Edible Parts Research Articles

Deposition, dissipation, metabolism, and dietary risk assessment of chlorothalonil on pakchoi

For the scientific application of chlorothalonil, a thorough understanding of chlorothalonil deposition, distribution, and dissipation on pakchoi is required so as to reduce its application dosage. In this study, the effects of the application dosage, application season, planting environment, initial deposition, field dissipation and metabolism of pakchoi were investigated. The chlorothalonil deposition amount gradually increased with increasing dosage and application frequency. The deposition law in each application strategy was leaf > edible parts > petiole > planting soil. The half-lives of chlorothalonil in pakchoi in May, October, and December were 2.86–5.79, 3.08–5.87, and 6.41–11.32 days, respectively. The deposition concentration and dissipation half-life of chlorothalonil in different parts of pakchoi and the planting soil in greenhouse environments were higher than those in open-field environments. The initial deposition concentration and half-life of chlorothalonil in pakchoi gradually decreased from north to south: Beijing >Hefei >Changsha in April and Hefei >Sanya in December. Chlorothalonil can be converted to metabolite I (C8HCl3N2O) in pakchoi plants, which can gradually dechlorinate to produce metabolite II (C8HCl3N2), metabolite III (C8H2Cl2N2), and metabolite IV (C8H3ClN2). Within an application interval of 7 days, the long-term consumption of pakchoi leaves and edible parts poses unacceptable dietary risks. This study improves chlorothalonil utilization rates and provides technical guidance for its scientific application in the pakchoi planting ecosystem.

Intra-species differences shape differences of enrofloxacin residues and its degradation products in tilapia: A precise risk assessment

The increasing use and abuse of antibiotics in agriculture and aquaculture necessitates a more thorough risk assessment. We first advocate a precise assessment that subdivides the assessment scope from interspecies to intraspecific levels. Differences in ENR residues and degradation within the intraspecific category were simultaneously explored. This study chose red and GIFT tilapia, both belonging to the intra-specific category of tilapia, for an enrofloxacin (ENR) exposure experiment. Red tilapia had a lower area under the curve (AUC) representing drug accumulation, indicating a notably shorter withdrawal period (7 days) compared to GIFT tilapia (31.4 days) in the edible parts. While four potential transformation pathways were proposed for ENR in tilapia, red tilapia had fewer detected degradation products (6 items) than GIFT tilapia (10 items), indicating a simpler transformation pathway in red tilapia. Predictive assessments using the Toxtree model revealed that of the four extra degradation products in GIFT tilapia, two may possess carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Overall, differences were observed in ENR residues and degradation within the intraspecific category, with red tilapia presenting lower risks than GIFT tilapia. This work suggests a new strategy to perfect the methodology for antibiotic risk assessment and facilitate systematic antibiotic administration management in the future.

Horizontal gene transfer of the Mer operon is associated with large effects on the transcriptome and increased tolerance to mercury in nitrogen-fixing bacteria

BackgroundMercury (Hg) is highly toxic and has the potential to cause severe health problems for humans and foraging animals when transported into edible plant parts. Soil rhizobia that form symbiosis with legumes may possess mechanisms to prevent heavy metal translocation from roots to shoots in plants by exporting metals from nodules or compartmentalizing metal ions inside nodules. Horizontal gene transfer has potential to confer immediate de novo adaptations to stress. We used comparative genomics of high quality de novo assemblies to identify structural differences in the genomes of nitrogen-fixing rhizobia that were isolated from a mercury (Hg) mine site that show high variation in their tolerance to Hg.ResultsOur analyses identified multiple structurally conserved merA homologs in the genomes of Sinorhizobium medicae and Rhizobium leguminosarum but only the strains that possessed a Mer operon exhibited 10-fold increased tolerance to Hg. RNAseq analysis revealed nearly all genes in the Mer operon were significantly up-regulated in response to Hg stress in free-living conditions and in nodules. In both free-living and nodule environments, we found the Hg-tolerant strains with a Mer operon exhibited the fewest number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the genome, indicating a rapid and efficient detoxification of Hg from the cells that reduced general stress responses to the Hg-treatment. Expression changes in S. medicae while in bacteroids showed that both rhizobia strain and host-plant tolerance affected the number of DEGs. Aside from Mer operon genes, nif genes which are involved in nitrogenase activity in S. medicae showed significant up-regulation in the most Hg-tolerant strain while inside the most Hg-accumulating host-plant. Transfer of a plasmid containing the Mer operon from the most tolerant strain to low-tolerant strains resulted in an immediate increase in Hg tolerance, indicating that the Mer operon is able to confer hyper tolerance to Hg.ConclusionsMer operons have not been previously reported in nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. This study demonstrates a pivotal role of the Mer operon in effective mercury detoxification and hypertolerance in nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. This finding has major implications not only for soil bioremediation, but also host plants growing in mercury contaminated soils.

High Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density Differentially Improves Edible Biomass Space Use Efficacy in Edamame and Dwarf Tomato.

Improving edible biomass space use efficacy (EBSUE) is important for sustainably producing edamame and dwarf tomatoes in plant factories with artificial light. Photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) may increase EBSUE and space use efficacy (SUE). However, no study has quantitatively explained how PPFD affects EBSUE in edamame and dwarf tomatoes. This study aimed to quantitatively validate the effects of PPFD on EBSUE in dwarf tomatoes and edamame and verify whether this effect differs between these crops. The edamame and dwarf tomato cultivars 'Enrei' and 'Micro-Tom', respectively, were cultivated under treatments with PPFDs of 300, 500, and 700 µmol m-2 s-1. The results showed that the EBSUE and SUE increased with increasing PPFD in both crops. The EBSUE increased depending on the increase in SUE, the dry mass ratio of the edible part to the total plant in the edamame, and the SUE only in the dwarf tomatoes. In conclusion, a high PPFD can improve the EBSUE and SUE of edamame and dwarf tomatoes in different ways at the reproductive growth stage. The findings from this study offer valuable information on optimizing space and resource usage in plant factories with artificial light and vertical farms. Additionally, they shed light on the quantitative impact of PPFD on both EBSUE and SUE.

Mangosteen extracts: Effects on intestinal bacteria, and application to functional fermented milk products

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) is a tasty, polyphenol-rich tropical fruit. The edible part is highly appreciated by its aroma, taste and texture. The non-edible part, rich in polyphenols, has been traditionally used in Thai medicine. In this work, flavonoids and phenolic acid/derivatives were identified in mangosteen extracts (ME) from edible and non-edible portions. We first studied the effects of MEs on the growth, metabolism, antioxidant capacity, biofilm formation and antimicrobial capacity of eight bifidobacteria and lactobacilli strains from intestinal origin and two commercial probiotic strains (BB536 and GG). ME concentrations higher than 10–20 % were inhibitory for all strains. However, ME concentrations of 5 % significantly (P < 0.01) increased all strains antioxidant capacity, reduced biofilm-formation, and enhanced inhibition against Gram-positive pathogens. To apply these knowledge, bifunctional fermented milk products were elaborated with 5 % ME and individual strains, which were selected taking into account their growth with ME, and the widest range of values on antioxidant capacity, biofilm formation and antimicrobial activity (bifidobacteria INIA P2 and INIA P467, lactobacilli INIA P459 and INIA P708, and reference strain GG). Most strains survived well manufacture, refrigerated storage and an in vitro simulation of major conditions encountered in the gastrointestinal tract. As expected, products supplemented with ME showed higher polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity levels than control. After sensory evaluation, products containing strains INIA P2, INIA P708 and GG outstood as best.

Fertilizing drug resistance: Dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes in soil and plant bacteria under bovine and swine slurry fertilization

