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Bettelli MA, Hu Q, Capezza AJ, Johansson E, Olsson RT, Hedenqvist MS. Effects of multi-functional additives during foam extrusion of wheat gluten materials. Commun Chem 2024; 7:75. [PMID: 38570707 PMCID: PMC10991538 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01150-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To broaden the range in structures and properties, and therefore the applicability of sustainable foams based on wheat gluten expanded with ammonium-bicarbonate, we show here how three naturally ocurring multifunctional additives affect their properties. Citric acid yields foams with the lowest density (porosity of ~50%) with mainly closed cells. Gallic acid acts as a radical scavenger, yielding the least crosslinked/ aggregated foam. The use of a low amount of this acid yields foams with the highest uptake of the body-fluid model substance (saline, ~130% after 24 hours). However, foams with genipin show a large and rapid capillary uptake (50% in one second), due to their high content of open cells. The most dense and stiff foam is obtained with one weight percent genipin, which is also the most crosslinked. Overall, the foams show a high energy loss-rate under cyclic compression (84-92% at 50% strain), indicating promising cushioning behaviour. They also show a low compression set, indicating promising sealability. Overall, the work here provides a step towards using protein biofoams as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastic/rubber foams in applications where absorbent and/or mechanical properties play a key role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes A Bettelli
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Qisong Hu
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Antonio J Capezza
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 190, SE-234 22, Lomma, Sweden
| | - Richard T Olsson
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Hedenqvist
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 10044, Sweden.
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2
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Omidian H, Akhzarmehr A, Chowdhury SD. Advancements in Cellulose-Based Superabsorbent Hydrogels: Sustainable Solutions across Industries. Gels 2024; 10:174. [PMID: 38534592 DOI: 10.3390/gels10030174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of superabsorbent hydrogels is experiencing a transformative era across industries. While traditional synthetic hydrogels have found broad utility, their non-biodegradable nature has raised environmental concerns, driving the search for eco-friendlier alternatives. Cellulose-based superabsorbents, derived from sustainable sources, are gaining prominence. Innovations include biodegradable polymer hydrogels, natural cellulose-chitosan variants, and cassava starch-based alternatives. These materials are reshaping agriculture by enhancing soil fertility and water retention, serving as potent hemostatic agents in medicine, contributing to pollution control, and providing eco-friendly construction materials. Cellulose-based hydrogels also offer promise in drug delivery and hygiene products. Advanced characterization techniques aid in optimizing their properties, while the shift towards circular economy practices further highlights sustainability. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of these advancements, highlighting their diverse applications and environmental benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Omidian
- Barry & Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Arnavaz Akhzarmehr
- Barry & Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Sumana Dey Chowdhury
- Barry & Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
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3
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Jugé A, Moreno-Villafranca J, Perez-Puyana VM, Jiménez-Rosado M, Sabino M, Capezza AJ. Porous Thermoformed Protein Bioblends as Degradable Absorbent Alternatives in Sanitary Materials. ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS 2023; 5:6976-6989. [PMID: 37705711 PMCID: PMC10497054 DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.3c01027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Protein-based porous absorbent structures can be processed and assembled into configurations suitable for single-use, biodegradable sanitary materials. In this work, a formulation based on a mixture of proteins available as industrial coproducts is processed into continuous porous structures using extrusion and assembled using conventional thermal methods. The experimental design led to formulations solely based on zein-gluten protein bioblends that could be manufactured as liquid absorbent pellets, compressed pads, and/or porous films. The processing versatility is attributed to the synergistic effect of zein as a low viscosity thermoformable protein with gluten as a readily cross-linkable high molecular weight protein. The capillary-driven sorption, the biodegradability of the materials, and the possibility to assemble the products as multilayer components provide excellent performance indicators for their use as microplastic-free absorbents. This work shows the potential of biopolymers for manufacturing sustainable alternatives to current nonbiodegradable and highly polluting disposable items such as pads and diapers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnès Jugé
- KTH
Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division,
School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, Stockholm 10044, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Marcos Sabino
- B5IDA
Research Group Chemistry Department, Universidad
Simón Bolívar, AP 89000, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Antonio J. Capezza
- KTH
Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division,
