Superior Attributes Research Articles

Chitosan-melanin complex microsphere: A potential colonic delivery system for protein drugs

The characteristics and performance of chitosan-based colon delivery systems are significantly influenced by the method of preparation. Insect chitosan-melanin complex (CMC) may offer superior attributes over traditional shrimp and crab chitosan (CS) for colon-targeted administration. This study used dung beetle CMC as the carrier matrix and comprehensively examined the impact of various crosslinking techniques on the colonic drug delivery efficacy of microspheres, encompassing drug loading, swelling, drug release behavior, adhesion, enzymatic degradation, and absorption enhancement. The results indicate that F-TPPLC microspheres, crosslinked with a combination of formaldehyde and TPP, exhibit superior drug loading capabilities, optimal swelling behavior, and controlled in vitro drug release profiles in the colonic environment, along with excellent adhesion and enzymatic degradation properties within intestinal tract. Notably, these F-TPPLC microspheres increase paracellular permeability, possibly by disrupting the calcium-dependent adhesion junctions. In comparison to commercial CS, CMC demonstrates superior drug encapsulation efficiency, enhanced colonic drug release, adhesion, and absorption promotion, rendering it a favorable candidate as a carrier in colon-targeted drug delivery systems. Consequently, F-TPPLC microspheres derived from CMC are highly suitable for colon drug delivery applications and show promising potential for the oral delivery of peptide and protein-based therapeutics to the colon.

Fatigue Characteristics Analysis of Carbon Fiber Laminates with Multiple Initial Cracks

In the entire wind turbine system, the blade acts as the central load-bearing element, with its stability and reliability being essential for the safe and effective operation of the wind power unit. Carbon fiber, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, high modulus, and lightweight characteristics, is extensively utilized in blade manufacturing due to its superior attributes. Despite these advantages, carbon fiber composites are frequently subjected to cyclic loading, which often results in fatigue issues. The presence of internal manufacturing defects further intensifies these fatigue challenges. Considering this, the current study focuses on carbon fiber composites with multiple pre-existing cracks, conducting both static and fatigue experiments by varying the crack length, the angle between cracks, and the distance among them to understand their influence on the fatigue life under various conditions. Furthermore, this study leverages the advantages of Paris theory combined with the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) to simulate cracks of arbitrary shapes, introducing a fatigue simulation method for carbon fiber composite laminates with multiple cracks to analyze their fatigue characteristics. Concurrently, the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed to determine the optimal weight configuration, and the Backpropagation neural network (BP) is used to train and adjust the weights and thresholds to minimize network errors. Building on this foundation, a surrogate model for predicting the fatigue life of carbon fiber composite laminates with multiple cracks under conditions of physical parameter uncertainty has been constructed, achieving modeling and assessment of fatigue reliability. This research offers theoretical insights and methodological guidance for the utilization of carbon fiber-reinforced composites in wind turbine blade applications.

A model-adaptive compensation algorithm for additive-subtractive hybrid manufacturing

Abstract Additive-subtractive hybrid manufacturing (ASHM) is a manufacturing method that combines additive manufacturing (AM) with subtractive manufacturing (SM) techniques. Given that the surface accuracy of ASHM components primarily relies on numerical control (NC) machining, it is imperative to incorporate model compensation to preserve finishing allowances, thereby obtaining additive manufacturing (AM) models from design models. This paper proposes a model adaptive compensation algorithm capable of dynamically adjusting the design model based on both model characteristics and the AM process. This algorithm not only ensures the retention of suitable finishing allowances but also addresses part size errors arising from the AM process. Comparative analysis against traditional CAD reconstruction methods highlights the algorithm’s superior attributes in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability when confronted with intricate model compensation scenarios.

Examining the Impact of Cultivated Land Distance from Riparian Areas on the Growth and Quality of Red Kratom Alkaloids

The Kratom plant, a valuable forest species with medicinal potential, thrives in the Riparian area of Empangau Village, Kapuas Hulu District. This study explores the correlation between Kratom cultivation land distance from the river and alkaloid content. Employing a survey method, the research focuses on two locations: one situated 20-50 meters from the river (location 1) and another 580-650 meters away (location 2). Utilizing a quantitative approach and gravimetric methods, the study analyzes alkaloid content in Kratom extracts. The study reveals significant influences on pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus (P2O5), calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, cation exchange capacity (CEC), base saturation, and alkaloid compounds, contingent on the distance from the riparian area. Location 2 exhibits superior attributes, boasting a plant height of 6.02 m, stem diameter of 8,532 m2, 30 primary branches, leaf area of 262,576, and a total alkaloid content of 15,491%, surpassing location 1 with an average plant height of 5.66 m, stem diameter of 8,286 m2, 26.6 primary branches, and leaf area of 257,586. Variations in environmental conditions, vegetation, temperature, humidity, and nutrient availability contribute to these differences in alkaloid growth and quality, highlighting the potential for optimized Kratom cultivation in specific Riparian areas

