Sugar Industry Research Articles

Production, purification, characterization, and safety evaluation of constructed recombinant D-psicose 3-epimerase

BackgroundD-psicose 3-epimerase (DPEase) is a potential catalytic enzyme for D-psicose production. D-psicose, also known as D-allulose, is a low-calorie sweetener that has gained considerable attention as a healthy alternative sweetener due to its notable physicochemical properties. This research focused on an in-depth investigation of the expression of the constructed DPEase gene from Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Escherichia coli for D-psicose synthesis. Experimentally, this research created the recombinant enzyme, explored the optimization of gene expression systems and protein purification strategies, investigated the enzymatic characterization, and then optimized the D-psicose production. Finally, the produced D-psicose syrup underwent acute toxicity evaluation to provide scientific evidence supporting its safety.ResultsThe optimization of DPEase expression involved the utilization of Mn2+ as a cofactor, fine-tuning isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside induction, and controlling the induction temperature. The purification process was strategically designed by a nickel column and an elution buffer containing 200 mM imidazole, resulting in purified DPEase with a notable 21.03-fold increase in specific activity compared to the crude extract. The optimum D-psicose conversion conditions were at pH 7.5 and 55 °C with a final concentration of 10 mM Mn2+ addition using purified DPEase to achieve the highest D-psicose concentration of 5.60% (w/v) using 25% (w/v) of fructose concentration with a conversion rate of 22.42%. Kinetic parameters of the purified DPEase were Vmax and Km values of 28.01 mM/min and 110 mM, respectively, which demonstrated the high substrate affinity and efficiency of DPEase conversion by the binding site of the fructose-DPEase-Mn2+ structure. Strategies for maintaining stability of DPEase activity were glycerol addition and storage at -20 °C. Based on the results from the acute toxicity study, there was no toxicity to rats, supporting the safety of the mixed D-fructose–D-psicose syrup produced using recombinant DPEase.ConclusionsThese findings have direct and practical implications for the industrial-scale production of D-psicose, a valuable rare sugar with a broad range of applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This research should advance the understanding of DPEase biocatalysis and offers a roadmap for the successful scale-up production of rare sugars, opening new avenues for their utilization in various industrial processes.

Sugarcane Diseases Detection Using Optimized Convolutional Neural Network with Enhanced Environmental Adaptation Method

This research aims to address the need for accurate and prompt identification of sugarcane diseases, which substantially impact the worldwide sugar industry and the livelihoods of numerous farmers. Conventional visual inspection methods are hindered by subjective interpretations and restricted availability, prompting the investigation of more sophisticated techniques. By harnessing deep learning capabilities, specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), and further enhancing their performance using the Environmental Adaptation Method (EAM) optimization, this research demonstrates significant enhancements in disease detection accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-Score. Based on the macro values obtained from the different approaches, it has been observed that an accuracy of 89% was obtained for the CNN designed from EEAM in comparison to the other counter parts. Similarly, the precision of the proposed architecture of CNN is better in comparison to GA, PSO and DE. On the same lines the Recall and F1 score of the proposed approach is better in comparison to that of the three counterparts. Similarly, the ROC analysis for the analysis of AUC is done and it was identified that the AUC curve for the different CNN designed by various optimizer were good in identifying the different classes of the sugarcane diseases. The major limitation of this approach is that model has marginal accuracy with its counterpart algorithm, however, the algorithm suggested the use of simple CNN models that are easy to use. The rigorous methodology, encompassing data collection and model optimization, guarantees the reliability and applicability of the sugarcane disease detection system based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). Future research directions focus on integrating hyperspectral imaging, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and user-friendly mobile applications. This integration aims to empower farmers, facilitate proactive disease management, and ensure the sustainability of the sugarcane industry. This advancement represents notable progress in precision agriculture and disease mitigation.

Genomic characterization of bZIP gene family and patterns of gene regulation on Cercospora beticola Sacc resistance in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.).

