bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Food Retail Buildings: Introducing a Novel Assessment Framework
Authors: Forastiere Simone , Piselli Cristina , Silei Andrea , Sciurpi Fabio , Pisello Anna Laura , Cotana Franco , Balocco Carla
Published: September 2024

One of the primary global objectives is to decrease building energy consumption to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The large-scale food retail trade sector accounts for over 15% of total primary energy consumption in Europe, posing a significant challenge to the transition towards green energy. This study proposes a simple method for energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and cost-saving assessment and improvement in large-scale food retail trade buildings. It aims to analyze the energy and environmental performance of building–plant systems, establishing an interactive network to assess intervention potential for the energy transition. The investigation focuses on the proper selection and analysis of the benefits of retrofit solution implementation, emphasizing potential energy savings in current and future climate change scenarios. Dynamic simulation with the Building Energy Model (BEM) was used to evaluate the impacts of building–plant system retrofit solutions, such as high thermal insulation, photovoltaic (PV) panels, Light Emitting Diode (LED) installation, waste heat recovery, and improvement in refrigeration units. The results show a reduction in annual energy consumption for the PV panel installation by up to 29% and lighting systems with high-quality LED to 60%. Additionally, CO2 emissions can be decreased by up to 41% by combining these two strategies.
Assessment of Thermal Management Using a Phase-Change Material Heat Sink under Cyclic Thermal Loads
Authors: Ye Fangping , Dong Yufan , Opolot Michael , Zhao Luoguang , Zhao Chunrong
Published: September 2024

Phase-change materials (PCMs) are widely used in the thermal management of electronic devices by effectively lowering the hot end temperature and increasing the energy conversion efficiency. In this article, numerical studies were performed to understand how temperature instability during the periodic utilization of electronic devices affects the heat-dissipation effectiveness of a phase-change material heat sink embedded in an electronic device. Firstly, three amplitudes of 10 °C, 15 °C, and 20 °C for fixed periods of time, namely, 10 min, 20 min, and 40 min, respectively, were performed to investigate the specific effect of amplitude on the PCM melting rate. Next, the amplitude was fixed, and the impact of the period on heat sink performance was evaluated. The results indicate that under the 40 min time period, the averaged melting rate of PCMs with amplitudes of 20 °C, 15 °C, and 10 °C reaches the highest at 19 min, which saves 14 min, 10 min, and 8 min, respectively, compared with the constant input of the same melting rate. At a fixed amplitude of 20 °C, the PCM with a period of 40 min, 20 min, and 10 min has the highest averaged melting rate at 6 min, 11 min, and 19 min, saving the heat dissipation time of 3 min, 8 min, and 14 min, respectively. Overall, it was observed that under identical amplitude conditions, the peak melting rate remains consistent, with longer periods resulting in a longer promotion of melting. On the other hand, under similar conditions, larger amplitude values result in faster melting rates. This is attributed to the fact that the period increases the heat flux output by extending the temperature rise, while the amplitude affects the heat flux by adjusting the temperature.
Household Energy Poverty in European Union Countries: A Comparative Analysis Based on Objective and Subjective Indicators
Authors: Wojewódzka-Wiewiórska Agnieszka , Dudek Hanna , Ostasiewicz Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

The study aims to assess household energy poverty in European Union (EU) countries, comparing them based on the Objective Energy Poverty Index and the Subjective Energy Poverty Index. The Objective Energy Poverty Index is derived from indicators such as energy expenditure share, risk-of-poverty rate, and electricity prices. The Subjective Energy Poverty Index includes indicators such as the inability to keep the home adequately warm, arrears on utility bills, and bad housing conditions. Both indices aggregate the indicators mentioned above using equal and non-equal weighting approaches. The analysis uses country-level data from 2019 to 2023 sourced from Eurostat. The findings indicate considerable variation in household energy poverty across the EU, with more pronounced inequalities in subjective indicators than objective ones. Additionally, the study reveals a weak correlation between the Objective Energy Poverty Index and the Subjective Energy Poverty Index, leading to differing country rankings based on these indices. However, the choice of weights in constructing the energy poverty indices does not significantly impact a country’s energy poverty ranking. The paper also identifies countries where household energy poverty decreased in 2023 compared to 2019 and those where it increased. Regarding the Subjective Energy Poverty Index, Croatia and Hungary showed the most notable improvement in their rankings among European countries, while France, Germany, and Spain deteriorated their positions. According to the Objective Energy Poverty Index, Bulgaria, Croatia, Portugal, and Spain demonstrated the most significant improvement, whereas Greece experienced a considerable decline.
A Bi-Level Peak Regulation Optimization Model for Power Systems Considering Ramping Capability and Demand Response
Authors: Fang Linbo , Peng Wei , Li Youliang , Yang Zi , Sun Yi , Liu Hang , Xu Lei , Sun Lei , Fang Weikang
Published: September 2024

