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A column generation (CG) approach for the solution of timetabling problems is presented. This methodology could be used for various instances of the timetabling problem, although in this paper the solution of the high-school situation in Greece is presented. The results obtained show clearly that the CG approach that has been extremely successful in recent years in the solution of airline crew scheduling problems could also be very efficient and robust for the solution of timetabling problems. Several large timetabling problems corresponding to real problems have been successfully solved, with the solutions obtained feasible and of very high quality in accordance with the problem definition. In addition, none of the solutions contained any idle hour for any of the teachers, which was one of the main goals of this optimization effort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inonotus obliquus, also known as Chaga, is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for therapeutic purposes since the sixteenth century. Collections of folk medicine record the application of Chaga for the treatment of diseases such as gastrointestinal cancer, diabetes, bacterial infection, and liver diseases. Modern research provides scientific evidence of the therapeutic properties of I. obliquus extracts, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, anti-fatigue, antibacterial, and antiviral activities. Various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, polyphenols, and lignin metabolites have been found to be responsible for the health-benefiting properties of I. obliquus. Furthermore, some studies have elucidated the underlying mechanisms of the mushroom's medicinal effects, revealing the compounds' interactions with enzymes or proteins of important pathways. Thus, this review aims to explore available information on the therapeutic potentials of Inonotus obliquus for the development of an effective naturally sourced treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of UV-C irradiation on antioxidant, cholinergic and neuroprotective properties of Bacopa floribunda leaves in scopolamine-induced rats. In vitro study was done by the determination of phenolics, flavonoid, total antioxidant capacity, 2, 2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes. Loss of memory was induced in Wistar rats pre-treated with extracts of Bacopa floribunda using scopolamine (2 mg/kg) administered intraperitoneally. Behavioural studies using elevated plus maze (EPM) and biochemical analysis on the were carried out. Exposure to UV-C radiation increased the phenolics, flavonoid, antioxidant and inhibitory properties against AChE and BChE of the Bacopa floribunda leaves. The administration of scopolamine caused significant increase in the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes, but decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes and enhanced generation of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide in vivo. The loss of memory and Biochemical analysis in scopolamine-induced rats was ameliorated by treatment with UV-C treated Bacopa floribunda (TBF) extracts. Treatment with TBF improved memory retention and ameliorated oxidative damage in hippocampus of scopolamine treated rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During processing and storage phases it has violent impacts on the chemical composition of foods. Various high sensitivity and throughput technology have been employed in the evaluation of the quality degradation, since their extremely sophisticated mechanism. Foodomics-based approaches integrated multiple strategies that allow comprehensive characterization of the components of horticultural, meat, fish and seafood as well as milk and dairy products, and improve the understanding of potential mechanisms and molecules related to the quality traits to produce high-quality food products. This review emphasized the development of foodomics-based approaches and proposed some metabolites, proteins, peptides, etc., can be used as freshness markers, so as to discover the mechanism of internal monitoring of food quality and provides preventive strategies for delaying food deterioration. In addition, this review gives a comprehensive overview of current state of the art and future challenges in quality degradation and preservation protocol of different food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the total phenylethanosides (TPS) were extracted efficiently by an innovative extraction technology––deep eutectic solvent-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (DES-UAE) from Plantago asiatica L. Ten diverse types of DESs were synthesized as alternative extraction solutions. The extraction efficiency of DES-3 (constituted by choline chloride and lactic acid) was much higher than those of other DESs. On the basis of single factor tests and Box-Behnken design (BBD), the optimum processing parameters of DES-UAE as follow: DES-3 with molar ratio of 1:3, extraction temperature 51 °C, solid/liquid 22.5 mg/ml, water content 30%, ultrasonic power 65 W, extraction time 23 min. The extraction efficiency of TPS from Plantago asiatica L. was 8.395 mg/ml, which was more superior than those of organic solvents (water, methanol, 50% methanol, ethanol, 50% ethanol). The extraction kinetics experiment results showed that water content had a significant influence upon the extraction efficiency of TPS. At the same time, AB-8 macroporous resin column was used to efficiently isolate TPS from DES extraction with a recovery rate of 88.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild guava (Psidium guajava L.) commonly grows in tropical forests, and its leaves have long been used by Asian ethnic minorities as herbal tea and traditional medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different drying methods (sun drying, hot air drying, microwave drying, vacuum drying, and freeze drying) on the retention of bioactive compounds, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of wild guava leaves collected in Vietnam. The results showed that drying methods significantly affected the retention of bioactive compounds, biological activities, and color of guava leaves. The freeze-dried leaves had the highest levels of total phenolic content (173.25 ± 0.68 mg gallic acid equivalent g−1 dw), total flavonoid content (24.46 ± 0.78 mg QE g−1 dw), antioxidant capacity, and in vitro antidiabetic activity compared with others, while sun-dried leaves showed the lowest values of those parameters. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed a strong correlation among biological activities and contents of bioactive compounds, including antioxidant activity, in vitro antidiabetic activity, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content (r2 = 0.999, p < 0.0001). Specifically, the biological activities strongly and positively correlated epicatechin, rutin, chlorogenic acid, catechin, and gallic acid. Freeze-dried guava leaves had the highest positive scores, followed by hot air-dried, microwave-dried, vacuum-dried, and sun-dried samples. FD treatment sample also exhibited better color and sensory properties than others. Consequently, freeze drying is recommended as the most suitable drying method for preserving the bioactive compounds and sensory characteristics of dried wild guava leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the use of probiotic lactic acid bacteria including Lactobacillus brevis, L. plantarum, L. helveticus and L. delbrueckii from dairy products against Penicillium digitatum (green mold) on sweet orange fruit. Antifungal activity of Lactobacillus spp. was first assayed using bacterial cells through the overlay method against 105 spore/mL suspension of P. digitatum. Also, P. digitatum growth inhibition was measured in the PDA medium containing 15 and 30% cell-free supernatant (CFS) of Lactobacillus spp. Antifungal activity of Lactobacillus spp. was evaluated under storehouse conditions by treating wounded fruits with 108/mL cell suspension (CS) and 30% CFS of Lactobacillus spp., which then infected with 105/mL spore suspension of P. digitatum. The CS and CFS of L. plantarum had the best antifungal activity under both in vitro and in vivo conditions followed by L. helveticus, L. delbrueckii and L. brevis. L. plantarum. The 15 and 30% L. plantarum CFS were able to inhibit the growth of P. digitatum by 30.31%, 76.82% and 97.6% respectively, under in vitro conditions. Also, L. plantarum CS and 30% CFS reduced the growth of the P. digitatum on the fruit by 92.77 and 98.9% respectively, under storehouse conditions. The total content of all sugars of treated fruits with Lactobacillus spp., CS and CFS showed significant difference compared to untreated fruits. Therefore, the present study highlights the successful application of biological fungicides based on secondary compounds of Lactobacillus spp. due to greater stability of metabolites than bacterial cells in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With globalization, growing popularization and changes in dietary habits where more processed food is consumed, a generation of food wastes and by-products has increased. Under-exploitation of by-products and waste leads to finance losses and environmental pollution although most of the waste are a rich source of bioactive compounds. Using spray drying process, extracted bioactive compounds from food wastes and by-products can be transferred into powder form, and returned to the food chain. Spray drying technique showed to be the most convenient, energy efficient and time-saving process, where a liquid is directly transformed into stable powder, which can be stored for a prolonged time or easily incorporated into other products. This review article focuses on the application of processing parameters of spray drying with specific emphasis on the production of dry extracts of food waste and their influence on powder properties. Research gaps and challenges along with possible applications are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is noteworthy that phytosterol bioactivities are benefit for human health, promoting their interest to be used in the formulation of enriched and/or functional food ingredients. With the growing phytosterols market for food, pharmaceuticals or cosmetics, new sources than higher plants-related ones are needed, also to allow a sustainable and eco-friendly production. Microalgae fill the requisite to become a new asset for the development of food complements or nutraceuticals. The aim of this study is to update and integrate the knowledge on microalgal phytosterols – content, chemodiversity, bioactivity, biosynthetic pathway – and discussing the interests and challenges offered by microalgae-derived phytosterols for biotechnological applications as bioactive ingredients for functional foods. Generally, the content of phytosterols in microalgae is higher than in higher plants, enhancing the interest of these organisms as cell bio-factories of bioactive compounds for human consumption. However, it is important to fill the gap of knowledge on the phytosterol chemical diversity and distribution of microalgae. A first attempt in comparing the distribution of key enzymes involved in phytosterol biosynthetic pathways in the microalgal realm highlighted some phylogenetic differences and a notable discrimination between cyanophytes and eukaryotic microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus fruits contain numerous antioxidative biomolecules including phenolic acids, flavonols, flavanones, polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), and their derivatives. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies thoroughly investigated the antioxidant and therapeutic potential of bioflavonoids extracted from different citrus varieties and fruit fractions. Major bioflavonoids such as hesperidin, naringin, naringenin, and PMFs, had restricted their incorporation into food and health products due to their poor solubility, chemical stability and bioavailability. Considering these limitations, modern encapsulation methodologies such as hydrogelation, liposomal interactions, emulsifications, and nanoparticles have been designed to shield bioflavonoids with improved target distribution for therapeutic enhancements. The size, durability, and binding efficiency of bioflavonoid-loaded encapsulates were acquired by the optimized chemical and instrumental parameters such as solubility, gelation, dispersion, extrusion, and drying. Bioflavonoid-enriched encapsulates have been also proven to be effective against cancer, inflammation, neurodegeneration, and various other illnesses. However, in the future, newer natural binding agents with higher binding capacity might accelerate the encapsulating potential, controlled release, and enhanced bioavailability of citrus bioflavonoids. Overall, these modern encapsulation systems are currently leading to a new era of diet-based medicine, as demand for citrus fruit-based nutritional supplements and edibles grows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, the most effective concentrations of moringa leaf extract (MLE), aloe vera gel (AV gel), ascorbic acid (1 mM) and oxalic acid (5 mM) were used. Physically mature fruits harvested from a commercial orchard were dipped in aqueous solutions of different edible coatings and kept at ambient conditions (25±2ºC & 55-60% RH) for evaluation of the quality and enzymatic parameters on daily basis till marketability. Current results revealed that 5 mM ascorbic acid treatment resulted in 57% reduced fruit weight loss; while 20% AV gel coating increased firmness by 60% over a 5-day ambient storage period. Application 6% MLE exhibited 50.7% and 49.7% reduced respiration rate and ethylene production respectively. Fruit biochemical quality parameters were also improved with the lowest accumulation of total soluble solids as a result of slow respiration, higher titratable acidity, ascorbic acid contents, carotenoids and anthocyanin contents in all treated fruit. While, total phenolic contents and total antioxidants along with superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and anthocyanins were higher in ascorbic acid treated fruits. The activity of poly phenol oxidase enzyme was lowest in fruits treated with 5 mM ascorbic acid solution. Conclusively, the application of different edible coatings was proved to be beneficial as numerous fruit biochemical and antioxidative attributes were improved by ascorbic acid treatment; furthermore, MLE, AV gel and oxalic acid treatments were also helpful in maintaining fruit quality of strawberry fruits over a 5-days ambient storage period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus fruits contain plethora of bioactive compounds stored in edible as well as inedible part. Since, citrus fruits are processed mainly for juice, the residues are disposed in wastelands, hence, plenty of nutritional potential goes in vain. But if utilized wisely, the bioactive phytochemicals in citrus by-products have the ability to revolutionize the functional food industry. In the present review, the composition of citrus by-products in terms of bioactive components and their health benefits has been reviewed. Various extraction techniques used to extract these bioactives has been discussed and a brief overview of purification and utilization of the extracted compounds, in food and nutraceutical industry is also presented. Bioactives in citrus by-products are higher than the peeled fruit, which can be extracted, isolated and incorporated into food systems for development of health foods. From the studies reviewed, it was observed that research reported on utilization of citrus by-products is limited to mainly research labs; proper scale-up process and its adequate research commercialization is the need of hour to transform these bioactives into economical functional ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme was purified from avocado (Persea americana) by ammonium sulfate precipitation 0-80%, dialysis and affinity chromatography. Characterization studies were performed with catechol (0.10 M, pH: 7.2, 37 °C), 4-methyl catechol (0.10 M, pH: 6.0, 37 °C), pyrogallol (0.02 M, pH: 8.5, 5 °C), chlorogenic acid (0.20 M, pH: 6.8, 10 °C) and caffeic acid (0.20 M, pH: 8.5, 10 °C), respectively. Vmax and KM values were determined for catechol (15789.96 U*mL−1*min−1, 10 mM), 4-methyl catechol (6768.40 U*mL−1*min−1, 2 mM), pyrogallol (6802.72 U*mL−1*min−1, 4 mM), chlorogenic acid (1377.97 U*mL−1*min−1, 14.29 mM) and caffeic acid (2567.24 U*mL−1*min−1, 5 mM). PPO was purified as 147.73-fold and 154.00-fold by Sepharose 4B-L-Tyrosine-p-aminobenzoic acid and Sepharose-6B-L-Tyrosine-p-aminobenzoic acid, respectively. 4B isolated PPO gave two bands at 35 and 50 kDa in SDS-PAGE while visible and slightly visible bands at 50–70 kDa and 100 kDa in Native-PAGE. 6B isolated PPO gave bands as distinctively at 50 kDa and unclearly at around 35 kDa in SDS-PAGE while visible and slightly visible bands at 50–70 and 100 kDa in Native-PAGE. The synthesis of original 6B-affinity gel and no any study found in literature on affinity purification of avocado PPO show importance of our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilized column chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to isolate and identify 42 compounds in Potentilla fruticosa L. (PL), which compound 10 and 35 were preliminarily identified. Compounds 5–9, 11–13, 16, 17, 20, 23, 24 and 28 (total 14 polyphenols) promoted glucose consumption in IEC cells, exhibiting potential in reducing blood glucose levels. Mechanistic analysis revealed that the 14 polyphenols significantly inhibited α-glucosidase activity, and (expressed as semi-inhibitory concentration values) the capacity ranking is 13 > 9 > 12 > 5 > 16 > 8 > 17 > 7 > 6 > 11 > 28 > 23 > 24 > 20. Molecular docking showed that all 14 polyphenols have an active binding site with α-glucosidase, and the binding energy is all lower than −6.0 kcal·mol−1, thereby inhibiting the entry of p-nitrophenyl-d-glucoside. The results show that PL polyphenols can be used as effective α-glucosidase inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common beans are a source of phenolic compounds. However, they are sensitive to different factors. Microencapsulation may protect those bioactive compounds (BC). Hence, it is important to study the effects of microencapsulation and increase BC stability. A mix of methanolic extract of bean coat flour was prepared with N-lok as wall material. Inlet air temperature and total solids of wall material were evaluated. Air inlet temperature (115°C) and 28.54% total solids were the