The increasing global demand for food production emphasizes the use of organic animal fertilizers, such as manure and slurry, to support sustainable agricultural practices. However, recent studies highlight concerns about antibiotic resistance determinants in animal excrements, posing a potential risk of spreading antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in agricultural soil and, consequently, in food products.This study examines the dissemination of ARGs within the soil and plant-associated microbiomes in cherry radish following the application of swine and bovine slurry. In a 45-day pot experiment, slurry-amended soil, rhizospheric bacteria, and endophytic bacteria in radish roots and leaves were sampled and analyzed for 21 ARGs belonging to 7 Antibiotic Resistance Phenotypes (ARPs). The study also assessed slurry's impact on soil microbiome functional diversity, enzymatic activity, physicochemical soil parameters, and the concentration of 22 selected antimicrobials in soil and plant tissues.Tetracyclines and β-lactams were the most frequently identified ARGs in bovine and swine slurry, aligning with similar studies worldwide. Swine slurry showed a higher prevalence of ARGs in soil and plant-associated bacteria, particularly TET genes, reflecting pig antibiotic treatments. The persistent dominance of TET genes across slurry, soil, and plant microbiomes highlights significant influence of slurry application on gene occurrence in plant bacteria. The presence of ARGs in edible plant parts underscores health risks associated with raw vegetable consumption. Time-dependent dynamics of ARG occurrence highlighted their persistent presence throughout the experiment duration, influenced by the environmental factors and antibiotic residuals. Notably, ciprofloxacin, which was the only one antimicrobial detected in fertilized soil, significantly impacted bovine-amended variants. Soil salinity modifications induced by slurry application correlated with changes in ARG occurrence. Overall, the research underscores the complex relationships between agricultural practices, microbial activity, and antibiotic resistance dissemination, emphasizing the need for a more sustainable and health-conscious farming approaches.

Combining Freshwater Irrigation with Vegetable Selection to Mitigate the Occurrence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Edible Vegetable Parts in a Semiarid Farmland in Northwestern China

Combining Freshwater Irrigation with Vegetable Selection to Mitigate the Occurrence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Edible Vegetable Parts in a Semiarid Farmland in Northwestern China

Evaluation of nutritional value of common cooked food in Hubei Province by nutrient profiling

To understand the nutritional components of common cooked foods in Hubei Province. Forty-nine common cooked foods consumed by residents in Hubei Province were collected, and their edible parts were homogenized and tested for various nutrient contents according to the national standard method. The nutrient-rich foods index(NRF)model was used to calculate the NRF index(NRF 9.3) of various cooked foods, and the nutritional value of common cooked foods in Hubei Province was evaluated. The result of the nutrient-rich food index model showed that the NRF 9.3 index of all cooked dishes ranged from-176.9 to 224.4, the NRF 9.3 index ranking of all types of cooked food was mainly related to cooking method. The NRF 9.3 index of cold mixed vegetable dishes was generally higher than the 75th percentile value(66.9) of the monitoring result, indicating higher nutritional value. The mean NRF 9.3 index of fish and shrimp cooked foods(72.4)monitored in this study was higher than that of meat cooked foods(21.5). The sodium content of pickled vegetables and some pre-packaged cooked foods was relatively high, RESULTS: ing in negative NRF 9.3 index and lower nutritional value. The NRF 9.3 index of Xiangyang beef noodles(33.1)and tofu noodles(37.1)was higher than that of beef offal noodles(5.1). Vegetables and fish and shrimp are better sources of nutrition, and "cold and dressed with sauce" are a better way to cook. Pickled vegetables contain too many restricted nutrients, and their consumption frequency and amount should be reduced.

Iron biofortification in cereal crops: Recent progress and prospects

AbstractMicronutrient malnutrition is one of the major causes of human disorders in the developing world. Iron (Fe) is an important micronutrient due to its use in human metabolism such as immune system and energy production. Estimates indicate that above 30% of the global population is at risk of Fe deficiency, posing a particular threat to infants and pregnant women. Plants have adapted various strategies for uptake, transport, accumulation, and storage of Fe in tissues and organs which later can be consumed by humans. Biofortification refers to increase in micronutrient concentration in edible parts of plants and understanding the pathways for Fe accumulation in plants. Conventional plant breeding, transgenics, agronomic interventions, and microbe‐mediated biofortification are all potential methods to address Fe deficiency. This review article critically evaluates key aspects pertaining to Fe biofortification in cereal crops. It encompasses an in‐depth analysis of the holistic presence of Fe, its significance in both human and plant contexts, and the diverse strategies employed in Fe uptake, transport, accumulation, and storage in plant parts destined for human consumption. Additionally, the article explores the bioavailability of Fe and investigates strategies for biofortification, with a specific emphasis on both traditional methods and recent breakthroughs aimed at enhancing the Fe content in food crops. Keeping in view the significance of Fe for human life, appropriate biofortification strategies may serve better to eliminate hidden hunger rather than its artificial supplementation.

