Protein Determination-Method Matters

Controlling Pepper Mild Mottle Virus (PMMoV) Infection in Pepper Seedlings by Use of Chemically Synthetic Silver Nanoparticles

We investigated the roles of different concentrations of chemical synthetic spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in protecting pepper seedlings of the Mecca region, which were naturally and artificially infected by the pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV). The virus shows many infection symptoms, including pepper leaf deformation with filiform leaves and severe mosaic symptoms. Our study focused on the antiviral activity of different concentrations of spherical nanoparticles in controlling PMMoV infecting pepper seedlings. PMMoV identification was confirmed via DAS-ELISA using the following antiserum: PMMoV, cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), tomato mosaic virus (ToMV), potato virus Y (PVY), and tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). The presence of PMMoV was confirmed using electron microscopy and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We evaluated the effects of exogenously applied different concentrations of AgNPs on CMV infection rate, infection severity, virus concentration, and the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoid content, phenolic compounds, and protein components in virus-infected plant cells that were treated with three different concentration of nanoparticles (200, 300, and 400 µg/L) compared to the positive and negative control.

Exogenous Phytohormones and Fertilizers Enhance Jatropha curcas L. Growth through the Regulation of Physiological, Morphological, and Biochemical Parameters

Jatropha curcas L. is a perennial plant, that emerged as a biodiesel crop attracting the great interest of researchers. However, it is considered a semi-wild plant and needed to apply crop-improving practices to enhance its full yield potential. This study was conducted to improve the growth and development of the J. curcas plant by exogenous application of Gibberellic acid (GA), indole acetic acid (IAA), and fertilizer (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK)). The experiment was conducted in pots in triplicate and 100 ppm and 250 ppm of GA and IAA were applied separately while NPK was applied in two levels (30 and 60 g/pot). The results revealed a significant difference in growth parameters with the application of hormones and fertilizer. The highest shoot length (47%), root length (63%), root fresh weight (72%), and root dry weight (172%) were shown by plants treated with GA 250 ppm. While plants treated with NPK 60 g showed the highest increases in shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight compared to control plants. The highest increase in leaves number (274%) and branches number (266%) were shown by the plants treated with GA 100 ppm and GA 250 ppm, respectively, while GA 250 ppm and IAA 250 ppm highly increased stem diameter (123%) and stem diameter was also shown by GA 250 ppm-treated plants. NPK 60 g highly increased proximate composition (protein content, carbohydrate, fat, moisture content, and ash content) compare with hormones and control plants. Our results concluded the optimized concentration of IAA, GA, and NPK significantly increases J. curcas growth vigor.

Protein Characteristics and Bioactivity of Fish Protein Hydrolysates from Tra Catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) Side Stream Isolates

Enzymatic hydrolysis is a novel method to recover highly potent bioactive fish protein hydrolysates (FPHs) from fish processing side-streams. The common way of producing FPHs directly from fish side-streams may be inappropriate due to the excess of lipids and pro-oxidants, especially in lipid-rich streams, as obtained from Tra catfish. This study aimed to optimise the hydrolysis conditions for a commercial enzyme (Alcalase® 2.4 L) (enzyme concentrate, temperature, and time) in FPH production from the fish protein isolate obtained from Tra catfish dark muscle (DM-FPI) using the pH-shift method. The degree of hydrolysis (DH), protein recovery (PR), and antioxidant properties, including DPPH radical scavenging activity (DPPH-RSA) and total reducing power capacity (TRPC), were measured to evaluate the effects of the hydrolysis conditions on the FPHs. Optimal hydrolysis was obtained at an enzyme/substrate protein ratio of 3% (v/w) and a hydrolysis temperature of 50 °C for 3 h. The FPHs obtained from different substrates, including DM-FPI, abdominal cut-off (ACO) FPI, and head and backbone blend (HBB) FPI, had similar DHs under these optimum conditions, ranging from 22.5% to 24.0%. However, the FPH obtained from abdominal cut-off isolate (ACO-FPH) showed the highest PR of 81.5 ± 4.3% and the highest antioxidant properties, with a DPPH-RSA of 86.1 ± 1.6% and a TRPC of 6.4 ± 0.4 equivalent mg vitamin C/g protein. The resulting FPHs present a natural source of antioxidants with great potential for food applications, especially the ACO-FPH. In addition, all FPHs had excellent amino acid profiles, indicating strong potential for their use as supplements. Tra catfish protein-rich side-streams can thus be processed into high-value bioactive FPHs using Alcalase for human consumption.

Valorization of Caribbean Sargassum biomass as a source of alginate and sugars for de novo biodiesel production

Since 2011, a massive influx of pelagic brown algae Sargassum has invaded coastlines causing environmental and economic disaster. Valorizing this plentiful macroalgae can present much needed economic relief to the areas affected. Here the production of biodiesel and a high-value alginate stream using Sargassum biomass collected from the coast of Quintana Roo, Mexico is reported. Biomass was pretreated via AEA (Alginate Extraction Autohydrolysis) and enzymatic saccharification via fungal Solid State Fermentation, releasing 7 g/L total sugars. The sugar mixture was fermented using engineered Yarrowia lipolytica resulting in 0.35 g/L total lipid titer at the lab tube scale. Additionally, the capability of extracting 0.3875 g/g DW of a high-value, purified alginate stream from this material is demonstrated. The findings presented here are promising and suggest an opportunity for the optimization and scale up of a biodiesel production biorefinery for utilization of Sargassum seaweeds during seasons of high invasion.

