Low Fiber Content Research Articles

Effect of Genotype and Environment on Yield and Technological and Nutrition Traits on Winter Rye Grain from Organic Production

This study aimed to determine genotype and environment effects on the yield and selected quality traits of winter rye from organic production. The tested material was grain of two hybrid rye cultivars, Tur and KWS Dolaro, and five population cultivars of rye, Dańkowskie Hadron, Dańkowskie Granat, Dańkowskie Turkus, Dańkowskie Skand, and Piastowskie. Field trials were performed at two locations in Poland, Osiny and Grabów, in two growing seasons, 2018/2019 and 2019/2020. The grain yield, moisture content, falling number, thousand-grain weight, and hectoliter weight were determined. The content of basic nutrients, protein, minerals, lipids, carbohydrates, and dietary fibre, as well as the viscosity of aqueous extracts of grain, were also determined. This study revealed that environmental factors, such as harvest year and growing location, as well as the genotype factor, had the greatest effect on the viscosity of aqueous extracts and protein content. The study’s hybrid cultivars, Tur and KWS Dolaro, are characterized by significantly higher yield but lower dietary fibre and protein contents in rye grain and lower viscosity of aqueous compared to all study population cultivars. Of all the studied population cultivars of rye, the grain of the cultivar Dańkowskie Skand was found to be the most beneficial in terms of nutritional value because it was characterized by the highest viscosity of aqueous extracts.

Optimizing Sorghum for California: A Multi-Location Evaluation of Biomass Yield, Feed Quality, and Biofuel Feedstock Potential

Sorghum cultivars, particularly those used for forage and biomass, present significant potential as drought-resistant crops suitable for animal feed and biofuel production. This study evaluated 59 sorghum hybrids over five years (2019–2023) across three University of California research farm locations in the Central Valley: Kearney REC (KARE), West Side REC (WSREC), and Davis. The primary aim was to identify genotypes that exhibit high yield and stability across diverse environments in California, which is crucial for meeting the state’s significant feed needs associated with dairy operations and animal production. The evaluation focused on biomass yields, forage quality traits such as Relative Feed Quality (RFQ) and milk yield per ton (milk/ton), and biofuel-relevant chemical compositions like Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) and starch. A multi-trait stability index was employed to pinpoint superior genotypes that combine high yield with desirable quality traits. Results indicated significant genotypic, environmental, and genotype-by-environment (GxE) interaction effects for all traits except fat and water-soluble sugars. Eight hybrids were notable for maintaining high and stable biomass yields across different locations. Additionally, high fat and starch content were found to correlate with improved milk/ton potential, while lower fiber content (ADF, NDF) was associated with enhanced RFQ. Specifically, nine hybrids were identified as optimal for dairy forage due to their combination of high yield, RFQ, and milk/ton. Furthermore, distinct hybrids were identified for first-generation (starch-based) and second-generation (NDF-based) biofuel strategies. Three hybrids stood out as having desirable traits for both feed and biofuel applications, underscoring their versatility. This study highlights the utility of a multi-trait stability index in selecting superior sorghum genotypes for specific trait combinations. The identified candidates for forage and biofuel use, especially the multipurpose varieties, offer valuable insights that can aid growers and industry stakeholders in developing more sustainable and versatile sorghum production systems in California. Findings from this study contribute significantly to the development of more resilient sorghum production systems. By identifying hybrids that excel in both yield and quality across various environments, this research supports future cropping decisions aimed at enhancing water use efficiency and drought resilience in sorghum cultivation. These advancements are crucial for maintaining competitive dairy operations and advancing biofuel production in the face of climate change-induced challenges.

