Nutrient Production Research Articles

Food Security: A Key Component in Promoting Public Health and Nutrition

Food insecurity is a significant issue in public health, with individuals and households experiencing insufficient access to food necessary for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The objective of this article is to explore the role of food security as a critical element in promoting public health and nutrition. This article was written using a qualitative method through a literature review study. Adequate nutrient intake is essential for good health and optimal performance in all areas of life. Inadequate access to nutritious food can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Food insecurity and poor health can create a cycle of poverty and contribute to health disparities within communities. Additionally, food security and mental health are closely related, and a lack of access to affordable and nutritious food can lead to poorer mental health outcomes such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Addressing food insecurity prevents public health crises and contributes to health disparities. Food security is essential for promoting public health and preventing malnutrition. It ensures adequate nutrient intake, enhancing performance and productivity. Addressing food insecurity is crucial for improving overall well-being and promoting a healthier future for individuals and communities.

Analyzing the Impact of Simulated Nitrogen Deposition on Stoichiometric Properties and Yield of Ma Bamboo (Dendrocalamus latiflorus Munro) Shoots, Leaves, and Soil Substrate

The growth dynamics of Ma bamboo (Dendrocalamus latiflorus Munro) are intricately linked to nitrogen availability, a pivotal nutrient. Escalating global nitrogen deposition, primarily driven by anthropogenic factors, is reshaping nutrient fluxes and productivity within forest and bamboo ecosystems. Such alterations bear significant implications for the growth equilibrium and yields of rapid-growth species such as Ma bamboo, thereby influencing their sustainable management strategies. This investigation delves into the responses of Ma bamboo under varying nitrogen deposition scenarios (0 g·clump−1, 11.2 g·clump−1, 13.5 g·clump−1, and 22.5 g·clump−1), examining stoichiometric attributes in bamboo shoots, leaves, and soil across distinct growth phases. Our empirical findings reveal that in the early growth stage, nitrogen enrichment markedly augmented N and P concentrations in the foliage and shoots, alongside a corresponding enhancement in soil P content. This was paralleled by a substantial reduction in the C:N ratio in leaves and the C:P ratio in shoots and soil, indicating an amplified uptake of P and N in both plant and soil matrices. During the middle stage, all nitrogen treatments boosted nitrogen levels across various plant tissues, while concurrently, soil C content exhibited a notable decline with increased nitrogen supplementation. In the late stage, leaf and soil N content continued to ascend; however, alterations in C content in both soil and leaves were not pronounced. Contrastingly, N and P levels in shoots showed a gradual decrement. Yield assessments disclosed that during the early stage, the N3 treatment (22.5 g·clump−1) not only delayed shoot emergence by 14 days but also surged the yield by 115.87% in comparison to the control (CK). In the late stage, the N2 treatment (13.5 g·clump−1) extended emergence duration by 10 days, with the yield apex under N3 treatment (22.5 g·clump−1) evidencing a 116.67% yield augmentation over CK. In summation, this study elucidates the stoichiometric balancing and distribution strategies within the plant–soil system of Ma bamboo, investigating its adaptability and responsive feedback to diverse nitrogen deposition gradients. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of plant nutrient adaptation mechanisms in the context of nitrogen deposition, enriches the discourse on plant population stoichiometry, and offers valuable insights and scientific underpinnings for broader-scale community or ecosystem stoichiometry studies.

Effect of dietary supplementation with zinc-methionine on ruminal enzyme activities, fermentation characteristics, methane production, and nutrient digestibility: An in vitro study.

