Nutritional Composition Research Articles

Effect of Preoperative Body Composition on Postoperative Anastomotic Leakage in Oncological Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy—A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Surgery for esophageal cancer has an associated high rate of postoperative complications such as anastomotic leakage (AL) and fistulas. Pre-operative sarcopenia as a loss of skeletal muscle mass and function is identified as a potential prognostic factor in determining the outcomes of oncological surgical resections for esophageal cancers. In this study, we evaluated the impact of body composition on postoperative complications in esophageal cancer surgery. Methods: In this cohort study, we analyzed patients’ body composition at the level of the third lumbar vertebra on CT scans before Ivor Lewis resections for esophageal cancers between January 2015 and December 2022. Patients with a skeletal muscle index (SMI) ≤ 38.5 cm2/m2 in women and ≤52.4 cm2/m2 in men were classified as sarcopenic. Postoperative complications were categorized following the Dindo–Clavien classification and included AL, postoperative pneumonia, length of hospital stay, and failure-to-rescue which were compared between the sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients. Results: From a group of 111 patients with Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, 70 patients (63.1%) were classified as sarcopenic based on the SMI and the previously published gender-specific cut-off values. AL occurred at 12.6% (5.6% in adenocarcinoma). Within the whole cohort, patients with AL had a significantly low SMI of 43.487 ± 8.088 vs. 48.668 ± 7.514; p = 0.012. Additionally, the SMI showed a negative correlation to the length of postoperative hospital stay (r = −0.204; p = 0.032; N = 111). The failure-to-rescue rate was higher in the group of sarcopenic patients (12.8% vs. 8%). Conclusions: Our data showed a correlation between SMI and AL. This effect could not be seen in gender-specific SMI. This study showed a lower failure-to-rescue rate in non-sarcopenic patients after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. These findings underscore the crucial role of determining the preoperative nutritional and body composition status as measured by the preoperative CT scans.

Transcriptomics and metabolomics insights into the seasonal dynamics of meat quality in yak on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

BackgroundMeat quality in yak is influenced by the fluctuation of nutritional composition in different grazing seasons on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. However, the molecular mechanism underlying in yak meat remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the seasonal dynamics of meat quality in yak by transcriptomics and metabolomics techniques. Twelve healthy female yaks with a similar weight were divided into two groups, including the warm season group (WS) and cold season group (CS). After slaughter, samples of longissimus lumborum were collected and subjected to transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore the effects of different seasons on meat quality.ResultsYak in the WS group had higher contents of n-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), n-6 PUFA, threonine, and valine compared to the CS group, but the pH45min and b* values were lower. A total of 75 differentially expressed metabolites in the longissimus lumborum muscle were identified, with 23 metabolites upregulated and 52 metabolites downregulated in the WS group. These metabolites were mainly enriched in the pathway of glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and carbohydrate digestion and absorption. In comparison, the WS group exhibited 262 upregulated genes in the longissimus lumborum muscle and 81 downregulated genes relatives to the CS group, which were enriched in the fat deposition of TGF-beta, ECM-receptor interaction, MAPK, and PPAR signaling pathway.ConclusionsAmong these, downregulated genes NPNT, GADL1, SESN3, and CPXM1 were associated with lipid metabolism and fat deposition in grazing yaks. It was found that DDC, DHTKD1, CCBL1, GCDH, and AOC1 involved in the tryptophan metabolism played an important role in the regulation of energy metabolism in yak.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Nutritional, Physicochemical, and Volatile Profiles of Selected Bovine Head Muscles

This study analyzed the nutritional composition, physicochemical properties, and volatile profiles of three major bovine head muscles—medial pterygoid, masseter, and buccinator—to reduce byproduct resource waste and increase the utilization rate of bovine head to establish a foundation for its industrial use. Compared to tenderloin, which is popular among consumers, these head muscles were found to be rich in collagen (4.90–13.1 mg/g), low in fat (0.39–1.61%), and abundant in free amino acids (143.93–223.00 mg/100 g). Their compact fiber structures, with minimal gaps between myocytes, resulted in lower cooking and press losses, making them suitable for various production processes. Notably, the medial pterygoid and masseter muscles contained high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and lower saturated fatty acids (SFAs), with a PUFA/SFA ratio exceeding 0.45. The buccinator muscle, while containing more volatile organic compounds associated with undesirable odors and bitter amino acids, was not indicative of spoilage. Overall, this study confirmed that bovine head muscles possess high collagen, low fat, and diverse nutritional qualities, making them suitable as premium raw materials for value-added meat products, and their returns will be most economically equal to the meat derived from cattle.

