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The iminosugar 1-deoxynojirimicyn (DNJ) contained in mulberry leaves has displayed systemic beneficial effects against disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. Nevertheless, its effect is impaired by the short half-life. Alginate-based carriers were developed to encapsulate a DNJ-rich mulberry extract: Ca-alginate beads, obtained by external gelation, and spray-dried alginate microparticles (SDMs). Mean size and distribution, morphology, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, experimental yield, and release characteristics were determined for the two formulations. Ca-alginate beads and SDMs exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of about 54% and 98%, respectively, and a DNJ loading in the range of 0.43–0.63 μg/mg. The in vitro release study demonstrated the carriers' capability in controlling the DNJ release in acid and basic conditions (<50% in 5 h), due to electrostatic interactions, which were demonstrated by 1H-NMR relaxometry studies. Thus, alginate-based particles proved to be promising strategies for producing food supplements containing mulberry leaf extracts for the management of hyperglycemic state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we aimed to address the low utilization of straw and poor fermentation quality of paper mulberry silage (under natural fermentation conditions). Straw was combined with paper mulberry for ensiling, and the fermentation characteristics, bacterial community, and metabolite composition of the mixed straw and paper mulberry silage were investigated. Four treatment groups were established: corn-straw treatment 2 (3:7 ratio of corn straw to paper mulberry), corn-straw treatment 3 (5:5 ratio of corn straw to paper mulberry), wheat-straw treatment 2 (3:7 ratio of wheat straw to paper mulberry), wheatstraw treatment 3 (5:5 ratio of wheat straw to paper mulberry), and a control group (ensiling of paper mulberry alone). Results: The control group demonstrated the highest pH and ammonia (AN) and acetic acid (AA) content compared with all the treatment groups. Cornstraw treatment 2 had the highest lactic acid content (54.70 g/kg dry weight) compared with the control and other treatment groups. The relative abundance of Enterobacter (7.085%) was the lowest in the control than in the other treatment groups (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Enterococcus was higher in both the control and wheat-straw treatment 2 (22.03% and 21.29%, respectively) than in other treatment groups. The relative abundance of Lactococcus was highest in wheat-straw treatment 3 (15.83%) compared with the control and other treatment groups. Corn-straw treatments 2 and 3 demonstrated the same metabolite composition but were clearly different from the wheat-straw treatment 2, wheat-straw treatment 3, and the control. Diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS) belongs to the Fusarium metabolite type A trichothecenes, which were not detected in corn or wheat silage. DAS was downregulated in the wheatstraw treatment 3 and both corn-straw treatments compared with the control, which indicates that the addition of straw decreased mycotoxin production. Lactococcus was significantly and positively correlated with gluconic acid content (R2 = 0.5166). Conclusion: Our results suggest that straw treatment can improve the nutritional value of paper mulberry silage by decreasing mycotoxin production, pH value, and AN content and increasing lactic acid production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial wilt is a significant soil-borne disease that poses a threat to mulberry production yield and quality of agricultural production worldwide. However, the disease resistance mechanisms dependent on root exudates are not well understood. In this present study, we investigated the antibacterial mechanisms of the main active substances (erucamide, oleamide, and camphor bromide) present in mulberry root exudates (MRE) against Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum (Rp), the causal agent of bacterial wilt. Our findings revealed that these three active substances inhibited the growth activity of Rp by affecting the cell morphology and extracellular polysaccharide content, as well as triggering a burst of reactive oxygen species. The active substances induced oxidative stress, leading to a decrease in Rp growth. Additionally, the expression levels of key genes in the hrp gene cluster (hrpB, hrpX, and hrpF) and other virulence-related genes (such as ripAW, ripAE, Rs5-4819, Rs5-4374, ace, egl3, and pehB) were significantly reduced upon treatment with the active substances. Further pathogenicity experiments demonstrated that root exudates (at a concentration of 1.5 mg·mL−1) delayed or slowed down the occurrence of bacterial wilt in mulberry. These findings provide valuable insight into the antimicrobial mechanisms of MRE against Rp and lay a theoretical foundation for the development and application of biocontrol agents to control mulberry bacterial wilt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to conduct chemical analyses of bioactive compounds found in the bark and leaves of Humiria balsamifera (Aubl.) A. St. Hil. and Hymenaea courbaril L. Chemical screening was performed to detect the presence of