In the context of constructing new power systems, the intermittency and volatility of high-penetration renewable generation pose new challenges to the stability and secure operation of power systems. Enhancing the ramping capability of power systems has become a crucial measure for addressing these challenges. Therefore, this paper proposes a bi-level peak regulation optimization model for power systems considering ramping capability and demand response, aiming to mitigate the challenges that the uncertainty and volatility of renewable energy generation impose on power system operations. Firstly, the upper-level model focuses on minimizing the ramping demand caused by the uncertainty, taking into account concerned constraints such as the constraint of price-guided demand response, the constraint of satisfaction with electricity usage patterns, and the constraint of cost satisfaction. By solving the upper-level model, the ramping demand of the power system can be reduced. Secondly, the lower-level model aims to minimize the overall cost of the power system, considering constraints such as power balance constraints, power flow constraints, ramping capability constraints of thermal power units, stepwise ramp rate calculation constraints, and constraints of carbon capture units. Based on the ramping demand obtained by solving the upper-level model, the outputs of the generation units are optimized to reduce operation cost of power systems. Finally, the proposed peak regulation optimization model is verified through simulation based on the IEEE 39-bus system. The results indicate that the proposed model, which incorporates ramping capability and demand response, effectively reduces the comprehensive operational cost of the power system.
Real-Time Simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing Based on OPAL-RT ePHASORSIM: A Review of Recent Advances and a Simple Validation in EV Charging Management Systems
Authors: Golestan Saeed , Golmohamadi Hessam , Sinha Rakesh , Iov Florin , Bak-Jensen Birgitte
Published: September 2024

Phasor-domain (RMS) simulations have become increasingly vital in modern power system analysis, particularly as the complexity and scale of these systems have expanded with the integration of renewable energy sources. ePHASORSIM, an advanced phasor-based simulation tool developed by OPAL-RT, plays a crucial role in this context by enabling real-time phasor-domain simulation and hardware-in-the-loop testing. To keep pace with these evolving needs, continuous efforts are being made to further improve the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of ePHASORSIM-based simulations. These efforts include automating model conversion processes for enhanced integration with ePHASORSIM, extending ePHASORSIM’s simulation range with custom models, developing hybrid co-simulation techniques involving ePHASORSIM and an EMT simulator, enhancing simulation scalability, and refining HIL testing to achieve more precise validation of control and protection systems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of these recent advances. Additionally, the paper discusses the conversion of models from PowerFactory—a widely used and comprehensive modeling environment—to ePHASORSIM through both automated tools and manual methods using Excel workbooks, which has been discussed little in the literature. Furthermore, as ePHASORSIM is a relatively new tool with limited cross-validation studies, the paper aims to contribute to this area by presenting a comparative validation against DIgSILENT PowerFactory, with a specific emphasis on its application in electric vehicle charging management systems.
Probabilistic Power and Energy Balance Risk Scheduling Method Based on Distributed Robust Optimization
Authors: Shi Jing , Qin Jianru , Li Haibo , Li Zesen , Ge Yi , Liu Boliang
Published: September 2024

The volatility and uncertainty associated with the high proportion of wind and PV output in the new power system significantly impact the power and energy balance, making it challenging to accurately assess the risks related to renewable energy abandonment and supply guarantee. Therefore, a probabilistic power and energy balance risk analysis method based on distributed robust optimization is proposed. Firstly, the affine factor and the flexible ramp reserve capacity of thermal power are combined to establish a probabilistic index, which serves to characterize the risk associated with the power and energy balance. Drawing upon the principles of the conditional value at risk theory, the risk indexes of the load shedding power and curtailment power under a certain confidence probability are proposed. Secondly, the probability distribution fuzzy sets of uncertain variables are constructed using the distributionally robust method to measure the Wasserstein distance between different probability distributions. Finally, aiming at minimizing the operation cost of thermal power, the risk cost of power abandonment, and the risk cost of load shedding, a distributed robust optimal scheduling model based on a flexible ramp reserve of thermal power is established.
Enhancing Azo Dye Mineralization and Bioelectricity Generation through Biocathode-Microbial Fuel Cell Integration with Aerobic Bioreactor
Authors: Ayaz Kamran , Zabłocka-Godlewska Ewa , Li Chao
Published: September 2024

This study explores the efficient decolorization and complete mineralization of the diazo dye Evans blue, using an integrated aerobic bioreactor system coupled with a double-chamber microbial fuel cell (DCMFC) including a bio-cathode and acetate as a cosubstrate. The research addresses the environmental challenges posed by dye-laden industrial effluents, focusing on achieving high decolorization efficiency and understanding the microbial communities involved. The study utilized mixed strains of actinomycetes, isolated from garden compost, to treat initial dye concentrations of 100 mg/L and 200 mg/L. Decolorization efficiency and microbial community composition were evaluated using 16S rRNA sequencing, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to assess anode and DCMFC resistance. The results demonstrated decolorization efficiencies ranging from 90 ± 2% to 98 ± 1.9% for 100 mg/L and from 79 ± 2% to 87% ± 1% for 200 mg/L. An anode resistance of 12.48 Ω indicated a well-developed biofilm and enhanced electron transfer. The microbial community analysis revealed a significant presence of Pseudomonadota (45.5% in dye-acclimated cultures and 32% in inoculum cultures), with key genera including Actinomarinicola (13.75%), Thermochromatium (4.82%), and Geobacter (4.52%). This study highlights the potential of the integrated DCMFC–aerobic system, utilizing mixed actinomycetes strains, for the effective treatment of industrial dye effluents, offering both environmental and bioenergy benefits.
Adaptive Current Angle Compensation Control Based on the Difference in Inductance for the Interior PMSM of Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Liying , Cui Zongze , Hou Tingchen , Zhang Rui , Hao Wei , Song Liwei
Published: September 2024

