Method to inhibit an ethylene response in an agricultural product

专利摘要:
METHODS OF USING PURIFIED HYDROGEN PEROXIDE GAS IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, TRANSPORT AND STORAGE. The present description deals with, and includes, environments for the production, transport and storage of agricultural products, including, but not limited to, fruits, vegetables, grains, tubers, decorative plants, flowers and mushrooms. The present description also relates to methods of preparing environments for the preservation and production of agricultural products. Organic agricultural products having reduced levels of microorganisms and residual organic compounds are also provided.
公开号:BR112017023019B1
申请号:R112017023019-4
申请日:2016-04-28
公开日:2022-02-01
发明作者:James D. Lee；Douglas J. Bosma
申请人:Synexis Llc；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present invention generally relates to environments for the production, transport and storage of agricultural products, including, but not limited to, fruits, vegetables, grains, tubers, decorative plants, flowers and mushrooms. The present invention also relates to methods of preparing environments for the preservation and production of agricultural products. Organic agricultural products with reduced levels of microorganisms and residual organic compounds are also provided. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a strong oxidant and has well-known antimicrobial and antiseptic properties as well as activity against organic compounds. H2O2 has activity against volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by oxidizing, hydrolyzing and breaking them down. Hydrogen peroxide hydrolyzes, among other things, formaldehyde, ethylene, carbon disulfide, carbohydrates, organophosphate compounds and nitrogen, and many other more complex organic molecules. H2O2 is produced commercially in large quantities as a colorless liquid or as an aqueous solution, usually from approximately 3 to 90%. See, Merck Index, 10th Edition at 4705 to 4707. Recently, it has been demonstrated that H2O2 can be produced as a purified hydrogen peroxide gas (PHPG) which is free of ozone, plasma species, or organic species.
[003] PHPG is an unhydrated gaseous form of H2O2 which is distinct from liquid forms of hydrogen peroxide, including hydrated and vaporized forms. Aerosolized and vaporized forms of hydrogen peroxide solution have significantly higher concentrations of H2O2, typically comprising more than 1x106 molecules per cubic micron compared to air containing PHPG which contains between 5 and 25 molecules per cubic micron. Hydrogen peroxide aerosols and vapors are prepared from aqueous hydrogen peroxide solutions and also differ from PHPG in that aerosols are hydrated and, regardless of droplet size, are deposited under the force of gravity. The vaporized forms are condensed and settled. Aerosolized forms of hydrogen peroxide are effective antimicrobial agents; however, they are generally considered toxic and totally unsuitable for use in occupied spaces. See, for example, Kahnert et al., "Decontamination with vaporized hydrogen peroxide is effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis," Lett Appl Microbiol. 40 (6):448-52 (2005 ). Application of vaporized hydrogen peroxide has been limited by concerns about explosive fumes, hazardous reactions, corrosiveness, and worker safety. See Agalloco et al., "Overcoming Limitations of Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide", Pharmaceutical Technology, 37 (9):1-7 (2013 ). In addition, spaces treated with aerosolized forms, typically at concentrations between 150 to 700 ppm, remain unsuitable for occupancy until the H2O2 has been reduced by degradation to water and oxygen. The use of PHPG solves the problem of aerosolized H2O2 toxicity. Vaporized and liquid forms of H2O2 can provide continued safe antimicrobial and oxidative activity.
[004] PHPG is not hydrated and behaves essentially like an ideal gas capable of being freely diffused throughout an environment to reach an average concentration of approximately 25 molecules per cubic micron of air when present at approximately 1.0 ppm. As a gas, PHPG is able to penetrate most porous materials, essentially diffusing freely to occupy any space other than compressed air. The gaseous form of hydrogen peroxide does not sediment, settle or condense when present in concentrations up to 10 ppm. PHPG is completely "green" and leaves no residue as it is broken down into water and oxygen.
[005] Considerably, and in contrast to vaporized and aerosolized forms of H2O2, environments that contain up to 1 ppm of H2O2 have been designed as safe for continued human occupancy under current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), or American Conference of Industrial Hygienists (ACIH) standards. 10 ppm is also believed to be safe for human occupation, although it has not yet been recognized by regulatory authorities. With the advent of PHPG generating devices, appropriate studies can now be carried out. The ability to produce effective amounts of PHPG, the safety of PHPG when present as a dilute hydrogen peroxide gas (DHP) combined with its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent provide a myriad of useful applications.
[006] US Patent No. 8,168,122 issued May 1, 2012 and US Patent No. 8,685,329 issued April 1, 2014 both to Lee describe methods and devices for preparing PHPG for microbial treatment and /or disinfection/remediation of an environment. International Patent Application No. PCT/US2014/038652, published as international patent publication number, WO 2014/186805, describes the efficacy and use of PHPG for the treatment of arthropods, including insects and arachnids. International Patent Application No. PCT/US2015/051914, published February 26, 2015, with international patent publication number WO/2015/026958, describes the beneficial effects of PHPG on respiratory health, including increased resistance to infection and increased hypothiocyanate ion in mammalian lungs. The contents of each of the foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[007] In 2013, an estimated 1.3 billion tons of food was wasted, with fifty-four percent of the world's food waste occurring during production, handling, and post-harvest storage. See, Food Waste Footprint: Impacts on Natural Resources (2013) published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, available on the internet at www.fao.org. In 1995, the USDA reported that spoilage accounted for about 20% of all edible food losses in the United States. Consequently, even small reductions in spoilage due to microorganisms would have significant economic value.
[008] The growth in demand for fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables has increased, and a variety of approaches have been employed to maintain and enhance freshness during transport, storage and processing. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), the replacement of ambient air from food packaging with a gas or a gas mixture, generally reduces perishability during transport and storage by inhibiting spoilage organisms and processes. The gases used in MAP are most often combinations of nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) both with and depleted of oxygen (O2). In most cases, the bacteriostatic effect (eg suppression of reproduction and growth) is achieved by a combination of reduced O2 and increased CO2 concentrations. See, Farber, JM 1991. Microbiological aspects of modified-atmosphere packaging technology: a review. J. Food Protect., 54:58-70.
[009] Modified atmospheres (MA) are also employed in unpackaged environments, such as shipping containers, for example, such as refrigerated ocean containers. Generally, the MA approach involves oxygen reduction and is described, for example, in US patents. US. 8,187,653; 6,179,986 and 8,877,271. Although reduced oxygen is effective in preventing growth, it would not be possible to reduce the burden of spoilage microorganisms. That is, microorganisms largely remain, and once the ambient atmosphere is restored, microbial growth and accompanying deterioration process can resume. There is a need for improved atmospheres for the transport and storage of agricultural products that reduce the burden of spoilage-causing microorganisms.
[0010] In addition to the microorganisms that cause spoilage, agricultural products can also harbor and transmit pathogenic organisms. Some pathogens enter plant tissue through mechanical injury or refrigeration, or after the skin barrier has been broken down by other organisms. Others, present on the surface of the agricultural product, can be ingested or contaminate work surfaces, leading to disease. In addition to causing great economic losses, some organisms, for example, fungal species, can produce toxic metabolites at the affected sites, posing a potential risk to human health. In addition, vegetables often served as vehicles for pathogenic bacteria, viruses and parasites and were involved in many foodborne disease outbreaks. See, Barth et al., "Microbiological Spoilage of Fruits and Vegetables", in Compendium of the Microbiological Spoilage of Foods and Beverages, Food Microbiology and Food Safety, W.H. Sperber, MP Doyle (eds.), Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009; Tournas, “Spoilage of Vegetable Crops by Bacteria and Fungi and Related Health Hazards,” Critical Reviews in Microbiology, 31(1):33-44 (2005).” Consequently, methods that reduce, suppress, or kill these pathogens are highly desirable. .
[0011] The existence of harmful pathogens in various agricultural products poses a serious risk to the health of consumers, particularly when these products are consumed or otherwise introduced into the body fresh. In light of significant problems with microbes and bacteria in whole fruits and vegetables, many grocery stores and restaurant chains have mandatory inspections and certifications of whole fruits and vegetables shipped to their supply sources. As of 2011, the Center for Disease Treatment (CDC) estimates that about 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne illness. See www.cdc.gov/foodborneburden/index.html. The CDC estimates that approximately 20% of illnesses are caused by known pathogens, while 80% are caused by unspecified agents. According to the CDC, eight cases of known pathogens cause the most illness, hospitalization, and death. The five main pathogens that represent 91% of diseases are norovirus, Salmonella, Costridium perfirnges, Campylobacter spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. The CDC estimates that a 10% reduction in foodborne illness would prevent 5 million illnesses. Consequently, there is a strong need to reduce death and illness due to foodborne pathogens and lessen liability by decreasing pathogens on products sold.
[0012] In addition to reducing microorganisms, another approach to reducing spoilage and increasing the shelf life of agricultural products is to prevent ripening or maturation. For some agricultural products, such as "fresh" fruits and vegetables, the product may be harvested prematurely and thus allow time for transport to a final destination before spoilage. By sending unripened vegetables, the shelf life of the products can be extended; however, these products are often chosen so prematurely that, even after the long journey, they are still not ready for consumption. Other agricultural products must be ripened before harvest. Methods for extending the shelf life of ripened or near-ripened agricultural products, such as fruits and vegetables, are desirable.
[0013] Previous devices and systems designed to combat or reduce many of the problems described above tend to be inefficient, ineffective or very expensive, making them largely inadequate, impractical and/or inept and severely deficient. Prior art generally uses traditional methods consisting largely of washing (eg, such as a wash with dilute chlorine or another antibacterial and antiviral agent), removing and discarding damaged sections and products, and continued monitoring. More recently, irradiation, often referred to as cold pasteurization, has proven adequate for sterilization, but does nothing to improve or even preserve the food product's good appearance, water weight, and flavor. In addition, there are many other problems with irradiation, such as expense and consumer reluctance.
[0014] Consequently, devices and methods are needed that kill or reduce bacteria, viruses and other harmful pathogens, in addition to preventing spoilage, without sacrificing or reducing the desirable and beneficial objects in the food product. Methods of reducing microorganism loads that do not require irradiation which is expensive and unacceptable in certain market segments are also desired.
[0015] An important regulator of plants and plant parts is the gaseous plant hormone, ethylene (IUPAC name: ethene). In different contexts and at different times, ethylene participates in a wide variety of plant processes, including the maturation and/or senescence of flowers, fruits and vegetables; abscission of foliage, flowers and fruits. See Ethylene and Plant Development, Roberts, JA and Tucker GA editors, 1985. Ethylene is also active in aborting or inhibiting flowering and seed development. Ethylene also stimulates seed germination and dormancy breaking. For ornamental plants such as potted plants, cut flowers, shrubs, seeds and dormant seedlings, ethylene is involved in shortening life. In some plants, such as peas, ethylene inhibits growth while in others, eg rice, ethylene stimulates growth. Ethylene is also involved in auxin regulation and terminal growth inhibition and treatment of apical dominance. Ethylene causes increases in branching and cutting and alters plant morphology, including changing leaf-to-stem proportions and lodging. Ethylene is also involved in modifying susceptibility to plant pathogens such as fungi. It is necessary to regulate and control activity in agricultural products at all stages of development. More specifically, it is necessary to prevent premature ripening or overripening of agricultural products, preventing foliage abscission and prolonging the life of ornamental plants.
[0016] Current methods to improve shelf life include air circulation systems that act to remove ethylene from the air in storage facilities incorporating ethylene converters or absorbers. Ethylene converters require ethylene to be distributed through the converter and therefore unable to act at the source of ethylene production (eg an ethylene producing fruit). Ethylene converters or absorbers are often catalytic reactors. Examples of ethylene converters include Swingtherm®. Similar ethylene reduction results can be obtained with granule-based scrubbers, such as particles containing potassium permanganate. Current methods are hampered by the requirement for continuous circulation of ethylene-containing air through the system, resulting in "dead zones" having limited circulation. This restricts the packaging and transport of agricultural products. Improved methods are needed.
[0017] The well-known saying that a "rotten apple spoils the barrel" reflects on the activity of the gaseous hormone ethylene in the ripening process in various agricultural products, including fruits and vegetables. Ripening fruits and vegetables produces this hormone, which in turn acts on adjacent fruits and vegetables, causing them to ripen, and in turn, produce even more ethylene gas. Likewise, molds and fungi that can be present on fruit and that can proliferate on overripe fruit can contaminate adjacent fruit and lead to further spoilage. There is a need for improved methods to reduce ethylene that acts at the source of production and can be implemented at all stages of production, transport and storage of agricultural products.
[0018] Prior to sale and consumption, fresh agricultural products spend considerable amounts of time in transport, storage and processing, providing opportunities to initiate treatments to reduce pathogenic organisms, reduce spoilage microorganisms, reduce levels of ethylene and reduce ripening and kill or repel unwanted arthropods. The present invention describes methods that can be implemented at all stages of the path of agricultural products from the field to the fork.
[0019] One method of preventing the action of ethylene is to inhibit the ethylene response in an agricultural product by blocking ethylene receptor signaling. Examples of irreversible ethylene inhibiting agents include diazocyclopentadiene, disclosed in US Patent No. 5,100,462, cyclopentadiene described in Sisler et al., Plant Growth, Reg. 9, 157-164, 1990. Both compounds have strong odors and are unstable. US Patent No. 5,518,988 to Sisler et al. describes the use of cyclopropene and its derivatives, including methylcyclopropene, as effective blocking agents for ethylene binding. 1- Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is a ripening inhibitor known to act by blocking the ethylene binding site in plant tissue. See Blankenship et al., "1-Methylcyclopropene: a review," Postharvest Biology and Technology, 28: 1-25 (2003). 1-MCP is unstable (and explosive) and therefore has been difficult to employ. To overcome these problems, US Patent Nos. 6,017,849 and 6,313,068 to Daly et al. describe encapsulated forms to stabilize their reactivity and thereby provide a convenient and safe means of storing, transporting, and applying or administering the drugs. active compounds in plants. Improved methods to reduce or eliminate ethylene are highly desirable. Current methods provide the replacement or supplementation of 1-MCP and related compounds. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method of inhibiting an ethylene response in an agricultural product comprising providing DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to an enclosed environment containing an agricultural product and maintaining the DHP gas concentration in the closed environment for a period of time.
[0021] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method of inhibiting the ripening process of an agricultural product during transport, comprising providing a compartment for transporting an agricultural product; placing an agricultural product in the compartment, supplying DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to the compartment; and maintain the DHP gas concentration during transport.
[0022] The present invention deals with, and includes, a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) method for controlling an infestation of a pathogen in a plant or plant product, including providing DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing an infected plant or plant product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment for a period of time sufficient to control the pathogen.
[0023] The present invention deals with, and includes, a GRAS method for preventing the growth of mold in a plant or plant part comprising placing the plant or plant part in an environment containing DHP gas.
[0024] The present invention deals with, and includes, a GRAS method for treating a pathogen-infected plant or plant part comprising placing the plant or plant part in an environment containing DHP gas.
