Non-reducing Sugar Content Research Articles

Study on the changes during the fermentation of the wine prepared from palm (Phoenix sylvestris) sap

The sugary sap of different palm trees is fermented to create palm wine, an alcoholic beverage. This work was aimed at studying the changes that occur during the fermentation process of wine made from the sap of the wild date palm species Phoenix sylvestris. At first, the best age of the palm tree was determined by observing total soluble solid and sap yield for 24 h and was found to be middle-aged palm plants (15–40 years old). Pure wine yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae SC22) and a natural starter culture were added to the palm saps, adjusting the total soluble solid (TSS) to 21.5° brix (°Bx). Total titratable acidity, pH, volatile acidity, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total sugar, alcohol content, ester content, and aldehyde contents were the parameters under investigation. The statistical analysis showed significant (p ≤ 0.05) changes in the physico-chemical and volatile constituents of palm sap during the fermentation process in both systems. Sensory evaluation revealed that palm wine fermented with pure yeast culture was significantly superior to natural, spontaneously fermented wine. The acceptability test showed that the ideal characteristics of palm wine are cloudy in appearance, fruity in aroma, and sweet in taste.

Melatonin induces proline, secondary metabolites, sugars and antioxidants activity to regulate oxidative stress and ROS scavenging in salt stressed sword lily

Sword lily is regarded as a useful and commercially demanding cut flower crop; hence, assessing its responses to abiotic stress, particularly salt stress, is vital. Melatonin (MT) exhibits stress tolerance in crop plants and is an emerging stress relieving alternative to chemicals. Nevertheless, the possible process underlying the effects of MT under salt stress has yet to be fully elucidated in plants. Herein, the salt stress (SS) mitigation potential of MT was assessed in a commercially important cut flower, sword lily. Melatonin, expressed as MT1, MT2, MT3, and MT4, was administered at concentrations of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mM. The results revealed that SS (5 dS m−1) restricted the growth and physiological aspects of sword lily. Furthermore, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), membrane permeability, endogenous proline, and soluble protein contents were enhanced in SS. MT application improved morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments, and corm traits. The application of MT mitigated the effects of SS stress in Gladiolus grandiflorus plants by improving growth and photosynthetic pigments. MT application under SS improved the reducing and non-reducing sugar and NPK contents of the sword lily. Furthermore, MT improved the levels of secondary metabolites, such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid, in sword lily. Moreover, MT supplementation ameliorated salt-induced oxidative stress in the gladiolus, as depicted by a decrease in stress markers (EL, MDA, and H2O2) and an increase in defense-related enzymes (POD, CAT, and SOD) with highest increase in the MT3 treatment under salinity stress. The SOD and CAT enzyme activities were 3–3.6-fold higher in the MT3 under stress than the control. In conclusion, MT applications on cut flowers can be an effective strategy to reduce salt stress and can be used to regulate salinity stress in cut flower production. MT can be used as a safe alternative to other agrochemicals to maintain the growth and flower quality of sword lilies, with beneficial effects during vase life.

Physio-chemical and Phytochemical Characteristics of a Lesser-known Wild Edible Fruit of Mizoram, Elaeagnus pyriformis Hook. F. (Family Elaeagnaceae): Need for its Proper Domestication

The lesser-known yet incredibly nourishing wild edible fruit Elaeagnus pyriformis Hook.f. is found in the north-eastern mountainous states of India. Elaeagnus pyriformis fruits were collected from three villages in Champhai District, Mizoram, with the goal of analysing their physio-chemical and phytochemical qualities in order to determine its potential for domestication. Measurements were made of the fruit's physical characteristics, including its length, diameter, weight, and moisture content. Juice was extracted, and total soluble solids (TSS), titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, total sugar, non-reducing sugar, and sugar:acid ratio were among the chemical parameters that were examined afterward. The existence of several beneficial substances was determined by phytochemical screening. Physical and chemical differences between the samples from various villages were found to be significantly varied, according to the results. Ruantlang produced the highest titrable acidity, whereas Zotlang had the maximum fruit weight, length, TSS, reducing sugar, total sugar, non-reducing sugar, and flavonoid content. Fruit diameter, the ratio of sugar to acid, and the total phenolic content were all highest in Hmunhmeltha. The fruit's phytochemical examination identified flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, and cardiac glycosides.

