Carbohydrate Content Research Articles

Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde, a sacred tree: its nutritional value, elemental composition and anti-nutritional content

The sacred Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde tree holds significant medicinal value and is utilized in ayurvedic preparations to treat various health conditions. This research investigated the nutritional, elemental and anti-nutritional properties of S. asoca leaves and flowers. The nutritional qualities of the tree parts were examined using the muffle furnace and micro-Kjeldahl techniques. Titration techniques were used to assess the anti-nutritional content of plants, whereas EDX (Energy dispersive X-ray) was used to determine the mineral content. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, phenols and flavonoids, along with antioxidant properties that could neutralize free radicals generated by metabolic processes in the body. Nutritional analysis indicated that the floral parts of S. asoca had higher moisture, carbohydrate and crude fat content than the leaves. Conversely, the leaves had elevated ash levels, crude fiber and protein. Leaf samples showed higher concentrations of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iodine, iron and manganese compared to the floral samples. In contrast, flower samples exhibited higher potassium, copper, silicon and zinc levels. These findings highlight the rich nutritional profile, abundant phytochemicals and essential minerals in both tree parts, with low anti-nutrient content. This information could be instrumental in developing phytopharmaceuticals and nutritious food products. Additionally, utilizing these tree parts could offer a cost-effective way to enhance nutrient intake and address nutritional deficiencies in humans and animals.

Biochemical and antioxidant activities, organic acid contents, fatty acid compositions, mineral element contents, and carbohydrate contents of sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) accessions found in the Eastern Mediterranean region of Türkiye

The genus Rhus, belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, encompasses over 250 species. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical and antioxidant activities, organic acid contents, fatty acid compositions, mineral element contents, and carbohydrate contents of 100 sumac accessions from Hatay province. Total phenolics varied from 89.46 to 316.33 mg GAE/g DW, total flavonoids ranged from 1.99 to 9.79 mg QE/g DW, and total antioxidant activity was between 24.33 % and 87.66 %. The dominant components identified were malic acid (1255.59–2659.47 mg kg–1), oleic acid (27.33–59.12 %), phosphorus (5869.69–7122.58 mg kg–1), and xylan (17.98–27.24 %). In the principal component analysis, the first nineteen components explained 70.16 % of the total variance. According to Ward's method and Euclidean distance, the UPGMA dendrogram revealed four subgroups (A1, A2, B1, and B2) with 24, 28, 14, and 34 accessions, respectively. Significant correlations were found between fatty acid compositions and nutrient minerals. The identified high-quality sumac accessions (‘S47’, ‘S66’, ‘S100’, ‘S14’, ‘S97’, ‘S82’, ‘S93’, ‘S94’, ‘S43’, ‘S88’, ‘S2’, ‘S50’, ‘S20’, ‘S71’, ‘S78’, ‘S58’, ‘S48’, ‘S90’, ‘S23’, ‘S95’, ‘S91’, ‘S13’, ‘S74’, ‘S72’, and ‘S28’, respectively) are poised to contribute significantly to breeding studies aimed at developing more nutritious sumac cultivars. These accessions may also serve as antioxidant-rich products in the food and health sectors, enhancing agricultural production and economic benefits.

Evaluation of Nutritional and Functional Properties of Chasubi - A Traditional Food.

