Low Moisture Research Articles

Study on mechanical properties of unsaturated silt in the Yellow River flood area

The alluvial deposits of the Yellow River led to the formation of less clay content, loose soil particles, and low compactness of the unsaturated silt, which makes it complicated to determine the mechanical properties of the Yellow River flood area soil. To investigate the mechanical characteristics of unsaturated silt, the relationship between unsaturated silt saturation and matric suction is analyzed through the soil-water characteristic test, and the soil-water characteristic curve is fitted by the Van-Genuchten model. A series of consolidated undrained shear tests were conducted on silt in Kaifeng using the GDS triaxial apparatus, the influence of moisture content, matric suction (u a-u w), and net confining pressure (σ 3-u a) on the strength characteristics of unsaturated silt was discussed. The results indicated that the net confining pressure, moisture content, and matric suction significantly influenced the shear characteristics of unsaturated silt. The shear strength of unsaturated silt increased with increasing net confining pressure at the same moisture content. The strain-hardening state of silt at high confining pressure was more obvious, while the silt at low confining pressure showed a weak strain-hardening state. Under a constant net confining pressure, the deviatoric stress versus deviatoric strain curves of silt with low moisture content exhibited a strain-softening state, while other moisture content showed a weak strain-hardening state. At the same matric suction, the shear strength increased with increasing normal stress. The cohesion increased and then decreased while the internal friction angle decreased and then increased with the increasing moisture content and matric suction.

Optimisation of the Encapsulation of Grape Pomace Extract by Spray Drying Using Goat Whey Protein as a Coating Material

The aim of this research was to determine the optimal conditions for the process of the microencapsulation of phenol-rich grape pomace extract (GPE) using spray drying and goat whey protein (GW) as a coating. The encapsulation was carried out with the aim of protecting the original bioactive components extracted from grape pomace to ensure their stability and protection from external agents, as well as antioxidant activity, during the conversion of the liquid extract into powder and during storage. Using the response surface methodology, an inlet air temperature of 173.5 °C, a GW ratio of 2.5 and a flow rate of 7 mL/min were determined as optimum process parameters. Under these conditions, a high yield (85.2%) and encapsulation efficiency (95.5%) were achieved with a satisfactorily low moisture content in the product (<5%). The amount of coating had the greatest influence on the MC properties. GW showed a more pronounced stabilising effect on the phenolic compounds in GPE during a longer storage period compared to anthocyanins. The results obtained indicate the potential of GW as a coating and are an example of the possible upcycling of GPE and GW, which can lead to a high-quality product that can be a functional ingredient.

Highly sensitive and chemically resistant moisture sensor based on polyether sulfone and polyimide composite membrane for power transformer oil

Abstract Moisture is the primary factor leading to the deterioration of transformer oil. Real-time detection of transformer oil moisture content holds significant importance to help power companies monitor the transformer’s operational status, track the change curve of the oil moisture content, identify water ingress causes, and implement preventive measures. However, transformer oil has the characteristics of low moisture content and complex chemical composition, which pose a substantial challenge for sensor monitoring, and require the prepared sensor to be chemically resistant and highly sensitive to moisture. To address these challenges, in this paper, a parallel plate oil moisture sensor with high sensitivity and high chemical resistance based on PES and PI was developed using the MEMS process. The sensor incorporates PES as the chemical resistance layer and PI as the moisture sensitivity layer. The parallel plate design not only optimizes sensitivity by effectively utilizing electric field lines but also allows the passage of water while isolating oil molecules, further enhancing the chemical resistance of the sensor. Experimental results in air demonstrate that the prototype sensor exhibits high sensitivity (~1.26 pF/% RH) across the full humidity range of 0-100% RH. Moreover, the sensor can withstand exposure to a wide range of chemical corrosive gases, including acetone, ammonia, etc. Tests in transformer oil reveal that the sensor has a resolution better than 200 ppm and can effectively measure moisture in the range of 0-1400 ppm, demonstrating very high sensitivity (4 pF/100 ppm) and rapid response (10/23 s).

