Oil Content Research Articles

Phenotypic Characterization of Citron Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) Genotypes for Bioenergy Production

Citron watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) is an important climate smart crop, characterized by high oil content in the seeds and it is a popular fruit in southern Africa. To determine best performing genotypes eight phenotypic traits were assessed to identify cultivars with potential for biodiesel production. A field experiment was conducted at Sebele Agricultural Research Station, in Southern Botswana, during 2019 to 2020 cropping season. Four (4) melon genotypes were planted in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated three times and eight (8) characters were assessed. Except seed oil content (26.6%) there was significant (P < 0.05) difference among all the traits, an indication of higher genetic diversity in the selected citron watermelon. SC1-Sesoswane, exhibited highest seed yield (1540 kg/ha) and oil yield (435.03 kg/ha) while MMB-280-Lerotse recorded lowest seed yield and oil yield of 548.1 kg/ha and 144 kg/ha respectively. There was a significant correlation of (0.9) between oil yield (kg/ha), number of fruits produced, and seed yield (kg/ha), an indication that increasing the seed yield will positively increase the amount of oil produced. This study revealed the potential bioenergy production of the four cultivars. However, SC1-Sesoswane appears a more promising alternative cultivar for feedstock for biodiesel production.

Comparative transcriptomic analysis provides insights into the genetic networks regulating oil differential production in oil crops

BackgroundPlants differ more than threefold in seed oil contents (SOCs). Soybean (Glycine max), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), rapeseed (Brassica napus), and sesame (Sesamum indicum) are four important oil crops with markedly different SOCs and fatty acid compositions.ResultsCompared to grain crops like maize and rice, expanded acyl-lipid metabolism genes and relatively higher expression levels of genes involved in seed oil synthesis (SOS) in the oil crops contributed to the oil accumulation in seeds. Here, we conducted comparative transcriptomics on oil crops with two different SOC materials. In common, DIHYDROLIPOAMIDE DEHYDROGENASE, STEAROYL-ACYL CARRIER PROTEIN DESATURASE, PHOSPHOLIPID:DIACYLGLYCEROL ACYLTRANSFERASE, and oil-body protein genes were both differentially expressed between the high- and low-oil materials of each crop. By comparing functional components of SOS networks, we found that the strong correlations between genes in “glycolysis/gluconeogenesis” and “fatty acid synthesis” were conserved in both grain and oil crops, with PYRUVATE KINASE being the common factor affecting starch and lipid accumulation. Network alignment also found a conserved clique among oil crops affecting seed oil accumulation, which has been validated in Arabidopsis. Differently, secondary and protein metabolism affected oil synthesis to different degrees in different crops, and high SOC was due to less competition of the same precursors. The comparison of Arabidopsis mutants and wild type showed that CINNAMYL ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE 9, the conserved regulator we identified, was a factor resulting in different relative contents of lignins to oil in seeds. The interconnection of lipids and proteins was common but in different ways among crops, which partly led to differential oil production.ConclusionsThis study goes beyond the observations made in studies of individual species to provide new insights into which genes and networks may be fundamental to seed oil accumulation from a multispecies perspective.

Flaxseeds Composition And Phytochemical Screening Methods

Flaxseed, often known as linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), is derived from the annual flax plant. The human nutrition industry is the primary application for flaxseed, as it is becoming recognized as a significant functional food component because to the active ingredient content, which is shown to have health advantages. Flaxseed can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as ground, as oil, or combined with baked goods. Flaxseed consumption is supported by scientific evidence due to its high content of omega-3 and omega-6 rich oil, lignans, α-linolenic acid, high-quality proteins, and fibers. These compounds are biologically active and can prevent various chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular stroke, and many types of cancer. Additionally, benefits from flaxseed diet have been demonstrated in the field of animal nutrition, and as a result in healthier food from animal origin. In fact, the fatty acid profile of the meat and fat is directly affected by the source of fat in diet in swine and poultry, feeding omega-3 enriched diets by the addition of flaxseed would increase the omega-3 content in eggs and meat and thus enrich the products.