Dietary inclusion of fibrous corn silages reduces gastric mucosa damage in fattening heavy pigs

BackgroundSeveral surveys conducted at slaughter sites have highlighted that gastric lesions are a widespread issue in fattening pigs, mainly due to feeding regimes. Diets with small particle sizes and low fibre contents guarantee high digestibility and performance but generate more rapid stomach emptying with a negative effect on gastric mucosa integrity. Providing fattening pigs with fibrous materials (e.g., straw provided in racks) or coarse fibrous ingredients (e.g., coarse silages) reduced the presence of gastric ulcers. The present research compares a traditional corn-soy-based diet with an experimental diet where bran and a portion of corn meal was substituted with whole ear and whole plant corn silages at the maximum dosages permitted by new Protected Designation of Origin for Italian dry-cured ham (20 and 10% of DM, respectively). This study aimed to examine the impact of the inclusion of corn silages in the diet on the productive performance of heavy Italian pigs and their ability to mitigate gastric mucosa damage.ResultsThe growth performances were satisfactory (750–800 g/d) given the advanced interval of growth of animals (from 120 to 180 kg). However, the inclusion of corn silages tended to reduce the growth rate by 5–6% due to the reduction of organic matter digestibility, without compromising the slaughter traits or the back-fat fatty acid profile. The experimental diet substantially affected both stomach development and mucosal integrity. The first consequence was an increase in stomach weight of approximately 6% (P < 0.01) but the most notable advantage of coarse feeding was a reduction in stomach damage severity, with a low number of cases with higher scores in animals fed coarse materials (P < 0.01).ConclusionsThe dietary inclusion of corn silages (30% of diet DM) decrease effectivelly the severity of stomach damage in finishing heavy pigs. Based on the feeding trial performances, the perspective of feeding heavy pigs corn silage should consider specific agronomic and harvesting techniques to improve digestibility and not reduce the growth rate.

Investigation of Impact Behaviour of Sisal Fiber Reinforced Phenol Formaldehyde Composites

Short Sisal fiber reinforced Phenol Formaldehyde resin composites are prepared with varied fiber lengths (5 mm and 10 mm) and for varied weight fraction (20%, 25% and 30%) of the fibers. Here in this work, Sisal fiber is used as reinforcement. Since it is abundantly available in nature and majority of it is getting wasted without being used as reinforcement in engineering applications. Over the last thirty years composite materials, plastics and ceramics have been the dominant emerging materials. The 10 mm fiber length reinforced composite shown improved mechanical properties than 5 mm fiber length reinforced composite. Increase in impact strength is seen when the fiber content in the composite is increased from 20% to 25% and 25% to 30%. The fiber strength, for different fiber lengths and fiber volume fraction, the work of fracture is proportional to the fiber length and fiber volume fraction. Although results show increment in impact strength with fiber volume fraction, proportionality is not demonstrated. This suggests that there are other mechanisms that affect the impact strength of the composites. Crack propagation is the predominant toughening mechanism in notched impact test. Improvement in impact strength characterizes that fibers as stress transferring medium are able to absorb impact energy effectively. Good interaction with crack increases the energy needed for further crack formation and propagation. The exceptional case could be due to low fiber content and relatively short fiber length so that the energy is not dissipated effectively. Weak interfacial bonding of natural fibers is mainly due to incompatibility of hydrophobic matrix and hydrophilic fiber. High moisture absorption causes dimensional changes of natural fibers as well.

УДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ ТЕХНОЛОГІЇ КЕКСІВ З ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ ЛЮПИНОВОГО БОРОШНА

The article is devoted to improving the technology of cupcakes by introducing lupine flour into their recipe. Lupine flour has been determined to be free of cholesterol, gluten and stomach irritants; modern sweet varieties do not contain alkaloids. Due to its low starch content and high dietary fiber content, it has a very low glycemic index (GI) and is recommended as an element in the diet of diabetics or people who want to lose weight, lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides and regulate blood pressure. Lupine flour contains up to 40% protein. Its fractional composition contains salt- and water-soluble proteins - 82-85%, alkali-soluble - 5-8%, insoluble fraction - 9-10%, alcohol-soluble proteins are completely absent. In terms of amino acid composition, lupine protein has a high content of lysine, threonine and leucine compared to other proteins contained in legumes. These amino acids have a positive effect on the young body (lysine and threonine) and are used in the treatment of diseases such as liver disease and anemia (leucine). In the work, 3 samples of cupcakes were developed with a partial replacement of wheat flour with lupine flour. After baking, samples with the addition of lupine flour were determined by organoleptic quality indicators, namely taste, smell, shape, texture, surface, structure and cross-sectional view. Research data showed that the addition of lupine flour in the amount of 15.0%...30.0% significantly improved the texture of the muffins compared to the control sample. The sample of the cake with a partial replacement of wheat flour with lupine flour meets the requirements of a healthy diet to the greatest extent due to the increased content of proteins (22.83%) and the reduced content of carbohydrates (36.33%). In general, the analysis of the chemical composition according to the content of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates showed the advantage of the improved recipes of the "Stolichny" cake, in particular, according to the content of the amino acid composition of proteins and fats, as well as reduced calorie content. Based on the results of the research, it can be concluded that the improved muffins expand the assortment of flour confectionery products for healthy nutrition with the content of essential amino acids in their optimal ratio.