Improved viability of probiotics by co-encapsulation of wheat germ oil under storage and gastrointestinal conditions: Effects of drying methods and wall composition

To improve the viability of probiotics during food storage and gastrointestinal digestion, this study developed solid microcapsules co-loaded with probiotics and wheat germ oil using W1/O/W2 emulsion pre-encapsulation, followed by spray drying (SD), freeze drying (FD) and spray freeze drying (SFD), respectively. The effects of drying methods and wall materials on the microstructure, physicochemical properties, storage stability, and gastrointestinal tolerability were highlighted. Firstly, all samples showed high encapsulation efficiency for probiotics (86%–99.2%) and wheat germ oil (72%–85%), low moisture content (2.8%–5.3%) and hygroscopicity (6.3%–11.6%), and wall materials exhibited structural stability during the drying process. The results of viable cell counts indicated that SFD caused more damage to bacterial cells than the other two drying methods, as evidenced by the total death of encapsulated probiotics within 90 days. In contrast, SD and FD encapsulated probiotics remained at 8.8–9.9 log CFU/g after 150 days of storage at 4 °C and 25 °C. Furthermore, the viability of probiotics in the co-encapsulated and pectin-added microcapsules was significantly enhanced in storage stability and simulated gastrointestinal digestion tests. Based on the above results, it was suggested that the co-encapsulation strategy of combining the W1/O/W2 structure and SD or FD to prepare microencapsulated powders can obtain probiotic products with high activity and high stability. Meanwhile, composite wall material (whey protein isolate and pectin) could enhance probiotics' protective effect and colonic targeted release behavior. In conclusion, the current research provides a valuable reference for the application of probiotics and functional oils in the food industry.

A DOPO-eugenol linear siloxane as a highly effective liquid flame retardant also imparting improved mechanical properties to an epoxy amine network

A liquid bio-derived eugenol-containing phosphorus silicone hybrid molecule (EGDS-DOPO) that endows excellent flame-retardancy and enhanced mechanical performance to an epoxy amine network at low levels of addition was successfully synthesized and characterised. The EGDS-DOPO significantly improved the flame retardancy requiring only 5 wt% of EGDS-DOPO to achieve a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 34.9 % and a UL 94 V-0 rating. Cone calorimetry measurements reveal a reduction of the peak heat release rate, the total heat release, and total smoke production by 62.2 %, 34.0 % and 47.5 %, respectively when EGDS-DOPO concentration was 20 wt%, compared to the unmodified epoxy network. Viscosity remained low throughout cure, and despite some retardation of reactivity, the epoxy amine resin remains fast curing and suitable for liquid moulding composite fabrication technologies. Moreover, the modified EGDS-DOPO epoxy networks display a glass transition temperature (Tg) between 218.5 °C and 174.1 °C, a hydrophobic surface with water contact angle of 97.5°–106.6°, a low moisture ingress of 2.35 %–2.91 %, and improved overall mechanical properties in flexure (maximum 39.8 % increase in flexural strength and 27.0 % in flexural modulus), compression (maximum 24.5 % and 35.0 % increase in compressive strength and modulus, respectively), and fracture toughness (maximum 28.0 %).

Study of moisture sorption thermodynamic in canola oilseed and drying energy requirement considerations

