Food Sources Research Articles

Co-bioaugmentation with microalgae and probiotic bacteria: Sustainable solutions for upcycling of aquaculture wastewater and agricultural residues into microbial-rice bran complexes

Aquaculture farming generates a significant amount of wastewater, which has prompted the development of creative bioprocesses to improve wastewater treatment and bioresource recovery. One promising method of achieving these aims is to directly recycle pollutants into microbe-rice bran complexes, which is an economical and efficient technique for wastewater treatment that uses synergetic interactions between algae and bacteria. This study explores novel bioaugmentation as a promising strategy for efficiently forming microbial-rice bran complexes in unsterilized aquaculture wastewater enriched with agricultural residues (molasses and rice bran). Results found that rice bran serves a dual role, acting as both an alternative nutrient source and a biomass support for microalgae and bacteria. Co-bioaugmentation, involving the addition of probiotic bacteria (Bacillus syntrophic consortia) and microalgae consortiums (Tetradesmus dimorphus and Chlorella sp.) to an existing microbial community, led to a remarkable 5-fold increase in microbial-rice bran complex yields compared to the non-bioaugmentation approach. This method provided the most compact biofloc structure (0.50 g/L) and a large particle diameter (404 μm). Co-bioaugmentation significantly boosts the synthesis of extracellular polymeric substances, comprising proteins at 6.5 g/L and polysaccharides at 0.28 g/L. Chlorophyta, comprising 80% of the total algal phylum, and Proteobacteria, comprising 51% of the total bacterial phylum, are emerging as dominant species. These microorganisms play a crucial role in waste and wastewater treatment, as well as in the formation of microbial-rice bran complexes that could serve as an alternative aquaculture feed. This approach prompted changes in both microbial community structure and nutrient cycling processes, as well as water quality. These findings provide valuable insights into the transformative effects of bioaugmentation on the development of microbial-rice bran complexes, offering potential applications in bioprocesses for waste and wastewater management.

Learning obstacle avoidance and predation in complex reef environments with deep reinforcement learning

The reef ecosystem plays a vital role as a habitat for fish species with limited swimming capabilities, serving not only as a sanctuary and food source but also influencing their behavioral tendencies. Understanding the intricate mechanism through which fish adeptly navigate the moving targets within reef environments within complex water flow, all while evading obstacles and maintaining stable postures, has remained a challenging and prominent subject in the realms of fish behavior, ecology, and biomimetics alike. An integrated simulation framework is used to investigate fish predation problems within intricate environments, combining deep reinforcement learning algorithms (DRL) with high-precision fluid-structure interaction numerical methods-immersed boundary lattice Boltzmann method (lB-LBM). The Soft Actor-Critic (SAC) algorithm is used to improve the intelligent fish's capacity for random exploration, tackling the multi-objective sparse reward challenge inherent in real-world scenarios. Additionally, a reward shaping method tailored to its action purposes has been developed, capable of capturing outcomes and trend characteristics effectively. The convergence and robustness advantages of the method elucidated in this paper are showcased through two case studies: one addressing fish capturing randomly moving targets in hydrostatic flow field, and the other focusing on fish counter-current foraging in reef environments to capture drifting food. A comprehensive analysis was conducted of the influence and significance of various reward types on the decision-making processes of intelligent fish within intricate environments.

Data sharing considerations to maximise use of pathogen biological and genomics resources data for public health.

Public sector data associated with health is a highly valuable resource with multiple potential end-users, from health practitioners, researchers, public bodies, policy makers and industry. Data for infectious disease agents is used for epidemiological investigations, disease tracking and assessing emerging biological threats. Yet, there are challenges in collating and re-using it. Data may be derived from multiple sources, generated and collected for different purposes. While public sector data should be open access, providers from public health settings or from agriculture, food or environment sources have sensitivity criteria to meet with ethical restrictions in how the data can be reused. Yet, sharable datasets need to describe the pathogens with sufficient contextual metadata for maximal utility, e.g. associated disease or disease potential and the pathogen source. As data comprises the physical resources of pathogen collections and potentially associated sequences, there is an added emerging technical issue of integration of 'omics 'big data'. Thus, there is a need to identify suitable means to integrate and safely access diverse data for pathogens. Established genomics alliances and platforms interpret and meet the challenges in different ways depending on their own context. Nonetheless, their templates and frameworks provide a solution for adaption to pathogen datasets.