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is one of the most important sugar crops, accounting for nearly 30% of the world's annual sugar production. And it is mainly distributed in the northwestern, northern, and northeastern regions of China. However, Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) is the most serious and destructive foliar disease during the cultivation of sugar beet. In plants, the bZIP gene family is one of important family of transcription factors that regulate many biological processes, including cell and tissue differentiation, pathogen defense, light response, and abiotic stress signaling. Although the bZIP gene family has been mentioned in previous studies as playing a crucial role in plant defense against diseases, there has been no comprehensive study or functional analysis of the bZIP gene family in sugar beet with respect to biotic stresses. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of bZIP family genes (BvbZIPs) in sugar beet to investigate their phylogenetic relationships, gene structure and chromosomal localization. At the same time, we observed the stomatal and cell ultrastructure of sugar beet leaf surface during the period of infestation by Cercospora beticola Sacc (C. beticola). And identified the genes with significant differential expression in the bZIP gene family of sugar beet by qRT-PCR. Finally we determined the concentrations of SA and JA and verified the associated genes by qRT-PCR. The results showed that 48 genes were identified and gene expression analysis indicated that 6 BvbZIPs were significantly differential expressed in C. beticola infection. It is speculated that these BvbZIPs are candidate genes for regulating the response of sugar beet to CLS infection. Meanwhile, the observation stomata of sugar beet leaves infected with C. beticola revealed that there were also differences in the surface stomata of the leaves at different periods of infection. In addition, we further confirmed that the protein encoded by the SA signaling pathway-related gene BVRB_9g222570 in high-resistant varieties was PR1, which is closely related to systemic acquired resistance. One of the protein interaction modes of JA signal transduction pathway is the response of MYC2 transcription factor caused by JAZ protein degradation, and there is a molecular interaction between JA signal transduction pathway and auxin. Despite previous reports on abiotic stresses in sugar beet, this study provides very useful information for further research on the role of the sugar beet bZIP gene family in sugar beet through experiments. The above research findings can promote the development of sugar beet disease resistance breeding.

Bioactivity of selenium nanoparticles biosynthesized by crude phycocyanin extract of Leptolyngbya sp. SSI24 cultivated on recycled filter cake wastes from sugar-industry

BackgroundBeet filter cake (BFC) is a food-grade solid waste produced by the sugar industry, constituting a permanent source of pollution. Cyanobacteria are considered a sustainable resource for various bioactive compounds such as phycocyanin pigment with valuable applications. This study aimed to use beet filter cake extract (BFCE) as an alternative medium for the economic cultivation of cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya sp. SSI24 PP723083, then biorefined the bioactive component such as phycocyanin pigment that could be used in the production of selenium nanoparticles.ResultsThe results of the batch experiment displayed that the highest protein content was in BG11medium (47.9%); however, the maximum carbohydrate and lipid content were in 25% BFCE (15.25 and 10.23%, respectively). In addition, 75% BFCE medium stimulated the phycocyanin content (25.29 mg/g) with an insignificant variation compared to BG11 (22.8 mg/g). Moreover, crude phycocyanin extract from Leptolyngbya sp SSI24 cultivated on BG11 and 75% BFCE successfully produced spherical-shaped selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) with mean sizes of 95 and 96 nm in both extracts, respectively. Moreover, XRD results demonstrated that the biosynthesized Se-NPs have a crystalline nature. In addition, the Zeta potential of the biosynthesized Se-NPs equals − 17 mV and − 15.03 mV in the control and 75% BFCE treatment, respectively, indicating their stability. The biosynthesized Se-NPs exhibited higher effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, the biosynthesized Se-NPs from BG11 had higher antioxidant activity with IC50 of 60 ± 0.7 compared to 75% BFCE medium. Further, Se-NPs biosynthesized from phycocyanin extracted from Leptolyngbya sp cultivated on 75% BFCE exhibited strong anticancer activity with IC50 of 17.31 ± 0.63 µg/ml against the human breast cancer cell line.ConclusionsThe BFCE-supplemented medium can be used for the cultivation of cyanobacterial strain for the phycocyanin accumulation that is used for the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles that have biological applications.Graphical

Evaluation of the Impact of an Enzymatic Preparation Catalyzing the Decomposition of Raffinose from Poor-Quality Beets during the White Sugar Production Process.

