Production Performance Research Articles

Drivers of geographical indication food supply chain performance: a B2B network perspective

Purpose This study aims to examine the role relational dynamics, grounded in the theories of social exchange and social capital, play within the context of geographic indication (GI) food supply chain network (FSCN) performance. Design/methodology/approach A total of 30 qualitative interviews were undertaken with key informant stakeholders across a variety of organizations within Turkish GI FSCNs. An open, axial and selective grounded theory coding process was used for the analysis, teasing out critical themes that underpinned the conceptual framework. Findings The findings identify the formal and informal mechanisms which govern GI FSCNs. These two forms of governance mechanisms influence network performance, which was found to comprise logistics, production, business and socio-economic performance dimensions. Transparency, GI traceability, trust and psychological contract violations were found to mediate the link between governance and network performance outcomes. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to explore GI FSCNs from the perspective of relationship marketing and through the lens of social exchange and social capital theory. Accordingly, both academics and practitioners can benefit from the study, as it unveils relevant relational factors underpinning such networks.

Prickly ash seeds can promote healthy production of sheep by regulating the rumen microbial community

This study aimed to investigate the effect of prickly ash seeds (PAS) on the microbial community found in rumen microbes of Hu sheep by adding different percentages of prickly ash seeds and to carry out research on the relation between rumen flora and production performance. Twenty-seven male lambs of Hu sheep were classified into three groups based on the content of prickly ash seeds (PAS) fed for 90 days, i.e., 0%, 3%, and 6%. At the end of the feeding trial, rumen fluid samples were collected from six sheep in each group for 16S amplicon sequencing. The results showed that the addition of prickly ash seeds significantly increased both Chao1 and ACE indices (P < 0.05), and the differences between groups were greater than those within groups. The relative content of Bacteriodota decreased, and the relative content of Fusobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteriota, and Euryarchaeota increased. The relative content of Papillibacter and Saccharofermentans was increased at the genus level, and the relative content of Bacteroides and Ruminococcus was decreased. The test group given 3% of prickly ash seeds was superior to the test group given 6% of prickly ash seeds. In addition, the addition of 3% of prickly ash seeds improved the metabolism or immunity of sheep. Fusobacteriota and Acidobacteriota were positively correlated with total weight, dressing percentage, and average daily gain (ADG) and negatively correlated with average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed-to-gain ratio (F/G), and lightness (L*). Methanobrevibacter and Saccharofermentans were positively correlated with ADG and negatively correlated with ADFI and L*. In conclusion, under the present experimental conditions, the addition of prickly ash seeds increased the abundance and diversity of rumen microorganisms in Hu sheep and changed the relative abundance of some genera. However, the addition of 6% prickly ash seeds may negatively affect the digestive and immune functions in sheep rumen.

Experimental investigation of a new photoelectrochemical cell design featuring a unique photocathode configuration for solar hydrogen production

The electrodeposition process and the subsequent assessment of a novel cuprous oxide photocathode are conducted for solar light-based hydrogen production. The mesh dome photocathode helps facilitate the optimal light harvesting, enabling the efficient collection of the maximum accessible light from the solar simulator. This particular design also ensures that light reaches the remote surfaces of the photocathode through penetrating the mesh structure. The electrodeposition method is then employed to coat cuprous oxide onto the stainless-steel electrode. The subsequent examination of this photocathode occurs within an alkaline solution of potassium dioxide to assess its performance in hydrogen production. The study investigates the impact of the new design of the mesh photocathode on hydrogen generation rates, as well as related efficiencies of energy and exergy, under varying light angles during daylight hours. The present experimental findings reveal that the maximum rates of hydrogen production, achieved at a 45° tilt light and 0.25 M KOH, are 15.38 μg/s and it is 15.83 μg/s for vertical light positions. Furthermore, the highest recorded system exergy and energy efficiencies under vertical light conditions are 2.19% and 3.20%, respectively, compared to 2.14% and 3.12% at applying tilted light. The new photocathode design contributes to a notable 80.3% improvement in hydrogen generation rate at tilted light angles in comparison to vertical light conditions.

