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Background and Objectives: Forequarter and hindquarter amputations have traditionally been closed with local tissues, but the technique is plagued by a high rate of complication such as marginal necrosis, seroma, infection, and dehiscence. Filet of limb flaps have been used when local tissues are insufficient for closure, and despite their use in more extensive and complex wounds, outcomes seem to be better in these cases. Recognizing that filet of limb flaps not only serve to cover the wound, but also eliminate dead space, supplement at-risk and/or radiated tissue, pad underlying hard structures, and facilitate neuroma prevention with target muscle reinnervation, we have change our practice to utilize buried filet of limb flaps even when local tissues are technically "sufficient" to close the wound. The purpose of this article to organize and describe the ways in which buried filet-of-limb flaps can be used to achieve important and discrete surgical objectives in forequarter and hindquarter amputation, and to facilitate increased recognition of collaborative interdisciplinary opportunities for spare-part reconstruction. Methods: Retrospective data from the medical records of seven patients, collected between 2010 to 2023 at our single tertiary referral center, were reviewed. This included all patients for whom a buried (or partially buried) filet of limb flap was attempted for forequarter or hindquarter amputation reconstruction. Results: Five males and two females ranging 55 to 75 years of age, met the inclusion criteria. Three cases of forequarter amputation and four cases of hindquarter amputation were included. Six flaps were successfully transferred without major flap-related complications. The mean follow-up period was eight and a half months. Conclusion: Even when local tissues are technically "sufficient" to close forequarter and hindquarter amputation wounds, we have found buried filet of limb flaps to be useful in several ways. These include occupying dead space, providing double-layer coverage, padding hard structures, preventing neuromas, and reconstructing sacro- and spino-pelvic continuity. Our approach emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and highlights the potential advantages of buried filet of limb flaps in optimizing patient outcomes for complex limb amputations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 30 samples of filet green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) from various popular markets in the Souss-Massa region (Morocco) were analyzed during 2021 for the presence of pesticide residues. We performed a QuEChERS extraction (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) combined with Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS/MS). The method was validated in accordance with SANTE 11312/2021 guidelines. The results of this survey indicated that 8 out of 30 green bean samples are positives (0.015 to 0.112 mg/kg). Azoxystrobin was the most frequently detected pesticide, occurring in 5 samples. For authorized pesticides, none of the samples exceeded the European Maximum residue level (EU MRL) in green beans, but residue of fipronil-unauthorized substance was detected in one sample at 0.027 mg/kg. Hence, it is important to increase inspections for locally marketed fresh green beans and align agricultural practices with regulatory requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: By-products from farmed fish contain large amounts of proteins and may be used for human consumption. The purpose of this study was to investigate cardiometabolic effects and metabolic tolerance in mice consuming fishmeal from salmon by-products, salmon filet or beef. Methods: Female C57BL/6J mice were fed chow, as a healthy reference group, or a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to induce obesity and glucose intolerance. Obese mice were subsequently given isocaloric diets containing 50% of the dietary protein from salmon fishmeal, salmon filet or beef for 10 weeks. Mice were subjected to metabolic phenotyping, which included measurements of body composition, energy metabolism in metabolic cages and glucose tolerance. Lipid content and markers of hepatic toxicity were determined in plasma and liver. Hepatic gene and protein expression was determined with RNA sequencing and immunoblotting. Results: Mice fed fishmeal, salmon filet or beef had similar food intake, energy consumption, body weight gain, adiposity, glucose tolerance and circulating levels of lipids and hepatic toxicity markers, such as p-ALT and p-AST. Fishmeal increased hepatic cholesterol levels by 35–36% as compared to salmon filet (p = 0.0001) and beef (p = 0.005). This was accompanied by repressed expression of genes involved in steroid and cholesterol metabolism and reduced levels of circulating Pcsk9. Conclusion: Salmon fishmeal was well tolerated, but increased hepatic cholesterol content. The high cholesterol content in fishmeal may be responsible for the effects on hepatic cholesterol metabolism. Before introducing fishmeal from salmon by-products as a dietary component, it may be advantageous to reduce the cholesterol content in fishmeal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of our study was to determine the usefulness of a virtual computed tomography colon dissection visualization technique for the detection of polypoid lesions in comparison with conventional virtual colonoscopy analysis and optical colonoscopy. Twenty-three patients were evaluated with optical colonoscopy and computed tomography colonoscopy using 16-row MDCT on the same day. CT images were analyzed by the colon dissection workup with unfolded haustra visualization and also using the conventional virtual colonoscopy technique (axial images and endoluminal views). The CT analysis was performed by an experienced radiologist using both viewing methods in a randomized order and blinded to optical colonoscopy results. Optical colonoscopy revealed 35 colonic lesions; 15 < 5 mm, 18 between 5–9 mm and 2 > 9 mm. For conventional virtual colonoscopy analysis the overall sensitivity was 86.67%; for the colon dissection visualization technique, the overall sensitivity was 82.86%. The average reading time for conventional virtual colonoscopy was 15 ± 3 vs. 8 ± 2 min for the colon dissection visualization technique. Our results showed that there is a significant reduction in the reading time using the colon dissection visualization technique without detriment to the detection rate, that is, competitive to conventional virtual colonoscopy interpretation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper discusses a novel method to prevent the tooth failure in the spur gear by introducing circular root filet instead of standard trochoidal root filet in the gear. In general, gears with less than 17 teeth had the problem of undercutting during gear manufacturing process depending on the tip radius of the hob (cutter) which minimizes the strength of the gear at the root. Analysis is carried out using ANSYS software version 11.0 for the existing standard design gear teeth as well as the proposed design gear teeth to evaluate the performance. In order to facilitate the analysis, the gear tooth was considered as a cantilever beam and the tooth force was applied normal to the profile at the highest point of single tooth contact. The study reveals that the proposed design (circular root filet) exhibits higher bending strength rather than the standard trochoidal root filet design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although mercury contamination of fish is a widespread phenomenon, its regional evaluation is hindered by the reluctance of permitting agencies to grant collection permits, problems in securing adequate freezer space, and time to process whole, large fish or filets. We evaluated mercury concentrations in 210 filet biopsies from 65 sites in 12 western states relative to whole-body mercury concentration in the same fish. We found a highly significant relationship (r2?