Influences of superfine-grinding and mix enzymolysis alone or combined with hydroxypropylation or acetylation on the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of coconut endosperm residue fiber.

Coconut endosperm residue is an abundant and low-cost resource of dietary fiber, but the low soluble fiber content limits its functional properties and applications in the food industry. To improve the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties, coconut endosperm residue fiber (CERF) was modified by superfine-grinding and mix enzymatic hydrolysis alone, or combined with acetylation or hydroxypropylation. The effects of these modifications on the structure and functional properties were studied using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, and in vitro tests. After these modifications, the microstructure of CERF became more porous, and its soluble fiber content, surface area, water adsorption, and expansion capacities were all improved (p < 0.05). Moreover, superfine-grinding and mix enzymolysis combined with acetylation treated CERF showed the highest surface hydrophobicity (48.96) and cholesterol and cholate adsorption abilities (33.72 and 42.04mg∙g‒1). Superfine-grinding-, mix enzymolysis-, and hydroxypropylation-treated CERF exhibited the highest viscosity (17.84 cP), glucose adsorption capacity (29.61µmol∙g‒1), and glucose diffusion inhibition activity (73.96%), and water-expansion ability (8.60mL∙g‒1). Additionally, superfine-grinding and mix enzymatic hydrolyzed CERF had the highest α-amylase inhibiting activity (42.76%). Therefore, superfine-grinding and mix enzymolysis alone or combined with hydroxypropylation were better choices to improve hypoglycemic properties of CERF; meanwhile, superfine-grinding and mix enzymolysis combined with acetylation can effectively improve its hypolipidemic properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study offered three composite modification methods to improve the soluble fiber content and in vitro hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of coconut endosperm residue fiber. These modification methods were practicable and low-cost. Moreover, it provides good choices to improve the functional properties and applications of other dietary fibers in the food industry.

Effects of Wilting and Exogenous Lactic Acid Bacteria on the Fermentation Quality and Microbial Community of Plantago lanceolata Silage

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of wilting and exogenous lactic acid bacteria treatments on the chemical composition, fermentation quality, and microbial community composition of Plantago lanceolata silage (PS). This experiment was carried out in the Guizhou Extension Station of Grassland Technology (25°38′48″ N, 106°13′6″ E). The PS samples were divided into four treatment groups, namely control PS (C-PS), wilting-treated PS (W-PS), Lactobacillus brucei-treated PS (LB-PS), and wilting + L. brucei-treated PS (WLB-PS) groups, and analyzed after 60 d of treatment. The W-PS and WLB-PS groups showed significantly lower ether extract, ash, and Neutral detergent fiber contents but significantly higher water-soluble carbohydrate content compared to the C-PS and LB-PS groups (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the W-PS group had significantly lower propionic acid content but significantly higher butyric acid content compared to the other groups (p &lt; 0.05). Meanwhile, the WLB-PS group had the highest lactic acid content, the lowest pH, and no butyric acid content (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the WLB-PS group showed a high proliferation of beneficial bacterial species (Lactobacillus buchneri and Lactobacillus plantarum) and decreased proliferation of undesirable bacterial species (Clostridium lutlcellarli and Clostridium tyrobutyricum). In conclusion, the combination treatment with wilting and L. brucei increased beneficial microorganisms and inhibited undesirable microorganisms during ensiling, thereby improving the fermentation quality of PS. Therefore, the combination treatment with wilting and L. brucei may be an effective Plantago lanceolata silage modulation technique.