The study investigates the efficacy of an enzymatic preparation primarily with α-galactosidase activity for improving the quality of white sugar from poor-quality sugar beets. Focused on overcoming raffinose accumulation challenges in sugar beets, especially those harvested prematurely or stored for extended periods, an innovative exploration of enzymatic application in an industrial setting for the first time was conducted. By integrating theoretical calculations and experimental data, the findings reveal that α-galactosidase preparation notably diminishes raffinose content in beet juice, thus enhancing the sucrose yield and overall sugar quality. A reliable method to process lower-quality beets, promising enhanced efficiency in sugar production, was presented. The study also highlights the economic benefits of incorporating enzyme preparation into the production process, demonstrating a notable return on investment and underscoring the potential of enzymatic treatments to address industry challenges.

A Preliminary Study on the Effect of Adding Sugarcane Syrup on the Flavor of Barley Lager Fermentation.

This study focuses on the diversified utilization of the sugarcane industry, and sugarcane syrup, as a by-product of the sugarcane industry, is a good raw material for fermentation. Bringing sugarcane syrup into beer is conducive to the enrichment of the sugar industry, and it can improve the flavor of beer and make it more aromatic. This study determined the optimal fermentation process for beer. By analyzing the consumption rate of the carbon and nitrogen sources of raw materials, the nutrient utilization of yeast, and the causes of differences in flavor substances, the flavor composition and flavor stability of beer were determined by SPME-HS-GC-MS technology. The results showed that beer brewed with sugarcane syrup as an auxiliary raw material met the basic specifications of beer. The addition of sugarcane syrup to the wort base increased the utilization of amino acids by the yeast, and LS (lager with added cane syrup) increased the nine flavor compounds of the beer, which constituted the basic flavor of the beer, bringing new flavor compounds compared with the normal all-barley beer. Forced aging experiments showed that LS produced fewer aging compounds than OWBL. Various experiments have shown that it is feasible to ferment beer with sugarcane syrup instead of partial wort.

Energy assessment and heat integration of biofuel production from bio-oil produced through fast pyrolysis of sugarcane straw, and its upgrading via hydrotreatment

Sugarcane processing is one of the most important economic activities in Brazil, producing ethanol and sugar for domestic and international markets. Utilising the lignocellulosic residues of this industry, specifically bagasse and straw, would increase the second-generation biofuel production without increasing the sugarcane planted area. Among the processes available, the fast pyrolysis is a thermochemical conversion process that produces mainly bio-oil, a liquid with several advantages over solid biomass, regarding transportation, pumping, storage, and handling. Moreover, the bio-oil can be upgraded to obtain biofuels of higher added-value. Among feasible upgrading technologies, the hydrotreatment is one of the most promising methods for eliminating the reactive functionalities of the bio-oil by removing oxygen or cracking large molecules in the presence of hydrogen; however, this comes at the expense of a significant hydrogen consumption. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the biofuel production through the fast pyrolysis of sugarcane straw, followed by the upgrading of the produced bio-oil via hydrotreatment. The evaluation is carried out by way of energy and mass balances of the processes, performed using the software Aspen Plus. Furthermore, the possibilities of integrating the bio-oil production and upgrading into the conventional ethanol and sugar production process will also be assessed through heat integration, applying the Pinch analysis. Results showed the potential for renewable gasoline and diesel production with yields of 0.086 kg/kg of dry straw and 0.08 kg/kg of dry straw, respectively. Additionally, integrating the pyrolysis process, including the bio-oil upgrading, into the ethanol production process can achieve a liquid fuel production (ethanol, gasoline and diesel) of 2289.8 MJ/t cane, which represents an increase of 29 %, while the surplus electricity increases in 5.3 %, when compared to the conventional ethanol production plant.

Sparse testing designs for optimizing predictive ability in sugarcane populations.