secondary metabolites. Quantification of the concentrations of phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and antioxidants was performed by ultraviolet spectrophotometry through recommended methodologies. Extracts of the leaves of Humiria balsamifera (Aubl.) A. St. Hil. were found to have high concentrations of flobabénic tannins. Tannins, flavonoids, flavonols, flavonones, flavanonols, xanthones, steroids, and saponins were also found in bark extracts of the same species. The plant species Humiria balsamifera (Aubl.) A. St. Hil. and Hymenaea courbaril L. showed potential for antioxidant activity and for use in the pharmacological and food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of mulberry saccharification feed on the growth performance and meat quality of dual-purpose small feet Twist chickens. A total of 250 healthy small feet Twist chickens aged 50 days were randomly divided into five groups with five replicates in each group and ten chickens in each replicate. Group (control group), Group II, Group III, Group IV, and Group V were fed a mulberry saccharified feed containing 0, 15%, 25%, 30%, and 35% mulberry twig and leaf powder, respectively. The pre-test period was 5 days, and the experimental period was 40 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the average daily gain of small feet Twist chickens in Group I increased ( P<0.05), and the ratio of feed to weight decreased ( P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the shear force and cooking loss of chicken in all experimental groups were reduced ( P<0.05), with a slight reduction in drip loss. The total amount of essential amino acid and total amino acid of the chicken in Group II and Group II were higher than those in other groups ( P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the concentrations of umami amino acids in the chicken of all experimental groups increased ( P<0.05), while the fat concentration decreased ( P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the slaughter rate of Group II increased ( P<0.05), and the chest muscle percentage and leg muscle percentage in all experimental groups increased ( P<0.05). The study indicates that adding mulberry branches and leaves powder to the diet can increase the total amino acid, breast muscle percentage, and leg muscle percentage of small feet Twist chickens, and improve the quality of meat. The appropriate proportion of mulberry twig and leaf powder is 25%-30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Paper mulberry (PM) is an unconventional protein feed material, and silage is its main processing method. The present study aimed to investigate the health benefits and meat quality of supplementing Yangzhou geese with paper mulberry silage. Results indicated that paper mulberry silage supplementation had a promotional effect on the growth of Yangzhou geese, the sensory quality of the breast muscles improved, and the nutritional quality enhanced. Untargeted metabolomics analysis demonstrated that PM treatment enhanced guanidinoacetic acid levels in breast muscles and facilitated the metabolism of amino acids and the role of substances in lipid antioxidant pathways. Consequently, paper mulberry could be considered to be a novel protein feed option capable for geese. There have been few investigations into the health benefits and meat quality of supplementing Yangzhou geese with paper mulberry silage. One hundred and twenty 28-day-old Yangzhou geese were selected for the experiment and randomly divided into two groups: a control group (CON) and a paper mulberry silage group (PM), with six replicates in each group. The experiment lasted for a total of 6 weeks. The experiment found that compared with CON, PM had a promoting effect on the average daily weight gain of Yangzhou geese (p = 0.056). Sensory and nutritional analysis of breast muscles revealed a decrease in a* value (p < 0.05) and an increase in protein content (p < 0.05) following PM treatment. Through untargeted metabolomics analysis of breast muscle samples, it was found that 11 different metabolites, including guanidinoacetic acid and other substances, had a positive effect on amino acid metabolism and lipid antioxidant pathways of PM treatment. Overall, the strategy of feeding Yangzhou geese with paper mulberry silage is feasible, which can improve the sensory quality and nutritional value of goose meat. The experiment provides basic data for the application form of goose breeding, so exploring the impact of substances within paper mulberry on goose meat should be focused on in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet plays a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiota and overall health of animals. Traditionally, silkworms are fed fresh mulberry leaves, and artificial diets do not support good health. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between the dietary transition from artificial diets to mulberry leaves and the effects on the gut microbiota and physiological changes in silkworms as a model organism. With the transition from artificial diets to mulberry leaves, the diversity of the silkworm gut microbiota increased, and the proportion of Enterococcus and Weissella, the dominant gut bacterial species in silkworms reared on artificial diets, decreased, whereas the abundance of Achromobacter and Rhodococcus increased. Dietary transition at different times, including the third or fifth instar larval stages, resulted in significant differences in the growth and development, immune resistance, and silk production capacity of silkworms. These changes might have been associated with the rapid adaptation of the intestinal microbiota of silkworms to dietary transition. This study preliminarily established a dietary transition–gut microbial model in silkworms based on the conversion from artificial diets to mulberry leaves, thus providing an important reference for future studies on the mechanisms through which habitual dietary changes affect host physiology through the gut microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper mulberry pollen, declared a pest in several countries including Pakistan, can trigger severe allergies and cause asthma attacks. We aimed to develop an algorithm that could accurately predict high pollen days to underpin an alert system that would allow patients to take timely precautionary measures. We developed and validated two prediction models that take historical pollen and weather data as their input to predict the start date and peak date of the pollen season in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. The first model is based on linear regression and the second one is based on phenological modelling. We tested our models on an original and comprehensive dataset from Islamabad. The mean absolute errors (MAEs) for the start day are 2.3 and 3.7 days for the linear and phenological models, respectively, while for the peak day, the MAEs are 3.3 and 4.0 days, respectively. These encouraging results could be used in a website or app to notify patients and healthcare providers to start preparing for the paper mulberry pollen season. Timely action could reduce the burden of symptoms, mitigate the risk of acute attacks and potentially prevent deaths due to acute pollen-induced allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Wickerhamomyces anomalus D1‐4, a non‐Saccharomyces yeast known for its aroma production, offers a novel approach to improving the aroma and quality of mulberry wine. We employed various inoculation methods for fermenting mulberry wine and assessed its physicochemical, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activities, colour and aroma components. The results revealed that the addition of Wickerhamomyces anomalus D1‐4 to the fermentation led to a significant increase in the levels of alcohols, terpenes, nitrogen oxides and methyl in mulberry wine, especially, produced the characteristic isobutyl acetate and isopentyl hexanoate, and greatly increased the relative content of isopentyl acetate, isopentyl alcohol and phenylethyl alcohol. The sequential inoculation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for 24 h followed by Wickerhamomyces anomalus D1‐4 fermented for 9 days was the best fermentation method for mulberry wine. Regarding colour, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities, the fermentation was superior to other fermentations, and it was also able to maximise the aroma of mulberry wine and give it a strong floral and fruity aroma, especially higher ethyl hexanoate and ethyl octanoate. These findings demonstrate the unique fermentation characteristics of non‐Saccharomyces yeasts in enhancing the flavour and quality of mulberry wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry serves as a crucial element of the global sericulture industry. Functional gene analysis considering resistant traits improvement of mulberry is greatly hindered by its long life cycle and recalcitrance to genetic transformation. A versatile protoplast manipulation system enables rapid and effective transformation for gene functional studies, especially on physiological perceptions and responses to hormones, metabolites, and environmental stimuli is urgently demanded. In this study, we optimized the protocol for isolating mesophyll-derived protoplast from sterile cultures of Morus alba cv. GY62. With sufficient viable protoplasts, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-mediated transient gene expression was developed and a transformation efficiency of nearly 50% was achieved through optimizing the incubation strategy. The transient gene expression system was validated by subcellular localization assays of the mulberry nuclear marker gene MaHTR6 and chloroplast marker gene MaTRX. Furthermore, the system was used for functional characterization of putative mulberry cytokinin response factors (MaCRFs) in response to phytohormone and environmental stimuli. Combined the established system with RT-qPCR to test the MaCRFs transcriptional regulation, we found that among the three MaCRFs, conserved with Arabidopsis CRF2, MaCRF1 turned out to function primarily as a response factor to cytokinin and auxin. While MaCRF2 and MaCRF3 respond not only to phytohormones but also to environmental stresses. In summary, we have established an efficient mesophyll-derived protoplast manipulation system in mulberry, thereby facilitating transient functional screening of CRF genes in response to multiple external stimuli.Key message: An efficient protoplast manipulation system has been established using sterile in vitro cultures and used for the characterization