Liposomes have revolutionized a wide range of fields including food and active packaging, offering targeted and controlled release of sensitive bioactive molecules. Yet, challenges persist regarding their structural stability and efficiency. In this exploratory project, Beta-LPS aims to harness the architecture of algae bilayers to address these challenges and pave the way for the development of next-generation liposomes. Betaine lipids are components of algae membranes, providing biological bilayers with unique thermodynamics. Can Betaine Lipids Enhance the Stability of Liposomal Systems Compared to Conventional Phospholipid Membranes? “Beta-LPS” delves with the unorthodox idea that mimicking the resilient mechanisms employed by marine organisms to adapt to environmental stressors will enhance the performance of liposomal delivery systems. Beta-LPS can lead to the discovery of novel building blocks to design high-performance and robust lipid-based delivery systems, nurturing the advancement of high-end blue technology applications.Description

This project builds on previous project (Biogrowth) that evaluated the efficacy of 11 commercially available plant biostimulants on table potatoes, snack carrots, and onions under both experimental and grower conditions in Denmark. The current project focus is to unlock deeper insights from the existing large dataset by applying advanced statistical methods—specifically Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)—to analyze the interdependencies and potential causal links among over 20 multivariate outcome variables related to growth, yield, and quality, both at harvest and post-harvest. Additionally, the project investigates how treatment effects vary across different environmental contexts using climate and soil variables from multiple trial locations and years.

The project is structured in three phases: advanced SEM-based analysis of trial data, preparation of a scientific publication to enhance methodological and practical understanding of biostimulant effects, and broad dissemination of findings to stakeholders through conferences, trade publications, and digital platforms.

The Project is conducted by Aarhus University, Department of Food Science, in close cooperation with the Danish Technological Institute for the implementation of the statistical analyses and broader dissemination.Description

Broccoli, cauliflower, and pointed cabbage are among the most popular vegetables in Denmark. Their consumption has risen rapidly due to their versatility and strong nutritional benefits, leading to increased demand.

CabExtend is working to meet this demand by extending the sales period of locally grown produce and by reducing food waste throughout the supply chain. For instance, broccoli has a very short shelf life in the summer if harvested too late and not cooled immediately. This can result in significant waste, with yellowing broccoli heads discarded in the fields, in storage, and during distribution. Similarly, unpackaged cauliflower and pointed cabbage often experience high waste levels in retail.

To address these challenges, CabExtend aims to boost Danish cabbage production while extending shelf life and expanding the sales window through advanced technologies and improved supply chain practices. Key initiatives include rapid cooling, optimizing storage conditions (temperature, humidity, ethylene levels) for both producers and retailers, and using controlled atmosphere (CA) storage. Additionally, real-time feedback based on digital twins will help monitor and adjust storage conditions to prevent spoilage.

The ultimate goal is to extend the season for broccoli, cauliflower, and pointed cabbage by 3 to 8 weeks, reduce food waste, and generate significant value at every stage of the supply chain. This approach will not only cut greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance profitability for producers and retailers alike.Description

ProFOAM is a fundamental research project aiming at understanding the mechanisms underpinning the foaming properties of plant albumins. The project will apply a wide range of soft matter tools at multiple length scales, together with an in-depth molecular understanding of the plant albumins.
The funding will initiate a new area of expertise in Denmark, through the mentoring of Prof. Corredig at AU and the close collaboration with renowned researchers at DTU (DK) and ILL (FR), with expertise in the structure of aqueous foam at the micro-scale.
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