The Food Sources in Western Diets Modulate Obesity Development, Insulin Sensitivity, and the Plasma and Cecal Metabolome in Mice.

Dietary constituents modulate development of obesity and type 2 diabetes. The metabolic impact from different food sources in western diets (WD) on obesity development is not fully elucidated. This study aims to identify dietary sources that differentially affect obesity development and the metabolic processes involved. Mice were fed isocaloric WDs with protein and fat from different food groups, including egg and dairy, terrestrial meat, game meat, marine, vegetarian, and a mixture of all. This study evaluates development of obesity, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and plasma and cecal metabolome. WD based on marine or vegetarian food sources protects male mice from obesity development and insulin resistance, whereas meat-based diets promote obesity. The intake of different food sources induces marked differences in the lipid-related plasma metabolome, particularly impacting phosphatidylcholines. Fifty-nine lipid-related plasma metabolites are positively associated with adiposity and a distinct cecal metabolome is found in mice fed a marine diet. This study demonstrates differences in obesity development between the food groups. Diet specific metabolomic signatures in plasma and cecum associated with adiposity, where a marine based diet modulates the level of plasma and cecal phosphatidylcholines in addition to preventing obesity development.

Identification of differential gene expression related to reproduction in the sporophytes of Saccharina japonica

Saccharina japonica, a significant brown macroalga in the Pacific Ocean, serves as a food source and industrial material. In aquaculture, collecting mature sporophytes for seedling production is essential but challenging due to environmental changes. In this study, transcriptomic analysis of vegetative and sorus tissues was done to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enhance our understanding of sorus formation regulation in S. japonica. KEGG pathway and Gene Otology (GO) analysis revealed that upregulated DEGs were involved in folate biosynthesis, riboflavin metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. In addition, the upregulation of genes associated with cell wall remodeling, such as mannuronan C-5-epimerases, vanadium-dependent haloperoxidases, and NADPH oxidase, was observed in sorus parts. Meanwhile, downregulated DEGs in sorus portions included genes related to chloroplast function. These findings will help us understand the regulatory mechanisms behind sorus formation in S. japonica and extracellular matrix remodeling in brown algae.

Chemical composition and egg production capacity throughout bloom development of ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi in the northern Adriatic Sea

High abundances of gelatinous zooplankton (GZ) can significantly impact marine ecosystem by acting as both sink and source of organic matter (OM) and nutrients. The decay of GZ bloom can introduce significant amount of OM to the ocean interior, with its variability influenced by GZ life traits and environmental factors, impacting microbial communities vital to marine biogeochemical cycles. The invasive ctenophores Mnemiopsis leidyi has formed massive blooms in the northern Adriatic Sea since 2016. However, the variability in the chemical composition and egg production of blooming populations, as well as the role of environmental factors in governing this variability, remains largely unknown. Our analysis of biometry, chemical composition, and fecundity of M. leidyi sampled in the Gulf of Trieste in 2021 revealed stable carbon and nitrogen content throughout bloom development, with no significant correlation with seawater temperature, salinity, oxygen, and chlorophyll a concentration. Although the studied population exhibited homogeneity in terms of biometry and chemical composition, the number of produced eggs varied substantially, showing no clear correlation with environmental variables and being somewhat lower than previously reported for the study area and other Mediterranean areas. We observed a positive correlation between the wet weight of individuals and the percentage of hatched eggs, as well as a significant positive correlation between the percentage of hatched eggs and ambient seawater temperature. Additionally, we noted that the speed of hatching decreased with decreasing seawater temperature in autumn, corresponding to the end of M. leidyi bloom.