Achieving good performance in terms of a fast and accurate maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) control method depends on both accurate parameter estimation and a sophisticated control strategy. However, it often requires a complex and long computational process. This paper proposes an efficient control method using the relationship of torque and current angle for maximum torque per ampere control of the interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) for vehicle application. It was found that it is not necessary for the control method to determine the inductance in the d-q axes; the identification of the difference between each axis is enough. Furthermore, this paper presents a simple and effective procedure to estimate the difference in inductance online, where the linear iron loss calculation method is also designed to support the above process. The proposed control method was experimentally validated on a 5 kW prototype by a TMS320F28335 microcontroller and DSPACE synchronized with a personal computer. The results show that the control process has faster and more accurate performance than the conventional method.
High-Precision Analysis Using μPMU Data for Smart Substations
Authors: Lee Kyung-Min , Park Chul-Won
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a correction technique for bad data and high-precision analysis based on micro-phasor measurement unit (μPMU) data for a stable and reliable smart substation. First, a high-precision wide-area monitoring system (WAMS) with 35 μPMUs installed at Korea’s Yeonggwang substation, which is connected to renewable energy sources (RESs), is introduced. Time-synchronized μPMU data are collected through the phasor data concentrator (PDC). A pre-processing program is implemented and utilized to integrate the raw data of each μPMU into a single comma-separated values (CSV) snapshot file based on the Timetag. After presenting the technique for identification and correction of event, duplicate, and spike bad data of μPMU, causal relationships are confirmed through the voltage and current fluctuations for a total of five states, such as T/L fault, tap-up, tap-down, generation, and generation shutdown. Additionally, the difference in active power between the T/L and the secondary side of the M.Tr is compared, and the fault ride through (FRT) regulations, when the fault in wind power generation (WP), etc., occurred, is analyzed. Finally, a statistical analysis, such as boxplot and kernel density, based on the instantaneous voltage fluctuation rate (IVFR) is conducted. As a result of the simulation evaluation, the proposed correction technique and precise analysis can accurately identify various phenomena in substations and reliably estimate causal relationships.
Analytical Method for Determining the Viscosity Index of Engine Lubricating Oils
Authors: Chybowski Leszek , Szczepanek Marcin , Ćwirko Konrad , Marosek Konrad
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a simple analytical method for determining the viscosity index (VI) that effectively aligns with results obtained from the applicable standards. This method simply needs the kinematic viscosity of the tested oil at 40 and 100 °C as input parameters and does not need to use tables that are an integral part of the mentioned standards. This work presents a method and evaluates the accuracy of determining auxiliary parameters in the form of kinematic viscosity values at 40 °C for two hypothetical oils. These oils have a kinematic viscosity at 100 °C equal to that of the oil under testing and have VI = 0 and 100. The relative fitting error percentage and the coefficient of determination are found for the specified auxiliary indicators. The method is validated using data obtained from previous studies in the form of the kinematic viscosity of lubricating oil–diesel mixtures. The mixtures of viscosity grades SAE 30 and SAE 40 lubricating oil with diesel oil at concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50% w/w are tested. The viscosity index for each mixture is determined using a standard-based manual calculation using the Anton Paar viscosity index calculator and the proposed method. The results obtained from the proposed analytical method are compared with those from two other methods. The maximum percentage relative fitting error (δmax ≈ 1%) and the coefficient of determination (R2 > 0.999) are determined. The obtained results demonstrate a very good fit and, thus, confirm the usefulness of the proposed approach.
Predictive Artificial Intelligence Models for Energy Efficiency in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: Analysis for Enna, Sicily
Authors: Mądziel Maksymilian , Campisi Tiziana
Published: September 2024

Developments in artificial intelligence techniques allow for an improvement in sustainable mobility strategies with particular reference to energy consumption estimates of electric vehicles (EVs). This research proposes a vehicle energy model developed on the basis of deep neural network (DNN) technology. This study also explores the potential application of the model developed for the movement data of new vehicles in the province of Enna, Sicily, Italy, which are characterized by numerous attractors and the increasing number of hybrid and electric cars circulating. The energy model for electric vehicles shows high accuracy and versatility, requiring vehicle velocity and acceleration as input data to predict energy consumption. This research article also provides recommendations for the energy modeling of electric vehicles and outlines additional steps for model development. The implemented methodological approach and its results can be used by transport decision-makers to plan new transport policies in Italian cities aimed at optimizing vehicle charging infrastructure. They can also help vehicle users accurately estimate energy consumption, generate maps, and identify locations with the highest energy consumption.
Multi-Modal Approach to Mitigating Hamstring Injuries in Division I College Football Athletes
Authors: Ruiz Jeffrey T. , Gaunaurd Ignacio A. , Best Thomas M. , Feeley David , Mann J. Bryan , Feigenbaum Luis A.
Published: September 2024

