Brix Value Research Articles

Lobster quality indicators for grading

AbstractMale lobsters (Homarus americanus) harvested as ‘quarters’ (1.25 lbs/567 g) in two time periods (winter, N = 16, and summer, N = 25) of 2018 are examined. Indicators of quality data were collected for each lobster, including non‐invasive measures (shell hardness, carapace length, sex, live weight, colour, body shape, location, time of harvest) and invasive measures (blood protein [BRIX] level at time of harvest, cooked weight, meat content). Lobster BRIX levels are used as a proxy for actual meat content and as the key indicator of lobster quality. A regression model of the relationship between the natural logarithmic transformation of lobster BRIX levels (independent variable) and meat content yield as a percentage of shell‐on (uncooked) weight (dependent variable) is presented. The objective of this study is to evaluate alternative BRIX‐based decision rules for achieving desired meat content percentage yields for preparing shipments to global markets. The present study found that BRIX‐based grading rules can be determined to achieve minimum desired meat yields, minimum overall shipment yields and minimum proportions of shipments below desirable yield rate. For a minimum desired industry threshold of 24% meat content, the preferred BRIX value rules are (i) 8.5 mg mL−1 and (ii) ‘9 mg mL−1 with 10% plus condition’. These rules improve the admissibility of samples and reduce the risk of below desirable meat yields.

The Effect of Using Fast Roast and Slow Roast Roasting Techniques on the Chemical and Organoleptic Characteristics of Robusta Coffee Beans (Coffea robusta L.)

One of the commodities with the highest economic value in the plantation sector in Indonesia is coffee. In 2016 there was a significant difference between the area of robusta and arabica coffee, with the area of robusta coffee being superior. The wide difference between robusta and arabica coffee plantations is because robusta coffee is considered a potential opportunity in developing the community's economy compared to arabica coffee with a particular market. To improve the taste or quality of coffee production, one of the factors is the roasting process. Currently, the demand for coffee production is increasing with the need for maximum quality and taste of coffee beans, so the processing of coffee plants must be very concerned and improved. Therefore this study aims to determine the roasting technique with a roasting machine and its effect on improving the quality and taste of coffee beans that are popular with consumers. This study used a Split Plot Design (SPD) using the basic pattern of a completely Randomized Design consisting of 2 levels. The first factor is the roasting time as the main plot with four levels. Then the second factor is the roasting temperature with two levels. Each factor was repeated four times so there were 32 experimental units. The results of this study indicate that in the roasting process using slow roast and fast roast techniques, roasting time affects all observation parameters, namely moisture content, pH value, brix value, flavor, aroma, and caffeine. However, the roasting temperature only affects moisture content, brix value, and caffeine.

Fusion deep learning with pre-post harvest quality management of grapes within the realm of supply chain management

It is becoming increasingly vital in supply chain management to use different algorithms, particularly when it comes to pre and post-harvesting of grapes. This is especially true in the wine industry. Grapes must be processed both before and after harvesting as part of the management process for supply chains in the food industry. The grape bunch identification in vineyards was performed using machine learning at various stages of growth, including early stages immediately after flowering and intermediate stages when the grape bunch reached intermediate developmental stages. The machine learning method can predict annual grape output and also identify grape harvesting. The impressive performance of the pre-trained model shows that architecture training using different algorithms differs in the performance of grape predictions. We achieved 100% accuracy in grape prediction using LR, DT, RF, NUSVC, Adaboost and gradient algorithms, while KNN and SVC lag behind with an accuracy of 83.33% each. Our model includes the color and size of the grapes to differ in grape quality using a variety of grape images as a reference. It is capable of predicting the maturity stage of grapes by predicting Brix, TA and pH values (ranging between 18.20–25.70, 5.67–9.83 and 2.93–3.77) according to the size and color of grapes.We compared different algorithms and their performances by evaluating grape quality prediction accuracy, processing time and memory consumption.

