Protein Source Research Articles

Flavonoids and their relationship with the physiological quality of seeds from different soybean genotypes

Flavonoids are compounds that result from the secondary metabolism of plants and play a crucial role in plant development and mitigating biotic and abiotic stresses. The highest levels of flavonoids are found in legumes such as soybean. Breeding programs aim to increase desirable traits, such as higher flavonoid contents and vigorous seeds. Soybeans are one of the richest sources of protein in the plant kingdom and the main source of flavonoid derivatives for human health. In view of this, the hypothesis of this study is based on the possibility that the concentration of isoflavones in soybean seeds contributes to the physiological quality of the seeds. The aim of this study was to analyze the content of flavonoids in soybean genotypes and their influence on the physiological quality of the seeds. Seeds from thirty-two soybean genotypes were obtained by carrying out a field experiment during the 2021/22 crop season. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications and thirty-two F3 soybean populations. The seeds obtained were subjected to germination, first germination counting, electrical conductivity and tetrazolium vigor and viability tests. After drying and milling the material from each genotype, liquid chromatography analysis was carried out to obtain flavonoids, performed at UPLC level. Data were submitted to analysis of variance and, when significant, the means were compared using the Scott-Knott test at 5% probability. The results found here show the occurrence of genotypes with higher amounts of flavonoids when compared to their peers. The flavonoid FLVD_G2 had the highest concentration and differed from the others. Thus, we can assume that the type and concentration of flavonoids does not influence the physiological quality of seeds from different soybean genotypes, but it does indirectly contribute to viability and vigor, since the genotypes with the highest FLVD_G2 levels had better FGC values. The findings indicate that there is a difference between the content of flavonoids in soybean genotypes, with a higher content of genistein. The content of flavonoids does not influence the physiological quality of seeds, but contributes to increasing viability and vigor.

Public Health Significance of Verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli: An Overview

Meat is a global vital protein source catering to diverse diets. By 2050, world’s population may rise to 9 billion and the demand for meat will exceed supply, necessitating a doubling of meat production. Nutritionally rich composition makes meat, a fertile ground for numerous microbes, leading to spoilage and foodborne illnesses, impacting human health. External factors like poor hygiene, inadequate post-production storage, mishandling and more contribute to meat contamination. The zoonotic strains of E. coli can cause severe food poisoning, with over 700 identified serotypes, hence it is crucial to identify, monitor and control E. coli to ensure food safety. Among E. coli pathotypes, Verocytotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) stands out as major cause of food poisoning. The VTEC toxin (Shiga toxin), can induce mild diarrhea to severe form of illness like Hemorrhagic Uremic Syndrome and Hemorrhagic Colitis, posing a severe public health risk. The Cattle is a primary reservoir for VTEC, which, by faecal shedding, can pollute food, water and the environment. Furthermore, E. coli can spread through contaminated meat, raw milk and milk products. This bacterium is commonly found in the immediate surroundings of animal reservoir, including soil, grass and manure, leading to potential contamination of milk. E. coli infections not only impact humans but also animals, with cattle, sheep and poultry acting as reservoirs for different E. coli strains. Cattle populations frequently harbor E. coli O157:H7 asymptomatic carriers, contributing to faecal contamination of food and water sources. Educating the public about the risks associated with improper meat handling and contamination is essential to reduce foodborne illnesses. Monitoring and surveillance of meat quality in local markets, as are crucial steps towards ensuring food safety. This underscores the importance of understanding and managing E. coli contamination in meat to safeguard public health and ensure the safety of meat products in the global food supply chain.

Dietary diversity and associated factors among infants and young children in three West African countries

