Dry Method Research Articles

Drying characteristics and kinetics of bottle gourd using stand-alone indirect solar dryer

Drying food is an effective method to preserve fruits and vegetables, increasing their shelf life and preventing germination. Bottle gourds, known for their high nutritional value, can rot quickly due to their high moisture content, causing biochemical and microbial changes. To improve shelf life, moisture can be removed to prevent microbial activity. Different drying methods are used to preserve gourd family vegetables for long periods and off-season. Indirect solar drying shields foods from UV rays, dust, insects, and other contamination by avoiding direct exposure. This study aimed to utilize an indirect solar dryer to research the potential for drying bottle gourds and conduct physicochemical analyses for the dried products to compare the drying techniques. In this experiment, different samples of bottle gourd slices were dried using an indirect solar dryer and compared with sun and shade drying. Under physicochemical properties, moisture content (MC), retention of color, thickness, and shrinkage of dried samples were analyzed and compared. The result showed that the time taken to reach 10% moisture was 13 h for samples dried with sun drying. While shade and indirect solar drying took 17 h. The Midilli-Kucuk model outperforms other approaches for drying bottle gourd, with the greatest R2 values (0.9967, 0.9950, 0.9936) and the lowest RMSE values (0.0182, 0.0220, 0.0277) for direct sun, shade, and indirect solar drying, respectively. The indirect sun dryer showed good color retention compared to the fresh bottle gourd samples with L* value of 44.08, b* value of 15.40 and a* value of 7.01. The volumetric shrinkage was 97.64% in the direct sun drying method after 15 h, which is higher compared to sun and shade dryers due to the effect of time and temperature. In addition, there was a significant difference (p-value <0.05) between the thickness of the three drying methods. The use of indirect solar drying methods can be highly recommended to get high-quality dried food with zero energy cost. For future studies it is recommended to enhance the function and design of the indirect solar dryer to speed up drying times and improve the quality of dried samples.

Physicochemical properties and volatile compounds of whole lotus root powders prepared by different drying methods

This research aimed to evaluate the effects of freeze-drying (FD), hot air drying (HAD), hot air drying combined with baking (HADB) on the color, antioxidant activity, thermal and pasting properties, as well as volatile compounds of whole lotus root powders (WLRPs). The highest browning degree and antioxidant activity of WLRP was obtained by HAD at 80 °C for 6 h. The gelatinization temperatures of the FD sample were higher than those of the HAD and HADB samples. WLRP prepared by HADB at 120 °C for 5 min had the highest trough and final viscosities. Furthermore, headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) analysis showed that 125 and 97 volatile compounds were identified from WLRPs in dried and hydrated states, respectively. The types of identified compounds were the most in dried HADB, followed by dried HAD and FD, which were also affected by the drying temperature and time. The hydration treatment led to an increase in the detected compounds from the FD sample and a decrease in those from the HAD and HADB samples. These observations indicated that the quality of WLRPs depended on the drying technique and conditions, which could be useful for selecting an appropriate drying method to prepare desirable WLRPs products.

Фунгицидная активность экспериментальных образцов средства для сухих ножных ванн

The purpose of the study is to determine the activity of the developed experimental samples of a complex product for the group prevention and treatment of infectious diseases of the distal extremities of cattle against microscopic fungi of the genus Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium and Candida. When selecting components for creating experimental samples of a product in powder form for group prevention and treatment of infectious diseases of the distal limbs of cattle using the dry foot bath method, the presence of adsorption, bactericidal and fungicidal properties was taken into account. The following components were used for dry foot baths: adsorbents (bentonite, zeolite, kieselguhr), sodium benzene sulfochloramide, sodium hydroxide, cal¬cium hypochlorite, zinc oxide and sulfate, copper sulfate and additional components taken in various proportions. The fungicidal activity of experimental samples coded CB, CB1 and CB2 against microscopic fungi Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium and Candida was determined in accordance with Guideline 4.2.3676-20 “Methods of laboratory research and testing of disinfectants to assess their effectiveness and safety ". The greatest fungicidal activity against yeast fungi C. albicans (concentration 4 %, 60 min of contact), filamentous fungi A. niger, A. flavus, F. poae, F. sp, P. sp and P. notatum (concentration from 4 to 6 %, 120 min of contact) showed a sample coded SV. The remaining samples SV1, SV2 and Lubisan Eco turned out to be less effective and had fungicidal activity at a concentration of 6 to 8 %.