Potential use of Partially Defatted Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) to Combat Malnutrition

Background: Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest oilseed crops grown worldwide. It is rich in protein and micronutrients. It is cultivated and used in different culinary preparations globally in various forms. Methods: In the present study, defatting of mechanically dehulled white sesame seeds using an oil press machine at 200°C was done (local cultivar). This procedure could extract 50-60% oil from sesame seeds, therefore, it has been referred as partially defatted sesame seeds flakes or powder. The by-product, i.e., defatted sesame flakes, was evaluated for nutritional and anti-nutritional qualities. Mechanically dehulled sesame seeds of the same variety were used as a control. The defatted sesame flakes of seeds obtained were prepared in powdered form and assessed for biochemical parameters using standard methods. Result: The defatting could reduce the fat content by 52.48 percent and increased the protein up to 40.35 per cent. Magnesium and zinc increased significantly. As defatting is done using an oil press machine, the nutrient retention was better in terms of bioavailability. The partially defatted sesame seed flakes had a good amount of protein, iron, zinc and magnesium with available other micronutrients and possess a good sensory quality having nutty flavor. The seed flakes can be a great source of food to cater to the nutritional needs of the population at large and to reduce malnutrition, especially in children. This can be used for value addition of various food products.

Spatial-temporal distribution and eutrophication evaluation of nutrients and trace metals in summer surface seawater of Yantai Sishili Bay, China

Due to coastal development expansion, an increasing influx of pollutants enters the sea through riverine input and land runoff, threatening coastal ecosystems and posing a risk of eutrophication. In this study, trace metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn), and nutrients (constituents of N, P, and Si) were assessed in the summer surface seawater of Yantai Sishili Bay (YSB), Northern China focusing on the determination of concentration, spatial-temporal distribution and sources identification, while exploring their correlations. It also aimed to clarify the eutrophication status and evaluate the linear relationships between eutrophication, trace metals, and nutrients in YSB. Over three years (2021–2023), the total dissolved concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn ranged from 4.79–26.71, 0.19–6.41, 0.26–1.53, and 0.74–13.12 µg/L, respectively. Concurrently, nutrient concentrations including NO2-, NO3-, NH4+, PO43-, and DSi exhibited a range of 0.37–11.66, 2.04–178.30, 1.69–70.01, 0.02–16.68, and 0.02–0.71 µg/L respectively. These concentrations revealed a gradual decrease from nearshore to offshore and the temporal variation also showed significant patterns from year to year, indicating distinct regional variations. The primary contributors to the trace metals and nutrients in the study region were recognized as external contributions stemming from natural, anthropogenic, and atmospheric deposition through correlation and principal component analysis. More specifically, riverine input and coastal farming contributed large amounts of nutrients to coastal waters, threatening a potential risk of eutrophication. The eutrophication evaluation expressed below the mild eutrophication level and was far lower than the other global and Chinese bays. The linear correlation between eutrophication and trace metals revealed a weak positive correlation but a significant correlation with nutrients. Despite the absence of significant eutrophication in the bay, potential risks were identified due to identifiable sources of nutrient and trace metal inputs. The findings provided insights to guide efforts in preventing and mitigating coastal eutrophication, as well as nutrient and trace metal pollution, in coastal cities.

Bacillus cereus infection of the penis: an unusual infection

Background: Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) is a Gram positive, rod shaped, motile organism, found in the environment and may exist in contaminated food sources such as reheated rice, vegetables and may led to gastro-intestinal symptoms after ingestion including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting due to enterotoxigenic and emetic toxins. Non-Gastro-intestinal infections of Bacillus Cereus have been reported in the literature which include cutaneous and non-cutaneous infections in immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. Case presentation: A 38-year-old man presented with a one-week history of penile swelling and redness that started after an episode of severe diarrhea and vomiting which soiled his genital region few hours after vigorous intercourse with his wife. This has led to infection of the penile skin by an unusual organism: Bacillus (B.) cereus. Patient was treated using Fucidic acid ointment applications for 2 weeks achieving complete recovery. Clinical discussion: The recovery of B. cereus from the penile infection in our patient reveals the first case of such unusual infection, though this pathogen has been reported to cause a wide range of non-GI tract infections which include bacteremia, meningitis, endocarditis, endophthalmitis, pneumonia, and soft tissue diseases. Virulence factors allow this organism to induce diarrhea in addition to having dermonecrotic, cytotoxic, hemolytic properties resulting in a wide range of dermatologic presentations. Conclusion: We report a unique case of penile skin infection caused by B. cereus, an unusual culprit for an uncommon presentation successfully treated with fucidic acid ointment. This is the first case in literature describing such an entity.