Effect of different storage conditions on grain quality of paddy

The present investigation was carried out to study the physiological and biochemical changes of paddy grain (Oryza sativa L. var. Ranjit) throughout the course of a 12-month storage period, in an effort to determine the ideal storage conditions with the highest potential for storage under climacteric condition of Assam. Freshly harvested seeds of paddy grain (Ranjit) were stored under different storage conditions for a period of twelve months beginning in January. Based on the results of the study, it was found that the easily moisture permeable structures (T2, T3, T6) showed the maximum change in the physiological and biochemical parameters followed by permeable (T1 and T4) and impermeable (T5 and T7). The rate of change in the values of parameters in paddy stored in the prototype of a Grain safe™ in-store dryer (T7) was found slowest and sluggish, and maintained highest mean values amongst all the storage receptacles in respect of germination percentage, seed vigour index, head rice recovery, moisture content, total soluble protein content, starch content, total soluble sugar content, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and amylose content. Significant superiority of hermetic storages (T5 and T7) over traditional storage structures (T1, T2, T3, T4 and T6) in Assam irrespective of all the parameters studied was noticed. Hermetic storage was effective at blocking the effects of external humidity fluctuations as well as the spread of fungi and insects. The solar in-store drier was found to be best amongst all storage structures, in all quality aspects of the long-term storage of paddy.

Evaluation of Advance Generation Breeding Lines of Bitter Gourd for Yield and Quality Traits

The present study was conducted at the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during the summer season of 2021 and 2022. Plant material consisted of 49 advance breeding lines of bitter gourd including 2 checks namely Punjab-15 (local check) and Prachi (commercial check) in simple lattice design of 7x7 with two replications. Evaluation was done for different yield and quality traits. Among the test entries, range for marketable yield per plant varied from 476.61 to 2102.86 and it was highest in PAUBG-1521 (2102 g/plant) followed by PAUBG-200, PAUBG-211, PAUBG-208 and PAUBG-1514 performed better over the checks and lowest in PAUBG-222 (476.02 g/plant). Number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit weight, total soluble sugar, non-reducing sugar and momordicine content was highest in PAUBG-1521 (33.56), (14.23 cm), (61.18 g) (9.29 g/100g), (7.25 g/100g) and (50.21 mg/100g) respectively.

Effect of Organic Sources on Vegetative Growth, Fruit Quality and Yield of Phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis D.C.)

Phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis D.C.) is a native plant with nutritionally rich fruits, yet it faces challenges like uneven ripening and small fruit size. This study assessed the efficacy of organic nutrient sources, including Farm Yard Manure (F.Y.M.), Poultry Manure, and Jeevamrit, in improving Phalsa growth and fruit quality. Results revealed that the combination of F.Y.M. and Poultry Manure with Jeevamrit significantly enhanced vegetative growth, increasing shoot length, number of shoots per plant, and inter-nodal length. These benefits are attributed to the nutrient-rich organic sources, which stimulate cell elongation and division, leading to accelerated plant growth. Furthermore, organic sources positively impacted fruit yield, with the highest yield observed under F.Y.M. and Poultry Manure with Jeevamrit treatment. Additionally, there were increased fruiting nodes and extended harvesting periods, contributing to enhanced fruit production. Phalsa fruit size and quality improved substantially due to organic source applications, resulting in larger fruit dimensions and elevated total soluble solids content. Jeevamrit and F.Y.M. facilitated better nutrient transport to developing fruits, enhancing metabolic processes and fruit size. Regarding sugar content, organic sources significantly influenced non-reducing and reducing sugars. F.Y.M. with Jeevamrit yielded higher non-reducing sugar content, while reducing sugar content increased with F.Y.M. and Jeeva Ghanamrit. Phalsa fruit acidity was not significantly affected by organic sources, but there was a non-significant increase in ascorbic acid content under various combination treatments. Economically, the benefit-cost ratio was most favourable with F.Y.M. and Poultry Manure combined with Jeevamrit, showcasing the economic viability of these organic nutrient sources in Phalsa cultivation. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the positive impact of organic nutrient sources, particularly F.Y.M., Poultry Manure, and Jeevamrit, on Phalsa plant growth, fruit yield, and fruit quality. These findings provide valuable insights into sustainable and organic methods for enhancing Phalsa cultivation, potentially leading to increased production and improved fruit quality in this indigenous crop. Further research should explore the applicability of these organic sources in different crops and regions.