Chasubi, a rice flour-based flatbread is an ethnic delicacy in the Kakching district of Manipur, India. The present study explored the nutritional and functional properties of chasubi. Chasubi was prepared by mixing rice flour with, Allium tuberosum Rottl ex Spreng, Allium hookeri Thw, Zanthoxylum armatum DC, and fermented fish. A dough was prepared, rolled into round flatbread, transferred to banana leaves, and cooked. The proximate composition, antioxidant properties, physicochemical properties, texture profile and biochemical composition of chasubi were determined. The moisture content of the chasubi was in the range of intermediate moisture foods. The protein content of chasubi was 10.17 ± 1.46%. Chasubi was low in fat content (0.40 ± 0.07%) and had crude fibre in good amounts (1.28 ± 0.61%). The carbohydrate content and energy value of chasubi were 48.08% and 236.6kcal/100g. The antioxidant properties of chasubi are presented as 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50). Chasubi showed a high concentration of total phenolics (IC50 5.41 ± 0.37mg gallic acid equivalent/g) and the IC50 values of ferric reducing power assay and total flavonoid were 9.31 ± 1.69mg ferrous sulphate equivalent/g and 60.81 ± 11.70mg quercetin equivalent/g, respectively. The hardness and adhesiveness of the chasubi were 72.43N and 0.0589mJ, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of chasubi showed phenolic peaks indicating that phenolics were preserved after cooking. In conclusion, chasubi is a high-protein, low-fat snack with good antioxidant properties. The physical properties of chasubi make it shelf-stable.

Impact of cocoa variety on merchant quality and physicochemical characteristics of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass

Cocoa, a widely cultivated crop in tropical countries, is a crucial raw material in the food industry, particularly in chocolate production. Its quality is influenced by various factors, including variety, cultivation practices, fermentation, and drying. The aim of this work was to investigate the impact of the cocoa variety on the merchant quality and the physicochemical properties of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass produced in the urban commune of Pokola (Republic of the Congo) . Cocoa pods were sorted into three varieties (Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario) according to the physical identification criteria given in the literature. Cocoa samples were prepared according to the same process: each variety was separated into three 50-kg samples placed in cubic crates with 40 cm edges covered with banana leaves for 6 days of fermentation, then sun-dried at 28–32 °C for 7 days, leading to dried cocoa beans. Roasted cocoa masses were obtained by roasting at 140 °C followed by grinding. Merchant quality analyses were carried out on raw cocoa beans and physicochemical analyses were performed on raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa masses. Cocoa variety had the greatest impact on graining, Villtrop swelling index, proportion of brown beans, pH, total acidity, and protein content. The beans of all cocoa varieties were of intermediate merchant quality (grade II). Roasting resulted in an increase in pH and total carbohydrate content, and a decrease in water content, total acidity, protein content, and colorimetric parameters. Overall, the cocoa variety had a weaker influence on the quality and physicochemical properties of raw and roasted cocoa than roasting.

Comparative Study of the Phytonutrients Contents of Three Plants Grown as Vegetables in Burkina Faso

Diets with a high proportion of plants are nutritionally challenging. These food and generally medicinal plants certainly contribute to reducing hunger and mortality from diet-related diseases worldwide. The aim of this study is to assess the nutritional potential of <i>Cleome gynandra</i>, <i>Hibiscus sabdariffa</i> and <i>Corchorus olitorius</i>, three food plants widely consumed in Burkina Faso. The phytonutrient content of these three plants was assessed on a comparative basis. The parameters investigated in this study were: total ash and mineral content, total protein and carbohydrate content, total lipid content, vitamin C and provitamin A content. The results show that <i>Cleome gynandra</i> had the highest protein content at 160.6 ± 0.32 mg EBSA/g. Lipid levels were relatively close for all three leafy vegetables. They ranged from 3.36% to 4.35%, with the highest content obtained with <i>Corchorus olitorius</i>. Carbohydrate content values ranged from 0.05 to 0.15 mg/mg Glucose equivalent. The highest value was found in <i>Hibiscus sabdariffa</i> (0.15 Glucose equivalent mg/mg). The vitamin C contents of these three plants are relatively close, with the highest vitamin C content obtained with <i>Corchorus olitorius</i> (1.91±1.9 ug/mg). Provitamin A levels varied from 0.196 to 0.312 betac equivalent mg/g ES. The highest content was obtained with <i>Cleome gynandra</i>. Zinc, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Magnesium and Sodium are also present in all three plants, with varying levels. <i>Cleome gynandra</i> stands out with higher levels of Zinc (59.79 mg/kg), Calcium (9517.5 mg/kg), Potassium (5817.5 mg/kg) and Iron (212.1 mg/kg). These different values justify <i>cleome gylandra</i>'s highest total ash content. These edible plants are therefore rich in phytonutrients, and their consumption could help ensure good health and prevent various chronic diseases.

