Content of total phenolics and phenolic acids in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruits as influenced by cultivar and solar UV radiation

Optimization of spicy red pepper paste (Awaze) formulation by D-optimal mixture design

The aim of this study was to produce spicy red pepper paste (Awaze) by addition of various sources of antioxidant, mineral, and fiber and optimize better processing methods of the paste. For this purpose, D-optimal mixture design was used, Awaze considering color value (a*), antioxidant content, mineral content, fiber content, chewiness, and viscosity of the paste as the main parameters. Various properties of the optimized formulation were evaluated. The optimal formulation contained 65.66% red pepper, 10% garlic, 19.08% red onion, and 5.25% ginger. In the optimized formulation, the redness value (a*) increased by more than 3.12 times compared to the control with the average antioxidant activity (44.6%). The optimal formulation had a higher fiber content, chewiness, and viscosity value compared to control which is probably related to the ingredient proportion difference. Due to the higher nutritional and processing quality obtained, this formulation can be suggested for commercial and household producers as a guide to manufacture Awaze. The results obtained indicate that it is possible to production of Awaze with high nutritional value and improved processing quality by utilizing a blend of red pepper, garlic, red onion, and ginger. Therefore, this formulation stands as a viable recommendation for both commercial enterprises and household producers due to its demonstrated ability to yield Awaze with enhanced nutritional content and superior processing quality.

Phytotoxic phenols from the needles of Cedrus deodara

During the course of screening for anti-seed germination phytochemicals, the methanol fraction of the Cedrus deodara fresh needles showed potent activity. Bioactivity-guided fractionation led to the isolation of thirty-eight phenolic compounds. Four ones were identified as previously undescribed including (7S,8S)-3-methoxy-9'-acetoxy-3',7-epoxy-8,4'-oxyneoligna-4,9-diol (7), (7S,8R)-dihydro-3'-hydroxy-8-acetoxymethyl-7-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl)-1'-benzofuranpropanol (10), (8S)-4,9,9'-trihydroxy-3,3'-dimethoxy-8,4'-oxyneolignan (11) and (7S,8S)-4,7,9'-trihydroxy-3,3'-dimethoxy-9-acetoxy-8,4'-oxyneolignan (16), respectively. The potential phytotoxic effects of these compounds on the seed germination and root elongation of Arabidopsis thaliana were evaluated by the filter paper assay developed in our laboratory. Bioassay results indicated that caffeic acid (36) displayed most significant inhibitory activities against the seed germination and root elongation of A. thaliana, stronger than those of the commercial herbicides acetochlor and glyphosate at the same concentration of 200 μg/mL. Ditetrahydrofuran lignan (1), dihydrochalcone (25), and eight simple phenols (28, 29, 31, 33-35, 37 and 38) completely inhibited the seed germination of A. thaliana at the concentration of 400 μg/mL, which were as active as acetochlor. Dihydroflavone (21) and the simple phenols 32-34 displayed stronger inhibitory effects on the root elongation of A. thaliana than that of glyphosate. The inhibitory effects of these active compounds on the seed germination and root elongation of Amaranthus tricolor and Lactuca sativa were evaluated as well. The phytotoxic activity of 11, 16, 22, 25, 31, 34, 37 and 38 were detected for the first time. In addition, the structure-activity relationships of the same class of these phytochemicals were discussed.

Exploring morphological variability, in vitro antioxidant potential, and HR-LCMS phytochemical profiling of Phlomis cashmeriana Royle ex Benth. across different habitats of Kashmir Himalaya

Phytochemicals are broadly acknowledged for their health-promoting effects owing to the fact of their capacity to counteract free radicals (e.g., superoxide anion radical, hydroxyl radical, hydroperoxyl radical, singlet oxygen, hypochlorite, and nitric oxide) and shield against oxidative stress induced by environmental factors. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between altitude, morphology, soil parameters, in vitro antioxidant potential and phytochemical composition of Phlomis cashmeriana collected from four different locations of Kashmir Himalaya characterized by diverse habitats and elevations. Various factors, such as extraction method, solvent polarity, and habitat conditions, can impact the quantity and efficacy of phytochemicals in plants. The aim of current study was to analyze phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of P. cashmeriana, an important medicinal plant found in the Kashmir Himalaya region. The antioxidant activity was accessed using several assays and the plant populations were selected based on their diverse habitat features and altitudes. HR-LCMS was conducted for both below-ground and above-ground parts. Some important compounds such as, catechin, vinainsenoside, acutilobin, and kaempferol were reported for the first time from P. cashmeriana. Results showed that methanol was the most efficient solvent for extracting phytochemicals. During the current study, it was also found that the below-ground parts exhibited superior antioxidant activity compared to the above-ground parts. Notably, Site IV demonstrated the highest antioxidant potential; a positive correlation between altitude and antioxidant activity was also found. In conclusion, present research identified specific elite populations having highest antioxidant potential and are well-suited for large-scale cultivation of P. cashmeriana.

Changes in bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of three Amaranthus L. genotypes from a model to household processing

Amaranthus L. leaves are consumed as vegetables and are a rich source of secondary plant metabolites. The phenolic profiles of the three analyzed genotypes by LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD were characterized by high amounts of hydroxycinnamic glucaric and -isocitric acids. 'Gartenfuchsschwanz' (A. hybridus L.) and 'Red Callaloo' (A. tricolor L.) had similar profiles. 'Gemüse-Amaranth' (A. tricolor L.) had a high amount of caffeoylglucaric acid 4, which was isolated, and afterward identified by NMR. Its antioxidant activity, measured by TEAC, DPPH, and TPC, was similar to 5-caffeoylquinic acid, common in many plant species. The antioxidant activity of Amaranthus L. can be explained rather by their different phenolic- and ascorbic acid concentrations than by their species. Household cooking reduces antioxidant activity due to oxidation processes while leaching into cooking water could be neglected. Amaranthus L. baked into a wheat-dough-matrix showed lower phenolic concentrations, presumably due to the formation of phenol-protein-bounds and thermal degradation.

Effect of melatonin foliar sprays on morphophysiological attributes, fruit yield and quality of Momordica charantia L. under salinity stress

Soil salinity is one of the increasing problems in agricultural fields in many parts of the world, adversely affecting the performance and health of the plants. As a pleiotropic signal and antioxidant molecule in both animals and plants, melatonin has been reported to possess significant roles in combating with stress factors, in general and salt stress, in particular. In this study, the interactive effects of melatonin (0, 75, and 150 μM) and salt stress (0, 50 and 100 mM NaCl) were investigated by assaying the some agronomic, physlogical and biochemical attributes and essential oil compounds of bitter melon (Momordica charantia). The results showed that exogenous melatonin could promote net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and PSII efficiency (Fv/Fm), increase K+ content and activity of antioxidant enzymes and decrease reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde and Na+ content in stress-submitted seedlings, in comparison to the non-stressed seedlings (p < 0.05). Melatonin increased content of essential oils. Concerning the major compounds of fruits of bitter melon, charantin, momordicin and cucurbitacin were increased with the melatonin treatments, whereas they were critically decreased with the salt stress. In addition, melatonin increased the antioxidant capacity in fruits under non-saline and salinity conditions. Amid the concentrations of melatonin, plants treated with 150 μM of melatonin under either non-saline or saline conditions showed better performance and productivity. Therefore, application of 150 μM melatonin resulted in a significant improvement of salinity tolerance and essential oil compounds in bitter melon plant, suggesting this as an efficient 'green' strategy for sustainable crop production under salt stress conditions.

