bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Energy Storage System Dispatch Optimization for Cost and Environmental Impact Analysis
Authors: Preto Miguel , Lucas Alexandre , Benedicto Pedro
Published: June 2024

Incorporating renewables in the power grid presents challenges for stability, reliability, and operational efficiency. Integrating energy storage systems (ESSs) offers a solution by managing unpredictable loads, enhancing reliability, and serving the grid. Hybrid storage solutions have gained attention for specific applications, suggesting higher performance in some respects. This article compares the performance of hybrid energy storage systems (HESSs) to a single battery, evaluating their energy supply cost and environmental impact through optimization problems. The optimization model is based on a MILP incorporating the energy and degradation terms. It generates an optimized dispatch, minimizing cost or environmental impact of supplying energy to a generic load. Seven technologies are assessed, with an example applied to an industrial site combining a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) and lithium battery considering the demand of a local load (building). The results indicate that efficiency and degradation curves have the highest impact in the final costs and environmental functions on the various storage technologies assessed. For the simulations of the example case, a single system only outperforms the hybrid system in cases where lithium efficiency is higher than approximately 87% and vanadium is lower approximately 82%.
Benefit Evaluation of Carbon Reduction in Power Transmission and Transformation Projects Based on the Modified TOPSIS-RSR Method
Authors: Wang Yinan , Chen Heng , Zhao Shuyuan , Fan Lanxin , Xin Cheng , Jiang Xue , Yao Fan
Published: June 2024

In order to fully achieve energy saving goals, it is necessary to establish a comprehensive evaluation system for carbon reduction in transmission and transformation projects. Subsequently, weights were assigned to these indicators using a combination of the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) and the entropy weight method (EWM) through both subjective and objective methods. Finally, the ultimate weights were obtained by applying the principle of minimum information. During the construction of the evaluation model, the rank–sum ratio (RSR) method was introduced into the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) for approximating ideal solution ranking. And the Euclidean distance in TOPSIS was replaced with standardized Euclidean distance, effectively avoiding evaluation discrepancies caused by different dimensions. The modified TOPSIS-RSR method was utilized to evaluate and rank power transmission and transformation projects in four regions. By comparing the test values of the two models, the superiority of the enhanced model was confirmed. Furthermore, the GM (1,1) model is used to predict the electricity sales volume of the optimal ranking area. This evaluation model can also be applied to the benefit evaluation of carbon reduction benefits in power transmission and transformation projects in other regions.
A Bibliometric Analysis of the Mechanisms Underlying Drought-Induced Tree Mortality
Authors: Gao Yaqian , Chen Zetao , Chen Jiaxian , Yang Ling , Li Jiyue , He Qian , Qiu Quan , Su Yan
Published: June 2024

Drought intensity and frequency have increased in recent years, which poses significant threats to forest ecosystems, especially in the context of global climate change. This paper is aimed at summarizing the current state of research and global development trends regarding drought-induced tree mortality mechanisms in tree physiology. Developing a robust literature foundation will facilitate in-depth research and foster the exchange of knowledge related to this subject. A literature review was conducted using tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the Bibliometrix R-package to review the literature from the Web of Science’s core database from 1985 to 2023. We intend to determine the current state and evolution of global research on drought-induced tree mortality mechanisms. The results reveal that research on drought-induced tree mortality mechanisms gained momentum predominantly in the last two decades, with a marked surge post-2012. The United States is the epicenter of research, leading the global scientific community with its preeminence in publication volume, citation rates, and the scope of collaborative networks, with China in close pursuit. Tree Physiology stands out as the leading journal in this domain, boasting 129 articles. McDowell NG emerges as the most prolific author, with an H-index of 41, underscoring his influence in the field. There is a clear upward trend in collaborations spanning authors, journals, research institutions, and countries. The analysis of frequently cited keywords and topic evolution suggests that drought and tree mortality will likely remain key research areas for the foreseeable future. The future of research on drought-induced tree mortality mechanisms in physiology is promising, as it emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches and global collaborations.
Effects of Dowel Rotation Welding Conditions on Connection Performance for Chinese Fir Dimension Lumbers
Authors: Zhong Xiao , Li De , Xu Xiaoxue , Li Quan , Yu Danyun , Wu Zhigang , Liang Jiankun , Peng Jun , Gu Wen , Zhao Xin , Yin Shuang , Yang Guifen , Gong Feiyan
Published: June 2024

