bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigation of 1-Row Hammer in BCAT Structures Through Buried Oxide Integration and Investigation of Inter-Cell Disturbances
Authors: Kim Yeon-Seok , Kwon Min-Woo
Published: December 2024

Dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) is crucial for high-performance computing due to its speed and storage capacity. As the demand for high-capacity memory increases, DRAM has adopted a scaled-down approach for the next generation. However, the reduced distance between cells leads to electrical interference, known as the 1-row Hammer effect, which degrades DRAM performance and poses security risks. Therefore, the 1-row Hammer effect is a critical issue in current DRAM technology. In this study, we investigate the principles and impact of the 1-row Hammer phenomenon on DRAM. The 1-row Hammer effect can cause two types of failures: D0 and D1. We focus on D0 failures, which occur when stored data transition from 0 to 1 due to repeated accesses. This phenomenon involves the capture and diffusion of electrons, influenced by interfacial traps and device structures. To investigate the D0 failure, we simulated the 1-row Hammer effect using a mixed-mode approach to examine its effects on interfacial traps and device structure changes. This study aims to improve our understanding of row Hammer and suggests a mitigation strategy using buried oxide. The proposed structure mitigates the D0 failure by approximately 25%, effectively improving the security and reliability of DRAM.
Investigation of a Robust Blind Deconvolution Algorithm Using Extracted Structures in Light Microscopy Images of Salivary Glands: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Kyuseok , Kim Jae-Young , Kim Ji-Youn
Published: December 2024

Although light microscopy (LM) images are widely used to observe various bodily tissues, including salivary glands, reaching a satisfactory spatial resolution in the final images remains a major challenge. The objective of this study was to model a robust blind deconvolution algorithm using the extracted structure and analyze its applicability to LM images. Given LM images of the salivary glands, the proposed robust blind deconvolution method performs non-blind deconvolution after estimating the structural map and kernel of each image. To demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed algorithm for LM images, the perceptual sharpness index (PSI), Blanchet’s sharpness index (BSI), and natural image quality evaluator (NIQE) were used as evaluation metrics. We demonstrated that when the proposed algorithm was applied to salivary gland LM images, the PSI and BSI were improved by 7.95% and 7.44%, respectively, compared with those of the conventional TV-based algorithm. When the proposed algorithm was applied to an LM image, we confirmed that the NIQE value was similar to that of a low-resolution image. In conclusion, the proposed robust blind deconvolution algorithm is highly applicable to salivary gland LM images, and we expect that further applications will become possible.
Data-Driven MPC Scheme for Inertial Platform with Uncertain Systems Against External Vibrations
Authors: Zhao Junhu , Yang Qifan , Li Huiping
Published: December 2024

For inertial platforms with unknown model parameters and internal information, traditional model-free controllers fail to resist external vibrations solely based on the platform gyroscope, deteriorating the performance of inertial platforms. Therefore, we apply the light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM) to identify an end-to-end platform model, followed by proposing a data-driven MPC scheme to improve the control performance. Furthermore, an expectation maximization (EM) method is designed to solve the optimization problems with non-differentiable identification models, which are challenges for the traditional gradient descent-based optimizer. In addition, an adaptive compensation strategy is designed for generalizing the data-driven control scheme to different external vibrations. Finally, experimental results demonstrate the feasibility, efficacy, and generalization ability of the proposed method.
A Novel Face Swapping Detection Scheme Using the Pseudo Zernike Transform Based Robust Watermarking
Authors: Lai Zhimao , Yao Zhuangxi , Lai Guanyu , Wang Chuntao , Feng Renhai
Published: December 2024

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) has significantly accelerated the evolution of Deepfake technology, thereby introducing escalating social risks due to its potential misuse. In response to these adverse effects, researchers have developed defensive measures, including passive detection and proactive forensics. Although passive detection has achieved some success in identifying Deepfakes, it encounters challenges such as poor generalization and decreased accuracy, particularly when confronted with anti-forensic techniques and adversarial noise. As a result, proactive forensics, which offers a more resilient defense mechanism, has garnered considerable scholarly interest. However, existing proactive forensic methodologies often fall short in terms of visual quality, detection accuracy, and robustness. To address these deficiencies, we propose a novel proactive forensic approach that utilizes pseudo-Zernike moment robust watermarking. This method is specifically designed to enhance the detection and analysis of face swapping by transforming facial data into a binary bit stream and embedding this information within the non-facial regions of video frames. Our approach facilitates the detection of Deepfakes while preserving the visual integrity of the video content. Comprehensive experimental evaluations have demonstrated the robustness of this method against standard signal processing operations and its superior performance in detecting Deepfake manipulations.
A Gamified Method for Teaching Version Control Concepts in Programming Courses Using the Git Education Game
Authors: Chen Hsi-Min , Nguyen Bao-An , Chang You-Wei , Dow Chyi-Ren
Published: December 2024

