Parsnip Research Articles

Physicochemical Properties, Organic Acid, and Sugar Profiles in Edible and Inedible Parts of Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) Cultivars Harvested in Korea

Parsnip, a root vegetable from the Apiaceae family, is rich in dietary fiber, pectin, and starch but remains relatively unfamiliar in South Korea. This study investigated the physicochemical properties of two Korean-grown parsnip cultivars, ‘Warrior’ and ‘Albion’, focusing on their organic acid and sugar compositions. The ‘Warrior’ cultivar has higher firmness and water content but lower SSC compared to ‘Albion’. In ‘Warrior’, malic and lactic acids were the main organic acids, while ‘Albion’ had predominant oxalic and malic acids. Malic acid was also the primary organic acid in the inedible parts of ‘Warrior’, and oxalic acid in ‘Albion’. In the edible parts of both cultivars, sucrose was identified as the main sugar. In ‘Warrior’, the levels were 88.59%, 90.35%, and 79.13% in the cortex, pith, and skin, respectively, while in ‘Albion’, the levels were 88.56%, 64.40%, and 67.39%. ‘Warrior’ showed higher total sugar content in its cortex (6.66%) compared to ‘Albion’ (3.67%). These results highlight the beneficial compounds in parsnips and suggest their potential for improving dietary strategies and health.

Visual Interpretation of High-Resolution Aerial Imagery: A Tool for Land Managers

Abstract Remotely sensed imagery from various collection platforms (e.g., satellites, crewed and uncrewed aircraft) are used by biologists and other conservation personnel to support management activities ranging from monitoring invasive species to assessing land cover and vegetation characteristics. Although remote sensing–based vegetation indices and models have been developed and used for some management applications, straightforward visual interpretation of imagery by on-the-ground personnel may be a pragmatic approach for obtaining time-sensitive and spatially relevant information to support and guide local management activities. Our primary objective was to qualitatively assess our ability to identify patches of target invasive plant species based on simple visual interpretation of high-resolution aerial imagery. We also sought to compare the high-resolution imagery to widely available imagery (e.g., National Agriculture Imagery Program) to determine the efficacy of each for assessing vegetation communities and land-cover features in support of management activities. To accomplish these objectives, we obtained high-resolution imagery and visually scanned and assessed the imagery by using standard geographic information system software. We were able to differentiate patches of crownvetch Securigera varia (L.) Lassen and wild parsnip Pastinaca sativa L., but not spotted knapweed Centaurea stoebe L. or leafy spurge Euphorbia esula L. The relative success in identifying these species had a relationship to plant characteristics (e.g., flower color and morphology, height), time of year (phenology), patch size and density, and potentially site characteristics such density of the underlying vegetation (e.g., grasses), substrate color characteristics (i.e., color contrast with flowers), and physical disturbance. Our straightforward, qualitative assessment suggests that visual interpretation of high-resolution imagery, but not some lower-resolution imagery, may be an efficient and effective tool for supporting local invasive species management through activities such as monitoring known patches, identifying undetected infestations, assessing management actions, guiding field work, or prioritizing on-the-ground monitoring activities.

New Insights Concerning Phytophotodermatitis Induced by Phototoxic Plants.

