2026 Vol. 41, No. 4
2026, 41(4)
:1-12.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.001
Abstract:
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or RNA molecules selected through Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). They are widely employed as molecular probes in areas such as food safety and biomedicine. However, aptamers derived from conventional SELEX often show limitations in affinity, specificity, and stability. To overcome these shortcomings, post-SELEX optimization technology developed in recent years enable multidimensional synergistic improvements, thereby enhancing aptamer performance in practical applications. This review classifies and summarizes post-SELEX technology into three main strategies: truncation, chemical modification, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted optimization. Studies indicate that truncation can markedly enhance binding affinity, chemical modification effectively improves stability, and AI-assisted approaches substantially increase the success rate of targeted aptamer engineering. However, each technology has inherent limitations. Truncation risks disrupting key binding domains, chemical modification may compromise affinity, and AI-assisted approaches are often challenged by data scarcity. Nevertheless, the application of these technologies has significantly improved the overall performance of aptamers, providing crucial technical support for broadening their industrial applications. Future research will focus on developing integrated strategies that combine truncation, chemical modification, and AI; elucidating the mechanisms underlying aptamer structure-activity relationships; and constructing dedicated aptamer databases, so as to promote the industrial translation of aptamers.
Aptamers are single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) or RNA molecules selected through Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). They are widely employed as molecular probes in areas such as food safety and biomedicine. However, aptamers derived from conventional SELEX often show limitations in affinity, specificity, and stability. To overcome these shortcomings, post-SELEX optimization technology developed in recent years enable multidimensional synergistic improvements, thereby enhancing aptamer performance in practical applications. This review classifies and summarizes post-SELEX technology into three main strategies: truncation, chemical modification, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted optimization. Studies indicate that truncation can markedly enhance binding affinity, chemical modification effectively improves stability, and AI-assisted approaches substantially increase the success rate of targeted aptamer engineering. However, each technology has inherent limitations. Truncation risks disrupting key binding domains, chemical modification may compromise affinity, and AI-assisted approaches are often challenged by data scarcity. Nevertheless, the application of these technologies has significantly improved the overall performance of aptamers, providing crucial technical support for broadening their industrial applications. Future research will focus on developing integrated strategies that combine truncation, chemical modification, and AI; elucidating the mechanisms underlying aptamer structure-activity relationships; and constructing dedicated aptamer databases, so as to promote the industrial translation of aptamers.
2026, 41(4)
:13-28.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.002
Abstract:
【Objective】 To elucidate the flavor differences of Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from different origins and identify their key aroma compounds.【Methods】 Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) combined with electronic nose and electronic tongue was used to analyze the volatile compounds in Thymus mongolicus Ronn. samples from three origins: Luoyang (Henan), Kunming (Yunnan), and Guangzhou (Guangdong). Odor activity values (OAV) were then employed to screen the characteristic aroma compounds.【Results】 A total of 101 compounds were identified, predominantly alcohols (23), aldehydes (19), and ketones (19). Both the number and total content of volatile compounds in Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from Henan and Guangdong were higher than those from Yunnan. Significant differences in the contents of characteristic aroma compounds were observed among samples from different origins. Eighteen common characteristic aroma compounds meeting both VIP>1 and OAV≥1 were identified, notably thymol, (Z)-2-hexenal, methyl isovalerate-D, and (E)-2-hexenal. Yunnan samples showed higher relative contents of alcohols, ketones, and heterocyclic compounds, with a relatively balanced aroma; Henan samples had the highest contents of phenols, aldehydes, and sulfur-containing compounds, accompanied by pronounced bitterness and astringency; Guangdong samples were rich in alkenes and esters, exhibiting prominent umami and saltiness. Geographical and climatic conditions significantly influenced the contents of characteristic flavor compounds. A significant positive correlation was found between latitude and (E)-2-hexenal, whereas a significant negative correlation was observed between latitude and isobutyraldehyde. In addition, higher temperatures promoted the accumulation of methyl isovalerate-D.【Conclusion】 GC-IMS combined with electronic sensory techniques can rapidly discriminate Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from different origins, offering a valuable reference for the traceability and further application of its characteristic flavor compounds.
【Objective】 To elucidate the flavor differences of Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from different origins and identify their key aroma compounds.【Methods】 Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) combined with electronic nose and electronic tongue was used to analyze the volatile compounds in Thymus mongolicus Ronn. samples from three origins: Luoyang (Henan), Kunming (Yunnan), and Guangzhou (Guangdong). Odor activity values (OAV) were then employed to screen the characteristic aroma compounds.【Results】 A total of 101 compounds were identified, predominantly alcohols (23), aldehydes (19), and ketones (19). Both the number and total content of volatile compounds in Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from Henan and Guangdong were higher than those from Yunnan. Significant differences in the contents of characteristic aroma compounds were observed among samples from different origins. Eighteen common characteristic aroma compounds meeting both VIP>1 and OAV≥1 were identified, notably thymol, (Z)-2-hexenal, methyl isovalerate-D, and (E)-2-hexenal. Yunnan samples showed higher relative contents of alcohols, ketones, and heterocyclic compounds, with a relatively balanced aroma; Henan samples had the highest contents of phenols, aldehydes, and sulfur-containing compounds, accompanied by pronounced bitterness and astringency; Guangdong samples were rich in alkenes and esters, exhibiting prominent umami and saltiness. Geographical and climatic conditions significantly influenced the contents of characteristic flavor compounds. A significant positive correlation was found between latitude and (E)-2-hexenal, whereas a significant negative correlation was observed between latitude and isobutyraldehyde. In addition, higher temperatures promoted the accumulation of methyl isovalerate-D.【Conclusion】 GC-IMS combined with electronic sensory techniques can rapidly discriminate Thymus mongolicus Ronn. from different origins, offering a valuable reference for the traceability and further application of its characteristic flavor compounds.