Using version control tools is an indispensable skill for engineers in the software industry. This study introduces a gamification approach together with a serious game called the Git Education Game (GEG) to teach Git concepts and usage, intending to improve students’ motivation and learning performance compared to traditional lectures. An experiment was designed with two classes of the same course to compare the effect of GEG. A post-test was designed to verify whether the game could help students achieve better learning outcomes and higher motivation. The results show that our approach had a positive effect on students’ motivation, so the experimental group had a higher pass rate than the control group for most items in the post-test. Based on this study’s results, we emphasize the impact of interactive learning environments in software engineering education.
Collision Avoidance Trajectory Planning Based on Dynamic Spatio-Temporal Corridor Search in Curvy Road Scenarios for Intelligent Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Mingfang , Tong Lianghao , Zhao Leyuan , Wang Pangwei
Published: December 2024

To avoid collisions and ensure driving safety, comfort, and efficiency, in this study, we propose a trajectory planning strategy for intelligent vehicles navigating curvy road scenarios. This strategy is based on a dynamic spatio-temporal corridor search. First, an obstacle space expansion module is constructed using a critical safety distance model to generate a searchable spatio-temporal corridor. Next, a dynamic step expansion is performed to improve the traditional hybrid A* search algorithm by the discretization of front-wheel steering angles and acceleration. The bisection method is applied to iteratively optimize the child nodes at each step, and the child node with the lowest cost is selected as the rough search node. Subsequently, a locally weighted dual-regression fitting algorithm is employed for segment trajectory fitting, and the optimal trajectory is generated. Finally, the performance of the proposed trajectory planning strategy is validated on the Carla simulation platform. The results show the effectiveness and efficiency of our strategy in three typical scenarios.
Fast Design Space Exploration for Always-On Neural Networks
Authors: Kim Jeonghun , Lee Sunggu
Published: December 2024

An analytical model can quickly predict performance and energy efficiency based on information about the neural network model and neural accelerator architecture, making it ideal for rapid pre-synthesis design space exploration. This paper proposes a new analytical model specifically targeted for convolutional neural networks used in always-on applications. To validate the proposed model, the performance and energy efficiency estimated by the model were compared with actual hardware and post-synthesis gate-level simulations of hardware synthesized with a state-of-the-art electronic design automation (EDA) synthesis tool. Comparisons with hardware created for the Eyeriss neural accelerator showed average execution time and energy consumption error rates of 3.33% and 13.54%, respectively. Comparisons with hardware synthesis results showed an error of 3.18% to 9.44% for two example neural accelerator configurations used to execute MobileNet, EfficientNet, and DarkNet neural network models. Finally, the utility of the proposed model was demonstrated by using it to evaluate the effects of different channel sizes, pruning rates, and batch sizes in several neural network designs for always-on vision, text, and audio processing.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Implementation as a Method of Reducing Emissions from Coal Thermal Power Plants in Poland
Authors: Kopacz Michał , Matuszewska Dominika , Olczak Piotr
Published: December 2024

The Polish economy, and especially the energy sector, is facing an energy transformation. For decades, most electricity in Poland has been generated from hard coal, but in recent years, renewable energy sources have been gaining an increasing share of the market. The aim of the energy transformation is to reduce the carbon footprint in electricity production, which translates into the decarbonization of the economy, including manufactured products. Currently (2024), increasing the share of renewable energy sources raises major challenges in terms of energy storage or other activities and forces cooperation with flexible sources of electricity generation. One of the challenges is to determine what a decarbonized energy mix in Poland could look like in 2050, in which there would be sources (with a smaller share of coal sources in the mix than currently) of electricity generation based on hard coal with CCS technology. In order to do this in an economically efficient manner, there are aspects related to the location of power plants that would remain in operation or repower current generating units. The added value of the study is the simulation approach to the analysis of the problem of assessing the effectiveness of CCS technology implementation together with the transport and storage infrastructure, as well as the multi-aspect scenario analysis, which can determine the limits of CCS technology effectiveness for a given power unit. Positive simulation results (NPV amounted to 147 million Euro) and the knowledge obtained in the scope of the correlated and simultaneous impact of many important cost factors and prices of CO2 emission allowances make this analysis and its results close to reality. Examples of analyses of the effectiveness of CCS system implementations known from the literature are most often limited to determining linear relationships of single explanatory variables with a specific forecasted variable, even if these are multifactor mathematical models.
The Role of Hydrogen in the Energy Mix: A Scenario Analysis for Turkey Using OSeMOSYS
Authors: Tetik Hepnur , Kirkil Gokhan
Published: December 2024

