Protein Content Research Articles

Effects of host plants on aphid feeding behavior, fitness, and Buchnera aphidicola titer.

Aphids are sap-feeding plant pests that depend on their symbiotic relationships with the primary endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola to adapt to impoverished diets. However, how the host plant affects the aphid primary symbiont and aphid adaptation to host plant transfer are poorly known. In this study, aphid symbiont screening and genotype identification were used to establish 2 aphid strains (Rhopalosiphum maidis [Rm] and Rhopalosiphum padi [Rp] strains) containing only Buchnera without any secondary symbionts for both wheat aphid species (R. maidis and R. padi). Aphid fitness and Buchnera titers were unstable on some of these host plants after transferring to novel host plants (G1-G5), which were influenced by host plant species and generations; however, they stabilized after prolonged feeding on the same plants for 10 generations. The electropenetrography (EPG) records showed that the allocation of aphid feeding time was significantly distinct in the 6 host plants; aphids had more intracellular punctures and spent more nonprobing time on green bristlegrass which was not conducive to its growth compared with other plants. The content of soluble sugar, soluble protein, and amino acid in the leaves of the 6 host plants were also clearly separated. The correlation coefficient analysis showed that the nutrient contents of host plants had significant correlations with aphid feeding behaviors, fitness, and Buchnera titers. In the meantime, aphid fitness, and Buchnera titers were also affected by aphid feeding behaviors. Also, Buchnera titers of aphid natural populations on 6 host plants showed a visible difference. Our study deepened our understanding of the interaction among aphids, endosymbionts, and host plants, indicating that the host plant nutrient content is a predominant factor affecting aphid adaptation to their diet, initially affecting aphid feeding behaviors, and further affecting aphid fitness and Buchnera titers, which would further contribute to exploiting new available strategies for aphid control.

The vacuolar sulfate transporter PsSULTR4 is a key determinant of seed yield and protein composition in pea.

Pea is a grain legume crop with a high potential to accelerate the food transition due to its high seed protein content and relatively well-balanced amino acid composition. The critical role of external sulfur (S) supply in determining seed yield and seed quality in pea makes it essential to understand the impact of whole plant S management on the trade-off between these two traits. Here, we investigated the physiological relevance of vacuolar sulfate remobilization by targeting PsSULTR4, the only pea sulfate transporter showing substantial similarity to the vacuolar sulfate exporter AtSULTR4;1. Five mutations in PsSULTR4 were identified by TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes), two of which, a loss of function (W78*) and a missense (E568K), significantly decreased seed yield under S deprivation. We demonstrate that PsSULTR4 triggers S distribution from source tissues, especially lower leaves, to reproductive organs to maintain seed yield under S deficiency. Under sufficient S supply, sultr4 seeds display lower levels of the S-rich storage protein PA1 at maturity. They also overaccumulate sulfate in the endosperm at the onset of seed filling. These findings uncover a role of PsSULTR4 in the remobilization of vacuolar sulfate during embryo development, allowing the efficient synthesis of S-rich proteins. Our study uncovers that PsSULTR4 functions (i) in source tissues to remobilize stored vacuolar sulfate for seed production under low S availability and (ii) in developing seeds well supplied with S to fine-tune sulfate remobilization from the endosperm as a critical control point for storage activities in the embryo.

Unveiling the molecular dynamics of low temperature preservation in postharvest lotus seeds: a transcriptomic perspective

BackgroundPostharvest quality deterioration poses a significant challenge to the commercial value of fresh lotus seeds. Low temperature storage is widely employed as the primary method for preserving postharvest lotus seeds during storage and transportation.ResultsThis approach effectively extends the storage life of lotus seeds, resulting in distinct physiological changes compared to room temperature storage, including a notable reduction in starch, protein, H2O2, and MDA content. Here, we conducted RNA-sequencing to generate global transcriptome profiles of postharvest lotus seeds stored under room or low temperature conditions. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that gene expression in postharvest lotus seeds demonstrated less variability during low temperature storage in comparison to room temperature storage. A total of 14,547 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with various biological processes such as starch and sucrose metabolism, energy metabolism, and plant hormone signaling response were identified. Notably, the expression levels of DEGs involved in ABA signaling were significantly suppressed in contrast to room temperature storage. Additionally, nine weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA)-based gene molecular modules were identified, providing insights into the co-expression relationship of genes during postharvest storage.ConclusionOur findings illuminate transcriptional differences in postharvest lotus seeds between room and low temperature storage, offering crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms of low temperature preservation in lotus seeds.