Rootstock affects phytotechnical attributes, gas exchange, and carbohydrate accumulation in mango scion

ABSTRACT The market demand for grafted mango seedlings is increasing because they provide uniformity and precocity for orchards and gain in productive performance. However, studies on suitable rootstocks for mango seedling production of the main mango cultivars of economic interest in the Sao Francisco Valley, Brazil, are incipient. In this context, the objective of the present study was to evaluate growth, gas exchange, and carbohydrate accumulation in the 'Palmer', 'Tommy Atkins', 'Kent', and 'Keitt' mango scions grafted onto polyembryonic rootstocks ('Capucho', 'Coquinho', and 'Espada'). The experiment was carried out under nursery conditions, with 50% shading. A randomized block experimental design was used, in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement, consisting of three mango rootstocks ('Espada', 'Capucho', and 'Coquinho') and four mango scion cultivars ('Palmer', 'Keitt', 'Kent', and 'Tommy Atkins'), with five replications and five plants per plot. Graft success was evaluated 28 days after grafting (DAG) to determine the effects of the rootstocks on each scion. Growth, photosynthetic parameters, and total soluble carbohydrate (TSC) and starch content were evaluated 227 DAG. The rootstocks used affected the growth, photosynthetic pigments, contents of TSC and starch, and gas exchange of the mango scions. The higher graft success percentages were found for the cultivars 'Keitt', 'Palmer', and 'Kent' grafted on 'Espada' rootstocks. The cultivar 'Tommy Atkins' showed the highest graft success percentages when grafted on 'Espada' and 'Capucho' rootstocks. 'Capucho' rootstocks showed higher performance for most of the analysed variables, mainly when using 'Palmer' and 'Tommy Atkins' cultivars as scions.

Susceptibility of Aromatic and Non- aromatic Rice to Sitophilus oryzae L. and their Influence on the Insect and Infestation Rate under Sub-Himalayan Plains of West Bengal

Relative susceptibility of local aromatic and non-aromatic rice grains to rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae L. (Curculionidae, Coleoptera) was studied under laboratory conditions in the sub-Himalayan plains of West Bengal in two seasons (viz. winter and spring-summer) during 2020-2021. Results revealed that after 9 weeks of storage, the highest mean grain weight loss due to S. oryzae varied from 14.30% to 20.89% in the two types of rice grains in two seasons. The corresponding highest mean grain damage % ranged from 36.89 % to 41.56%. The grain weight loss and grain infestation % were always higher in the aromatic rice (Uttar Sugandhi) compared to non-aromatic rice (Jaldhepa) and also in the spring-summer season than the winter months. Carbohydrate and protein content of grains were reduced to the extent of 9.08% to 15.28% and 18.62% to 32.58% in aromatic and non-aromatic rice during winter and spring-summer seasons respectively as a result of infestation of S. oryzae. During winter and spring-summer seasons, from 5 pairs of adult weevils, a total of 188.60 and 142.20 and 264 and 237 number of adults were produced in aromatic and non-aromatic rice cultivars respectively at 9 weeks after their release. The adult population was always female biased.

Enhancing the medicinal properties and phytochemical content of bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) through elicitation with brassinosteroid, ethrel, and carrageenan

