High Protein Content Research Articles

Lentil protein and trehalose conjugates: Structural interactions and mechanisms for improving multi-level structure and functional characteristics.

This study aimed to improve lentil proteins' (LPs) functionality and nutritional value, specifically addressing their lower water solubility and digestibility. A unique combination of LP-disaccharide interactions was employed. Spectroscopic technologies, which include fluorescence spectra, ultraviolet spectra, and Fourier-transform infrared, investigated the structure of LPs at various concentrations of trehalose. The results indicate that the LP structures and conformation were considerably modified (p<0.05) following trehalose conjugation. The surface charge and hydrophobicity of the trehalose-conjugated LPs (T-LPs) were significantly altered (p<0.05), from -22.7 to -31.4 and 753 and 543 a.u., respectively. Furthermore, the digestibility and solubility of T-LPs increased from 75% to 81.8% and 60% to 66%, respectively. In conclusion, this study showed that combining LPs and trehalose conjugation could improve the quality of conjugates LPs, which could expand their use in manufacturing as the acceptance of plant-based diets increases. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Currently, lentil proteins (LPs) are used in plant-based protein powders and supplements. Though less popular than soy or pea proteins, LPs are valued for their high protein content and good amino acid profile. LPs are utilized in meat alternatives and high-protein snack products. The application of these products is mainly due to their nutritional benefits rather than functional properties due to their poor water solubility. Increasing the water solubility of LPs could significantly expand their application in various food industries, making LPs a more competitive and functional plant-based protein source. Trehalose-conjugated LPs with better water solubility allow LPs to be used in other food products, such as plant-based protein beverages. Better solubility would enhance the clarity and smoothness of these products, making them more appealing to consumers.

Development of gluten-free pasta with chickpeas as a wheat flour substitute and fortified with carob, beetroot, and spinach

The study aimed to develop pasta dough using chickpeas as a substitute for wheat flour and fortified with carob, beetroot, and spinach. Three formulations of gluten-free pasta were prepared: F1 (chickpea flour 97% + carob powder 2% + CMC1%), F2 (chickpea flour 87% + carob powder 2% + beetroot powder 10% + CMC1%) and F3 (chickpea flour 87% + carob powder 2% + spinach powder 10% + CMC1%). Physical, chemical, rheological, and sensory characteristics of chickpea pasta were evaluated and compared to semolina flour (CS) as a control. In comparison with conventional wheat pasta, chickpea pasta has a higher content of protein, fiber, and polyphenolic compounds. The results indicated that the incorporation of chickpea as a main ingredient significantly increased the content of protein in the formulations of gluten-free pasta (17.50, 15.05 and 14.88% in F1, F3, and F2, respectively) compared to CS (12.10%). A similar trend was observed for the fiber content (0.45, 1.89, 2.16, and 2.29 in CS, F1, F2, and F3, respectively) and polyphenolic compounds (109.14, 112.14, 141.89, and 178.96 in CS, F1, F2, and F3, respectively). Chickpea pasta demonstrated strong acceptance across all sensory criteria, including texture, odor, shape, and taste. Therefore, this study suggests that chickpeas can serve as an effective substitute for wheat, thereby increasing the availability of healthy options for everyone, particularly for those with celiac disease, obesity, or diabetes.

Effect of Media on Lablab (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) for Yield and Quality under Soilless Vertical Farming System

Background: Lablab (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) is one of the important leguminous vegetable crops known for its highest content of protein. The area under cultivation is shrinking due to conversion of farm land into non-agricultural purposes. Under these circumstances, soilless vertical farming system is the only alternate cultivation system for increasing production of vegetables. Media play a major role in growth and yield of vegetables under soilless conditions. With this background, the present experiment was carried out to study the effect of growing media in lablab for high yield and quality under soilless vertical farming systems. Methods: Two lablab varieties viz., CO 5 (V1) and Arka Prasidhi (V2) were raised under five different media combinations viz., 100% cocopeat (M1), 50 % cocopeat + 50 % Vermicompost (M2), 50% cocopeat + 50 % FYM (M3), 50% cocopeat + 25% vermicompost + 25% FYM (M4) and Control (M5) with three replications during 2021-2022 and 2022-2023. This experiment was laid out in FCRD. The growth and yield parameters were recorded and the data was subjected to statistical analysis. Result: The experimental results revealed that both the varieties and growing media provided significant impact on growth, yield, quality and uptake of nutrients whereas dry matter content exhibited no significant impact among the different media. The pooled season data revealed that variety CO 5 observed for the overall superior performance while the media combination of 50% cocopeat + 50% Vermicompost considered superior for growth and yield characters where 50% cocopeat + 25% vermicompost + 25% FYM showed superiority for the quality parameters and uptake of nutrients.