The present review explores the underlying mechanisms of phytophotodermatitis, a non-immunologic skin reaction triggered by certain plants followed by exposure to ultraviolet radiation emitted by sunlight. Recent research has advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of phytophotodermatitis, highlighting the interaction between plant-derived photosensitizing compounds (e.g., furanocoumarins and psoralens) and ultraviolet light leading to skin damage (e.g., erythema, fluid blisters, edema, and hyperpigmentation), identifying these compounds as key contributors to the phototoxic reactions causing phytophotodermatitis. Progress in understanding the molecular pathways involved in the skin's response to these compounds has opened avenues for identifying potential therapeutic targets suitable for the management and prevention of this condition. The review emphasizes the importance of identifying the most common phototoxic plant families (e.g., Apiaceae, Rutaceae, and Moraceae) and plant species (e.g., Heracleum mantegazzianum, Ruta graveolens, Ficus carica, and Pastinaca sativa), as well as the specific phytochemical compounds responsible for inducing phytophototoxicity (e.g., limes containing furocoumarin have been linked to lime-induced photodermatitis), underscoring the significance of recognizing the dangerous plant sources. Moreover, the most used approaches and tests for accurate diagnosis such as patch testing, Wood's lamp examination, or skin biopsy are presented. Additionally, preventive measures such as adequate clothing (e.g., long-sleeved garments and gloves) and treatment strategies based on the current knowledge of phytophotodermatitis including topical and systemic therapies are discussed. Overall, the review consolidates recent findings in the field, covering a diverse array of phototoxic compounds in plants, the mechanisms by which they trigger skin reactions, and the implications for clinical management. By synthesizing these insights, we provide a comprehensive understanding of phytophotodermatitis, providing valuable information for both healthcare professionals and researchers working to address this condition.

Determination of The Fatty Acid Composition of Some Taxon of the Apiaceae Family

The aim of the study was to determine the fatty oil ratio and fatty acid components of 19 taxa, of which 6 are endemic and belong to the Apiaceae family, naturally distributed in the Isparta and Burdur provinces. In the study, the fruits of the Ammi visnaga, Angelica sylvestris, Bifora radians, Echinophora tournefortii, Echinophora tenuifolia subsp sibthorpiana, Echinophora trichophylla (endemic), Foeniculum vulgare, Ferulago cassia, Ferulago pauciradiata (endemic), Glaucosciadium cordifolium, Heracleum platytaenium (endemic), Hippomarathrum cristatum, Hippomarathrum microcarpum, Laser trilobum, Opopanax hispidus, Pastinaca sativa subsp urens, Peucedanum chryseum (endemic), Prangos platychlaena (endemic), and Prangos uechtritzii (endemic) were used as materials. The fatty oil ratios of the species were determined by NMR, and the fatty acid components were determined by the GC/FID instrument. In the study, the fatty oil ratios of the species varied from 4.0% to 27.6%. A total of 43 different fatty acids were identified, mainly palmitic acid, stearic acid, petroselinic acid, oleic acid, and cisvaccinic acid fatty acids. Most of the fatty oils of the taxa consisted of oleic acid, linoleic acid, and petroselinic fatty acids. Therefore the taxa investigated in the study are believed to be rich in fatty oil content and unsaturated fatty acids and can be used as an oil source in the future.

Floristic features of the Naryksky State Nature Reserve

Naryksky Reserve is located on lands within the boundaries of the Belovsky, Novokuznetsk, and Prokopyevsky municipal districts of Kemerovo Oblast. Three large mining companies are located near the reserve: LLC Resurs, LLC UK Kuzbassrazrezugol, and LLC Razrezdobycha Kuzbass. Studies have shown that 345 species from 204 genera and 67 families grow on the territory. The synanthropization coefficient of the flora is low and averages 3.9%. Four species are classified as invasive with status 2: Amoria hybrida, Conium maculatum, Pastinaca sativa, Plantago lanceolata. Three species grow on the territory of the reserve, included in the 3rd edition of the Red Book of the Kemerovo Oblast: Asarum europaeum, Erythronium sibiricum, Drosera rotundifolia L.

A Friendly Strategy for an Organic Life by Considering Syrian Bean Caper (Zygophyllum fabago L.), and Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.)

