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In this study, we developed a new fuzzy logic-based convolution layer on a two-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network (2D-CNN). This innovation aims to enhance the ability of CNN in recognizing colors. We experimented on P3Net, which is a 2D-CNN model that is used to predict photosynthetic pigment content in plant leaves in real time and non-destructive manner. The P3Net is designed to be able to predict three main photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll, carotenoid, and anthocyanin) based on the leaves color. The leaf colors were captured in the form of an RGB image and the image was used as the CNN input. We compare the performance of P3Net with and without the fuzzy logic-based convolution layer. It was revealed that the new form of convolution layer could significantly improve the P3Net performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nepenthes gracilis is a carnivorous plant species with leaves consisting of a photosynthetic organ (lamina) and a pitcher trap. Both organs contain chlorophylls and carotenoids. These pigments absorb light energy for photosynthesis. Studies on both pigments content are essential for understanding the cost-benefit of carnivory in Nepenthes. Fresh samples for pigment extraction from Nepenthes collected directly at their natural habitat can limit the accuracy of both pigment measurements. Hence, this study aimed to assess and determine the differences in chlorophylls and total carotenoids content in fresh and dried laminas, as well as to find the extracting solvent for the highest chlorophylls and total carotenoids concentration. Pitcher plant leaves (fresh and dried) were extracted with four solvents (acetone, ethanol, DMSO, and methanol) and four incubation treatments (0,24,48,72 hours). A spectrophotometry analysis was used to determine chlorophyll a, b, and total carotenoids content. Results showed that chlorophylls content was at the same levels in both fresh and dried leaves. Different extracting solvents resulted in different chlorophyll concentrations in fresh and dried leaves. Fresh leaf samples extracted using DMSO and dried leaf samples extracted using methanol both had the highest chlorophyll content. Differences in the extraction time influenced the chlorophyll b concentration. The highest chlorophyll b concentration was detected after 72 h extraction using DMSO. In contrast, methanol extraction of chlorophyll b in 0 h could result in the highest concentration. These results are essential in understanding and designing better sampling protocols for preserving materials used for compound analysis from wild plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are known as a natural source of carotenoids and other beneficial byproducts. The production of carotenoids is influenced by sufficient nitrogen and environmental conditions. This study investigated the effect of different nitrogen concentrations (60, 120, and 180 mg/L) and light intensity (10,000 and 20,000 Lux) on the growth and carotenoid production of Coelastrella sp. (LIPI11-2-Al018) was investigated. Cell growth and β-carotene content of Coelastrella sp. were increased with the excess nitrogen concentration. The presence of the β-carotene compound was confirmed using the β-carotene standard spectrophotometrically. The highest content of β-carotene was found in 180 mg/L nitrogen at 10,000 Lux (79.09 ppm). In contrast, the lowest content of β-carotene was seen at 60 mg/L nitrogen at 20,000 Lux (7.29 ppm). This study is expected to provide a new opportunity to offer functional dyes derived from microalgae Coelastrella sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina platensis is a source of natural pigments such as phycocyanin, chlorophyll and carotenoids as well as phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which determine its role as a natural antioxidant and colorant. In the presented work, ice cream samples with spirulina powder at concentrations of 5 g.kg−1 (IC – 1), 10 g.kg−1 (IC – 2) and 15 g.kg−1 (IC – 3) were examined. Color stability of ice cream samples during frozen storage was studied. The content of pigments (chlorophylls and carotenoids) and antioxidant activity of the samples were determined. During frozen storage, the processes of crystallization and oxidation resulted in darkening of color with a higher saturation of the blue color and lower saturation of the green color compared to the initial color characteristics of the ice cream. The changes in the color values L*, a*, b* were most significant between days 1 and 30 of the 90-day storage. The antioxidant activity of the samples was retained for up to 90 days of storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhamnus prinoides (gesho, in Amharic) is used as traditional medicine and bittering agent for local alcoholic beverages in Ethiopia. Knowledge of its chemical compositions is lacking and has limited its use as raw material for industries. Thus, the goal of this research was to investigate the bittering and phytochemical compositions. Samples were taken from seven different locations in Ethiopia, representing various agro-climatic zones. Standard methods were used to analyze chemical compositions. The findings of bitter substance were as follows: total resin (12.61-16.05%), hard resin (8.75-9.96%), soft resin (4.35-6.08%), beta acid (1.83-2.16 mg/l), alpha acid (1.16-1.43 mg/l), Iso-alpha acid (0.78-1.07 mg/l), and essential oils (2.48-3.04%). Phytochemical analysis of phytate (4.65-5.99 mg/g), oxalates (5.85-6.96mg/g), tannin (0.67-0.71 mg/g), carotenoids (1.59-2.88 mg/g), alkaloids (0.09-0.18%), flavonoids (1.47-2.51%), and polyphenols (1.61-1.89%) were recorded. The revealed that Rhamnus prinoides can be used as a hop substitute in industrial beer production and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango peel is one of the wastes produced by the mango processing industry that contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenol and carotenoids. This study was carried out to determine the effect of drying methods on the antioxidant activity of mango peel powder and its stability during storage. Mango peel was dried by using vacuum and cabinet hot air-drying methods followed by bioactive content and antioxidant activity determination. The change in bioactive compounds content and antioxidant activity were also evaluated during 8 weeks of storage in dark/light and airtight/non-airtight conditions. The results obtained show that vacuum-dried powder had higher antioxidant activity than cabinet hot air-dried samples with higher content of total phenolic (48.27 ± 0.28 mg GAE/g), better scavenging activity of DPPH free radical (66.69 ± 0.88%) and β-carotene oxidation inhibition activity of 83.32 ± 0.93%. However, the carotenoid content of vacuum-dried powder was lower than the cabinet hot air-dried powder with 83.21 ± 1.13 µg/g and 98.83 ± 0.93 µg/g respectively. The antioxidant activity of the samples was also comparable to butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), which is the standard antioxidant. Besides that, storage studies revealed that samples kept in the dark and airtight conditions have the highest antioxidant activity retention compared to other storage conditions. The results obtained from this study reveals the potential use of mango peel powder as a source of