Search Results (30)

Porous starch (PS) is widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and environmental industries for its high adsorption capacity and controlled release properties. To explore how surface gelatinization affected enzymatically prepared PS, corn starch was first modified via surface gelatinization using a CaCl₂ solution and then treated with α-amylase and amyloglucosidase to synthesize PS. Its structural and functional characteristics were subsequently analyzed. The findings demonstrated that the CaCl₂ solution facilitated the surface gelatinization and enhanced the enzymatic hydrolysis of natural starch. The yield, specific volume, water solubility, swelling power, and oil absorption capacity of PS pretreated with CaCl₂ solution were improved. After 40 min of processing, the yield, specific volume, and oil absorption capacity of PS reached the optimal state, increasing by 19.90%, 91.19%, and 32.84%, respectively. Consequently, its fisetin encapsulation efficiency (93.67%) and loading capacity (8.03%) were also higher than those of non-pretreated PS, attributed to the reduced short-range structure and crystallinity in the CaCl₂-pretreated PS. The DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities of CaCl₂-pretreated PS/fisetin (PS/FIT) exceeded those of the non-pretreated PS/FIT and free fisetin. These findings highlight the potential of CaCl₂ pretreatment as an effective strategy to enhance the functional properties of enzymatic PS. Full article

Bio-oil’s high chlorine content severely hinders its application, because of its high corrosivity. Catalytic pyrolysis is an effective method for the dechlorination of bio-oil. Herein, the performances of the acidified-γ-Al₂O₃ modified with alkaline and alkaline earth metal compounds were investigated. It was found that NaOH was a better loading material than Ca(NO₃)₂ or Mg(NO₃)₂ in the support of acidified-γ-Al₂O₃. The optimal loading amount of NaOH was 5 wt% in the range of 1 wt%–15 wt%, and the better calcination temperature was 600 °C, compared with 800 °C. When catalyzed with Na/Al₂O₃ (5%, 600 °C), the organic chlorides content in bio-oil from the pyrolysis of corn straw at 500 °C was significantly reduced from 150 ppm to 29 ppm, while the inorganic chlorides content barely changed. NaAlO₂ was generated in Na/Al₂O₃ from the solid-phase reaction between NaOH and Al₂O₃ by calcination. When Na/Al₂O₃ (5%,600 °C) and Na₂CO₃ were both used in two layers in a fixed-bed reactor, the organic and inorganic chlorides in bio-oil simultaneously significantly decreased, respectively, to 57 ppm and 23 ppm. The decrease in chlorides benefits the deep dechlorination of bio-oil by absorption or catalytic hydrodechlorination in a post-treatment process, which reduces the consumption of absorbent or hydrogen. Full article

Sustainable plant-based materials are becoming more popular as a substitute for those of animal origin for the encapsulation of compounds. Among different techniques, microencapsulation is widely used to protect bioactives and keep them intact to reach the desired target area. In this work, microencapsulation of oils by spray-drying using alternative vegan materials was proposed to mitigate oxidative degradation of oils. The determination of the best combination and ratio for different vegan wall materials (pectin, inulin, pea protein, and modified corn starch) was first developed using high-oleic sunflower oil enriched with β-carotene. In terms of efficiency, the best wall materials were pectin and inulin (P:I) in a 1:1 ratio, achieving 67.26 ± 0.78%. This ratio also obtained the best morphological results for shape and size studied by SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and DLS (dynamic light scattering). Additionally, the antioxidant activity of the oil enriched with β-carotene was studied, obtaining an IC5O of 0.15 mg/mL. Moreover, when Schizochytrium sp. was used instead of sunflower oil, as a docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-enriched plant-based oil, the best results were also obtained for the P:I mixture, but at a ratio of 1:5. In all cases, the preservation of fatty acid profiles was achieved, giving insights for the potential use of alternative materials. The synergy between the use of antioxidants and encapsulation provides an effective method to avoid oxidation of edible oils. This work demonstrates the possibility of encapsulating carotenoid-enriched microalgae oil with vegan materials, improving its stability and bioavailability. Full article

