ABSTRACT Aqueous multivalent metal batteries (AMMBs) hold great promise for non‐flammable, cost‐effective, and scalable energy storage. However, the parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has severely plagued the metal plating efficiency and calendar life, particularly under realistic stress conditions, including low current densities, extended storage periods, and harsh temperatures. Herein, we leverage the inherent HER resistance of cadmium metal and the water‐confining solvation structures of concentrated electrolytes to synergistically tackle the HER challenge, and we successfully demonstrated ultrahigh‐efficiency and long‐calendar‐life cadmium metal batteries under strict conditions (0.1 mA cm −2 , 99.75% efficiency, 21.4 months’ life). Even under extreme conditions, such as ultralow current (0.01 mA cm −2 ), long rest periods (up to 60 days), and wide temperature ranges (−50°C to +80°C), Cd maintains a high efficiency of 90%–99.9%. In stark contrast, zinc suffers from drastic performance degradation and loses 27%–73% efficiency. The superior performance is correlated with the distinct solvation structure in the concentrated electrolyte, which transforms the hydration form of Cd 2+ cations and strengthens water molecules via a strong cation‐coordination effect. Our work establishes a new benchmark for AMMBs and highlights the decisive role of electrode selection and electrolyte design in advancing AMMB performance.

Aqueous multivalent metal batteries (AMMBs) hold great promise for non-flammable, cost-effective, and scalable energy storage. However, the parasitic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has severely plagued the metal plating efficiency and calendar life, particularly under realistic stress conditions, including low current densities, extended storage periods, and harsh temperatures. Herein, we leverage the inherent HER resistance of cadmium metal and the water-confining solvation structures of concentrated electrolytes to synergistically tackle the HER challenge, and we successfully demonstrated ultrahigh-efficiency and long-calendar-life cadmium metal batteries under strict conditions (0.1mAcm-2, 99.75% efficiency, 21.4 months' life). Even under extreme conditions, such as ultralow current (0.01mAcm-2), long rest periods (up to 60 days), and wide temperature ranges (-50°C to +80°C), Cd maintains a high efficiency of 90%-99.9%. In stark contrast, zinc suffers from drastic performance degradation and loses 27%-73% efficiency. The superior performance is correlated with the distinct solvation structure in the concentrated electrolyte, which transforms the hydration form of Cd2+ cations and strengthens water molecules via a strong cation-coordination effect. Our work establishes a new benchmark for AMMBs and highlights the decisive role of electrode selection and electrolyte design in advancing AMMB performance.

Can DNA withstand the test of time? Exploring degradation across storage conditions.

Arthrospira platensis, commonly known as spirulina, is a photosynthetically efficient cyanobacterium used for the production of nutritional supplements, biofuel, wastewater treatment, and CO2 sequestration. These traits and uses make it a candidate for bioregenerative life support systems for space travel and future habitats. However, A. platensis lacks a robust cryopreservation method for long-term storage of viable cells, and genetic stocks are currently sub-cultured for maintenance. Here, we report an efficient cryopreservation method for the A. platensis strain NIES-39 and adapt this method for an upcoming spaceflight experiment. Seven cryoprotective agents were tested to preserve viable A. platensis. We found that a combination of dimethyl sulfoxide and trehalose additives to Zarrouk's media protected trichome viability for extended storage periods at -80 °C. Throughout 1 year of frozen storage, we observed equivalent viability of cryopreserved cells in comparison to non-frozen cultures. Equivalent cryopreservation was demonstrated with multiple volumes of frozen culture, culture containers, and thawing methods to adapt the method for delivery and return of viable NIES-39 for the Space Algae-2 experiment on the International Space Station. The method requires minimal resources, employs simple freezing and thawing procedures, and could be implemented in commercial production to preserve genetic stocks.