Mechanisms by which feeding synthetic zeolite A and dietary cation-anion difference diets affect feed intake, energy metabolism, and milk performance: Part II

The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of feeding 2 different diets, a low dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) or a diet with synthetic zeolite A to multiparous Holstein cows during the close-up period on DMI and energy metabolism, as well as evaluate colostrum and milk production. A hundred and 21 multiparous Holstein cows, blocked by lactation number and expected parturition date were enrolled at 254 d of gestation and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: control (CON; +190 mEq/kg; n = 40), negative DCAD (DCAD, -65 mEq/kg; n = 41; Ultra Chlor; Vita Plus, Lake Mills, WI, USA), or a diet containing sodium aluminum silicate zeolite (XZ; +278 mEq/kg, fed at 3.3% DM, targeting 500 g/day; n = 40; X-Zelit, Protekta Inc., Lucknow, ON, Canada/Vilofoss, Graasten, Denmark). Prepartum DMI was measured daily using Insentec Roughage Intake Control (RIC) gates (RIC System, Holofarm Group, Netherlands). All cows received the same postpartum diet. Blood and urine samples were collected daily beginning 14 d before parturition (D-14) until parturition (D0), and on 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 35, and 49 d postpartum. Colostrum collected within 6 h of parturition, weighed, and based on samples Brix value, IgG concentrations, and nutrient composition were analyzed. Prepartum, cows fed XZ diet had decreased DMI (11.70 ± 0.26, 13.88 ± 0.26, and 13.45 ± 0.25 kg/d for XZ, CON, and DCAD respectively) and lower rumination (487 ± 8.1, 531 ± 8.3, and 527 ± 8.5 min for XZ, CON, and DCAD respectively) compared with CON and DCAD fed cows. However, rumination was not different postpartum due to treatment. No prepartum or postpartum differences were observed for glucose or BHB concentrations in blood between dietary treatments. Colostrum collected from cows fed XZ had the highest IgG concentrations (91.10 ± 2.63, 78.00 ± 2.63, and 78.90 ± 2.63 mg/mL for XZ, CON, and DCAD, respectively), but yield did not differ between dietary treatments. Additionally, cows in their third or greater lactation fed XZ had the highest milk production (51.0 ± 1.1 kg) during the first 49 d in milk. This study demonstrates that despite a decrease in DMI and rumination in cows fed XZ prepartum, blood BHB concentrations were not altered. Additionally, cows fed XZ had higher colostral IgG concentrations and 3+ lactation cows fed XZ produced the most milk. These data suggest that feeding XZ prepartum may improve colostrum quality and improve milk yield in mature cows, and does not impact energy metabolism.

Differences in colostrum components of Katahdin ewes varies with post-weaning FEC EBV