Physical properties, nutritional profile, and consumer acceptability of gluten-free breakfast flakes from cassava flour

Driven by the increasing demand for gluten-free and affordable breakfast options, this study investigated the potential of cassava flour, as a primary ingredient and gluten-free alternative, for producing extruded breakfast flakes. Cassava flakes were prepared using a twin-screw extruder at a constant screw speed of 35 rpm, constant cutter speed of 21.2 rpm and barrel temperatures of 81 °C, 93 °C, and 89 °C in the first, second, and third zones, respectively. The physical properties, nutritional profile, and consumer acceptability of the cassava flakes were compared to a commercially available breakfast cereal. Cassava flakes exhibited significantly different (p < 0.05) physical properties. They had a higher WSI (57.6 %) but lower values of bulk density (0.3 g/cm3), WAI (2.3 g g-1), and color value (yellow orange ±1.73). Cassava flakes had lower fat (0.3 %), protein (6.6 %), and dietary fiber (1.8 %) compared to the commercial product, except for ash (2.3 %), moisture (6.0 %), carbohydrates (89.0 %), and energy (384.7 Kcal/100 g). Despite these differences, cassava flakes met the UNBS requirements for breakfast cereals. Additionally, the cassava flakes’ nutritional adequacy for school going children and adolescents was assessed by determining their %contribution to RDA per serving (30 g cassava flakes + 100 g milk). Their contribution to the RDAs of school going children was minimal with only the contribution of carbohydrates for all age groups and the contribution of protein for 4–8 years aged children meeting recommendations due to the low protein, fat and fiber content. It is, therefore, important to consider reformulation of the cassava flakes and incorporation of other ingredients to improve their protein, fiber, and energy content. Overall, cassava flakes were acceptable with good functionality, but the acceptability can further be enhanced through optimization of the sensory and nutritional qualities.

Evaluating microwave energy impact on 3G snacks: A study on dielectric properties and expansion

Third-generation (3G) snacks, a food type of widespread interest in the industry, have a longer shelf life than second-generation (2G) snacks. The primary regeneration process for these snacks involves frying and microwaving. However, only a few studies have detailed the effects of microwave irradiation on these products. This study aims to analyse the influence of the type of material, compression, and microwave power on the expansion capabilities of the pellets. Four raw materials (rice flour, rice semolina, corn semolina, and wheat starch) were combined with water to achieve uniform moisture content and extruded into pellets with different compression ratios (1:1, 2:1, and 3:1). The elaborated samples were processed at different microwave powers (heating rates of 2 and 10 °C/s) using an instrument capable of accurately delivering microwave energy to food samples while monitoring key process parameters, including dielectric properties. Samples with high starch content, low protein content, and low fibre content, in conjunction with higher compression ratios exhibited a more pronounced expansion.

Native Forbs Provide Pollinator Resources and Improve Forage Nutrient Composition, Animal Performance, and Pasture Productivity

Pollinator declines and expectations for more sustainable agriculture, including pasture-based enterprises, bring attention to strategies to enhance the habitat value of grazing lands. We evaluated native warm-season grass (NWSG) pastures with (FORB) and without (CONT) interseeded native forbs in 2021–2023. An analysis was conducted using R with the significance set at p ≤ 0.05. The grass appeared to be weakened predominantly by grazing management practices. Forb density and mass had an inverse relationship in seasons two and three. Total forage mass declined in response to increased grazing days and weakened stands. The forage nutritive compositions differed, with more stable, season-long crude protein and lower fiber concentrations in late-season FORB, which supported higher bodyweight gains and season-long average daily gain. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta; BESU), lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata; LCOR), and showy ticktrefoil (Desmodium canadensis; STTF) were the most abundant forbs, and BESU, LCOR, and purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea; PURC) produced long flowering windows. Cattle grazed STTF, cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum; CUPP), and oxeye sunflower (Helopsis helianthoides) the most. Under continuous stocking, a blend of BESU, LCOR, PURC, STTF, and CUPP produced acceptable cattle gains and provided pollinator resources, suggesting that this model may be a viable means to enhance the sustainability of pastures.

