Extended Storage Period Research Articles

Simultaneous Optimization Approach for UV-C Radiator to Enhance Mechanical Properties of Semi-Finished Potato Tuber (Innovator) for Extended Storage Period

The efficacy of surface treatment technology is highly dependent on the dimensional and operational parameters. UV-C as a commonly used surface treatment technology required fine-tuning to achieve maximum storability of semi-finished products. This study therefore applied a simultaneous optimization approach for the multi-objective function to obtain the best possible combination of variables in the irradiation process (dose (15-45mJ/cm2, storage period (3-9d), and distance from the light (40-80cm)) that offer maintained properties of semi-finished potato tuber for extended storage life. The optimum values are obtained at the ~40.5mJ/cm2, 7 days, and 48cm granting a 756N, 6.7N, and 9N for compressive, bending, and cutting force resistance, respectively. Further insight into the surface functionality was studied using FT-IR and SEM analysis as a result similar spectral makeup was noted but a shift of absorption peak was observed in the irradiated sample at 30 and 45mJ/cm2. Also, a similar granular structure was observed from the morphologies.

Evaluation of the dimensional stability of 3D-printed dental casts

ObjectiveThe objective was to investigate the dimensional stability of different types of 3D printed dental models, and to measure the dimensional changes over time. MethodsFour dental casts with different constructions were printed. The four types of models were as follows: hollow casts with 2.5 mm wall thickness (2,5mm.H), hollow casts with 2 mm wall thickness (2mm.H), hollow casts with 2 mm wall thickness with stabilization bars (2mm.B) and hollow casts with 2 mm wall thickness with gypsum base (2mm.G). The casts were digitized with a laboratory scanner (3Shape E3 Red E Scanner) to obtain the reference Standard Tessellation Language (STL) files. All models were stored at room temperature and scanned again after 1 day and after 1, 2 and 10 weeks. This data was compared to the reference STL file and was analysed by comparing the deformation using surface fitting software (Geomagic Control X, 3D Systems). The results were statistically evaluated using paired Student's t-tests, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. ResultsThere were significant differences in dimensional stability after 10 weeks between the four different dental casts. According to our results, the 2mm.B casts showed the least deformation which was followed by the 2mm.H casts. However, both the 2,5mm.H and the 2mm.G casts showed significant deformation compared to the 2mm.B casts. ConclusionsWithin the limitations of this study – using only one printer and one type of resin – we found that the deformation of all investigated casts remained within the clinically acceptable range. However, there were significant differences between the various construction types printed with the Bego Varseo Printer and Bego Varseo Wax Model Gray material. Clinical significanceIt is crucial to determine how long 3D printed models can maintain their accuracy to prevent potential adverse effects, especially given the extended storage periods required for the time-consuming procedures in prosthodontic and orthodontic treatments.

Effect of Modified Atmospheric Storage on Seed Longevity of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.

Seed quality is crucial for boosting seed production and productivity. However, soybean seeds are inherently short lived, quickly loses viability even under optimal storage conditions. Therefore, maintaining their quality during storage is of prime importance. Keeping these in view a laboratory experiment was conducted to study the effect of modified atmospheric storage on seed quality of soybean (cv. DSb 34). The freshly harvested seeds with initial moisture content of 7.6% were stored in different modified atmospheric gaseous combinations for nine months from November 2023- August 2024. Results indicated that the seeds stored with gaseous combination of 90 % CO2: 4 % O2: 6 % N2 in 700 gauge polyethylene bag maintained better seed quality in terms of germination (86.77%), shoot length (14.49 cm), root length (12.58 cm), dry weight(0.995g/ 10 seedlings), seedling vigour index I (2349) and II (86.34) upto the end of nine months storage period by recording higher total dehydrogenase (0.438 OD value), α- amylase (10.72 µmol of maltose released min-¹ ml-1 of enzyme) and catalase activity (1.364 µmol H₂O₂ decomposed minˉ¹gˉ¹ protein) compared to all other gaseous combinations and control. Hence, this technique can be used to maintain seed longevity with little deterioration, ensuring the quality of seeds even after extended storage period.