Phytochemical studies in some varieties of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and their hybrids

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to congregate the phytochemical studies done on intervarietal F1 hybrids of soybean (Glycine max L.) along with their parents. The eleven F1 hybrids were obtained by intervarietal crossing done using five varieties of soybean viz Bragg(BG), NRC7(NR), Punjab1(PN), PUSA98-14(PU) and JS9560(JS).Estimation of phenols was done by FCR Method using Gallic acid as standard. The total phenolic content was found highest in the cross JSXNR and lowest in BGXNR. Total tannin content was determined using FCR method. Total tannin content was highest in NRXJS and least in BGXPN. In addition, total flavonoids were determined using Alcl3 reagent and antioxidant activity by DPPH method. Total flavonoids was found maximum in PNXNR and least in PUXPN respectively. Highest Antioxidant Activity was 50.31% in JSXPN and lowest was 39.08% in NRXJS. The results suggested that besides protein and oil contents, the phenolic contents should also be considered as an important characteristic feature of soybean seeds, and as a potential selection criterion for antioxidant activity in soybean.

Characterization of Brazilian Cascade and Chinook hops and their dry-hopped beer

The flowers (cones) of Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) have extensive applications in the brewery industry and in Brazil, 98% of which is imported. The Brazilian cultivated hops have multiple flowerings, and therefore the cone cultivation period could be shortened. Herein, Cascade and Chinook whole cones cultivated in Brazil were analyzed and compared with American pellets. Following the European Brewery Convention (EBC) methodology, the contents of alpha acids, polyphenols, and essential oils were quantified and used as comparison criteria. Amidst the Brazilian Cascade essential oils, isoamyl propanoate and 6-methyl heptanoate were identified, both of which were responsible for pineapple aromas and were absent in American pellets. The dry hopping (DH) process promoted higher alcohol beverage value, lower dissolved oxygen, and higher polyphenol values. In comparison with the commercial counterpart, the Brazilian Cascade hops presented similar characteristics, but with different organoleptic properties (terroir), inherent to their growing place. The resulting terroir adds value to the Brazilian Cascade usage, considering the DH overall process and the application in special beers.

Selective lipase-catalyzed hydrolysis for removal of diglyceride in palm oil

Palm-based transformer oil is an environmentally friendly and renewable alternative to mineral-based oil for use as an insulating oil. However, the crystallization of palm oil at low temperatures can cause operational issues in transformers. In this research, low diglyceride palm oil is first proposed as a promising base stock for palm-based insulating oil to overcome this issue. The research focuses on the removal of diglycerides (DG) from palm oil by selective enzymatic hydrolysis under a solvent-free system. The results indicate that the lipase GS-250G specifically catalyzes only DG molecules without hydrolyzing TG molecules, despite TG molecules being more prone to hydrolysis than DG molecules due to their higher concentration in palm oil. This unique behavior is probably attributed to steric hindrance by bulky amino acids surrounding the catalytic pocket of lipase GS-250G. Under optimum conditions (30 °C, atmospheric pressure, water content of 16 wt%, agitation speed of 850 rpm, lipase loading of 0.005 wt%, and 4 h of reaction time), the lipase GS-250G reduced the DG content in palm oil from 7 % to 0.5 % with a degree of DG hydrolysis of 95 %. After purification, the final product was composed of 99 % triglyceride (TG). The cold stability test suggested that the nucleation and crystallization rate during the crystal formation of palm oil were reduced by decreasing the DG content. The finding suggests that the proposed procedure in this work is a rapid and environmentally sustainable method for DG removal, which can solve the major problem of palm oil. This discovery opens new opportunities for palm oil to be used as a raw material only for insulating oil but also for various palm based products.