Influence in physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant properties by addition Moringa oleifera leaves in Avena sativa bread

Moringa oleifera leaves have high nutrient valor, physicochemical, and nutraceutical properties and can be used as ingredients to develop wheat-free enrich. The aim was to evaluate nutritional, chemical, and nutraceutical characterization, antioxidant capacity, along physicochemical parameters to develop four oat bread using yeast (PL), xanthan gum (PG), and 2.5% (M2) or 5.0% (M5) of moringa leaves. Morinaga leaves were a source of 23.19% protein, 12.43% ash, and 30.36% dietary fiber. The bread formulations increased the protein content by 25–50%, and decreased lipid in 52.14% compared with commercial bread. For antioxidant capacity, PLM5 had the highest with values of 11.97 mMTE/g (DPPH), 16.06 mMTE/g (ABTS), and 16.38 mMTE/g (FRAP). In the bread with MOLP were identified Epicatechin, rutin, and dihydroxybenzoic acid by HPLC. The bread with a better texture profile was PLM2. The results suggested that moringa leaves used as an oat bread ingredient can enhance the nutritional and nutraceutical content.

Nitrogen sources in donor human milk: True protein, nonprotein nitrogen, and amino acid profile.

Devices measuring the macronutrient content of human milk are commonly used to assist with clinical decision-making. It is unknown if these devices accurately measure protein content in donor human milk (DHM). Our objective is to quantify the nitrogen sources and protein content in commercial DHM. The total nitrogen content (Dumas method) and nonprotein nitrogen content (Kjeldahl method) was measured in triplicate from six commercial DHM samples with protein content noted on the labels. In addition, the amino acid content was measured in 15 commercial DHM samples and protein content in each sample was calculated. The calculated protein content for each DHM sample was compared for consistency. The nonprotein nitrogen content in DHM was consistently higher (0.33 ± 0.05 g/g) than previous reports, leading to overreporting of protein content on DHM labels by a median value of 0.15 g/dl (range 0.02-0.23 g/dl). Similarly, calculation of the protein content from the total nitrogen content with an assumption of 20% (grams per gram) nonprotein nitrogen consistently overrepresented the protein content as determined from the amino acid profile for DHM. Common methods for assessing the macronutrient content of human milk may overestimate the protein content of DHM.

Modification of the Protein Amino Acid Content in Hen Eggs as a Consequence of Different Concentrations of Lupine and Soy in Feed

The effect of the diet modification (soybean and lupine addition) on the content of protein and amino acids (AA) in eggs was studied. Both the sampling day and the diet influenced the total protein content. In albumen, the lowest protein content (10.6%) was noted after administering a diet containing 25% lupine; in the same egg the yolk contained the most proteins (16.7%). In the content of nonessential AA (NAA) in egg yolks, differences were noted only for cysteine, with its the highest content in the yolks of the control group. The stable content of essential yolk amino acids (EAA) was observed only for isoleucine, leucine, tryptophan and phenylalanine. The highest contents of EAA and NAA were recorded in the yolks of the control group (~47 and ~53 g/100 g of protein, respectively) and in the group with 25% additions of lupine (~42 and ~51 g/100 g of protein, respectively). AA with constant content in the tested albumens were methionine, tryptophan and alanine. The highest content of EAA (>~42 g/100 g of protein) and NAA (>~62 g/100 g of protein) were determined in albumen of eggs determined in the group with at least 20% additions of lupine. The highest content of EAA for humans delivered eggs from groups 4–6 (with the addition of soy into the diet ≤5%). The protein sources used in the hen diet significantly influenced the content of protein and individual AA in the produced eggs.