Nutritional and Antinutritional Evaluation of the Pulp and Seed of Terminalia catappa l. (Tropical Almond) Fruit and Physicochemical Properties of Its Seed Oil

Aims: This study aimed at determining the nutritional and antinutritional composition of the pulp and seeds as well as physicochemical characteristics of the seed oil of Terminalia catappa L. (tropical almond). Methodology: The analyses were done in the Agroecology and life science laboratory of the University of Buea between June 2023 and May 2024. The experimental design was employed. Oil was extracted using soxhlet method. UV-visible spectrophotometer was used for nutritional and antinutritinal analyses; while gas chromatography and titrimetry were used to analyse the fatty acid profile and physicochemical properties of the seed oil respectively. Results: Results revealed that the seeds recorded more concentrated energy (596.28 Kcal/100g) than the pulps (403.42 Kcal/100g). Total phenolic (133.70 ± 0.15 mg/100g), tannin (77.90 ± 0.01 mg/100g), oxalate (15.01 ± 0.01 mg/100g) and phytic acid (2.81 ± 0.06 mg/100g) contents were displayed by the pulp and 29.70 ± 0.25, 18.00 ± 0.07, 20.92 ± 0.07 and 1.88 ± 0.01 mg/100g, respectively for seeds. The abundant minerals in the pulp were K, Ca, Na, and P, those in the seeds were Mg, K, P and Fe. The Acid value, Saponification value, Iodine value, Peroxide value and P-anisdine value of the seed oil were 2.24 ± 1.16 mgKOH/g, 222.2 ± 3.11 mgKOH/g, 78.50 ± 0.54 gI2/100g, 5.50 ± 0.71 mEq/kg and 3.65 ± 0.23, respectively. Fatty acid profiling showed 66.68% unsaturated fatty acids of which 19.86% and 9.81% were linoleic and linolenic, respectively and 33.32% saturated. Conclusion: The pulps and seeds of T. catappa have a significantly high content of macro and micronutrients that can meet up the nutritional needs of a population and the quality assessment of the oil suggests that it can be recommended as suitable for industrial usage.

Rice-Fish Farming Improved Antioxidant Defences, Glucose Metabolism, and Muscle Nutrient of Carassius auratus in Sichuan Province