Biochemical Changes and Germination Response of Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.) Seeds Subjected to Biopriming Techniques and Variable Post-priming Storage

Understanding of the storage behaviour of endangered plant species such as Indian Sandalwood, Santalum album L. is important for successful conservation. We tested biopriming method with five biopriming agents (e.g. Effective microorganisms; Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR-I and PGPR-II); Pseudomonas fluorescens and Piriformospora indica) with four uniform durations of treatments viz. 2, 4, 6 and 8 days. Hydropriming was also performed with similar condition for comparison of seed performance. The study examined the biochemical changes that occur in Sandalwood seeds during different post-priming storage periods (0, 30, 60, 90 days) to assess the efficacy of biopriming techniques on seed germination and health. Biopriming with Pseudomonas fluorescens for eight days recorded the highest germination percentage (70.67%) and the highest germination rate index (0.84). Longer durations of PGPR-I and Piriformospora indica treatment (6-8 days) lowered the imbibition period and mean germination time while increasing the germination rate. After a post-priming storage period of 30 days, only EM and Pseudomonas fluorescens treated seeds germinated while all other treatments failed to germinate. Absence of germination in any biopriming group at 60 and 90 days storage period indicated that the sandal seeds deteriorated over extended storage period. The reduction in seed viability of sandal seeds was consequent to the changes in the biochemical characteristics and action of enzymes (α and β amylases) involved in seed food reserve depletion and loss in membrane integrity.

Unveiling the secrets of lotus seed longevity: insights into adaptive strategies for extended storage.

Seed longevity is crucial for long-term storage, but prolonged unfavorable conditions can lead to viability loss. This study integrated theoretical and experimental techniques to elucidate the inherent mechanisms underlying the unique ability of lotus seed capacity to maintain stable viability even after enduring years. Transcriptome analysis and microscopy revealed the sturdy structure of the lotus seed pericarp, which predominantly expressed cellulose synthase genes involved in cell wall biogenesis. The cotyledon serves as a nutrient source for seeds during long-term storage. Additionally, the inactivation of chlorophyll degradation pathways may allow for the retention of chlorophyll in the lotus seed plumule, potentially enhancing the environmental adaptability of lotus seedlings. While the reduced abundance of transcripts corresponding to heat shock protein genes could impact protein processing and consequently diminish the vitality of aging lotus seeds. Moreover, an expansion in the number of seed maturation and defense response genes was observed in the lotus genome compared to other 11 species, which might represent an adaptive strategy against long-term adverse storage conditions. Overall, these findings are crucial for understanding the mechanisms underlying lotus seed longevity and may inform future improvements in the extended storage periods of seed crops.

Fully Atom-Efficient Solvent-Mediated Biopolymer Manufacturing: A Base Case Illustrated with Macromolecular Surfactants Tailored to Stable Polymer-Water Interfaces.

This work introduces a novel 1-pot, 0-waste, 0-VOC methodology for synthesizing polymeric surfactants using acrylated epoxidized soybean oil and acrylated glycerol as primary monomers. These macromolecular surfactants are synthesized via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, allowing for tunable hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) and ionic properties. We characterize the copolymers' chemical composition and surface-active properties, and evaluate their effectiveness in forming and stabilizing emulsions of semiepoxidized soybean oil and poly(acrylated epoxidized high oleic soybean oil). Comprehensive analyses, including gel permeation chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, particle size distribution, zeta potential, and critical micelle concentration, provide detailed insights into the copolymers and the emulsions they form. The results demonstrate that the RAFT-polymerized surfactants offer long-lasting stability and effectively disperse both common oil-in-water emulsions and highly viscous and hydrophobic polymer latexes. These surfactants outperform traditional small molecule surfactants by reducing particle size and preventing phase separation, even over extended storage periods. Stable polymer-water interfaces are achieved through HLB control, tailored by monomer composition, and the final product requires no additional purification since polymerization occurs in liquid surfactants. While small molecules contribute to rapid micelle formation, the polymeric components enhance long-term stability through steric repulsion and slower dynamics. This method enables even the emulsification of polymers with submicron particle size, which ordinarily requires emulsion polymerization. Integrating biobased polymeric surfactants with advanced polymer processing techniques opens new possibilities for transforming highly hydrophobic polymers into latexes, facilitating downstream applications. This innovation enhances the environmental sustainability of surfactant production and broadens the potential for polymer emulsification technologies. Additionally, the integrated solution-processing approach demonstrated here can be applied to other emerging polymers, where judiciously selected nonvolatile solvents facilitate the polymerization and play a role in the final application.