Enhancing maize growth and resilience to environmental stress with biochar, gibberellic acid and rhizobacteria

BackgroundZea mays (maize) is a globally significant cereal crop with diverse applications in food, feed, and industrial products. However, maize cultivation is often challenged by environmental stressors such as heavy metal toxicity and drought stress (DS). Heavy metals like cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) can accumulate in soil through industrial activities and improper waste disposal, posing significant threats to plant growth and development. Drought stress further exacerbates these challenges by limiting water availability and affecting physiological processes in plants. This study explores the impact of Cd and Pb toxicity, as well as DS, on maize growth and development, and investigates the potential mitigating effects of various treatments, including gibberellic acid (GA3), biochar (BC), rhizobacteria (RB), and their combinations.MethodsThe experiment involved maize plants subjected to different stress conditions: cadmium (Cd) at concentrations of 0, 6, and 12 ppm, lead (Pb) at 0 and 400 ppm, and drought stress (DS). Treatments included the application of 10 ppm GA3, 0.75% BC, a combined treatment of 10 ppm GA3 and 0.75% BC, rhizobacteria (RB), and a combined treatment of 0.5% BC and RB. The study measured germination rates, shoot and root lengths, and biochemical parameters such as shoot and root protein, phenolics, and chlorophyll contents under these conditions.ResultsIn the absence of Cd stress (0 Cd), the application of 10 ppm GA3 and 0.75% BC significantly enhanced germination rates by 72% and 76%, respectively, compared to the control, with the combined treatment exhibiting the highest enhancement of 86%. Under Cd stress (6 ppm Cd), GA3 and BC individually improved germination by 54% and 57%, respectively, with the combined treatment showing the largest increase of 63%. Drought stress influenced germination, with notable improvements observed with the application of 0.5% BC (50% increase) and RB (49% increase). Similar trends were observed in shoot and root lengths, where the combined treatment of GA3 and BC resulted in the most significant improvements. The treatments positively influenced shoot and root protein, phenolics, and chlorophyll contents, particularly under stress conditions.ConclusionThese findings highlight the potential of combined treatments, such as the application of GA3 and BC or BC with RB, in alleviating the adverse effects of heavy metals (Cd and Pb) and drought stress in maize cultivation. The combined treatments not only improved germination rates but also significantly enhanced shoot and root growth, as well as important biochemical parameters under stress conditions. This suggests that GA3 and BC, alone or in combination with RB, can play a crucial role in enhancing maize resilience to environmental stressors. The study highlights the importance of exploring sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the impacts of heavy metal toxicity and drought stress. Future research should focus on long-term field trials to validate these findings and further investigate the mechanistic pathways involved in stress mitigation by these amendments, as well as their economic feasibility and environmental impact on a larger scale to ensure their practical applicability in real-world agricultural settings.

Effect of apple peel flour addition on physicochemical characteristics and fatty acid profile of reduced-fat mayonnaise

Introduction: Mayonnaise is popular throughout the world and contains various types of processed products. While reduced-fat mayonnaise (RFM) contains less than 50% oil, the drawback is the potential to reduce the physical quality of mayonnaise. The use of apple peel in the form of flour added to mayonnaise is predicted to enhance its physicochemical quality. Methods: The research comprised laboratory experiments using randomised design with four treatments and six repetitions. Apple peel flour was added to the treatments in the following proportions: 0% (RFA0), 1% (RFA1), 2% (RFA2), and 3% (RFA3). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to obtain average values and standard deviations. Results: Addition of 3% apple peel flour to RFM showed highly significant effect (p≤0.01) on droplet size (2.15–9.49µm), viscosity (3965.00cP), colours L (71.93), a* (15.75), and b* (50.65), protein content (1.44%), and fat content (50.93%). It also produced an organoleptic quality that was acceptable to semi-trained panellists and fatty acid profiles containing various types of fatty acids. Conclusion: The use of 3% apple peel flour in RFM represented the best treatment, with potential for further improvement.