AbstractThe objective of this study is to derive the thermodynamic characteristics from sorption isotherm data for canola. The semi‐gravimetric method was utilized at three different temperatures (25, 40, and 55°C) and seven air relative humidity levels within the range of 11%–90%. The observed data indicated that the equilibrium moisture content of the sample decreased as the temperature increased. The “GAB and BET” models were applied to fit the empirical data, which demonstrated a Type III isotherm, and the monolayer water content was subsequently determined using these models. Thermodynamic properties such as “isosteric heat,” “net isosteric heat,” “differential entropy,” “net integral entropy,” and “net integral enthalpy” were determined from isothermal sorption curves. The results show that as moisture content increases, both the sorption isosteric heat and the differential entropy of sorption decrease. This indicates that at higher moisture levels, the energy required for additional moisture adsorption and the changes in entropy are reduced. Similarly, the net isosteric heat of sorption and the net integral enthalpy of sorption also decrease with increasing moisture content, consistent with the observed reductions in isosteric heat and differential entropy. The specific absorption surface area for each temperature was determined by calculating the monolayer moisture content using both the “GAB and BET models.” The net integral entropy had an increasing trend in the range of 4%–4.5% (db%), while it decreased in the range of 4.5%–6.8% of moisture content. In addition, the spreading pressure at three levels of temperature was reported. Finally, an empirical relation was employed to illustrate the cumulative energy requirement for drying versus moisture content. The results indicated that at low moisture content levels, the drying process required significantly higher energy.Practical applicationsMoisture sorption isotherms are essential for understanding the interaction between water and food ingredients. This knowledge is vital for improving food processing methods such as drying, mixing, cooling, and storage. In industry, isotherms can help determine the best drying method to maintain food quality, identify the optimal mixing conditions to ensure consistency, establish cooling protocols to prevent spoilage, and set storage guidelines to extend shelf life. In addition, understanding thermodynamic properties is crucial for regulating moisture absorption and release, achieving the desired food texture, managing surface characteristics, and calculating the energy needed for effective dehydration processes.

Advancing Thermal Stability in Natural Ester Oil-Paper Insulation Systems via Precision Nanostructuring with Parylene Films: Experimental and Molecular-Level Comprehensive Assessment

The oil-paper insulation system in eco-friendly fire-retardant transformers depends on hydrophilic natural ester insulating oil. Moisture within the system synergistically interacts with aging, worsening oil-paper insulation degradation and hastening overall system aging. Chemical vapor deposition was used to create parylene surface-modified insulating paper as a strategy to inhibit moisture-induced aging in natural ester oil-paper insulation. The effectiveness of the approach was identified by a comprehensive assessment of the physicochemical and electrical properties of the parylene surface-modified insulating paper. The findings from accelerated thermal aging at 130 °C for 90 days on the natural ester oil-paper insulation system reveal the outstanding lipophilic and hydrophobic properties while maintaining electrical characteristics of the parylene surface-modified insulating paper. After 90 days of aging, the parylene surface-modified insulating paper exhibited a 56.76% higher degree of polymerization and a 19.36% significantly lower moisture content than conventional cellulose insulating paper. In the natural ester oil-paper insulation system, the parylene surface-modified insulating paper led to a notable 63% reduction in insulating oil acid value, a 60.50% decrease in dielectric loss, and a substantial 20.35% increase in AC breakdown voltage. Molecular-level investigations revealed the inhibitory mechanism of the parylene film, offering a promising solution to enhance the thermal stability and aging resistance of natural ester oil-paper insulation systems.

Evaluating the performance effectiveness of briquettes made from coconut dreg charcoal (CDC), tea residue (TR), and cocoa pod (CP)

Abstract Environmental pollution, depletion of fossil fuels, and a significant rise in the human population are contributing to an increase in the greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. Addressing these challenges necessitates the production of clean, low-carbon emission, and sustainable bioenergy, such as briquettes, which can significantly contribute to knowledge and innovation. To assess the effectiveness of briquettes, their characteristics need to be tested using proximate analysis. In examining the characteristics of briquettes, the average moisture content of coconut dreg charcoal and tea residue (CDC+TR) measured 4.835%, contrasting with the 5.9% found in the cocoa pod (CP). The average ash content in CDC+TR was 2.351%, while CP recorded 3.2%. The average volatile matter in CDC+TR was 24.993%, while in CP, it was 31.5%. CDC+TR had an average fixed carbon of 67.815%, compared to CP of 59.5%. Furthermore, the average gross calorific value in CDC+TR was 4562.16 cal/g, whereas in CP, it was 4205.2 cal/g. In conclusion, CP briquettes could serve as an alternative energy source due to ease of production, low sulfur content, and favorable calorific value. CDC+TR, on the other hand, enhanced energy efficiency because of their lower moisture content, ash content, and volatile matter. Additionally, CDC+TR briquettes had higher fixed carbon and gross calorific values compared to CP, making them a suitable energy source.