natural antioxidants for food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banana peel is a waste material or banana waste that is quite large in number. One of the compounds contained in banana peels is carotenoids. Carotenoids have benefits as precursors of vitamin A, antioxidants, immune enhancement, and several groups of carotenoids can be used as a food coloring. This study aims to determine the compound's secondary metabolites contained in kepok banana peels, determine the best eluent for separation crude extract of carotenoids from kepok banana peels and determine the type of carotenoids present in the skin mashed banana. This research includes extraction which is done by the maceration method using acetone solvent. The carotenoid extract obtained was then partitioned using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water. Extracts of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water fractions were concentrated and tested for phytochemical screening. Compounds contained in banana peels in the n-hexane fraction are triterpenoids, in the ethyl. fraction Acetate is a flavonoid, and the water fraction contains tannins, polyphenols, and flavonoids. In concentrated extract n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water fractions were separated from carotenoids by thin-layer chromatography with eluent variations of n-hexane: acetone (6:4), n-hexane: chloroform (8:2), and n-hexane. Next result Thin-layer chromatography was identified using UV-Vis spectrophotometer and FTIR. Results Separation by thin-layer chromatography showed that the carotenoid content was present in the n-hexane fraction with the best eluent n-hexane: acetone (6:4). Results of identification of UV-Vis and FTIR. spectrophotometers showed that the types of carotenoids contained in kepok banana peels were siponaxantin and mitiloxantin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the studies results on a new biologically active additive Fitos inclusion in the amount of 0.05-0.2% in addition to an industrial herd laying hens the main diet. In all experimental groups, the main feed nutrients digestibility indices improved: dry matter by 0.5-3.3%, organic matter by 0.7-3.0%, crude protein by 0.2-1.7%, crude fibre by 0.2-1.1%, crude fat by 0.3-1.6%. Also, the mineral metabolism improved, which confirms the substances positive balance, and the laying hens' assimilation by the body in comparison with the control group is higher: phosphorus by 0.4-2.6%, calcium by 0.2-1.1%. During a biochemical blood test, an increase in the total protein content and its albumin fraction was noted along with an increase in the phosphorus and calcium content. The laying hen's body vitamin provision improved - the vitamin A content in the laying hens' blood was 0.2-0.21 mg%, vitamin E - 0.73-0.76%. There was a tendency to improve the edible eggs biological value and quality - the carotenoids and vitamins A, E, B1, B2 and C content in the all-experimental groups eggs were higher than in the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to investigate the influence of the production method of a semi-finished product from dried rose hips on the content of biologically active substances that cause antioxidant activity. The objects of research are semi-finished products from dried rose hip berries. It was found that the investigated biologically active substances that have a direct effect on the antioxidant activity of semi-finished products from dried rose hip berries can be ranked in terms of losses in the manufacturing process as follows: free organic acids > ascorbic acid > carotenoids > phenolic substances. The negative influence of an excessive number of technological operations on the finished product antioxidant activity was noted. It is shown that to obtain a semi-finished product from dried rose hip berries with high quality characteristics and antioxidant activity, it is priority to use mechano-acoustic treatment without preliminary hydration of the raw material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tongka langit banana fruit (Musa troglodyatarum L.) contains caretonoid with the dominant compound is β-carotene which can be converted into vitamin-A. Vitamin-A acts as an immunostimulant in activating and strengthening the work of the body's immune system. Increasing the body's immune system can reduce the level of parasitemia. In pregnant women, an increase in parasitemia can cause low birth weight (LBW) in children. It is hoped that the enhancement of the immune system in pregnant women can reduce the level of parasitemia and can prevent the birth of children with low birth weight.The study used a completely randomized design method with five treatments : negative control, positive control, treatment of Tongka Langit banana fruit juice (g / head / day) 0.55, 0.65 and 0.75 with three replications.The observed parameter was birth weight in the fetus which was tested by analysis of variance with p ≤ 0.05. The results of data analysis showed that treatment with tongka Langit banana fruit juice at a dose of 0.65g / head / day was effective in increasing fetal birth weight in mothers with Plasmodium berghei infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether host phenotypic alterations induced by parasites are reversible or not is a core issue to understand underlying mechanisms as well as the fitness costs of infection and recovery to the host. Clearing infection is an essential step to address this issue, which turns out to be challenging with endoparasites of large size relative to that of their host. Here, we took advantage of the lethality, contactless and versatility of high-energy laser beam to design such tool, using thorny-headed worms and their amphipod intermediate host as a model system. We show that laser-based de-parasitization can be achieved using blue laser targeting carotenoid pigments in Polymorphus minutus but not in the larger and less pigmented Pomphorhynchus tereticollis. Using DNA degradation to establish parasite death, we found that 80% P. minutus died from within-host laser exposure. Survival rate of infected gammarids to laser treatment was higher than uninfected ones. The failure to kill P. tereticollis was also observed with nanosecond-green laser, an alternative laser source targeting lipid. We discuss the possible causes of amphipod death following parasite treatment and highlight the perspectives that this technology offers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black garlic (Allium sativum L.) has higher anticancer organosulfur compounds than unprogressed garlic. This study aimed to determine the profile of volatile metabolite, potentially anticancer compounds and cytotoxic activity of single black garlic against T47D breast cancer cell line. The method of this study consisted of extraction by maceration using 70% ethanol and liquid-liquid extraction with n-Hexane, analysis of volatile metabolites with Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), T47D breast cancer cell culture in RPMI medium and cytotoxicity test by MTT with cell control group, ethanol extract group (100 · 103, 50 · 103, 25 · 103, 12.5 · 103, 6.25 · 103 and 3.125 · 103 μg/mL), n-Hexane fraction group (2 · 103, 1 · 103, 0.5 · 103, 0.25 · 103 and 0.125 · 103 μg/mL) and positive control group of doxorubicin (10, 5 and 2.5 µg / mL). The GC-MS analysis allowed identifying 32 and 26 volatile