Insect Production: A Circular Economy Strategy in Iceland

In this review, the multifaceted issue of food security is addressed, emphasizing the need for innovative and culturally appropriate solutions. Exploring insect livestock farming emerges as a potential remedy, offering a pathway to alleviate food insecurity and promote food sovereignty, particularly when integrated with social acceptability. Stakeholder engagement on both production and consumption fronts, coupled with sustained support, is vital for successful implementation. The expanding landscape of commercial insect farming in the West prompts questions about its broader scalability and equitable deployment, especially for vulnerable populations. Existing research gaps underscore the need for a coordinated effort across international, national, and legal frameworks to effectively integrate insect farming into existing agricultural systems. In this review, we have delved into the industrial-scale production processes of mealworms and black soldier flies (BSFs), known for their high protein content and organic waste conversion, covering small and industrial cultivation methods, offering insights into mealworm production life cycles, innovative rearing systems, and harvesting techniques. This review concludes with climate-specific recommendations for insect facilities, stressing the importance of sustainable practices, continuous research and development, effective market strategies and economic feasibilities in Iceland. In the context of escalating demand for sustainable protein sources, industrial-scale insect production emerges as a pivotal player in addressing global food security challenges.

Growth, Productivity and Nutrient Uptake Rates of Ulva lactuca and Devaleraea mollis Co-Cultured with Atractoscion nobilis in a Land-Based Seawater Flow-Through Cascade IMTA System

To advance environmentally friendly technologies in the aquaculture of Atractoscion nobilis, and simultaneously to diversify seafood production, a 79-day trial was conducted to assess the performance of Ulva lactuca and Devaleraea mollis cultured in the effluent from A. nobilis in a land-based integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system in southern California, USA. Water quality and performance of macroalgae were measured weekly. The impacted factors on the growth of macroalgae and nutrient uptake rate of macroalgae were assessed. The specific growth rate of juvenile A. nobilis was 0.47–0.52%/d. Total ammonia nitrogen in effluents of A. nobilis tanks ranged from 0.03 to 0.19 mg/L. Ulva lactuca and D. mollis achieved an average productivity of 24.53 and 14.40 g dry weight (DW)/m2/d. The average nitrogen content was 3.48 and 4.89% DW, and accordingly, the average nitrogen uptake rate was 0.88 and 0.71 g/m2/d, respectively. Temperature and nutrient concentration were key factors impacting macroalgae growth, and light intensity also impacted the growth of D. mollis. The high protein content of U. lactuca and D. mollis would make them good for use as human or animal food, or for use in other industries. Research on the interaction effects between seawater exchange rates and aeration rates on the performance and nutrient uptake rates of macroalgae will be conducted in future studies.

The Usefulness of Lordosis Load Test and Urinary Biochemistry in the Diagnosis of Orthostatic Proteinuria.

Introduction Renal disease is commonly suspected in patients with proteinuria. Renal biopsy might be considered based on the patient's clinical history and the results of diagnostic tests. However, as orthostatic proteinuria is benign and requires no treatment, it is important to obtain a diagnosis without renal biopsy whenever possible. Therefore, up to now, for the diagnosis of orthostatic proteinuria, in addition to resting urinalysis evaluation (disappearance of proteinuria), we have performed the lordosis load test and urine biochemistry of the samples showing peak proteinuria in a lordosis load test. Method We retrospectively enrolled all patients who visited the pediatric department and underwent the lordosis load test at Kanazawa Medical Center between 2011 and 2020. In the present study, samples with the highest concentrations of protein after the lordosis load test were subjected to general urinary biochemistry and urinary sediment analysis. Patients were followed up with the lordosis load test for several years. Results Enrolled in the study were 68 patients with OP. The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 11.5 years (range, six to 16 years). General urinary tests, urinary sediment, and urinary biochemistry including N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), alpha1-microglobulin(α1MG), and beta 2-microglobulin (β2MG) were normal in all patients with orthostatic proteinuria except one case who was a premature baby. Conclusion If proteinuria disappears after two hours of rest, and urinary biochemistry of the samples showing peak proteinuria in the lordosis load test is normal, orthostatic proteinuria can be diagnosed more accurately.