of three putative cytokinin response factors in mulberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This document provides an overview of the field of epigenetics and its applications in horticulture. It explains that epigenetics refers to heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence. The document discusses various studies on epigenetic mechanisms in horticultural plants, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. It also explores breeding applications in horticulture, emphasizing the importance of understanding plant adaptation, genetic regulation, and stress responses for crop improvement. The research presented in this document offers valuable insights into plant epigenetics and its potential for enhancing crop resilience, yield, and quality. Additionally, the document summarizes a collection of research articles on plant epigenetics and horticultural science, covering topics such as the effects of cultivation methods on mulberry fruits, gene regulatory networks in walnuts, and gene expression in nitrogen metabolism pathways in potatoes. The research highlights the connection between genetic understanding and practical breeding applications, offering innovative approaches for developing superior horticultural varieties. The document concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrating epigenetic understanding and breeding techniques to revolutionize horticultural practices and crop improvement strategies. [Extracted from the article]

Jicama and mulberry leaves are well-known to exhibit various health benefits due to their high phytochemicals content. In this study, hypoglycemic potential of jicama (JE) and mulberry leaf (MLE) extracts was investigated. Compound profile of both JE and MLE were determined using UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. Then, the effect of simulated in-vitro digestion on total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total reducing sugar content (TRS) and α-amylase inhibition activity (AIA) of JE and MLE were determined. Next, JE and MLE were mixed with cooked white and brown rice, respectively at a ratio of 1:5 (extract: rice). Lastly, the mixture was subjected to simulated in-vitro digestion. TPC, TFC and TRS released from the rice after digestion were measured. Results of the study suggested that TPC, TFC and AIA of MLE were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than JE. AIA of both extracts was reduced significantly after intestinal digestion. Results of Pearson correlation analysis suggested that AIA of JE was correlated to its TPC (r = 0.875, p < 0.01), whereas AIA of MLE was correlated to both TPC (r = 0.693, p < 0.01) and TFC (r = 0.885, p < 0.05). However, TRS of JE was increased by 2.6 folds after intestinal digestion. TRS of JE after intestinal digestion was 11 folds higher than MLE. Compared to JE, MLE was more efficient in reducing TRS released upon rice digestion. Besides, TRS released after brown rice digestion was significantly lower than white rice (p < 0.05). Although JE did not effectively reduce TRS released upon rice digestion, combination of JE with white rice significantly increased TPC and TFC after digestion. This study suggests that combined MLE in a brown rice diet potentially prevents postprandial blood glucose spike. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stress, including flooding, seriously affects the normal growth and development of plants. Mulberry (Morus alba), a species known for its flood resistance, is cultivated worldwide for economic purposes. The transcriptomic analysis has identified numerous differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in submergence tolerance in mulberry plants. However, a comprehensive analyses of metabolite types and changes under flooding stress in mulberry remain unreported. A non-targeted metabolomic analysis utilizing liquid chromatographytandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was conducted to further investigate the effects of flooding stress on mulberry. A total of 1,169 metabolites were identified, with 331 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) exhibiting up-regulation in response to flooding stress and 314 displaying down-regulation. Pathway enrichment analysis identified significant modifications in many metabolic pathways due to flooding stress, including amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism and flavonoid biosynthesis. DAMs and DEGs are significantly enriched in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways for amino acid, phenylpropanoid and flavonoid synthesis. Furthermore, metabolites such as methyl jasmonate, sucrose, and D-mannose 6-phosphate accumulated in mulberry leaves post-flooding stress. Therefore, genes and metabolites associated with these KEGG pathways are likely to exert a significant influence on mulberry flood tolerance. This study makes a substantial contribution to the comprehension of the underlying mechanisms implicated in the adaptation of mulberry plants to submergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, changes in volatile compounds co-fermented by different Pichia kluyveri with Saccharomyces cerevisiae were analyzed using GC-IMS and compared with S. cerevisiae fermentation, to investigate the production of aroma in mulberry wine during the