compounds in ethanol extract and n-Hexane fraction, 9 anticancer compounds were found in ethanol extract classified into fatty acid, monoterpenes, phenol and carotenoid, while in n-Hexane fraction were found 3 anticancer compounds classified into fatty acid. The treatment cause cell death characterized with T47D cell morphology turn into round, smaller and irregular when compared to cell control. The IC50 values of ethanol extract and n-Hexane fraction were 8.67 · 103 µg/mL and 26.02 · 103μg/mL. Cytotoxic activities of ethanol extract and n-Hexane fraction toward breast cancer cell T47D was concentration dependent manner. Ethanol extract and n-Hexane fraction of single black garlic have the potential as anticancer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) has been used in traditional medicine to treat illnesses. Extracts of P. dactylifera are reported to possess valuable pharmacological attributes. Date seeds are part of the palm trees that have not been widely used, based on previous studies that date seeds contain secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and anthocyanin. The aim of this study was to identify the total phenolic and flavonoids content from methanol extract of date seeds and characterize their metabolite profiles using the LC-QTOF-MS instrument. Date seeds were extracted using methanol 96% by maceration method so that thick extracts were obtained which were then analysed for the total phenolic and flavonoids content using UV-Vis spectrophotometer instruments, while the profiles of secondary metabolites used LC-QTOF-MS instruments. The results of the analysis of total phenolic and flavonoid of methanol extract of date seeds were 11.11 ± 0.71 g GAE/100 g and 2.15 ± 0.28 g QE/100 g, LC-QTOF-MS, it was concluded that the majority of date seed methanol extract contained phenolic acids compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids and sterols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian species have inspired numerous studies on ornamentation, exploring its role in intra- and intersexual selection as a marker for individual quality. Male birds have been the focus of most of these studies when females, which can also display ornamentation, have been largely ignored. Coloration achieved through molt, particularly carotenoid-based pigments, requires energy derived from food resources. As climate affects insect abundance, there may be a link between climate during molt and feather quality the following season. We assessed the relationship between climate conditions during molt (July and August) and female Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) breast and crown feather reflectance metrics the following year. We collected 448 breast feather samples and 417 crown feather samples across 13 years (2010-2023) in eastern Virginia, USA. Breast and crown carotenoid content and breast yellow intensity tended to be higher following cooler and wetter conditions during molt. The negative impact of temperature on breast yellow intensity was greater in younger females. These results indicate that temperature and precipitation during molt carry over to influence female feather quality which likely serves as an indicator of individual quality to potential mates. These results provide insight into how climate conditions affect individual plumage quality and may aid in understanding the impacts of climate change on mating systems. Future study is needed to explore how conditions during molt may interact with species' thermoneutral zones to influence energy tradeoffs toward important events in a species' annual cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have evolved many strategies (e.g. leaf anatomy or pigmentation) to mitigate tissue-damaging high light. Often, in vascular plants, these strategies have been linked to inter- and intra-specific distribution patterns along light gradients. Sometimes sex-specific distributions are linked to sexually dimorphic traits. In non-vascular plants with separate sexes, spatial segregation of the sexes (SSS) is common, but how light gradients and sexually dimorphic traits correlate with SSS is not well-understood. To test if sexually dimorphic traits lead to SSS along light gradients in non-vascular plants, we used Marchantia inflexa whose males are found in higher light than females. We grew 25 males and 25 females to sexual maturity in a greenhouse with one clone of each plant in low or high light and assessed traits in vegetative and sexual thalli (analogous to leaves). We expected that males compared to females would exhibit traits more consistent with high light acclimation (i.e. lower total chlorophyll and specific thallus area but higher chlorophyll a/b ratio, carotenoid/chlorophyll ratio, and dry matter content). Further, we predicted greater sex-differences in sexual thalli due to differences in sex function. For sexual thalli, males had higher carotenoid/chlorophyll ratios (consistent with expectation) while females had higher chlorophyll a/b ratios and dry matter content (opposite from expectations). Vegetative thalli were not sexually dimorphic. Overall, vegetative and sexual thalli differed more for males than females, but these differences were unrelated to light. For one trait (dry matter content), sexual and vegetative thalli differed more for females than males. These patterns do not clearly explain light-associated SSS. However, our results suggest that modifications (vegetative to sexual) of all but one trait are more tightly correlated with male than female sexual function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosehips (Rosa canina) contain biologically active compounds, such as carotenoids, tocopherols, polyphenolics, and organic acids. Carotenoids are widespread pigments in plants, where they are involved in photosynthesis and photoprotection, but they are also found in human tissues where they may act as antioxidants or as immunomodulating, antimutagenic and tumour-preventing agents. Therefore, developments of processes of isolation of rosehips extracts with these compounds are of interest. In this study, the lipophilic extract of rosehips was obtained by supercritical fluid extraction with carbon dioxide under different extraction conditions. The aim of this work was to optimize the extraction process of lipophilic extracts from rosehips using pressures from 15 to 45 MPa, temperatures from 40 to 80 °C and extraction time from 60 to 180 min, and to evaluate the yield of biologically active high-value compounds - carotenoids (lycopene and P-carotene). The content of total carotenoids in extracts was analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The optimal conditions in terms of maximising lipophilic extract yield were 75.2 °C, 44 MPa, 115 min. That allowed the recovery of 65% of the lipophilic extract in comparison to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoid isomerase (CRTISO) is an important enzyme in carotenoid biosynthesis. Here, the Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra CRTISO (BoaCRTISO) gene was cloned from yellow-flower Chinese kale, and preformed for sequence analysis. The BoaCRTISO gene contains an open reading frame of 1,773 bp that encodes a 590-amino acid protein with a calculated molecular mass of 64.88 kD and an isoelectric point (pI) of 6.72. Subcellular localization predicted the BoaCRTISO gene was in the chloroplast. The