The urgent need to tackle climate change drives the research on new technologies to help the transition of energy systems. Hydrogen is under significant consideration by many countries as a means to reach zero-carbon goals. Turkey has also started to develop hydrogen projects. In this study, the role of hydrogen in Turkey’s energy system is assessed through energy modeling using the cost optimization analytical tool, Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS). The potential effects of hydrogen blending into the natural gas network in the Turkish energy system have been displayed by scenario development. The hydrogen is produced via electrolysis using renewable electricity. As a result, by using hydrogen, a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions was observed; however, the accumulated capital investment value increased. Furthermore, it was shown that hydrogen has the potential to reduce Turkey’s energy import dependency by decreasing natural gas demand.
Feasibility of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations from MV/LV Stations in Small Cities
Authors: Sikora Roman , Krajewski Łukasz , Popenda Andrzej , Korzeniewska Ewa
Published: December 2024

Care about the environment is one of the key issues faced by engineers. Among the solutions conducive for reducing CO2 and NOx emissions from road transport is the introduction of electric cars. At the same time, it requires taking care of the infrastructure enabling the charging of electric vehicles in large as well small towns. Since December 2021, an amendment to the Act on Electromobility and Alternative Fuels has been forced in Poland. It introduced the obligation to design and construct buildings in a way that allows the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles. The article proposes a technical criterion for selecting a substation to connect an EV charging station. The criterion was based on the maximum apparent power determined from the transformer’s annual load profile. The transformer profiles were developed using data from the advanced metering infrastructure system with which MV/LV substations are equipped. Thirty-eight of the fifty-five stations were selected for analysis due to insufficient measurement data. In addition to the technical criterion, a social and economic criterion was used to select the location of electric vehicle charging stations.
Assessment of Water and Soil Contamination and Land Cover Changes in the Spring Creek Bayou Watershed in Houston, Texas
Authors: Davis Felica R. , Balaji Bhaskar Maruthi Sridhar
Published: December 2024

Stormwater runoff and nutrient pollution are significant sources of water contamination that continue to grow in rural and suburban watersheds. The goal of this research is to analyze and evaluate the impact of urbanization and industrialization on suburban watersheds in southeast Texas. The objectives are to: (1) determine nutrient and heavy metal concentrations in soil and water samples along Spring Creek Bayou (SC), (2) analyze land cover changes over the last 30 years and (3) assess and evaluate socio-economic data within the watershed. The soil and water samples were collected from upstream, midstream and downstream locations in triplicate during the spring and fall seasons along the bayou. The samples were analyzed to determine chemical concentrations and Landsat 5, and eight imageries were used to derive thematic land cover maps. The soil and water chemical concentrations were interpolated to spatial maps for distribution analysis. The chemical analysis of water samples collected from SC Bayou revealed that N and P concentrations were at elevated levels that can pose a threat to water quality and aquatic organisms. Heavy metal concentrations of Zn were at elevated levels in water samples from the SC Bayou watershed. Land cover change patterns showed that high-vegetation surfaces decreased while low-vegetation surfaces increased slightly over the past three decades. The watershed experienced an increase in total population from 129,629 residents in 1990 to 389,977 residents in 2020. This research is important in improving our understanding on the impact of natural and human activities on suburban watersheds in the Greater Houston metropolitan region.
Optimizing Ge Enrichment in Lyophyllum decastes Fermentation for Enhanced Biological Activity
Authors: Hassan Syed Shaheer , Zhao Jinyan , Tahir Sana , Khan Ilyas , Yang Guang , Zhao Bo
Published: December 2024

This study enhanced germanium (Ge) enrichment in the liquid fermentation of the edible fungus Lyophyllum decastes in order to boost its biological activity, particularly its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Through the use of single-factor and Plackett–Burman designs, the experiments revealed critical parameters affecting Ge enrichment, including Ge oxide concentration, potato powder concentration, and peptone levels. The optimization of the Box–Behnken response surface methodology resulted in a Ge concentration of 3.61 mg/L, significantly enhancing the biomass, protein, polysaccharide, and flavonoid content in the mycelium. In contrast to traditional fermentation, Ge-rich fermentation enhanced the mycelial biomass by 30.97% and elevated the organic Ge content 50.19-fold. An analysis of the antioxidants revealed that the Ge-enriched mycelial water extract exhibited heightened activity, augmenting TNF-α production in RAW264.7 cells by 73.29% at a concentration of 200 μg/g. These findings indicate that the Ge-enriched fermentation of L. decastes holds promise for functional applications in health-supportive products due to its robust antioxidant and immune-enhancing capabilities.
Bread-Making Quality and Reduction of Acrylamide Content Using Weissella confusa Strain V20 from Desert Plant Stipagrostis pungens as Sourdough Additive
Authors: Fhoula Imene , Dammak Islem , Nachi Insaf , Smida Imen , Hassouna Mnasser , Ouzari Imene Hadda
Published: December 2024

