Preservation Techniques Research Articles

Fertility in transgender and gender diverse people: systematic review of the effects of gender-affirming hormones on reproductive organs and fertility.

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seek gender-affirming care at any age to manage gender identities or expressions that differ from their birth gender. Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) and gender-affirming surgery may alter reproductive function and/or anatomy, limiting future reproductive options to varying degrees, if individuals desire to either give birth or become a biological parent. TGD people increasingly pursue help for their reproductive questions, including fertility, fertility preservation, active desire for children, and future options. Their specific needs certainly require more insight into the effects of GAHT on gonads, gametes, and fertility. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the impact of GAHT on gonads, gametes, fertility, fertility preservation techniques, and outcomes. This review was registered in the PROSPERO registry under number CRD42024516133. A literature search (in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) was performed with a medical information specialist until 15 November 2024. In all TGD people using GAHT, histological changes have been reported.Using testosterone GAHT, ovarian cortical and stromal changes were reported by various studies. In most studies, persistent activity in folliculogenesis can be concluded based on the descriptions of the follicle count, distribution, and oocyte retrieval yield. However, there may be a negative effect on the fertilization rate in the presence of testosterone. Reports of successful ovarian stimulation, fertilization, pregnancies, and live births have been published, describing cases with and without testosterone discontinuation.After using oestrogen GAHT, testes are reported to be more atrophic, including smaller seminiferous tubules with heavy hyalinization and fibrosis. Spermatogenic levels varied widely from complete spermatogenesis to meiotic arrest with spermatids, to spermatogonial arrest, Sertoli cells only, or even tubular shadows. Oestrogen and anti-androgen treatment causes higher proportions of sperm abnormalities (i.e. low total sperm count, low sperm concentration, poor sperm motility) or azoospermia. However, after cessation, this may be restored. Although knowledge of the effect of GAHT is growing, blind spots remain to be uncovered. Therefore, additional research in this specific population is needed, preferably comparing outcomes before and after the start of GAHT. This may help to reveal the pure impact of GAHT on reproductive functioning. Research suggestions also include investigations into the reversibility of the GAHT effect, especially for those who start transition at a young age. Looking carefully at the presented data on GAHT effects on gonads and gametes, the correct advice is to assess and reassess reproductive wishes and preferences repeatedly, and also to explore individual fertility preservation needs during gender-affirming treatment, given the expanding knowledge and therapy opportunities. Finally, concerns regarding long-term health outcomes and quality of life of children born by the use of gametes preserved after exposure to GAHT require prospective follow-up studies.

A Comparative Study Between Cold Static Storage and Normothermic Ex-Situ Donor Heart Preservation in a Rat Model of Heterotopic Heart Transplantation.

Cold static storage (CSS) and normothermic ex-situ preservation are the most widely used donor heart preservation techniques worldwide. The current study compares both CSS and normothermic ex-situ preservation methods in terms of graft performance, morphologic changes, and acute immune response in an experimental model. Twenty rats underwent heterotopic abdominal heart transplantation after 2h of CSS (group 1; n=10) or normothermic ex-situ perfusion (group 2; n=10). Blood samples were obtained from recipients just before and after 4h of transplantation to analyze surface markers of immune cells and cytokines. Electrocardiography and echocardiography were performed before donor heart harvesting and after heterotopic transplantation. After 4h of transplantation, donor hearts were extracted for further histologic studies. All recipient animals in both groups successfully survived after heterotopic transplantation. The mean ischemic time of the donor heart was 163±8.34mins in group 1 and 43.8±6.97mins in group 2 (P<0.01). Ejection fraction significantly decreased after transplantation in both groups but were less significant in group 2 (the mean difference group 1: -34.3±3.54, P<0.01; group 2: -14.3±15.47, P=0.01). The percentage of granulocyte significantly increased in both group 1 and group 2, but the significance was more pronounced in group 1 (the mean difference group 1: 48.7±5.36, P<0.01; group 2: 39.7±13.1, P<0.01). Normothermic ex-situ perfusion is associated with well-preserved donor hearts but a similar recipient acute immune response in comparison with CSS in the rat model.