2026, 41(4)
:29-43.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.003
Abstract:
【Objective】 To improve the thawing quality of frozen bluefin tuna products.【Methods】 Frozen Thunnus maccoyii was used as the research material and thawed by four methods: cold storage thawing (CST), microwave thawing (MT), magnetic field thawing (MFT) and low-voltage electrostatic field thawing (LEFT). The changes in water-holding capacity, water distribution, color, myoglobin redox substances, textural properties, freshness and volatile flavor compounds were systematically investigated.【Results】 The CST group exhibited the most serious quality deterioration, and its cooking loss rate, centrifugal loss rate and thawing loss rate were significantly higher than those of other groups (P<0.05). The proportion of methemoglobin reached up to 31.93%, the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value and total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content were 0.19 mg MDA/kg and 0.185 9 mg/g, respectively, with a relatively high relative concentration of 2-pentanone. Meanwhile, the CST group showed the highest myoglobin oxidation degree and a low α-helix content (19.83%), which was unfavorable to the stability of myoglobin secondary structure. The MT group better maintained the color of Thunnus maccoyii, and its a*/b* value (2.97) was significantly higher than that of other groups. However, the uneven heating of MT treatment led to inhomogeneous water distribution and poor water-holding capacity of muscle tissue, accompanied by severe oxidative denaturation of myoglobin. MFT could inhibit the formation of large ice crystals and significantly maintain the water-holding capacity and textural properties of Thunnus maccoyii. The hardness (566.73 g) and chewiness (228.98 mJ) of the MFT group were significantly higher than those of other groups, and its total sulfhydryl content was the highest (277.05 nmol/mg), which could inhibit the oxidative denaturation of myoglobin to a certain extent. The LEFT group showed the optimal overall quality maintenance with favorable water-holding capacity, and the proportion of immobilized water reached up to 97.33%. It had the lowest TVB-N content (0.157 2 mg/g), the smallest particle size (199.95 nm) and the highest solubility (84.37%), which effectively reduced the oxidative denaturation degree of myoglobin. Moreover, both the ultraviolet absorption spectrum and intrinsic fluorescence spectrum of myoglobin in the LEFT group presented the highest absorption peaks, contributing to better stability of myoglobin tertiary structure and intact muscle tissue. In addition, 70 volatile flavor compounds were identified in the four treatment groups, mainly including aldehydes, esters, alcohols and ketones.【Conclusion】 LEFT has obvious advantages in inhibiting myoglobin oxidative denaturation, maintaining freshness and muscle tissue integrity, and can be used as an effective strategy to improve the thawing quality of Thunnus maccoyii.
【Objective】 To improve the thawing quality of frozen bluefin tuna products.【Methods】 Frozen Thunnus maccoyii was used as the research material and thawed by four methods: cold storage thawing (CST), microwave thawing (MT), magnetic field thawing (MFT) and low-voltage electrostatic field thawing (LEFT). The changes in water-holding capacity, water distribution, color, myoglobin redox substances, textural properties, freshness and volatile flavor compounds were systematically investigated.【Results】 The CST group exhibited the most serious quality deterioration, and its cooking loss rate, centrifugal loss rate and thawing loss rate were significantly higher than those of other groups (P<0.05). The proportion of methemoglobin reached up to 31.93%, the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value and total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content were 0.19 mg MDA/kg and 0.185 9 mg/g, respectively, with a relatively high relative concentration of 2-pentanone. Meanwhile, the CST group showed the highest myoglobin oxidation degree and a low α-helix content (19.83%), which was unfavorable to the stability of myoglobin secondary structure. The MT group better maintained the color of Thunnus maccoyii, and its a*/b* value (2.97) was significantly higher than that of other groups. However, the uneven heating of MT treatment led to inhomogeneous water distribution and poor water-holding capacity of muscle tissue, accompanied by severe oxidative denaturation of myoglobin. MFT could inhibit the formation of large ice crystals and significantly maintain the water-holding capacity and textural properties of Thunnus maccoyii. The hardness (566.73 g) and chewiness (228.98 mJ) of the MFT group were significantly higher than those of other groups, and its total sulfhydryl content was the highest (277.05 nmol/mg), which could inhibit the oxidative denaturation of myoglobin to a certain extent. The LEFT group showed the optimal overall quality maintenance with favorable water-holding capacity, and the proportion of immobilized water reached up to 97.33%. It had the lowest TVB-N content (0.157 2 mg/g), the smallest particle size (199.95 nm) and the highest solubility (84.37%), which effectively reduced the oxidative denaturation degree of myoglobin. Moreover, both the ultraviolet absorption spectrum and intrinsic fluorescence spectrum of myoglobin in the LEFT group presented the highest absorption peaks, contributing to better stability of myoglobin tertiary structure and intact muscle tissue. In addition, 70 volatile flavor compounds were identified in the four treatment groups, mainly including aldehydes, esters, alcohols and ketones.【Conclusion】 LEFT has obvious advantages in inhibiting myoglobin oxidative denaturation, maintaining freshness and muscle tissue integrity, and can be used as an effective strategy to improve the thawing quality of Thunnus maccoyii.
