Sugar Content Research Articles

Comparative Evaluation of Calcium Sources and their Mode of Use on Apple Production in Acidic Soil under High Density Plantation System

Apples grown in Kashmir province are extremely prone to deterioration, particularly in post-harvest storage. Calcium is amongst the vital mineral element deceiving apple fruit quality, predominantly in acid soils deficit in available calcium. Calcium in sufficient quantity helps to retain apple fruit firmness and reduces the occurrence of physiological disorders, it also plays essential role to improve yield and quality of produce. Modes of calcium application and its different doses on two apple varieties was tested to improve yield and quality at Ambri Apple Research Centre, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir, India. The direct application of calcium to apple as spray is most effective method for escalating fruit calcium content and quality. Among sources and their mode of application calcium nitrate foliar application performed better than foliar application of calcium chloride in improving fruit quality and yield of Golden Delicious than Red Chief Camspur, whereas soil application of calcium nitrate showed least response to improve fruit quality and yield in both varieties under acidic soil atmosphere. Physiological loss in weight at 30 days and 60 days after harvesting was lower in foliar applied calcium than soil calcium application. The significant variation in total sugar content and TSS of apple fruits were observed in different calcium sources and their mode of application. Calcium nitrate foliar spray performed better than calcium chloride foliar spray in improving fruit quality. Our study did not find any adversity of dosage in plants whether applied to soil or directly to plant and we did observe better yields and quality at higher calcium doses. Among varieties Golden Delicious performed better than Red Chief Camspur. Results of research evidenced that preharvest calcium sprays increase yield, improved fruit quality and reduced its deterioration in post-harvest storage.

Impact of fig maceration under various conditions on physicochemical and sensory attributes of wine vinegar: A comprehensive characterization study.

In this work, wine vinegars macerated with figs under different conditions have been characterized for the first time. Samples were analyzed by solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, sensory and physicochemical analysis. The results revealed that fig maceration of wine vinegars influenced the physicochemical, sensory, and volatile profiles of the final product, which were mainly affected by the fig amount (10, 20 or 30%), the fig type (fresh or dry) and the base wine vinegar (young or aged) used, and to a lesser extent the way the fig was added (crushed or chopped). The maceration, regardless the conditions used, increased the fruity notes, overall taste and visual impression, the tonality, total polyphenols and sugar content, and the presence of some volatile compounds, mainly terpenes and ketones, such as (Z)-p-mentha-2,8-dien-1-ol, or β-damascenone. Therefore, maceration increased the organoleptic complexity, which could enhance the acceptability of consumers towards these products. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This research studied how wine vinegars macerated with figs affect in different ways their taste, smell, and chemical properties. Thus, the results showed that these wine vinegars made with fig maceration by using different amounts and types of figs, as well as the type of vinegar used, changed their characteristics, making them smell and taste fruitier and more pleasant. This could be useful for making better-tasting and more appealing vinegars for consumers who enjoy unique and enhanced flavors in their food.

Effects of NaOH and Na2CO3 pretreatment on the saccharification of sweet sorghum bagasse

In this work, the chemical composition, chemical structures, and sugar release were evaluated for sweet sorghum bagasse (SSB) biomass in response to alkaline pretreatments and enzymatic hydrolysis. Five different ratios of 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) solutions were used for biomass fractionation along with two heat treatment conditions, 85°C and 150°C for 1 h. Sugar yields from enzymatic hydrolysis were measured at different durations up to 72 h. SSB samples pretreated at high temperature using alkaline solutions containing equal amounts of Na2CO3 and NaOH favored retaining cellulose content (up to 90%) while effectively removing hemicellulose (65%) and lignin (92%). The high-temperature pretreatment conditions resulted in improved delignification, higher sugar concentrations, and sugar yields. Pretreatment solutions consisting of 50% or more NaOH produced higher glucose yields (85%–90%) and total sugar concentrations. Moreover, pretreatment solutions containing Na2CO3 improved the hydrolysis rates allowing SSB samples reach maximum yields faster than those without it, 48 versus 72 h. Results showed pretreatment methods combining NaOH and Na2CO3 were effective at promoting SSB biomass conversion, increasing sugar recovery after hydrolysis, and reducing the hydrolysis duration, all of which are desirable and cost beneficial.