In this study, the rotating welding process of Chinese fir (Keteleeriafortunei) in Guizhou, China, was systematically analyzed. The effects of rotating welding conditions, including the dowel-to-guide hole diameter ratio, welding time, depth, base surface, angle, and dowel type, on the performance of welded Chinese fir were explored. Moreover, the physical and chemical changes oftheChinese fir interface during welding were revealed by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results indicated the following: (1) The rotating welding technology can quickly achieve a strong connection between wood through friction heat without chemical adhesives and compared with traditional wood connection technology such as gluing or mechanical fixing;it has the advantages of simple operation, high production efficiency; and environmental friendliness. (2) Aftertherotating welding, the wood underwent significant pyrolysis, especially the degradation of hemicellulose. The heat generated in the welding process caused good melting and mechanical interlocking between the dowel and the wall of the guide hole, but it was also accompanied by afriction loss of the dowel and the substrate. (3) The welding parameters affected the wood’s connection strength and stability by altering heat production, distribution, transfer, and frictional losses. The impact of the dowel-to-guide hole diameter ratio had a great influence on the connection strength. When the diameter ratio was 1:0.7, the tensile strength was the highest, reaching 2.27 MPa. (4) The analyses of XPS, FTIR, XRD, and SEM proved thatthechemical composition changes at the interface, leading to a more structured crystalline bond and enhanced connection strength due to fiber entanglement and interlocking. This research providesatheoretical and experimental basis forthefurther innovation and development of wood processing technology and provides a new technical path forthegreen manufacturing of wood structure buildings.
Predicting Soil Erosion Using RUSLE and GeoSOS-FLUS Models: A Case Study in Kunming, China
Authors: Lai Jinlin , Li Jiashun , Liu Li
Published: June 2024

Revealing the relationship between land use changes and soil erosion provides a reference for formulating future land use strategies. This study simulated historical and future soil erosion changes based on the RULSE and GeoSOS-FLUS models and used a random forest model to explain the relative importance of natural and anthropogenic factors on soil erosion. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) From 1990 to 2020, significant changes in land use occurred in Kunming, with a continuous reduction in woodland, grassland, and cropland, being converted into construction land, which grew by 195.18% compared with 1990. (2) During this period, the soil erosion modulus decreased from 133.85 t/(km²·a) in 1990 to 130.32 t/(km²·a) in 2020, with a reduction in soil loss by 74,485.46 t/a, mainly due to the conversion of cropland to construction and ecological lands (woodland, grassland). (3) The expansion of construction land will continue, and it is expected that by 2050, the soil erosion modulus will decrease by 3.77 t/(km²·a), 4.27 t/(km²·a), and 3.27 t/(km²·a) under natural development, rapid development, and ecological protection scenarios, respectively. However, under the cropland protection scenario, the soil erosion modulus increased by 0.26 t/(km²·a) compared with 2020. (4) The spatial pattern of soil erosion is influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors, and as human activities intensify in the future, the influence of anthropogenic factors will further increase. Traditionally, the expansion of construction land is thought to increase soil loss. Our study may offer a new perspective and provide a reference for future land use planning and soil loss management in Kunming.
Understorey Plant Functional Traits of Platycladus orientalis Depends on Crown Closure and Soil Properties in the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Duan Gaohui , Liu Lifeng , Wen Zhongming , Tang Yu , Wang Boheng
Published: June 2024

The crown closure of Platycladus orientalis forests has a wide-ranging impact on vegetation and soil, thereby affecting the overall functioning of the ecosystem. There is limited research on the effects of the Platycladus orientalis forest crown closure on changes in community plant functional traits, and their interactions are not yet clear. Therefore, we investigated 50 plots of different types of Platycladus orientalis crown closure, and we measured the functional traits of nine shrub species and 68 herb species in 50 plots under five different densities of Platycladus orientalis forests in the Loess Plateau. The consequence of Pearson’s correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations between LC and LTD, LN and LP, LN and LNP, LN and LV, LN and H, LP and LV, LP and H, and SLA and LV (p < 0.05). LC was significantly negatively correlated with LP, LC with SLA, LC with LV, LN with LTD, LP with LNP, LP with LTD, and LTD with H (p < 0.05). Only the soil phosphorus content (SP) and soil water content (SWC) showed a significant positive correlation with multiple plant functional traits. The crown closure of Platycladus orientalis forests increased significantly, as did the plant functional features. Changes in the Platycladus orientalis forest crown closure significantly increased the LC, LV, LN, LP, and SLA in plant functional traits. An increase in Platycladus orientalis forest crown closure significantly increased the soil organic carbon (SC), soil phosphorus content (SP), soil nitrogen content (SN), soil water content (SWC), field capacity (FC), and soil porosity (PO). Based on a structural equation model, we found that, while changes in the Platycladus orientalis forest crown closure did not directly affect plant functional traits, they could indirectly influence these traits through soil factors, primarily the soil water content (SWC) and soil phosphorus content (SP) (p < 0.05). Additionally, the mechanisms of the Platycladus orientalis forest crown closure’s impact on different functional traits vary. The research results provide scientific elements for the ecological restoration of Platycladus orientalis forests on the Loess Plateau.
Involvement of the Transporter CgTrk1 in Potassium Uptake, Invasive Growth, and Full Virulence in Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Wang Zhi , Yang Jiyun , Sun Meiling , Pan Yuting , Huang Lin
Published: June 2024

