Higher Crude Fiber Research Articles

The Immature Stages of Sarcophaga dux (Diptera; Sarcophagidae): A Proposed Nutritional Source for Poultry

Background: Insects, particularly those belonging to the order Diptera, offer a promising alternative protein source for poultry with numerous advantages. Among these, Sarcophaga dux (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), a widely distributed global dipteran species, including Saudi Arabia, exhibits potential for waste management. This study was conducted to investigate the nutritional values of both larval and pupal stages of S. dux as well as the feed intake (FI) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR). S. dux flies (≈170 to 200 newly hatched larvae) were reared in standardized laboratory conditions until reaching the pupal stage. Methods: The daily feed intake was calculated for each larvae replicate and FCR was measured on the last day of the 3rd larval instar. Larvae and pupae from each replicate were subject to the proximate analysis, amino acids and minerals. Results indicated a progressive increase in FI throughout the development period, except for the last day of the 3rd larval instar. Result: The FCR demonstrated a higher value comparing to previous study. Furthermore, both larval and pupal stages exhibited high crude protein, lipid content and crude fibre with low dry matter and elevated ash content. The amino acid and mineral contents were also high, with low levels of heavy metals. Notably, the pupal stage displayed superior results in this study. These results may indicate that larvae and pupae of S. dux are promising sources of protein, minerals and potentially other essential nutrients which, in fact, suggest it as a nutritionally valuable food sources for poultry. Upon comparing the larval and pupal stages, it is evident that essential minerals are generally abundant in both stages except for manganese (Mn), which was found to be highest in pupae. However, it is noteworthy that the levels of heavy metals in both stages were low and exhibited no significant difference except for lead (Pb).

Phytochemical Screenings and Proximate Analysis of Different Parts of Senna alata Collected in Besut, Terengganu

This study is conducted to determine the presence of bioactive compounds in leaves, stems and flowers of Senna alata, to characterize the bioactive compound identified from its different parts and to investigate the proximate composition of different parts of Senna alata collected in Besut, Terengganu. Samples of Senna alata leaves, stems, and flowers were collected in Kampung Paya Rawa, Besut, Terengganu. Phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis were used to determine the chemical composition of different parts of Senna alata. The samples were also subjected to proximate analysis to determine their moisture, ash, crude fibre, crude protein, crude fat, and carbohydrate contents. Standard methods were used: moisture content by oven drying, ash content by muffle furnace incineration, crude fibre by acid and alkali digestion, crude protein by the Kjeldahl method, crude fat by Soxhlet extraction, and carbohydrate content calculated by difference. Data obtained from proximate analysis were analysed with one-way ANOVA. The findings show the presence of bioactive compounds in leaves, stems, and flowers of Senna alata such as alkaloid, phenol, tannin, saponin, quinone, and terpenoid which shows biological and pharmacological activities that proved the medicinal properties in Senna alata. GC-MS analysis reveals the detection of derivatives compound of azetidine, thiophene, thiazole, and triazole that supports the ethnomedicinal claims of Senna alata to treat various diseases. The results also reveal significant variations in the proximate composition among the different plant parts. The flower part exhibited the highest levels of moisture (30.88±0.44%), ash (7.49±0.28%), crude fat (6.98±0.03%), and carbohydrates (39.65±0.76%), while the stem contained the highest crude fibre (38.68±0.22%) and the leaves had the highest crude protein content (15.52±0.17%). In summary, the study proves that Senna alata contains bioactive compounds which exhibit biological and pharmacological properties. These findings suggest that different parts of Senna alata possess varying nutritional values and potential therapeutic benefits, particularly the leaves, which are rich in protein, and the flowers, which are high in energy sources. The results emphasise the possibility of using Senna alata as a biopesticide to treat ectoparasites infestation in animals, due to the presence of acaricidal chemicals in the plant.