=?0.96) between biopsy and whole-fish mercury concentrations for 13 piscivorous and nonpiscivorous fish species. We concluded that relative to conventional fish-tissue sampling and analysis procedures for whole fish or filets, the biopsy procedure for mercury in fish tissue is nonlethal, less cumbersome, more likely to be permitted by fisheries agencies, and a precise and accurate means for determining both filet and whole-fish mercury concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expansion of economically viable turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) aquaculture depends on access to brackish-cold ground water sources in various parts of the world. Since brackish water sources can adversely affect the physiology and zoo technical performance of fish due to the burden of osmoregulation, dietary salt inclusion can alleviate the negative impacts of low-saline waters in several aquaculture species. This study investigated the effects of increasing dietary salt levels on the growth, feed utilization, body composition, and tissue fatty acid composition of juvenile turbot (initial live weight 120.3 ± 0.03 g/fish). Fish were fed five experimental diets supplemented with varying levels of sodium chloride (1.8–6.4%) or a control diet without salt. Each diet was tested in triplicate tanks for 9 weeks. Results showed that increasing dietary salt intake negatively impacted turbot performance, with significant reductions in weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio. Dry matter and ash content in the whole body and filet increased quadratically with increasing salt levels, whereas gill moisture and protein content decreased linearly. Furthermore, the nitrogen, lipid, and energy utilization efficiencies decreased with their respective intake and gain levels. Dietary salt significantly influenced the fatty acid profiles of gill, liver, and filet tissues. In the gill, monounsaturated fatty acids (16:1n-7, ΣMUFA) and n-6 PUFA (20:2n-6) increased, whereas EPA and DHA decreased. Liver ΣSFA (16:0, 18:0) increased, and n-3 PUFA (18:3n-3, 20:5n-3) decreased with increasing dietary salt. Filet saturated fatty acids (14:0, 15:0, 17:0) and n-6 PUFA (20:2n-6, 20:4n-6) increased, while n-3 PUFA (18:3n-3, EPA) decreased with dietary salt. DHA levels in filets showed a quadratic increase. Overall, this study shows that increasing dietary salt negatively impacts turbot growth, feed utilization, and tissue fatty acid composition in brackish water, highlighting the need for further studies on salinity management strategies for turbot aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation reports on the experimental and numerical study of weld sequence optimization in filet-welded aluminum alloy 6061-T6 structures during the gas metal arc (GMA) welding process. A 3D thermal–mechanical finite element (FE) procedure was considered for predicting thermal fields and deformations. Transient temperature distribution and distortions were simulated for different welding sequences using the thermal elasto-plastic approach. In the FE model, the same bead geometry as in the T-joint weld was considered for accuracy. Temperature-dependent material properties, latent heat effect, heat loss due to conduction, radiation and convection, and Goldak's volumetric heat source are also employed in the model. Further, the simulation results obtained from finite element FE modeling software SimufactTM were compared and validated against the experimental results. The experimental results show good agreement with numerical analysis with a maximum error of 10% and 12% for temperature and distortion results, respectively. It was also found that in five different welding sequences, the maximum angular distortion reduction of 16.06% was observed in the welding away from the center (case 5). Based on the results, an optimized welding sequence case 5 is the most suitable scheme for reducing angular distortions in AA T-joint filet welds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polonium (210Po) is the major contributor (with approximately 90%) to the radiation dose from radionuclides contained in the human diet, and it is mostly associated with seafood. This study presents 210Po activity concentrations in the tissues of 16 fish species from the Aegean Sea and Sea of Marmara. Among all species investigated, the highest 210Po activity concentration was 4450 ± 33 Bq kg−1 dry weight (dw) in the digestive tract of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), and the lowest 210Po activity concentration was 1.3 ± 0.6 Bq kg−1 (dw) in the muscle tissue of the thornback ray (Raja clavata). Significant differences in 210Po concentrations were consistently found among the tissues of fish (P < 0.05). In general, the prominent accumulation of 210Po was observed in the digestive tract and liver while the muscle tissue generally displayed the lower concentrations. Polonium concentrations in the internal organs, such as muscle and liver, were related to the feeding ecology of fish and thus are a consequence of 210Po transfer in the food chain rather than 210Po uptake from water. The average 210Po concentration in fish filet was 54.1 Bq kg−1 dw and to attain the recommended limit for the annual committed effective dose (1 mSv year−1) would require the consumption of 1024 kg of mixed fish filet in 1 year, which is unlikely to happen. The highest 210Po activity concentration in the edible part of fish (filet) was determined in the anchovy (E. encrasicolus) but to reach the 1 mSv year−1 limit would require still the consumption of 7.1 kg year−1 of anchovy filet. Similar size specimens of wild and farmed fish, Dicentrarchus labrax and Sparus aurata, were analyzed to assess the differences in 210Po concentrations. Polonium concentrations in the wild fish were several-fold higher than in farmed specimens, these ones fed with fish feed with 210Po content lower than natural food in the sea. Therefore, the current trend of increasing the consumption of seafood from aquaculture seems to be reducing the radiation exposure to 210Po in the human diet that is considered beneficial to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catching-net of P. conspersa larva was studies with particular reference to: structure, building, larval activity inside it and its function in prey catching. The microscopic and macroscopic structure of this catching-net is similar to that Neureclipsis larvae, with an open-ended tunnel and two funnel shaped openings, but its shape is less regular. The building of this net lasts about four to six hours. After a wandering period, the larva first builds the open-ended tunnel and the two openings. Most of the time, the larva lives inside the open-ended tunnel, but it can also crawl into the entrances. Its activity does seem to be related to a diel periodicity. During the catching process, the chief function of the net is detection, after which the prey is taken in the same way as in a spider's web. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper describes investigations of three failure cases of stainless steel 316/316L pipes handling moist H2S gas in a heavy water plant. The failure investigation included chemical composition determination, metallographic examination using an optical microscope, and a scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy and hardness testing. The first failure was related to leakage of H2S at the pipe-to-elbow weld joint. The failure was associated with weld misalignment that led to pitting and stress corrosion cracking in the weld heat-affected zone of the elbow. The other two failures also led to leakage of H2S from the filet welds of pipes. Filet welds in both these cases had insufficient weld penetration and fusion. These failures were caused by fatigue cracking that was initiated from the toe and root of the filet welds where the stress concentration is maximum. All the three cases of failures investigated were primarily related to poor workmanship during welding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) in porous media is a two-step procedure: First, the suspension of bacteria is injected and some of the bacteria get stuck on the grains. The second stage consists in the injection of a calcifying solution that triggers the calcite precipitation and creates a calcite shell around the bacteria. In the present article, we describe a novel method to measure the adhesion rate of Sporosarcina pasteurii bacteria on sandstone and that, additionally, allows to obtain information about local position of the calcite crystals on the sandstone grains. The method is based on the detection of the crystals developed on grains placed inside a microfluidic cell. The potential of the technique was evaluated and demonstrated by studying the influence of the injection time and ionic strength on the adhesion rate and on the spatial distribution of the crystals. The values of the adhesion rates are in good agreement with values determined using column experiments. We find, for example, an increase in the adhesion rate with the NaCl in solution, with a rate of the order of 0.005 min - 1 for a concentration of 3 g/L. with a maximum of 0.03 min - 1 for experiments realized with a salt concentration of 20 g/L. Our work shows it is possible to use small volumes of fluid to determine quantities accurately, such as adhesion rate or crystals spatial repartition, avoiding the waste of a large quantity of fluids. The method also opens the possibility to screen different fluid compositions and flow conditions to optimize the MICP process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving feed utilization efficiency is a challenge in aquaculture. Therefore, we developed an indirect benchmark to use in selecting trout for improved efficiency of feed utilization on plant protein (soy)-based diets, with the long-term goal of reducing the cost of commercial trout production. We used a four-part integrative approach to identify feed efficient individuals among 1595 fish coming from 12 genetically selected families by establishing the phenotypic relationship between feed conversion ratio (FCR) and body weight variations using compensatory feeding regimes. Additionally, we examined the nutritional composition of fish filet for each efficiency phenotype during the compensatory regimen. Our findings showed that the fish with the lowest weight loss during a feed deprivation period and the highest weight gain during the refeeding period (FD−/RF +) demonstrated the lowest FCR (FCR = 0.99) and consisted of individuals from several lines. This finding confirms the possibility of improving feed efficiency in mixed lines. Although feeding period has an effect on nutritional composition of fillet, such selection criteria did not show an effect on groups. Overall, successful selection for the improvement of feed efficiency will have a broad application to commercial fish selective breeding programs, leading to increased aquaculture sustainability in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the formation of biogenic amines and free fatty acids occurring during the manufacturing process of a traditional dry-cured product based on yellowfin tuna, Thunnus albacares (protected geographical indication—Mojama) and how the different processing stages could affect food safety aspects. The biogenic amines profile was determined by HPLC–DAD, following the official methodology, and free fatty acids were quantified by GC–MS. Histamine levels found in all stages of the manufacturing process did not exceed the maximum limits established in the European Commission (100–200 mg/kg) and US Food and Drug Administration (50 mg/kg) regulations. Other biogenic amines, such as cadaverine and putrescine, were detected at low level or below the limit of detection. Yellowfin tuna filets could be classified as lean fish flesh, presenting 1.18% fat on average. An increment in the free fatty acid fraction was evidenced along the manufacturing process, ranging from 10.37% of the total lipids in fresh loins to 16.88% in the dry-cured filet product. The results indicated that the traditional manufacturing process of mojama, consisting of salting and drying tuna loins kept at a controlled temperature, promoted a moderate lipolysis phenomenon, and the formation of free fatty acids with high proportions of unsaturated fatty acids, likely arising from the lipolysis of muscle phospholipids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical efficiency of the biocementation process is directly related to the microstructural properties of the biocemented sand, such as the volume fraction of calcite, its distribution within the pore space (localized at the contact between grains, over the grain surfaces) and the contact properties: coordination number, contact surface area, contacts orientation and types of contact. In the present work, all these micromechanical properties are computed, for the first time, from 3D images obtained by X-ray tomography of intact biocemented sand samples. The evolution of all these properties with respect to the volume fraction of calcite is analyzed and compared between each other (from untreated sand to highly cemented sand). Whatever the volume fraction of calcite, it is shown that the precipitation of the calcite is localized at the contacts between grains. These results are confirmed by comparing our numerical results with analytical estimates assuming that the granular medium is made of periodic simple cubic arrangements of grains and by considering two extreme cases of precipitation: (1) The calcite is localized