Variation in post-weaning fecal egg count (PFEC) estimated breeding values (EBV) has revealed effects beyond the reduction of parasitism. Previous work demonstrated lambs with a PFEC of < −50 (Low-PFEC) have higher survivability to weaning than lambs with a PFEC of > +50 (High-PFEC). In response to clostridial vaccination, Low-PFEC lambs also generate a more robust and rapid antibody response. These findings prompted curiosity of the maternal influence underpinning differences observed in lamb survivability based upon PFEC genotype. Thus, this study aimed to assess the impact of dam PFEC EBV on IgG concentration, Brix values, and color within colostrum. For Year 1 (YR1), Katahdin ewes from the Virginia Tech SWAREC were selected based on the following criteria: age (3–6 years), have a Katahdin Hair Index EBV (>104, pre-genomic EBV), and be twin bearing. Ewes fitting those criteria were sorted by their PFEC EBV into two groups: Low-PFEC (PFEC < −50; n=20) and High-PFEC (PFEC > +50; n=18) and sampled at three distinct time points, early (within 24-hr post-partition), mid (30-d post-parturition) and late (60-d post-parturition) lactation. For Year 2 (YR2), all lactating ewes at the SWAREC were analyzed and were sorted into three groups: Low-PFEC (PFEC < −50; n=39), Mid-PFEC ( −49 < PFEC < +49; n=38), and High-PFEC (PFEC > +50; n=23) and colostrum samples were taken within 6-hrs post-partition. All colostrum and milk samples were collected by milking 10 mL from each half of the ewes' udder. Total IgG within colostrum and milk was measured using an ovine-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In YR1, main effects of ewe genotype revealed that Low-PFEC ewes had a greater concentration of IgG across all lactation time points (631 ng/mL vs 222 ng/mL; P < 0.0001). This was primarily driven by IgG differences within colostrum, where a 2.5 fold difference in IgG were observed between Low-PFEC and High-PFEC groups (937 ng/mL vs. 319 ng/mL, P < 0.0001). In YR2, a stepwise decrease in average colostrum IgG concentration from Low-PFEC to High-PFEC groups was observed (825 ng/mL, 513 ng/mL, and 258 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.0429). Likewise, a stepwise decrease in yellow to blue hue or b* value occurs from Low-PFEC to High-PFEC groups (18.97, 16.91, and 15.22, respectively; P < 0.0459). No correlations were found between IgG and Brix values within the Low-PFEC and High-PFEC grouping; remarkably, Mid-PFEC ewes have a slightly positive correlation between IgG and Brix (r= 0.34, P = 0.0334). These data indicate that Low-PFEC Katahdin ewes generate colostrum with greater antibody concentration and more yellow color. Lambs born to these ewes would have a significant advantage in passive immunity from their dams, which may explain some component of the enhanced lamb survivability observed pre-weaning.

Determination of radon concentrations and physicochemical parameters of non-alcoholic carbonated beverages consumed in Türkiye and assessment of radiological health risk

ABSTRACT The strategy for controlling the existence of radionuclides in drinking water depends upon an individual dose criterion (IDC) of 0.1 mSv/y, which represents a very low level of risk that is not expected to cause any identified adverse health effects. Radon gas, considered a carcinogenic radionuclide, can dissolve and accumulate in drinking water. Non-alcoholic carbonated beverages (NACBs), which mainly contain drinking water, phosphoric acid, citric acid, caffeine, and sugar, represent one of the most consumed groups worldwide and in Türkiye. In this study, the radon activity concentration and some physicochemical characteristics of 45 NACB samples from 24 most preferred commercial brands in Türkiye were determined to assess the radiological health risk associated with the ingestion of these samples. Radon activity concentrations measured in NACB samples using the AlphaGUARD radon analyzer ranged from 22.8 ± 0.7 to 54.9 ± 1.7 mBq/L. The pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, and brix values in NACB samples ranged from 2.31 to 7.29, 401 to 3281 μSv/cm, 355 to 2453 mg/L, and 0.10 to 12.95%, respectively. Total (ingestion and inhalation) annual effective doses and the corresponding excess lifetime cancer risks estimated for adults to assess the radiological health risk are significantly below the IDC and advised safety limit (10−3), respectively.

Postprandial nutrient dynamics and their implications for formulated feed development for the ornate spiny lobster (Panulirus ornatus)

AbstractCrustacean feeding morphology and postprandial nutrient processing is a highly size‐selective procedure. The digestive system of lobsters is predicated on grinding feed to a fine particle size before digestion. Therefore, fine pregrinding of raw materials may bypass the need for extensive grinding in the proventriculus and expedite digestive and absorptive processes. Panulirus ornatus juveniles (N = 56) were allocated to four feed groups (n = 14). Groups A, B and C were fed nutritionally identical feeds featuring raw materials ground to 1000 µm (Feed A), 500 µm (Feed B) and 200 µm (Feed C) while the fourth group (Group S) acted as a 24‐h nonfeeding baseline control group. Sequential postprandial haemolymph extractions were performed at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3.5, 5.5 and 24 h across treatment groups. Haemolymph samples were assessed and analysed for brix (%), total proteins (g L–1), glucose (mmol L–1) and cholesterol (mmol L–1). Brix was found to have significant positive correlations with all the haemolymph biochemical properties while no significant correlations were identified between individual lobster size and haemolymph properties. Analysis of deviance applied to mixed effects models did not identify significant differences in haemolymph properties across feed groups. Trends identified here are indicative of diurnal rhythm patterns, likely orchestrated by the release of the crustacean hyperglycaemic hormone (CHH) when anticipating a meal. Additionally, the use of brix values, may not be optimal for identifying postprandial trends, yet could remain a valid indicator of longer‐term nutritional status.