Background: Medicinal plants have become the focus of intense researches through the identification and determination of their pharmacological benefits with their different chemical constituents. Objective: The aim of this mini-review is to highlight the most important health benefits of Syrian bean caper and parsnip. Methods: The manuscript consists of review articles, randomized control experiments, and analytical studies, which have been gathered from different sources such as Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and PubMed. A review of the literature was carried out using keywords such as health benefits, pharmaceutical properties, Syrian bean caper (Zygophyllum fabago L.), and Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.). Results: Syrian bean caper is good for diabetes, lower cholesterol, is appropriate for people aiming for weight loss, is a good source of vitamin K for healthy bones, protects skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, prevents cancer and skin ailments, protects from allergies, helps in digestion, increases immunity, treats anemia, moistens skin, helps in relieving congestion. Syrian bean caper is also anexcellent source of minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, and sodium which gives stronger teeth, is a source of anti-ageing, good for the eyes, and reduces skin disorders, it consists of a good amount of iron and vitamin B which makes it a good candidate to have healthy hair, and relieves constipation. Parsnips are a type of root vegetable, closely related to parsley roots and carrots. Parsnips are an excellent source of various nutrients, minerals, and vitamins such as folate, vitamins C and K, they are rich in antioxidants, a great source of soluble and insoluble fiber, a great source of a healthy weight loss diet, and support immune function. Conclusion: According to phytochemical advantages and pharmacological benefits, Syrian bean caper (Zygophyllum fabago L.) and Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) show their importance as medicinal plants in both traditional and modern medicine.

Insects pollinating parsnip Pastinaca sativa l. (Apiaceae) in Moscow province

The purpose of the study was to test the ability of Pastinaca sativa , as one of the plants whose sap contains furanocoumarins, to attract the same types of insects as the most dangerous weed - Sosnowsky’s hogweed, which is widely spread in Russia. As a result, 46 species of pollinating insects from the orders Hymenoptera (3 species), Hemiptera (2 species), Coleoptera (10 species) and Diptera (31 species) have been recorded on P. sativa . Among the latter, representatives of Tachinidae (6 species), Anthomyiidae (6 species), Calliphoridae (4 species), and Syrphidae (4 species) predominated. About 50% of insects pollinating P. sativa are found on other species of umbrella plants, including native species Anthriscus sylvestris , Aegopodium podagraria , Angelica sylvestris ; on horticultural crops: Anethum graveolens , Petroselinum crispum , Carum carvi , Coriandrum sativum , Levisticum o cinale , and on the invasive hogweed Heracleum sosnowskyi . It was not possible to detect any preference of insects for yellow (parsnip, lovage, dill) or white (kupyr, goutweed, angelica, hogweed, parsley, cumin, coriander) corolla color, plant height (from 30 cm to 2 m) or umbrella diameter (from 8 to 30 cm). Among all the captured insects, the following groups can be distinguished: those found on P. sativa and on wild-growing species of Apiaceae - 6 species; on P. sativa and garden crops - 4 species; on P. sativa and Heracleum sosnowskyi - 4 species; found on many species of Apiaceae - 10 species; found only on P. sativa - 24 species.

Morphological characterizations of parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) to select superior genotypes.

Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) is an edible root that has long been used in cooking and preparing baby food and livestock. The present study was performed to evaluate the phenotypic diversity of 69 accessions of this species to select superiors in terms of root quality in Paykan village, Isfahan province, Iran, in the year 2022. There were significant differences among the accessions investigated (ANOVA, p < .01). Coefficient of variation (CV) was more than 20.00% in the majority of measured characters (64 out of 66 characters), indicating high diversity among the accessions. Foliage width (crown) ranged from 10 to 55 cm with an average of 32.32 cm. Root shape was tapering (33), obtriangular (10), narrow oblong (5), wide oblong (5), obovate (13), and fusiform (3). Root length ranged from 81.2 to 294 mm with an average of 166.44 mm. Root diameter at its middle point ranged from 15.58 to 125.12 mm with an average of 51.83 mm. Root weight ranged from 15 to 1200 g with an average of 315.36 g. Inner core (xylem) pigmentation/color was cream yellow (11 accessions), light yellow (12), yellow (42), dark yellow (2), and yellow-light orange (2). In the cluster analysis based on Ward's method, the accessions were divided into two main clusters according to morphological traits. This is despite the fact that parsnip is part of the medicinal plant native and valuable in most farms in tropical cities. Compared with carrots, parsnip plants are more adaptable to different environmental conditions. The accessions studied here showed high phenotypic diversity. Based on ideal values of the important and commercial characters of parsnip, such as root length, root weight, inner core (xylem) pigmentation/color, root shape, flesh color intensity, flesh palatability, and total soluble solids, 14 genotypes, including Parsnip-3, Parsnip-9, Parsnip-24, Parsnip-32, Parsnip-32, Parsnip-48, Parsnip-51, Parsnip-52, Parsnip-58, Parsnip-60, Parsnip-62, Parsnip-65, Parsnip-67, and Parsnip-69, were promising and are recommended for cultivation.