The role of peers, artifacts, and environment in technical problem-solving: studying a group of engineering students constructing together

ABSTRACT In this paper, we have combined a pragmatic and a sociocultural perspective on how artifacts are used in technical problem-solving. With these perspectives we explore how three mechanical engineering students build a plastic spider together, using instructions they found on the internet. Ten hours of video recordings were selected for a detailed analysis regarding linguistic, material, and embodied resources, using Dewey’s pattern of inquiry and Wartofsky’s notion of artifacts. Dewey’s pattern of inquiry renders the students’ relationship with different artifacts in time and space observable, and thereby how students orient themselves towards distinct purposes in different phases of their problem-solving process. A sociocultural perspective enables us to investigate how engineering students as part of the professional practices become acquainted to technology. Our analysis shows that although the problem was ill-structured, problem-solving in design and construction is a concrete activity and includes the three levels of artifacts: physical tools, preservation and transmission techniques and possible or imaginary worlds. An understanding of artifacts, instructions, an intended design, and communicative activities is significant for developing learning activities in engineering education.

Glycation-mediated pea protein isolate-curcumin conjugates for uniform walnut oil dispersion: enhancing oxidative stability and shelf life.

Traditional methods for fabricating protein-polyphenol conjugates have not preserved the structural and functional integrity essential for the food industry effectively. This research introduces an advanced encapsulation methodology designed to overcome these limitations, with the potential to enhance the stability of edible oil matrices significantly, leading to improved preservation techniques and extended shelf life. Glycated pea protein isolate-curcumin conjugates (gPPI-CUR) were developed, demonstrating a marked improvement in the oxidative stability of walnut oil (WO), a proxy for edible oil matrices. Characterized by a Z-average diameter of 158.37 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 80.94%, these conjugates demonstrated exceptional performance in reducing lipid oxidation and aldehyde formation. Molecular docking analysis confirmed the formation of robust bonds with curcumin, thereby amplifying antioxidant activity. The uniform distribution of gPPI-CUR throughout the walnut oil matrix, as validated by confocal microscopy, ensured sustained bioactivity and mitigated the risk of localized oxidation. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy corroborated the superior antioxidant properties of the conjugates, which translated into a substantial 19-day increase in the shelf-life of the oil. The gPPI-CUR conjugates enhanced the oxidative stability of walnut oil significantly, as demonstrated by the increased shelf life and reduced lipid oxidation. This study introduced an effective encapsulation method that improved the stability and extended the shelf life of edible oils, aligning with consumer demands for high-nutrition food products. The results indicate that the gPPI-CUR conjugates could serve as a promising antioxidant strategy for food preservation, offering a practical approach to enhance food quality and safety. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

A narrative review of papilla preservation techniques in clinical dentistry.

The interdental papilla is closely associated with oral health and dental aesthetics. Interproximal papilla is an essential component of pink aesthetics as well as an indispensable prerequisite for the health of oral tissues. The loss of papillary height not only considerably affects final esthetic results, but also brings a series of periodontal complications. The deficiency of papilla can be induced by iatrogenic factors, particularly the flap technique, which is usually employed in oral surgeries. Therefore, preservation of the interdental papilla must be a consideration of flap designs. To avoid papilla defects secondary to conventional flaps, papilla-preserving flap designs have been widely studied in clinical practice. With numerous papilla preservation techniques (PPTs) increasingly being employed, not only is the postoperative pink aesthetic better maintained, but the predictability of surgical outcomes has been significantly enhanced. However, there is a lack of adequate literature that provides a comprehensive overview of PPTs in the field of dentistry. This review summarizes the latest developments in papilla preservation flap designs in the field of oral surgery, with a particular emphasis on their indications, limitations, incision characteristics, and clinical benefits. This review may provide optimal protocols for the personalized treatment.