Morphological and anatomical studies in Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae)

This research delves into the morphological and anatomical intricacies of Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae), commonly known as black cumin, through meticulous examination of various accessions collected from diverse geographical regions in India. Morphological studies revealed distinct characteristics such as the linear to lanceolate alternate leaves, black capsule fruit housing seeds, and growth parameters including germination time, maturation period, and yield per plant. Notably, certain accessions exhibited superior attributes in terms of plant height, root length, and seed yield. Anatomical investigations unveiled detailed structures of stems, roots, seeds, and capsules. Stem anatomy exhibited a multi-cornered structure with specific features like uniseriate epidermis with non-glandular trichomes, parenchymatous cortex with chlorenchymatous and sclerenchymatous cells, and distinct vascular bundle arrangements. Root anatomy depicted a circular cross-section with well-defined layers including epidermis, cortex, and xylem with prominent oil droplets. Seed anatomy displayed layers of epidermis, parenchyma, pigmented layer, endosperm, and a central embryo. Moreover, this study identified novel cells in the stem cortex and observed variability in carpel numbers among different accessions. The findings contribute significantly to the understanding of N. sativa morphology and anatomy, shedding light on previously unexplored aspects and emphasizing the need for further investigation into the variability within and among accessions.

Optimization of Pd–Co–M (M= Cu, Au, Ni) Catalysts for the Oxidation of Formic Acid Using Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy

Formic acid, a versatile substance with applications as both a fuel and hydrogen storage material, emerges as a promising energy source. When utilized as a hydrogen storage material, a single liter of formic acid yields an impressive 590 liters of hydrogen gas under ambient conditions. Furthermore, as a fuel, the Direct Formic Acid Fuel Cell (DFAFC) stands out as a potential energy solution due to its elevated open-circuit voltage, low toxicity, and reduced permeability of high molecular weight membranes. Efficient catalysts play a pivotal role in enhancing the formic acid oxidation reaction, thereby diminishing the anode overpotential and amplifying the hydrogen production efficiency of DFAFC. The conventional method of manually testing each catalyst for optimal formic acid oxidation performance is both time-consuming and resource-intensive. Consequently, this study employs a substrate collection method based on a scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) microelectrode for catalyst screening. A ternary catalyst array, primarily comprising PdCo with supplementary elements (Au, Cu, Ni), was crafted using the innovative concept of compositional assembly. The SECM facilitated the determination of the catalyst's surface morphology, energy-dispersive spectroscopy gauged the catalyst composition, and X-ray diffraction, along with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, confirmed the crystalline structure composition. To delve into the kinetic aspects of the catalyst for formic acid oxidation, a comprehensive analysis was carried out using cyclic voltammetry, stripping voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Tafel slope analysis. The outcomes unveiled that the optimal proportions for the ternary catalysts were Pd2Co6Au2, Pd2Co6Cu2, and Pd2Co6Ni2, with Pd2Co6Au2 exhibiting superior attributes such as lower overpotential, heightened resistance to CO poisoning, and enhanced catalytic activity for formic acid oxidation.

Innovative carbonization techniques for food waste: A comparative study of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and vapor-thermal carbonization (VTC)

This study addresses the pressing issue of global food waste (FW) by conducting a comprehensive comparison between two conversion methods: hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and vapor-thermal carbonization (VTC) for the production of hydrochar. The analysis encompasses physicochemical characterizations, Fuel characteristics, and surface properties. Under identical reaction conditions (180–250 °C, 30 minutes), both processes significantly elevate the carbon content of hydrochar. VTC-hydrochar with a carbon content ranging from 54 % to 62 %, while HTC-hydrochar with a slightly higher range of 55–63 %. Notably, hydrochar derived from both methods results in higher heating values (HHV) of 24.04–27.40 MJ/kg for HTC and 22.85–26.60 MJ/kg for VTC, indicating enhanced fuel quality. But with less volatile matter, VTC-hydrochar shows lower HHV. Moreover, HTC-hydrochar demonstrates superior attributes for rapid ignition and energy release, while VTC-hydrochar proves more suitable for applications requiring higher combustion temperatures and stability. In terms of surface properties, VTC-hydrochar demonstrates a higher NH4+ adsorption capacity attributed to its superior pore structure and abundant key functional groups, making it an ideal choice for adsorption applications. Most notably, through comparative analysis, finding that VTC-hydrochar with a more uniform structure from the complex and diverse FW feedstock. This study establishes a robust scientific foundation for selecting appropriate hydrochar production technologies.