Strategy to Develop Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Plantation Based on Land Suitability Class and SWOT analysis

Okra is famous as super food sources that prevent diabetes and reduce cholesterol. To meet the increasing demand for okra, it is necessary to develop plantation for okra cultivation. In this sense, land suitability analysis for okra plantation is needed as base information to develop the plantation development strategies. This study aimed to identify the okra plantation development strategies in Jember Regency. The strategies involved the technology recommendations needed to improve land conditions. Land suitability evaluation parameters were analyzed using ArcGIS software. The results of the analysis were used to determine internal and external factors in the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis to determine the technology needed. Results showed that suitable area for okra plantation was divided into class S1 (highly suitable) of 56.85%, and class S2 (moderately suitable) 43.15% of the area. Moreover, based on SWOT analysis the proposed technology strategies for 7 sub districts were in the quadrant II, meaning had weaknesses. Increasing compost as fertilizer was recommended to increase N, K, and P in the soil as well as to increase soil solum. In addition, irrigation and drainage system was proposed to solve problems regarding rainfall. Recommendation to reduce sloping area included terracing development. Keywords: GIS, Land suitability analysis, Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), Plantations development strategies, SWOT.

Shaping the tripartite symbiosis: are termite microbiome functions directed by the environmentally acquired fungal cultivar?

Microbiome assembly critically impacts the ability of hosts to access beneficial symbiont functions. Fungus-farming termites have co-evolved with a fungal cultivar as a primary food source and complex gut microbiomes, which collectively perform complementary degradation of plant biomass. A large subset of the bacterial community residing within termite guts are inherited (vertically transmitted) from parental colonies, while the fungal symbiont is, in most termite species, acquired from the environment (horizontally transmitted). It has remained unknown how the gut microbiota sustains incipient colonies prior to the acquisition of the fungal cultivar, and how, if at all, bacterial contributions are modulated by fungus garden establishment. Here, we test the latter by determining the composition and predicted functions of the gut microbiome using metabarcoding and shotgun metagenomics, respectively. We focus our functional predictions on bacterial carbohydrate-active enzyme and nitrogen cycling genes and verify compositional patterns of the former through enzyme activity assays. Our findings reveal that the vast majority of microbial functions are encoded in the inherited microbiome, and that the establishment of fungal gardens incurs only minor modulations of predicted bacterial capacities for carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism. While we cannot rule out that other symbiont functions are gained post-fungus garden establishment, our findings suggest that fungus-farming termite hosts are equipped with a near-complete set of gut microbiome functions at the earliest stages of colony life. This inherited, incipient bacterial microbiome likely contributes to the high extent of functional specificity and coevolution observed between termite hosts, gut microbiomes, and the fungal cultivar.

Perspectives on value chain transformation towards resilient ­animal-source food systems in Sri Lanka

Perspectives on value chain transformation towards resilient ­animal-source food systems in Sri Lanka

Variability of morphological and phenological traits in <i>Vigna unguiculata</i> (L.) Walp. accessions contrasting by growth type in different ecological and geographical conditions