Hamstring injuries (HSIs) are prevalent in sports that involve changes in direction, kicking, and sprinting. These injuries are a major cause of time lost from competition, practice, and training, as well as increased healthcare costs. In a Division I collegiate football program, the authors implemented a multifactorial approach that included repeated performance assessments, detailed data analysis, and a flexible strength and conditioning regimen. Over a three-year period, this resulted in no game time loss due to HSI. This model can be adapted and implemented across sports settings.
Inclusion in Immersion Education: Identifying and Supporting Students with Additional Educational Needs
Authors: Nic Aindriú Sinéad
Published: September 2024

This entry reviews the research around identifying and supporting students with additional educational needs (AEN) in immersion education. This is important as it is clear from international research that teachers in this form of education experience challenges due to the lack of availability of minority language services, assessments, interventions, and resources. The international research and literature on the positive practices that can be implemented in immersion education to help teachers and schools overcome the challenges they encounter is reviewed. The themes included in this entry are inclusive pedagogies, assessment, literacy, mathematics, and challenging behaviour.
The Impact of Tourists’ Perceived Value on Environmentally Responsible Behavior in an Urban Forest Park: The Mediating Effects of Satisfaction and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Zhao Jiali , Weng Lisheng
Published: September 2024

Urban forest parks serve as significant venues for tourists’ leisure and recreation. The experiences and perceptions of tourists in these parks considerably influence their attitudes and behaviors. While numerous studies have investigated the functions and values of urban forest parks at a macro level, the mechanisms influencing tourists’ perceived values and their environmentally responsible behavior at a micro level remain under explored. This research used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the association between tourists’ perceived values and their environmentally responsible behavior, including the mediating functions of tourists’ satisfaction and their subjective well-being. 502 valid questionnaires in total were obtained from Changpoling National Forest Park in Guiyang City, Guizhou, China, for this case study. The results show that there are some variances in the impact of the dimensions of tourists’ perceived value on environmentally responsible behavior, in which service quality, resource quality, and emotional value impose a pronounced positive effect on environmentally responsible behavior, tourism costs impose a pronounced negative effect on environmentally responsible behavior, and the activity experience does not exert a pronounced effect on environmentally responsible behavior. Satisfaction and subjective well-being have a mediating function during the process of positive influence of tourists’ perceived value on their environmentally responsible behavior and serve as partial mediators, and the significant positive influence of satisfaction on subjective well-being as well as subjective well-being on environmentally responsible behavior are verified. This research can help better explain the mechanism of the effect of tourists’ perceived value exerted on environmental responsibility behavior in nature-based tourism destinations, and also has a guiding and reference significance for the sustainable development of urban forest parks.
Knowledge Mapping of Cultural Ecosystem Services Applied on Blue-Green Infrastructure—A Scientometric Review with CiteSpace
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Xu Haiyun , Ren Mujie , Duan Jiaxuan , You Weiwen , Zhou Yuan
Published: September 2024

Urban blue-green infrastructure (BGI) not only serves an ecological purpose but also contributes to the physical and psychological well-being of residents by providing cultural ecosystem services (CES), which are the nonmaterial benefits people obtain from ecosystems through spiritual enrichment, cognitive development, reflection, recreation, and aesthetic experiences. CES is a rising BGI research and management subject, with a growing number of papers in recent years. To identify and differentiate the latest research on the development of features based on cultural ecosystem services within blue-green infrastructure, we employed CiteSpace bibliometric methodologies to analyze pertinent papers for focusing on the developmental processes and key research areas. The publishing trend, research clusters, highly cited literature, research history, research frontiers and hot areas, and high-frequency and emerging keywords were studied and assessed after reviewing 14,344 relevant papers by CiteSpace software 6.3.1 from Web of Science. The standard domains concerned, according to the keyword visualization and high-value references, are implemented cultural ecosystem services assessment combined with natural-based solutions in green spaces, urban regions, residential areas, and sustainable development. In conclusion, the following recommendations are made: (1) When urban decision-makers incorporate the perspective of cultural ecosystem services into the strategic formulation of BGI, a broader spectrum of urban BGI types should be taken into account; (2) all categories of CES should be considered; (3) research on the application of cultural ecosystem services in urban blue-green infrastructure should be more effectively and flexibly integrated into urban governance; and (4) CES should be strategically employed to improve the physical health and psychological well-being of urban residents.
Blockchain-Driven Generalization of Policy Management for Multiproduct Insurance Companies
Authors: Romero Abraham , Hernandez Roberto
Published: September 2024