The Germination Performance After Dormancy Breaking of Leucaena diversifolia (Schltdl.) Benth. Seeds in a Thermal Gradient and Its Distribution Under Climate Change Scenarios.

Climate change models predict temperature increases, which may affect germination, an important stage in the recruitment of individuals in agroecosystems. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct research on how temperature will impact the germination of multipurpose native species. Leucaena diversifolia (Schltdl.) Benth. is native to America and is commonly cultivated around the world due to having a high protein content in seeds, and their trees are used in agrosilvopastoral systems because they fix nitrogen and provide shade and cattle feed. However, climate change affects the critical phases of its life cycle and influences its growth, reproduction, phenology, and distribution. To assess the germination performance of Leucaena diversifolia under different temperatures throughout thermal times, we estimated germination variables and determined cardinal temperatures and thermal time; we also analysed germination and potential distribution under two climate change scenarios. We found significant variations in seed germination (78-98%) and differences in cardinal temperatures (Tb = 5.17 and 7.6 °C, To = 29.42 and 29.54 °C, and Tc = 39.45 and 39.76 °C). On the other hand, the sub-optimal and supra-optimal temperature values showed little differences: 51.34 and 55.57 °Cd. The models used showed variations in germination time for the analysed scenarios and the potential distribution. We confirm that the populations and distribution of L. diversifolia will be altered due to climate changes, but the species retains the ability to germinate under warmer conditions.

Rearing fly larvae on various substrates: nutrient composition of larvae and frass.

Management solutions for waste in southern Thailand, such as fly larvae, are tested in a laboratory using different substrates and wastes from the Thai agricultural sector. The nutritional content of the immature stages of Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae) and Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae, especially their protein and fat contents, makes them a potential animal feed. Laboratory strains of M. domestica and H. illucens were reared on selected substrates to examine how diet influenced their performance and nutritional composition. Waste from aquaculture, vegetables, and fruits in southern Thailand was examined for larval diet and showed promise as a rearing substrate for these insects. Musca domestica larvae reared on fishery waste achieved the highest larval weight and fat content, whereas H. illucens larvae reared on an aquaculture waste diet had the highest protein content. These findings imply aquaculture waste could be the best choice for large-scale fly larvae production, particularly as a protein feed additive.

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

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

Deep learning based approach for actinidia flower detection and gender assessment

Pollination is critical for crop development, especially those essential for subsistence. This study addresses the pollination challenges faced by Actinidia, a dioecious plant characterized by female and male flowers on separate plants. Despite the high protein content of pollen, the absence of nectar in kiwifruit flowers poses difficulties in attracting pollinators. Consequently, there is a growing interest in using artificial intelligence and robotic solutions to enable pollination even in unfavourable conditions. These robotic solutions must be able to accurately detect flowers and discern their genders for precise pollination operations. Specifically, upon identifying female Actinidia flowers, the robotic system should approach the stigma to release pollen, while male Actinidia flowers should target the anthers to collect pollen. We identified two primary research gaps: (1) the lack of gender-based flower detection methods and (2) the underutilisation of contemporary deep learning models in this domain. To address these gaps, we evaluated the performance of four pretrained models (YOLOv8, YOLOv5, RT-DETR and DETR) in detecting and determining the gender of Actinidia flowers. We outlined a comprehensive methodology and developed a dataset of manually annotated flowers categorized into two classes based on gender. Our evaluation utilised k-fold cross-validation to rigorously test model performance across diverse subsets of the dataset, addressing the limitations of conventional data splitting methods. DETR provided the most balanced overall performance, achieving precision, recall, F1 score and mAP of 89%, 97%, 93% and 94%, respectively, highlighting its robustness in managing complex detection tasks under varying conditions. These findings underscore the potential of deep learning models for effective gender-specific detection of Actinidia flowers, paving the way for advanced robotic pollination systems.