Construction of 3D MoSx/Zn2In2S5 nanoflower heterojunction for boosted photothermal-assisted photocatalytic hydrogen evolution in biomass solution

Hydrogen production from solar energy conversion method is an attractive strategy to alleviate the energy crisis. The use of non-noble metal cocatalysts instead of noble metal monomers to improve the performance of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reactions has been pursued by researchers. In this work, we develop a single-photon excited electron transport pathway system for photocatalytic hydrogen production performance studies by coupling 0D MoSx nanodots and 3D Zn2In2S5 nanoflowers. Experimental results combined with DFT calculations show that MoSx not only imparts photothermal properties to the composite material, but also acts as a conduit for electron transport, which can accelerate the rapid separation and transfer of photocatalytic charges. Among them, 3-MoSx/Zn2In2S5 selectively promoted photocatalyzed conversion of benzyl alcohol (BA, 100% conversion) into benzaldehyde (BAD, 96.82% selectivity) by simultaneous co-production of hydrogen (8.74 mmol•g−1•h−1) within 1 h, which is about 7.80 and 2.69 times higher than pure Zn2In2S5, respectively. Further, 3-MoSx/Zn2In2S5 can realize the hydrogen production reaction with glycerol as the substrate with a remarkable effect (up to 5.47 mmol•g−1•h−1). Additionally, 3-MoSx/Zn2In2S5 also showed some hydrogen production performance when other biomasses (glucose, xylose, and cellulose) were used as substrates. This work provides a feasible strategy for the design of photothermal photocatalysts for synergistic hydrogen production from biomass.

Productive Performance, Hatching Egg Quality and Health Indices of Hisex Brown Laying Hens Fed Extruded Grain Amaranth

Productive Performance, Hatching Egg Quality and Health Indices of Hisex Brown Laying Hens Fed Extruded Grain Amaranth

Progress Made in Non-Metallic-Doped Materials for Electrocatalytic Reduction in Ammonia Production

The electrocatalytic production of ammonia has garnered considerable interest as a potentially sustainable technology for ammonia synthesis. Recently, non-metallic-doped materials have emerged as promising electrochemical catalysts for this purpose. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the latest research on non-metallic-doped materials for electrocatalytic ammonia production. Researchers have engineered a variety of materials, doped with non-metals such as nitrogen (N), boron (B), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S), into different forms and structures to enhance their electrocatalytic activity and selectivity. A comparison among different non-metallic dopants reveals their distinct effects on the electrocatalytic performance for ammonia production. For instance, N-doping has shown enhanced activity owing to the introduction of nitrogen vacancies (NVs) and improved charge transfer kinetics. B-doping has demonstrated improved selectivity and stability, which is attributed to the formation of active sites and the suppression of competing reactions. P-doping has exhibited increased ammonia generation rates and Faradaic efficiencies, likely due to the modification of the electronic structure and surface properties. S-doping has shown potential for enhancing electrocatalytic performance, although further investigations are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. These comparisons provide valuable insights for researchers to conduct in-depth studies focusing on specific non-metallic dopants, exploring their unique properties, and optimizing their performance for electrocatalytic ammonia production. However, we consider it a priority to provide insight into the recent progress made in non-metal-doped materials and their potential for enabling long-term and efficient electrochemical ammonia production. Additionally, this paper discusses the synthetic procedures used to produce non-metal-doped materials and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of each method. It also provides an in-depth analysis of the electrochemical performance of these materials, including their Faradaic efficiencies, ammonia yield rate, and selectivity. It examines the challenges and prospects of developing non-metallic-doped materials for electrocatalytic ammonia production and suggests future research directions.

