High Levels Of Micronutrients Research Articles

Exploring membrane vesicles in citrus fruits: a comparative analysis of conventional and organic farming approaches.

Recently, vesicles derived from plant cell membranes have received attention for their potential use as active biomolecules and nanocarriers, and obtaining them from organic crops may be an interesting option because different farming systems can affect production, plant secondary metabolism and biochemistry of cell membranes. The present study aimed to determine how organic and conventional farming affects the mineral nutrition, gas exchange, CO2 fixation and biochemical composition of lemon fruits, which could have an impact on the different fractions of cell membranes in pulp and juice. Organic trees had higher intrinsic water use efficiency (WUEi) but conventional trees had higher stomatal conductance (gs) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUtE). Also, organic lemons had significantly higher levels of some micronutrients (Ca, Cu, Fe and Zn). Second, the main differences in the membrane vesicles showed that organic pulp vesicles had a higher antioxidant activity and more oleic acid, whereas both types of vesicles from conventional lemons had more linoleic acid. In conclusion, organic farming did not alter carbon fixation parameters but impacted nitrogen fixation and water uptake, and resulted in higher micronutrient levels in lemons. These mineral nutritional changes could be related to the higher production of membranes that showed suitable morphological traits and a high antioxidant activity, positively correlated with a high amount of oleic acid, which could have stronger cell protection characteristics. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Sustainable method of phosphorus biowaste management to innovative biofertilizers: A solution for circular economy of the future

This paper presents the possibility of applying bacterial strains from the Bacillus group in the microbial solubilization of phosphorus-bearing waste materials. Fishbones, bones and ash from sewage sludge incineration were used as renewable phosphorus sources. Bacterial consortia in combinations of 1–4 strains were used for phosphate solubilization, including B. thuringiensis, B. megaterium, B. subtilis and B. cereus. Fishbones showed the highest degree of bioavailable phosphorus (20.5% of total content, of which 99.1% was bioavailable). The combination of two raw materials fishbone and sewage sludge ash (1:1) gave the best results of solubilization efficiency (over 70%) using a consortium containing 3 bacterial strains. A consortium consisting of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis, the activity of which resulted in the highest phosphorus concentration in the culture medium, was selected for larger scale tests. The produced application batch of liquid biofertilizer contained 0.54% P2O5 and high levels of micronutrients including iron (0.16%). The biological effectiveness of biofertilizer was confirmed in plant studies, where strong root stimulation (up to 33%) and an increase in chlorophyll content (over 20%) were observed for seeds soaked in biofertilizer. This form of application is being recommended over plant nutrition with granular phosphorus fertilizers. Through the use of waste materials, the research conducted in this paper fits into the topic of sustainability.

A randomized trial of iron- and zinc-biofortified pearl millet-based complementary feeding in children aged 12 to 18 months living in urban slums

Biofortification of staple crops with higher levels of micronutrients via traditional breeding methods is a sustainable strategy and can possibly complement fortification and other interventions to target micronutrient deficiencies in low resource settings, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children. We aimed to determine if iron- and zinc-biofortified pearl millet (FeZnPM, Dhanashakti, ICTP-8203Fe)-based complementary feeding improves nutritional status, including iron biomarkers and growth, in children living in urban slums of Mumbai. We conducted a randomized controlled trial of FeZnPM among 223 children aged 12-18 months who were not severely anemic at baseline (hemoglobin ≥9.0g/dL). Children were randomized to receive either FeZnPM or conventional non-biofortified pearl millet (CPM) daily for 9 months. Iron status (hemoglobin, serum ferritin), plasma zinc, and anthropometric indicators (length, weight, mid-upper arm circumference, triceps and subscapular skinfolds) were evaluated at enrollment and throughout the trial. World Health Organization (WHO) anthropometric z-scores were calculated using WHO growth standards. Primary outcomes were hemoglobin and serum ferritin concentrations, and growth, defined as WHO z-scores. An intent to treat approach was used for analyses. We used the Hodges-Lehmann-Sen test to assess the change in primary outcomes between baseline and the last visit and report corresponding 95% confidence intervals. At baseline, 67.7% of children were anemic (hemoglobin <11.0g/dL) and 59.6% were iron deficient (serum ferritin <12.0μg/L). FeZnPM did not significantly increase iron biomarkers or improve growth, compared to CPM. In subgroup analyses, FeZnPM improved hemoglobin concentrations in male children, and in children with iron deficiency or iron depletion (serum ferritin <25.0μg/L) at baseline, relative to CPM. Daily consumption of FeZnPM-based complementary foods did not significantly impact iron and zinc status or growth in children living in Mumbai's urban slums. However, the intervention significantly improved hemoglobin concentrations among male children and among individuals who were iron-deficient or iron-depleted at baseline. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT02233764), and Clinical Trials Registry of India (ID: REF/2014/10/007731).