School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, Stockholm 10044, Sweden
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4
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Jarpa-Parra M, Moraga-Bustos S, Gutiérrez-Turner E, Tabilo-Munizaga G. A Study on a Polymeric Foam Based on Pulse Proteins and Cellulose Fibrils. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:4965. [PMID: 37512240 PMCID: PMC10381842 DOI: 10.3390/ma16144965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Biofoams are a challenge for scientists in terms of innovation. Incorporation of cellulose fibrils (CF), might help improve the microstructure of foams, thus this study focuses on studying the impact of CF on the foaming properties and rheology of lentil protein (LP) foams at various pH and CF concentrations. Additionally, LP-CF mixtures were transformed into solid foams, and their microstructure, physical properties, and morphology were evaluated. CF concentration significantly impacted on LP-CF foam properties, primarily due to high viscosity values. Increased CF concentration resulted in improved FS values (up to 77 min) at all pH values. This is likely attributed to associative interactions and coacervates formation. Also, foam microstructure could be related to apparent viscosity, suggesting the role of viscosity in preserving the integrity of the wet foam structure during freezing and lyophilization processes. However, elevated viscosity values might negatively impact properties such as foaming capacity and produce denser microstructures. The microstructure and morphology analysis revealed that certain foams exhibited a sponge-like structure with open pores and semi-spherical shapes, supported by CF fibers extending and forming layers. However, the structure itself was irregular. While others exhibited non-uniform, irregular pore size, and shape, along with a denser structure. These findings contribute to understanding the behavior of LP-CF mixtures, although additional investigations on mechanical properties, biodegradability, and hydrophobicity are necessary to reach their full potential for various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Jarpa-Parra
- Núcleo de Investigación en Agroalimentos y Nutrición Aplicada, Universidad Adventista de Chile, Chillán 3780000, Chile
| | | | - Eduardo Gutiérrez-Turner
- Instituto de Estadística, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Facultad de Educación, Universidad Adventista de Chile, Chillán 3780000, Chile
| | - Gipsy Tabilo-Munizaga
- Food Engineering Department, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Av. Andrés Bello 720, Chillán 3780000, Chile
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5
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Newson W, Capezza AJ, Kuktaite R, Hedenqvist MS, Johansson E. Green Chemistry to Modify Functional Properties of Crambe Protein Isolate-Based Thermally Formed Films. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:20342-20351. [PMID: 37323394 PMCID: PMC10268266 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c00113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Proteins are promising precursors to be used in production of sustainable materials with properties resembling plastics, although protein modification or functionalization is often required to obtain suitable product characteristics. Here, effects of protein modification were evaluated by crosslinking behavior using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), secondary structure using infrared spectroscopy (IR), liquid imbibition and uptake, and tensile properties of six crambe protein isolates modified in solution before thermal pressing. The results showed that a basic pH (10), especially when combined with the commonly used, although moderately toxic, crosslinking agent glutaraldehyde (GA), resulted in a decrease in crosslinking in unpressed samples, as compared to acidic pH (4) samples. After pressing, a more crosslinked protein matrix with an increase in β-sheets was obtained in basic samples compared to acidic samples, mainly due to the formation of disulfide bonds, which led to an increase in tensile strength, and liquid uptake with less material resolved. A treatment of pH 10 + GA, combined either with a heat or citric acid treatment, did not increase crosslinking or improve the properties in pressed samples, as compared to pH 4 samples. Fenton treatment at pH 7.5 resulted in a similar amount of crosslinking as the pH 10 + GA treatment, although with a higher degree of peptide/irreversible bonds. The strong bond formation resulted in lack of opportunities to disintegrate the protein network by all extraction solutions tested (even for 6 M urea + 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate + 1% dithiothreitol). Thus, the highest crosslinking and best properties of the material produced from crambe protein isolates were obtained by pH 10 + GA and pH 7.5 + Fenton, where Fenton is a greener and more sustainable solution than GA. Therefore, chemical modification of crambe protein isolates is effecting both sustainability and crosslinking behavior, which might have an effect on product suitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- William
R. Newson
- Department
of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of
Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 190, SE-234 22 Lomma, Sweden
| | - Antonio J. Capezza
- Department
of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of
Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 190, SE-234 22 Lomma, Sweden
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Royal Institute
of Technology, SE-10044 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ramune Kuktaite
- Department
of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of
Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 190, SE-234 22 Lomma, Sweden
| | - Mikael S. Hedenqvist
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Royal Institute