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is one of the more economically important pathogen causing anthracnose on crops and trees worldwide. As an essential mineral nutrient, potassium play a vital role for fundamental cellular processes in organisms. In this study, a high-affinity potassium transporter CgTrk1 was identified in C. gloeosporioides. Cytological examinations revealed that CgTrk1 was localized in the plasma membrane. The gene deletion mutant of CgTRK1 significantly depressed the potassium uptake. CgTrk1 is also required for vegetative growth, appressorium development, invasive growth, and full virulence. The data also indicate that CgTrk1 plays dominant roles in potassium uptake and pathogenicity rather than its homologous protein CgTrk2. These results imply that the potassium transporter CgTrk1 is involved in invasive growth and full virulence in C. gloeosporioides.
Virulence and Pathological Characteristics of a New Metarhizium anisopliae Strain against Asian Long-Horn Beetle Anoplophora glabripennis Larvae
Authors: Zheng Ji-Yang , Jian Chun-Cheng , Wang Dun
Published: June 2024

The Asian long-horn beetle (ALB) is a serious wood-boring insect. Continuous isolation of different fungal strains is vital for using fungi for the control of ALB. The virulence and pathological characteristics of a new Metarhizium anisopliae strain DES3 isolated from the desert afforestation stands against the larvae of ALB were assessed in this study. The corrected mortality reached 100% at the conidial concentration of 109 and 108 conidia/mL, and 91.11 ± 4.44% at 107 conidia/mL. Similarly, the LC/LT showed high virulence as well. Meanwhile, the virulence of a commercial M. anisopliae strain against the ALB larvae was evaluated. The corrected mortality was only 33.33% at 109 conidia/mL, and less than 10% at 108 conidia/mL. The pathological characteristics after infection by the M. anisopliae strain DES3 were evident, mainly embodied in the rupture of the adipose tissue, muscle tissue, and midgut. But there was no obvious change after infection by the commercial M. anisopliae strain. In conclusion, these results establish that the M. anisopliae strain DES3 has high virulence in a dosage-dependent manner against ALB larvae, indicating the potential of fungal strain DES3 to be developed as biopesticide for biocontrol of A. glabripennis.
A Multi-Criterion Evaluation Process for Determining Cost-Effective Harvesting Systems in Fragmented Boreal Forests
Authors: Painchaud Léo , LeBel Luc
Published: June 2024

Nordic forests, like those found in Canada, used to consist of large and relatively homogeneous mature stands. Such a spatial pattern allows for harvest operations to be highly concentrated, minimizing procurement costs. However, the growing fragmentation of these forests makes planning difficult and increases the costs of road building and machinery relocation. While operational solutions have been developed in regions with small harvest areas, their transferability to different settings is unknown. Finding the most suitable combination of equipment for a given context is challenging considering the multitude of possibilities. The objective of this study is to identify, from all possible options, a subset of harvest systems expected to perform well in fragmented boreal forests. The results from this research are two-fold. First, a comprehensive review of forest machines and harvest systems is provided. Second, a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) methodology is proposed to evaluate the alternatives. In a boreal forest context, the conventional harvester-forwarder system (CTL) was ranked among the best solutions, along with mild adaptations of the usual configurations. Several whole-tree (WT) system configurations were also highly ranked. While the results are specific to the case studied, the review and selection methodology can serve in different operational contexts.
Metabolic Engineering of Bacillus subtilis for the Production of Poly-γ-Glutamic Acid from Glycerol Feedstock
Authors: Pasotti Lorenzo , Massaiu Ilaria , Magni Paolo , Calvio Cinzia
Published: June 2024

Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is an attractive biopolymer for medical, agri-food, and environmental applications. Although microbial synthesis by Bacilli fed on waste streams has been widely adopted, the obtainment of efficient sustainable production processes is still under investigation by bioprocess and metabolic engineering approaches. The abundant glycerol-rich waste generated in the biodiesel industry can be used as a carbon source for γ-PGA production. Here, we studied fermentation performance in different engineered Bacillus subtilis strains in glycerol-based media, considering a swrA+ degU32Hy mutant as the initial producer strain and glucose-based media for comparison. Modifications included engineering the biosynthetic pgs operon regulation (replacing its native promoter with Physpank), precursor accumulation (sucCD or odhAB deletion), and enhanced glutamate racemization (racE overexpression), predicted as crucial reactions by genome-scale model simulations. All interventions increased productivity in glucose-based media, with Physpank-pgs ∆sucCD showing the highest γ-PGA titer (52 g/L). Weaker effects were observed in glycerol-based media: ∆sucCD and Physpank-pgs led to slight improvements under low- and high-glutamate conditions, respectively, reaching ~22 g/L γ-PGA (26% increase). No performance decrease was detected by replacing pure glycerol with crude glycerol waste from a biodiesel plant, and by a 30-fold scale-up. These results may be relevant for improving industrial γ-PGA production efficiency and process sustainability using waste feedstock. The performance differences observed between glucose and glycerol media also motivate additional computational and experimental studies to design metabolically optimized strains.
Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted 3D Mesh Models Based on Multi-Group Partition and Closest Pair Prediction
Authors: Wang Xu , Liu Jui-Chuan , Chang Ching-Chun , Chang Chin-Chen
Published: June 2024