[0025] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for controlling a pathogen in an agricultural product during transport comprising supplying DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a transport container containing an agricultural product to prepare a transport container containing DHP gas, transporting the transport container containing DHP gas; and maintaining the DHP gas concentration during transport, where the pathogen is controlled.
[0026] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method of treating a pathogen in a controlled environment (CEA) agricultural facility, comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 part per million (ppm) for the CEA facility and maintain the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a period of time sufficient to control the pathogen.
[0027] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for protecting an agricultural product comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to an enclosed environment and maintaining of the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment.
[0028] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method of replacing pesticides and other chemicals used to treat pathogens and pests of agricultural products during production and storage, including supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing an agricultural product and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the enclosed environment containing the agricultural product for a period of time.
[0029] The present invention deals with, and includes, an organic method for producing crops, comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to a closed environment containing a product and maintain the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the agricultural product for a period of time during agricultural production.
[0030] The present invention deals with, and includes, an enclosed environment comprising DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) selected from the group consisting of a CEA facility, a greenhouse, a storage container, a shipping container, a retail store, a distribution center, a wholesale center, a kitchen, a restaurant, a flower shop, a barn, a vehicle, a food processing area, a storage facility , a market storage area and a market display area.
[0031] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for preventing premature aging of a flower during storage, comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to a closed environment containing the flower; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the flower for a period of time.
[0032] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for controlling an invasive species on or in an agricultural product, comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to an enclosed environment containing an agricultural product and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the enclosed environment for a period of time sufficient to control invasive species.
[0033] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for preparing air-dried agricultural products comprising placing an agricultural product in a closed environment with DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million ( ppm) and with a relative humidity (RH) of less than 65%, and keeping the agricultural product indoors until the water content of the agricultural product is reduced.
[0034] The present invention deals with, and includes, air-dried agricultural products with reduced levels of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
[0035] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for reducing the concentration of VOC in a closed environment comprising: supplying DHP gas to a closed environment with a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm ) and maintaining said closed environment containing the DHP gas for a period of time when the concentration of a VOC in the closed environment is reduced by oxidation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0037] Figures 1A and 1B are diagrams of exemplary devices in accordance with the present invention. Figure 1A illustrates an inline device for installation in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. Figure 1B illustrates an example of a stand-alone device suitable for the compositions and methods of the present invention.
[0038] Figures 2A and 2B are images of strawberries stored for 5 days without DHP gas or with DHP gas in accordance with the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms, as used herein, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one skilled in the art. One skilled in the art will recognize that many methods can be used in the practice of the present invention. In fact, the present invention is by no means limited to the methods and materials described. Any references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. For purposes of the present invention, the following terms are defined below.
[0040] As used herein, PHPG and DHP gas may be used interchangeably. Devices that produce PHPG and DHP gas environments are generally provided. PHPG, as used herein, is non-hydrated and substantially free of ozone, plasma species and organic species.
[0041] As used herein, "a reduction" in levels of pathogens, bacteria, fungi, or VOCs means that the level of each is reduced relative to levels found in agricultural products that have not been exposed, transported, stored. or processed in a PHPG environment. In some respects, a reduction may occur by killing the pathogen, bacteria, fungi or destruction through VOCs, or it may be the result of suppressed growth of the pathogen, bacteria or fungi.
[0042] As used herein, the term "at least a partial reduction" of levels of pathogens, bacteria, fungi, or VOCs means that the level of each is reduced by at least 25% relative to levels found in agricultural products that were not exposed, transported, stored or processed in a PHPG environment. In some respects, a reduction may occur by killing the pathogen, bacteria, fungi or destruction through VOCs, or it may be the result of suppressed growth of the pathogen, bacteria or fungi. Also as used herein, it is understood that in environments with multiple populations of pathogens, bacteria and fungi, each population may be "partially reduced" independently.
[0043] As used herein, the term "a substantial reduction" in levels of pathogens, bacteria, fungi or VOC levels means that the level of each is reduced by at least 75% relative to levels found in agricultural products that were not exposed, transported, stored or processed in a PHPG environment. In some respects, a reduction may occur by killing the pathogen, bacteria, fungi or destruction through VOCs, or it may be the result of suppressed growth of the pathogen, bacteria or fungi. Also as used herein, it is understood that in environments with multiple populations of pathogens, bacteria and fungi, each population may be "substantially reduced" independently.
[0044] As used herein, the term "effective elimination" of a pathogen, bacteria, fungi, or VOC means that the level of each is reduced by more than 95% from levels found in unexposed agricultural products, transported, stored or processed in a PHPG environment. In some respects, a reduction may occur by killing the pathogen, bacteria, fungi, or VOC destruction, or it may be the result of suppressed growth of the pathogen, bacteria, or fungus. Also as used herein, it is understood that, in environments with multiple populations of pathogens, bacteria and fungi, each population can be "effectively eliminated" independently. An effective amount of PHPG is preferably capable of providing at least partial reduction, more preferably substantial reduction, or even more preferably effective elimination of a pathogen, bacteria, fungi or VOC.
[0045] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an", and "a/o" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a bacterium" or "at least one bacterium" may include a plurality of bacteria, including mixtures thereof. In another example, the term "fungus" or "at least one fungus" may include a plurality of bacteria, including mixtures thereof. Likewise, "one VOC" or "at least one VOC" can include multiple VOCs and their mixtures.
[0046] The present invention deals with methods and compositions for inhibiting ethylene responses in agricultural products by supplying DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to a closed environment containing the said agricultural product. In certain respects, the enclosed environment may deliver DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 ppm before placing an agricultural product in the enclosed environment for a period of time. In other aspects, the agricultural product is placed in the closed environment and the DHP gas is supplied until the concentration reaches at least 0.05 ppm and maintains the DHP gas in said environment in a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm for a period of time. period of time. In certain respects, the DHP gas level can be up to 10 ppm. In certain aspects, the gas level of DHP varies between 0.05 and 10 ppm. The description addresses and includes additional levels of DHP gas depending on the application. Suitable levels of DHP gas are given below, for example in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[0047] Among the uses of the present invention are, for example, the regulation of plant growth. Also among the uses of the present invention are, for example, modifying a variety of ethylene responses such as, for example, the maturation and/or senescence of flowers, fruits and vegetables; abscission of foliage, flowers and fruits; shortening the life of ornamental plants, such as potted plants, cut flowers, shrubs, seeds and dormant seedlings; in some plants (e.g. pea) growth inhibition, growth stimulation (e.g. rice), auxin activity, inhibition of terminal growth, treatment of the apical domain, increased branching, increased of tillering, change in plant morphology, change in susceptibility to plant pathogens such as fungi, change in plant biochemical compositions (such as increased leaf area relative to stem area), abortion or inhibition of flowering and seed development, hosting effects, stimulation of seed germination and dormancy breaking, and hormonal or epinasty effects.
[0048] As one skilled in the art will understand, agricultural products such as plants, plant parts and fungi exhibit a wide variety of responses to ethylene. While specific aspects are given below in detail, the following aspects are generally considered to be within the scope of the present invention.
[0049] As one skilled in the art will understand, the degree of inhibition of ethylene signaling and the resulting phenotypic effects depend on a variety of variables. Among the important variables are the final concentration of DHP gas to which the agricultural product is exposed. In aspects according to the present invention, the final concentration of DHP gas can range from at least 0.05 ppm to 10 ppm of DHP gas. Not to be limited by theory, DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm oxidizes ethylene, thereby inhibiting the various ethylene signaling pathways. Also not to be bound by theory, it is believed that DHP gas, as a non-hydrated gas that diffuses throughout the entire volume of air, oxidizes ethylene close to its source of production. When acting at the source, DHP gas is particularly effective in inhibiting ethylene signaling.
[0050] A second variable is the timing of exposure to DHP gas. In certain aspects, the agricultural produce is exposed continuously, for example, to maintain dormancy or to prevent ripening and ripening. In other respects, DHP gas is supplied during certain periods and then agricultural produce is removed or the DHP gas can dissipate. For example, during the early stages of growth, a growing plant is exposed to DHP gas to inhibit apical dominance and to promote branching, and then it is removed so that normal growth can result. Not to be bound by theory, it is believed that this will increase the number and yield of leafy agricultural products.
[0051] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to increase yields in a plant grown indoors with at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas. Examples of plants that have increased yield in response to inhibition of ethylene signaling include, but are not limited to, small grains, particularly oats (Avena sativa), wheat (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordem spp.); and increasing yields from other types of plants, such as beans and cotton (Gossypium hirsurum). In one aspect, the enclosed environment is a greenhouse, a cold greenhouse, or an "arch" greenhouse.
[0052] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to modulate auxin activity. In one aspect, the present invention deals with inducing germination of underground rhizomes of monocots and dicots. In one aspect, the methods provide for inducing cell proliferation and inducing rooting.
[0053] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to inhibit terminal growth, control apical dominance, increase branching, and increase tillering in agricultural products that are in crop plants. These types of plant growth responses can be produced in a variety of plant species when exposed to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas for a period of time. In certain respects, plant species include, but are not limited to, privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium), blueberry (Vaccinum corymhosum), azalea (Rhododendron ohrusum), soybean (Glycine mas.), Snapbe ans (Phaseolus vulgaris), tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum), alligator grass (Alternanthua philoxeroides) and monocots, such as rice (Oryza sativa), johnsongrass (Sorghum halopense) and wild oats (Avena fatua). In certain respects, a growing plant is a plant where the main bud is removed (e.g. by compression) and exposure to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas prevents the auxiliary buds from establishing dominance as a bud main. The present invention is also concerned with exposing a growing plant to DHP gas to delay head bud activity for a period of time and then culturing the plant in the absence of DHP gas to restore the head bud to normal growth. , with production of normal flowers and normal fruits. The benefit of growing first in the presence of DHP gas and then providing growth in the absence of DHP gas prevents the permanent loss of buds associated with compression. In certain aspects, plant species such as tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) and chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum sp.) treated with DHP gas according to the methods of the present invention inhibit side shoot formation and prevent shoot growth.
[0054] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to improve the overall biochemical composition of a growing plant. It is known that inhibition of ethylene signaling increases leaf area relative to stem area in many plants. Accordingly, the methods and compositions provide for the inhibition of ethylene signaling by treating a growing plant with DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm during a period of growth to increase the leaf-stem ratio. In other aspects, inhibition of ethylene signaling increases total protein per plant base. In another aspect, the methods and compositions provide for the modification of protein, carbohydrates, fat, nicotine and sugar within the treated plant by growing the plant in the presence of at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas for a period of time.
[0055] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to inhibit foliage, flower and fruit abscission by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing a closed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. It is known that the abscission zone of plants is sensitive to ethylene signaling. Consequently, by inhibiting ethylene signaling using DHP gas, abscission can be delayed or even prevented. Examples of plants where abscission can be delayed or avoided include cotton, roses, privet, apples, citrus and Brussels sprouts once the leaves have reached a mature state. Likewise, plants in which flower and/or fruit abscission may be delayed by growth and DHP treatment include, but are not limited to, apples (Malus domestica), pears (Pyrus communis), cherries (Prunus avium) , walnuts (Carva illinoensis), grapes (Vitis vinifera), olives (Olen europaea), coffee (Coffea arahica) and green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). Accordingly, the methods and compositions of the present invention address the regulation of abscission responses and can be used to regulate flower production as an aid in fruit picking.
[0056] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to inhibit fruit ripening by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas or providing a closed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. In certain respects, the methods and compositions inhibit the color changes associated with the fruit ripening process. In certain respects, the fruit can be picked or not picked. As given in more detail below, the ripening of the fruit can be delayed, thus preserving the fruit. In other respects, the peak ripening time can be delayed or even avoided until exposure to DHP gas is removed. For example, ripening in apples (Malus domestica), pears (Pyrus communis), cherries (Primus avium), bananas and pineapples (Ananas comosus) can be prevented or delayed, or both. In other respects, the unripe color of a fruit can be maintained, for example, the green color of harvested fruits, such as tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) and greenish citrus fruits, such as oranges (Citrus sinensis) and lemons (Citrus limon). can be delayed. Additional examples and specifics are provided below.
[0057] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to prevent or inhibit flowering and fruiting by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing an environment closed with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. For example, the decrease in flowering and fruiting in several economic crops, such as soybean (Glycine max), string beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). Kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and zinnias (Zinnia elegans) can be achieved using the methods and compositions of the present invention.
[0058] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to promote or induce flowering and fruiting by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing an environment closed with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. In one aspect, 0.05 ppm of DHP gas is supplied to Johnson grass (Sorghum lzalepense) to promote or induce flowering and fruiting.
[0059] The present invention deals with, and includes methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to promote storage by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas or providing a closed environment with at least 0.05 ppm. 05 ppm of DHP gas.