optimal conditions for the drying process, obtaining the highest concentration of BC. The particle size of microcapsules was ≈20 μm, and microencapsulation efficiency reached 96.29%. The stability conditions at two temperatures (30°C and 7°C) and two water activities (0.329 and 0.765) showed that encapsulation maintained BC stability in time as compared to control. The bean coat extract can be used as a functional microencapsulate with high BC content in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potato is a tuber with high global demand and importance in the human diet. It is used by food industries to manufacture processed products (French fries, chips, and purees), and consequently, significant quantities of potato peel are generated as a by-product. Potato peels are rich in compounds like anthocyanins, glycoalkaloids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. These bioactive compounds are associated with good health because they protect the body's cells from oxidative processes and have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and anticancer properties. Hence, new methods to recover these compounds and their application to food matrices are being explored. This review aims to raise awareness of the value of potato peels as a source of different phenolic compounds and the need to recover them. The review highlights the most recent research on the use of this by-product in different foods to add value to the final composition or improve technological and nutritional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food wastes imply significant greenhouse gas emissions, that increase the challenge of climate change and impact food security. According to FAO (2019), one of the main food wastes come from fruit and vegetables, representing 0.5 billion tons per year, of the 1.3 billion tons of total waste. The wastes obtained from fruit and vegetables have plenty of valuable components, known as bioactive compounds, with many properties that impact positively in human health. Some bioactive compounds hold antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties and they have the capacity of modulating metabolic processes. Currently, the use of fruit and vegetable waste is studied to obtain bioactive compounds, through non-conventional techniques, also known as green extraction techniques. These extraction techniques report higher yields, reduce the use of solvents, employ less extraction time, and improve the efficiency of the process for obtaining bioactive compounds. Once extracted, these compounds can be used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or food industry, the last one being focused on improving food quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant ability is the link and bridge connecting a variety of biological activities. Citrus flavonoids play an essential role in regulating oxidative stress and are an important source of daily intake of antioxidant supplements. Many studies have shown that citrus flavonoids promote health through antioxidation. In this review, the biosynthesis, composition and distribution of citrus flavonoids were concluded. The detection methods of antioxidant capacity of citrus flavonoids were divided into four categories: chemical, cellular, animal and clinical antioxidant capacity evaluation systems. The modeling methods, applicable scenarios, and their relative merits were compared based on these four systems. The antioxidant functions of citrus flavonoids under different evaluation systems were also discussed, especially the regulation of the Nrf2-antioxidases pathway. Some shortcomings in the current research were pointed out, and some suggestions for progress were put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit and vegetable residues have high levels of nutrients and phytochemicals such as in edible parts. However, they are not exploited and disposed properly. Advanced methodologies used to extract and characterize bioactive compounds, such as chromatography and mass spectrometry have been studied. Obtaining new materials in food and pharmaceutical industries have also been outlined in these works. This review analyzed a number of studies on sustainable applications utilizing fruit and vegetable residues in new products with bioactive properties in order to promote a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial neural network (ANN) development to find optimal carriers (pea protein-P, maltodextrin-M, and inulin-I) mixture for encapsulation of pumpkin waste bioactive (β-carotene and phenolics). Freeze-drying encapsulation and encapsulates characterisation in terms of bioactive contents and encapsulation efficiencies, water activity, hygroscopicity, densities, flowability, cohesiveness, particle size (laser diffraction), solubility, colour (CIELab), morphological (SEM), stability and release properties. Optimal encapsulates, OE-T (with highest total bioactive contents; P, M, and I of 53.9, 46.1, and 0%w/w) and OE-EE (with highest bioactive encapsulation efficiencies; P, M, and I of 45.5, 32.0, and 22.5%w/w) had particle diameters of 94.561 ± 1.341 µm and 90.206 ± 0.571 µm, the span of 1.777 ± 0.094 and 1.588 ± 0.089, highest release at pH 7.4 of phenolics of 71.03%w/w after 72 h and 66.22%w/w after 48 h, and β-carotene of 43.67%w/w after 8 h and 48.62%w/w after 6 h, respectively. ANN model for prediction of encapsulates' preparation, showed good anticipation properties (with gained determination coefficients of 1.000). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pasta is a commonly consumed food; adding some ingredients, maybe turn it into a functional food with health benefits. These ingredients consist of dietary fiber, antioxidant molecules, and enzyme inhibitor compounds, related to a reduced risk for some diseases. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a rich source of bioactive compounds rendering it a relevant candidate for the production of functional foods. The present study examines the in vitro starch digestibility of durum wheat pasta supplemented with 3% onion flour. The incorporation of onion flour attenuated the extent of starch digestion and accordingly the area under the curve of reducing sugars discharged during in vitro digestion. The predicted glycemic index (pGI) of pasta supplemented with onion flour (3%) was significantly lower (pGI = 54 ± 0.17) than the control pasta (pGI = 72 ± 0.14). These results indicate that 3% onion fortified pasta represents a food with potential healthy properties, showing glucose-lowering capabilities in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus (Citrus spp.) species produce a variety of fruits that are popular worldwide. Citrus fruits, however, are susceptible to postharvest decays caused by various pathogenic fungi, including Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium italicum, Geotrichum citri-aurantii, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus. Decays resulting from infections by these pathogens cause a significant reduction in citrus quality and marketable yield. Biological control of postharvest decay utilizing antagonistic bacteria and fungi has been explored as a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides. In the present article, the isolation of antagonists utilized to manage postharvest decays in citrus is reviewed, and the mechanism of action including recent molecular and genomic studies is discussed as well. Several recently-postulated mechanisms of action, such as biofilm formation and an oxidative burst of reactive oxygen species have been highlighted. Improvements in biocontrol efficacy of antagonists through the use of a combination of microbial antagonists and additives are also reviewed. Biological control utilizing bacterial and yeast antagonists is a critical component of an integrated management approach for the sustainable development of the citrus industry. Further research will be needed, however, to explore and utilize beneficial microbial consortia and novel approaches like CRISPR/Cas technology for management of postharvest decays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, optimized techniques of conventional, ultrasound and microwave-assisted extraction were applied for the recovery of antioxidant compounds from lemon by-products (Citrus limon L). Specifically, the effect of solvent, temperature, microwave power, time and their interaction on the extraction was investigated. Among the tested solvents, the hydroalcoholic mixture (ethanol:water, 50:50) was the optimal one for all extraction techniques: in particular assisted by ultrasounds at 70 °C for 30 minutes (total phenolic content: 6.93 mg GAE g−1, total flavonoids: 2.07 mg CE g−1, ABTS assay: 18.36 µM TE g−1). Also, the other techniques allowed to obtain valuable extracts, although with relative lower amounts. The analyses of individual phenols revealed hesperidin and eriocitrin as the main compounds (respectively about 1650 and 1150 mg kg−1) after ultrasound assisted and conventional extraction. Results of this work can be useful to valorize an industrial by-product by sustainable techniques for the high-added value substances recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Delphi study analyzing responses from food manufacturers affiliated with the Upcycled Food Association (UFA) was used to develop a definition for upcycled food products. Interviews and surveys of upcycling food businesses were used to define industry's perspective regarding upcycled food products, their production, and how such products could be integrated into the food supply chain. This study provides a third-party validation for upcycled foods and proposes a definition that could shape the Upcycled Food Association's official definition of such foods as well as a shared understanding of this category of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maritime transportation constitutes a dynamic Greek economic sector. Greece accounted for 25% of the Maritime Passenger Traffic (MPT) in the European Union in 2007. However, due to the economic recession since 2009, maritime passenger transportation has been facing increasing fuel prices along with declining demand. In this paper, we develop transfer function models, including macroeconomic indicators, for forecasting the coastal and the Adriatic MPT in Greek ports. The majority of the MPT models include the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as an explanatory variable, reflecting the financial impact on maritime flows. Although the employment and the economic crisis dummy are also used as explanatory variables, the unemployment and the oil price do not affect MPT. The coastal traffic models are generally more consistent when the seasonality trend is eliminated, while the international traffic models perform better when the inherent seasonality is considered. This first effort contributes toward filling the gap of MPT forecasting models for supporting policy-making on maritime transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gibberellic acid (GA3) is important in plant growth, development, ripening, and senescence. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of pre-harvest GA3 application on the maintenance of postharvest fruit quality in kumquat (Citrus japonica). On-tree fruits were sprayed with 20 mg/L GA3. Unsprayed harvested fruit stored at 6 °C were used as the control. The contents of indoleacetic acid, GA3, and zeatin ribosides in the GA3-sprayed fruits were significantly higher than those in the control, while the contents of both abscisic acid and titratable acid in sprayed fruits were lower than those in the control. Regarding peel colour, GA3 treatment resulted in a lower decrease in hue angle value, with a slow increase in citrus colour index and browning index. Additionally, GA3 treatment inhibited the accumulation of malondialdehyde. In conclusion, pre-harvest application of GA3 may represent a novel strategy for the preservation of fruits on trees, by maintaining nutritional quality and prolonging the postharvest life of kumquat fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the appeals for antibiotic-free production and the attention to natural feed additives in poultry. The effects of fresh lemon (FM) supplementation on older laying hens (79–96 weeks) and its comparison with citric acid (CA) and flavomycin (FLA) were evaluated in the present study. Female Jingfen chickens (n = 540) were randomly distributed into 5 dietary treatments: 