conserved domain of the BoaCRTISO protein is Rossmann-fold NAD (P) H/NAD (P) (+) binding (NADB) domain. Homology analysis indicates that the CRTISO protein is apparently conserved during plant evolution and is most closely related to B. napus, and B. rapa. The findings of the present study provide a molecular basis for the elucidation of CRTISO gene function in Chinese kale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials or metal nanoparticles are considered as the agricultural applications with significant response-promoting influence. This research was focused on the influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) on morphological and physiological processes in pigmented-rice plants at seedling stage. A significant influence of TiO2 NPs on the plant growth, photosynthetic pigment contents and antioxidant enzyme activities in rice seedlings was investigated. The results were also shown that pigmented-rice seedlings growing in TiO2 NPs application significantly differed in the morphological and physiological responses when compared with the control plants. The results presented the plant height and dry weight was significantly affected by TiO2 NPs. The results observed an increase in chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoid contents and catalase, peroxidase enzyme activities in plant seedlings of TiO2 NPs-treated plants which positive-corresponded with plant growth performances was found. TiO2 NPs-treated seedlings that a high level of TiO2 NPs application exhibited an increase in the plant growth, photosynthetic pigment contents and antioxidant enzyme activities. The amelioration effect of 800 mg L-1 of TiO2 NPs application was shown the highest performances in morphological and physiological responses when compared with the other treatments. Investigation of the results suggests that the morphological and physiological responses due to changes in the plant growth, photosynthetic pigment content and antioxidant enzyme activity parameters may derive from the interaction between TiO2 NPs and plant cells of pigmented-rice seedlings, which are known to play a role in plant development and productivity in the further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides being known as a source of pungent flavor for cooking, chili pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) is also a source of antioxidants due to its capsaicin, carotenoids and chlorophyll contents. In this study, the capsaicin, carotenoids and chlorophyll variations during fruit maturation of chili peppers after Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS) treatment were investigated. Before planting, seeds of three lines of chili pepper were treated with EMS at concentrations of 0.01%, 0.02% or 0.04%. EMS provides a varied effect on the antioxidants content of the three lines of chili pepper. Genotypes 1 and 2 showed the tendency of increasing capsaicin content along with increase in EMS concentration, on the other, Genotype 3 showed the opposite phenomenon. EMS tended to increase the carotenoids content of the mature fruit of Genotype 1 but decreased the carotenoids content of the mature fruit of Genotype 3. For Genotypes 1 and 2, mature fruits contained higher capsaicin content than the young fruit, while Genotype 3 was just the opposite. Generally, the carotenoids content in the mature fruit is higher than that of the young. Young and mature fruits contain low concentrations of chlorophyll. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoene Synthase (PSY) is an important enzyme in carotenoid biosynthesis. Here, the Brassica oleracea var. capitata PSY (BocPSY) gene sequences were obtained from Brassica database (BRAD), and preformed for bioinformatics analysis. The BocPSY1, BocPSY2 and BocPSY3 genes mapped to chromosomes 2,3 and 9, and contains an open reading frame of 1,248 bp, 1,266 bp and 1,275 bp that encodes a 415, 421, 424 amino acid protein, respectively. Subcellular localization predicted all BocPSY genes were in the chloroplast. The conserved domain of the BocPSY protein is PLN02632. Homology analysis indicates that the levels of identity among BocPSYs were all more than 85%, and the PSY protein is apparently conserved during plant evolution. The findings of the present study provide a molecular basis for the elucidation of PSY gene function in cabbage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ς-carotene desaturase (ZDS) is an important enzyme in carotenoid biosynthesis. Here, the Brassica oleracea var. capitata ZDS (BocZDS) gene sequences were obtained from Brassica database (BRAD), and preformed for bioinformatics analysis. The BocZDS gene mapped to Scaffold000363, and contains an open reading frame of 1,686 bp that encodes a 561-amino acid protein with a calculated molecular mass of 62.00 kD and an isoelectric point (pI) of 8.2. Subcellular localization predicted the BocZDS gene was in the chloroplast. The conserved domain of the BocZDS protein is PLN02487, indicating that it belongs the member of zeta-carotene desaturase. Homology analysis indicates that the ZDS protein is apparently conserved during plant evolution and is most closely related to B. oleracea var. oleracea, B. napus, and B. rapa. The findings of the present study provide a molecular basis for the elucidation of ZDS gene function in cabbage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter pumpkin represents a seasonal crop of health and food interest due to its nutritional composition. The aim of the present study was to comparatively evaluate the content of the main antioxidant compounds, carotenoids and phenolics, from pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) pulp as related to different pretreatment conditions. Samples of pumpkin pulp were subjected to three pre-extraction methods, as follow: freeze-drying, oven-drying at 60oC and freezing at -70°C. Conventional extraction of carotenoids and polyphenolic-based compounds was performed. Macronutrients composition was also evaluated in the selected pumpkin variety. The results showed high levels of total carotenoids and phenolics in freeze-dried samples. The lowest content of total carotenoids was found in frozen pumpkin samples, while low levels of total phenolics were recovered from oven-dried samples, probably due to the degradation reactions during the pretreatment. Pumpkin extracts may constitute valuable products as such or as ingredients intended for different applications, such as food, pharmaceutical, dietary supplements or cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research is dedicated to the study of the impact of heavy metals (As, Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sr, Zn) found in plant samples on photosynthetic pigments in anthropogenic roadside plant communities. In the process of research, the anthropogenic load intensity for the selected sites (1 < 6 < 5 < 4 < 2 <3) was determined. The analysis of the results showed that the impact of heavy metals on photosynthetic pigment content depends not only on metal toxicity but also on its concentration. A high level was noted for Pb (7.2-10.6), Cr (2.6-4.5), As (0.1-0.9) and Sr (9.4-12.1) mg/kg. The inverse relation between the heavy metal and photosynthetic pigment concentrations was revealed. The research showed that the concentration of chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids changes depending on the growing