Production Composition Research Articles

Effect of Heat Stress on Production and Chemical Composition of Milk in Kundhi Buffaloes

Effect of Heat Stress on Production and Chemical Composition of Milk in Kundhi Buffaloes

Pengembangan Komposisi Terbaik Bahan Baku Olahan Sabun Organik Daun Kersen (Sodasen) Sebagai Bodycare

Kersen leaves can be processed into bodycare in the form of liquid soap called Sodasen (Kersen Leaf Organic Soap). This product in the form of organic soap made from cherry leaves (Muntingia calabura) not only prioritizes skin health, but also offers an entrepreneurial concept based on sustainability and concern for the environment. The making of Sodasen has been carried out by the Entrepreneurship Student Creativity Program Team (PKM-K) of Forestry Study Program Students with the guidance of one of the service team lecturers. However, there are still obstacles in developing the best composition to produce marketable Sodasen. Based on this, it is necessary to conduct training and assistance to partners (PKM-K Team) to find the best formula or composition production technology in making Sodasen soap and carry out SNI standard soap quality test testing so that Sodasen soap products can be in demand by the market. The results of liquid soap quality testing obtained the best Sodasen liquid soap composition at a concentration of 10% meeting SNI standards on liquid soap quality.

Effects of Yeast Culture on Laying Performance, Antioxidant Properties, Intestinal Morphology, and Intestinal Flora of Laying Hens.

Yeast culture (YC) plays a significant role in enhancing the performance and health of poultry breeding. This study investigated the impact of different YC supplementation concentrations (basal diet with 1.0 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg of YC, YC1.0, and YC2.0) on egg production performance, egg quality, antioxidant properties, intestinal mucosal structure, and intestinal flora of laying hens. Both YC1.0 and YC2.0 groups significantly enhanced the egg protein height, Haugh unit, and crude protein content of egg yolks compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The supplementation with YC2.0 notably increased the egg production rate, reduced feed-to-egg ratio, and decreased the broken egg rate compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, YC supplementation enhanced serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity while reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content (p < 0.05). Moreover, YC supplementation promoted duodenal villus height and villus ratio in the duodenum and jejunum (p < 0.05). Analysis of cecal microorganisms indicated a decrease in Simpson and Shannon indices with YC supplementation (p < 0.05). YC1.0 reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria, while YC2.0 increased the abundance of Bacteroidales (p < 0.05). Overall, supplementation with YC improved egg production, quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbial composition in laying hens, with significant benefits observed at the 2.0 g/kg supplementation level.

Silkworm-derived carbon nano rods (swCNR) for detection of bismuth ions (Bi3+) in aquatic medium and their antiradical properties

The extensive utilization of bismuth and its derivatives in many industries, such as chemical, semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics, leads to their accumulation in wastewater, posing a risk to both human health and the environment. Carbon nanorods (CNR) are fluorescent nanoparticles with an ability to detect various analytes as sensing probes. This study focuses on the production, structure, and chemical composition characterization of silkworm-derived CNR (swCNR) and their ability to detect bismuth ions (Bi3+) and inhibit radicals. The optimum wavelength for exciting the fluorescence of swCNR was 370 nm, and the resulting emission peak was observed at 436 nm. The prepared swCNR showed static fluorescence quenching mechanism-based sensing of Bi3+ ions with a limit of detection of 175 nM and two linear ranges from 0.5 to 5 μM (R2 = 0.9997) and 10–50 μM (R2 = 0.9995). The swCNR demonstrated high selectivity in detecting Bi3+ ions in the spiked river water samples, thus establishing the swCNR's role as a nano fluorescence probe designed for the selective detection of Bi3+ ions among other metal ions. Favorable results for the antiradical ability of swCNR were obtained against hydroxyl, 2,2 diphenyl-1 picrylhydrazyl, and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radicals with scavenging percentages of 15, 32, and 90, respectively. The possible applications of swCNR in the environmental and antioxidant sectors are proposed in this study.