This study evaluated the ability of a jasmine essential oil (JEO)-loaded nanoemulsion alone (WOM) and combined with modified atmosphere packaging (WOM-MAP) to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) at 4 °C. The WOM was stabilized with oxidized corn starch (OCS) and whey protein (WP), and had a particle size of 255.7 nm and zeta potential of −25.43 mV. The treated salmon fillets were periodically analyzed for spoilage extent, texture, protein structure, and other quality parameters. The findings of this study showed that the salmon fillets treated with the WOM, particularly when combined with the MAP, was able to retain their original texture and taste to a great extent. Compared to the control check group (CK), the WOM and WOM-MAP treatments reduced bacterial counts by 2.1 log CFU/g and 2.4 log CFU/g, respectively, by the 20th day. Both the WOM and WOM-MAP treatments exhibited lower total volatile basic nitrogen and K values, prevented protein structural changes, and reduced free amino acid breakdown. These results indicate that the WOM effectively extends the shelf life and maintains the quality of Atlantic salmon, offering a promising natural preservative to preserve the quality and safety of seafood. Full article

Although corn germ meal is a rich source of dietary fiber, it contains a relatively low proportion of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and is frequently contaminated with high levels of zearalenone (ZEN). Solid-state fermentation has the dual effects of modifying dietary fiber (DF) and degrading mycotoxins. This study optimized the solid-state fermentation process of corn germ meal using Bacillus subtilis K6 through response surface methodology (RSM) to enhance SDF yield while efficiently degrading ZEN. Results indicated that fermentation solid-to-liquid ratio and time had greater impacts on SDF yield and ZEN degradation rate than fermentation temperature. The optimal conditions were determined as temperature 36.5 °C, time 65 h, and solid-to-liquid ratio 1:0.82 (w/v). Under these conditions, the ZEN degradation rate reached 96.27 ± 0.53%, while the SDF yield increased from 9.47 ± 0.68% to 20.11 ± 1.87% (optimizing the SDF/DF ratio from 1:7 to 1:3). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) revealed the structural transformation of dietary fiber from smooth to loose and porous forms. This structural modification resulted in a significant improvement in the physicochemical properties of dietary fiber, with water-holding capacity (WHC), oil-holding capacity (OHC), and water-swelling capacity (WSC) increasing by 34.8%, 16.4%, and 15.2%, respectively. Additionally, the protein and total phenolic contents increased by 23.0% and 82.61%, respectively. This research has achieved efficient detoxification and dietary fiber modification of corn germ meal, significantly enhancing the resource utilization rate of corn by-products and providing technical and theoretical support for industrial production applications. Full article

The utilization of modified starches derived from ginger, sweet potatoes, and maize has been employed as a strategy to reduce the oil content in mayonnaise formulations. Amylose–lipid complexes and the native starches were synthesized, characterized, and subsequently incorporated into various mayonnaise formulations, replacing 50 and 80 percent of the oil. The sensory analysis showed that the mayonnaises produced with 50% and 80% modified corn starch were particularly well received. However, when compared to conventional mayonnaises, the viscosity of the mayonnaises prepared with 50% and 80% modified maize starch was found to be remarkably low. This outcome demonstrates that when preparing low-fat mayonnaise, it is not possible to substitute tuber starches for fat. Full article