Background. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is a thermophilic crop that occupies the third place in the world in terms of cultivation area among leguminous crops. Vegetable cowpea cultivars are successfully cultivated in the open ground in Russia, in its southern regions and the south of the Far East. The creation of new cultivars adapted to cultivation in different regions and suitable for widespread industrial production, is extremely relevant. Materials and methods. The variability of 20 morphological and 3 phenological traits of six cowpea accessions with different growth habit types and architectonics was assessed in various ecological and geographical conditions at VIR experiment stations (in Astrakhan Province, Primorye Territory and Krasnodar Territory) in 2019-2022. The variability and interrelationships of the traits were estimated using basic and multivariate statistical methods. Results. The analysis revealed a significant influence of the factor complex (genotype/accession, research location) on the variability of traits. Phenological traits, the length of internodes and leaflets, depended most strongly on the research location. The range of variation in the number of nodes, branches, peduncles and beans per plant, stem thickness and bean size were determined by the genotype to a larger extent. The range of stem length variability was significantly influenced by the research location and the genotype, though the genotype had a stronger influence. The genotypes responded differently to changes in growing conditions. For the most of the studied accessions, an increase in the main stem length was noted in the monsoon climate conditions of the Primorye Territory, for some of them the type of growth habit changed from determinate to indeterminate. In our research, the plant length was positively correlated with the amount of precipitation and with the average relative air humidity. Excessive humidity and precipitation had minimal effect only on cv. ʻLyanchiheʼ, whose plants retained dwarfness and compact architectonics. Factor analysis (principal factors analysis) revealed 4 factors responsible for the main part of the variance of the analyzed traits. The characteristics of the leaf were combined in the first factor, those of architectonics and time of plant development in the second, features of the seedling and the juvenile stage in the third, and those of the bean in the fourth factor. These complexes of traits (factors) determined the variability of cowpea in our research. Conclusion. The performed analysis of morphological and phenological traits revealed a significant increase of stem length and changes in plant architectonics under conditions of high relative humidity and a large amount of precipitation. In some cases, even the type of growth habit was changed. The further research on the studied characters variability involving more accessions and the determination of molecular mechanisms that control stability of the growth habit type and length of the stem will allow us to proceed to a more efficient and rapid creation of new cultivars suitable for mechanized cultivation. This is extremely important for the development of new areas by cultivating species, the demand in which as a source of food and feed is increasing in the Russian Federation.

A Quantum Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm Based on Quantum Walk for the 0-1 Knapsack Problem

Abstract Based on the characteristics of the quantum mechanism, a novel quantum walk artificial bee colony algorithm is proposed to promote performance. Firstly, the discrete quantum walk is an approach taken to search for new food sources in the updated phase for employed bees and onlooker bees, which can enhance the probability of the target solution to extend the exploration capability. Secondly, the food source selection policy of the onlooker bees changes, from roulette selection to tournament selection, to boost exploitation and convergence speed. Finally, the novel algorithm is brought forward, along with the approach to analyze 0-1 knapsack problems. The experimental results prove that our algorithm can overcome the premature phenomenon and perform better in the areas of search capability, convergence speed, and stability performance. The performance is superior to that of the conventional artificial bee colony algorithm, as well as the genetic algorithm, in a set of 0-1 knapsack problems.

Nitrogen and Phosphorus Discharges from Cargo Ships’ Black and Grey Waters—A Case Study of a Baltic Sea Port

Shipping is a vital component of global trade. However, shipping activities have negative environmental impacts, including emissions to air and water. The Baltic Sea is severely affected by eutrophication, mainly due to nutrient inputs, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Understanding the contributions of various nutrient sources is essential for informed environmental regulation. The aim of this research is to quantify the nutrient content of black and grey water discharged from cargo ships in the Baltic Sea in order to assess their contribution to the total nutrient load. Specifically, this research examines the nitrogen and phosphorus loadings from ships calling the port of HaminaKotka and addresses key questions regarding nutrient generation, discharge proportions, emission shares by ship type, and their importance compared to other sources. Using a methodology based on ship data and nutrient production estimates, this study found that 2545 cargo ships generated a total of 781 kg of nitrogen and 134 kg of phosphorus in their effluents during their voyages to the port in 2021. However, only a small fraction (0.5%) of the cargo ships discharged their wastewater at port reception facilities. This study concludes that nutrient discharges from cargo ships’ wastewaters are relatively small, contributing less than 0.06% phosphorus and 0.01% nitrogen to the total load in the area. This result indicates that the impact of cargo ships’ wastewater on the eutrophication of the Baltic Sea is smaller than previously thought. The methodology used in this study can be applied in other ports and regions to assess nutrient discharges from cargo ships’ wastewaters on a wider scale. Further research is recommended to assess the effectiveness of on-board treatment systems, the impact of other contaminants in wastewater, and the development of port reception facilities to facilitate proper wastewater management in the maritime trade.