2026, 41(4)
:44-56.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.004
Abstract:
【Objective】 To investigate the effects of chestnut shell pigment (CSP) content on the physicochemical and functional properties of sodium alginate/carboxymethyl cellulose (SA/CMC) films and on their strawberry preservation performance.【Methods】 Active packaging films were prepared via solution casting using CSP, SA, and CMC as the matrix. Their physicochemical properties, optical properties, antioxidant activity, and structure were characterized, and their preservation performance on strawberries was evaluated.【Results】 The films loaded with different mass fractions of CSP exhibited significant differences in their physicochemical properties, optical properties, and antioxidant activity. CSP exhibited good compatibility with the film matrix, forming a compact three-dimensional network structure mainly through intermolecular hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, which in turn increased the film thickness, opacity, tensile strength, and water vapor transmission rate, and improved the CO2/O2 transmission ratio. Among them, the film containing 3% CSP(SA/CMC/CSP-3) exhibited the best overall performance, with a tensile strength of 32.79 MPa, an elongation at break of 31.40%, an oxygen transmission rate of 18.79×10-7 cm3/(m2·24 h·Pa), a carbon dioxide transmission rate of 1.51×10-5 cm3/(m2·24 h·Pa), and a CO2/O2 transmission ratio of 8.04∶1, making it more suitable for packaging fruits and vegetables with high respiration rates. In addition, the incorporation of CSP significantly enhanced the UV-blocking ability and antioxidant capacity of the films. The DPPH radical scavenging rates of SA/CMC/CSP-3 and SA/CMC/CSP-5 were 90.17% and 93.67%, respectively, and the ABTS+ radical scavenging rates were 81.40% and 98.58%, respectively. Compared with strawberries packaged with the SA/CMC film, those packaged with SA/CMC/CSP-3 showed reductions in weight loss and decay rate of 2.0% and 17.0%, respectively, on the 7th day of storage.【Conclusion】 The SA/CMC/CSP-3 film exhibited good physicochemical and optical properties and antioxidant activity, effectively delaying moisture loss and spoilage in strawberries and demonstrating a good preservation effect.
【Objective】 To investigate the effects of chestnut shell pigment (CSP) content on the physicochemical and functional properties of sodium alginate/carboxymethyl cellulose (SA/CMC) films and on their strawberry preservation performance.【Methods】 Active packaging films were prepared via solution casting using CSP, SA, and CMC as the matrix. Their physicochemical properties, optical properties, antioxidant activity, and structure were characterized, and their preservation performance on strawberries was evaluated.【Results】 The films loaded with different mass fractions of CSP exhibited significant differences in their physicochemical properties, optical properties, and antioxidant activity. CSP exhibited good compatibility with the film matrix, forming a compact three-dimensional network structure mainly through intermolecular hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, which in turn increased the film thickness, opacity, tensile strength, and water vapor transmission rate, and improved the CO2/O2 transmission ratio. Among them, the film containing 3% CSP(SA/CMC/CSP-3) exhibited the best overall performance, with a tensile strength of 32.79 MPa, an elongation at break of 31.40%, an oxygen transmission rate of 18.79×10-7 cm3/(m2·24 h·Pa), a carbon dioxide transmission rate of 1.51×10-5 cm3/(m2·24 h·Pa), and a CO2/O2 transmission ratio of 8.04∶1, making it more suitable for packaging fruits and vegetables with high respiration rates. In addition, the incorporation of CSP significantly enhanced the UV-blocking ability and antioxidant capacity of the films. The DPPH radical scavenging rates of SA/CMC/CSP-3 and SA/CMC/CSP-5 were 90.17% and 93.67%, respectively, and the ABTS+ radical scavenging rates were 81.40% and 98.58%, respectively. Compared with strawberries packaged with the SA/CMC film, those packaged with SA/CMC/CSP-3 showed reductions in weight loss and decay rate of 2.0% and 17.0%, respectively, on the 7th day of storage.【Conclusion】 The SA/CMC/CSP-3 film exhibited good physicochemical and optical properties and antioxidant activity, effectively delaying moisture loss and spoilage in strawberries and demonstrating a good preservation effect.
2026, 41(4)
:57-65,103.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.005
Abstract:
【Objective】 To develop novel compound flavor-loaded granules of black plum for cigarette filter rod flavoring.【Methods】 Black plum extract was first prepared by water extraction and then blended with other flavorings to obtain a black plum compound flavor. The preparation process of the inclusion complex of the black plum compound flavor was optimized using the loading rate as the indicator. The black plum compound flavor-loaded granules were prepared by a spheronization method, and their physical properties and stability were analyzed. The volatile aroma components of the granules were analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). Finally, the granules were added to cigarette filter rods for flavoring, followed by mainstream smoke analysis and sensory evaluation.【Results】 The formulated black plum compound flavor exhibited rich aromatic notes, featuring prominent sweet and sour notes along with floral, fruity, and balsamic notes. The optimal addition amount of the compound flavor was 300 mg/g, at which the inclusion complex achieved the maximum loading rate and the highest flavor utilization rate. The black plum compound flavor-loaded granules were light-yellow spherical particles approximately 0.6 mm in diameter, with an angle of repose of 31.81°, a bulk density of 0.814 3 g/cm3, and an average moisture content of 20.63%. A total of 39 volatile aroma compounds, including phenethyl alcohol and benzaldehyde, were identified in the granules, imparting composite notes such as floral, fruity, and creamy aromas. After 30 days of storage, the total residual content of aroma compounds in the granules was 60.82%, significantly higher than that of the black plum compound flavor (23.01%). The addition of 10 mg of these granules to the filter rod significantly improved aroma quality and intensity, reduced irritation and off-flavor, and resulted in good overall harmony.【Conclusion】 The developed compound flavor-loaded granules of black plum can effectively load and stabilize volatile aroma compounds, thereby significantly improving the sensory quality of cigarettes.