The Renaissance of Reproductive Science: Leonardo da Vinci's Anatomical Contributions.

Leonardo de Vinci is considered one of the greatest artists that has ever lived. His work includes the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper are celebrated worldwide. His talents expand beyond his art and his contributions to disciplines such as engineering, astronomy, geometry, botany, geology have revealed is him as a polymath. One discipline where he devoted a considerable amount of time and effort was anatomy. His anatomical notes and drawings can be paralleled to texts books of today. This review explores Leonardo da Vinci's significant contributions to the study of human anatomy, with a particular focus on reproductive anatomy. Leonardo's meticulous dissections and detailed anatomical sketches, despite being influenced by the limited scientific understanding and constraints of his time, reveal his deep curiosity and innovative approach. His work, though not widely recognised during his lifetime, laid foundational insights into neuroanatomy, the cardiovascular system, and foetal development. He had a particular interest in reproduction and the genitourinary anatomy and made many anatomical studies in this area. The review also examines the challenges Leonardo faced, such as the lack of preservation techniques and the influence of Galenic teachings, which led to both groundbreaking observations and notable inaccuracies in his anatomical studies or the reproductive system.

Impact of Mating Methods and Semen Preservation on Reproductive and Growth Performances in Palestinian Assaf Sheep.

As global demand for sheep products increases, improving reproductive efficiency and lamb growth performance has become a priority for sheep farmers. Artificial insemination (AI) offers several advantages over natural mating, including improved genetic selection and disease control. This study contributes to understanding the impact of different mating methods and semen preservation techniques on reproductive performance and growth traits in Palestinian Assaf sheep under local breeding conditions. The research included 123 adult Assaf ewes from two farms, which were hormonally synchronized and divided into three groups for different reproductive biotechnologies. Group 1 (G1) comprised 50 ewes inseminated with frozen semen straws, while Group 2 (G2) had 37 ewes inseminated with fresh semen from genetically superior rams. Both G1 and G2 used 0.5 mL straws containing 250 million sperm, with insemination occurring 48 h post sponge removal and eCG hormone injection. Group 3 (G3) consisted of 36 ewes that underwent natural mating at a ratio of 1 ram to 6 ewes. The study revealed that insemination methods significantly affected fertility rates (45.4, 61.1, and 71.9% for G1, G2, and G3, respectively; p < 0.05). Artificial insemination notably enhanced lamb performance indicators (p < 0.05), although it did not significantly influence prolific lambing (p > 0.05). Prolific lambing significantly impacted birth weight, weaning weight, and average daily gain at 60 days across all groups (p < 0.05), but not the average daily gain or final weight at 180 days (p > 0.05). The management system significantly affected birth and weaning weights at 60 days (p < 0.05), but not the final weight at 180 days or prolific lambing (p > 0.05). Lamb sex significantly influenced average daily gains at 60 and 180 days, as well as final weight at 180 days (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that, while artificial insemination with semen from elite rams may reduce fertility rates, it significantly improves lamb performance rates. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that, while natural mating offers higher fertility rates, AI with fresh semen can be a valuable tool for improving lamb growth performance in Palestinian Assaf sheep. These findings provide valuable insights for sheep farmers in the region to optimize reproductive strategies and enhance lamb production.

Optimizing Closed Approach Preservation Rhinoplasty by Ultrasonic-Assisted Techniques for Enhanced Precision.