Assessment of nutritional properties and phenolic characterization of freshly harvested Dendrocalamus hamiltoni shoots and processed bamboo candy

The free and bound phenolic constituents in Dendrocalamus hamiltonii shoots were evaluated and compared to processed bamboo candy. Preliminary proximate analysis revealed a percent reduction in moisture and protein with a less significant change in fibre content. The fresh free phenolic extract (FFPE) exhibited a total phenolics of 131.22 mg GAE/g and recovered 48.29 mg GAE/g phenolic content in bound fraction (FBPE). Results demonstrated higher loss of free phenolics after processing compared to bound fraction (CBPE). Although similar results were observed in total flavonoid content. Antioxidant activity was reduced after candy processing, with fresh shoots having the lowest percent inhibition (IC₅₀) against DPPH^· and ABTS^· radicals. Although both free and bound fractions of candy demonstrated effective antioxidant activity. HPLC analysis revealed that FFPE contained more chlorogenic acid (0.14 mg/10 g) and cinnamic acid (0.75 mg/10 g) than CFPE. Quercetin was undetected in all free fractions but was found in bound form.

Drosophila suzukii energetic pathways are differently modulated by nutritional geometry in males and females

As a polyphagous pest, Drosophila suzukii has a variety of host fruits available for feeding and oviposition, but how the nutritional geometry of different hosts influences its metabolism is still poorly understood. This work aimed to evaluate how D. suzukii metabolic and transcriptional pathways are influenced by feeding on different host fruits, and how sex influences these responses. Adult flies were allowed to feed on five different fruit-based media. Lipids, glucose, glycogen, and energy pathways-associated gene expression, were quantified. Females showed an energetic metabolism easily adaptable to the food's nutritional characteristics; in contrast, males' energetic metabolism was particularly influenced by food, predominantly those fed on raspberry media who showed changes in glucose levels and in the expression of genes associated with metabolic pathways, suggesting activation of gluconeogenesis and trehaloneogenesis as a result of nutritional deficiency. Here we present novel insight into how D. suzukii's energetic pathways are modulated depending on fruits' nutritional geometry and sex. While the females showed high adaptability in their energetic metabolism to the diet, males were more feeding-sensitive. These findings might be used not only to control this pest population but to better advise producers to invest in less suitable fruits based on the hosts' nutritional geometry.

Human lactoferrin from breast milk: characterization by HPLC and its in vitro antibiofilm performance

Preterm infants are at high risk of infection due to opportunistic bacteria as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, causing infections among infants in neonatal intensive care units. Human lactoferrin (hLf) is a multifunctional protein and one of the most abundant in breast milk, and plays an important role in prevention of different infections in neonates. This work offers a strategy to obtain a lyophilisate of purified lactoferrin from breast milk. In addition, a reliable HPLC method for quantification of lactoferrin with a linear quantification range of 0.040-0.140 mg/mL with selectivity, accuracy and repeatability, is described. Lyophilized hLf was obtained by purification through a heparin affinity column followed by ultrafiltration with a 30 kDa membrane. The final solution was lyophilized and the product was analyzed using HPLC method, recovering about 70% of initial lactoferrin in the sample. This molecule was elucidated through FTIR spectroscopy and SDS-PAGE electrophoresis. In addition, the capacity against biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa was demonstrated with 75% of inhibition at 6 mg/mL. These results suggest that lyophilized hLf can be obtained by purification of breast milk and that it can provide antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa.

Use of rice flour in wheat bread technology

Last decade is characterized by the increase in the incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases all over the world. Diet therapy, which includes reducing the amount of dietary fiber and including phospholipids in it, is effective in maintaining a sTable condition in case of these diseases. A promising raw material with a low dietary fiber content is rice flour, which may be added to the recipe of bakery products to replace part of wheat flour. The aim of the work was to determine the influence of rice flour on the course of the technological process and the characteristics of the dough in bakery products manufacturing, as well as on the quality indicators of bread made from wheat flour, which contains lecithin. Rice flour contains 1.8 times less protein than wheat flour, but this protein is more complete in amino acid composition. The content of dietary fibers in rice flour is 8.5 times lower. The gas-forming capacity of the dough with lecithin separately and in a mixture with rice flour increases by 8.4−18.7 % when replacing 10−40 % of wheat flour. It was established that in the dough sample with lecithin, the amount of formed and fermented sugars increased by 1.2 % and 12.1 %, respectively, compared to the control sample without additives. With an increase in the percentage of replacement of wheat flour with rice flour, the amount of formed sugars increased by 35.2−39.0 %. The amount of fermented sugars also increased by 19.6−31.8 % with an increase in the percentage of replacement. The shape stability of bread slightly improved with the addition of lecithin. However, when adding rice flour, the shape stability of the products decreased by 7.1−26.8 %, as well as the specific volume and porosity of bread

The addition of exogenous low-molecular-weight organic acids improved phytoremediation by Bidens pilosa L. in Cd-contaminated soil

Enhancing the uptake and enrichment of heavy metals in plants is one of the important means to strengthen phytoremediation. In the present study, citric acid (CA), tartaric acid (TA), and malic acid (MA) were applied to enhance phytoremediation by Bidens pilosa L. in Cd-contaminated soil. The results showed that by the addition of appropriate concentrations of CA, TA, and MA, the values of the bioconcentration factor increased by 77.98%, 78.33%, and 64.49%, respectively, the translocation factor values increased by 16.45%, 12.61%, and 5.73%, respectively, and the values of the phytoextraction rates increased by 169.21%, 71.28%, and 63.11%, respectively. The minimum fluorescence values of leaves decreased by 31.62%, 0.28%, and 17.95%, while the potential efficiency of the PSII values of leaves increased 117.87%, 2.25%, and 13.18%, respectively, when CA, TA, and MA with suitable concentration were added. Redundancy analysis showed that CA and MA in plants were significantly positively correlated with plant growth, photosynthesis, and other indicators, whereas TA showed a negative correlation with most indicators. Moreover, CA addition could significantly increase the abundances of Azotobacter, Pseudomonas, and other growth-promoting bacteria, and the abundance values of Actinophytocola and Ensifer were improved in TA treatments. Therefore, our results demonstrated that low-molecular-weight organic acids could enhance phytoremediation, and exogenous CA could significantly improve the phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soil by Bidens pilosa L.