Unmasking aflatoxin hazards in maize for human consumption: investigating maize contamination in Mwanza Markets, Tanzania

Background: Aflatoxin arises from toxigenic Aspergillus species, which infect maize because of improper storage, insufficient drying, extended storage periods, and suboptimal farming practices. This study investigated the aflatoxin contamination in maize for human consumption within specific markets of Mwanza, Tanzania. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2021. Maize samples were analyzed using ELISA followed by descriptive statistical data analysis. Results: A total of 90 maize merchants from 8 local markets were involved. Their mean age was 34.7 (± 6.7) years, majority were male (51 out of 90, 56.7%). Among the vendors, the majority were not aware of aflatoxin (62 out of 90, 68.9%), stored maize in polypropylene woven bags (62 out of 90, 68.98%) and dried the maize before storage (86 out of 90, 95.6%). Out of the 90 samples, 10 (11.1%) had aflatoxin contamination above 1µg/kg, ranging from 1.01µg/kg to 33.4µg/kg with 3 (3.3%) being contaminated above the acceptable standard (≥10µg/kg). Conclusion: The levels of aflatoxin contamination in maize for human consumption exceed the established safety thresholds. Governments in lower and middle-income nations should intensify enforcement of regulations aimed at enhancing community awareness regarding aflatoxin risks and minimizing contaminations. Keywords: Maize vendors; maize contamination; polypropylene woven bags; Aflatoxin.

Impact of RNA Enzymes and RNA Protein Complexes in Unleashing RNAInterference for Manyfold Crop Improvements: A Review

RNA interference, which enables more accurate downregulation of gene expression without interfering with the expression of various genes, is a beneficial instrument for gene silencing and a potential gene regulatory strategy in functional genomics that has a big impact on crop progress. Small interfering RNA molecules swift up the RNAi gene silencing machinery, effectually suppressing a target gene. Subsequently transgene proteins not present from genetically modified RNAi plants, it has a sum of rewards over orthodox transgenic methods. Dicer, Drosha which are RNA enzymes, along with protein complexes, RISC and Argonaute, institute at the epicenter of this technology. These explicit RNA binding proteins and ribonucleases regulate the synthesis and production of tiny regulating RNAs. Several latent usages for this ground-breaking process in agriculture have been identified for improving crops, such as the construction of disease-resistant, biotic or abiotic, high-yielding, stress-tolerant and exclusive assortments; enhancement of nutritional quality; removal of allergens and toxins; and postponing the ripening of fruits and vegetables for extended storage periods. This ground-breaking procedure has the latent to be further utilized to pave the way for the creation of environmentally friendly biotech methods for crop protection and enhancement. Improving research and development activities in this auspicious field is imperative to ensure the efficient appropriate and safe application of these instruments as enduring remedies for agricultural enhancement.

Bioelectrical Insight: Correlation Cell Count and Electrical Impedance of Whole Blood throughout Storage with an Impedance Analyzer Methode

Blood, a vital tissue comprising blood cells within the plasma matrix, plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen, nutrients, and functional components throughout the body. Insufficient blood levels can lead to disorders or life-threatening conditions, necessitating blood transfusions for those experiencing deficiencies. Blood banks store blood products to meet transfusion needs, emphasizing safety, donor health, patient conditions, cross-matching accuracy, and storage quality. Examining stored blood indicates an individual's physiological response to environmental changes, with quantitative and qualitative changes visible through whole blood cell count and impedance parameters. Electrical impedance spectroscopy, which measures these biological properties, shows that although blood cell count remains stable over 35 days, impedance characteristics change significantly. Analysis of the Nyquist Zriil plot reveals a consistent decrease in Zriil values, indicating reduced extracellular resistance (Res) over time. These impedance changes reflect alterations in blood morphology, providing crucial insights into the quality of stored blood. In conclusion, electrical impedance spectroscopy effectively monitors stored blood quality, detecting significant changes in extracellular resistance over extended storage periods. These findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring and proper management of stored blood to ensure its safety and effectiveness for transfusions.