Role of biochar addition to improve anaerobic membrane bioreactors to resist oil stress in synthetic food wastewater treatment

This study investigated biochar addition to improve the performance and stability of anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) to resist different oil contents in food wastewater treatment. Results show that an increase in oil content in synthetic food wastewater from 2 to 4 g/L of oleate-Na aggravated AnMBR performance in terms of methane (CH4) production and membrane fouling as showed by an obvious increase in transmembrane pressure (TMP). The reduced performance was caused by the accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) to inhibit the growth and activity of Methanobacterium in response to increased oil content. Nevertheless, biochar addition improved AnMBR resistance to against oil increase. The dominance of Methanobacterium and their potential mutualism with genus T78 were enhanced by biochar to sustain CH4 yield. Moreover, biochar reduced the production of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) to alleviate membrane fouling.

The Alteration in Physiological Status, Growth and Essential Oil Profile of French Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) Owing to Seaweed Extract and Salicylic Acid Application

Abstract Purpose Medicinal plants show a relevant importance in human life and health. The use of natural substances in crop management is not only significant for the plant healthy growth and yield, but also for obtaining safe products. The study aimed to examine the effect of seaweed extract (SW) as a natural source of nutrition and salicylic acid (SA) on plant health, physiology and essential oil profile of French marigold (Tagetes patula L.). Methods Three levels of salicylic acid, SA50, SA100 and SA200, (50, 100, and 200 mg L− 1) and three levels of seaweed extract, SW2, SW4 and SW6 (2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 ml L− 1), in comparison with control treatment (tap water) were applied as foliar sprayings. The seven treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design and were replicated thrice in two growing seasons (2020 and 2021). Results Findings pointed out that SA200 increased plant height, branches number plant− 1, stem diameter, leaf area, leaves number plant− 1, plant fresh weight, and plant dry weight by 32.9, 112.2, 59.2, 34.4, 44.3, 33.0 and 56.9% (averages of the two seasons), respectively, compared to the control treatment (tap water). SW6 increased carotenoids content by 34.8 and 46.4% in 2020 and 2021 seasons, respectively. Salicylic acid at the rate of 200 mg L− 1 along seaweed extract at 6 ml L− 1 gave the highest values of total sugars and free amino acids. SA200 alone recorded the maximal value of peroxidase activity surpassing the other treatments. SW6 possessed the greatest essential oil content in both seasons, statistically equaling SA200 in the first season. Huge variations in essential oil profile were recorded under the tested trial treatments. Conclusion It could be concluded that salicylic acid and seaweed extract foliar application unveiled their involvement in diverse physiological and developmental responses; pigment formation, enzyme activities, flower induction, nutrient uptake, essential oil metabolism, and overall plant growth and development. It is recommended to use the highest concentrations of the tested substances (SA at 200 mg L− 1 or SW at 6.0 ml L− 1) for achieving distinctive improvements in physiological responses of French marigold plant.

Identification of Potential Therapeutics of Mentha Essential Oil Content as Antibacterial MDR Agents against AcrAB-TolC Multidrug Efflux Pump from Escherichia coli: An In Silico Exploration

Multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, such as E. coli, represent a major human health threat. Due to the critical need to overcome this dilemma, since the drug efflux pump has a vital function in the evolution of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, we have investigated the potential of Mentha essential oil major constituents (1–19) as antimicrobial agents via their ability to inhibit pathogenic DNA gyrase and, in addition, their potential inhibition of the E. coli AcrB-TolC efflux pump, a potential target to inhibit MDR pathogens. The ligand docking approach was conducted to analyze the binding interactions of Mentha EO constituents with the target receptors. The obtained results proved their antimicrobial activity through the inhibition of DNA gyrase (1kzn) with binding affinity ΔG values between −4.94 and −6.49 kcal/mol. Moreover, Mentha EO constituents demonstrated their activity against MDR E. coli by their ability to inhibit AcrB-TolC (4dx7) with ΔG values ranging between −4.69 and −6.39 kcal/mol. The antimicrobial and MDR activity of Mentha EOs was supported via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions with the key amino acid residues at the binding site of the active pocket of the targeted receptors.