Growth, Carcass and Feed Consumption of Native Chicken Given Feed Containing Fermented Cocoa Husk Flour

The improvement of the performance of native chicken needs to be balanced with the improvement of its ration. The ingredients of the ration used do not need to be expensive, but good quality, easy to obtain, and available throughout the year. One of the feed ingredients that is widely available and is waste is Cocoa skin. Fermented Cocoa skin has a nutritional content of 2.63%, crude fat 20.14%, crude fiber, 10.39% crude protein, calcium 7.18%, and phosphorus 2.06%. Cocoa skin, in addition to its high crude fiber, also contains antinutrients in the form of tannins. Therefore, fermentation is necessary. The design used in this study was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 5 (five) treatments and 3 (three) replications. The variables observed were Growth, ration consumption, protein consumption, Whole carcasses harvested when the chickens were 10 weeks old. The provision of fermented Cocoa skin up to 10% did not give a significant effect (P>0.05) on weight gain, final body weight, and whole carcass weight of native chicken aged 3-10 weeks. However, the provision of fermented Cocoa skin flour gave a significant effect on ration consumption, protein consumption, and energy consumption in native chicken aged 3-10 weeks. The best provision was obtained in the treatment of provision of fermented Cocoa skin flour as much as 5%

Comparison of nutrient composition and potential feed value of different cakes obtained by cold pressed method

This study aimed to determine nutrient composition and chemical properties of some cakes obtained by cold pressed method proposed as alternative protein sources, and to reveal their usability in animal feeding. The feed materials used in this study are safflower, black cumin (e and m), flaxseed (e and m), carrot seed, walnut, hempseed, and camelina seed cakes. The proximate analysis, metabolic energies, total phenolic content, total flavonoid and antioxidant activity of these cakes were determined and compared. The average percentage nutrients content of the cakes varies from 95.8 (walnut cake) to 91.9 (flaxseed cake e) for dry matter, from 13.1 (carrot seed) to 3.9 (safflower cake) for crude ash, from 23.5 (flaxseed e cake) to 5.5 (hempseed cake) for ether extract, from 46.8 (flaxseed cake m) to 20.0 (safflower cake) for crude protein, from 45.4 (walnut meal) to 21.9 (safflower cake) for nitrogen-free extract, and from 9.4 (flaxseed m) to 2.2 (safflower cake) for sugar. Starch content was below detectable level in all feed samples. The highest crude fiber was at 37.1, NDF at 52.7, and ADF at 40.4 were found in safflower cake. The highest metabolic energies for poultry (12.8 Mcal kg-1) and for ruminants (14.01 Mcal kg-1) were obtained from black cumin seed cake (e). The highest total flavonoid content (3.15 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid (2.64 mg QE/g) were found in walnut cake. The antioxidant activity (%) varied from 31.3 for black cumin seed cake (m) to 6.7 for camelina seed cake. Considering the high amount of crude protein (>20%) in the investigated cakes, it is concluded that they can be recommended as alternative protein sources for feeding livestock.

Performance Evaluation and Release of High-Yielding Dual-Purpose Rabi Sorghum Culture Tandur Jonna 1' (SVT 68) for Cultivation in Telangana, India

Aims: To develop a high yielding dual purpose Rabi sorghum culture suitable for the state of Telangana. Study of Design: Randomized Block Design. Place and Duration of Study: The Present study was conducted at AgriculturalResearch Station, Tandur, Vikarabad from 2007 to 2013 to breed the culture SVT 68 and subsequently evaluated in different trials from 2014 to 2021. Methodology: A high yielding, dual purpose Rabi sorghum variety was derived from a cross between PV 15 x CSV 216R through Pedigree method of breeding and subsequently it was evaluated instation level from 2014 – 2016, AICRP trial in 2017-18 in, state MLT in 2018-19, Minikits in 2019-2021 for its grain and fodder yields, resistance to pests and diseases and showed superior performance over the Popular check M 35-1. Results: The high yielding dual purpose Rabi sorghum culture SVT 68 recorded an average grain yield of 2993 kg/ha and fodder yield of 9258 kg/ha with an increase of grain yield of 17.3 per cent and fodder yield of 20.4 per cent, over the popular check M 35-1. The culture is moderately resistant to charcoal rot, shoot fly, tolerant to leaf blight and rust and on par with M 35-1 with respect to stem borer and aphid damage. It has high crude fibre content (2.71) and rich in micro nutrients Iron (41.86 mg/kg), Zinc (26.67 mg/kg) and Calcium (177.60 mg/kg). Conclusion: Owing to its superiority in terms of grain, fodder yields, pest, disease tolerance, nutritional quality, agronomic performance, higher net returns depicted in the form of Benefit cost ratio, the culture SVT 68 was released during 2021 in the name of Tandur Jonna 1 and notified for general cultivation by farmers in Telangana state.

