Search Results (211)

Food quality and safety are paramount in preserving the culinary authenticity and cultural integrity of Chinese cuisine, characterized by intricate ingredient combinations, diverse cooking techniques (e.g., stir-frying, steaming, and braising), and region-specific flavor profiles. Traditional non-destructive detection methods often struggle with the unique challenges posed by Chinese dishes, including complex textural variations in staple foods (e.g., noodles, dumplings), layered seasoning compositions (e.g., soy sauce, Sichuan peppercorns), and oil-rich cooking media. This study pioneers a hyperspectral imaging framework enhanced with domain-specific deep learning algorithms (spatial–spectral convolutional networks with attention mechanisms) to address these challenges. Our approach effectively deciphers the subtle spectral fingerprints of Chinese-specific ingredients (e.g., fermented black beans, lotus root) and quantifies critical quality indicators, achieving an average classification accuracy of 97.8% across 15 major Chinese dish categories. Specifically, the model demonstrates high precision in quantifying chili oil content in Mapo Tofu with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.43% w/w and assessing freshness gradients in Cantonese dim sum (Shrimp Har Gow) with a classification accuracy of 95.2% for three distinct freshness levels. This approach leverages the detailed spectral information provided by hyperspectral imaging to automate the classification and detection of Chinese dishes, significantly improving both the accuracy of image-based food classification by >15 percentage points compared to traditional RGB methods and enhancing food quality safety assessment. Full article

The gray triggerfish Balistes capriscus has a wide geographical distribution and is used for commercial and recreational fishing worldwide. In this study, we aimed to provide technical knowledge for developing strategies for the sustainable production of gray triggerfish in aquaculture systems by characterizing the capture procedures for broodstock acquisition and developing a protocol for species maintenance in captivity. Broodstock maintenance data were collected over six months (April to September) each year, whereas breeder data were collected over three months each year (November to January). The number of shipments, capture, and survival of B. capriscus was 100%. The animals grew on average by 9.99 ± 0.11 cm over 9 months and increased their average weight by 1.658 ± 0.1 kg, representing a specific growth rate of 0.62% and an average daily weight gain of 6.14 g/day. The species were fed by alternating the supply of fresh food (minced fish, fish fillets, shrimp, squid, minced octopus and crab), divided into two times, 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and offered until the animals were satiated. Regarding the structures used to maintain the breeding stock, 15,000 L tanks are recommended to keep up to 30 breeding individuals. Full article

Microplastic (MP) contamination is a growing environmental concern with significant impacts on ecosystems, the economy, and potentially human health. However, accurately detecting and characterizing MPs in biological samples remains a challenge due to the complexity of biological matrices and analytical limitations. This study presents a novel, non-destructive visible near-infrared multispectral imaging (Vis-NIR-MSI) method combined with a supervised self-organizing map (SOM) to enable rapid qualitative and quantitative analysis of MPs in seafood. We specifically aimed to identify and differentiate four types of microplastics, namely PET, PE, PP, and PS, in the range 1–4 mm, present on the surface of minced shrimp and shrimp shell. For quantification, MPs were incorporated into minced shrimp surface at concentrations ranging from 0.04% to 1% w/w. The modified model achieved a high coefficient of determination (R² > 0.99) for PE and PP quantification. Unlike conventional techniques, this approach eliminates the need for pre-sorting or chemical processing, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for large-scale monitoring of MPs in seafood, with potential applications in food safety and environmental protection. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study focused on developing an organic solvent-free formulation of phytantriol-based cubosomes for nifedipine delivery. It assessed the physicochemical properties and in vitro administration performance in pediatric nasogastric tubes and preliminarily evaluated toxicity in a brine shrimp lethality model. Methods: The nanocarrier formulation was characterized in terms of the particle size and drug release properties and was compared with extemporaneous formulations prepared using nifedipine tablets in flow rate tests through pediatric feeding tubes. The recovery efficiency was evaluated across different tube sizes and rinsing volumes. A preliminary toxicity study was conducted using a brine shrimp lethality model. Results: Compared with nifedipine tablets, the nanocarrier formulation demonstrated favorable physicochemical properties, including controlled release and superior flow rates, in the pediatric tubes. Full recovery of the nifedipine content was achieved with the nanocarrier formulation, whereas extemporaneous formulation of the nifedipine recovery depended on the tube dimensions and rinsing protocols. Conclusions: Compared with the traditional formulations, the nanocarrier formulation represents a promising alternative for administering nifedipine via pediatric feeding tubes, offering an enhanced administration recovery. Full article