Optimization of the conditions of alkaline extraction of tomato peels and characterization of tomato peel extracts obtained under atmospheric and oxygen free conditions

This study aims to optimize the extraction conditions to obtain the highest yield, to characterize tomato peel extract (TPE) under optimized conditions, and also to determine the effect of ambient oxygen on the properties of TPE. Optimisation were performed at three temperatures (60 °C, 80 °C, 100 °C) and three periods (2, 4, 6 h) by the response surface methodology. The properties of the extract under atmospheric and oxygen-free conditions (AC, OFC) were analysed to determine whether the characteristics of both extracts changed depending on the presence of oxygen; moreover, the morphological, chemical, thermal, biochemical, and antimicrobial properties were analysed. The maximum yield was 31.3% at 100 °C/6 h. A quadratic model was used to create the best fit. Both TPE samples exhibited similar morphological structure, similar weight losses at three stages of TGA curve, similar band assignments in FTIR spectra. GC-MS analysis showed that both samples mainly consisted of cutin in abundance of 70.45% and 68.14% for AC and OFC, respectively. OFC had higher total phenolic content possibly depending on the absence of oxygen. AC and OFC extracts exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans, and A. brasiliensis with a MIC value of 100 μg TPE/ mL.

Genetics and breeding of phenolic content in tomato, eggplant and pepper fruits

Phenolic acids and flavonoids are large groups of secondary metabolites ubiquitous in the plant kingdom. They are currently in the spotlight due to the numerous health benefits associated with their consumption, as well as for their vital roles in plant biological processes and in plant-environment interaction. Tomato, eggplant and pepper are in the top ten most consumed vegetables in the world, and their fruit accumulation profiles have been extensively characterized, showing substantial differences. A broad array of genetic and genomic tools has helped to identify QTLs and candidate genes associated with the fruit biosynthesis of phenolic acids and flavonoids. The aim of this review was to synthesize the available information making it easily available for researchers and breeders. The phenylpropanoid pathway is tightly regulated by structural genes, which are conserved across species, along with a complex network of regulatory elements like transcription factors, especially of MYB family, and cellular transporters. Moreover, phenolic compounds accumulate in tissue-specific and developmental-dependent ways, as different paths of the metabolic pathway are activated/deactivated along with fruit development. We retrieved 104 annotated putative orthologues encoding for key enzymes of the phenylpropanoid pathway in tomato (37), eggplant (29) and pepper (38) and compiled 267 QTLs (217 for tomato, 16 for eggplant and 34 for pepper) linked to fruit phenolic acids, flavonoids and total phenolics content. Combining molecular tools and genetic variability, through both conventional and genetic engineering strategies, is a feasible approach to improve phenolics content in tomato, eggplant and pepper. Finally, although the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway has been well-studied in the Solanaceae, more research is needed on the identification of the candidate genes behind many QTLs, as well as their interactions with other QTLs and genes.

Blue Light Supplemented at Intervals in Long-Day Conditions Intervenes in Photoperiodic Flowering, Photosynthesis, and Antioxidant Properties in Chrysanthemums

The flowering of chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.), inhibited by long-day lighting, can be reversed with a short period of low supplemental blue light (S-BL). Both flowering and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging processes are primarily driven by sugars created by photosynthetic carbon assimilation. In addition, the antioxidant ability potentially affects flowering in photoperiod- and/or circadian rhythm-dependent manners. This indicates that there is an interactive relationship among blue (B) light, photosynthetic efficiency, sugar accumulation, and antioxidant ability in flowering regulation. Here, 4 h of 30 μmol·m^-2·s^-1 photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) S-BL was applied at the end of a 13-h long-day period (LD13 + 4B) at different intervals during 60 days of experimental duration. The five experimental groups were named according to the actual number of days of S-BL and their intervals: applied once every day, "60 days-(LD13 + 4B) (100.0%)"; once every other day, "30 days-(LD13 + 4B) (50.0%)"; once every three days, "15 days-(LD13 + 4B) (25.0%)"; once every five days, "10 days-(LD13 + 4B) (16.7%)"; and once every seven days, "7 days-(LD13 + 4B) (11.7%)". Two non-S-BL control groups were also included: 60 10-h short days (60 days-SD10) and 13-h long days (60 days-LD13). At the harvest stage, varying degrees of flowering were observed except in "60 days-LD13" and "7 days-(LD13 + 4B) (11.7%)". The number of flowers increased and the flower buds appeared earlier as the proportion of S-BL days increased in LD13 conditions, although the "60 days-SD10" gave the earliest flowering. The proportion of initial, pivotal, and optimal flowering was 16.7% ("10 days-(LD13 + 4B)"), 50.0% ("30 days-(LD13 + 4B)"), and 100.0% ("60 days-(LD13 + 4B)"), respectively. Meanwhile, a series of physiological parameters such as the production of enzymatic or non-enzymatic antioxidants, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency, enzyme activities, and carbohydrate accumulation were significantly improved by "30 days-(LD13 + 4B) (50.0%)" as a turning point until the peaks appeared in "60 days-(LD13 + 4B) (100.0%)", as well as the expression of florigenic or anti-florigenic and some antioxidant-synthetic genes. Furthermore, the results of principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that S-BL days positively regulated flowering, photosynthesis, carbohydrate accumulation, and antioxidant production. In aggregate, the pivotal and optimal proportions of S-BL days to reconcile the relationship among flowering, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and antioxidant ability were 50.0% and 100.0%, respectively. However, there are still significant gaps to be filled in order to determine the specific involvement of blue light and antioxidant abilities in flowering regulation.