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) is well-known for its high protein, steroid, alkaloid, mineral, lipid, triterpene, and phenolic compound content, as well as its medicinal properties, particularly its anti-diabetic effects. To investigate the impact of elicitors on the morphology and phytochemical characteristics of bitter melon (Jounpouri cultivar) over two consecutive years (2018 and 2019), we conducted a field experiment. The study aimed to determine the effects of Ethrel, brassinosteroids (BRs), and k-carrageenan on yield and the production of anti-diabetic agents in M. charantia farm crops. The elicitors included ten levels, ranging from a control group to Ethrel (100, 300, and 600 mg l− 1), brassinosteroids (BRs) (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg l− 1), and k-carrageenan (200, 400, and 600 mg l− 1). These characteristics included leaf area, leaf length, leaf width, fruit parameters, carbohydrate content, total phenols and flavonoid accumulation, antioxidant activity, total acid, ascorbic acid, momordicine, and charantin. Across both years, we observed the highest flavonoid accumulation and antioxidant activity in the Ethrel treatment group. Specifically, applying 0.5 mg l− 1 BRs and 300 mg l− 1 Ethrel led to an 18.8% and 14.8% increase in momordicine content, respectively. All elicitor treatments, particularly at 0.1 mg l− 1 BRs, significantly increased leaf area, leaf length, and leaf width compared to the control group in both cropping years. Additionally, the application of all elicitors resulted in increased fruit weight, dimensions, and yield over the two consecutive years. Notably, in 2018, 600 mg l− 1 Ethrel contributed to enhanced fruit weight and yield, while in 2019, 0.5 mg l− 1 BRs exhibited the same effect. Metabolic and physiological changes in bitter squash induced by employed elicitors over two different years (2018–2019) are strongly dependent on a variety of environmental factors such as temperature and rainfall. In conclusion, using BRs as an elicitor has the potential to optimize the health benefits of bitter melon by increasing the content of two bioactive molecules, momordicine and charantin.

Population Dynamic of Aphis gossypii, and Their Parasitoids, and Effect of Some Insecticides on Aphids, Chlorophyll Content, Non-Enzymatic and Antioxidant Enzymes Activity in Cantaloupe Leaves in Greenhouses

Under green house, the Population density of Aphis gossypii on cantaloupe plants recorded two peaks on May 9th and 23th with 1409 and 1561 individuals/ 10 leaves in season 2022, while one highest peak, on 16th May with 1650 individuals/ 10 leaves in season 2023. Parasitism status of Aphidius colemani and Lysiphlebus fabarum varied from 1.49% on 25 April to 35.79% on 9th of May with seasonal parasitism 2023 in 2022 and ranged between 0.73% on 25th of April and 30.06% on 16th of May with seasonal parasitism 16.57% in 2023. Acetamiprid, imidacloprid, imidacloprid + abamectin, jojoba oil, orange oil and thiamethoxam + abamectin compounds were tested to control aphids during two seasons. Imidacloprid recorded the highest reduction with all average 97.88 ±1.15 and 97.39 ±1.15 in the first and second season respectively. the highest mean reduction of emergence of the two-parasites caused by thiamethoxam + abamectin by 16.92% followed by Imidacloprid with 16.87%. While the least toxicity to emergence of the parasitoids recorded with jojoba oil 0.0% followed by orange oil 1.93% in season 2022, while in season 2023, the higher parasitoid reduction caused by acetamiprid 18.05% followed by Imidacloprid 17.69% and thiamethoxam + abamectin 17.53%. Chlorophyll content increased with treatment jojoba oil followed by Imidacloprid by 47.91 and 44.73 unit in the first season and Thiamethoxam with abamectin lead to the highest content by 44.05 unit in the leaves followed by jojoba oil with 43.65 unit. The least treatment was Imidacloprid + abamectin with 39.55 unit compared with control treatment 40.43 unit. Treatment Thiamethoxam + abamectin recorded the highest content of carbohydrates (48.43) compared with control (47.71). Treatments of insecticides led to increase of protein, fats and total lipid compared with control. Also, Antioxidant enzymes activity in cantaloupe leaves were found to be increased in the treatment of insecticides compared with control.