The superfamily Alpheoidea comprises eight families: Alpheidae, Barbouriidae, Bythocarididae, Hippolytidae, Lysmatidae, Merguiidae, Ogyrididae and Thoridae. Alpheoids are characterized by possessing two pairs of chelate pereopods, a multiarticulate carpus on pereopod 2, and a narrow strip as the last article on maxilliped 2. However, during the inspection of the reproductive system (RS) of several alpheoids, we consistently observed the presence of ejaculatory bulbs (EBs) in vasa deferentia (VDs) of these shrimps. To investigate whether the presence of EBs in the RS is a conserved trait among Alpheoidea representatives, we analyzed as many species as possible along the Brazilian coast: Alpheidae—5 genera, 19 spp., Hippolytidae—2 genera, 2 spp., Lysmatidae—2 genera, 10 spp., Merguiidae—1 genus, 1 sp., Ogyrididae—1 genus, 2 spp., and Thoridae—1 genus, 1 sp. In addition, we examined representatives of the superfamilies Atyoidea (1 family, 2 genera, 2 spp.), Nematocarcinoidea (1 family, 1 genus, 2 spp.), Palaemonoidea (2 families, 4 genera, 4 spp.) and Processoidea (1 family, 2 genera, 2 spp.) to determine whether EB are present in these groups. Among the groups analyzed, except for the family Alpheidae, most species of alpheoids exhibit an expansion on the ventral portion of the VD in continuity with the lumen of the vas deferens, i.e., the EB. This structure increases the surface area of the VD, consequently increasing the quantity of the seminal material to be ejaculated onto the female. We did not observe the presence of EB in any other of the analyzed superfamilies, suggesting that this structure is exclusive in Alpheoidea. In conclusion, the presence of EB in VD appears to be an exclusive trait in Alpheoidea, being considered a well-preserved synapomorphic trait in this group, except in the family Alpheidae that do not harbor EB, representing a plesiomorphic condition within this superfamily. Full article

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) has emerged as a significant threat to global shrimp aquaculture, causing economic losses because of its rapid spread and high mortality rates. This study aims to elucidate the genetic and evolutionary dynamics of WSSV through a comprehensive genome analysis. Utilizing 27 complete genome sequences sourced from public databases, this study investigates the genetic variability, potential recombination events, and evolutionary patterns of WSSV. Our results identified multiple genomic deletions, 14 novel single-nucleotide polymorphism sites, and variable number tandem repeats across different strains, underscoring the virus’s genetic diversity. A recombination event between freshwater and marine strains highlights a complex transmission pathway, potentially facilitated by aquaculture practices. A phylogenetic tree constructed using ancestral genes suggests that WSSV originated in Southeast Asia and subsequently globally spread, influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. Genomic shrinkage of the virus occurred in time series, while the host’s viral infection induced transposon transposition and insertion into the earlier virus genome to provide a basis for genomic shrinkage. Our research emphasizes the importance of advanced molecular characterization and evolutionary models of the virus in understanding the spread of viral pathogens in aquaculture environments. Full article

Seafood waste is often landfilled and/or discarded into water, raising microbiological pollution and environment policy concerns. Repurposing this low-cost biomass collected at point-source processing centers can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support industrial progress in developing economies. Safe alternative methods to utilize seafood waste were investigated. Hydrothermal carbonization-enriched shrimp shell waste was converted into higher-value products, such as sprayable fertilizer and dry biochar fertilizer pellets. Environment friendly sprayable fertilizer from shrimp and crab shell waste as an inexpensive carbon fixer is a potential solution. An average spray coverage area of 0.12 m² from only 300 mL of 1:10 shrimp shell waste to water mixture is reported. Characterization using N:P:K ratios from elemental analysis showed crustacean shell waste to comprise long-term organic carbon fixers in the soil with minor mineral enrichment, demonstrating potential for long-term soil care. Additionally, hydrothermally carbonized mineral rich shrimp shell and untreated crab shell waste were pelletized to test their friability and feasibility in transportation. Such a bio-investigation to promote economic goals for sustainability can improve biomass waste handling locally. Full article