Growth and physiological responses of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus fed dietary fermented sugar beet bagasse and reared in biofloc system

Sugar beet bagasse (SB) is a common agro-industrial waste used in animal feeds. However, its high crude fiber content makes it difficult for fish to digest. Fermentation processes can improve the nutritional value of SB by-products. The study uses Lactobacillus rhamnosus and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) to ferment SB waste for use as a soybean meal substitute in Nile tilapia fingerlings. This led to an increase in protein, lipid, ash, and nitrogen-free extracts, while the fiber content decreased. Four experimental isonitrogenous (crude protein: 249.2 g kg−1) and isocaloric (gross energy:18.25 MJ kg−1) diets were formulated as follows: a control diet with 0 % LYFSB (L. rhamnosus and yeast fermented SB), and three other diets with LYFSB replacing soybean meal (SBM) at levels of 10 % (LYFSB10 %), 20 % (LYFSB20 %), and 30 % (LYFSB30 %) based on protein content, over a 70-day period. 180 fingerlings of Nile tilapia (average initial weight of 5.19 ± 0.02 g) were placed at random in twelve circular plastic tanks (60 L capacity) with a stocking density of fifteen fish each. Nitrite and ammonia levels decreased as the replacement levels of LYFSB in tilapia diets increased, while nitrate levels showed the opposite trend. The phytoplankton community includes nine species in the biofloc system and four in tilapia gut content, with Chlorophyceae being the most common class, having the highest number in fish-fed diets (7805.67 organism/ml). The study revealed that LYFSB significantly influenced the zooplankton community, with protozoa dominating in biofloc water and rotifer in tilapia gut. LYFSB10 % and LYFSB20 % had the highest bacteria counts. Fish fed with LYFSB10 % and LYFSB20 % diets showed the highest values for specific growth rate (2.51 % day−1) and weight gain (24.92 g fish−1). These diets also exhibited increased activity levels of trypsin, lipase, and amylase enzymes. Increasing the inclusion of LYFSB in fish diets as a replacement for FM improved the intestinal and liver health of fish. The diets with LYFSB10 % and LYFSB20 % showed the highest levels of globulin, total protein, albumin, and IgM, with no significant differences between them. Fish fed LYFSB10 % had lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were highest in fish fed LYFSB10 % and LYFSB20 %, while malondialdehyde (MDA) activity was lowest in the LYFSB30 % diet. The study showed that the biofloc system enhanced water quality and increased the efficiency of tilapia fed LYFSB10 % and LYFSB20 %.

Chemical Composition and In Vitro Protein Digestibility of Duckweed and Feed Ingredients

Duckweed is an aquatic floating plant with the potential to be used as animal feed due to its richness in protein, amino acids, starch, vitamin and minerals. Furthermore, duckweed has a high growth rate and reproducibility. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the chemical composition and in vitro protein digestibility of duckweed (Lemna, Wolffia and Spirodela) in comparison to other feed ingredients. The chemical composition was determined through proximate analysis including dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fiber (CF), ash and nitrogen free extract. The in vitro protein digestibility procedure simulates conditions similar to those in the swine digestive tract using synthetic enzymes to control pH, temperature and digestion time. In the results of chemical composition, Lemna and Wolffia were classified as protein sources, with high CP content (221.87 and 442.65 g/kg DM, respectively) and low CF content (63.30 and 109.11 g/kg DM), whereas Spirodela had low CP content (179.64 g/kg DM) and CF content (170.57 g/kg DM). The EE content in duckweed amounted to 16.74, 46.23 and 52.47 g/kg DM for Wolffia, Spirodela and Lemna, respectively. Additionally, high ash content was observed in Spirodela (212.40 g/kg DM), Wolffia (149.34 g/kg DM) and Lemna (142.06). For standardized ileal digestibility (SIDCP), the SIDCP of all feed ingredients were within the range of 32 to 96 %. With regard to duckweed, Lemna (72 %) showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) SIDCP compared to Wolffia (69 %) and Spirodela (39 %) due to the low contents of CF and ash. Based on nutritional values, Lemna and Wolffia were grouped with corn DDGS and brewer’s grain, indicating their potential as animal feed for sustainable livestock production. HIGHLIGHTS Duckweed exhibited high protein content, ranging from 179.64 to 65 g/kg dry matter. For in vitro protein digestibility, Lemna and Wolffia had high true digestibility, amounting to 79 and 75 %, respectively. Based on nutritional values, Lemna and Wolffia were grouped with corn DDGS and brewer’s grain, indicating their potential as animal feed for sustainable livestock production. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Determination of proximate analysis of individual and combined samples of <i>Dioscorea alata</i>, <i>Musa parasidiaca</i> and <i>Xanthosoma sagittifolium</i> peels