Exposure to sublethal levels of H2S does not influence the short-term growth or feed utilization in post-smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) during restrictive feeding

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) related mass mortality events in land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are associated with the sudden release of substantial amounts of H2S, resulting in acutely toxic exposure. However, the production and release of H2S can also occur at slower constant rates, leading to continuous exposure to sublethal H2S concentrations, the effects of which are unknown. Here, we examined growth rates, feed conversion ratios, and apparent nutrient digestibility in post-smolt Atlantic salmon, following a 10-day exposure to one of two sublethal concentrations of H2S, compared against a control group. The H2S concentrations of the low exposure (LE) and moderate exposure (ME) groups throughout the trial were 1.8 ± 0.8 μg/L and 4.1 ± 1.9 μg/L, respectively. Neither exposure regime affected growth, feed utilization, or the apparent nutrient digestibility. The results suggest that Atlantic salmon tolerate exposure to sublethal H2S concentrations for 10 days, without a discernible effect on the production performance. For aquaculture systems, specifically RAS, this means that while higher concentrations of H2S should be strictly avoided, the presence of low H2S concentrations for a limited period might not be detrimental to fish welfare or production. The RAS environment is complex, and the potential combined effects of H2S and factors pertinent to RAS may influence fish performance differently in a production setting.

Technological characteristics of whole wheat bread: effects of wheat varieties, sourdough treatments and sourdough levels

AbstractSourdough bread has gained interest with the increasing demand of consumers for more natural, delicious and healthy foods. Also, consumption of whole grain flour is increasing due to the bioactive compounds it contains. This study aimed to investigate the effects of wheat variety (Tosunbey, Kenanbey, İkizce-96, Bezostaja-1), sourdough treatment [Spontaneous fermentation (SP), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP), Fructilactobacillus sanfranciscensis (LS)] and sourdough level (0–10–20–30%) on the technological characteristics of whole wheat bread. The investigated factors had significant effects on pH, total titratable acidity, specific volume, color and textural parameters. The increasing levels of sourdough decreased the specific volume of whole wheat bread and increased the crumb hardness. The whole wheat sourdough breads produced with LP and LS had lower specific volumes due to the acidity, but were more favorable in terms of smell compared to SP. The hardness and chewiness of the bread samples significantly increased with the three days of storage, while the cohesiveness and springiness decreased. Wheat varieties with higher protein content and Zeleny sedimentation value had better performance for whole wheat sourdough bread production. The study showed that sourdough with selected lactic starters (LP and LS) could be used at 10–20% levels in whole wheat bread formulations to have acceptable technological and sensory characteristics.

(Invited) CdS/Ti-Si-O Composite Photoanode for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation

Advancements in clean energy drive socio-economic development and foster a sustainable future by restructuring energy systems and promoting low-carbon development. In this paper, we presented a comprehensive investigation on the design and performance characterization of CdS/Ti-Si-O composite photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation. Silicon-doped TiO2 nanotube arrays were fabricated through anodization of Ti-5Si alloy, followed by the deposition of CdS using the SILAR (successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction) process, resulting in nanostructured Ti-Si-O photoanodes modified with CdS. The composite photoanodes were characterized in terms of their composition, microstructure, optical properties and photoelectrochemical hydrogen production performance. The composite photoanodes revealed a notable enhancement in PEC hydrogen generation properties with a photocurrent density of 7.86 mA/cm2，which was 19.15 times and 9.59 times to those of the undoped TiO2 photoanode and Ti-Si-O photoanode, respectively. The Si-doping mechanism of the photoanodes was elucidated through Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The synergistic combination of Si-doping and CdS modification represents a novel and promising approach for the design of efficient nanostructured photoanodes.

Nano-Sheets of CsNiVF6 Pyrochlore Electrocatalyst for Enhanced Urea Oxidation and Hydrogen Green Production Reactions