Assessment of the Biochemical Methane Potential of Wastewater and Sludge Cake from a Poultry Slaughterhouse

Objectives : This study evaluates the potential for resource recovery through anaerobic digestion of organic waste generated in a poultry slaughterhouse, specifically focusing on poultry slaughterhouse wastewater and sludge cake obtained from in-house wastewater treatment.Methods : Basic characteristics (total solids, alkalinity, etc.), total nitrogen/ammonia nitrogen, and elemental analysis (macro and trace elements) were performed to determine the properties of the samples and calculate theoretical methane potential. Experimental methane potential was determined through BMP tests, with parameters such as lag period (λ) and maximum methane production rate (CH 4 mL/g VS/d) obtained using the modified Gompertz equation.Results and Discussion : The wastewater exhibited low organic matter concentration (1.79 g VS/kg; 3.74 g COD/L), while the sludge cake showed high total solids content (TS 170.8 g/kg) and organic matter concentration (131.5 g VS/kg; 220 g COD/L). Elemental analysis revealed that the C/N ratio was 9.17 for the sludge cake and 8.24 for the wastewater, indicating high nitrogen content. Methane production modeling using the modified Gompertz equation revealed a lag period of 7.5 days and T80 (time to produce 80% of total methane) of 21 days for wastewater, and a lag period of 2.4 days and T80 of 14 days for sludge cake.Conclusion : Wastewater and sludge cake from poultry slaughterhouses show significant potential as substrates for anaerobic digestion. However, the wastewater has low organic matter content, and the sludge cake, while high in organic matter, has low moisture and high ammonia levels. Therefore, it may be appropriate to co-digest these two substrates, or to co-digest the sludge cake with other substrates that have low nitrogen content and high water content. These findings provide fundamental data for the anaerobic digestion of slaughterhouse waste and highlight the need for further research on co-digestion and continuous processes.

Evaluation of waste composition for biochar production as a sustainable waste management approach

Background: To meet human life needs, fuel energy is obtained from fossil sources, such as coal, found in the Earth's crust. However, non-renewable energy sources in the Earth's crust will eventually run out. One alternative fuel is the production of biobriquettes from various types of waste. Methods: Using a literature review method, this study aims to determine which waste is most suitable for use in the production of biobriquettes. The samples taken are journals sourced from Google Scholar ranging from 2017 to 2022 that align with the discussion topic. Findings: Among various raw materials, the best waste for biobriquette production is found to be a mixture of dacron waste and corn cob, with a moisture content of 3.45% and a carbon value of 7986.45 cal/g. Conclusion: The results of the above study indicate that the production of biobriquettes from dakron waste and corn cobs is the best option because it yields the highest calorific value and the lowest moisture content, in accordance with SNI 01/6235/2000. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study presents a novel approach by identifying a specific combination of dacron waste and corn cob for biobriquette production, showcasing its superior calorific value and low moisture content, thus contributing to sustainable energy solutions and waste management practices.

Valorization of common ling (Molva-molva) roe by-products for the elaboration of a food seasoning: Effect of drying method

The fishing sector generates a large amount of discards and wastes that represent a problem for the industry, both economically and environmentally. For this reason, the valorization of a by-product of the salting fishing industry, common ling roe (Molva-molva) roe, was carried out by developing a fish seasoning for human consumption, subjecting the roe to two drying processes, freeze-drying [for 24 and 48 h (L24 and L48)] and air-drying in an oven [for 32 and 48 h (S32 and S48)]. Physicochemical, textural and sensory parameters of the roe seasoning were analyzed to compare both drying methods. The freeze-drying process produced technologically, nutritionally and sensorially more suitable seasonings, resulting in a product with lower moisture content and water activity, with less roasted coloration. In addition, the product had a saltier taste and a certain tendency to a greater umami and marine flavor, which are highly desirable in this type of product. Therefore, the valorization of ling roe as a fishery by-product is possible through the elaboration of a condiment of high nutritional and sensory value.