Running Title: Gluten-Free Biscuit for Autism Children Gluten-Free Biscuit for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Made from Modified Taro Flour and Coconut Pulp Flour

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is common in children, many of whom require a gluten-free diet. This study explored gluten-free biscuits made with modified taro flour and coconut pulp flour, which are rich in carbohydrates, fats, fiber, and protein. The goal was to assess the physical, sensory, and chemical properties of biscuits made with different ratios of these flours. The research used four formulations of taro flour to coconut pulp flour: P0 (100:0), P1 (70:30), P2 (50:50), and P3 (30:70), with five replications. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 5% significance level. Results showed that the P2 (50:50) formulation produced the heaviest biscuits (5.32g) and scored highest in color (3.82) and taste (3.78) in sensory tests. The P3 (30:70) formulation was rated best for aroma (3.56) and texture (3.82). Chemical analysis revealed that P0 (100:0) had the highest water (1.85%), ash (2.22%), and carbohydrate content (61.32%). The P2 (50:50) formulation had the highest protein content (4.42%), while P3 (30:70) had the most fat (49.03%) and fiber (7.96%). This study concluded that modified taro flour and coconut pulp flour are effective in creating nutritious, gluten-free biscuits, offering a suitable alternative for children with ASD.

Prior heat stress increases pathogen susceptibility in the model cnidarian Exaiptasia diaphana

Anthropogenic climate change has significantly altered terrestrial and marine ecosystems globally, often in the form of climate-related events such as thermal anomalies and disease outbreaks. Although the isolated effects of these stressors have been well documented, a growing body of literature suggests that stressors often interact, resulting in complex effects on ecosystems. This includes coral reefs where sequential associations between heat stress and disease have had profound impacts. Here we used the model cnidarian Exaiptasia diaphana to investigate mechanisms linking prior heat stress to increased disease susceptibility. We examined anemone pathogen susceptibility and physiology (symbiosis, immunity, and energetics) following recovery from heat stress. We observed significantly increased pathogen susceptibility in anemones previously exposed to heat stress. Notably, prior heat stress reduced anemone energetic reserves (carbohydrate concentration), and activity of multiple immune components. Minimal effects of prior heat stress on symbiont density were observed. Together, results suggest changes in energetic availability might have the strongest effect on pathogen susceptibility and immunity following heat stress. The results presented here provide critical insight regarding the interplay between heat stress recovery and pathogen susceptibility in cnidarians and are an important first step towards understanding temporal associations between these stressors.

Effects of Different Additives and Ratios on Broom Sorghum Straw Silage Characteristics and Bacterial Communities

As a large agricultural country, China produces a large number of agricultural and sideline products while harvesting agricultural products every year. Crop straw is one of them. Broom sorghum is a traditional crop in China, which produces a large amount of straw resources every year. These straw resources are placed in the field and cannot be used efficiently. The purpose of this study was to solve the problem of straw utilization of Broom sorghum, one of the main food crops in arid and semi-arid areas of northern China. Broom sorghum is not only a nutritious food crop, its straw is also rich in crude fiber and mineral elements, which has high utilization value. However, due to the high content of lignocellulose in straw, the texture is hard, which limits its digestion and utilization efficiency as feed. In this study, the broom sorghum straw was used as the research object, and the straw raw materials were treated with Lactobacillus plantarum, cellulase and xylanase, respectively. After silage fermentation for 30 d and 60 d, the bags were opened to determine the nutritional quality, fermentation quality, microbial community structure and other indicators. The best fermentation time and additives for broom sorghum straw silage were comprehensively screened to improve the nutritional value of straw and animal production performance. The results showed that the nutritional quality of silage straw increased with the extension of fermentation time. Compared with silage straw after 30 days of fermentation, the nutritional quality and fermentation quality of straw were significantly improved after 60 days of fermentation. Lactobacillus plantarum, cellulase and xylanase could improve the silage performance of broom sorghum straw by improving the microbial community structure in straw, and the effect of cellulase was the best. When cellulase was used in straw at the standard of 20 U/g FM, the content of water-soluble carbohydrates could be significantly increased to 31.35 g/kg FM, and the concentration of lactic acid was also significantly increased to 23.79 g/kg FM. Therefore, in actual production, it is recommended to use cellulase at a dose of 20 U/g FM in broom sorghum silage and open the bag after 60 days of silage fermentation. The results of this study provided a scientific basis for the efficient utilization of broom sorghum straw as feed.