A Green Analytical Method Combined with Chemometrics for Traceability of Tomato Sauce Based on Colloidal and Volatile Fingerprinting

Tomato sauce is a world famous food product. Despite standards regulating the production of tomato derivatives, the market suffers frpm fraud such as product adulteration, origin mislabelling and counterfeiting. Methods suitable to discriminate the geographical origin of food samples and identify counterfeits are required. Chemometric approaches offer valuable information: data on tomato sauce is usually obtained through chromatography (HPLC and GC) coupled to mass spectrometry, which requires chemical pretreatment and the use of organic solvents. In this paper, a faster, cheaper, and greener analytical procedure has been developed for the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the colloidal fraction via multivariate statistical analysis. Tomato sauce VOCs were analysed by GC coupled to flame ionisation (GC-FID) and to ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS). Instead of using HPLC, the colloidal fraction was analysed by asymmetric flow field-fractionation (AF4), which was applied to this kind of sample for the first time. The GC and AF4 data showed promising perspectives in food-quality control: the AF4 method yielded comparable or better results than GC-IMS and offered complementary information. The ability to work in saline conditions with easy pretreatment and no chemical waste is a significant advantage compared to environmentally heavy techniques. The method presented here should therefore be taken into consideration when designing chemometric approaches which encompass a large number of samples.

Extractability of Curcuminoids Is Enhanced with Milk and Aqueous-Alcohol Mixtures

In this study, we evaluated the extractability of three curcuminoids (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin) from turmeric powder in several solvents using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with the diode-array detection method. These solvents include water, milk (homogenized, 2% reduced fat, low fat, fat free, soy, almond, coconut, and milkadamia), and aqueous ethanols (0%, 4%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and 100%). Ambient water was able to extract only 0.55 mg/g of curcuminoids, whereas warm water extracted more than four-fold higher amounts (2.42 mg/g). Almond, coconut, and milkadamia milk were able to extract only small amounts of curcuminoids at ambient temperatures (0.01–0.07 mg/g). The extractability of curcuminoids in these milk types did not improve, even in warm conditions (0.08–0.37 mg/g). Whereas dairy and soy milk extracted 6.76–9.75 mg/g of curcuminoids under ambient conditions, their extractability increased significantly in warm conditions by 30–100% higher (11.7–14.9 mg/g). The solubility of curcuminoids also varied remarkably in different proportions of aqueous-alcohol mixtures. With 4% ethanol, only 1.7 mg/g of curcuminoids were extracted, and the amounts improved with the increase in ethanol content up to 50% (32.2 mg/g), while 100% ethanol extracted a similar amount as 50% ethanol (34.2 mg/g). This study suggests that the extractability of curcuminoids from turmeric will be dependent on the type of diets consumed with the turmeric supplements.

Functional and Nutraceutical Compounds of Tomatoes as Affected by Agronomic Practices, Postharvest Management, and Processing Methods: A Mini Review

Tomatoes and their by-products are indisputable sources of substances with antioxidants properties. Several factors limit the production and influence the nutritional and antioxidant quality of tomato fruit. However, consumers can benefit from the effects of environmental factors, such as water and hydric stress, UV radiation, agronomic practices, among others, which lead to changes in the content of secondary metabolites in tomatoes. Molecules as phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and biogenic amines are often formed in response to environmental adversities. In this way, the consumption of tomato fruits or their by-products with higher levels of antioxidants may be important adjuvants in the prevention or reduction of diseases. In this mini-review, we will present how pre- and postharvest conditions may influence the content of some bioactive compounds in tomatoes. Furthermore, we will present how some heat processing methods may change the antioxidant content, as well as, the functional and nutritional properties of the final product.

Synergistic Effect of Dipping in Aloe Vera Gel and Mixing with Chitosan or Calcium Chloride on the Activities of Antioxidant Enzymes and Cold Storage Potential of Peach (Prunus persica L.) Fruits

Peach is a climacteric fruit characterized by a rapid maturation, high respiration level, weight loss, breakdown of texture, and interior browning. Fast tempering of the fruit and subsequent mold expansion caused a negative impact on the marketing. This study was carried out to estimate the synergistic influence of coating with Aloe vera gel (AVG) at 15% or 30% mixed with chitosan (CH) at 1.5% as a kind of natural polymers or calcium chloride (CaCl2) at 3% on physical and chemical features. We investigated the changes in antioxidant enzymes activities of peach fruits Prunus persica (L.) Metghamer Sultany. Fruits were kept at 3 ± 1 °C and relative humidity (RH) 85–90% for 36 days during two consecutive seasons (2020 and 2021). Results revealed that applying AVG at 30% blended with CH at 1.5% significantly impacted the storage period of peach fruits, reduced the ion leakage (IL), malondialdehyde (MDA), and lessened weight loss. The differences were significant compared to the other treatments and untreated fruits (control) that exhibited the higher values for IL, MDA, and weight loss in the 36th day. Moreover, fruit quality features such as firmness, total acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), and skin color chroma (c*), hue angle (h) were also maintained. Furthermore, this combination was raised of phenolic content, antioxidant capacity (DPPH), antioxidant enzyme activity such as catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and quench the generation of H2O2 and O2•−. It could be concluded that dipping peach fruits in AVG at 30% blended with CH at 1.5% retained the biological features of peach fruit at considerable levels during cold storing. Thus, this effective mixture can be utilized to prolong the storage and marketing period of peach fruits. Nevertheless, a more in-depth analysis is required for this edible coating to be successfully commercialized in the peach fruit post-harvest industry.

Effect of Extraction Methodology on the Phytochemical Composition for Camelia sinensis “Powdered Tea Extracts” from Different Provenances

(1) Background: beverages based on extracts from Camellia sinensis are popular worldwide. Due to an increasing number of processed teas on the market, there is a need to develop unified classification standards based on chemical analysis. Meanwhile, phytochemical characterizations are mainly performed on tea samples from China (~80%). Hence, data on teas of other provenances is recommended. (2) Methods: in the present investigation, we characterized lyophilised extracts obtained by infusion, maceration and methanolic extraction derived from tea samples from China, Japan, Sri Lanka and Portugal by phytochemistry (catechins, oxyaromatic acids, flavonols, alkaloids and theanine). The real benefits of drinking the tea were analysed based on the bioavailability of the determined phytochemicals. (3) Results: the infusions revealed the highest total phenolic contents (TPC) amounts, while methanolic extracts yielded the lowest. The correlation matrix indicated that the levels of phenolic compounds were similar in the infusions and methanolic samples, while extractions made by maceration were significantly different. The differences could be partially explained by the different amounts of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG) and gallic acids (GA). The catechin percentages were significantly lower in the macerations, especially the quantity of EGCG decreases by 4- to 5-fold after this process. (4) Conclusions: the results highlight the importance of the processing methodology to obtain “instant tea”; the composition of the extracts obtained with the same methodology is not significantly affected by the provenance of the tea. However, attention should be drawn to the specificities of the Japanese samples (the tea analysed in the present work was of Sencha quality). In contrast, the extraction methodology significantly affects the phytochemical composition, especially concerning the content of polyphenols. As such, our results indicate that instant tea classification based on chemical composition is sensible, but there is a need for a standard extraction methodology, namely concerning the temperature and time of contact of the tea leaves with the extraction solvent.

