Rheological Properties Research Articles

Extrusion-Based 3D Bioprinting of Bioactive and Piezoelectric Scaffolds as Potential Therapy for Treating Critical Soft Tissue Wounds.

Objective: This study focuses on developing bioactive piezoelectric scaffolds that could deliver bioelectrical cues to potentially treat injuries to soft tissues such as skeletal muscles and promote active regeneration. Approach: To address the underexplored aspect of bioelectrical cues in skeletal muscle tissue engineering (SMTE), we developed piezoelectric bioink based on natural bioactive materials such as sodium alginate, gelatin, and chitosan. Extrusion-based 3D bioprinting was utilized to develop scaffolds that mimic muscle stiffness and generate electrical stimulation (E-stim) when subjected to forces. The biocompatibility of these scaffolds was tested with the C2C12 muscle cell line. Results: The bioink demonstrated suitable rheological properties for 3D bioprinting, resulting in high-resolution composite sodium alginate-gelatin-chitosan scaffolds with good structural fidelity. The scaffolds exhibited a 42-60 kPa stiffness, similar to muscle. When a controlled force of 5N was applied to the scaffolds at a constant frequency of 4 Hz, they generated electrical fields and impulses (charge), indicating their suitability as a stand-alone scaffold to generate E-stim and instill bioelectrical cues in the wound region. The cell viability and proliferation test results confirm the scaffold's biocompatibility with C2C12s and the benefit of piezoelectricity in promoting muscle cell growth kinetics. Our study indicates that our piezoelectric bioink and scaffolds offer promise as autonomous E-stim-generating regenerative therapy for SMTE. Innovation: A novel approach for treating skeletal muscle wounds was introduced by developing a bioactive electroactive scaffold capable of autonomously generating E-stim without stimulators and electrodes. This scaffold offers a unique approach to enhancing skeletal muscle regeneration through bioelectric cues, addressing a major gap in the SMTE, that is, fibrotic tissue formation due to delayed muscle regeneration. Conclusion: A piezoelectric scaffold was developed, providing a promising solution for promoting skeletal muscle regeneration. This development can potentially address skeletal muscle injuries and offers a unique approach to facilitating skeletal muscle wound healing.

Eco-efficient ultra-high-performance concrete formulation utilizing electric arc furnace slag and recycled glass powder–advanced analytics and lifecycle perspectives

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a promising material for sustainable and resource-efficient construction, but its high Portland Cement content poses environmental challenges. This research proposes an optimized UHPC blend that significantly reduces the Portland Cement dosage by incorporating industrial waste materials [i.e., Recycled Glass Powder (RGP) and Electric Arc Furnace Slag (EAFS)]. The integration of these waste materials in UHPC formulation addresses critical waste management issues and aligns with sustainable construction practices. Utilizing a tri-variable Design of Experiments methodology in conjunction with the Andreasen & Andersen theory, the research aims to reduce Portland Cement in UHPC without compromising its compressive strength and rheological behavior. The optimized blend incorporates RGP and EAFS, achieving the threshold compressive strength established by ACI-239 (150 MPa) while maintaining a self-compacting performance in the fresh state. This mixture features low cement (621 kg/m³) and silica fume (100 kg/m³) content. Life cycle assessments (LCA) were conducted to examine the environmental efficiency of the optimized blend. A comparative LCA demonstrates that the optimized UHPC mixture developed in this study surpasses a control mixture with higher cement and silica fume contents while maintaining comparable mechanical and rheological properties. Notably, this improvement is highlighted by a nearly 20% reduction in CO2 equivalent emissions. The scientific significance of this study lies in its demonstration of a viable pathway to producing UHPC with reduced environmental impact, contributing to the advancement of sustainable building practices, and offering a practical solution to waste management issues.