Effect of Tomato Pomace Addition on Chemical, Technological, Nutritional, and Sensorial Properties of Cream Crackers

The aim of this research was to determine the influence of tomato pomace (TP) addition on the chemical, nutritional, and technological characteristics of cream crackers made from wheat flour and 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% TP. The TP-enriched cream crackers showed progressively increasing ash (from 0.69 of the control to 1.22 g/100 g dry matter of the 10% TP sample), fat (from 11.39 to 13.04 g/100 g), protein (from 13.53 to 15.60 g/100 g), total dietary fibre (from 4.08 to 7.80), carotenoids (from 0.55 to 8.56 mg/kg), tocols (from 57.59 to 71.63 mg/kg), free phenolic acids (from 100.08 to 277.37 mg/kg), free flavonoids (from 0.0 to 45.28 mg/kg), bound flavonoids (from 0.0 to 27.71 mg/kg), and fatty acids contents, antioxidant activity and dough viscosity. The colour coordinates increased via augmenting the amounts of TP. Thickness, volume, and specific volume decreased gradually with increasing TP; the enrichment reduced cracker hardness from 65.42 N (control) to 26.28 N (crackers with 10% TP), while the snapping force rose. Cream crackers with 8% TP showed the best sensory quality. Tomato pomace addition improves the nutritional quality of foods; furthermore, its recycling will help to solve the problems linked to the disposal of this industry waste.

Conformational Changes in the Structure of Dough and Bread Enriched with Pumpkin Seed Flour

Pumpkin seed flour is a promising raw material for use in the technology of various bakery products. It has a high biological value and valuable amino acid profile. During the technological process of making bread, there are conformational changes in the protein structure. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of pumpkin seed flour on conformational changes in the structure of protein substances of dough and bread from wheat flour by near-infrared reflection spectroscopy. The protein profile changed to complete when replacing 10% or more of wheat flour because the score for all amino acids was higher than 100%. The utilitarian coefficient indicates the same balance of amino acids in proteins of all samples. As the percentage of substitution increases, the number of amino acids used for anabolic purposes decreases, and these are more fully utilized by the body.

Antihypertensive potential of Brassica rapa leaves: An in vitro and in silico approach

Aim: Plants contain many essential constituents and their optimization can result in the discovery of new medicines. One such plant is Brassica rapa that is commonly used as a vegetable to fulfill daily food requirements worldwide. This study intends to screen the phytochemicals, antihypertensive potential, GC-MS, and in silico analysis of the leaves of Brassica rapa.

Methods: Powdered leaves were subjected to proximate analysis followed by estimation of primary metabolites. Extracts were obtained by hot and cold extraction and investigated for secondary metabolites. All crude extracts were screened for their antihypertensive potential using an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition assay. GC-MS analysis was carried out to standardize the extract, and an antihypertensive metabolite was confirmed using an in silico approach.

Results: Physicochemical evaluation resulted in moisture content (9.10% ± 0.1), total ash value (18.10% ± 0.6), and extractive values (water 9.46% ± 0.5 and alcohol soluble 4.99% ± 0.1), while phytochemical investigation revealed primary metabolites (total proteins 11.90 mg/g ± 0.9; total fats 3.48 mg/g ± 0.5; and total carbohydrates 57.45 mg/g ± 1.2). Methanol extract showed the highest number of secondary metabolites including polyphenols 93.63 mg/g ± 0.6; flavonoids 259.13 mg/g ± 0.6; and polysaccharides 56.63 mg/g ± 1.4, while water extract (70 mg/g ± 2) was rich in glycosaponins. Methanol extract showed the highest antihypertensive potential by inhibiting ACE (79.39%) amongst all extracts, compared to the standard drug captopril, which inhibited 85.81%. Standardization of methanol extract via GC-MS analysis revealed potent phytoconstituents, and a molecular docking study confirmed that oleic acid is the main antihypertensive metabolite.

Conclusion: We conclude that leaves of Brassica rapa can successfully lower hypertension by inhibiting ACE, however; in vivo investigations are required to confirm this antihypertensive activity.

Optimized Chemical Extraction Methods of Antimicrobial Peptides from Roots and Leaves of Extremophilic Plants: Anthyllis sericea and Astragalus armatus Collected from the Tunisian Desert

Extraction methods depend mainly on the chemical nature of the extracted molecule. For these reasons, the selection of the extraction medium is a vital part of obtaining these molecules. The extraction of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from extremophile plants is important because of its potential pharmaceutical applications. This work focused on the evaluation of several solvents for the extraction of AMPs from the following two extremophile plants: Astragalus armatus and Anthyllis sericea from southern Tunisia. In order to identify the most efficient solvents and extraction solutions, we used sulfuric acid, dichloromethane, phosphate buffer, acetic acid and sodium acetate, and we tested them on leaves and roots of both the studied plants. The extracts obtained using sulfuric acid, dichloromethane and phosphate buffer extraction did not show any antimicrobial activity, whereas the acetic acid and sodium acetate extracts led to growth inhibition of some of the tested bacterial strains. The extracts of leaves and roots of An. sericea and As. armatus obtained by acetic acid and sodium acetate were proven to be active against Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, the most appropriate solvents to use for antimicrobial peptide extraction from both plants are acetic acid and sodium acetate.