Influence of High-Sugar Early and Mid-Late Genotypes on Yield and Quality of Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. Hybrid Complex) at Wider Row Spacing

A field experiment was conducted in Pusa during spring season of 2016-17, to evaluate 7 sugarcane genotypes (‘CoP 11436’, ‘CoP 11437’, ‘CoP 11438’, ‘CoSe 11451’, ‘BO 130’, ‘CoSe 95422’ and ‘BO 153’) in early maturing group and 7 sugarcane genotypes viz., ‘BO 155’, ‘CoSe 11453’, ‘CoSe 11454’, ‘CoSe 11455’, ‘BO 91’, ‘CoP 9301’ and ‘CoSe 92423’ in mid late maturing group at 120 cm row spacing. In early group, genotype ‘CoP 11436’ produced the higher tillers (1, 38000/ha), millable canes (1, 04800/ ha), cane (88.2 t/ha) and sugar yield (11.1 t/ ha). Genotype, ‘CoP 11438’ showed the higher brix (20.6) and pol (18.39%) per cent juice among test genotype, followed by standard check ‘BO 153’. Under mid late maturing group, higher germination count (46.2%), tillers (1, 52, 100/ha) and millable canes (1, 07800/ ha) was noticed due to the genotype ‘BO 155’ which was followed by the standard check ‘CoSe 92423’. However, ‘CoSe 11455’ recorded the highest cane (103.7 t/ha) and sugar yield (13.18 t/ha), followed by ‘BO 155’ in case of cane yield and CoSe 11453 in sugar yield. Among mid late genotype ‘CoSe 11453’, ‘CoSe 11454’ and standard check ‘CoP 9301’ obtained similar brix values of 20.7%. However, standard check ‘CoP 9301’ was found significantly superior to ‘BO 155’ with respect to pol and commercial cane sugar percent.

Development of a Novel Approach for Controlling and Predicting Residual Sugars in Wines

Residual sugars (RS) in wine are the sugars that remain in a wine after fermentation is complete. In some wine styles, such as semi-dry wines, the accurate measurement of the RS concentration is critical for both qualitative and legislative reasons. Brix, measured by a simple refractometer, can give a good estimation of the RS concentration in the must, but during fermentation, the presence of alcohol leads to inaccurate sugar measurements. In order to measure the RS accurately, other more precise techniques are used, most of which are expensive or require professional skills. Therefore, novel approaches for rapid, easy, and practical measurements for estimating the sugar content have been suggested over the years. However, most of these methods do not supply an actual measurement of RS but rather give brix values, and those that measure RS involve special equipment, which is less relevant for small wineries. This study suggests a novel model for predicting and controlling the wine’s residual sugar. The data the model uses is the initial brix of the must before fermentation and its density during fermentation. The model was created by measuring actual residual sugars during the fermentation of natural and synthetic musts, with various degrees of initial brix levels, while simultaneously measuring their densities and correlating the two measurements. Linear regression between the residual sugar of the wine and its density was obtained for all treatments and repetitions (i.e., different values of must initial brix) with R2 values above 0.97. Using the model, one can calculate (before commencing the fermentation) the density values at which the fermentation will reach a particular desired residual sugar value for a specific initial brix level; the model is applicable for the fermentation conditions used in this work, i.e., brix levels of 18–27 °Bx, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (fx-33 and fx-10) in common conditions of fermentation regarding temperature and aeration.