【Objective】 To develop novel compound flavor-loaded granules of black plum for cigarette filter rod flavoring.【Methods】 Black plum extract was first prepared by water extraction and then blended with other flavorings to obtain a black plum compound flavor. The preparation process of the inclusion complex of the black plum compound flavor was optimized using the loading rate as the indicator. The black plum compound flavor-loaded granules were prepared by a spheronization method, and their physical properties and stability were analyzed. The volatile aroma components of the granules were analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). Finally, the granules were added to cigarette filter rods for flavoring, followed by mainstream smoke analysis and sensory evaluation.【Results】 The formulated black plum compound flavor exhibited rich aromatic notes, featuring prominent sweet and sour notes along with floral, fruity, and balsamic notes. The optimal addition amount of the compound flavor was 300 mg/g, at which the inclusion complex achieved the maximum loading rate and the highest flavor utilization rate. The black plum compound flavor-loaded granules were light-yellow spherical particles approximately 0.6 mm in diameter, with an angle of repose of 31.81°, a bulk density of 0.814 3 g/cm3, and an average moisture content of 20.63%. A total of 39 volatile aroma compounds, including phenethyl alcohol and benzaldehyde, were identified in the granules, imparting composite notes such as floral, fruity, and creamy aromas. After 30 days of storage, the total residual content of aroma compounds in the granules was 60.82%, significantly higher than that of the black plum compound flavor (23.01%). The addition of 10 mg of these granules to the filter rod significantly improved aroma quality and intensity, reduced irritation and off-flavor, and resulted in good overall harmony.【Conclusion】 The developed compound flavor-loaded granules of black plum can effectively load and stabilize volatile aroma compounds, thereby significantly improving the sensory quality of cigarettes.
2026, 41(4)
:66-74.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.006
Abstract:
【Objective】 To clarify the effect of the number of ventilation holes on the physical parameters and chemical component release of puff-by-puff aerosol from heated tobacco products (HTPs).【Methods】 Circumferentially heated cigarettes were used as the test samples. The ventilation rate was varied by adjusting the number of ventilation holes, with three conditions of 30, 40, and 50 holes. A scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were employed to determine the puff-by-puff aerosol particle size distribution, D50, number concentration, and the contents of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), glycerol, and nicotine.【Results】 Under different numbers of ventilation holes, all puff-by-puff aerosol particle size distributions exhibited a bimodal pattern. As the hole number increased, the particle size peak, D50, and aerosol number concentration all showed a trend of first decreasing and then increasing. The highest total aerosol number concentration was observed at 50 holes, while the puff-by-puff release stability was better at 40 holes. The puff-by-puff variation in VOC components was weakly correlated with aerosol number concentration, and the relative content of organic components decreased as the hole number increased. The nicotine content was positively correlated with the aerosol number concentration to some extent, whereas the glycerol content showed a weaker correlation with number concentration but exhibited an overall trend of first increasing and then decreasing with increasing hole number.【Conclusion】 The number of ventilation holes significantly influences the puff-by-puff particle size distribution, number concentration, and chemical component release of HTP aerosols, and a nonlinear relationship exists between hole number and these aerosol release characteristics.
【Objective】 To clarify the effect of the number of ventilation holes on the physical parameters and chemical component release of puff-by-puff aerosol from heated tobacco products (HTPs).【Methods】 Circumferentially heated cigarettes were used as the test samples. The ventilation rate was varied by adjusting the number of ventilation holes, with three conditions of 30, 40, and 50 holes. A scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were employed to determine the puff-by-puff aerosol particle size distribution, D50, number concentration, and the contents of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), glycerol, and nicotine.【Results】 Under different numbers of ventilation holes, all puff-by-puff aerosol particle size distributions exhibited a bimodal pattern. As the hole number increased, the particle size peak, D50, and aerosol number concentration all showed a trend of first decreasing and then increasing. The highest total aerosol number concentration was observed at 50 holes, while the puff-by-puff release stability was better at 40 holes. The puff-by-puff variation in VOC components was weakly correlated with aerosol number concentration, and the relative content of organic components decreased as the hole number increased. The nicotine content was positively correlated with the aerosol number concentration to some extent, whereas the glycerol content showed a weaker correlation with number concentration but exhibited an overall trend of first increasing and then decreasing with increasing hole number.【Conclusion】 The number of ventilation holes significantly influences the puff-by-puff particle size distribution, number concentration, and chemical component release of HTP aerosols, and a nonlinear relationship exists between hole number and these aerosol release characteristics.