The principal objective of this research was to examine the influence of zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) addition on feed on the in vitro ruminal enzyme activities, fermentation characteristics, methane production, and digestibilities of feed nutrients. The dosage of Zn-Met as a source of organic Zn was added to feed based on dry matter (DM) as follows: 0-without Zn addition (CON), 30 Zn mg/kg-low (LZM), 60 Zn mg/kg-medium (MZM), and 90 Zn mg/kg-high (HZM). The results indicated significant impacts of Zn-Met addition on various parameters. Compared to the CON group, all Zn-Met treatments resulted in increased total volatile fatty acids (VFA) (linear; p < 0.001), carboxymethyl-cellulase activity (linear; p < 0.001), and gas production at 48-h of incubation (linear; p < 0.001, quadratic; p < 0.001). Additionally, the MZM and HZM groups exhibited higher levels of amylase activity (linear; p < 0.001), protease activity (linear; p = 0.006), microbial protein (linear; p = 0.009), DM digestibility (linear; p < 0.001), organic matter (OM) digestibility (linear; p < 0.001), crude protein (CP) digestibility (linear; p = 0.004), and crude fiber (CF) digestibility (linear; p = 0.003) than CON treatment. However, the treatments did not have any noteworthy effects on pH, the individual VFA (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) proportions, NH3-N concentration, and methane production (p > 0.05). It could be summarized that supplementing 60 and 90 Zn mg/kg DM as Zn-Met could improve the in vitro ruminal enzyme activities, fermentation characteristics, and nutrient digestibility without affecting methane production.

Evaluating the Effects of Land-derived Nutrient Load on Nutrient and Ecosystem Production at Harima Nada in Seto Inland Sea Using Food Chain Model

Evaluating the Effects of Land-derived Nutrient Load on Nutrient and Ecosystem Production at Harima Nada in Seto Inland Sea Using Food Chain Model

Evolution history dominantly regulates fine root lifespan in tree species across the world

Understanding the drivers of variations in fine root lifespan is key to informing nutrient cycling and productivity in terrestrial ecosystems. However, the general patterns and determinants of forest fine root lifespan at the global scale are still limited. We compiled a dataset of 421 fine root lifespan observations from 76 tree species globally to assess phylogenetic signals among species, explored relationships between fine root lifespan and biotic and abiotic factors, and quantified the relative importance of phylogeny, root system structure and functions, climatic and edaphic factors in driving global fine root lifespan variations. Overall, fine root lifespan showed a clear phylogenetic signal, with gymnosperms having a longer fine root lifespan than angiosperms. Fine root lifespan was longer for evergreens than deciduous trees. Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) plants had an extended fine root lifespan than arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) plants. Among different climatic zones, fine root lifespan was the longest in the boreal zone, while it did not vary between the temperate and tropical zone. Fine root lifespan increased with soil depth and root order. Furthermore, the analysis of relative importance indicated that phylogeny was the strongest driver influencing the variation in forest fine root lifespan, followed by soil clay content, root order, mean annual temperature, and soil depth, while other environmental factors and root traits exerted weaker effects. Our results suggest that the global pattern of fine root lifespan in forests is shaped by the interplay of phylogeny, root traits and environmental factors. These findings necessitate accurate representations of tree evolutionary history in earth system models to predict fine root longevity and its responses to global changes.

Productive function of urban gardening: estimate of the yield and nutritional value of social gardens in Prato (Italy)

Abstract The impact of urban gardens on food production and nutrient supply is widely recognized in the literature but seldom quantified. In this paper, we present the results of a semi-structured interview conducted in the ‘social gardens’ of Prato (Italy), i.e. areas of land assigned by the Municipality to individual pensioners or unemployed people for the cultivation of vegetables intended for domestic consumption. Some demographic and socio-economic aspects, the cultivated crops and the related areas were investigated. Starting from the areas, the total production of vegetables and their minerals and vitamins contents were estimated. The typical gardener was male, retired, with an average age of 74, and a low level of education. Gardening enabled pensioners to utilize their free time, facilitated physical activity, promoted socialization, and stimulated self-esteem. A 50 m2 plot cultivated on 40% of the area produced an estimated amount of 90 kg of vegetables per year, equivalent to approximately 61.5% of a person's fruit and vegetable needs. Tomato, by far the predominant species, occupied more than 80% of the cultivated area. The highest contributions to nutrients intake concerned Vitamin C and Vitamin A, the lowest Ca and Na. A higher yield and a greater and more balanced nutrient supply could be easily obtained through better use of the land (reduction of uncultivated area and greater assortment of vegetables). In our view, raising gardeners' awareness of this aspect and involving them in training programs on agricultural practices, vegetables composition, and nutrition, could be helpful for increasing the nutrient productivity of the plots and, ultimately, for strengthening the productive function of social gardens.