Sugarcane is a crucial crop for sugar and bioenergy production. Saccharose content and total weight are the two main key commercial traits that compose sugarcane's yield. These traits are under complex genetic control and their response patterns are influenced by the genotype-by-environment (G×E) interaction. An efficient breeding of sugarcane demands an accurate assessment of the genotype stability through multi-environment trials (METs), where genotypes are tested/evaluated across different environments. However, phenotyping all genotype-in-environment combinations is often impractical due to cost and limited availability of propagation-materials. This study introduces the sparse testing designs as a viable alternative, leveraging genomic information to predict unobserved combinations through genomic prediction models. This approach was applied to a dataset comprising 186 genotypes across six environments (6×186=1,116 phenotypes). Our study employed three predictive models, including environment, genotype, and genomic markers as main effects, as well as the G×E to predict saccharose accumulation (SA) and tons of cane per hectare (TCH). Calibration sets sizes varying between 72 (6.5%) to 186 (16.7%) of the total number of phenotypes were composed to predict the remaining 930 (83.3%). Additionally, we explored the optimal number of common genotypes across environments for G×E pattern prediction. Results demonstrate that maximum accuracy for SA ( ) and for TCH ( ) was achieved using in training sets few (3) to no common (0) genotype across environments maximizing the number of different genotypes that were tested only once. Significantly, we show that reducing phenotypic records for model calibration has minimal impact on predictive ability, with sets of 12 non-overlapped genotypes per environment (72=12×6) being the most convenient cost-benefit combination.

Enzymatic hydrolysis of waste streams originating from wastewater treatment plants

BackgroundAchieving climate neutrality is a goal that calls for action in all sectors. The requirements for improving waste management and reducing carbon emissions from the energy sector present an opportunity for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to introduce sustainable waste treatment practices. A common biotechnological approach for waste valorization is the production of sugars from lignocellulosic waste biomass via biological hydrolysis. WWTPs produce waste streams such as sewage sludge and screenings which have not yet been fully explored as feedstocks for sugar production yet are promising because of their carbohydrate content and the lack of lignin structures. This study aims to explore the enzymatic hydrolysis of various waste streams originating from WWTPs by using a laboratory-made and a commercial cellulolytic enzyme cocktail for the production of sugars. Additionally, the impact of lipid and protein recovery from sewage sludge prior to the hydrolysis was assessed.ResultsTreatment with a laboratory-made enzyme cocktail produced by Irpex lacteus (IL) produced 31.2 mg sugar per g dry wastewater screenings. A commercial enzyme formulation released 101 mg sugar per g dry screenings, corresponding to 90% degree of saccharification. There was an increase in sugar levels for all sewage substrates during the hydrolysis with IL enzyme. Lipid and protein recovery from primary and secondary sludge prior to the hydrolysis with IL enzyme was not advantageous in terms of sugar production.ConclusionsThe laboratory-made fungal IL enzyme showed its versatility and possible application beyond the typical lignocellulosic biomass. Wastewater screenings are well suited for valorization through sugar production by enzymatic hydrolysis. Saccharification of screenings represents a viable strategy to divert this waste stream from landfill and achieve the waste treatment and renewable energy targets set by the European Union. The investigation of lipid and protein recovery from sewage sludge showed the challenges of integrating resource recovery and saccharification processes.

Key Takeaways on the Cost-Effective Production of Cellulosic Sugars at Large Scale

The production of cellulosic sugars in lignocellulose biorefinery presents significant economic and environmental challenges due to the recalcitrant nature of biomass. The economic and facile production of renewable sugars with high yield and productivity is pivotal for the success of biorefinery. The cellulosic sugars are valorized either by biochemical routes or chemical routes or by hybrid (biological and chemical) routes into renewable chemicals, fuels, and materials. This manuscript focuses on the critical parameters affecting the economic viability of cellulosic sugar production at large scale, including biomass-specific pretreatment strategies and enzyme cost efficiency. High pretreatment costs, carbohydrate loss, and inhibitors production during pretreatment are identified as major contributors to overall production costs. To address these issues, we highlight the importance of developing cost-effective and efficient pretreatment methods tailored to specific biomass types and strategies for enzyme reuse and recycling. Future research should focus on innovations in pretreatment technologies, improved logistics for high-density feedstocks, biomass feeding systems, and advancements in enzyme technology to enhance the economic and environmental sustainability of lignocellulosic biorefineries. The findings highlight the need for continued innovation and optimization to make the commercial-scale production of cellulosic sugars more viable and sustainable.