Harnessing CRISPR/Cas12a Activity and DNA-Based Ultrabright FluoroCube for In Situ Imaging of Metabolically Labeled Cell Membrane Glycoproteins.

Fluorescence imaging of cell membrane glycoproteins based on metabolic labeling faces challenges including the sensitivity and spatial specificity and the use of a high concentration of unnatural sugars. To overcome these limitations, we developed a method for in situ imaging of cell membrane glycoproteins by operating Cas12a activity, and employing the ultrabright DNA nanostructure, FluoroCube (FC), as a signal reporter. Following Cas12a activation, we observed stable and intense fluorescence signals within 15 min. The combination of bright FC and Cas12a's amplification capability allows for effective imaging with only 5 μM of unnatural sugars and a brief 24-h incubation. Computational modeling demonstrates that Cas12a specifically cleaves FC in the 11-17 nm range of the glycosylation site, enabling spatially precise imaging. This approach successfully enabled fluorescence imaging of glycoproteins across various cell lines and the detection of changes in glycoprotein levels induced by drugs.

Multi-Omics Analysis of Exogenous Potassium (K+)’s Role in Alleviating Trehalose Effects Under NaCl Stress in Tamarix ramosissima

Salt stress significantly impacts plant growth, and Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb is utilized for afforestation in China’s saline–alkali regions. Trehalose, an osmoregulatory compound, enhances plant tolerance to salt stress by stabilizing cell membranes and regulating oxidative states and ion distribution. However, its role in mitigating NaCl-induced damage in Tamarix species remains understudied. In this study, root samples of T. ramosissima were exposed to NaCl stress with exogenous K+ at 0 h, 48 h, and 168 h. Analyses revealed that soluble sugar content increased over time, especially in the 200 mM NaCl + 10 mM KCl treatment at 168 h. Transcriptome sequencing identified 19 trehalose-related genes involved in metabolic and sucrose pathways, with Unigene0015746 notably enhancing D-Glucose 6-phosphate accumulation, a key precursor for trehalose synthesis. This gene emerged as a crucial candidate for further research. The transcriptome data were validated using qRT-PCR. Overall, the study elucidates the molecular mechanisms of trehalose-related genes in T. ramosissima under salt stress with exogenous K+, providing valuable genetic resources for breeding salt-tolerant tree species.

Shaping the Physicochemical and Health-Promoting Properties of Carrot Snacks Produced by Microwave-Vacuum Drying with Preliminary Thermal and Enriching Treatment

This study analyzed the effects of thermal pre-treatments such as convective drying (P-CD), water (BL_W), and microwave blanching (M_BL) and osmotic enrichment pre-treatments with juices from pomegranate (PG), chokeberry (CH), and sea buckthorn (SB) on microwave-vacuum-dried (MVD) carrot properties. Convective drying (CD) and freeze-drying (FD) were used as a comparative method. The dry matter content and water activity of MVD carrots were varied, but in many cases, the values were comparable to those of FD-dried carrots. Pre-enrichment in CH juice significantly reduced the values of the color parameters L*, a*, and b*, regardless of the drying method. The smallest changes were observed in microwave pre-blanching (M_BL). The lowest loss in carotenoid content was observed in CD-dried carrots (14–34 mg/100 g d.m.). Blanching and enrichment in SB juice allowed significant retention of these compounds. As a result of drying carrots, the total phenolic content (TPC) increased. Compared to the raw material, the TPC content in dried carrots increased 3–9 times. Drying using the FD and MVD methods gave a similar effect of increasing the TPC content, including a greater effect after enrichment in CH juice. The highest average antioxidant activity against the DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals was recorded for FD-dried carrots (6.9 and 30.0 mg Trolox/g d.m.). SB juice contributed to a significant increase in the total vitamin C content, even by 89.1%, compared to raw carrots. Applying osmotic pre-enrichment in PG juice increased the sugar content in dried FD and CD samples by 37.4–49.9%, and in MVD by 21–59%.