The reversible data hiding scheme in the encrypted domain is a potential solution to the concerns regarding user privacy in cloud applications. The 3D mesh model is an emerging file format and is widely used in engineering modeling, special effects, and video games. However, studies on reversible data hiding in encrypted 3D mesh models are still in the preliminary stage. In this paper, two novel techniques, multi-group partition (MGP) and closest pair prediction (CPP), are proposed to improve performance. The MGP technique adaptively classifies vertices into reference and embeddable vertices, while the CPP technique efficiently predicts embeddable vertices and generates shorter recovery information to vacate more redundancy for additional data embedding. Experimental results indicate that the proposed scheme significantly improves the embedding rate compared to state-of-the-art schemes and can be used in real-time applications.
Development of a Theoretical Model for Digital Risks Arising from the Implementation of Industry 4.0 (TMR-I4.0)
Authors: dos Santos Filho Vitor Hugo , de Resende Luis Maurício Martins , Pontes Joseane
Published: June 2024

This study aims to develop a theoretical model for digital risks arising from implementing Industry 4.0 (represented by the acronym TMR-I4.0). A systematic literature review was initially conducted using the Methodi Ordinatio methodology to map the principal dimensions and digital risks associated with Industry 4.0 in order to achieve this objective. After completing the nine steps of Methodi, a bibliographic portfolio with 118 articles was obtained. These articles were then subjected to content analysis using QSR Nvivo® version 10 software to categorize digital risks. The analysis resulted in the identification of 9 dimensions and 43 digital risks. The categorization of these risks allowed the construction of maps showing the digital risks and their impacts resulting from the implementation of Industry 4.0. This study advances the literature by proposing a comprehensive categorization of digital risks associated with Industry 4.0, which resulted from an exhaustive literature review. At the conclusion of the study, based on the proposed Theoretical Risk Model for Digital Risks arising from the implementation of Industry 4.0, a research agenda for future studies will be proposed, enabling other researchers to further explore the landscape of digital risks in Industry 4.0.
Simulation of Fire Evacuation in a Naturally Ventilated Bifurcated Tunnel
Authors: Chen Jianhong , Hu Zekun , Yang Shan
Published: June 2024

The natural wind velocities in tunnels under different natural conditions are distinct, and the longitudinal ventilation velocity significantly impacts the evacuation environment. This paper examines the evacuation conditions and strategies under varying wind velocities in bifurcated tunnels. Using Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) and Pathfinder software, the fire development and evacuation of three distinct longitudinal positions in a bifurcated tunnel are simulated. The simulation results demonstrate that the evacuation conditions for disparate fire sources at varying wind velocities are markedly disparate. In consideration of the construction cost and the maximization of evacuation capacity, the width of the evacuation doors at the three locations should be set to 2 m, 1.5 m, and 1.5 m, respectively. Furthermore, an analysis of the safety of individual personnel through Fractional Effective Dose (FED) revealed that directing evacuees towards the upstream of the fire after the fire is detected can significantly reduce individual personnel injuries while ensuring the overall success of the evacuation.
Fires and Clear-Cuttings as Local Areas of Arthropod Diversity in Polar Regions: Khibiny Mountains
Authors: Zenkova Irina V. , Ditts Alla A. , Shtabrovskaya Irina M. , Nekhaeva Anna A.
Published: June 2024

The well-known phenomenon of attracting untypical animals to disturbed territories has been poorly investigated in the polar mountains. We studied arthropod diversity in self-healing industrial clear-cuts and burn areas in the Khibiny Mountains, Kola Polar region. Fieldworks were conducted at four sites, including a control mountain taiga forest and its three transformed variants: burnt forest, uncleared clear-cut, and twice-disturbed burnt clear-cut. Arthropods were collected using formalin traps 2–3, 5–6, and 8–9 years after industrial deforestation in 2012 and an extensive grass-roots fire in 2013. Out of 124 identified species (spiders—61; ground beetles—41; and rove beetles—22), 79 (or 64%) were collected in disturbed, primarily burned areas and were absent in control forest. We note ten species of rove beetles, nine species of ground beetles, and eight species of spiders for the first time in the well-studied arthropod fauna of the Khibiny Mts. We found that grass-root fires transform the soil vegetation covers in the polar mountain forests more powerfully in comparison with extensive deforestation and attract a greater diversity of arthropods with different preferences, enriching the fauna of the polar mountains and the Subarctic region as a whole. The attraction effect persists for, at least, a decade after the violations.
Pharmacokinetics and Withdrawal Times of Cefotaxime in White Leg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) after Oral Administration
Authors: Huynh Thi Kim Duyen , Scippo Marie-Louise , Devreese Mathias , Croubels Siska , Nguyen Quoc Thinh , Douny Caroline , Dang Thi Hoang Oanh , Le Quoc Viet , Tran Minh Phu
Published: June 2024