A Circular Shape Arc Slot Ultra-Wideband Antenna for Biomedical Applications

In modern communication systems, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology has garnered substantial attention due to its superior attributes compared to traditional narrowband communication systems. Over the past decade, UWB technology has also found applications in microwave-based imaging systems. This study introduces a simple planar coplanar waveguide-fed circular shape arc slot antenna designed specifically for biomedicine and microwave medical imaging applications. The proposed design is implemented on a 1.6-mm-thick FR4 substrate with a relative permittivity of 4.4 and a loss tangent of 0.0009. The antenna has physical dimensions of 26 mm × 29 mm and achieves an impressive bandwidth of 16.6 GHz, spanning 2.4 to 19 GHz. It exhibits a peak gain of 2.5 dBi and consistent omnidirectional radiation characteristics. Thorough temporal analysis validates the antenna's performance within acceptable limits, which is further affirmed through practical fabrication and testing, demonstrating strong agreement with simulation results.

Highly sensitive photonic crystal fiber chemical sensor for detecting carbon disulfide and bromoform in the THz regime

In this study, an innovative photonic crystal fiber (PCF) designed specifically for the detection of carbon disulfide and bromoform liquid chemicals within the THz frequency range was introduced. The PCF’s structural design was achieved using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) boundary conditions within COMSOL Multiphysics, ensuring precision through appropriate numerical parameters. Six distinct configurations were developed, incorporating circular, square, rectangular slotted, benzene-shaped circular, and two elliptical core designs, as well as an eight-elliptical core design. The PCF models were constructed utilizing the dielectric material TOPAS for accurate simulation and analysis. Various crucial parameters of the proposed PCF were examined across a wide THz spectrum spanning from 0.2 to 1.2 THz. The PCF model exhibited a peak output at the operating frequency of 0.8 THz for the square-shaped core design, achieving a relative sensitivity of 96.891% for bromoform and 95.603% for carbon disulfide. Remarkably low material losses of 0.0081104 cm−1 for bromoform and 0.006703 cm−1 for carbon disulfide were observed, along with a core power fraction of 93.107% for bromoform and 94.263% for carbon disulfide. The effective area was determined to be 1.77 × 10−07 μm2 for bromoform and 1.70 × 10−07 μm2 for carbon disulfide, while the confinement loss measured 2.25 × 10−17 dB/cm for bromoform and 4.76 × 10−17 dB/cm for carbon disulfide. These superior attributes strongly suggest that this model will be crucial in applications like supercontinuum generation, sensing, and biomedical imaging.

Conceptual shaking table tests for resilient segmental bridge columns with resettable sliding joints

The ever-increasing demand for accelerated construction of urban bridges or viaducts calls for more prefabrication with various joint schemes, while satisfying the need for seismic resilience. On the other hand, segmentation into components of various shapes and morphologies is common for multifunctional structures found in living organisms and ancient Chinese timber structures, which also inspires the development of resilient segmental bridge column design. To provide further insights into the cost-effective resilient design of precast bridge columns, this paper suggests the use of resettable sliding joints (RSJ) comprising lubricated gently-inclined joint interface with partially debonded tendon arrangement, essentially forming a hybrid sliding and rocking seismic isolation system of precast segmental structures. The deformability of the proposed design is high. Similitude analysis was conducted considering the rigid body behavior of individual segments under seismic input. It presents the conceptual shaking table testing of four 1:12 prestressed segmental column models fabricated with special three-dimensional (3D) printed plastic molds and interface treatment. A motion capture system was installed for accurate 3D displacement data acquisition and five typical major near-fault earthquake records were selected. Among all specimens, the RSJ segmental column could reach a high damping ratio of about 20 % during the tests, and it outperformed the others in many aspects: (i) a tolerable maximum top drift of about 1 %; (ii) a moderate percentage of transient rocking of about 20 %; (iii) an evenly distributed sliding displacement among all sliding joints; and (iv) negligible residual sliding drift at sliding joints. These superior attributes of RSJ segmental column are consistent under excitation of consecutive rounds of different major earthquake records, indicating high robustness as well as high seismic resilience in the design of RSJ segmental columns.