at the contact, and (2) the grains are covered by a uniform layer of calcite. In overall, the obtained results show that a small percentage of calcite is sufficient to get a large amount of cohesive contacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To be sold in the United States, meat, poultry, and seafood products made from cultured cells must be labeled with a "common or usual name" to help consumers understand what they are purchasing. The terms "Cultured," "Cultivated," "Cell-Cultured," "Cell-Cultivated," "Cell-Based" and a control (without a common or usual name) were tested using an online experiment. Two regulatory criteria were assessed: that the term distinguishes the novel products from conventional products, and appropriately signals allergenicity. Three consumer acceptance criteria were assessed: that the term is seen as appropriate, does not disparage the novel or conventional products, nor elicit perceptions that the products are unsafe, unhealthy, or not nutritious. Each term was shown on packages of frozen Beef Filets, Beef Burgers, Chicken Breasts, Chicken Burgers, Atlantic Salmon Fillets, and Salmon Burgers. A representative sample of 4385 Americans (18 +) were randomly assigned to view a single product with a single term or the control. Consumers' ability to distinguish tested terms from conventional products differed by product category. "Cultured" and "Cultivated" failed to adequately differentiate the novel products from "Wild-Caught and Farm-Raised" salmon products. "Cultivated" failed to differentiate the novel Beef Filet product from "Grass-Fed" Beef Filets. "Cell-Cultured," "Cell-Cultivated," and "Cell-Based" each signaled that the products were different from conventional products across the proteins, and signaled allergenicity, meeting the two key regulatory criteria. They were not significantly different on most consumer perception measures. However, "Cell-Cultured" may have slightly better consumer acceptance across the novel beef, chicken, and salmon products, recommending its universal adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental study has been performed to investigate the effect of the biocalcification process on the microstructural and the physical properties of biocemented Fontainebleau sand samples. The microstructural properties (porosity, volume fraction of calcite, total specific surface area, specific surface area of calcite, etc.) and the physical properties (permeability, effective diffusion) of the biocemented samples were computed for the first time from 3D images with a high-resolution images obtained by X-ray synchrotron microtomography. The evolution of all these properties with respect to the volume fraction of calcite is analysed and compared with success to experimental data, when it is possible. In general, our results point out that all the properties are strongly affected by the biocalcification process. Finally, all these numerical results from 3D images and experimental data were compared to numerical values or analytical estimates computed on idealized microstructures constituted of periodic overlapping and random non-overlapping arrangements of coated spheres. These comparisons show that these simple microstructures are sufficient to capture and to predict the main evolution of both microstructural and physical properties of biocemented sands for the whole range of volume fraction of calcite investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The superplastic forming and diffusion bonding (SPF/DB) process was investigated for the manufacture of the TC31 titanium alloy X-type lattice structure. The finite element (FE) model was used to simulate the SPF process and compression behavior of the X-type lattice structure, and the deformation and compression failure modes were analyzed. A theoretical model was revised to predict the structural compressive strength. The results showed that the material processed by heat treatment still had great plasticity with the maximum elongation of 142.5% at 920 °C. The bonding rate, thinning rate and shear strength of the TC31 alloy joint bonded at 920 °C/3 MPa/60 min were 97.1%, 5.56% and 364 MPa, respectively, which indicated it was suitable for the X-type lattice truss structure to formed in the process parameter. Based on the result of the fundamental test and FE simulation, the X-type lattice structure could be fabricated by DB at 920 °C/3 MPa/60 min and SPF at 920 °C with a target strain rate of 0.001 s–1. Thickness measurements indicated that the area with a maximum thinning rate of 32.9% was located at the transition filet between the bonding areas and the ribs. The surface compressive strength of the X-type lattice structure was 1.51 MPa with a relative density of 0.015 when rib width was 5 mm, and the rib plastic buckling was considered as the failure mode of the TC31 titanium alloy lattice structure formed by SPF/DB. The surface compressive strength of the simulation results is 1.59 MPa with an error of 5.3%. The decrease of material properties and rib local thinning affect the accuracy of the theoretical predictions, and the revised theoretical result is 1.52 MPa with an error of 0.7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total forearm free flap procedures after forequarter amputations have been sparsely described in the literature. Using the amputated arm as a 'free filet flap' remains a viable surgical option after radical forequarter amputations performed for the resection of large, invasive tumors of the shoulder or thoracic wall region. Using the forequarter specimen as a donor site seems favorable in that it eliminates the usual donor site morbidity. Nevertheless, in our patient with invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast and a fibrosarcoma suffering from severe pain and septic conditions - which failed to respond properly to conservative therapy - as well as rapidly progressive tumor ulceration despite repeated radiation therapy, we decided to attempt complete tumor removal by hemithoracectomy as a last resort. This decision was taken following multiple interdisciplinary consultations and thorough patient information. Although technically feasible with complete tumor removal and safe soft tissue free flap coverage, the postoperative course raises questions about the advisability of such ultra radical surgical procedures, as well as about the limitations of respiratory recovery after hemithoracectomy with removal of the sternum. Hence, based on our experience with such radical tumor surgery, we discuss the issues of diminished postoperative pulmonary function, intensive care possibilities and ethical issues. The English full-text version of this article is available at SpringerLink (under 'Supplemental'). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fishmeal and oil are regarded as byproducts resulting from fish processing. However, the procedures are hypothesized to be an ecological harm for maintaining the balance of the aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed at characterizing an innovative algae-yeast mix for a partial substitution of fishmeal and oil in fish feed. The microorganism mix consisted of the cyanobacterium Arthrospira sp., the microalgae Crypthecodinium cohnii, and the yeast Rhodotorula glutinis to create a balanced nutritional composition with an enrichment of bioactive compounds for inducing positive health effects in selected fish species. Such a modification can also be interpreted in terms of a positive (human) nutritional effect. From an ecological point of view, all these microorganisms can be cultivated without minimum effort. In fish feeding trials, pike-perch ( Sander lucioperca) and rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss) were taken for evaluating the feed acceptance, fish health, and fish filet quality. The study revealed a successful feed development, which resulted in healthy organisms depending on the species and compared to conventionally fed organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descriptor 8 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) (Directive 2008/56/EC) addresses the good environmental status with regard to pollution of marine waters by chemical contaminants. Commission decision (EU) 2017/848 lays down the criteria and methodological standards on good environmental status of marine waters. Member States, in regional or subregional cooperation, shall establish lists of relevant contaminants beside those already covered by the Water Framework Directive (WFD). To provide information on emerging contaminants in marine biota, the German Environmental Specimen Bank (ESB) has compiled data of blue mussels and eelpouts from coastal sites in the North and Baltic Seas. Substances identified by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) as of emerging concern for the marine environment have been used as a starting point. Results and conclusions: The study presents data of 19 emerging flame retardants and degradation products, 40 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and three cyclic volatile methylsiloxanes (cVMS). Among the emerging flame retardants, only Dec 602 was detected in all samples of 2015. Dec 604, Cl10-antiDP, 1,5-DPMA, EH-TBB, PBEB, TBP-AE, BATE, BTBPE and HBBz were constantly < limit of quantification (LOQ). Time trends were barely detected. Legacy PBDE still dominates in most samples. PFAS concentrations were usually higher in samples from the North Sea sites compared to samples from the Baltic Sea. PFOS dominated in most samples. Increasing trends over time were detected for PFNA, PFDA and PFDoDA at the Baltic Sea site and for PFDA at one North Sea site. Concentrations of the cVMS D4, D5 and D6 were below the detection limit at the ESB sampling sites. Based on the results, it should be considered to include the emerging flame retardants DP and Dec 602 and the long-chain perfluoroalkyl substances PFNA, PFDA, PFUnDA and PFDoDA in a regular monitoring in the North and Baltic Seas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial transcriptomics is a technique that provides insight into gene expression profiles in tissue sections while retaining structural information. We have employed this method to study the pathological conditions related to red and melanized focal changes in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Our findings support a model where similar molecular mechanisms are involved in both red and melanized filet discolorations and genes associated with several relevant pathways show distinct expression patterns in both sample types. Interestingly, there appears to be significant cellular heterogeneity in the foci investigated when looking at gene expression patterns. Some of the genes that show differential spatial expression are involved in cellular processes such as hypoxia and immune responses, providing new insight into the nature of muscle melanization in Atlantic salmon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Selective denaturation of meat proteins - essential to reach desired textures - requires cooking temperatures corresponding to their different structure and interactions. Sous-vide cooking allows precise control over the denaturation state of meat proteins (and thus the cooking state of meat products) due to the possibility to cook at very well defined temperatures. Additionally, kinetic effects also play an important role. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been used here to follow the denaturation state of proteins in pork filet ( Musculus psoas major), which had been heat treated at different time (10-2880 min) and temperature (45-74 °C) combinations. Additionally, the water loss (cooking loss) occurring during heat treatments has been determined. Four endothermic peaks have been observed in the DSC curves. Their individual time and temperature dependent enthalpies show that proteins become denatured at temperatures well below the peak temperatures if kept there for long times. This observation is underlined by statistical arguments. Cooking loss increases with time and temperature, while the main water loss occurs during the first 240 min and at temperatures above 60 °C. Due to the different kinetics found for protein denaturation and cooking loss, it is not possible to directly correlate the two quantities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African catfish farmers used animal waste as feed to reduce production costs, a practice that raised concerns among consumers, causing them to avoid it. Consequently, this study aimed to explore factors that influenced the acceptance of farmed African catfish. The data survey involving 2294 participants from Egypt was analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. The results indicated that 67% of participants abstained from consuming it, while 2.30% consumed it regularly. The chi-square test revealed significant consumption pattern variations (p < 0.05) based on most demographic factors. Entirely, 43% were uninformed about the nutritional value, market availability, and the potential impact of using aquafeeds on pricing. About 55–57% lacked information on feeding practices, had quality concerns, viewed catfish consumption as a health risk, and were unaware of its prices. Additionally, 68% were worried about pollution, and 76% found the available information insufficient. The main reasons for this challenge lie in consumers' health, religious, and psychological concerns. To address this, we propose a targeted marketing strategy focusing on improving safety and quality through safe and cost-effective aquafeeds. This involves requiring farmers to obtain quality certifications and adhere to best management practices, adding value to the product, and transparent communication with consumers to provide them with reliable information about cultivation practices and the nutritional value of African catfish. Effective collaboration among key stakeholders in implementation, efficient sector management, establishing an activity licensing system, and prohibiting current feeding practices will enhance sustainable demand and reverse the declining production trend of this promising species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelligent packaging (IP) is an enhanced version of traditional packaging systems, providing improved functionality. This technology enhances the communication of food packages with consumers by