Rice-fish farming is an ancient and enduring aquaculture model in China. This study aimed to assess the variations in digestive enzymes, antioxidant properties, glucose metabolism, and nutritional content between Carassius auratus reared in paddy fields and ponds. Notably, the levels of amylase and trypsin in C. auratus from rice paddies were considerably higher compared to those from ponds. Additionally, the hepatic catalase (CAT) activity in fish from paddy (2.45 ± 0.16 U/mg) exceeded that of their pond counterparts (2.27 ± 0.25 U/mg). Regarding glucose metabolism, the activities of key enzymes such as Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) (paddy: 82.45 ± 6.11 U/g; pond: 78.53 ± 7.18 U/g), hexokinase (HK) (paddy: 9.55 ± 0.58 U/g; pond: 8.83 ± 0.72 U/g), glucokinase (GK) (paddy: 4.09 ± 0.21 IU/g; pond: 3.44 ± 0.33 IU/g), glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) (paddy: 85.71 ± 4.49 IU/g; pond: 79.12 ± 9.34 IU/g), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) (paddy: 47.23 ± 3.22 U/g; pond: 42.31 ± 4.93 U/g) were significantly elevated in rice paddy-cultured fish compared to those in ponds. Conversely, phosphor-pyruvate kinase (PK) (paddy: 418.15 ± 31.89 U/g; pond: 570.16 ± 56.06 U/g) activity was markedly reduced in the paddy group. Hepatic glycogen content (paddy: 15.70 ± 0.98 ng/g; pond: 14.91 ± 1.24 ng/g) was also substantially higher in fish from paddy, although no significant differences in muscle glycogen content (paddy: 7.14 ± 0.59 ng/g; pond: 6.70 ± 0.52 ng/g) were observed between the two environments. In terms of nutritional composition, fish raised in paddy exhibited higher crude protein (paddy: 18.46 ± 0.47 g/100 g muscle; pond: 15.57 ± 0.25 g/100 g muscle) and crude ash (paddy: 1.19 ± 0.02 g/100 g muscle; pond: 0.97 ± 0.02 g/100 g muscle) than those in ponds, whereas the crude fat (paddy: 0.87 ± 0.04 g/100 g muscle; pond: 1.66 ± 0.04 g/100 g muscle) was notably lower in paddy fish. Furthermore, fish from rice paddies had a greater total content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (paddy: 4.25 ± 0.24 g/100 g muscle; pond: 6.73 ± 0.27 g/100 g muscle), non-essential amino acids (NEAA) (paddy: 9.04 ± 0.3 g/100 g muscle; pond: 7.19 ± 0.21 g/100 g muscle), and delicious amino acids (DAA) (paddy: 7.11 ± 0.2 g/100 g muscle; pond: 5.45 ± 0.19 g/100 g muscle) compared to those from pond cultures. These findings suggest that rice-fish co-culture systems can yield healthier and more environmentally sustainable aquatic products by improving feed digestion and optimizing nutrient metabolism.

Сезонни промени на хранителната стойност на пасищният ресурс за едри преживни животни

The nutritional value of pastures can vary depending on the type of available vegetation, its quality and environmental conditions. The analysis of the samples was carried out in the laboratory of the Agricultural Institute - Stara Zagora, using Infrared technology for analysis of feed and components - NIRS DS 2500 - monochromator, with a scanning range of 850 - 2500 nanometers. The following quality indicators were determined: Dry matter, %, Protein, %, Starch, %, Ash, %, ADF, % and NDF, % to available moisture. In the spring season, the dry matter is 23.76%, in the summer it is 29.89% and in the winter it is 68.04%. The protein varies from 6.75% in spring to 3.64% in autumn. In the summer we find 4.77%. The content of acid detergent fiber varies from 8.25 to 35.03%, with the highest value recorded in autumn - 35.03%. The results obtained in our study for neutral detergent fiber vary from 14.2% to 43.3% depending on the seasons. In summary, pastures offer a rich source of nutrients for ruminants, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Proper pasture management, such as appropriate planning, crop rotation and fertilization, can help optimize the nutritional composition of pastures and provide optimal rations for large ruminants. The results obtained were processed variationally - statistically using the software product SYSTAT 12 © Copyright 2007, SYSTAT Software, Inc. All Rights Reserved and STATSOFT Statistics for Windows 10. The aim of this study is to establish seasonal changes in the nutritional value of pasture resources for large ruminants. Meadow and pasture production, which is used for direct consumption by animals or for obtaining hay for manure feeding, is indirectly related to this problem.

The Development of Fruit and Vegetal Probiotic Beverages Using Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LPG1 from Table Olives

Plant-based foods can be an alternative to dairy products as a source of probiotic microorganisms, especially aimed at lactose-intolerant people. In this work, four new formulations based on the mixture of fruits and vegetables with the addition of a unique probiotic strain (Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LPG1) obtained from the olive industry were developed. Moreover, the nutritional profile, antioxidant activity, and organoleptic characteristics of the beverages produced were studied. The results showed that it is possible to reach an average probiotic count of 6.45 log10 CFU/mL at 52 days of storage at 4 °C without the presence of Enterobacteriaceae, fungi/molds, or Staphylococcus, Listeria, or Salmonella spp. On the other hand, the beverages developed could be classified as high-value-added functional beverages due to their high antioxidant capacity of up to 33% DPPH inhibition, considerable total polyphenol content higher than 0.5 g gallic acid/L, and adequate nutritional composition. Additionally, sensory analysis via flash profile, acceptance, and affective test revealed that all probiotic beverages were appropriate in terms of odor, taste, and color, rendering them market ready to drink.