Plant regeneration from protoplasts of Pastinaca sativa L. via somatic embryogenesis

In the present study we report the development of an effective and relatively efficient protocol for protoplast-to-plant regeneration of parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) via indirect somatic embryogenesis. The regenerative potential of three open-pollinated and four hybrid cultivars was assessed. The protoplast isolation efficiency after digestion of source material in an enzyme mixture consisted of 1% cellulase Onozuka R-10 and 0.1% pectolyase Y-23 reached on average 3.6 × 106 of cells per g of fresh mass. Protoplasts embedded in an alginate matrix and cultured in parsnip protoplast culture medium with phytosulfokine-α and putrescine reconstructed their cell wall and re-entered mitotic divisions. After the release from alginate, microcallus proliferated continuously on Gamborg B5 medium with vitamins supplemented with 100 nM of phytosulfokine-α. Indirect somatic embryogenesis occurred during the callus culture of cultivar ‘Półdługi biały’. The regenerated and acclimatized plants were morphologically similar to their donors and displayed no variation in the ploidy level.

Transformations of Vascular Flora of a Medieval Settlement Site: A Case Study of a Fortified Settlement in Giecz (Wielkopolska Region, Western Poland)

Exceptional components of the cultural landscape of Central Europe include archaeological sites, e.g., castle ruins, prehistoric or medieval fortified settlements, other settlements and burial mounds. The plants associated with them help us explain the processes of species persistence on habitat islands as well as the process of naturalization of crop species, which escape from fields or are abandoned. This study describes the flora of a medieval fortified settlement in Giecz (Wielkopolska region, western Poland), presents plant indicators of former settlements (relics of cultivation), species of high conservation value, and transformations of the vascular flora of this settlement over a few decades. Field research was conducted in 1993–1994, 1998–1999, and 2019. At the study site, 298 species of vascular plant species were recorded, and nearly 70% of them (201 species) have persisted there over the last 20 years. The flora includes seven relics of cultivation (Artemisia absinthium, Leonurus cardiaca, Lycium barbarum, Malva alcea, Pastinaca sativa, Saponaria officinalis, and Viola odorata), 5 species threatened with extinction in Poland and/or Wielkopolska, and 53 species of least concern (LC) according to the European red list. We have attempted to explain the floristic changes. The archaeological site in Giecz is of high conservation value, very distinct from the surrounding cultural landscape because of its specific flora, and composed of species from various habitats (e.g., dry grasslands, wooded patches, meadows, aquatic and ruderal habitats), including threatened, protected, and relic species.

Three Species of Entyloma (Entylomatales, Ustilaginomycotina) Newly Recorded from Bulgaria

Three smut fungi are reported for the first time from Bulgaria: Entyloma fergussonii on Myosotis orbelica, E. pastinacae on Pastinaca sativa subsp. urens, and E. thalictri on Thalictrum minus, extending the known species of Entyloma to 11 in this country. Brief descriptions and illustrations are provided for the newly recorded smut fungi. Myosotis orbelica is a new host plant for Entyloma fergussonii.

Degree of Dietary Specialization on Furanocoumarin-Containing Hostplants in a Newly Invasive Web Building Caterpillar.