Effect of the culture liquid of Antarctic yeast <i>Nadsoniella nigra</i> on rooting, growth, and biochemical composition of <i>in vitro</i> grapevine (<i>Vitis vinifera</i> L.), cultivar '<i>Karmrahyut</i>'

Background: Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is a globally significant fruit crop known for its nutritional and health benefits, including its role in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The bioactive compounds in grapes contribute to these benefits. Bioactive content changes due to grapevine variety and environmental conditions necessitate ongoing research. In vitro propagation provides a controlled environment for grapevine cultivation, minimizing disease risk and ensuring consistent quality. This study investigates the potential of Nadsoniella nigra (Nn), an Antarctic yeast, as a natural alternative to synthetic auxins like Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in grapevine micro cutting propagation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the culture liquid of Nn as a natural alternative to auxin-class hormones, using IBA as an example, for promoting rooting in grapevine microcuttings and to assess its impact on chlorophyll content, vitamin C levels, and sugar concentrations. Materials and Methods: In vitro propagation of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivar 'Karmarhyt' was performed using half-strength Woody Plant Medium (WPM). Nn culture liquid was prepared at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 ml/L, and IBA was used at equivalent concentrations. Microcuttings were cultured on media supplemented with these treatments, with a control group maintained without growth regulators. Rooting was evaluated after 4 weeks by measuring rooting percentage, number of roots per shoot, and root length. Chlorophyll a (Chl a) and Chlorophyll b (Chl b) levels, vitamin C content, and sugar concentrations were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using standard error and t-tests. Results: Rooting performance of grapevine microcuttings varied with treatment. Nn culture liquid promoted rooting in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest values observed at 2.0 ml/L (97.0% rooting, 7.2 roots, 13.8 cm root length). IBA treatment resulted in peak rooting at 1.0 mg/L (100% rooting) but decreased at higher concentrations, accompanied by callus formation. Chlorophyll content was higher in Nn culture liquid treated microcuttings, with a maximum total chlorophyll of 2.20 mg/g at 2.0 mg/L, compared to a peak of 2.05 mg/g in IBA-treated microcuttings at 1.0 mg/L. Sugar and vitamin C content increased with Nn culture liquid concentrations, whereas IBA showed a less consistent effect. Conclusion: Nn culture liquid was an effective natural alternative to IBA for promoting rooting in grapevine microcuttings. It improved rooting efficiency, chlorophyll content, and increased sugar and vitamin C levels, while IBA led to growth inhibition and callus formation at higher concentrations. Nn culture liquid demonstrated consistent benefits, suggesting potential for sustainable viticulture. As a result of the conducted research, it was established that the mixture of secondary metabolites contained in the liquid culture medium of Nn possesses high biological activity and can be recommended for use in plant biotechnology in vitro to promote the growth of both underground and above-ground parts. Future research could explore its use in propagating other plant species. Keywords: ´Karmrahyut´, grapevine, culture liquid of Nadsoniella nigra. in vitro propagation, functional foods

Effect of Vermicompost Application on the Soil Microbial Community Structure and Fruit Quality in Melon (Cucumis melo)

Melon (Cucumas melon) is widely cultivated and popular because of its quality value and unique flavor. However, the continuous cropping of melons in greenhouses has various negative effects on the soil environment, melon growth, and quality. Recently, farmers have utilized organic fertilization, especially vermicompost, for melons to resist the harmful effects of continuous cropping. A field experiment was conducted to explore the effects of vermicompost on soil microbes and melon fruit quality via high throughput sequencing and chemical sequencing methods. The results showed that the application of vermicompost decreased (p < 0.05) soil pH and increased organic matter, available phosphorus, biomass, urease, catalase, peroxidase, and alkaline phosphatase. A total of 3447 bacterial and 718 fungal operational taxonomic units were identified in all soil samples. Application of vermicompost decreased (p < 0.05) the relative abundances of Acidobacteriota, Gemmatimonadota, Actinobacteriota, and unclassified and increased the relative abundance of Planctomycetota. Compared with the control soil, vermicompost application resulted in significantly higher bacterial Chao indices and a significantly lower Chao index under vermicompost of 60 t ha−1 based on farmers’ normal fertilizer and significantly lower diversity under vermicompost of 90 t ha−1. Otherwise, vermicompost application increased the photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll content of melon leaves and increased the total sugar, soluble solids, vitamin C, soluble protein, and organic acid contents of melon. The results of redundancy analysis indicated that Proteobacteria exhibited a positive correlation with soil ammonium nitrogen (AN) and pH, while showing a negative association with soil available phosphorus and organic matter. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that both total sugar content and central soluble solid content in melon had a significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) with Patescibacteria. This study demonstrates that the application of vermicompost alters the microbial community structure in melon cultivation, enhancing fruit quality; this not only promotes a healthier soil ecosystem but also contributes to sustainable and productive practices in melon farming.

