Search Results (1,444)

This study aimed to optimise ozone treatment and storage temperature conditions for preserving the quality of Kazakhstani Early-Maturing walnuts. The experiments examined ozone concentration (0.50 and 1.0 mg/m³), treatment duration (30 and 60 min), and storage temperature (+10 and +25 °C). Organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological characteristics were assessed using standard methods, with statistical analysis performed via regression and multifactorial approaches. Results showed that ozone treatment did not adversely affect sensory qualities but significantly reduced yeast microflora counts by 2–3 times (p < 0.05), improving microbiological stability. Oxidative degradation was inhibited, and rancidity was prevented. The optimal parameters were determined as an ozone concentration of 0.50 mg/m³, treatment duration of 30 min, and storage at +10 °C. Under these conditions, the acid value was 4.40 mg KOH/100 g, the peroxide value 21.0 mmol ½O/kg, and the moisture content 2.0%, all within acceptable limits. These findings confirm that ozone treatment is an effective and eco-friendly method for extending walnut shelf life and maintaining product quality during storage. Full article

Water scarcity poses a critical constraint to sustainable agriculture, particularly in small-scale systems that rely on traditional irrigation methods. Although organic matter (OM) is known to enhance soil structure and water-holding capacity, quantitative evidence regarding optimal OM levels and their interaction with microbial activity in agroecological contexts remains limited. This study evaluates the effect of different OM contents (2.37%, 3.42%, 5.55%, 7.89%, and 9.43%) on infiltration, moisture retention, and microbiological dynamics in 129 agroecological plots located in the northern highlands of Ecuador. Field and laboratory assessments revealed that intermediate OM levels (between 3.42% and 5.55%) optimize available water retention (up to 14.78%) and stabilize infiltration. In contrast, excessive OM levels (>7.9%) decrease retention efficiency and increase leaching risk. Microbial activity showed a positive correlation with OM up to a certain threshold, beyond which fungal and yeast activity declined under field conditions. The results underscore the importance of managing OM within an optimal functional range to improve irrigation efficiency, enhance microbial resilience, and support water sustainability in agroecological production systems. Full article

The growing consumer demand for plant-based, protein- and fiber-enriched foods has encouraged the incorporation of novel functional ingredients into bakery products. Hemp flour (HF), obtained from cold-pressed hemp seeds, represents a sustainable ingredient rich in proteins, dietary fibers, lipids, and bioactive compounds, making it suitable for nutritional fortification. This study investigated the impact of HF addition (5–40%) on the quality of muffins prepared with wheat flour (WF) and whole wheat flour (WWF). An initial hedonic sensory evaluation identified 5–20% HF as the most acceptable substitution range, which was then subjected to detailed physicochemical, sensory, textural, colorimetric, and microbiological analyses. Incorporation of HF significantly increased protein (up to +44%), fiber (up to +172%), and ash (up to +76%) contents, while decreasing moisture (−39%). Both WF and WWF muffins darkened with HF incorporation, with a greater lightness reduction in WF. Texture changes (increased firmness and gumminess) were more pronounced in WF muffins. Sensory analysis revealed that WF muffins were best accepted at 10–15% HF, whereas WWF muffins maintained good acceptability up to 20% HF, indicating better integration of HF in the whole grain matrix. All samples complied with microbiological safety requirements. Overall, the optimal substitution level was 10–15% HF in WF muffins and 20% HF in WWF muffins, demonstrating that HF can enhance the nutritional profile of muffins while maintaining acceptable technological and sensory properties in a matrix-dependent manner. Full article