Nutritional and Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant Properties and Antibacterial Activity of Chinese Chive (Allium odorum L.).

The present study was conducted to generate the comprehensive data on the nutritional composition, minerals, heavy metal, bioactive compounds, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of Chinese chive (Allium odorum L.) grown at two different locations including Manipur and Punjab. The crop grown in Manipur exhibited higher values of nutritional and phytochemical compound values than those grown in Punjab. It exhibited significantly higher amounts of crude protein, crude fiber, potassium, calcium and iron content in the Manipur environment. The allicin content in leaves of Chinese chive on a dry weight (dw) varied from 1.31 to 1.4% and there was non-significant difference in allicin content at both locations. Besides, the heavy metal content of Chinese chive was much below the permissible limits of the World Health Organization. The IC50 value of Chinese chive was 78.908-95.140µg/ml which imparts strong antioxidant activity and higher DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl)radical scavenging activity higher in fresh leaves than dried leaves. Total phenol and total flavonoid were found to be significantly high. In addition, high antibacterial activities were observed against toxin producing pathogenic bacterial strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. The nutritional and bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties and antibacterial activity of Chinese chive make it ideal for its use as a functional food and/or supplement.

Mechanical, Antimicrobial and Morphological Properties of Biodegradable Trays Based on Cassava Starch and Agroindustrial Processing Residues

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the development of biodegradable composites using agroindustrial residues, such as potato peels and mango integument, processed into flours (PPF and MIF), and determined their nutritional composition, total phenolic content and total tannins. The soluble and insoluble lignin content was quantified in the MIF, which exhibited a high crude fibre content (76.55%) and insoluble lignin (20.86%). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examined the morphology of particles and final composites, while the antimicrobial activity of MIF and potato peel extract (PPE) was tested against Staphylococcus aureus. The biodegradability of the composites was assessed in soil, comparing them to commercial EPS. In a factorial design (23), the influence of PPE (1.84–3.68 g), MIF (10–20 g) and drying temperature (55°C–65°C) was investigated regarding the mechanical strength, elongation, antimicrobial activity and physical properties of the composites. Optimal conditions for producing composites with higher strength (1.304 MPa), elongation (0.951%) and antimicrobial activity (30.036‐mm halos) included 3.68 g of PPE, 10 g of MIF and drying at 65°C. However, the interaction between MIF and temperature negatively impacted the results. Biodegradability showed a steady mass loss after 60 days. It is concluded that the use of PPE and MIF offers a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum‐based packaging, with appropriate production conditions essential to optimize composite properties, reinforcing the potential of the food industry to adopt environmentally friendly materials.

Assessment of Field Performance and Nutritional Quality of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.) for Food Diversification

This research was carried out to evaluate the field performance of some mung bean accessions and their nutritional composition for inclusion in household diet. Twenty-one (21) accessions of mung bean were evaluated in the early and late season of 2022 at Ile-Ife, and in the early season at Kishi out-station of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. The experiment was established according to randomized complete block design with three replications. Agronomic and yield data were collected. Six of the mung bean accessions were randomly selected and analyzed for proximate, mineral composition and sensory properties along with two cowpea varieties as standard checks. MB-3, 6, 14 and 15 produced the highest seed yield across the locations (Ile-Ife early season, Ile-Ife late season, and Kishi early season). However, the performance was generally better in the early season than in the late season. The mung bean samples had slightly lower protein values than the standard checks. The mung bean samples had considerably higher mineral levels (p ≤ 0.05) than the control samples. Moin-moin (processed bean cake) made from some of the mung bean samples compared favorably with that from Ife brown cowpea (standard check). This work revealed good adaptability of the mung bean accession to southwest agro-ecology of Nigeria. It also revealed better nutritional quality of mung bean relative to cowpea for inclusion in household meals.