Zn-priming of seed ameliorates biochemical and anatomical parameters of Cicer arietinum L. cultivars in drought condition

Cicer arietinum an important legume crop is among the drought tolerant plants and cultivated for its rich nutritive value almost all over the world. The current research was led to assess the role of pre-sowing seed treatment with 0.05% ZnSO4 solution on the anatomical and biochemical characteristics of four varieties of Chickpea (i.e. CM 2008, FG 0902, DO 75-09 and Pb 2008) under three different maintained drought conditions. A pot experiment was performed in GCWUF. Seed priming with distilled water and 0.05% ZnSO4 solution was done. Overall, all cultivars exhibited high production of all biochemical nutrients and effective change in anatomical characters but CM 2008 and FG 0902 cultivars grown from ZnSO4 rimed seeds display tolerance under drought condition and gave higher values of various biochemical and anatomical parameters compared to plants grown from seeds primed with distilled water. However, Pb 2008 cultivar gave the minimum increase in values of biochemical and anatomical parameters among all cultivars under all field capacities. Keywords: Cicer arietinum, drought, stem anatomy, seed priming.

Mixture enhances microbial network complexity of soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling in Eucalyptus plantations

Mixed-species plantations have the potential to promote soil nutrient cycling, productivity, and ecosystem function. However, the microbial mechanisms underlying the mixing effect in different stand types remain poorly understood. We studied the effect of mixtures with either one of the three N2-fixing or one of the three non-N2-fixing tree species on Eucalyptus growth. Furthermore, we employed metagenomics to investigate co-occurrence networks of soil microbial community, and carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P)-transformation gene in the Eucalyptus rhizosphere and bulk soil of the monospecific or mixed Eucalyptus plantations. Mixing with either N2-fixing or non–N2-fixing species can promote the network complexity rather than diversity of soil microbial community. Mixture always significantly increased Eucalyptus growth and the network complexity and stability of C, N, and P-transformation genes, but decreased their gene abundance, suggesting a trade-off between functionality and abundance stimulated by mixed-species afforestation. The positive mixing effects on Eucalyptus growth were related with the interactions between C, N, and P cycling, depending on N2-fixing functional traits. Mixtures of N2-fixing trees intensively promoted correlations between Eucalyptus growth and N and P functional genes, while non-N2-fixing trees extensively stimulated the significant correlations with both C, N, and P genes and soil total P. Our findings highlight the importance of rapid responses of soil functional microbes for nutrient cycling, for favoring productivity in mixed-species forest plantations.

Precision agriculture based on convolutional neural network in rice production nutrient management using machine learning genetic algorithm

Precision Agriculture technology can use high-tech sensors and analytical tools to help farmers better manage their crop yields, allowing them to demonstrate their techniques on the field. The greater use of remote sensing technologies in farm productivity and nitrogen management tools to increase yields and reduce operational costs contributes to reduced energy consumption. This concept describes the need to fulfill nutrient and crop production objectives for the near and long term. Based on our proposed approach, we concluded that the predictors of individual flow occurrences are variables linked to surface temperatures, moisture, and nitrogen availability. We have developed an automated Convolutional Neural Network creation approach genetic algorithms approach to handling image classification problems more efficiently. The best feature of the method is that it is “automated” and doesn't need domain knowledge about CNNs. When compared to conventional encoding, we compare the performance and adaptability of our processing. Moreover, the comparison of individual Genetic algorithms with CNN schemes employed for training the systems was compared to that of other GENCNN schemes ResNet-34, ResNet-50, AlexNet, DenseNet, VGGNet in terms of convergence speed and overall accuracy, among other things. Our studies data indicate that our Soil Nitrogen Management significantly reduced commercial system costs while providing notable outcomes. The experimental results of soil nutrient deficiency 99%and 97% show that the suggested method may be used to automatically identify the most efficient GENCNN model compared to existing models in a wide range of domains.