0 (control), 20 g/kg (2%) and 40 g/kg (4%) FM, 0.7 g/kg CA and 0.005 g/kg FLA. Production performances were recorded daily and egg quality traits were measured biweekly. Serum biochemical indices and antibody titres were detected every 4 weeks from 84 to 96 weeks of age. Compared with the control diet, FM, CA and FLA increased the laying rate (p <.05) and average daily feed intake (ADFI), and reduced the feed to egg ratio (FER), indicating positive effects on production performance. Albumen height and HU were increased by 2% and 4% FM groups compared to the control, while albumen height was decreased in CA and FLA groups. FM improved serum antioxidant enzyme activities (p <.05) and reduced serum HDL, LDL, TG and T-CH compared to other groups, indicating favourable effects on antioxidative status and lipid metabolism. Antibody titres against H5N1, H9N2 and NDV were higher in FM groups than that in other groups during most experimental periods (p <.05). In conclusion, FM supplementation enhanced the production performance and antioxidant capacity of laying hens during the late laying period and was superior to the CA and FLA in improving albumen quality, immune status and lipid metabolism. FM supplementation in layers' diets had positive effects on production performance, egg albumen quality and lipid metabolism, and could enhance antioxidant capacity and immune levels. Adding FM had better effects on the albumen quality, immune status and lipid metabolism of laying hens than adding CA and FLA during the late laying period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus is one of the most widely cultivated, processed and consumed fruits throughout the world. A large amount of by-products is generated from citrus processing industries, which causes severe environmental pollution when disposed without proper treatment and disposal methods. However, these by-products are a rich source of value-added compounds such as polyphenols, essential oils, pectin, dietary fibers and carotenoids, which can be recovered for their subsequent utilization in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors to develop products with numerous health benefits. Moreover, these citrus by-products can also be recycled into different bio-products such as enzymes, bio-fuels, and bio-polymers via biotechnological route. Therefore, strategies for the valorization of citrus by-products have been developed in order to reduce the negative environmental impact as well as to meet the increasing demand of society for functional foods, fuels, and energy. Taking everything into consideration, this review provides comprehensive information on the different economic and environment-friendly valorization strategies for the effective reuse and recycling of citrus by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold plasma (CP) is a promising novel technology, which can widely be applied to accelerate the drying process and preserve the nutritional values in the foodstuff. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effect of CP pretreatments on hot air drying of shiitake mushroom. Direct CP and cold plasma-activated water (CPAW) was used to treat the mushrooms before drying at 50, 60, and 70 °C. Scanning electron microscopic reports exhibited that both CP and CPAW pretreatment significantly changed the surface topography of shiitake by generating intracellular spaces, larger cavities, and less density, which in turn facilitated the drying process of shiitake. Both CP and CPAW pretreatment accelerated the mass transfer during the drying process, resulting in lower activation energy, drying time and energy requirement compared to Control. Mathematical modeling studies revealed that Page, Parabolic, Logarithmic as well as Midilli and others were the best models to adequately describe the drying kinetics of shiitake. Furthermore, CP pretreatments were better capable of preserving the phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity than Control. While CP-pretreated mushrooms preserved the highest amount of phenolics (463.30 mg/100 g), flavonoids (100.70 mg/100 g), and DPPH-relative inhibition activity (0.201). Conclusively, CP, as an effective pretreatment strategy, can repeatedly be applicable for the drying of agro-products in terms of improving the drying parameters, energy management as well as protecting the nutritional compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beta vulgaris L. powder is commonly used as a source of natural red color in foods. Traditionally, this powder is made by spray-drying or tray-drying, both dehydration methods that involve high temperatures and may lead to degradation of betalains. The objective of this study was to compare physical properties and betalain content of beet powders prepared by tray-, freeze-, drum-, and continuous vacuum-belt drying. Powders prepared by freeze-drying had smaller particles (10–20 µm) and were more uniform. Those prepared by tray and vacuum-drying were larger and more irregular. Samples prepared with maltodextrins were lighter in color. Those produced by freeze- or vacuum-drying had greater color saturation. All powders flowed, but those prepared by tray- or vacuum-drying flowed more quickly. Freeze-dried and vacuum-dried powders had the greatest betanin content (261–306 mg betacyanin/g dry beet solids) and betaxanthin levels (129–159 mg vulgaxanthin/g dry beet solids), while the tray-tried and drum-dried powders had the lowest levels. Thus, vacuum-belt drying could be used to produce a continuous stream of beet powder with color and betalain content similar to that of freeze-dried product, but in a much shorter time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of strong magnetic fields for brain imaging has shown that increased SNR and resolution can be obtained. Such MRI systems are prone to field non-uniformities that are more likely to appear in deep brain structures making high-quality imaging of deep brain regions a challenge. We investigate the combination of a dipole antenna and Birdcage coil to generate a uniform magnetic field with high intensity in the deep brain. Magnetic fields |B1|, were computed from a human brain model and statistical analysis was done specifically on the tissues of interest. The