Enzymatically cross-linked arabinoxylan hydrogel: Effect of glucose oxidase on the gel characteristics and oral colon-targeted delivery for Naja atra neurotoxin

Water-extracted arabinoxylan (WEAX) can form covalent hydrogels and has potential applications in colon-targeted drug delivery. However, it is not clear which structural characteristics of WEAX gels can better facilitate drug release in the colon as a microbial triggered system. In this study, different rheological properties of WEAX gels were prepared through oxidative cross-linking using glucose oxidase (GOX) with varying amounts for oral colon-targeted released Naja atra neurotoxin (NANT). It was found that the WEAX hydrogel with an adequate strong cross-linking degree minimized NANT loss in the gastrointestinal tract and improved its release in the colon in vitro. Moreover, NANT was fixed to the wall of the gel network by noncovalent binding and could maintain its secondary structure in the WEAX–NANT hydrogel. The WEAX–NANT hydrogel had an obvious analgesic effect in the in vivo mice test. The results revealed that the WEAX–NANT hydrogel with a strong cross-linking degree was better at releasing NANT.

A study on the synergistic chondro-inductive effects of collagen II and its high-resolution 3D-printed scaffolds

Collagen II is the most essential component of the cartilage-specific extracellular matrix (ECM). However, research on collagen II-based scaffold fabrication, structural optimization, and correlation to the chondrogenic activities of stem cells is currently limited, presumably due to challenges related to its hydrogel processability. Existing collagen II-containing scaffolds are mainly produced by freeze-drying and exhibit limited properties, such as pore interconnectivity and tortuosity. Additionally, the chondro-inductive capability of collagen II composition and its underlying mechanism remains unclear, warranting further research. In this study, we addressed the aforementioned issues by investigating and enhancing the rheological properties of collagen II-based hydrogel, resulting in a high printing resolution exceeding 150 μm. The collagen II composition reportedly facilitated the condensation and chondrogenic activities of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) compared to gelatin. Moreover, high-resolution collagen II-based scaffolds promoted cell proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation to a higher degree. Therefore, we optimized the compositional and structural characteristics of collagen II-based scaffolds for enhancing chondrogenic activities. We anticipate that this study will broaden our understanding of collagen II-based scaffold designs and condition optimizations for cartilage tissue engineering.

Production of fish fillet analogues using novel fish muscle cell powder and sodium alginate-κ-carrageenan based bio-ink

Cellular aquaculture has emerged as a promising technology to address the challenges associated with traditional fishing and aquaculture practices. This study focuses on developing a biomimetic fish fillet structure using fish muscle cell powder (FMCP) and Alg-κ-Car-based bio-ink, exploring its potential for cultured seafood applications. Grouper muscle satellite cells (GMSCs) were isolated through enzymatic digestion and demonstrated robust growth and myotube differentiation with 2% horse serum (HS). FMCP, derived from the differentiated GMSCs, is characterized as a high-protein source with promising seafood applications. Cytotoxicity analysis reveals FMCP's biocompatibility and its ability to enhance cell proliferation. Alg-κ-Car is chosen as the bio-ink due to its favourable impact on bioink stability. The developed Alg-κ-Car-FMCP bio-ink, with favourable rheological properties, facilitates 3D bioprinting of scaffolds mimicking the texture of native fish fillets. These printed scaffolds retain structural integrity when subjected to boiling and frying. Texture profiles indicate that Alg-κ-Car-FMCP constructs possess enhanced hardness, springiness, gumminess, and chewiness compared to Alg-κ-Car, with cooking influencing textural changes. Taste sensory analysis using an electronic tongue demonstrates Alg-κ-Car-FMCP constructs present a pronounced umami taste, showcasing potential for desirable sensory attributes in cell-based seafood. This study significantly advances cellular aquaculture for cultured seafood production, offering insights for further research and development in sustainable and innovative food production.

The Rheological and Structural Properties of Aqueous Graphene Oxide Dispersions: Concentration and pH Dependence.