This article presents a Blockchain-based solution for the management of multipolicies in insurance companies, introducing a standardized policy model to facilitate streamlined operations and enhance collaboration between entities. The model ensures uniform policy management, providing scalability and flexibility to adapt to new market demands. The solution leverages Merkle trees for secure data management, with each policy represented by an independent Merkle tree, enabling updates and additions without altering existing policies. The architecture, implemented on a private Ethereum network using Hyperledger Besu and Tessera, ensures secure and transparent transactions, robust dispute resolution, and fraud prevention mechanisms. The validation phase demonstrated the model’s efficiency in reducing data redundancy and ensuring the consistency and integrity of policy information. Additionally, the system’s technical management has been simplified, operational redundancies have been eliminated, and privacy is enhanced.
A Secure Key Exchange and Authentication Scheme for Securing Communications in the Internet of Things Environment
Authors: Peivandizadeh Ali , Y. Adarbah Haitham , Molavi Behzad , Mohajerzadeh Amirhossein , H. Al-Badi Ali
Published: September 2024

In today’s advanced network and digital age, the Internet of Things network is experiencing a significant growing trend and, due to its wide range of services and network coverage, has been able to take a special place in today’s technology era. Among the applications that can be mentioned for this network are the field of electronic health, smart residential complexes, and a wide level of connections that have connected the inner-city infrastructure in a complex way to make it smart. The notable and critical issue that exists in this network is the extent of the elements that make up the network and, due to this, the strong and massive data exchanges at the network level. With the increasing deployment of the Internet of Things, a wide range of challenges arise, especially in the discussion of establishing network security. Regarding security concerns, ensuring the confidentiality of the data being exchanged in the network, maintaining the privacy of the network nodes, protecting the identity of the network nodes, and finally implementing the security policies required to deal with a wide range of network cyber threats are of great importance. A fundamental element in the security of IoT networks is the authentication process, wherein nodes are required to validate each other’s identities to ensure the establishment of secure communication channels. Through the enforcement of security prerequisites, in this study, we suggested a security protocol focused on reinforcing security characteristics and safeguarding IoT nodes. By utilizing the security features provided by Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and employing the Elliptic Curve Diffie–Hellman (ECDH) key-exchange mechanism, we designed a protocol for authenticating nodes and establishing encryption keys for every communication session within the Internet of Things. To substantiate the effectiveness and resilience of our proposed protocol in withstanding attacks and network vulnerabilities, we conducted evaluations utilizing both formal and informal means. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the protocol is characterized by low computational and communication demands, which makes it especially well-suited for IoT nodes operating under resource constraints.
Enhancing Antibacterial Efficacy: Synergistic Effects of Citrus aurantium Essential Oil Mixtures against Escherichia coli for Food Preservation
Authors: Ellouze Ines , Ben Akacha Boutheina , Mekinić Ivana Generalić , Ben Saad Rania , Kačániová Miroslava , Kluz Maciej Ireneusz , Mnif Wissem , Garzoli Stefania , Ben Hsouna Anis
Published: September 2024

Essential oils (EOs) from various medicinal and aromatic plants are known for their diverse biological activities, including their antimicrobial effects. Citrus aurantium EO is traditionally used for therapeutic benefits due to its high content of bioactive compounds. Therefore, this study focuses on its potential use as a food preservative by investigating the combined antibacterial properties of EOs from leaves (EO1), flowers (EO2), and small branches (EO3) of Citrus aurantium against six bacterial strains by the agar disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods. The chemical compositions of the EOs were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and revealed the presence of numerous compounds responsible for their antimicrobial properties. The MIC values for the EOs were 3.12 mg/mL, 4.23 mg/mL, and 1.89 mg/mL, for EO1, EO2 and EO3, respectively, while the MBC values were 12.5 mg/mL, 6.25 mg/mL, and 6.25 mg/mL, respectively. A simplex centroid design was created to analyse the effect of the individual and combined EOs against E. coli. The combined EOs showed enhanced antibacterial activity compared to the individual oils, suggesting a synergistic effect (e.g., trial 9 with an MIC of 0.21 mg/mL), allowing the use of lower EO concentrations and reducing potential negative effects on food flavour and aroma. Additionally, the practical application of investigated EOs (at concentrations twice the MIC) was investigated in raw chicken meat stored at 4 °C for 21 days. The EOs, individually and in combination, effectively extended the shelf life of the meat by inhibiting bacterial growth (total bacterial count of less than 1 × 104 CFU/g in the treated samples compared to 7 × 107 CFU/g in the control on day 21 of storage). The study underlines the potential of C. aurantium EOs as natural preservatives that represent a sustainable and effective alternative to synthetic chemicals in food preservation.
Isolation and Characterization of Two Novel Lytic Bacteriophages against Salmonella typhimurium and Their Biocontrol Potential in Food Products
Authors: Song Yaxiong , Gu Wentao , Hu Yaozhong , Zhang Bowei , Wang Jin , Sun Yi , Fu Wenhui , Li Xinyang , Xing Xiaolong , Wang Shuo
Published: September 2024

Foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella, are major factors that pose significant threats to global food safety and public health. Salmonella typhimurium is a prominent serotype contributing to non-typhoidal salmonellosis, which is a prevalent foodborne illness affecting humans and animals. Bacteriophages are considered one of the most environmentally friendly biocontrol agents, particularly in the food industry, owing to their high specificity and high safety. However, the emergency of phage-resistant mutants limits the biocontrol effect of phage treatment, leading to the requirement for a high diversity of lytic phages. Therefore, the study isolated and characterized two novel lytic Salmonella bacteriophages (SPYS_1 and SPYS_2) targeting S. typhimurium ATCC14028 and evaluated their effectiveness in reducing the contamination rates for milk and chicken tenders. Morphological and genomic analyses indicated that Salmonella phages SPYS_1 and SPYS_2 are novel species classified under the genus Skatevirus and the genus Berlinvirus, respectively. Both phages exhibited high stability across a broad range of thermal and pH conditions. The one-step growth curve result suggested that both phages had a short adsorption time and a large burst size in a single lytic cycle. The phage SPYS_1 demonstrated a noteworthy inhibition effect on the growth of S. typhimurium ATCC14028 in milk, resulting in a ~2-log reduction within the 2 to 4 h range. Overall, both phages have shown significant potential for application in food safety in the future.
Depuration of Asian Green Mussels Using Chitooligosaccharide-Epigallocatechin Gallate Conjugate: Shelf-Life Extension, Microbial Diversity, and Quality Changes during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Buatong Jirayu , Bahem Nooreeta , Benjakul Soottawat , Patil Umesh , Singh Avtar
Published: September 2024

The effect of chitooligosaccharide-EGCG conjugate (CEC) at different concentrations (0, 1, and 2%; w/v) and depuration times (DT; 3, and 6 h) on the total viable count and Vibrio spp. count of Asian green mussels (AGMs) was studied. Depurated samples showed a reduction in both microbial counts as compared to fresh AGMs (without depuration) and AGMs depurated using water (CON). A similar TVC was noticed at both DTs; however, a lower VC was attained at a DT of 3, irrespective of CEC concentrations (p < 0.05). AGMs were depurated for 3 h using 1 and 2% CEC (CE1 and CE2, respectively) solutions and stored for 6 days at 4 °C. The CE2 sample showed the lowest microbial counts as compared to fresh AGMs, CON, and CE1 throughout the storage (p < 0.05). CE2 extended the shelf-life of AGMs by 4 days, which was also supported by the lower peroxide value (0.48 mg cumene hydroperoxide/kg sample) and TBARS (0.94 mmol MDA eqv/kg sample) when compared with other samples. Moreover, CE2 had a lower total volatile nitrogen base (TVB; 4.72 mg N/100 g) and trimethylamine (TMA; 3.59 mg N/100 g) on day 4. Furthermore, 2% CEC was able to maintain the DHA content; however, a slightly lower EPA was noticed as compared to the CON. Next-generation sequencing suggested that the CON had a larger microbial community, especially Vibrio sp., than the CE2. All the treated samples showed similar likeness scores to the cooked CE2 and CON on day 0. However, slightly lower likeness was attained when CE2 was stored for 4 days, but the likeness score was higher than the acceptable limit (5). No difference in cooking loss was noticed between CON and CE2 samples on day 0. Nevertheless, cooking loss was increased on day 4. Thus, depuration using CEC solution enhanced the shelf-life of AGMs by 4 days without having negative impact on consumer acceptability and textural properties.
The Effects of Adding Extruded Highland Barley Flour on the Thermomechanical Properties of Wheat Flour Dough and the Overall Quality of Fresh Wet Noodles
Authors: Zhu Yiqing , Wang Xuecong , Zhang Xinyu , Du Yan , Liang Feng , Zhang Fan , Wu Chongyi , Zhao Qingyu , Shen Qun
Published: September 2024

This study examined how adding extruded highland barley flour (EHBF) affects the thermomechanical properties of wheat flour dough and the overall quality of fresh wet noodles. EHBF increased the gel strength and pasting temperature of wheat flour compared to regular highland barley flour. Moreover, higher EHBF levels reduced dough development time and stability time. EHBF improved the color and springiness of fresh wet noodles and decreased their cooking time and light transmittance relative to the color and springiness of the noodles in the control group. Notably, noodles with 20% EHBF showed a compact microstructure and received the highest sensory evaluation score. Adding EHBF lowered the estimated glycemic index of fresh wet noodles by reducing rapidly digestible starch and increasing slowly digestible starch and resistant starch contents. Thus, EHBF is a promising functional ingredient for enhancing the quality of fresh wet noodles.
The Potential of Thymus serpyllum Essential Oil as an Antibacterial Agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the Preservation of Sous Vide Red Deer Meat
Authors: Kačániová Miroslava , Garzoli Stefania , Ben Hsouna Anis , Bianchi Alessandro , Kluz Maciej Ireneusz , Elizondo-Luevano Joel Horacio , Ban Zhaojun , Ben Saad Rania , Mnif Wissem , Haščík Peter
Published: September 2024