Biological features and quality comprehensive analysis of twelve germplasm resources of the genus Allium from Tibet

IntroductionAllium is important vegetables and seasonings in China, Tibet is rich in unique resources of the genus Allium, but lacks development and utilization.MethodsWe compared the biological features and comprehensively evaluating the quality of twelve germplasm resources of the genus Allium collected from Tibet.ResultsThe results revealed that nine germplasm resources were bolting and bloom normally except for SC015, SC019, and SC048, all twelve germplasm resources were able to vegetative growth. The individual differences in moisture, soluble sugar, and protein content among the twelve germplasm resources were relatively small, with pyruvic acid content ranging from 0.11 to 1.12 mg/g and a large variation coefficient. A total of 8 categories and 97 volatile compounds were detected in twelve germplasm resources, the majority possessed the highest proportions of aldehydes and organosulfur compounds, but there were certain differences between the different Allium species. Additionally, 11 to 16 types of free amino acids were present in all germplasm resources, proline exhibited the highest content. The total content of essential and non-essential amino acids in SC009 was the highest. Carbon (C) accounted for the largest proportion of all elements, and the contents of other mineral elements varied greatly among the different plants.ConclusionIn conclusion, combined with biological performance and comprehensive evaluation of quality, SC009 is the excellent germplasm resource suitable for growth and capable of reproduction with good quality. These results improved the exploitation and utilization of the genus Allium in Tibet, as well as provided germplasm resources for high-quality breeding of the genus Allium.

IGF-1 and myostatin-mediated co-regulation in skeletal muscle and bone of Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) during different hibernation stages

Muscle and bone are cooperatively preserved in Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) during hibernation. As such, we hypothesized that IGF-1 and myostatin may contribute to musculoskeletal maintenance during this period. Thus, we systematically assessed changes in the protein expression levels of IGF-1 and myostatin, as well as their corresponding downstream targets, in the vastus medialis (VM) muscle and femur in Daurian ground squirrels during different stages. Group differences were determined using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results indicated that the co-localization levels of IGF-1 and its receptor (IGF-1R) increased by 50% during the pre-hibernation period (PRE) and by 35% during re-entry into torpor (RET) compared to the summer active period (SA). The phosphorylation level of FOXO1 in the VM muscle increased by 50% in the torpor (TOR) group and by 82% in the inter-bout arousal (IBA) group compared to the PRE group. The phosphorylation level of SGK-1 increased by 54% in the IBA group and by 62% in the RET group compared to the SA group. In contrast, the protein expression of IGF-1 and phosphorylation levels of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, and GSK3β in the VM muscle showed no obvious differences among the different groups. β-catenin protein expression was up-regulated by 84% in the RET group compared to the SA group, while the content of IGF-1 protein, correlation coefficients of IGF-1 and IGF-1R, and phosphorylation levels of PI3K, Akt, and GSK3β in the femur showed no significant differences among groups. Regarding myostatin and its downstream targets, myostatin protein expression decreased by 70% in the RET group compared to the SA group, whereas ActRIIB protein expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation in the VM muscle showed no obvious differences among groups. Furthermore, Smad2/3 phosphorylation decreased by 58% in the TOR group and 53% in the RET group compared to the SA group, whereas ActRIIB protein expression in the femur showed no obvious differences among groups. Overall, the observed changes in IGF-1 and myostatin expression and their downstream targets may be involved in musculoskeletal preservation during hibernation in Daurian ground squirrels.

Integrated transcriptome and metabolism unravel critical roles of carbon metabolism and oxidoreductase in mushroom with Korshinsk peashrub substrates