conditions. Carotenoids are less vulnerable to the negative impact of heavy metals as compared to chlorophylls. A higher concentration of carotenoids is noted in stressing environment. On the one hand, it decreases stress effect; on the other hand, it performs a protective function by preventing destruction of chlorophyll molecules and other organic substances. The obtained data may be used to forecast dynamics of plant populations and communities in the polluted areas and to monitor conditions of natural ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can play a significant role in determining meat quality and also the growth rate of poultry or animal. Phaffia rhodozyma was grown on waste from brewery industry to produce astaxanthin rich feed supplements at a very low cost. Phaffia rhodozyma is yeast specie that has ability to produce carotenoids and approximately 80% of its total carotenoid content is astaxanthin, which is highly valuable carotenoid for food, feed and aquaculture industry. This study was carried out to test yeast extract of spent yeast from brewing industry waste (residual yeast) as potential nitrogen source for growth of Phaffia rhodozyma. Cultivation was carried out in liquid media prepared by yeast extracts and other components (glucose and peptone). Carotenoids from the biomass were released into biomass by suspending cells in DMSO for destruction of cells followed by extraction with petroleum ether. The extracted carotenoids were studied by spectrophotometry to identify and quantify astaxanthin and other carotenoids produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant capacity of Gac oil can be enhanced by the presence of these other active antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C. Since many of these natural antioxidants are consumed together in foods, the potential for scavenging capacity is high in the human diet. The aim of this study was to determine what concentrations and combinations of antioxidants among Gac oil, vitamin E, vitamin C are capable of producing high scavenging capacity. The fact has resulted in detailed studies of antioxidation capacity of carotenoid of and vitamin. In addition, the antioxidant capacity and degradation potential of the combined mixture of carotenoid and vitamin E, vitamin C were discussed in view of their antioxidant properties as beneficial species in preventing various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) cultivar Hikapel, a new cultivar of melon, is one of non-netted orange-fleshed melon. Non-netted orange-fleshed melon is known as source of several phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids. During the ripening stages there are chemical changes of the fruit including antioxidant properties. The aims of this research were to study the changes of antioxidant activity and antioxidant compound during ripening stages of melon cv. Hikapel. Melon with three ripening stages (27 DAA, 29 DAA, and 32 DAA) were harvested and analyzed their antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid, total-phenolic, -flavonoid, and -carotenoid content. The results showed that ascorbic acid and carotenoid content increased during ripening stages, whereas total phenolic and antioxidant activity decreased. The ripening stages affected antioxidant activity of Cucumis melo L. cv. Hikapel. Antioxidant activity positively correlated with ascorbic acid, total-phenolic, and -flavonoid content. On the other hand, total carotenoid negatively correlated with antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We utilise ultrabroadband two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy to map out pathways of energy flow in LHCII across the entire visible region. In addition to the well-established, low-lying chlorophyll Qy bands, our results reveal additional pathways of energy relaxation on the higher-lying excited states involving the S2 energy levels of carotenoids, including ultrafast carotenoid-to-chlorophyll energy transfer on 90-150 fs timescales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are the most widely grown vegetable fruit in the world with an important contribution to a healthy diet. They are consumed in diverse ways: raw or cooked while still maintaining their nutritive value. The taste of a tomato can range from sweet to acidic, and can vary depending on the variety of tomato and maturity stage. Visible and near infrared spectroscopy is rapid, convenient and low cost method for detection of fruit quality. The aim of the study is to evaluate the suitability of non-destructive methods for detecting the maturity of tomatoes. Tomatoes were grown in a commercial greenhouse "Mežvidi" of Ltd "Latgale vegetable logistics" and harvested at five stages of ripeness (green, breaker (physiological maturity), turning, light red / yellow (commercial maturity), red/orange (full ripen) were used in experiments. Three tomato varieties orange 'Bolzano F1', red-fruited 'Encore' and brown-fruited 'Chokomate F1' were analysed. Content of carotenoids (lycopene, carotene), chlorophylls, acidity and soluble solids are analysed biochemically. Taste index and maturity index were calculated using soluble solids content and acidity. Reflectance spectrums (350-2500 nm) were obtained with spectroradiometer RS-3500. The results proved that the best indicator of ripeness is the color of the fruit. It is impossible to objectively determine the taste of the fruit by non-destructive methods. Non-destructive methods are suitable for single-colored fruits ('Bolzano' and 'Enkore'), but for the brown-fruited tomato variety, where the color is determined by both lycopene and chlorophyll, it is more difficult to identify the degree of ripeness. Indices for determining fruit maturity have been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea buckthorn pomace is rich in high-value biologically active compounds, which can provide functional properties for food products and pharmaceuticals. The aim of this study was to provide evidence for the valorisation of sea buckthorn pomace to obtain functional ingredients such as carotenoids, tocopherols and sterols that can find a potential applications while producing value-added products. Optimum conditions for supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO2) were determined based on Response surface methodology (RSM). Central composite design was used to optimize the SFE-CO2 extraction conditions (pressure, temperature, time and modifier ethanol) to extract bioactive compounds. Proximate analysis of dried sea buckthorn pomace was performed by AOAC (moisture - 925.10; minerals - 900.02; crude protein - 960.52; crude fat - 920.39) official procedures. Total content of carotenoids was evaluated by UV - visible spectrophotometry. While content of tocopherols and phytosterols were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography - quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Mayonnaise with sea buckhorn extract (concentrations 0.5%, 0.75%) produced by optimum conditions in order to improve its stability during storage (0; 14; 28 day) at room temperature. After RSM analysis, the optimal SFE extraction conditions for sea buckthorn pomace were: extraction temperature 35 oC, pressure 39 MPa with 5% ethanol as extraction modifier, and 2 h of extraction time. Under these conditions obtained yields were 14.39 g 100 g-1 DW, carotenoids (175.92 mg 100 g-1), a-tocopherol (72.46 mg 100 g-1), and ergosterol (76.37 mg 100 g-1). The developed process in this study is environmentally-friendly, and can be adopted for producing natural bioactive pigments for potential food industry applications. Some of the interesting results of obtained mayonnaise enriched with sea buckthorn pomace CO2 extracts will be presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the chemical composition of five Siberian Saussurea species: S. frolowii, S. controversa, S. latifolia, S. parviflora and S. salicifolia. Four groups of substances were found in dry mass of these plants: phenolic compounds (flavonoids, tannins), carotenoids, pectins and saponins. Quantitative spectrophotometric analysis revealed a high content of flavonoids, catechins, tannins, carotenoids and saponins in some samples. Leaves of S. parviflora and S. latifoliacontain high contents of flavonoids (greater than 3.2 %). The greatest amount of catechins accumulates in the leaves of S. parviflora and S. frolowii. Due to the high content of tannins S. parviflora and S. latifoliaare noteworthy. Leaves of S. parvifloraand S. latifolia accumulate a particularly large number of carotenoids. Leaves of S. parviflora and S. controversaare particularly rich in saponins. Our results confirm the hypothesis about the prospects of the use of these species for the development of herbal medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids represent a very important class of plant pigments being held responsible for the quality parameters of fruit and vegetables. There are more than 700 different carotenoids identified in nature, of which about 40 are included in ordinary human diet and only 14 of them and some of their metabolites are present in blood and tissues. Carotenoids are C40 tetraterpenoid pigments which are present in plants, fungi and bacteria. Depending on the structure, they are classified in: hydrocarbon carotenoids known as carotenes and oxygenated carotenoids known as xanthophyll. The researches carried on these classes of compounds shown that carotenoids provided through the diet induce many beneficial functions in mammals, including humans, attributing their antioxidant activities and their property to generate vitamin A. Due to this properties, carotenoids are considered able to protect against oxidative stress and were investigated in terms of disease prevention and treatment. The color of salmonids is one of their most important quality criteria. The typical pink muscle color is determined by astaxanthin, a carotenoid coming from dietary compounds that fish cannot synthesize. In addition to the pigmentation contribution, carotenoids are important in fish life, contributing for the proper function of some complex biological processes. Most of the time, the color of farmed trout is induced by adding cantaxanthin and astaxanthin which are two synthetic carotenoids, but this process is often too expensive. For this reason it is important to find some new and cheaper alternatives to improve the meat fish color. Carotenoid concentration in rainbow trout depends on fish weigh, can reach 6-7 mg/kg in the flesh at specimens weighing 0.1-0.5 kg, and to 25 mg/kg at larger trout. It was noticed that improving the fish feed with a carotenoid concentration above 50 mg/kg dry matter does not induce a significant increase of meat fish pigmentation. It was not signaled that the carotenoid retention could be affected by feeding rate, water temperature or salinity. Some investigations on rainbow trout reported the positive role of adding carotenoids to diets on increasing their resistance against oxidative corruption stress. This review aims to present the effects of the addition of natural sources rich in carotenoids in the farmed trout feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A carotenoid producing bacterium was previously isolated during routine screening of pigment producing microorganisms and was identified as Kocuria marina. It was cultivated in a growth medium containing glucose, maltose, sodium chloride, bacteriological peptone and yeast extract and incubated at 25°C at 150 rpm. The effect of varying initial glucose concentration (0 gL-1 to 20 gL-1) on bacterial growth and pigment production were studied in a batch mode. Monod model was used to describe the cell growth pattern. The values for μmax and Ks were calculated to be 0.2499 h-1 and 0.4047 gL-1 respectively. The maximum pigment yield of 4.46 μg mL-1 was obtained at an initial glucose concentration of 7.5 gL-1 at 56h of incubation. The reducing sugar utilization was studied for all the experimental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids pigments are of great interest to many areas because of their wide distribution in nature and their benefits for health. Rhodotorula rubra produces carotenoid pigments when growing in submerged cultures containing sugars, nitrogen sources, growth factors and salts. Among the carotenoid pigments, this yeast synthesizes small quantities of torularhodin, the only pigment with antioxidant properties. The influence of carbon and nitrogen sources on composition of carotenoid mixture in culture media is significant. The Rhodotorula rubra strain was grown in shaken, submerged cultures on appropiate medium with different nitrogen sources: NaNO3, Ca(NO3)2, (NH4)2C6H6O7, (NH4)2SO4, NH4Cl. The daily values of absorbance, pH, total soluble solids in culture media were recorded and the carotenoid pigments were extracted in acetone, n-hexane and alkaline methanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plants pigments' concentrations describe important information about plant physiological condition that depends on genetically, growing and developing conditions. The role of inhibitor of oxidative electron transport antimycin A on the functional activity of the photo synthetic apparatus and under heat stress (40°C) was examined in wheat seedlings (Triticum aestivum L.). We determined the concentration of photo synthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids) in etiolated wheat seedlings exposed to heat stress (40°C) and in the presence of classic respiratory inhibitor antimycin A (1 mg/l). Heat stress created by transferring wheat seedlings growing at 26°C to higher temperature (40°C). The results of experiment show that the heat stress leads to a decrease of pigments. When wheat seedlings were transferred to a thermostat with an optimum temperature (26°C) the concentration of pigment recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was to determine the effect of some thermal treatments on chlorophyll and carotenoids content from broccoli and Brussels sprouts, using a specrophotometric method. Vegetables were analyzed fresh and after blanching, boiling, freezing raw and freezing blanching prior. Of the two analyzed vegetables, broccoli has the highest chlorophyll and carotenoids content (fresh broccoli - total chlorophyll: 417.35 mg/g, carotenoids: 82.15 μg/g, fresh Brussels sprouts- total chlorophyll: 256.84 mg/g, carotenoids: 68.23 μg/g). Both for broccoli and Brussels sprouts the highest loss of chlorophyll, as a result of different thermal treatments, have registered with the chlorophyll "b". For samples of broccoli, percentage loss of chlorophyll "b" are higher than similar samples of Brussels sprouts. Regarding chlorophyll "a" and total chlorophylls, the most significant percentage losses were