The impact of wheat sourdough inoculated with a promising lactic acid bacterium Weissella confusa V20, isolated from a Tunisian desert plant, on the quality characteristics of sourdough and bread as well as on acrylamide formation was evaluated. W. confusa V20 sourdough (SWc) did not provide high final acidity and could effectively metabolize sucrose, resulting in significant (p < 0.05) increases in glucose (44.5%) and fructose (84.2%) levels. A substantial decrease (p < 0.05) in free asparagine was observed upon fermentation, reducing from 16 ± 0.9 mg/100 g dry weight (d.w.) in the control dough with baker’s yeast (DBB) to 9.9 ± 0.4 mg/100 g d.w. in the dough inoculated with W. confusa V20 sourdough (DWc) and to 14.2 ± 0.2 mg/100 g d.w. in the dough produced with spontaneous sourdough (DSS). To improve the texture and flavor of the bread, the sourdough process should be further optimized in a strain-specific approach. V20 sourdough was more effective in enhancing the quality of the dough and bread compared to sourdough fermented with yeast. W. confusa V20 proved to be highly effective in reducing acrylamide levels, achieving a significant 62% decrease compared to the control.
Research and Prospects of Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Microbial Fermentation Technologies in Protein Raw Materials for Aquatic Feed
Authors: Wang Qiang , Qi Zhitao , Fu Weilai , Pan Mingzhu , Ren Xidong , Zhang Xian , Rao Zhiming
Published: December 2024

Aquaculture relies heavily on formulated feed, with feed costs accounting for approximately 50% of the total production expenses. High-protein feed is expensive, and some raw materials are dependent on imports. Organic waste, primarily from food scraps and agricultural residues, can be considered feed ingredients to reduce costs. Through fermentation, the nutritional value of these feeds can be enhanced, promoting the growth of aquatic animals, such as fish, and reducing overall costs. Enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation are commonly used bioprocessing methods, particularly suitable for unconventional feed sources. These methods not only enhance the nutritional value of the feed but also reduce the content of anti-nutritional factors, improving feed digestibility. Enzymatic hydrolysis is often combined with microbial fermentation to produce more efficient novel biofeeds. This synergistic approach enhances microbial fermentation efficiency and the degradation of macromolecules, further improving the nutritional value of the feed, promoting intestinal digestion and absorption, and enhancing animal production performance. Compared to treatments with single strains or enzymes, the synergistic fermentation of feed with microorganisms and enzymes shows more significant effects. This review summarizes the fermentation mechanisms and classifications of enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation in producing novel biofeeds. It also outlines the advantages of this synergistic process and its progress in aquatic animal production, providing a scientific basis for its broader application in aquaculture.
Age- and Size- Based Reproductive Potential of Gray Snapper (Lutjanus griseus) in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Wechsler Ashley , Murie Debra J. , Bovee Eric
Published: December 2024

Relatively little is known about size- and age-based reproductive characteristics of Gray Snapper (Lutjanus griseus) despite a large recreational fishery along the west coast of Florida in the Southeastern U.S.A. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the spawning parameters of Gray Snapper and to quantify female reproductive potential on an age- and size-basis. From 2022 to 2023, 4563 Gray Snapper were collected off the west coast of Florida. Gray Snapper were observed to be actively spawning from late May to early September; however, the percent of females spawning in May and September were both <3%. Batch fecundity for 12 hydrated females showed a hyperallometric relationship with size and age. The spawning fraction also increased disproportionately with female length and age, suggesting older, larger females spawn in greater proportions and more often than younger, smaller females. For females, the length and age at 50% physiological maturity was 292 mm total length (TL) and 2.9 years, and those at 50% functional maturity was 301 mm TL and 3.2 years. Male Gray Snapper reached 50% sexual maturity at 259 mm TL and 1.8 years. The minimum size limit of 10 inches (254 mm) TL in Florida state waters appears to be too low to protect maturing females in particular. These new spawning metrics should be incorporated into future stock assessments to improve estimates of Gray Snapper reproductive output, stock status, and management.
Development of a Dual-Readout Multicolor Immunoassay for the Rapid Analysis of Isocarbophos in Vegetable and Fruit Samples
Authors: Chen Zijian , Huang Wei-Xuan , Wang Hongwu , Zhang Meiling , Chen Kai , Deng Hao
Published: December 2024

Multicolor immunoassay is a powerful tool for rapid analysis without the use of bulky instruments owing to various color conversions, which is suitable for on-site visual analysis for pesticides. Herein, this study developed a multicolor immunoassay for the rapid detection of isocarbophos. After competitive immunoassay, the secondary antibody (GAM-ALP) catalyzed ascorbyl-2-phosphate (AAP) into ascorbic acid (AA). The AA can reduce K3[Fe(CN)6] into K4[Fe(CN)6]. The latter can react with Fe3+ to form Prussian blue; otherwise, the orange AAP-Fe3+ complex was generated. Therefore, the multicolor immunoassay achieved a color conversion of orange–green–blue in response to isocarbophos, allowing for rapid semiquantitative analysis by the naked eye. After parameter optimization, the multicolor immunoassay was developed depending on the ratiometric absorbance between the Prussian blue and AAP-Fe3+ complex. Moreover, a smartphone was used to measure the RGB value of the color conversion for the development of portable visual, quantitative analysis. Both the absorbance-based and RGB-based multicolor immunoassays showed good accuracy and practicability in the recovery test. This study provided a common approach for the development of dual-readout multicolor immunoassay, which can be used for on-site rapid screening by quantitative or visual semiquantitative analysis.
Integrated Quality Prediction Model for Food Quality Management Based on E. coli in Shared Kitchens
Authors: Roh Taeyeoun , Song Youngchul , Yoon Byungun
Published: December 2024