Preservation rhinoplasty, particularly dorsal preservation, has gained prominence with the advent of piezoelectric instruments, which minimize trauma and enhance precision in bone reshaping. This approach presents unique challenges, especially in closed techniques, where spatial limitations complicate the use of piezotomes. To evaluate outcomes of piezo-assisted preservation rhinoplasty using specialized instrumentation to enhance visibility, precision, and postoperative recovery in closed rhinoplasty procedures. In a cohort of 734 patients undergoing primary rhinoplasty, piezoelectric instruments facilitated closed preservation techniques between May 2021 and April 2023. Cases were documented with a focus on instrument adaptation, bone reshaping precision, and the mitigation of postoperative complications. A 6% revision rate was observed, predominantly for dorsal contour adjustments, with minimal intraoperative bleeding, swelling, and postoperative pain, demonstrating the effectiveness of piezoelectric assistance. The SS18 and SS4 inserts by Woodpecker were specifically optimized to enhance cutting efficiency for PPE removal and lateral and transverse osteotomies. Piezo-assisted rhinoplasty improves precision and reduces trauma, supporting advanced closed preservation rhinoplasty techniques. Despite nowadays all the osteotomies can be done using the ultrasonic piezotome, enhanced instrument design may further refine outcomes, facilitating minimally invasive, aesthetically superior results.

APPLICATION OF IONIZING RADIATION IN THE PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION OF TAXIDERMIED ANIMAL SKINS IN NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUMS&lt;i&gt;&lt;/i&gt;

The great interest in the development of research involving ionizing radiation aims to significantly increase the conservation of the skins of taxidermized animals, both for scientific collections and on display, causing their infection and disinfestation, without altering their originality, reducing the use of chemical products, presenting a safe and efficient technology. The preservation of taxidermied mammals has been widely used for educational, scientific and Museum display purposes. However, prolonged exposure to environmental factors or the excessive use of chemicals to store these materials in the collection can affect the integrity of the skin of these animals. In this study, we investigated the effects of gamma radiation on the structure and composition of the skin of taxidermied mammals, with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of conservation processes and the potential risks they may entail. Taxidermy is an animal preservation technique that has been used for centuries, allowing specimens to be arranged in their natural form and/or preserved for scientific studies. Samples of skin from animals from the Brazilian flora were selected, deer, coati, prawn and bison, and these samples were irradiated at doses of 1, 3, 5, 10 and 15 kGy. After gamma irradiation, they were characterized by colorimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy (OM), infrared microscopy (FTIR) and mechanical analysis. The results show that the doses of gamma irradiation that the samples were subjected to did not compromise their physical and chemical integrity. This indicates the possibility of using gamma radiation for disinfestation and disinfection.

Effects of Different Preservation Methods on the Structure and Diversity of Intestinal Microbiota of Marine Fishes.

The fish intestine is a complex ecosystem where microbial communities are dynamic and influenced by various factors. Preservation conditions during field collection can introduce biases affecting the microbiota amplified during sequencing. Therefore, establishing effective, standardized methods for sampling fish intestinal microbiota is crucial. This study used hybrid groupers (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂) to examine the effects of six preservation methods: dry ice (1 day), dry ice (1 day) followed by -80°C storage (5 days), liquid nitrogen (1 day), liquid nitrogen (1 day) with subsequent -80°C storage (5 days), refrigeration at 4°C (3 days), and freezing at -20°C (3 days), with fresh samples as controls. High-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing assessed microbial diversity, community structure, dominant species, and OTU abundance across treatments. Results indicated that dry ice and liquid nitrogen methods, especially with -80°C storage, had minimal impact on microbial diversity and structure. Compared to other preservation methods, refrigeration at 4°C and freezing at -20°C may result in suboptimal reproducibility and altered community structure, particularly affecting rare microbial taxa. This study underscores the need for standardized preservation techniques to ensure accurate fish intestinal microbiota analysis and provides a foundation for future research.

Silage Preparation, Processing and Efficient Utilization

Ensiling is a technique for the long-term preservation of feed which is both effective and widespread, and it is characterized by low costs and ease of operation [...]

Modified Atmospheric Packaging in Various Food Products

Food spoilage and preservation is a major concern worldwide. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of modified atmospheric packaging usage across various products and underscores food safety and preservation significance. Modified atmospheric packaging emphasizes the potential to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of products. Data was collected from electronic databases from the last fifteen years, 2010 to 2024. MAP technology has successfully extended the shelf-life of numerous food products such as fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, and dairy goods by adjusting atmospheric gases. As a result, it minimizes microbial growth, delays biochemical changes, and prevents physical degradation in food products. This review highlights the importance of modified atmospheric packaging in achieving sustainable development goals, specifically in reducing food waste. Modified atmospheric packaging is a modern preservation technique which offers insights into sustainability and food safety.