The Response of Tomato Fruit Cuticle Membranes Against Heat and Light

Two important biophysical properties, the thermal and UV-Vis screening capacity, of isolated tomato fruit cuticle membranes (CM) have been studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and UV-Vis spectrometry, respectively. A first order melting, corresponding to waxes, and a second order glass transition (T _g ) thermal events have been observed. The glass transition was less defined and displaced toward higher temperatures along the fruit ripening. In immature and mature green fruits, the CM was always in the viscous and more fluid state but, in ripe fruits, daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations may cause the transition between the glassy and viscous states altering the mass transfer between the epidermal plant cells and the environment. CM dewaxing reduced the T _g value, as derived from the role of waxes as fillers. T _g reduction was more intense after polysaccharide removal due to their highly interwoven distribution within the cutin matrix that restricts the chain mobility. Such effect was amplified by the presence of phenolic compounds in ripe cuticle membranes. The structural rigidity induced by phenolics in tomato CMs was directly reflected in their mechanical elastic modulus. The heat capacity (Cp _rev ) of cuticle membranes was found to depend on the developmental stage of the fruits and was higher in immature and green stages. The average Cp _rev value was above the one of air, which confers heat regulation capacity to CM. Cuticle membranes screened the UV-B light by 99% irrespectively the developmental stage of the fruit. As intra and epicuticular waxes contributed very little to the UV screening, this protection capacity is attributed to the absorption by cinnamic acid derivatives. However, the blocking capacity toward UV-A is mainly due to the CM thickness increment during growth and to the absorption by flavone chalconaringenin accumulated during ripening. The build-up of phenolic compounds was found to be an efficient mechanism to regulate both the thermal and UV screening properties of cuticle membranes.

Energy and Water Related Parameters in Tomato and Cucumber Greenhouse Crops in Semiarid Mediterranean Regions. A Review, Part I: Increasing Energy Efficiency

Countries located in the Mediterranean region share many common features in terms of agricultural sustainability and economic realities of modern farming, as they are affected by water scarcity, energy use and climate suitability. Greenhouses are considered as a mitigation measure to combat climate change and as a sustainable production system. The majority of greenhouses in the Mediterranean region are rudimentary, while those in Central and North Europe are characterized by equipment of a high technological level for greenhouse climate and fertigation management. However, the technological innovations and research originating from Central and North Europe glasshouses may not be appropriate for use in Mediterranean plastic greenhouses when considering the trade-off between agronomic needs and potential energy savings. Identifying energy measures suitable for the local climate will improve energy efficiency and crop performance toward the goal of greenhouse sustainability. This review mainly focuses on renewable and energy-efficient control systems in Mediterranean greenhouses, where crops such as tomato and cucumber are widely grown.

LED Illumination for High-Quality High-Yield Crop Growth in Protected Cropping Environments

Vegetables and herbs play a central role in the human diet due to their low fat and calory content and essential antioxidant, phytochemicals, and fiber. It is well known that the manipulation of light wavelengths illuminating the crops can enhance their growth rate and nutrient contents. To date, it has not been easy to generalize the effects of LED illumination because of the differences in the plant species investigated, the measured traits, the way wavelengths have been manipulated, and the plants’ growing environments. In order to address this gap, we undertook a quantitative review of LED manipulation in relation to plant traits, focusing on vegetables and herbs. Here, we use standardized measurements of biomass, antioxidant, and other quantitative characteristics together with the whole range of the photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD). Overall, our review revealed support for the claims that the red and blue LED illumination is more reliable and efficient than full spectrum illumination and increases the plant’s biomass and nutritional value by enhancing the photosynthetic activity, antioxidant properties, phenolic, and flavonoids contents. Although LED illumination provides an efficient way to improve yield and modify plant properties, this study also highlights the broad range of responses among species, varieties traits, and the age of plant material.

Effect of Light Characteristics on the Sensory Properties of Red Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Leafy green production in high tunnels (HTs) results in increased yields, improved visual quality, and extended production with polyethylene (poly) film and/or shade cloth coverings. However, altering visible and ultra-violet light with HT coverings may reduce phytochemicals, thus influencing plant pigmentation and taste. The objective of this study was to examine various HT coverings on the sensory perceptions, soil temperature, color, and anthocyanin accumulation of red leaf lettuce. The coverings included standard poly, standard poly with removal two weeks prior to harvest (movable), diffuse poly, clear poly, UV-A/B blocking poly (block), standard poly with 55% shade cloth, and the open field. A highly trained descriptive panel evaluated the samples using a scale from 0 (none) to 15 (extremely high) and determined a list of 20 sensory attributes. The color intensity attribute had the most differentiation between coverings, and the open field was higher (i.e., darker) than the others at 7.5 (p < 0.0001), followed by clear and movable coverings at 6.8, and the shade covering scored a 2. Strong relationships existed between both colorimetric (hue°) and anthocyanin analysis to panelist-based scores (R² = 0.847 and 0.640, respectively). The initial crispness was similar for movable, standard, diffuse, and block coverings at 5.3 on average, which was higher than the open field at 4 (p < 0.01). The open field lettuce grew under cooler soil temperatures, which may have slowed down maturation and resulted in softer tissue. Based on this study, HT growers can implement specific coverings to cater to markets that value visual quality.

Functional, Flavor and Visual Traits of Hydroponically Produced Tomato Fruit in Relation to Substrate, Plant Training System and Harvesting Time

Currently, a great portion of tomatoes is produced by soilless cultivation systems and the substrate selection among the various materials is one of the most important factors affecting yield and quality traits. On the other hand, grafting has been successfully used in soilless systems to ensure long-term cultivation. However, due to the high cost of grafted seedlings, plant training systems are sought. Given the fact that most literature refers to studies intended to mainly reveal production differences among treatments and the quality aspect was secondary, the present study was focused on the evaluation of tomato fruit functionality, flavor and visual traits. Tomato plants cv ‘Beef Bang F1’ were cultivated in a glasshouse hydroponic culture in four substrates: rockwool slabs, perlite in sacks, pumice in sacks and pumice in 9 L pots. The type of cultivated plants used were self-rooted or grafted onto ‘Defensor’ trained in single and double stems. Tomato fruit were harvested three times during the season (6 June, 31 July, 6 November). The fruit quality was measured based on visual (average fruit mass, and Minolta color values), flavor (dry mass, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, pH, flesh firmness) as well as functional traits (total phenolic content, ascorbic acid, lycopene, β-carotene, total carotenoid content and antioxidant capacity). Harvest time was the most important factor followed in many of these cases by the substrate (flavor and functional traits), as well as in certain cases by the plant grafting/training (flavor traits and antioxidants) or by both in some flavor traits and antioxidants. Correlation of color values with lycopene, though significant, was weak. Each individual harvest time revealed the rise in different parameters. Pumice, whether used in pot or in sack, enhanced the visual and flavor attributes the most, self-rooted plants and mid-summer harvest resulted in the highest tomato fruit quality.