A high-performance liquid chromatography method coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was validated in order to study the pharmacokinetics of cefotaxime in shrimp hepatopancreases and plasma, as well as its withdrawal time related to a maximum residue limit (MRL) in shrimp muscle. Pharmacokinetics parameters were investigated through oral medication at a single dose of 25 mg/kg shrimp body weight and subsequent hepatopancreas and plasma cefotaxime concentration measurements at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after shrimp were fed with medication. The maximum concentration of cefotaxime was observed after one hour in the hepatopancreas (Cmax, 19.45 ± 2.10 mg/kg) and 4 h in plasma (0.184 ± 0.061 mg/L). Based on a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cefotaxime of 4.13 mg/L against Vibrio parahaemolyticus (known to cause acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) in white leg shrimp), it was observed that the time during which the hepatopancreas cefotaxime concentration was above the MIC was 23 h. An every 24 h cefotaxime treatment could thus be effective in fighting against this bacterium in shrimp. The withdrawal time of cefotaxime was determined after shrimp were fed with medicated feed once a day and twice a day for three consecutive days. Shrimp muscle was collected on day 1 and day 3 during medication and 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after medication was stopped. Considering an MRL of 50 μg/kg, the withdrawal times were 8.5 degree-days (corresponding to 6.9 h at 29.5 °C) after shrimp were fed with medicated feed once a day for 3 days and 95.5 degree-days (77.7 h at 29.5 °C) after shrimp were fed with medicated feed twice a day for 3 days. Moreover, histological analysis revealed that feeding shrimp with cefotaxime at the given dose in once- or twice-a-day treatments did not negatively impact the shrimp hepatopancreas.
Efficiency of Alginic Acid, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, and Potassium Polyaspartate as Calcium Tartrate Stabilizers in Wines
Authors: Cosme Fernanda , Filipe-Ribeiro Luís , Coixão Ana , Bezerra Mário , Nunes Fernando M.
Published: June 2024

The instability of calcium tartrate (CaT) in wines occurs when the effective concentration of ions surpasses the solubility product, leading to the formation of CaT crystals. Unlike potassium hydrogen tartrate (KHT), temperature has little effect on the rate of CaT precipitation, making cold stabilization ineffective. Additives like metatartaric acid and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) have been used to mitigate this problem, but metatartaric acid’s effectiveness is limited due to hydrolysis. Additionally, potassium polyaspartate (KPA), commonly used as a KHT stabilizer, has been reported to reduce wine stability regarding CaT instability. Therefore, exploring alternative stabilization methods is crucial. Alginic acid, permitted as a processing aid in winemaking, can be an alternative to CMC and metatartaric acid due to its strong negative charge and ability to bind calcium ions. This study aimed to assess alginic acid’s efficacy as a CaT stabilizer compared to CMC and investigate the impact of KPA on CaT instability. The results showed that KPA did not increase CaT instability and even improved its stability in some wines. Alginic acid outperformed both CMC and KPA in mitigating CaT instability, possibly due to its higher zeta potential and calcium ion complexation ability. This study is the first to investigate the use of alginic acid for CaT stability in wine.
Assessing Nutritional Characteristics and Bioactive Compound Distribution in Seeds, Oil, and Cake from Confectionary Sunflowers Cultivated in Serbia
Authors: Grahovac Nada , Lužaić Tanja , Živančev Dragan , Stojanović Zorica , Đurović Ana , Romanić Ranko , Kravić Snežana , Miklič Vladimir
Published: June 2024

Sunflower seeds are key agricultural commodities due to their nutritional and industrial value. This study aimed to analyze the distribution of targeted bioactive compounds and assess the physical properties across 27 sunflower seed genotypes, including parental lines and F1 and F2 hybrids, cultivated in Serbia. Various analytical techniques were employed to determine the chemical composition and physical characteristics of the seeds. This research revealed significant genetic variability in fatty acid profiles, with differences in polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acid levels among the genotypes. Hybrid seeds displayed variations in 1000-seed weight and bulk density compared to parental lines, which exhibited higher essential fatty acid contents and mechanical properties advantageous for industrial processing. These insights highlight the potential for refining breeding strategies to improve seed quality for specific industrial purposes. Overall, this study emphasizes the critical role of genetic selection in enhancing the nutritional and processing qualities of sunflower seeds, offering valuable perspectives for advancing agricultural and breeding practices.
Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Properties, Phytochemical Profile, and Antioxidant Activities between Red and Green Water Chestnut (Trapa natans) Fruits
Authors: Rehman Aniq Ur , Khan Azmat Ullah , Sohaib Muhammad , Rehman Habib
Published: June 2024

The present study explored the nutritional composition, phytochemicals analysis, and antioxidant capacity of two indigenous varieties of red and green water chestnut (WCN) fruit grown in Pakistan. Accordingly, this study was designed to investigate the proximate composition (moisture, ash, fiber, proteins, fat, and energy), physicochemical properties (pH, °Brix, and glycemic index), minerals, and vitamins. The methanolic extracts of WCN fruits were explored for phytochemicals (total phenolic and flavonoid content), and antioxidant potential was examined in vitro by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity (DPPH) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Quantitative determination of mineral (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, copper, and zinc) and vitamin (vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin A, and β-Carotene) composition was also assessed. Based on the findings, the proximate compositions of WCN green and red varieties varied greatly as WCN green contained significantly higher protein (1.72%), fat (0.65%), dietary fiber (2.21%), moisture (70.23%), ash (1.16%), and energy content (112.8 Kcal) than WCN red. In WCN green, the macro–micromineral concentrations were significantly higher than WCN red. Among the minerals analyzed, potassium was the most abundant mineral found in both varieties. Levels of vitamin C, B6, A, and β-Carotene were significantly higher in WCN green. In this study, methanolic extract showed higher extraction efficiency than acetone, ethanol, and distilled water. WCN green had a significantly higher quantum of total phenolic (91.13 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid (36.6 mg QE/g) and presented significantly higher antioxidant activity than the WCN red. This study showed that, among both varieties, WCN green extract has therapeutic potential against free radical mediated health conditions and suggested the potential use of this fruit as a source of natural antioxidants in nutraceuticals.
Biological Detoxification of Aflatoxin B1 by Enterococcus faecium HB2-2
Authors: Feng Jiangtao , Cao Ling , Du Xiaoyan , Zhang Yvying , Cong Yanxia , He Junbo , Zhang Weinong
Published: June 2024