This study presents the successful synthesis of a cesium–nickel–vanadium fluoride (CsNiVF6) pyrochlore nano-sheet catalyst via solid-phase synthesis and its electrochemical performance in green hydrogen production through urea electrolysis in alkaline media. The physicochemical characterizations revealed that the CsNiVF6 exhibits a pyrochlore-type structure consisting of a disordered cubic corner-shared (Ni, V)F6 octahedra structure and nano-sheet morphology with a thickness ranging from 10 to 20 nm. Using the CsNiVF6 catalyst, the electrochemical analysis, conducted through cyclic voltammetry, demonstrates a current mass activity of ~1500 mA mg−1, recorded at 1.8 V vs. RHE, along with low-resistance (3.25 ohm) charge transfer and good long-term stability for 0.33 M urea oxidation in an alkaline solution. Moreover, the volumetric hydrogen production rate at the cathode (bare nickel foam) is increased from 12.25 to 39.15 µmol/min upon the addition of 0.33 M urea to a 1.0 KOH solution and at a bias potential of 2.0 V. The addition of urea to the electrolyte solution enhances hydrogen production at the cathode, especially at lower voltages, surpassing the volumes produced in pure 1.0 M KOH solution. This utilization of a CsNiVF6 pyrochlore nano-sheet catalyst and renewable urea as a feedstock contributes to the development of a green and sustainable hydrogen economy. Overall, this research underscores the potential use of CsNiVF6 as a cost-effective nickel-based pyrochlore electrocatalyst for advancing renewable and sustainable urea electrolysis processes toward green hydrogen production.

Seedling Growth, Field Performance and Economics of Production of Early Cauliflower as Influenced by Different Sowing Media and Variety under Greenhouse Condition in Assam, India

An experiment was conducted at the greenhouse and in the field of the Experimental Farm, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019) to assess the effect of sowing media and variety on growth of early cauliflower seedling and subsequent performance of seedling in the main field. The results revealed that seedlings raised in different sowing media surpassed the conventional sowing media (soil, sand and farm yard manure) for growth attributes and yield. The media M1 i.e., cocopeat (60): vermiculite (20): perlite (20) recorded the highest seedling emergence whereas minimum days to transplanting and maximum leaf area was recorded in M2 i.e., cocopeat (50): vermicompost (50). Minimum days to 2-true leaf emergence was recorded in both M2 and M3 [cocopeat (50): vermicompost (50): microbial consortium@ 1:100] and M3 recorded the highest seedling height in nursery. Minimum days for 2-true leaf emergence was recorded by variety V2 (CFL1522) while highest leaf area was found in V1(White Diamond). Among interactions, M1V1 recorded maximum emergence, M2V2 recorded minimum number of days for 2-true leaf stage and to transplanting respectively, maximum leaf area in M2V1 and M3V2 produced the tallest seedling. In field, the seedlings that were grown in M3 media in nursery recorded significantly higher value of growth parameters and yield. Variety white Diamond took minimum days for establishment and recorded maximum leaf area index at 30 Days After Transplanting (DAT) as well as at harvest. Though treatment combination, M3V2 recorded the highest curd yield the highest cost benefit ratio was obtained in M3V1 (3.95) and the lowest (2.42) in M1V1. Considering the cost benefit ratio, for producing good quality seedlings of early cauliflower under green house, which will further give best performance in field condition, cocopeat (50): vermicompost (50): microbial consortium (1:100) as sowing media and variety White Diamond can be used in Assam.

Indices of oral and written narratives differentiating Mandarin-speaking school-age children with and without developmental language disorder

Little evidence has been reported for narrative-related difficulties for Chinese Mandarin-speaking school-age children with developmental language disorder (DLD). This study aimed to capture the indices from narratives that can differentiate Chinese children with and without DLD. Oral narrative and written narrative samples were collected from children with DLD ( Mage = 8.37, SD = 1.25; N = 26) and typically developing (TD) children ( Mage = 8.46, SD = 1.28; N = 26). The narrative samples were compared on a series of indices of narratives in both oral and written narratives. Results showed that at the macrostructure, Mandarin Chinese-speaking school-age children with DLD lagged behind TD children in story structures; at the microstructure, children with DLD had weaker performance in story productivity, lexical diversity, and syntax diversity. Moreover, less group difference was found in the written modality relative to the oral modality. The results suggest indices of story productivity, lexical diversity, and syntactic complexity could be potential linguistic markers in the assessment of school-age Mandarin-speaking children with DLD. The present findings advance our understanding of deficits in narratives for Mandarin-speaking children.