fermentation process. A total of 61 compounds were accurately identified, including 21 esters, 10 alcohols, 8 aldehydes, 6 ketones, and 19 other volatiles. Compared with the single strain fermentation (S. cerevisiae), the content of 2-methylpropyl acetate, allyl Isothiocyanate, ethyl crotonate, isobutyl propanoate, and butyl 2-methylbutanoate, co-fermentation groups (S. cerevisiae with different P. kluyveri) showed a significant decrease. Alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and organic acid were lower in both the F(S-P1) and F(S-P2) groups than in the F(S) group throughout fermentation. The 2-methylpentanoic acid only was contained in the F(S) group. The co-fermentation with different P. kluyveri could also be well distinguished. The content of Benzaldehyde and 4-methylphenol in the F(S-P1) group was significantly lower than that in the F(S-P2) group. The PCA results revealed effective differentiation of mulberry wine fermented by different fermentation strains from GC-IMS. The result showed that P. kluyveri could establish a new flavor system for mulberry wine, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of fruit wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the common mulberry tree species, Morus notabilis C. K. Schneid plays a significant role in various industries such as silkworm rearing, papermaking, and medicine due to its valuable mulberry leaves, fruits, and wood. This study utilizes the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model to predict the potential distribution of M. notabilis in China under future environmental changes. By integrating the relative percentage contribution score of environmental factors with jackknife test analysis, important variables influencing the distribution of M. notabilis were identified along with their optimal values. The results indicate that Annual Precipitation (bio12), Precipitation of Driest Month (bio14), Min Temperature of Coldest Month (bio6), Temperature Annual Range (bio5–bio6) (bio7), Precipitation of Warmest Quarter (bio18), and Precipitation of Coldest Quarter (bio19) are the primary environmental variables affecting its potential distribution. Currently, M. notabilis exhibits high suitability over an area spanning 11,568 km2, while medium suitability covers 34,244 km2. Both current and future suitable areas for M. notabilis are predominantly concentrated in Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou provinces, as well as Chongqing city in southwest China. Under the SSP5-8.5 scenario representing high greenhouse gas concentrations by 2050s and 2090s, there is an increase in high suitability area by 2952 km2 and 3440 km2, with growth rates reaching 25.52% and 29.74%, respectively. Notably, these two scenarios exhibit substantial expansion in suitable habitats for this species compared to others analyzed within this study period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Earlier studies reported that post‐harvest ultraviolet (UV) irradiation could increase the health‐promoting compounds in fruit but the effects of UV irradiation on the reduction of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) content in mulberries remain less known. Black mulberry fruit were exposed to two UV illumination dosages (3.5 and 7 kJ m−2) and were stored for 4, 8, and 12 days. RESULTS: Mulberries treated in this way displayed higher antioxidant enzyme activity and phenolic compound content in comparison with a control condition. The transcription factors (TFs) MdoMYB121, MdoMYB155, MdbZIP2, and MdbZIP48 were strongly expressed in two UV illumination dosages (about 45–95% higher than the control). The fluorine (Flu) and naphthalene (Nap) content in treated fruit decreased by 21–85% in comparison with the control condition. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that UV irradiation can be considered as a promising technique to remove some PAHs in black mulberries, to increase their health‐promoting potential, and indirectly to improve their aesthetic quality due to the resulting desirable color parameters. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leaf coloration in plants, attributed to anthocyanin compounds, plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, and also for pharmaceutical and horticultural uses. However, the molecular mechanisms governing leaf coloration and the physiological significance of anthocyanins in leaves remain poorly understood. Results: In this study, we investigated leaf color variation in two closely related mulberry genotypes, one with purplish-red young leaves (EP) and another with normal leaf color (EW). We integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches to gain insights into the metabolic and genetic basis of purplish-red leaf development in mulberry. Our results revealed that flavonoid biosynthesis, particularly the accumulation of delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, is a key determinant of leaf color. Additionally, the up-regulation of CHS genes and transcription factors, including MYB family members, likely contributes to the increased flavonoid content in purplish-red leaves. Conclusion: These findings enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the purplish coloration observed in mulberry leaves and also offer supporting evidence for the