Shared kitchens have a lower entry barrier than traditional kitchens, which generally require a significant initial investment, and have thus attracted attention as the most realistic new business model for restaurants in the sharing economy. The restaurant industry is founded on ensuring the safety of the food it serves in order to prevent the spread of foodborne diseases within the community, so strict quality control is essential. Existing food quality management typically employs continuous quality assistance, which is difficult to apply to the highly volatile shared kitchen environment and its various stakeholders. Therefore, in this study, a predictive model for managing food quality that can monitor volatility using quantitative indicators, especially microbial counts, is proposed. Stakeholder- and quality-related factors associated with shared kitchens are first defined, then a modified Gompertz growth curve and the transfer rate equation are used to quantify them. The proposed model, utilizing E. coli as a practical indicator for easily measuring changes in general environments, can be used to systematically manage food quality within the shared kitchen industry, thus supporting the establishment of this new business model.
Relevance of Anthocyanin Metabolites Generated During Digestion on Bioactivity Attributed to Intact Anthocyanins
Authors: Victoria-Campos Claudia I. , Ornelas-Paz José de Jesús , Rios-Velasco Claudio , Ruiz-Cruz Saul , Ornelas-Paz Juan , Del Toro-Sánchez Carmen L. , Márquez-Ríos Enrique , Calderón-Loera Rogelio
Published: December 2024

Epidemiological and in vitro studies suggest that dietary anthocyanins in their intact form exert beneficial effects on human health. However, the potential contributions of anthocyanin metabolites to these beneficial effects have been underestimated. The objective of this review was to critically analyze the outcomes of studies concerning the formation, identification, cellular transport, and biological actions of anthocyanin metabolites generated during digestion to formulate several premises supporting the idea that these compounds largely contribute to human health. Studies performed using purified or semi-purified anthocyanins under digestion or physiological conditions were prioritized in this review. It was found that the information available about the digestive stability and metabolism of anthocyanins, as well as about their transport and deposition in human tissues has mostly been generated using plant extracts or tissues naturally containing compounds identified as anthocyanin metabolites or compounds that can serve as precursors of compounds identified as anthocyanin metabolites. This has significantly compromised the accurate identification of anthocyanin metabolites. Studies with pure or semi-purified anthocyanins are scarce in this regard. Some analytical procedures have also led to the unreliable identification and quantification of anthocyanin metabolites and, consequently, to the unreliable determination of their contribution to human health. Evidence suggests that anthocyanins are also highly metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract and transported, stored, and biologically active as their intermediary structures and final metabolites.
Efficacy of a Dietary Supplement Extracted from Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.f.) in Overweight Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Pérez-Piñero Silvia , Muñoz-Carrillo Juan Carlos , Echepare-Taberna Jon , Herrera-Fernández Cristina , Muñoz-Cámara Macarena , Ávila-Gandía Vicente , López-Román Francisco Javier
Published: December 2024

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial assessed the efficacy in improving body composition and in weight management of a dietary supplement consisting of 400 mg of a standardized extract of the persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki L.f.) in adult subjects with a BMI between 25 and 34.99 kg/m2 administered for 120 consecutive days. In total, 36 participants were assigned to the placebo group and 35 to the experimental group (registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05750342)). Primary analysis focused on overweight subjects (placebo, n = 26; experimental, n = 23). In this group, fat mass expressed in kg and percentage evaluated by both dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) decreased significantly (between-group differences p < 0.001) in those receiving the persimmon extract as compared with the placebo. No significant reduction in lean mass was observed, suggesting that the muscle mass was maintained during fat loss. The use of the investigational product improved classic anthropometric parameters to a statistically significantly greater extent than the placebo, including body weight, BMI, and waist and abdominal circumference (p < 0.001), in the overweight group. In the overall population, similar improvements were observed, with significant between-group differences (p < 0.001) in fat mass reduction and improvements in body composition. Changes in the biochemical lipidic, glycemic, and anti-inflammatory profile were not found, except for between-group significant differences (p < 0.001) in decreases in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) and increases in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in favor of the experimental condition. There was a significant increase in fecal fat excretion in the experimental group at the end of the study in subjects with low fecal fat (9%) at baseline. Consumption of the investigational product vs. placebo improved the quality of life, with significantly greater scores in the total score and the mental health component of the SF-12 questionnaire. The persimmon extract was safe and well tolerated.
Effect of Different Probiotic Fermentations on the Quality of Plant-Based Hempseed Fermented Milk
Authors: Zhou Yingjun , Xu Yifan , Song Shuai , Zhan Sha , Li Xiaochun , Wang Haixuan , Zhu Zuohua , Yan Li , Peng Yuande , Xie Chunliang
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effects of three different single-strain probiotics Lactiplantibacillus plantarum XD117, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LC-37, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LGG, on the quality of hempseed fermented milk. The main findings were that adding probiotics increased the inhibition rate of α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase in hempseed fermented milk significantly. Non-targeted metabolomic correlation analysis results confirmed that 14 substances, including three flavonoids, six amino acids and their derivatives, and five short peptides, were positively correlated with the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of hempseed fermented milk. Furthermore, a total of 59 volatile flavor compounds were identified, including aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, acids, and esters, and the role mapping of different probiotic communities was provided. These results can guide the development of hempseed fermented milk with unique flavor, rich probiotic content, and significant functional characteristics.
A Comprehensive Review of Food Safety Culture in the Food Industry: Leadership, Organizational Commitment, and Multicultural Dynamics
Authors: Pai Ashwini Sadashiv , Jaiswal Swarna , Jaiswal Amit K.
Published: December 2024