Preliminary Investigation on the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Commercial Salmorejo Found in Spanish Supermarkets

Salmorejo is a traditional Spanish food made of raw tomatoes, bread, garlic, and virgin olive oil. The food industry aims to satisfy consumer demand for ready-to-eat salmorejo while trying to maintain characteristics of the homemade product. In this work, we have assessed physical-chemical and color parameters, radical scavenging activity, and total polyphenol, lycopene, and β-carotene contents of raw and pasteurized commercial salmorejo, as well as homemade (raw) salmorejo samples. Our results showed that heat treatment had a significant influence on color parameters of salmorejo, with pasteurized samples being less red and exhibiting an increase in the degree of browning. Pasteurized samples also showed the highest radical scavenging activity when expressing the results per dry weight. However, when water content was considered, radical scavenging activity was superior in homemade samples when analyzing non-polar molecules extracted with acetone. Results were similar for polyphenol content. It was also observed that heat treatment affected lycopene but not β-carotene content. When acquiring commercial salmorejo at the supermarket, consumers have the option to choose between already prepared pasteurized or raw salmorejo. According to the results obtained in this work, physicochemical and functional properties of commercial raw salmorejo were comparable to a larger extent than pasteurized salmorejo compared to those exhibited by homemade salmorejo samples.

Characterization and quantification of bioactive compounds from Ilex paraguariensis residue by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS from plants cultivated under different cultivation systems

Ilex paraguariensis is a perennial plant used in the production of mate tea, "chimarrão" and "tererê," cosmetics, and other food products. Its leaves are harvested every 12 or 18 months. Approximately 2 to 5 tons of residue are generated per hectare during the harvest. The bioactive composition of this residue has not been characterized to date. Therefore, this paper presents for the first time, the simultaneous characterization of the bioactive compounds of the leaves, thin branches, and thick branches (residue) from I. paraguariensis grown under two cultivation systems: "full sun" and "shaded." The identification and quantification of the compounds was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). Consequently, 35 compounds were identified. The average dry weight of phenolic compounds in the residue was 4.1 g/100 g, whereas that in the bark of the residue was 12.9 g/100 g, which was similar to the content found in leaves. The same compounds were identified in the two cultivation systems but with a difference in their contents. While the "full sun" cultivation had a higher content of phenolic acids, the "shaded" cultivation had a higher content of flavonoids and saponins. It was found that the I. paraguariensis residue, particularly the bark, is rich in bioactive compounds, such as quinic, 3-caffeoylquinic, 5-cafefoylquinic, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic, and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acids as well as rutin, and their contents vary according to the cultivation system. Therefore, this residue is an underutilized natural resource with a potential for industrial applications. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Yerba mate producers will be able to choose the best cultivation system ("full sun" or "shaded") to increase the content of bioactive compounds. New products may be developed with yerba mate residue due to its high concentration of compounds that are beneficial to the human health. New destinations may be applied to yerba mate residue from the harvest pruning, adding commercial value to this unexplored natural resource.

Cross-Species Metabolic Profiling of Floral Specialized Metabolism Facilitates Understanding of Evolutional Aspects of Metabolism Among Brassicaceae Species

Plants produce a variety of floral specialized (secondary) metabolites with roles in several physiological functions, including light-protection, attraction of pollinators, and protection against herbivores. Pigments and volatiles synthesized in the petal have been focused on and characterized as major chemical factors influencing pollination. Recent advances in plant metabolomics have revealed that the major floral specialized metabolites found in land plant species are hydroxycinnamates, phenolamides, and flavonoids albeit these are present in various quantities and encompass diverse chemical structures in different species. Here, we analyzed numerous floral specialized metabolites in 20 different Brassicaceae genotypes encompassing both different species and in the case of crop species different cultivars including self-compatible (SC) and self-incompatible (SI) species by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Of the 228 metabolites detected in flowers among 20 Brassicaceae species, 15 metabolite peaks including one phenylacyl-flavonoids and five phenolamides were detected and annotated as key metabolites to distinguish SC and SI plant species, respectively. Our results provide a family-wide metabolic framework and delineate signatures for compatible and incompatible genotypes thereby providing insight into evolutionary aspects of floral metabolism in Brassicaceae species.

Production system influences tomato phenolics and indoleamines in a cultivar-specific manner

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit is a rich source of health-promoting compounds, and epidemiological studies show that tomato consumption may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. This study compared the effect of genotype, production system, and their interaction on eight tomato varieties grown in the open-field (OF) or net-house (NH), a structure completely covered with a 50-mesh screen to reduce pest and wind damage, in South Texas. The NH structure reduced solar radiation up to ~30% and decreased wind speed by 6.44 km/h compared with conditions measured in the OF. We simultaneously analyzed 16 phenolics and indoleamines using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC/ESI-HR-QTOFMS). The chemometric analysis showed a distinct difference between NH- and OF-grown tomatoes irrespective of the variety. The melatonin and serotonin contents showed a cultivar-specific effect of the production system. Likewise, the effect of cultivation systems on levels of phenolic acids and flavonoids varied based on tomato cultivar. Among the studied phenolic acids, significantly enhanced levels of sinapic acid were observed in OF-grown tomatoes. Similarly, we detected a considerable genotypic effect on gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and naringin. The interaction of cultivar and production system substantially affected gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, sinapic acid, and apigenin. However, further studies need to be performed to explore the environment-specific effects on the total composition. In summary, our results indicate that the production system plays an important role in tomato composition beyond the natural genetic variation among cultivars.

Beyond the Visible and Below the Peel: How UV-B Radiation Influences the Phenolic Profile in the Pulp of Peach Fruit. A Biochemical and Molecular Study

In the last decades, UV-B radiation has attracted attention due to its potential to increase nutraceutical values of fruit and vegetables, especially by inducing the accumulation of phenolics in a structure-dependent way. However, most current studies have investigated the UV-B-driven changes only in the peel or focusing on individual phenolic classes. Adopting an "-omics" approach, this work aimed to deepen the knowledge about the effects of UV-B radiation on the phenolic profile in the pulp of peach fruit. Based on these considerations, melting flesh yellow peaches (Prunus persica L., cv. Fairtime) were subjected to either a 10- or 60-min UV-B treatment (1.39 and 8.33 kJ m-2, respectively), and sampled at different time points from the exposure. A UHPLC-ESI/QTOF-MS analysis coupled with a phenolics-specific database for the annotation of compounds and a multivariate discriminant analysis revealed a marked effect of UV-B radiation on the phenolic profiles of peach pulp. Particularly, a general, transient increase was observed after 24 h from the irradiation, especially for flavanols, flavonols, and flavones. Such behavior diverges from what was observed in the peel, where an overall increase of phenolics was observed after 36 h from the irradiation. Concerning the flavonols in the pulp, UV-B exposure stimulated a specific accumulation of isorhamnetin and kaempferol derivatives, with variations imposed by the different sugar moiety bound. Anthocyanins, which were the second most abundant flavonoid group after flavonols, displayed a general decrease after 36 h that was not attributable to specific molecules. The UV-B treatments also increased the glycoside/aglycone ratio of flavonols and anthocyanins after 24 h, by increasing the glycoside concentration of both, flavonols and anthocyanins, and decreasing the aglycone concentration of anthocyanins. In support of the biochemical results, targeted gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR revealed an UV-B-induced activation of many genes involved in the flavonoid pathway, e.g., CHS, F3H, F3'H, DFR, as well as some MYB transcription factors and few genes involved in the UV-B perception. Generally, all the flavonoid-related and MYB genes showed a transient UV-B dose-dependent activation after 6 h from the irradiation, similarly to what was observed in the peel.