Assessment of nutritional contents of different parts of moringa plant from selected districts of Oromia, Ethiopia

Moringa plants are among high-value trees and belong to the Moringaceae family, consisting of 13 species and highly distributed in Africa and southern Asia. It is multi-purpose tree with medicinal, nutritional, industrial and socio-economic values. Preliminary information indicates that the human dietary usage of the edible parts of these species is limited. Assessment of the nutritional quality of different moringa parts was not well documented in Oromia. Hence, the aim of this activity is to assess the nutritional qualities of different parts of moringa collected from different districts of Oromia. Sample collection was done from Bako from West Showa, Bishoftu from East Showa, Dalo Mena and Goro from Bale Zone, of Oromia representing mid and low land agro-ecologies of the region. Three to four sampling PAs were used from each district. Different parts of Moringa, namely, leaf, pod, bark, seed and flower were collected from the four districts at least in triplicate. The collected samples were made to dry at room temperature, milled with coffee miller, and passed through a 1 mm standard sieve. The prepared samples were analyzed for proximate and mineral compositions using standard methodologies. The result obtained indicated that leaf is rich in nutrients Ca, Na, Mn and Zn. Moringa flower is rich in nutrients like Zn and Mn, and second in K composition next to pod. The pod is also rich in K and Zn, while the fat and CP contents are high in the seed part of moringa. Generally, Higher % CP, K and P were found from the Bishoftu collection, while Mg, Ca and K were higher for the collection from DM. Bark is poor in protein content compared to other parts of the plant. However, Ca, Mg and Zn are double the optimum composition of plant material. Finally, it is possible to use different moringa parts for food fortification, where determination for antioxidant and nutritional composition analysis is mandatory, as well as future research directions. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(1): 62-69, June 2024

Evaluation of medicinal and nutritional effectiveness of abelmoschus esculentus L

Plants that have been used under the name of traditional treatment for many years have been supported by recent studies. We use plant species as bioactive phytochemicals in many areas of our lives. In addition to being used in cosmetics, food, medical, and industrial applications, it is a potential product for preventing diseases with the compounds found in its structures. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) with its bioavailability and phytochemical compounds has an important place among such plants. Okra is a vegetable plant that grows in tropical and subtropical environments and belongs to the family Malvaceae. Okra, which is thought to be of African origin, is an edematous plant, especially for Pakistan and India. Okra has various uses with its seed, flower, leaf, bark, and stem parts. It is mostly used as a fresh and green soft vegetable. The edible parts are rich in carbohydrates, protein, fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Due to these compositions, it plays a vital role in human nutrition. Okra seeds are a potential source of oil with concentrations between 20% and 40% decoctions, containing up to 47.4% linoleic acid. Its seeds are rich in linoleic acid. It is also known to be rich in high-quality protein in terms of essential amino acid content. The soft and edible parts become mucilaginous after cooking. Carbohydrates are usually found in the form of mucilage. In recent years, more attention has been paid to the use of metabolites found and obtained in some parts of plants, such as seeds, leaves, and bark, in medical fields and their effects on human health. The different parts of the okra plant (mucilage, seeds, and pods) contain some important bioactive components that give it its medicinal properties. These bioactive components of okra have been studied for their potential effects on various chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular and digestive system diseases, as well as their anti-fatigue, liver detoxification, and antibacterial activities under the influence of polyphenols, which allow it to have antioxidant properties in its content. In general, okra is recognized as an important food product with various nutritional values and potential health benefits, easy to procure, and low cost.