High-intensity interval training and medium-intensity continuous training may affect cognitive function through regulation of intestinal microbial composition and its metabolite LPS by the gut-brain axis

AimsThe gut-brain axis is the communication mechanism between the gut and the central nervous system, and the intestinal flora and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) play a crucial role in this mechanism. Exercise regulates the gut microbiota composition and metabolite production (i.e., LPS). We aimed to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on cognitive function in C57BL/6 J mice through gut-brain axis regulation of gut microbiota composition and LPS displacement. Main methodsC57BL/6 J male mice were randomly divided into sedentary, HIIT, and MICT groups. After 12 weeks of exercise intervention, the cognitive function of the brain and mRNA levels of related inflammatory factors were measured. RNA sequencing, Golgi staining, intestinal microbial 16 s rDNA sequencing, and ELISA were performed. Key findingsHIIT and MICT affect brain cognitive function by regulating the gut microbiota composition and its metabolite, LPS, through the gut microbiota-gut-brain axis. HIIT is suspected to have a risk: it can induce “intestinal leakage” by regulating intestinal permeability-related microbiota, resulting in excessive LPS in the blood and brain and activating M1 microglia in the brain, leading to reduced dendritic spine density and affecting cognitive function. SignificanceThis study revealed a potential link between changes in the gut microbiota and cognitive function. It highlighted the possible risk of HIIT in reducing dendritic spine density and affecting cognitive function.

Comparative study of traditional and DNA-based methods for environmental impact assessment: A case study of marine aggregate extraction in the North Sea

Environmental impact assessments of marine aggregate extraction are traditionally conducted based on morphological characteristics of macrobenthos, which is time-consuming, labour-intensive and requires specific taxonomic expert knowledge. Bulk DNA metabarcoding is suggested as a promising alternative. This study compares the traditional morphological and the bulk DNA metabarcoding method to assess the impact of sand extraction activities on three sandbanks in the Belgian North Sea. Substantial differences in the detected species were observed between methods: Abundant and/or large macrobenthos species were detected by both methods, while small species or species with an exoskeleton were usually only detected by the morphological method. Taxa uniquely detected by bulk DNA metabarcoding could be explained by specimens identified at a higher taxonomic level by morphology, or by specimens with very low read numbers, probably representing species missed in the morphological sorting process, DNA traces on the specimens or false positives during PCR amplification efficiency. Despite the difference in detected species, comparable alpha and beta diversity patterns were observed by both methods, indicating that bulk DNA metabarcoding can effectively detect the overall ecological changes associated with sand extraction. We further demonstrate that bulk DNA metabarcoding reduces sample processing both in time (44 % faster) and cost (26 % cheaper) compared to the morphology-based identification. However, biomass quantification remains challenging for bulk DNA metabarcoding since of the ten most abundant genera, only two genera (Echinocardium and Ophelia) showed a significant positive correlation between biomass and read numbers. Additionally, bulk DNA metabarcoding does not provide information on life stages or size of the identified specimens. As such, our results underpin the complementary nature of both methods, wherein DNA-based analyses allow for rapid detection of community changes (as similar patterns in alpha and beta diversity and biotic index were observed), while morphology-based analyses provide additional information on e.g. secondary production (biomass) and size composition. We show how the strengths of both methods can be combined to assess the impact of sand extraction.

Effect of Enzyme Supplementation on Nutrient Utilization and Production Performance in Lactating Murrah Buffaloes