Plant Responses to UV Blocking Greenhouse Covering Materials: A Review

Pure polyethylene (PE) is enriched with several additives to make it a smart application material in protected cultivation, as a cover material for either greenhouses or screenhouses. When this material completely or partially absorbs ultraviolet (UV) solar radiation, then it is called UV blocking material. The current work presents a review on the effects of the UV blocking covering materials on crop growth and development. Despite the passage of several years and the evolution of the design technology of plastic greenhouse covers, UV blocking materials have not ceased to be a rather interesting technique for the protection of several vegetable and ornamental species. Much of the research on UV blocking materials focuses on their indisputable effect on reducing the activity of pests and viral-related diseases, rather than on the effects on the crop physiology itself. In the present paper, representative studies dealing with the effect of the UV blocking materials on the agronomic factors of different crops are presented and discussed. The results reveal that UV blocking materials have mainly positive effects on the different plant physiological functions, such as photosynthesis and transpiration rate, and on growth characteristics, while they might have a negative effect on the production and content of secondary compounds, as anthocyanins and total phenolics.

Selection of tomato landraces with high fruit yield and nutritional quality under elevated temperatures

BACKGROUND

Global warming and extreme or adverse events induced by climatic fluctuations are an important threat for plants growth and agricultural production. Adaptability to environmental changes prevalently derives from a large set of genetic traits affecting physiological and agronomic parameters. Therefore, the identification of genotypes that are good yield performer at high temperatures is becoming increasingly necessary for future breeding programs. Here, we analyzed the performances of different tomato landraces grown under elevated temperatures in terms of yield and nutritional quality of the fruit. Finally, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of fruit extracts from the tomato landraces selected.

RESULTS

The tomato landraces analyzed here in a hot climate differed in terms of yield performance, physicochemical parameters of fruit (pH, titratable acidity, degrees Brix, firmness), bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and polyphenols), and anti-inflammatory potential. Three of these landraces (named E30, E94, and PDVIT) showed higher fruit quality and nutritional value. An estimated evaluation index allowed identification of PDVIT as the best performer in terms of yield and fruit quality under high temperatures.

CONCLUSION

The analyses performed here highlight the possibility to identify new landraces that can combine good yield performances and fruit nutritional quality at high temperatures, information that is useful for future breeding programs. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of Irrigation with Desalinated Seawater and Hydroponic System on Tomato Quality

The use of desalinated seawater (DSW) as an alternative to conventional water resources is gradually gaining more interest due to the strong water deficit and increasing pressure on water resources in semi-arid regions. Furthermore, the combination of this alternative irrigation with the hydroponic cultivation system would allow continuous production almost through the whole year and hydroponic-related high crop yield. Nevertheless, the effects of DSW irrigation in hydroponic systems on the product quality need to be firstly studied to avoid product quality losses. In this study, we evaluated the effects on the quality of two tomato cvs. (Ramyle and Racymo) of three different irrigation treatments (T1, DSW; T2, DSW/well water mix; and T3, well water) under hydroponic or traditional cultivation systems. The soluble solid content of samples (highly correlated to dry matter content) grown under hydroponic conditions and T3 irrigation showed the highest values (5.8 °Brix) although such differences (<0.6 °Brix) with T1 might not be sensorially appreciated. Similarly, although T3 samples showed higher acidity than T1 samples, such differences (0.06%) would be not appreciated by the consumer. Tomatoes grown in hydroponic conditions had 1.1–1.2-fold higher firmness than conventional soil conditions showing hydroponic T3 samples had the highest value (21–23 N). Tomato cv. Racymo displayed higher color index (chroma) than cv. Ramyle, registering hydroponic T1 samples the most intense red color correlated with the highest lycopene content of 41.1 mg/kg. T1 irrigation of tomatoes cv. Ramyle did not induce significant changes while differences lower than 10% were observed in the tomato cv. Racymo. The highest total antioxidant capacity, which was highly correlated to the total phenolic content (R2 = 0.80), was found for hydroponic T1 samples with 1637/1243 µmol/kg for the tomato cvs. Ramyle/Racymo. Conclusively, the use of DSW would not compromise the consumer acceptance of tomatoes due to the low (not appreciable) quality differences, with even the total antioxidant capacity of these samples being increased. Furthermore, the mix of DSW with conventional water resources (lower cost) would not compromise the tomato quality.

The effect of postharvest ultraviolet irradiation on the content of antioxidant compounds and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in tomato

The effect of different doses of long-wavelength UV-A (320 nm-400nm) irradiation on physicochemical and antioxidant characteristics of tomatoes grown on the territory of the Russian Federation was studied. The obtained results show that this kind of processing does not cause deterioration of qualitative parameters of vegetables (texture, color, soluble solids content, titratable acidity). It was established that the total content of phenolic compounds, carotenoids and flavonoids increases (p-value<0.05) in tomatoes at all the investigated wavelengths (353 nm, 365 nm and 400 nm), while the content of chlorophylls reacts ambiguously: at some wavelengths, it increases, at other, it decreases. The maximum increase in antioxidant activity, as compared to untreated samples, is observed in tomatoe samples irradiated for 360 min within the range of 365 nm. For different types of tomatoes, the increment for common content of phenolic compounds is - 42.9-55.0 %, carotenoids - 24.0-56.0 %, flavonoids - 28.0-33.0 %, β-carotene - 70.9-71.6 %, lycopene - 62.6-69.0 %, lutein - 64.8-72.0 % from original. The studies reveal some potential of post-harvest ultraviolet irradiation (A-range) of tomatoes to increase their antioxidant activity. However, more research is needed to confirm this fact and the possibility to develop some technology.