Exploring Tenebrio molitor as a source of low-molecular-weight antimicrobial peptides using a n in silico approach: correlation of molecular features and molecular docking.

Yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae are increasingly recognized as a potential source of bioactive peptides due to their high protein content. Antimicrobial peptides from sustainable sources are a research topic of interest. This study aims to characterize the peptidome of T. molitor flour and an Alcalase-derived hydrolysate, and to explore the potential presence of antimicrobial peptides using in silico analyses, including prediction tools, molecular docking and parameter correlations. T. molitor protein was hydrolysed using Alcalase, resulting in a hydrolysate (TMH10A) with a 10% degree of hydrolysis. The peptidome was analysed using LC-TIMS-MS/MS, yielding over 6000 sequences. These sequences were filtered using the PeptideRanker tool, selecting the top 100 sequences with scores >0.8. Bioactivity predictions indicated that specific peptides, particularly WLNSKGGF and GFIPYEPFLKKMMA, showed significant antimicrobial potential, particularly against bacteria, fungi and viruses. Correlations were found between antifungal activity and physicochemical properties such as net charge, hydrophobicity and isoelectric point. The study identified specific T. molitor-derived peptides with strong predicted antimicrobial activity through in silico analysis. These peptides, particularly WLNSKGGF and GFIPYEPFLKKMMA, might offer potential applications in food safety and healthcare. Further experimental validation is required to confirm their efficacy. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Plant-Based Flocculants as Sustainable Conditioners for Enhanced Sewage Sludge Dewatering

With the aim to establish clean and sustainable sludge treatment, green conditioning using natural flocculants has recently gained a growing interest. In this study, a variety of plant materials, namely Moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds, Potato (Solanum tuberosum) peels, Aloe (Aloe vera) leaves, Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) cladodes, and Phragmites (Phragmites australis) stems, were evaluated for their potential bioflocculant activity in conditioning sewage sludge. They were thoroughly characterized to determine their active flocculating compounds. Sludge dewaterability was evaluated by assessing various sludge parameters, including specific resistance to filtration (SRF), dryness of filtration cake (DC), and total suspended solid removal (TSS) from sludge filtrate. The collected results from various physicochemical characterizations of plant materials suggest that the main flocculating agents are carbohydrates in Cactus and Fenugreek and proteins in Moringa, Potato, and Phragmites. Additionally, all tested plant-based flocculants demonstrated effective dewatering performance. Interestingly, compared to the chemical flocculant polyaluminum chloride, Moringa and Cactus showed superior conditioning effects, yielding the lowest SRF values and the highest DC. As a result, the use of these natural flocculants improved sewage sludge filterability, leading to a significant removal of total suspended solids from the filtrate. The conditioning properties of Moringa and Cactus can be attributed to their high protein and sugar content, which facilitates the effective separation of bound water from solids through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms. Thus, green conditioning using plant-based flocculants, particularly Moringa and Cactus materials, presents a promising and eco-friendly approach to enhance sewage sludge dewatering for safer disposal and valorization.

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

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

Strategic cultivar and sowing time selection for weed management and higher redgram productivity in semi-arid Indian regions