recorded in the thermal treated Brussels sprouts samples. For both vegetables was reported that the largest percentage loss of chlorophyll and carotenoids occur after freezing blanching prior (freezing time: 2 months), followed by boiling and freezing of raw samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Croton petra is an ornamental shrub native to Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, the Western Pacific Ocean islands and India which displays yellow, red, green, and purple on its leaves. These non-green pigments are made of a combination of anthocyanin (red to purple) and carotenoids (yellow to orange). The ecophysiological implications of color variegation in the leaves of Croton petra have not been well studied, but seem to suggest that leaf pigments might act to protect them from high light stress. Photosynthesis was measured at various saturating light in leaves of varying colors using the Li-6800 gas exchange system. Rates of photosynthesis were lower in leaves with higher concentration of anthocyanin pigment (purple and red leaves), and increased proportionally with chlorophyll pigment (light and dark green leaves). Rates of stomatal conductance paralleled those for photosynthesis. Light curves were conducted by varying light levels from 0 to 1500 μmol m-2s-2 on green and non-green patches from the same leaf, or from adjacent leaves of near the same age. To determine how light intensity may affect pigment production, plants were grown under varying light conditions of full sun, and 60% shade. Rates of photosynthesis and pigment levels were determined for plants in each of these light treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the complex impact of CO2, temperature, substrate moisture and UV-B radiation on physiological indices of pea (Pisum sativum L. cv. 'Cud Kelvedonu'). Experiments were performed in growth chamber of controlled environment at the Institute of Horticulture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry. Plants grew under ambient (T- 21/14 °C, CO2 - 350 ppm) and elevated environmental conditions (T- 25/18 °C, CO2 - 700 ppm) at different combinations of UV-B irradiation (0 kJ; 2 kJ; 4 kJ) and substrate moisture (~40%, ~25 %, < 10 %). Analyses were made after 10-days of exposure. Different combinations of investigated factors had a significant influence on changes of plant physiological indices. Under ambient and elevated environmental conditions the moisture deficiency and intensified UV-B radiation significantly increased photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls a, b and carotenoids) accumulation in leaves. The moisture deficiency and the most intensive UV-B radiation reduced fresh and dry biomass, leaf area and plant height. The intensified UV-B radiation significantly increased the content of UV absorbing pigments in Pisum sativum leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influence of alkaline ionized water on soybean ('Dotnuvos rudoji') seed germination, sprout conditions and plant morphophysiological parameters was investigated in ASU Institute of biology and plant biotechnology. Distilled water was chosen as control variant. It was determined that alkaline ionized water did not show any significant impact on seed germination, plant and root size, nevertheless earlier germination and faster development of leaves was observed. Chlorophyll a and b content significantly increased by 0,35 mg l-1 and 5,74 mg l-1 respectively, whereas concentration of carotenoids declined by 2,2 times. The changes in pigment content did not have a significant effect on the effective quantum yield of photochemical energy conversion in II photosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter wheat field experiment were carried out 2010 - 2011 m. in organic field of Aleksandras Stulginskis University Training farm in PLb - g4 Endohypogleyi - Eutric Planosol - Ple - gln - w.Experiment with winter wheat 'Širvinta1' was established on 21st of September, 2010, in 5 hectares plot, according to the scheme: 1. Control - "Bioplant Flora" fertilizer unused; 2. Felting of seed with "Bioplant Flora" fertilizer 1 lt-1; 3. Spraying of winter wheat, which reached 7 cm "Bioplant Flora" fertilizer 0.5 lha-1; 4. Felt of seeds 1 lt-1 and spray winter wheat, which reached 7 cm "Bioplant Flora" fertilizer 0.5 lt-1. Following parameters of winter wheat has been determined applying this scheme: seed germination energy, germination, wintering, the number of plants, plant weight, number of stems in plants, root length and shoot height, chlorophyll a and b, and the ratio of carotenoids in green mass of sprouts. In another experiment, established on 21st of September, 2010 was carried research on the preparation spray rate and frequency. The flowing scheme was applied for investigation of: yield, yield quality, biometric parameters and estimation of the costeffectiveness: 1. Unsprayed "Bioplant Flora". 2. Sprayed with 0,5 lha-1+0,5 lha-1+0,5 lha-1; 3. Sprayed 0,75 lha-1+0,75 lha-1+0,75 lha-1; 4. Sprayed 1,0 lha-1+1,0 lha-1+ 1,0 lha-1, 5. Sprayed 1,25 lha-1+1,25 lha-1+1,25 l ha-1. The investigation has showed that in organic plot of Aleksandras Stulginskis University Training farm "Bioplant Flora" fertilizer significantly increased all winter wheat 'Širvinta 1' characteristics: seed germination from 89.5 to 93.4 percent, germination energy from 88.3 to 91.9 percent, wintering from 89.4 to 93.7 percent. The most prominent difference was noted in Variant 4, where seeds were felted and sprayed 7 cm wheat. Comparing seeds felting and spraying, there seed felting had greatest effect. Fertilizer "Bioplant Flora" significantly increased all winter wheat 'Širvinta 1' indicators: the number of plants 444-528 plants m-2, the plant weight from 1180.56 to 1277.78 gm-2, the number of plant stems 6,92 - 8.18, root length from 7.35 to 9.65 cm, height of sprouts from 18.5 to 20.15 cm, as we can see in Table 1. The best was Variant 4, where seeds were felted and sprayed 7 cm wheat. Comparing seeds felting and spraying, better effect had seed felting. A very important factor choosing a fertilizer is their application economical efficiency. The highest income received in variant 4 and 5, respectively, from 1132 to 1214 Ltha-1. The difference among them is insignificant, so sufficient spray rate is 1.0 lha-1 each time, if appling three times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress has a serious effect on plant growth and development in many regions of the world. Green millet (Setaria viridis) is valuable model plants for investigating the C4 grasses for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. This study was carried out to evaluate influence of substrate water content on photosynthetic pigments and biomass accumulation in green millet. Under mild to moderate drought stress, any decrease of chlorophyll a and carotenoids has been obtained, while severe drought causes significant decreasing in all photosynthetic pigments. Therefore future studies dealing with the strategies to improve the pigments contents under water stress are needed. Drought treatment led to a significant decrease in shoots fresh weight accumulation, while dry weight reduction was obtained under moderate and severe drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids, yellow or red coloured compounds which are tetraterpenes, also known as lipochromes or chromolipids, a fat