Background: Enzyme stimulates metabolic and digestive processes leading to increased feed intake and improved nutrient availability in animals. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of enzyme supplementation on nutrient utilization and production performance in lactating Murrah Buffaloes during winter season. Methods: Twenty four lactating Murrah buffaloes were selected for the study from Livestock Research Centre, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut (UP). All the selected animals were randomly allocated into four treatment groups having six animals in each group on the basis of body weight, lactation length and milk yield. The daily nutrient requirements of lactating Murrah buffaloes in term of DM, DCP and TDN were provided as per the feeding standards of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi (2013). Total Mixed Ration for buffaloes was prepared by mixing of roughage and concentrates in the ratio of 60:40 after grinding/chaffing. Roughage part was consisting of available winter season green fodder e.g. oat and wheat straw available at research centre. Feeding trial was planned into four treatment groups viz. T1 (Basal diet without enzyme supplementation), T2 (Basal diet with supplementation of Xylanase @ 800000 IU), T3 (Basal diet with supplementation of Cellulase @ 240000 IU) and T4 (Basal diet with supplementation of Xylanase @ 800000 IU and Cellulase @ 240000 IU). Result: From the present study, it was observed that the average milk yield (5.34 litre/day) was higher in T4 as compared to other treatment groups, but the difference was non-significant. The average milk fat percent was recorded as 7.52, 7.58. 7.60 and 7.65 in T1, T2, T3 and T4 treatment groups, respectively. Although the results of T4 group animals were comparatively higher in all major milk constituents the differences were found to be statistically non-significant. The average DM intake (kg/d, kg/100 kg BW and g/kg W0.75) and CP intake (g/d, g/100 kg BW) were almost similar in all treatment groups. The TDN intake (kg/d, kg/100 kg BW and g/kg W0.75) was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in enzyme supplemented groups. The digestibility coefficient of CP, CF, NDF and ADF were higher (P less than 0.05) in buffaloes of T4 over control (T1) group. So, it was concluded from the above study that the milk production and milk composition could be improved with the combine use of Xylanase and Cellulase enzyme in murrah buffaloes due to improved CP and fibre digestibility.

The Non-Denatured Processing of Brasenia schreberi Mucilage-Characteristics of Hydrodynamic Properties and the Effect on In Vivo Functions.

Food non-denatured processes, such as freeze-drying and grinding, are commonly applied to raw materials with good bioactive functions. Although the functional components are maintained, whether structural and physical changes impact the in vivo function is often ignored in practical situations. Brasenia schreberi mucilage (BSM) has a significant alleviation effect on DSS-induced colitis. This work focused on the influence of non-denatured manufacture on the colonic benefits of BSM-based products. First, three forms of products including fresh mucilage (FM), freeze-dried products (FS), and freeze-dried powder (FP) were prepared. Then, their in vitro physiochemical properties were compared, analyzing their influence on the gut inflammation degree, microbial composition, and SCFA production in mice. The results suggested that the water retention rate of FS and FP was decreased to 34.59 ± 3.85%, and 9.93 ± 1.76%. The viscosity of FM, FS, and FP was 20.14 Pa∙s, 4.92 Pa∙s, and 0.41 Pa∙s, respectively. The freeze-drying and grinding process also damaged the lamellar microstructure of BSM. Then, animal tests showed that colitis mice intervened with FM, FS, and FP had disease activity scores of 2.03, 3.95, and 4.62. Meanwhile, FM notably changed the gut microbial composition and significantly increased propionate and butyrate levels. It seemed that the distinct colitis alleviation efficacy of BSM-based products is attributed to different hydrodynamic properties in the gut. FM had relatively higher viscosity and correspondingly high nutritional density in the gut lumen, which stimulates Firmicutes growth and promotes butyrate production, and thereby exhibited the best efficiency on protecting from colitis.

Impacts of hydrologic management on the eutrophication of shallow lakes in an intensive agricultural landscape (Saskatchewan, Canada)

Abstract Hydrologic management of shallow lakes is often undertaken to prevent fluctuations in lake level, and to ensure sufficient water volume for economic, domestic, and recreational uses, but there is inconsistent evidence of whether lake‐level stabilisation through hydrological management promotes or hinders eutrophication. Here we used multi‐proxy paleolimnological assessments of water quality (sedimentary carbon, nitrogen, total phosphorus, fossil pigments), and zooplankton community ecology (fossil Cladocera assemblages), combined with Landsat‐derived estimates of lake surface area in two shallow eutrophic lakes, in the Prairies of southern Saskatchewan, Canada, to quantify how 8 decades of contrasting hydrological management strategies (continuous or intermittent) affect primary production and phytoplankton composition. Analysis revealed that irregular hydrological management of Pelican Lake led to sharp increases in primary production concomitant with lake‐level decline. In contrast, continuously managed Buffalo Pound Lake, a drinking water reservoir for regional cities, exhibited slow, persistent eutrophication over decades despite active regulation of water levels. In both lakes, strong correlations of δ 15N values with pigments from diazotrophic cyanobacteria (canthaxanthin) showed that N2‐fixation increased during eutrophication irrespective of the timing of change. Finally, variation in fossil cladoceran density and composition reflected changes in pelagic and littoral habitats (e.g., reduced macrophyte cover) due to changes in both lake level and water quality. Basin comparison shows that while hydrologic management can moderate water quality degradation due to lake‐level change, it does not prevent eutrophication when nutrient influx remains high. Given that regional water availability is forecast to decline in coming decades, we anticipate that continued hydrological management will be unavoidable and will be unable to improve water quality unless nutrient influx is also controlled.

