein conformation, solubility and quality characteristics of rabbit bone aqueous suspensions (RBAS) prepared by different HPH cycles were studied. The results showed that the improvements in particle size, stability and calcium solubility of RBASs could be mainly attributed to the improvement of protein solubility induced by the changes in protein conformation. HPH treatment led to the denaturation and degradation of protein in rabbit bone, generating soluble peptides and improving the stability of the suspensions by enhancing the surface charge of the particles. When collagen as the main protein was partially degraded, the hydroxyapatite in the bone was crushed into tiny particles. The increase in the particle-specific surface area led to the release of calcium ions, which chelated with the peptides to produce peptide calcium. However, excessive HPH treatment caused the production of protein macromolecular aggregates and affected the quality of RBASs. This study is helpful to promote the application of HPH technology in animal bone nanoprocessing.
Plant-Based Meat Analogues from Alternative Protein: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Zahari Izalin , Östbring Karolina , Purhagen Jeanette K. , Rayner Marilyn
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) of the research performed in the plant-based meat analogues area. Historical, current, and future tendencies are discussed. The paper offers a comprehensive SLR coupled with a bibliometric analysis of the publication from 1972 to January 2022. The articles were obtained using a research string and precise inclusion and exclusion criteria from two prominent databases, Scopus and Web of Science (WoS). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow technique was used to describe the data screening and selection. In total, 84 publications were selected for further analysis after a thorough literature assessment. From this study, six main themes were identified: (1) objectives of the study; (2) type of plant protein; (3) product type; (4) added ingredients; (5) texturization technique; and (6) quality assessment considered in the studies. Recent trends in publication imply that meat analogue technology is gaining prominence. This review revealed significant research on improving meat analogues via texturization. Even though extrusion is used industrially, the technique is still in its infancy and needs improvement. Future studies should focus more on fiber and protein–protein interactions, macromolecule conformation and mechanisms, diversifying or improving current methods, sensory attributes, and gastrointestinal absorption rate of each novel protein ingredient.
Anti-Biofilm Activity of Cell Free Supernatants of Selected Lactic Acid Bacteria against Listeria monocytogenes Isolated from Avocado and Cucumber Fruits, and from an Avocado Processing Plant
Authors: Masebe Reabetswe D. , Thantsha Mapitsi S.
Published: September 2022

Listeria monocytogenes forms biofilms on food contact surfaces, a niche from where it dislodges to contaminate food products including fresh produce. Probiotics and their derivatives are considered promising alternative strategies to curb the presence of L. monocytogenes in varied food applications. Nonetheless, studies on their anti-biofilm effects against L. monocytogenes from avocados and cucumbers are sparse. This study screened the biofilm formation capabilities of L. monocytogenes strains Avo and Cuc isolated from the avocado and cucumber fruits respectively, and strain 243 isolated from an avocado processing plant; and evaluated the anti-biofilm effects of cell free supernatants (CFS) of Lactobacillus acidophilus La14 150B, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum B411 and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 against their biofilms formed on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and stainless steel. All the L. monocytogenes strains formed biofilms (classified either as moderate or strong biofilm formers) on these materials. The presence of CFS reduced the biofilm formation capabilities of these strains and disrupted the integrity of their pre-formed biofilms. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction revealed significant reduction of positive regulatory factor A (prfA) gene expression by L. monocytogenes biofilm cells in the presence of CFS (p < 0.05). Thus, these CFS have potential as food grade sanitizers for control of L. monocytogenes biofilms in the avocado and cucumber processing facilities.
Consumer Choices and Habits Related to Tea Consumption by Poles
Authors: Czarniecka-Skubina Ewa , Korzeniowska-Ginter Renata , Pielak Marlena , Sałek Piotr , Owczarek Tomasz , Kozak Agata
Published: September 2022