Biomass briquettes are increasingly used as renewable solid fuels, yet their durability under humid storage remains a key limitation. This study evaluated the mechanical performance and water resistance of briquettes made from fine (0–1 mm) and coarse (0–3 mm) charcoal fractions using molasses as a primary binder, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, 3–7%) as a synthetic binder, and liquid soap (1–9%) as a surfactant additive. Compressive strength was measured in the dry state, after four days of water immersion, and after re-drying, while water absorption was monitored over immersion times from 15 min to 4 days. Fine-fraction briquettes showed higher strength and lower water uptake than coarse fractions, with optimal PVA contents of 6–7% providing maximum dry and post-drying strength. Moderate soap addition (2–3%) improved binder dispersion and early wet strength, whereas higher levels (>5%) reduced durability. Water absorption kinetics indicated that particle size controlled early swelling, while binder composition influenced the rate but not the final saturation. The best performance in humid storage was achieved by 0–1 mm + 4% PVA and 0–1 mm + 5% PVA + 3% soap formulations. These results support the formulation of eco-friendly binder systems that balance strength, moisture resistance, and cost for large-scale biomass briquette production. Full article

Water temperature is a key factor affecting the growth, feeding performance and physiological status of Atlantic salmon parr in aquaculture. To determine optimal conditions, parr (average weight 31.27 ± 0.35 g) were reared for 60 days at 10, 14, 18, and 22 °C. The survival and condition factors were similar across treatments. The growth rate and feed efficiency were highest at 14 °C, coinciding with elevated antioxidant activity. Feed intake was lowest at 10 °C. Whole-body protein and lipid contents remained unaffected, while moisture and ash contents were lowest at 14 °C. Most plasma biochemical indicators were stable; however, total protein was lowest at 14 °C. Glutathione peroxidase activity peaked at 14 °C, whereas cortisol levels remained unchanged. Heat shock proteins (HSP70, HSP90) increased with temperature, while insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBP1A, IGFBP1B) decreased at temperatures equal to or greater than 18 °C. Interferon alpha (IFNA) and thioredoxin (TRX) were lowest at 14 °C and highest at 22 °C. Overall, 14 °C appears optimal for growth and antioxidant capacity, although molecular stress markers suggest mild physiological trade-offs. These findings can inform temperature management strategies to enhance productivity and welfare in sustainable salmon aquaculture. Full article

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is a well-established risk factor for ocular diseases; however, the ultraviolet-blocking properties of daily disposable contact lenses remain insufficiently characterized. This study evaluated thirteen commercially available lenses to determine their spectral transmittance across UV-B, UV-A, and visible light ranges using a UV–visible spectrophotometer. The oxygen permeability, central thickness, water content, and FDA material classification of each lens were documented, and oxygen transmissibility was subsequently calculated. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was applied to identify predictors of spectral transmittance. All lenses demonstrated high visible light transmittance (>88%), but exhibited substantial variation in UV attenuation. While several lenses effectively blocked most UV radiation, others transmitted more than 70%. The analysis revealed that lens power was the most consistent predictor of spectral transmittance, with higher minus powers associated with reduced UV-blocking efficacy. Moisture content and material classification also influenced UV protection but had minimal effect on visible light transmission. In conclusion, daily disposable contact lenses vary considerably in their UV-blocking capabilities, and although lens power cannot be altered, consideration of material composition and UV transmittance properties may assist in selecting lenses that provide optimal ocular protection. Full article

Edible coatings enriched with antioxidants offer a promising approach to prolong the shelf life of oxidation-sensitive foods such as nuts. Nonetheless, not all formulations provide the expected protection, and understanding why is equally important. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of an Arabic gum/gelatin/ascorbyl palmitate (GAR/GEL/AP) coating on the quality of hazelnut kernels during storage at 23 °C and ~40% relative humidity. The coating was applied by dipping hazelnuts in a 20% ethanolic solution containing GAR/GEL 75/25 blend (10% w/w), glycerol (1% w/w), Tween 80 (0.25% w/w), and AP (2% w/w), followed by drying. Control (uncoated) and coated hazelnuts were stored in plastic containers and evaluated at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks for weight loss, moisture content, hardness, color, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH*) scavenging activity, acid and peroxide values, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level. Coated hazelnuts showed higher initial moisture content (8.17%), stabilizing at 4.80% after one week, compared to 3.35% in uncoated samples. This increased moisture led to greater storage-related weight loss. The coating darkened the nuts and reduced their yellow hue. It had no significant effect on hardness, peroxide value, or TBARS index, but notably enhanced the antiradical potential. After 16 weeks, coated nuts had an acid value ~10 mg KOH/g lower than the control. In conclusion, the coating improved antioxidant capacity and reduced hydrolytic, but not oxidative, rancidity in hazelnuts. Therefore, further optimization of the coating formulation or application method is necessary to more effectively improve the shelf life of hazelnuts. Full article