This study investigates the proximate composition of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) plant wastes, with a focus on evaluating the impact of the individual and combined plant wastes. Tubers of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) used in this study were obtained from Obibi in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Yams are tubers, plantains are fruits, whereas cocoyam is derived from corms, underground stems, and swollen hypocotyls. All these crops can be propagated by vegetative parts and these include tubers (yams), sucker (Plantain) and side shoots, stolons, or corm heads (cocoyam). Peels from the yam tubers were obtained by using a kitchen knife to carefully remove the peels. The peels were then immediately oven dried at 45oC for 24 hours. The dried peels were then ground through a 40-mesh screen using a Wiley. Analyses conducted isproximate determination using AOAC method. The results highlight the high ash content of Yam and Cocoyam Peel, which contributes to mineral enrichment; the enhanced moisture content of Plantain Peel, which has implications for water retention; and the low fat and oil content of Cocoyam Peel, which suggests that it is appropriate for use as a low-fat organic material. Yam Peel has a high crude fiber level, which indicates that it has the capacity to improve the structure of the soil. On the other hand, Yam and Cocoyam Peel stand out because it has largest protein content, which is essential for the development of plants. Plantain and cocoyam peel have the largest carbohydrate content, making it an excellent source of energy for the bacteria and plants that live in the soil below it. These findings have practical implications for sustainable agriculture by optimizing crop yields in diverse agro ecosystems.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF BRACHIARIA RUZIZIENSIS AS INFLUENCED BY FERTILIZER RATE, PLANT SPACING, AND HARVEST AGE

The study was aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of Brachiaria ruziziensis forage as influenced by fertilizer rate, plant spacing, and harvest age. The study was a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement with 3 fertilizer rates of NPK 15:15:15 (0, 120, and 240 kgN ha-1), 2 plant spacing (0.5m x 0.5m and 1.0m x 1.0m), and 2 age at harvest (8 and 10 weeks after planting (WAP). The proximate and fibre fractions of the forage based on different treatments were determined. Results showed that fertilizer rates significantly (P<0.05) increased the crude protein (40%) and ash (11.42%) contents of B. ruziziensis that received 240kgN ha-1, while higher crude fibre (16.45%) was recorded in B. ruziziensis with fertilizer rate of 120 kgN ha-1. Sowing of the grass at an interval of 1.0 m2 recorded a higher significant (P<0.05) effect on ether extract (EE) (4.82%). The highest values for acid detergent lignin (16.78%), acid detergent fiber (48.23%), neutral detergent fiber (63.79%), cellulose (31.45%), and hemicellulose (63.79%), as influenced by harvest age, were recorded for the grass sowed at 1.0m2. In conclusion, the application of fertilizer at 240kg N/ha rate, spacing of 1.0m2, and harvested at 10 weeks promotes better nutrient quality of Brachiaria ruziziensis grass.

Oxidative stress markers in brain and gonads of rabbit bucks fed herbal supplements

BackgroundCurrently, there is an increase in the usage of phytogenic feed additives to help improve animal welfare and productivity, while less emphasis is now placed on metabolic and oxidative stability of neuronal and testicular tissues. This study aims at investigating the effects of Moringa oleifera, Phyllanthus amarus and Viscum album as feed additives on some metabolic indicators and oxidative status of rabbit testis and brain. Isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated with 5% supplementation of each of the phytogenic additive to 3 treatment groups and basal diet group.ResultsIt was revealed that moringa, mistletoe, and phyllanthus can modulate oxidative status in both the brain and gonads of rabbit bucks through their unique phytochemical compositions, thereby affecting reproductive and cognitive functions. Moringa, rich in crude protein, saponins, glycosides, and steroids, enhances protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels but increases lipid peroxidation in the testis. Mistletoe, with high crude fiber, ash, and antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins, boosts total antioxidant activity in several brain regions and reduces lipid peroxidation, indicating its potential for reducing oxidative stress. Phyllanthus, having the least fiber and ash but effective antioxidant properties, notably affects the oxidative balance in both the testis and brain, with varied impacts on different tissues. The result obtained showed that total antioxidant activity of the left testis was enhanced (p < 0.05) by inclusion of the phytogenic additives, while total antioxidant activity of the right testis in bucks fed on phytogenic additives were similar (p > 0.05) to bucks on basal diet. Bucks fed on moringa and phyllanthus additives had higher (p < 0.05) testicular lipid peroxidation, lowered testicular protein and/or lactate dehydrogenase. Result also shows that lipid peroxidation of hypothalamus, cerebrum, olfactory lobe and cerebellum were lowest in bucks fed on mistletoe, phyllanthus, phyllanthus and phyllanthus, respectively. High catalase activity of optic lobe, olfactory lobe and cerebellum were observed in bucks fed on mistletoe, moringa and mistletoe, respectively, while glutathione peroxidase activity in hypothalamus, cerebrum, olfactory lobe and pineal was enhanced (p < 0.05) in bucks fed on moringa and mistletoe compared to bucks on other treatment.ConclusionM. oleifera, P. amarus and V. album leaves as phytogenic feed additives in rabbit diets have negative effect on the metabolic activity of the testis, enhancing antioxidant activity in the brain.