Moisture Sensitivity Performance of Hot Mix Asphalt Mixture Incorporating Fly Ash Geopolymer (FAG) Asphalt Binder

In Malaysia, Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) is widely used in asphalt production. HMA is a mixture of asphalt and aggregates that give durability to the road surface for pavement. Due to vehicles excessive traffic loadings that cause road surface damage, this pavement technology frequently undergoes maintenance and rehabilitation work. This study used recycled material as a modified binder and showned the best result in increasing stiffness and better rutting performance with high percentages of additives. This research focuses on the effect of FAG additive on asphalt mixture performance evaluation according to SuperpaveTM mixes design method. The procedures were specified according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), British Standard (BS) and Malaysian Standard (MS). The granite aggregate type was produced by a local quarry with conventional asphalt binder grade 80/100 and 60/70. Incorporation FAG in modified asphalt binder as levels of 0, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11% by mass of asphalt binder. The performance of moisture sensitivity showed low moisture damage susceptibility for the mixture based on consistent values of TSR, in which all the specimens met the minimum TSR threshold of 80%. The optimization findings indicated that 9% of fly ash geopolymer might be the ideal content for modifying the asphalt binder. Overall, research findings suggest that using geopolymers may have improved some of the characteristics of asphalt binder and the performance of asphalt binders in pavement applications. Thus, the outcomes of this research were significantly used for further performance test and analysis on the asphalt mixture.

Post-fire recovery of nematode communities along a slope gradient in a pine forest.

We investigated the enduring consequences of a wildfire on nematode diversity and abundance in a pine forest, employing a slope gradient approach. Our primary objective was to determine the extent of post-fire alterations in the nematode community 3years after the incident, to understand if the ecosystem has returned to its pre-fire state or has transitioned to a distinctive ecological environment. Three distinct burned pine forest sites at varying elevations were sampled to capture short-scale soil property variations due to slope gradients, while unburned forest sites served as controls. A consistent pattern emerged where the lowest altitude sites exhibited the highest nematode abundances, although still lower than unburned sites. Fire-induced changes were profound, shifting from fungivore dominance in unburned sites to bacterivore and herbivore dominance in burned sites. Alterations in soil properties post-fire, particularly reduced organic matter and nitrogen content, were closely associated with nematode community shifts. Water availability played a crucial role with lower moisture levels at higher elevations impacting nematode populations. Structural differences in the nematode community primarily resulted from fire disturbance rather than altitude. This study emphasizes the persistent and transformative impact of wildfire on nematode communities, highlighting the intricate interplay between ecological disturbances, soil properties, and nematode trophic dynamics.

Development of a cellulose nanofiber composite film containing CuO/ZnO nanoparticles and its human norovirus inactivation properties in clams

Human norovirus (HuNoV) threatens human health worldwide, highlighting the critical need for antiviral materials. In this study, copper and zinc nanoparticles (NPs) as inorganic antiviral materials and a cellulose nanofiber (CNF) were selected to construct a hybrid inorganic-organic composite film (CuO/ZnO NPs-CNF) against MS2 and murine norovirus 1 (MNV-1) (surrogates for HuNoV) viruses. Selected NPs concentrations (50 µM of CuO NPs and 5 mM of ZnO NPs) showed non-toxicity (89.88 % of cell viability) through the MTT assay. Upon the development and characterization of the CuO/ZnO NPs-CNF film, high compatibility between CuO/ZnO NPs and CNF was identified, along with consistent thickness, low moisture content, and water solubility. A synergistic antiviral effect was exhibited in vitro and on the film against MS2 and MNV-1 in the mentioned co-treated inorganic matrix within 1 h. The antiviral stability of the film was also maintained at various temperatures (−18 °C, 5 °C, and 25 °C) and humidities (20–30 %, 50–60 %, and 70–80 %). When a synergistic antiviral effect was exhibited on the CuO/ZnO NPs-CNF film against both MS2 and MNV-1, mechanisms analysis by SDS-PAGE and RT-qPCR revealed that there were damages to both capsid protein and RdRP. The application of CuO/ZnO NPs-CNF film on clams resulted in a significant decrease in the survival rate of MS2 by up to 65.67 % and MNV-1 by up to 78.62 % when treated at low temperatures compared to the CNF film. Taken together, these results suggest that the CuO/ZnO NPs-CNF film could be used as potential anti-HuNoV agent in the food industry.