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. In the literature, much attention is paid to the influence of tea and its components on human health and consumer purchasing behavior. The aim of the study was to analyze the habits of Polish consumers regarding tea consumption, brewing methods, and their choices related to tea, to describe the characteristics of tea consumers, and present their segmentation based on consumer choices and habits regarding tea consumption. The study was performed using the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) method on a group of 1700 adult consumers of tea. Information about consumer choices and habits related to tea consumption was collected, including brewing method, place of tea consumption, and factors determining tea choices. Using cluster analysis, six groups of tea consumers were identified. These are “Occasional tea gourmets”, “Yerba mate drinkers”, “Tea gourmets”, “Occasional consumers”, “Undemanding tea consumers,” and “Occasional strong tea consumers”. In summary, it can be said that Poles are not tea gourmets; they prefer black tea, in bags, brewed in cups or glasses for up to 3 min, and usually drink teas without any additives, at home, several times a week, during breakfast and between meals. The most popular brand among the respondents was Lipton. Consumers have little knowledge of the health benefits of tea.
Screening of a Novel Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MMB-05 and Lacticaseibacillus casei Fermented Sandwich Seaweed Scraps: Chemical Composition, In Vitro Antioxidant, and Volatile Compounds Analysis by GC-IMS
Authors: Gao Tengqi , Chen Jinling , Xu Jie , Gu Han , Zhao Pengpeng , Wang Wenbin , Pan Saikun , Tao Yang , Wang Hongli , Yang Jie
Published: September 2022

Lactic acid fermentation is a promising method for developing sandwich seaweed scraps. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MMB-05, Lactiplantibacillus casei FJAT-7928, mixed bacteria (1:1, v/v) and control on the physicochemical indexes, in vitro antioxidant activity, and volatile compounds of Porphyra yezoensis sauce. Sensory evaluation was also performed. The results indicated that all lactic acid bacteria strains grew well in P. yezoensis sauce after 72 h of fermentation, with the viable cell counts of L. plantarum MMB-05 exceeding 10.0 log CFU/mL, the total phenolic content increasing by 16.54%, and the lactic acid content increasing from 0 to 44.38 ± 0.11 mg/mL. Moreover, the metabolism of these strains significantly increased the content of umami, sweet and sour free amino acids in P. yezoensis sauce. The total antioxidant capacity of L. plantarum MMB-05, L. casei FJAT-7928, mix and control groups increased by 594.59%, 386.49%, 410.27%, and 287.62%, respectively. Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) analysis suggested that aldehydes and ketones accounted for the largest proportion, and the relative contents of acids and alcohols in P. yezoensis sauce increased significantly after lactic acid bacteria fermentation. In addition, the analysis of dynamic principal component analysis (PCA) and fingerprinting showed that the volatile components of the four treatment methods could be significantly distinguished. Overall, the L. plantarum MMB-05 could be recommended as an appropriate starter for fermentation of sandwich seaweed scraps, which provides a fundamental knowledge for the utilization of sandwiched seaweed scraps.
Probiotic Oxalate-Degrading Bacteria: New Insight of Environmental Variables and Expression of the oxc and frc Genes on Oxalate Degradation Activity
Authors: Karamad Dina , Khosravi-Darani Kianoush , Khaneghah Amin Mousavi , Miller Aaron W.
Published: September 2022

Oxalate, a compound produced by many edible plants and as a terminal metabolite in the liver of mammals, is a toxin that has a detrimental role to human health. Humans and other mammals do possess enzymatic systems to degrade oxalate. Moreover, numerous oxalate-degrading bacteria reside in the mammalian gut and, thus, provide an important function for hosts. The current review focuses on the environmental factors that influence the efficacy of probiotic oxalate-degrading bacteria, relative to oxalate metabolism. We describe the mechanism of oxalate catabolism and its consumption by obligate and facultative anaerobic oxalate-degrading bacteria, in both in vitro and in vivo environments. We also explore the environmental variables that impact oxalate degradation. Studies on single species degrade oxalate have not shown a strong impact on oxalate metabolism, especially in high oxalate conditions such as consumption of foods high in oxalate (such as coffee and chocolate for humans or halogeton in animal feed). Considering effective variables which enhance oxalate degradation could be used in application of effective probiotic as a therapeutic tool in individuals with hyperoxaluria. This study indicates probiotics can be considered a good source of naturally occurring oxalate degrading agent in human colon.
Changes in Fusarium and Aspergillus Mycotoxin Content and Fatty Acid Composition after the Application of Ozone in Different Maize Hybrids
Authors: Purar Božana , Djalovic Ivica , Bekavac Goran , Grahovac Nada , Krstović Saša , Latković Dragana , Janić Hajnal Elizabet , Živančev Dragan
Published: September 2022