Food safety culture (FSC) has transitioned from a narrow compliance-based concept to a comprehensive organisational value that is essential for ensuring food safety. This review explores the pivotal roles of leadership, organisational commitment, and cultural diversity in shaping an effective FSC. It highlights how leadership style, particularly transformational leadership, can enhance employee engagement and foster a proactive safety culture. Additionally, the impact of national and organisational cultures on FSC is analysed, emphasising the challenges posed by a multicultural workforce in standardising food safety practices. This article also provides a comparative analysis of FSC across various sectors, such as meat and dairy processing, identifying sector-specific challenges and best practices. In particular, high-risk sectors tend to exhibit a stronger FSC due to regulatory pressure, while other sectors struggle with issues like communication and employee ownership. The importance of integrating behavioural training with cultural considerations is underscored as a key strategy for sustaining a positive FSC. For maintaining a strong FSC, tailored approaches, which account for cultural and operational differences, are necessary for improving food safety outcomes. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for industry professionals and policymakers, offering a foundation for future research and the development of more effective food safety management practices.
Nondestructive Determination of Tocopherol and Tocotrienol in Vitamin E Powder Using Near- and Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Rungchang Saowaluk , Kittiwachana Sila , Funsueb Sujitra , Rachtanapun Chitsiri , Tantala Juthamas , Sookwong Phumon , Yort Laichheang , Sringarm Chayanid , Jiamyangyuen Sudarat
Published: December 2024

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient, but its poor water solubility limits food and pharmaceutical applications. The usability of vitamin E can be enhanced via modification methods such as encapsulation, which transforms the physical state of vitamin E from a liquid to a powder. This study examined the efficacy of near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy in identifying and predicting various vitamin E derivatives in vitamin E-encapsulated powder (VEP). An MIR analysis revealed the fundamental C–H vibrations of vitamin E in the range of 2700–3250 cm−1, whereas an NIR analysis provided information about the corresponding combination, first, and second overtones in the range of 4000–9000 cm−1. The MIR and NIR data were analyzed using a principal component analysis to characterize the VEP. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was applied to predict the content of individual vitamin E derivatives. PLS cross-validation revealed that NIR analysis provides more reliable predictive accuracy and precision for the contents of vitamin E derivatives, achieving a higher coefficient of determination for prediction (Q2) (0.92–0.99) than MIR analysis (0.20–0.85). For test set validation, the NIR predictions exhibited a significant level of accuracy, as indicated by a high ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) and Q2. Furthermore, the PLS models developed using the NIR data had statistically significant predictive performance, with a high RPD (1.54–3.92) and Q2 (0.66–0.94). Thus, NIR spectroscopy is a valuable nondestructive technique for analyzing vitamin E samples, while MIR spectroscopy serves as a useful method for confirming its presence.
The Microbial Diversity and Traceability Analysis of Raw Milk from Buffalo Farms at Different Management Ranks in Guangxi Province
Authors: Miao Wenhao , Wang Dong , Li Ling , Hau Enghuan , Zhang Jiaping , Shi Zongce , Huang Li , Zeng Qingkun , Cui Kuiqing
Published: December 2024