The growing need for sustainable protein sources in aquaculture has led to interest in microalgae, such as Chlorella vulgaris, known for its high nutritional value. One promising strategy for delivering these nutrients is through bioencapsulation in Daphnia magna, a common live feed used in aquaculture. This study evaluated the effect of including D. magna bioencapsulated with C. vulgaris as live feed for marine shrimp Penaeus vannamei post-larvae. Shrimp were fed at two D. magna densities (5 and 10 per shrimp, 5DF and 10DF), offered weekly, and compared with a control group receiving only commercial feed (F) for 36 days in a synbiotic nursery system. Water quality, zootechnical performance, protein, and lipid content of the shrimp were analyzed using correlation analyses, nonlinear prediction models, and principal component analysis (PCA). Shrimp fed with the 10DF treatment exhibited superior zootechnical performance, characterized by a lower feed conversion ratio (1.01) and higher feed efficiency (99.97%), protein (70.91%), and lipid (32.45%) content in comparison with the 5DF and control. Quadratic regression predictive models indicated the possibility of further testing higher concentrations of D. magna per shrimp. The results indicates that the use of C. vulgaris bioencapsulated in D. magna as live feed for P. vannamei is a promising approach to improve shrimp diets and increase production in aquaculture. Full article

Hemocyanins are oxygen-transporting proteins found in crustaceans and other arthropods, playing key roles in immune defense and metabolic regulation. Due to their stability and bioactive properties, Hcs have gained increasing interest in biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, detailed biophysical characterization is crucial to understanding their functional potential. In this study, the hemocyanin was extracted and purified from Macrobrachium acanthurus (HcMac) using ultracentrifugation and size-exclusion chromatography. The molecular mass of HcMac was determined by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and analytical ultracentrifugation. Spectroscopic analyses, including UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence emission, and light scattering intensity, were used to assess the structural stability of the compound under various pH conditions. HcMac was identified as a hexameric protein (~450 kDa) composed of monomeric subunits of 75 and 76 kDa. The protein maintained its oligomeric stability and oxygen-binding affinity in the pH range of 5.0–7.4. However, extreme pH conditions (below 4.4 and above 7.5) induced structural alterations, leading to dissociation and conformational changes, as evidenced by fluorescence emission and UV-Vis spectra. The isoelectric point was determined to be between pH 4.3 and 5.3, consistent with other crustacean HCs. These findings reinforce the structural robustness of HcMac and suggest its potential for biotechnological applications. The high stability of HcMac under physiological pH conditions indicates its suitability for biomedical research, including immunomodulatory and antimicrobial applications. Future studies integrating bioinformatics, proteomics, and immunological assays will be essential to explore the therapeutic potential of HcMac. Full article

Eocene magmatic systems contemporaneous with world-class Carlin-type Au deposits in Nevada (USA) have been proposed by some researchers as a key ingredient for Au mineralization, though evidence conclusively demonstrating their genetic relationship remains tenuous. This study provides the first direct evidence of the pre-eruptive metal budget of volatile- and metal-charged silicic magmas coincident in time (~41 to 34 Ma) and space (within 5 km) with Carlin-type Au deposits. We characterize the pre-eruptive metal fingerprints of these diverse magmatic systems to assess their potential as sources of metals for Carlin-type Au mineralization. Metal abundances from quartz-hosted melt inclusions (Au, Te, Ag, Sb, Tl, Mo, W, Sn, As, Pb, Co, Cu, Ni, and Zn) characterized in situ by SHRIMP-RG and LA-ICP-MS represent our best (and only) estimates for the pre-eruptive metal budget in these systems. Median metal concentrations are generally within one order of magnitude of average upper crust and average continental rhyolite values. But there are two notable exceptions, with median Au contents extending >1 order of magnitude higher than average upper crust and median Cu contents ranging >1 order of magnitude lower than upper crust. Despite this, melts contain lower Au/Cu (<0.1), Au/Ag (<5), and Au/Tl (<0.3) than most ore-grade Carlin-type rock samples and quartz-hosted fluid inclusions, regardless of their age and timing relative to nearby Carlin-type Au mineralization. The metal fingerprints of these magmatic systems, defined both by traditional and multivariate compositional data analysis techniques, are distinct from one another. Yet none are particularly specialized, e.g., high Au/Cu, in terms of being ideal ingredients as postulated by magmatic models for Carlin-type Au mineralization. Magmatic Au contents do not appear to be correlated with rhyolite “flavors” in the way that Cu, Sn, and Nb contents are. Fluid/melt partitioning modeling and magma volume estimates support the idea that a diverse array of non-specialized silicic magmas could feasibly contribute some or potentially all of the Au, Ag, and Cu in Carlin-type systems. The compositional diversity among contemporaneous magmatic systems could possibly contribute to some of the diversity observed across Carlin-type Au districts in Nevada. Full article