Microgreens: A Comprehensive Review Emphasizing Urban Agriculture

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the multifaceted world of nutrient-rich microgreens, with a particular emphasis on their significance in urban agriculture. By exploring their nutritional composition, culinary applications and cultivation techniques, we aim to shed light on the transformative potential of microgreens in promoting sustainable urban food systems. Through an interdisciplinary lens encompassing agronomy, nutrition and urban planning, we uncover the myriad benefits of microgreens cultivation and highlight the critical role they play in shaping the future of urban agriculture.

Wine Pomace as Feed in Native Chicken Farming: A Revenue-Cost Analysis

Objective: This study analyzes the feasibility of using wine pomace as a feed supplement for native chickens in Bali, Indonesia, focusing on the financial benefits of this practice. Theoretical Framework: Small-scale farmers in Bali rely heavily on commercial feed for their chickens, which accounts for a significant portion of their expenses. This study explores the use of locally available grape wine pomace as a cost-effective alternative feed source. Wine pomace is rich in protein, fiber, and fat, making it a suitable ingredient for native chickens, especially KUB chickens. Method: This multi-stage study involves a survey to assess wine pomace availability, followed by fermentation and nutritional analysis. A feeding trial using a Completely Randomized Design evaluates the impact of different wine pomace percentages on chicken growth and performance. Economic analysis compares revenue and costs to determine profitability. Results and Discussion: Results show wine pomace is readily available, with nutritional value suitable for animal feed. A 5% wine pomace ration resulted in improved feed efficiency and increased profitability. Research Implications: This study highlights the potential of utilizing agro-industrial waste as a sustainable and cost-effective feed ingredient, promoting a circular economy approach in the poultry industry. Originality/Value: This research contributes to existing literature by exploring the potential of wine pomace as a feed ingredient for KUB chickens in Bali, providing valuable data on its nutritional composition and economic benefits.

Physicochemical Characteristics and Sensory Properties of Spent Laying Hen Burgers Formulated with Cashew Pomace Flour

Objective: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of adding different proportions of cashew flour on the quality characteristics of burgers from spent laying hens’ meat. Methods: Spent laying hens (~ 60 weeks old) were used to prepare hamburgers containing different proportions (0, 5, 10 and 15%) of cashew flour, which were evaluated for chemical and nutritional composition, pH, retention capacity of water, instrumental color, cooking yield and sensory aspects. Results and Discussion: The addition of cashew flour significantly increased the levels of total fiber, carbohydrates and minerals (calcium and iron). It decreased the levels of moisture, fat, protein, and percentage of shrinkage proportionally compared to the other formulations. The burger formulation with up to 5% had greater acceptance and purchase intention. However, burgers formulated with increased cashew fiber flour up to 15% produced darker samples, with an aftertaste and a more brittle texture. Conclusion: Thus, it was concluded that using cashew fiber flour as a dietary supplement increases the nutritional value and did not affect the sensory characteristic of hamburgers made from meat from discarded laying hens, making them a source of mineral and dietary fiber.

Assessment of front and back of pack nutrition labels of selected convenience food products and snacks available in the Indian market.

Nutrition labels on packaged food items provide at-a-glance information about the nutritional composition of the food, serving as a quick guide for consumers to assess the quality of food products. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the nutritional information on the front and back of pack labels of selected packaged foods in the Indian market. A total of 432 food products in six categories (idli mix, breakfast cereals, porridge mix, soup mix, beverage mix and extruded snacks) were investigated by a survey. Nutritional profiling of the foods was done based on the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) claims regulations. The healthiness of the packaged foods was assessed utilising nutritional traffic light system. The products were classified into 'healthy', 'moderately healthy' and 'less healthy' based on the fat, saturated fat, and sugar content. Most of the food products evaluated belong to healthy' and 'moderately healthy' categories except for products in extruded snacks. Reformulation of 'extruded snacks' are necessary to decrease the total and saturated fat content. The nutrient content claims were classified using the International Network for Food and Obesity / NCDs Research, Monitoring and Action Support (INFORMAS) taxonomy. Protein, dietary fibre, fat, sugar, vitamins and minerals were the most referred nutrients in the nutrient content claims. Breakfast cereal carried highest number of nutritional claims while porridge mix had the lowest number of claims. The overall compliance of the nutrient content claims for the studied food products is 80.5%. This study gives an overall view about the nutritional quality of the studied convenience food products and snacks in Indian market.