Tribological Behavior of Friction Materials Containing Aluminum Anodizing Waste Obtained by Different Industrial Drying Processes

With sustainability dominating the industry, recycling the generated waste from different processes is becoming increasingly important. This study focuses on recycling waste generated during aluminum anodizing waste (AAW) in friction material formulations for automotive braking applications. However, before utilization, the waste needs to be pre-treated, which mainly involves drying. Hence, four different industrial drying methods were studied to dry the AAW, and the corresponding characteristics were observed by evaluating its residual humidity and crushability index. The waste powders were further characterized using FT-IR and SEM/EDXS to understand their constituents. The initial analysis showed that the waste subjected to the drying process P2 and P1 with the lowest final humidity fetched the most desirable results, with P1 having the simpler drying procedure. The AAW powders were added in a commercial friction material formulation at 6 and 12 wt.% and subjected to friction, wear, and non-exhaust particulate matter analysis. The worn surfaces were analyzed using SEM/EDXS evaluation to understand the extension and composition of the deposited secondary contact plateaus. It was seen that the 12 wt.% addition of waste processed using the P1 technique provided the most satisfactory friction, wear, and emission characteristics, along with expansive secondary contact plateaus with a good contribution of the waste in its formation. This study showed a good relationship between the processing method and a formulation’s tribological and emission characteristics, thereby paving the way for using this drying method for other waste requiring pre-treatment.

Development of a Method to Measure Trace Levels of Uranium and Thorium in Scintillation Films

Abstract We have established a method to measure picograms-per-gram (pg g−1) levels of 238U and 232Th in scintillation films by combining the dry ashing method and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Trace amounts of 238U and 232Th were measured in up to 2 g of scintillation film with almost 100% collection efficiency. This paper details the experimental procedure, including the pretreatment of the samples and labware, detection limit of the method, collection efficiencies of 238U and 232Th, and measurement of 238U and 232Th in a polyethylene naphthalate film. This method is also applicable to 238U and 232Th measurements in other low-background organic materials for rare-event search experiments.

Role of Resistant Starch in Food and Healthcare Industry: A Review

Starches are complex polysaccharides which are notorious to create glucose load in diet. But the advancements in the fields of food chemistry have come up with a fact that there are some starches which can release glucose in controlled manner. They are known as resistant starches. They are basically four types depending upon sources of origin: Type I physical inaccessible starch (RS1), Type II that inhibit the action of enzymes (RS2), Type III retrograded starch (RS3) and Type IV chemically modified starch (RS4). Resistant Starches now a days are used in many sectors of food industry. It has unique physical and chemical properties such as high viscosity, formation of gel and water-binding capacity that make it valuable new food product development. This has enhanced its usage in food industries. The bland flavour and transparency in colour of RS with low water holding property is making them a good encapsulating medium in microencapsulation of probiotics. They are known to have low glycemic index and good impact on bowel health by acting as prebiotic to the gut microflora. Their demand in the food industry is arisen to the extent that normal starches are retrograded to convert them to RS. Impact of dry and wet heat methods of cooking on content of resistant starches in several food products have been established by many studies.

Advancements in Litchi chinensis Peel Processing: A Scientific Review of Drying, Extraction, and Isolation of Its Bioactive Compounds.

This article systematically reviews the advancements in processing litchi peel (Litchi chinensis), emphasizing drying, extraction, purification methods, and the potential of bioactive compounds obtained from litchi peel. This work also highlights the impact of various drying techniques on phytochemical profiles, focusing on how methods such as hot air and freeze-drying affect the preservation of bioactive compounds. The study delves into extraction methods, detailing how different solvents and techniques influence the efficiency of extracting bioactive compounds from litchi peel. Furthermore, the purification and characterization of active compounds, showcasing the role of chromatographic techniques in isolating specific bioactive molecules, is discussed. Biological properties and mechanisms of action, such as antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-atherosclerotic, and anticancer activities, are reviewed, providing insight into the potential health benefits of litchi peel compounds. This review highlights the importance of optimizing and selecting accurate drying and extraction methods to maximize the therapeutic effects of litchi peel and its bioactive compounds. This review also reveals the broad pharmacological potential of the isolated compounds, underscoring the need for further research to discover their specific actions and health benefits.