Exploring the bioactivity potential of indigenous Ganoderma species from Northern Serbia: insights into antioxidant and anti-acetylcholinesterase properties.

This study explores the bioactivity potential of four indigenous Ganoderma species from northern Serbia (G. applanatum, G. lucidum, G. pfeifferi, and G. resinaceum), comparing antioxidant and anti-acetylcholinesterase (anti-AChE) properties. The mycochemical profile, including ethanol (EtOH), water (H2O), and chloroform (CHCl3) extracts, was analysed, revealing significant phenolic compounds, such as 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid. Highest total phenolic content (TP) was in EtOH extracts (205 - 380 mg GAE/g d.w.), and total carbohydrate content peaked in G. pfeifferi CHCl3 extracts (1895 ± 0.29 mg GluE/g d.w., 439 ± 0.42 mg FruE/g d.w.). DPPH and FRAP activities were prominent in G. applanatum H2O extracts, while CHCl3 extracts excelled in the NO assay, and EtOH extracts were superior in the ABTS assay. The most effective AChE inhibitors were polar extracts from G. pfeifferi. These findings emphasise the potential therapeutic use of Ganoderma species, particularly G. pfeifferi, in combating oxidative stress and acetylcholine deficiencies.

Effect of flax and hemp flour on the nutritional value of turkey-duck meat pate

This study focused on developing a nutritionally enhanced turkey meat pate, incorporating plant-based ingredients like flaxseed and hemp flour. Two canned pate samples were produced: a control sample with turkey meat, liver, heart, fat, skin, beans, onions, and spices, and an experimental sample where 20% of turkey meat was replaced with duck meat, and beans were substituted with zucchini, flaxseed, and hemp flour. The experimental pate showed significant differences in chemical composition compared to the control. It had lower moisture and fat content but higher protein, ash, and carbohydrate content. The energy value slightly decreased from 153.01 kcal/100g to 146.9 kcal/100g. The sensory evaluation found similarities in appearance, consistency, and colour, with the experimental pate receiving a slightly higher colour rating. The amino acid profile of the experimental pate was significantly altered, with increases in methionine, isoleucine, threonine, glutamic acid, alanine, and cysteine. Vitamin and mineral content also significantly increased, particularly vitamins A, D, E, and B group vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. Microscopic analysis revealed a more heterogeneous microstructure in the experimental pate due to the plant ingredients. This research demonstrates the potential of developing a healthier turkey meat pate using plant-based ingredients, catering to the growing demand for healthier food options.

Effects of fibrolytic and amylolytic compound enzyme preparation on rumen fermentation, serum parameters and production performance in primiparous early-lactation dairy cows.

This research communication reports the effects of a compound enzyme preparation consisting of fibrolytic (cellulase 3500 CU/g, xylanase 2000 XU/g, β-glucanase 17 500 GU/g) and amylolytic (amylase 37 000 AU/g) enzymes on nutrient intake, rumen fermentation, serum parameters and production performance in primiparous early-lactation (47 ± 2 d) dairy cows. Twenty Holstein-Friesian cows in similar body condition scores were randomly divided into control (CON, n = 10) and experimental (EXP, n = 10) groups in a completely randomized single-factor design. CON was fed a basal total mixed ration diet and EXP was dietary supplemented with compound enzyme preparation at 70 g/cow/d. The experiment lasted 4 weeks, with 3 weeks for adaptation and then 1 week for measurement. Enzyme supplementation significantly increased diet non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) content as well as dry matter intake (DMI) and NFC intake (P < 0.05). EXP had increased ruminal butyrate and isobutyrate percentages (P < 0.01) but decreased propionate and valerate percentages (P < 0.05), as well as increased serum alkaline phosphatase activity and albumin concentration (P ≤ 0.01). Additionally, EXP had increased milk yield (0.97 kg/d), 4% fat corrected milk yield and energy corrected milk yield, as well as milk fat and protein yield (P < 0.01). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with a fibrolytic and amylolytic compound enzyme preparation increased diet NFC content, DMI and NFC intake, affected rumen fermentation by increasing butyrate proportion at the expense of propionate, and enhanced milk performance in primiparous early-lactation dairy cows.