Formation, speciation, and temporal variability of DBPs in drinking water distribution systems in the context of ASR operations and extended storage periods

As climate change induces changes in water quality and available water quantity of drinking water supply sources, the final product water quality changes in terms of trace organics including disinfection byproducts (DBPs) formed during water treatment. In this study, the seasonal variability and speciation of DBPs across nine sample sites within a drinking water distribution system serving ∼400k people over a one-year period was investigated considering the governing parameters of water quality and treatment/transport/storage of finished water. The system considered treats surface water from a river and practices aquifer storage and recovery to address seasons water availability changes. Eighty-eight (88) sample sets were collected and held for 6-months in the laboratory to simulate extended storage scenarios associated with ASR operations, and each was analyzed at 9 different timesteps for concentration and speciation of chlorinated DBPs. Samples from groundwater influenced sites exhibited significantly lower total organic carbon (TOC) compared to other sites from the river source, and also were observed to have the lowest DBP formation. Three sites exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for four total trihalomethanes (THM4) within 30–60 days of storage. Chloroform was the predominant THM4 species, even in groundwater-influenced locations, whereas di- and tri-chloroacetic acid (DCA and TCA) were the most prevalent haloacetic acids (HAA5). Extended water age at one site, coupled with low initial chlorine concentrations exhibited higher initial THM4 concentrations and flat DBP formation curves. The study results provide new insights into DBP occurrence and fate in drinking water distribution systems which consider water storage such as in ASR.

Physicochemical and sensory properties of fermented milk supplemented with sundried African horned melon

AbstractAfrican horned melon (AHM) (Cucumis metuliferus), indigenous to Kenya. It contains high polyphenol and antioxidant content, yet remains underutilized in food products. This study sought to increase the utilization of AHM by developing a supplemented milk product and evaluating the effects of sundried AHM powder on the physicochemical and sensory properties of the fermented milk product. The fermented milk was supplemented with three different forms of AHM powder: whole fruit, peel, and seed, at concentrations of 0.5%, 0.7%, and 1% w/v. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), syneresis, texture, and viscosity were measured, alongside sensory acceptability assessments. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) in physicochemical and sensory properties between the control (did not contain AHM) and supplemented samples, particularly at higher concentrations and extended storage periods. The inclusion of AHM powder markedly influenced the fermented milk's properties, with increased TTA and syneresis in samples with higher melon powder concentrations. TTA ranged between 0.32% and 0.46% among all samples during storage which were comparatively higher than the recommended values for fermented milk products at 0.3%. pH findings range was 4.22 and 4.58. The pH range between 4.2 and 4.6 is recommended by FDA for fermented milk. Syneresis were between 2% and 13%. Texture was between 1.24 and 3.95 N. Viscosity was between 1.67 and 3.87 cP. Sensory scores ranged from 8.00 to 2.67 during storage. Fruit seed powder (FSP1) recorded the lowest amount of pH. Control maintained a higher score in the sensory attributes.

Graphitic carbon @ silver nanoparticle @ porous silicon Bragg mirror composite SERS substrate for gallic acid detection

Graphite carbon (G) @ silver (Ag) @ porous silicon Bragg mirror (PSB) composite SERS substrate was successfully synthesized using electrochemical etching (ec) and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) techniques with silver nitrate as the source of silver and glucose as the source of carbon. The PSB was used as a functional scaffold for the synthesis of graphite-carbon and silver composite nanoparticles (G@AgNPs) on its surface, thereby combining SERS activity and antioxidant properties. To our knowledge, this is the first time that G@AgNPs has been synthesized on the PSB using glucose as a carbon source. The synthesized G@Ag@PSB was utilized as a SERS platform for the detection of gallic acid (GA). Test results demonstrated that the substrate exhibited a remarkable SERS enhancement capability for GA, with the enhancement factor (EF) reaching 2 × 105. The reproducibility of the SERS spectral signal was excellent, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 7.5 %. The sensitivity test results showed that the linear range of GA detection based on G@Ag@PSB composite SERS substrate was 2 × 10-3-2 × 10-12M. The relationship between GA concentration and SERS signal intensity exhibited a strong linear correlation, with a linear correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.97634. Moreover, even with an extended storage period, only a marginal decline in the signal intensity of GA on the substrate was observed. The results of this study demonstrate that the prepared G@Ag@PSB composite SERS substrate had good potential application performance as a low-cost SERS detection platform suitable for commercial use. In addition, this advance facilitates the further exploration of more nanomaterials with ultra-high sensitivity in SERS technology.