Physicochemical characteristics of tannia cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) corm flour compared to flours and starches of other grains and tubers

Tannia cocoyam corm is a less popular pantropical carbohydrate source, whereas it has the potential to support food and nutrition security, especially in dry areas. Processing tannia cocoyam corm into flour can increase its use in various food products. This study aimed to determine the yield, nutrition, color, tap bulk density, water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC), swelling capacity, and emulsion activity and stability of tannia cocoyam corm flour compared to sago starch, cassava flour and starch, mung bean starch, corn starch, wheat flour, rice and glutinous rice flours, and potato flour. The significant characteristics of tannia cocoyam corm flour were rather low in calories (dry basis), relatively high in WAC and swelling capacity, low in OAC, and showed emulsion activity and stability. Based on these data, it is suitable for use in mixed and processed food products that require juicy, elastic, and volume expansion characteristics; recommended for food products that are lower in calories and oil content; and can also help to maintain viscosity and form emulsions.

Effect of Growth Retardants on Plant Yield and Seed Quality of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

A field experiment was carried out during Kharif, 2023 at dryland farm of S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications and two Genotypes as main factor (G1- Dharani, G2- K-6), growth retardants as sub factor (T1- Control + RDF of NPK, T2- MH @ 2000 ppm at 20 DAS, T3- MH @ 2000 ppm at 45 DAS, T4- PBZ @ 250 ppm at 20 DAS, T5- PBZ @ 250 ppm at 45 DAS , T6- ABA @ 250 ppm at 20 DAS, T7- ABA @ 250 ppm at 45 DAS, T8- ABA @ 500 ppm at 20 DAS, T9- ABA @ 500 ppm at 45 DAS, T10- CCC @ 5000 ppm at 20 DAS, T11- CCC @ 5000 ppm at 45 DAS). The current experiment was conducted with an objective to study the impact of growth retardants on reduction of plant stature thereby enhancing the reproductive and assimilates partitioning efficiency. Results revealed that application of T5- PBZ @ 250 ppm at 45 DAS recorded higher Pod yield, Kernel yield, 100 kernel weight, protein content and oil content.

Rapid Investigation of Oil Pollution in Water-Combined Induced Fluorescence and Random Sample Consensus Algorithm

The global issue of oil spreading in water poses a significant environmental challenge, emphasizing the critical need for the accurate determination and monitoring of oil content in aquatic environments to ensure sustainable development of the environment. However, the complexity arises from challenges such as oil dispersion, clustering, and non-uniform distribution, making it difficult to obtain real-time oil concentration data. This paper introduces a sophisticated system for acquiring induced fluorescence spectra specifically designed for the quantitative analysis of oil pollutants. The paper involved measuring the fluorescence spectra across 20 concentration gradients (ranging from 0 to 1000 mg/L) for four distinct oil samples: 92# Gasoline, Mobil Motor Oil 20w-40, Shell 10w-40 engine oil, and Soybean Oil. The research focused on establishing a relationship model between relative fluorescence intensity and concentration, determined at the optimal excitation wavelength, utilizing the segmented Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm. Evaluation metrics, including standard addition recovery, average recovery, relative error, and average relative error, were employed to assess the accuracy of the proposed model. The experimental findings suggest that the average recovery rates for the four samples ranged between 99.61% and 101.15%, with the average relative errors falling within the range of 2.04% to 3.14%. These results underscore the accuracy and efficacy of the detection methodology presented in this paper. Importantly, this accuracy extends to scenarios involving heavier oil pollution. This paper exhibits exceptional sensitivity, enabling precise detection of diverse oil spills within the concentration range of 0~1000 mg/L in water bodies, offering valuable insights for water quality monitoring and sustainable development of the environment.