Farm management has a significant impact on microbial composition and may affect the quality of raw buffalo milk. This study involved a diversity analysis and traceability of the microbial communities in raw buffalo milk from three buffalo farms at different management ranks in Guangxi Province, China. The microbial composition of the raw buffalo milk and its environmental sources were investigated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The results demonstrated that different management ranks significantly influenced microbial composition in milk, with the primary sources of contamination varying across farms. The env.OPS_17 was the predominant differential bacterium in farm rank A, whereas Enterobacteriaceae, Aerococcaceae, and Planococcaceae were dominant in farm rank B. The Fast Expectation–Maximization for Microbial Source Tracking model revealed that while the sources of microbial contamination varied across farms at different management ranks, the teat and teat liner consistently emerged as the primary sources of microbial contamination in raw buffalo milk. This study provides important insights into how different farm management ranks affect the microbial composition of raw buffalo milk, highlighting the importance of improved management practices during milk production, particularly in cleaning the milking equipment and farm environment, as these are key factors in ensuring the quality and safety of raw buffalo milk.
Sensory Acceptability of Multiple-Micronutrient-Fortified Lentils in Bangladesh
Authors: Podder Rajib , Yunus Fakir Md , Munaf Nurjahan Binte , Rahman Farzana , Khanam Fouzia , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain , Vandenberg Albert
Published: December 2024

In this study, panelists in rural Bangladesh (n = 150) assessed the sensory attributes of two cooked and uncooked dehulled red lentils: the control (unfortified lentils) and lentils fortified with eight vitamins and two minerals (multiple micronutrient fortified; MMF). The panelists evaluated the appearance, odor, and overall acceptability using a nine-point hedonic scale (1 = extremely dislike; 9 = extremely like). The taste and texture of the cooked lentils, prepared as South Asian lentil meals, were assessed. Consumer responses varied significantly in the appearance of the uncooked lentils but were similar in odor and overall acceptability. Meanwhile, the five traits of the cooked lentils, including overall acceptability, showed significantly similar consumer responses. This suggests that fortification had a minimal impact on the sensory qualities of the MMF lentils. Furthermore, a highly significant (p < 0.0001) correlation coefficient (with values ranging from −0.98 to 0.97) was observed between HunterLab colorimetric measurements (L = luminosity, a* = red hue, and b* = yellow hue) and sensory trait ratings. The Cronbach’s alpha (CA) score for both the cooked control and MMF lentils was 0.79. The average CA score for the cooked lentils was 0.79, while for the uncooked lentils, it was 0.71, demonstrating the strong reliability of the panelists’ assessments. Overall, the sensory qualities of the MMF lentils were acceptable and did not differ significantly from those of the control lentils.
Influence of Smoking and Paprika Spice on the Content of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Traditional Spanish Smoked Sausage ‘Botillo del Bierzo’
Authors: Fuertes-Martínez Jaime R. , Guerra Marcos , Rodríguez-González Álvaro , del Valle-Herrero Héctor , Valenciano José B. , Marcelo Víctor
Published: December 2024

The content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a traditional Spanish smoked sausage known as ‘Botillo del Bierzo’ was analysed. The determination and quantification of PAH4 (the sum of benzo[a]pyrene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]-fluoranthene and chrysene) in the smoked sausage were performed using GC–MS. The results showed that smoking ‘Botillo del Bierzo’ for 24 h contributes very little to the increase in PAH levels in the product, with no significant differences (p < 0.05). The paprika used in the production of botillo also contributes to PAH content, depending on the paprika’s production process (smoked, low-smoked, mixed paprika (smoked + unsmoked or low-smoked + unsmoked), and unsmoked), with significant differences among them (p < 0.05). Using paprika with a lower PAH content (unsmoked or mixed) enables the production of ‘Botillo del Bierzo’, in accordance with Protected Geographical Indication specifications, with a lower PAH content while maintaining the organoleptic characteristics provided by the paprika. The contamination levels detected in ‘Botillo del Bierzo’ do not pose a risk to consumer health, as the benzo[a]pyrene and PAH4 values are well below the regulatory limits of 5 μg/kg and 30 μg/kg, respectively.
Diabase Intrusion-Induced Changes in Shale Pore Structure in Subei Basin: Insights from Mono- and Multifractal Analysis of N2 Adsorption
Authors: Hua Zuxian , Liu Xiaoping , Sun Biao , Liu Tian , Liu Qidong , Duan Hongliang , Liu Shili , Zheng Yue , Peng Wendi , Xie Wenhui
Published: December 2024