Effect of different irrigation and fertigation schedules on growth and productivity of Red Velox apple in Northwestern Himalayan region

The present study was conducted at the experimental farm of Department of Soil Science and Water Management, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) to study the effect of different irrigation and fertigation schedules on growth and productivity of Red Velox apple in Northwestern Himalayan region. A factorial experiment comprised of sixteen treatment combination of four drip irrigation levels viz. drip irrigation at 100% ETc (I1), drip irrigation at 80% ETc (I2), drip irrigation at 60% ETc (I3), conventional irrigation (I4) and four levels of fertigation viz. absolute control; no application of fertilizer (F0), 100% of adhoc dose of NPK (F1), 75% of adhoc dose of NPK (F2) and 50% of adhoc dose of NPK (F3) were replicated thrice with three plants in each replication. With an increase in the volume of water and an increasing dose of NPK, vegetative growth parameters (tree height, tree spread, trunk girth, tree volume and annual extension growth), leaf nutrient content and yield were noted to be significantly increased. Drip irrigation at 100% ETc (I1) and fertigation at 100% of adhoc dose of NPK (F1) significantly increased the growth, foliage nutrient content and productivity of apple. Interaction I1F1 recorded highest growth parameters, leaf NPK content as well as yield. The results of two years experiment indicated a positive impact of drip irrigation and fertigation schedules on enhanced fertilization effectiveness and improved vegetative growth, leaf nutrient content and yield of apple.

Complete genome analysis of Bacillus velezensis TS5 and its potential as a probiotic strain in mice.

In recent years, a large number of studies have shown that Bacillus velezensis has the potential as an animal feed additive, and its potential probiotic properties have been gradually explored. In this study, Illumina NovaSeq PE150 and Oxford Nanopore ONT sequencing platforms were used to sequence the genome of Bacillus velezensis TS5, a fiber-degrading strain isolated from Tibetan sheep. To further investigate the potential of B. velezensis TS5 as a probiotic strain, in vivo experiments were conducted using 40 five-week-old male specific pathogen-free C57BL/6J mice. The mice were randomly divided into four groups: high fiber diet control group (H group), high fiber diet probiotics group (HT group), low fiber diet control group (L group), and low fiber diet probiotics group (LT group). The H and HT groups were fed high-fiber diet (30%), while the L and LT groups were fed low-fiber diet (5%). The total bacteria amount in the vegetative forms of B. velezensis TS5 per mouse in the HT and LT groups was 1 × 109 CFU per day, mice in the H and L groups were given the same volume of sterile physiological saline daily by gavage, and the experiment period lasted for 8 weeks. The complete genome sequencing results of B. velezensis TS5 showed that it contained 3,929,788 nucleotides with a GC content of 46.50%. The strain encoded 3,873 genes that partially related to stress resistance, adhesion, and antioxidants, as well as the production of secondary metabolites, digestive enzymes, and other beneficial nutrients. The genes of this bacterium were mainly involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, vitamin and cofactor metabolism, biological process, and molecular function, as revealed by KEGG and GO databases. The results of mouse tests showed that B. velezensis TS5 could improve intestinal digestive enzyme activity, liver antioxidant capacity, small intestine morphology, and cecum microbiota structure in mice. These findings confirmed the probiotic effects of B. velezensis TS5 isolated from Tibetan sheep feces and provided the theoretical basis for the clinical application and development of new feed additives.

Dietary Nitrate from Plant Foods: A Conditionally Essential Nutrient for Cardiovascular Health

Under specific conditions, such as catabolic stress or systemic inflammation, endogenous nutrient production becomes insufficient and exogenous supplementation (for example, through dietary intake) is required. Herein, we propose consideration of a dietary nitrate from plant foods as a conditionally essential nutrient for cardiovascular health based on its role in nitric oxide homeostasis. Nitrate derived from plant foods may function as a conditionally essential nutrient, whereas nitrate obtained from other dietary sources, such as drinking water and cured/processed meats, warrants separate consideration because of the associated health risks. We have surveyed the literature and summarized epidemiological evidence regarding the effect of dietary nitrate on cardiovascular disease and risk factors. Meta-analyses and population-based observational studies have consistently demonstrated an inverse association of dietary nitrate with blood pressure and cardiovascular disease outcomes. Considering the available evidence, we suggest 2 different approaches to providing dietary guidance on nitrate from plant-based dietary sources as a nutrient: the Dietary Reference Intakes developed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and the dietary guidelines evaluated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Ultimately, this proposal underscores the need for food-based dietary guidelines to capture the complex and context-dependent relationships between nutrients, particularly dietary nitrate, and health.