Providing children healthy diversified diets is important for their optimal growth and development. The high prevalence of under-nourishment during the critical early life period is of serious concern in West Africa. We assessed the level of dietary diversity and associated factors for children aged 6–23 months in Côte d’Ivoire, Niger and Senegal. Prior 24 h dietary intake was assessed for 3,528 children (Côte d’Ivoire: N = 118; Niger: N = 763; Senegal: N = 2,647) using the Diet Quality Questionnaire survey tool administered to primary caregivers. Cluster random sampling was conducted for urban and rural areas in Niger and Senegal and simple random sampling was used in Côte d’Ivoire, where only rural households were selected. Survey data were analyzed to determine children’s intake of items from eight food groups: breast milk; grains, roots, tubers and plantains; pulses, nuts and seeds; dairy products; flesh foods; eggs; vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables; and other fruits and vegetables. Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) was assessed based on the consumption of ≥5 of the 8 food groups. In all countries, the majority of children were ≥ 12 months of age and from rural households. Children from poor/very poor households ranged from 32.4 to 41.9%. MDD prevalence was 54.2% in Côte d’Ivoire, 33.3% in Niger and 30.8% in Senegal. In all three countries, children 12–23 months had significantly higher consumption of six of the food groups, compared to those 6–11 months, and children ≥12 months had a higher likelihood of MDD, compared to infants, in Niger (aOR = 4.25; 95% CI: 2.46, 7.36) and Senegal (aOR = 2.69; 95% CI: 2.15, 3.35). MDD prevalence was higher among children in urban, compared to rural, areas in Niger (p = 0.020) and Senegal (p < 0.001) and significantly higher in the wealthiest, compared to poorest, households. This study suggests most young children in Côte d’Ivoire, Niger and Senegal are not receiving an adequately diversified diet, with a reliance on starchy staples and lower intake of high-quality protein sources. Our results highlight socio-economic barriers to attaining dietary diversity in these settings and stress the urgent and continuing need for investments in strategies that support optimal complementary feeding practices.

Influence of Certain Biostimulants on the Vegetative Growth of Annual Moringa (Moringa oleifera. Lam)

Due to the importance of moringa leaves which can help improve the dietary diversity and quality of households that need to improve their nutritional intake, being a potential alternate source of protein, and for the sake of increasing its growth and yield, this study is determine the effect of some biofertilizers, amino acids and seaweed extract on vegetative growth of moringa seedlings As well as, to find out the best fertilization treatment to improve the vegetative growth of Moringa and reducing the intensive use of chemical fertilizers. This study was conducted in the Experimental Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture (Saba-Basha), Alexandria University, Egypt, during two consecutive seasons of 2020 and 2021, to study the effect of biofertilizers, amino acids, and seaweed extract and its combinations on the growth of Moringa (Moringa oleifera, L.). The experiment was designed as split-split plot design it included 27 treatments with three replicates. The results revealed that the highest significant values of vegetative growth as plant height (171.8 cm), stem length (87.30 cm), stem diameter (3.49 cm), leaves fresh weight (70.61 g), leaves dry weight (13.35g), number of leaves per plant (72.03), and number of leaves per shoot (54.41) were achieved when the trees were soil bio-fertilized and sprayed with the investigated amino acid 700 mg/l + seaweed extract 700 mg/l + cerealine (T26) for both seasons of study. While the number of branches per plant (15.28), shoot fresh weight (138.1g), and shoot dry weight (24.07g) were concerned, the highest values were obtained when the plants were treated with soil bio-fertilization (Phosphorine), sprayed with amino acids, and seaweed extract, as the abovementioned treatments, amino acid 700 mg/l + seaweed extract 700 mg/l + Phosphorine (T25), for both seasons of study compared to the other treatments and control.

Improved digestibility of Black Gram leaf meal based diets for rohu (Labeo rohita) with supplementation of exogenous enzyme cocktail