Nutritional composition of gedi (Abelmoschus manihot) leaves powder in comparison to common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia

Abstract. Winata GM, Hardinsyah H, Marliyati SA, Rimbawan R, Andrianto D. 2024. Nutritional composition of gedi (Abelmoschus manihot) leaves powder in comparison to common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2583-2589. Galactagogue is a substance believed to help initiate, maintain, and increase breast milk production. Low or no breast milk production and perceived insufficient milk are the most common reasons that cause a mother to stop breastfeeding earlier. To help this problem, natural galactagogue consumption is highly recommended. Gedi (Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik) plant is locally used in Indonesia as food ingredient and medicinal plant. The leaves have been believed for generations to increase breast milk production. This study aimed to evaluate the macro- and micronutrient content of gedi leaves powder, compared to torbangun (Coleus amboinicus) and katuk (Sauropus androgynous) leaves powder as common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Clean fresh leaves were oven-dried and ground. Carbohydrates, crude fiber, protein, fat, ash, energy, water, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, E, and K, mineral calcium, iron, magnesium, sodium, zinc, phosphorus, and potassium were analyzed using standard methods. The analysis result showed that gedi leaves powder contained highest carbohydrate (51%), crude fiber (10.3%), vitamin K (1,110 µg/100 g), mineral magnesium (700 mg/100 g), sodium (89.6 mg/100 g), and calcium (2,671 mg/100 g) content, which were significantly different compared to torbangun and katuk leaves powder (P&lt;0.05). Total energy (344 kcal/100 g), protein (25%), ash (13.6%), zinc (4.8 mg/100 g), potassium (2,314 mg/100 g), and iron (8.9 mg/100 g) content of gedi leaves powder were between torbangun and katuk leaves powder. This study showed that gedi leaves powder had a high carbohydrate, crude fiber, vitamin K, and mineral, especially calcium and magnesium, and sufficient protein and energy content, compared to torbangun and katuk leaves powder as common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Further research in the extraction, bioactive compound, and in vivo study has to be carried out to scientifically prove the galactagogue effects of gedi leaf powder.

Effect of Andean Lupin (Lupinus mutabilis) genotype and harvest altitude on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of flours

Andean Lupin (Lupinus mutabilis S.) or tarwi, a legume cultivated in the Andean region of South America, is considered a protein source. In this work, flours were prepared from different Andean Lupin genotypes, namely Cholo Fuerte (CHF), Común (CM), or Altagracia (ALT), grown at 2700 (1) or 3300 (2) meters above sea level. The effect of genotype and growth altitude on the chemical composition, color, phytochemical (alkaloids, free phenolics, fatty acids, and sterols) content, antioxidant activity, and microbiological quality of the flours was evaluated. CM-1 flour had higher protein, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and Δ5-avenasterol content. CHF-1 flour had higher crude fiber, Δ7-campesterol, clerosterol, and saturated fatty acid (SFA) content and higher antioxidant activity. ALT-2 flour had the highest total sterol content, particularly stigmasterol and β-sitosterol. None of the flours contained alkaloids or microorganisms, confirming that the preparation process was efficient. Andean Lupin cultivated at high and low altitude provides flour with high phytosterol and PUFA content, respectively. CM-1 flour has potential use in the food and nutraceutical industry due to its higher protein, essential fatty acid or PUFA, and total sterol content as well as low SFA content.