Application of Effluent from Anaerobic Digestion of Biomass to Condition the Soil: A Review of the Literature

Literature Review: Anaerobic digestion technology has significant potential in the treatment of organic waste, with varying levels of efficiency depending on the approach taken to the process. In addition to biogas production, it is also possible to obtain the digestate from anaerobic digestion, a nutrient and carbon-rich product, which is a relevant source for soil biota and fertility. Applying digestate to the soil helps in the recovery of degraded and contaminated areas due to its richness in nutrients and organic matter. When applied, it initiates the colonization of plants, colonies of fungi and bacteria, mineralizes nutrients, and promotes environmental recovery. Anaerobic digestion, when integrated with other processes such as composting, gasification, and pyrolysis, can enhance the capacity to sequester carbon in stable forms in the soil, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the potential for biomass (raw material) energy utilization. Study Objectives: To review the existing literature regarding the application of digestate as a soil conditioner and its benefits to plants (crops). Materials and Methods: Original articles related to the application of digestate in soil were selected through a search on the Web of Science and Science@Direct databases from the CAPES periodical portal. Conclusion, Results, and Implications: The selected articles present results indicating that digestates can be used as soil conditioners, leading to increased organic matter, microbial activity, nutrients, physical quality, and plant benefits, thus contributing to the circular economy. However, there is a need for further studies related to the agronomic responses of digestate application to plants.

Unlocking microalgal host-exploring dark-growing microalgae transformation for sustainable high-value phytochemical production.

Microalgae have emerged as a promising, next-generation sustainable resource with versatile applications, particularly as expression platforms and green cell factories. They possess the ability to overcome the limitations of terrestrial plants, such non-arable land, water scarcity, time-intensive growth, and seasonal changes. However, the heterologous expression of interested genes in microalgae under heterotrophic cultivation (dark mode) remains a niche area within the field of engineering technologies. In this study, the green microalga, Chlorella sorokiniana AARL G015 was chosen as a potential candidate due to its remarkable capacity for rapid growth in complete darkness, its ability to utilize diverse carbon sources, and its potential for wastewater treatment in a circular bioeconomy model. The aims of this study were to advance microalgal genetic engineering via dark cultivation, thereby positioning the strain as promising dark-host for expressing heterologous genes to produce high-value phytochemicals and ingredients for food and feed. To facilitate comprehensive screening based on resistance, eleven common antibiotics were tested under heterotrophic condition. As the most effective selectable markers for this strain, G418, hygromycin, and streptomycin exhibited growth inhibition rates of 98%, 93%, and 92%, respectively, ensuring robust long-term transgenic growth. Successful transformation was achieved through microalgal cell cocultivation with Agrobacterium under complete darkness verified through the expression of green fluorescence protein and β-glucuronidase. In summary, this study pioneers an alternative dark-host microalgal platform, using, Chlorella, under dark mode, presenting an easy protocol for heterologous gene transformation for microalgal host, devoid of the need for expensive equipment and light for industrial production. Furthermore, the developed genetic transformation methodology presents a sustainable way for production of high-value nutrients, dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, proteins and pharmaceuticals using heterotrophic microalgae as an innovative host system.

Spatiotemporal Pattern Evolution of Food and Nutrient Production in China.