Resin-based dental pulp capping restoration enclosing silica and portlandite nanoparticles from natural resources

Natural-based materials represent green choices for biomedical applications. In this study, resin pulp capping restoration enclosing strengthening silica and bioactive portlandite nanofillers were prepared from industrial wastes. Silica nanoparticles were isolated from rice husk by heat treatment, followed by dissolution/precipitation treatment. Portlandite nanoparticles were prepared by calcination of carbonated lime waste followed by ultrasonic treatment. Both were characterized using x-ray diffraction, energy dispersive x-ray, and transmission electron microscopy. For preparing pulp capping restoration, silica (after silanization) and/or portlandite nanoparticles were mixed with 40/60 weight ratio of bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate. Groups A, B, and C enclosing 50 wt.% silica, 25 wt.% silica + 25 wt.% portlandite, and 50 wt.% portlandite, respectively, were prepared. All groups underwent microhardness, compressive strength, calcium release, pH, and apatite forming ability inspection in comparison to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) positive control. In comparison to MTA, all experimental groups showed significantly higher compressive strength, group B showed comparable microhardness, and group C showed significantly higher calcium release. Groups B and C showed prominent hydroxyapatite formation. Thus, the preparation of economic, silica-fortified, bioactive pulp capping material from under-utilized agricultural residues (rice husk) and zero-value industrial waste (carbonated lime from sugar industry) could be achieved.

Enhanced reducing sugar production by blending hydrolytic enzymes from Aspergillus fumigatus to improve sugarcane bagasse hydrolysis.

Biomass pretreatment for the production of second-generation (2G) ethanol and biochemical products is a challenging process. The present study investigated the synergistic efficiency of purified carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase), β-glucosidase, and xylanase from Aspergillus fumigatus JCM 10253 in the hydrolysis of alkaline-pretreated sugarcane bagasse (SCB). The saccharification of pretreated SCB was optimised using a combination of CMCase and β-glucosidase (C + β; 1:1) and addition of xylanase (C + β + xyl; 1:1:1). Independent and dependent variables influencing enzymatic hydrolysis were investigated using response surface methodology (RSM). Hydrolysis using purified CMCase and β-glucosidase achieved yields of 18.72mg/mL glucose and 6.98mg/mL xylose. Incorporation of xylanase in saccharification increased the titres of glucose (22.83mg/mL) and xylose (9.54mg/mL). Furthermore, characterisation of SCB biomass by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy respectively confirmed efficient structural disintegration and revealed the degree of crystallinity and spectral characteristics. Therefore, depolymerisation of lignin to produce high-value chemicals is essential for sustainable and competitive biorefinery development.

Facile Synthesis of Silanol Group Rich Sn‐Beta for Highly Efficient Isomerization of Glucose to Fructose

AbstractThe isomerization of glucose to fructose is an important process in the conversion of biomass into valuable fuels and chemicals. Development of efficient catalyst for this reaction has attracted much attention. In this study, Sn‐Beta zeolites with rich silanols were synthesized for glucose isomerization by solid‐state ion‐exchange method, where Si‐Beta zeolites with different amounts of silanols were applied as the precursors. It is confirmed that open Sn sites show much higher catalytic performance than closed Sn sites for glucose isomerization (about 2.1 times). The silanol amount in Si‐Beta not only affects the formation of framework Sn sites in Sn‐Beta but also influences the isomerization reaction. More silanols in the catalyst can promote the 1,2‐H shift in isomerization and reduce the side reactions of formation of mannose and C3 products. Over 3Sn‐Beta‐3h with rich silanols, 64 % of fructose yield was obtained. Furthermore, the prepared Sn‐Beta catalyst is stable and recyclable. High fructose yield and facile synthesis method of Sn‐Beta reported in this work will contribute to the development of biomass and sugar industry.