Establishment of near-infrared rapid prediction model and comprehensive evaluation model for foxtail millet quality

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is one of the earliest cereal crops in the world and is still an important food crop in Asia, Europe and Africa. However, there are few reports on rapid and comprehensive evaluations of foxtail millet quality. In this study, color, nutrient content, cooking quality and sensory quality of 45 varieties of foxtail millet from the main production areas of the country were determined. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with partial least squares regression (PLSR) was developed for rapid and nondestructive detection of foxtail millet quality, where NIRS models for ash, amylopectin, protein, and VB1 and VB2 were desirable. In addition, correlation analysis, principal component analysis and cluster analysis were used for comprehensive evaluation of millet quality. The results showed that foxtail millet with low ash, protein, fat and fiber content and high amylopectin and carotenoid content has good cooking quality and was more preferred. This research will contribute to the quality evaluation and further processing of foxtail millet.

Pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis as a useful tool in identifying fibre composition in mixed post-consumer textile waste

The progress of textile recycling is significantly impeded by the absence of adequate methodologies for determining the composition of fibres in textile blends. The examination of textile mixtures poses considerable difficulties, particularly due to the presence of elastane fibres, which in their limited quantities cannot be easily detected using conventional analytical techniques. Further, the undetected elastane fibres pose difficulty in separation during recycling of the textiles as they end up as impurities in cases where dissolution of the fibres is employed. Consequently, it is of utmost importance to explore new analytical tools that possess the capability to identify the primary fibres in post-consumer waste. In the current investigation, we conducted a study to assess the capabilities of Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and Pyrolysis coupled with Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) for the characterization of postconsumer textile fabrics. A comprehensive pyrolysis database was established encompassing prevalent pure fibres commonly employed in textile production. In addition, an examination was conducted on three textile blends with predetermined compositions, and the findings were subsequently compared with data obtained through the utilization of ATR-FTIR. The data derived from the original fibres was ultimately utilized for the examination of post-consumer fabric samples acquired from a waste landfill. The utilization of Py-GC/MS, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and ATR-FTIR enabled to discern fibre compositions of mixtures even those that contained relatively low fibre content.

A recyclable dispersant based on carbomer utilizing controllable viscosity for high-efficiency dispersion of carbon fibers

Good dispersion of carbon fibers is important for the carbon paper production, which is usually achieved using low carbon fiber concentrations and disposable dispersants. In this study, we developed carbomer as a recyclable and high-efficiency dispersant for carbon fibers. When the carbon fiber concentration was 0.1 wt%, carbon fiber suspension showed improved dispersion performance as increasing the carbomer dosage. It exhibited low Turbiscan Stability Index (TSI) of 0.41 and small change of delta backscattering between −0.5 to 0.8 % when using 0.5 wt% carbomer. However, the good dispersibility fade away when increasing the concentration of carbon fibers. Subsequently, the pH of the carbon fiber suspension was adjusted to 7.0 to improve the dispersibility by increasing the viscosity, but causing a worse flowability. Then the pH was further adjusted to 13.0 to ensure good flowability in the wet-forming process and good dispersibility at carbon fiber concentration of 0.5 wt%. More importantly, the dispersant was successfully recycled and still exhibited excellent dispersion effects for carbon fibers after 5 cycles. Notably, the high-efficiency dispersion of carbon fibers and the recyclability of dispersant were achieved simultaneously for the first time, which is suitable for the eco-friendly and sustainable production of carbon paper.