Leaf meal is currently the most cost-effective source of protein and energy for use as a supplement in fish feed. The drawback associated with integrating it into the fish diet pertains to the presence of anti-nutritional elements that must be eliminated through a viable approach such as the addition of exogenous enzymes for achieving optimal fish production. Consequently, a 60-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the black gram leaf meal (BGLM) as a potential ingredient to replace de-oiled rice bran (DORB) in the diet of Labeo rohita juveniles and reported for the first time. Three hundred acclimatized juveniles (average weight 11 ± 0.09g) were allocated randomly into ten treatment groups in triplicate. Ten iso-nitrogenous (32%) and iso-lipidic (6%) diets were made with varying degrees of BGLM inclusion by gradually replacing DORB without or with exogenous enzyme mixture (E) of protease, xylanase, and phytase at a ratio of 1:1:1 viz. Control (40% DORB, 0% BGLM), BG10 (30% DORB, 10% BGLM), BG20 (20% DORB, 20% BGLM), BG30 (10% DORB, 30% BGLM), BG40 (0% DORB, 40% BGLM) & CE (C + 0.1% E), BG10E (BG10 + 0.1% E), BG20E (BG20 + 0.1% E), BG30E (BG30 + 0.1% E), BG40E (BG40 + 0.1% E) were prepared. Fish fed with BG20E diet exhibited maximum growth rates, nutrient utilization and digestibility co-efficient of the diet (P<0.05) however these were similar in C+E treatment (P>0.05). Inclusion of 20% or more BGLM without enzyme cocktail significantly (P<0.05) decreased the nutrient utilization and growth performance of L. rohita. The dry matter and nutrient digestibility of the experimental diet were significantly decreased (P<0.05) with the inclusion of 20% or more BGLM in place of DORB, however supplementation of exogenous enzyme cocktail significantly increase (P<0.05) the digestibility and highest was recorded in BG20E. The present study concluded that supplementation of exogenous enzyme cocktail (protease, xylanase, and phytase) increase the digestibility of BGLM and increases its inclusion level up to 30% in the diet of L. rohita, however, 20% BGLM supplemented with enzyme cocktail registered the best growth, nutrient utilization and digestibility coefficient of the diet.

Facing death: a multidisciplinary analysis of a Romano-Egyptian mummy mask at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Copenhagen

Funerary masks played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian burial practices, as part of the rituals to ensure a successful afterlife. This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of a gilded mummy mask from the Roman period in Egypt from the collections of The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek in Copenhagen. Portraying a young female, the mask belongs to a distinctive group of mummy masks, whose origins can be identified to be coming from the Dakhlah and Kharga oases. The construction of the mask (plaster, textiles) and the constituents of its polychromy (pigments, binding media) was analysed using various non- and micro-destructive methods: imaging, cross-section analysis, optical microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Additionally, samples were taken for palaeoproteomic analysis with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. A wide range of pigments such as yellow and red ochre, carbon-based black, and Egyptian blue were identified, reflecting common materials in polychromy in Egypt during the Roman period. Notably, indigo was detected, suggesting its usage in mixtures to render purple hues. Analysis of adhesives and media identified plant gum and collagen-based animal glue. Proteomic analysis identified Equus asinus (donkey) as the predominant protein source for the collagen-based glue. The results shed light on the materials and techniques employed in ancient polychromy in Egypt in the Roman period, further enriching our understanding of artistic practices at the time.

Estimating the dynamics of greenhouse gas emission during black soldier fly larvae growth under controlled environmental conditions

Edible insects are considered a sustainable alternative protein source. Several studies have indicated that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from insects are generally low. These data were usually recorded in closed static chambers, which did not reflect the actual rearing conditions. On the other hand, open respiration chambers need high amounts of substrate and insects, making the analyses time consuming and expensive. In the present study, a novel small-scale open gas exchange recording system for evaluation of GHG emissions from insects is presented. The device consists of four independent respiration chambers, each one equipped with a pump for supplying air, a flow meter and a septum for sampling the flowing air. A validation experiment was carried out using black soldier fly larvae as model organisms and moistened chicken feed (dry matter 40%) as rearing substrate. Three independent runs were conducted, each with two replicates, using 200 neonates larvae and 300 g of substrate. Moistened chicken feed (300 g) without larvae was used as control. Throughout the 12 days rearing period, gas sampling occurred every 12 h. Data interpolation considering a linear tendency between two successive sampling points was applied and overall amounts of gases were quantified as area under the curve. Irrespective of the run, CO2 emissions in the insect-substrate systems increased during the initial 7 d of experiment, consistently followed by a rapid decrease. Multiple cross correlation analysis showed high reproducibility (r ≥ 0.9), while significant differences in the CO2 emissions between insects-substrate system (range 7.76 to 11.88 g g-1 dry insects) and sole substrate (range 0.20 to 0.33 g g-1 initial dry substrate) were observed. Very limited N2O (≤1.13 mg g-1 dry insects) and CH4 (≤ 1.33 mg g-1 dry insects) emissions were detected in this experiment, indicating that the performed black soldier fly larvae rearing did not result in significant production of these GHGs. Overall, the experiment showed that the novel device may be particularly suited for quick and reliable estimation of GHG emissions from edible insects.