effectively indicating the shelf life, condition of food inside the package, and history of the product. This could increase the convenience of consumers and upgrade the product's safety. The IP system usually consists of an indicator system that gives an idea about the freshness of the product to the consumers. This color-changing indicator can be derived from natural sources such as fruits and vegetables, which contain pigments like anthocyanins, betalains, and curcumins. Sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) is a notable source of anthocyanin compounds, such as brazilin. The extract of Sappan wood, which could be extracted by various methods ranging from the traditional boiling method to the novel ultrasonic method, could be incorporated into a packaging film made from a biodegradable material like gelatin. The inclusion of this extract turns the normal gelatin film into a pH-dependent color-indicating film. The film changes color in response to pH shifts, which typically occur during food spoilage. Gelatin serves as a strong and compatible matrix for creating smart packaging films due to its solubility and compatibility with various natural extracts. By utilizing this underused resource, a smart packaging film can be developed, contributing valuable innovation to packaging technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For fish oil-free aquafeed development, a photoautotrophic microalga Tisochrysis lutea is believed to be the candidate source of n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acid (n-3 HUFA) because of its docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) biosynthesis. While DHA contents of T. lutea vary during the cultivation periods depending on algal growth phase, little is mentioned about how this dependence should be taken into consideration when evaluating the suitability of microalgae as an alternative to fish oil-formulated diets. Here, we compared nutritionally maximized cells of deceleration growth phase T. lutea and fish oils-formulated product (n-3 HUFA-enriched Chlorella) as a rotifer enrichment diet for enhancement in Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus larviculture. T. lutea had higher concentrations of DHA in the polar lipids than those for enriched Chlorella. Such higher concentrations of T. lutea were estimated only in the deceleration growth phase (not in the logarithmic growth or stationary phase). When deceleration growth phase T. lutea were fed to Brachionus plicatilis rotifers previously cultured on unenriched Chlorella, the DHA of the rotifers was boosted up to the level in those fed with enriched Chlorella. Furthermore, use of T. lutea-fed rotifers for initial feeding of fish larvae enhanced the growth, survival, n-3 HUFA levels, and final juvenile productivity of the larvae as much as feeding the larvae with enriched Chlorella-fed rotifers. We propose that T. lutea in the deceleration growth phase are efficacious, fish oil-free sources of n-3 HUFA for marine fish larviculture. Highlights: Polar lipid DHA % was high in the deceleration growth phase of Tisochrysis lutea. DHA % was high in rotifers fed either T. lutea or fish oil-enriched Chlorella. Rotifers enriched with T. lutea improved marine fish larviculture performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calpains are calcium-dependent intracellular neutral cysteine proteases that have been known to play an important role in post-mortem proteolysis and meat tenderisation in fish. In this study, the calpain family (CAPN) in striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) which is one of major aquaculture species in Vietnam was characterized. Firstly, the catfish genome database was searched for calpain gene family, then, classification, phylogenetic relationship and gene structure were analyzed. In striped catfish genome, 14 calpain genes were found that are orthologs to other vertebrate species, which were classified into typical and atypical calpains according to their structures. Next, the transcriptional gene expression of typical CAPN-1, -2, -3, -11, -13 genes in muscle, liver and brain tissues of the striped catfish were examined. The results showed that gene expression of CAPN-2 and CAPN-13 genes was barely detectable, while that of CAPN-1, ‑3, -11 genes was widely detected in all three types of tissues. In striped catfish muscle tissue, CAPN-3 transcript abundance was nearly three and 27 fold greater than CAPN-11 and CAPN-1, respectively. Our results suggest that CAPN-3 in P. hypophthalmus is also a muscle-specific calpain, which had been reported in other species. The results of this study provide a data resource for further research on the function of calpain genes and their genetic diversity that might be correlated with muscle texture in striped catfish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zeitschrift für Ernäehrungswissenschaft is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Potato Research is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Gene editing offers opportunities to solve fish farming sustainability issues that presently hampers expansion of the aquaculture industry. In for example Atlantic salmon farming, there are now two major bottlenecks limiting the expansion of the industry. One is the genetic impact of escaped farmed salmon on wild populations, which is considered the most long-term negative effect on the environment. Secondly and the utmost acute problem is the fish parasite salmon lice, which is currently causing high lethality in wild salmonids due to high concentrations of the parasite in the sea owing to sea cage salmon farming. There are also sustainability issues associated with increased use of vegetable-based ingredients as replacements for marine products in fish feed. This transition comes at the expense of the omega-3 content both in fish feed and the fish filet of the farmed fish. Reduced fish welfare represents another obstacle, and robust farmed fish is needed to avoid negative stress associated phenotypes such as cataract, bone and fin deformities, precocious maturity and higher disease susceptibility. Gene editing could solve some of these problems as genetic traits can be altered positively to reach phenotype of interest such as for example disease resistance and increased omega-3 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restricted ration levels of a commercial diet (Aller Metabolica) were fed to pikeperch (Sander lucioperca (L.)) (mean body weight 251.94 ± 1.12 g) to determine the energy and protein requirements for maintenance and the utilisation efficiency for growth. Fish were reared in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) with rectangular aquaria tanks for 57 feeding days at a temperature of 23 ± 0.5 °C, a salinity between 5 and 7 ppt and a light intensity of 35 ± 5 lx at water surface profile. A total of 17 fish per tank were fed in a triplicate approach at five increasing feeding levels starting from very low to nearly apparent satiation per hand twice a day. Comparative slaughter technique was used for the determination of body composition and energy contents. The body composition indicated an increase in energy content with increasing feed