A modified Hummer's method was used to synthesize aqueous dispersions of graphene oxide (GO). The morphology, chemical structure, and exfoliation state of GO were analyzed by combining scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The structural and rheological properties of the GO dispersions were studied as a function of GO concentration and pH. Increasing the concentration of GO revealed shorter interparticle distances between GO sheets. This induced a transition from fluid to nematic gel-like structures, as observed by polarized optical microscopy (POM). The Herschel-Bulkley model was used to fit the shear thinning curves and to demonstrate the viscoelastic behavior. Both the yield stress and viscoelastic moduli in the linear viscoelastic regime increased. As pH increases, the color of the aqueous GO dispersions becomes darker, the negative values of the zeta potential increase, the distances between the GO sheets decrease as observed by a slight shift of the correlation peak toward higher values of the scattering vector modulus in small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and the rheological properties (yield stress and viscoelastic moduli in the linear viscoelastic region) decrease. These results can be explained by a change in the morphology of GO related to their hydrophilicity. This work presents relationships between rheological and structural properties of GO sheet dispersions, with particular emphasis on the effects of concentration and pH.

Effects of Exidia yadongensis polysaccharide as emulsifier on the stability, aroma, and antioxidant activities of fat-free stirred mango buffalo yogurt.

Because of the poor stability and rheological properties of fat-free stirred yogurt fortified with fruit pulp, new functional polysaccharides as a natural emulsifier, which can increase viscosity in the aqueous phase, may be needed. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Exidia yadongensis polysaccharide (EYP) as emulsifier on the stability, aroma, and antioxidant activities of mango buffalo yogurt at 4°C for 25days. The yogurt with 15g/L EYP gave a higher content of 215g/L total solids, 11.3g/L exopolysaccharides, 0.10g/L total polyphenols, 630.5g/L water-holding capacity, and 11.43g/kg total free amino acids, and maintained better texture, DPPH scavenging activity of 54.05% and OH scavenging rates of 67.16%. Moreover, the EYP exhibited the expected ability to weaken postacidification, syneresis, and growth of microorganism, and greatly promote the textural, rheological properties, suspension stability, microstructure, and aroma profiles of stirred mango-flavored buffalo yogurt (p<0.05). In addition, the addition of 15g/L EYP can inhibit protein degradation and improve the stability of secondary structure of the protein complex in mango yogurt during 25days of storage. Therefore, EYP (15g/L) could be used as natural positive functional factors and emulsifiers in such fat-free stirred yogurt industry.

Fabrication of edible inks for 3D printing as a dysphagia food: An emerging application of bigels

With the increasing prevalence of swallowing difficulties among the elderly, 3D printing technology has emerged as a promising approach to create attractive and appetitive dysphagia diets. This study focused on synthesizing bigels composed of beeswax oleogel (OG) and gellan gum hydrogel (HG) to explore their potential for 3D printing dysphagia diets. The ratio of OG to HG plays a pivotal role in determining the gel network structure, rheological properties, and water distribution of the bigels, thereby influencing their suitability as 3D printing ink. Notably, a bicontinuous structure achieved with an OG to HG ratio of 1:1 (sample 1-1) imparted desirable properties for 3D printing, including moderate shear-thinning behavior, ensuring smooth extrusion, excellent thixotropy for maintaining structural integrity, and adequate storage modulus for self-supporting during printing. These were indicated by lower flow index (n value) of 0.18, longer time respond to the applied stress (λ value) of 9.51 ± 0.32 s, higher creep recovery rate of 55.51 ± 1.36%, thixotropic recovery rate up to 93.23 ± 0.72%, and uniform moisture distribution across semi-bound water and free water with ratio of 56.94 to 43.06, compared to bigels with OG-in-HG and HG-in-OG structures. Evaluation of the 3D printed bigels through the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) confirmed that sample 1-1 (classified as Level 5-Minced and Moist) was suitable for individuals with swallowing difficulties. This study provides new insights into developing visually appealing dysphagia diet using 3D printing.