The influence of laser texturing on the tribological behavior of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V in medical applications

This paper analyzes the tribological behavior of the Ti6Al4V ELI alloy subjected to laser texturization for medical purposes. Laser texturing enables one to observe specific patterns of the material surface at established depths. Microtexturing of the samples was performed using a 355 nm picosecond laser. The influence of the microtexturing process (depending on the process parameters) on the geometric parameters of the proposed laser texturing pattern was evaluated. Selected samples were subjected to tribological testing using the ball-on-plate technique in dry and lubricant-sliding methods (in Ringer solution). The wear properties were evaluated by comparing the coefficient friction, wear volumes, and wear ratio. A scanning electron microscope characterized the morphologies of the wear scar and the wear mechanism. The experimental results show that the surface texturing and the changes in microgrooves can reduce wear. The results indicate, that samples after laser texturing were characterized by 15% higher microhardness, compared to those in the initial state. It was found, a 26% reduction in friction coefficient and 29% in the wear volume compared to the smooth, untextured surface samples under lubricated conditions. The decrease in value of the coefficient friction and wear volume for the samples after the laser texturing process is an effect of synergistic of entrapped wear debris in micro-grooves and increased hardness for samples after laser textured.

Effect of assisted drying methods on the microstructure and related quality attributes of fried chicken nuggets

The potential for reducing oil uptake by applying aided pre-drying techniques (microwave, infrared, and convective hot air) was studied on chicken nuggets. Convective hot air (60, 80, and 100 °C); microwave (20, 40, and 60 W); and infrared (150, 250, and 400 W) drying techniques were used to pre-treat chicken nuggets between 1 and 11 min based on preliminary study before frying at 170 °C for 3 min. Standard laboratory methods were employed to assess the quality attributes of fried chicken nuggets, including oil and moisture content, colour, and texture. By comparing the micrographs obtained from chicken nuggets pre-dried using the three pre-dried methods (Microwave, conventional hot air and infra-red), chicken nugget pre-dried using microwave at 60 W have lesser oil cracks (18.05 %) when compared to the rest pre-dried method.Pre-drying substantially lowers moisture content, with microwave pre-drying being most effective, particularly at higher power levels (19.38 ± 1.36–43.11 ± 0.10). Microwave pre-drying densifies the nugget structure, reducing oil absorption during frying (13.15 ± 0.13–28.38 ± 0.12). Microscopic examination of chicken nuggets pre-dried using three methods (microwave, conventional hot air, and infra-red) reveals that those pre-dried with a microwave at 60 W exhibit fewer oil cracks (18.05 %) compared to the other pre-drying methods. It also affects (p < 0.05) the nugget colour, with higher power levels and longer drying times resulting in a darker (10.12 ± 0.01–25.29 ± 0.15) and less yellow nuggets. Texture is also significantly (p < 0.05) affected, with higher power levels and longer drying times leading to increased hardness and chewiness (158.20 ± 1.49–438.14 ± 1.89; 88.00 ± 0.93–165.79 ± 0.86; 96.20 ± 1.44–210.60 ± 0.45). Based on the findings, microwave pre-drying at 60 W for 11 min is recommended for achieving low oil content while maintaining good internal structure in fried chicken nuggets.

Optimization of different drying methods and its impact on antioxidant potential of Ocimumbasilicum L.