[0060] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to prevent or inhibit seed germination and dormancy breaking by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. or providing an enclosed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. In one aspect, the supply of DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm inhibits the germination of, for example, lettuce seeds and maintains dormancy of tubers, such as seed potatoes. As will be discussed below, treatment of an agricultural product, such as a seed, reduces the microbial load on the surface of the seed. Accordingly, the present invention deals with methods for reducing or eliminating undesirable microorganisms on the surface of the seed prior to planting.
[0061] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to prevent freeze injury by exposing an agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas or providing a closed environment. with at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas. In one aspect, DHP gas inhibits ethylene signaling by reducing or eliminating ethylene produced in response to cold temperatures. In one aspect, the present invention deals with resistance to frostbite, for example, in fava beans or citrus.
[0062] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to prevent hormonal effects or epinasty in certain plants by exposing a growing agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing a closed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas. In one aspect, the methods prevent epinasty in tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum).
[0063] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response in conjunction with other plant regulators by exposing a growing agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing an environment closed with at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas and applying a growth regulator. In one aspect, the agricultural product may be treated with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas together with one or more plant growth regulators selected from the group consisting of maleic hydrazide, N-dimethylaminosuccinic acid, gibberellic acid and naphthalene acetic acid. As discussed herein, DHP gas interactions (eg, inhibition of ethylene signaling) can be synergistic or antagonistic responses in various agricultural products. As appropriate, levels of plant growth regulators can be increased to account for the destruction through gas oxidation of DHP.
[0064] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to enhance the response to herbicides by exposing a growing agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas or providing an enclosed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas in the presence of a herbicide. In one aspect, the herbicide may be aminotriazole. The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to inhibit the response to herbicides by exposing a growing agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas or providing an enclosed environment with at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas in the presence of a herbicide.
[0065] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting an ethylene response to increase disease resistance by exposing a growing agricultural product to at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas or providing a closed environment with at least 0.05 ppm of DHP gas in the presence of a herbicide.
[0066] The present invention also deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for preventing ethylene signaling by reducing or eliminating ethylene at its source. Not to be limited by theory, agricultural products that express the 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (ACO) gene are potential sources of ethylene. Consequently, in one aspect, ethylene signaling is inhibited by exposing ACO-expressing agricultural products of origin in DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm.
[0067] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods of inhibiting the ripening process of an agricultural product comprising supplying DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to an enclosed environment. containing said agricultural product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the agricultural product for a period of time. It should be understood that even a short period of exposure will result in the destruction of ethylene which is the hormone responsible for the ripening of agricultural products.
[0068] As used herein, "ripening" means the process by which a fruit or vegetable becomes more palatable, becoming increasingly sweeter and less bitter, changing color and becoming more tender. In certain respects, ripening is associated with changes in pH changes, with acid degradation and a general decrease in acid content. During the ripening process, starches are converted into simpler sugars. The ripening process is well known to one of ordinary skill in the art and one skilled in the art would recognize that ripening processes for specific agricultural products are known.
[0069] As used herein, "inhibiting the ripening process" means that the time to optimal ripening is delayed relative to a fruit that is not exposed to DHP gas when stored under identical conditions. In certain respects, the ripening process can be completely inhibited by the destruction of the plant hormone, ethylene. Thus, the peak period can be delayed by a week or more. In other respects, inhibition of the ripening process delays the time to peak ripening by at least one day. In another aspect, inhibition of the ripening process delays the time to maximum ripening by at least two days. In yet another aspect, inhibition of the ripening process delays the time to peak ripening by at least three days. In other respects, inhibition of the ripening process delays the time to maximum ripening by at least four days or at least five days. In other respects, inhibition of the ripening process delays time to peak period by at least 6 days. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the period of time achievable using the methods of the present invention depends on the type of agricultural product and the concentration of DHP gas that the agricultural product is maintained. As provided, increasing the level of DHP gas during storage increases ripening inhibition and prolongs the time to peak ripening, limited by the fact that any ethylene continues to be removed.
[0070] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for inhibiting the ripening process of an agricultural product or agricultural plant, comprising supplying DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million. (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing said agricultural fruit or vegetable product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the enclosed environment containing the agricultural fruit or vegetable product for a period of time that delays the peak ripening by at least two days.
[0071] The present invention also deals with the inhibition of the ripening process of an agricultural product, reducing the exposure of agricultural products to ethylene, generally produced through the ripening of agricultural products. As an agricultural product matures (or is bruised or injured), it produces ethylene and becomes a source of ethylene that can autonomously increase the ripening rate of the source itself, or act heterologously on another agricultural product. Not to be limited by theory, it is generally understood that the ripening process is controlled by ethylene, C2H4, commonly known as ethylene, which is a colorless gas and is a natural plant hormone. It is naturally produced by plants and requires the activity of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (ACO), also known as ethylene-forming enzyme. Agricultural products expressing ACO can act as a source of ethylene. Ethylene acts by binding to a family of dimeric transmembrane receptors consisting of five members. Agricultural products that express one or more of the dimeric transmembrane receptors (ETRs) can respond to the presence of ethylene and, among other things, initiate or accelerate ripening. Agricultural products can express both an ACO and an ETR and can thus increase their own ripening rate as well as nearby agricultural products. In other respects, the agricultural source product and the agricultural recipient product may be different.
[0072] In aspects according to the present invention, the ethylene source may be a type of agricultural product that is different from the receiving agricultural product. In one aspect, a product of agricultural origin is an agricultural product that expresses the 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (ACO) gene. In one respect, a method of inhibiting the ripening process includes reducing the level of ethylene produced by an agricultural product by converting it to carbon dioxide and water. Consequently, the ethylene produced is prevented from affecting the responsive crop.
[0073] Methods according to embodiments of the present invention inhibit ripening or senescence of agricultural products, or both. As used herein, ripening includes the ripening of agricultural produce while remaining in the agricultural produce plant and the ripening of agricultural produce after it has been harvested from the agricultural produce plant. Agricultural products that can be treated by the method of the present invention to inhibit ripening and/or senescence include green leafy vegetables such as lettuce (e.g. Lactuea sativa), spinach (Spinaca oleracea) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea) , various roots such as potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) and carrots (Daucus), bulbs such as onions (Allium sp.), herbs such as basil (Ocimum basilicum), oregano (Origanum vulgare), dill (Anethum graveolens) and soybeans (Glycine max), fava beans (Phaseolus limensis), peas (Lathyrus spp.), corn (Zea mays), broccoli (Brassica oleracea italica), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea botrytis) and asparagus (Asparagus officinalis).
[0074] As used herein, an "agricultural product" includes products from cultivated plants as well as products from harvested plants and plants. Included in agricultural products are plants and plant parts grown or harvested for food, both for humans and animals. Also provided by the present invention are agricultural products grown for decoration, such as cut flowers, decorative plants or dried plants. As used herein, agricultural products include plants for use as raw materials, including, but not limited to, for example, plants cultivated for the production of biofuels and fiber crops.
[0075] As used herein, agricultural products include cultivated and harvested plants and plant products used for human or non-human food. As used herein, agricultural products harvested or cultivated for food include roots, tubers, rhizomes, bulbs, corms, stems, branches, leaf stems, bracts, leaf sheaths, leaves, needles, flowers, buds, flowers, petals, fruits , seeds and edible fungi. The methods and compositions disclosed herein and described in detail below can be used to prolong freshness (e.g. late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species. Notably, the methods and compositions of the present invention are completely natural, "green", non-toxic and safe, leaving no residue other than water and oxygen. Considerably, the methods and compositions of the present invention are suitable for use in occupied areas and have been determined by: the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be safe.
[0076] Use of the methods and compositions of the present invention is provided for each of the agricultural products recited herein, individually, such as during transport from the field or as part of the variety when transported or stored in a distribution or retail facility. In the interest of the economy, specific agricultural products are reported as part of one or more lists and the inclusion of the agricultural product in a list should not be interpreted as being considered as different from the use of each individual agricultural product according to the methods used. and compositions of the present invention. More specifically, even when the present invention relates to any individual agricultural product as a specific aspect, it should be understood by one skilled in the art without any doubt that each individual agricultural product is similarly disclosed, whether reported in a list or not.
[0077] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods of producing an agricultural product for human consumption comprising harvesting an agricultural product for human consumption, supplying DHP gas in a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing said harvested agricultural product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the harvested agricultural product. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing an enclosed environment comprising an agricultural product harvested for human consumption and DHP gas with a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm).
[0078] The present invention deals with, and includes, agricultural products that are vegetable. As used herein, a "vegetable" includes agricultural products commonly consumed as food and includes, but is not necessarily limited to, roots, tubers, bulbs, corms, stems, leaf stems, leaf sheaths, leaves, buds, flowers, fruits, seeds, and edible fungi. It is generally understood that for certain edible plants, the fruits, seeds, leaves and other parts can be consumed. Included among the vegetables suitable for the methods and compositions of the present invention are leafy vegetables, including, but not limited to, lettuce, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, spinach, mustard, kale. Other leafy vegetables in accordance with the present invention include, but are not limited to, Brussels sprouts, water spinach, puha, radicchio, Swiss chard, sorrel, tat soi, tung, watercress, endive and wong nga baak ( Peking cabbage).
[0079] The present invention also deals with methods and compositions for use with legumes, including the seed (bean) and its sprouts. In certain aspects, the methods and compositions are particularly suitable for application to raw and uncooked agricultural products, where pathogens, fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses that pose a potential health risk can be reduced or eliminated. In certain respects, raw agricultural products suitable for reducing or eliminating pathogens, fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses that pose a potential health risk include leafy vegetables, sprouts and fruits.
[0080] In aspects according to the present invention, an agricultural product may be a bulb. In certain respects, the bulb can be fennel, garlic, leeks, onions, shallots, or a chives. The present invention also deals with agricultural products that are flowers, including, but not limited to, artichoke (globe), broccoli, cauliflower, broccoli, soma choi, zucchini or other pumpkin and broccoli flowers. In other respects, the agricultural product is a seed that includes, for example, beans (green, French, butter, whip), fava beans, peas, peas and sweet corn. In one aspect, the agricultural product is a stalk, for example, asparagus, celery or kohlrabi.
[0081] The methods and compositions of the present invention can be used to prolong freshness (e.g., late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species. of one or more of the following agricultural products: chayote, amaranth, angelica, aniseed, apple, arrowroot, arruga, artichoke, globe, artichoke, jerusalem thorn, asparagus, atemoya, avocado, balsam apple, pear balm, bambara peanut, bamboo, ba nana, plantain, barbados cherry, beans, beetroot, blackberry, blueberry, bok choy, sweet potato, broccoli, chinese broccoli, broccoli raab, brussels sprouts, grape, burdock , cabbage, cabbage, sea kale, swamp cabbage, squash, cantaloupe melon, cantaloupe, capers, carambolas (star fruit), thistle, carrot, cassava, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, asparagus lettuce, Swiss chard , chaya, chayote, chicory, chinese jujube, chives, chrysanthemum, chufa, c oentro, cider, coconut, kale, comfrey, lamb's lettuce, corn, Cuban sweet potato, cucumber, cushcush, white radish, dandelion, yam, dill, eggplant, endive, eugenics, fennel sweet fig, galia melon, chickpeas, garlic, cucumber, ginger, ginseng, gourds, grape, guar, guava, hanover salad, horseradish, huckleberry, ice plant, jaboticaba, jackfruit, jicama, jojoba, cabbage , kangkong, kohlrabi, leek, lentils, lettuce, longan, loquat, lovage, loofah, lychee, macadamia, azorean yam, mamey sapote, mango, martynia, melon, casaba, melon, honey dew melon, momordica, muscadine grapes, mushrooms, cantaloupe melon, mustard, kale, naranjillo, nasturtium, nectarine, okra, onion, purple spinach, oranges, papaya, paprika, parsley, parsley root, parsnip, passion fruit, peach, plum, peas, peanut, pear, pecan, pepper, persimmon, pepper, pineapple, pitaya, pigweed, pomegranate, potato, sweet potato, pumpkin, purslane, radicchio, radish, rakkyo, rampion, raspberry sa, rhubarb, romaine, roselle, turnip, saffron, sausage, sapota, sarsaparilla, sassafrass, cork, sea kale, cranberry, shallot, skirret, celery, sorrel, soy, spinach, spondias, pumpkin, strawberries , custard apple, flowering sabal, broadleaf basil, sweet corn, sweet potato, Swiss chard, green tomato, tomato, tomato, truffle, turnip, watercress, celery, chestnut -water, cress, watermelon, yams and zucchini.
[0082] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for producing a vegetable agricultural product for human consumption comprising harvesting a vegetable agricultural product for human consumption, providing DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0. 3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing said harvested vegetable crop product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the harvested vegetable crop product. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing an enclosed environment comprising a vegetable crop product harvested for human consumption and DHP gas with a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm).
[0083] In aspects according to the present invention, the agricultural product is a fruit. As used herein, a "fruit" means the reproductive structure of an angiosperm that develops from the ovary and accessory tissue, which surrounds and protects the seed. A fruit according to the present invention may be fresh or dried. As used herein, the term fruit encompasses all types of tropical fruits, tree fruits, citrus, berries and melons. Single, aggregated, multiple or accessory fruits are also included and provided. As used herein, fruits include simple fleshy fruits such as, but not limited to, tomatoes, bananas, grapes, drupes (almonds, peaches), plums, pomes (pears, apples, etc.). The fruits of the present invention also include fleshy multiple fruits such as, but not limited to, figs, pineapples and blackberries. Also contemplated and provided by the present invention are fleshy aggregate fruits (e.g. strawberry, blackberry, apple).