IntroductionRedgram (Cajanus cajan L. Mill sp.), a leguminous crop commonly grown in tropical and subtropical climates, is highly valued for its high protein content (21%), which contributes significantly to food and nutritional security. However, its production faces challenges primarily due to terminal dryness experienced during critical growth stages because of changing rainfall patterns. To overcome this, adaptive techniques become imperative as the productivity of this crop is intricately linked to environmental factors and the crop’s growth cycle.MethodsHence, the field experiment was conducted at the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, in South India under rainfed condition, during the kharif (monsoon) seasons of 2017–18 and 2018–19. The primary objectives were to determine the optimal sowing time and identify suitable redgram cultivars, especially in the context of the late onset of the monsoon in Tamil Nadu, a common issue under changing climate conditions. The experiments tested six different sowing dates with three redgram cultivars.Results and discussionThe findings highlighted the substantial influence of different redgram cultivars and sowing times on the crop’s growth characteristics and yield. Among the six sowing dates tested, planting in later half of June (S6) resulted in notably higher plant height (201 cm), a greater number of pods per plant (287), a seed yield of 1,112 kg ha−1, and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.61 Notably, this sowing period (S6) demonstrated comparable performance with the treatment of redgram sowing in the latter part of September (S4). CO 6 (V1) is the most productive of the three redgram cultivars, with the highest mean pant height (200 cm), number of pods per plant (237), grain yield (1,017 kg ha−1), and benefit cost ratio (2.38). Extended phenological phases along with extra days to reach phenological stages could account for the increased yield in comparison to the other cultivars. Among the two short-duration cultivars, VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) had a significantly higher mean grain yield of 958 kg ha−1 with the benefit-cost ratio of 2.24. Even though CO 6 (V1) obtained a higher yield due to its long duration nature, it matured in 187 days whereas VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) matured within 129 days. Consequently, the short-duration redgram cultivars emerge as highly suitable choices for integrating into crop sequences, thereby augmenting farm cropping intensity.

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

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

Spray Drying of Inca Peanut Meal Protein Hydrolysate to Produce Protein Powder Drink Mix

The optimal conditions (maltodextrin concentration and inlet air temperature) for spray drying Inca peanut meal protein hydrolysate (IMPH) were determined. The maltodextrin concentration was varied at 5, 10 and 15 % by weight, and inlet air temperature was varied at 150, 160 and 170 °C. The IMPH was subjected to spray drying, where the feed solution was atomized into fine droplets and exposed to a hot air stream, leading to rapid drying and the formation of powder. The moisture, protein, yield, water activity and water solubility index (WSI) of IMPH powder were analyzed. The optimal condition for spray drying IMPH powder utilized 10 % maltodextrin and an inlet air temperature of 160 °C. Under these conditions, the moisture, protein, yield and WSI of IMPH powder were 2.93, 36.93, 38.95 and 99.59 %, respectively, while water activity was 0.41. IMPH powder particles were spherical and non-agglomerate. Inca peanut meal protein powder drink mix (IMPD) with cocoa flavor was the most acceptable. The IMPD with cocoa flavor could be promoted as a high protein and high dietary fiber product. It could be kept at 35 ± 2 °C for 12 weeks, whilst retaining good microbiological properties. HIGHLIGHTS The optimal conditions for spray drying Inca peanut meal protein hydrolysate (IMPH) were determined to be 10% maltodextrin and an inlet air temperature of 160 °C. This resulted in high yield, protein content, and water solubility, while keeping moisture and water activity low. IMPH powder had spherical, non-agglomerated particles, and cocoa-flavored Inca peanut protein powder drink mix (IMPD) was the most preferred in sensory evaluations. The IMPD with cocoa flavor was identified as a high-protein, high-dietary-fiber product, suitable for storage at 35 °C for up to 12 weeks while maintaining good microbiological quality. The study highlights the nutritional benefits of the cocoa-flavored IMPD, which includes essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant properties. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

SVT 55: A High Yielding Rabi Sorghum Variety with Multiple Pest Tolerance

SVT 55 is a high yielding Rabi sorghum culture identified at Agricultural Research Station, Tandur, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Telangana and released by State Varietal Release Committee during 2023 in the name of Tandur Jonna 55 for the state of Telangana. It matures in 115-120 days and is adapted specifically to Rabi season. The culture recorded an average seed yield of 3245 kg/ha, with a mean grain yield advantage of 26 % over the popular check M 35-1and 12.3 % over the local check SVT 68 in the trials conducted during 2016-2022. The culture is moderately resistant to charcoal rot, recorded on par pest reaction score with respect to resistant checks for the insect pests of shoot fly, stem borer, aphids and fall army worm. It has high crude protein content (10.96 %) and good roti quality.