Effect of different cooking oils and methods on physicochemical, nutritional, and microbial safety for mixed vegetables focusing on Bangladesh

SummaryCooking is an essential aspect of everyday life. Cooking oils and methods exert enormous effects on the nutritional, physicochemical, microbial qualities, and bioactive compounds of vegetables. Most of them are either directly or indirectly related to human health. Hence, the present investigation was undertaken to find out the effect of two cooking methods (traditional and steam cooking) and four selected culinary oils (soybean oil, mustard oil, extra virgin olive oil, and extra virgin coconut oil) on the cooked vegetables. The results indicated that steam‐cooked mixed vegetables retained more nutrients than traditional ones. The traditional cooking method of preparing mixed vegetables with soybean oil revealed higher amounts of crude fat, 26.90 ± 0.10%, whereas steam cooking and traditionally cooked vegetables without oils showed lower amounts of crude fat, 1.21 ± 0.04%, and 1.94 ± 0.04%, respectively. The highest crude fibre from 5.68 ± 0.20 to 6.48 ± 0.02% was recorded by the steam‐cooked vegetables in comparison with traditionally prepared mixed vegetables. Traditionally cooked vegetables with mustard oil showed a higher crude protein (13.30 ± 0.10%). The mixed vegetables that were steam‐cooked using extra virgin olive oil revealed a decreased percent of carbohydrates, 49.42 ± 0.03%. Most of the essential minerals especially for the human body like Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, and Zn were found notable in both traditional and steam‐cooking processes using extra virgin olive oil, and mustard oil. The leading bioactive compound ß‐carotene 67.04 ± 0.04 mg/100 g was noted by the steam‐cooked vegetables with mustard oil. The highest anthocyanin 32.69 ± 0.02 mg/100 g and ascorbic acid 42.31 ± 0.01 mg/100 g were recorded in the steam‐cooked vegetables without culinary oils. Steam‐cooking with extra virgin coconut and olive oil resulted in high total carotenoid and phenolic content (31.60 ± 0.05 and 3.11 ± 0.04 mg/100 g, respectively). However, the findings suggest that culinary oils used in the present study retained more essential minerals and bioactive compounds than soybean oil. Only sufficient amount of edible oil may be used for vegetables cooking and proper functioning of fat‐soluble vitamins.

Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals the Genetic Basis of Crude Fiber Components in Brassica napus L. Shoots at Stem Elongation Stage.

Brassica napus is currently the principal field crop for producing materials for primary, secondary and tertiary industries. B. napus shoots at stem elongation stage are rich in anthocyanins, vitamin C and mineral elements such as selenium, calcium and zinc, and represent a new type of green vegetable. However, the high crude fiber (CF) content of B. napus shoots affects their taste, and few studies have focused on the quality traits of these vegetables. In this study, we investigated five traits related to the CF components, including neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), hemicellulose (Hem) and cellulose (Cel), of B. napus shoots. Whole-genome resequencing at a depth of ∼20× was utilized to genotype an association panel of 202 diverse accessions, which resulted in the identification of 6,093,649 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 996,252 indels, respectively. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed for the five CF-related traits based on the phenotypic data observed in four environments. A total of 1,285 significant SNPs were detected at the threshold of -log10 (p) = 5.16, and 97 significant association regions were obtained. In addition, seven candidate genes located on chromosomes A2 (one gene), A8 (three genes), A9 (two genes) and C9 (one gene) related to CF traits were identified, and ten lines containing low CF contents were selected as excellent germplasm resources for breeding. Our results contributed new insights into the genetic basis of CF traits and suggested germplasm resources for the quality improvement of B. napus shoots.