Emerging nanomedicine strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy

AbstractHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignant tumor with a range of risk factors, including viral infections, alcoholic liver disease, exposure to fungal toxins, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Despite advancements in early detection and treatment, HCC continues to exhibit a high rate of recurrence. Patients in advanced stages have a poor prognosis, and the survival rate after cancer metastasis is notably low. Consequently, there exists an urgent necessity for novel treatment strategies. Nanomedicine possesses superior attributes, such as targeted administration and responsive drug release within the tumor microenvironment. These systems demonstrate potential in HCC treatment by facilitating the transportation of diverse therapeutic drugs. This comprehensive review aims to delve into the application of nanoparticle drug delivery systems in the management of liver tumors, with particular emphasis on formulation, targeted strategies specific to liver tumors, and various methods of drug release. By offering insights into the utilization of nanoparticle drug delivery systems in the realm of liver tumor treatment, this review endeavors to assist readers in exploring their vast potential.

High-performance plasmonics nanostructures in gas sensing: a comprehensive review.

Plasmonic nanostructures have emerged as indispensable components in the construction of high-performance gas sensors, playing a pivotal role across diverse applications, including industrial safety, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. This review paper critically examines seminal research that underscores the remarkable efficacy of plasmonic materials in achieving superior attributes such as heightened sensitivity, selectivity, and rapid response times in gas detection. Offering a synthesis of pivotal studies, this review aims to furnish a comprehensive discourse on the contemporary advancements within the burgeoning domain of plasmonic gas sensing. The featured investigations meticulously scrutinize various plasmonic structures and their applications in detecting gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen and nitrogen dioxide. The discussed frameworks encompass cutting-edge approaches, spanning ideal absorbers, surface plasmon resonance sensors, and nanostructured materials, thereby elucidating the diverse strategies employed for advancing plasmonic gas sensing technologies.

Indeno[3,2-b]carbazole-Based Small Molecule Layer Enables Optimized Carrier Transport for PbS Quantum Dot NIR Photodetectors.

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) have garnered considerable attention for photodetectors (PDs), attributable to exceptional photoelectric properties and ease solution-based processing. However, the prevalent use of 1,2-ethanedithiol (EDT) as a hole transport layer (HTL) has limitations, such as energy level discrepancies, requisite oxidation, and intricate multilayer assembly. Organic p-type materials, lauded for their superior attributes and synthetic versatility, are now stepping forward as viable substitutes for conventional EDT HTLs. In this work, we introduced an organic HTL derived from indolo[3,2-b]carbazole, named ZL004, leading to a marked improvement in carrier generation and collection, facilitated by the optimized band alignment and enhanced interfacial charge dynamics. The ZL004-based PDs exhibit a photoresponsivity of 0.45 A/W, a noise current of 1.8 × 10-11 A Hz-0.5, a specific detectivity of 4.6 × 109 Jones, and an expansive linear dynamic range of 107 dB─surpassing EDT-based devices across the board, demonstrating the extraordinary property of organic p-type materials for CQD-based PDs.

Jute/basalt fabrics in microcellulosic-filled epoxy composites for lightweight applications

For the production of lightweight, eco-friendly, and incredibly robust products, hybrid bio-epoxy composites stand out as an outstanding material choice in the manufacturing sector. This study focused on creating a composite, where in the epoxy resin infused with microcellulose fillers is reinforced by stacking four layers of basalt-jute-jute-basalt woven mats. The composite was made through the hand lay-up process, followed by the meticulous process of compression molding. The inclusion of microcellulose, sourced from the leaves of the Musa paradisiaca plant (MPPL), was a key component. The extraction of microcellulose from the MPPL involves alkali treatment, acid hydrolysis, bleaching, and slow pyrolysis. This micro cellulose was introduced to the layered composite in varying proportions (ranging from 0 % to 10 %). Subsequently, we carried out comprehensive tests in line with ASTM standards to assess the material's effectiveness with regard to thermo-mechanical properties and water absorption characteristics. The outcomes of these evaluations highlighted that the composite featuring a 5 % Musa paradisiaca plant leaf micro cellulose content within the basalt-jute-jute-basalt layers exhibited notably superior attributes in tensile strength (99.74 MPa), flexural strength (77.87 MPa), impact strength (40.27 kJ/m2), hardness (97 HRRW), and crystallinity index of 6.3 %. Furthermore, our investigation extended to the analysis of fractural morphology to understand the bonding behaviour and fracture patterns within the composite.