Influence of Naphthalene Acetic Acid, Gibberellic Acid and Calcium Chloride on Quality Parameters of Kagzi Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)

An experiment was carried out to investigate the influence of Naphthalene acetic acid, Gibberellic acid and Calcium chloride on quality parameters of Kagzi lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) in the Garden, Dept. of Fruit Science, C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) during two cropping seasons i.e., 2021-2022, 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and Ten treatments viz, T1-NAA (20 ppm), T2-NAA (40 ppm), T3-NAA (60 ppm), T4-GA3 (10 ppm), T5-GA3 (20 ppm), T6-GA3 (30 ppm),T7-CaCl2 (0.10%),T8-CaCl2 (0.15%),T9-CaCl2 (0.2%) and T10-Control (water spray only). During both years of investigation, it was recorded that GA3 at 20 ppm exhibited significantly higher amount of total soluble solids (9.300Brix) andtitratable acidity (8.70%) as compared to all other treatments. Similarly, NAA treatments also contributed to an increase in the TSS and titratable acidity content with the rise in their concentrations. In terms of TSS: acid ratio, there were no significant differences were recorded within the treatments, indicating its stability. Ascorbic acid content was significantly higher in GA3 treated fruits and with the GA3 at 20 ppm maximum amount of ascorbic acid was recorded (56.47 mg/100ml juice) while the control fruits had the lowest ascorbic acid content. The juice content in fruits were increased in NAA and GA3 treatments, while in CaCl2 treatments it remained relatively stable. Higher amount of juice content (56.49%) was also recorded in fruits treated with GA3 at 20 ppm. In the context of sugar content, GA3 at 20 ppm also exhibited the highest reducing (0.86%), non-reducing (0.70%) and total sugar (1.56%) content in the plains of north India.

Impact of Pollination on Pomegranate

Pollination mode affects crop quality and quantity in several economically significant crops. This study examined the effects of open pollination, Apis cerana pollination, hand, hand+ self-pollination, and self-pollination on pomegranate fruits. Open-pollinated plants had higher fruit length, weight, rind thickness, total soluble sugars, reducing sugar content, non-reducing sugar content, and total soluble solids, followed by A. cerana pollinated plants. A. cerana pollination increased pomegranate output and quality, including fruit shape, aril weight, TSS, and sugar content. The study found that open pollination and A. cerana integration increase pomegranate fruit yield and quality. A. cerana integration boosts farmers' income and conserves biodiversity.

Studies on Preparation of Mango Pickle from Different Genotypes of Akola Maharashtra Region

Mango relishes are extremely popular throughout the Asian continent. In every Indian household, they are the condiment most frequently ingested. It is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamin K and fibre, among other nutrients. Four recipes of mango pickle, namely Recipe-1, Recipe-2 (Recipe-1 + niger seed 150 g), Recipe-3 (Recipe-1 + garlic 200 g), and Recipe-4 (Recipe-1 + niger seed 150 g + garlic 200 g) were standardised for the preparation of mango pickle using three genotypes (Galu, Shravanya, and Telya). The TSS (Total Soluble Solid), pH, titratable acidity, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, ascorbic acid, and moisture content of the pickle sample were analysed. Genotype-3 and Recipe-4 (Recipe-1 + niger seed 150 g + garlic 200 g) were the most accepted and organoleptically acceptable mango pickles due to their elevated acidity, sugar content, and overall acceptability.