Comparative study of the most commonly used methods for total protein determination in milk of different species and their ultrafiltration products

Milk ultrafiltration is a widely used membrane filtration process that allows the recuperation of whey proteins in a concentrate high in total solids, which can later be transformed in multiple healthy dairy products with great prospects for the food industry. Protein content is a decisive factor for the technological performance of milk concentrates and currently, the ISO standard method for its determination is Kjeldahl, which is time-consuming and requires specific instrumentation. For this reason, the use of rapid methods to quantify protein would greatly facilitate the monitoring of the milk ultrafiltration process. In this study, the bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA), the detergent compatible Bradford assay and the Dumas method were compared to Kjeldahl protein determination to select a quick and accurate methodology suitable for milk of different species and its ultrafiltration products (retentates and permeates). The protein content obtained from Bradford assay and Dumas method in origin milk and retentate samples was consistent with Kjeldahl values. In contrast, BCA protein levels were significantly different when compared to Kjeldahl and no method was proved to be suitable for protein determination in permeate samples. The use of sodium dodecyl sulfate was also examined to improve protein measurements without success. In comparison with the official method, Bradford assay quantitatively provided the best results, and it would be recommended for a quick, economic and easy determination of total protein content in milk and retentate samples.

Effect of Gardenia Pomace Supplementation on Growth Performance, Blood Metabolites, Immune and Antioxidant Indices, and Meat Quality in Xiangcun Pigs

To investigate the effect of gardenia pomace (GP) as an unconventional feed of antioxidants, 180 Xiangcun pigs were randomly divided into 3 groups during the finishing period, with 6 replicates per group and 10 pigs per replicate. During the 47-day feeding period, the pigs were fed either a control diet based on corn and soybean meal (control group), or the control diet added with 50 g/kg or 100 g/kg GP (groups GP5 and GP10, respectively). Feed and water were provided ad libitum. One pig per replicate was slaughtered and sampled. The effects on growth performance, meat quality, digestibility, metabolism, and immunity and antioxidant properties of the pigs were investigated. The results showed that GP had no significant effect on the growth performance of Xiangcun pigs. Compared with the control group, the digestibility of crude ash, phosphorus, and crude fibre of pigs in the GP groups improved (p < 0.01), and the content of inosinic acid in the longissimus dorsi muscle increased (p < 0.05). The addition of GP to the diet significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the liver and spleen, and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in the longissimus dorsi muscle and spleen (p < 0.05). Additionally, it significantly reduced the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver and spleen (p < 0.05). The GP5 group had a higher inosinic acid content in the longissimus dorsi and lower levels of the inflammatory factor interleukin-2 and interleukin-8 than those in the other groups (p < 0.05). The GP10 group had a higher IgA level (p < 0.05). Adding different proportions of GP to the diet improved the a* and b* of the longissimus dorsi muscles of Xiangcun pigs (p < 0.05). In summary, GP, as an unconventional feed, improved the apparent digestibility of the diet and body antioxidant capacity in Xiangcun pigs during the finishing period and did not negatively affect the growth performance or meat quality.

Comparative nutritional and antimicrobial analysis of Himalayan black and yellow soybean and their okara

BACKGROUND

Soybean is believed to have good nutraceutical potential which is important for human health. Yellow soybean (YS) is generally used for the production of soymilk and other products, while black soybean (BS) is less explored. During the production of soymilk, residue, called okara is generated which is reported to have a good amount of nutrient content. Studies are generally performed with YS while BS is less explored. The present work is a comparison of the nutraceutical potential of BS and YS and their okara, mainly in terms of proximate, minerals, antinutrients, and isoflavone content and bioactivity of all types of samples in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activity.

RESULTS

Compared to raw soybean, protein content decreased significantly in both types of okara. Phytochemicals like ascorbic acid, catechin, quercetin, and gallic acid were significantly (P < 0.05) high in BS residue in comparison to respective raw soybean. Among isoflavones, daidzin and genistin were found significantly varying among all the samples, and glycitin and glycitein were not present in YS.

CONCLUSION

The nutraceutical potential and antimicrobial activity were comparative for both the raw beans and their okara, while the phytochemical contents and antioxidant activity were higher in the case of BS and its okara. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Analysis of liability and protein content of soybean biscuits with Ambon banana as an alternative to emergency food for the elderly

  In disaster conditions, the elderly are vulnerable groups that require special attention. With increasing age, there is a decrease in biological function and psychological disorders. The elderly tend to have anxiety, especially during disaster conditions. This anxiety has an impact on the diet and health of the elderly. Soybean (Glycine max L.)  flour biscuits and Ambon banana (Musa paradisiaca var. sapientum L.) flour is a food product that meets disaster emergency food requirements and food requirements for the elderly. It is appropriate to be used as an alternative disaster emergency food for the elderly. This study aims to determine the effect of the balance of the soybean flour biscuit formula Ambon banana flour on the organoleptic and protein properties. The research design used is an experimental study, with the research method used is a hedonic test for testing organoleptic properties and the Kjeldahl procedure for testing protein content. The formula of Ambon banana and soybean flour biscuits consisted of three balances, with the ratio of Ambon banana flour soybean flour (%) F1 (45:55), F2 (35:65), and F3 (25:75). From the study results, it can be concluded that there is a significant difference in the test results of organoleptic properties only for colour. Moreover, there are no significant differences in the test results of organoleptic properties, including aroma, taste, texture, and overall. In the test results of organoleptic properties, the balance (25:75) was declared superior overall. The 45:55 balance contains 8.01% protein, the 35:65 balance contains 7.23% protein, and the 25:75 balance includes 7.42%.