Interval-valued optimal control strategies for vaccine distribution and infection awareness investment in preservation technology

Purpose This study aims to explore the global threat of diseases that affect people, such as diarrheal, Hepatitis B, Rotavirus, Measles diseases, emphasizing the integration of disease vaccines into immunization programs globally as recommended by the World Health Organization, resulting in significant case reductions. Design/methodology/approach Notably, it stresses the necessity of raising awareness about diseases and vaccines through promotional efforts alongside effective inventory management because of vaccine perishability, highlighting preservation techniques and cold storage. Addressing environmental concerns, including carbon emissions from vaccine deterioration, the study proposes green technology investments aligned with Sustainable Development Goals to mitigate these impacts. Additionally, advanced optimization algorithms, including ant colony, modified flower pollination, cuckoo search and particle swarm optimization algorithms, are used to optimize pricing, preservation strategies, green investments and replenishment schedules. The research also uses the concept of interval values to enhance the robustness of the optimization framework. Through numerical experiments, the study demonstrates the effectiveness of this dynamic investment approach, providing empirical validation. Findings Furthermore, sensitivity analysis on critical parameters yields valuable insights for decision-makers, underscoring the importance of dynamically managing vaccine inventory. The study offers practical solutions and managerial insights that can inform policy decisions and strategic planning in disease response efforts. Originality/value This study concludes by emphasizing how creative green technology approaches can help decision-makers manage the social and environmental effects of vaccine inventories in the health care of people.

Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus: Threats to the Food Industry and Public Health.

Foodborne pathogens have always been of public health concern and represent safety issues for food processors. These pathogens develop new ways to overcome antibiotics, survive in different environmental conditions, and the ability to reproduce in many hostile environments configure them as serious health hazards. Considering the huge number of microorganisms, three bacterial representatives were selected to provide a better knowledge about the question of which one is the worst enemy for humans, from the food industry point of view, taking into consideration their multiplication specificity, virulence, and resistance. As we constantly are exposed to these pathogens in our nutritional habits, this overview aims to summarize the most relevant characteristics associated with the pathogenicity, clinical symptoms and most importantly, how deadly Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus can be in the hospital and the food industry, by comparing among them. Overall, the microbiological knowledge clearly suggests that while all three pathogens are dangerous, L. monocytogenes presents the highest risk of death due to their ability to cause severe complications in vulnerable populations as it presents a range of virulence factors that facilitate evasion of the immune system and cytological effects. Additionally, it shows great resistance to standard food processing and preservation techniques, making it one of the most difficult pathogens to control. Understanding the risks and characteristics of these foodborne pathogens is essential for implementing effective control measures to prevent their occurrence in food products and to promote public health.

Freezing Time and Preserving Hope: Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation for Girls with Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality that affects 1 in every 2500 live female births. Most patients with Turner syndrome experience primary ovarian insufficiency, often becoming infertile at a young age. Among all of the consequences associated with the illness, infertility is one of the most concerning issues for patients with Turner syndrome. We examine the treatment options that are currently available to aid in preserving patients’ fertility until they are ready to have children. Hormone replacement therapy and oocyte cryopreservation are the most standard procedures performed to preserve the fertility of patients with Turner syndrome, but they are not impactful options for patients who are likely to experience primary ovarian insufficiency before puberty. One novel treatment patients could potentially pursue prior to reaching puberty is ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Currently a well-established procedure to preserve fertility in patients with cancer, ovarian tissue cryopreservation has the potential to help patients with Turner syndrome have spontaneous pregnancies safely and successfully, without the adverse effects associated with other fertility preservation techniques. Additional research and funding should be directed towards ovarian tissue cryopreservation in patients with Turner syndrome specifically, so that efficacy, selection criteria, and safety guidelines can be established.