Proteome and metabolome of Caryocar brasiliense camb. fruit and their interaction during development

Considered the symbol fruit of the Brazilian Cerrado, pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) is an exotic and much-appreciated fruit with an internal mesocarp (edible part) with an eye-catching golden yellow color. In an unprecedented way, this study characterized the proteome throughout pequi development. The most influential and essential transcription factors operating in the regulation of pequi ripening identified were members of the MAD-box family. A group of proteins related to the methionine cycle indicates the high consumption and recycling of methionine. However this consumption does not occur mainly for the biosynthesis of ethylene, a process dependent on methionine consumption. In the bioactive compounds presented, different proteins could be correlated with the presence of these phytochemicals, such as monodehydroascorbate reductase and ascorbate peroxidase in ascorbic acid recycling; pyruvate kinase, fructose bisphosphate aldolase and phytoene synthase with carotenoid biosynthesis; S-adenosylmethionine synthase 1 as a donor of methyl groups in the formation of trigonelline and aspartate aminotransferase as a biomarker of initial regulation of the trigonelline biosynthetic pathway; phenylalanine ammonia lyase, chorismate synthesis and chalcone-flavononone isomerase in the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds. Among the volatile organic compounds identified, the majority compound in pequi was ethyl hexanoate ester, with an area of 50.68 % in the ripe fruit, and in this group of esters that was the most representative, alcohol dehydrogenase, a fundamental enzyme in the synthesis of esters, was identified with an increase of approximately 7.2 times between the first and last stages. Therefore, an extensive group of proteins and some metabolites can serve as biomarkers of ripening in pequi, as most were more expressed in the last stage, which is the ripe fruit suitable for consumption.

Frontiers in bacterial-based green synthesized nanoparticles (NPs): A sustainable strategy for combating infectious plant pathogens

The excessive use and inappropriate application of synthetic pesticides on essential agricultural crops, intended to them from harmful pests, have resulted in severe environmental pollution. Additionally, the penetration of these toxic pesticide residues into the edible parts of plants has raised significant health concerns for humans and animals by developing respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and cancers. In response, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising alternative, enabling the development of highly reliable, minuscule nanoparticles (NPs) in size of 1–100 nm (nm) with diverse morphologies. These NPs offer an alternative approach to managing plant pathogens compared to traditional pesticides. Although various synthetic NPs have been produced using different elements, their persistence in plant tissues, soil, and water presents significant challenges. Conversely, the synthesis of biologically-derived green NPs, particularly those from bacteria, is considered a safer method for controlling plant pathogens. Bacteria-based green NPs are advantageous due to the rapid growth proliferation of bacteria and their resilience to extreme conditions. However, their synthesis and application remain limited, with scant research exploring against infectious plant pathogens. This study reviews recent literature on the synthesis of bacteria-based NPs, detailing their morphological, structural, chemical, optical, electronic, electrical, and magnetic properties, along with their thermal characteristics. By elucidating the mechanisms by which these NPs combat phytopathogens, this research provide crucial insight for future applications, enhancing our understanding of bacteria-based NPs research. The wealth of recent research on bacteria-based green NPs is anticipated to enrich future applications and deepen our understanding of this emerging field.

Pharmaceutical and Trace Metal Interaction within the Water-Soil-Plant Continuum: Implications for Human and Soil Health.

Unplanned water reuse for crop irrigation may pose a global health risk due to the entry of contaminants into the food chain, undesirable effects on crop quality, and impact on soil health. In this study, we evaluate the impact derived from the co-occurrence of pharmaceuticals (Phs), trace metals (TMs), and one metalloid within the water-soil-plant continuum through bioassay experiments with Lactuca sativa L. Results indicate that the co-occurrence of Phs and TMs has synergistic or antagonistic effects, depending on target contaminants and environmental compartments. Complex formations between drugs and TMs may be responsible for enhanced sorption onto the soil of several Phs and TMs. Concerning plant uptake, the co-occurrence of Phs and TMs exerts antagonistic and synergistic effects on carbamazepine and diazepam, respectively. With the exception of Cd, drugs exert an antagonistic effect on TMs, negatively affecting their uptake and translocation. Drug contents in lettuce edible parts do not pose any threat to human health, but Cd levels exceed the maximum limits set for leafy vegetable foodstuffs. Under Ph-TM conditions, lettuce biomass decreases, and a nutrient imbalance is observed. Soil enzyme activity is stimulated under Ph-TM conditions (β-galactosidase) and Ph and Ph-TM conditions (urease and arylsulfatase), or it is not affected (phosphatase).

Combining multivariate statistical analysis to characterize changes in amino acids and volatiles during growth of Lou onion pseudostems.