Ultrasonication: An Efficient Alternative for the Physical Modification of Starches, Flours and Grains

Ultrasonic (USC) treatments have been applied to starches, flours and grains to modify their physicochemical properties and improve their industrial applicability. The extent of the modification caused by USC treatment depends on the treatment conditions and the natural characteristics of the treated matter. Cavitation leads to structural damage and fragmentation and partial depolymerization of starch components. The amorphous regions are more susceptible to being disrupted by ultrasonication, while the crystalline regions require extended USC exposure to be affected. The increased surface area in USC-treated samples has a higher interaction with water, resulting in modification of the swelling power, solubility, apparent viscosity, pasting properties and gel rheological and textural properties. Starch digestibility has been reported to be modified by ultrasonication to different extents depending on the power applied. The most important treatment variables leading to more pronounced modifications in USC treatments are the botanical origin of the treated matter, USC power, time, concentration and temperature. The interaction between these factors also has a significant impact on the damage caused by the treatment. The molecular rearrangement and destruction of starch structures occur simultaneously during the USC treatment and the final properties of the modified matrix will depend on the array of treatment parameters. This review summarizes the known effects of ultrasonic treatments in modifying starches, flours and grains.

DEVELOPMENT OF HYDROGENATED SBR-BASED VULCANIZATES WITH SUPERIOR TIRE TREAD PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT Currently, the tire industry is exploring eco-friendly tires with improved rolling resistance, traction, abrasion resistance, and fatigue properties. By investigating the potential of hydrogenated SBRs (HSBRs) as a tire tread material, a special and modified grade of SBR was developed. The rheological, mechanical, and dynamic mechanical properties and abrasion, fatigue, aging, and ozone resistances of the developed HSBR-based composites were critically evaluated and compared with those of conventional rubber–based compounds, such as NR, emulsion SBR (ESBR), and solution SBR (SSBR). Interestingly, the HSBR-based vulcanizates exhibited superior modulus, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, fatigue crack growth resistance, resistance to thermo-oxidative aging, and ozone resistance compared with conventional SBR–based vulcanizates. The modulus at 300% elongation of the HSBR-based vulcanizates was approximately 74 and 11% higher than that of the ESBR- and SSBR-based composites, respectively, whereas the improvements in tensile strength were approximately 88 and 64% and the improvements in abrasion resistance were approximately 250 and 200% that of ESBR and SSBR, respectively. The tensile strength and fatigue resistance characteristics of the HSBR vulcanizates were also nearly similar to those of the NR vulcanizate. The findings demonstrate that HSBR can be a potential tire tread material with robust physico-mechanical properties and durability.

Influence of parameters of the carbohydrate-amylase complex and protein content in grain on the baking quality of Winter Rye

The studies were carried out in 2018–2022. in the Samara region in order to identify the influence of the parameters of the carbohydrate-amylase complex and protein content in grain on baking properties in order to use the most informative indicators in the selection of winter rye for baking in the conditions of the Middle Volga region. The material was 4 varieties and 3 promising lines – Saratovskaya 7 (standard), Bezenchukskaya 87, Bezenchukskaya 110, Antares and lines GK-80, GKNP-3, GKNP-4. The soil is ordinary chernozem, medium deep, medium loamy, predecessor is pure fallow, repeated four times. The main parameters that determine the state of starch and influence the rheological properties of rye dough and baking evaluation reached: the «falling number» indicator – 188…255 s, the maximum viscosity on the amylograph – 424…570 u. a. The relationship between the height of the ammylogram and the «falling number» in 2019, 2020 and 2022. was strongly positive (r= 0.95; r= 0.89; r= 0.92). In 2020 and 2021 There was a positive correlation between the height of the amylogram and the volumetric yield of bread (r = 0.86; r = 0.82), the falling number also in these years was significantly positively correlated with the volumetric yield of bread (r = 0.65; r = 0.76). On average, over the years of research, the content of water-soluble pentosans, depending on the variety, varied from 2.46 to 3.00 %. In 2019, the highest values of this indicator were noted – 2.70…3.55 %, the volume of bread was also the highest – 520…655 cm3, and only this year a positive relationship was noted between the values of these indicators (r = 0.72). The relationship between pentosans and the «falling number», which is also responsible for the baking properties of winter rye, was significantly positive in 2019, 2020 and 2022. (r= 0.80; r= 0.78; r= 0.70). Protein content was positively correlated with bread volume yield (r=0.80; r=0.75) only in 2018 and 2019. A negative correlation was established between protein content and amylogram height in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022. (r= –0.80; r= –0.80; r= –0.82; r= –0.78). There is also a negative relationship between protein content and the number of falls in 2019, 2020 and 2022 (r = –0.84; r = –0.80; r = –0.67). When selecting varieties of winter rye for baking, it is necessary to carry out conjugate selection based on the height of the amylogram and the «falling number» while stabilizing the protein at an acceptable level of 12.0…12.8 %.

