Search Results (176)

Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) is a medicinal and edible homologous plant whose roots contain many bioactive substances such as polysaccharides and phenolics. This study explored the integration of burdock powder and lactic acid bacteria fermentation to enhance the nutritional quality, sensory attributes, and flavor profiles of duck sausages. Three bacterial strains, Lacticaseibacillus casei, L. helveticus, and L. plantarum, were selected based on sensory analysis, and their effects on sausage properties were evaluated through combined fermentation trials. The results demonstrated that duck sausages fermented with L. plantarum and L. helveticus and supplemented with 3% burdock powder (PHB group) exhibited > 1.5-fold higher antioxidant activity (ABTS at 85.2 μmol trolox/g and DPPH at 92.7 μmol trolox/g, respectively; p < 0.05) and 15% increase in total phenolic content (8.24 mg gallic acid/g) compared to non-fermented counterparts. The PHB formulation also enhanced color stability (lightness, redness, yellowness), textural characteristics (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness), and sensory acceptability. Volatile compound analysis revealed a reduction in off-odor aldehydes (hexanal, (E)-2-octenal, (E)-2-decenal, and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal) and increased production of desirable aromatic compounds like tetramethyl-pyrazine. These findings highlight the potential of combining lactic acid bacteria fermentation with burdock powder to develop functional duck sausages with improved nutritional and sensory properties. Full article

This work presents a multiscale, microstructure-aware framework for predicting fatigue strength distributions in additively manufactured (AM) alloys—specifically, laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) AlSi10Mg and Ti-6Al-4V—by integrating density functional theory (DFT), instrumented indentation, and Bayesian inference. The methodology leverages principles common to all 3D printing (additive manufacturing) processes: layer-wise material deposition, process-induced defect formation (such as porosity and residual stress), and microstructural tailoring through parameter control, which collectively differentiate AM from conventional manufacturing. By linking DFT-derived cohesive energies with indentation-based modulus measurements and a MAP-based statistical model, we quantify the effect of additive-manufactured microstructural heterogeneity on fatigue performance. Quantitative validation demonstrates that the predicted fatigue strength distributions agree with experimental high-cycle and very-high-cycle fatigue (HCF/VHCF) data, with posterior modes and 95 % credible intervals of ${\widehat{\sigma }}_f^{\mathrm{AlSi}10\mathrm{Mg}}={86}_{-7}^{+8}\mathrm{MPa}$ and ${\widehat{\sigma }}_f^{\mathrm{Ti}–6\mathrm{Al}–4\mathrm{V}}={115}_{-9}^{+10}\mathrm{MPa}$, respectively. The resulting Woehler (S–N) curves and Paris crack-growth parameters envelop more than 92 % of the measured coupon data, confirming both accuracy and robustness. Furthermore, global sensitivity analysis reveals that volumetric porosity and residual stress account for over 70 % of the fatigue strength variance, highlighting the central role of process–structure relationships unique to AM. The presented framework thus provides a predictive, physically interpretable, and data-efficient pathway for microstructure-informed fatigue design in additively manufactured metals, and is readily extensible to other AM alloys and process variants. Full article

Due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, injectability, and self-setting properties, calcium–magnesium phosphate cements (MCPCs) have proven to be effective biomaterials for bone defect filling. Two types of MCPC powders based on the magnesium whitlockite or stanfieldite phases with MgO with different magnesium contents (20 and 60%) were synthesised. The effects of magnesium ions (Mg²⁺) on functional properties such as setting time, temperature, mechanical strength, injectability, cohesion, and in vitro degradation kinetics, as well as cytocompatibility in the MG-63 cell line and the osteogenic differentiation of BM hMSCs in vitro, were analysed. The introduction of NaHA into the cement liquid results in an increase in injectability of up to 83%, provides a compressive strength of up to 22 MPa, and shows a reasonable setting time of about 20 min without an exothermic reaction. These cements had the ability to support MG-63 cell adhesion, proliferation, and spread and the osteogenic differentiation of BM hMSCs in vitro, stimulating ALPL, SP7, and RUNX2 gene expression and ALPL production. The combination of the studied physicochemical and biological properties of the developed cement compositions characterises them as bioactive, cytocompatible, and promising biomaterials for bone defect reconstruction. Full article