Densification of Genetic Map and Stable Quantitative Trait Locus Analysis for Amino Acid Content of Seed in Soybean (Glycine max L.)

Soybean, a primary vegetable protein source, boasts favorable amino acid profiles; however, its composition still falls short of meeting human nutritional demands. The soybean amino acid content is a quantitative trait controlled by multiple genes. In this study, an F2 population of 186 individual plants derived from the cross between ChangJiangChun2 and JiYu166 served as the mapping population. Based on the previously published genetic map of our lab, we increased the density of the genetic map and constructed a new genetic map containing 518 SSR (simple sequence repeats) markers and 64 InDel (insertion-deletion) markers, with an average distance of 5.27 cm and a total length of 2881.2 cm. The content of eight essential amino acids was evaluated in the F2:5, F2:6, and BLUP (best linear unbiased prediction). A total of 52 QTLs (quantitative trait loci) were identified, and 13 QTL clusters were identified, among which loci02.1 and loci11.1 emerged as stable QTL clusters, exploring candidate genes within these regions. Through GO enrichment and gene annotation, 16 candidate genes associated with soybean essential amino acid content were predicted. This study would lay the foundation for elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of essential amino acid content and contribute to germplasm innovation in soybeans.

Plant-Based Meat Analogues: Exploring Proteins, Fibers and Polyphenolic Compounds as Functional Ingredients for Future Food Solutions.

As the lack of resources required to meet the demands of a growing population is increasingly evident, plant-based diets can be seen as part of the solution, also addressing ethical, environmental, and health concerns. The rise of vegetarian and vegan food regimes is a powerful catalyzer of a transition from animal-based diets to plant-based diets, which foments the need for innovation within the food industry. Vegetables and fruits are a rich source of protein, and bioactive compounds such as dietary fibres and polyphenols and can be used as technological ingredients (e.g., thickening agents, emulsifiers, or colouring agents), while providing health benefits. This review provides insight on the potential of plant-based ingredients as a source of alternative proteins, dietary fibres and antioxidant compounds, and their use for the development of food- and alternative plant-based products. The application of these ingredients on meat analogues and their impact on health, the environment and consumers' acceptance are discussed. Given the current knowledge on meat analogue production, factors like cost, production and texturization techniques, upscaling conditions, sensory attributes and nutritional safety are factors that require further development to fully achieve the full potential of plant-based meat analogues.

Enhancing Animal Nutrition and Sustainability: The Vital Role of Genetically Modified Crops in Animal Feeding

Agriculture and livestock are fundamental to the economies of developing countries. A substantial portion of crop harvests is allocated for animal feed. Thus, more technological advancements are necessary to enhance agricultural productivity and provide affordable feed. Future biotech crops are expected to play a crucial role in this area. The goal is often to introduce traits into plants that do not naturally occur in these species. These new traits may include resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental conditions, or the production of specific nutrients or pharmaceutical agents. GM crops have indirectly benefited the livestock sector by increasing the yield of feed ingredients and improving quality traits. These crops are primarily used in livestock feed rations as energy and/or protein sources. Numerous animal feeding studies have been conducted to demonstrate that genetically modified crops are as nutritious and wholesome as compared to their conventional counterparts. No biological relevant differences in animal performance, health, or animal product (meat and milk) composition had been observed in various studies conducted. Overall, no significant differences in gain, intake, and feed conversion have been reported. Since the GM crop’s composition is not different from its conventional counterpart [except for the introduced transgene(s) and expressed protein(s)] and the expressed transgenic protein is rapidly digested in the digestive system, one would not expect any unintended effects. The introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops into the market undergoes extensive testing and a rigorous approval process to ensure food, feed, and environmental safety. This process includes thorough analyses before GM crops are deemed safe for commercial use. GM livestock feed is assessed for its nutritional composition and digestibility by comparing it with conventional crops. Therefore, while GM crops have the potential to enhance the efficiency of animal agriculture by improving nutritional content, reducing pesticide use, and increasing crop yields, it is essential to approach their adoption with caution.