Ensuring food and nutrient supply is a crucial aspect of achieving food safety. With rapid population growth, urbanization, and social and economic development, the challenges related to China's food and nutrient production have become increasingly prominent. This paper analyzed the characteristics of the spatiotemporal pattern evolution of food and nutrient production in China from 1995 to 2020, utilizing the conversion of various food nutrients and the establishment of a gravity center model. The results showed that: (1) Food production exhibited increasing trends in China, six regions, and 90% of the provinces. Notably, the structure of food production underwent significant changes in China, East China, Central-South China, Southwest China, Northwest China, and 60% of the provinces. (2) The output of all categories of food nutrients demonstrated increasing trends in China, six regions, and most provinces. At three different geographical scales, the changes of six food nutrients production structure showed significant differences. (3) Natural, political, social, economic, and technological factors played pivotal roles in influencing the gravity centers of food and nutrient production in China. The gravity centers of cereal production shifted northeast, while those of root and tuber, oil crops, and stimulants production moved westward. Additionally, the gravity centers of sugar crop, pulse, vegetable, fruit, and aquatic product production moved southwest and those of livestock and poultry production shifted northward. (4) Affected by the food production, the gravity centers of food energy, food protein, and food carbohydrate production shifted northward, while those of food fat, food vitamins, and food minerals production shifted northwest, southwest, and westward, respectively. The results of this study are of great significance for policy adjustments pertaining to the distribution pattern of food production, food security stability, and sustainable development in China.

System Intensification in Ridges and Furrow Planting to Enhance Nutrient Uptake Efficiency in Soybean

Through the study we aim to explore agronomic intervention to provide nutritional security to growing population, with limited resources and changing climatic conditions. The objective of the study is to investigate the impact of system intensification on nutrient content and nutrient uptake in soybean varieties within ridge and furrow planting system. The experiment was conducted during Kharif 2019 at Pantnagar, India. It was designed in a split-plot layout with eight treatments, replicated thrice. The main plot treatments included two soybean varieties: PS-1092 and SL-958. Four system intensification treatments were within the sub-plots, (plant-to-plant spacing -5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm). Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Sulfur content in seed was significantly highest at spacing 10 cm as compared to other spacing treatments (P value=.05). Nitrogen, Phosphorus Potassium and Sulfur uptake for both seed and stover was the maximum at plant to plant spacing of 10 cm which was significantly higher than other plant to plant spacing treatments at 5 % level of significance. Intense plant to plant spacing of 10 cm resulted into the significantly higher partial factor productivity (PFP) of nutrients at P=.05. Although nutrient content, nutrient uptake and PFP in soybean is higher at plant to plant spacing of 10 cm, nutrient harvest index is better achieved at wider spacing of 15 to 20 cm. Under no fertilizer limitation, system intensification can be useful to enhance nutrient content of seeds but in cases of limited fertilizer availability wider spacing is more beneficial to achieve higher nutrient use efficiency. Further investigations are needed to fine-tune these practices across diverse geographic regions and soil types. GHG emissions from soybean grown in varying planting geometry needs to be studied.

Trophic distribution of nutrient production in coral reef fisheries.

Coral reef fisheries supply nutritious catch to tropical coastal communities, where the quality of reef seafood is determined by both the rate of biomass production and nutritional value of reef fishes. Yet our understanding of reef fisheries typically uses targets of total reef fish biomass rather than individual growth (i.e. biomass production) and nutrient content (i.e. nutritional value of reef fish), limiting the ability of management to sustain the productivity of nutritious catches. Here, we use modelled growth coefficients and nutrient concentrations to develop a new metric of nutrient productivity of coral reef fishes. We then evaluate this metric with underwater visual surveys of reef fish assemblages from four tropical countries to examine nutrient productivity of reef fish food webs. Species' growth coefficients were associated with nutrients that vary with body size (calcium, iron, selenium and zinc), but not total nutrient density. When integrated with fish abundance data, we find that herbivorous species typically dominate standing biomass, biomass turnover and nutrient production on coral reefs. Such bottom-heavy trophic distributions of nutrients were consistent across gradients of fishing pressure and benthic composition. We conclude that management restrictions that promote sustainability of herbivores and other low trophic-level species can sustain biomass and nutrient production from reef fisheries that is critical to the food security of over 500 million people in the tropics.