of Technology, SE-10044 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department
of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of
Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 190, SE-234 22 Lomma, Sweden
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6
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Bettelli MA, Capezza AJ, Nilsson F, Johansson E, Olsson RT, Hedenqvist MS. Sustainable Wheat Protein Biofoams: Dry Upscalable Extrusion at Low Temperature. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:5116-5126. [PMID: 36349363 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Glycerol-plasticized wheat gluten was explored for producing soft high-density biofoams using dry upscalable extrusion (avoiding purposely added water). The largest pore size was obtained when using the food grade ammonium bicarbonate (ABC) as blowing agent, also resulting in the highest saline liquid uptake. Foams were, however, also obtained without adding a blowing agent, possibly due to a rapid moisture uptake by the dried protein powder when fed to the extruder. ABC's low decomposition temperature enabled extrusion of the material at a temperature as low as 70 °C, well below the protein aggregation temperature. Sodium bicarbonate (SBC), the most common food-grade blowing agent, did not yield the same high foam qualities. SBC's alkalinity, and the need to use a higher processing temperature (120 °C), resulted in high protein cross-linking and aggregation. The results show the potential of an energy-efficient and industrially upscalable low-temperature foam extrusion process for competitive production of sustainable biofoams using inexpensive and readily available protein obtained from industrial biomass (wheat gluten).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes A Bettelli
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm10044, Sweden
| | - Antonio J Capezza
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm10044, Sweden
| | - Fritjof Nilsson
- FSCN Research Centre, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall85170, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, SLU Swedish University of Agriculture Sciences, Alnarp, Box 190 Lomma, SE-23422, Sweden
| | - Richard T Olsson
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm10044, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Hedenqvist
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm10044, Sweden
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7
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Ye X, Capezza AJ, Davoodi S, Wei XF, Andersson RL, Chumakov A, Roth SV, Langton M, Lundell F, Hedenqvist MS, Lendel C. Robust Assembly of Cross-Linked Protein Nanofibrils into Hierarchically Structured Microfibers. ACS NANO 2022; 16:12471-12479. [PMID: 35904348 PMCID: PMC9413408 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c03790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Natural, high-performance fibers generally have hierarchically organized nanosized building blocks. Inspired by this, whey protein nanofibrils (PNFs) are assembled into microfibers, using flow-focusing. By adding genipin as a nontoxic cross-linker to the PNF suspension before spinning, significantly improved mechanical properties of the final fiber are obtained. For curved PNFs, with a low content of cross-linker (2%) the fiber is almost 3 times stronger and 4 times stiffer than the fiber without a cross-linker. At higher content of genipin (10%), the elongation at break increases by a factor of 2 and the energy at break increases by a factor of 5. The cross-linking also enables the spinning of microfibers from long straight PNFs, which has not been achieved before. These microfibers have higher stiffness and strength but lower ductility and toughness than those made from curved PNFs. The fibers spun from the two classes of nanofibrils show clear morphological differences. The study demonstrates the production of protein-based microfibers with mechanical properties similar to natural protein-based fibers and provides insights about the role of the nanostructure in the assembly process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinchen Ye
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio J. Capezza
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Saeed Davoodi
- Department
of Engineering Mechanics, KTH Royal Institute
of Technology, Teknikringen
8, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xin-Feng Wei
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Richard L. Andersson
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrei Chumakov
- Deutsches
Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestraße 85, D-22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan V. Roth
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
- Deutsches
Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestraße 85, D-22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maud Langton
- Department
of Molecular Sciences, SLU, Swedish University
of Agricultural Sciences, BioCentrum, Almas allé 5, SE-756
61, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Lundell
- Department
of Engineering Mechanics, KTH Royal Institute
of Technology, Teknikringen
8, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael S. Hedenqvist
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56-58, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christofer Lendel
- Department
of Chemistry, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 30, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
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8