‘Ray Ruby’ Grapefruit Affected by Huanglongbing I. Planting Density and Soil Nutrient Management

Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening disease, affects practically all fruit-bearing trees in commercial citrus orchards in Florida with no cure identified yet. High-density plantings and enhanced nutritional programs such as application of controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) with higher micronutrient levels can mitigate disease symptoms and extend the tree life span of sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of tree planting density and application of CRF blends differing in N to K ratio and micronutrient content on grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) plant health, canopy volume, fruit yield, and fruit quality in an HLB-affected orchard. A study was conducted in Florida for two growing seasons (2017–18 and 2018–19) to evaluate the response of ‘Ray Ruby’ grapefruit on Kuharske citrange (Citrus sinensis × Poncirus trifoliata) to three planting densities (300, 440, and 975 trees per ha) and two CRF blends [12 nitrogen (N)–1.31 phosphorus (P)–7.47 potassium (K) and 16N–1.31P–16.6K] with different nutrient sources and composition. According to quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction testing, all sampled trees tested positive for Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, the pathogen associated with HLB. Trees planted at 975 trees per ha had 33% lower canopy volume per tree but 160% greater fruit yield per hectare and 190% higher yield of solids compared with 300 trees per ha. Fruit produced in high-density planting (975 trees per ha) was 18% more acidic with higher soluble solid compared with low-density planting (300 trees per ha). The use of a CRF blend with higher amounts of micronutrients along with lower K increased canopy volume in both seasons and resulted in 24% and 29% reduction in fruit yield per hectare and yield of solids, respectively, in 2017–18. Our results indicate that high-density plantings increase fruit yield per area, and regardless of the N to K ratio, the use of CRF blends supplemented with micronutrients may not increase fruit yield in HLB-affected grapefruit.

Safety and influence of a novel powder form of coconut inflorescence sap on glycemic index and lipid profile

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for human body. Carbohydrates increase resting muscle glycogen levels and help in delaying muscle fatigue. But, higher intake of high glycemic carbohydrates may lead to complications, if not balanced by physical activities. Our earlier studies have indicated that a proprietary powder preparation of coconut inflorescence sap (COCOZEN™, abbreviated as ‘CSP’ meaning ‘coconut sap powder’) contains relatively higher levels of micronutrients and possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective and ergogenic activities. Thus, the present study was aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of CSP (15 g/day for 90 days) on healthy and nonathletic subjects (n = 20). The study was performed in two phases. In the first phase, glycemic index (GI) was measured using glucose as a reference standard. In the second phase, CSP was supplemented at (15g × 1)/day dosage for 90 days and monitored the anthropometric parameters, adverse events, blood sugar levels (fasting and postprandial), blood pressure, and other routine hematological and biochemical parameters. It was observed that CSP possess a GI of 52.47 and is safe with an acceptable sensory attribute. It did not contribute any side effects or deviations in blood sugar or other hematological and biochemical parameters, except in Hb and lipid profile which showed significant (p < 0.05) enhancement.