Edible fungi cultivation serves as an efficient biological approach to transforming agroforestry byproducts, particularly Korshinsk peashrub (KP) branches into valuable mushroom (Lentinus edodes) products. Despite the widespread use of KP, the molecular mechanisms underlying its regulation of mushroom development remain largely unknown. In this study, we conducted a combined analysis of transcriptome and metabolism of mushroom fruiting bodies cultivated on KP substrates compared to those on apple wood sawdust (AWS) substrate. Our aim was to identify key metabolic pathways and genes that respond to the effects of KP substrates on mushrooms. The results revealed that KP induced at least a 1.5-fold increase in protein and fat content relative to AWS, with 15% increase in polysaccharide and total sugar content in mushroom fruiting bodies. There are 1196 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between mushrooms treated with KP relative to AWS. Bioinformatic analysis show significant enrichments in amino acid metabolic process, oxidase activity, malic enzyme activity and carbon metabolism among the 698 up-regulated DEGs induced by KP against AWS. Additionally, pathways associated with organic acid transport and methane metabolism were significantly enriched among the 498 down-regulated DEGs. Metabolomic analysis identified 439 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) in mushrooms treated with KP compared to AWS. Consistent with the transcriptome data, KEGG analysis on metabolomic dataset suggested significant enrichments in carbon metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism among the up-regulated DAMs by KP. In particular, some DAMs were enhanced by 1.5-fold, including D-glutamine, L-glutamate, glucose and pyruvate in mushroom samples treated with KP relative to AWS. Targeted metabolomic analysis confirmed the contents of DAMs related to glutamate metabolism and energy metabolism. In conclusion, our findings suggest that reprogrammed carbon metabolism and oxidoreductase pathways act critical roles in the enhanced response of mushroom to KP substrates.

Evaluation of peel, flesh and seeds of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) for biologically active components, through development of powders and ethanolic extracts

The bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.), has been remained a well-known ethnic medicinal vegetable, used traditionally as a pharma food to obtain a plenty of pharmacological benefits. However, which fraction of fruit is most effective for provision of bioactive components, has been remained undiscovered yet. This study examined the chemical composition, phytochemicals and antioxidant activities of peel, flesh, and seeds of bitter gourd. Our results showed that fat (3.50 ± 0.03%) and protein (3.40 ± 0.06%) content were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) high in bitter gourd seed powder (BSP), whereas ash (6.26 ± 0.06%) and fiber (5.46 ± 0.10%) in bitter gourd peel powder (BPP). Microminerals including Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn were found significantly (P < 0.05) high in BSP, with values 3.95 ± 0.05, 4.92 ± 0.04, 2.44 ± 0.04 and 1.32 ± 0.20 mg/100 g, respectively, whereas, macrominerals, Ca (74.90 ± 0.60 mg/100 g) and Mg (52.59 ± 0.20 mg/100 g), in bitter gourd flesh powder (BFP). Total phenolic content (27.78 ± 0.95 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid content (12.18 ± 0.08 mg QE/100 g) and total antioxidant activity (16.87 ± 0.11 mg trolox/100 g) was highest in BSP. However, BFP exhibited the greatest total carotenoid content (93.45 ± 0.40 mg/100 g) and β–carotene content (41.72 ± 0.15 mg/100 g). HPLC analysis revealed that all fractions of bitter gourd were loaded with bioactives, as naringenin and catechin were highest in BFP, epicatechin, ferulic acid, kaempferol and p-coumaric acid were highest in BPP, whereas, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid and apigenin were highest in BSP. As compared to BFP and BPP, BSP exhibited the high concentration of important bioactive components, therefore instead of discarding these waste by-products of bitter gourd could be utilized as source of bioactives.

Holistic investigation of the anti-wrinkle and repair efficacy of a facial cream enriched with C-xyloside.