Fresh-cut apples are highly valued for their convenience and nutritional value, yet their marketability is constrained by rapid enzymatic browning, tissue softening and loss of sensory quality during storage. Conventional preservation methods such as refrigeration and chemical additives offer only partial protection and often conflict with consumer demand for minimally processed, clean-label foods. Previous studies have evaluated either single or anti-browning agents over short storage periods with limited focus on browning or colour changes. There is still a significant research gap in the systematic evaluation of composite edible coatings, particularly those based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and anti-browning agents, evaluated across a variety of quality indicators over an extended storage period. The combined effects of edible coatings and anti-browning agents on the quality and shelf life of fresh-cut "Royal Gala" apples over 16 days of refrigeration (5 ± 2 °C) were examined in this study. The most effective treatment (T8: 1% HPMC + 0.5% CaCl₂ + 1.5% ascorbic acid) significantly reduced browning index and maintained quality attributes during storage. Aloe vera gel, Tulsi extract, cysteine, CaCl₂ + ascorbic acid and their combinations were the treatments. Browning index (BI), whiteness index (WI), browning potential (BP), headspace gas composition, and sensory attributes were used to evaluate quality. Among treatments, HPMC + CaCl₂ + ascorbic acid (T8) was most effective, significantly reducing BI to 53.52 ± 4.05 versus 246.3 ± 20.17 in the control, maintaining a WI of 54.04 ± 0.52 compared with 23.15 ± 1.32, reducing mean CO₂ accumulation to 16.7% versus 40.2%, and sustaining higher O₂ levels (−17.8% versus −40.6%). T8 also achieved the highest sensory ratings for firmness, flavour, and overall acceptability. This study provides a comparative evaluation of composite edible coatings incorporating hydrocolloids and anti-browning agents, highlighting their combined effectiveness in maintaining quality and extending the shelf life of fresh-cut apples. These results offer a practical, clean-label approach for the fresh-cut fruit industry to mitigate postharvest losses, enhance marketability and promote sustainable food supply chains.

The storage of soybean seeds is a critical aspect of the production process, making it essential for genotypes to show tolerance during this phase to maintain seed quality. This study aimed to examine and correlate lignin content in the seed coat, enzyme activity expression, and morphoanatomical characteristics of soybean cultivars with the preservation of physiological quality and storage tolerance. Eight soybean cultivars were selected, produced, and harvested under uniform edaphoclimatic conditions. Physiological quality assessments were conducted at six storage intervals: 0, 60, 120, 180, 240, and 360 days. Evaluations included tests for germination, emergence, accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, and lignin content in the seed coat. Additionally, biochemical and enzymatic analyses of antioxidant metabolism and morphoanatomical examinations were performed using light microscopy on seeds stored for 0 and 360 days. The experiment used an 8 × 6 factorial arrangement, encompassing eight cultivars and six storage periods. For the enzymatic and morphoanatomical analyses, a 4 × 2 factorial design was employed, involving four cultivars and two storage durations. The results showed that genotype significantly influenced the tolerance of soybean seeds to extended storage periods. Seeds proving high physiological quality and storage resilience exhibited reduced hydrogen peroxide accumulation and diminished lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, morphoanatomical analyses provide a promising method for selecting genotypes with enhanced physiological quality and storage tolerance.

Half-smooth tongue sole has high nutritional value due to its delicious meat and high protein content. However, its high protein content makes it highly susceptible to spoilage caused by microbial action. This study utilized plasma-activated water to pretreat half-smooth tongue sole, which was then subjected to various packaging methods: CK (air packaging), VP (vacuum packaging), MAP1 (75% CO2/5% O2/20% N2), MAP2 (20% CO2/5% O2/75% N2), and MAP3 (75% CO2/10% O2/15% N2). The packaged samples were stored at −1 °C. Preservation efficacy was assessed by monitoring changes in microbial counts and physicochemical quality indicators throughout storage. The findings revealed a progressive increase in microbial counts, a deterioration in fish quality, and a darkening of color over extended storage periods. During superchilling storage, the increase in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and K value was markedly reduced in the MAP1 group. Regarding protein stability, the MAP1 group exhibited a slower rise in carbonyl content as well as a slower reduction in total sulfhydryl content, further confirming its superior preservation effect. Moreover, this group demonstrated excellence in maintaining the secondary and tertiary structures of myofibrillar proteins, thereby minimizing the structural damage of fish during superchilling storage. In summary, based on observed microbial and protein changes, MAP1 (75% CO2/5% O2/20% N2) was the most effective in preserving quality and extending shelf life.

Abstract The decline in biofertilizer viability during storage is an inevitable process; therefore, the selection of an appropriate carrier matrix is crucial to preserve microbial activity and extend product longevity. In the present study, Mucuna bracteata biomass was employed as a natural carrier medium to sustain the quality and functional stability of biofertilizers over extended storage periods. The investigation sought to establish the optimal storage duration of M. bracteata -based biofertilizers in promoting the vegetative and yield performance of sweet corn ( Zea mays L.). The experimental design comprised seven treatment combinations and four replications (28 experimental units): P1 (100% inorganic fertilizer), P2–P4 (75% inorganic fertilizer + 100% decanter cake compost + 10 mL biofertilizer containing 10% M. bracteata stored for 0, 1, and 2 months), and P5–P7 (50% inorganic fertilizer + 100% decanter cake compost + 10 mL biofertilizer containing 10% M. bracteata stored for 0, 1, and 2 months). The results indicated that integrating inorganic fertilizers decanter cake compost and M. bracteata -enriched biofertilizers significantly enhanced several agronomic parameters. Moreover, this integrated nutrient management approach reduced NPK fertilizer demand by approximately 25%, thereby underscoring its potential as an environmentally sustainable and resource-efficient fertilization strategy.