rations, whereas the filet composition was not affected. Maintenance requirement values for gross energy, digestible energy, crude protein and digestible crude protein were 14.44 kJ kg-0.80 day−1, 12.84 kJ kg-0.80 day−1, 0.58 g kg-0.70 day−1 and 0.53 g kg-0.70 day−1. The utilisation efficiency values were 0.44 for gross energy, 0.50 for digestible energy, 0.42 for crude protein and 0.45 for digestible crude protein. Relatively low maintenance requirement and high conversion efficiencies characterise pikeperch as a promising candidate for commercial aquaculture production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the use of the 10 foot Isaacs-Kidd midwater trawl as a quantitative sampler of the micronektonic standing crop. The use of this gear without an opening-closing mechanism made it necessary to sample by means of oblique hauls. This study, which includes not less than 1500 hauls, is directed towards introducing some degree of uniformity in operating this device so that valid comparisons can be made between catches from oblique hauls made at similar depths, as well as oblique hauls made at different depths. It is emphasized that information must be obtained on the tow path using depth-time and depth-distance recorders simultaneously. As the maximum depth depends largely upon variations in towing speed, it is important to be able to control ship speed carefully. As net speed is a significant factor in avoidance and escapement, care should be taken to sample each layer in an identical manner. The procedure defined here mainly involves (a) modifications of the depressor; (b) application of the winch brake after all the cable has been paid out, during the time required for the trawl to attain maximum depth; (c) paying out and hauling in at high speed by the winch. Resulting hauls show a nearly oblique tow path. Sampling velocities of the net are the same for all water layers: slow during descent, fast during ascent. This allows valid comparisons to be made between a series of hauls. Nevertheless, future progress in quantitative sampling depends largely upon technical improvements, and the evolution of new devices and approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the selection of the 10-foot Isaacs-Kidd midwater trawl, 4 mm in mesh size, which terminates in a fine-mesh section of 1 mm mesh aperture. It is emphasized that this finer mesh adds a large fraction of small animals to the main catch, This fraction has been estimated from comparisons between catches collected (1) with the above gear, (2) with the above gear terminating in a 4 mm mesh cod-end, (3) with the 1 mm mesh cod-end used alone as a net. It is demonstrated that escape through 4 mm meshes is a function both of hauling duration and of vertical distribution of organisms. The experimental part of this work has been carried out on crustaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer simulation is used to predict the residual stresses and distortion of a full-float truck axle shaft that has been induction scan hardened. Flux2D is used to model the electromagnetic behavior and the power distributions inside the axle shaft in terms of time. The power distributions are imported and mapped into DANTE model for thermal, phase transformation, and stress analysis. The truck axle shaft has three main geometrical regions: the flange/filet, the shaft, and the spline. Both induction heating and spray quenching processes have significant effect on the quenching results: distortion and residual stress distributions. In this study, the effects of spray quenching severity on residual stresses and distortion are investigated using modeling. The spray quenching rate can be adjusted by spray nozzle design, ratio of polymer solution, and quenchant flow rate. Different quenching rates are modeled by assigning different heat transfer coefficients as thermal boundary conditions during spray quenching. In this paper, three heat transfer coefficients, 5, 12, and 25 kW/(m°C), are applied while keeping all other conditions constant. With the understanding of effects of heating and quenching on residual stresses and distortion of induction hardened parts, the induction hardening process can be optimized for improved part performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of central European aquaculture's most reared freshwater fish. Its freshness fundamentally affects meat quality, given by the storage temperature and elapsed time between slaughtering and further processing. This study introduces a rapid and straightforward protocol using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of fly mass spectrometry to investigate postmortem changes in the protein profile of carp filets stored in different temperatures (0—ice, 4—fridge, and 8 °C—shop shelf) during 120 h of storage. Lactate, adenosine triphosphate, and its derivates were determined to underline freshness evaluation. Three mass spectral clusters (proteins possessing similar mass values) with different occurrence behavior were determined based on multivariate statistical analysis. The first spectral cluster was absent in carp filets stored at 0 °C. The second cluster occurred in all temperatures, and the third was present only at 0 °C for the whole 120 h of the experiment while disappearing in other temperatures. Based on the presented protocol and the occurrence of particular spectral clusters, the freshness of C. caprio filets and their storage history could be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the activity concentrations of 210Po and 210Pb in 15 different commercial fish species collected around Gökçeada Island (northern Aegean Sea) in 2016. The distribution of 210Po and 210Pb was investigated in fish tissues and significant differences (P < 0.05) in radionuclide concentrations were noted between muscle, gills, and liver in each species. 210Po activity concentrations in tissues were systematically higher than those of 210Pb and the average values of 210Po/210Pb concentration ratios were calculated at 6.6 ± 1.5, 8.4 ± 3.2, and 10.2 ± 1.6 in muscle, gills, and liver, respectively. The annual effective dose to consumers through 210Po ingestion with fish filet averaged 62 µSv year−1 (range 5.5-160 µSv year−1). This effective dose is in the range of natural radiation doses reported worldwide for humans through ingestion of sea food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ciguatera poisoning (CP) is a severe global public health problem caused by the consumption of seafood products contaminated with ciguatoxins (CTXs). The growing demand for seafood products requires high-throughput testing for CTX-susceptible seafood, however complex extraction and slow cleanup methods inhibit this goal. Herein, several methods for extracting CTXs from fish tissue were established and compared; these methods are sensitive, specific, and valid while achieving higher sample extraction throughput than currently established protocols. The trial fish material was generated from multiple species, with different physical conditions (wet and freeze-dried tissue), and naturally contaminated with various CTXs (i.e., CTX-1B, CTX-3C, and C-CTX-1), thus ensuring these methods are robust and broadly