COMPARISON OF PROXIMATE COMPOSITION, PHYTOCHEMICAL CONTENTS, ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY AND POLYPHENOLS IN BROSIMUM ALICASTRUM LEAF, FRUIT AND SEED

Ramon nut (B. alicastrum) is known to contain bioactive compounds and has been used for medicinal and food purposes for millennia. In the present study the objectives were to quantify and compare the proximal composition, phytochemical contents, in vitro antioxidant capacity and individual phenolic compounds in B. alicastrum leaf, fruit peel, seed and seed coat. Patterns were recognized using canonical discriminant analysis. After freeze-drying, proximate analyses were done. Phenolic compounds in the leaf, fruit peel, seed and seed coat of B. alicastrum were identified by HPLC-UV. Leaf had the highest ash, lipid and protein contents, seed coat had high crude fiber content and seeds high carbohydrates content. The highest (33.13 %) and lowest (4.77 %) yields of extraction (compounds) were obtained from the fruit peels and seed coat, respectively. Phytochemical screening revealed abundant terpenes and tannins in leaf tissue, and abundant sterols in seed coat. Total phenolic content (TPC) was highest (P≤0.05) in seeds (19.74 mg gallic acid equivalent GAE/g) and total flavonoids content (TFC) was highest (P≤0.05) in leaves (16.62 mg quercetin equivalent QE/g). The highest DPPH antioxidant capacity was identified in seed coat and the highest reducing power (RP) in leaf and fruit peel. The HPLC analysis identified caffeic acid as the most abundant phenolic compound in leaves, gallic acid as the most abundant in seeds, chlorogenic acid in seed coat and 3-hydroxytyrosol in fruit peel. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effectively differentiated the samples by tissue. Proximal chemical composition and bioactive compounds contents differed between B. alicastrum tissues, but they all contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant potential, highlighting their potential applications in food and non-food systems. Key words: antioxidants; phytochemicals; plant-extracts; Ramón.

Effects of Konjac (Amorphophallus muelleri Blume) Flour Addition and Drying Time on the Crude Fiber and Texture Level of Instant Yellow Rice

Instant yellow rice is a traditional breakfast dish prepared using special technology for quick and practical cooking and a longer shelf life. Since rice has low crude fiber content as the main ingredient, substitution with local sources, such as konjac flour, can be made. Konjac flour is the powdered root of konjac plant, and it contains high crude fiber. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the texture and crude fiber properties of instant yellow rice with the addition of konjac flour. Furthermore, a completely randomized design (CRD) was used with two factors, namely variations in konjac flour concentration (2%, 3%, and 4%) and variations in drying time (5 hours, 6 hours, and 7 hours). Each sample was analyzed for the physical (hardness, stickiness and chewiness texture) and chemical characteristics (crude fiber content). The results showed that the konjac flour concentration had a significant (p&lt;0.05) effect, while the drying time had no significant (p&lt;0.05) effect on the physical and chemical characteristics of instant yellow rice. Therefore, 5 hours of drying might be enough for the rice processing. The addition of 2% konjac flour on instant yellow rice dried for 5 hours showed 2.48±0.50 a N of hardness texture, 5.53±0.07 c N stickiness texture, 4.59±0.02 a N chewiness texture, and 5.20% of crude fiber. Addition of 3% konjac flour on instant yellow rice dried for 5 hours showed 5.74±0.08 b N of hardness texture, 4.73±0.17 b N stickiness texture, 4.37±0.05 a N chewiness texture, and 5.20% of crude fiber. The addition of 4% konjac flour on instant yellow rice dried for 5 hours showed 6.41±0,02 c N of hardness texture, 4.06±0.70 b N stickiness texture, 3.33±1.52 a N chewiness texture, and 5.35% crude fiber. This showed the best treatment was the use of instant yellow rice with 4% konjac flour addition at 5 hours drying time.

Study on the Characteristics of Coarse Feeding Tolerance of Ding'an Pigs: Phenotypic and Candidate Genes Identification.

Ding'an (DA) pig, a prominent local breed in Hainan Province, exhibits notable advantages in coarse feeding tolerance and high-quality meat. To explore the potential genetic mechanism of coarse feeding tolerance in DA pigs, 60-day-old full sibling pairs of DA and DLY (Duroc-Landrace-Yorkshire) pigs were subjected to fed normal (5%) and high (10%) crude fiber diets for 56 days, respectively. The findings showed that increasing the crude fiber level had no impact on the apparent digestibility of crude fiber, intramuscular fat, and marbling scores in DA pigs, whereas these factors were significantly reduced in DLY pigs (p < 0.05). Through differential expression analysis and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) of the colonic mucosal transcriptome data, 65 and 482 candidate genes with coarse feeding tolerance in DA pigs were identified, respectively. Joint analysis screened four key candidate genes, including LDHB, MLC1, LSG1, and ESM1, potentially serving as key regulated genes for coarse feeding tolerance. Functional analysis revealed that the most significant pathway enriched in differential genes associated with coarse feeding tolerance in Ding'an pigs was the signaling receptor binding. The results hold substantial significance for advancing our understanding of the genetic mechanisms governing coarse feeding tolerance in Ding'an pigs.