Foodborne infections caused by microbes are a serious health risk. Regarding this, customer preferences for “ready-to-eat” or minimally processed (MP) deer meat are one of the main risk factors. Given the health dangers associated with food, essential oil (EO) is a practical substitute used to decrease pathogenic germs and extend the shelf-life of MP meals. Nonetheless, further data regarding EO use in MP meals are required. In order to evaluate new, safer alternatives to chemicals for disease control and food preservation, this research was carried out in the following areas to assess the antibacterial and antibiofilm characteristics of Thymus serpyllum (TSEO) essential oil, which is extracted from dried flowering stalks. Furthermore, this study applied an essential oil of wild thyme and inoculated the sous vide deer meat with Pseudomonas aeruginosa for seven days at 4 °C in an effort to prolong its shelf-life. Against P. aeruginosa, the essential oil exhibited potent antibacterial action. The findings of the minimal biofilm inhibition concentration (MBIC) crystal violet test demonstrated the substantial antibiofilm activity of the TSEO. The TSEO modified the protein profiles of bacteria on glass and plastic surfaces, according to data from MALDI-TOF MS analysis. Moreover, it was discovered that P. aeruginosa was positively affected by the antibacterial properties of TSEO. The anti-Pseudomonas activity of the TSEO was marginally higher in vacuum-packed sous vide red deer meat samples than in control samples. The most frequently isolated species from sous vide deer meat, if we do not consider the applied bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were P. fragi, P. lundensis, and P. taetrolens. These results highlight the antibacterial and antibiofilm qualities of TSEO, demonstrating its potential for food preservation and extending the shelf-life of deer meat.
Intelligent Evaluation and Dynamic Prediction of Oyster Freshness with Electronic Nose Based on the Distribution of Volatile Compounds Using GC–MS Analysis
Authors: Wang Baichuan , Dou Xinyue , Liu Kang , Wei Guangfen , He Aixiang , Wang Yuhan , Wang Chenyang , Kong Weifu , Zhang Xiaoshuan
Published: September 2024

The quality of oysters is reflected by volatile organic components. To rapidly assess the freshness level of oysters and elucidate the changes in flavor substances during storage, the volatile compounds of oysters stored at 4, 12, 20, and 28 °C over varying durations were analyzed using GC-MS and an electronic nose. Data from both GC-MS and electronic nose analyses revealed that alcohols, acids, and aldehydes are the primary contributors to the rancidity of oysters. Notably, the relative and absolute contents of Cis-2-(2-Pentenyl) furan and other heterocyclic compounds exhibited an upward trend. This observation suggests the potential for developing a simpler test for oyster freshness based on these compounds. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) demonstrated superior performance compared to Principal Component Analysis (PCA) in differentiating oyster samples at various storage times. At 4 °C, the classification accuracy of the optimal support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) models exceeded 90%. At 12 °C, 20 °C, and 28 °C, the classification accuracy of the best SVM and RF models surpassed 95%. Pearson correlation analysis of the concentrations of various volatile compounds and characteristic markers with the sensor response values indicated that the selected sensors were more aligned with the volatiles emitted by oysters. Consequently, the volatile compounds in oysters during storage can be predicted based on the response information from the sensors in the detection system. This study also demonstrates that the detection system serves as a viable alternative to GC-MS for evaluating oysters of varying freshness grades.
Optimizing Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermentation for Enhanced Summer and Autumn Tea Quality
Authors: Mo Xiaoli , Chen Yingyu , Zeng Zhen , Xiao Sui , Huang Yahui
Published: September 2024

The level of consumption of summer tea is a problem in the development of China’s tea industry. Current strategies to enhance the quality of summer and autumn teas primarily target the cultivation environment, with less emphasis on processing improvements. This study aimed to optimize the fermentation parameters to impact the quality of summer and autumn teas. We screened four strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) suitable for tea fermentation and determined their optimal mix. This optimized blend was applied to ferment summer and autumn teas. Through single-factor experiments, we evaluated the impact of various processing parameters, including the fixation method, rolling degree, inoculation amount, glucose concentration, fermentation temperature, and fermentation duration, on LAB growth and tea quality. The optimal processing conditions were established as microwave fixation, heavy rolling, an inoculation rate of 1.8% LAB, glucose addition at 8.8%, and fermentation at 36.5 °C for five days. Analysis revealed that the fermentation process significantly reduced the levels of polyphenols and ester-type catechins, which are associated with astringency and bitterness while enhancing the content of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Specifically, after five days, polyphenol content decreased by 26.89%, and GABA levels increased from 0.051 mg/g to 0.126 mg/g. The predominant aroma compounds in the fermented tea were alcohols with floral and fruity scents, constituting 54.63% of the total aroma profile. This research presents a methodical approach to reduce the astringency and bitterness of summer and autumn teas while concurrently increasing GABA levels.
Comment on Vatsala et al. Analysis of Sequential Caputo Fractional Differential Equations versus Non-Sequential Caputo Fractional Differential Equations with Applications. Foundations 2022, 2, 1129–1142
Authors: Kiskinov Hristo , Petkova Milena , Zahariev Andrey
Published: September 2024