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination in food and feed is a global health and economic threat, necessitating the immediate development of effective strategies to mitigate its negative effects. This study focuses on the isolation and characterization of Enterococcus faecium HB2-2 (E. faecium HB2-2) as a potent AFB1-degrading microorganism, using morphological observation, biochemical profiling, and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. An incubation of E. faecium HB2-2 at 32 °C for 96 h in a pH 10 nutrient broth (NB) medium resulted in a remarkable degradation rate of 90.0% for AFB1. Furthermore, E. faecium HB2-2 demonstrated 82.9% AFB1 degradation rate in the peanut meal, reducing AFB1 levels from 105.1 to 17.9 μg/kg. The AFB1 degradation ability of E. faecium HB2-2 was found to be dependent on the fermentation supernatant. The products of AFB1 degradation by E. faecium HB2-2 were analyzed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and a possible degradation mechanism was proposed based on the identified degradation products. Additionally, cytotoxicity assays revealed a significant reduction in the toxicity of the degradation products compared to the parent AFB1. These findings highlight the potential of E. faecium HB2-2 as a safe and effective method for mitigating AFB1 contamination in food and feed.
Metals on the Menu—Analyzing the Presence, Importance, and Consequences
Authors: Milanković Vedran , Tasić Tamara , Leskovac Andreja , Petrović Sandra , Mitić Miloš , Lazarević-Pašti Tamara , Novković Mirjana , Potkonjak Nebojša
Published: June 2024

Metals are integral components of the natural environment, and their presence in the food supply is inevitable and complex. While essential metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and copper are crucial for various physiological functions and must be consumed through the diet, others, like lead, mercury, and cadmium, are toxic even at low concentrations and pose serious health risks. This study comprehensively analyzes the presence, importance, and consequences of metals in the food chain. We explore the pathways through which metals enter the food supply, their distribution across different food types, and the associated health implications. By examining current regulatory standards for maximum allowable levels of various metals, we highlight the importance of ensuring food safety and protecting public health. Furthermore, this research underscores the need for continuous monitoring and management of metal content in food, especially as global agricultural and food production practices evolve. Our findings aim to inform dietary recommendations, food fortification strategies, and regulatory policies, ultimately contributing to safer and more nutritionally balanced diets.
Single-Cell Protein and Ethanol Production of a Newly Isolated Kluyveromyces marxianus Strain through Cheese Whey Valorization
Authors: Koukoumaki Danai Ioanna , Papanikolaou Seraphim , Ioannou Zacharias , Mourtzinos Ioannis , Sarris Dimitris
Published: June 2024

The present work examined the production of single-cell protein (SCP) by a newly isolated strain of Kluyveromyces marxianus EXF-5288 under increased lactose concentration of deproteinized cheese whey (DCW) and different temperatures (in °C: 20.0, 25.0, 30.0 and 35.0). To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report examining the ability of Kluyveromyces marxianus species to produce SCP at T = 20.0 °C. Different culture temperatures led to significant differences in the strain’s growth, while maximum biomass and SCP production (14.24 ± 0.70 and 6.14 ± 0.66 g/L, respectively) were observed in the cultivation of K. marxianus strain EXF-5288 in shake-flask cultures at T = 20.0 °C. Increased DCW lactose concentrations (35.0–100.0 g/L) led to increased ethanol production (Ethmax = 35.5 ± 0.2 g/L), suggesting that K. marxianus strain EXF-5288 is “Crabtree-positive”. Batch-bioreactor trials shifted the strain’s metabolism to alcoholic fermentation, favoring ethanol production. Surprisingly, K. marxianus strain EXF-5288 was able to catabolize the produced ethanol under limited carbon presence in the medium. The dominant amino acids in SCP were glutamate (15.5 mg/g), aspartic acid (12.0 mg/g) and valine (9.5 mg/g), representing a balanced nutritional profile
Enhanced Frying Efficiency at Low Temperatures Utilizing a Novel Planetary Fryer
Authors: Lioumbas John S. , Anastasopoulou Despoina , Vlachou Maria , Kostoglou Margaritis , Karapantsios Theodoros
Published: June 2024