Using Soft-Preserved Body Donors to Improve the Anatomy Learning Experience for Orthopedic Residents

Working with deceased human bodies to advance anatomical knowledge as part of orthopedic residency programs is critical to improving clinical skills. Formalin-preserved donors are routinely used but don't retain similar features to patients. This study compares Imperial College London- soft preserved (ICL-SP) donors to standard formalin-preserved donors in teaching anatomy to orthopedic residents. Orthopedic Residents were invited to fill out a dissection survey after they had completed different dissections over a 6-week period. At the end of the study, residents and observers then comprehensively analyzed the experience between the donors. The surveys used a Likert scale format from 1 to 5. These survey questions include assessments of tendons, muscles, ligaments, nerves, vessel quality, fascia, ease of dissection, similarity to in vivo tissue, finding specific structures, and more. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the resident opinion/experience differences between the 2 types of donors. A total of 24 residents participated in the dissector surveys, and 30 residents completed the observer surveys. In completing the Likert scale questionnaires, 88.3% of residents in the dissections and 86% of residents in the observer surveys stated that they favored learning from ICL-SP donors. When residents were asked to evaluate the differences in the donor preservations, residents favored ICL-SP donors. Orthopedic Residents ultimately agreed that dissecting and identifying structures is more effective when working with ICL-SP. The results suggest that orthopedic residency programs should consider preservation techniques when teaching their students anatomy from human donors. ICL-SP donors can encourage residents to transfer the skills learned to their clinical experiences and improve patient care.

Comparison of Dynamic Postural Stability in Autografts Versus Allografts Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Remnant Preservation: A Prospective Study With 1-Year Follow-up.

Graft selection is an important part of preoperative planning for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). In addition, ACLR with the remnant preservation technique has recently gained attention due to potential benefit in bone-tendon healing, graft revascularization, and proprioceptive nerve remodeling. However, the ideal graft choice remains controversial, and there is limited research comparing autograft and allograft in ACLR with remnant preservation. To compare knee muscle strength, neuromuscular control, and patient-reported outcomes between hamstring (HS) tendon autografts and tibialis anterior (TA) allografts in patients undergoing ACLR with remnant preservation through posterior transseptal portal for >1 year. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. A total of 70 patients who underwent ACLR with remnant preservation between 2018 and 2021 using HS tendon autograft (n = 35) or TA allograft (n = 35) were analyzed at 3 different time points (preoperative, 6 months, and 12 months). Quadriceps and HS muscle strengths were measured with an isokinetic device. Proprioception was evaluated with reproduction of passive positioning for joint position sense and overall stability index (OSI) for dynamic postural stability. Patient-reported outcomes included the Lysholm score and the International Knee Documentation Committee score. There were no significant differences in demographic information including age, body mass index, concomitant meniscal injuries, and sports activities (P > .05) between HS tendon autograft and TA allograft groups. Quadriceps and HS strength in both groups, HS strength in deep knee flexion in both groups, and OSI in the HS tendon autograft group significantly improved at 12 months (P < .05). Repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed significant interactions between time and grafts for OSI (F[2, 136] = 5.08; P = .007). The subsequent independent t test demonstrated that the OSI was significantly higher in the TA allograft group (2.7 ± 1.0) than that of the HS tendon autograft group (2.1 ± 0.8) at 12 months (P = .009), indicating better dynamic postural stability in the HS tendon autograft group. No significant differences were found in knee muscle strength or patient-reported outcomes between HS tendon autograft and TA allograft after ACLR with remnant preservation for up to 1 year except for dynamic postural stability favoring HS tendon autograft.