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Muneer F, Hedenqvist MS, Hall S, Kuktaite R. Innovative Green Way to Design Biobased Electrospun Fibers from Wheat Gluten and These Fibers’ Potential as Absorbents of Biofluids. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2022; 2:232-241. [PMID: 37102143 PMCID: PMC10125173 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.1c00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a new method was developed to successfully design sustainable microfibers from wheat gluten proteins using a nonreducing solvent and electrospinning. We explored the morphology by X-ray tomography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), protein chemistry and cross-linking by size exclusion-high-performance liquid chromatography (SE-HPLC), and secondary structure by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) of fibers containing 15 and 20% of gluten. The impact of heat (130 °C) post-treatment on the polymerization properties of fibers and their absorption performance in different biofluids were also evaluated. The fibers with 20% gluten showed a uniform architecture supported by a relatively stronger fibrous network as compared to irregular and brittle fibers from 15% gluten. Heat treatment of fibers increased the protein cross-linking in all electrospun fibers as compared to the non-heat-treated fibers, as evidenced by SE-HPLC. An increase in the amount of α-helices and random coils was observed in the proteins of all of the heat-treated fibers compared to the nontreated fibers by FT-IR. This suggested that the heat treatment contributed positively to the gluten protein's chemical rearrangements, e.g., aggregation, new hydrogen and isopeptide bonding, and conversion of some of the sulfhydryl groups into disulfide cross-links, contributing positively to the functional performance. The heat-treated electrospun fibers with 20% gluten showed a very attractive blood absorption capacity (323%) and reasonable stability in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) buffer compared to 15% gluten fibers and non-heat-treated fibers. Cotton-like fiber architecture, high blood absorption capacity, and reasonable stability in PBS buffer are properties desired for absorbents of biofluids and should be further explored in healthcare and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Muneer
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 190, SE-23422 Lomma, Sweden
| | - Mikael S. Hedenqvist
- Fiber and Polymer Technology Department, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stephen Hall
- Solid Mechanics, Lund Institute of Advanced Neutron and X-ray Science (LINXS), Lund University, Box
117, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ramune Kuktaite
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 190, SE-23422 Lomma, Sweden
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9
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Investigating the microbial and metalloprotease sequestration properties of superabsorbent wound dressings. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4747. [PMID: 35306513 PMCID: PMC8934342 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08361-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractExudate production is a natural part of the wound healing process, however levels of exudate need to be appropriately managed to maintain a moist wound environment which supports healing. An overly-exuding wound creates an environment favourable to bacterial growth. In recent years, a significant increase in commercially available superabsorbent dressings have become available which claim to absorb and retain excess exudate and its components. However, the effectiveness of these dressings in sequestering and retaining bacteria and host-derived proteins has not been compared. We have therefore investigated several superabsorbent dressings for their ability to absorb and retain bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), their impact on bacterial viability, and their ability to sequester matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and 9 over 7 days. Whilst all dressings could sequester bacteria, some dressings internalised bacteria more effectively. There was considerable variation in bacterial viability within the dressings’ core, as well as differences in bacterial retention. Some dressings effectively internalised and retained bacteria over time, whereas other dressings retained significantly less. These differences were reflected visually using scanning electron microscopy. Most dressings fully sequestered MMP-2 and 9. These data illustrate differences in the ability of superabsorbent dressings to absorb and retain exudate and its components.
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10
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Improving the Hydrophilicity of Flexible Polyurethane Foams with Sodium Acrylate Polymer. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14092197. [PMID: 33922943 PMCID: PMC8123336 DOI: 10.3390/ma14092197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hydrophilic, flexible polyurethane (FPU) foams made from Hypol prepolymers are capable of retaining large amounts of water and saline solutions. The addition of different catalysts and surfactant agents to Hypol JM 5008 prepolymer was assayed to obtain a foam with good structural stability and elasticity. The combination of three catalysts, stannous octoate and two amine-based ones (Tegoamin 33 and Tegoamin BDE), and the surfactant Niax silicone L-620LV allowed to synthesize a foam with a homogeneous cell size distribution, exhibiting the highest saline absorption capacity (2.4 g/gram of foam) and almost complete shape recovery, with up to a 20% of remaining deformation. Then, superabsorbent sodium acrylate polymer (PNaA) was added to the FPU foam up to 8 pph. The urine absorption capacity of the foam was increased about 24.8% by incorporating 6 pph of PNaA, absorbing 17.46 g of saline solution per foam gram, without any negative impact on the rest of the foam properties. All these properties make the synthesized foams suitable for corporal fluids absorption applications in which elasticity and low-density are required.