Protein and energy contribution of African indigenous vegetables: Evidence from selected rural and peri-urban counties of Kenya

Although positive steps have been taken towards reducing food insecurity, it remains a serious and recurrent issue, especially in developing countries. Food insecurity is aggravated by the world’s growing population and global ecological changes and calls for novel agriculture-based hunger eradication strategies. It is argued that production and consumption of indigenous vegetables (IVs) enhances accessibility and availability of nutritious food in households. Indigenous vegetables (IVs) contain significant amounts of macronutrients and high levels of micronutrients. As their agro-economic advantages make them relatively easy for uptake by resource-poor households, they represent a direct solution to ‘hidden hunger’. Household-based survey data collected from 1232 IV producers in rural and peri-urban areas of five selected counties in Kenya in 2014 were used to examine the dietary contribution of IVs. Five priority indigenous vegetables were analysed: amaranth, cowpea, African nightshade, spider plant and Ethiopian kale. Quantitative analysis was performed using food security indicators from the ADePTFood security Module data analytical software. This study’s findings indicated African nightshade was the most consumed indigenous vegetable, providing the largest share of dietary energy consumption (average of 43 kcal/person/day). Amaranth was found to provide the highest share and cheapest source of dietary protein consumption, an average of 4.9 g/person/day, thus meeting 8% of the adult daily protein requirement. These results showed the clear dominance of indigenous vegetables over exotic vegetables in terms of protein contribution, achieved both by amaranth’s high protein content compared tocabbage, as well as the low per unit cost of protein in indigenous vegetables compared to exotic vegetables. Given that, IVs have a significant protein content that adds variety to staple diets at comparatively low median dietary unit values and that they are important sources of dietary energy, efforts should be made to increase their consumption by undertaking further research, raising awareness and instituting policies.

PREPARAÇÕES LÁCTEAS CONSUMIDAS NA ALIMENTAÇÃO COMPLEMENTAR: CARACTERIZAÇÃO E COMPOSIÇÃO NUTRICIONAL SEGUNDO A PARTICIPAÇÃO DE ALIMENTOS ULTRAPROCESSADOS

Objetivo: Analisar a composição nutricional das preparações lácteas (PL) consumidas por crianças de 6-23 meses de idade. Método: Analisou-se o elenco de PL (n=183) referidas por responsáveis por crianças de 6-23 meses em inquérito conduzido com amostra representativa de crianças usuárias do SUS no município do Rio de Janeiro. As PL referidas foram tipificadas segundo seus ingredientes. Foi examinada a adequação da reconstituição dos produtos lácteos em pó. A composição nutricional das PL foi comparada à do leite humano maduro e à Ingestão Diária Recomendada, e analisada em função da participação relativa de energia de alimentos ultraprocessados (AUP) em 100 kcal de cada PL. Resultados: A maioria das PL era composta por leite de vaca acrescido de espessante e/ou açúcar e/ou fruta (86,9%). Do total de PL, 85% continham pelo menos um AUP. A maioria das PL com produtos lácteos em pó apresentou concentração do produto inferior à recomendada pelo fabricante. Em seu conjunto, as PL se mostraram hiperproteicas, hipercalóricas e apresentaram teores elevados de micronutrientes, quando comparadas ao leite humano. Em geral, extrapolaram as recomendações diárias de nutrientes para proteínas e micronutrientes e, em função da participação relativa de AUP, apresentaram correlação positiva para carboidratos e parte dos micronutrientes analisados e correlação negativa para proteínas e lipídios. Independentemente desta participação, apresentaram perfil nutricional muito distinto daquele do leite materno. Conclusão: As PL analisadas apresentaram perfil nutricional distante do desejável, com teores elevados para alguns nutrientes e baixos para outros, em qualquer nível de participação de AUP em sua composição.DOI: 10.12957/demetra.2019.43765

Influence of Micronutrients on the Food Consumption Rate and Silk Production of Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) Reared on Mulberry Plants Grown in a Mountainous Agro-Ecological Condition.

The study involves analyzing the performance of bivoltine Bombyx mori larvae reared on different host plants varieties. The consumption rate (CR) of different strains of B. mori was high when fed with Jorhat and TR10 mulberry plant varieties. Jorhat and TR10 mulberry plant varieties were found to contain significant amount of calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. Local (Hmute) mulberry plant variety had high amount of protein, carbohydrate and reducing sugar. Majority of the B. mori strains reared on Jorhat and TR10 mulberry plant varieties had high level of fibroin protein which resulted in increased silk productivity than those larvae reared with other mulberry varieties. The filament length was higher when reared on Jorhat and TR10 mulberry plant varieties. CSR4 × CSR2, FC1 × FC2, and FC2 × FC1 strains reared on Jorhat and TR10 mulberry plant varieties performed well in terms of economic parameters. Proteins and other nutrients in combination with high levels of micronutrients are very much essential for better silk quality. The present study attempted to identify the most suitable host plants for silkworm rearing under mountainous agro-ecological conditions which can lead to sustainable production of silk in relation to physiological and economic parameters.