Development and characterization of chia oil-activated ginger starch-feather keratin biocomposite for prolonged post-harvest preservation of tomato fruits

In response to the challenges posed by current postharvest preservation methods, this study focuses on the development and characterization of a ginger starch-waste feather keratin (GS-FK) composite functionalized with chia oil (CO). Composite films functionalized with 0.5 (GS-FK-CO0.5), 1.0 (GS-FK-CO1.0), and 1.5 (GS-FK-CO1.5) mL of chia oil were fabricated and characterized using standard analytical techniques. GS-FK-CO films in comparison to GS-FK showed increases in thickness and tensile strength, as well as reductions in moisture content, transparency, water solubility, WVP, and elongation at break. GS-FK-CO films demonstrated superior thermal stability and were evaluated for their efficacy in the post-harvest management of tomato fruits. Following coating and storage at 25 ± 2 °C for 21 days, the GS-FK-CO coated tomato fruits exhibited significantly (p > 0.05) lower weight loss, pH, brix value, and ripening index compared to the uncoated control. GS-FK-CO coated fruits in comparison to control displayed elevated levels of titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic acid, along with suppressed activities of polyphenol oxidase, pectin methyl esterase, and polygalacturonase. This study underscores the potential of the chia oil functionalized GS-FK biocomposite as a promising packaging alternative for extended shelf life and enhanced preservation of tomato fruits.

Kombucha tea derived from papaya (Carica papaya L.) as a potential functional food: physicochemical parameters, biological activities, and sensory evaluation

SummaryFermented foods, such as kombucha, have gained popularity due to their rich content of beneficial bioactive compounds. Papaya leaves, known for their abundance of bioactive substances such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, have garnered attention for their potential to improve immune function by neutralising free radicals. This study investigates the suitability of papaya leaves and petioles as substrates for kombucha fermentation. Our findings indicate that papaya leaves and petioles were suitable substrates for kombucha fermentation, indicated by the SCOBY mass accumulation during fermentation. The gradual decrease in brix and pH values over a 14 days fermentation period corresponds to sugar metabolism and the accumulation of acetic acid. Additionally, fermentation increases total polyphenol (PPK: 250.07 ± 3.00 mg/L, PLK: 330.87 ± 15.56 mg/L) and total flavonoid content (PPK: 26.67 ± 6.31 mg/L, PLK: 34.44 ± 5.55 mg/L). Moreover, papaya‐derived kombucha demonstrates enhanced antibacterial properties and inhibits ⍺‐amylase linked to diabetes. Sensory evaluations confirm that papaya kombucha achieves a well‐balanced and appealing sensory profile, catering to diverse palates. In summary, papaya leaves and petiole exhibit promise as substrates for kombucha production, offering elevated nutritional value and potential health advantages.

Effect of different sterilization methods on the appearance, composition, and flavor of sugarcane juice.

Cold-pressed sugarcane juice (SCJ) is a beverage rich in vitamins, carbohydrates, and antioxidants. Various sterilization methods impact fruit juice's appearance, nutrients, and flavor. Hence, this study aims to assess how different sterilization techniques affect the flavor, appearance, and nutritional value of SCJ. Freshly prepared SCJs were subjected to two sterilization methods: pasteurization (referred to as PTG) and autoclaving (referred to as HTHP). The pasteurization process was carried out at 63°C for 30min, whereas the HTHP process was applied at 115°C for 30min. The appearances, Brix value, colors, sugar, organic acid content, and aromatic compounds were determined. The Brix and pH values of the juice show little variation across different heat treatments. The color index of PTG was similar to that of the control group, whereas the L* value of HTHP increased about 21%, resulting in a significant color change. The glucose and fructose contents of HTHP were 7.03 and 5.41mg/mL, which were much higher than those of PTG (3.26 and 2.33mg/mL) and control group (3.33 and 2.48mg/mL). A total of 77 aromatic compounds were identified in the SCJ after various heat treatments. Among them, pentanoic acid, octanal, and β-damascenone were the most abundant substances contributing to the overall flavor in the control group, PTG, and HTHP. Pasteurization preserved the original flavor of the juice, whereas autoclaving triggered the Maillard reaction, forming pyrazine and furan-like compounds that altered the SCJ's flavor. In conclusion, pasteurization retained SCJ's original characteristics, whereas HTHP induces changes in nutrition and imparts a distinct flavor.