In the present study, the effect of different drying methods (sun drying, shade drying, oven drying at 35 °C, 45 °C, 55 °C and hot air blower drying) was assessed to optimize the essential oil (EO) quality of Ocimumbasilicum L. The fresh and dried samples were hydrodistilled using a Clevenger apparatus to extract the EO. The EO composition was determined by GC and GC–MS techniques. The antioxidant activity was measured using 2, 2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity; FRAP activity and Fe2+- ferrozine test system for iron chelating activity methods. The content of iron, copper, zinc and manganese were analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Sun dried O.basilicum showed the highest EO yield (0.8%, v/w). Linalool (10.67–32.91%) and methyl chavicol (16.24–58.00%) were present as the major components in all the EOs being the highest for blower dried and shade dried samples respectively. EO obtained from the shade dried material was showing the highest antioxidant potential followed by blower dried plant sample. Dried material exhibited higher micronutrient content as compared to the fresh one. The shade drying method can be a good option for obtaining the best quality essential oil from O.basilicum in terms of the major component and antioxidant potential.

Strategy for transferring van der Waals materials and heterostructures

Two-dimensional (2D) layered materials and heterostructures have garnered significant attention for their exploration of uncharted scientific phenomena and their versatile applications. The customization of van der Waals heterostructures heavily relies on their transfer assembly techniques. While traditional dry or wet transfer methods show promise in manipulating 2D materials and heterostructures, challenges such as residues from supporting layers, incomplete substrate etching, embedded bubbles at interfaces, and transfer-induced damages like cracks and wrinkles still pose significant hurdles. In this review, we comprehensively examine the state of transfer technology, identifying the origins of these technical challenges and discussing potential solutions. We specifically focus on strategies developed within the last 3–5 years that aim to address these complex transfer issues, facilitating the integration of 2D materials and heterostructures into existing silicon-based technologies. Finally, we offer perspectives to guide the optimization of each transfer method and inspire future industrial applications of 2D materials.

Optimization of Hypericum Perforatum Microencapsulation Process by Spray Drying Method

Hypericum perforatum (HP) contains valuable and beneficial bioactive compounds that have been used to treat or prevent several illnesses. Encapsulation technology offers protection of the active compounds and facilitates to expose of the biologically active compounds in a controlled mechanism. Microcapsulation of the hydroalcoholic gum arabic and maltodextrin have hot been used as wall materials in the encapsulation of HP extract. Therefore, the optimum microencapsulation parameters of Hypericum perforatum (HP) hydroalcoholic extract were determined using response surface methodology (RSM) for the evaluation of HP extract. Three levels of three independent variables were screened using the one-way ANOVA. Five responses were monitored, including total phenolic content (TPC), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), carr index (CI), hausner ratio (HR), and solubility. Optimum drying conditions for Hypericum perforatum microcapsules (HPMs) were determined: 180 °C for inlet air temperature, 1.04/1 for ratio of maltodextrin to gum arabic (w/w), and 1.98/1 for coating to core material ratio (w/w). TPC, antioxidant activity, CI, HR, and solubility values were specified as 316.531 (mg/g GAE), 81.912%, 6.074, 1.066, and 35.017%, respectively, under the optimized conditions. The major compounds of Hypericum perforatum (hypericin and pseudohypericin) extract were determined as 4.19 μg/g microcapsule and 15.09 μg/g microcapsule, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed that the mean particle diameter of the HPMs was 20.36 µm. Based on these results, microencapsulation of HPMs by spray drying is a viable technique which protects the bioactive compounds of HP leaves, facilitating its application in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.Graphical

Comprehensive assessment of drying performance, physical characteristics, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity of mallow (Malva verticillata) vegetables: A comparative study of a modified tray dryer and conventional drying methods