Genomic Approaches for Enhancing Yield and Quality Traits in Mustard (Brassica spp.): A Review of Breeding Strategies

Mustard, a vital oilseed crop, plays a significant role in global agriculture due to its versatile applications in food, feed, and biofuel industries. However, meeting the increasing demands for yield and quality traits poses a substantial challenge to mustard breeders. In response, genomic approaches have emerged as powerful tools to expedite mustard breeding programs by unraveling the genetic basis of key agronomic traits. This review provides a comprehensive overview of genomic strategies aimed at enhancing yield and quality traits in mustard. Beginning with an exploration of traditional breeding methods and their limitations, we delve into the advancements in genomics, including next-generation sequencing technologies, marker-assisted selection (MAS), and genome editing techniques. We discuss how these tools are leveraged to identify yield-related genes, quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and markers for efficient trait selection. Furthermore, we examine genomic approaches for improving oil content, nutritional profiles, and phytochemical composition, crucial for enhancing mustard quality. Case studies demonstrating the successful integration of genomics into breeding programs are highlighted, along with discussions on challenges such as regulatory concerns and technical hurdles. Finally, we outline future directions and the potential of genomic approaches to revolutionize mustard breeding, paving the way for sustainable crop improvement. This study offers valuable insights into the application of genomics in mustard breeding and underscores its importance in addressing the evolving needs of agriculture in the 21st century.

Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Activities of Essential Oil from Satureja montana L., a Medicinal Plant Grown under the Influence of Fertilization and Planting Dates

The rising demand for safe plant compounds and herbal products that contribute positively to human health is in line with current market trends. Plants belonging to the Satureja genus, particularly the aromatic medicinal S. montana L. from the Lamiaceae family, are well suited to these trends as they serve as pharmaceutical raw materials. This research aimed to assess the influence of sowing date and fertilization doses, as well as their interaction, on the fresh weight, essential oil content, and composition of S. montana. Experimental cultivation involved varying nitrogen and phosphorus levels. The second cut had the highest fresh weight and oil production compared to the first cut. The highest total plant biomass was achieved with autumn sowing and fertilization at 55 kg N/ha and 37 kg P/ha, whereas Spring sowing exhibited higher essential oil production, with the maximum oil % with 74 kg P/ha and oil yield after applying 55 kg N/ha and 74 kg P/ha. The GC-MS analysis revealed that carvacrol was the predominant compound, with it being recommended to grow S. montana in Spring at doses of 55 kg N/ha and 74 kg P/ha for the superior oil yield. Additionally, S. montana essential oil demonstrated notable biological and antimicrobial activity, positioning it as a potential alternative to chemical food preservatives.

Preparation and tribological properties of porous polyimide modified by graphene

Purpose The purpose of this article is to prepare graphene/polyimide composite materials for use as bearing cage materials, improving the friction and wear performance of bearing cages. Design/methodology/approach The oil absorption and discharge tests were conducted to evaluate the oil content properties of the materials, while the mechanical properties were analyzed through cross-sectional morphology examination. Investigation into the tribological behavior and wear mechanisms encompassed characterization and analysis of wear trace morphology in PPI-based materials. Consequently, the influence of varied graphene nanoplatelets (GN) concentrations on the oil content, mechanical and tribological properties of PPI-based materials was elucidated. Findings The composites exhibit excellent oil-containing properties due to the increased porosity of PPI-GN composites. The robust formation of covalent bonds between GN and PPI amplifies the adhesive potency of the PPI-GN composites, thereby inducing a substantial enhancement in impact strength. Notably, the PPI-GN composites showed enhanced lubrication properties compared to PPI, which was particularly evident at a GN content of 0.5 Wt.%, as evidenced by the minimization of the average coefficient of friction and the width of the abrasion marks. Practical implications This paper includes implications for elucidating the wear mechanism of the polyimide composites under frictional wear conditions and then to guide the optimization of oil content and tribological properties of polyimide bearing cage materials. Originality/value In this paper, homogeneously dispersed PPI-GN composites were effectively synthesized by introducing GN into a polyimide matrix through in situ polymerization, and the lubrication mechanism of the PPI composites was compared with that of the PPI-GN composites to illustrate the composites’ superiority. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2023-0415