Evaluation of front-of-pack labeling’s impact on unhealthy food consumption in Israeli households

Abstract Background In 2020, Israel introduced front-of-pack labeling (FOPL), marking unhealthy foods high in sugar/salt/saturated fat in red and Mediterranean diet-conforming foods in green, aiming to facilitate healthy choices through clear nutrition information. Methods Two cross-sectional telephone surveys assessed food purchasing, red/green food consumption frequency, label exposure, and perceived impact before labeling (944 households, 2019) and 3 years post-implementation (500 households, 2023). Results Over 90% of respondents in 2023 reported seeing red labels on packages. Nearly 70% checked for red labels when shopping, vs. only 48% who examined the full Nutrition Facts panel on the back of the package. 60% reported preferring unlabeled alternatives within unhealthy categories. Although 50% reported that compared to the period before the labeling, they purchased fewer red-labeled products, a significant decrease in purchasing rates between timepoints was found only for 2 out of 11 unhealthy food categories-sugary drinks (which during 2022 were also taxed by sugar content) and salty snacks. At both timepoints, rates of purchasing and consumption frequency of unhealthy foods were higher among households with children, compared to other households. Multivariate analysis showed that having children under 18, lower education and bigger household size predicted a higher overall unhealthy consumption score. Red label checking was associated with better scores. Conclusions FOPL raised awareness and shows potential for reducing unhealthy consumption, especially when combined with policies like sugar taxation. Their impact on reducing purchases of nutritionally valueless foods (snacks/sugary drinks) is highly valuable. However, red-labeled food consumption remained high among households with children, a strong predictor of higher unhealthy consumption scores. Continued label promotion, child-targeted interventions, and product reformulation incentives are recommended. Key messages • FOPL shows potential of enhancing healthy choices especially when combined with supportive policies. • Results regarding households with children highlight the need for continued promotion, child-targeted interventions, and product reformulation incentives for impacting long-term habits.

Extending the Shelf Life of Doxorubicin Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles with Cryoprotectants

AbstractSugars, as cryoprotectants, can be added to NP formulations before lyophilization to ensure that NPs retain their size during long‐term storage. In this study, mannitol, glucose, and sucrose were used at different concentrations to extend the storage time of doxorubicin (DOX)‐loaded PLGA‐NPs prepared using two different copolymer ratios (75 : 25 and 50 : 50) at different storage temperatures (−20, +4, and +25 °C). After lyophilization, a glucose or sucrose concentration of only 5 % for DOX‐PLGA‐75 : 25‐NP and a glucose concentration of 10 % for DOX‐PLGA‐50 : 50‐NP were found to prevent agglomeration for up to 4 months at −20 °C. It is noteworthy that after storage at 4 °C for up to 4 months, agglomeration was prevented using 5 % sucrose and 10 % glucose in DOX‐PLGA‐50 : 50‐NP and 10 % sucrose content in both NP types. On the other hand, as expected, no sugar type or concentration could prevent agglomeration during long‐term storage of NPs at 25 °C. The sizes and encapsulation efficiencies (EE%) before lyophilization were 221.8±2.20 and 45.4 % for DOX‐PLGA‐50 : 50‐NP and 221.5±1.31 and 48.7 % for DOX‐PLGA‐75 : 25‐NP, respectively. Furthermore, the release profiles and encapsulation of DOX in both NPs were investigated by UV‐Vis analyses. DSC analysis revealed that DOX was present in the free form and amorphous in the NPs. Consequently, PLGA copolymer ratios were found to have an impact on the long‐term stability of DOX loaded PLGA lyophilizates, and DOX‐loaded NPs prepared with PLGA 75 : 25 or PLGA 50 : 50 can be stored at −20 and +4 °C for up to 4 months when combined with appropriate sugar contents and concentrations, demonstrating the versatility of these materials.