Household fermentation of leftover bread to nutritious food

Resource dependency of food production is aggravated when food is wasted. In Sweden, it is estimated that 37% of the total bread waste is generated at the household level. This work aimed to assess whether fermentation using edible filamentous fungi at households can provide a solution to valorize leftover bread in the production of fungi-based food for consumption. Bread was fermented in household and laboratory conditions with Neurospora intermedia and Rhizopus oligosporus. The results show that bread can be successfully and easily fermented at households, without signs of microbial contamination even though the conditions were not sterile. Fermentation at the household resulted in higher protein, fat and fiber content as well as greater starch reduction compared to the samples fermented under laboratory conditions. Household engagement in bread fermentation will likely depend on values that motivate reusing leftover bread. Perceived values that are expected to motivate engagement vary across individuals, but may include improved nutritional benefits, food waste prevention, convenience, responsibilities, and being part of sustainable societies and actions.

Measured versus label declared macronutrient and calorie content in Colombian commercially available whey proteins

Whey protein (WP) supplements have grown in popularity for exercising populations to enhance muscle protein synthesis and promote recovery. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the macronutrient profile, especially protein, of commonly sold protein powder brands in the Colombian (South America) sports supplement market. Eleven popular whey proteins supplements made and sold on the Colombian market were sampled and determined the humidity, ash, total carbohydrates, fat, proteins, and calories (kcal). The mean calorie content declared by product labeling was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than measured (labeled 349.8 ± 20.3 kcal; analyzed 368.2 ± 14.9 kcal). Carbohydrate content was higher than labeled on average (labeled 3.5 ± 6 g/100 g; analyzed 21.9 ± 12.5 g/100 g) (p < 0.05). The protein content on the labels showed a significantly higher content, on average, than analyzed in all samples (labeled 81.4 ± 7.4; analyzed 65.7 ± 14.1) (p < 0.05). These data suggest, that for brands analyzed in this research, nutrient labels may be misleading, especially regarding protein, carbohydrate, and total calorie content. Consumers should diligently read, but also learn the different product labeling; however, brands should emphasize on testing their products and add amino acid profiles to guarantee quality of their products.

Maternal dietary intake, nutritional status and macronutrient composition of human breast milk: systematic review

Human breast milk (BM) is the best source of nutrition in early life, particularly during the first 6 months. Nevertheless, human BM composition is variable, and more insight in the exact factors contributing to this variability is warranted. In this review, we explored the impact of maternal dietary intake and nutritional status (e.g. anthropometric measures, BMI, bioimpedance) on human milk macronutrient composition. PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane were systematically searched till November 2019. In total, 4946 publications underwent title-abstract screening; 101 publications underwent full-text screening. Eventually, fifty publications were included in this review, investigating either associations between maternal dietary intake (n 29) and/or maternal nutritional status (n 29), and macronutrient composition of human BM. Reported energy composition ranged from 213 to 301 kJ/100 ml, and 67 % and 54 % of the studies reported associations between with maternal nutritional intake and status, respectively. Protein content ranged from 0·8 to 3·3 g/100 ml, and four studies suggested a negative association with nutritional status. Fat content ranged from 2·1 to 9·8 g/100 ml, and 68 % of the studies reported positive associations with nutritional status. Carbohydrate content ranged from 5·8 to 7·5 g/100 ml, and 67 % of the included studies did not report an association between intake and status. Literature investigating associations of maternal dietary intake and nutrition status with BM composition of macronutrients and energy content is diversified, both in terms of used methodology and results. Further studies using well-defined and standard parameters are essential to aid the formulation of scientific recommendations.

Assessing pollen nutrient content: a unifying approach for the study of bee nutritional ecology

Poor nutrition and landscape changes are regularly cited as key factors causing the decline of wild and managed bee populations. However, what constitutes 'poor nutrition' for bees currently is inadequately defined. Bees collect and eat pollen: it is their only solid food source and it provides a broad suite of required macro- and micronutrients. Bees are also generalist foragers and thus the different pollen types they collect and eat can be highly nutritionally variable. Therefore, characterizing the multidimensional nutrient content of different pollen types is needed to fully understand pollen as a nutritional resource. Unfortunately, the use of different analytical approaches to assess pollen nutrient content has complicated between-studies comparisons and blurred our understanding of pollen nutrient content. In the current study, we start by reviewing the common methods used to estimate protein and lipids found in pollen. Next, using monofloral Brassica and Rosa pollen, we experimentally reveal biases in results using these methods. Finally, we use our collective data to propose a unifying approach for analysing pollen nutrient content. This will help researchers better study and understand the nutritional ecology-including foraging behaviour, nutrient regulation and health-of bees and other pollen feeders. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.

Nutritional and Chemical Composition of Sargassum zhangii and the Physical and Chemical Characterization, Binding Bile Acid, and Cholesterol-Lowering Activity in HepG2 Cells of Its Fucoidans

Fucoidan is a marine sulfated polysaccharide that is rich in Sargassum and has a wide range of biological activities. In this study, the chemical composition and bile acid binding ability of six crude fucoidans were compared, the nutrition and chemical composition of Sargassum zhangii were analyzed, and fucoidan from Sargassum zhangii was extracted and purified. The purified fractions (ZF1, ZF2, and ZF3) were analyzed by physicochemical characterization, and the ability of binding bile acid and cholesterol lowering in HepG2 cells were evaluated. The results showed that the contents of sulfate in crude fucoidan from Sargassum Zhangii (ZF) was as high as13.63%. Its ability of binding bile acid was better than other five crude fucoidans. Sargassum zhangii was a kind of brown seaweed with high carbohydrate, and low fat and rich in minerals. The sulfate content of ZF1, ZF2, and ZF3 was 3.29%, 19.39%, and 18.89% respectively, and the molecular weight (Mw) was 4.026 × 10⁵, 2.893 × 10⁵, and 3.368 × 10⁵, respectively. Three fucoidans all contained the characteristic absorption bands of polysaccharides and sulfate groups and were rich in fucose. Three fucoidans can bind to bile acid, and ZF2 showed the best binding capability. In vitro experiments showed that ZF1, ZF2, and ZF3 could reduce intracellular total cholesterol (TC) content in HepG2 cells without affecting their viability. ZF2 showed the best ability to reduce TC.