Ultrasound (US) treatment is an eco-friendly physical modification technique increasingly used to enhance the functionality of gluten-free flours. In this study, the impact of sonication on the techno-functional, thermal, structural, and rheological properties of a composite gluten-free flour was investigated. The flour, comprising corn starch, rice flour, and other ingredients, was treated at hydration levels of 15% and 25% (w/w) under controlled conditions (10 min of sonication at 20 °C) and compared to a non-sonicated control. Sonication reduced the water absorption capacity (WAC) and swelling power (SP) while increasing the oil absorption capacity (OAC) and water solubility (WSI). Thermal analysis revealed lower gelatinization enthalpy, indicating structural modifications induced by cavitation. Structural assessments (XRD and FTIR) confirmed minimal alterations in crystallinity and short-range order. Rheological studies demonstrated an enhanced elasticity in the gel structure, especially at 15% hydration, while a morphological analysis via SEM highlighted particle fragmentation and surface roughening. These findings demonstrate the potential of ultrasound to modify gluten-free flours for improved functionality and diverse applications in gluten-free product development. Full article

Omega-3 fatty acids reduce triglycerides and have several positive effects on different organs and systems. They are also found in the plasma membrane in variable amounts in relation to genetics and diet. However, it is still unclear whether omega-3 supplementation can reduce the occurrence of major cardiovascular events (MACEs). Two trials, REDUCE-IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial), with highly purified EPA, and STRENGTH (Effect of High-Dose Omega-3 Fatty Acids vs. Corn Oil on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk), with a combination of EPA and DHA, have produced different outcomes, triggering a scientific debate on possible explanations for the discrepancies. Furthermore, doubts have arisen as to the anti-inflammatory and anti-aggregating activity of these compounds. Recent studies have, however, highlighted interesting effects of EPA and DHA on erythrocyte membrane fluidity (EMF). EMF is governed by a complex and dynamic biochemical framework, with fatty acids playing a central role. Furthermore, it can be easily measured in erythrocytes from a blood sample using fluorescent probes. Recent research has also shown that EMF could act as a possible cardiovascular risk factor biomarker. This review aims to synthetize the latest evidence on erythrocyte membrane fluidity, exploring its potential role as a biomarker of residual cardiovascular risk and discussing its clinical relevance. Further, we aim to dissect the possible biological mechanisms that link omega-3 modifiable membrane fluidity to cardiovascular health. Full article

This study investigated the impact of whey protein isolate (WPI) addition on the dry heat modification of corn (CS) and wheat starch (WS). Starches were treated under dry heating conditions at 130 °C for 2 and 4 h. The physicochemical and structural properties of the modified starches, such as color, particle size, thermal behavior (DSC), crystalline structure (XRD), and surface morphology (SEM), were analyzed. The results show that adding WPI significantly altered the gelatinization properties, surface morphology, and crystalline structure of both starches. DSC indicated that the gelatinization properties of starch/WPI mixtures varied, with corn starch showing a decreased gelatinization temperature and increased enthalpy, whereas wheat starch exhibited a more complex response, likely due to different structural changes. The XRD and FTIR results revealed WPI-enhanced crystallinity and structural changes, highlighting WPI-induced aggregation. Wheat starch, in particular, exhibited stronger interactions with WPI than corn starch, as evidenced by the accumulation patterns in the SEM images. The oil-binding capacity of native starches increased with dry heating and WPI addition, suggesting an improved hydrophobicity of starch granules. Dry heating and WPI addition significantly altered starch properties, highlighting the potential of thermal modulation to enhance starch–protein systems for targeted food applications. Full article