The Actuating Characteristics of Magnetorheological Fluids Subjected to Particle Sedimentation and Temperature Variation

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids are known for their controllable characteristics under the influence of magnetic fields and, hence, widely used as semi-active actuators for vibration control. Regardless of advantages such as fast response time and reversible property, MR fluids inevitably experience sedimentation caused by significant density mismatches between magnetic particles and carrier liquids. Moreover, the effect of the temperature on actuating characteristics is also one of the problems to be resolved for practical implementation. This study experimentally investigates the sedimentation behavior under various temperatures ranging from 25 to 70 °C using a multiguide-arm magnetic device that generates a uniform magnetic flux density across MR fluids. The sedimentation stability is then observed after 168 h at current inputs of 0, 1, and 2 A, respectively. Subsequently, the field-dependent rheological properties of MR fluids are evaluated using a rheometer and discussed, showing actuating capability, which depends on the viscosity, shear stress, and yield stress before (initial state) and after the sedimentation (sedimentation state). The field-dependent yield stresses, which directly represent the actuating force of the semi-active actuator, are specifically evaluated. Under the on-state condition (2 A) at a temperature of 70 °C, the yield stress decreased from 2.747 kPa (initial state) to 2.352 kPa (sedimentation state). By using this yield stress, the field-dependent damping force was evaluated, showing a decrement from 1672 N (initial state) to 1623 N (sedimentation state) at a velocity of 0.8 m/s. It is shown that the temperature causes the reduction of the actuating properties after the long-term operation. The insightful findings achieved in this work will provide useful information for the evaluation of actuating characteristics of smart MR fluids and the design of MR application systems subjected to particle sedimentation and temperature variation.

Investigation of Removing Asphaltene-Resin-Paraffin Deposits by Chemical Method for Azerbaijan High-Paraffin Oil Production Process

Asphaltene-resin-paraffin deposition (ARPD) is a complicated and prevalent issue in the oil and gas industry, impacting the efficiency and integrity of petroleum extraction, production, transportation and processing systems. Considering all witnessed ARPD problems in Azerbaijan oil fields, this paper proposed a chemical method and optimized the type and concentration of chemical inhibitors. Then, the effect of selected chemical reagents on inhibiting the ARPD amount and thus enhancing oil recovery was detected by reservoir simulation during both waterflooding and CO2 flooding production. Three new chemical compounds (namely, Chemical-A, Chemical-B and Chemical-C) were examined in laboratory conditions, and their impact on rheological properties of high-paraffin oilfield samples of Azerbaijan (X, Y and Z) were investigated. Experimental results show that Chemical-C with a concentration of 600 g/t has the best efficiency for alleviating the problems. After adding Chemical-C to the crude oil, the freezing point of oil was decreased from 12 °C to (−4) °C, the ARPD amount declined from 0.185 to 0.016 g, and oil effective viscosity was reduced from 16.2 mPa·s to 3.1 mPa·s. It was determined that for water and CO2 flooding, higher injection pressure resulted in reduced asphaltene precipitation. Adding the selected ARPD inhibitor, the oil recovery for waterflooding can increase from 52% to 62%, while it can rise from 55% to 68% for CO2 flooding.

Rheology and microstructure of lithium slag/metakaolin geopolymer pastes: Insights from particle packing and water dynamic evolution

The high viscosity of alkali activator and physicochemical characteristics of metakaolin particles impair the rheological properties of fresh geopolymer pastes, becoming one of the urgent problems. To better understand and control the rheological properties of geopolymer pastes, this study investigates the particle packing of fluid suspensions and water dynamic evolution in pastes. The incorporation of lithium slag (LS) reduces the water required for the geopolymerization reaction, contributing to the increase of water film thickness between particles and the free water in pastes. Consequently, the internal friction between particles is reduced and the workability is improved. The results obtained identify the relevance of water film thickness and water occurrence state to qualitatively estimate the rheological properties, and confirm the applicability of LS for geopolymer manufacture. This work presents a theoretical approach towards assessing rheology and proposes an efficient method to develop more workable metakaolin-based geopolymer concrete.