PSIV-A-12 Ruminal in vitro digestibility of novel pennycress meal using the Daisy II incubator

Abstract Field pennycress seed has a high oil content, making it valuable for biofuel production. The high protein content of the resulting pennycress meal makes it a potentially valuable protein feedstuff for livestock. However, pennycress meal also contains greater content of fiber, erucic acid, and glucosinolates, which limit its use in livestock rations. Golden pennycress, a novel pennycress, was developed to contain greater oil content and decreased content of fiber, increasing the value of pennycress meal as a potential livestock feed. The objective of this research was to characterize a novel pennycress meal using an in vitro rumen fermentation system. Digestion of golden pennycress (GPC), black-seeded pennycress (BPC), and a total mixed ration (TMR, as the control), was evaluated in vitro using the Daisy II incubator. Each incubation vessel contained 12 filter bags (4 containing GPC, 4 containing BPC, and 4 containing the TMR). Rumen fluid was collected from two cannulated steers and processed according to Ankom procedures; samples were incubated in the rumen fluid inoculum for either 24 or 48 h. Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) of GPC averaged 23% (dry matter basis) and was less than the BCP NDF content (30%, dry matter basis). In vitro true dry matter disappearance (IVTDMD) and in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) were calculated and shown in Table 1. Proc Mixed procedures of SAS were used to identify difference in digestibility. Due to the novelty of golden pennycress, this study appears to be the first that compares ruminal digestibility of pennycress meals, thereby establishing initial data relative to the feeding value of GPC. As the novel pennycress was developed to have a reduced fiber level, the reduced NDF content of GPC over BPC was expected. The significant increase of IVTDMD of GPC compared with BPC at either incubation length suggests increased overall digestibility and improved dry matter utilization of the novel pennycress. Additional research investigating the reduced NDFD of GPC is warranted. As the first study evaluating the use of golden pennycress meal in ruminant diets, this study provides baseline values from which to build additional research projects.

268 Effect of soybean gums and soybean soapstocks on weanling pig growth performance

Abstract Currently, the soybean processing industry has not fully characterized the composition or nutritional value of certain processing by-products (e.g., gums, phospholipid) and their effect on soybean meal (SBM) quality. Depending on the processing plant, soybean gums and soapstocks may be added back to SBM during manufacturing. There is potential for these by-products to serve as an affordable energy source for swine due to their residual oil content. For this study, pigs [n = 350; Line 241 × 600, DNA; initial body weight (BW) = 5.3 ± 0.02 kg] were weaned at approximately 19 d of age and used in a 42-d experiment. At weaning, pigs were randomly assigned to pens and allotted to 1 of 5 dietary treatments. There were 5 pigs per pen and 14 pens per treatment. Diets were fed in 3 phases: phase 1 from weaning to d 11, phase 2 from d 11 to 23, and phase 3 from d 23 to 42. Treatments included a control diet containing SBM with no added soybean by-products. Two additional diets contained gums or soapstocks at 4% of the SBM level in the diet. Another treatment diet contained SBM with 2% added soybean gums and 2% added soybean soapstocks. Lastly, a negative control contained 4% less SBM with no added by-products to have equal protein from soybeans as the diets with added gums or soapstocks. From d 0 to 11 (phase 1) and d 11 to 23 (phase 2), there was no evidence of differences (P > 0.10) for any growth response criteria (Table). From d 23 to 42 (phase 3), feeding SBM with added gums increased (P = 0.05) average daily gain (ADG). However, there was no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) in average daily feed intake (ADFI) or gain to feed ratio (G:F). For the overall experimental period (d 0 to 42), there was no evidence of differences (P > 0.10) due to dietary treatment in ADG, ADFI, or G:F. In summary, these data suggest that adding soybean processing by-products such as gums or soapstocks had minimal impacts on nursery pig growth performance. However, there is a potential for improved ADG in the late nursery period when SBM containing added gums is included in the diet.