The main edible part of the Lou onion is the pseudostem, which is highly valued for its distinctive flavour. However, harvesting decisions for the pseudostem are often based on size and market price, with little consideration given to flavour. By clarifying the growth of flavour in pseudostems, farmers and consumers may benefit from evidence-based insights that help optimize harvesting time and maximize flavour quality. This study employed amino acid analysis and gas chromatography-ion migration spectroscopy (GC-IMS) to elucidate the compounds of the pseudostem across different growth phases, and 17 amino acids and 61 volatile substances. Subsequently, analysis revealed that 18 compounds, including arginine (Arg), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamic acid (Glu), valine (Val), (E)-2-nonenal, decanal, 2,4-nonadienal, 2-octenal, (Z)-4-decenal, 2,4-decadienal benzeneacetaldehyde, linalool, eugenol, (Z)-6-nonen-1-ol, methyl anthranilate, 2-acetylpyridine, 3-sec-butyl-2-methoxypyrazine, and 2,6-dichlorophenol, were the key compounds in determining the flavour characteristics of the pseudostems, as assessed by taste activity value and relative odour activity value calculations. In addition, correlation analysis, focusing on five amino acids and 38 volatile compounds with variable importance for predictive components scores of >1, identified anisaldehyde, eugenol, (Z)-6-nonen-1-ol, 2,4-decadienal, 3-sec-butyl-2-methoxypyrazine, Arg, Asp, and Val as the key differentiators and contributors to the pseudostems flavour profile. During the rapid growth of Lou onions just before the emergence of flower stems, the pseudostem exhibited the most prominent flavour, making this stage most suitable for harvesting compared to the regreening growth stage and the rapid growth period of the aerial bulbs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Bioaccumulation of trace metals in edible terrestrial snails, Theba pisana and Otala spp., in a dumpsite area in Morocco and assessment of human health risks for consumers.

This study assessed the bioaccumulation patterns of five trace metals (Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, and Zn) in two edible snail species, Theba pisana and Otala spp., collected from a dumpsite in Safi City, Morocco. The results indicated that bioaccumulation might be species-specific, as metal concentration profiles varied between the two snail species. Additionally, higher metal levels in the dumpsite snails confirmed their potential as bioindicators of trace metal pollution in terrestrial environments. However, the distribution of trace elements within the edible parts of the snails showed marked unevenness, with the viscera accumulating more metals than the foot. The study also evaluated the potential human health risks associated with consuming these snails. Trace metal levels in the edible parts exceeded most international safety thresholds. The estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of trace metals through snail consumption were below the provisional tolerable daily intakes (PTDIs) for both children and adults, suggesting that daily consumption is generally safe. Nonetheless, the hazard index (HI) indicated that children might face health risks from long-term consumption of contaminated snails (HI > 1), while adults are less likely to experience such complications (HI < 1). The total target carcinogenic risk (TTCR) was below 1E-04 for both children and adults, indicating negligible to acceptable carcinogenic risks for all consumer groups.

PFOA accumulation in the leaves of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and its effects on plant growth, oxidative status, and photosynthetic performance

BackgroundPerfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging contaminants of increasing concern due to their presence in the environment, with potential impacts on ecosystems and human health. These substances are considered “forever chemicals” due to their recalcitrance to degradation, and their accumulation in living organisms can lead to varying levels of toxicity based on the compound and species analysed. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the possible transfer of PFASs to humans through the consumption of edible parts of food plants. In this regard, to evaluate the potential toxic effects and the accumulation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in edible plants, a pot experiment in greenhouse using three-week-old basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants was performed adding PFOA to growth substrate to reach 0.1, 1, and 10 mg Kg− 1 dw.ResultsAfter three weeks of cultivation, plants grown in PFOA-added substrate accumulated PFOA at different levels, but did not display significant differences from the control group in terms of biomass production, lipid peroxidation levels (TBARS), content of α-tocopherol and activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and guaiacol peroxidase (POX) in the leaves. A reduction of total phenolic content (TPC) was instead observed in relation to the increase of PFOA content in the substrate. Furthermore, chlorophyll content and photochemical reflectance index (PRI) did not change in plants exposed to PFAS in comparison to control ones. Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis revealed an initial, rapid photoprotective mechanism triggered by PFOA exposure, with no impact on other parameters (Fv/Fm, ΦPSII and qP). Higher activity of glutathione S-transferase (GST) in plants treated with 1 and 10 mg Kg− 1 PFOA dw (30 and 50% to control, respectively) paralleled the accumulation of PFOA in the leaves of plants exposed to different PFOA concentration in the substrate (51.8 and 413.9 ng g− 1 dw, respectively).ConclusionDespite of the absorption and accumulation of discrete amount of PFOA in the basil plants, the analysed parameters at biometric, physiological and biochemical level in the leaves did not reveal any damage effect, possibly due to the activation of a detoxification pathway likely involving GST.