Reducing Washout of Proteins from Defatted Soybean Flakes by Alkaline Extraction: Fractioning and Characterization

Human health, sustainable development, numerous environmental issues, and animal welfare are increasingly driving research and development of plant-based protein products that can serve as meat substitutes. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years due to growing consumer awareness, with people gradually shifting from animal-based foods to more sustainable plant-based options. Soy proteins are a valuable source of plant proteins and are widely used in human and animal diets due to their nutritional value and health benefits. In this study, soybean protein extraction by two methods was compared: water extraction (lower salt content) and Tris-HCl extraction (higher salt content), aiming to characterize the resulting protein fractions. These fractions were studied using differential precipitation based on the isoelectric point. Protein identification by SDS-PAGE, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for cellular structure assessment, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to determine residual protein left in the solid fraction after extraction using the two methods. Electrophoresis assays revealed the presence of the four main protein fractions (2S, 7S, 11S, and soy whey proteins) in the defatted soybean flakes, establishing the protein profile of Brazilian soybeans and for the two main waste streams of the production process—spent flakes and whey. The separation of fractions was carried out by differential precipitation. FTIR analysis indicated higher residual protein levels in solid residues after the water extraction method compared to the Tris-HCl extraction method. SEM analysis revealed the removal of protein bodies in both extraction methods and the presence of residual oil-containing bodies. Both methodologies are viable alternatives for the industrial separation of soybean protein fractions. Differential precipitation could be implemented to produce isolated products and improve the nutritional profile, increase process yield thus generating less industrial waste and driving the process towards environmental sustainability.

Editorial: Alternative protein source for a sustainable and healthy nutrition

Editorial: Alternative protein source for a sustainable and healthy nutrition

Hexane defatting effects on rapeseed protein extractability and properties at neutral and mild pH 8.5

Rapeseed is a promising plant protein source yet to be fully explored. Traditionally, rapeseed proteins are extracted from hexane-defatted press cake at high alkaline conditions to maximise protein recovery. Instead of the traditional approach, this study explored the effects of extracting proteins from the whole-kernel seed, focusing on assessing the hexane defatting process followed by gentle protein extraction at neutral pH compared with pH 8.5. Extraction at neutral pH resulted in a napin-rich protein extract, while alkaline conditions favoured cruciferin extraction as expected. Hexane defatting destroyed the oil bodies's structure while detaching the cell membrane from the cell wall, causing dehydration, and enabling interactions between the seed constituents. Increasing cycles of hexane treatment greatly reduced the total protein recovery by 9 g/100 g under neutral pH and >60 g/100 g under mild alkaline conditions which affected the protein structure, leading to a more rigid structure with a slightly higher melting temperature.

Retention of prions in the polychaete Hediste diversicolor and black soldier fly, a Hermetia illucens, larvae after short-term experimental immersion and feeding with brain homogenate from scrapie infected sheep

Finding alternative protein and lipid sources for aquafeeds is crucial for the sustainable growth of fed aquaculture. Upcycling industrial side streams and byproducts using extractive species can reduce waste and help reduce the sector's dependence on fish meal and fish oils. Polychaete worms (Hediste diversicolor) and black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) are promising candidates for converting waste materials into valuable protein and lipid sources. However, further research and evaluations are needed to ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of these alternative feed sources, especially regarding prions spreading potential in the unlikely case that prions would be introduced in the value chain via feedstocks. In the present investigation, BSFL and juvenile polychaetes that had received a massive dose of scrapie prions through immersion and oral inoculation were found to harbour detectable prions using an ultrasensitive amplification method known as PMCA. This observation suggests that both H. diversicolor and BSFL have the potential to serve as mechanical vectors for prions diseases. However, it is important to note that insects, lacking the prion protein gene, are incapable of propagating prions. Therefore, the quantity of prions present in the larvae will inevitably be lower than the amount of prions they encountered. This is the first study to report on the fate of prions through ingestion by these marine and terrestrial invertebrate species.