Drying vegetables in a suitable dryer is an imperative concern in the food-processing sector. To address this issue, a cabinet-type tray dryer has been developed by modifying its design, employing a comprehensive approach ensuring uniform air velocity and temperature in all the trays, and naming it a modified tray dryer (MTD). A comparative analysis of drying performance, physical characteristics, functional attributes, and antioxidant capacity of mallow (Malva verticillata) vegetables dried in MTD and existing three drying methods such as sun, shade, and traditional cabinet drying was accomplished. The performance evaluation study revealed that MTD demonstrated a faster moisture removal capacity and required less drying time compared to other drying methods. Statistical analysis revealed that drying methods had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on the physical properties, functional qualities, and bioactive functions of the dried mallow powder (MP). The higher chlorophyll content (27.41 ± 0.84 mg/100 gm of dry matter, DM), total phenol content (15.71 ± 0.95 mg GAE/g DM), and DPPH activity (8.82 ± 0.81 mg TEAC/g DM) were noticed in the mallow vegetable powder dried in MTD than shade, sun and traditional cabinet drying methods. A slightly lower value (statistically insignificant) of ascorbic acid content (9.64 ± 0.78 mg/100 gm DM) and total flavonoid (1.44 ± 0.05 mg QE/g DM) was achieved in contrast to other drying methods. The antioxidant capacity of the analyzed data was lowest for shade drying compared to other drying methods, while MTD exhibited the highest capacity. Therefore, this study might assist in selecting a suitable dryer for drying vegetables. The findings suggest that MTD can be an alternative drying technique as a quicker drying technique and for obtaining better-quality dried products in terms of antioxidant and functional properties than the traditional and existing process of vegetable drying.

Comparative investigation on the phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of walnut kernel from different drying methods

Drying techniques are being used more and more to extend the shelf life of industrial products. Drying could influnce the content of phenolics in food and their antioxidant activity. This study estimated the effects of different drying methods (freeze drying (FD), gradient hot air drying (GHD), and constant hot air drying (CHD)) on phenolic profiles and antioxidant activities in walnut kernels. With a maximum content of 3.61 mg g−1, GHD was found to be the most effective in preserving total phenols, while CHD and FD had maximum contents of 2.66 mg g−1 and 1.96 mg g−1, respectively. The concentration of most monomeric phenols detected in the kernels increased with temperature, particularly in the free and bound forms. Gallic acid (free form) levels in GHD2 (194.54 µg g−1) were 55.77 and 60.08 times higher, respectively, than in FD and CHD. GHD dried walnuts had higher antioxidant activity than FD and CHD dried walnuts. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis revealed three key metabolic pathways associated with the mechanisms underlying drying changes. The GHD technique, according to these findings, is a better choice for drying walnut in order to preserve its phenolics and antioxidant activity.Graphical

Assessment for the influence of processing methods on chemical compositions and pharmacodynamics of Epimedii Folium and revealing the component transformation mechanism

Epimedii Folium is a traditional medicinal plant commonly used in Northeast Asia. The nonuniform drying methods during processing is an important factor leading to the uneven quality of commercial Epimedii Folium, which further results in low resource utilization. Our previous studies have proved that the content of icariin and baohuoside I, the quality control markers in Epimedii Folium, was significantly increased during thermal-processing of Epimedium koreanum Nakai, but the quality and component transformation mechanisms remained unclear. Therefore, in this study, chemical composition analysis, combined with pharmacodynamics were carried out for the first time to comprehensively evaluate the influence of three processing methods, including traditional shade-drying, oven-drying and classical suet stir-frying, on Epimedii Folium, and reveal the component transformation mechanism. A total of 50 components were identified using UHPLC-ESI-Q/TOF-MS, of which 3′′′-carbonyl-2′′-β-L-quinovosyl baohuoside I was identified to be a new prenylflavonoid diglycoside. To clarify the types of components that can convert into icariin and baohuoside I, their content in different elution fractions of E. koreanum aqueous extract before and after baking were compared by HPLC-DAD for the first time. The source of increased icariin and baohuoside I was determined to be prenylflavonoid triglycosides and diglycosides, respectively. In order to explore the component transformation mechanism, the content of 15 main components, including five major prenylflavonoid triglycosides and three diglycosides in shade-drying, oven-drying and suet stir-frying E. koreanum were analyzed using UPLC-PDA. The result was demonstrated for the first time that icariin and baohuoside I were possibly mainly derived from the heat-labile prenylflavonoid glycosides, such as 3′′′-carbonyl-2′′-β-L-quinovosyl icariin and 3′′′-carbonyl-2′′-β-L-quinovosyl baohuoside I, rather than the previously reported common prenylflavonoid glycosides with stable structures. The pharmacodynamic comparison results indicated for the first time that both shade-drying and oven-drying E. koreanum were less potent than suet stir-frying E. koreanum in ameliorating renal function. However, based on the comprehensive evaluation of the content and efficacy in this study, oven-drying was still considered to have advantages over the traditional drying methods such as shade-drying, in elevating drying efficiency, content of bioactive components and the resource utilization rate of Epimedii Folium and worth popularizing.