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11
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Capezza AJ, Muneer F, Prade T, Newson WR, Das O, Lundman M, Olsson RT, Hedenqvist MS, Johansson E. Acylation of agricultural protein biomass yields biodegradable superabsorbent plastics. Commun Chem 2021; 4:52. [PMID: 36697586 PMCID: PMC9814733 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-021-00491-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) are a central component of hygiene and medical products requiring high liquid swelling, but these SAP are commonly derived from petroleum resources. Here, we show that sustainable and biodegradable SAP can be produced by acylation of the agricultural potato protein side-stream (PPC) with a non-toxic dianhydride (EDTAD). Treatment of the PPC yields a material with a water swelling capacity of ca. 2400%, which is ten times greater than the untreated PPC. Acylation was also performed on waste potato fruit juice (PFJ), i.e. before the industrial treatment to precipitate the PPC. The use of PFJ for the acylation implies a saving of 320 000 tons as CO2 in greenhouse gas emissions per year by avoiding the industrial drying of the PFJ to obtain the PPC. The acylated PPC shows biodegradation and resistance to mould growth. The possibilities to produce a biodegradable SAP from the PPC allows for future fabrication of environment-friendly and disposable daily-care products, e.g. diapers and sanitary pads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J. Capezza
- grid.5037.10000000121581746Fibre and Polymer Technology Department, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden ,Plant Breeding Department, SLU Alnarp, Lomma, Sweden
| | - Faraz Muneer
- Plant Breeding Department, SLU Alnarp, Lomma, Sweden
| | - Thomas Prade
- Biosystems and Technology Department, SLU Alnarp, Lomma, Sweden
| | | | - Oisik Das
- grid.6926.b0000 0001 1014 8699Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Structural and Fire Engineering Division, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | | | - Richard T. Olsson
- grid.5037.10000000121581746Fibre and Polymer Technology Department, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael S. Hedenqvist
- grid.5037.10000000121581746Fibre and Polymer Technology Department, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Plant Breeding Department, SLU Alnarp, Lomma, Sweden
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12
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Abstract
Raw wood was subjected to sequential oxidation to produce 2,3,6-tricarboxycellulose (TCC) nanofibers with a high surficial charge of 1.14 mmol/g in the form of carboxylate groups. Three oxidation steps, including nitro-oxidation, periodate, and sodium chlorite oxidation, were successfully applied to generate TCC nanofibers from raw wood. The morphology of extracted TCC nanofibers measured using TEM and AFM indicated the average length, width, and thickness were in the range of 750 ± 110, 4.5 ± 1.8, and 1.23 nm, respectively. Due to high negative surficial charges on TCC, it was studied for its absorption capabilities against Pb2+ ions. The remediation results indicated that a low concentration of TCC nanofibers (0.02 wt%) was able to remove a wide range of Pb2+ ion impurities from 5–250 ppm with an efficiency between 709–99%, whereby the maximum adsorption capacity (Qm) was 1569 mg/g with R2 0.69531 calculated from Langmuir fitting. It was observed that the high adsorption capacity of TCC nanofibers was due to the collective effect of adsorption and precipitation confirmed by the FTIR and SEM/EDS analysis. The high carboxylate content and fiber morphology of TCC has enabled it as an excellent substrate to remove Pb2+ ions impurities.
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13
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Abstract
In the last decades, many studies have been conducted on new materials to meet a growing industrial demand and to move scientific research forward. Superabsorbents are good examples of materials that have generated special attention in many fields for their ability to absorb and retain water up to 1000 times of their dry weight. They found many applications in hygiene products and other products, for a fast growing market of USD 9.58 Billion in 2019. Most of them are composed of synthetic polymers, which are often not environmentally friendly. Therefore, natural superabsorbents and particularly those based on polysaccharides have received a recent increased interest for their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and renewability. This review focuses on polysaccharide-based superabsorbents, on their properties, synthesis methods, and characterization. Their potential applications in many fields, such as biomedical and hygiene, agriculture, water treatment, and the building sector, are also reported with an interest in products already marketed.