2026, 41(4)
:75-83.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.007
Abstract:
【Objective】 To solve the problem of filter rod seam bursting during storage.【Methods】 Using the lap bonding strength of filter rods as the indicator, single-factor experiments and response surface methodology were employed to optimize the process parameters including adhesive application rate, soldering iron temperature, storage temperature, and humidity. The regression equation relating the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength to each factor was established, and the bursting behavior of filter rods under different process conditions was analyzed.【Results】 The order of factors affecting the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength was: storage temperature>storage humidity>adhesive application rate. The effect of soldering iron temperature was minor, provided it was kept between 120 ℃ and 135 ℃. Filter rod bursting could be reduced by increasing the adhesive application rate to 14.0 g/min or lowering the storage temperature to below 20 ℃. The optimal conditions for filter rod production and storage were: adhesive application rate 10.0 g/min, storage humidity 74%, storage temperature 12 ℃. Under these conditions, the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength after 15 days of storage was 32.48%, and the burst rate after 180 days of storage was 0. The smaller the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength, the lower the burst rate of the filter rods and the longer the time to initial bursting. When the adhesive application rate was 12.0 g/min, the ambient temperature was 40 ℃, and the storage humidity was 60%~75%, the initial burst time was 18~25 d and the burst rate was 30%~50%.【Conclusion】 Storage temperature, humidity, and adhesive application rate are the main factors influencing the lap bonding strength of filter rods. Increasing the adhesive application rate and lowering the storage temperature are beneficial for reducing the occurrence of bursting.
【Objective】 To solve the problem of filter rod seam bursting during storage.【Methods】 Using the lap bonding strength of filter rods as the indicator, single-factor experiments and response surface methodology were employed to optimize the process parameters including adhesive application rate, soldering iron temperature, storage temperature, and humidity. The regression equation relating the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength to each factor was established, and the bursting behavior of filter rods under different process conditions was analyzed.【Results】 The order of factors affecting the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength was: storage temperature>storage humidity>adhesive application rate. The effect of soldering iron temperature was minor, provided it was kept between 120 ℃ and 135 ℃. Filter rod bursting could be reduced by increasing the adhesive application rate to 14.0 g/min or lowering the storage temperature to below 20 ℃. The optimal conditions for filter rod production and storage were: adhesive application rate 10.0 g/min, storage humidity 74%, storage temperature 12 ℃. Under these conditions, the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength after 15 days of storage was 32.48%, and the burst rate after 180 days of storage was 0. The smaller the attenuation rate of lap bonding strength, the lower the burst rate of the filter rods and the longer the time to initial bursting. When the adhesive application rate was 12.0 g/min, the ambient temperature was 40 ℃, and the storage humidity was 60%~75%, the initial burst time was 18~25 d and the burst rate was 30%~50%.【Conclusion】 Storage temperature, humidity, and adhesive application rate are the main factors influencing the lap bonding strength of filter rods. Increasing the adhesive application rate and lowering the storage temperature are beneficial for reducing the occurrence of bursting.
2026, 41(4)
:84-93.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.008
Abstract:
【Objective】 This study aimed to investigate the effects of cigarette porosity and dynamic draw resistance on smoking smoothness under different processing parameters, including cutting width, cut tobacco drying (HDT) parameters (steam temperature and flow rate), and knife specifications (arc length and groove depth).【Methods】 Cigarette porosity was measured using microfocus X-ray computed tomography(CT), and the porosity characterization method was improved. The axial stability and distribution consistency of dynamic draw resistance were evaluated by the standard deviation of dynamic draw resistance between cigarettes and the distribution consistency coefficient (η). An evaluation method for cigarette smoking smoothness was established using a combined CRITIC-analytic hierarchy process (AHP) weighting approach.【Results】 Within the experimental range: 1) Taking the cigarette paper into account during CT scanning improved the accuracy of porosity characterization. 2) With increasing cutting width, cigarette porosity first increased and then decreased (maximum at 1.00 mm), while the uniformity of porosity distribution gradually declined; both the axial stability and distribution consistency of dynamic draw resistance decreased. As the HDT steam temperature increased and the steam flow rate decreased, cigarette porosity increased, porosity distribution uniformity decreased, axial dynamic draw resistance stability declined, and distribution consistency increased. With increasing knife arc length and decreasing groove depth, both porosity and its distribution uniformity decreased; axial dynamic draw resistance stability improved, and distribution consistency first decreased and then increased, with the best consistency observed at an arc length of 18 mm and a groove depth of 2.5 mm. 3) Cigarette smoking smoothness significantly deteriorated as cutting width increased, was significantly improved by higher HDT steam temperature and lower steam flow rate, and was not significantly affected by changes in knife specifications. 4) Under different processing parameters, both the uniformity of porosity distribution and the dynamic draw resistance had highly significant effects on cigarette smoking smoothness.【Conclusion】 Within a certain range, increasing the HDT steam temperature and decreasing the steam flow rate improved cigarette smoking smoothness, whereas increasing the cutting width had a detrimental effect.