Online colloidal particle monitoring for controlled coagulation pretreatment to lower microfiltration membrane fouling at a potable water reuse facility

Fouling of microfiltration (MF)) membranes during water/wastewater treatment is predominantly caused by colloidal particles (size <1 µm) in the feed water. Until recently no online technology was available to directly measure the occurrence of colloidal particles in these waters. This study evaluated the viability of a novel online light scattering technology (Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis) to continuously monitor colloidal particles in the membrane feed water (a secondary-treated wastewater) for targeted removal by injecting coagulant at a dosage proportional to the measured concentration of colloidal particles. A diurnal variation was observed in the colloidal particle concentration in the feed water with the lowest concentration occurring at approximately 6 am and the highest concentration occurring after mid-day. The peak colloidal particle concentrations were 4 to 6 times higher than the lowest concentrations measured on the same day. Bench-scale studies were performed to develop a relationship between colloidal particle concentration and the optimum coagulant dosage required for their removal. Subsequently, a pilot-scale study was performed using two MF pilot units operated in parallel, one receiving targeted coagulant dosing and the other with no coagulant dosing, to demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted coagulant dosing in preventing membrane fouling. The pilot unit that received targeted coagulant dose experienced only 4 to 20% of the transmembrane pressure increase of the increase experienced by the pilot unit that received no coagulant. Evaluation of fouling resistance indicated that targeted coagulation improved flux by predominantly lowering the irreversible fouling. The filtrate water quality measured by colloidal particle concentration, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and turbidity were very similar for the two pilot units. This suggests that although the efficiency of particle and organic materials removal does not change with coagulant addition, the particles filtered by the membrane in the control unit contributed to membrane irreversible fouling, while in the coagulant-treated unit, the coagulated colloidal particles were removed away from the membrane into the backwash stream during the frequent backwash/air scour procedures.

Bioconversion of the Brown Tunisian Seaweed Halopteris scoparia: Application to Energy

The brown Tunisian seaweed Halopteris scoparia was used as a feedstock for producing renewable bioethanol, biogas, and biodiesel to demonstrate the proof of concept for the North African energy sector. A quantitative and qualitative quantification of H. scoparia composition using different colorimetric methods was completed to highlight its bioconversion potential. These substrate inputs were subjected to anaerobic fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce bioethanol. The materials were also used to generate bio-hydrogen and volatile fatty acids during dark fermentation by a bacterial consortium and using the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. The lipids were extracted and trans-esterified to Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs), and their profiles were then analyzed with gas chromatography (GC). A significant ratio of the bioethanol, e.g., 0.35 g ethanol/g DW substrate, was produced without pretreatment, consistent with the theoretical Gay-Lussac yield. The production of the biohydrogen and lipids were up to 1.3 mL H2/g DW substrate and 0.04 g/g DW substrate, respectively, from the raw biomass. These results were higher than those reported for other well-studied seaweeds such as L. japonica. Overall, this work contributes to the current investigations in Tunisia for producing alternative energies from algae and finding new solutions to the current energy situation and environmental challenges in Maghreb.

Insects in Pet Food Industry-Hope or Threat?

Due to the increasing global population, the world cannot currently support the well-known techniques of food production due to their harmful effects on land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. The key answer is a solution based on the use of edible insects. They have always been present in the diet of animals. They are characterized by a very good nutritional value (e.g., high protein content and contents of essential amino acids and fatty acids, including lauric acid), and products with them receive positive results in palatability tests. Despite the existing literature data on the benefits of the use of insects as a protein source, their acceptance by consumers and animal caregivers remains problematic. In spite of the many advantages of using insects in pet food, it is necessary to analyze the risk of adverse food reactions, including allergic reactions that may be caused by insect consumption. Other hazards relate to the contamination of insects. For example, they can be contaminated with anthropogenic factors during breeding, packaging, cooking, or feeding. These contaminants include the presence of bacteria, mold fungi, mycotoxins, and heavy metals. However, insects can be used in the pet food industry. This is supported by the evolutionary adaptation of their wild ancestors to the eating of insects in the natural environment. The chemical composition of insects also corresponds to the nutritional requirements of dogs. It should be borne in mind that diets containing insect and their effects on animals require careful analysis. The aim of this article is to discuss the nutritional value of insects and their possible applications in the nutrition of companion animals, especially dogs.

Protein Recovery of Tra Catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) Protein-Rich Side Streams by the pH-Shift Method

Increasing protein demand has led to growing attention being given to the full utilization of proteins from side streams in industrial fish processing. In this study, proteins were recovered from three protein-rich side streams during Tra catfish (Pangasius hypophthalamus) processing (dark muscle; head-backbone; and abdominal cut-offs) by an optimized pH-shift process. Physicochemical characteristics of the resulting fish protein isolates (FPIs) were compared to industrial surimi from the same raw material batch. The pH had a significant influence on protein extraction, while extraction time and the ratio of the extraction solution to raw material had little effect on the protein and dry matter recoveries. Optimal protein extraction conditions were obtained at pH 12, a solvent to raw material ratio of 8, and an extraction duration of 150 min. The resulting FPI contained <10% of the fat and <15% of the ash of the raw material, while the FPI protein recovery was 83.0−88.9%, including a good amino acid profile. All FPIs had significantly higher protein content and lower lipid content than the surimi, indicating the high efficiency of using the pH-shift method to recover proteins from industrial Tra catfish side streams. The FPI made from abdominal cut-offs had high whiteness, increasing its potential for the development of a high-value product.