Nutritional Composition Profile of Mealworm Larvae (Tenebrio molitor) Reared on Different Substrate: A Potential Protein Substitute for Fishmeal

Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) insect meal has been adjudged a protein source for human and livestock consumption. Substrates of agricultural by-product are been used to rear this insect, and it is of importance to investigate the implication of substrate on the content of the end product. This study was conducted to assess the nutrient composition of T. molitor cultured on three grain by-products as growth substrate media [Rice Bran (RB), Corn Bran (CB) and Wheat Bran (WB)] for 90 days. Harvested larvae were sundried, ground into powder and analysed for proximate composition as well as mineral content and the data statistical analysed. Protein was highest in CB reared larvae 51.33% with least in RB reared larvae 46.74%. Fat was high in all sampled substrate reared mealworm. Ash content in CB and WB was significantly different (P&lt;0.05) from RB reared larvae. Macro mineral Mg and Na are not significantly different, while micro mineral profile showed significant variations (P&lt;0.05). The nutritional composition of T. molitor in this study positioned it as a potential substitute for incorporation into fish feed formulation as animal protein source.

Upcycling of Defatted Sesame Seed Meal via Protein Amyloid-Based Nanostructures: Preparation, Characterization, and Functional and Antioxidant Attributes.

Herein, the possibility of valorizing defatted sesame seed meal (DSSM) as a viable source for valuable plant proteins and amyloid-based nanostructure was investigated. Sesame seed protein isolate (SSPI) and the major storage protein globulin (SSG) were prepared by alkaline extraction-isoelectric point precipitation as well as fractionation in the case of SSG. The protein samples were characterized for their physicochemical attributes. SSPI and SSG were also evaluated for their ability to form amyloid structures under heating (90 °C) at low pH (2.0). Additionally, the functional attributes, antioxidant activity, and biocompatibility of the proteins and amyloid nanostructures were also examined. SSPI and SSG were both successfully prepared from DSSM. The data showed that the physicochemical attributes of both protein samples were quite similar, except for the fact that SSG was mostly composed of 11S globulin, as evinced by Tricine-SDS-PAGE analysis. TEM micrographs revealed that SSG was able to form curly-shaped fibrillar amyloid structures, whereas those derived from SSPI were mostly amorphous. Thioflavin-T assay and Tricine-SDS-PAGE analysis indicated that acidic heating promoted protein hydrolysis and self-aggregation of the hydrolyzed peptides into a β-sheet rich amyloid structure. Importantly, the amyloid preparations displayed commendable solubility, superior water and oil holding capacities, and antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS. The protein amyloid nanostructures were found to be non-toxic against RAW264.7 cells, HaCaT cells, and red blood cells. These findings indicate that DSSM could be upcycled into valuable protein amyloid structures with good potentialities as novel food ingredients.

Effect of heating treatment on processing characteristics of rice dough

Rice dough is a good source of digestible protein due to its advantages of being gluten-free and hypoallergenic compared to wheat dough, but the poor elasticity, low elongation and adhesion of rice dough limit its application. The effect of heating treatment with different temperature (40–100 °C) on processing characteristics of rice dough was explored. The results of fermentation characteristics showed that the best gas production and gas retention properties of rice dough were achieved at 70 °C. The rheological properties demonstrated a certain degree of deformation resistance at 85 °C, which resulted in the rice dough system exhibiting a tendency to flow at this temperature. Consequently, the blanching dough below 85 °C was deemed preferable for blanching. In addition, with the increase of temperature during blanching., the strength of the rice dough gel network increased. The results of proton distribution showed some of the emi-bound and free water in the rice dough was bound to bound water by exposed hydroxyl groups, leading to an increased bound water content, a decreased adsorbed and free water content. The degree of gelatinization of the rice dough increased gradually with increased blanching temperature, and the stability and resilience of rice dough reached the best at 70 °C. The thermal stability demonstrated that the ungelatinized portion of the rice dough exhibited enhanced structural stability, with the optimal thermal stability attained at 70 °C. It can therefore be concluded that the scalded dough made at 70 °C exhibits superior performance in all aspects and is suitable for subsequent processing of rice dough, which suggests a novel approach to the utilisation of rice dough in the future.

A Lexicon of Descriptive Sensory Terms for Peas (Pisum sativum L.): A Systematic Review.