Antibacterial properties of oil extracts of black soldier fly larvae reared on bread waste

Context Farming black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) has become an emerging agricultural sector for upcycling food waste into high-quality protein and oil biomass. Depending on the chemical composition of the food waste, the oil extracted from BSFL can reach high levels of lauric acid, a natural antimicrobial compound. Aims We aimed to evaluate whether feeding a bakery waste-based substrate can enhance the lauric acid synthesis of BSFL. In addition, we aimed to test the antibacterial activity of these BSFL oil extracts against E. coli in vitro. Methods In a 12-day-long feeding trial, we reared BSFL either on a ground corn-based control substrate (n = 6) or a substrate based on bread waste sourced from a local bakery in Hong Kong (n = 6). We studied the growth performance, crude fat and lauric acid content, and agar well-diffusion assay-based antibacterial activity of oil samples extracted from the larvae. Key results The BSFL reared on the bread waste had a higher average weight (P < 0.001) and average daily gain (P < 0.001), similar crude fat content (P = 0.17), and higher lauric acid content (P < 0.001) than did the control larvae. Both oil samples moderately inhibited the growth of E. coli in vitro; the inhibition zones were 1.92 ± 1.0 mm and 1.25 ± 0.75 mm (means ± s.d.) big in the bread waste-based and the control oil samples respectively (P = 0.28). Conclusions Our results indicated that locally sourced bread waste is a suitable substrate for farming BSFL, providing a sustainable alternative for waste management. Implications The inclusion of locally produced BSFL oil as a feed ingredient for the local livestock farming sector might be an avenue not only to achieve circular economy, but also to reduce antimicrobial drug use. However, the effects on animal health and productive performance warrant further in vivo experiments.

Effect of dietary supplementation with recombinant human lysozyme on growth performance, antioxidative characteristics and intestinal health in broiler chickens.

Lysozyme is often used as a feed additive to act as an antibacterial protein that boosts the immune system of livestock and poultry while protecting against pathogens. To investigate effects of recombinant human lysozyme (rhLYZ) rom Pichia pastoris and chlortetracycline on broiler chicken's production performance, antioxidant characteristics, and intestinal microbiota, a total of 200, one-day-old male Arbor Acres broiler chickens (46.53±0.42g) were selected for a 42-day experiment. Dietary treatments included: a basal diet of corn-soybean meal supplemented with either 0mg/kg (CON), 50mg/kg aureomycin (ANT), 20mg/kg rhLYZ (LOW), 60mg/kg rhLYZ (MEDIUM), or 180mg/kg rhLYZ (HIGH). Compared with CON, MEDIUM diet increased (p < 0.05) average daily gain (ADG)(= 67.40g) of broilers from day 22 to 42. In the early (= 1.29) and overall phases (= 1.69), MEDIUM led to a reduction (P<0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broiler chickens. Furthermore, in comparison to the CON and ANT, MEDIUM exhibited reduced (P<0.05) levels of INF-γ and TNF-α in the serum. In the cecum, the abundance of Monoglobus and Family_XIII_AD3011_group was lower (P < 0.05) in the MEDIUM treatment compared to CON. Overall, supplementation of 60mg/kg of rhLYZ improved growth performance, nutrient utilization efficiency, and serum immune function, while also influencing composition of intestinal microbiota. This suggests lysozyme's potential to replace antibiotic additives in feed.

Boosting the Photocatalytic Performance of g-C3N4 through MoS2 Nanotubes with the Cavity Enhancement Effect.

The development of catalysts with high photon utilization efficiency is crucial for enhancing the catalytic performance of photocatalysts. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a prominent material in the field of photocatalysis. However, it still exhibits drawbacks such as low utilization of visible light and severe recombination of photogenerated carriers. To address these issues, this study employs MoS2 nanotubes (NTs) as cocatalysts and constructs MoS2 NTs/g-C3N4. The MoS2 NTs/g-C3N4 exhibits a significant cavity enhancement effect through multiple light reflections. This results in a broad spectral absorption range and high photon utilization efficiency, while also reducing the recombination of photogenerated carriers. The photocatalyst demonstrates outstanding performance in both photocatalytic hydrogen production and photodegradation of organic pollutants. Specifically, the hydrogen production rate is 1921 μmol·g-1·h-1, which is approximately 2.4 times that of g-C3N4. Furthermore, the photodegradation rate of Rhodamine B reaches 98.6% within 30 min, which is approximately three times higher than that of g-C3N4. Free radical capture experiments confirm that holes (h+) are the primary active species in photodegradation. A plausible photocatalytic mechanism for the catalyst is proposed. This study provides valuable insights into the development of heterojunction photocatalysts with high photon utilization efficiency.