Production and Quality Evaluation of Yogurt and Watermelon Juice Blends

The study investigated the effect of incorporation of watermelon juice in yogurt on the quality of the blends. Yogurt and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) juice were produced. The watermelon juice was used to substitute 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% of yogurt. The chemical composition, antioxidant activity, physicochemical, and sensory properties of the blends were determined using standard procedures. The pH of the yogurt and watermelon juice were 4.57 and 5.78, respectively and varied from 5.18 -6.04 for the blends. The moisture, protein, ash, fat and carbohydrate contents decreased with increase in the amount of watermelon juice in the blends. The vitamin C, calcium, zinc and magnesium contents increased while the phosphorus and potassium contents decreased with increased level of watermelon juice in the blends. The phenols and carotenoids contents increased while the flavonoids content decreased with increase in the level of watermelon juice in the blends. The antioxidant activity using DPPH assay varied with the samples where yogurt had higher radical scavenging activity than the watermelon juice. The radical scavenging activities and the ferric reducing antioxidant property (FRAP) values also increased with the level of watermelon juice in the blends. The FRAP values for yogurt and watermelon juice were 1.22 and 1.58mg/ml, respectively and increased to a range of 1.29 -3.70 mg/ml for the blends. The yogurt had higher scores than the watermelon juice for all the sensory attributes evaluated. The scores for the sensory attributes decreased with increase in the level of watermelon juice in the blends. However, the scores for the blend containing 10 % watermelon juice for all the attributes were not significantly different (p&gt;0.05) from those of the yogurt. Therefore, it is concluded that watermelon juice could be used to substitute 10% yogurt without adversely affecting the qualities of the blends.

Composition and Biogeochemical Effects of Carbohydrates in Aerosols in Coastal Environment

We adopted a simple and rapid measurement method to analyze the concentrations of monosaccharides (MCHO) and polysaccharides (PCHO) in carbohydrates, a subset of organic carbon found in size-fractionated atmospheric particles. Seasonal and source-related factors influenced carbohydrate concentrations, with total water-soluble carbohydrates (TCHO) accounting for approximately 23% of the water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) in spring when biological activity was high. We observed that the mode of aerosol transport significantly influenced the particle size distribution of carbohydrates, with MCHO exhibiting relatively high concentrations in fine particles (&lt;1 μm) and PCHO showing higher concentrations in coarse particles (&gt;1 μm). Moreover, our results revealed that MCHO and PCHO contributed 51% and 49%, respectively, to the TCHO concentration. This contribution varied by approximately ±19% depending on the season, suggesting the importance of both MCHO and PCHO. Additionally, through the combined use of principal component analysis (PCA) and positive matrix factorization (PMF), we determined that biomass burning accounts for 30% of the aerosol. Notably, biomass burning accounts for approximately 52% of the WSOC flux, with MCHO accounting for approximately 78% of the carbon from this source, indicating the substantial influence of biomass burning on aerosol composition. The average concentration of TCHO/WSOC in the atmosphere was approximately 18%, similar to the marine environment, reflecting the relationship between the biogeochemical cycles of the two environments. Finally, the fluxes of MCHO and PCHO were 1.10 and 5.28 mg C m−2 yr−1, respectively. We also found that the contribution of atmospheric deposition to marine primary productivity in winter was 15 times greater than that in summer, indicating that atmospheric deposition had a significant impact on marine ecosystems during nutrient-poor seasons. Additionally, we discovered that WSOC accounts for approximately 62% of the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the Min River, suggesting that atmospheric deposition could be a major source of organic carbon in the region.