Film-forming solutions were prepared using Tara gum (TG), with glycerol (GL) as a plasticizer and orange peel powder (OP) as a filler. A TG stock solution (10 g/L) was initially prepared to facilitate homogenization, from which appropriate dilutions were made to obtain final concentrations of 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1.0% (w/v). GL (30% and 50%) and OP (0%, 20%, and 50%) were incorporated based on the dry weight of TG, meaning their amounts were calculated relative to TG content to ensure consistent formulation ratios. Rheological parameters, including the flow behavior index, consistency coefficient, storage modulus (G′), and loss modulus (G″), were characterized via steady shear and oscillatory rheometry. Mechanical properties, such as the Young’s modulus, tensile strength, and elongation at break, were also evaluated. A strong positive correlation (R² = 0.840) was observed between G′ and the Young’s modulus, indicating that solutions with higher internal network strength yield films with greater stiffness. The synergistic interaction between TG and OP was critical: TG primarily enhanced stiffness and mechanical reinforcement, whereas OP improved structural cohesion and stability. GL functioned as a plasticizer, increasing film flexibility while reducing stiffness. These interactions led to a reduction in film solubility by up to 62.43%, particularly in formulations without orange peel powder. In contrast, mechanical strength increased by up to 50.21% in films containing orange peel powder, as those without it exhibited significantly lower tensile strength. Flexibility, expressed as elongation at break, was enhanced by up to 78.86% in formulations with higher glycerol content. Barrier properties were also improved, demonstrated by decreased water vapor permeability and increased hydrophobicity, attributed to the TG–OP synergy. A regression model (R² = 0.928) substantiated the contributions of TG to stiffness, OP to matrix reinforcement, and GL to flexibility modulation. This study underscores the pivotal role of rheological behavior in defining film performance and presents a novel analytical framework applicable to the design of sustainable, high-performance biopolymeric materials. Full article

Mushroom production, mushroom knowledge and mushroom cultivation have aroused the interest of many researchers, scientists, institutions, cultural and mushroom-loving associations, and ordinary mushroom pickers as well. The contribution of wild mushrooms to the economic, cultural and touristic development and social cohesion of the Greek rural population is considered very important. In addition to their therapeutic and dietary value, they are also valuable for their diverse chemical and medicinal properties. The PubMed—Medline, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles published up to January, 2025. Even today, some macromycetes are still used in medicine due to their remarkable healing properties. In the form of powders or solutions, they were formerly used as a remedy for epilepsy, tuberculosis, nervous diseases and various severe inflammations. This review documents the benefits of mushroom consumption suggested by health experts for pathological conditions and health improvement and highlights their superiority as non-animal protein sources according to their nutrients. Full article

In this study, the effects of stearic acid coating concentration (0.85%, 1%, and 1.15% wt.) and storage duration (up to 30 days) on the flow properties of surface-modified micronized calcite powder were investigated to evaluate their implications for critical industrial processes including transportation, feeding, dispersion, and production capacity. The results demonstrated that both stearic acid concentration and storage duration significantly influenced the rheological properties of the coated calcite powders, suggesting that the calcite surfaces had dynamic characteristics. The Conditioned Bulk Density (CBD) values increased significantly from day 1 to day 30, indicating efficient packing of the powders. Although stearic acid-coated calcite powders initially demonstrated enhanced flowability (SE: 5.1→3.7 mJ/g; BFE: 77→59.3 mJ) within the first 8 days, a subsequent increase (SE: 4.6 mJ/g; BFE: 74.3 mJ) by day 30 indicated a time-dependent surface reorganization of the coated particles. The reduction in the Flow Rate Index (FRI) values after a 30-day period indicated a decrease in cohesiveness. The stability index (SI) values initially indicated instability but improved after 30 days. These findings highlight the importance of considering the coating amount and time-dependent behavior when designing experiments, formulating products, and establishing quality control procedures involving calcite fillers. Full article