Nutritional Composition and Productivity of Panicum maximum cv. “Mombasa” Under Different Levels of Nitrogen Fertilization and Water Deficit

This study investigates the production and nutritional quality of Panicum maximum cv. Mombasa grass under varying levels of water stress and nitrogen (N) fertilization, aiming to enhance forage production in harsh environments. Four irrigation levels (5760, 6912, 4608, and 3456 m3 ha−1 year−1) and three N fertilizer doses (115, 57.5, and 0 kg ha−1 year−1) were tested. The results indicate that Mombasa grass produced higher fresh and dry weights under higher irrigation levels (I1 and I2) compared to water deficit conditions across all cuts. Interestingly, under moderate water stress (I3), the dry weight was not significantly different from that under higher irrigation for the sixth harvest in the first season. Water deficit conditions led to a significant reduction in protein content across all treatments. However, under lower irrigation levels (I3 and I4), there was a significant increase in phosphorus (P), potassium (K₊), iron (Fe2₊), and zinc (Zn) concentrations. A heatmap analysis of shape descriptors grouped the productivity and nutritional traits into two clusters based on their response to combined fertilization and drought stress. This analysis revealed that the dry weight, number of leaves, and Fe and Zn contents were positively affected under moderate water stress (80% of control; 4608 m3 ha−1 year−1) with recommended N fertilization. The study concludes that Panicum maximum cv. Mombasa is tolerant to moderate water stress and is suitable for forage production in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia.

Proximate analysis and profiles of amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals in insect-based foods for dogs.

To analyze crude protein, crude fat, crude ash, crude fiber, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals in insect-based dog foods and to evaluate their compliance with nutritional guidelines. Proximate analysis, mineral analysis, amino acid profiling, and fatty acid composition analysis were conducted from November 27, 2023, through February 2024 on 18 commercially available insect-based dog foods formulated for all-life-stage or adult dogs. Proximate analysis results revealed that all 18 pet foods met the Association of American Feed Control Officials guidelines. However, discrepancies were observed between the values listed on the packaging and those measured in 7 foods. Mineral analysis showed that while all foods met the Association of American Feed Control Officials guidelines for magnesium, discrepancies were found in calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, and copper content, with several samples failing to meet recommended levels. Additionally, 2 foods exceeded the recommended maximum ratio for certain fatty acids. Black soldier fly larvae-based foods contained higher levels of lauric and myristic acids compared to other insect-based foods. Insect-based dog foods show promise as sustainable protein sources, but discrepancies in mineral content and fatty acid ratios highlight the need for both stricter regulation and better enforcement of existing guidelines to ensure nutritional adequacy for dog health and accurate labeling. This study provides valuable insights into the nutritional composition of insect-based dog foods, revealing inconsistencies in mineral content and fatty acid ratios. These findings can help the pet food industry develop more nutritionally consistent insect-based diets.

The nutritional profile comparison between the white and purple Açaí in the mesoregions of Pará, Brazil.

The study targeted to compare the nutritional profile of two varieties of açaí, the white and purple, found in different mesoregions of Pará, Brazil. The research focused on analyzing levels of total phenolics, total anthocyanins, antioxidant capacity, and mineral composition in these two varieties. The study sought to identify significant differences between the two varieties in terms of nutritional composition and antioxidant potential, providing valuable information into the specific nutritional and functional properties of each type of açaí studied. Higher levels of total phenolics, total anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity were observed in purple açaí fruits, with values of 806.17 ± 17.48 mgGAE/100 g, 81.73 ± 1.77 mg/100 g, and 19.25 ± 0.35 μmol of Trolox equivalent (TE)/g, respectively, compared to 401.92 ± 52.70 mgGAE/100 g, 37.70 ± 5.34 mg/100 g, and 6.17 ± 1.07 μmol TE/g in white açaí. HPLC-MS analysis identified and quantified monomeric anthocyanins in white açaí, using two distinct analytical methods, revealing average values of 0.29 and 1.05 μg/100 g for cyanidin-3-glucoside and between 0.74 and 3.13 μg/100 g for cyanidin-3-rutinoside, respectively, which were higher than those found in yellow tropical fruits. The quality of both purple and white açaí varied significantly among mesoregions, with fruits from floodplain soils demonstrating superior quality compared to those from sandy and solid soils in southeastern Pará. Mineral composition and microbiological characteristics were similar between white and purple açaí. These findings underscore the significant influence of mesoregion and soil type on açaí quality, emphasizing the superiority of fruits grown in floodplain soils.