Effect of Organic Manures and Natural Farming on Quality and Economics of Carrot

The objective of the experiment was to examine the effects of organic manures and natural farming on the quality and economics of carrots. It was conducted at the research farm of the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Centre of Excellence for Organic Farming of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during the rabi season. Three replications and eight treatments were included in the RBD design of the experiment. Three different organic manures were applied: FYM, vermicompost, poultry manure and in combination with biofertilizer (Azatobacter and PSB). Treatment of cow based bio-formulations (Ghanajeevamrit and Jeevamrit) and control was also included as treatment where no biofertilizer and manure were used. The study revealed significant improvements in almost all quality attributes due to the combined application of organic manures along with biofertilizer. Among different treatments, vermicompost + biofertilizer surpassed all other treatments by giving maximum root yield (283.4 qha-1), maximum content of the total sugar (8.79%), reducing sugar (4.09%), non-reducing sugar (4.64%), TSS (11.5°Brix) and Chlorophyll content in leaves (4.37 nmol cm-2). Also, the treatment vermicompost + biofertilizer gave maximum gross return (Rs. 425100 ha-1), net return (Rs. 232873 ha-1), and Benefit Cost ratio (2.21). It was also observed during the study that control treatment showed lowest findings among all the treatments.

Influence of foliar application of boron, iron and magnesium on quality attributes and leaf nutrient status of guava cv. Hisar Surkha

Foliar application of nutrients escalates efficient use of nutrients along with quick response. An experiment was undertaken to study the effect of foliar application of mineral nutrients viz., boron (B), magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe) sprayed at different growth stages viz., at fruit set and one month after first spray at the experimental orchard of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana during year 2020–21 and 2021–2022. The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Block Design with 21 treatments and 3 replications with a spacing of 6 × 6 m. Foliar sprays with boron, magnesium and iron significantly affected the physio-chemical properties of the fruits. Total soluble solids, TSS acidity ratio, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and pectin content were found to be maximum under the treatment T21 [FeSO4 (0.5%) + H3BO3 (0.5%) + MgSO4 (0.5%)] while in case of titratable acidity was found significantly lowest under the treatment T21 [FeSO4 (0.5%) + H3BO3 (0.5%) + MgSO4 (0.5%)]. Treatments also affected the leaf chlorophyll content and leaf nutrient status significantly. It can be concluded from this study that foliar sprays of boron, magnesium and iron are beneficial for improving fruit quality, leaf chlorophyll content and leaf nutrient status of guava cv. Hisar Surkha. Further, 0.5 per cent each of FeSO4, H3BO3 and MgSO4 foliar sprays two times at one month’s interval can obtain the best results in terms of quality of fruits.

Biochemical composition, oil profiling and elemental analysis of different cumin (Cuminum cyminum L) genotypes

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an annual plant of the family Apiaceae and the genus Cuminum has a single species Cyminum, native from the east Mediterranean to east India. In India, Gujarat and Rajasthan are the major producing states. After black pepper, cumin is the second most popular spice in the world. The present research work was carried out to study the nutritional quality parameters, oil profiling and element composition of fifteen cumin genotypes. The results showed that the moisture content was found to vary from 6.22 to 8.15 %. The carbohydrate content was higher in Kushalpura-1 (46.14 %), while the crude protein was highest in Indawar followed by GC-2 and Merta-2. Total protein content was highest in Lampolai (18.24 %) and lowest in GC-2 (11.36 %). In Lamba Jatan, highest content of non-reducing sugars (8.35 %) and total soluble sugars (9.11 %) were observed. Reducing sugars was detected in the range of 0.72 – 1.53 %. Highest amount of total free amino acids and crude fiber were found in Gawardi and Kushalpura-1, respectively. The total oil (20.27 %) and volatile oil (3.99 %) content were highest in GC-4. The petroselinic acid and linoleic acid were observed as primary fatty acids in all tested genotypes. However, Lampolai, Merta-1, GC-2 and GC-4 were good sources of both fatty acids among all the genotypes. The elemental analysis showed that the GC-2 has a high overall amount of macronutrients, while micronutrients was highest in Piplon-5.