Improving the Nutritional Quality of Protein and Microbiota Effects in Additive- and Allergen-Free Cooked Meat Products.

The primary objective of the meat industry is to enhance the quality and positive attributes of meat products, driven by an increasing consumer demand for healthier, less processed options. One common approach to achieving this goal is the replacement of additives and allergens with natural ingredients. Nevertheless, the nutritional impact of these changes has not been extensively studied. To address these gaps, two new meat products were developed: cooked turkey breast and cooked ham. The products in question exclude additives and allergens and instead incorporate a blend of natural extracts containing vitamin C, chlorogenic acids, hydroxytyrosol, catechins, epicatechins, vinegar, and inulin fibre. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of these reformulations on protein quality and gut microbiota. Protein quality was evaluated using the Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS) following in vitro digestion. The microbial composition and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production were analysed through in vitro colonic fermentations in both normal-weight and obese participants in order to gauge their effect on gut microbiota. The results demonstrated that the reformulation of cooked turkey breast increased its digestibility by 6.4%, while that of cooked ham exhibited a significant 17.9% improvement. Furthermore, protein quality was found to have improved significantly, by 19.5% for cooked turkey breast and 32.9% for cooked ham. Notwithstanding these alterations in protein digestibility, the microbial composition at the phylum and genus levels remained largely unaltered. Nevertheless, total SCFA production was observed to increase in both groups, with a more pronounced effect observed in the normal-weight group. In conclusion, the substitution of artificial additives with natural ingredients in reformulated cooked meat products has resulted in enhanced digestibility, improved protein quality, and increased production of short-chain fatty acids.

Microbial Sulfate Reduction in Underground Reservoirs: Learnings from Full-Field Modeling and Field Data

Summary Sulfate-reducing microorganisms are found in various environments, such as shallow marine and freshwater sediments, groundwater, hydrocarbon reservoirs, hydrothermal vents, and mud volcanoes. The reduction of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) by sulfate-reducing microorganisms, usually during and after flooding oil reservoirs with seawater (SW), is known as microbial reservoir souring. H2S is a hazardous and corrosive gas, which increases the treatment costs of the produced fluids. Other than the microbiological aspect of this phenomenon, the interplay among the physical aspects of the multiphase flow and (bio)chemical reactions at various scales in the porous media of the subsurface can significantly contribute to the complexity of the problem. This study investigates real field data of several wells in an oil field in the Danish North Sea and presents a modified reservoir souring model coupled with a full-field reservoir model. The effect of various parameters on the production composition data is investigated, and, under various sets of assumptions, the model is matched against the history of the production data. The results demonstrate that sulfate concentration data in the produced water can be a useful compliment to the more common H2S concentration data in the produced gas when tuning the model, thus predicting the future of souring in the field. Moreover, it is shown that the production data can be used to infer the activity of various microbial communities in different locations of the reservoir. Interestingly, the data suggest that the change in the near-wellbore environment during drilling and the completion or the production wells may activate or introduce strains of sulfate-reducing microorganisms, which are responsible for the increase in H2S content in the produced gas during the early stages of production. Microbial souring in the waterflooded regions, on the other hand, corresponds to the increase in H2S production in the later stages of production. Furthermore, it is shown how different sectors of the same field show different souring behaviors and macroscale growth rates (GRs), which are attributed to different elements that affect flow patterns, such as the presence of darcy-scale heterogeneity and fractures. Additional Keywords sulfate reducing microorganisms; microbial reservoir souring; history matching; reactive transport modeling; reservoir simulation

Characteristics of rumen microbiota and Prevotella isolates found in high propionate and low methane-producing dairy cows.