Optimizing Nutrient Management for Pearl Millet: Insights from a Long-term Field Experiment

The study investigates the impact of integrated nutrient management strategies on the yield and nutrient uptake of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), a vital crop in arid and semi-arid regions. Pearl millet is a significant source of dietary energy and essential nutrients for rural populations in India. However, its productivity remains low compared to other millet-producing countries. This research aims to enhance pearl millet yield through a combination of organic manures, biofertilizers, and chemical fertilizers, addressing the need for sustainable agricultural practices. The experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwavidyalaya during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023. Twelve treatment combinations were tested, including 100% NPK along with farmyard manure (FYM) and seed treatments with biofertilizers. Results indicated that the treatment combining 100% NPK with FYM at 10 t/ha/year and biofertilizers significantly improved biological yield, nutrient uptake, and soil organic carbon content. Specifically, the highest biological yield recorded was 8026 kg/ha, with notable increases in total nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake. This study underscores the importance of integrated nutrient management in enhancing pearl millet productivity while maintaining soil health. By adopting these practices, farmers can improve crop yields and contribute to food security in regions reliant on pearl millet. The findings provide a framework for future research and practical applications in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the need for balanced nutrient supply systems to optimize crop performance and soil fertility.

A Comparative Study of Spacing and Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Economics of Okra

The present investigation was conducted at Horticultural Experimental Farm, B.A.C.A., Anand Agricultural University, Anand in kharif during 2022 and 2023. Ensuring balanced plant nutrients and spacing is essential for achieving optimal okra production. Optimal plant density supports uniform and healthy growth by effectively utilizing moisture, nutrients, and light, thereby maximizing okra yield. Single source of nutrients whether chemical fertilizers, organic manures or biofertilizers that cannot improve production, productivity and soil health. Sowing okra at 60 × 30 cm spacing observed better leaf area (433.06 and 568.01 cm2) and number of nodes per plant (15.57 and 23.46) at 60 and 90 DAS. While, maximum yield per plot (9.20 kg) and yield per hectare (14.19 t) was found in 45 × 30 cm spacing. Application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha recorded maximum yield per plot (9.41 kg) and yield per hectare (15.33 t). With respect to treatment combinations, sowing of okra at 60 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha recorded the highest leaf area (458.88 and 598.27 cm2) at 60 and 90 DAS. However, maximum yield per plot (10.45 kg) and yield per hectare (16.13 t) was found in 45 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK consortium 1L/ha. On economic point of view, maximum net realization (218555.21 ₹/ha) and BCR (2.11) was obtained in 45 × 30 cm spacing with application of 25% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM + NPK consortium 1L/ha.

Cytotoxic Peptaibols from Trichoderma guizhouense, a Fungus Isolated from an Urban Soil Sample.

Soil sustains human life by nourishing crops, storing food sources, and housing microbes, which may affect the nutrition and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, some of which are used as drugs. To identify lead compounds for a new class of drugs, we collected soil-derived fungal strains from various environments, including urban areas. As various human pathogens are assumed to influence the biosynthetic pathways of metabolites in soil fungi, leading to the production of novel scaffolds, we focused our work on densely populated urban areas and tourist attractions. A soil-derived fungal extract library was screened against MDA-MB-231 cells to derive their cytotoxic activity. Notably, 10 μg/mL of the extract of Trichoderma guizhouense (DS9-1) was found to exhibit an inhibitory effect of 71%. Fractionation, isolation, and structure elucidation efforts led to the identification of nine new peptaibols, trichoguizaibols A-I (1-9), comprising 14 amino acid residues (14-AA peptaibols), and three new peptaibols, trichoguizaibols J-L (10-12), comprising 18 amino acid residues (18-AA peptaibols). The chemical structures of 1-12 were determined based on their 1D and 2D NMR spectra, HRESIMS, electronic circular dichroism data, and results of the advanced Marfey's method. The 18-AA peptaibols were found to exhibit cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231, SK-Hep1, SKOV3, DU145, and HCT116 cells greater than that of the 14-AA peptaibols. Among these compounds, 10-12 exhibited potent sub-micromolar IC50 values. These results are expected to shed light on a new direction for developing novel scaffolds as anticancer agents.