The genus Depressaria (Lepidoptera: Depressariidae) mostly comprises specialist herbivores with varying capacity for detoxification of defensive phytochemistry. Depressaria depressana, a Eurasian moth recently introduced into North America, is a family-level specialist of the Apiaceae, whose hosts include more than a dozen species in multiple tribes; Depressaria radiella is a super-specialist of Eurasian origin that feeds exclusively on species in the genera Pastinaca and Heracleum throughout its native and introduced range. In eastern North America, it feeds upon Pastinaca sativa, an invasive European species, and Heracleum maximum, a native species. We determined whether differences in furanocoumarin metabolism exist between D. depressana and two isolated populations of D. radiella, feeding exclusively on either P. sativa or H. maximum. We also compared gravimetric estimates of feeding efficiency to assess D. depressana larval performance on different diets. Both populations of D. radiella metabolized furanocoumarins at a greater rate than D. depressana. Although there was no difference in rates of metabolism of linear furanocoumarins in the two populations of D. radiella, individuals collected from H. maximum metabolized angular furanocoumarins more rapidly. The gravimetric assessments of feeding efficiencies revealed that D. depressana exhibited highest efficiencies consuming Daucus carota; moreover, this species survived to pupation consuming fruits of Zizia aurea, an apiaceous species native to North America. Our preliminary phylogenetic analysis, building on an earlier morphological analysis, incorporates mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 data from the BOLD database and revealed that the presence or absence of furanocoumarins is not a strong predictor of species-level evolution in Depressaria.

Composition and antimicrobial activity of Pastinaca sativa subsp. sativa, P. sativa subsp. urens and P. hirsuta essential oils

ABSTRACT Composition and antimicrobial activity of root, leaf, stem, flower and fruit essential oils from cultivated Pastinaca sativa subsp. sativa, and its two wild-growing relatives P. sativa subsp. urens and P. hirsuta (Apiaceae) were investigated. Twenty-nine hydrodistilled essential oils of plants from different localities and/or years were analysed by GC-FID and GC/MS. Dominant in root oils was myristicin (P. sativa) or apiole (P. hirsuta), in leaf and stem oils myristicin (cultivated plants) or γ-palmitolactone (wild-growing plants) and in flower and fruit oils aliphatic esters. Multivariate statistics (PCA, nMDS, UPGMA clustering) generally revealed separation of oils of investigated Pastinaca taxa and demonstrated their chemosystematic significance. One oil per each organ of all three plants (fifteen in total) was tested using microdilution method for activity against Candida tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, C. glabrata, C. albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium and Enterobacter cloacae; MIC = 0.25–8 mg/mL, MBC(MFC) = 0.5–16 mg/mL.

Texture properties of parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) for the elderly base on the enzyme treatment

SummaryParsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) is nutritionally suitable for the elderly, but it is generally rejected because they have a relatively firm texture and is difficult to eat and can irritate the stomach. Therefore, strategies are being developed to produce soft root vegetable products to meet balanced nutrient intake and healthy nutritional status in the body, taking into account the reduced digestive effects and chewing ability in the elderly. Among them, the effect of enzymes on the qualitative texture properties of parsnips was studied in this study because enzymes cause changes in fibre and have an advantageous effect on the softness of root vegetables. Here, three treatment groups, cellulase, polygalacturonase and α‐amylase, and one untreated parsnip were compared and analysed, and the effect on texture parameters was confirmed. In particular, all enzyme management has significantly reduced hardness, and these results provide an opportunity to produce antioxidant‐enhanced parsnips with a smooth texture and satisfactory technical properties. In addition, easy consumption of antioxidant‐rich parsnips suggests that it can help older people get demand for antioxidants.

Floristic findings in the Republic of Tuva and in the south of the Krasnoyarsk Territory (Upper Yenisei basin)

In the course of field research, analysis of previously published works and review of materials stored in well-known collection funds of Siberia (NS, KRAS, SSHZ), information on the distribution of rare adventitious and native plant species in the Upper Yenisei basin was clarified. For the first time, Arctium lappa, Armoracia sisymbrioides, Bupleurum sibiricum, Calystegia sepium, Lolium perenne, Pastinaca sativa, and Polygonum subaphyllum were noted for the flora of the Republic of Tuva. Stipa glareosa was collected for the first time on the territory of the Krasnoyarsk Territory. Viola tricolor was turned out to be new for the flora of the Sayano-Shushensky Reserve. For 10 rare species, new locations were noted and range boundaries were specified: Acer tataricum, Armoracia rusticana, Avena fatua, Carduus nutans, Clematis aethusifolia, Convolvulus arvensis, Polygonum rurivagum, Sedum acre, Setaria pumila, and Viola tricolor.