Design-driven approach for engineered geopolymer composite with recorded low fiber content

How to design an engineered cementitious composite (ECC) achieving both economic viability and ultra-sustainability has been the longstanding goal of ECC community. This study presents a design-driven approach to tackle this challenge through yielding a low matrix fracture toughness and a sufficiently strong interfacial bonding between fiber and matrix concurrently. As a result, only 0.2 % fiber content was sufficient for achieving robust strain-hardening in Engineered Geopolymer Composite (EGC), which, to the authors’ knowledge, is the lowest recorded thus far. The tensile strain-to-fiber content ratio reached 25, a remarkable 233 % higher than the existing strain-hardening composites. Besides, the compressive strength was around 40 MPa, marking the highest specific strength among the ECCs with a density below 1450 kg/m3. Leveraging the high porosity of 38 % and the presence of shrinkage micro-cracks in the matrix, a low fracture toughness, combined with a robust friction between fiber and matrix, facilitated the noticeable strain-hardening. The reaction product was identified as a dense alkaline aluminosilicate hydrate (N-A-S-H) gel, benefiting the interfacial bonding and compressive strength. The embodied energy and carbon of the EGC diminished by 27 % and 63 % compared to ordinary concrete, respectively, and the corresponding cost was 79 % lower than the classic M45-ECC, contributing significantly to ultra-sustainability.

Synergy performance of hybrid fiber-reinforced ultra-high-performance cementitious composites with low fiber contents

This study aims to assess the synergistic tensile performance resulting from the hybridization of long and short fibers. Three types of long steel,fibers, i.e., twisted, hooked, and smooth fibers, along with two types of short fibers, i.e., smooth and polyamide fibers, were incorporated into ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) at a total volume content of 1.5%. To predict the tensile resistance of the hybridizations, various machine learning models, including artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM), were applied by utilizing a significant number of collected experimental results. Experimental findings demonstrated that the hybridization of long and short fibers effectively enhanced tensile resistance compared to mono fibers. These hybridizations exhibited negative synergy factors in post-cracking strength but positive synergy factors in both strain capacity and specific work to fracture. Predictions using machine learning models revealed that the RF model exhibited outstanding performance in predicting the tensile resistance of the hybridizations. Furthermore, the compressive strength of the matrix was found to be the most important factor affecting post-cracking strength, whereas fiber length had the most substantial impact on the strain capacity.

Injectable interface-bonded fiber-reinforced thiolated chitosan hydrogels for enhanced cellular activities and cartilage regeneration

Injectable hydrogels with heterogeneous fibrous structures possessing good mechanical and biological characteristics are attracting increasing research interest in cartilage repair. The integration of nanofibers into hydrogel would largely enhance mechanical property, but impedes the gelation process and formation of hydrogel structures. Construction of biocompatible and mechanical supporting hydrogel with low fiber content remains a challenge. In this study, we developed a chemical cross-linked fibrous hydrogel, namely Thiol chitosan-Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-Polydopamine (CSSH-PP), for facilitating cell proliferation and promoting cartilage tissues regeneration. Compared to conventional CSSH hydrogels, the compressive strength of CSSH-PP scaffolds exhibited a significant increase percentage of 100 %. Incorporation of CSSH-PP upgraded the cell migration with a four-fold increase. Besides, the infiltration of host cells and the formation of new blood vessels were observed in rat models when implanted with CSSH-PP, enhancing the native tissue microenvironmental reconstruction and leading a sustained repair in articular cartilage.

Technological Evaluation of Fiber Effects in Wheat-Based Dough and Bread.

Dietary fiber incorporation in bread offers potential health benefits but poses challenges due to its impact on dough rheology and bread quality. This study evaluated the effects of pea, cocoa, and apple fiber on wheat-based dough and bread properties using rheological methods (farinograph, alveograph, pasting, and proofing) and baking trials. Substituting flour with fiber at 1%, 5%, or 10% increased water absorption and affected dough development, stability, and extensibility, particularly at high fiber concentrations. Pasting properties showed varying gelatinization behaviors influenced by fiber type and concentration. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted the clustering of dough and bread characteristics based on fiber concentration and type. At low fiber concentrations (up to 5% of flour replacement), negative effects were minimal, suggesting no need for comprehensive compositional analysis. However, high fiber concentrations (10%) introduced significant variability and complexity in dough properties. New farinographic parameters (FU4, FU6, FU8, FU10, and FU12) improved the explanatory power of PCA, enhancing the understanding of fiber-rich dough dynamics. The significant alterations in moisture content and texture underscore the intricate relationship between type of fiber, concentration, and dough functionality. Optimizing rheological parameters for fiber-enriched flour is crucial for adapting the bread-making process to produce high-quality bread with desired characteristics and enhanced nutritional benefits.