Optimization of micelle-encapsulated extremely small sized iron oxide nanoparticles as a T1 contrast imaging agent: biodistribution and safety profile

BackgroundIron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for various clinical applications, such as tumor-targeted imaging, hyperthermia therapy, drug delivery, and live-cell tracking. However, the application of IONPs as T1 contrast agents has been restricted due to their high r2 values and r2/r1 ratios, which limit their effectiveness in T1 contrast enhancement. Notably, IONPs with diameters smaller than 5 nm, referred to as extremely small-sized IONPs (ESIONs), have demonstrated potential in overcoming these limitations. To advance the clinical application of ESIONs as T1 contrast agents, we have refined a scale-up process for micelle encapsulation aimed at improving the hydrophilization of ESIONs, and have carried out comprehensive in vivo biodistribution and preclinical toxicity assessments.ResultsThe optimization of the scale-up micelle-encapsulation process, specifically employing Tween60 at a concentration of 10% v/v, resulted in ESIONs that were uniformly hydrophilized, with an average size of 9.35 nm and a high purification yield. Stability tests showed that these ESIONs maintained consistent size over extended storage periods and dispersed effectively in blood and serum-mimicking environments. Relaxivity measurements indicated an r1 value of 3.43 mM− 1s− 1 and a favorable r2/r1 ratio of 5.36, suggesting their potential as T1 contrast agents. Biodistribution studies revealed that the ESIONs had extended circulation times in the bloodstream and were primarily cleared via the hepatobiliary route, with negligible renal excretion. We monitored blood clearance and organ distribution using positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Additionally, MRI signal variations in a dose-dependent manner highlighted different behaviors at varying ESIONs concentrations, implying that optimal dosages might be specific to the intended imaging application. Preclinical safety evaluations indicated that ESIONs were tolerable in rats at doses up to 25 mg/kg.ConclusionsThis study effectively optimized a scale-up process for the micelle encapsulation of ESIONs, leading to the production of hydrophilic ESIONs at gram-scale levels. These optimized ESIONs showcased properties conducive to T1 contrast imaging, such as elevated r1 relaxivity and a reduced r2/r1 ratio. Biodistribution study underscored their prolonged bloodstream presence and efficient clearance through the liver and bile, without significant renal involvement. The preclinical toxicity tests affirmed the safety of the ESIONs, supporting their potential use as T1 contrast agent with versatile clinical application.

Chondroitin Sulfate Derivative Cross-Linking of Decellularized Heart Valve for the Improvement of Mechanical Properties, Hemocompatibility, and Endothelialization.

Tissue-engineered heart valve (TEHV) has emerged as a prospective alternative to conventional valve prostheses. The decellularized heart valve (DHV) represents a promising TEHV scaffold that preserves the natural three-dimensional structure and retains essential biological activity. However, the limited mechanical strength, fast degradation, poor hemocompatibility, and lack of endothelialization of DHV restrict its clinical use, which is necessary for ensuring its long-term durability. Herein, we used oxidized chondroitin sulfate (ChS), one of the main components of the extracellular matrix with various biological activities, to cross-link DHV to overcome the above problems. In addition, the ChS-adipic dihydrazide was used to react with residual aldehyde groups, thus preventing potential calcification. The results indicated notable enhancements in mechanical properties and resilience against elastase and collagenase degradation in vitro as well as the ability to withstand extended periods of storage without compromising the structural integrity of valve scaffolds. Additionally, the newly cross-linked valves exhibited favorable hemocompatibility in vitro and in vivo, thereby demonstrating exceptional biocompatibility. Furthermore, the scaffolds exhibited traits of gradual degradation and resistance to calcification through a rat subcutaneous implantation model. In the rat abdominal aorta implantation model, the scaffolds demonstrated favorable endothelialization, commendable patency, and a diminished pro-inflammatory response. As a result, the newly constructed DHV scaffold offers a compelling alternative to traditional valve prostheses, which potentially advances the field of TEHV.