geometry of the Birdcage coil and eight Dipole antenna array was selected after performing simulations by varying its dimensions, and evaluating the |B1| field intensity and uniformity on the deep brain area. The proposed combination of birdcage coil and dipole array shows to have an improvement on the field intensity and uniformity on the deep brain and cerebellum area in comparison to only using the birdcage coil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, microwave and ultrasound extraction were selected as process intensification tools to intensify the conventional heat reflux extraction process. Process efficiency was evaluated based on total phenolic content (ascorbic acid, neochlorogenic acid, and chlorogenic acid), scavenging ability of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric (Fe3+) free radicals, and process intensification principles and domains. Highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity were achieved using microwave extraction followed by heat reflux and ultrasound extraction. Microwave extraction was selected via decision matrix as a suitable process intensification approach based on results and its ability to satisfy process intensification principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the consumers' demands for fruit and vegetable juices (FVJ), such as higher nutritive values, minimal processing and high quality have been growing rapidly. Sonication is considered as non-thermal food processing technology and it has gained considerable attention because of its capacity to keep original freshness and nutritional contents in foods, with minor energy utilization and high sensory acceptability, compared to the conventional heat treatment. This review summarized the effect of ultrasound (US) on the physical and chemical parameters, color change, rheological behavior (RB), bioactive compounds (BC) and sensorial properties of apple, citrus, grape, kiwifruit, melon, peach, pineapple, and tomato juices. US processing can be applied in FVJ industry to improve physicochemical properties (i.e., physical stability, changes particle size, and modifying color attributes and turbidity), RB (i.e., texture, viscosity, and consistency), antioxidant properties, emulsifying capacity, microbial and enzymatic stability, and inactivation (i.e., pectinmethylesterase (PME), polyphenol oxidase, and polygalacturonase) of juices. US has positive impact on nutritional status and sensory acceptance of juices as it enhanced the functional properties of FVJ. The rheological properties (RP) of juices including shear stress, apparent viscosity (AV), storage and loss modulus increases with the rise of US time. Therefore, US treatment can be an alternative to thermal treatment to obtain FVJ with high nutritional quality and good sensorial attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with the school timetabling problem for the case of Greek high schools. At first, the problem is modelled as a Mixed Integer Programming problem for ten instances referring to Greek high schools. Then, the problem is coded using the MathProg programming language. Two different linear programming solvers are employed, Gurobi and CPLEX, to solve the problem for the instances at hand. Two methodologies are proposed. The first one deals with the problem utilising a model that includes all hard and soft constraints, called "monolithic" model, while the second one is based on a decomposition of the problem to six sub-problems. It should be stated that Gurobi and CPLEX did not produced satisfactory results when the monolithic model was the case. Computational results demonstrate the effectiveness of the second proposed methodology, as optimal solutions or new lower bounds were found. In addition, the results produced by Mixed Integer Programming are compared with the best so far published results, obtained by two Nature Inspired algorithms namely Particle Swarm Optimization and Cat Swarm Optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to encapsulate red pepper waste (RPW) bioactives and monitor their stability in yogurt. Methods: RPW extract was encapsulated in whey protein using spray and freeze-drying techniques. Physicochemical characteristics of encapsulates were evaluated, and better encapsulates were used to develop functional yogurt. Retention of bioactives was followed over 21 days of storage, and sensory analyses were assessed. Results: Freeze-dried encapsulates (FDE) showed better characteristics like water activity, moisture content, solubility, flowing and colour properties, and, therefore, incorporated in yogurt. Yogurt with FDE successfully retained carotenoids (71.43%) and caused increasing of polyphenol retention (up to 123.73%). This yogurt exhibited higher sensory and general acceptability scores compared to control sample. The fortification of yogurts had a positive influence on maintaining the initial number of lactic acid bacteria during storage. Conclusion: Freeze drying and utilisation of pepper waste are efficient for functional food development, with improved nutritional, colour and bioactive properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of different heating times (30–150 min) at 100°C on nutraceuticals and antioxidant properties of Lonicera japonica Thunb. (LJ). Total phenolic, phenolic acid (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid) and flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, and luteolin) in LJ were significantly increased after heat treatments. Antioxidant activities, such as DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS radical scavenging activity, FRAP and reducing power, of LJ, were improved after heating. Antioxidant activities were positively correlated with total phenolic, total flavonoid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and quercetin contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water chestnut peels have good antioxidant activity. The effects of simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and intestinal fluid (SIF) fluid digestion in vitro on the active substance and antioxidant activity of water chestnut peels that were pre-treated using different boiling times (P10 and P30) were investigated. The results showed that