[0084] The present invention deals with the use of methods and compositions to prolong freshness (e.g., late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control species. invasive of climacteric fruits. Climacteric fruits include, but are not limited to, an apple, an apricot and an avocado, a banana, a breadfruit, an apple, a durian, a feijoa, a fig, a guava, a honey dew melon, a jackfruit, a kiwi, a mangosteen, a mango, a nectarine, a papaya, a passion fruit, a peach, a pear, a persimmon, a banana, a plum, a quince, a melon, a sapodilla, a sapote, a tomato or a watermelon. The methods and compositions disclosed herein and described in detail below can be used to prolong freshness (e.g., late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control species. invasive.
[0085] The present invention deals with the use of methods and compositions to prolong freshness (e.g., late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control species. non-climacteric fruit invaders. Non-climacteric fruits include, but are not limited to, a blackberry, a blueberry, cocoa, a cactus pear, a pepper, a cherry, a pepper, a cucumber, an eggplant, a grape, a grapefruit, a lemon, a lime , a longan, a loquat, a lychee, a mandarin, an olive, an orange, a cucumber, a pineapple, a pitaya, a pomegranate, a pumpkin, a rambutan, a raspberry, a pumpkin, a strawberry, a tree tomato , or a zucchini.
[0086] Fruits that can be treated by the methods of the present invention to inhibit ripening include tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum), apples (Malus domestica), bananas (Musa sapientum), pears (Pyrus communis), papaya (Carica papya), mangoes (Mangifera indica), peaches (Prunus persica), apricots (Prunus armeniaca), nectarines (Prunus persica nectarina), oranges (Citrus sp.), lemons (Citrus limonia), limes (Citrus aurantifolia) , grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), tangerines (Citrus Nobilis deliciosa), kiwi (Actinidia chinenus), melons such as cantaloupe melon (C. cantalupensis) and musk melons (C. melo), pineapples (Aranae comosus), persimmon (Diospyros) sp.) and raspberries (eg, Fragaria or Rubus ursinus), blueberries (Vaccinium sp.), green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), members of the Cucumis genus, such as cucumber (C. sativus) and avocado (Persea americana).
[0087] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods of producing an agricultural fruit product for human consumption comprising harvesting an agricultural fruit product for human consumption, providing DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0. 3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing said harvested agricultural fruit product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the harvested agricultural fruit product. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing an enclosed environment comprising an agricultural fruit product harvested for human consumption and DHP gas with a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) .
[0088] The methods and compositions of the present invention can be used to prolong freshness (e.g., late ripening), kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species. of agricultural products which are tubers, roots or fungus. In one aspect, the agricultural product is a root, including, without limitation, beets, carrots, celeriac, white radishes, parsnips, radishes, rapeseed and turnips. In one aspect, the agricultural product is a fungus, including, without limitation, white bud, Swiss maidenhair, cup (open non-flat), enoki, oyster, Portobelo (flat or brown), shiitake, black truffle, and white truffle. In one aspect, the agricultural product is a tuber, including, without limitation, a yolk of the earth, a Jerusalem artichoke, a kumara, a potato or a yam.
[0089] The present invention deals with, and includes, supplying DHP gas to an enclosed environment to prevent ripening by reducing or eliminating ethylene gas produced by agricultural products that express ACO. In one aspect, the product of agricultural origin is selected from the group consisting of an apple, an apricot, an avocado, a ripe banana, a blueberry, a cantaloupe melon, a cherimoya, a cranberry, a fig, a green onion, a guava, a grape, a honey dew melon, a kiwi, a mango, a mangosteen, a nectarine, a papaya, a passion fruit, a peach, a pear, a persimmon, a plum, a potato, a plum, a quince and a tomato .
[0090] The present invention deals with, and includes, supplying DHP gas to an enclosed environment to prevent ripening by reducing or eliminating ethylene gas produced by one agricultural product and acting on a second agricultural product. In certain respects, ripening can be inhibited in asparagus, an unripe banana, a blackberry, broccoli, a Brussels sprouts, a cabbage, a carrot, a cauliflower, a Swiss chard, a cucumber, an eggplant, endive, garlic. , green beans, kale, leafy greens, leeks, lettuce, okra, onions, parsley, peas, peppers, raspberries, spinach, squash, strawberries, sweet potatoes, watercress or melons.
[0091] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods of producing an agricultural tuber, root, or fungal product for human consumption, comprising harvesting the agricultural tuber, root, or fungal product for human consumption, supplying DHP gas in a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) for a closed environment containing said harvested crop tuber, root or fungus product; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the harvested crop tuber, root or fungus product. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing a closed environment comprising a harvested crop tuber, root or fungus product for human consumption and DHP gas with a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm).
[0092] Ornamental plants that can be treated by the method of the present invention to inhibit senescence and/or to prolong flower life and appearance (e.g., delay the wilting process), include potted ornamentals and flowers. cut. Potted ornamental plants and cut flowers that can be treated with the present invention include azalea (Rhododendron spp.), hydrangea (Macrophylla hydrangea), hibiscus (Hibiscus rosasanensis), dragon's skull flower (Antirrhinum sp.), Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherima), cacti (e.g. Cactaceae schlumbergera truncata), begonias (Begonia sp.), roses (Rosa spp.), tulips (Tulipa sp.), daffodils (Narcissus spp.), petunias ( Petunia hybrida), carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), lily (eg Lilium sp.), gladioli (Gladiolus sp.), alstroemeria (Alstoemeria brasiliensis), anemone (eg Anemone blanda), aquiline (Aquilegia sp.), aralia (e.g. Aralia chinensis), aster (e.g. Aster carolinianus), bougainvillea (Bougainvillea sp.), camellia (Camellia sp.), bellflower (Campanula sp.), cockscomb (celosia sp.) , Falsedipro (Chamaecyparis sp.), chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum sp.), clematis (Clematis sp.), cyclamen (Cyclamen sp.), freesia (e.g. Free sia refracta) and orchids from the Orchidaceae family. The methods and compositions disclosed and described herein can be used to prolong the life and appearance of the flower and also to kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species.
[0093] The term "plant" is used in a generic sense here, and includes, for example, plants with woody trunks, such as trees and shrubs; herbs; vegetables, fruits, agricultural crops and ornamental plants. Plants to be treated by the methods described herein include whole plants and any portions thereof, such as field crops, potted plants, seeds, cut flowers (stems and flowers), and harvested fruits and vegetables (vegetables and vegetables).
[0094] Plants which can be treated by the methods of the present invention to inhibit foliage, flower and fruit abscission include cotton (Gossypium spp.), apples, pears, cherries (Prunus avium), walnuts (Carva illinoensis), grapes (Vitis vinifera), olives (e.g. Olea europaea), coffee (Cofffea arabica), green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and figs (Ficus benjamina), as well as dormant seedlings such as various fruit trees including apple, ornamental plants, shrubs and tree seedlings. The methods and compositions disclosed and described herein can be used to inhibit foliage, flower and fruit abscission and also to kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species.
[0095] In addition, shrubs that can be treated in accordance with the present invention to inhibit foliage abscission include privet (Ligustrum sp.), photinea (Photinia sp.), holly (Ilex sp.) ferns of the Polypodiaceae family, schefflera (Schefflera sp.), aglaonema (Aglaonema sp.), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster sp.), barberry (Berberis sp.), myrica (Myrica sp.), abelia (Abelia sp.), acacia (Acacia sp.) and bro- Melias of the Bromeliaceae family.
[0096] The present invention deals with, and includes, supplying DHP gas to an enclosed environment to prevent abscission with flowers such as roses, orchids, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, carnations, chrysanthemums, gypsophila, daisies, gladioli, agapanthus, anthuria, protea, heliconia, strelicia, lilies, asters, iris, delphiniums, liatris, lisianthus, statis, stephanotis, freesoa, dendrobiums, sunflowers, dragon flower. Also provided and included is DHP gas supply for a closed environment to avoid abscission of cut decorative foliage of roses, tulips, carnations and chrysanthemums, but other flowers such as gladiolus, gypsophila, daisies, orchids, lilies, iris and for-dragon. The methods and compositions described and described herein can be used to inhibit abscission and also kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species.
[0097] The present invention deals with, and includes, supplying DHP gas to an enclosed environment to prolong the shelf life of cut flower species, including, but not limited to, Rosa sp., Dianthus sp., Gerbera sp., Chrysanthemum sp., Dendranthema sp., Lily Gypsophila sp., Torenia sp., Petunia sp., Orchid, Cymbidium sp., Dendrobium sp., Phalaenopsis sp., Cyclamen sp., Begonia sp., Iris sp., Alstroemeria sp., Anthurium sp., Catharanthus sp. Dracaena sp., Erica sp., Ficus sp., Freesia sp., Fuchsia sp., Geranium sp., Gladiolus sp., Helianthus sp., Hyacinth sp., Hypericum sp., Impatiens sp., Iris sp., Chamelaucium sp. ., Kalanchoe sp., Lisianthus sp., Lobelia sp., Narcissus sp., Nierembergia sp., Ornithoglaum sp., Osteospermum sp., Paeonia sp., Pelargonium sp., Plumbago sp., Primrose sp., Ruscus sp. ., Saintpaulia sp., Solidago sp., Spathiphyllum sp., Tulip sp., Verbena sp., Viola sp., and Zantedeschia sp.
[0098] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for producing ornamental plants that comprise harvesting an ornamental plant, providing DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm ) to a closed environment containing said harvested ornamental plant; and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the closed environment containing the harvested ornamental plant. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing an enclosed environment comprising a harvested ornamental plant and DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm).
[0099] In aspects according to the present invention, DHP gas is supplied to the closed environment containing an agricultural product with a final concentration of at least 0.05 ppm for a period of time. DHP gas-containing environments provide a variety of benefits and methods, including ethylene destruction, for example, to inhibit the ripening process. The DHP gas according to the present invention can be used to kill or prevent infection by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species. Other methods of using DHP gas to decrease ethylene and its effect on agricultural products are provided in paragraph [0047] above. In certain aspects, the DHP gas level can be up to 10 ppm. As provided here, the DHP gas level ranges between 0.05 and 10 ppm.
[00100] In aspects according to the present invention, the DHP gas is supplied to the closed environment containing an agricultural product with a final concentration of at least 0.1 ppm. In another aspect, DHP gas is supplied and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.2 ppm. In a further aspect, DHP gas is supplied and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.3 ppm. In a further aspect, DHP gas is supplied and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.4 ppm. In a further aspect, the DHP gas is supplied and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.5 ppm, at least 0.6 ppm, at least 0.7 ppm, at least 0.8 ppm or at least 0.9 ppm. In one aspect, DHP gas is supplied and maintained at less than 1.0 ppm. In one aspect, the DHP gas is supplied and maintained between 0.1 and 0.6 ppm. In another aspect, DHP gas is supplied and maintained between 0.4 and 1.0 ppm. In some aspects, the final concentration of DHP gas in said environment is at least 0.1 ppm. In other aspects, the final concentration of DHP gas in said environment is at least 0.2 ppm, at least 0.4 ppm, at least 0.6 ppm, or at least 0.8 ppm. In one aspect, the final concentration of DHP gas in said environment is less than 1.0 ppm. Those skilled in the art can easily determine a preferred level of PHPG in view of the current description and also as a function of the type, number and age of the agricultural product as discussed below.
[00101] In certain respects, the method includes supplying DHP gas at up to 10 ppm. In certain aspects, the method includes providing DHP gas at least between 0.05 and 10 ppm. In one aspect, the method includes providing DHP gas at at least 0.08 ppm. In another aspect, the method includes supplying DHP gas at at least 1.0 ppm. In yet another aspect, the method includes providing DHP gas at at least 1.5 ppm. In one aspect, the method includes supplying DHP gas at at least 2.0 ppm. In another aspect, the method includes providing DHP gas at at least 3.0 ppm. In one aspect, the method includes providing DHP gas at at least 5.0 ppm. In another aspect, the method includes providing DHP gas at at least 6.0 ppm. In one aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is less than 10 ppm. In one aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is less than 9.0 ppm. In another aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is less than 8.0 ppm. In one aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is less than 7.0 ppm. In another aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is between 0.05 ppm and 10.0 ppm. In yet another aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is between 0.05 ppm and 5.0 ppm. In one aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is between 0.08 ppm and 2.0 ppm. In yet another aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided is between 1.0 ppm and 3.0 ppm. In one aspect, the concentration of DHP gas provided in a cleanroom of the present invention is between 1.0 ppm and 8.0 ppm, or between 5.0 ppm and 10.0 ppm. In other respects, the concentration of DHP gas delivered in a cleanroom varies between higher and lower concentrations of DHP gas. By way of non-limiting example, the DHP gas can be supplied in a higher concentration in hours during the night and a lower concentration in hours during the day.
[00102] The current description addresses, and includes, indoor environments comprising DHP gas and methods of using DHP gas supplied by one or more PHPG producing devices. Suitable PHPG production devices are known in the art and are disclosed in the U.S. patent. No. 8,168,122 issued May 1, 2012 and U.S. Patent No. 8,685,329 published April 1, 2014. It will be appreciated that the number and capacity of PHPG production devices required to achieve a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm DHP is dependent on the size of the enclosed environment. Exemplary devices are illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.
[00103] In some aspects, an entire greenhouse, or building, is an enclosed environment in accordance with the present invention and the number of PHPG producing devices can be adjusted accordingly. In practice, it has been determined that a single PHPG device can continuously maintain a space of approximately 425 m3 (about 15,000 ft3) at approximately 0.6 ppm. An adequate number of devices can provide a closed environment with up to 10 ppm of H2O2. Notably, the enclosed environment does not need to be airtight or even isolated from the outside environment. In aspects according to the present invention, indoor environments have active inputs and outputs.
[00104] As described herein, suitable PHPG production devices may comprise a compartment, an air delivery mechanism, an ultraviolet light source and an air permeable substrate structure with a catalyst on its surface in which a flow of moist air passes through the air permeable substrate structure and directs the PHPG produced by the device out of the enclosure when the device is in operation. As used herein, an air compartment and distribution system can be the ducts, fans, filters and other parts of an HVAC system suitable for an enclosed environment. In certain respects, the PHPG device is provided after air filtration to maximize PHPG production and reduce PHPG losses as air moves through the system. In other respects, a PHPG producing device may be a standalone device. In certain respects, the PHPG generating device is capable of producing PHPG at a rate sufficient to establish a steady state concentration of PHPG of at least 0.005 ppm in a closed air volume of 10 cubic meters. In certain respects, a PHPG generating device generates PHPG from water present in ambient air. As used herein, the air distribution provides an air flow with a velocity of approximately 5 nanometers/second (nm/s) to 10,000 nm/sec as measured at the surface of the air permeable substrate structure. As used herein, the substrate structure is an air permeable substrate structure which has a surface catalyst configured to produce unhydrated PHPG when exposed to a light source and provided with an air flow. As used herein, the air permeable substrate structure having a catalyst on its surface is comprised between approximately 5 nanometers (nm) and approximately 750 nm in total thickness. As used herein, the catalyst on the surface of an air permeable substrate structure is a metal, a metal oxide or mixtures thereof and may be tungsten oxide or a mixture of tungsten oxide with another metal catalyst or metal oxide.
[00105] As described in this document, PHPG generating devices that can be installed in existing HVAC systems (eg inline) or as stand-alone units produce PHPG that is essentially free of ozone, plasma species or organic species. As used herein, the term "substantially free of ozone" means an amount of ozone below approximately 0.015 ppm ozone. In one aspect, "substantially free of ozone" means that the amount of ozone produced by the device is below or close to the level of detection (LOD) using conventional detection means. Such levels are below generally accepted limits for human health. In this regard, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that ozone production from indoor medical devices does not exceed 0.05 ppm ozone. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that workers not be exposed to an average concentration greater than 0.10 ppm ozone for 8 hours. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends an upper limit of 0.10 ppm of ozone, which should not be exceeded at any time. The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Environmental Air Quality Standard for ozone is a maximum 8-hour average outdoor concentration of 0.08 ppm. Diffuser devices have consistently demonstrated that they do not produce ozone at levels detectable through a Draeger tube.