Varying levels of natural light intensity affect the phyto-biochemical compounds, antioxidant indices and genes involved in the monoterpene biosynthetic pathway of Origanum majorana L.

BackgroundLight is a critical environmental factor in plants, encompassing two vital aspects: intensity and quality. To assess the influence of different light intensities on Origanum majorana L., pots containing the herb were subjected to four levels of light intensity: 20, 50, 70, and 100% natural light. After a 60-day treatment period, the plants were evaluated for metabolite production, including total sugar content, protein, dry weight, antioxidant indices, expression of monoterpenes biosynthesis genes, and essential oil compounds. The experimental design followed a randomized complete blocks format, and statistical analysis of variance was conducted.ResultsThe results indicated a correlation between increased light intensity and elevated total sugar and protein content, which contributed to improved plant dry weight. The highest levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) were observed under 100% light intensity. Catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes exhibited increased activity, with a 4.23-fold and 2.14-fold increase, respectively, under full light. In contrast, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase enzyme activities decreased by 3.29-fold and 3.24-fold, respectively. As light intensity increases, the expression level of the 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR) gene increases. However, beyond a light intensity of 70%, the DXR gene expression level decreased. Furthermore, the expression levels of the cytochrome P450 genes CYP71D178 and CYP71D179 exhibited an increasing trend in response to elevated light intensity. Essential oil content increased from 0.02 to 0.5% until reaching 70% light intensity. However, with further increases in light intensity, the essential oil content decreased by 54 to 0.23%.ConclusionsThese findings emphasize the importance of balancing plant growth promotion and stress management under different light conditions. The research suggests that sweet marjoram plants thrive best in unshaded open spaces, resulting in maximum biomass. However, essential oil production decreases under the same conditions. For farmers in areas with an average light intensity of approximately 1700 µmol m−2s−1, it is recommended to cultivate sweet marjoram in shade-free fields to optimize biomass and essential oil production. Towards the end of the growth cycle, it is advisable to use shades that allow 70% of light to pass through. The specific duration of shade implementation can be further explored in future research.

Effect of fruit pulp and sugar concentration on the physicochemical, phytochemical and sensory characteristics of star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) leather

Starfruit is an underutilized fruit and is rich in vitamin C. Fruit leather from starfruit was prepared in this study and analyses of its physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensory characteristics were performed. Five samples named A, B, C, D and E were prepared with different proportions of fruit pulp:sugar of 70:30, 75:25, 80:20, 85:15 and 90:10, respectively. All the prepared samples were subjected to analyses. Phytochemical contents were found to increase with increasing fruit pulp proportion, thus sample E (90:10) was found to be the best in terms of phytochemical content. Similarly, product sample C (80:20) was scored the highest by the panelist in terms of sensory aspect. The best product sample C had total soluble solids (TSS) of 31 ± 2 °Bx, total ash content of 2.482 ± 0.001 %, acid insoluble ash of 1.0013 ± 0.002 %, crude protein of 0.5902 ± 0.004 %, crude fat of 0.3514 ± 0.003 %, crude fiber of 0.8991 ± 0.003 %, carbohydrate of 95.67 ± 0.04 %, vitamin C of 24.24 ± 0.1 mg/100g, total energy of 338.11 ± 0.04 Kcal/100 g, total phenolic content (TPC) of 6.105 ± 0.001 mg GAE/g of dry extract, total flavonoid content (TFC) of 1.125 ± 0.002 mg QE/g of dry extract and DPPH scavenging activity of 27.268 ± 0.001 %. Panelists responded favorably to the prepared product samples.