Effect of different starches in batter formulation on oil content and associated quality attributes of fried chicken nuggets

Persistent consumption of heavily fried and breaded foods over an extended period may have the potential to contribute to the development of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular diseases, and elevated blood pressure. The potential of coating using native starches (cassava, sweet potato, and corn) in batter formulation to reduce oil uptake as well as their effects on other quality attributes (moisture, colour and textural properties) were investigated. The chicken nuggets coated with batter from different starches were fried at 170 °C for 5 to 25 min. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to study changes in microstructural properties of fried chicken nuggets samples at different time intervals. The chicken nuggets coated with batter from sweet potato starch had lower oil (13.09%) and moisture (30.49%) contents compared with those coated with other starches. The SEM revealed that longer frying duration produced chicken nuggets with fewer gas cells and pores and subsequently lower oil content. There are changes in the colour and textural properties of the fried chicken nuggets irrespective of the starches used in batter formulation. Application of starches in batter formulation at different frying time affected some quality attributes of fried chicken nuggets with sweet potato starch having better attributes when compared with others.Graphical

Treatment of oil sands process-affected water using a semi pilot-scale coalescing filter: Effect of fundamental conditions and water characteristics on filtration performance

The reuse of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) generated during oil extraction is becoming essential due to oil extraction efficiency and stringent environmental regulations. This study investigates the efficacy of a coalescing filter (CF) in removing oil components from OSPW by exploiting coalescence, which involves merging small oil droplets into larger ones using fibers. Real-time, precise oil measurement systems were employed to evaluate the oil removal efficiency of the CF across synthetic OSPW samples with varying properties. Fundamental conditions and water quality components were systematically adjusted to elucidate the influencing factors on oil removal by the CF. Results showed that despite the diesel having significantly lower viscosity than the oil contents in OSPW, CF achieved a removal efficiency of over 60% within the first 10 min of operation time, regardless of oil concentration. Total suspended solids/turbidity exhibited a decreasing trend as it passed through the filter, indicating fouling occurring within the filter. On the other hands, its increase improved CF performance by 6% compared to baseline conditions, while an increase of alkalinity decreased performance by 10%. When each water quality component exists independently, they do not significantly impact the oil removal efficiency. However, when present together, there is a more decrease in removal efficiency due to the reduced interaction between oil and filter. CF was resistant to changes in water quality. Rather, changes in fundamental factors are more sensitive to CF performance. Filter characteristics and mechanisms make residence time the primary factor affecting oil removal by the CF, with variations exceeding 30% depending on conditions. Therefore, optimizing filter number and flow rate is essential to maximize the filtration performance.

Omics-driven advances in the understanding of regulatory landscape of peanut seed development

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are an essential oilseed crop known for their unique developmental process, characterized by aerial flowering followed by subterranean fruit development. This crop is polyploid, consisting of A and B subgenomes, which complicates its genetic analysis. The advent and progression of omics technologies—encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics, and metabolomics—have significantly advanced our understanding of peanut biology, particularly in the context of seed development and the regulation of seed-associated traits. Following the completion of the peanut reference genome, research has utilized omics data to elucidate the quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with seed weight, oil content, protein content, fatty acid composition, sucrose content, and seed coat color as well as the regulatory mechanisms governing seed development. This review aims to summarize the advancements in peanut seed development regulation and trait analysis based on reference genome-guided omics studies. It provides an overview of the significant progress made in understanding the molecular basis of peanut seed development, offering insights into the complex genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that influence key agronomic traits. These studies highlight the significance of omics data in profoundly elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of peanut seed development. Furthermore, they lay a foundational basis for future research on trait-related functional genes, highlighting the pivotal role of comprehensive genomic analysis in advancing our understanding of plant biology.