[00106] As used herein, substantially free of hydration means that the hydrogen peroxide gas is at least 99% free of water molecules bound by electrostatic attraction and London Forces. Also as used herein, a PHPG that is substantially free of plasma species means hydrogen peroxide gas that is at least 99% free of hydroxide ion, hydroxide radical, hydrogen ion and hydrogen radical. As used herein, PHPG is essentially free of organic species.
[00107] As described herein, in certain aspects of the description, hydrogen peroxide is produced as an almost ideal gas phase, the PHPG. In this form, hydrogen peroxide behaves, in all respects, like a near-ideal gas and is not hydrated, or otherwise combined with water when produced. In this form, the near-ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide can penetrate any space that can be reached by the air itself. This includes all areas where contaminants such as microbes and organic compounds are present in a room, such as gaps between materials, air-permeable interior fabrics, air-permeable walls, ceilings, floors, and equipment. However, without being bound by theory, it should be noted that the methods and devices of the present invention are not achieved as a result of the photocatalytic process, but by the effects of the nearly ideal PHPG gas once it is released into the environment.
[00108] Produced continuously through a PHPG diffuser device, as discussed here, an equilibrium concentration above 0.05 parts per million of nearly ideal gas phase hydrogen peroxide can be achieved and maintained continuously in an environment. At equilibrium at one atmosphere of pressure and 19.51 °C, nearly ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide will be present in each cubic micron of air in an average amount of one molecule per cubic micron for every 0.04 parts per million concentration. At one part per million, the average number of hydrogen peroxide molecules per cubic micron will be 25, and at 3.2 parts per million it will be 80.
[00109] Not to be limited by theory, the near-ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide will spread throughout the environment, including any available space for air. The result of continuous exposure to near-ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide at even low concentrations continually kills or suppresses the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, molds, and repels or kills insects and arachnids. Most arthropods, including insects, do not have lungs, but survive exclusively by delivering oxygen throughout the body through a network of tracheal tubes. By this means, the near-ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide reaches every portion of an arthropod's body and causes death to the arthropod, such as an insect. Not to be bound by theory, near-ideal gas-phase hydrogen peroxide damages your air exchange tissues.
[00110] The present invention deals with, and includes, the installation of PHPG generating devices in portable compartments, including, but not limited to, storage containers, trucks, wagons, ships and airplanes that may be used in accordance with the present methods and compositions. Indoor environments with adequate HVAC systems that further comprise one or more PHPG generating devices are sufficient to keep the room clean at a concentration of 0.05 ppm DHP gas (eg inline PHPG generating devices).
[00111] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for preserving an agricultural product. Throughout development, it was observed that agricultural products could be air-dried and preserved. More specifically, since the present invention has provided methods for preventing the growth of mold and preventing spoilage, when the agricultural product is stored in low humidity conditions, it has been observed that it has dehydrated or dried out. Therefore, the present invention deals with methods of preserving agricultural products by placing an agricultural product in a closed environment with DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) and with a RH of less than 65% and keeping the agricultural product in the closed environment until the water content of said agricultural product is reduced. In certain respects, the agricultural product is dried and preserved when the water content of the agricultural product is approximately 25% or less. In other respects, agricultural produce is dried and preserved when the water content is 20% or less. In still other respects, the agricultural product is dried and preserved when the water content is 15% or less. Suitable levels of DHP gas for an enclosed environment to preserve and dry an agricultural product are given above, for example in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00112] The rate of preservation by air drying as given here depends on the RH. As supplied, the RH must be less than 65%. In other respects, the RH is less than 50%. In some respects, the RH is less than 40% or less than 30%. In yet another aspect, the RH may be 20% or even 10% or less. One skilled in the art would recognize that the rate of drying is important and that if the rate is too fast (e.g. RH is too low) hardening can occur in the event that the outer layer of the fruit dries too quickly, becomes hard and prevents more moisture from being lost. Those skilled in the art can determine the proper moisture to minimize and prevent shell hardening.
[00113] The present invention provides air-dried preserved agricultural products selected from the group consisting of green beans, broccoli, savoy cabbage, white cabbage, carrots, celery, coriander, corn, dill, garlic, cabbage, sea garlic, mushroom , onion, parsley, peas, pepper, potato, pumpkin, shallot, spinach, squash, tomato, zucchini, apple, apricots, bananas, blueberries, cranberries, currant, myrtle berry, raspberry, black strawberry, strawberry, cherry, date, fig, grape, kiwi, quincan, mango, nectarine, peach, papaya, pear, persimmon, pineapple, plum and dried plum. In one aspect, the air-dried preserved agricultural product is a strawberry. Other agricultural products suitable for drying and conservation are given above in paragraphs [0074] and [0075]. As described in this document, agricultural products suitable for drying and preserving can be whole, chopped, sliced, cubed or powdered.
[00114] The present invention further deals with, and includes, the pre-treatment of an agricultural product before placing the product in a closed environment for drying. In certain respects, pre-treatment serves to prevent darkening and discoloration. In other respects, the pre-treatment provides additional sugar and sweetness to the dry agricultural product. Suitable pretreatments are known in the state of the art. In one aspect, the pretreatment is sulfurization. In another aspect, the pretreatment is a sulfite treatment, for example as a sulfite dip. In another aspect, an ascorbic acid solution is used as a pretreatment. In yet another aspect, the pre-treatment is an immersion in fruit juice. In certain respects, fruit juice immersion comprises a citrus fruit. In one aspect, fruit juice is lemon, orange, pineapple, grape or cranberry juice. A pre-treatment is also provided which comprises immersion of the agricultural product in honey before drying. In another aspect, the agricultural product may be syrup broth. In another aspect, the agricultural product may be sprayed as a pre-treatment before drying.
[00115] The present invention further addresses, and includes, conditioning the dry agricultural product prior to storage. As will be understood by one skilled in the art, conditioning comprises storing a plurality of agricultural products together in a sealed environment to allow equal distribution of moisture. Not to be bound by theory, it is believed that the moisture content in a dry agricultural product, such as dried fruit, for example, can vary between individual items depending on initial moisture content, location in the drying environment, presence of bark, size differences or other reasons. Consequently, prior to packaging and storage, the agricultural product provides time for the moisture content to balance out among the plurality.
[00116] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for preserving an agricultural product by drying, providing reduced levels of fungi, fungi, bacteria and viruses, as described below in paragraphs [00140] to [00168]. Consequently, the dry agricultural products according to the present invention reduced levels of bacteria, viruses and fungi. In certain respects, dry agricultural products have reduced levels of bacteria, viruses and fungi and are organic products.
[00117] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for producing an agricultural product comprising harvesting the agricultural product, storing the agricultural product in a closed environment with a relative humidity of less than 40% and greater than 10% and in the presence of of DHP gas at final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm). The description further addresses, and includes, a storage container providing a closed environment comprising a harvested agricultural product, a relative humidity of less than 40% and greater than 10%, and a DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 at 10 parts per million (ppm).
[00118] The present invention further addresses, and includes, methods and compositions for inhibiting the ethylene response of an agricultural product which comprises supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 ppm to a closed environment and further provides a cyclopropene or cyclopropene derivative. As used herein, a cyclopropene or cyclopropene derivative has the structure shown in Figure 1:
wherein n is a number from 1 to 4 and R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C1 to C4 saturated or unsaturated alkyl, hydroxy, halogen, C1 to C4 alkoxy, amino and carboxy. In one aspect, the cyclopropene derivative is 1-methylcyclopropene. In another aspect, the cyclopropene derivative is dimethylcyclopropene.
[00119] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for producing an agricultural product which comprises harvesting the agricultural product, storing the agricultural product in a closed environment in the presence of DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0, 3 to 10 parts per million (ppm) and in the presence of 1-methylcyclopropene and/or dimethylcyclopropene. The description further deals with, and includes, a storage container providing an enclosed environment comprising a harvested agricultural product, DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 to 10 parts per million (ppm), and 1-methylcyl - clopropene and/or dimethylcyclopropene.
[00120] As used herein, an "enclosed environment" is any limited space that can be maintained at a constant PHPG level of at least 0.05 parts per million using one or more PHPG generating devices. Generally, a suitable enclosed environment is limited enough that air exchange with the outside area of the compartment is limited. For certain indoor environments, the indoor environment is suitable for human occupancy as PHPG levels down to 1 ppm pose no risk. In contrast, unbounded environments, such as a non-enclosed external environment, cannot achieve a constant PHPG level of at least 0.05 parts per million because the generated PHPG will explode or diffuse. As described in this document, a closed environment only needs to be limited enough to prevent loss of PHPG at a rate greater than the rate of production of one or more suitable PHPG generating devices. Consequently, the presence of doors, windows, entrances, holes, cracks, screens and other openings does not mean that the space is not an enclosed space.
[00121] PHPG can be fed indoors to inhibit the ethylene response and prolong freshness (eg late ripening, abscission, senescence). PHPG can be supplied in a closed environment to inhibit ethylene response delay or prevent ripening, senescence, abscission, growth inhibition, growth stimulation, promote or inhibit branching, seed development, flower development, seed germination and seed dormancy breaking. PHPG can also be supplied indoors to kill or prevent infestation by pathogens or pests, repel pests, kill fungi, molds, bacteria and viruses, and control invasive species.
[00122] The present invention deals with a closed environment selected from the group consisting of a storage container, a transport container, a vehicle, a distribution center, a storage facility, a wholesale center, a CEA, a greenhouse, a cold greenhouse, an "arch" greenhouse, a retail store, a kitchen, a restaurant, a flower shop, a warehouse, a food processing area, a market storage area and a market display.
[00123] The present invention deals with, and includes, a CEA facility with DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm). Suitable CEA installations include greenhouses, hydroponic installations and aquaponic installations.
[00124] The present invention deals with, and includes, shipping containers, also known as standard intermodal cargo containers, with at least 0.05 ppm DHP gas. In certain aspects, the DHP gas level can be up to 10 ppm. In certain aspects, the level of DHP gas varies between 0.05 and 10 ppm. Additional suitable levels of DHP gas are provided, for example, in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00125] As provided herein, a shipping container includes corrugated boxes, wooden crates, crates, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), bulk boxes, drums, insulated containers and loading devices unitary. As provided herein, shipping containers in accordance with the present invention may further comprise one or more integrated PHGP generating devices, or may be supplied with DHP gas by being placed in an enclosed space (e.g., on the suspension of a ship). or airplane with DHP gas at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm). In certain aspects, the shipping container comprises a PHGP generating device and may further include cooling and heating units, as appropriate. Suitable shipping containers for the compositions and methods of the present invention include, but are not limited to, shipping containers that meet one or more of the following international standards: ISO 6346: 1995, ISO 668: 2013, ISO 1161: 1984 and ISO 1496-1: 2013.
[00126] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods for inhibiting the ripening process of an agricultural product during transport, including providing a compartment for transporting an agricultural product, placing an agricultural product in the compartment, supplying gas of DHP at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to the compartment; and maintain the DHP gas concentration during transport.
[00127] In accordance with aspects of the present invention, ripening is inhibited during transport and delays time to peak ripening. The present invention deals with, and includes, a method of inhibiting the ripening process of an agricultural product during transport comprising providing a compartment for transporting an agricultural product, placing an agricultural product in the compartment, supplying DHP gas to the compartment. compartment and maintaining the DHP gas concentration during said transport. The method includes providing a concentration of DHP gas sufficient to delay the maximum peak period by at least one day, at least 2 days, at least 3 days, at least 4 days, at least 5 days, at least 6 days, at least least a week, or at least two weeks. DHP gas levels according to the present invention for ripening inhibition and maximum ripening time extension are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00128] In some respects, the agricultural product for transport under conditions of inhibition of ripening by DHP gas is a fruit. In other respects, the agricultural product is a vegetable. In other respects, the agricultural product is a nut, seed, grain, or tuber. In one aspect, the grain is selected from the group consisting of rice, wheat, corn and barley. In some respects, shipping containers are built to international standards, making them interchangeable between shipping, rail and truck companies. In still other aspects, the DHP gas containing shipping containers may optionally be chilled or otherwise treated as is standard during shipping. In another aspect, the agricultural product is a perishable product. In certain respects, agricultural produce is shipped in a DHP gas environment to minimize or avoid the transport and introduction of exogenous species.
[00129] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for controlling a pathogen in an agricultural product during transport, comprising supplying DHP gas in a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to a transport container containing an agricultural product for preparing a DHP gas containing transport container, transporting a transport container containing DHP gas; and maintain the concentration of DHP gas during transport, thus controlling pathogens. The present invention deals with DHP gas levels up to 10 ppm and as further described in paragraphs [0099] to [00101]. Controlled pathogens in accordance with the present invention include, but are not limited to, the pathogens described below, beginning at paragraph [00140].
[00130] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for controlling the ripening process of an agricultural product in a storage facility. Storage facilities in accordance with the present invention include personal and industrial storage facilities. In one aspect, the storage facility can be selected from the group consisting of a silo, a drum, a can, a container, a cooler, a cooler and a bag. The method includes providing a concentration of DHP gas sufficient to delay peak ripening by at least one day, at least 2 days, at least 3 days, at least 4 days, at least 5 days, at least 6 days, at least a week, or at least two weeks. In certain respects, DHP gas is continuously supplied to the storage facility. In other respects, DHP gas is supplied intermittently to the storage facility. In one aspect, DHP gas is supplied during the day. In another aspect, DHP gas is supplied overnight.