The Potential of Using Bisr Date Powder as a Novel Ingredient in Biscuits Made of Wheat Flour Only or Mixed with Barley.

An overproducing date fruit with limited industrial utilization leads to significant waste and losses, especially in the early stage of date maturity known as bisr. This study aimed to investigate the potential use of bisr date powder (BDP) at different concentrations (25%, 50%, and 100%) as a natural sweetener instead of sugar and barley flour as a source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals instead of wheat flour (50%) in biscuit production over storage periods of 7, 14, and 21 days. The analysis revealed that the bisr Al-Khalas powder sample had a moisture content of 11.84%, ash content of 2.30%, and crude fiber content of 10.20%. Additionally, it had a low protein (2.50%) and fat (0.77%) content, with total carbohydrates at 82.59%. The gradual substitution of bisr Al-Khalas in biscuit production resulted in an increased moisture, ash, fat, protein, crude fiber, and iron content, as well as a decrease in total carbohydrate percentage. A chemical analysis of bisr Al-Khalas powder demonstrated high levels of antioxidants, with 248.49 mg gallic acid/g of phenolic compounds, 31.03 mg quercetin/g of flavonoids, and an antioxidant activity ranging from 42.30%, as shown by the DPPH test. The peroxide content was 0.009 mg equivalent/kg. Biscuit samples with different proportions of bisr Al-Khalas showed an improved resistance to oxidation compared to samples without bisr Al-Khalas, with increased resistance as the percentage of replacement increased during storage. Physical properties such as the diameter, height, and spread percentage, as well as organoleptic properties like color, flavor, aroma, and taste, were significantly enhanced with higher levels of bisr Al-Khalas in the mixture. Biscuit samples fortified with 100% pure bisr Al-Khalas powder were found to be less acceptable, while samples with a 25% substitution did not negatively impact sensory properties. In addition, acrylamide and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) were not detected in bisr powder and biscuit samples prepared at different concentrations (25%, 50%, and 100%). In conclusion, the study suggests that bisr Al-Khalas powder, an underutilized waste product, has the potential to add value to commercial biscuit production due to its high nutritional value and extended storage period resulting from its potent antioxidant activity.

Comparison of sea buckthorn fruit oil nanoemulsions stabilized by protein-polysaccharide conjugates prepared using β-glucan from various sources

To understand the influence of β-glucans structure on the emulsifying properties of protein-polysaccharide conjugates, sodium caseinate (NaCas) was utilized to form glycosylation conjugates with varying degrees of glycosylation (10.68–17.50%) using three β-glucans from bacteria, yeast, and oats. This process induced alterations in the secondary structure of protein. The nanoemulsions prepared with the glycosylated conjugates exhibited superior stability compared to those formulated solely with NaCas, particularly under conditions of drastic pH fluctuations and extended storage periods. The nanoemulsion prepared with the NaCas-Salecan conjugate demonstrated exceptional stability at pH 4 and 6, or storage for 20 days. Additionally, it significantly attenuated the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids and exhibited the lowest levels of aggregation, flocculation, and free fatty acid release rate during in vitro digestion. This study suggested the potential of the NaCas-Salecan conjugates in enhancing the stability of nanoemulsions and facilitating the colorectal-targeted delivery of sea buckthorn fruit oil.

Changes in phenolic compounds of Phyllanthus emblica juice during different storage temperature and pH conditions.

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of storage temperature and pH on phenolic compounds of Phyllanthus emblica juice. Juice was stored at different temperatures and pH for 15 days and sampled on 2-day intervals. The browning index (BI, ABS420 nm), pH, centrifugal precipitation rate (CPR), and phenolic compounds were evaluated. The results showed 4°C and pH 2.5 could effectively inhibit browning and slow down pH drop of P. emblica juice. The result of orthogonal partial least square-discriminant analysis showed P. emblica juice stored at 4°C and pH 2.5 still had a similar phenolic composition, but at 20°C, 37°C, and pH 3.5, the score plots were concentrated only in the first 3 days. Additionally, gallic acid (GA) and ellagic acid (EA) were screened out to be the differential compounds for browning of P. emblica juice. The contents of GA, epigallocatechin (EGC), corilagin (CL), gallocatechin gallate (GCG), chebulagic acid (CA), 1,2,3,4,6-O-galloyl-d-glucose (PGG), and EA were more stable at 4°C and pH 2.5. Overall, during storage at 4°C and pH 2.5, it could inhibit the increase of GA and EA and decrease of CL, GCG, CA, and PGG, whereas EGC did not show significant difference between storage conditions. The CPR was higher at 4°C, while pH 2.5 could reduce the CPR. In conclusion, in order to maintain stability of phenolic compounds and extended storage period, the P. emblica juice could be stored at low temperature and adjust the pH to increase the stability of juice system.