Expansion of Pleioblastus amarus in tea plantations significantly enhances the appearance and nutritional composition of bamboo shoots but adversely affects palatability

The expansion of Pleioblastus amarus into tea plantations introduces environmental heterogeneity, significantly influencing the growth and quality of bamboo shoots. This study examined the effects of bamboo expansion on the appearance, nutrition, and palatability of bamboo shoots, utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to identify key influencing factors. Results revealed that bamboo expansion increased shoot diameter, length, and fresh weight, enhancing overall size and edibility, particularly in the tea-bamboo mixed forest center zone (TBC), where appearance quality peaked. Nutritional analysis revealed substantial increases in protein, fat, starch, and vitamin C content after bamboo expansion, along with the improvements in amino acid score (AAS), essential amino acid index (EAAI), and nutritional index (NI), indicating elevated nutritional value. However, despite the rise in soluble sugars and flavor-enhancing amino acids, higher levels of total acids, oxalic acid, tannins, and cellulose diminished the palatability, notably in TBC site. PLS-SEM further indicated that while bamboo expansion positively influenced shoot appearance and nutrition, soil factors predominantly drove these changes and concurrently detracted from overall palatability. These findings provide a framework for enhancing bamboo shoot quality and optimizing management practices in tea plantation ecosystems.

Investigating the stability of phenotype, seed components and powdery mildew resistance of the <i>GmMLO</i> edited soybean plants

Previously, utilizing the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we had successfully induced targeted mutations in the GmMLO genes of the Vietnamese elite soybean cultivar ĐT26 for the first time. The mutant lines carried homozygous mutations of four or three GmMLO genes (including GmMLO02, GmMLO19, GmMLO23 and/or GmMLO20) with no pleiotrophic effects and increased powdery mildew resistance in the T3 generation. In this study, we selected two representative lines and evaluated them in the T4 generation to see if their phenotype and resistance were maintained stably. The analysis results of agronomic and yield parameters under the net-house conditions indicated that there were no undesired data in the two mutant lines in comparison with the wild-type. In addition, the major nutritional compositions of the seeds including the fatty acids, free amino acids and crude protein content of the mutant lines were similar to the control line. Importantly, the response to Erysiphe diffusa challenge of the quadruple mutant line was still maintained at a moderate resistance level (grade 2.5) as compared to the moderate infection level of the wild-type and the triple mutant line (approximately grade 4). These results again demonstrate that inducing targeted mutations of four tested GmMLO genes via the CRISPR/Cas9 system is not accompanied with undesired traits, and the quadruple mutant line is the potential one with increased powdery mildew resistance maintained stably through generations. This soybean mutant line will be valuable material for further breeding programs as well as being able to be propagated for production.

Nutritional Resources Regulate the Reproduction or Migration of Spodoptera frugiperda through Juvenile Hormones and 20-Hydroxyecdysone.

Spodoptera frugiperda is a significant agricultural pest that migrates annually based on the growth stages of its host plants. However, the role of host plant growth stages in the residency or migration of S. frugiperda remains unclear. We allowed S. frugiperda to feed on maize leaves and seeds, and results showed that maize seeds had higher amino acids, carbohydrates, and triglyceride (TG). S. frugiperda that fed on seeds had longer adult stages; larger wings; higher TG, juvenile hormone II (JH II), and JH III; and more developed flight muscles, indicating tendencies toward migration. Interestingly, maize leaves were richer in sterols. S. frugiperda that fed on leaves exhibited longer larval stages, higher 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and JH I, faster egg maturation, and earlier oviposition, suggesting tendencies toward residency. These findings suggest that the nutritional composition of host plants influences S. frugiperda for migration or reproduction, offering new insights into its invasion and establishment patterns.