Two experiments evaluated the impact of the reduction in the percentage of corn oil remaining in distillers grains plus solubles (DGS) after the ethanol plant de-oiling process or by adding corn oil back to DGS following de-oiling on finishing cattle performance and nutrient digestion. Experiment 1 utilized 320 yearling steers (initial BW = 413 kg; SD = 25 kg) fed in 32 pens (10 steers/pen) and assigned to one of four treatments (n = 8 pens/treatment). The four treatments consisted of a blended DRC:HMC corn control diet (CON), de-oiled modified distillers grains plus solubles included at 40% of diet DM (DODGS), de-oiled modified distillers grains plus solubles included at 38% of diet DM plus 2% added corn oil (DODGS + Oil), and full-fat modified distillers grains plus solubles included at 40% of diet DM (FFDGS). The DODGS product contained 8.9% fat while the FFDGS product contained 11.6% fat. Dry matter intake (DMI) was impacted by treatment (p = 0.01) with steers fed DODGS having the greatest DMI and steers fed CON, DODGS + Oil, and FFDGS having lower DMI. Dietary treatment tended to impact ADG (p = 0.06) with steers fed DODGS and DODGS + Oil having greater gains than CON, with FFDGS being an intermediate. As a result of increased ADG, G:F differed between treatments (p < 0.01) with the greatest feed efficiency observed for steers fed DODGS + Oil and FFDGS. Including MDGS in the diet improved G:F by 6 to 11% compared to feeding DRC:HMC corn blend, with an improvement in G:F of 4.9 and 1.2% for DODGS + Oil and FFDGS, respectively, compared to DODGS. Hot carcass weight was impacted by dietary treatment (HCW; p = 0.05), with DODGS- and DODGS + Oil-fed steers having the heaviest HCW, CON steers having the lightest HCW, and FFDGS being an intermediate. Experiment 2 was a 5 × 4 unbalanced Latin rectangle digestion experiment with four diets, five ruminally cannulated steers, and five periods that utilized the same treatments as Exp. 1. Dietary fat measured 4.2, 6.0, 7.9, and 7.1% for CON, DODGS, DODGS + Oil, and FFDGS, respectively. Intakes of DM, OM, and energy as well as total tract fat digestibility and DE (Mcal/d) were not impacted by dietary treatment (p ≥ 0.46). When corn oil was added back to de-oiled MDGS, there was a negative impact on digestibility of OM (p < 0.01) and NDF (p = 0.07) compared with DODGS, FFDGS, and CON. Partially removing oil from modified distillers grains plus solubles did not significantly impact cattle performance, carcass traits, energy content, or digestibility when MDGS was included at approximately 40% of diet DM. Full article

Porous starch can be applied as an adsorbent and encapsulant for bioactive substances in the food and pharmaceutical industries. By using appropriate modification methods (chemical, physical, enzymatic, or mixed), it is possible to create pores on the surface of the starch granules without disturbing their integrity. This paper aimed to analyze the possibility of obtaining a porous structure for native corn, potato, and pea starches using a combination of ultrasound, enzymatic digestion, and freeze-drying methods. The starch suspensions (30%, w/w) were treated with ultrasound (20 kHz, 30 min, 20 °C), then dried and hydrolyzed with amyloglucosidase (1000 U/g starch, 50 °C, 24 h, 2% starch suspension). After enzyme digestion, the granules were freeze-dried for 72 h. The structure of the native and modified starches were examined using VIS spectroscopy, SEM, ATR-FTIR, and LTNA (low-temperature nitrogen adsorption). Based on the electrophoretic mobility measurements of the starch granules using a laser Doppler velocimeter, zeta potentials were calculated to determine the surface charge level. Additionally, the selected properties such as the water and oil holding capacities, least gelling concentration (LGC), and paste clarity were determined. The results showed that the corn starch was the most susceptible to the combined modification methods and was therefore best suited for the production of porous starch. Full article

Inactivation of the Snca gene in young mice by chronic injections of tamoxifen (TAM), a selective estrogen receptor modifier, has been shown to decrease the level of alpha-synuclein, a key peptide in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. In young mice, different time courses of the effect were observed in different brain areas, meaning associated disturbances in the intracerebral relations, namely in brain function after TAM-induced synucleinopathy. Methods: We analyzed electroencephalogram (EEG) coherence (“functional connectivity”) between the cortex (MC), putamen (Pt), and dopamine-producing brain regions (ventral tegmental area, VTA, and substantia nigra, SN) in two groups of two-month-old male mice. We compared EEG coherences in the conditional knockout Snca^flox/flox mice with those in their genetic background (C57Bl6J) one, two, and three months after chronic (for five days) intraperitoneal injections of TAM or the vehicle (corn oil). The EEG coherences in the TAM-treated group were compared with those in the alpha-synuclein knockout mice. Results: A significant suppression of EEG coherence in the TAM-treated mice versus the vehicle group was observed in all inter-structural relations, with the exception of MC-VTA at one and three months and VTA-SN at two months after the injections. Suppressive changes in EEG coherence were observed in the alpha-synuclein knockout mice as well; the changes were similar to those in TAM-treated mice three months after treatment. Conclusion: our data demonstrate a combined time-dependent suppressive effect induced by TAM on intracerebral EEG coherence. Full article