Gene pyramiding for elite tomato genotypes against ToLCV (Begomovirus spp.), late blight (Phytophthora infestans) and RKN (Meloidogyne spp.) for northern India farmers

Mega variety with multiple disease and pest tolerance is one of the major research objectives to protect the crop from biotic stresses in current scenario of climate change. Three tomato leaf curl virus resistance genes (Ty-1, Ty-2 and Ty-3), two late blight resistance genes (Ph-2 and Ph-3) and one root knot nematodes resistance gene (Mi-1.2) were pyramided from different donor parents with the help of marker-assisted backcrossing followed by phenotypic selection. During 2016-2017 (August-March), 100 lines of BC₁F₄ mapping population were evaluated against these diseases and pest screening. Punjab Chhuhara (a popular north Indian tomato cultivar) was used as a recipient parent that is susceptible for all these diseases and pest. Whereas the resistant parents included CLN3022F₂-154-11-11-0 for tomato leaf curl virus, LBR-15 for late blight and NR-5 for root knot nematodes. The study results evaluated, 13 advanced backcrossed lines which possessed multiple disease and pest resistance with better horticultural traits over the parents as well as checks. This investigation showed that the introgression of Ty-1, Ty-2, Ty-3, Ph-2, Ph-3 and Mi-1.2 genes significantly improved the resistance against leaf curl, late blight and root knot nematodes diseases in selected advanced backcrossed lines of tomato. These improved multiple diseases resistant lines may play an important role in future pre-breeding tomato improvement projects.

Morphological and Chemical Profile of Three Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Landraces of A Semi-Arid Mediterranean Environment

Puglia (Southern Italy), particularly rich in tomato agro-biodiversity, can be considered a typical region of the semi-arid Mediterranean environments. In this study, three local varieties of tomato (Manduria, Giallo di Crispiano and Regina) were characterized by using morphological descriptors according to international standards. Chemical (isoprenoids, ascorbic acid, total phenols, sugars and mineral content) and agronomic assessment were carried out to highlight the specific traits of these local varieties well adapted to a semi-arid environment. Data of morphological traits according to the “International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants” (UPOV) guideline evidenced a clear distinctness among all three landraces, especially as regards fruits. Results also highlighted that a great part of variation in chemical traits was almost exclusively due to genotypes, while in a few cases observed differences resulted from the interaction between genotype and harvest time. The results of the present study may represent the first step toward the recognition of “conservation variety” status for Regina, Giallo di Crispiano and Manduria tomato landraces. At the same time, both quality traits and agronomic performance of these tomato genotypes suggest the possibility of their cultivation in other semi-arid environments also considering their quality traits, in view of a sustainable production.

Increasing of selenium content and qualitative parameters in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) after its foliar application

The effect of genotype and selenium foliar biofortification in the form of an aqueous solution of sodium selenate on the content of total carotenoids, vitamin C, total polyphenols and selenium content in the tomato fruits was studied.  Field experiment was held in the Botanical garden of the Slovak University of Agriculture in 2016. Seven determinant varieties of tomato in the two variants were observed. The results of experiments show that treatment of plants with the dose of Se concentration (150 g Se.ha-1) at the flowering stage significantly increased the total Se content in the in tomato fruits. Foliar application of selenium had a positive effect on the increase of total polyphenol. The influence of Se biofortification on the content of vitamin C and carotenoids was not detected. Selenium foliar fertilization in dosage 150 g.ha-1 is suitable way of tomato fruits enriching in polyphenols, without negative effect on other antioxidants content.

Plant morphology, physiological characteristics, accumulation of secondary metabolites and antioxidant activities of Prunella vulgaris L. under UV solar exclusion

Background

Prunella vulgaris L. has been an important medicinal plant for the treatment of thyroid gland malfunction and mastitis in China for over 2000 years. There is an urgent need to select effective wavelengths for greenhouse cultivation of P. vulgaris as light is a very important factor in P. vulgaris growth. Here, we described the effects of natural light (control) and UV solar exclusion on the morphological and physiological traits, secondary metabolites contents and antioxidant activities of P. vulgaris.

Results

The results showed that UV solar exclusion resulted in remarkable alterations to morphological and biomass traits; significantly reduced the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll contents; significantly enhanced the ratio of chlorophyll a to b; and significantly increased the carotenoid and anthocyanin contents in P. vulgaris. UV solar exclusion significantly increased the catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities and slightly decreased the glutathione (GSH) content. UV solar exclusion significantly increased the soluble sugar and H₂O₂ contents and increased the soluble protein content but significantly decreased the proline content and slightly decreased the MDA content. The secondary metabolite contents (total phenolics, rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, hyperoside, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid) and in vitro antioxidative properties (DPPH· and ABTS·⁺scavenging activities) were significantly increased in P. vulgaris spicas under UV solar exclusion. Additionally, the total polysaccharide and total flavonoids contents were slightly increased by UV solar exclusion. The salviaflaside content was significantly reduced by UV solar exclusion.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that P. vulgaris activates several antioxidant defence systems against oxidative damage caused by UV solar exclusion.

Preservation of red pepper flakes using microwave-combined cold plasma treatment

BACKGROUND

Red pepper flakes are often contaminated with various microorganisms; however, any technologies aiming to decontaminate the flakes should also maintain their quality properties. This study investigated the effect of microwave-combined cold plasma treatment (MCPT) at different microwave power densities on microbial inactivation and preservation of red pepper flakes. Red pepper flake samples inoculated with spores of Bacillus cereus or Aspergillus flavus and without inoculation were subjected to MCPT at 900 W for 20 min at either low microwave power density (LMCPT, 0.17 W m^-2 ) or high microwave power density (HMCPT, 0.25 W m^-2 ).

RESULTS

The numbers of B. cereus and A. flavus spores on red pepper flakes after LMCPT and HMCPT were initially reduced by 0.7 ± 0.1 and 1.4 ± 0.3 log spores cm^-2 and by 1.5 ± 0.3 and 1.5 ± 0.2 log spores cm^-2 respectively and remained constant for 150 days at 25 °C. Immediately after HMCPT, the concentrations of capsaicin and ascorbic acid in the flakes were significantly lower than in untreated samples; however, no difference in concentration was detected during storage. Neither LMCPT nor HMCPT affected the antioxidant activity or color of the flakes during storage. LMCPT also did not affect the sensory properties and the concentrations of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin of the flakes, indicating its suitability in preserving their quality properties.

CONCLUSION

MCPT may provide an effective non-thermal treatment for food preservation which can improve the microbial safety and stability of red pepper flakes while maintaining intact their qualitative properties. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Interactive Effects of Genotype and Molybdenum Supply on Yield and Overall Fruit Quality of Tomato

Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential trace element for plant growth, development, and production. However, there is little known about the function and effects of molybdenum in tomato plants. The present study assessed the influences of different Mo concentrations on four tomato F₁ hybrids ("Bybal" F₁, "Tyty" F₁, "Paride" F₁, and "Ornela" F₁) grown using a soilless system with different Mo levels [0.0, 0.5 (standard NS), 2.0, and 4.0 μmol L^-1, respectively]. The crop yield, plant vigor, fruit skin color, TA, fruit water content as well as the accumulation of SSC, and some antioxidant compounds such as lycopene, polyphenols and ascorbic acid were evaluated. The minerals concentration, including nitrogen (N), Mo, iron (Fe), and copper (Cu), were measured in tomato fruits. Results revealed that tomato plants grown with 2.0 μmol Mo L^-1 compared to plants grown with 0.5 μmol Mo L^-1 incurred a significant increase of total yield by 21.7%, marketable yield by 9.1%, aboveground biomass by 16.7%, plant height at 50 DAT by 6.5%, polyphenol content by 3.5%, ascorbic acid by 1.0%, SSC by 3.5%, N fruit content by 24.8%, Mo fruit content by 20.0%, and Fe fruit content by 60.5%. However, the Mo concentration did not significantly influence the average fruit weight, b^* fruit skin color coordinate and TA. Furthermore, tomato fruits from plants grown with 2.0 μmol Mo L^-1 showed a lower Cu fruit content (16.1%) than fruits from plants grown with 0.5 μmol Mo L^-1 (standard NS). Consequently, our study highlights the different behavior of the tomato genotypes tested when subjected to different levels of Mo concentration in the nutrient solution. Nevertheless, taking all in consideration our results clearly suggest that a Mo fertilization of 2.0 μmol Mo L^-1 effectively enhance crop performance and overall fruit quality of tomato.

Supplementary Light Source Affects the Growth and Development of Codonopsis lanceolata Seedlings

Codonopsis lanceolata is widely used in traditional medicine and diets. However, there is no optimal protocol for the commercial production of C. lanceolata seedlings. This study was carried out to find the optimum supplementary light source for the production of C. lanceolata seedlings. Seedlings were grown for four weeks in a glasshouse with an average daily light intensity of 490 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) coming from the sun and a 16-h daily supplementary lighting at 120 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD from either high-pressure sodium (HPS), metal halide (MH), far-red (FR), white LED (LED-w), or mixed (white: red: blue = 1:2:1) LEDs (LED-mix). The results showed that the greatest total biomass, stem diameter, ratio of shoot weight to shoot length, root biomass, and ratio of root weight to shoot weight were found in seedlings grown under supplementary LED-mix. Meanwhile, the stomatal properties and soluble sugar contents were improved for seedlings in LED-mix. The contents of starch, total phenols, and flavonoids were the greatest for seedlings in LED-w and LED-mix. The expression of photosynthetic proteins and genes in seedlings was also enhanced by LED-mix. Overall, these results suggest that LED-mix is advantageous to the photosynthetic potential and the accumulation of biomass, carbohydrates and secondary metabolites in C. lanceolata.

Exogenous Melatonin Improves Fruit Quality Features, Health Promoting Antioxidant Compounds and Yield Traits in Tomato Fruits under Acid Rain Stress

Acid rain is a serious worldwide environmental problem which reduces the growth and yield of crops. Melatonin, as a pleiotropic molecule has been known to improve stress tolerance by limiting the oxidative damage of plants exposed to adverse environments. However, the role of exogenous melatonin particularly on the yield and antioxidant compounds in tomato fruits under abiotic stress condition remains inexpressible. This observation aims to identify the influence of melatonin treatment under simulated acid rain (SAR) condition on fruit qualities, phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids concentration in fruits, and yield of tomatoes. Our study results showed that the fruits of SAR-stressed plants had higher quality traits and antioxidant bioactive compounds by increasing antioxidant activities against SAR-induced oxidative stress compared with fruits of control plants. Nonetheless, these improvements to antioxidant activities in fruits under SAR-condition remained unable to prevent the reduction of the yield. However, SAR-stressed plants treated by melatonin exhibited upgradation on the fruit quality traits, antioxidant compounds and yield attributes through accelerating oxidant-scavenging antioxidant actions in fruits compared with fruits of SAR-stressed plants. Meanwhile, our results suggest that exogenous melatonin plays an important role in improvement of bioactive compounds and yield traits in tomato fruits through regulating antioxidant system.

Targeted gene disruption coupled with metabolic screen approach to uncover the LEAFY COTYLEDON1-LIKE4 (L1L4) function in tomato fruit metabolism

Functional analysis of tomato L1L4 master transcription factor resulted in important metabolic changes affecting tomato fruit quality. Tomato fruits from mutant lines bearing targeted disruption of the heterotrimeric nuclear transcription factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factor (TF) gene LEAFY-COTYLEDON1-LIKE4 (L1L4, NF-YB6), a master regulator of biosynthesis for seed storage proteins and fatty acids, were evaluated for metabolites content and morphology. Metabolic screens using LC-MS/MS-based analysis and physico-chemical methods in different L1L4 mutants of the fourth generation allowed a comparative assessment of the effects of the TF disruption. Mutagenesis resulted in fruits phenotypically similar to wild-type with subtle shape differences in the distal end protrusion and symmetry. Conversely, mutant fruits from independent lines had significant variation in moisture content, titratable acidity and overall metabolite profiles including oxalic and citric acid, fructose, β-carotene, total polyphenols and antioxidants. Lines 6, 7 and 9 were the richest in β-carotene and antioxidant activity, line 4 in ascorbic acid and lines 4 and 8 in succinic acid. The reduced content of the anti-nutrient oxalic acid in several mutant fruits suggests that L1L4 gene may regulate the accumulation of this compound during fruit development. Detailed LC-MS/MS analysis of mutant seeds showed substantial differences in bioactive compounds compared to wild-type seeds. Taken together, the results suggest that the L1L4 TF is a significant regulator of metabolites both in tomato fruit and seeds providing a molecular target for crop improvement. Elucidation of the candidate genes encoding key enzymes in the affected metabolic pathways aimed to facilitate the L1L4 gene network exploration and eventually lead to systems biology approaches in tomato fruit quality.

Abiotic Stress Response to As and As+Si, Composite Reprogramming of Fruit Metabolites in Tomato Cultivars

The toxic element arsenic interacts with the beneficial element silicon at many levels of the plant metabolism. The ability of the tomato plant to take up and translocate As into its fruit has risen concerns that it could facilitate the entry of this element into the human food chain above the admitted level. Here, the fruit of two contrasting tomato cultivars, Aragon and Gladis, were evaluated following exposures of either 48 h or 14 days to As-contaminated irrigation water, with or without supplementary Si. The focus was on selected biochemical stress response indicators to dissect metabolic fruit reprogramming induced by As and Si. A multivariate statistical approach was utilized to establish the relationship between tissue As and Si concentrations and selected biochemical aspects of the stress response mechanisms to identify a set of relevant stress response descriptors. This resulted in the recognition of strong cultivar and temporal effects on metabolic and biochemical stress parameters following the treatments. In this paper the metabolic changes in H₂O₂ content, lipid peroxidation, lycopene and carotenoids content, ascorbate and GSH redox state, total phenolics, ABTS and DPPH radicals inhibition were in favor of an oxidative stress. The significance of some of these parameters as reliable arsenic exposition biomarkers is discussed in the context of the limited knowledge on the As-induced stress response mechanisms at the level of the ripening fruit which presents a distinctive molecular background dissimilar from roots and shoots.