Evaluation of Sheep Colostrums According to Time after Lambing by Brix Refractometer Method and Color Scoring

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of breed and post-lambing time on sheep colostrum quality. In this study, colostrum samples taken at different times after lambing from 4 different sheep breeds (Tuj, Awassi, Morkaraman, Akkaraman) raised in Turkey were compared using Brix refractometer and color scoring. The sheep included in the study were placed in different paddocks according to their breeds. In the first week after lambing, a total of 7 colostrum samples were collected from each ewe, every 12 hours for the first 3 days and on the 7th day (mature milk sample). According to the data obtained from the study, it was determined that colostrum quality was affected by breed and milking duration (p&lt;0.05). Brix values of colostrum in the first and second milking were found to be higher in the Akkaraman breed than in the Morkaraman breed (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, it was determined that the color score decreased over time after lambing and this decrease was statistically significant (p&lt;0.05). In conclusion, since the quality of sheep colostrum varies depending on breed and time, the quality of the colostrum to be fed for lamb health and performance must be determined in advance

Rancang Bangun Alat Ukur Tingkat Manis Buah Jeruk Menggunakan Sensor Kapasitor Semi Silinder Berbasis Arduino

It has been realized the design of the orange based sweet level measuring device using an arduino based semi cylinder capacitor sensor. This study was conducted by providing input to the capacitor plates using an oscillator with a variety of frequency values of 10 KHz, 100 KHz, and 1 MHz. The oscillator used is the IC XR-2206 type. The sweet level of orange fruit is measured using a pocket refractometer otago pal-α. Semi cylinder capacitor sensor testing is carried out on 16 oranges. The most optimal measurement results are obtained in a 100 KHz frequency variation because the graph of the measurement results drops linearly. The voltage range at a frequency of 100 KHz is 200 - 2000 mV, with a brix value obtained between 13.8 - 16.7%. The higher the orange voltage, the lower the Brix value contained in oranges. Brix value 13.8 - 15.6% states the sweet level of orange fruit is sour, while the Brix value 16.7% states the sweet level of orange fruit is sweet. The results of testing the tool obtained an average error value of 0,004% and a tool accuracy value of 99,6%.

Variation in protein metabolism biomarkers during the transition period and associations with health, colostrum quality, reproduction, and milk production traits in Holstein cows