This paper presents the development and evaluation of an autonomous solar dryer designed to enhance the drying efficiency of bee bread granules. In contrast to natural open-air drying, the proposed system utilizes solar energy in an oscillating operational mode to achieve a controlled and accelerated drying process. The dryer comprises a solar collector integrated into the base of the drying chamber, which facilitates convective heating of the drying agent (air). The system is further equipped with a photovoltaic panel to generate electricity for powering and controlling the operation of air extraction fans. The methodology combines numerical modeling with experimental studies, structured by an experimental design framework. The modeling component simulates variations in temperature (288–315 K) and relative humidity within a layer of bee bread granules subjected to a convective air flow. The numerical simulation enabled the determination of the following: the time required to achieve a stationary operating mode in the dryer chamber (20 min); and the rate of change in moisture content within the granule layer during conventional drying (18 h) and solar drying treatment (6 h). The experimental investigations focused on determining the effects of granule mass, air flow rate, and drying time on the moisture content and temperature of the granular layer of Bee Bread. A statistically grounded analysis, based on the design of experiments (DoE), demonstrated a reduction in moisture content from an initial 16.2–18.26% to a final 11.1–12.1% under optimized conditions. Linear regression models were developed to describe the dependencies for both natural and forced convection drying. A comparative evaluation using enthalpy–humidity (I-d) diagrams revealed a notable improvement in the drying efficiency of the proposed method compared to natural drying. This enhanced performance is attributed to the system’s intermittent operational mode and its ability to actively remove moist air. The results confirm the potential of the developed system for sustainable and energy-efficient drying of bee bread granules in remote areas with limited access to a conventional power grid. Full article

This study investigated the mechanisms of soil water–salt and nitrogen transport and optimal strategies under freeze–thaw (F-T) cycles in the salinized farmlands of the Hetao Irrigation District. A combined approach of field monitoring and laboratory simulation, utilizing both undisturbed and repacked soil columns subjected to 0–15 F-T cycles and five irrigation treatments, was employed to analyze the spatiotemporal dynamics in Gleyic Solonchaks. The results demonstrated that freeze–thaw processes play an important role in salt migration in surface soil layers, driving salt redistribution through phase changes of soil moisture. Increased freeze–thaw cycles reduced surface soil moisture content while promoting upward salt accumulation, salt dynamics exhibited pronounced spatial heterogeneity and irrigation source dependency, and the surface layer exhibited lower salinity levels after irrigation compared to pre-irrigation levels. These cycles also enhanced short-term soil nitrogen transformation and facilitated inorganic nitrogen accumulation. Different irrigation regimes exhibited a significant impact on the dynamics of water–salt and nitrogen in soil, with low-salinity treatment (S2) and moderate-nitrogen irrigation (N2) effectively reducing surface salt accumulation while improving nitrogen utilization efficiency (moderate-nitrogen irrigation exhibited higher mineralization rates, which facilitated the release of inorganic nitrogen from soil). This study reveals the synergistic transport mechanisms of water–salt and nitrogen under freeze–thaw driving forces and provides a scientific basis and practical pathway for sustainable agricultural management in cold arid irrigation districts. Full article