Nutrient limitation shortly before harvest promotes high accumulation of antioxidants in lettuce

AbstractPlants exposed to drought not only have to cope with a shortage of water, but also with a simultaneous decrease in nutrient availability. In this greenhouse experiment, the responses of antioxidants and key metabolites to 2 or 4 days of water limitation immediately prior to harvest were compared to the effect of nutrient limitation with continued water supply in lettuce leaves. Water limitation led to a faster increase in stress intensity than nutrient limitation. While moderate drought stress led to a slight increase in the antioxidant compounds studied, there was a concomitant sharp decrease in starch content. Under nutrient limitation, an increase in the content of ascorbic acid, the proportion of reduced ascorbic acid and the content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, soluble sugars and starch was observed in the mild phase of stress. These results suggest that reducing nutrient availability shortly before harvest could be a suitable means of improving the nutritional value of crops through cultivation practices as opposed to breeding.

A Mycorrhiza-Induced UDP-Glucosyl Transferase Negatively Regulates the Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis.

Most terrestrial plants can establish a reciprocal symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi to cope with adverse environmental stresses. The development of AM symbiosis is energetically costly and needs to be dynamically controlled by plants to maintain the association at mutual beneficial levels. Multiple components involved in the autoregulation of mycorrhiza (AOM) have been recently identified from several plant species; however, the mechanisms underlying the feedback regulation of AM symbiosis remain largely unknown. Here, we report that AM colonization promotes the flavonol biosynthesis pathway in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and an AM-specific UDP-glucosyltransferase SlUGT132, which probably has the flavonol glycosylation activity, negatively regulates AM development. SlUGT132 was predominantly expressed in the arbuscule-containing cells, and its knockout or knockdown mutants showed increased soluble sugar content, root colonization level and arbuscule formation. Conversely, overexpression of SlUGT132 resulted in declined soluble sugar content and mycorrhization degree. Metabolomic assay revealed decreased contents of astragalin, tiliroside and cynaroside in slugt132 mycorrhizal roots, but increased accumulation of these flavonoid glycosides in SlUGT132-overexpressing plant roots. Our results highlight the presence of a novel, SlUGT132-mediated AOM mechanism, which enable plants to flexibly control the accumulation of soluble sugars and flavonoid glycosides in mycorrhizal roots and modulate colonization levels.

Ultrasonic‐assisted enhancement of malt characteristics in amaranth: A study on physicochemical, amino acid, sugar profile, rheological properties, and muffin making

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the potential of incorporating ultrasonication treatment into the soaking process before germination as a method to enhance the nutritional profile of amaranth. While ultrasound has been used to expedite germination in various grains, its impact on germinated grains from a food science perspective remains underexplored. The research focused on the effects of ultrasonication on the composition, functional, and rheological properties of amaranth grains post‐germination.FindingsThe study revealed that germination alone significantly increased γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), protein content, phenolic acids, amino acids, and total dietary fiber while reducing phytic acid and rheological parameters. Incorporating ultrasonication during soaking further elevated amino acids, GABA, protein, and phenolic acid levels. Notably, ultrasonication increased protein content by 25%, antioxidants by 35%, and dietary fiber by 20%, and attributed to cell wall breakdown and enhanced enzymatic activity during germination. Phytic acid levels decreased by up to 95% with prolonged ultrasonication, enhancing nutritional quality. Additionally, GABA levels revealed a significant rise, with an 82% and 87% increase in the Annapurna and Durga varieties, respectively. The study also found that ultrasonication led to reduced starch content, decreased pasting properties, and increased sugar content in the grains. Muffins made with ultrasonicated amaranth showed lower water activity levels, indicating better shelf stability, though specific volume decreased due to starch breakdown and increased amylase activity.ConclusionThe study demonstrates that ultrasonication combined with germination is an effective method for enhancing the nutritional and functional properties of amaranth grains. This method significantly boosts health‐promoting components like GABA, proteins, and antioxidants while also affecting key baking quality parameters.Significance and NoveltyThis research introduces a novel application of ultrasonication to improve the physiochemical, antioxidant, functional, and rheological properties of amaranth grains. The findings suggested a promising strategy for developing nutrient‐rich, functional food ingredients, addressing the growing demand for healthier food products.