Ruminal methane production is the main sink for metabolic hydrogen generated during rumen fermentation, and is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission. Individual ruminants exhibit varying methane production efficiency; therefore, understanding the microbial characteristics of low-methane-emitting animals could offer opportunities for mitigating enteric methane. Here, we investigated the association between rumen fermentation and rumen microbiota, focusing on methane production, and elucidated the physiological characteristics of bacteria found in low methane-producing cows. Thirteen Holstein cows in the late lactation stage were fed a corn silage-based total mixed ration (TMR), and feed digestion, milk production, rumen fermentation products, methane production, and rumen microbial composition were examined. Cows were classified into two ruminal fermentation groups using Principal component analysis: low and high methane-producing cows (36.9 vs. 43.2 L/DMI digested) with different ruminal short chain fatty acid ratio [(C2+C4)/C3] (3.54 vs. 5.03) and dry matter (DM) digestibility (67.7% vs. 65.3%). However, there were no significant differences in dry matter intake (DMI) and milk production between both groups. Additionally, there were differences in the abundance of OTUs assigned to uncultured Prevotella sp., Succinivibrio, and other 12 bacterial phylotypes between both groups. Specifically, a previously uncultured novel Prevotella sp. with lactate-producing phenotype was detected, with higher abundance in low methane-producing cows. These findings provide evidence that Prevotella may be associated with low methane and high propionate production. However, further research is required to improve the understanding of microbial relationships and metabolic processes involved in the mitigation of enteric methane.

Difference in the production and elemental composition of litter in Kandelia obovata mangrove forests due to site elevation

Site elevation is a crucial driver for mangrove restoration, and litter production restoration is a significantly important target of mangrove restoration, but little attention has been paid to impact of site elevation on the production and elemental composition of litter in the restored mangrove forests. This study compared the production and elemental composition of mangrove litter at the three intertidal elevations, to explore impacts of site elevation on the production and elemental composition of mangrove litter. Compared with the upper elevation site, significantly lower annual litter production was found at the lower elevation site. Leaf litter was the main component of litter, up to 60.49% of total litter production at the upper elevation site, while reproductive materials (flower and fruit) were the key part of litter and accounted for 50.80% (the lower elevation site) and 57.02% (the middle elevation site) of total litter production. As site elevation decreased, element stocks within total litter decreased by approximately 65.39% (organic carbon), 65.17% (total nitrogen) and 63.66% (total phosphorus), respectively, which was attributed more to element stocks within leaf litter instead of element stocks within the other litter. Results showed that site elevation decreases resulted in decreased litter production, altered composition percentages of litter production, and reduced element stocks within total litter. In the future mangrove restoration projects, it is advisable to prioritize upper elevation (above local mean level) for promoting litter production.

Enhancement of biomass productivity and biochemical composition of alkaliphilic microalgae by mixotrophic cultivation using cheese whey for biofuel production

The growth of microalgae under alkaline conditions ensures an ample supply of CO2 from the atmosphere, with a low risk of crashing due to contamination and predators. The present study investigated the mixotrophic cultivation of two alkaliphilic microalgae (Tetradesmus obliquus and Cyanothece sp.) using cheese whey as an organic carbon source. The variation in cheese whey concentration (0.5–4.5% (v/v)), culture pH (7–11), and NaNO3 concentrations (0–2 gL−1) was evaluated using central composite design in response to biomass productivity and the contents of lipids, total proteins, and soluble carbohydrates. Both investigated microalgae effectively utilized cheese whey as an organic carbon source. The optimum conditions for simultaneously maximizing biomass and lipid productivity in T. obliquus were 3.5% (v/v) whey, pH 10.0, and 0.5 g L−1 NaNO3. Under these conditions, the biomass, lipid, soluble carbohydrate, and protein productivities were 48.69, 20.64, 7.02, and 10.97 mg L−1 day−1, respectively. Meanwhile, Cyanothece produced 52.78, 11.42, 4.31, and 7.89 mg L−1 day−1 of biomass, lipid, carbohydrate, and protein, respectively, at 4.5% (v/v) whey, pH 9.0, and 1.0 g L−1 NaNO3. The lipids produced under these conditions were rich in saturated fatty acids (FAs) and monounsaturated FAs, with no polyunsaturated FAs in both microalgae. Moreover, several biodiesel characteristics were estimated, and results fell within the ranges specified by international standards. These findings indicate that the mixotrophic cultivation of alkaliphilic microalgae could open new avenues for promoting microalgae productivity through low-cost biofuel production.