Background/Objectives: Freshwater shrimps of the family Atyidae, particularly the hyperdiverse genus Caridina, are keystone decomposers in tropical aquatic ecosystems and valuable aquaculture resources. However, their evolutionary relationships remain unresolved due to conflicting morphological and molecular evidence. Here, we sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome of Caridina mariae (Tiger Shrimp), aiming to (1) elucidate its genomic architecture, and (2) reconstruct a robust phylogeny of Caridea using 155 decapod species to address long-standing taxonomic uncertainties. Methods: Muscle tissue from wild-caught C. mariae (voucher ID: KIZ-2023-001, Guangdong, China) was subjected to Illumina NovaSeq 6000 sequencing (150 bp paired-end). The mitogenome was assembled using MITObim v1.9, annotated via MITOS2, and validated by PCR. Phylogenetic analyses employed 13 protein-coding genes under Bayesian inference (MrBayes v3.2.7; 10⁶ generations, ESS > 200) and maximum likelihood (RAxML v8.2.12; 1000 bootstraps), with Harpiosquilla harpax as the outgroup. The best-fit substitution model (MtZoa + F + I + G4) was selected via jModelTest v2.1.10. Results: The 15,581 bp circular mitogenome encodes 37 genes (13 PCGs, 22 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs) and an A + T-rich control region (86.7%). Notably, trnS1 lacks the dihydrouracil arm—a rare structural deviation in Decapoda. The 13 PCGs exhibit moderate nucleotide skew (AT = 0.030; GC = −0.214), while nad5, nad4, and nad6 show significant GC-skew. Phylogenomic analyses strongly support (PP = 1.0; BS = 95) a novel sister-group relationship between Halocaridinidae and Typhlatyinae, contradicting prior morphology-based classifications. The monophyly of Penaeoidea, Astacidea, and Caridea was confirmed, but Eryonoidea and Crangonoidea formed an unexpected clade. Conclusions: This study provides the first mitogenomic framework for C. mariae, revealing both conserved features (e.g., PCG content) and lineage-specific innovations (e.g., tRNA truncation). The resolved phylogeny challenges traditional Caridea classifications and highlights convergent adaptation in freshwater lineages. These findings offer molecular tools for the conservation prioritization of threatened Caridina species and underscore the utility of mitogenomics in decapod systematics. Full article

The microbiome of the shrimp’s digestive tract shows differences between healthy and acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND)-affected shrimp. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of probiotic consumption on the microbial community in experimentally AHPND-infected shrimp. Effective probiotics (EPs) Vibrio alginolyticus (Va32A), V. campbellii (VcHA), and Bacillus pumilus (BPY100) and non-effective probiotics (NEPs) B. pumilus (Bp43, and BpY119), were employed in bioassays with Penaeus vannamei and challenged with AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus (Vp_AHPND). Stomach (Sto), intestine (Int), and hepatopancreas (Hep) were analyzed by metabarcoding (16S rRNA gene) to characterize the microbiome and biomarkers. Hep-VcHA showed the highest alpha diversity (Shannon index = 5.88; 166 ASVs), whereas the lowest was for Hep-Bp43 (2.33; 7 ASVs). Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Saccharibacteria were the most abundant phyla. The relative abundance of Vibrio sp. was the highest in the Hep and Int of Bp43, BPY119 and the positive control, followed by Rhodobacteraceae in the EP group. Principle coordinate analysis (PCoA) showed a cluster grouped negative (Sto and Hep) control with almost all organs in the EP group causing 28.79% of the variation. The core microbiome of EP was mainly represented by Rhodobacteraceae, Caldilineaceae, Celeribacter indicus, Illumatobacter, Microbacterium, Ruegeria atlantica, Saccharibacteria sp., Shimia biformata, and Thalassobius mediterraneus, whose relative abundance was enriched by probiotics, which may explain their protective roles against Vp_AHPND, whereas the low survival in the NEP group was associated with a higher diversity of Vibrio spp. Our results present an ecosystem-friendly alternative based on beneficial microorganisms to prevent and control AHPND and probably other bacterial diseases in shrimp farming. Full article