applicable. The extraction methods used were based on mechanical maceration with acetone or methanol or enzymatic digestion followed by acetone and ethyl acetate extraction. Crude extracts were investigated for CTX-like toxicity using an in vitro mouse neuroblastoma (N2a) cell-based assay (CBA). Among the three methods, there was no significant difference in toxin estimates (p = 0.219, two-way ANOVA), indicating their interchangeability. For speed (> 16 samples/day), accuracy (100%), and CTX analog retention confirmation by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS), the preferred extraction methods were both methanol and enzyme-based. All extraction methods post hoc confirmation of CTX analogs successfully met international seafood market-based CTX contaminant guidance. These methods can drastically increase global CTX screening capabilities and subsequently relieve sample processing bottlenecks, inhibiting environmental and human health-based CTX analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic foods are highly traded, with nearly 60 million tonnes exported in 2020, representing 11% of global agriculture trade by value. Despite the vast scale, basic characteristics of aquatic food trade, including species, origin, and farmed vs wild sourcing, are largely unknown due to the reporting of trade data. Consequently, we have a coarse picture of aquatic food trade and consumption patterns. Here, we present results from a database on species trade that aligns production, conversion factors, and trade to compute apparent consumption for all farmed and wild aquatic foods from 1996 to 2020. Over this period, aquatic foods became increasingly globalized, with the share of production exported increasing by 40%. Importantly, trends differ across aquatic food sectors. Global consumption also increased by 19.4% despite declining marine capture consumption, and some regions became increasingly reliant on foreign-sourced aquatic foods. To identify sustainable diet opportunities among aquatic foods, our findings, and underlying database enable a greater understanding of the role of trade in rapidly evolving aquatic food systems. Despite high levels of trade, the basic characteristics of the aquatic food trade are largely unknown. Here, the authors present a global seafood trade database showing the increasing globalization of farmed and wild aquatic foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hastelloy B2 is a high-performance nickel-molybdenum alloy and has been used in micro reactor, pump, pipe, and corrosion-resistant equipment. Square holes are required in the above application components. Although square holes are easily produced by spending more electrodes wear in Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM). Moreover, the square hole with small electrode wear achieved is a challenging task in thermal machining. Hence, in this work, the effects of EDM process parameters on electrode taper angle, electrode radius, electrode wear length and cutting time of Hastelloy B2 are studied. Taguchi based VišekriterijumskoKompromisnoRangiranje (VIKOR) method is used to find the optimum process parameters and compared with Taguchi based Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) method for validation. The results showed that current and pulse duration greatly affects the electrode wear out surface and edges. The square electrodes with sharp edges and surfaces are fully transformed into hemispherical shapes at electrode ends due to an unstable spark with diffusion of heat. Also, the VIKOR method provides an alternative multi-criteria optimization method that enhances the process performance over the grey relational analysis due to comparability, uniqueness, assessment and prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review explores the use of biopolymers as sustainable alternatives for soil improvement in geotechnical engineering. Specifically, focusing on three commonly used biopolymers: xanthan gum, agar gum, and guar gum, this review highlights their potential applications and effects on the geotechnical properties of different soil types. Xanthan gum exhibits improved impermeability and water storage capacity, making it suitable for anti-wind erosion, soil remediation, and grouting vegetation growth. Agar gum shows promise in liquefaction remediation with its gelation process and absence of chemical reactions during soil cementation. It is resistant to thermal degradation, oxidation, acid-alkaline environments, and salt concentrations. Its hygroscopicity and stability make it useful for soil stabilization. Guar gum enhances shear strength, reduces permeability, and improves soil stability, making it effective for mine tailing stabilisation, slope stability, and other geotechnical applications. Being a polymeric molecule, as it breaks down, it becomes more biopolymer-rich, making it more resistant to wetting and drying processes. This review discusses biopolymer-treated soils’ strengthening mechanisms, such as hydrogel formation and cross-links between soil particles. The utilisation of biopolymers offers advantages in terms of abundance, non-toxicity, and potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The review also identifies the use of biopolymers in mine tailings. Although further research is needed to optimise their application and explore their full potential in sustainable improvement practices, This integration of biopolymers in soil engineering would provide a more environmentally friendly approach.Article Highlights: Biopolymers, such as xanthan gum, agar gum, and guar gum, are sustainable alternatives for soil improvement in geotechnical engineering. Biopolymer-treated soils have strengthening mechanisms such as hydrogel formation and cross-links between soil particles. The use of biopolymers offers advantages in terms of abundance, non-toxicity, and potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Biopolymers can be used in the remediation of mine tailings, which are characterized by high toxicity and low fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the efficacy of employing Rhizopus oryzae fungus inoculum as a potential solution to improve soil erodibility in coastal environments. A set of unconfined compression tests is conducted on Miami Beach sand treated with a R. oryzae inoculum. Our findings suggest that the R. oryzae fungus inoculum effectively improves the stability of sand by acting as a natural binding agent. This finding aligns with previous studies that utilized different Rhizopus species, such as Rhizopus oligosporus, to improve sand properties. However, a notable difference is observed; the R. oryzae-treated sand exhibits remarkable durability, maintaining significant strength over an extended period without water or dietary supply. The durability is likely attributable to the morphological characteristics of R. oryzae that extensively branches its mycelial network. This paper shares the new discovery to the bio-geotechnics research community, potentially allowing for the customization of soil improvement process by choosing between the fast-acting R. oligosporus and the longer-lasting R. oryzae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]