Safety of vitamin D2 mushroom powder as a Novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 (NF 2020/2226).

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on vitamin D2 mushroom powder as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF is produced from Agaricus bisporus mushroom powder that has been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation to induce the conversion of provitamin D2 (ergosterol) to vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). The NF contains concentrations of vitamin D in the form of vitamin D2 in the range of 245-460 μg/g. The information provided on the production process, composition and specifications of the NF does not raise safety concerns. The applicant intends to add the NF as an ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages in amounts that result in either 1.2 or 2.4 μg vitamin D2 per 100 g or 100 mL of the food as consumed. The applicant also intends to add the NF in food supplements at a maximum of 15 μg vitamin D2/day for individuals above 1 year of age, as well as in foods for special medical purposes (FSMPs). The estimates for combined intake of vitamin D from the NF, the background diet and fortified foods, were below the ULs for vitamin D as established previously by the NDA Panel for children, adolescents and adults, i.e. 50 and 100 μg/day. The estimated combined vitamin D intake in infants (6-12 months) is also below the UL for vitamin D of 35 μg/day. The Panel considers that taking into account the composition of the NF and the proposed conditions of use, the consumption of the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous for the proposed target population. The Panel concludes that the NF is safe under the proposed conditions of use.

Effects of abomasal infusion of soybean or sunflower lecithin on nutrient digestibility and milk production in lactating dairy cows

The fatty acid (FA) and phospholipid composition of dietary lecithin may influence FA digestibility and milk production in cattle. Eight multiparous Holstein cows (99.4 ± 9.2 DIM; 48.9 ± 3.8 kg of milk/d) were enrolled in a 3 × 3 incomplete Latin square design with 3 treatments provided as continuous abomasal infusates spanning 14-d experimental periods: water (CON), soybean lecithin (SBL; 74.5 g of deoiled soy lecithin), or sunflower lecithin (SFL; 133.5 g of hydrolyzed sunflower lecithin). Cows were fed the same diet, which contained (% DM) 27.0% NDF, 15.6% CP, 26.2% starch, and 5.87% FA. Treatments did not modify BW, milk fat, protein, or lactose contents, or the efficiency of producing ECM. Cows infused with SFL had greater milk yields than those receiving SBL or CON treatments. Cows infused with SFL had higher total solids, protein, and lactose yields than cows receiving the SBL or CON treatments. Sunflower lecithin enhanced feed efficiency (milk yield/DMI) relative to SBL or CON. Treatment did not affect intakes or apparent total-tract digestibilities for NDF, CP, starch, or 16-carbon (16C) FA. Cows receiving SFL had greater total FA and 18-carbon (18C) FA intakes than SBL or CON, but treatments did not affect their digestibility. Milk FA composition was modified by treatment. Cows receiving SFL had a greater concentration of PUFA and lower concentrations of SFA and MUFA in milk relative to SBL or CON. In conclusion, the abomasal infusion of SFL improved milk production and milk FA composition, indicating potential benefits for dairy cow nutrition and milk quality.

Environmental metabolomics characterization of modern stromatolites and annotation of ibhayipeptolides.

Lithified layers of complex microbial mats known as microbialites are ubiquitous in the fossil record, and modern forms are increasingly identified globally. A key challenge to developing an understanding of microbialite formation and environmental role is how to investigate complex and diverse communities in situ. We selected living, layered microbialites (stromatolites) in a peritidal environment near Schoenmakerskop, Eastern Cape, South Africa to conduct a spatial survey mapping the composition and small molecule production of the microbial communities from environmental samples. Substrate core samples were collected from nine sampling stations ranging from the upper point of the freshwater inflow to the lower marine interface where tidal overtopping takes place. Substrate cores provided material for parallel analyses of microbial community diversity by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and metabolomics using LC-MS2. Species and metabolite diversities were correlated, and prominent specialized metabolites were targeted for preliminary characterization. A new series of cyclic hexadepsipeptides, named ibhayipeptolides, was most abundant in substrate cores of submerged microbialites. These results demonstrate the detection and identification of metabolites from mass-limited environmental samples and contribute knowledge about microbialite chemistry and biology, which facilitates future targeted studies of specialized metabolite function and biosynthesis.