Nutritional Quality of Breakfast Cereals on the French, Belgian and Luxembourg Markets: Which Cereals for Children?

Objective: Analyse the breakfast cereal market to help to help healthcare professionals to guide parents in choosing healthy products for their children. Study design: Observational study of the breakfast cereals available in the biggest supermarkets, discount stores and organic chains in France, Belgium and Luxembourg. Methods: An analysis of nutritional qualities using three indicators: Nutri-Score (initial and modified version), WHO Europe nutrient profile model, and Nova. Results: 645 products were listed; 559 excluding duplicates. A total of 28.8% are marketed to children and make up the group of "children's" cereals, 62.1% of cereals are Muesli, Oats and other cereal flakes (MOCF), and 54.9% are "organic". The study shows that "children's" cereals have a poorer nutritional profile: a higher proportion of Nutri-Score D, higher sugar content, lower fibre content, less conformity with the WHO Europe nutrient profile model and a higher proportion ofultra-processed. On the other hand, MOCF and "organic" products generally have a better nutritional profile: less sugar, more fibre, more Nutri-Score A, less Nutri-Score D and fewer ultra-processed products. Conclusions: Parents should therefore opt for cereals that do not bear any reference to children on the packaging.

Flexural and fracture characterization of UHPGC notched beam with various glass sand replacement ratios and steel fiber contents

The preparation process of quartz sand (QS) can cause serious environmental pollution, which is particularly important to find a new replacement material for QS in cement-based construction materials. In this study, an economical and environmentally friendly ultra-high performance glass sand concrete (UHPGC) was prepared by partially replacing QS in conventional ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) with glass sand (GS) ground from waste glass. The effects of material composition characteristics including water-binder ratio (W/B), GS replacement ratio, and steel fiber content on the flexural and fracture characteristics of UHPGC notched beams were investigated based on response surface method (RSM) and acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. The results indicate that the GS replacement rate presents almost no effect on the tensile strength and flexural toughness of the specimens while reducing the water-binder ratio or increasing the steel fiber content can significantly improve the flexural tensile strength of UHPGC notched beams. UHPGC notched beams show the best performance when the W/B is 0.17, the steel fiber content is 3 %, and the GS replacement rate is 50 %. By analyzing and comparing the AE parameters and fracture modes, the discrepancies in flexural and fracture properties of UHPGC notched beams with variable material composition characteristics can be elucidated. Among them, the low water-binder ratio or high steel fiber content has a significant effect on the fracture characteristics and fracture process of the specimens, while the GS replacement rate exhibits negligible effect.

Effect of para-wood ash and calcium carbonate on the properties of eco-friendly self-compacting mortar reinforced with electronic waste fibers

This paper deals with reducing CO2 emissions from cement production and finding alternative uses for electronic waste (E-waste) fibers in some innovative applications in self-compacting mortar (SCM). In the present research, an attempt has been made to establish the optimum incorporation of E-waste fiber into SCM by varying the fiber content from 5 % to 25 %, combined with para-wood ash and calcium carbonate as supplementary cementitious materials. In this laboratory study, the mix design had a constant water-to-powder ratio of 0.35 and a cement content of 550 kg/m³. Additionally, 20 % of the cement volume was replaced by 10 % para-wood ash and 10 % calcium carbonate. The results indicated a continuous increase of the mini-slump values from 255 mm for the control mix to 270 mm for the mix with the highest fiber content. Mini V-funnel flow times increased from 3.63 to 8.83 s as the fiber content increased. Lower fiber contents of 5 % improved compressive strength because they had a reinforcing role in the matrix of SCM besides the microcrack-bridging role. Higher contents of 10–25 % decreased the strength due to the clustering of fibers and resulting voids. SEM analysis at 28 days showed increased voids with higher percentages of E-waste fibers and para-wood ash alone. The results underline that optimizing fiber content is critical in balancing workability and mechanical properties, and 5 % e-waste fiber content can be considered optimal for enhancing the performance of SCM. This work also creates part of sustainable construction practice with the green solution required to reduce CO2 emissions and work accumulation against E-waste.