Investigation of thermal radiation and joule heating effects on variable viscosity Casson nanofluid flow over a stretching sheet in Darcy–Forchheimer porous medium

Nanofluids possess unique thermal and rheological properties that offer significant advantages in enhancing heat transfer efficiency in various applications, such as heat exchangers, cooling systems, and microdevices. In this study, we investigate the combined effects of thermal radiation, Joule heating, variable viscosity, and a two-phase model on the flow behavior and heat transfer characteristics of a magnetohydrodynamic Casson nanofluid flowing over a stretching sheet in Darcy-Forchheimer porous media. The governing partial differential equations are converted into a system of first-order ordinary differential equations numerically solved using the bvp5c package in MATLAB. Consequently, the result indicates that the velocity profile increases with thermal radiation, variable viscosity, and viscous dissipation, decreasing with the magnetic field, permeability index, and Forchheimer coefficient. Also, the temperature profile shows an increase with the permeability index, viscous dissipation, and thermal radiation, but a decrease with the Forchheimer Coefficient, variable viscosity, and magnetic field. Additionally, the concentration profile exhibits an increase with the Forchheimer coefficient and permeability index, and variable viscosity while it decreases with viscous dissipation, magnetic field, and thermal radiation. Analyzing the skin friction coefficient reveals an increase with magnetic field and thermal radiation and a decrease with permeability index and Forchheimer coefficient as well as variable viscosity. Moreover, the local heat transfer rate demonstrates an increase with the variable viscosity, and magnetic field as well as the Forchheimer coefficient and permeability index. At the same time, it decreases with the viscous dissipation. Furthermore, the local mass transfer rate displays an increase with the magnetic field and thermal radiation and viscous dissipation, while it decreases with the variable viscosity as well as permeability index, viscous dissipation, and Forchheimer coefficient. Finally, the current findings are compared with that of the existing literature and a sound agreement was established.

Rheological Properties of Fish and Mammalian Gelatin Hydrogels as Bases for Potential Practical Formulations

Hydrogels have the ability to retain large amounts of water within their three-dimensional polymer matrices. These attractive materials are used in medicine and the food industry; they can serve as the basis for structured food products, additives, and various ingredients. Gelatin is one of widely used biopolymers to create hydrogels that exhibit biocompatibility and tunable rheological properties. In this study, we offer a comparative analysis of rheological properties of gelatin-based hydrogels (C = 6.67%), including mammalian gelatins from bovine and porcine skins and fish gelatins from commercial samples and samples extracted from Atlantic cod skin. Mammalian gelatins provide high strength and elasticity to hydrogels. Their melting point lies in the range from 22 to 34 °C. Fish gelatin from cod skin also provides a high strength to hydrogels. Commercial fish gelatin forms weak gels exhibiting low viscoelastic properties and strength, as well as low thermal stability with a melting point of 7 °C. Gelatins were characterized basing on the analysis of amino acid composition, molecular weight distribution, and biopolymer secondary structure in gels. Our research provides a unique rheological comparison of mammalian and fish gelatin hydrogels as a tool for the re-evaluation of fish skin gelatin produced through circular processes.