Potential reformulation of food products two years after implementation of Nutri-Score in Belgium

Abstract Background Nutri-score is a front of pack labeling system that provides consumers with simplified information of the nutritional quality of food products. It is based on a five color (green to red) or letter (A to E) scheme that grades the quality of the product using an algorithm that takes into account the energy, sugar, saturated fats, salt, fiber, protein content, and percent of fruits and vegetables. In Belgium, Nutri-score was implemented on a voluntary basis in April 2019. This study aims to explore reformulation of products with Nutri-score by comparing their nutrient content and Nutri-score distribution in 2019 and 2021. Methods Product data from one of the major retailers was used in the analysis. Similar products in 2019 and 2021 with matched barcodes were used. Descriptive statistics were computed and statistical analyses such as the signed rank test and the McNemars test were performed to respectively evaluate the changes in the nutrient content and Nutri-score. The tests were conducted at 5% level of significance. Results From the matched sample of 668 products, about 55% had a Nutri-score of A and B in both 2019 and 2021. The proportion of food products with Nutri-Score of A/B and of D/E was not significantly different after two years of Nutri-Score implementation. Results showed a significant decrease in the median energy content of dairy, sauces, and meat products and in the median sugar content of dairy and fruit and vegetable products. There was a significant increase in the median fiber content of the dairy, meat products, and non-alcoholic beverages. For all food groups, the salt content of the products in 2019 and 2021 was not significantly different. Conclusions This two-year interval analysis described the changes in the classification and reformulation of the products with Nutri-score. Favorable changes in the nutrient quality of the product profiles reveals improvement in their reformulation. Key messages • In this analysis, changes has been observed in the nutrient content of food products between 2019 and 2021. • Producers or manufacturers should continue working on commitments to enhance the nutritional quality of the products delivered to consumers.

Coexpression Regulation of New and Ancient Genes in the Dynamic Transcriptome Landscape of Stem and Rhizome Development in "Bainianzhe"-An Ancient Chinese Sugarcane Variety Ratooned for Nearly 300 Years.

The sucrose yield in sugarcane largely depends on stem morphology, including length, diameter and sugar content, making sugarcane stem a key trait in breeding. The "Bainianzhe" variety from Songxi County, Fujian Province, possesses both aerial stems and rhizomes, providing a unique model for studying stem development. We performed a spatiotemporal transcriptomic analysis of the base, middle and apical sections of both aerial stems and rhizomes. The analysis categorized transcriptomes by developmental stage-base, middle and apical-rather than environmental differences. Apical segments were enriched with genes related to cell proliferation, while base segments were linked to senescence and fibrosis. Gene regulatory networks revealed key TFs involved in stem development. Orphan genes may be involved in rhizome development through coexpression networks. Plant hormones, especially genes involved in ABA and GAs synthesis, were highly expressed in rhizomes. Thiamine-related genes were also more prevalent in rhizomes. Furthermore, the apical segments of rhizomes enriched in photosynthesis-related genes suggest adaptations to light exposure. Low average temperatures in Songxi have led to unique cold acclimation in Bainianzhe, with rhizomes showing higher expression of genes linked to unsaturated fatty acid synthesis and cold-responsive calcium signalling. This indicates that rhizomes may have enhanced cold tolerance, aiding in the plant's overwintering success.