The aims of this study were to assess (1) the variation of protein metabolism biomarkers and factors affecting them during the transition period, (2) the association of each biomarker with skeletal muscle reserves and their changes, and (3) the association of these biomarkers with postpartum health, colostrum quality, reproduction, and milk production. For this purpose, 238 multiparous Holstein cows from 6 herds were used in a prospective cohort study. Plasma concentrations of 3-methylhistidine (3-MH) and 1-methylhistidine (1-MH) and serum concentrations of total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (SCR) were determined for each cow at -21, -7, 7, 21, and 28 d relative to calving. Clinical diseases were recorded during the first 28 d postcalving, and presence of subclinical ketosis (scKET) was investigated at 7 and 21 d. Colostrum quality was estimated by Brix refractometry. Reproduction data by 150 d in milk (DIM) and milk production records were also available. Linear mixed models including the fixed effects of time point, herd, parity, body condition score (-21 d), duration of dry period and postparturient diseases were fitted to assess the variation in each biomarker's concentration. The association between the biomarkers' concentration during the prepartum period with the odds for each postparturient disease and for a combined trait (CD_1-28), defined as the presence of at least one clinical condition during the first 28 d after calving, were assessed with separate binary logistic models for time points -21 d and -7 d. The relationship of each biomarker's concentration with longissimus dorsi thickness (LDT) and the changes in LDT (ΔLDT) was assessed with pairwise correlations. Separate general linear models were used to assess the association of each biomarker with colostrum Brix values and milk production traits. Finally, the associated hazard for first artificial insemination (AI) and for pregnancy by 150 DIM (PREG_150DIM) was assessed with Cox proportional hazard models, whereas odds for pregnancy to the first AI (PREG_1stAI) were assessed with binary logistic models. The level of 3-MH was affected mainly by herd, time points, and their interaction. Higher 3-MH was associated with increased odds for metritis and CD_1-28, increased hazard for PREG_150 DIM and with increased milk production. 1-Methylhistidine was affected mainly by herd, scKET and occurrence of displaced abomasum. Higher 1-MH was associated with better colostrum quality, increased odds for scKET, increased hazard for first AI by 150 DIM and with decreased milk production. Both 3-MH and 1-MH were weakly to moderately negatively correlated with LDT and moderately to strongly negatively correlated with ΔLDT at the corresponding time periods. Additionally, higher TP was associated with increased odds for metritis and CD_1-28 and increased milk production, while higher ALB was associated with increased odds for scKET and increased milk production. Moreover, higher BUN was associated with decreased odds for scKET, increased odds for PREG_1stAI and increased milk production. Higher SCR was associated with decreased odds for retained fetal membranes, metritis, and CD_1-28. Periparturient protein metabolism is significantly associated with postpartum health, colostrum quality, reproduction, and milk production; mechanisms involved require further investigation.

A comparison of raspberry freezing-damage during preservation in isochoric and isobaric conditions.

Fruits are perishable, thus it's crucial to have an efficient preservation technique that can increase storage time while keeping physical quality and nutritional attributes in order to avoid wastage. The majority of methods for long-term storage require refrigeration. In this investigation, we assess the viability of isochoric freezing as a different technique of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) preservation. Raspberries were subjected to different storage conditions: isochoric freezing at -4°C, conventional isobaric settings at +3°C (refrigerator), -21°C (freezer), and -4°C with a trehalose solution in a plastic bag. The study assessed changes in weight loss, visual appearance, color, hardness, °Brix values, and pH over a seven-day period. Key findings reveal that raspberries subjected to isochoric freezing below the freezing point of water experienced minimal weight loss after seven days. Visual appearance, color, hardness, °Brix values, and pH were comparable to fresh raspberries, indicating minimal alteration. These results suggest that isochoric freezing shows potential as a preservation method that maintains the physical and chemical properties of raspberries similar to fresh fruit. Implementing diverse preservation techniques tailored to raspberries may contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing food wastage and the associated environmental impact.

Evaluation of the Physicochemical, Microbiological Quality and Acceptability of Nectars and Jams from Vitex doniana Fruit

This study consisted in the formulation and evaluation of the organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological qualities of nectars and jam prepared from Vitex doniana fruit. Nectars (five types) consisted of two acidulated with lemon, two acidulated with tamarind with pH values of 3.45 and 3.55, and a control. Jams (three types) were made as one acidulated with lemon, one acidulated with tamarind with a pH value of 3.88, and a control with a pH value of 4.44. The Brix values were 10.75 and 60.00 for all nectars and jam, respectively. The total sugar content of the nectars ranged from 9.52 ± 0.04 (NC1) to 9.11 ± 0.03% (T) and that of the jams from 58.27 ± 0.02% to 49.97 ± 0.01%. It appeared that prepared nectar and jam samples were of good microbiological quality, confirming compliance with good hygiene and manufacturing practices throughout the process and compliance with Algerian and Luxembourg standards.

Development and study of the functional properties of marshmallow enriched with bee (Apis mellifera) honey and encapsulated probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus).