Biochemical Indices and Consumption Pattern of Traditional Alcoholic Beverages by Tribal Communities of North-East India: A Review

The North-Eastern part of India consists of seven states namely Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. This region is popularly referred to as seven sisters, and is inhabited by different tribal communities, each of which has unique cultural and linguistic identity. All the communities are known for their traditional homemade alcoholic beverages prepared from rice. These rice-based alcoholic beverages are parts of their food and socio-cultural life as well as used to earn a livelihood by some families. In this article, we have made an effort to review the biochemical indices of the beverages such as physical state, color, taste, pH, total solid content, opacity, sugar content, total acidity, volatile acidity, carbohydrate content, protein content, amino acid content, ethanol content, non-reducing sugar content, etc. along with the consumption pattern within the communities.

Potential Prebiotic Properties of Crude Polysaccharide Extract from Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) Seed Flour

The purpose of this research is to investigate the possible presence of prebiotic substances in durian seeds. The durian seed flour (DSF) was prepared by drum dry processing at 140 °C. The proximate composition of DSF 100 g contained moisture (2.43 g), protein (6.85 g), total fat (0.60 g), total carbohydrate (87.73 g), ash (2.39 g), and the sum of dietary fiber (4.48 g), respectively. The morphology of DSF was studied by SEM at a fixed magnification (100×). DSF appears to have smooth and rough surfaces, and the granules are covered by the gum. The optimal condition for extracting crude polysaccharide from DSF is ethanol 50 % at solvent ratios 1:8 at a temperature of 30 °C for 90 min, gave a maximum extraction yield of 5.28 % and the maximum amount of non-reducing sugar content at 392.19 ± 10.60 mg mL−1. The amount of non-reducing sugar is represented by an oligosaccharide referred to as a prebiotic. After being digested in vitro, the crude polysaccharide extract and inulin each had a total percentage of hydrolysis that was 14.68 and 11.54 %, respectively. Thus, approximately 85.32 % of crude polysaccharide extract was estimated to reach the colon. Moreover, the crude polysaccharide extract has enhanced activity values higher than inulin with 3 probiotic strains. The enhanced activity value increases when the extract concentration increases. The concentration of crude polysaccharide extract was 5.0 %w/v. Lactobacillus rhamnosus TBRC 374 had the highest enhanced activity at 582.67 %. In comparison, Lactobacillus casei BCC 13300 and Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 with enhanced activity were 543.78 and 288.34 %, respectively. Significant advancements have been made in the utilization of plant waste and the development of novel prebiotic ingredients with the potential for application in food as a result of this research. HIGHLIGHTSDurian seed is one of the wastes that still has a good source of nutrition. Durian seed flour was prepared by drum dry processing that can maintain fiber and texture, making it suitable for application in the food industry. Moreover, the crude polysaccharide extract showed prebiotic properties. These are good prebiotic candidates that might be useful in producing functional foods. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Effect of Spraying with Micro-Elements, Gibberellic Acid and Salicylic Acid on Some Yield Traits of Date Palm CV. Khastawi.