The Effect of Motivation and Work Environment on Employee Job Satisfaction (Case Study at PT. Latexindo)

Employee job satisfaction is an important factor in achieving productivity and good performance in an organization. This study analyzes the understanding of the factors that affect employee job satisfaction can help companies in improving employee performance and retention. This research uses a case study approach involving employees at PT. Latexindo as a research sample. Data was collected through questionnaires given to employee respondents. The variables studied include motivation, work environment, and job satisfaction. Motivation is measured by the level of needs met and the drive to achieve goals. Work environment is measured by factors such as co-worker support, leadership, and physical condition of the workplace. Job satisfaction is measured based on employees' perceptions of their jobs, including salary, recognition, and career development opportunities. The results of this study are expected to provide a better understanding of the factors that affect employee job satisfaction at PT. Latexindo, so that companies can take appropriate steps to improve job satisfaction and employee performance. The data analysis technique used is the Quantitative method using the help of SPSS version 29. This study used Multiple Linear Regression. Primary data collection using questionnaires. Research shows that motivation partially has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction at PT. Latexindo where tcount 2.990 &gt; ttable 1.687 and significance 0.005 &lt; 0.05. The work environment partially has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction at PT. Latexindo where tcount 0.877 &gt; ttable 1.687 and significance 0.386 &lt; 0.05. Motivation and Work Environment simultaneously affect and significantly affect job satisfaction at PT. Latexindo Toba Perkasa where Fcalculate is 5.399 while F table is 3.25 and significant 0.05. The results of the research make an important contribution in the field of human resource management. The research can also provide valuable input for other companies in their efforts to improve employee satisfaction and performance.

Evaluation of fault-sealing: a case study on Xiangguosi underground gas storage, SW China

China vigorously implements the dual carbon strategy, and natural gas consumption continues to grow rapidly. It is urgent to improve the natural gas “production, supply, storage, and sales” system and accelerate the construction of underground gas storage (UGS). UGS requires “storage, injection, and extraction”. Faults are the primary factor of “storage”, the evaluation of fault-sealing is crucial for the safe construction and operation of UGS. Existing researches start from the perspective of the hydrocarbon reservoir, develop an evaluation of the basic characteristics of faults, lithological configuration of the fault’s two blocks, analysis of production performance, Shale Smear Factor (SSF), Shale Gouge Ratio (SGR), properties of fault-filling materials, 3D tectonic model, normal pressure on the fault plane, fault shear index, and fault plugging coefficient. This paper systematically analyzes the adaptability of existing methods and proposes an index to evaluate the fault-sealing capability of UGS. Taking the first UGS in SW China—Xiangguosi UGS as a case, using this workflow to evaluate the fault-sealing capability of 5 major faults. It is believed that the evaluation of fault-sealing on Xiangguosi UGS is good. This conclusion supports the design of construction key indicators and is the important basis point of the construction of the “signpost” UGS. It is of guiding significance and provides a reference for the evaluation of fault-sealing for the rebuilding of depleted gas reservoirs to UGSs.