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14
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He X, Lu W, Sun C, Khalesi H, Mata A, Andaleeb R, Fang Y. Cellulose and cellulose derivatives: Different colloidal states and food-related applications. Carbohydr Polym 2020; 255:117334. [PMID: 33436177 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2020.117334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Development of new sources and isolation processes has recently enhanced the production of cellulose in many different colloidal states. Even though cellulose is widely used as a functional ingredient in the food industry, the relationship between the colloidal states of cellulose and its applications is mostly unknown. This review covers the recent progress on illustrating various colloidal states of cellulose and the influencing factors with special emphasis on the correlation between the colloidal states of cellulose and its applications in food industry. The associated unique colloidal states of cellulose like high aspect ratio, crystalline structure, surface charge, and wettability not only promote the stability of colloidal systems, but also help improve the nutritional aspects of cellulose by facilitating its interactions with digestive system. Further studies are required for the rational control and improvement of the colloidal states of cellulose and producing food systems with enhanced functional and nutritional properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxiang He
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Cuixia Sun
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hoda Khalesi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Analucia Mata
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Rani Andaleeb
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yapeng Fang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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15
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Ceresino EB, Kuktaite R, Hedenqvist MS, Sato HH, Johansson E. Processing conditions and transglutaminase sources to “drive” the wheat gluten dough quality. INNOV FOOD SCI EMERG 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ifset.2020.102439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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16
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White JS, Stewart KL, Maskell DL, Diallo A, Traub-Modinger JE, Willoughby NA. Characterization of Pot Ale from a Scottish Malt Whisky Distillery and Potential Applications. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:6429-6440. [PMID: 32258878 PMCID: PMC7114139 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b04023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Over 2.7 billion liters of pot ale is produced annually as a co-product of Scottish malt whisky, and apart from evaporation to pot ale syrup as a feed, it is primarily treated by anaerobic digestion or land/sea disposal. The aim of this study was to assess pot ale components and their potential applications. The insoluble solid fraction, mainly consisting of yeast, contained 55% protein, and as a protein feed ingredient, this could yield 32,400 tons of feed per annum, although the Cu content of this fraction would need to be monitored. The liquid fraction could yield 33,900 tons of protein per annum, and an SDS-PAGE profile of this fraction demonstrated that the proteins may be similar to those found in beer, which could extend their application as a food ingredient. This fraction also contained phosphorus, potassium, and polyphenols among other components, which could have added value. Overall, fractionation of pot ale could offer an alternative to evaporation to pot ale syrup while retaining the protein fraction in the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane S. White
- International Centre
for Brewing and Distilling, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K.
- Horizon
Proteins Ltd., 7-9 North
Saint David Street, Edinburgh EH2 1AW, U.K.
| | - Kelly L. Stewart
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering,
School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K.
| | - Dawn L. Maskell
- International Centre
for Brewing and Distilling, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K.
| | - Aboubakry Diallo
- Horizon
Proteins Ltd., 7-9 North
Saint David Street, Edinburgh EH2 1AW, U.K.
| | | | - Nik A. Willoughby
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering,
School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K.
- Horizon
Proteins Ltd., 7-9 North
Saint David Street, Edinburgh EH2 1AW, U.K.
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17
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Rasheed F, Markgren J, Hedenqvist M, Johansson E. Modeling to Understand Plant Protein Structure-Function Relationships-Implications for Seed Storage Proteins. Molecules 2020; 25:E873. [PMID: 32079172 PMCID: PMC7071054 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25040873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteins are among the most important molecules on Earth. Their structure and aggregation behavior are key to their functionality in living organisms and in protein-rich products. Innovations, such as increased computer size and power, together with novel simulation tools have improved our understanding of protein structure-function relationships. This review focuses on various proteins present in plants and modeling tools that can be applied to better understand protein structures and their relationship to functionality, with particular emphasis on plant storage proteins. Modeling of plant proteins is increasing, but less than 9% of deposits in the Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics Protein Data Bank come from plant proteins. Although, similar tools are applied as in other proteins, modeling of plant proteins is lagging behind and innovative methods are rarely used. Molecular dynamics and molecular docking are commonly used to evaluate differences in forms or mutants, and the impact on functionality. Modeling tools have also been used to describe the photosynthetic machinery and its electron transfer reactions. Storage proteins, especially in large and intrinsically disordered prolamins and glutelins, have been significantly less well-described using modeling. These proteins aggregate during processing and form large polymers that correlate with functionality. The resulting structure-function relationships are important for processed storage proteins, so modeling and simulation studies, using up-to-date models, algorithms, and computer tools are essential for obtaining a better understanding of these relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Rasheed
- Department of Plant Breeding, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (F.R.); (J.M.)
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE–100 44 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Joel Markgren
- Department of Plant Breeding, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (F.R.); (J.M.)
| | - Mikael Hedenqvist
- School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE–100 44 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (F.R.); (J.M.)