Evaluation Mechanical Properties of Repaired Polyamide Dentures at Different Processing Techniques and Surface Treatment

Background: Polyamide denture base materials have gained prominence in dentistry due to their superior attributes compared to traditional acrylic materials. However, the susceptibility of polyamide dentures to fractures necessitates exploration of repair, replacement, and reinforcement methods. Effective denture rehabilitation requires enhancing tensile and transverse strength.Methods: This study utilized 160 acrylic resin samples. The control group included 40 specimens with and without fusing material integration, representing fractured and intact scenarios. The remaining 120 specimens underwent meticulous repair through three approaches: Reinjection nylon repair (RiNR), Recycling Manual heating (spruing) repair (RcNHR), and Manual heating nylon (NHR) repair, each with American and Russian fusing materials. Rigorous tensile and transverse strength evaluations were performed. Results: Techniques augmenting tensile and transverse strength (RcNHR, NHR, RiNR) were significantly effective compared to untreated fractures (C2) for both fusing materials. The control group (C1) consistently exhibited higher strength than C2. RiNR exhibited paramount strength, with American-treated RcNHR showing lower tensile strength, and Russian-treated NHR showing reduced transverse strength. Russian and American treatments showed no significant differences in RcNHR and RiNR, but differences emerged in NHR. Conclusion: Implementing flexible materials enhances polyamide denture strength. Reintegration through reinjection and manual heating with sprue-material yielded positive outcomes. RiNR achieved the highest strength. Russian and American treatments showed no notable differences in RcNHR and RiNR, with variations seen in NHR. This study suggests potential for refining mechanical properties and methodologies, advancing denture restoration practices.

Characterization of Co–Ni–TiO2 coatings prepared by combined sol-enhanced and pulse current electrodeposition methods

Abstract This research comprehensively explores the synthesis of Co–Ni–TiO2 coatings employing a hybrid methodology that integrates sol-enhanced and pulse current electrodeposition techniques. The investigation examined the surface morphology and intrinsic properties of Co–Ni–TiO2 coatings, revealing the significant influence of pulse duty cycle variations on the characteristics of coatings. A detailed analysis indicates that a pulse duty cycle of 0.4 optimized the coating’s performance, offering superior attributes compared to other duty cycle settings. The study elucidates that lower duty cycles foster hydrogen evolution reactions on the cathode surface, culminating in the formation of a porous, needle-like coating structure. Conversely, higher duty cycles are found to mitigate the effects of material replenishment, thereby affecting the coating’s quality and performance. The findings of this investigation not only shed light on the critical relationship between the pulse duty cycle and the properties of Co–Ni–TiO2 coatings but also lay a foundational framework for the further refinement and optimization of these coatings for advanced applications.

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) grown at “Patata dell'alto Viterbese” PGI have different quality characteristics and storage responses

Four pre-selected potato cultivars (Solanum tuberosum L.) from the “Patata dell’Alto Viterbese” PGI area underwent physico-chemical and enzymatic characterization to assess their suitability for specific processing line. Key chemical parameters (reducing sugar content (RSC), total phenol content (TPC), dry matter (DM), physical attributes (firmness), physico-chemical aspects (color, browning development), and enzymatic factors (polyphenol oxidase enzyme activity, PPO) were analyzed at harvest and monthly during a 6-month storage period over two production seasons (2020 and 2021). The results of one-way within-subject ANOVA and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) highlighted the superior attributes of the ‘Fontane’ cultivar for the processing industry, particularly for frying applications (e.g., chips, French fries, etc.). In comparison to other tested cultivars, ‘Fontane’ exhibited: i) the highest DM (> 200 g kg−1), ii) the lowest TPC and RSC, iii) the greatest firmness, iv) low susceptibility to browning, and v) high tolerance to Low-Temperature Sweetening (LTS). The ‘Jelly’ cultivar displayed favorable attributes for versatile use, suitable for both fresh market uses (roasting, homemade “gnocchi”, etc.) and industrial applications (fresh-cut or dried potato). It demonstrated high DM content (200 g kg−1) and firmness, the lowest PPO activity, good TPC, but higher RSC than ‘Fontane’. However, elevated RSC for ‘Jelly’ renders it less suitable for industrial frying. ‘Constance’ and ‘Gaudi’ exhibited positive traits for fresh market use such as boiling and steaming, with moderate to low DM content and firmness. Nonetheless, both cultivars displayed low tolerance to LTS, and ‘Gaudi’ exhibited the poorest processing properties, showing the highest susceptibility to browning.