Effect of drying methods on aroma, taste and antioxidant activity of Dendrobium officinale flower tea: A sensomic and metabolomic study

Dendrobium officinale flower tea (DFT) is a traditional health product of geographical identity known for its unique aroma and taste. The effects of different drying methods on sensory properties, metabolic profiles and antioxidant activity of DFT were compared using sensomics and metabolomics approaches. Twenty-seven aroma-active compounds were identified and more than half of the volatiles responsible for the “green” and “floral” scent lost after drying. Sensory evaluations revealed that vacuum freeze-dried DFT showed a significant preference in taste and fifty-eight metabolites with higher levels of glutamine were observed, possibly contributing to a “fresh” taste and increased preference. Among the three drying methods, natural air drying retained the fresh flower scent better, while freeze drying preserved the color and shape of the flowers better and enhanced the taste and antioxidant activity of DFT. The research results may provide a foundation for the selection of DFT processing method and quality detection.

The impact on Cd bioavailability and accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa L.) induced by dry direct-seeding cultivation method in field-scale experiments

Dry direct-seeded rice cultivation has gained popularity and expanded its cultivated area due to reduced labor requirements and water consumption. However, the impact of this cultivation method on cadmium (Cd) bioavailability in soil and the accumulation levels in grains remains uncertain. Field experiments were conducted in acidic soils at two locations in southern China to compare rice varieties and evaluate the dry direct-seeding method alongside the wet direct-seeding and traditional transplanting methods. Dry direct-seeded rice reached significantly higher Cd concentrations in its tissues starting from the heading stage than transplanted rice. Cd accumulation levels by the maturation stage in the brown rice of dry direct-seeded rice were 18.33 %–150.69 % higher than those of wet direct-seeded and transplanted rice, with a considerable ability to translocate Cd into brown rice. Furthermore, dry direct seeding decreased iron plaque formation, particularly in the amorphous Fe form; it resulted in high soil temperature and low moisture content during tillering, elevating Cd availability in the soil. Additionally, the proportion of ions and more labile forms of Cd in the soil solution was high. Moreover, the soil under dry direct seeding had high urease and acid phosphatase enzyme activities. However, low richness and diversity in the bacterial community were characterized by a significant increase in the relative abundance of Actinobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria at the class level, while exhibiting decreased relative abundances of Alphaproteobacteria, Bacilli, and KD4-96, along with fewer biomarkers. Nonetheless, these differences are gradually reduced during the maturation stage. Overall, although dry direct seeding offers several advantages, it is crucial to implement additional measures to mitigate the increased health risks linked to rice cultivation through this approach in Cd-contaminated areas.

Effect of different drying methods on the structure and properties of porous starch

In order to investigate the effects of different drying methods on the properties of porous starch. The present study used four drying methods, namely hot air drying (HD), spray drying (SPD), vacuum freeze drying (FD) and supercritical carbon dioxide drying (SCD) to prepare maize and kudzu porous starch. Findings indicated that the physicochemical properties (e.g., morphology, crystallinity, enthalpy value, porosity, surface area and water absorption capacity as well as dye absorption capacity, particle size) of porous starch were significantly affected by the drying method. Compared with other samples, SCD-treated porous starch exhibited the highest surface areas of the starch (2.943 and 3.139 m2/g corresponding to kudzu and maize, respectively), amylose content (22.02 % and 16.85 % corresponding to kudzu and maize, respectively), MB and NR absorption capacity (90.63 %, 100.26 % and 90.63 %, 100.26 %, corresponding to kudzu ad maize, respectively), and thermal stability, whereas HD-treated porous starch showed the highest water-absorption capacity (123.8 % and 131.31 % corresponding to kudzu and maize, respectively). The dye absorption of the maize and kudzu porous starch was positively correlated with surface area, according to Pearson's correlation analysis. Therefore, in this study, our aim was to explore the effects of different drying methods on the Structure and properties of porous starch, and provide reference for selecting the best drying method for its application in different fields.