PREPARATION AND NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION OF ENRICHED JAM MADE FROM BLENDS OF APPLE, STRAWBERRY AND GRAPES

The aim of this study is to prepare an acceptable jam from blends of Apple, Strawberry and Grapes. Jams were produced from blends of Apple, Strawberry and Grapes in the following ratios 30:20:10:40 (A= 30g apple, 20g strawberry, 10g grapes and 40g of sugar) and 35:10:15:40 (B= 35g apple, 10g strawberry, 15g grapes and 40g of sugar) respectively. The pulp mixtures were combined with 40g of sugar. Mixed fruit jam and strawberry jam were used as commercial control labelled as sample C and D respectively. Standard methods were used for the determination of proximate composition, sugar content, phytochemical constituents and sensory evaluation of the Jam. The proximate composition indicated that sample A (15.31±0.12) and B (16.86±0.03) had a moisture content lower than the commercial control C (27.05±0.03) and D (27.60±0.45). The ash, fiber and lipid contents showed no significant difference in the jams produced and the commercial controls. Sample A and B had higher protein 29.58±0.02 and 27.41±0.01 as compared to the commercial controls C and D (24.62±0.02 and 25.15±0.01). No significant (P>0.05) difference was observed in the glucose composition of the sample A and B and the commercial controls C and D. Fructose content in sample A (2.74±0.21) was higher than sample B (1.94±0.01) and the commercial controls C (1.85±0.00) and D (1.42±0.00). Qualitative testing for flavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycoside and tannin revealed potential good health benefits. The sensory evaluation revealed that sample A which comprises of 30% apple, 20% strawberry, 10% grapes and 40% sugar was rated best...

Exogenous hydrogen sulfide increased Nicotiana tabacum L. resistance against drought by the improved photosynthesis and antioxidant system

Drought stress is an abiotic stressor that impacts photosynthesis, plant growth, and development, leading to decreased crop yields. Sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), an exogenous additive, has demonstrated potential regulatory effects on plant responses to polyethylene glycol-induced drought stress in tobacco seedlings. Compared to the control, drought stress induced by 15 g/L PEG-6000 significantly reduced several parameters in tobacco seedlings: shoot dry weight (22.83%), net photosynthesis (37.55%), stomatal conductance (33.56%), maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm) (11.31%), photochemical quantum yield of PSII (ΦPSII) (25.51%), and photochemical quenching (qP) (18.17%). However, applying NaHS, an H2S donor, mitigated these effects, ultimately enhancing photosynthetic performance in tobacco seedlings. Furthermore, optimal NaHS concentration (0.4 mM) effectively increased leaf stomatal aperture, relative water content (RWC) and root activity, as well as facilitated the absorption of N, K, Mg and S. It also enhanced the accumulation of soluble sugar and proline content to maintain osmotic pressure balance under drought stress. Compared to drought alone, pretreatment with NaHS also bolstered the antioxidant defense system in leaves, leading to 22.93% decrease in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content, a 22.19% decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) content and increased activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) by 28.13%, superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 17.07%, peroxidase (POD) by 46.99%, and catalase (CAT) by 65.27%. Consequently, NaHS protected chloroplast structure and attenuated chlorophyll degradation, thus mitigating severe oxidative damage. Moreover, NaHS elevated endogenous H2S levels, influencing abscisic acid (ABA) synthesis and the expression of receptor-related genes, collaboratively participating in the response to drought stress. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights into exogenous NaHS’s role in enhancing tobacco drought tolerance. These results lay the foundation for further research utilizing H2S-based treatments to improve crop resilience to water deficit conditions.

Three-Stage Solid-State Fermentation Technology for Distillers’ Grain Feed Protein Based on Different Microorganisms Considering Oxygen Requirements

The shortage of feed protein has plagued the development of the animal husbandry industry in China. In this study, a new three-stage fermentation technology for producing distillers’ grain feed protein was developed by introducing Aspergillus niger, yeast, and lactic acid bacteria. During the aerobic stage, there was a negative correlation between the reducing sugar content in the distillers’ grains and the amount of Aspergillus niger. The maximum reducing sugar concentration (36.89 mg g−1) was obtained when the oxygen supply was 30 mL min−1 and the fermentation time was two days. During the microaerophilic stage, the natural exchange of oxygen achieved optimal true protein enhancement (from 10.8% to 16.4%) among the three oxygen supply modes (natural exchange, forced ventilation, and filling supplement). During the anaerobic stage, lactic acid bacteria were inoculated for feed protein preservation and flavor enhancement. Our results provided insight and practical guidance for the high-value use of distillers’ grains.