Thermal imaging has non-invasive qualities which have attracted the interest of researchers as it could improve agricultural methods, especially in the field of fruit classification based on their storage duration. This study explores the potential of thermal imaging and machine learning for the non-destructive classification of Terung Asam (Solanum lasiocarpum Dunal.) fruit at different storage durations. Nine thermal image parameters were analysed to monitor changes in fruit characteristics over day 0, day 7, day 14, day 21 and day 28. Key thermal image parameters, including major axis length (MajorAL), maximum intensity (MaxInt) and mean value within the region of interest (MeanROI), exhibited significant variations throughout the storage period, reflecting changes in fruit morphology and surface temperature associated with ripening and moisture loss. Correlation analysis revealed strong correlation between these parameters. The strongest correlation was found between MajorAL and MinorAL (r = 0.967) and between MaxInt and MajorAL (r = 0.962). Five machine learning models, i.e. Fine Decision Tree, Medium Decision Tree, RUSBoost Tree, Boosted Tree and Fine k-Nearest Neighbour (kNN), were evaluated for classification performance. Fine and Medium Decision tree achieved the highest classification accuracy at 86.7%, effectively distinguishing Terung Asam fruits based on storage duration. This study underlines thermal imaging as a reliable, non-invasive tool for post-harvest classification of Terung Asam fruit, improving storage monitoring and reducing waste. Future research should focus on deep learning integration to enhance classification performance over extended storage periods.

Abstract Phytophthora erythroseptica , the causal agent of pink rot, is a significant threat to potato production, leading to yield losses and postharvest decay. Conventional management strategies rely on fungicides like phosphorous acid, but increasing consumer demand for reduced fungicide inputs and alternatives necessitates new control methods. This study evaluates the efficacy of 2 E -hexenal, a naturally occurring volatile organic compound, in inhibiting P. erythroseptica in vitro and in storage. In vitro experiments demonstrated that 2 E -hexenal was fungitoxic and completely inhibited pathogen growth at a minimum concentration of 5 µL/L, while lower concentrations exhibited fungistatic effects. Large-scale storage trials were conducted between 2016 and 2023 to assess the fumigant potential of 2 E -hexenal on infected tubers. Initial trials showed no significant reductions in disease incidence and severity. However, subsequent experiments demonstrated that 2 E -hexenal treatments significantly reduced disease progression. In the 2020 season-long storage trial, disease incidence in untreated tubers reached 100%, whereas treated tubers maintained up to 75% lower disease incidence rates. The 2023 trial confirmed these findings, with 2 E -hexenal reducing disease severity by an average of 75% compared to untreated controls. These results suggest that 2 E -hexenal is a promising alternative for managing pink rot in stored potatoes. Its ability to reduce disease incidence and severity over extended storage periods highlights its potential for integration into postharvest disease management strategies. Further research is needed to optimize application methods and confirm efficacy across different storage conditions.

Litchi is the fruit of warm climates and has a very short shelf life as the fruit loses its red color within the span of 2-3 days. The current study was planned to evaluate the effect of hexanal fumigation on overall fruit quality and retention of aesthetic appeal of the fruit under low temperature storage conditions. Hence, litchi fruit harvested at the ripening stage was fumigated with 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% hexanal concentration followed by cold storage at 5 ± 1°C for 28 days by maintaining 90% relative humidity. During cold storage, fruits were evaluated for physiological weight loss (PLW), browning severity, and anthocyanin depletion in pericarp. Physico-chemical quality characteristics were determined in litchi aril samples. Total phenolics and total antioxidants were also determined from aril samples, whereas antioxidative enzymes such as SOD, CAT, POD PPO were determined from pericarp tissues in litchi pericarp at 7 -day intervals. Postharvest hexanal application significantly controlled pericarp browning and resulted in higher anthocyanin content with reduced weight loss than control fruit. Hexanal preserved a steep rise in SSC and maintained relatively low SSC compared to control fruit throughout the cold storage period; however, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid contents, phenolic components and total antioxidants in litchi fruit aril were significantly augmented in all hexanal formulations, with significantly higher values recorded in 1% hexanal treatment. Likewise, antioxidative enzyme activities, such as SOD (74.54 mg-1 protein) and CAT (82.42 mg-1 protein), were significantly higher in hexanal-treated fruits, while POD (30.2 mg-1 protein) and PPO enzyme (34.42 U mg-1 protein) activities were significantly hindered in hexanal-treated litchi fruits which were significantly higher in control treatment. Overall, 1% hexanal formulation showed more promising results in terms of maintaining quality characteristics and color of the fruit during the extended storage period. Conclusively, hexanal application retained the pericarp red color and delayed browning by maintaining fruit quality of ‘Gola’ litchi longer than control fruits.