Biofortification strategies to increase wheat nutrition and sustaining yield simultaneously

Genetic biofortification is a strategy that uses plant breeding techniques to produce staple food crops with higher micronutrient levels and can be a feasible and costeffective means of delivering micronutrients to population that may have limited access to diverse diets. The present study reports the development of wheat with high grain protein, yellow pigment and high zinc content in addition to introgression of rust resistance genes to ensure biofortification as well as yield sustainability. A convergent cross for combining gene(s) for high protein, high yellow pigment, high zinc and rust resistance was performed. This included crossing BC1F2 introgression lines of cross PBW698/BF22//PBW698 carrying grain zinc QTL introgressed from Triticum monococcum with high protein line BWL3560 having Gpc-B1. A set of 192 F3 lines were evaluated for agronomic and quality traits. Molecular marker analysis of F3 progenies for Gpc-B1 gene (Xucw108) revealed 129 F3 lines to be homozygous positive. The progenies showed the range of 8.96-13.92% for grain protein content, 25.1-36.3mg/Kg for grain iron concentration, 34.0-54.0 mg/Kg for grain zinc concentration and 2.01-4.57ppm for grain yellow pigment content compared to 9.65%, 26.7 mg/Kg, 42.9 mg/Kg and 3.74ppm respectively in recipient line PBW698. Therefore, this population constituted a useful material for identifying the nutritionally enhanced lines.

Growth and Nutritional Biomarkers of Preterm Infants Fed a New Powdered Human Milk Fortifier: A Randomized Trial.

ABSTRACTObjectives:The aim of this study was to assess growth and nutritional biomarkers of preterm infants fed human milk (HM) supplemented with a new powdered HM fortifier (nHMF) or a control HM fortifier (cHMF). The nHMF provides similar energy content, 16% more protein (partially hydrolyzed whey), and higher micronutrient levels than the cHMF, along with medium-chain triglycerides and docosahexaenoic acid.Methods:In this controlled, multicenter, double-blind study, a sample of preterm infants ≤32 weeks or ≤1500 g were randomized to receive nHMF (n = 77) or cHMF (n = 76) for a minimum of 21 days. Weight gain was evaluated for noninferiority (margin = –1 g/day) and superiority (margin = 0 g/day). Nutritional status and gut inflammation were assessed by blood, urine, and fecal biochemistries. Adverse events were monitored.Results:Adjusted mean weight gain (analysis of covariance) was 2.3 g/day greater in nHMF versus cHMF; the lower limit of the 95% CI (0.4 g/day) exceeded both noninferiority (P < 0.001) and superiority margins (P = 0.01). Weight gain rate (unadjusted) was 18.3 (nHMF) and 16.8 g · kg−1 · day−1 (cHMF) between study days 1 and 21 (D1–D21). Length and head circumference (HC) gains between D1 and D21 were not different. Adjusted weight-for-age z score at D21 and HC-for-age z score at week 40 corrected age were greater in nHMF versus cHMF (P = 0.013, P = 0.003 respectively). nHMF had higher serum blood urea nitrogen, pre-albumin, alkaline phosphatase, and calcium (all within normal ranges; all P ≤ 0.019) at D21 versus cHMF. Both HMFs were well tolerated with similar incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events.Conclusions:nHMF providing more protein and fat compared to a control fortifier is safe, well-tolerated, and improves the weight gain of preterm infants.