The type and content of modified stalk fibers significantly influence the fatigue properties of asphalt binder. In this study, different concentrations of NaOH solution were used to modify stalk fibers, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the effect of the modified concentration on the fiber morphology. A dynamic shear rheology (DSR) test and a linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test were conducted to analyze the effects of the fiber type and content on various factors such as the complex shear modulus G*, phase angle δ, and fatigue parameters (A₃₅ and B). Consequently, the fatigue life N_f of the fiber asphalt binder was calculated using a viscoelastic continuum damage model. The results show that stalk fibers modified using a 5% alkali solution exhibited the best oil absorption and heat resistance, the asphalt binder with a 1.5%–2% fiber content exhibited the best resistance to fatigue, and the fatigue performance of the asphalt binder with different types of fibers was superior when fiber doping was at 1.5%. Additionally, the fatigue parameter A₃₅ of the modified cotton and corn stover fibers increased by 40.5% and 57.6%, respectively, and the fatigue parameter B decreased by 5.8% and 4.8%, respectively, compared with that of the unmodified stover fibers. Finally, the modified corn stalk fiber asphalt binder with a 1.5% fiber content demonstrated the best fatigue resistance. Full article

In order to promote the efficient utilization of bio-oil, corn stover oil and petroleum asphalt were used to prepare bio-asphalt. UHMWPE was adopted to strengthen the high-temperature properties of bio-asphalt. UHMWPE-modified corn stover oil asphalt was prepared. Rheological and microscopic tests were carried out to study its performance. The softening point and viscosity of the modified asphalt were enhanced with a rise in the UHMWPE dosage. Its ductility and deformation ability increased at 5 °C. An MSCR test suggested that the asphalt’s creep recovery ability and anti-rutting properties decreased at a high stress level. Meanwhile, the low-temperature rheological behavior of UHMWPE-modified corn stover oil asphalt was superior to that of neat asphalt. The corn stover oil ameliorated the asphalt’s low-temperature properties but weakened its high-temperature behavior. The optimal preparation schemes for UHMWPE-modified corn stover oil asphalt were recommended through a comprehensive analysis of the properties. The recommended dosage of UHMWPE was 3–4%, while the corn stover oil dosage was 5%. However, when the dosage of corn stover oil was 10%, the recommended dosage of UHMWPE was 4%. UHMWPE powder was melted and cross-linked with neat asphalt during high-temperature preparation, demonstrating that UHMWPE can enhance the properties of asphalt. The UHMWPE polymer macromolecules can be dispersed in corn stover oil. UHMWPE can form a compact and robust network structure with asphalt. The feasible application of corn stover oil in road engineering was verified, which provides efficient solutions for waste utilization. This study will contribute to the sustainable development of road construction. Full article

The management of by-products and waste from agriculture and the agri-food industry is a challenge for the plastics industry. Flexible polyurethane foams (EPPUR) containing ground corncake from corn oil production were obtained. The influence of the bio-filler on the physico-mechanical and thermal properties of synthesized flexible polyurethane foams was investigated. The content of corncake ranged from 0 php (part per 100 parts of polyol) to 10 php. Open-cell flexible polyurethane foams with a favorable comfort factor were obtained. The lower reactivity of the developed polyurethane systems was conducive to the formation of cells of slightly smaller sizes but of a more regular shape in comparison with the foam not modified with the bio-filler. Measurements of the mechanical properties indicated that the modified foams held had similar or even better properties than the reference sample without bio-filler. Full article