Mycotoxins in maize represent a great threat to human health. For this reason, novel technics such as ozone treatment are used to reduce the content of maize mycotoxins. However, there is little knowledge about the effect of ozone treatment on maize quality parameters. This study investigated the changes in Fusarium and Aspergillus mycotoxins and the changes in fatty acids during the ozone treatment of maize samples. Sixteen maize hybrids were visually tested for the naturally occurring ear rot severity and treated with three different concentrations of ozone (40, 70, and 85 mg/L). Mycotoxin content in maize samples was determined using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system, whereas dominant fatty acids were determined using gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Ozone treatments could be successfully applied to reduce the content of mycotoxins in maize below the detection limit. Ozone treatments increased the content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and decreased the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), i.e., linoleic acid (36.7% in relation to the lowest applied ozone concentration), which negatively affected the nutritional value of maize.
Study on the Suitability of Tea Cultivars for Processing Oolong Tea from the Perspective of Aroma Based on Olfactory Sensory, Electronic Nose, and GC-MS Data Correlation Analysis
Authors: He Chang , Li Yuchuan , Zhou Jingtao , Yu Xinlei , Zhang De , Chen Yuqiong , Ni Dejiang , Yu Zhi
Published: September 2022

The oolong tea aroma is shown to consist of cultivar aroma and technical aroma in this study based on the aroma differences between oolong tea products of cultivars of different suitability, as determined by correlation analysis of olfactory, sensory, electronic nose, and GC-MS data. Human senses were significantly affected by the aroma components, which included eight terpene metabolites (β-Ocimene, (Z)-Furan linalool oxide, linalool, (3E)-4,8-Dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, (E)-Pyranoid linalool oxide, γ-Elemene, Humulene, (Z,E)-α-Farnesene), three carotenoid metabolites (β-Ionone, (Z)-Geranylacetone and 6-methyl-5-Hepten -2-one), three lipid metabolites ((Z)-3-Hexenyl (Z)-3-hexenoate, Butanoic acid hexyl ester, and (Z)-Jasmone), four amino acid metabolites (Methyl salicylate, Geranyl isovalerate, indole, and Phenylethyl alcohol), and six thermal reaction products (2-Pentylfuran, Octanal, Decanal, (E,E)-2,4-Nonadienal, (Z)-2-Decenal, and (E)-2-Undecenal). Meanwhile, several aroma compounds (such as (E)-Nerolidol and α-Farnesene), mainly comprising the “technical aroma” formed in the processing mode, were noted to be less closely related to cultivar suitability. This study sheds light on the aroma characteristics of different tea cultivars for oolong tea processing.
Extraction of a Triterpene Solution and Evaluation of the Hypolipidemic Efficacy of the Pleurotus tuber-regium (Fr.) Sing Sclerotium
Authors: Wang Chao , Liu Yuan , Lan Yuanhong , Yuan Jianing
Published: September 2022

The total triterpenes in edible mushrooms have high medicinal value, and the sclerotium has various biological activities, such as the regulation of blood pressure and blood glucose. In this study, the total triterpenes of the Pleurotus tuber-regium (Fr.) Sing Sclerotium (PTRSS) were extracted, and their hypolipidemic effects were also investigated. The infrared spectra showed that the total triterpenes were consistent with the characteristic structures of the total triterpenes before and after purification. The binding abilities of total triterpenes to sodium glycocholate, sodium taurocholate, and sodium cholate were investigated, and all of them had a good binding ability to cholate. In vivo experiments showed that zebrafish tolerated the total triterpenes from the mushroom nuclei at a maximum concentration of 500 µg/mL. A correlation analysis showed that the total triterpenes from the mushroom nuclei reduced the lipid accumulation in zebrafish induced by a high-fat diet, and the lipid-lowering effect showed a correlation with dose.
Are Nutraceuticals Effective in COVID-19 and Post-COVID Prevention and Treatment?
Authors: Catalano Alessia , Iacopetta Domenico , Ceramella Jessica , Maio Azzurra Chiara De , Basile Giovanna , Giuzio Federica , Bonomo Maria Grazia , Aquaro Stefano , Walsh Thomas J. , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Saturnino Carmela , Geronikaki Athina , Salzano Giovanni
Published: September 2022