In the paper by Vatsala et al [...]
Information Properties of Consecutive Systems Using Fractional Generalized Cumulative Residual Entropy
Authors: Kayid Mohamed , Shrahili Mansour
Published: September 2024

We investigate some information properties of consecutive k-out-of-n:G systems in light of fractional generalized cumulative residual entropy. We firstly derive a formula to compute fractional generalized cumulative residual entropy related to the system’s lifetime and explore its preservation properties in terms of established stochastic orders. Additionally, we obtain useful bounds. To aid practical applications, we propose two nonparametric estimators for the fractional generalized cumulative residual entropy in these systems. The efficiency and performance of these estimators are illustrated using simulated and real datasets.
Hydroxypropyl Cellulose Hydrogel Containing Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum Essential-Oil-Loaded Polymeric Micelles for Enhanced Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Kamenova Katya , Iliev Ivan , Prancheva Anna , Tuleshkov Pencho , Rusanov Krasimir , Atanassov Ivan , Petrov Petar D.
Published: September 2024

Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum essential oil (OEO) is a natural oil with high therapeutic potential. For some applications, however, the development of novel formulations is still needed to improve the bioavailability and stability of OEO. In this study, we describe the fabrication of an original nanocomposite hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) physical hydrogel, containing OEO-loaded polymeric micelles, for topical delivery. The concentration of the main active compounds of OEO—carvacol and thymol—was determined using gas chromatography (GC) analysis. OEO was first encapsulated into Pluronic F127 micelles, and then embedded into HPC gel. Micellar and gel formulations of pure polymers and OEO-containing systems were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and rheology measurements, respectively. Selected formulations were evaluated for cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activity. The hydrogel formulation of HPC with micellar OEO (8% HPC, 2% F127, 1% OEO) exhibited sustained release of the oil and selectivity towards SH-4 tumor cells (an in vitro model of melanoma).
Photopolymerization of Chlorpromazine-Loaded Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogels: Characterization and Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Tozar Tatiana , Nistorescu Simona , Gradisteanu Pircalabioru Gratiela , Boni Mihai , Staicu Angela
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial properties of hydrogels synthesized through the UV-pulsed laser photopolymerization of a polymer–photoinitiator–chlorpromazine mixture. Chlorpromazine was used for its known enhanced antimicrobial properties when exposed to UV laser radiation. The hydrogel was formed from a mixture containing 0.05% Irgacure 2959, 10% gelatin methacryloyl, and various concentrations of chlorpromazine (1, 2, and 4 mg/mL). Laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy was employed to monitor the photoinduced changes of chlorpromazine and Irgacure 2959 during hydrogel formation, providing insight into the photodegradation dynamics. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the incorporation of irradiated chlorpromazine within the hydrogel matrix, while the release profiles of chlorpromazine showed sustained release only in hydrogels containing 1 mg/mL of CPZ. The hydrogel showed significant antimicrobial activity against MRSA bacteria when compared to that of penicillin. These findings highlight the potential of CPZ loaded during the photopolymerization process into hydrogels as effective antimicrobial agents with sustained release properties, making them suitable for combating resistant bacterial strains.
Selection of Reference Genes and HSP17.9A Expression Profiling in Heat-Stressed Grapevine Varieties
Authors: Carvalho Ana , Crisóstomo Christina , Leal Fernanda , Lima-Brito José
Published: September 2024

Background: “Touriga Franca” (TF) and “Touriga Nacional” (TN) are grapevine varieties cultivated in the ‘Douro Superior’ subregion (Northern Portugal) that experience stressful environmental conditions during the summer. Objectives: Aiming to profile the expression of stress-responsive genes by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) in TF and TN plants growing naturally, three candidate reference genes were first tested under controlled conditions. Methods: To simulate a summer’s day, TF and TN in vitro plants were exposed to 32 °C–3 h (heat acclimation) and 42 °C–1 h (severe heat stress, HS) followed by two recovery periods (32 °C–3 h and 24 °C–24 h). Leaf samples were collected at the end of each phase. Control plants were kept at 24 °C. Results: Among the candidate reference genes, the UBC and VAG pair showed the highest stability. The suitability of these genes for qPCR was validated by heat shock protein 17.9A (HSP17.9A) gene profiling. The HSP17.9A expression was up-regulated in both varieties and all experimental phases except in TF control plants. TN showed the highest HSP17.9A relative expression ratio after severe HS. Conclusions: TN responded faster than TF to the induced heat shocks. The UBC, VAG, and HSP17.9A genes revealed to be suitable for further qPCR assays in TF and TN grapevine varieties.