[00131] In aspects according to the present invention, DHP gas for controlling ripening in a storage facility is supplied in a final concentration to a storage facility of at least 0.05 ppm to 10 ppm. In another aspect, the gas concentration of DHP is provided and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.2 ppm. In another aspect, the gas concentration of DHP is provided and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.3 ppm. In another aspect, the DHP gas concentration is provided and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.4 ppm. In another aspect, the DHP gas is supplied and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.5 ppm, at least 0.6 ppm, at least 0.7 ppm, at least 0.8 ppm or at least 0.9 ppm. In one aspect, the gas concentration of DHP is provided and maintained below 1.0 ppm. In one aspect, the gas concentration of DHP is provided and maintained between 1.0 ppm and 0.6 ppm. In another aspect, the gas concentration of DHP is provided and maintained between 0.4 ppm and 1.0 ppm. Those skilled in the art can readily determine a preferred level of DHP gas in view of the present invention and further depending on the type, number and source of the agricultural product. DHP gas levels according to the present invention for ripening treatment in a storage facility are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00132] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and composition wherein the concentration of DHP gas is maintained over a period of time. In certain aspects, the enclosed environment is maintained having a DHP gas concentration of at least 0.05 ppm for an indefinite period of time. In another aspect, the enclosed environment is maintained at a DHP gas concentration of up to 10 ppm. Maintaining the DHP gas level provides continuous DHP gas activity against microorganisms and arthropods, thus, during the transport surfaces of agricultural products, the load of microorganisms is progressively reduced and the arthropods are killed or repelled.
[00133] DHP gas is very effective in reducing the levels of various microorganisms and arthropods. As described below in Example 2, Table 1, the H1N1 virus can be reduced by 90% in less than 30 minutes. The pathogenic MRSA bacteria is reduced by 90% in less than 5 hours. The vegetative form of the fungus Aspergillus niger can be reduced by 90% in 7 hours when present in an agricultural product, for example a strawberry. As one skilled in the art will understand, even a brief treatment of less than an hour results in a decrease in the number of pathogens or microorganisms. Likewise, DHP gas has an immediate effect against VOCs, for example also ethylene, although the effect on an ethylene-mediated activity depends on the continuous application of DHP gas. As described in this document, agricultural products are expected to be kept in the environment containing DHP gas for long periods of time, for example during storage and shipment.
[00134] The present invention deals with, and includes, treating an agricultural product for at least 15 minutes. In other aspects, the DHP gas is supplied for at least 1 hour. In certain aspects, DHP gas is supplied for at least 2 hours. In additional aspects, DHP gas is supplied for at least 3 or 4 hours. In certain aspects, the agricultural product is exposed to a closed environment with DHP gas for at least 6 hours or even 12 hours. Other aspects describe exposure of at least 24 hours.
[00135] Also provided and included in the present invention is the application of DHP gas to agricultural products for one or more weeks. In other respects, DHP gas can be supplied indoors for a month or more. Also included are methods and compositions wherein the DHP gas is supplied continuously, for example during transport or storage. Notably, given the safety and effectiveness of DHP gas, indoor environments with DHP gas are safe for human habitation, so workers can enter and leave the DHP-containing environment to add and remove agricultural products. Likewise, customers can come in to examine and purchase agricultural products in the DHP gas-containing environments of the present invention.
[00136] The present invention further deals with, and includes, methods for producing an agricultural product comprising harvesting the agricultural product, storing the agricultural product in a closed environment in the presence of DHP gas at a final concentration in the range of 0.3 at 10 parts per million (ppm) for a period of time from 15 minutes to 24 hours.
[00137] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for reducing the concentration of a VOC in a closed environment comprising supplying PHPG to an environment at a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm for a period of time, in that VOC is reduced by oxidation. The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for reducing the concentration of a VOC in an enclosed environment comprising supplying PHPG to an environment at a concentration of at least 10 ppm over a period of time, wherein the VOC is reduced. by oxidation. In aspects according to the present invention, the VOC is selected from the group consisting of a hydrocarbon, an alcohol, an ester, an ether, an aldehyde, a ketone, an alkyl halide, an amine, and combinations thereof. . DHP gas levels according to the present invention for reducing the concentration of a VOC in an enclosed environment are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00138] During the production of certain agricultural products, various organic compounds are applied, for example pesticides and fungicides. Like VOCs, these compounds have a variety of chemical groups that are oxidizable by PHPG. Therefore, PHPG treatment of an agricultural product results in reductions of these often undesirable organic compounds. The present methods are an improvement over prior art methods in that the products do not need washing and the treatment is safe. Thus, there are no concerns that workers are exposed to any hazardous conditions.
[00139] In certain respects, treated agricultural products will have reduced levels of pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and other organic residues. In certain respects, organic waste will be reduced by at least 10% or at least 20%. In other respects, organic waste will be reduced by at least 30%. In another aspect, the organic residue will be reduced by at least 40%. In another aspect, the organic residue will be reduced by at least 50%. In another aspect, the organic waste will be reduced by at least 60% or at least 70%. The present invention addresses reductions in organic residues of pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and the like by 80% or more. In certain respects, organic waste is reduced by 90% or 95%. In some respects, up to 99% of organic residues from pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and the like can be eliminated. As used herein, elimination of an organic residue refers to the oxidation of the residue to a simpler compound by H2O2.
[00140] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods for controlling an infection by a pathogen on an agricultural product comprising providing DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for an enclosed environment containing said infected agricultural product; and maintaining said DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in said enclosed environment for a period of time sufficient to control said pathogen. The present invention also includes methods for controlling an infection of a pathogen in an agricultural product comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 10 ppm. DHP gas levels according to the present invention for treating an infection of a pathogen in a plant or plant product are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00141] In aspects according to the present invention, methods for controlling an infection by a pathogen on an agricultural product wherein the plant or plant product includes plant products selected from the group consisting of a fruit, a vegetable, a seed, a root, a leaf and a flower. Suitable indoor environments for controlling an infection by a pathogen in a plant or plant product are provided above in paragraphs [00120] to [00123]. Indoor environments suitable for controlling a pathogen infection in a plant or plant product include transport containers as provided in paragraphs [00124] and [00125] and storage containers as described in paragraph [00130].
[00142] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods for controlling an infection by a pathogen in a plant or plant product wherein the pathogen is a virus, a viroid, a virus-like organism, a bacterium, a phytoplasma, a protozoan, an alga, a nematode, a parasite, an insect, an arachnid, an oomycete, a fungus or a mold. As used herein, treatment of a pathogen includes cessation of all activity, reduction of pathogenicity, reduction of virulence, reduction of transmission, reduction of reproduction, reduction of quantity, prevention of an infection and elimination.
[00143] In various aspects, the pathogen can be selected from the group consisting of fungi, archaea, protists, protozoa, bacteria, bacterial spores, bacterial endospore, virus, viral vector and combinations thereof. In other respects, the microorganism may be selected from the group consisting of Naegleria fowleri, Coccidioides immitis, Bacillus anthracis, Haemophilus influenzae, Listeria monocytogenes, Neisseria meningitides, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus agalactiae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Yersinia pestis, Clostridium botulinum, Francisella tularensis, variola major, Nipah virus, Hanta virus, Pichinde virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, Ebola virus, Marburg virus, Lassa virus, Junin virus, human immunodeficiency virus ("HIV") or SARS-associated coronavirus ("SARS-CoV").
[00144] The methods of the present invention further address the reduction or elimination of pathogens selected from the group consisting of S. Aureus, Alcaligenes Xylosoxidans, Candida Parapsilosis, Pseudomonos Aeruginosa, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas Putida, Flavobacterium Meningosepticum, Pseudomonas Picketti, Citrobacter and Corynebacteria. The present invention further includes methods for reducing or eliminating C. difficile, Chlamydia, hepatitis virus, non-smallpox oropoxvirudae, influenza, Lyme disease, Salmonella sp., mumps, measles, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or Staphylococcus aureus resistant to vancomycin (VRSA). In additional aspects, the present invention deals with the reduction or elimination of Yersinia pestis, Francisella tularensis, Leishmania donovani, Mycobac terium tuberculosis, Chlamydia psittaci, Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus, eastern equine encephalitis virus, SARS coronavirus, Coxiella burnetii , Rift Valley fever virus, Rickettsia rickettsii, Brucella sp., rabies virus, chikungunya, yellow fever virus and West Nile virus.
[00145] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for controlling an infection by a pathogen on an agricultural product, comprising providing PHPG in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a closed environment containing the agricultural product. In one aspect, the method is a GRAS method for controlling an infection by a pathogen in an agricultural product. The present invention also includes methods for controlling an infection by a pathogen in an agricultural product comprising providing DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 10 ppm. Other levels of DHP gas suitable in accordance with the present invention for controlling an infection by a pathogen in an agricultural product are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101]. Agricultural products include, but are not limited to, agricultural products as indicated in paragraphs [0074] and [0075].
[00146] By reducing the number of pathogens in an agricultural product, the present invention addresses agricultural products with a reduced number of pathogens. The present invention deals with agricultural products that have not been irradiated or treated with a chemical. As H2O2 is completely broken down into water and oxygen, agricultural methods and products are completely "green" and GRAS.
[00147] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for controlling a pathogen in a CEA facility which comprises supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to the facility. of CEA and maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a period of time sufficient to control the pathogen. Suitable CEA installations include, but are not limited to, greenhouses, "arch" greenhouses, cold greenhouses, hydroponics installations and aquaponics installations. In certain respects, DHP gas is supplied intermittently. In certain respects, DHP gas is provided to repel or kill pests such as insects and spiders. In other respects, DHP gas is supplied continuously.
[00148] In one aspect, the present invention deals with an organic agricultural product with a reduced number of pathogenic organisms. In one aspect, the number of pathogenic organisms is reduced by at least 25%. In another aspect, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 50%. In another aspect, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 60%. In another aspect, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 70%. In yet another aspect, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 75%. In other respects, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 80%. The present invention deals with agricultural products with a reduction of pathogenic organisms of at least 90% compared to an untreated agricultural product. In one respect, pathogenic organisms in an agricultural product are reduced by at least 95%. In some respects, pathogenic organisms are reduced by at least 99.9%. One skilled in the art would recognize that the degree of reduction depends on the amount of time agricultural products are treated with DHP gas. Appropriate times for the treatment of agricultural products are cited above in paragraph [00132]. In particular aspects, the agricultural product is a vegetable, as described above in paragraphs [0078] to [0081]. In another particular aspect, the agricultural product is a fruit, as described in paragraphs [0083] to [0086].
[00149] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for controlling an infection by a pathogen on an agricultural product, comprising providing PHPG in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a closed environment containing the agricultural product. In aspects according to the present invention, the pathogen is a bacterium. In certain respects, the bacteria that are reduced are bacteria that are responsible for human disease and are transmitted through an agricultural product (eg, certain E. coli transmitted and ingested through lettuce). In other respects, bacteria are responsible for spoilage of agricultural produce. Thus, in certain respects, a reduction in the number of bacteria results in a reduction in spoilage and an increase in the shelf life of an agricultural product. In certain respects, the agricultural product is a vegetable or a fruit as described in paragraphs [0078] to [0081] and in paragraphs [0083] to [0086], respectively.
[00150] In one aspect, the bacteria are lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Pediococcus, Lactococcus and Enterococcus. In another respect, the bacteria are gram negative. In yet another aspect, the bacteria are gram positive. In certain respects, bacteria are a member of the genera selected from the group consisting of Acetobacter, Gluconobacter, Aeromonas, Arthrobacter, Aureobacterium, Xanthomonas, Pseudomonas, Clostridium, Cytophaga, Corynebacterium, Enterobacter, Erwinia, Flavobacterium, Bacillus, Klebsiella , Serratia, Alcaligenes and Pantoea. In another aspect, the bacterium may be Erwinia amylovora, Erwinia aphidicola, Erwinia billingiae, Erwinia mallotivora, Erwinia papayae, Erwinia persicina, Erwinia psidii, Erwinia pyrifoliae, Erwinia rhapontici, Erwinia toletana. Erwinia tracheiphila, Candidatus Erwinia dacicola. In another aspect, the bacterium can be Erwinia carotovora, Xanthomonas campestris, Penicillium expansum, Botrytis cinerea, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas viridiflava, Pseudomonas tolaasii, Pseudomonas marginalis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Pantoea agglomerans Burkholderia cepacia Burkholderia ceplacia Pantoea herbicide marginalis and P. chlororaphis, Pseudomonas cichorii, P. syringae, P. viridiflava, or L. mesenteroides.
[00151] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for reducing foodborne illness comprising treating an agricultural product with DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to reduce the number of bacteria, viruses and parasites present. The description also deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for reducing foodborne illness which comprise treating an agricultural product with DHP gas at a final concentration of up to 10 parts per million (ppm) to reduce the number of bacteria, viruses and parasites present in an agricultural product. In certain respects, the agricultural product is a vegetable or a fruit as described in paragraphs [0078] to [0081] and in paragraphs [0083] to [0086], respectively. In certain respects, the agricultural product is a raw agricultural product.
[00152] The description deals with the reduction of bacterial pathogens in agricultural products, thus decreasing the risk of foodborne diseases. In one aspect, the agricultural product is treated with DPH gas to reduce E. coli O157:H7. In one aspect, the bacterial pathogen is a species of Salmonella. In another aspect, the bacterial pathogen is Clostridium perfringens. In yet another aspect, the bacterial pathogen is a Camplylobacter species. In another aspect, the bacterial pathogen is a Staphylococcus species. In one aspect, the Staphylococcus species is Staphylococcus aureus.
[00153] Also included and provided in the present invention are methods and compositions for controlling an infection by a pathogen in an agricultural product wherein the pathogen is a virus. In one aspect, the method deals with the elimination of a virus in an agricultural product, in other aspects, the virus is reduced relative to an untreated agricultural product. There are no known viruses of any type that are resistant to H2O2, supplied either as a gas, liquid or vapor. Considerably, viruses transmitted and ingested as agricultural products result in significant human illness and mortality.
[00154] Viral loads and active viruses can be reduced or eliminated in agricultural products when treated, transported or stored in a closed environment comprising DHP gas in a concentration of at least 0.05 ppm. The methods of the present invention are effective against all classes of viruses including class I viruses comprising double stranded DNA viruses (dsD-NA) including, for example, Adenovirus, Herpesvirus and Poxvirus; Class II viruses comprising single stranded DNA (ssD-NA) viruses, for example Parvovirus; Double-stranded RNA (dsrNA) class III viruses, including, for example, Reovirus, class IV viruses that comprise single-stranded viruses ((+) ssRNA), for example, Picornavirus and Togavirus; Class V viruses that comprise single-stranded RNA viruses ((-)ssrNA), e.g. Orthomyxoviruses and Rhabdoviruses, including Arenaviridae, Class VI viruses that include single-stranded RNA reverse transcripts (ssRNA-RT) viruses that have a RNA genome with intermediate DNA in the life cycle (eg, Retroviruses); and Class VII viruses that include double-stranded DNA reverse transcribed (dsDNA-RT) viruses (e.g., Hepadnavirus including hepatitis virus). H2O2 gas is expected to be effective in inactivating and killing all viruses. Resistant viruses are not known.