To investigate the repairing and anti-wrinkle efficacy of the facial cream enriched with C-xyloside, aiming at comprehensively evaluating its skin anti- aging effect and clarify its potential mechanism of action. The repairing efficacy was studied on 3D epidermis skin model and the antiaging efficacy was studied on ex-vivo human skin. Two clinical studies were conducted with Chinese females. In the first study, 49 subjects aged between 30 and 50 with wrinkle concerns were recruited and instructed to apply the investigational cream containing C-xyloside for 8 weeks. Wrinkles attributes were assessed by dermatologist. Instrumental measurements on skin hydration, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin elasticity were also conducted. In the second study, 30 subjects aged between 25 and 60 with self-declared sensitive skin and facial redness were recruited and instructed to apply the cream for 4 weeks. Biomarker analysis of the stratum corneum was conducted through facial tape strips. The cream improved the histomorphology of the 3D epidermis skin model after SLS stimulation, and significantly increase the expression of LOR and FLG. On human skin, the cream improved the histopathology induced by UV, and significantly increased the protein content of COL I and COL III, collagen density and the number of Ki-67 positive cell of skin compared with model group (n = 3, p < 0.01). The results from the first clinical study demonstrate a significant increased the skin hydration and elasticity by 21.90%, 13.08% (R2) and 12.30% (R5), respectively (n = 49, p < 0.05), and the TEWL values decreased by 33.94% (n = 49, p < 0.05), after 8 weeks application of the cream. In addition, the scores for nasolabial folds, glabellar wrinkle, underneath eye wrinkles, crow's feet wrinkle and forehead wrinkle in the volunteers exhibited a significant reduction of 34.02%, 43.34%, 50.03%, 33.64% and 55.81% respectively (n = 49, p < 0.05). The (rCE)/(fCE) ratio of volunteers based on tape stripping significant increased after using the sample cream (n = 30, p < 0.05). The cream containing C-xyloside showed improvement of skin wrinkles and enhancement of skin barrier function. These efficacies may be attributed to the fact that the sample cream can increase the expression of skin barrier related proteins LOR and FLG, promote the maturation of cornified envelope, enhance collagen I and III protein expression and stimulate skin cell proliferation, to provide sufficient evidence supporting its antiaging efficacy of skin.

Phosphorus and selenium compounding mitigates Cr stress in peanut seedlings by enhancing growth homeostasis and antioxidant properties.

Peanut is an economically important crop, but it is susceptible to Cr contamination. In this study, we used peanut as experimental material to investigate the effects of exogenous P, Se interacting with Cr on the nutrient growth and antioxidant system of peanut seedlings by simulating Cr (0μM, 50μM, and 100μM) stress environment. The results showed that exogenous P, Se supply could mitigate irreversible damage to peanut seedlings by altering the distribution of Cr in roots and aboveground, changing root conformation, and repairing damaged cells to promote growth. When the Cr concentration is 100μM, it exhibits the highest toxicity. Compared to the control group P and Se (0 MM), the treatment with simultaneous addition of P + Se (0.5 + 6.0) resulted in a significant increase in root length and root tip number by 248.7% and 127.4%, respectively. Additionally, there was a 46.9% increase in chlorophyll content, a 190.2% increase in total surface area of the seedlings, and a respective increase of 149.1% and 180.3% in soluble protein content in the shoot and roots. In addition, by restricting the absorption of Cr and reducing the synthesis of superoxide dismutase SOD (Superoxide dismutase), CAT (Catalase), POD (Peroxidase), and MDA (Malonaldehyde), it effectively alleviates the oxidative stress on the antioxidant system. Therefore, the exogenous addition of P (0.5 MM) and Se (6.0 MM) prevented the optimal concentration of chromium toxicity to peanuts. Our research provides strong evidence that the exogenous combination of P and Se reduces the risk of peanut poisoning by Cr, while also exploring the optimal concentration of exogenous P and Se under laboratory conditions, providing a basis for further field experiments.

A comparative analysis of crustacean exoskeletons: structural, microstructural, morphological, and UV absorption studies

Abstract This study aims to investigate the structural, thermal, and spectral characteristics along with ultra-violet (UV) absorption of various marine benthos exoskeletons, such as various species of crabs (Portunus sanguinolentus, Portunus pelagicus, Charybdis feriata) and mantis shrimp (Oratosquilla oratoria). Their unique properties and ability to survive in harsh oceanic environments make them interesting research subjects. This research utilized powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to determine the crystal structure of the benthic varieties. The sample surface was analysed using high-resolution micrographs obtained from field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) identified the presence of chitin and calcite in the marine benthos, which was further confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The optical characteristics were investigated using UV-visible spectroscopy. The proximate analysis revealed high protein content in the mantis shrimp exoskeleton compared to other crab species, revealing its excellent UV-absorption characteristics. Overall, this research has the potential to broaden our understanding of marine organisms, which can have potential applications in biotechnology and materials science to develop nature-inspired innovative materials sustainably.