Nutritional Composition of Beach-Cast Marine Algae from the Brazilian Coast: Added Value for Algal Biomass Considered as Waste

In some coastal areas, large quantities of beach-cast macroalgae can accumulate and are usually considered waste and disposed of. However, due to their biofunctional and nutritional properties, they have great potential as a new source of raw materials. Increasing population growth has made the search for alternative raw materials with valuable nutritional properties urgent; here, beach-cast macroalgae could provide great potential. Our research goal was to characterize the nutritional profile of 12 beach-cast seaweed species from the Brazilian coast to assess their potential valorization. A considerable number of nutritional compounds was observed, such as ash (6.5–59.3%), total dietary fibers (22.1–65.8%), proteins (5.1–21.5%), and carbohydrates (31.4–81.0%), with an expressive abundance of minerals, free amino acids, and fatty acids. Spatoglossum schroederi and Alsidium seaforthii showed protein contents of 21.5 ± 0.2%, 19.7 ± 0.1%, and high amounts of total dietary fiber of 59.2 ± 0.4%, 61.7 ± 4.9%, respectively. The overall profile suggests that beach-cast seaweeds are suitable for nutritional and other bioeconomical purposes, to which different species with different characteristics contribute. Contamination of these seaweeds with unwanted toxic compounds like micropollutants was not studied. However, this must be considered before they are used for human consumption.

Characterization of cooked meat models using grasshopper (Sphenarium purpurascens) soluble protein extracted by alkalisation and ultrasound as meat-extender

The most abundant Orthoptera in Mexico is a small grasshopper (Sphenarium purpurascens) which is considered a food source with increased nutritional value due to its high protein content. Insect proteins have gained relevance because of their high potential as gelling, texturing, and extender agents in the food industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of substituting meat with a soluble protein extract from grasshopper obtained by alkalisation or alkalisation-piezoelectric ultrasound, on the techno-functional, physicochemical, and sensory characteristics of cooked meat models (sausages). The soluble protein was extracted in NaHCO₃ pH 8 and a piezoelectric ultrasound 5-mm sonotrode at 20 kHz with 99% amplitude. Different formulations with meat substitution: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% were prepared and characterised for their rheological behaviour, emulsion stability, weight loss by cooking, total protein content, colour, and texture. Sensory evaluation was conducted with consumers using a test involving check-all-that-apply and overall liking. The alkalisation-piezoelectric ultrasound method improved the solubility and the techno-functional properties of the soluble grasshopper protein when applied in sausages at maximum levels of 10% meat substitution. The sensory evaluation indicated that the formulation with 5% meat substitution exhibited the same acceptability as the control sample. Given these results, the soluble protein treated with alkalisation and piezoelectric ultrasound could be used as an extender in meat products.

Mass Cultivation of Microalgae: I. Experiences with Vertical Column Airlift Photobioreactors, Diatoms and CO2 Sequestration

From 2015 to 2021, we optimized mass cultivation of diatoms in our own developed vertical column airlift photobioreactors using natural and artificial light (LEDs). The project took place at the ferrosilicon producer Finnfjord AS in North Norway as a joint venture with UiT—The Arctic University of Norway. Small (0.1–6–14 m3) reactors were used for initial experiments and to produce inoculum cultures while upscaling experiments took place in a 300 m3 reactor. We here argue that species cultivated in reactors should be large since biovolume specific self-shadowing of light can be lower for large vs. small cells. The highest production, 1.28 cm3 L−1 biovolume (0.09–0.31 g DW day−1), was obtained with continuous culture at ca. 19% light utilization efficiency and 34% CO2 uptake. We cultivated 4–6 months without microbial contamination or biofouling, and this we argue was due to a natural antifouling (anti-biofilm) agent in the algae. In terms of protein quality all essential amino acids were present, and the composition and digestibility of the fatty acids were as required for feed ingredients. Lipid content was ca. 20% of ash-free DW with high EPA levels, and omega-3 and amino acid content increased when factory fume was added. The content of heavy metals in algae cultivated with fume was well within the accepted safety limits. Organic pollutants (e.g., dioxins and PCBs) were below the limits required by the European Union food safety regulations, and bioprospecting revealed several promising findings.

Anaerobic digestion of urea pretreated water hyacinth removed from Lake Abaya; bio-methane potential, system stability, and substance conversion

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is characterized as an aquatic plant that can grow very rapidly and freely float over water, and covers the top surface of water. It prevents the penetration of sunlight and reduces nutrients and oxygen from water bodies, and can adversely affect the aquatic ecosystem; however, it can be used in the biogas production as the sole feedstock for anaerobic digestion due to high contents of carbohydrates and biodegradable matter. Thus, this study was aimed to remove water hyacinth from Lake Abaya as a renewable energy resource for biogas production through anaerobic digestion. A lab-scale anaerobic batch reactor was applied to assess its biogas and methane generation potential. The results showed that the total solids of 91.9% at dry basis and volatile solids of 84.82% of TS. The biogas and methane production potential of 474.92 mL g⁻¹ VS and 213.92 mL g⁻¹ VS was recorded during 45 days HRT at 37 ± 1 °C. The daily methane production discloses accelerated increment starting from day 8 up to the peak point on day 12 (2170 mL d⁻¹). The biochemical conversion of substances in water hyacinth to biogas was recorded as follows: total volatile solids (96.1%), cellulose (92.5%), hemicellulose (88.2%), and chemical oxygen demand (99.3%). Based on results, E. crassipes can be the sole feedstock for the anaerobic reactor to produce biomethane, while the effluents can be applied as organic fertilizers.