[00155] The present invention provides methods and compositions effective against all Class I viruses, including but not limited to the selected group of Herpesviridae (including herpes virus, Varicella Zoster virus), Adenoviridae, Asfarviridae (including African swine fever virus) , Polyomaviridae (including Simian virus 40, JC virus, BK virus) and Poxviridae (including Cowpox virus, smallpox).
[00156] The present invention deals with methods and compositions effective against all Class III viruses including but not limited to Picobirnaviridae and Reoviridae (including Rotavirus).
[00157] The present invention deals with methods and compositions effective against all Class IV viruses, including, but not limited to, families selected from the group consisting of families selected from the group consisting of Coronaviridae (including Coronavirus, SARS ), Picornaviridae (including Poliovirus, Rhinovirus (common cold virus), Hepatitis A virus), Flaviviridae (including yellow fever virus, West Nile virus, hepatitis C virus, dengue virus); Caliciviridae (including Norwalk virus also known as norovirus) and Togaviridae (including rubella virus, Ross River virus, Sindbis virus, Chikungunya virus). The present invention deals with methods and compositions effective against norovirus.
[00158] The present invention provides methods and compositions effective against all Class V viruses that include nine families of viruses that make up some of the deadliest viruses known. The methods of the present invention are effective to reduce or eliminate viruses from the Arenaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Rhabdoviridae, Filoviridae, and Paramyxoviridae families.
[00159] The present invention provides methods and compositions effective against all Class VI retroviruses, including but not limited to the selected group of Alpharetrovirus, Betaretrovirus, Gam-maretrovirus, Deltaretrovirus; Epsilonretrovirus and Lentivirus. The methods and compositions of the present invention are also effective against Bornaviridae virus families (includes Borna disease virus); Filoviridae (includes Ebola virus, Marburg virus); Paramyxoviridae (includes measles virus, mumps virus, Nipah virus, Hendra virus, RSV and NDV); Rhabdoviridae (includes rabies virus); Nyamiviridae (includes Nyavirus); Arenaviridae (includes Lassa virus); Bunyaviridae (includes Hantavirus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever); Ophioviridae (infects plants); and Orthomyxoviridae (includes influenza viruses).
[00160] Also provided and included in the present invention are agricultural products with reduced numbers of virus plaque forming units (PFU). As used herein, plaque forming units refer to the number of active (e.g., infectious) viral particles. In certain aspects, the agricultural product is not treated with radiation. In other respects, the agricultural product is not treated with a chemical. In yet another aspect, the agricultural product is not treated with radiation or a chemical.
[00161] In one aspect, the present invention deals with an organic agricultural product with a reduced number of virus PFUs. In one aspect, the number of PFUs is reduced by at least 25%. In another aspect, PFUs are reduced by at least 50%. In yet another aspect, FUPs are reduced by at least 75%. The present invention deals with agricultural products with a reduction in PFUs of at least 90% compared to an untreated agricultural product. In particular aspects, the agricultural product is a vegetable, as described above in paragraphs [0078] to [0081]. In another particular aspect, the agricultural product is a fruit, as described in paragraphs [0083] to [0086].
[00162] Included and provided by the present invention are methods and composition for controlling an infestation by a pathogen in an agricultural product in which the pathogen is a fungus. The fungi can be one or more of the following fungi: Botrytis cinerea, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Fusarium spp., Rhizopus oryzae, Cochliobolus lunatus (Curvularia lunata), Macrophomina phaseolina, Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani and/or Plenodomus destruens. In another aspect, fungi may belong to the genera Alternaria, Aspergillus, Botrytis, Cladosporium, Colletotrichum, Thamnidium, Phomopsis, Fusarium, Penicillium, Phoma, Phytophthora, Pythium or Rhizopus. In another aspect, the fungi may be a species selected from the group consisting of Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus amstelodami, Aspergillus chevalieri, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus repens, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus ustus, Aspergillus versicolor, Aureobasidium pullulans, Chaetomium globosum, Cladosporium cladosporoides, Cladosporium herbarum, Botrytis cinerea, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.
[00163] Included and provided in the present invention are methods and compositions for controlling an infestation by a pathogen in an agricultural product wherein the pathogen is a fungus. The fungus can be one or more of the following: Penicillium, Phytophthora, Alternaria, Botrytis, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Phoma, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Rhizopus, Aureobasidium or Colletotrichum.
[00164] In aspects according to the present invention, treating an infestation by a pathogen provides treatment and spoilage reduction by reducing the pathogen load on an agricultural product. In certain respects, spoilage can be reduced by reducing the number of spores of a fungus selected from the group consisting of Penicillium, Phytophthora, Alternaria, Botrytis, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Phoma, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Rhizopus, Aureobasidium and Colletotrichum.
[00165] Also provided and included in the present invention are agricultural products with reduced spore numbers of a fungus selected from the group consisting of Penicillium, Phytophthora, Alternaria, Botrytis, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Phoma, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Alternaria , Rhizopus, Aureobasidium and Colletotrichum. In certain aspects, the agricultural product is not treated with radiation. In other respects, the agricultural product is not treated with a chemical. In yet another aspect, the agricultural product is not treated with radiation or a chemical.
[00166] In one aspect, the present invention deals with an organic agricultural product with a reduced level of fungal spores selected from the group consisting of Penicillium, Phytophthora, Alternaria, Botrytis, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Phoma, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Alternaria , Rhizopus, Aureobasidium, and Colletotrichum. In one aspect, the number of fungal spores is reduced by at least 25%. In another aspect, fungal spores are reduced by at least 50%. In yet another aspect, fungal spores are reduced by at least 75%. The present invention deals with agricultural products with a fungal spore reduction of at least 90% relative to an untreated agricultural product. In particular aspects, the agricultural product is a vegetable, as described above in paragraphs [0078] to [0081]. In another particular aspect, the agricultural product is a fruit, as described in paragraphs [0083] to [0086].
[00167] In certain aspects according to the present invention, the fungus is a yeast selected from the group consisting of Candida spp., Cryptococcus albidus, Rhodotorula spp., Trichosporon penicillatum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In certain aspects, the present disclosure provides methods and compositions which provide for a reduction in the levels of yeasts of the genera Saccharomyces, Candida, Torulopsis and Hansenula which have been associated with fruit fermentation. In addition, other yeasts that can cause loss of product quality including Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, R. glutinis, Zygosaccharomyces bailii, Z. bisporus, and Z. rouxii are reduced by the methods and compositions of the present invention.
[00168] In one aspect, the present invention deals with an organic agricultural product with reduced levels of yeast selected from the genera Saccharomyces, Candida, Torulopsis and Hansenula. In another aspect, the present invention is an organic agricultural product with reduced levels of yeast selected from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, R. glutinis, Zygosaccharomyces bailii, Z. bisporus or Z. rouxii. In one aspect, the number of yeasts is reduced by at least 25%. In another aspect, fungal spores are reduced by at least 50%. In yet another aspect, the yeast is reduced by at least 75%. The present invention deals with agricultural products with a yeast reduction of at least 90% relative to an untreated agricultural product. In particular aspects, the agricultural product is a vegetable, as described above in paragraphs [0078] to [0081]. In another particular aspect, the agricultural product is a fruit, as described in paragraphs [0083] to [0086].
[00169] Increasingly, agricultural products are being shipped internationally and a growing concern is the presence of "stowaways" who may accompany transports. These stowaways include the venomous banana spiders, which accompany their eponymous fruit, or the Mediterranean fruit fly. There are many insects and arachnids that are unwanted cohabitants in transport of agricultural products.
[00170] The present invention deals with, and includes, a method for controlling an arthropod in an agricultural product during transport, including providing PHPG to a transport container that contains an agricultural product to prepare a transport container containing PHPG, sending said container and maintaining said concentration of PHPG at a predetermined concentration. In one aspect, the concentration of PHPG is provided and maintained at a concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm). In one aspect, the concentration of PHPG is provided and maintained at a concentration of at least 10 ppm. Also included and provided in the present invention are methods wherein the PHPG is initially provided at a concentration that is greater than the transport concentration to provide an improved initial kill of an arthropod. Using the methods below and those known in the prior art, determining optimal amounts of PHPG during transport can be accomplished with just a routine experiment. DHP gas levels according to the present invention for controlling an arthropod in an agricultural product during transport are given above in paragraphs [0099] to [00101].
[00171] The present invention deals with, and includes, methods and compositions for protecting an agricultural product comprising supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to a suitable closed environment and the maintaining the DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm). In some respects, DHP gas is supplied at a concentration of up to 10 ppm. As provided in this document, protection of an agricultural product includes protection against pathogens as described above in addition to arthropod pests. DHP gas-protected indoor environments include an indoor environment suitable for growing an agricultural product, including, but not limited to, a greenhouse, an "arch" greenhouse, a cold greenhouse, a hydroponic environment, or an aeroponic environment. Included and provided are agricultural products such as those cited above in paragraphs [0078] to [0086].
[00172] In aspects according to the present invention, the DHP gas provides protection by preventing or inhibiting contamination of said agricultural product growing in said closed environment by a virus or bacteria, including those described above. In another aspect, DHP gas provides protection by preventing or inhibiting damage and loss due to parasitic fungi on agricultural produce growing indoors. In another aspect, the DHP gas provides protection by preventing or inhibiting damage and loss due to parasitic fungi in the nutrient bed in which said agricultural product grows in said enclosed environment. In other aspects, the DHP gas provides protection by preventing or inhibiting damage due to insect or arachnid activity on said agricultural product growing in said enclosed environment. In some aspects, the DHP gas provides protection by discouraging an insect or arachnid from entering said enclosed environment which further comprises an agricultural product growing in said enclosed environment. In another aspect, the DHP gas provides protection by directing insects or arachnids out of said enclosed environment which further comprises an agricultural product growing in said enclosed environment. In yet another aspect, the DHP gas provides protection by causing an insect or arachnid in said enclosed environment, which further comprises an agricultural product growing in said enclosed environment, to go into dormancy and die. In another aspect, the DHP gas provides protection by killing insect or arachnid larvae, eggs or pupae in said enclosed environment which further comprises an agricultural product growing in said enclosed environment. In another aspect, DHP gas provides protection by converting ethylene gas produced by agricultural products into carbon dioxide and water before the ethylene gas can promote decomposition.
[00173] In other respects, the enclosed environment suitable for growing an agricultural product may be pre-treated with DHP gas before introducing the agricultural product for cultivation. In some respects, the enclosed environment is pre-treated with DHP gas at a concentration of up to 10 ppm. In certain respects, the pre-treatment time is one or more days. In some respects, the pre-treatment time is 2 or 3 days. In other respects, the pre-treatment time is one week. The description deals with the pre-treatment of the closed environment after the harvest of a first agricultural product and before the introduction of a second agricultural product.
[00174] The present invention deals with, and includes, organic methods for producing crops, including supplying DHP gas in a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) to an enclosed environment containing an agricultural product. and maintaining said DHP gas at a final concentration of at least 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for a period of time during plant production. In certain aspects, the gas concentration of DHP can be up to 10 ppm. It is evident that the H2O2 reacts or is broken down to produce water and oxygen and no residue remains, so this safe and effective method is completely organic.
[00175] The present invention deals with, and includes, agricultural products after DHP gas treatment according to the methods of the present invention which are organic. Agricultural products after treatment reduced levels of pathogens, reduced levels of pesticides, fungicides and other compound residues that are often applied to the agricultural product during production. Whether the added compounds applied to the agricultural product are "organic" or not, due to the oxidative action of the H2O2 gas, the compounds accessible on the surface are necessarily reduced. Given enough time, these compounds (and pathogens) can be essentially reduced to zero. When compared to untreated agricultural products, the methods of the present invention provide reductions in compounds and pathogens of at least 10%. In other respects, the reduction is at least 50% or more. In certain respects, the reduction is between 50% and 75%. In still other respects, the reduction is at least 80%. In still other aspects, at least 90% of the applied compounds are reduced or broken down. Agricultural products with reduced bacteria and fungi are expected to last longer, and if any chemicals are applied, reducing chemicals can provide improved health benefits.
[00176] Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as outlined above and as claimed in the claims section below find experimental support in the following Examples. The following examples are presented for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limitations. EXAMPLES EXAMPLE 1: Laboratory Test of DHP Gas for the Treatment of Mold in Perishable Fruits
[00177] The effects of DHP gas on a perishable food product are performed to determine the effectiveness in treating mold spoilage using indirect dispersion of DHP gas in a space. The experiments are conducted in a 1584 cubic foot test room. The test room temperature is maintained between 73 °F [22.78 °C] and 78 °F [25.56 °C], and the ambient air humidity is between 40% and 65%. Fresh strawberries are incubated in the test room for 5 days without DHP gas (treatment) or with DHP gas at a final concentration between 0.1 ppm and 0.4 ppm. After the 5-day incubation period, the strawberries are evaluated for the presence of mold spoilage. After the 5-day incubation period, the treatment strawberries demonstrate significant mold deterioration. In contrast, strawberries incubated in the presence of DHP gas show no signs of mold spoilage. The sample results are shown in Figure 1. EXAMPLE 2: DHP GAS CONTROLS BACTERIA AND FUNGI
[00178] To demonstrate the effectiveness of DHP gas on bacteria and fungi, test surfaces were inoculated with bacteria and fungi as described in Table 1. Treatment surfaces and test surfaces were placed in gas-free DHP systems and DHP containing gases and tested over a 24 hour period to determine the amount of organism remaining. Table 1: Reduction of bacteria and fungi exposed to the DHP gas environment
EXAMPLE 3: Laboratory Test of DHP Gas for the Treatment of Spores of Geobacillus Stearothermophilus
[00179] The effects of DHP gas on Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are performed to determine the effectiveness in killing spores using indirect dispersion of DHP gas in a space. The spores of G. stearothermophilus were selected because they are particularly resistant to death and are often used to validate steam sterilization methods. In these experiments, mortality rates on G. stearothermophilus spores are tested using a filter strip impregnated with G. stearothermophilus spores that are subjected to DHP gas at a concentration of approximately 0.3 ppm. Test strips provide a visual readout after exposure to DHP gas for a specific period of time. Test strips impregnated with G. stearothermophilus are exposed for the first time to DHP gas and they are dipped in a tryptic soy broth solution and placed in a dry bath for a 24 hour incubation period. After the incubation period, each test strip is analyzed to determine the presence of any viable bacteria. A color change or the presence of turbidity before the expiration of the 24-hour incubation period indicates that viable spores remain after exposure to DHP gas. On the other hand, the absence of color change or turbidity before the expiration of the 24-hour incubation period indicates eradication of G. stearothermophilus spores. The results are shown in Table 2 below. Table 2: Effect of DHP gas on Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores in laboratory tests