Preparation and characterization of MgO-based composites: Analysis of moisture, corrosion, and fungal resistance, and mechanical properties

Magnesium oxide (MgO) composite boards are valued in the construction industry because of their outstanding fire resistance, however, the long-term viability of MgO boards is affected by atmospheric humidity. This research work aims to investigate the environmental impacts and mechanical properties of four types of MgO boards from four different manufacturers under varying relative humidity (RH) levels. Three of them contained a high amount of chlorine known as magnesium oxychloride (MOC) boards, and one of them contained a high amount of sulfur known as magnesium oxysulfate (MOS) boards from their elemental composition observed by EDX. Microscopic images showed a rougher and porous surface for MOC boards, whereas smoother surface for MOS boards. MOS boards exhibited 37 % (average) lower moisture absorbency than MOC boards at 95 % RH and remained dry, while the MOC boards leaked salty water drops under the same condition. As a result, the MOS boards exhibited much better corrosion and fungal protection than the MOC boards. Mechanical properties, for example, tensile strength decreased by 45 % in MOC boards and 31 % in MOS boards at 95 % RH compared to 50 % RH. Therefore, the sourced MOS composite boards outperformed the contemporary MOC boards in all parameters.

Application of the Reconstructed Solar-Induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence by Machine Learning in Agricultural Drought Monitoring of Henan Province, China from 2010 to 2022

Solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) serves as a proxy indicator for vegetation photosynthesis and can directly reflect the growth status of vegetation. Using SIF for drought monitoring offers greater potential compared to traditional vegetation indices. This study aims to develop and validate a novel approach, the improved Temperature Fluorescence Dryness Index (iTFDI), for more accurate drought monitoring in Henan Province, China. However, the low spatial resolution, data dispersion, and short temporal sequence of SIF data hinder its direct application in drought studies. To overcome these challenges, this study constructs a random forest SIF downscaling model based on the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument SIF (TROPOSIF) and the Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data. Assuming an unchanging spatial scale relationship, an improved SIF (iSIF) product with a temporal resolution of 500 m over the period March to September, 2010–2022 was obtained for Henan Province. Subsequently, using the retrieved iSIF and the surface temperature difference data, the iTFDI was proposed, based on the assumption that under the same vegetation cover conditions, lower soil moisture and a greater diurnal temperature range of the surface indicate more severe drought. Results showed that: (1) The accuracy of the TROPOSIF downscaling model achieved coefficient of determination (R²), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE) values of 0.847, 0.073 mW m−2 nm−1 sr−1, and 0.096 mW m−2 nm−1 sr−1, respectively. (2) The 2022 iTFDI drought monitoring results indicated favorable soil moisture in Henan Province during March, April, July, and August, while extensive droughts occurred in May, June, and September, accounting for 70.27%, 71.49%, and 43.61%, respectively. The monitored results were consistent with the regional water conditions measured at ground stations. (3) The correlation between the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and iTFDI at five stations was significantly stronger than the correlation with the Temperature Vegetation Dryness Index (TVDI), with the values −0.631, −0.565, −0.612, −0.653, and −0.453, respectively. (4) The annual Sen’s slope and Mann–Kendall significance test revealed a significant decreasing trend in drought severity in the southern and western regions of Henan Province (6.74% of the total area), while the eastern region showed a significant increasing trend (4.69% of the total area). These results demonstrate that the iTFDI offers a significant advantage over traditional indices, providing a more accurate reflection of regional drought conditions. This enhances the ability to identify drought trends and supports the development of targeted drought management strategies. In conclusion, the iTFDI constructed using the downscaled iSIF data and surface temperature differential data shows great potential for drought monitoring.