In vitro study of resveratrol as an antioxidant for boar semen preservation: A systematic review

Background and Aim: In the global pig farming industry, artificial insemination (AI) is widely used to propagate high-quality genetics using processed semen that can be stored for extended periods. However, boar sperm are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage during storage and cryopreservation because of their high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. This study aimed to systematically review the impact of resveratrol (RVT), a potent antioxidant, on the preservation of boar semen. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Relevant articles were retrieved from databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and PubMed using specific keywords. After a thorough screening, 10 studies were selected for inclusion. Data extracted from these studies included parameters such as sperm motility, viability, DNA integrity, and lipid peroxidation levels. Results: Resveratrol supplementation in boar semen extenders significantly improved sperm quality under various storage conditions, including waterbath and cooled and frozen semen. RVT’s antioxidative properties effectively reduced reactive oxygen species and prevented oxidative stress-related damage to sperm cells. Conclusion: The addition of resveratrol to semen extenders enhances the preservation of boar sperm by mitigating oxidative damage, potentially increasing the success rate of AI in the swine industry. This study highlights the need for further research to optimize RVT dosage and application methods for different semen preservation techniques. Keywords: antioxidant, artificial insemination, boar semen preservation, livestock and gene bank, resveratrol.

Comparative Study of Preservation Methods for Berberis Lycium Juice: A Laboratory Approach at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir Upper, Pakistan

This study examines the effects of diverse preservation techniques on the shelf life, nutritional importance, microbiological safety, and sensory behavior of Berberis lycium juice. These techniques consist of vacuum sealing, freezing, refrigeration, and adding natural preservatives such as sugar and honey. Berries were harvested from Pakistan's Upper Dir highlands and turned into juice in a lab. Samples were stored and examined using each technique at intervals of 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 21, 24, 27, and 30 days. Microscopy was used to inspect microbial development, and other parameters like pH, TSS, ascorbic acid concentration, microbial load, and sensory attributes were assessed. For long-standing preservation, vacuum sealing and refrigeration were not as much of successful as freezing, which deeply enhanced microbiological safety and sensory quality, predominantly when paired with honey or sugar. Three days passed previous to the control sample going bad. The study concludes that the best way to preserve Berberis lycium juice is by freezing it with natural preservatives. An evergreen plant aboriginal to the Himalayan region, Berberis lycium belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It has long been utilized for food and medicine, as well as for its roots, bark, stems, leaves, and fruits. The plant is well-identified in Ayurvedic medicine for its capability to prevent harm to the liver, abdomen, skin, cough, and eyes. Pharmacological research highlights its hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antipyretic, hypoglycemic, and hyperlipidemic characteristics. The fruits which are consumed in raw or processed into juices, jams, and preserves by local communities, are profuse in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anthocyanins. An impression of the plant's many qualities is the target of this paper. Berberis lycium and other plants take action as biosynthetic laboratories for substances that are superior for human health. Medicinal plant extracts habitually exhibit antibacterial action, productively preventing the enlargement of bacteria and fungi.

Atmospheric cold plasma: A novel technique for microbial inactivation and quality preservation of spices and herbs

The global production of spices and herbs has increased significantly in recent decades due to growing consumer demand. However, this expansion has been accompanied by a rise in foodborne illness outbreaks associated with these products, necessitating advancements in processing methods. Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) has emerged as a promising food treatment technique for improving product safety and extending shelf life. This paper reviews the application of ACP in spices and herbs processing, focusing on its microbial inactivation capabilities and its effects on nutritional and physico-chemical properties. While research generally supports the effectiveness of ACP, its impact varies significantly based on treatment parameters and the specific spice or herb being processed. Comprehending these variations is critical for optimizing ACP conditions to ensure the safety and quality of the final products. Further research is required to refine ACP applications tailored to different spices and herbs, providing deeper insight into its potential. The findings underscore the importance of customized processing strategies that meet safety standards while preserving the natural qualities of spices and herbs, catering to an increasingly health-conscious market. Additionally, the scalability of ACP technology for industrial applications remains an area of active investigation, as larger-scale processing introduces unique challenges. Addressing these challenges will be critical for the widespread adoption of ACP in the spice and herb industry, ensuring consistent outcomes across diverse production environments.