Herein, the effectiveness of astaxanthin (AX) as functional feed ingredient was assessed by enhancing its stability and bioavailability using encapsulation methods. Spray-drying and liposome entrapment were applied to a natural AX source from shrimp by-products, along with two commercially synthetic alternatives. Encapsulated AX formulations were evaluated for their physico-chemical properties, thermal stability, and in vitro performance using RTL-W1, a rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) liver-derived cell line. Both techniques achieved high encapsulation efficiency (73–89%) and provided remarkable protection to AX during thermal treatments, maintaining its stability at 80 °C for up to 2 h and at 100 °C for 30 min. Nevertheless, neither encapsulation methods significantly mitigated water absorption over time. Additionally, morphological characterization revealed spray-dried microcapsules with typical round, partially collapsed particles with a broad size distribution, while liposomes further stabilized into dry powders by spray-drying showed structural rearrangements and an increase in size upon rehydration, although maintaining a uniform and stable distribution. In vitro testing revealed enhanced RTL-W1 cell viability and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production when encapsulation was employed. Overall, these findings demonstrate the potential of the selected encapsulation techniques to optimize the stability, bioavailability, and functionality of AX, providing valuable insights to improve its utilization as a functional ingredient in fish feed formulations. Full article

Chitosan was hydro-thermally extracted from grey shrimp carapaces and characterized using various techniques (degree of deacetylation (DD), viscosity, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and surface area analysis (BET)). It was then used for Cu(II) removal in a batch system, achieving a maximum capacity of 89 mg/g under standard conditions. Both pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order nonlinear kinetic models described the adsorption of Cu(II) ions on chitosan well, with a better fit of the pseudo-first-order model at low concentrations, while the equilibrium data suggested that the Langmuir model was suitable for describing the adsorption system, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 123 mg/g. A response surface methodology and central composite design were used to optimise and evaluate the effects of six independent parameters: initial Cu(II) concentration, pH, chitosan concentration (S/L), temperature (T), contact time (t), and NaCl concentration on the adsorption efficiency of Cu(II) by the synthesised chitosan. The proposed model was confirmed to accurately describe the phenomenon within the experimental range, achieving an R² value of 1. ANOVA indicated that the initial concentrations of Cu(II) and chitosan concentration (S/L) were the most significant factors, while the other variables had no significant effect on the process. The adsorption capacity of Cu(II) onto the prepared chitosan was also optimised and modelled using artificial neural networks (ANNs). The maximum amount, qmax = 468 mg·g⁻¹, shows that chitosan is a highly effective adsorbent, chelating and complexing for copper ions. Full article

Hydraulic technology has been instrumental in the extensive application of offshore mechanical equipment, particularly in drilling platforms and ships, where high-performance hydraulic fluids are essential for safe and efficient operations. Addressing the urgent need for water-based hydraulic fluids as an alternative to traditional oil-based fluids, this study introduces a novel water-based hydraulic fluid fortified with phytic acid, derived from plant seeds, to achieve low biotoxicity, low coefficient of friction, and reduced frictional heat generation. The integration of phytic acid has significantly enhanced the lubricating performance, reducing the average coefficient of friction to as low as 0.013, as tested by the four-ball tester, which is the lowest value reported to date. Real-time monitoring of the temperature rise of the friction testing apparatus using an infrared thermal imager revealed a 78.6% reduction in temperature increase. Acute toxicity assays using Brine Shrimp demonstrated that the 96 h LC50 value for the water–glycol flame-resistant hydraulic fluid with added phytic acid exceeded 26,304 mg/L, indicating low toxicity. Characterization analyses elucidated the mechanisms underlying the improved tribological properties, highlighting the potential of this eco-friendly fluid for safe and efficient offshore operations. Full article