The beginning of the end or the end of the beginning? After two years mastered by coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, we are now witnessing a turnaround. The reduction of severe cases and deaths from COVID-19 led to increasing importance of a new disease called post-COVID syndrome. The term post-COVID is used to indicate permanency of symptoms in patients who have recovered from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Immune, antiviral, antimicrobial therapies, as well as ozone therapy have been used to treat COVID-19 disease. Vaccines have then become available and administered worldwide to prevent the insurgence of the disease. However, the pandemic is not over yet at all given the emergence of new omicron variants. New therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. In this view, great interest was found in nutraceutical products, including vitamins (C, D, and E), minerals (zinc), melatonin, probiotics, flavonoids (quercetin), and curcumin. This review summarizes the role of nutraceuticals in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19 disease and post-COVID syndrome.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Profile Analysis of Muscles Reveals Pathways and Biomarkers Involved in Flavor Differences between Caged and Cage-Free Chickens
Authors: Yang Liubin , Yuan Fang , Rong Li , Cai Jinping , Yang Sendong , Jia Zijia , Li Shijun
Published: September 2022

The cage-free system has gained a lot of interest in recent years because it can offer chickens more freedom and is easier to manage compared with free-range rearing systems, but few studies have focused on the effect of the cage-free rearing system on meat quality and flavor. In this study, 44 Jianghan chickens were reared in caged or cage-free systems to explore the effect of different rearing systems on meat-eating quality. Sensory evaluation of cooked muscles showed that the leg muscle aroma, juiciness, and flavor intensity significantly improved by the cage-free rearing. The cage-free hens had significantly lower body weight, abdominal fat percentage, and meat fat content, but higher meat moisture content. The cage-free group had brighter breast muscle and redder leg muscle color 24 h after slaughter. Transcriptomic and metabolomic profile analysis of the leg muscle samples showed that the cage-free rearing changed biosynthesis pathways associated with glycogen metabolism, lipid and fatty acid biosynthesis and transport, muscle cellular type, and cellular components, which were related to raw meat quality. Different rearing systems also resulted in differences in glycolipid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and altered levels of intramuscular fat content and other flavor precursors. Pathways such as glycerolipid metabolism, adipocytokine signaling, and metabonomic pathways such as linoleic acid, glycerophospholipid, arginine, proline, and β-alanine metabolism may be responsible for the meat quality and flavor change.
Spray Drying of Chokeberry Juice—Antioxidant Phytochemicals Retention in the Obtained Powders versus Energy Consumption of the Process
Authors: Gawałek Jolanta
Published: September 2022

The production of chokeberry powder, an important functional additive in food, should exhibit both maximization of bioactive properties retention and minimization of energy consumption. The process of spray drying chokeberry juice on a maltodextrin carrier was tested on a semi-technical scale. The research scope included the variability of the inlet air temperature in the range of T = 150–185 °C and concentration of the feed solution in the range of Ud.m = 15–45% d.m. The powder yield, energy consumption and bioactive properties of the obtained powders were determined. The highest levels of bioactive properties retention were expressed in total polyphenol content (TPC) and anthocyanin content (AC) and obtained at T = 150 °C and Ud.m = 25–30% d.m. However, the most advantageous process parameters in terms of specific energy consumption (SEC) minimization were T = 160–170 °C and Ud.m = 30–35% d.m. Analysis of the dependence on SEC versus TPC and SEC versus AC showed that the most favorable drying parameters for chokeberry juice were as follows: inlet air temperature T = 170 °C and feed solution concentration Ud.m = 35%. Hence, under such process conditions, chokeberry powders were produced with approx. 3% lower bioactive properties retention (in relation to the maximum values), but with 20.5% lower SEC.
A Smartphone Colorimetric Sensor Based on Pt@Au Nanozyme for Visual and Quantitative Detection of Omethoate
Authors: Zhang Biao , Zhou Ruofan , Zhang Huiqi , Cai Danfeng , Lin Xiaodong , Lang Yihan , Qiu Yulou , Shentu Xuping , Ye Zihong , Yu Xiaoping
Published: September 2022