Nucleic acid degradation after long-term dried blood spot storage.

Collecting and preserving biological samples in the field, particularly in remote areas in tropical forests, prior to laboratory analysis is challenging. Blood samples in many cases are used for nucleic acid-based species determination, genomics or pathogen research. In most cases, maintaining a cold chain is impossible and samples remain at ambient temperature for extended periods of time before controlled storage conditions become available. Dried blood spot (DBS) storage, blood stored on cellulose-based paper, has been widely applied to facilitate sample collection and preservation in the field for decades. However, it is unclear how long-term storage on this substrate affects nucleic acid concentration and integrity. We analysed nucleic acid quality from DBS stored on Whatman filter paper no. 3 and FTA cards for up to 15 years in comparison to cold-chain stored samples using four nucleic acid extraction methods. We examined the ability to identify viral sequences from samples of 12 free-ranging primates in the Amazon forest, using targeted hybridization capture, and determined if mitochondrial genomes could be retrieved. The results suggest that even after extended periods of storage, DBS will be suitable for some genomic applications but may be of limited use for viral pathogen research, particularly RNA viruses.

Optimization of guar gum-based anti-browning coating for prolonging the shelf life of cut potatoes

The impact of guar gum (GG), crude algae ethanolic extract (CAEE), and turmeric essential oil (TEO) incorporated edible coating formulations on the quality of cut potatoes was investigated at room temperature (27 ± 3 °C, 70–85 % RH) storage using a rotatable central composite design. Besides, 30 % glycerol, 5 % calcium chloride, and 3 % ascorbic acid (w/w) were added to the coating solution as additives. The surface color, respiration rate, water vapor transmission rate, visible mold growth, and sensory analysis were assessed after seven days of storage. The inclusion of ascorbic acid and TEO in edible coating demonstrated a more effective delay in browning. The coated potatoes had lower OTR, CTR, and WVTR values for GG concentrations of 0.5 to 1 g/100 mL than the control. Compared to additives, higher concentrations of GG improved response parameters. The WVTR value of coated potatoes was significantly impacted by the interaction between CAEE and TEO with GG. Incorporating CAEE and TEO into the formulations of guar gum led to a reduction in the permeability of the coating to oxygen and water vapor. The seven days of extended shelf life compared to two days of control were observed with the optimized coating formulation. Furthermore, the application of the coating treatment proved effective in preventing enzymatic browning and creating a barrier against moisture and gases, contributing to prolonged freshness during extended storage periods.

Evaluation of oxidation stability for palm biodiesel with additives using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography

This paper discusses the potential of tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and alpha-tocopherol (α-T) in preventing palm biodiesel oxidation over an extended storage period of twelve weeks. A combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses were carried out. The FTIR spectra showed no significant changes to the carbonyl band at 1740 cm−1 across the storage period for fuels with additives, but the control had increased band intensity, which implied that additives prevented the formation of byproducts which have carbonyl groups or cyclic ether rings. From GC-MS analyses, lower transmittance at C18 methyl esters region was evident of methyl oleate, methyl linoleate and methyl linolenate being consumed to the point where their concentrations dropped below those of methyl palmitate in the sample without additives. Furthermore, the analyses indicated that 3-octyl-oxiraneoctanoic acid ME, E−10,13,13-trimethyl-11-tetradecen-1-ol acetate and 17-octadecynoic acid ME were the major oxidation byproducts. Traces of acetal, carboxylic acid, oxirane and alkylnoic acid were also detected. It was shown through HPLC analyses that TBHQ, BHA and α-T were consumed with α-T samples having the highest consumption compared to TBHQ and BHA. Overall, the findings supported the important role of additives in stabilizing the fuel and preventing oxidation during extended storage.