Consumer demand for healthier confectionery products has prompted the confectionery industry to create products that are reduced in sugar content and supplemented with vitamins, antioxidants or biological elements beneficial to health. The aim of this study was to develop marshmallows enriched with Apis mellifera honey and Lactobacillus rhamnosus and to evaluate the effect of honey concentration and gelatin bloom degrees on marshmallow properties. A completely randomized design with a factorial structure was applied with different honey concentrations (0, 50 and 75%) and at different gelatin bloom degrees (265, 300 and 315 bloom degrees); moreover, the physicochemical properties, total phenol content and antioxidant activity of the marshmallow were studied, as well as the viability of the probiotic. The physicochemical properties of the marshmallows were found to be adequate and showed good stability over time. The concentration of honey and gelatin bloom degrees did not significantly affect probiotic viability. The density of the marshmallows decreased as the percentage of honey increased. Additionally, the pH was lower at higher honey concentrations. The marshmallow with 75% honey and 265 bloom degrees had a higher °Brix value. The honey treatments exhibited higher levels of total antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds than the sugar-only marshmallows. However, the bloom degrees did not have a significant impact on the antioxidant activity and total phenolic compound content. Although the probiotics did not reach the minimum viability needed, their use as paraprobiotics can be considered.

Impact of the mare colostral immunoglobulins on the expression of TLR3, TLR4, and TLR7 in foals.

Colostrum contains substances such as hormones, enzymes, polyamides, nucleic acid derivatives, and amino acid derivatives and also includes immunomodulating substances, proline-rich polypeptides, immunoglobulins (Ig) as well as bacteriostatic compounds. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of colostral Ig on the level of expression of selected Toll-like receptor genes (TLR3, TLR4, and TLR7). The experiments were conducted on 25 Polish Pony foals. Blood samples were collected according to the following scheme: before first suckling, at the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 10th, 20th, and 30th, day of age. Colostrum was obtained before the first suckling, 24 hr, and 3 days after the delivery. Gene expression analyses were performed on Illumina Eco using a commercial kit TaqMan®MGB probes. The quality of colostrum was assessed via refractometer and BRIX value. The total Ig level was calculated from the spectrophotometric method. IgG levels were measured using ELISA assay. The quality of colostrum significantly correlated with TLR4 and TLR7 expression. Foals that ingested colostrum with low Ig content displayed a higher level of TLR4 gene expression, while in the case of TLR7 the opposite trend was shown. This result indicates that colostrum may play an important role in shaping the mechanisms of building the immune system's response to bacterial pathogens.

Failures count too: effect of the application of commercial inoculum of arbuscular fungi in a vineyard during its plantation

Symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) has long been recognized for its positive impact on plant health. Today, various companies market AMF-based commercial inoculants as biofertilizers or biostimulants for sustainable agriculture. However, their consistent efficacy in real-world field settings remains uncertain. This study investigated the influence of a commercial AMF inoculant on a newly planted vineyard featuring a local grape cultivar grafted onto a common rootstock (‘Ritcher 110’). Over two years, the physiological well-being, growth, and productivity of 20 inoculated vines compared to 20 control counterparts were monitored. The impact of inoculation on soil bacterial diversity and the infectivity of soil was assessed. Notably, AMF-inoculated plants exhibited consistently lower values in photosynthesis, growth, and grape production, although statistical significance was not always reached. Additionally, the total production remained unaffected, but there was a significant decrease in °Brix and pH values, suggesting delayed grape ripening in mycorrhizal plants, potentially promoting secondary metabolites accumulation. Regarding soil effects, the inoculation's impact was slight, with no substantial changes in soil mycorrhizal infectivity and only slight shifts in the microbial community's metabolic profile. Numerous studies highlight the context-dependent nature of AMF inoculation's effects, making it challenging to predict outcomes in field conditions. Failures found in trials like the present one provides valuable scientific information, contributing to determine the prerequisites for effective biofertilizer use in commercial viticulture. Ultimately, the effectiveness of AMF-based biofertilizers remains contingent on specific conditions, exposing the need for additional research to ensure their consistent and reliable application.