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18
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Capezza AJ, Robert E, Lundman M, Newson WR, Johansson E, Hedenqvist MS, Olsson RT. Extrusion of Porous Protein-Based Polymers and Their Liquid Absorption Characteristics. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12020459. [PMID: 32079125 PMCID: PMC7077648 DOI: 10.3390/polym12020459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of porous wheat gluten (WG) absorbent materials by means of extrusion processing is presented for the future development of sustainable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). Different temperatures, formulations, and WG compositions were used to determine a useful protocol that provides the best combination of porosity and water swelling properties. The most optimal formulation was based on 50 wt.% WG in water that was processed at 80 °C as a mixture, which provided a porous core structure with a denser outer shell. As a green foaming agent, food-grade sodium bicarbonate was added during the processing, which allowed the formation of a more open porous material. This extruded WG material was able to swell 280% in water and, due to the open-cell structure, 28% with non-polar limonene. The results are paving the way towards production of porous bio macromolecular structures with high polar/non-polar liquid uptake, using extrusion as a solvent free and energy efficient production technique without toxic reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J. Capezza
- Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.R.); (M.S.H.)
- Department of Plant Breeding, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, BOX 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (W.R.N.); (E.J.)
- Correspondence: (A.J.C.); (R.T.O.); Tel.: +46-762-301654 (A.J.C.); +46-732-701868 (R.T.O.)
| | - Eva Robert
- Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.R.); (M.S.H.)
| | - Malin Lundman
- Essity Hygiene and Health AB, SE-405 03 Gothenburg, Sweden;
| | - William R. Newson
- Department of Plant Breeding, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, BOX 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (W.R.N.); (E.J.)
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, BOX 101, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden; (W.R.N.); (E.J.)
| | - Mikael S. Hedenqvist
- Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.R.); (M.S.H.)
| | - Richard T. Olsson
- Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 56, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden; (E.R.); (M.S.H.)
- Correspondence: (A.J.C.); (R.T.O.); Tel.: +46-762-301654 (A.J.C.); +46-732-701868 (R.T.O.)
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Capezza AJ, Lundman M, Olsson RT, Newson WR, Hedenqvist MS, Johansson E. Carboxylated Wheat Gluten Proteins: A Green Solution for Production of Sustainable Superabsorbent Materials. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:1709-1719. [PMID: 31899621 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b01646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Functionalized wheat gluten (WG) protein particles with the ability to absorb fluids within the superabsorbent range are presented. Ethyleneditetraacetic dianhydride (EDTAD), a nontoxic acylation agent, was used for the functionalization of the WG protein at higher protein content than previously reported and no additional chemical cross-linking. The 150-550 μm protein particles had 50-150 nm nanopores induced by drying. The EDTAD treated WG were able to absorb 22, 5, and 3 times of, respectively, water, saline and blood, per gram of dry material (g/g), corresponding to 1000, 150 and 100% higher values than for the as-received WG powder. The liquid retention capacity after centrifugation revealed that almost 50% of the saline liquid was retained within the protein network, which is similar to that for petroleum-based superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). An advantageous feature of these biobased particulate materials is that the maximum swelling is obtained within the first 10 min of exposure, that is, in contrast to many commercial SAP alternatives. The large swelling in a denaturation agent (6 M urea) solution (about 32 g/g) suggests that the secondary entangled/folded structure of the protein restricts protein network expansion and when disrupted allows the absorption of even higher amounts of liquid. The increased liquid uptake, utilization of inexpensive protein coproducts, easy scalable protocols, and absence of any toxic chemicals make these new WG-based SAP particles an interesting alternative to petroleum-based SAP in, for example, absorbent disposable hygiene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio J Capezza
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.,Department of Plant Breeding, Faculty of Landscape Planning, Horticulturem and Crop Production Sciences, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 23053, Sweden
| | - Malin Lundman
- Essity Hygiene and Health AB, SE-405 03, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Richard T Olsson
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden
| | - William R Newson
- Department of Plant Breeding, Faculty of Landscape Planning, Horticulturem and Crop Production Sciences, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 23053, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Hedenqvist
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, Polymeric Materials Division, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden
| | - Eva Johansson
- Department of Plant Breeding, Faculty of Landscape Planning, Horticulturem and Crop Production Sciences, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp 23053, Sweden
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