Thermal Properties of Seed Cake Biomasses and Their Valorisation by Torrefaction

Seed cakes, by-products from the cold press extraction of vegetable oils, are valuable animal feed supplements due to their high content of proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals. However, the presence of anti-nutrients, as well as the rancidification and development of aflatoxins, can impede their intended use, requiring alternative treatment and valorisation methods. Thermal treatment as a procedure for the conversion of seed cakes from walnuts, hemp, pumpkin, flax, and sunflower into valuable products or energy has been investigated in this paper. Thermogravimetry shows the particular behaviour of seed cakes, with several degradation stages at around 230–280 and 340–390 °C, before and after the typical degradation of cellulose. These are related to the volatilisation of fatty acids, which are either free or bonded as triglycerides, and with the thermal degradation of proteins. Torrefaction at 250 °C produced ~75–82 wt% solids, with high calorific values of 24–26 kJ/g and an energy yield above 90%. The liquid products have a complex composition, with most parts of the compounds partitioning between the aqueous phase (strongly dominant) and the oily one (present in traces). The structural components of seed cakes (hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin) produce acetic acid, hydroxy ketones, furans, and phenols. In addition to these, most compounds are nitrogen-containing aromatic compounds from the degradation of protein components, which are highly present in seed cakes.

Combined transcriptome and physiological analysis reveals exogenous sucrose enhances photosynthesis and source capacity in foxtail millet

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.) is an environmentally friendly crop that meets the current requirements of international food security and is widely accepted as a photosynthesis research model. However, whether exogenous sucrose treatment has a positive effect on foxtail millet growth remains unknown. Here, we employed physiological and molecular approaches to identify photosynthesis and source capacity associated with exogenous sucrose during the growth of Jingu 21 seedlings. RNA-seq analysis showed that some differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to photosynthesis and carotenoid biosynthesis were induced by exogenous sucrose and that most of these genes were up-regulated. An increase in gas exchange parameters, chlorophyll content, and chlorophyll fluorescence of Jingu 21 was noted after exogenous sucrose addition. Furthermore, exogenous sucrose up-regulated genes encoding sucrose and hexose transporters and enhanced starch and sucrose metabolism. More DEGs were up-regulated by sucrose, the nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) content in the leaves increased and energy metabolism and sucrose loading subsequently improved, ultimately enhancing photosynthesis under normal and dark conditions. Further analysis revealed that WRKYs, ERFs, HY5, RAP2, and ABI5 could be key transcription factors involved in growth regulation. These results indicate that exogenous sucrose affects the normal photosynthetic performance of foxtail millet by increasing NSC transport and loading. They improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the effects of exogenous sucrose on photosynthesis in foxtail millet, providing an effective measure to enhance source–sink relationships and improve yield.

Effects of temperature on morphology, physiology, and metabolic profile of diazotrophic cyanobacteria inhabiting diverse habitats

Global population expansion has increased the demand for food supply and agricultural productivity. Abiotic stressors like temperature have significantly restricted agriculture in cropland and jeopardized food security. Cyanobacteria play a crucial role in fostering sustainable agriculture and ensuring global food security. In the present study, we have assessed the effect of temperatures on diazotrophic free living rice-field and hot-spring cyanobacteria. They were treated to a variable range of temperatures to see the changes in cellular morphology, physiology, and biochemical characteristics. The rise of temperatures induces growth (60 %), total protein (54 %) contents of rice-field cyanobacterium until 25 °C, further treatment results in decline (20 %) at 45 °C. However, growth indices were increased till 35 °C (90 %) in hot-spring cyanobacterium and further treatment did not exhibit a significant decline in the same. However, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were higher in rice-field (2.8 and 1.7 fold) as compared to hot-spring cyanobacterium (2.2 and 1.6 fold). In response to temperature, enzymatic antioxidant contents were much higher in hot-spring as compared to rice-field cyanobacterium. Similarly, carotenoid and carbohydrate content was also higher in hot spring (2 fold) as compared to rice-field cyanobacterium (1.5 and 1.2 fold). All these data collectively suggest that hot-spring (Nostoc sp. strain VKB02) has a higher thermoprotective capacity with novel defense mechanisms as compared to rice-field cyanobacterium (Anabaena sp. strain VKB01). These findings contributed to a better understanding of the temperature stress, improvement of agricultural productivity and future welfare of green ecosystems.