Evidence of heavy metal in soil, irrigation water and vegetable cultivated in peri‑urban area of Yaoundé-Cameroon

Environmental pollution from anthropogenic activities is of global concern. The levels of heavy metal contamination were evaluated in the soil and irrigation water, and their transferability to the cultivated plant was appraised in the locality of Nkolbisson, Yaoundé-Cameroun. The levels of Zn, Cu, Cd, Ni, Pb, Cr, and Mn contamination were evaluated to determine the current status, possible source(s), bio-accumulation in food crops, the suitability of the water for irrigation purposes, and hence the probable health risk. The analysis of soils, waters, and crops (Corchorus olitorius and Lactuca sativa) samples has shown high levels of heavy metal contamination. Cd, Ni, and Cr concentrations in water samples (0.98, 2.230, and 2.635 mg/l) were above the threshold set by FAO for irrigation water. In agricultural soils, only the level of Mn (1013.090 mg/kg) contained in soil samples was above the European Union (EU) and the Canadian Council of Ministers for Environment (CCME) thresholds of toxicity. Except for Pb (0.361; 0.394 and 0.043; 0.041 mg/kg DM) and Mn (113.457; 123.341 and 173.667; 180.321 mg/kg DM), the concentration of heavy metals analysed in plant samples were above the standard values in the edible parts. Market gardening in this city presents risks due to the presence of heavy metals in soils and irrigation waters. Thus, market gardeners must be taking appropriate measures to avoid crop contamination. The bioconcentration and translocation factors have shown that Lactuca sativa can be used for phytoextraction of Zn, Cu and Cd whereas Corchorus olitorius can be used for phytomobilization of the same elements.

Integrating Transcriptomics and Proteomics to Characterize the Intestinal Responses to Cadmium Exposure Using a Piglet Model.

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal element with a wide range of hazards and severe biotoxicity. Since Cd can be easily accumulated in the edible parts of plants, the exposure of humans to Cd is mainly through the intake of Cd-contaminated food. However, the intestinal responses to Cd exposure are not completely characterized. Herein, we simulated laboratory and environmental Cd exposure by feeding the piglets with CdCl2-added rice and Cd-contaminated rice (Cdcr) contained diet, as piglets show anatomical and physiological similarities to humans. Subsequent analysis of the metal element concentrations showed that exposure to the two types of Cd significantly increased Cd levels in piglets. After verifying the expression of major Cd transporters by Western blots, multi-omics further expanded the possible transporters of Cd and found Cd exposure causes wide alterations in the metabolism of piglets. Of significance, CdCl2 and Cdcr exhibited different body distribution and metabolic rewiring, and Cdcr had stronger carcinogenic and diabetes-inducing potential. Together, our results indicate that CdCl2 had a significant difference compared with Cdcr, which has important implications for a more intense study of Cd toxicity.

Nutrient and metabolite characteristics of the husk, bran and millet isolated from the foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) during polishing

The utilization of byproducts from foxtail millet polishing can reduce food loss and waste. Thus, it is necessary to know the chemical compounds from the millet and the segregation of the layers. The nutrients including minerals were compared among the husk, bran, and millet, and a LC-MS metabolomics analysis was also performed among them. The results showed that the protein, crude fat and 4 fatty acids, seven minerals, the nitrogen-containing compounds and phenolic acids were at much higher levels in the bran part than the husk and millet, whereas the husk only contained higher levels of dietary fibre, and some minerals. The millet section, as the edible part, contained the lowest level of chemical constituents. It illustrated that the bran part contained more functional and nutritional components than the millet and husk part. Therefore, the bran of the foxtail millet should be a food resources instead of wasting.