Antioxidant and anti-cytolytic activity of parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) herb thick extract in conditions of catecholamine myocardiodystrophy in rats

The aim: to study the antioxidant and anticytolytic activity of the parsnip herb thick extract (PHTE) in conditions of catecholamine myocardial dystrophy in rats.&#x0D; Materials and methods. Catecholamine myocardial dystrophy was reproduced in rats by a single subcutaneous injection of 0.18 % adrenaline hydrochloride solution at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg (0.28 ml/kg) of body weight. The experiment used 36 white male rats with an initial weight of 220–250 g, 4–4.5 months of age. The tested drugs were PHTE at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg and the reference drug (RD) “Tricardin” were administered intragastrically in a therapeutic and prophylactic regimen for 7 days, the last time on the day of the experiment 1 hour before the administration of cardiotoxin. The activity of the studied agents was assessed by the survival rate of the animals, the functional state of the myocardium (ECG studies), by the effect on the heart mass ratio (HMR), the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), the level of active products interacting with thiobarbituric acid (TBA-AP) and the content of reduced glutathione (RG) in the heart homogenate.&#x0D; Results. The study of the effect of PHTE on the lipid peroxidation / antioxidant protection (LPO / AOP) system showed that a pronounced antioxidant effect of the tool was found at a dose of 200 mg/kg: there was an increase in VG at the trend level (0.05&lt;p&lt;0.10) and a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) the content of TBK-AP in 1.85 times compared with the group of positive control (PC). A similar effect was found in the comparison drug “Tricardin”. PHTE at a dose of 100 mg/kg was less influential. The use of PHTE in both doses and the comparison drug “Tricardin” reduced the severity of cytolytic processes: the activity of the enzyme AST – a marker of cardiocytolysis, was lower than in the PC group. PHTE at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg contributed to a certain normalization of some ECG parameters compared to PC: a slight insignificant decrease in heart rate and a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05), QT interval, systolic index (SI) and decreased ischemia marker – ST segment displacement. The comparison drug "Tricardin" showed a similar effect to PHTE on the functional state of the myocardium in adrenaline intoxication.&#x0D; Conclusions. Parsnip herb thick extract exhibits antioxidant and anticytolytic activity, improves the functional state of the myocardium, prevents a decrease in the severity of alterative processes in the organ under conditions of adrenaline myocardial dystrophy

Photodermatitis and ocular changes in nine horses after ingestion of wild parsnip (pastinaca sativa)

BackgroundPrimary photosensitization rarely occurs in horses and can easily be misinterpreted. Descriptions of the disease in horses after ingestion of parsnip are lacking. The aim of this case series was to describe the dermatological and ocular changes due to photosensitization and to raise awareness of parsnip being a possible aetiologic agent.Case presentationNine horses from three different stables in Berlin and Brandenburg, Germany, presented variable degrees of erythema, scaling, crusting and necrosis of unpigmented skin at the head and prepuce. Horses were of different breeds with a median age of 15 ± 5.9 years. A mild leukocytosis was diagnosed in 1/9 horses at admission. Analyzed liver enzymes were within the reference ranges in all horses. Ocular changes were diagnosed as follows: blepharitis (3/9), conjunctivitis (7/9), corneal edema without additional signs of keratitis and/or uveitis (2/9), corneal edema with signs of uveitis (1/9) and photophobia (4/9). One horse developed a fluorescein positive corneal erosion. Skin biopsy (1/9) revealed a moderate to severe acute, eosinophilic and lymphocytic dermatitis with dermal edema and vasculitis. All stables housing these patients fed hay from the same distributer. Analyzed hay samples showed high contents of wild parsnip (plants, seeds, roots). Wild parsnip is widespread in Europe and contains furocoumarins, a family of photodynamic pigments, which may cause primary photodermatitis, keratoconjunctivitis and uveitis. Horses were treated according to severity of clinical symptoms systemically with flunixine meglumine (1.1 mg/kg BW 1-2x/day) or prednisolone (1 mg/kg BW 1x/day). Topically, either gentamicin (3x/day), dexamethasone (2-3x/day) and/or atropine (1x/day) were used. Skin care was provided with almond oil or dexpanthenol (2x/day). All horses were kept in a dark environment or were treated with sunscreen and facemasks. Duration of treatment varied from 6–30 days (median 11.3 days).ConclusionIngestion of wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) can induce primary photosensitization with dermatitis and ocular injury in horses. In times of extreme weather, hay may alter in botanical composition, resulting in high amounts of uncharacteristic plants causing novel problems.