Cohesive soil in the reservoir area is vulnerable to natural disasters because of its poor erosion resistance and low strength. Therefore, it needs to be reinforced. Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a sustaibable soil reinforcement technique with low energy consumption and no pollution. Different combinations of Bacillus subtilis bacterial solution (BS) concentrations and cementing solution (CS) concentrations were set to perform MICP solidification treatment. The characterization of cohesive soil before MICP was carried out by means of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Laser Particle Size Analyzer (LPSA). The results showed that the unreinforced soil showed an amorphous state with low strength and the particle size distribution was dominated by powder particles. However, with the addition of BS concentrations and CS concentrations, SEM results showed that spherical and rhombohedral minerals filled the pores of the cohesive soil, which increased the content of precipitations and enhanced the cementitious characteristics. When the concentrations of CS or BS were fixed, CaCO₃ content, deviatoric stress, shear strength, cohesive force, and internal friction angle all showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with the increase in CS or BS concentration. The optimal combination of CS and BS concentration was 1.5 mol/L and OD₆₀₀ = 1.8. Thermochemical analyses showed an improved thermal stability of the reinforcing cohesive soil, with the lowest mass loss (32%) and the highest pyrolysis temperature (812 °C) of the samples at the optimal combination of BS and CS concentration. This study is expected to improve the understanding of the MICP reinforcement process and contribute to the optimal design of future biologically mediated soil amendments, promoting bioremediation. Full article

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of partially replacing wheat flour with bilberry (BIPP) and blackcurrant (BCPP) pomace powders at 2.5%, 5%, and 10% levels on dough texture and rheology and on the proximate composition, color, titratable acidity, pH, spread ratio, total phenolic content, DPPH radical scavenging activity, and textural and sensory properties of cookies. BIPP showed higher protein, fiber, and water absorption capacity while also showing lower fat and titratable acidity as compared with BCPP. The incorporation of BIPP and BCPP in cookies resulted in lower protein and higher fat, fiber, and mineral contents. Dough hardness, consistency, and stiffness increased while the hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness of the cookies were found to decrease with the increase in pomace levels. A seven-fold increase in the total phenolic content of the cookies was recorded at a 10% replacement level of wheat flour with BIPP, reaching 214.73 mg GAE/100 g, while only a three-fold increase was found for 10% BCPP (90.18 mg GAE/100 g). The enrichment with BIPP and BCPP improved the sensory properties, with the 10% addition level presenting the highest acceptance. The results indicate that bilberry and blackcurrant pomace could be utilized as a sustainable source of fiber and bioactive compounds for adding nutritional, technological, and sensory benefits to the cookies. Full article

Broken Ganoderma lucidum spore powder (BGLSP) is abundant in nutrients and bioactive compounds, rendering it a suitable functional raw material for food applications. This study examined the impact of incorporating BGLSP (ranging from 0.5% to 10%) on the physicochemical properties of flour blends, dough, and the quality of Chinese steamed bread (CSB). The results indicated that with increasing BGLSP content, the a* value, onset temperature, peak temperature, water absorption, development time, and dough stability all exhibited an upward trend in the flour blends and dough, while the L* value and protein network weakening decreased. When compared to the control sample, the inclusion of 10% BGLSP resulted in a reduction in the spread ratio, specific volume, cohesiveness, and springiness of CSB, while simultaneously increasing its hardness, chewiness, and gumminess. The observed odor variations among samples were primarily ascribed to the proportions of aldehydes and ketones. Notably, sensory evaluation demonstrated that the flavor attributes of BGLSP-enhanced samples were superior to those of the control sample. In conclusion, the incorporation of BGLSP at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 1% is deemed optimal for CSB, offering novel insights into the application of BGLSP within the food industry. Full article