【Objective】 This study aimed to investigate the effects of cigarette porosity and dynamic draw resistance on smoking smoothness under different processing parameters, including cutting width, cut tobacco drying (HDT) parameters (steam temperature and flow rate), and knife specifications (arc length and groove depth).【Methods】 Cigarette porosity was measured using microfocus X-ray computed tomography(CT), and the porosity characterization method was improved. The axial stability and distribution consistency of dynamic draw resistance were evaluated by the standard deviation of dynamic draw resistance between cigarettes and the distribution consistency coefficient (η). An evaluation method for cigarette smoking smoothness was established using a combined CRITIC-analytic hierarchy process (AHP) weighting approach.【Results】 Within the experimental range: 1) Taking the cigarette paper into account during CT scanning improved the accuracy of porosity characterization. 2) With increasing cutting width, cigarette porosity first increased and then decreased (maximum at 1.00 mm), while the uniformity of porosity distribution gradually declined; both the axial stability and distribution consistency of dynamic draw resistance decreased. As the HDT steam temperature increased and the steam flow rate decreased, cigarette porosity increased, porosity distribution uniformity decreased, axial dynamic draw resistance stability declined, and distribution consistency increased. With increasing knife arc length and decreasing groove depth, both porosity and its distribution uniformity decreased; axial dynamic draw resistance stability improved, and distribution consistency first decreased and then increased, with the best consistency observed at an arc length of 18 mm and a groove depth of 2.5 mm. 3) Cigarette smoking smoothness significantly deteriorated as cutting width increased, was significantly improved by higher HDT steam temperature and lower steam flow rate, and was not significantly affected by changes in knife specifications. 4) Under different processing parameters, both the uniformity of porosity distribution and the dynamic draw resistance had highly significant effects on cigarette smoking smoothness.【Conclusion】 Within a certain range, increasing the HDT steam temperature and decreasing the steam flow rate improved cigarette smoking smoothness, whereas increasing the cutting width had a detrimental effect.
2026, 41(4)
:94-103.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.009
Abstract:
【Objective】 To investigate the effects of stem piece content and size on cigarette physical indicators and their underlying relationships.【Methods】 Conventional cigarettes were used as the research object, and gradient groups varying in stem piece content and size were prepared. Three-dimensional reconstruction was employed to quantify the internal component content. Correlation analysis and the CRITIC (Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation) weighting method were applied to evaluate the effects of stem piece parameters on cigarette physical indicators. Additionally, an extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was constructed to predict these indicators.【Results】 Larger stem piece size resulted in lower stability of stem piece content in cigarettes. Stem piece content exhibited highly significant positive correlations with cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity, a significant positive correlation with circumference, and a significant negative correlation with open draw resistance. When the stem piece content was 4% and the air damper of the cigarette maker was fully closed, the cigarette physical indicators showed optimal stability and comprehensive scores. The coefficients of determination (R2) of the optimized XGBoost models for cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity were 0.953 1, 0.950 3, and 0.875 3, respectively, indicating high predictive accuracy and significant model improvement.【Conclusion】 Stem piece content was positively correlated with cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity, and these three indicators could be accurately predicted using the XGBoost model.
【Objective】 To investigate the effects of stem piece content and size on cigarette physical indicators and their underlying relationships.【Methods】 Conventional cigarettes were used as the research object, and gradient groups varying in stem piece content and size were prepared. Three-dimensional reconstruction was employed to quantify the internal component content. Correlation analysis and the CRITIC (Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation) weighting method were applied to evaluate the effects of stem piece parameters on cigarette physical indicators. Additionally, an extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was constructed to predict these indicators.【Results】 Larger stem piece size resulted in lower stability of stem piece content in cigarettes. Stem piece content exhibited highly significant positive correlations with cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity, a significant positive correlation with circumference, and a significant negative correlation with open draw resistance. When the stem piece content was 4% and the air damper of the cigarette maker was fully closed, the cigarette physical indicators showed optimal stability and comprehensive scores. The coefficients of determination (R2) of the optimized XGBoost models for cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity were 0.953 1, 0.950 3, and 0.875 3, respectively, indicating high predictive accuracy and significant model improvement.【Conclusion】 Stem piece content was positively correlated with cigarette weight, hardness, and porosity, and these three indicators could be accurately predicted using the XGBoost model.
2026, 41(4)
:104-112,121.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.010
Abstract:
【Objective】 To investigate the material basis and causes of non-water-soluble yellow spots on cigarette paper.【Methods】 Liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) was used to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the yellow substances in non-water-soluble yellow spots, and their sources were investigated through the determination of yellow substances in different tobacco materials combined with solvent leaching experiments.【Results】 The result showed that the yellow substances in the non-water-soluble spots were soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol but insoluble in water, and their color faded upon sunlight exposure. Such spots can be distinguished by testing their water solubility and light fading behavior. With ethanol as the extraction solvent, vortex extraction was applied to cigarette paper and matrix disruption extraction to tobacco materials, achieving complete extraction of the lipophilic yellow pigments. Based on their retention times and absorption spectral profiles obtained by two-dimensional absorption spectroscopy, the yellow substances in the non-water-soluble spots were identified as lutein and β-carotene. The contents of lutein and β-carotene in eight cigarette paper samples with non-water-soluble yellow spots were determined to be in the range of 1.07~7.00 μg/g and 0.64~13.37 μg/g, respectively. Trace amounts of lutein and β-carotene were also detected in oily spots on cigarette paper caused by ester solvent contamination. Lutein and β-carotene mainly originated from the blended cut tobacco, and their contents in different materials followed the order of cut tobacco>reconstituted tobacco sheet>cut stem. Dichloromethane leaching experiments showed that among these materials, reconstituted tobacco sheet released the largest amount of lipophilic yellow pigments, whereas cut stem exhibited the highest leachable proportion.【Conclusion】 The established method can be used for the identification and source tracing of non-water-soluble yellow spots on cigarette paper, providing a reference for the scientific prevention and control of spotted cigarettes.