A biofloc system avoids the adverse effects of diets with suboptimal protein levels on zootechnical performance, intestinal histomorphometry, and protein metabolism of Nile tilapia juvenile fed Spirulina biomass (Arthrospira platensis) as an alternative protein source.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the biofloc technology (BFT) system and the replacement of fish meal with Spirulina biomass on productive performance, intestinal histomorphometry, plasma biochemistry, and oxidative stress of Nile tilapia juveniles (Oreochromis niloticus) fed suboptimal levels of protein. Two factors were evaluated: production systems (clear water × BFT) and replacement of fish meal with Spirulina (0, 33, 66 e 100%). The design was in a 2 × 4 randomized factorial scheme with four replications, and the fish were evaluated for 48days. Four isoproteic (28% crude protein) diets were formulated with gross energy values close to 4300kcalkg-1. Nile tilapia juveniles (0.23 ± 0.01g) were distributed in 16 circular tanks (70 L) at seven fish/tank. The diets were formulated with protein levels approximately 20% below that required for the species and life stage. No interaction was observed between the factors evaluated (production systems × Spirulina inclusion). Rearing the fish in the BFT system avoided the adverse effects of diets with suboptimal protein levels on performance, intestinal histomorphometry, and protein metabolism. Lower values lower lipid peroxidation and higher antioxidant capacity were observed in fish reared in the BFT system, showing evidence of improvements in antioxidant responses and lower levels of physiological oxidative stress. Spirulina completely replaced fish meal in the diets of Nile tilapia juveniles without adverse effects on intestinal morphometry, protein metabolism, and antioxidant response. Replacing 66% of fish meal with Spirulina improved the productive performance, regardless of the rearing system.

Mapping Trends on Employee Performance and Work Environment: A Bibliometric Analysis

Employee performance and work environment are two key elements in the success of an organization. The relationship between employee performance and the work environment has become a major focus for many organizations to improve productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall organizational performance. This study aims to determine the development of research with the theme Employee Performance and Work Environment in the range of 2014 to 2023 through the help of the Vosviewers application in visualizing data. The method used in this study is qualitative research with a literature study approach. As for the data found, 98 documents were obtained and analyzed. These datasets are converted to CSV format, BibTeX, and RIS format and imported into bibliophilia for bibliometrics and analysis. The results showed that 2023 is the year with the highest number of publications on the topic of Employee Performance and Work Environment. Indonesia is the country that influences scientific publications the most. Samani, S.A. is the most prolific writer with 3 documents in the field of Employee Performance and Work Environment. Great potential for further research in areas such as Compensation, leadership, training, work-life balance, and work engagement, which still has the potential to be explored more deeply in the context of Employee Performance and Work Environment.

Engineering non-conventional yeast Rhodotorula toruloides for ergothioneine production

BackgroundErgothioneine (EGT) is a distinctive sulfur-containing histidine derivative, which has been recognized as a high-value antioxidant and cytoprotectant, and has a wide range of applications in food, medical, and cosmetic fields. Currently, microbial fermentation is a promising method to produce EGT as its advantages of green environmental protection, mild fermentation condition, and low production cost. However, due to the low-efficiency biosynthetic process in numerous cell factories, it is still a challenge to realize the industrial biopreparation of EGT. The non-conventional yeast Rhodotorula toruloides is considered as a potential candidate for EGT production, thanks to its safety for animals and natural ability to synthesize EGT. Nevertheless, its synthesis efficiency of EGT deserves further improvement.ResultsIn this study, out of five target wild-type R. toruloides strains, R. toruloides 2.1389 (RT1389) was found to accumulate the highest EGT production, which could reach 79.0 mg/L at the shake flask level on the 7th day. To achieve iterative genome editing in strain RT1389, CRISPR-assisted Cre recombination (CACR) method was established. Based on it, an EGT-overproducing strain RT1389-2 was constructed by integrating an additional copy of EGT biosynthetic core genes RtEGT1 and RtEGT2 into the genome, the EGT titer of which was 1.5-fold increase over RT1389. As the supply of S-adenosylmethionine was identified as a key factor determining EGT production in strain RT1389, subsequently, a series of gene modifications including S-adenosylmethionine rebalancing were integrated into the strain RT1389-2, and the resulting mutants were rapidly screened according to their EGT production titers with a high-throughput screening method based on ergothionase. As a result, an engineered strain named as RT1389-3 was selected with a production titer of 267.4 mg/L EGT after 168 h in a 50 mL modified fermentation medium.ConclusionsThis study characterized the EGT production capacity of these engineered strains, and demonstrated that CACR and high-throughput screening method allowed rapid engineering of R. toruloides mutants with improved EGT production. Furthermore, this study provided an engineered RT1389-3 strain with remarkable EGT production performance, which had potential industrial application prospects.