Performance comparison of a photosynthetic and mechanically aerated microbial fuel cell for wastewater treatment and bioenergy generation using different anolytes

The use of expensive catalyst or mechanical aeration to carry out reduction reaction at cathode of conventional microbial fuel cell makes it costly and less efficient. Photosynthetic microbial fuel cell (PMFC) provides an option to overcome these issues by using microalgae as a biocatalyst at cathode chamber. This study aimed at assessing the performance of photosynthetic microbial fuel cell (PMFC) and its comparison with mechanically aerated MFC (MAMFC). The performance of both the systems was evaluated for two different anolytes namely, domestic wastewater and sugar industry wastewater. The PMFCs were inoculated with biocatalyst of Scenedesmus sp. in cathode chamber. Results showed that photosynthetic aeration significantly improved the efficiency of PMFCs as compared to MAMFCs. Maximum working voltage of 316 and 515 mV was achieved by PMFC with domestic wastewater and sugar wastewater, respectively, which was 15 % and 20 % higher than corresponding voltage of MAMFCs. Polarization and power curves showed that higher power density and lower internal resistance was achieved in PMFCs as compared to MAMFCs with both anolytes. Effect of light/dark regime on PMFCs resulted in a rise and drop pattern of dissolve oxygen and voltage generation. During light cycle, the average voltage was 214 mV and 370 mV for PMFC with domestic wastewater and sugar wastewater, respectively, which was 55 % and 54 % higher than corresponding dark cycle. Overall, the findings of the study suggested that PMFC support better power generation as compared to MAMFC, besides nutrients removal and production of algal biomass.

Grain factors in food and feed that influence digestion and gut fermentation outcomes

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesGrains are typically the main component in both human diets and animal feed. The factors in grains that influence digestion and fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract are incompletely understood, limiting both product innovation and rational selection of grains for desired nutritional outcomes. This review summarizes the current understanding of the multiple mechanisms operating within the digestive tract of humans and monogastric production animals, with a focus on the effects of grains.FindingsMolecular composition and residual cellular structures in grain‐based food and feed each have impacts on digestion and fermentation processes. There is a complex interplay between enzyme digestion rates, fermentation rates, and digesta transit processes in the gastrointestinal tract based on the material properties of grain foods/feeds and hormonal signals triggered by nutrient and fermentation product uptake. Opportunities for modulation of nutritional value in grain food and feed can be identified based on particle size, local molecular density, and hydration properties.ConclusionsMany advances in understanding the factors in grains that influence enzyme digestion and gut microbial fermentation have been made recently. Current nutritional labeling based on molecular composition and not digestion or fermentation properties ignores the important role that residual grain cellular structure plays in both human and animal nutrition.Significance and NoveltyBy comparing the effects of grain‐based foods and feeds on gastrointestinal digestion, fermentation, and digesta transit, opportunities and challenges for addressing nutritional targets for human health and monogastric animal production through grain innovation are discussed.

Regulation and remodeling of microbial symbiosis in insect metamorphosis

Many insects are dependent on microbial mutualists, which are often harbored in specialized symbiotic organs. Upon metamorphosis, insect organs are drastically reorganized. What mechanism regulates the remodeling of the symbiotic organ upon metamorphosis? How does it affect the microbial symbiont therein? Here, we addressed these fundamental issues of symbiosis by experimentally manipulating insect metamorphosis. The stinkbug Plautia stali possesses a midgut symbiotic organ wherein an essential bacterial symbiont resides. By RNAi of master regulator genes for metamorphosis, Kr-h1 over nymphal traits and E93 over adult traits, we generated precocious adults and supernumerary nymphs of P. stali, thereby disentangling the effects of metamorphosis, growth level, developmental stage, and other factors on the symbiotic system. Upon metamorphosis, the symbiotic organ of P. stali was transformed from nymph type to adult type. The supernumerary nymphs and the precocious adults, respectively, developed nymph-type and adult-type symbiotic organs not only morphologically but also transcriptomically, uncovering that metamorphic remodeling of the symbiotic organ is under the control of the MEKRE93 pathway. Transcriptomic, cytological, and biochemical analyses unveiled that the structural and transcriptomic remodeling of the symbiotic organ toward adult emergence underpins its functional extension to food digestion in addition to the original role of symbiont retention for essential nutrient production. Notably, we found that the symbiotic bacteria in the adult-type symbiotic organ up-regulated genes for production of sulfur-containing essential amino acids, methionine and cysteine, that are rich in eggs and sperm, uncovering adult-specific symbiont functioning for host reproduction and highlighting intricate host-symbiont interactions associated with insect metamorphosis.