【Objective】 To investigate the material basis and causes of non-water-soluble yellow spots on cigarette paper.【Methods】 Liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) was used to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the yellow substances in non-water-soluble yellow spots, and their sources were investigated through the determination of yellow substances in different tobacco materials combined with solvent leaching experiments.【Results】 The result showed that the yellow substances in the non-water-soluble spots were soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol but insoluble in water, and their color faded upon sunlight exposure. Such spots can be distinguished by testing their water solubility and light fading behavior. With ethanol as the extraction solvent, vortex extraction was applied to cigarette paper and matrix disruption extraction to tobacco materials, achieving complete extraction of the lipophilic yellow pigments. Based on their retention times and absorption spectral profiles obtained by two-dimensional absorption spectroscopy, the yellow substances in the non-water-soluble spots were identified as lutein and β-carotene. The contents of lutein and β-carotene in eight cigarette paper samples with non-water-soluble yellow spots were determined to be in the range of 1.07~7.00 μg/g and 0.64~13.37 μg/g, respectively. Trace amounts of lutein and β-carotene were also detected in oily spots on cigarette paper caused by ester solvent contamination. Lutein and β-carotene mainly originated from the blended cut tobacco, and their contents in different materials followed the order of cut tobacco>reconstituted tobacco sheet>cut stem. Dichloromethane leaching experiments showed that among these materials, reconstituted tobacco sheet released the largest amount of lipophilic yellow pigments, whereas cut stem exhibited the highest leachable proportion.【Conclusion】 The established method can be used for the identification and source tracing of non-water-soluble yellow spots on cigarette paper, providing a reference for the scientific prevention and control of spotted cigarettes.
2026, 41(4)
:113-121.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.011
Abstract:
【Objective】 To establish a contact angle measurement method for water-based adhesives used in cigarettes, and to quantitatively characterize their wettability.【Methods】 A contact angle meter was used to measure the contact angles of water-based adhesives on different substrates. The effects of substrate material, dispensing needle size, droplet volume, and contact time on the contact angle were investigated, and the feasibility of using this method to characterize the wettability of water-based adhesives was examined.【Results】 Glass slide A could be used as the substrate to reflect the contact angle behavior of water-based adhesives on cigarette papers. As the inner diameter of the dispensing needle or the contact time increased, the contact angles gradually decreased. For low-viscosity adhesives, the contact angle decreased gradually with increasing droplet volume, whereas for high-viscosity adhesives, the contact angle initially increased and then decreased with increasing droplet volume. The optimized test conditions were as follows: ultra-clean glass slide A as the substrate, a dispensing needle with an inner diameter of 1.5 mm, a droplet volume of 10 μL, and a contact time of 10 s. Based on five replicate measurements, the relative standard deviation (RSD) between different laboratories ranged from 1.8% to 4.1%, with a repeatability standard deviation (Sr)≤1.62° and a reproducibility standard deviation (SR)≤3.12°.【Conclusion】 The established contact angle-based method for measuring the wettability of water-based cigarette adhesives demonstrated satisfactory stability and operability, and can be reliably used for this purpose.
【Objective】 To establish a contact angle measurement method for water-based adhesives used in cigarettes, and to quantitatively characterize their wettability.【Methods】 A contact angle meter was used to measure the contact angles of water-based adhesives on different substrates. The effects of substrate material, dispensing needle size, droplet volume, and contact time on the contact angle were investigated, and the feasibility of using this method to characterize the wettability of water-based adhesives was examined.【Results】 Glass slide A could be used as the substrate to reflect the contact angle behavior of water-based adhesives on cigarette papers. As the inner diameter of the dispensing needle or the contact time increased, the contact angles gradually decreased. For low-viscosity adhesives, the contact angle decreased gradually with increasing droplet volume, whereas for high-viscosity adhesives, the contact angle initially increased and then decreased with increasing droplet volume. The optimized test conditions were as follows: ultra-clean glass slide A as the substrate, a dispensing needle with an inner diameter of 1.5 mm, a droplet volume of 10 μL, and a contact time of 10 s. Based on five replicate measurements, the relative standard deviation (RSD) between different laboratories ranged from 1.8% to 4.1%, with a repeatability standard deviation (Sr)≤1.62° and a reproducibility standard deviation (SR)≤3.12°.【Conclusion】 The established contact angle-based method for measuring the wettability of water-based cigarette adhesives demonstrated satisfactory stability and operability, and can be reliably used for this purpose.
2026, 41(4)
:122-133.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.012
Abstract:
【Objective】 This study aimed to alleviate the marked greasiness and poor skin feel of conventional panthenol formulations and to enhance their skincare efficacy and application performance.【Methods】 A supramolecular modification strategy was employed to modify panthenol. Using L-carnitine as the hydrogen bond acceptor, a supramolecular deep eutectic solvent (DES), designated as supramolecular panthenol, was constructed with D-panthenol. Its structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Theoretical calculations were performed to elucidate the intermolecular interaction mechanism, and rheological tests were conducted to evaluate the shear stress and viscosity changes of the system. Transcriptomic analysis and formulation application studies were further carried out to clarify its skincare performance.【Results】 The supramolecular panthenol was successfully prepared, and its structure was synergistically maintained by multiple hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions. The system exhibited significantly reduced viscosity and pronounced shear-thinning behavior. The supramolecular panthenol upregulated the expression of genes involved in collagen synthesis and cellular energy metabolism while inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors. When formulated into an essence product, it markedly reduced greasiness and delivered multiple skincare benefits, including moisturization, skin barrier repair, soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, anti-wrinkle efficacy, and skin firming.【Conclusion】 The supramolecular modification strategy can significantly improve the skin feel of conventional panthenol preparations, and the result ing supramolecular panthenol holds considerable promise for the development of functional skincare ingredients.