The study was conducted in one of the private palm orchards in the Euphrates district on date palm trees (CV. Khastawi) aged 30 years to find out the response of the date palm cultivar Khastawi to spraying with micro-elements at concentrations (0, 1 g L-1 ) and symbolized by (M0 and M1), and spraying with gibberellic acid at concentrations (0, 100, 200 mg L-1 ) and symbolized by (G0, G1, and G2) respectively, and spraying with salicylic acid in concentrations (0, 100, 200 mg L-1 ) and symbols symbolized by (S0, S1, S2) respectively. 54 trees were selected as homogeneous as possible, and the number of fronds for palms and fruit clusters was unified. All service operations of the orchard were carried out similarly to adding animal manure, pruning, pollination, watering, pest control and other service operations for all experimental units. The results showed that spraying with microelements at a concentration (M1) significantly affected all studied traits except for the non-reducing sugar content of the fruits. It amounted to (10.76 g, 15.63 kg cluster-1 , 125.03 kg palm-1 , 69.37%, 33.78%, 53.61%) this is for the traits (fruit weight, cluster weight, yield, total soluble solids, reducing sugars, total sugars), respectively. Also, spraying with gibberellin showed a significant effect on the traits (fruit weight, cluster weight, yield, total soluble solids), and the treatment (G2) gave the highest values for the traits (fruit weight, cluster weight, yield), with 10.53 g, 15.46 kg cluster-1 , 123.71 kg palm-1 , respectively. At the same time, treatment (G0) achieved the highest value of total soluble solids (67.50%). On the other hand, salicylic spraying did not significantly affect the studied traits, except total soluble solids and reducing sugars. The concentration (S2) showed the best values for the two traits, with 67.59% and 34.36%, respectively. The two-way interactions between the study factors showed a significant effect that varied according to the type of trait and the interaction factors. Whereas the three-way interaction between the study factors reached the level of significance in all the studied traits. The most significant effect of the interactions was achieved according to the type of trait and the interacting factors, while the control treatment showed the lowest values of most of the traits. Keywords: Date palm, Micro-elements, Gibberellic acid, Salicylic acid, yield.

Pharmaceutico - Analytical Evaluation of Modified Dosage Forms of Gojihwadi Kwatha

Cough is an ongoing problem that affects a large proportion of the human community leading them to seek medical attention. It has been identified as the sixth common reason for hospital outpatient department visits. In classics, descriptions of disease Kasa clearly correlate with bronchitis and its pathophysiology exactly correlates the mechanism of cough reflex. Ayurveda advocates certain remedies to cure and prevent such diseases. Hence the present study has been contemplated to evaluate and verify the effectiveness of the Classical Ayurvedic remedies with special reference to pathogens causing the respiratory tract infections. Among the latest Ayurvedic formulations the Gojihwadi Kwatha which was designed and developed by none other than the famous physician of this era the great Vaidya Yadavji Trikamji Acharya has been selected for the study. This present study entitled “Pharmaceutico-analytical evaluation of modified dosage forms of Gojihwadi Kwatha” was carried out with a view to standardize Gojiwadi kwath and prepare its modified forms viz. Gojihwadi syrup, Gojihwadi granules, and Gojihwadi kwath churna. 12kg Gojihwadi kwaath churna was prepared while 6-liter Gojihwadi syrup and 3 kg Gojihwaadi granules were prepared. Gojihwaadi syrup has viscosity of 34.62 cP, total sugar content of 85.07 %w/w, reducing sugar content of 1.42 %w/w, non-reducing sugar content of 83.65%w/w and pesticide residue value within limits of standard parameter. Gojihwadi granules have total sugar of 78.44%w/w, an average particle size of 34.70. Total bacterial count, Total fungal count, and specific pathogens (E. coli, Salmonella spp, S.aureus, and Ps.aeroginosa) were absent in Gojihwadi kwatha churna, Gojihwadi syrup and Gojihwadi granules. So, it can be concluded that all the modified dosage forms of Gojihwadi kwatha are safe to use.

Hydroalcoholic extraction of antioxidant compounds in Japanese grape pseudofruits

The pseudofruit of Japanese grape is rich in sugar and phenolic compounds but little explored for extracting antioxidant compounds. The objective of the study was to extract and evaluate the antioxidant capacity of these pseudofruits harvested at two maturation stages: the development phase (DP) and the mature phase (MP). The pseudofruits were evaluated regarding the centesimal composition and physicochemical characteristics and submitted to extraction with 100% water, 50% ethanol, and 100% ethanol. For the extracts, we determined the phenolic compound content and the antioxidant activity using radical capture methods ABTS and DPPH. Pseudofruits may be considered a good source of dietary fiber, regardless of the maturation stage, proving to be a promising raw material for use in foods. Moreover, pseudofruits in the MP presented an increase in the contents of soluble solids, reducing and non-reducing sugars, and titratable acidity, attributed to the formation of the galacturonic acid during the maturation process. Among the solvent used, extraction with 50% ethanol resulted in a larger phenolic compound content and better antioxidant activity, especially for the pseudofruits in the DP, characterizing them as a vegetable matrix of excellent antioxidant capacity and with potential for application in foods and drugs.