Evaluation of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] for grain iron and zinc content in different agro climatic zones of India

Micronutrient malnutrition, especially the paucity of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) is posing a big threat to the world affecting nearly 25% of worldwide population. Pearl millet is endowed with huge amount of variability for micronutrients especially for grain Fe and Zn content. Micronutrient enrichment in pearl millet is possible by identifying stable genotypes for high levels of micronutrients and utilising them in breeding programme. In this context, a set of 40 pearl millet genotypes along with one check, Dhanshakti (G30), were evaluated at three different agro climatic zones during the year 2014 for grain iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) contents using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The genotypes contributed 58.3% and 52.8% of the total variation for grain Fe and Zn content, respectively. The magnitude of variation contributed by interaction component was also relatively high (39.7% and 32.5% for grain Fe and Zn). Both AMMI and GGE biplot analysis identified desirable genotypes; PPMI 708 (G40), PPMI 1102 (G25) and PPMI 683 (G39) for grain Fe content, whereas PPMI 708 (G40), PPMI 1116 (G24) and PPMI 683 (G39) for grain Zn content. The Pearson correlation coefficient for grain Fe and Zn content showed that both traits are highly associated (r = 0.8, p <0.01) and these traits did not associate significantly with grain yield. Hence, there is possibility for simultaneous improvement of both grain Fe and Zn content without compromising for grain yield.

Micronutrient composition and acceptability of Moringa oleifera leaf-fortified dishes by children in Ada-East district, Ghana.

Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera), a green leafy vegetable, is a good source of minerals and vitamins which could be consumed as part of diet to improve human health and well‐being. Drying M. oleifera leaves could make it readily available for use as a food fortificant. The objectives of the study were to determine micromineral and β ‐carotene content of dried M. oleifera leaves, and leaf‐incorporated local dishes, and also assess school children's (4‐12 yr) acceptability of dried M. oleifera leaf‐incorporated local dishes and feasibility of introducing dried leaves into a school lunch menu. M. oleifera leaves were solar dried, milled into powder, and packaged into polythene bags. Moisture level in the dried leaves and pH were determined. Minerals in the leaf powder were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Beta‐carotene levels were determined by spectrophotometry. Acceptability tests of dishes fortified with M. oleifera leaf powder were conducted with score sheets (Smileys) on a 5‐point hedonic scale of “Like Extremely” to “Dislike Extremely”, and dishes ranked to determine preference. Dried M. oleifera leaves contained high levels of micronutrients: 0.36 ± 0.04 mg/100 g Copper (Cu); 5.80 ± 0.68 mg/100 g Manganese (Mn); 20.96 ± 1.37 mg/100 g Iron (Fe); 6.79 ± 1.82 mg/100 g Zn; and 21.42 ± 1.67 mg/100 g β‐carotene. The dishes showed significant levels of these minerals compared to the nonfortified dishes (P < 0.05). M. oleifera leaf‐fortified dishes were also highly acceptable to the children (highest mean score of 5.0 ± 0 of 5 and lowest of 3.50 ± 1.43 of 5). M. oleifera leaf powder contains high levels of the micronutrients β‐carotene, Zn, Mn, and Fe, comparable to levels found in amaranth and spinach. M. oleifera leaf‐fortified local dishes were well accepted by children in Ada‐East district. M. oleifera leaf fortified dishes could be good sources of β‐carotene and other minerals for children vulnerable to malnutrition in Ghana.

Composition of Rice Bran Stearin from Various Refineries Across China

AbstractIn this study, we evaluated the composition of rice bran stearin (RBS) from various refineries across China. Here, we report the physicochemical parameters of RBS. The slip melting point ranged from 20.8 to 35.3 °C. The free fatty acid content (0.05–0.27 %) and peroxide value (0.34–3.70 mequiv oxygen/kg) was quite low, indicating that the RBS was of good quality. The iodine value ranged from 85.8–102.9 g/100 g, indicating a high unsaturated bond content. There was a significant difference in the unsaponifiable matter content (1.20–3.87 %) among RBS samples. The oxidative stability index (OSI) ranged from 0.56 to 5.85 h. The palmitic acid content in RBS refined by molecular distillation was significantly higher than the RBS that was refined physically and chemically. The major triacylglycerol was LLO/OLL, PLL/LPL, OLO, PLP, OOO and POO (L, linoleic acid; O, oleic acid; P, palmitic acid). RBS contained high levels of micronutrients, including total tocopherols (23.3–117.9 mg/100 g), oryzanol (0.1–2.1 %), and total sterols (682.9–1787.3 mg/100 g). Moreover, three different kinds of solid fat curves were distinguished. The results presented here are probably the first report regarding RBS on an industrial scale, meanwhile the potential utilization of RBS is discussed.