The popularity of peas (Pisum sativum L.) and pea-derived products is constantly growing globally and is estimated to continue to do so at an average annual rate of 12%. This is partially stimulated by the increase in the consumption of meat analogues and the popularisation of animal-protein-free diets. Peas are considered a great source of protein and dietary fibre and are not depicted as allergenic, making them a good replacement ingredient for other legumes such as soy. Peas are also considered good for the environment, mainly due to their nitrogen fixation capabilities. Despite the above benefits, sensory quality is still a limiting factor in increasing consumer acceptance of peas and pea-derived products. This review has been conducted in accordance with the Joanna Brings Institute's guidance for systematic literature reviews. The search has been conducted on the descriptive sensory terms for Pisum sativum L., where the objectives of the study were to select, present, and analyse the identified descriptive sensory terms for peas found throughout the academic literature. The reviewers have screened 827 articles, of which 12 were eligible for data extraction. Out of the 12 articles, 205 descriptive sensory terms were identified. Those were divided into five categories: smell/odour (27%), flavour (51%), taste (10%), texture (8%), and visual (4%). These included results from sensory analyses by trained/untrained panels and instrumental analyses of texture and of volatile compounds. The identified descriptive sensory terms for Pisum sativum L. could be used for future descriptive sensory evaluation of peas and other legumes, making the process less time consuming. The full list could be used for the initial sensory panel training and then adapted based on the frequency of the depicted terms that meet the criteria for the developed lexicon.

The odds of having obesity in Egyptian children with autism spectrum disorders is higher than stunting compared to healthy developing peers: a national survey

BackgroundThe nutritional status and growth of children with Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is influenced significantly by two factors; food selectivity behaviors due to their consumption of a limited variety of food and the high incidence of gastrointestinal (GIT) disorders.AimThis study aimed to assess the nutritional adequacy and growth pattern of ASD children aged three to twelve years compared to their healthy developing peers.MethodsA national comparative, facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Egyptian governorates on 285 Egyptian children diagnosed with ASD and 224 children who are their relatives as healthy developing peers. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, including weight, height, head circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and all numbers were plotted on WHO growth charts. Assessment of food preferences, and nutrient intake adequacy of children was done using the Food preference questionnaire, and the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) of Egyptian children.ResultsCalorie-dense food and sugar intake were higher among ASD children than their healthy developing peers. ASD children omit some important protein sources such as dairy (COR = 5.2, 95% CI:2.7–9.9), meat, and poultry (COR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6–4.7), and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables than their healthy developing peers. For children with ASD in all age groups, a deficiency in the range of 50–60% was detected for vitamins (C, D, B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin) and minerals (iron). A deficiency in the range of 60–70% was detected for folate and calcium. A deficiency of vitamin C calcium and iron was also detected for both children with ASD and their healthy developing relatives aged 6 to 12 years. GIT disorders were common among ASD children compared to healthy developing peers (COR = 2.8 to 10.3). Children with ASD had four-fold higher odds of stunting (COR = 4.1, CI: 1.7–10.1), threefold higher odds of being overweight (COR = 3.3, CI: 1.48–7.32), and nearly eleven-fold higher odds of obesity (COR = 11.4, CI: 4.05–32.17) compared to their healthy developing peers.ConclusionASD children are prone to overweight and protein malnutrition. Their intake of fruits and vegetables is inadequate and hence their intake of vitamins and minerals is insufficient, contributing to stunting.

Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses of Soybean Protein Isolate on Monascus Pigments and Monacolin K Production.

Monascus pigments (MPs) and monacolin K (MK) are important secondary metabolites produced by Monascus spp. This study aimed to investigate the effect of soybean protein isolate (SPI) on the biosynthesis of MPs and MK based on the analysis of physiological indicators, transcriptomes, and metabolomes. The results indicated that the growth, yellow MPs, and MK production of Monascus pilosus MS-1 were significantly enhanced by SPI, which were 8.20, 8.01, and 1.91 times higher than that of the control, respectively. The utilization of a nitrogen source, protease activity, the production and utilization of soluble protein, polypeptides, and free amino acids were also promoted by SPI. The transcriptomic analysis revealed that the genes mokA, mokB, mokC, mokD, mokE, mokI, and mokH which are involved in MK biosynthesis were significantly up-regulated by SPI. Moreover, the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pyruvate metabolism, fatty acid degradation, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and amino acid metabolism were effectively up-regulated by SPI. The metabolomic analysis indicated that metabolisms of amino acid, lipid, pyruvate, TCA cycle, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, starch and sucrose, and pentose phosphate pathway were significantly disturbed by SPI. Thus, MPs and MK production promoted by SPI were mainly attributed to the increased biomass, up-regulated gene expression level, and more precursors and energies.