Characterization of growth and yield parameters and nutritional profiling of new potato clones

ABSTRACT Characterization of unique small potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) clones, called new potatoes, affecting growth, yield, and fruit quality traits could provide source of new alleles for breeding. The study was undertaken to characterize new potato clones for growth, tuber characters, yield, and nutritional profile in comparison with three common tetraploid potato varieties. New potato clones had stolon length of 7.11 cm, bulking habit of avg. 56 days from planting to initiation of tuber, number of tubers of avg. 34.16/plant, tubers weight avg. 7.40 g, and yield of avg. 253 g/plant. The nutritional profile of new potato clones surpassed the common tetraploid potato varieties particularly with respect to contents of dry matter, starch, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, and total phenols. Correlation and path-coefficient analyses confirmed days from planting to initiation of tubers, average number of tubers per plant, average weight of tubers, average weight of tubers per plant, total soluble solids content, starch content, total sugar content, and non-reducing sugar content were the most important selection indices for enhancing tuber yield and quality. These new potato clones are regarded as preferred vegetable item by the consumer for long time because of good taste and stickiness of the tuber for the preparation of specific cooked items. There is substantial nutritional worth for the new potato clones.

Application of Plant-Based Edible Coatings and Extracts Influences the Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Potential of "Surahi" Guava Fruits.

Guava fruits have a short shelf life due to climacteric nature. The current work was conducted to extend the shelf life of guavas with garlic extract (GRE), ginger extract (GNE), gum arabic (GA), and Aloe vera (AV) gel coatings. After coating, fruits of guava were stored at 25 ± 3 °C and RH 85 ± 2% for 15 days. Results showed that guavas treated with plant-based edible coatings and extracts had lower weight loss than that of the control. GRE-treated guavas had the maximum shelf life in contrast to all other treatments including the control. GNE-treated guavas showed the lowest nonreducing sugar content, whereas they had higher antioxidant activity, vitamin C content, and total phenolics compared with all other coating treatments. After the control, antioxidant capacity was the highest in GNE- and GRE-treated fruits. On the other hand, GA-treated guavas had reduced total soluble solids and juice pH (more acidic) and exhibited higher total flavonoids compared with the control, while both GA- and GNE-treated guavas had the highest flavonoid content. GRE-treated fruits exhibited the highest total sugar content and taste and aroma scores. In conclusion, GRE treatment was more effective in conserving the quality and extending the shelf life of guava fruits.

The biochar-based nanocomposites improve seedling emergence and growth of dill by changing phytohormones and sugar signaling under salinity

Biochar-based nanocomposites (BNCs) with a high level of sodium sorption capacity may improve salinity tolerance and seedling establishment of dill. Thus, a pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of solid biochar (30 g solid biochar kg-1 soil) and biochar-based nanocomposites of iron (BNC-FeO) and zinc (BNC-ZnO) in individual (30 g BNC kg-1 soil) and a combined form (15 g BNC-FeO + 15 g BNC-ZnO kg-1 soil) on dill seedling growth in different levels of salt stress (non-saline, 6 and 12 dSm-1). Salinity caused a decrease in emergence percentage and emergence rate of seedlings. Increasing salinity of soil up to 12 dSm-1 decreased the biomass of dill seedlings by about 77%. Application of biochar and particularly BNCs increased the content of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, reducing and non-reducing sugars, total sugars, invertase and sucrose synthase activities, leaf water content, gibberellic acid, and indole-3-acetic acid in dill plants, leading to an improvement in seedling growth (shoot length, root length, and dry weight) under saline conditions. Sodium content was noticeably decreased by BNC treatments (9-21%), which reduced mean emergence rate and stress phytohormones such as abscisic acid (31-43%), jasmonic acid (21-42%), and salicylic acid (16-23%). Therefore, BNCs especially in combined form can potentially improve emergence and growth of dill seedlings under salt stress, through reducing sodium content and endogenous stress hormones, and enhancing sugars and growth promoting hormones.