English

Pigmented rice genotypes have high nutritive value compared to white rice genotypes. These genotypes contain high levels of micronutrients and antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols, tocochromanols and oryzanol. In this experiment, 42 pigmented rice genotypes obtained from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) were evaluated to determine micronutrient content, antioxidant activity and vitamin E content. The results revealed that the micronutrient content, antioxidant activity and tocochromanol content of all genotypes varied. Iron (Fe) was the most abundant micronutrient followed by Zn, Mn and Cu. The antioxidant DPPH scavenging effect among all genotypes ranged from 31.85 to 98.45%. The tocotrienol content was higher than tocopherol in grains of selected pigmented rice genotypes. Among rest of genotypes, IR3257-13-56, IR5533-14-1-1 and Khao gam (niaw) contained high micronutrient content and antioxidant properties compared to others. These genotypes could also be potentially used further for breeding program to improve the rice plant with high micronutrient content and antioxidant properties.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF UNDERUTILIZED PLANT SPECIES: THE ROLE OF VEGETABLES IN ASSURING FOOD AND NUTRITIONAL SECURITY

ISHS II International Symposium on Underutilized Plant Species: Crops for the Future - Beyond Food Security RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF UNDERUTILIZED PLANT SPECIES: THE ROLE OF VEGETABLES IN ASSURING FOOD AND NUTRITIONAL SECURITY

To establish the parameters of optimal nutrition do we need to consider psychological in addition to physiological parameters?

The criteria used to establish dietary reference values are discussed and it is suggested that the too often the "need" they aim to satisfy is at the best vaguely specified. The proposition is considered that if we aim to establish optimal nutrition we will gain from considering psychological in addition to physiological parameters. The brain is by a considerable extent the most complex and metabolically active organ in the body. As such it would be predicted that the first signs of minor subclinical deficiencies will be the disruption of the functioning of the brain. The output of the brain is the product of countless millions of biochemical processes, such that if enzyme activity is only a few percentage points less than maximum, a cumulative influence would result. A series of studies of micronutrient supplementation in well-designed trials were reviewed. In metaanalyses the cognitive functioning of children and the mood and memory of adults has been shown to respond to multivitamin/mineral supplementation. Given the concerns that have been expressed about the negative responses to high levels of micronutrients, the implications are discussed of the finding that psychological functioning may benefits from an intake greater than those currently recommended.

Effects of raw and diluted municipal sewage effluent with micronutrient foliar sprays on the growth and nutrient concentration of foxtail millet in southeast Iran

In this study, the effect of irrigation with raw or diluted municipal sewage effluent accompanied by foliar micronutrient fertilizer sprays was examined on the growth, dry matter accumulation, grain yield, and mineral nutrients in foxtail millet plants. The experimental design was a split plot with three irrigation sources: raw sewage, 50% diluted sewage, and well water comprising the main treatments, and four combinations of Mn and Zn foliar sprays as sub-treatments that were applied with four replications. The experiment was conducted in 2009 at the Zabol University research farm in Zabol, south Iran. The applied municipal sewage effluent contained higher levels of micronutrients and macronutrients and exhibited greater degrees of electrical conductivity compared to well water. Because of the small scale of industrial activities in Zabol, the amount of heavy metals in the sewage was negligible (below the limits set for irrigation water in agricultural lands); these contaminants would not be severely detrimental to crop growth. The experimental results indicated that irrigation of plants with raw or diluted sewage stimulates the measured growth and productivity parameters of foxtail millet plants. The concentrations of micronutrients and macronutrients were also positively affected. These stimulations were attributed to the presence of high levels of such essential nutrients as N, P, and organic matter in wastewater. Supplied in sewage water alone, Mn and Zn were not able to raise the productivity of millet to the level obtained using fertilizers at the recommended values; this by itself indicated that additional nutrients from fertilizers are required to obtain higher levels of millet productivity with sewage farming. Despite the differences in nutrient concentrations among the different irrigation water sources, the micronutrient foliar sprays did not affect the concentrations of micronutrients and macronutrients in foxtail millet plants. These results suggested that municipal sewage effluent could be utilized efficiently as an important source of water, and that the nutrients used in growing foxtail millet with sewage water irrigation did not have any significant harmful effect on crop productivity. In contrast, the nutrients proved beneficial to soil fertility and millet productivity and quality.