Specificities of primary and secondary prevention of lower extremity artery disease in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) and about 20% of symptomatic patients with LEAD have DM. In subjects with DM, LEAD is a cause of morbidity and mortality. DM typically causes complications in the form of macro- and microangiopathy. In these patients, macroangiopathy manifests as atherosclerosis like in non-diabetic patients. However, its course is accelerated due to accompanying risk factors like hyperlipidemia and hypertension, with cumulative effects. Other factors are also relevant such as inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation, blood rheological properties, hypercoagulability, and factors stimulating vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Additionally, DM is a risk factor for restenosis and amputation. DM is strongly associated with femoral-popliteal and tibial LEAD, which manifests earlier in patients with DM and may progress more rapidly to critical limb ischemia. Diabetic microangiopathy is characterized by arteriolosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis which additionally affects progression and outcomes of angiopathy of lower limbs. Glycemic control particularly decreases microangiopathic complications, while prevention of macrovascular complications requires treatment of accompanying risk factors like hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Investigating viscoelastic properties and structural stability mechanisms of oil bodies emulsion gels: Role of non-intrinsic protein

This research aims to investigate the mechanism of the effect of intrinsic and non-intrinsic protein content on the stability of oil bodies (OBs) emulsion gels. We employed small amplitude oscillation shear (SAOS) and large amplitude oscillation shear (LAOS) to measure the linear and nonlinear rheological properties of the OBs emulsion gels. The SAOS test indicated that an increase in non-intrinsic protein content weakened the interaction between OBs, decreasing their storage modulus (G'). The LAOS test demonstrated that the increase in non-intrinsic protein content affected the structural recombination and destruction behavior of OBs emulsion gels under large strains. Overall, the content of non-intrinsic protein during the extraction process is a crucial factor affecting the stability of OBs emulsion gels. These findings provide insights into the potential strategies for improving oil extraction efficiency and offer a foundation for further investigation into the functional properties of OBs.

Effect of cellulase and pentosanase with lactic acid bacteria to increase gluten formation and elasticity in whole-wheat dough sheets

Whole-wheat flour (WWF) is highly nutritious. However, bran hinders the development of the gluten network and affects the quality properties of whole-wheat products. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and cellulase and pentosanase (Cel/Pn) were used to ferment whole-wheat dough sheets (WWDSs) containing bran with varying particle sizes. The effects of enzyme (Cel/Pn)-assisted Lactobacillus brevis (Lbr) and L. plantarum (Lpl) fermentation on the structural and rheological properties of WWDSs were explored. With decreasing bran particle size (BPS), the glutenin macropolymer (GMP) contents of control, Lbr-Cel/Pn- and Lpl-Cel/Pn-treated sheets increased from 3.66, 1.78 and 1.79 mg/g to 4.29, 3.01 and 3.06 mg/g, respectively. The -SH contents of Lbr-Cel/Pn- and Lpl-Cel/Pn-treated dough sheets with BPS < 100 μm decreased by 0.38 and 0.37 μmol/L, respectively, and the extension distance of the Lpl-Cel/Pn-treated sheet increased by 52%. After dual enzyme/bacteria treatment, a more stable microstructure was observed in the dough sheet containing finer bran particles. The dual treatment effectively reduced bran-induced damage to the wheat gluten network. Thus, the dual treatment used in this study could potentially be used to improve the quality of whole-wheat products.

Vibration damping by enhancing of magneto-rheological damper performance using novel smart fluid

The objective of the present work is to improve the speed and vibration characteristics of tracked vehicles via a semi-active suspension system that uses a Magneto-Rheological (MR) damper. MR damper is designed, manufactured, and tested with different harmonic excitations. The MR damper reliability under high-frequency stresses is considered in the mechanical design phase as well as the configurations and dimensions of the damper. Two fluid samples DELTA and GAMA are prepared, which differ in carrier fluid dynamic viscosities to have different rheological properties and tested to determine the dynamic characteristics of the damper. The damper’s ability to isolate vibration is measured by MTS. The investigation performed not only clarifies MR fluid characteristics but also proves the fact that the fluid is non-Newtonian with good rheological properties. One of the two fluid samples called DELTA is found to have the required properties. The MR damper filled with this DELTA shows a significant increase in damping force according to the excitation current and is much higher than the conventional passive suspension damping force. The proposed damper can cope with the increase in both magnitude and frequency of the input, which represents the speed of the truck and roughness of the road. Upgrading the suspension system of the vehicle from a passive damper to a manufactured semi-active MR damper with MR fluid DELTA can increase the damping force that the passive damper produces by 207% in compression stroke and 136.2% in rebound stroke at the same testing conditions.