Extruded whole flours from blends of cereals and pulses have great potential to be key ingredients in the development of more innovative gluten-free products, both from a technological and nutritional perspective. The objective of this work was to obtain pre-cooked flours from four formulations based on blends of whole cereals (PR: parboiled brown rice; PM: pearl millet) and pulses (CP: chickpea; CB: common bean). CB was fixed at 10%, and the other components (PR-PM-CP) were set at 60-15-15 (F1), 15-60-15 (F2), 15-15-60 (F3), and 30-30-30 (F4), which were extruded at two combined conditions of feed moisture and screw speed: mild E1 (30% and 300 rpm) and severe E2 (18% and 600 rpm). The temperature profile was kept constant from 25 to 130 °C (from feed to output). The protein, dietary fiber, and ash contents in the raw formulations varied from 11.2 to 17.4%, 9.8 to 15.0%, and 2.2 to 3.3%, respectively, according to the low or high pulse content in the blend. As more mechanical energy was delivered to the raw formulations (W·h/kg, 63.7 for E1 and 179.4 for E2), the extruded particles had increased water absorption (g/g) from 1.7 to 4.5 (E1) or 3.8 (E2), increased water solubility due to E2 from 10.9 to 20.9%, and decreased oil absorption (g/g) from 1.5 to 0.9 (E1 and E2). The peak viscosity (PV, cP) was noticeable only in the raw formulation F2 (355), which decreased 10.3% due to E1. In the other formulations, PV appeared due to E1 in F1 (528), F3 (420), and F4 (371), while it disappeared due to E2 in all formulations. However, at the E2 condition, they did show cold viscosity in the initial stage (222 to 394 cP). The final viscosity (FV, cP) decreased from 795 to 390 (E1) or 123 (E2). In F2, the contents of phenolic compounds (285 µg GAE/g) and ABTS⁺ (13.2 μmol TE/g) were more than twice that in the other formulations, and their respective degradations were low due to E1 (4.2 and 12%) and high due to E2 (16 and 17%). Extrusion cooking did not cause significant changes in the luminosity (81) and redness (0.9) of particles, while yellowness increased from 15.7 to 18.2 (E1) or 18.7 (E2). Based on these findings, it is concluded that both extrusion conditions improved the technological and functional properties. Regarding the formulations, F2 stood out for being rich in antioxidant capacity, which poorly degraded under the conditions studied. Further work is needed to contribute to understanding the optimization of formulas and processes that would improve the nutritional, sensorial, and functional properties while still preserving the bioactive value of the final products. Full article

This study evaluates coke for iron ore sintering manufactured from Ekibastuz coal fines (fraction 0–3 mm), spent anode material (SAM) from aluminum electrolysis, and coal tar pitch. Laboratory coking was performed at 1000 °C (60 min hold), followed by sintering trials using coke containing 10 wt% and 20 wt% SAM. Microstructural (SEM/EDS) and spectral data indicate an optimal SAM range of 10–20 wt%: higher additions (≥30 wt%) lead to structural degradation of coke, accompanied by reduced mechanical integrity. The produced coke shows C = 85%, S = 0.9–1.1%, ash ≈ 19%, volatiles = 1.5–2.5%, and moisture (Wr) ≤ 1%, which is acceptable for sintering use. In sintering tests, the yield of usable sinter reached 72.4% (10 wt% SAM) and 73.5% (20 wt% SAM); impact strength was 83% and 78%, respectively. XRF of sinter showed Fe_total > 51%, CaO ≈ 5.5–6.8%, SiO₂ ≈ 6.6–7.2%, and S = 0.40–0.45%, meeting technological requirements for blast-furnace practice. Overall, using spent anode material within 10–20 wt% increases fixed-carbon content, enables valorization of aluminum industry waste, and delivers coke for agglomeration performance without compromising key chemical or mechanical indices. Full article

Accurate numerical simulations of soil-tire interactions are essential for optimizing agricultural machinery to minimize soil compaction and enhance crop yield. This study developed and compared two approaches for identifying and validating parameters of a LS-Dyna soil model. The laboratory-based approach derives parameters from triaxial, consolidation, and cone penetrometer tests (CPT), while the optimization-based method refines them using in-situ CPT data via LS-OPT to better capture field variability. Simulations employing Multi-Material Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (MM-ALE), Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH), and Hybrid-SPH methods demonstrate that Hybrid-SPH achieves the optimal balance of accuracy (2% error post-optimization) and efficiency (14-h runtime vs. 22 h for SPH). Optimized parameters improve soil–tire interaction predictions, including net traction and tire sinkage across slip ratios from −10% to 30% (e.g., sinkage of 12.5 mm vs. 11.1 mm experimental at 30% slip, with overall mean-absolute percentage error (MAPE) reduced to 3.5% for sinkage and 4.2% for traction) and rut profiles, outperforming lab-derived values. This framework highlights the value of field-calibrated optimization for sustainable agriculture, offering a cost-effective alternative to field trials for designing low-compaction equipment and reducing yield losses from soil degradation. While sandy loam soil at 0.4% moisture content was used in this study, future extensions to different soil types with varied moisture are recommended. Full article