Effect of the addition of Chachafruto flour on the stability of oil-in-water emulsions and the physicochemical properties of spray-drying microcapsules

This study aimed to assess the suitability of Chachafruto flour (CHF) as a stabilizing agent for an oil-in-water emulsion and its impact on the physicochemical properties of the emulsion after spray drying. Emulsions with varying CHF concentrations (2 %, 3 %, and 4 %) were prepared and compared to a control. The results from the creaming index and particle size (emulsion) analyses indicated that the highest emulsion stability was achieved with 4 %CHF, attributed to its protein content (20.5 %). The encapsulates exhibited spherical and rough surface morphologies but without holes on the surface. Low moisture content (MC < 5 %) and water activity (aw < 0.2) were associated with powder stability. The encapsulates added with CHF showed good reconstitution properties. FTIR confirmed the absence of chemical interactions during the encapsulation process, contributing to the stability. Furthermore, the addition of CHF improved the thermal stability of the encapsulates. This study represents the first investigation on the emulsifying potential of Chachafruto flour.

Dietary fiber-rich Lentinula edodes stems influence the structure and in vitro digestibility of low-moisture extruded maize starches

Low-moisture extrusion (LME) can be used to improve the utilization of dietary fiber-rich Lentinula edodes stems (LES). The incorporation of dietary fiber can affect heat-induced interactions of starch molecules, which are critical for modifying starch characteristics via LME. In this work, a blend of LES and maize starch was extruded into a product at low moisture (30 %, w/v). The structure, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of extruded maize starches were investigated at different LES levels. The results showed that low levels (<7 %) of LES increased the crystallinity of LME-produced starch, while high levels (>7 %) did not. Because of the LES's soluble to insoluble dietary fiber ratios, the increased crystallinity of LES-added starch led to greater molecular ordering and the formation of an elastic gel after LME. At a suitable LES level (~3 %), highly crystallized starches were resistant to enzymolysis and had a high proportion of resistant starch. The obtained findings would contribute to a better understanding of how dietary fiber-rich LES affects starch extrusion and provide an alternative use for boosting the value of LES by-products.

The Potential of Providing Chicken Manure in Improving Soil Health in Dry Lands

Despite having a considerable potential area, the optimal utilization of dry land is challenging due to the generally low soil moisture content and fertility of dry land in Indonesia. This is evidenced by the intrinsically low organic matter content in dryland soils. Therefore, this article aims to provide information on the potential application of chicken manure to enhance soil fertility and health or to rehabilitate suboptimal dry lands in Indonesia. The methodology used in this article is qualitative, based on a literature review. One approach to improving the condition of dry land in Indonesia is the application of chicken manure, which acts as a soil conditioner and enhances overall soil fertility and health. The results of the study indicate that using chicken manure on dry land can increase crop production, thereby positively correlating with the profits of dry-land farmers.

Phenolic, amino acids, and fatty acids profiles and the nutritional properties in the fresh and dried fruits of black rosehip (Rosa pimpinellifolia L.)

Recently, increased attention has been paid to the raw materials of plants as a source of biologically active substances. Black rosehip (Rosa pimpinellifolia L.) fruits could be a good resource for potential functional components in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Also, drying can influence the composition of heat-sensitive phytochemicals. However, less attention is given to comparing black rosehip bioactive compounds particularly compositions of fatty acid, amino acids, and phenolic content in fresh and dried fruits. So in this study, the amino acid constituents (by amino acid analyzer), fatty acids (by GC–MS), mineral elements (by atomic absorption spectrometer), antioxidant (by DPPH) and phenolic compounds (by HPLC) present in fresh and dried fruits of black rosehip naturally grown in Iran were comprehensively investigated. The results showed that dried fruits had a lower level moisture by 51.55%, and a higher level of total phenolic compounds and total sugar by 786.20 mg GAE/100 g and 15.77 g/100 g, respectively. Chlorogenic acid and gallic acid were the major phenolic compounds (109.3 mg/g). Whilst, linoleic acid, oleic acid, and arachidic acid (85.34%) were the most dominant fatty acids. The most dominant amino acids were glutamic acid, phenylalanine, and arginine (29.41 g/100 g). Also, Fe and Mn as micro-elements were the most dominant elements. In general, the results illustrated the potentials and differences of black rosehip fruits grown in the Arasbaran region as promising resources for food sources, pharmaceutics, cosmetics, and breeding programs. Also, these findings confirm that black rosehip fruits contain significant amounts of secondary metabolites that may positively affect human health.