This study aims to optimize the frying process of natural porous materials (like potatoes) by enhancing heat and mass transfer phenomena through significant horizontal acceleration values following a spatially periodic pattern that alternates the intensity of inertia forces uniformly across the frying vessel. The generated horizontal inertial forces act complementary to the normal vertical buoyancy force for the creation of agitating convective currents in the oil and for vapor bubbles’ departure from the surface of frying objects. The use of an innovative frying device, employing simultaneous rotation around two vertical axes at a different speed in a so-called planetary type of motion, serves to facilitate this production of horizontal acceleration values that allows intensifying the performance of frying. The present investigation examines the impact of rotational speed, along with oil temperature and frying duration, on the water loss and sensory evaluation of fried items. The potato-to-oil ratios typically found in industrial frying operations are employed. The intended outcome is a more energy-efficient frying process, reduced cooking times, and a healthier product due to lower frying temperatures and the consequent decreased formation of harmful compounds. This approach carries substantial implications for food processing, potentially enhancing productivity while limiting operational costs.
Fruit Quality Analysis and Flavor Comprehensive Evaluation of Cherry Tomatoes of Different Colors
Authors: Chang Youlin , Zhang Xiaodan , Wang Cheng , Ma Ning , Xie Jianming , Zhang Jing
Published: June 2024

Cherry tomatoes are popular vegetables worldwide owing to their variety of colors and nutrients. However, an integrated evaluation of color and flavor has rarely been reported. This study examined the differences among red, brown, yellow, and green cherry tomatoes grown in the Jiuquan area. A comprehensive analysis of the flavor quality of these tomatoes, including sensory evaluation, electronic nose analysis, nutritional and flavor quality measurements, targeted metabolomics, and chemometrics, was conducted. Red tomatoes had the highest lycopene content, and green tomatoes had the highest soluble protein and vitamin C content. In cherry tomatoes, K is the most abundant macro element and Fe and Zn are the most abundant trace elements. Brown cherry tomatoes had significantly higher K, P, Mg, Cu and Fe contents than other colored tomatoes, and red tomatoes had significantly higher Zn content than other cherry tomatoes (218.8–724.3%). Yellow cherry tomatoes had the highest soluble sugar content, followed by red, brown and green tomatoes. A total of 20 amino acids of tomatoes were simultaneously determined by LC–MS. Yellow cherry tomatoes have the highest content of essential amino acids, aromatic amino acids and sweetness amino acids. Red tomatoes have the highest levels of non-essential and sourness amino acid contents. An analysis of 30 flavor indicators revealed that yellow tomatoes had the best flavor, followed by red, brown, and green tomatoes. Our work lays the foundation for future research on color and flavor formation in cherry tomatoes.
Comparative Metabolic Profiling of Different Colored Rice Grains Reveals the Distribution of Major Active Compounds and Key Secondary Metabolites in Green Rice
Authors: Zhao Mingchao , Zhai Linan , Tang Qingjie , Ren Junfang , Zhou Shizhen , Wang Huijian , Yun Yong , Yang Qingwen , Yan Xiaowei , Xing Funeng , Qiao Weihua
Published: June 2024

Pigmented rice grains are important resources for health and nutritional perspectives. Thus, a thorough dissection of the variation of nutrients and bioactive metabolites in different colored rice is of global interest. This study applied LC–MS-based widely targeted metabolite profiling and unraveled the variability of metabolites and nutraceuticals in long grain/non-glutinous black (BR), red (RR), green (GR), and white rice (WR) grains. We identified and classified 1292 metabolites, including five flavonoid compounds specific to BR. The metabolite profiles of the four rice grains showed significant variation, with 275–543 differentially accumulated metabolites identified. Flavonoid (flavone, flavonol, and anthocyanin) and cofactor biosynthesis were the most differentially regulated pathways among the four rice types. Most bioactive flavonoids, anthocyanidins (glycosylated cyanidins and peonidins), phenolic acids, and lignans had the highest relative content in BR, followed by RR. Most alkaloids, amino acids and derivatives, lipids, and vitamins (B6, B3, B1, nicotinamide, and isonicotinic acid) had higher relative contents in GR than others. Procyanidins (B1, B2, and B3) had the highest relative content in RR. In addition, we identified 25 potential discriminatory biomarkers, including fagomine, which could be used to authenticate GR. Our results show that BR and RR are important materials for medicinal use, while GR is an excellent source of nutrients (amino acids and vitamins) and bioactive alkaloids. Moreover, they provide data resources for the science-based use of different colored rice varieties in diverse industries.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Combined with Chemometrics for Protein Profiling and Classification of Boiled and Extruded Quinoa from Conventional and Organic Crops
Authors: Galindo-Luján Rocío , Pont Laura , Quispe Fredy , Sanz-Nebot Victoria , Benavente Fernando
Published: June 2024