【Objective】 This study aimed to alleviate the marked greasiness and poor skin feel of conventional panthenol formulations and to enhance their skincare efficacy and application performance.【Methods】 A supramolecular modification strategy was employed to modify panthenol. Using L-carnitine as the hydrogen bond acceptor, a supramolecular deep eutectic solvent (DES), designated as supramolecular panthenol, was constructed with D-panthenol. Its structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Theoretical calculations were performed to elucidate the intermolecular interaction mechanism, and rheological tests were conducted to evaluate the shear stress and viscosity changes of the system. Transcriptomic analysis and formulation application studies were further carried out to clarify its skincare performance.【Results】 The supramolecular panthenol was successfully prepared, and its structure was synergistically maintained by multiple hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions. The system exhibited significantly reduced viscosity and pronounced shear-thinning behavior. The supramolecular panthenol upregulated the expression of genes involved in collagen synthesis and cellular energy metabolism while inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors. When formulated into an essence product, it markedly reduced greasiness and delivered multiple skincare benefits, including moisturization, skin barrier repair, soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, anti-wrinkle efficacy, and skin firming.【Conclusion】 The supramolecular modification strategy can significantly improve the skin feel of conventional panthenol preparations, and the result ing supramolecular panthenol holds considerable promise for the development of functional skincare ingredients.
2026, 41(4)
:134-142.
doi: 10.12187/2026.04.013
Abstract:
【Objective】 To develop fermented combinatorial products of Cordyceps militaris and explore a novel strategy for the efficient utilization of rare Chinese medicinal herbs.【Methods】 Five fermentation broths were prepared by submerged liquid fermentation combined with the bidirectional fermentation technique of Chinese herbal medicines and fungal strains. These included a C.militaris monoculture broth and its combinatorial broths with Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Panax ginseng stems and leaves, Panax notoginseng stems and leaves, and Dendrobium officinale. The antioxidant, anti-wrinkle/firming, and photoaging repair capacities of these broths were evaluated using DPPH and ABTS+ free scavenging assays, an elastase inhibition assay, a UVB-induced human skin fibroblast (HFF) photoaging model, and a nude mouse skin photoaging model.【Results】 The C.militaris-G.uralensis fermentation broth (Y2) significantly outperformed the other broths in DPPH and ABTS+ free scavenging activities and elastase inhibition rate. This broth significantly upregulated the synthesis of type Ⅰ collagen (COL-Ⅰ) and downregulated the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in UVB-damaged HFF cells. In the nude mouse skin photoaging model, Y2 alleviated skin tissue pathological damage and improved the arrangement of collagen fibers.【Conclusion】 The C.militaris-G.uralensis fermentation broth exhibits excellent antioxidant and photoaging repair activities, thus providing a new direction for the development of functional C.militaris products and the efficient utilization of rare medicinal herbs.
【Objective】 To develop fermented combinatorial products of Cordyceps militaris and explore a novel strategy for the efficient utilization of rare Chinese medicinal herbs.【Methods】 Five fermentation broths were prepared by submerged liquid fermentation combined with the bidirectional fermentation technique of Chinese herbal medicines and fungal strains. These included a C.militaris monoculture broth and its combinatorial broths with Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Panax ginseng stems and leaves, Panax notoginseng stems and leaves, and Dendrobium officinale. The antioxidant, anti-wrinkle/firming, and photoaging repair capacities of these broths were evaluated using DPPH and ABTS+ free scavenging assays, an elastase inhibition assay, a UVB-induced human skin fibroblast (HFF) photoaging model, and a nude mouse skin photoaging model.【Results】 The C.militaris-G.uralensis fermentation broth (Y2) significantly outperformed the other broths in DPPH and ABTS+ free scavenging activities and elastase inhibition rate. This broth significantly upregulated the synthesis of type Ⅰ collagen (COL-Ⅰ) and downregulated the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in UVB-damaged HFF cells. In the nude mouse skin photoaging model, Y2 alleviated skin tissue pathological damage and improved the arrangement of collagen fibers.【Conclusion】 The C.militaris-G.uralensis fermentation broth exhibits excellent antioxidant and photoaging repair activities, thus providing a new direction for the development of functional C.militaris products and the efficient utilization of rare medicinal herbs.
Journal Information
Founded in 1986， bimonthly
Administered by：The Education Department Henan Province
Sponsored by：Zhengzhou University of Light Industry
Editor-in-chief：Wei Shizhong
Executive Editor-in-Chief：Zou Lin
Deputy Editor-in-Chief：Qu Shuanghong
Edited & published by：Editorial Department of Journal of Light Industry
CN 41-1437/TS
ISSN 2096-1553
Address：136 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China
Postal Code：450001
Tel：(086)0371-86608635
(086)0371-86608633
Email：qgxb@zzuli.edu.cn