BackgroundWestern blotting is a fundamental technique for protein detection and quantification, with critical dependence on antibody for its sensitivity and specificity. Antibody solutions are frequently reused to conserve the limited stock and compensate for their high cost. However, storing antibody solutions is often challenged by protein aggregation and loss of immunoreactivity, especially when skim milk is added. Recent advancements in Western blot include microfluidic techniques which minimize antibody consumption. To facilitate these techniques, a storage strategy is needed for diluted antibody solutions to properly preserve their immunoreactivity.ResultsWe found that Tris-buffered saline with 0.1% Tween 20 (TBST), an ordinary washing buffer for Western blot, provides protection to diluted antibodies for extended period of storage at 4 °C. We discovered that TBST-diluted commercial antibodies retained their immunoreactivity for 281 days at ambient temperature and 1,690 days at 4 °C. In addition, we demonstrated that Tween 20 plays a critical role in stabilizing the diluted antibody.ConclusionsWe propose that TBST is an effective and practical buffer to preserve diluted antibodies, which can be utilized as an integral part of strategies to reduce antibody consumption in laboratories.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12575-025-00313-1.

Thirty strains of microorganisms from the National Collection of Nonpathogenic Microorganisms (NCNM) were used as study objects (actinobacteria, bacteria, and micromycetes). Strains were assessed for viability after lyophilization using diverse lyoprotectants suitable for protection during freeze-drying, and for enzyme activity before and after lyophilization with amylase, catalase, cellulase, and lipase. Actinobacteria of genera Actinomadura, Actinoplanes, Micromonospora, Streptomyces, after lyophilization, showed minor changes. The viability after lyophilization ranged from 87.2% to97.9%. After lyophilization, bacteria of the genera Bacillus, Micrococcus, and Paenibacillus, showed that most strains retained their enzyme activity at the initial level, and the viability was on a larger scale, ranging from 76.4% to 95.6%. In this case, the main thing is that two-thirds of viable cells were preserved, which is sufficient for a more extended storage period. After lyophilization, Micromycetes represented by the genera Talaromyces and Trichoderma retained their initial enzyme activity. The survival rate of micromycete spores after lyophilization was very high, ranging from 93.7% to 99.2%, compared to the initial rate before lyophilization. Lyophilization of microbial strains from NCNM is efficient for preserving strains of biotechnological interest.

Detection of circulating mosquito-borne arboviruses in Brazil using travellers as sentinels.

Role of lactic acid bacteria inoculants in optimizing fermentation dynamics and nutrient retention in alfalfa silage at different moisture conditions

Three novel 14C-labelled isotopologues of the psychoactive agents psilocin, psilocybin and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) were synthesised, all labelled at the 2-position of the indole. The syntheses involved incorporating the 3-dimethylaminoethyl substituent common to all three substances onto a 4- or 5-substituted indole intermediate via successive treatments with oxalyl chloride, dimethylamine and reduction with lithium aluminium hydride. Psilocybin-2-14C with a specific activity of 234 μCi/mg exhibited limited stability, but a 5.5-fold radio dilution with unlabelled psilocybin afforded material that maintained a radiochemical purity exceeding 97.5% after 1-month storage at ≤ -70°C. The stability of 5-MeO-DMT-2-14C succinate salt with a specific activity of 173 μCi/mg was assessed over a more extended storage period, and after 6 months at ≤ -70°C the radiochemical purity was 98.0%, supporting its use in long-term studies. The radiolabelled psilocybin-2-14C and 5-MeO-DMT-2-14C succinate represent new tools for invivo pharmacokinetic and metabolic studies with psychedelic tryptamines. These novel derivatives may offer enhanced metabolic stability and facilitate more precise ADME and mass balance studies. Future research will explore their behaviour in biological systems to support necessary studies toward regulatory approval of both psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT for treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The rapid growth of Australia’s hydrogen economy highlights the pressing need for innovative regulatory strategies that address the distinct characteristics of hydrogen supply chains. This study focuses on the supply-side dynamics of the hydrogen energy sector, emphasizing the importance of tailored frameworks to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of hydrogen across the supply chain. Key areas of analysis include the regulatory challenges associated with various transportation and storage methods, particularly during long-distance transport and extended storage periods. The research identifies notable gaps and inconsistencies within the current regulatory systems across Australian states, which inhibit the development of a unified hydrogen economy. To address these challenges, the concept of Proactive Regulation for Hydrogen Supply (PRHS) is introduced. PRHS emphasizes anticipatory governance that adapts alongside technological advancements to effectively manage hydrogen transportation and storage. The study advocates for harmonizing fragmented state frameworks into a cohesive national regulatory system to support the sustainable and scalable expansion of hydrogen logistics. Furthermore, the paper examines the potential of blockchain technology to enhance safety, accountability, and traceability across the hydrogen supply chain, offering practical solutions to current regulatory and operational barriers.

ABSTRACTSelenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted considerable attention in biomedical research due to their antioxidant properties and potential therapeutic applications. In this study, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were synthesized from sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) using ascorbic acid as a reducing agent and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na‐CMC) as an environmentally friendly stabilizer. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed ion‐dipole and hydrogen bonding interactions between SeNPs and functional groups of Na‐CMC spectra at 1601 and 3426 cm−1. Besides, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential measurements demonstrated the stability of SeNPs with ζ = − 40.5 mV in solution over extended storage periods till 672 h. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed a correlation between precursor concentration of Na2SeO3 (0.0165–0.122 wt%), spherical nanoparticle size (5–40 nm and 15–75 nm), and morphology. Remarkably, the obtained SeNPs exhibited lower acute toxicity at different doses (0.076 and 0.220 mg/mL) and higher LD50 values (maximum 2005.36 and 1405.31 mg/kg) than SeO32− ions demonstrated via intravenous and intraperitoneal routes of administration, along with a prolonged release profile of 43% by the 48‐h incubation period. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH assay. While cytotoxicity was assessed against 8 × 106 cells/mL Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, similar cytotoxic activity was observed at equal doses of 10 mg/kg of CMC/SeNPs (15–75 nm) and Doxorubicin showing 94.2% (IC50 = 0.84 mg/kg) and 96.4% (IC50 = 0.78 mg/kg), respectively. Interestingly, SeNPs (40–65 nm) exhibited a strong “nanoeffect” achieving 93% cytotoxicity (IC50 = 1.01 mg/kg) after 12 h of incubation, comparable to doxorubicin. These results underscore the potential of SeNPs as a promising candidate for biomedical applications, particularly in cancer therapy.

Cryopreservation remains crucial bottleneck for storing and transporting bioengineered 3D cell models, vital for preclinical drug development and cancer research. Conventional cryoprotectants like fetal bovine serum (FBS) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) present cytotoxicity challenges and lack efficacy in maintaining structural integrity and viability in complex 3D culture models. This study investigates the efficacy of two carbohydrate-based macromolecular crowders (MMCs), polydextrose III (PD) and resistant maltodextrin (rMD), in cryopreserving human lung adenocarcinoma spheroids as alternatives to FBS. Spheroids were cryopreserved at −80 and −196 °C using MMC-based cryomixtures, with subsequent evaluation of cell viability, structural integrity, and proliferation markers post-thaw. Results indicate that MMC-based cryomixtures, particularly PD, provide superior cryoprotection, preserving the structural and functional integrity of A549 spheroids over a 60-day storage period at −196 °C. Immunocytochemistry of vimentin and Ki67 biomarkers demonstrated that PD-cryopreserved spheroids exhibited consistent structural stability and retained proliferative capacity, contrasting with those stored in conventional FBS-based cryomixtures, which showed marked deterioration in cellular morphology and viability. Apoptosis profiling revealed a lower incidence of cell death in MMC-preserved spheroids, with live cell percentages stabilizing around 50% at −80 °C and approximately 54% at −196 °C over the extended storage period. Further characterization revealed protection of the necrotic core and cellular junctions PD-cryopreserved spheroids. These findings suggest that MMC-based cryomixtures, especially PD, are effective alternatives for cryopreservation of tumor spheroids. The increased cellular viability and structural preservation provided by MMCs could advance their application in 3D culture preservation, addressing limitations of conventional cryopreservation in drug testing, regenerative medicine, and cancer research.

Physicochemical aspects of hydrogel preparation from algal cellulose.