El diario Trópico de Tucumán como fuente para el estudio de la política azucarera peronista, 1947-1950

This article studies the characteristics of the newspaper Trópico from Tucumán, to evaluate its potential as a source for the study of the Peronist sugar industry policy (1947-1950). We show that this was an official media that carefully analyzed the issues of this industry. It represented the position of its printing institution, the National University of Tucumán (UNT), whose purpose was to influence the official sugar policy. His interpretations were from a Peronist ideological perspective. However, some differences are noted with respect to the official policy, evidencing a certain degree of autonomy. All this makes Trópico a source of relevance, since it allows studying the position of an actor, the UNT, which was not considered in previous studies.

Creating a bio‐based circular economy from Louisiana sugarcane byproducts

AbstractSugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is Louisiana's number one row crop. Growing and processing sugarcane produces significant amounts of byproducts, including bagasse, crop residue, molasses, filter‐press mud, and boiler fly ash. These products represent an important opportunity to generate value‐added and specialty products and enhance sugarcane's sustainability by facilitating a circular economy, where agricultural by‐products are reused instead of disposing them (linear economy), in order to reduce resource use and energy demand. Examples of value‐added products range from biochar, construction materials, animal feed, biofuels, nanoparticles, and fertilizer. Paramount to the success of the bio‐based circular economy is creating useful products that are sustainable, economically, and environmentally acceptable. Some potential roadblocks to creating a successful bio‐based circular economy from Louisiana's sugarcane by‐products are highlighted.Core Ideas The Louisiana sugar industry produces large amounts of biomass‐derived byproducts each year. Byproducts could be reused, recycled, or reformed instead of being discarded. Creating industries around these products boosts the circular economy.

Reformulating ice cream to improve postprandial glucose response: an opportunity for industry to create shared value.

Ultra-processed foods are associated with metabolic dysfunction and driving chronic diseases. The Metabolic Matrix is a tool used to reformulate products to promote positive metabolic outcomes. The Kuwait Danish Dairy Company (KDD) has used this tool to develop a no-added-sugar products. This clinical trial tested the glycaemic response of a no-added-sugar ice cream in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The hypothesis was that the no-added-sugar ice cream would have a substantially better postprandial glycemic response than conventional ice cream in patients with type 2 diabetes. In this randomized cross over designed study, postprandial glycemic response was measured after 300 grams of no-added-sugar ice cream or normal ice cream was consumed. Despite similar composition and palatability, the postprandial responses were better with the no-added sugar ice cream, albeit that the natural sugar in the product still resulted in a marked postprandial glycaemic response. This finding emphasizes the necessity of clearly communicating to both patients and healthcare professionals that "no-added-sugar" does not equate to "zero total sugar." The path to improved metabolic health involves not only product improvement but also transparent messaging to enable informed dietary choices. Reformulation resulting in palatable no-added sugar products provides an opportunity for companies to Create Shared Value by addressing the important social problems such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, by creating scalable solutions, that are profitable. Clinical trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, identifiers NCT06135935.

Biomass Pellet Processing from Sugar Industry Byproducts: A Study on Pelletizing Behavior and Energy Usage

As global energy demand has increased, bioenergy has emerged as a viable option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This study focuses on using waste materials from the sugar industry, such as sugarcane straw, bagasse, and filter cake, to compress into pellets to investigate pelletizing behavior and energy usage. Raw material preparation was a critical phase influencing pelletizing efficiency. Biomass pellet quality depended on a uniform particle size distribution and adequate moisture content. A moisture content of 20% (wb) was found to be suitable for biomass pelletization from the sugar sector. Specific energy in the pelletizing process ranged from 144.28 to 197.85 Wh/kg. The suggested mixing ingredients (sugarcane leaves: bagasse: filter cake) of 0% sugarcane leaves, 90% bagasse, 10% filter cake, and 5% sugarcane leaves, 93.5% bagasse, and 1.5% filter cake resulted in pellets with a bulk density of over 600 kg/m3 and a durability of at least 97.5%. All aspects were assessed according to standardized criteria for developing biomass pellet processing technology from sugar industry byproducts. This method could improve efficiency, boost production volume, lower production costs, and promote the efficient and cost-effective use of renewable energy.