A review about Pastinaca sativa L. ssp. sylvestris [Mill.] secondary metabolite diversity and inducibility

Pastinaca sativa L. ssp. sylvestris [Mill.] is a biennial, vegetable plant, whose root is tuberous and pivoting and the stem is tall and branched. The leaves are feather-sectate and the flowers are yellow, umbrella-shaped, compound. The fruits are dicariopse with winged edges. The plant is used in food and as a natural remedy in folk medicine. P. sativa is considered a very nutritious plant, important also due to its medicinal effects. The sweet taste and pleasant aroma made this vegetable indispensable in the traditional cuisine: either eaten in raw salads, or steamed, or it gives consistency and flavor to soups and broths. The roots and leaves are used for phytotherapeutic purposes.

Comparison of steaming and boiling of root vegetables for enhancing carbohydrate content and sensory profile

Root vegetables have unique techno-functional and nutritional properties however, their use in processed foods is limited to a few species, partially due to a lack of knowledge related to the impact of thermal treatments on the sensory properties. This study investigated the effect of steaming and boiling on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and sensory profile of three model root vegetables with distinct carbohydrate composition: Jerusalem artichoke ( Helianthus tuberosus L.), parsnip ( Pastinaca sativa ), and beetroot ( Beta vulgaris ). Thermally treated Jerusalem artichoke and parsnip showed higher content of cell wall polysaccharides, particularly β-glucans (e.g. cellulose) and pectic components, compared to raw. Steaming produced more cell shrinkage and loss of cell-cell adhesion than boiling, leading to softer vegetables. Processed beetroot showed loss of cell turgor and drastic softening but not clear changes in overall carbohydrate content. The scores for several flavour and in-mouth attributes were higher for steamed vegetables compared to boiled. Our results give insights on the processability of root vegetables towards products with enhanced sensory and nutritional properties. • Steaming and boiling increase dietary fibre in Jerusalem artichoke and parsnip. • Steamed vegetables are softer, have larger cell shrinkage and loss of cell adhesion. • Textural changes in processed beetroot are not related to total carbohydrates. • Flavour and in-mouth sensory attributes scores are higher for steamed vegetables. • Results give insights to use root vegetable pieces in processed foods.

Camera Assisted Roadside Monitoring for Invasive Alien Plant Species Using Deep Learning.

Invasive alien plant species (IAPS) pose a threat to biodiversity as they propagate and outcompete natural vegetation. In this study, a system for monitoring IAPS on the roadside is presented. The system consists of a camera that acquires images at high speed mounted on a vehicle that follows the traffic. Images of seven IAPS (Cytisus scoparius, Heracleum, Lupinus polyphyllus, Pastinaca sativa, Reynoutria, Rosa rugosa, and Solidago) were collected on Danish motorways. Three deep convolutional neural networks for classification (ResNet50V2 and MobileNetV2) and object detection (YOLOv3) were trained and evaluated at different image sizes. The results showed that the performance of the networks varied with the input image size and also the size of the IAPS in the images. Binary classification of IAPS vs. non-IAPS showed an increased performance, compared to the classification of individual IAPS. This study shows that automatic detection and mapping of invasive plants along the roadside is possible at high speeds.