Anaerobic digestion of urea pretreated water hyacinth enhanced biomethane production potential and improved digestate quality as a bio-fertilizer for the plant growth.

Assessment of the Effects of Salt and Salicornia herbacea L. on Physiochemical, Nutritional, and Quality Parameters for Extending the Shelf-Life of Semi-Dried Mullets (Chelon haematocheilus)

Mullet, a coastal fish species, is commonly used as a salted dried fish in many countries, including Korea, Japan, and the southeastern United States. The purpose of this investigation was to develop high-quality products of salted semi-dried mullet (SSDM) using natural salt and Salicornia herbacea L. (SAL). The antioxidant activity of SAL was investigated by in vitro studies. The physicochemical and nutritional characteristics of fresh mullet (FM), salted control (SSDM-CON), and SAL-treated (SSDM-SAL) mullet groups were analyzed. The moisture, ash, and crude protein contents were significantly increased in the SSDM-SAL group, whereas the salinity was decreased when compared with the SSDM-CON group. Lipid oxidation occurred in the FM and SSDM groups, as indicated by the increase in peroxide (PV), acid (AV), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) values during the storage period. The protein pattern on the sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis showed similarities between the groups, while the amino acid and fatty acid contents also varied in the FM and SSDM groups depending on their processing methods. Initially, the total bacterial count was significantly higher in the SSDM groups than in the FM group. However, the SSDM-SAL group had a markedly lower total bacteria count than the FM and SSDM-CON groups during 21 days of refrigerated storage. This result indicates that SAL treatment can improve mullet’s safety from microorganisms, includes beneficial biochemical parameters, and can extend their shelf-life through refrigerated storage.

Physicochemical characterization and in vitro evaluation of the antioxidant and anticandidal activities of Moroccan propolis

Background and Aim:

Human mycotic infections are one of the major health problems worldwide. Prolonged use of antimycotic drugs has contributed to the development of resistance in pathogenic fungi. This study was conducted to examine antioxidant and anticandidal activities of Moroccan propolis.

Materials and Methods:

Two ethanolic extracts of Moroccan propolis from the Fez-Meknes region were evaluated regarding the following physicochemical parameters: Yield, pH, total carbohydrates, total proteins, total lipids, minerals, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. In addition, we assessed the in vitro anticandidal activity against vulvovaginal candidiasis strains, that is, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida krusei, using the broth micromethod according to the CLSI/M27-A3 reference guidelines.

Results:

The propolis samples exhibited a mean yield of 16%, with an acidic pH ranging from 4.8 to 5.9; the sample from the Oued Amlil area (OAPEE) contained high levels of resin, balsam, moisture, total carbohydrates, and total lipids: 59.8%, 0.71%, 2%, 1.01 gGlcEq/g, and 120 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, the sample from the Sefrou area (SFPEE) was richer in total proteins and minerals, with values of 2.5 g/100 g and 1.84%, respectively. The total polyphenol and flavonoid content in the propolis extracts were 117.38 and 194.68 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g, and 17.45–27.79 mg of quercetin equivalent/g, respectively. Regarding the antioxidant activity, the most effective propolis extract was the sample from the Sefrou area, at 72.5 μg/mL and 118.78 μmoL Fe²⁺/g for ABTS-half-maximal inhibitory concentration and FRAP-half maximal effective concentration, respectively. The analysis of phenolic compounds using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector revealed the presence of 13 polyphenols. The main compound in the OAPEE sample was epicatechin (310 mg/g), whereas in the SFPEE sample was apigenin (410 mg/g). Regarding the antifungal activity against Candida species, the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of the Moroccan propolis ethanolic extracts ranged between 31.2 and 62.5 μg/mL and 62.5 and 125 μg/mL, respectively, comparable with fluconazole (as a reference antimycotic).

Conclusion:

This study suggests that Moroccan propolis (31.2 and 125 μg/mL) may be an important source of bioactive molecules with anticandidal activity. Propolis may be a promising naturally-occurring candidate for the development of antimycotic drugs.

Biochemical compounds and stress markers in lettuce upon exposure to pathogenic Botrytis cinerea and fungicides inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation

MAIN CONCLUSION

Botrytis cinerea and fungicides interacted and influenced selected biochemical compounds. DPPH and glutathione are the first line of defence against biotic/abiotic stress. Plant metabolites are correlated with fungicides level during dissipation. Botrytis cinerea is an etiological agent of gray mould in leafy vegetables and is combated by fungicides. Fluazinam and azoxystrobin are commonly used fungicides, which inhibit oxidative phosphorylation in fungi. In this study, lettuce was (i) inoculated with B. cinerea; (ii) sprayed with azoxystrobin or fluazinam; (iii) inoculated with B. cinerea and sprayed with fungicides. This investigation confirmed that B. cinerea and fungicides affected lettuce's biochemistry and stress status. B. cinerea influenced the behaviour of fungicides reflected by shortened dissipation of azoxystrobin compared to non-inoculated plants, while prolonged degradation of fluazinam. Stress caused by B. cinerea combined with fungicides reduced level of chlorophylls (53.46%) and carotenoids (75.42%), whereas increased phenolic compounds (81%), ascorbate concentrations (32.4%), and catalase activity (116.1%). Abiotic stress caused by fungicides contributed most to the induction of carotenoids (107.68 µg g-1 on dissipation day 3-1). Diphenyl picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and glutathione concentration peaked from the first hour of fungicides dissipation. For the first time correlation between the status of plant metabolites and fungicides during their dissipation was observed. These results indicate that non-enzymatic antioxidants could be the first-line compounds against stress factors, whereas ascorbate and antioxidant enzymes tend to mitigate stress only secondarily. The findings of this study help better understand plant biochemistry under biotic/abiotic stress conditions.