soluble pigment present widely in micro organisms, plants and animals. Carotenoids are being used in food industry as food coloration, including antioxidant and anticancer. Recently carotenoids are being extracted from microorganisms. Streptomyces sp. is one of the micro-organism that has been proven to produce various carotenoids. Streptomyces, based on the carbon source utilization, produced different carotenoid pigments which result in the changes of colour in the substrate and Ariel mycelia. Carotenoids have been extracted employing solvent extraction procedure. Thin layer chromatography was used to analyze the sample for various compounds present in the extract. Then the extract was subjected to column chromatography and elution was done using different solvent systems to fractionate the crude sample. Further purification, to obtain a single fraction was achieved by using repeated column chromatography and preparative thin layer chromatography. This single compound was characterized with the help of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, FT-IR Spectroscopy and ultraviolet- visible (UV-VIS) spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper deals with the dynamics of photosynthetic pigments in winter wheat during wintering season. Field experiments were performed during 2009–2011 period at the Experimental Station of the Aleksandras Stulginskis University (Akademija, Kaunas distr., Lithuania) in carbonate shallow gleyic leached soil (Idg8-k), Calc(ar)i-Epihypogleyic Luvisols (LVg-nw-cc). The objects of investigation: winter wheat cultivars 'Ada' and 'Tauras DS'. During the sowing time complex fertiliser (N32P80K120) was used, and calcium ammonium nitrate (N60) was used at the stage of spring tillering. In addition, foliar fertilizer urea solution (N30, N40) was given during the booting stage and (N15, N30) was given at the milk ripening stage. The experiment revealed that wheat wintering conditions were more favourable in 2009–2010 than in 2010–2011. The highest amount of photosynthetic pigments was established in autumn-winter period. In December the 'Ada' leaves accumulated (chlorophyll a – 1.766 mg g-1, chlorophyll b – 0.553 mg g-1) and those of 'Tauras DS' – (chlorophyll a – 1.927 mg g-1, chlorophyll b – 0.594 mg g-1). The greatest amount of carotenoids was found also in December. The wheat cultivar 'Ada' tends to accumulate larger amounts of photosynthetic pigments during wintering than the cultivar 'Tauras DS'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are involved in the sensory and nutritional values of dairy products. The milk used for consumption or dairy processing should have a high antioxidative capacity to achieve high-quality products. Feeding is one of the most significant factors influencing cow productivity, and composition and quality of milk. It is expected that milk from cows fed silage has higher concentration of β-carotene and α-tocopherol than milk from cows fed hay. In grazing systems herbage maturity stage affects the amount of carotenoids ingested and may affect carotenoid concentrations in milk. In the present study, the content of total carotenes in different forages was analysed, and the content of β-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin E in milk samples was investigated. It was detected that the average content of total carotenes in feed samples of silage, haylage, hay, grass, clover, rapeseed cake, and carrots was respectively 87.64, 7.57, 1.78, 24.06, 47.13, 2.96, and 138.95 mg kg-1 of dry matter. The results of investigations showed that the content of total carotenes in pasture grass, clover and stem-grass samples decreased from June till August. Correlation between the protein and total carotenes content in pasture grass samples was calculated (r=0.49, p<0.05). The content of β-carotene (131 µg L-1), vitamin A (44 µg L-1), and vitamin E (48 µg L-1) in milk samples was higher when the feed of cows had higher content of total carotenes, e.g. 830 mg per cow per day. The milk samples demonstrated an average content of β-carotene (40 µg L-1), vitamin A (37 µg L-1), and vitamin E (35 µg L-1) when cows were not provided with an optimal content of total carotenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative composition of broiler chicken meat, in comparison with commercial mass production, contains higher levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and carotenoids complex which positively influence human health and prevent risk factors causing different diseases. The research aim was to evaluate the possibility to obtain broiler chicken meat of innovative composition, and to evaluate the expenses of production in bioeconomic aspects by using feed that contains an increased amount of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and additives of carotenoids. Feeding trial was carried with cross ROSS 308 broiler chicken in the age from 1 to 42 days (n=300). It was concluded that the best combination in broiler chicken feed for producing innovative composition meat was 1% flax seed oil, 1% rapeseed oil, and 2% soya bean oil and 0.1% additives of carotenoids complex. Using the mentioned oil and antioxidant composition the obtained broiler chicken meat contained the amount of omega-6 fatty acids of 27.4%, omega-3 fatty acids- 8.3% and carotenoids - 0.86 mg kg-1, it is by 3.9%, 3.2% and 0.24 mg kg-1 and live veidht by 7.87% higher in comparison with commercial mass productions and productivity. In trial the expenses of feed consumption per 1000 broiler chicken breeding were by 1.7% higher than commercial feed, while broiler chicken productivity was 7.9% higher, since the total income from sales of 1000 broiler chicken breeding amounted to LVL 293.47 or it was 15% higher than selling commercial mass production. Innovative composition of broiler chicken meat production do not change environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the research was to investigate dynamics of variations of carotenoids content (lycopene and β-carotene) and physical parameters (colour and texture) in two tomato hybrids 'Admiro' and 'Kassa' and one Lithuanian tomato cultivar 'Rutuliai' during the ripening process. Investigated tomatoes were grown in the greenhouses of Lithuanian Institute of Horticulture. During the ripening process the amount of carotenoids, especially lycopene, in fruits increased. The highest lycopene and β-carotene content was determined in red-ripe fruits of cv. 'Rutuliai', 10.44 and 1.22 mg 100g-1 respectively. Lycopene content was 1.6 times higher in red-ripe fruits of 'Rutuliai' than in fruits of 'Admiro F1 and 2 times higher than in fruits of 'Kassa' F1 at the same ripening stage. The colour of tomato fruits was evaluated by the CIE L*a*b* system. The ratio of colour coordinates a* and b*, which is indicative of the red colour development in tomatoes, increased with maturity. The highest a*/b* value of 0.99 was determined in red-ripe fruits of cv. 'Rutuliai'. Strong positive correlation (r=0.86) was found between a*/b* and lycopene content in the present study. The firmness of fruits was influenced by the degree of tomato ripeness. Turning stage tomatoes of Dutch selection 'Admiro' F1 and 'Kassa' F1 were the firmest, while fruit firmness of turning stage tomatoes 'Rutuliai' was less than that of Dutch selection tomato hybrids at the same ripening stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]