Diabase intrusion is a common geological phenomenon in lacustrine shale formations in continental basins in China, which has important effects on the physical and chemical properties of shale oil reservoirs. In this paper, we systematically analyzed the pore structure of diabase-intruded lacustrine shale in the Gaoyou sag of the Subei Basin using geochemical tests, thin-section observation, argon ion polishing scanning electron microscopy (SEM), low-temperature nitrogen adsorption experiments (LTNA), and other methods combined with monofractal and multifractal theories. The results show that the intrusion metamorphic segments are a diabase zone, hornfels zone, slate zone, and normal shale zone from the intrusion center. The pores of hornfels and slate are mostly oriented and dissolution is obvious. Many microfractures and secondary minerals such as quartz and chlorite are observed. The pore volumes of diabase and hornfels are small, while those of slate and normal shale are larger. The monofractal dimensions D1 and D2 of the intrusion segment show a general trend of decreasing first and then increasing from the intrusion center to the shale zone. The multifractal parameters’ H index decreases gradually from the lower normal shale to the upper metamorphic zone hornfels, while Δα and Rd increase gradually. The total organic carbon (TOC) content of the intrusion zone has little effect on the pore structure, and the fractal characteristics fluctuate weakly, while the vitrinite reflectivity (Ro) value change has a significant impact on the monofractal characteristics of the shale pore. Pore volume also affects the pore heterogeneity; the larger the specific surface area (SSA) and total pore volume (TPV), the lower the pore heterogeneity and the higher the surface roughness and pore connectivity. The diabase intrusion caused three modification mechanisms of mechanical squeezing, the thermal effect, and chemical action on the shale surrounding rocks, resulting in different degrees of pore formation or change. The pore evolution model of the metamorphic belt with the combined action of “mechanical-thermal-chemical” is established, and the influence of diabase intrusion on the pore types and pore size distribution (PSD) of shale reservoirs is quantitatively described, providing a new perspective and method for understanding the impact of diabase intrusion on the characteristics and exploration potential of shale oil reservoirs.
Energy Dissipation Law of the Temporal Variable-Step Fractional BDF2 Scheme for Space–Time-Fractional Cahn–Hilliard Equation
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Hu Bingqing , Sun Hong
Published: December 2024

A high-order variable-step numerical scheme is formulated for the space–time-fractional Cahn–Hilliard equation, employing the variable-step fractional BDF2 formula. The unique solvability and mass conservation at the discretization setting are established. Subject to the constraint of time-step ratios, i.e., 0.4159≤rk≤4.660, a careful analysis based on the discrete gradient structure of the fractional BDF2 formula reveals that the proposed scheme adheres to the energy dissipation law. Remarkably, the modified energy exhibits asymptotic compatibility with that of the classical Cahn–Hilliard equation. Moreover, the modified energy dissipation law of the resulting scheme for the space–time-fractional Cahn–Hilliard equation aligns asymptotically with that of the variable-step BDF2 scheme for its classical counterpart. Finally, a few numerical experiments combined with the adaptive method are presented, which confirm the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Bifurcation Analysis and Chaos Control of a Discrete Fractional-Order Modified Leslie–Gower Model with Nonlinear Harvesting Effects
Authors: Shi Yao , Liu Xiaozhen , Wang Zhenyu
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the dynamical behavior of a discrete fractional-order modified Leslie–Gower model with a Michaelis–Menten-type harvesting mechanism and a Holling-II functional response. We analyze the existence and stability of the nonnegative equilibrium points. For the interior equilibrium points, we study the conditions for period-doubling and Neimark–Sacker bifurcations using the center manifold theorem and bifurcation theory. To control the chaos arising from these bifurcations, two chaos control strategies are proposed. Numerical simulations are performed to validate the theoretical results. The findings provide valuable insights into the sustainable management and conservation of ecological systems.
An Iterative Method for the Approximation of Common Fixed Points of Two Mappings: Application to Fractal Functions
Authors: Navascués María A.
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes an iterative algorithm for the search for common fixed points of two mappings. The properties of approximation and convergence of the method are analyzed in the context of Banach spaces. In particular, this article provides sufficient conditions for the strong convergence of the sequence generated by the iterative scheme to a common fixed point of two operators. The method is illustrated with some examples of application. The procedure is used to approach a common solution of two Fredholm integral equations of the second kind. In the second part of the article, the existence of a fractal function coming from two different Read–Bajraktarević operators is proved. Afterwards, a study of the approximation of fixed points of a fractal convolution of operators is performed, in the framework of Lebesgue or Bochner spaces.
Effect of Phosphorus Deprivation on Fatty Acid Synthesis in Scenedesmus subspicatus Microalgae from Rostherne Mere
Authors: Qari Huda A. , Al-Shaeri Majed Ahmed , Oves Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Numerous studies have examined the feasibility of using microalgae as a long-term source of biofuel. This helped us to determine how different amounts of phosphorus changed the growth of lipids in Scenedesmus subspicatus, a freshwater microalga. This study examined the effects of various phosphorus concentrations on the biochemical makeup of algae, particularly the production of proteins and carbohydrates. When there was insufficient phosphorus, the investigation observed a significant increase in lipids and productivity of S. subspicatus. Additionally, gas chromatography was used to examine the fatty acid profiles of the green algae thoroughly. When Scenedesmus species were tested at different cell densities, the highest amount of chlorophyll was found to be 0.89 mg/L. The amounts of fatty acids in algae grown with 0.4 and 0.04 P of phosphorus were strongly correlated, as shown by the Pearson linear correlation coefficients. Gas chromatography analysis revealed that the major saturated fatty acids were stearic acid (C18:0) and palmitic acid (C16:0). In addition, confirming the presence of several unsaturated fatty acids (C16:3, C18:1, C18:2, and C18:3) has helped us learn more about S. subspicatus’s complex lipid profile of S. subspicatus and how well it can be used to produce biofuels.