The Growth &amp; Survival of Tilapia Fry (Oreochronis niloticus) with the Addition of Fermented Coconut Pulp to Feed

Feed is one of the components that support the aquaculture business, hence the available feed must be sufficient and meet the needs of the fish. The use of coconut pulp as a feed ingredient is limited by its low protein content and high crude fiber content, which reduces the feed's digestibility level. Fermentation is a technology used to increase protein content and reduce crude fiber content, and increase protein digestibility. A. adding fermented coconut pulp 65%, commercial feed 35%, B. adding fermented coconut pulp 45%, commercial feed 55%, C. adding fermented coconut pulp 25%, 75% commercial feed, D. Control (100% commercial feed). This study aimed to analyze the effect of adding fermented coconut pulp to the commercial feed on the growth and survival of tilapia fry (Orechromis niloticus). The research is an experimental study using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 3 replications for 12 experimental units. The results showed that the addition of fermented coconut pulp to tilapia feed had no significant effect on absolute weight and absolute length growth, but had a significant effect on the survival rate of tilapia fry. The best dose of adding fermented coconut pulp to the feed was found in the 25% treatment. The addition of fermented coconut pulp up to 45% did not make a significant difference with the use of commercial feed (control). This indicates the addition of fermented coconut pulp up to 45% can still be given to fish, hence it can be recommended that the addition of fermented coconut pulp to the feed should not exceed 45%.

Phytochemical Constituents and Antimicrobial Activity of Marine Green Seaweed Ulva lactuca

The aim of this study is to determine the presence of Ulva seaweeds, possibly by analyzing the quality of seaweed powder extracts and some organic solvents. It belongs to the order Ulvaales. Ulva lactuca is a widespread macro algae growing the Mediterranean coast phylum Chlorophyta, commonly known as “sea lettuce”. Collected from the Gulf of Mannar Tamil Nadu, India. Dry the Ulva seaweeds and grind it in a food processor until it becomes a fine powder. The powder is dried in an oven at 600c for 24 hours. Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Saponins and Tannins. dried seaweed nutrients rich in energy 252.72kcal/mg/gm, carbohydrates 49.63mg/gm, less protein 12.21mg/gm, fat 1.04mg/gm less than gm, high crude fiber, ash15.8mg/g, high moisture 21.74mg/g. in the UV –visible spectrum of seaweed extract TLC analysis 200-800nm found a high value of0.925, to0.477, GC-MS RF value of8.014, and FTIR analysis of seaweeds Ulva found a high value of 618 to 3525cm-1 and HPLC showed retention time 2.213- 3.730. The antimicrobial studies maximum inhibition zone, minimum concentrations, minimum inhibition zone and maximum activity of Klebsiella pneumoniae, are methanol extract 10mm, Staphylococcus aureus, ethyl acetate extract11mm, Candida albicans 10.5mm were respectively.

Proximate, Minerals and Vitamins Analyses of Some Common Foods in Nigeria

Nutritional composition is a key factor that must be considered in our daily choice of diets. Hence, the need for nutritional analysis of these five (5) common Nigerian solid foods (poundo yam, semovita, corn flour, cassava flour, and wheat flour). The flour samples were chemically analysed for proximate and Mineral elements: magnesium, iron, sodium and calcium composition, using the methods described by Association of Analytical chemist. Vitamin A content was determined by spectrophotometric method while Vitamin C content was determined using the spectrometric method coupled with DNPH procedures. The result revealed that Poundo yam had the highest carbohydrate content (82.695%) and least in the following parameters; moisture (7.55%), calcium (30.075mg), iron (9.20mg), sodium (15.565mg), and magnesium (26.185mg) among other samples. Semovita has the highest protein content (16.3%), vitamin A (0.52mg) and vitamin C (3.61mg). Wheat flour was rated highest in ash (1.82%) and sodium (25.3mg) contents respectively. It was also observed that wheat flour had the least content of vitamin A (0.09mg). Corn flour was highest in crude fat (5.5%). Cassava flour had the highest crude fibre (1.9%), calcium (228.55mg), iron (17.85mg) and magnesium (88.55mg), and turned out to be least in protein (1.025%) and vitamin C (0.44mg) content.