The current study aims for the isolation and physicochemical characterization of inulin from defatted dandelion roots using green extraction techniques, including microwave extraction (MAE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The structure and degree of polymerization of inulin were elucidated by chromatographic techniques, as well as by FTIR and NMR spectroscopies. The color characteristics, water- and oil-holding capacity, solubility, swelling properties, wettability, angle of repose, flowability, and cohesiveness of dandelion inulin were evaluated. Moreover, the antioxidant and antibacterial potential of dandelion inulin were revealed. The results were compared with the conventional extraction and inulin from chicory. Dandelion inulin was evaluated as a powder substance with a degree of polymerization (DP) of 17–24. The highest yield (20%) was obtained by classical extraction; however, UAE and MAE demonstrated the highest purity. FT-IR and NMR spectra revealed that dandelion inulin is glucofructan with a molecular weight of 2.7–3.2 kDa that consists mainly of fructosyl units β-(2→1) linked to one α-D-glucose unit UAE was evaluated as the most perspective technique for the simultaneous extraction of inulin from dandelion roots, with the highest average DP 24 and high purity (82%), molecular mass, total fructose content, swelling index, and oil-holding capacity. Dandelion inulin exhibited intermediate cohesiveness, fair flowability, and moderate antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes 863 and Bacillus subtilis 6633. The physicochemical and functional properties of dandelion inulin reveal its future potential as an additive in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutics formulations as a texture modifier, a fat replacer, and a drug carrier. Full article

The application of alkali-activated slag (AAS) cementing material to the curing of soft soil foundations has a good engineering application prospect and is economical and environmentally friendly. In this study, three different activators (Na₂O·nSiO₂, NaOH, Ca(OH)₂) were used to alkali-activate slag powder to solidify and improve soft soil in inland port areas. In order to explore the mechanical properties and strength formation mechanism of AAS-solidified soil under different activators, mechanical properties, and microscopic tests were carried out. Firstly, with unconfined compressive strength as the evaluation index, an orthogonal test of three factors, such as the type of activator, the amount of activator, and the amount of slag powder, was designed. Then, the unconfined compressive strength, resilience modulus, shear strength, and compression modulus of AAS-solidified soil were tested with the three activators under optimal dosage. Finally, phase composition, SEM-EDS, TG-DTG, and FT-IR analyses were carried out with the three AAS-solidified soils. The results show the following: (1) The factors affecting the unconfined compressive strength of AAS-solidified soil are ordered as follows: the type of activator > the amount of activator > the amount of slag powder. In addition, the optimal factors were as follows: activator type: Na₂O·nSiO₂; amount of activator: 3%; and amount of slag powder: 20%. (2) In considering the macroscopic mechanical properties, the effect of the activator is Na₂O·nSiO₂ > NaOH > Ca(OH)₂, and the Na₂O·nSiO₂ AAS-solidified soil has good early strength. (3) The hydration products of AAS are mainly C-A-S-H gel, N-A-S-H gel, and C-S-H gel, which increase the strength and cohesion of solidified soil. The results show that AAS-solidified soil with 0.7-modulus Na₂O·nSiO₂ as the activator has good engineering characteristics and can be used for curing soft soil foundations. Full article