Harmful Traditional Practices of Umbilical Cord in Edaga Hamus Community, Asmara, Eritrea.

Globally, the cord care practices contribute to neonatal infections and account for a large proportion of neonatal deaths annually, especially in low-income countries. This study has been provoked by the absence of previous similar research in this locality. The study aimed at exploring and highlighting the factors and practices in the community that influence umbilical cord care to identify the areas of intervention. This was a cross-sectional study conducted among mothers of neonates in Edaga Hamus community who had given birth a month prior to the study. The research team prepared a questionnaire used for data collection on a face-to-face interview, which lasted for 15 minutes for each participant. SPSS version 22 was used for quantitative analyses. Descriptive statistics were presented in frequencies and percentages, and bivariate correlations were used to analyze the association between independent and dependent variables. One hundred and seventy-five women participated in this study, with an age range of (19 to 43) years (28.5 ± 5.1 years) of whom (84.5%) used the dry care method, whereas (19%) of the total cord infections were related to different traditional practices. A higher proportion of women (90%) expressed fear and depression once the cord became infected. A greater number of women followed the advice given by nurses, and this finding was significant (p value = 0.008). Majority of the participants in this study acknowledged the importance of using the dry care method as recommended by World Health Organization. Those neonates whose cords were exposed to unwarranted practices had delayed detachment. This study confirmed that health promotion in cord care practices should involve family members and the community to achieve successful outcomes.

Experimental study on moisture diffusivity, activation energy, and mathematical modeling of drying kohlrabi under different solar drying methods

AbstractThe assessment and enhancement of any drying system for optimal drying processes relies on critical parameters, namely moisture diffusivity and activation energy. In this study, medicinally beneficial kohlrabi of 40‐mm diameter and 6‐mm thickness samples were dried under three different drying methods, namely open sun drying (OSD), natural air‐circulation mode (NACM) single slope direct solar dryer (SSDSD), and forced air‐circulation mode (FACM) SSDSD. The experimental results showed that the drying chamber operating temperature and air velocity played significant roles in the moisture diffusion process and activation energy required to dry the kohlrabi sample. The FACM exhibited the highest average moisture diffusivity values at 7.29 × 10−10 m2/s, surpassing both NACM (5.65 × 10−10 m2/s) and OSD (3.28 × 10−10 m2/s). The activation energy needed for the drying process was the lowest in FACM at 27.44 kJ/mol, followed by NACM at 31.37 kJ/mol and OSD at 35.29 kJ/mol. This is due to the uniform temperature distribution and high airflow rate in the case of FACM. Additionally, 10 thin‐layer models were tested for all three experimental conditions. The statistical analysis showed that for OSD and NACM, the Midilli et al. model, and for FACM, the Page model was best suited for representing drying kinetics with lowest χ2 and root mean square error and highest R2 values. Furthermore, the energy and exergy assessment guaranteed an evaluation of the solar drying system's efficiency.Practical applicationsThis research provides valuable insights into optimizing solar drying methods for kohlrabi preservation. Understanding how temperature and air velocity influence moisture diffusivity and activation energy allows practitioners to enhance drying efficiency. Forced air‐circulation mode (FACM) single slope direct solar dryer (SSDSD) emerges superior, with higher moisture diffusivity and lower activation energy. The study also identifies appropriate drying kinetics models for each method, aiding the accurate prediction of drying behavior. Emphasizing efficiency, the research highlights FACM's superior thermal efficiency and natural air‐circulation mode's higher exergetic efficiency. These insights empower practitioners to make informed decisions, potentially improving agricultural product preservation, reducing energy consumption, and promoting sustainability. Moreover, the research's findings hold significant implications for industrial food processing and preservation applications, suggesting the direct implementation of optimized solar drying techniques in large‐scale settings for kohlrabi and similar agricultural products.