Evaluation of Differences in Capacity of Nutrient Content Accumulation between two Ecotypes of Lotus (Nelumbo Nucifera) due to Environmental Difference in Tropical and Temperate Regions

Environmental fluctuations can amplify variations even in clonal plants. However, it is unclear whether these differences in environmental conditions can alter physiological activities of two different ecotypes of lotus. We intended to evaluate whether the difference in nutrient content accumulation capability between two ecotypes is different because of the different geographical distribution. The present study revealed us a substantial difference in capacity of nutrient accumulation of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) due to environmental difference in tropical and temperate zone. The moisture content of lotus in the tropical region was 8.25%, whereas the temperate region was 86.04%.Maintaining a low moisture content might extend the shelf life of the seed. Crude protein and crude fibres levels were found to be high in tropical lotus (24.4% and 3.15%, respectively) and low in temperate lotus (17.50% and 2.00%). Growth amplifying environmental conditions leads to increase in production of protein content. The tropical lotus has the largest crude lipid content (3.68%), whereas the temperate lotus had the lowest (1.90%).Because of the presence of big rhizomes in temperate lotus, the amount of Ash content produced (8.00%) was about double that of tropical lotus (4.03%). Overall, the tropical lotus ecotype had the highest nutrient content accumulation for crude protein, crude fibres and crude lipids. However, temperate lotus has the highest moisture and ash content.

Продуктивные особенности коров голштинской породы разных генетических линий

Abstract. The purpose of the study is to investigate the productive features of Holstein cows of different genetic lines. Methods. The research was carried out in two breeding enterprises of the Sverdlovsk region on the livestock of Holstein cows. Groups of animals were formed by the method of pairs of analogues, taking into account the age of animals in lactation, physiological condition, live weight, lines of breeding bulls. The coefficient of milk content was estimated by the calculation method. The lactose, fat and protein content in milk was determined using a “Bentley 150” device. Somatic cells were determined on the “Somatos-M” device. Bacterial contamination was studied using a reductase assay. Prolactin was determined by enzyme immunoassay, cortisol by immunochemiluminescent method. Results. In terms of milk yield for 305 days of lactation and protein content in milk, Montwick Chieftain cows had an advantage with a significant difference between the groups (P &lt; 0.05). The animals of the Reflection Sovering line were the best in terms of fat content, the difference between the groups was insignificant. The lowest content of somatic cells in milk and bacterial contamination was found in animals of the Reflection Sovering and Vis Back Idial lines. The best indicators of the leukocyte profile were determined in animals of the Vis Back Idial and Montwick Chieftain lines. In terms of glucose and total protein content in the blood, cows of the Montwick Chieftain line had an advantage, in terms of the amount of urea, animals of the Montwick Chieftain and Vis Back Idial line affiliation. The highest level of total lipids in the blood is typical for cows of the Reflection Sovering line. Scientific novelty. The research results indicate the relationship of biological characteristics and milk productivity with different lines of breeding bulls. The leukocyte profile of this herd of cows of different genetic lines in breeding enterprises of the Sverdlovsk region was studied for the first time. Practical significance. The results of the research can be used in breeding enterprises in order to increase the milk productivity of cows.

Exploring Arthropods as Sustainable Protein Source and the Effect of Cockroach Meal Supplemented Diet on the Growth of Fish