Quinoa is an Andean crop that stands out as a high-quality protein-rich and gluten-free food. However, its increasing popularity exposes quinoa products to the potential risk of adulteration with cheaper cereals. Consequently, there is a need for novel methodologies to accurately characterize the composition of quinoa, which is influenced not only by the variety type but also by the farming and processing conditions. In this study, we present a rapid and straightforward method based on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) to generate global fingerprints of quinoa proteins from white quinoa varieties, which were cultivated under conventional and organic farming and processed through boiling and extrusion. The mass spectra of the different protein extracts were processed using the MALDIquant software (version 1.19.3), detecting 49 proteins (with 31 tentatively identified). Intensity values from these proteins were then considered protein fingerprints for multivariate data analysis. Our results revealed reliable partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) classification models for distinguishing between farming and processing conditions, and the detected proteins that were critical for differentiation. They confirm the effectiveness of tracing the agricultural origins and technological treatments of quinoa grains through protein fingerprinting by MALDI-TOF-MS and chemometrics. This untargeted approach offers promising applications in food control and the food-processing industry.
Optimal Ways of Safflower Oil Production with Improvement of Press Equipment
Authors: Kakimov Mukhtarbek , Mursalykova Maigul , Gajdzik Bożena , Wolniak Radosław , Kokayeva Gulnara , Bembenek Michał
Published: June 2024

This study aims to improve press equipment for safflower oil production by using a mechanism that optimizes pressure distribution within screw turns. A detailed analysis of the main components of the produced safflower oil was performed, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative assessments. Through the exploration of dependencies governing the safflower oil pressing process on the screw press, the optimal parameters were determined. As a result of the research, the optimal diaphragm gap between the gape cylinder and the pressing screw was determined, with the optimal oil yield percentage achieved at ω = 6.2 rad/s and δ = 5 mm. The study also compared the performance of the existing Dream Modern ODM-01 screw press and its upgraded version by analyzing the extracted oil. The results reveal changes in the quantitative and qualitative composition of the main oil components following the operation of the existing and the modernized screw presses. For instance, the amount of unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid (7.7 ± 0.566%), linoleic acid (85.3 ± 1.185%), and linolenic acid (1.2 ± 0.223%), increased. There was an increase in the presence of inorganic substances in safflower oil: iron (0.023 ± 0.031 mg/kg), phosphorus (0.086 ± 0.059 mg/kg), silicium (0.136 ± 0.075 mg/kg), and others. The findings of this study hold significant commercial value and offer promising prospects for global market implementation.
Fractal and Multifractal Analysis of Microscopic Pore Structure of UHPC Matrix Modified with Nano Silica
Authors: Guan Dian , Pan Tinghong , Guo Rongxin , Wei Ya , Qi Rongqing , Fu Chaoshu , Zhang Ziqi , Zhu Yukai
Published: June 2024

Nano silica (NS) has been found to have a positive impact on enhancing the microporous structure of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC). However, there is a lack of effective methods to accurately characterize the regulatory improvement mechanism of NS on the pore structure of UHPC. In this study, our objective is to investigate the influence of NS on various characteristic parameters of the pore structure in UHPC, including porosity, average pore size, box fractal dimension, and multifractal spectral parameters. To analyze these effects, we employ a combination of X- CT image processing techniques and fractal theory. Furthermore, we conducted regression analysis using linear functions to explore the correlation between these parameters and the 28d compressive strength of UHPC. The experimental results demonstrate that NS promotes the refinement of matrix pore size, leading to a denser microstructure of the matrix. Fractal analysis revealed that the pore structure of NS-modified UHPC exhibited favorable fractal characteristics. The fractal dimension and multiple fractal parameters provided complementary insights into the pore structure of NS-modified UHPC from different perspectives. The fractal dimension described the global information, indicating that NS improved matrix defects and reduced the complexity of the pore structure. On the other hand, the multiple fractal parameters supplemented local information, highlighting how the increase in micropores contributed to the heterogeneity of the pore structure. The results of the correlation analysis indicate that the developed mathematical model has a good fit with the 28d compressive strength of UHPC.
Self-Reported Speed Compliance and Drivers Speeding Behaviour in Cameroon
Authors: Fondzenyuy Stephen Kome , Fowo Fotso Christian Steven , Feudjio Steffel Ludivin Tezong , Usami Davide Shingo , Persia Luca
Published: June 2024

Speeding is a significant global issue, with disparities in speed and safety outcomes between low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs). This study aims to address speed research gaps in LMICs by examining the prevalence of self-reported speeding and factors influencing drivers’ speeding behavior using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). An online survey involving 387 anonymous drivers was conducted in Yaoundé. Results showed that all drivers reported exceeding speed limits, with 81% exceeding them by 5 km/h, 12% by 10 km/h, and 7% by more than 10 km/h in urban areas. On highways, 54% reported exceeding the limit by more than 10 km/h. Age, driver’s license, and gender showed significant associations with speed limit non-compliance. This study’s results suggest that the TPB can be useful in assessing speeding behavior, as the inclusion of TPB variables led to a more than 50% proportionate increase in speeding behavior variance. Structural equation modeling revealed attitude towards speeding as the strongest predictor of speeding intention, along with certain demographics indirectly influencing speeding behavior through speeding intention. Perceived behavioral control and speeding intention directly influenced speeding behavior. These findings emphasize the potential of interventions targeting attitude, intentions, and perceived behavioral control to modify speeding behavior and improve road safety.