This research paper evaluates the functional and nutritional properties of extruded corn snacks fortified with plant-based hemp protein (HP) and insect-derived cricket powder (CP). With a focus on sustainable protein sources due to growing environmental concerns and the need for alternative protein sources, this study aims to enhance the nutritional profile of corn snacks. The incorporation of unconventional proteins into snacks is explored to meet consumer demands for sustainable and nutritious options. Results show that HP-enriched snacks have higher mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, lower sodium content, and improved water interaction profiles. On the other hand, CP-fortified snacks exhibit higher protein content, essential amino acids, and moisture retention capabilities. Texture analysis reveals differences in hardness, cohesiveness, and springiness between HP and CP-enriched products. Moreover, color analysis indicates that HP and CP additives influence the color and appearance of the snacks, with CP enrichments leading to darker snacks. Sorption isotherm studies demonstrate varying hygroscopicity levels between HP- and CP-enriched samples, impacting their storage stability. Surface structure assessments show differences in the specific sorption surface area, suggesting unique properties attributed to each protein source. In conclusion, both hemp protein and cricket powder offer various advantages for snack fortification, providing opportunities to enhance nutritional profiles while addressing sustainability concerns. Full article

The powdered products industry demands certain parameters for the transport of these products, such as flowability. This has a direct impact on actions within the industry and in machinery development. For Coffea canephora, this information is absent in the relevant literature. Thus, the present study aimed to analyze alterations in the flow properties of Coffea canephora due to the degree of roasting, particle size, and storage temperature. Two degrees of roasting were used: medium light (ML) and moderately dark (MD). Later, the coffee was divided into four particle size categories: whole roasted coffee and coffee ground to fine, medium, and coarse sizes. These lots were kept at 10 °C and 30 °C and the flowability parameters were studied throughout the storage period (0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 days). The angle of internal friction presented higher values for higher degrees of roasting and lower values for larger particle sizes. The MD and fine coffee samples presented higher values for the wall friction angle. Steel provided the lowest values for the wall friction angle. Unground roasted coffee was classified as free-flowing, whilst coffee with a coarse or fine particle size was classified as having an easy flow and a cohesive flow, respectively. According to the K coefficient, coffee roasted to MD required storage containers that were more robust, such as having thicker silo walls or being constructed of a material with a higher resistance, to prevent the storage container from collapsing during transport. Full article

Background/Objectives: The pharmaceutical industry demands stringent regulation of product characteristics and strives to ensure the reproducibility of granules manufactured via the wet granulation process. A systematic model employing the discrete element method (DEM) was developed herein to gain insights into and better control this process. Methods: The model comprehensively simulates particle behavior during granulation by considering the intrinsic properties of the powder material, the specific geometry of the granulation equipment, and various operational conditions, including impeller speed and chopper use. Notably, this approach can simulate dynamic interactions among particles and integrate complex phenomena, such as cohesion, which is crucial for predicting the formation and quality of granules. Results: To further support process optimization, an EDEMpy artificial intelligence (AI) tool was developed as a posttreatment routine to monitor and analyze agglomerate size distributions, proving essential for assessing the efficiency of the granulation process and the quality of resulting granules. The DEM model was evaluated by comparing its output with experimental data collected from a 0.5 L high-shear granulator. The model reproduced the granule growth kinetics observed experimentally, confirming the agreement between the experimental and numerical analyses. Conclusions: This underscores the model’s potential in predicting and controlling granule quality in wet granulation processes, enhancing the precision and efficiency of pharmaceutical manufacturing. Full article

Pulmonary drug delivery is governed by three main categories of forces: interparticle forces in the powder formulation, the dispersion forces during inhalation by the device, and deposition forces in the lungs. The interaction between fine inhalable powder particles of the active ingredient is governed by various types of forces, such as capillary forces, electrostatic forces, and van der Waals forces. The different types of inter-particle interactions influence the balance between powder dispersibility and agglomerate stability. The high level of cohesion forces arising from high surface energy of very fine powder hinders powder flowability, leading to issues of agglomeration. Therefore, there is a critical need for advanced manufacturing techniques to overcome the challenges of handling and manufacture of fine cohesive particles, particularly high-dose powders for inhalation. This review will focus on the challenges facing the formulation process of very fine inhalable powder, the various types of existing particle engineering techniques for high-dose powder inhalers, and the characterization techniques employed to analyse the powder characteristics required to meet the acceptance criteria of inhalable preparations. Full article