This comprehensive study centres on exploring the arthropods as sustainable protein sources, addressing both human dietary needs and livestock feed requirements. A diverse set of twenty arthropod species were collected from different locations of Kanyakumari District and the species were identified based on the identification keys pertaining to morphological characters. The surveyed animals comprises of Insects: Dragon Fly (Pantala sp.), Western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes sp.), Longhorn beetle (Callipogon sp.), Asiatic rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros), Brown grasshopper (Melanoplus sp.), Bush cricket (Tettigonia sp.), Grasshopper (Diabolocatantops sp.), Housefly (Musca domestica), Cockroach (Periplaneta americana), Termite (Macrotermes sp.), Black carpenter ant (Camponotus sp.), Red carpenter ant (Camponotus sp.); Crabs: Mottled light footed crab (Grapsus albolineatus), Sartoriana sp., Asian paddle crab (Charybdis sp.,),Box crab (Calappa sp.,), Asian shore crab (Hemigrapsus sp.); Millipedes: Yellow spotted millipede (Harpaphe haydeniana), Pill millipede (Arthrosphaera disticta) and African giant millipede (Thyropygus descriptus) were analyzed for the protein content. The samples were tested for protein using Biuret’s method. Among the different arthropods tested insects- Callipogon sp. and Periplaneta americana, crabs - Calappa sp. and Charybdis sp. and Myriapod - Harpaphe haydeniana, exhibited the highest protein content. Crustaceans demonstrated the highest protein content when compared to insects and millipedes. However, since cockroaches are generally considered as a pest and repugnant in human dwelling, it would be ideal to convert cockroach as a sustainable protein source in aquaculture. Moreover. since cockroach showed a higher protein content of 6.146 2.024 mg/ml it was tried as a supplement feed for fish. Cockroach meal was prepared in two different proportions (2% and 3%) to evaluate its impact on the growth of Koi carp fish in comparison with cockroach free meal as control. The inclusion of 3% cockroach powder in the fish meal augmented the growth of Koi carp when compared to the control during a fifteen-day study period. Thus, this study has tapped a potential protein source from insects. Cockroach can be used as an ideal fish feed as it contributes to the pursuit of sustainable and environmentally friendly animal feed source.

The acute effects of variations in the flour composition of crackers on the glycemic index and glycemic responses in healthy adults.

This study assessed the glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) of three crackers formulated with different flours: a control cracker (CC) made with conventional flour, one with 30% whole wheat flour substitution (WWC), and another with 30% sunflower seed flour substitution (SFC). This study aimed to explore the impact of these substitutions, which vary in protein and fiber content, on the glycemic responses compared to a reference glucose drink. In a randomized controlled, crossover design, 11 healthy participants (mean age 23.5 ± 1 years; 7 women; BMI 23 ± 1 kg/m2), consumed cracker meals (CC, WWC, and SFC) each providing 50 g of available carbohydrates, and a 50 g glucose reference in separate sessions. The SFC crackers provided low GI and GL values (GI: 53 on the glucose scale, GL: 6 per serving), whereas the WWC and CC crackers provided high GI (GI: 77 and 90 on the glucose scale, respectively) and medium GL values (11 and 12 per serving, respectively). Compared with the glucose reference and CC crackers, only SFC induced lower postprandial glucose concentrations, lower glucose excursions, and lower peak glucose values. All crackers were rated as enjoyable and associated with increased satiety. SFC moderated postprandial glycemic responses compared to CC and the reference (D-glucose), but not WWC. These effects may be attributed to the soluble fibers and protein content of the SFC. These findings suggest potential benefits for body weight management and glycemic control, warranting further investigation of the role of flour substitutions in healthy snack options. This trial has been registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05702372).

Larval diet impacts black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) thermal tolerance and preference.

Thermal tolerance and preference are key parameters impacting agricultural production systems. In this study, the impact of larval diet on black soldier fly thermal tolerance and preference across life-stages and sexes was examined. Larvae were fed either a low-protein high-carbohydrate synthetic diet (i.e., P7C35), a high-protein low-carbohydrate synthetic diet (i.e., P35C7), or the Gainesville diet (i.e., C) as a control and reference. Our results demonstrate that the impacts of larval diet on black soldier fly thermal tolerance and preference could be stage and sex specific. The mean heat knockdown temperatures (HKT) ranged between 46.6 and 47.9 °C. Synthetic diets resulted in greater HKT and the difference decreased form larvae (e.g., ∼1 °C) to adults (e.g., ∼0.2 °C). The mean chill-coma recovery time (CCRT) ranged between 8.3 and 21.6 min. Not much differences were detected between diets, but CCRT became longer from larvae to adults. The mean thermal preference ranged between 13.6 and 29.5 °C. Larvae fed synthetic diets preferred much lower temperatures than the control diet. A bimodal distribution was observed for adults regardless of sex. Differences on body mass, lipid, and protein contents were detected among diets; however, more research should be done before any conclusions can be linked to their thermal traits. These findings highlight the importance of considering the ingredients and nutritional makeup of larval diets when optimizing temperature management protocols for mass production of black soldier flies. Conversely, specific diets can be developed to promote survival under extreme rearing temperatures.