[00180] It is noted that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features of the invention, which, for simplicity, are described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any appropriate subcombination or as appropriate in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various modalities should not be considered essential features of those modalities, unless the modality is inoperative without those elements.
[00181] While the invention is described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the added claims.
[00182] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference in the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. To the extent that section titles are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

权利要求:
Claims (11)
[0001]
1. Method for inhibiting an ethylene response in an agricultural product, characterized in that it comprises: delivering dilute hydrogen peroxide gas (DHP) at a final concentration of up to 10.0 parts per million (ppm) to a closed environment containing said agricultural product; and maintaining said concentration of DHP gas in said enclosed environment for a period of time.
[0002]
2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that said inhibited ethylene response is selected from the group consisting of ripening, senescence, abscission, growth inhibition, growth stimulation, branching, perfiling , seed development, floral development, seed germination and seed dormancy breaking.
[0003]
3. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that said closed environment is selected from the group consisting of a storage container, a transport container, a vehicle, a distribution center, a storage, a wholesale center, a controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facility, a greenhouse, a cold greenhouse, an "arch" greenhouse, a retail store, a kitchen, a restaurant, a flower shop, a barn, a food processing area, a market storage area and a market display area.
[0004]
4. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that said ethylene response is the process of ripening an agricultural product during transport.
[0005]
5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said agricultural product is selected from the group consisting of roots, tubers, rhizomes, bulbs, corms, stems, branches, leaf stems , bracts, leaf sheaths, leaves, needles, flowers, buds, flowers, petals, fruits, seeds and edible fungi.
[0006]
6. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises controlling a pathogen in said agricultural product, wherein said pathogen is a virus, bacteria or parasitic fungi.
[0007]
7. Method, according to claim 6, characterized in that said protection comprises: preventing or inhibiting contamination of said fruit or vegetable growing in said closed environment by a virus or bacteria; or preventing or inhibiting damage and loss due to parasitic fungi on said fruit or vegetable growing in said enclosed environment.
[0008]
8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said agricultural product is selected from the group consisting of chayote, amaranth, angelica, anise, apple, arrowroot, arruga , artichoke, globe, artichoke, jerusalem thorn, asparagus, atemoya, avocado, balsam apple, balsam pear, bambara peanut, bamboo, banana, plantain, barbados cherry, beans, beet, blackberry, blackberry, bok choy, sweet potato, broccoli, chinese broccoli, broccoli raab, brussels sprouts, grape, burdock, cabbage, cabbage, sea cabbage, swamp cabbage, squash, cantaloupe melon, cantaloupe, capers, star fruit (fruits star), thistle, carrot, cassava, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, asparagus lettuce, chard, chaya, chayote, chicory, Chinese jujube, chives, chrysanthemum, chufa, cilantro, cider, coconut, kale comfrey, lamb's lettuce, corn, Cuban sweet potato, cucumber, cushcush, white radish, dandelion, yam, dill, eggplant, endive, eugenics, fennel, fig, galia melon, chickpeas, garlic, cucumber, ginger, ginseng, gourds, grape, guar, guava, hanover salad, horseradish, huckleberry, ice plant , jaboticaba, jackfruit, jicama, jojoba, cabbage, kangkong, kohlrabi, leek, lentils, lettuce, longan, loquat, lovage, loofah, lychee, macadamia, Azorean yam, mamey sapote, mango, martynia, melon, casaba, melon, honey dew melon, momordica, muscadine, mushrooms, cantaloupe melon, mustard, kale, naranjillo, nasturtium, nectarine, okra, onion, purple spinach, oranges, papaya, paprika, parsley, parsley root, parsnip, passion fruit, peach, plum, peas, peanut, pear, pecan, pepper, persimmon, pepper, pineapple, pitaya, pigeon pea, pomegranate, potato, sweet potato, squash, purslane, radicchio, radish, rakkyo, rampion , raspberry, rhubarb, romaine, roselle, turnip, saffron, salsify, sapota, sarsaparilla, sassafrass, corkscrew, sea kale, cranberry, shallot a, skirret, celery, sorrel, soybeans, spinach, spondias, pumpkin, strawberries, squash, sabal da florida, broadleaf basil, sweet corn, sweet potato, Swiss chard, tomato green, tomato, tomato, truffle, turnip, watercress, water celery, water chestnut, watercress, watermelon, yam and zucchini.
[0009]
9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said pathogen is a fungus selected from the group consisting of the genera Alternaria, Aspergillus, Botrytis, Cladosporium, Colletotrichum, Thamnidium, Phomopsis, Fusarium, Penicillium, Phoma , Phytophthora, Pythium and Rhizopus.
[0010]
10. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said pathogen is selected from the group consisting of Botrytis cinerea, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Fusarium spp., Rhizopus oryzae, Cochliobolus lunatus (Curvularia lunata), Macrophomina phaseolina, Sclerotium rolfsii solani, Plenodomus destruens Candida spp., Cryptococcus albidus, Rhodotorula spp., Trichosporon penicillatum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
[0011]
11. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that said fungus is selected from the group consisting of Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus amstelodami, Aspergillus chevaliers, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus niger , Aspergillus repens, Aspergillus uter, Aspergillus Aspergillus versicolor, Aureobasidium pullulans, Chaetomium globosum, Cladosporium cladosporoldes, Cladosporium herbarum, Botrytis cinerea, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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IL288558D0|2022-02-01|

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KR20180003566A|2018-01-09|

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CA2983831A1|2016-11-03|

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RU2020116465A|2020-11-02|

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SG11201708792RA|2017-11-29|

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HK1248464A1|2018-10-19|

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RU2017141080A3|2019-10-07|

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AU2016256431A1|2017-11-09|

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BR112017023019A2|2018-07-03|

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CN107920472A|2018-04-17|

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EP3288366A4|2018-10-17|

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JP2018521961A|2018-08-09|

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RU2017141080A|2019-05-29|

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AU2016256431B2|2021-05-13|

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AU2021202418A1|2021-07-29|

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US20180289009A1|2018-10-11|

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WO2016176486A1|2016-11-03|

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MX2017013871A|2018-06-11|

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EP3288366A1|2018-03-07|

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IL255287D0|2017-12-31|

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IL255287A|2022-02-01|

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RU2723077C2|2020-06-08|

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法律状态:
2021-08-03| B07A| Application suspended after technical examination (opinion) [chapter 7.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-12-07| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2022-02-01| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 28/04/2016, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

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