The effect of exopolysaccharides from EMS-induced Porphyridium cruentum mutant on human epidermal and dermal layers

IntroductionMicroalgae biotechnology utilizes species like Porphyridium cruentum for their valuable phycobiliproteins and exopolysaccharides, which have potential industrial applications and health benefits, particularly in skin condition improvement.MethodsA mutant of P. cruentum LIMS-PS-1061 was developed through ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis and subsequent colony screening to study changes in its biomass production and pigment composition under different lighting conditions.Results and discussionThe mutant exhibited a 33.9% increase in dry weight under white light compared to the wild type. Despite maintaining the total pigment content, specific components changed significantly: chlorophyll content decreased 2.20- and 3.61-fold under white and blue light respectively, while phycobiliproteins increased 1.59- and 1.23-fold under the same conditions. These alterations suggest a compensatory mechanism for maintaining photosynthetic capacity. Furthermore, the exopolysaccharides of P. cruentum upregulated genes related to skin moisturization, barrier enhancement, and elasticity, and promoted wound healing through fibroblast migration. This supports the proposed mechanism of action for P. cruentum’s exopolysaccharides in improving human skin conditions by integrating the effects of aquaporin 3, filaggrin, involucrin, loricrin, elastin, and fibrillin-1.

Effect of grinding or rolling fava beans on feed intake and milk production in Holstein cows

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the performance of primi- and multiparous dairy cows fed diets with ground or rolled fava beans (FB). A total of 96 Danish Holstein cows (48 primi- and 48 multiparous) were used in a randomized block design lasting 4 weeks. Within parity group, cows were blocked according to their milk yield in 6 blocks with 8 cows each and two cows from each block were distributed in pens where they were assigned randomly one of the two experimental diets. The diets were based on a total mix ration (TMR) composed of 52.6 % forage and 47.4 % concentrate (DM basis), differing only in the particle size of FB (geometric mean diameters of 1.02 and 3.52 mm for ground and rolled FB, respectively). Feed intake, milk production, and milk composition were determined during the last 8 days of the experimental period; none of these differed between treatments except for a higher (P = 0.01) milk N efficiency (% of N intake) and milk urea content with ground FB compared with rolled FB. Additionally, feces and ruminal fluid were collected from a group of 24 multiparous cows to determine fecal starch content and ruminal volatile fatty acids (VFAs). The fecal starch concentration was greater with rolled FB showing a reduced starch digestion, whereas ruminal VFA proportions generally did not differ between treatments. In conclusion, the lactation performance of dairy cows appeared not to be affected by grinding or rolling of FB with a 20 % FB inclusion in the DM diet, even though total tract starch digestion was reduced with greater FB particle size.

(Invited) CdS/Ti-Si-O Composite Photoanode for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation

Advancements in clean energy drive socio-economic development and foster a sustainable future by restructuring energy systems and promoting low-carbon development. In this paper, we presented a comprehensive investigation on the design and performance characterization of CdS/Ti-Si-O composite photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation. Silicon-doped TiO2 nanotube arrays were fabricated through anodization of Ti-5Si alloy, followed by the deposition of CdS using the SILAR (successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction) process, resulting in nanostructured Ti-Si-O photoanodes modified with CdS. The composite photoanodes were characterized in terms of their composition, microstructure, optical properties and photoelectrochemical hydrogen production performance. The composite photoanodes revealed a notable enhancement in PEC hydrogen generation properties with a photocurrent density of 7.86 mA/cm2，which was 19.15 times and 9.59 times to those of the undoped TiO2 photoanode and Ti-Si-O photoanode, respectively. The Si-doping mechanism of the photoanodes was elucidated through Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The synergistic combination of Si-doping and CdS modification represents a novel and promising approach for the design of efficient nanostructured photoanodes.