A smartphone colorimetric sensor based on the Pt@Au nanozyme was successfully developed for the visual and quantitative detection of omethoate in fruit and vegetables. The anti-omethoate antibody was conjugated on the surface of the Pt@Au nanozyme as a catalytic functional signal probe, and coating antigen conjugated on the surface of magnetic polystyrene microspheres (MPMs) was used as a separation capture probe. In the sensing system, when the catalytic functional signal probe was combined with a separation capture probe containing no omethoate, the visible blue color appeared with the addition of tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) chromogenic solution, and the maximum B value of the sensing system was obtained via the smartphone. With increasing concentrations of omethoate, the visualization of the sensing system decreased, and the B-value obtained via the smartphone dropped. Under optimal detection conditions, the omethoate could be detected in a linear range of 0.5–50 μg/L (R2 = 0.9965), with a detection limit of 0.01 μg/L. The accuracy and reliability of the detection results of this colorimetric sensor were successfully confirmed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and gas chromatography. This colorimetric sensor provides a technical reference and potential strategy for the immunoassay of hazard factors in resource-scarce laboratories.
Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Anthocyanins and Non-Anthocyanin Flavonoids in Blackberry from Different Growth Stages
Authors: Li Jing , Shi Chong , Shen Dongbei , Han Tianyu , Wu Wenlong , Lyu Lianfei , Li Weilin
Published: September 2022

The high nutritional value and unique flavor of blackberries make them a popular food choice among consumers. Anthocyanin content (AC) and non-anthocyanin flavonoid content (NAFC) are important functional components in blackberry. We tested the AC, NAFC, and antioxidant activities of two blackberry—Ningzhi 1 and Hull—during the following ripening stages: green-fruit stage (GFS), color-turning stage (CTS), reddening stage (RDS), and ripening stage (RPS). The results showed that NAFC decreased and AC increased gradually during the ripening stages. The NAFC of Hull blackberry was the highest during GFS (889.74 μg/g), while the AC of Ningzhi 1 blackberry was the highest during RPS (1027.08 μg/g). NAFC was the highest at the initial stage and gradually decreased with ripening. Anthocyanin accumulation mainly occurred during the later ripening stages. These results provide a reference for comparing the NAFC, AC, and antioxidant activity of Ningzhi 1 and Hull and their changes during different ripening stages.
A Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Based Thermal Sensor for the Selective Detection of Melamine in Milk Samples
Authors: Caldara Manlio , Lowdon Joseph W. , Royakkers Jeroen , Peeters Marloes , Cleij Thomas J. , Diliën Hanne , Eersels Kasper , van Grinsven Bart
Published: September 2022

In recent years, melamine-sensing technologies have increasingly gained attention, mainly due to the misuse of the molecule as an adulterant in milk and other foods. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are ideal candidates for the recognition of melamine in real-life samples. The prepared MIP particles were incorporated into a thermally conductive layer via micro-contact deposition and its response towards melamine was analyzed using the heat-transfer method (HTM). The sensor displayed an excellent selectivity when analyzing the thermal response to other chemicals commonly found in foods, and its applicability in food safety was demonstrated after evaluation in untreated milk samples, demonstrating a limit of detection of 6.02 μM. As the EU/US melamine legal limit in milk of 2.5 mg/kg falls within the linear range of the sensor, it can offer an innovative solution for routine screening of milk samples in order to detect adulteration with melamine. The results shown in this work thus demonstrate the great potential of a low-cost thermal platform for the detection of food adulteration in complex matrices.