Multiplexed single-cell imaging reveals diverging subpopulations with distinct senescence phenotypes during long-term senescence induction.

Cellular senescence is a phenotypic state that contributes to the progression of age-related disease through secretion of pro-inflammatory factors known as the senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Understanding the process by which healthy cells become senescent and develop SASP factors is critical for improving the identification of senescent cells and, ultimately, understanding tissue dysfunction. Here, we reveal how the duration of cellular stress modulates the SASP in distinct subpopulations of senescent cells. We used multiplex, single-cell imaging to build a proteomic map of senescence induction in human epithelial cells induced to senescence over the course of 31 days. We map how the expression of SASP proteins increases alongside other known senescence markers such as p53, p21, and p16 INK4a . The aggregated population of cells responded to etoposide with an accumulation of stress response factors over the first 11 days, followed by a plateau in most proteins. At the single-cell level, however, we identified two distinct senescence cell populations, one defined primarily by larger nuclear area and the second by higher protein concentrations. Trajectory inference suggested that cells took one of two discrete molecular paths from unperturbed healthy cells, through a common transitional subpopulation, and ending at the discrete terminal senescence phenotypes. Our results underscore the importance of using single-cell proteomics to identify the mechanistic pathways governing the transition from senescence induction to a mature state of senescence characterized by the SASP.

Harnessing Bacillus subtilis QY5 PP784163 for Bioethanol Production from Potato Peel Waste and Nutrient Recovery for Animal Feed: Maximizing Resource Efficiency

The present work focuses on the utilization of potato peel waste for the production of bioethanol. In the present study, extensive screening was undertaken to isolate amylolytic and cellulolytic microbes using starchy biomass. After confirming the chemical composition of potato peel waste (PPW), several trials were performed to enhance the amylase and cellulase production from Bacillus subtilis to hydrolyze the PPW in submerged fermentation. Optimization of physical parameters was performed using both commercial and indigenous media from enzymatically hydrolyzed PPW. Different routes of various combinations were designed to enhance bioethanol production. The maximum ethanol titer of 0.50% and 0.41% was recorded in Route B and A, i.e., separate saccharification and ethanol fermentation and consolidated fermentation. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) also measured a good ethanol yield of 0.46%. The fermented residual cake was checked for nutritional components and showed a high content of protein and amino acids because of the addition of unicellular yeasts. This cake can be utilized as an animal feed supplement.

Clinical and pathological features of cerebrospinal meningitis caused by Pantoea agglomerans : a case report

BackgroundPantoea agglomerans (P. agglomerans) is a gram-negative bacterium that is commonly isolated from plant surfaces, seeds, and the environment. As an opportunistic pathogen, it can cause blood, urinary and soft tissue infections in immunocompromised patients. In central nervous system, P. agglomerans infection has been report in children and immune-compromised patients, however, infection by such bacterium in nontraumatized immune competent adults has not been reported. Here, we report a case of P. agglomerans cerebrospinal meningitis accompanied by positive anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO) antibody in a 49-year-old female who has a history of black fungus planting.Case presentationThe patient manifested with repeated fever, headache, generalized muscle pain, and neurological defects. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests revealed a moderately elevated number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (50–193 × 106/L), low glucose levels (0.54–2.44 mmo1/L), and extremely high protein content (2.42–25.42 g/L). Blood tests showed positive anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies lasting for 1.5 year before turning negative. Spine MRI showed thickening and enhancement of the whole spinal meninges. CSF metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) revealed 75,189 specific DNA reads of P. agglomerans. The patient underwent spinal laminectomy due to meningeal adhesions. Pathological results revealed fibrous tissue proliferation, inflammatory infiltration with focal necrosis and calcification in the dura mater. The patient was successfully treated with sufficient antibiotics at 1-year follow-up.ConclusionsPeople should be alert to CNS infections caused by P. agglomerans which presented with relatively mild clinical symptoms at onset, especially for those who contucts relevant agricultural and forestry work. The CSF characterization of P. agglomerans meningitis is elevated multiple nuclei white blood cells, significantly reduced glucose content, and markedly increased protein level which may be related to the secondary spinal membrane adhesions.