Enhancing corrosion behavior of CrN coating through oxygen incorporation: Experimental and theoretical analyses

This study examines the corrosion behavior of Cr–O–N coatings under different corrosive conditions, placing particular emphasis on how oxygen content affects their behavior. The combined experimental and theoretical findings underscore the superior attributes of coatings that contain oxygen. Incorporation of oxygen atoms serves to refine the grain size, thereby increasing the number of grain boundaries. This refinement effectively impedes the penetration speed of erosive ions, resulting in improved corrosion resistance. Of significant interest is the activity of the electrochemical reaction, which can be observed to decrease systematically from CrN to Cr–O–N coatings as the oxygen content increases. Both of these factors synergistically contribute to enhance the corrosion resistance of the Cr–O–N coatings. Furthermore, the samples exposed to NaCl solution exhibit better corrosion properties than those in H2SO4 solution.

Exploring the gas sensing potential of BiOBr0.9I0.1: A highly responsive sensor for ammonia detection at room temperature

Bismuth halide oxides (BiOX, where X = Cl, Br, I) are renowned in photocatalysis for their distinct layered structure, modifiable band gap, and affordability. However, their application in gas sensing has garnered comparatively less research attention. Notably, solid solutions of BiOX demonstrate superior attributes over pure BiOX compounds. BiOBrxI1-x solid solution was successfully synthesized using in situ precipitation method and used as a gas-sensitive material for ammonia (NH3) gas sensor. The structural and compositional integrity of the synthesized samples was meticulously confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed the coexistence of different BiOBr and BiOI phases. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provided insights into the morphology, revealing a flower-like nanostructure, which favors the surface reaction rate. The electronic and optical properties of the material were further elucidated by photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS), which revealed that the band gap is tailored to facilitate the sensitivity and selectivity of ammonia detection. Key properties including surface area and porosity were quantitatively evaluated by Bruner-Emmett-Taylor (BET) analysis and found BiOBr0.9I0.1 sensor to have a specific surface area of 13.08 m2/g. Specifically, the BiOBr0.9I0.1 sensor's response ratio (Ra/Rg) to 100 ppm of ammonia reaches 8, approximately fourfold higher than that of the pure BiOBr sensor. The flower-like morphology of BiOBr0.9I0.1 enhances surface activity and charge transfer efficiency, thereby facilitating greater gas adsorption and elevating sensor performance. The rapid response and recovery times (12/24 s at 30 ppm), low detection threshold (LOD, 0.75 ppm), along with its selectivity and reproducibility at room temperature, position the BiOBr0.9I0.1 material as a promising candidate for ammonia gas detection.

Assessing sensory attributes and quality of lettuce from open field, greenhouse, and controlled environment production systems

Lettuce is a popular, low-calorie, nutrient-rich leafy vegetable known for its health benefits and bioactive compounds. The transition from open-field to controlled-environment agriculture has revolutionized lettuce production, enabled year-round cultivation while provided advantages such as enhanced environmental management, diminished pest challenges, and improved crop quality. This study assessed the consumers’ perception of quality attributes of Eden lettuce from three production systems: open field, greenhouse, and controlled environment. Sensory evaluation encompassed the assessment of attributes such as colour, flavour, texture, and nutrition, with panellists evaluating lettuce samples from each production system, and the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to analyse the data. Controlled environment cultivation showed the highest texture intensity, with significant variations in sweetness, sourness, bitterness, and astringency among production systems. Aroma and aftertaste remained relatively consistent across different systems. Acceptability levels of sensory attributes varied among lettuce samples from different production systems. Controlled environment lettuce received the highest acceptability ratings for texture, flavour, and colour, while notable variations were observed in colour acceptability among production systems. Taste attributes varied among production systems, with open field lettuce displaying diverse taste profiles, greenhouse lettuce leaning towards bitterness, and controlled environment lettuce emphasizing sweetness. Texture attributes also differed, with open field exhibiting balanced profiles, greenhouse yielding firmer textures, and controlled environments emphasizing moderate firmness. In conclusion, the choice of production system has a substantial impact on lettuce quality and sensory attributes. Controlled environment cultivation consistently yielded lettuce with superior attributes, while greenhouse cultivation led to firmer textures and specific taste profiles. On the other hand, open field cultivation exhibited a broader range of taste attributes. These findings provide valuable insights for agricultural practices, resource management, and quality control in lettuce cultivation, offering opportunities for growers and consumers to make informed choices based on their preferences and requirements.