Determination of trace element concentrations in tomato samples at different stages of maturation by ICP OES and ICP-MS following microwave-assisted digestion

The concentrations of 15 elements (Al, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Se, Sn, Sr, V and Zn) were determined in three tomato species (Khaki, Cherry and Italy) at different stages of maturation by ICP OES and ICP-MS following microwave-assisted acid digestion. The digestion efficiency was evaluated on the basis of the determination of residual carbon content and trace element recoveries. Diluted nitric acid solutions were used for the efficient digestion of 300mg of tomato samples, with a considerable reduction in the residual acidity when compared with a procedure that employed a concentrated nitric acid solution. The good agreement between the measured and certified concentrations of a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Certified Reference Material 1573a (Tomato Leaves) indicated that the developed analytical method was well suited to determine the trace elements contents in similar matrices. The analytical parameters, such as the limits of quantification, the accuracy and the precision of the overall procedure, were assessed statistically. Moreover, the measured trace element concentrations were used to distinguish between conventional and organic cultivation. According to the data, the species of tomato, the form of cultivation and the stage of maturation of the fruit influenced the concentrations of the trace elements that are found in the tomato samples. Tomatoes in the final stage of maturation showed higher concentrations of most of the elements that were measured in the three species studied. Regarding the type of cultivation, organic tomatoes contained higher levels of micronutrients and less contaminants when compared with conventionally grown tomatoes.

Intraindividual variability in serum micronutrients: effects on reliability of estimated parameters.

Although serum measures of micronutrients are more specific than questionnaires in quantifying nutritional status, the reliability of serum measures depends on between- and within-person variability of circulating micronutrient levels. The extent to which multiple samples per person might improve reliability is useful information for planning studies and interpreting results. We analyzed levels of 25 micronutrients in serum samples taken from 381 Hawaii women at 4-month intervals. For all subjects and for subjects at the low and high end of the micronutrient distributions, we calculated inter- and intraindividual variability, reliability coefficients, and the number of measurements required to limit attenuation in estimated parameters (ie, to keep estimates close to their true values). For 18 of the 25 micronutrients, a single measurement provided an estimate within 20% of the true value. For regression coefficients, 2 measurements were needed to limit attenuation to no more than 20% for nearly half of the micronutrients. To achieve no more than 10% attenuation, the number of measurements required ranged from 2 to 10 for correlation and from 3 to 20 for regression coefficients. To achieve no more than 5% attenuation, the corresponding ranges were 3 to 21 for correlation and 6 to 42 regression coefficients. In general, more measurements were required for adequate characterization of subjects with relatively high levels of micronutrients than for subjects with lower levels. Our analysis suggests that 2 or 3 blood measurements are enough to limit attenuation of regression coefficients within 20% of the true value for most carotenoids and tocopherols. For 10% attenuation or less, 4 or more micronutrient measurements may be needed.

Antioxidants, Phenolic Compounds, and Nutritional Quality of Different Strawberry Genotypes

Strawberry contains high levels of micronutrients and phytochemical compounds. These exhibit functional roles in plant growth and metabolism and are also essential for the nutritional and organoleptic qualities of the fruit. The aim of the present work was to better characterize the phytochemical and antioxidant profiles of the fruit of nine different genotypes of strawberry, by measuring the total flavonoid, anthocyanin, vitamin C, and folate contents. Cultivar effects on the total antioxidant capacities of strawberries were also tested. In addition, the individual contribution of the main antioxidant compounds was assessed by HPLC separation coupled to an online postcolumn antioxidant detection system. This study showed the important role played by the genetic background on the chemical and antioxidant profiles of strawberry fruits. Significant differences were found between genotypes for the total antioxidant capacity and for all tested classes of compounds. The HPLC analyses confirmed qualitative and quantitative variability in the antioxidant profiles. These studies show that differences exist among cultivars, applicable in dietary studies in human subjects.