In the face of increasing climate variability, understanding the dynamics of plant-to-plant interactions within crops is becoming increasingly important. This study aimed to examine plant responses to varying intensities of inter-plant competition, induced bz different planting densities, to enhance the accuracy of future yield prediction models. Six hybrids were grown at three planting densities (S1, S4, S7). Grain yield and yield components were estimated at four developmental points during grain filling (V1 to V4). These regression models and machine learning (ML) were applied to predict maize production under variable weather conditions. The factor year was the main source of variability, with less favourable conditions in the second year (G2) reducing yield by approximately 1–2%. Lower planting density (S1) improved individual plant development and yield components, while maximum density (S7) resulted in higher grain yield despite reduced individual performance. Hybrid H5 showed strong tolerance to high density, producing the highest yield under S7 conditions. Machine learning models accurately predicted key seed quality traits—moisture, oil, and protein—with performance metrics exceeding 80% accuracy. Specifically, R² values reached 0.82 for moisture content and 0.77 for oil concentration, indicating strong predictive capability. These findings support careful selection of hybrids and optimal planting density strategies in future cropping systems to increase yield and maintain seed quality in different environments. Full article

Modern agriculture is seeking methods that reduce pesticide use while simultaneously providing high-quality raw materials. The aim of this innovative study was to determine how treating potato planting tubers with ultrasound in an aqueous medium (pre-sowing treatment) affects the subsequent quality of the raw material and the final product. A three-year field experiment was conducted using a split-plot design with three replicates, comparing traditional technology with a technology using ultrasonic treatment of seed potatoes. Eight edible potato varieties were studied. Sonication significantly improved the processing quality of the tubers. Tubers from treated seed potatoes had significantly lower reducing sugar content (0.02 to 0.1%, depending on the variety). As a result, chips produced from sonicated tubers exhibited a lighter color, improved overall aesthetics and flavor, and reduced discoloration and moisture staining. The results obtained suggest that ultrasonic treatment of seed potatoes is a highly effective, non-thermal method for increasing the value of raw materials used in food processing. This is a promising, innovative technology with significant application potential, supporting sustainable agriculture by improving the quality of tubers and the finished product (chips) at the source. In the future, it will be necessary to optimize sonication parameters and evaluate the economic potential of this technology. Full article

Codonopsis pilosula, a valuable traditional herb, is rich in bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and phenolics. However, conventional processing methods may limit its functional properties and application in modern food industries. Extrusion processing, as an efficient and versatile technology, offers a promising approach to enhancing the bioactivity and utilization of botanical materials. In this study, Codonopsis pilosula was enhanced through extrusion processing. The results demonstrated that extrusion under the optimal conditions (screw speed of 250 rpm, moisture content of 20%, and barrel temperature of 131 °C) significantly enhanced the properties of Codonopsis pilosula. Specifically, the polysaccharide content increased from 244.41 to 271.00 mg/g, and the water solubility index rose markedly from 12.99% to 40.79%. Concurrently, a significant improvement in antioxidant activity was observed, with the hydroxyl radical scavenging rate increasing from 52.89% to 69.27% and the DPPH radical scavenging rate from 60.43% to 67.35%. Based on the optimized extrusion conditions, a Codonopsis oat flour was developed. Through orthogonal experiments, the optimal formulation ratio was identified, resulting in a flour product with moderate color and viscosity, a distinctive aroma, and a maximum sensory score of 88.7. These results demonstrate that extrusion is a viable approach for enhancing the functional properties of Codonopsis pilosula, providing a theoretical basis for its application in food processing lines and the development of functional foods. Full article