the SGF obviously increased both the total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of water chestnut peels. The SGF digestion significantly enhanced both the FRAP and ABTS antioxidant capacity of water chestnut peels only blanched with P10. However, the SIF digestion significantly increased the FRAP and ABTS antioxidant capacity of all water chestnut peels regardless of whether these were pre-treated or not. The HPLC results showed that the simulated digestion in vitro enhanced the flavonoids content of the peels. Water chestnut peels could be used as an inexpensive source of natural functional food ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large amount of citrus waste is generated annually. This waste is of great economic worth, since it contains high levels of polyphenols, which have attracted scientific interest due to their potent antimicrobial and antiradical activities. Pretreatment is a crucial step that precedes the extraction process and influences the yields and quality of polyphenols. This review emphasizes the effect of different drying processes, such as freeze drying, hot-air drying, vacuum drying, microwave drying, infrared drying, and high-speed drying, on the polyphenol retention in citrus by-products. Further treatments of the dried citrus by-products for assisting the liberation of bound polyphenols are also provided and comprehensively discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few years, bioactive components or their extraction techniques are gaining special interest in scientific areas. In this framework, orange leaves were used for preparation of extracts with high content of biologically active compounds. To optimize the extraction process, three levels and three variables of Box-Behnken design with response surface methodology were applied. Investigated responses were the total phenolic content (TPC), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Independent variables were methanol concentration (10-90%), temperature (20-60°C), and extraction time (60-180 min). Experimentally obtained results were fit into a second-order polynomial model with multiple regression. Analysis of variance was used to estimate model fitness and determine optimal conditions for processing. Estimated optimal conditions were 90% methanolic solution, 60°C and 180 min using these parameters; the predicted values of investigated responses were 43.19 mg GAE/g (GAE: gallic acid equivalents), 43.04 mg TE/g (TE: trolox equivalents), 139.34 and 93.76 mg TE/g for TPC, DPPH, CUPRAC, and FRAP, respectively. The obtained optimal conditions could be considered as an alternative strategy for developing novel functional products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coupled effects of sodium carbonate (SC) pre-treatment and hybrid drying methods (freeze-drying (FD)-instant controlled pressure drop drying (DIC), hot air drying (HAD)-DIC) on the microstructure, physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant properties of goji berries were investigated. Dewaxing pre-treatment by SC could decrease drying time and improve quality. A substantial increase in pore size of goji was found after SC pre-treatment coupled with hybrid drying. Although the best colour was found in FD products, goji dried by hybrid methods (especially FD-DIC) showed better overall quality than that dried by HAD or FD alone. FD-DIC products exhibited the lowest moisture content (127 g/kg), the best crispness (21), the highest glass transition temperature (27.82ºC), higher contents of total Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (139.8 g/kg), total carotenoids (2.43 g/kg) as well as ABTS+ radical scavenging activity (57.55 μmol TE/g). FD-DIC could be an alternative drying method for processing valuable agro-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare phytochemical and antioxidant properties of different parts ofSalacia chinensisL. The root ofS. chinensishad the highest content of phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins and saponins (64.4 mg gallic acid equivalent /g dried weight (DW), 106 mg catechin equivalent (CE)/g DW, 43.5 mg CE/g DW and 799.9 mg escin equivalent /g DW, respectively), followed by the stem and leaf. Similarly, results from the four antioxidant assays (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and CUPRAC) showed that the root ofS. chinensishad the highest antioxidant capacity (632.2, 577.1, 443.3 and 365.0 μM trolox equivalent/g DW, respectively), followed by the stem while the leaf had the lowest antioxidant capacity. From HPLC chromatograms, three major compounds were detected from the root and stem ofS. chinensis, while more major individual compounds in lower quantities were seen in the leaf. As the root contained high phytochemical and antioxidant properties, future studies are recommended to isolate and identify the major bioactive compounds from the root for further industrial utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The main reason for the Greek student migration depends on the exclusion from the Greek university system. But this push factor does not exhaust the explanation for the Greek student mobility. By using the findings of a field study in Italy, this paper highlights that the acquisition of foreign educational credentials is considered as an attempt to obtain a more valuable form of education through mobility. Furthermore, it stresses the relationship between mobility and the accumulation of cultural capital through international education whereby the mobility of Greek students tends to create social reproduction in Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Constructing a feasible solution, where the focus is on 'hard' constraints only, is an important part of solving timetabling problems. For the University Course Timetabling Problem, we propose a heuristic algorithm to schedule events to timeslots based on cliques, each representing a set of events that could be scheduled in the same timeslot, which the algorithm constructs. Our algorithm has been tested on a set of well-known instances, and the experimental results show that our algorithm is efficient and can compete with other effective algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]