Chemical characterization and angiotensin-I converting enzyme inhibitory activity of Indonesian stinky beans

The chemical composition of four Indonesian stinky beans has been explored. Those bean are Petai (Parkia speciosa), Lamtoro Gung (Leucaena leucochepala ssp. Glabrata (Rose) S. Zarate), Jengkol (Pithecellobium jiringa) and Kabau (Archidendron bubalinum). This exploration belongs to the local food utilization research theme of functional food sources. Those beans have a unique flavour and usually lead to foul stools, sweat, urine or mouth odour. Their intense flavour may be due to the content of amino acids. High hydrophobic and negative charge hydrophilic amino acids are crucial in preventing hypertension through inhibition of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. This study evaluated the chemical properties of beans and its angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory (ACE-I) peptides. The amino acid profile was determined as preliminary data to ensure the content of hydrophobic and negative charge hydrophilic amino acids. Their ability to inhibit ACE was studied to represent an antihypertensive effect. In vitro gastrointestinal digestion was applied to obtain more small molecular peptides and evaluate their ACE-I activity after digestion. Petai has the highest glutamic acid (20.90 g/100 g protein d.b.), lysine (13.31 g/100 g protein d.b.), arginine (11.76 g/100 g protein d.b.), leucine (10.98 g/100 g protein d.b.), and aspartic acid (10.72 g/100 g protein d.b.). Fresh Jengkol has the highest ACE-I activity (67.59%). Subsequential digestion by pepsin and pancreatin improves the ACE-I activity, and Kabau had the highest (79.87%). Based on the results, Indonesian stinky beans can prevent hypertension by inhibiting ACE activity and being used as a protein source alternative

Repercussions of Prolonged Pesticide Use on Natural Soil Microbiome Dynamics Using Metagenomics Approach.

The residual pesticides in soil can affect the natural microbiome composition and genetic profile that drive nutrient cycling and soil fertility. In the present study, metagenomic approach was leveraged to determine modulations in nutrient cycling and microbial composition along with connected nexus of pesticide, antibiotic, and heavy metal resistance in selected crop and fallow soils having history of consistent pesticide applications. GC-MS analysis estimated residuals of chlorpyrifos, hexachlorbenzene, and dieldrin showing persistent nature of pesticides that pose selective pressure for microbial adaptation. Taxonomic profiling showed increased abundance of pesticide degrading Streptomyces, Xanthomonas, Cupriavidus, and Pseudomonas across the selected soils. Genes encoding for pesticide degrading cytochrome p450, organophosphorus hydrolase, aldehyde dehydrogenase, and oxidase were predominant and positively correlated with Bacillus, Sphingobium, and Burkholderia. Nitrogen-fixing genes (nifH, narB, and nir) were relatively less abundant in crop soils, correlating to the decrease in nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Anabaena, Pantoea, and Azotobacter). Microbial enzymes involved in carbon (pfkA, gap, pgi, and tpiA) and phosphorus cycle (gmbh and phnJ) were significantly higher in crop soils indicating extensive utilization of pesticide residuals as a nutrient source by the indigenous soil microbiota. Additionally, presence of antibiotic and heavy metal resistance genes suggested potential cross-resistance under pressure from pesticide residues. The results implied selective increase in pesticide degrading microbes with decrease in beneficial bacteria that resulted in reduced soil health and fertility. The assessment of agricultural soil microbial profile will provide a framework to develop sustainable agriculture practices to conserve soil health and fertility.