KONTRIBUSI USAHATANI GULA AREN TERHADAP PENDAPATAN KELUARGA DI DESA TANGKENO KECAMATAN KABAENA TENGAH (Contribution of palm sugar farming to family income in Tangkeno village, central Kabaena subdistrict)

Sugar palm is a type of palm plant that is almost spread throughout Indonesia. All parts of this plant can be used, starting from the sap which can be processed into sugar, and the stems can be processed into palm flour, the unripe fruit can be processed into palm fruit, and the fibers can be processed into crafts. The aim of this research is to find out how much palm sugar farming contributes to family income in Tangkeno Village, Central Kabaena District. Meanwhile, the benefit of this research is to provide information regarding how much palm sugar processing contributes to family income in Tangkeno Village, Central Kabaena District. The method used in this research is the interview method. The types of data used to conduct research are primary data and secondary data. The results of research from 38 respondents show that the average contribution to palm sugar farming income in Tangkeno Village, Central Kabaena District for one year is IDR 22.934.210 with an average amount of palm sugar production of 4.323 kilograms, so the annual contribution of palm sugar farming is by 55%. The amount of income from palm sugar farming is quite large and is able to help the family to meet their needs. Keywords: Contribution, Income, Palm Sugar Farming Business, Tangkeno Village, Central Kabaena District

Hydrolysis of Babool wood biomass using carbocation scavengers assisted ionic liquid pretreatment for the production of sugars and furfurals

The present study highlights the performance of carbocation scavengers for the pretreatment of hardwood biomass followed by the production of bio-based products. The behaviour of different carbocation scavengers namely; 2-Napthol, 4 Hydroxybenzoic acid, Vanillic acid, Catechol, Hydroquinone, Resorcinol and Phenol and their mitigating effect on the rate of hydrolysis was explored under different operating conditions. All the carbocation scavengers show significant changes in the crystallinity index leading to distinct morphological and physiochemical changes in the biomass structure. Results revealed that the addition of carbocation scavengers not only reduces the inhibitory effect of structured lignin but also enhances the accessibility of cellulose and hemicellulose and facilitates the production of sugars and 5-Hydroxymethyl Furfural. Maximum 5-HMF yield was observed using 2-Napthol at an optimised concentration of 2 wt% (1.5 mL) at 190 °C in 60 min. Further, to evaluate the effect of acetyl groups, biomass deacetylation was also performed. The highest deacetylation effect was observed at 170 °C and showed ∼73% and ∼94% reduction in the holocellulosic content in 60 min. The proposed study develops a sustainable and viable route to suppress the inhibitory effect of lignin with the utilization of carbocation scavengers and enhances biomass digestibility that favours the production of bio-based chemicals.

An overview of Guyana’s sugar industry: Perspectives on contraction and prospects

Guyana’s sugar industry is marked by significant development, importance, and political relevance. The Dutch developed and managed the sector, followed by the British and then the Government of Guyana, each with their style that either propelled or stagnated the industry. This stagnation occurred post-independence owing to changing world dynamics, internal mismanagement, and emigration of talent. The resulting fallout caused the industry (embodied as GuySuCo) to become unprofitable. To ensure the continued survival of the industry, albeit a shadow of its former self, the government instituted regular bailouts, a practice still used today. Being a financial liability, GuySuCo underwent a series of contraction measures in a bid to return the industry to profitability. However, the reversal of recent contraction measures presents challenges to the sector. Nevertheless, no clear path has been identified for profitisation; as such, alternative measures should be considered.