hypothesis that anthocyanins serve a protective function in plant tissues until the processes of light absorption and carbon fixation reach maturity, thereby ensuring a balanced equilibrium between energy capture and utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin is a common plant flavonoid which is involved in herbivore–plant interactions. Mulberry silkworms (domestic silkworm, Bombyx mori, and wild silkworm, Bombyx mandarina) take up quercetin from mulberry leaves and accumulate the metabolites in the cocoon, thereby improving its protective properties. Here we identified a glycoside hydrolase, named glycoside hydrolase family 1 group G 5 (GH1G5), which is expressed in the midgut and is involved in quercetin metabolism in the domestic silkworm. Our results suggest that this enzyme mediates quercetin uptake by deglycosylating the three primary quercetin glycosides present in mulberry leaf: rutin, quercetin-3-O-malonylglucoside, and quercetin-3-O-glucoside. Despite being located in an unstable genomic region that has undergone frequent structural changes in the evolution of Lepidoptera, GH1G5 has retained its hydrolytic activity, suggesting quercetin uptake has adaptive significance for mulberry silkworms. GH1G5 is also important in breeding: defective mutations which result in discoloration of the cocoon and increased silk yield are homozygously conserved in 27 of the 32 Japanese white-cocoon domestic silkworm strains and 12 of the 30 Chinese ones we investigated. Author summary: Quercetin is one of the most abundant flavonoids present in plants. This flavonoid is involved in herbivorous insect–plant interactions. Insects utilize it for host–plant recognition, coloration, and protection from ultraviolet and oxidative stress. However, the molecular mechanism of quercetin metabolism in insects remains unclear. Mulberry silkworms (domestic silkworm, Bombyx mori, and wild silkworm, Bombyx mandarina) take up quercetin from mulberry leaves and sequester it into their cocoon to improve its protective properties. In this study, we identified an endogenous glycoside hydrolase in the domestic silkworm, named glycoside hydrolase family 1 group G 5 (GH1G5). This enzyme mediates quercetin uptake into the midgut cells by deglycosylating mulberry leaf-derived quercetin glycosides. This is the first discovery of a rutin glycoside hydrolase in an animal. Furthermore, we found that defective mutations of GH1G5 have been broadly disseminated within the domestic silkworm population due to the improved cocoon color (i.e., discoloration to white) and increased silk yield. This study illuminates the unique mechanism of quercetin uptake in the domestic silkworm and uncovers an important event in the history of silkworm breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study, the Fe–Mn oxide/mulberry stem biochar composite adsorbent (FM-MBC) was prepared and fully characterized by SEM-EDS, XRD, BET, and XPS. The solution pH (3.0, 4.5, and 6.0), initial concentration of phosphorus (10, 20, and 30 mg L−1), adsorbent bed height (2, 3, and 4 cm), and solution flow rate (1, 2, and 3 mL min−1) were investigated to analyze the breakthrough curves. The results showed that the breakthrough time was shortened as the initial phosphorus concentration, the flow rate increased and the bed height decreased. Higher initial phosphorus concentrations, flow rates, and lower bed heights, led to a faster breakthrough of phosphate ions in the FM-MBC adsorbent. Additionally, it was observed that increasing the pH value was not conducive to the adsorption of phosphorus by the FM-MBC adsorbent. Dynamic adsorption data were fitted to four models (Yoon-Nelson, Thomas, Adams-Bohart, and Bed Depth Service Time), and the R2 values of the Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models exhibited minimal variation, suggesting that the dynamic adsorption process of FM-MBC was rather intricate. The saturated fixed-bed column (including FM-MBC) was regenerated with NaOH or HCl, and it was found that a 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH solution had the best regeneration effect. XRD analysis showed that the reaction product between the FM-MBC composite and phosphate anions was Fe3(PO4)2·H2O. Moreover, the experimental results that FM-MBC can successfully be used to remove phosphorus from actual wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic product accumulation exhibited variations among mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves (MLs) at distinct growth stages, and this assessment was conducted using a combination of analytical techniques including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Multivariate analysis was applied to the data, and the findings were correlated with antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects in vitro. Statistical analyses divided the 27 batches of MLs at different growth stages into three distinct groups. In vitro assays for antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibition revealed that IC50 values were highest at the Y23 stage, which corresponds to the 'Frost Descends' solar term. In summary, the results of this study indicate that MLs at different growth stages throughout the year can be categorized into three primary growth stages using traditional Chinese solar terms as reference points, based on the observed variations in metabolite content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous two-phase extraction (ATPE) has been extensively utilized for the extraction and separation of tiny-molecule substances as a new system (system with short-chain ethanol and inorganic salts). In this study, an innovative method of extracting anthocyanins from mulberry was developed, employing microwave-assisted extraction with ethanol/ammonium sulfate as a biphasic extractant. Response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to optimize anthocyanin extraction conditions: 39% ethanol (w/w), 13% ammonium sulfate (w/w), and liquid-to-solid ratio of 45:1, microwave duration 3 min, microwave temperature 32 °C, and microwave power 480 Watt (W). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis demonstrated no significant differences in the structure of mulberry anthocyanins before and after MAATPE treatment, furthermore. The extraction behavior of MAATPE was due to hydrogen bonding, according to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Scanning electron microscopy analysis found that MAATPE damaged the cell structure via a microwave enhancement effect, which was more favorable to anthocyanin dissolution than standard extraction methods. The DPPH free radical scavenging rate of mulberry extracts at 0.5 mg/mL was higher than that of vitamin C (96.4 ± 0.76%), and the ABTS free radical scavenging rate (82.52 ± 2.13%) was close to that of vitamin C, indicating that MAATPE-derived mulberry extracts have good antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bidirectional fermentation is a technology that utilizes fungi to ferment medicinal edible substrates, with synergistic and complementary advantages. In this work, a fermentation strategy was established to produce a high yield of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and Monascus pigments (MPs) using Monascus and mulberry leaves (MLs). Firstly, the basic fermentation parameters were determined using single-factor experiments, followed by Plackett-Burman (PB) experimental design to identify MLs, glucose, peptone, and temperature as significant influencing factors. The fermentation parameters were optimized using an artificial neural network (ANN). Finally, the effects of bidirectional fermentation of MLs and Monascus were investigated by bioactivity analysis, microstructure observation, and RT-qPCR. The outcomes showed that the bidirectional fermentation significantly increased the bioactive content and promoted the secondary metabolism of Monascus. The established fermentation conditions were 44.2 g/L of MLs, 57 g/L of glucose, 15 g/L of peptone, 1 g/L of MgSO4, 2 g/L of KH2PO4, 8% (v/v) of inoculum, 180 rpm, initial pH 6, 32 °C and 8 days. The content of GABA reached 13.95 g/L and the color value of MPs reached 408.07 U/mL. This study demonstrated the feasibility of bidirectional fermentation of MLs and Monascus, providing a new idea for the application of MLs and Monascus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate the performance of eight elite fruit yielding mulberry genotypes for propagation and growth parameters. The results revealed that, genotype MI-0014 was found to be vigorous as it took less number of days (5.18) for sprouting, higher sprouting percentage (82.22), more leaves per sapling (9.07) at ninety days after planting and a higher survival percentage of 79.02. The genotype ME-0006 recorded longest shoot length (28.74 cm) and root length (13.61 cm) at ninety days after planting. Growth parameters indicated that, at sixty days after pruning, genotype ME-0006 recorded higher shoot length (130.49 cm) and single-leaf area (216.85 cm2). Whereas, the genotype MI-0014 recorded shorter internodal distance (4.58 cm) and more leaves per plant (181.33). While more branches per plant (13.23) were recorded in ME-0220 genotype. Based on the performance, two elite fruit yielding genotypes viz., MI-0014 (M-5) and ME-0006 (M. multicaulis) showed superiority in both propagation and growth parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The routine of low-cost adsorbents derived from plant or agricultural by-products as a substitute for expensive traditional removal methods of heavy metal from discarded streams has been investigated. The effectiveness of powder's mulberry leaves in extracting Pb2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Co2+ from an aqueous solution by batch adsorption at lab ambient temperature (25 ± 0.4°C) was investigated in this report. The impact of pH, contact time, biosorbent dosage, and preliminary concentration of metal ions on the exclusion percentage were investigated in experiments. The findings demonstrated that the elimination of metal ions by mulberry leaves powder was influenced by all adsorption parameters. At pH = 6 and 7, the maximum removal of Ni2+, Pb2+, Cu2+, and Co2+ occurred. The obtained data were subjected to two different isotherm models Langmuir and Freundlich. The models of Pb2+, Ni2+, and Co2+ results all complement the Langmuir isotherm well (R2 = 0.99). However, the Freundlich isotherm was found to match Cu2+ adsorption with (R2 = 0.98). For Pb2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, and Co2+, the maximum monolayer adsorption potential was found to be 0.50, 2.88,1.14, and 1.15 mg/g, respectively. A sample of real industrial wastewater was collected and treated with mulberry leaf powder. The findings illustrate that mulberry leaves powder has a 69, 85, and 100% performance in removing Pb2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, ions, respectively. The findings of different treatments; synthetic and real wastewater, suggest that mulberry leaves powder may be applied as a low-cost alternative to more expensive heavy metal adsorbents. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model was applied to fit the model and describe the adsorption mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry silkworm is more sensitive to any infection during the rearing season. Maintaining a healthy larva was the main target of this research to lower the probability of infection with microbes besides increasing silk production. There was evidence-based efficacy suggesting that Echinacea purpurea can help to improve immune system barriers by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as Peroxidase and Phenol oxidase, which boosts silk production. The present investigation was carried out to study the impact of Echinacea purpurea on some biological and biochemical parameters. Silkworm larvae reared on mulberry leaves enriched with different concentrations of Echinacea purpurea (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) at the beginning of the 4th instar till the spinning stage. The obtained results indicated that the feeding larvae on 2% concentration of Echinacea purpurea extract increases, all the economic and biological characteristics also, most of the biochemical parameters (total protein, peroxidase activity, and phenoloxidase). while larvae fed at 1% concentration recorded high ascorbic acid values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silkworm industry plays a crucial role in providing employment opportunities, particularly in regions like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu. This industry heavily relies on mulberry plants (Morus alba L.) as the primary food source for silkworms (Bombyx mori). The quality of mulberry leaves directly influences cocoon quality and colour, making Moriculture pivotal in sericulture. Mulberry plants face various challenges, including diseases and pest infestations, affecting leaf growth and silk quality. This study, conducted at Holy Cross College, Tamil Nadu, aims to identify and analyze arthropods damaging mulberry leaves. Arthropods from two classes, Insecta and Arachnida, were identified and classified into orders, families, and genera. Hemiptera emerged as the most diverse order among Insects. Notably, sap-sucking insects like mealy bugs, hoppers, and jassids were observed, consistent with previous research. The Shannon Weinner index, Species richness and Species evenness were found to be more in the mulberry garden as per this study. The study's findings emphasized the need for integrated pest management strategies to enhance mulberry leaf production for the sericulture industry's sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry exhibits unique characteristics and functionalities across various components, including the roots, branches, leaves, and fruits. However, despite numerous studies on mulberry, research on this plant at the seedling stage is insufficient. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the suitability for seedling cultivation and antioxidant effects of four Korean mulberry cultivars, namely, Daesim, Suhong, Simgang, and Cheongsu. In terms of seed weight, germination rate, and growth rate, Daesim was the most suitable cultivar for seedling production. Polyphenol and flavonoid content analysis showed that all cultivars, except for Cheongsu, showed the highest phenolic content at the 2-week seedling stage. Similarly, antioxidant assays using 2,2'-azino-di-3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals revealed that the antioxidant effect of all cultivars, except for Cheongsu, increased with cultivation at 2- 4- and 6-week. However, mulberry seedlings had a slower reaction rate against DPPH radical removal than mulberry leaves. In addition, ABTS radical scavenging activity showed a different correlation with polyphenol content. This phenomenon may be due to the different polyphenol compositions between mulberry leaves and seedlings. The results of this study suggest that mulberry seedlings exhibit different bioactivities from mulberry leaves, and component analysis is required in further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic resources of mulberry trees are commonly preserved as trophosomes, which are vulnerable to environmental factors, such as natural disasters, diseases, and pests. This study establishes a basic protocol for ultra-low temperature cryopreservation of mulberry trees using a two-step freezing process. The procedure was established using the ‘‘Daeshim’’ variety and then tested on genetic resources from 24 other mulberry varieties. Samples were first dried to a moisture content of 33–43% in a low-temperature forced-air chamber at −5 °C, then slowly frozen from −5 °C to −20 °C, and preserved in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). To determine the regeneration rate, isolated dormant buds were inoculated into MS basal medium, and grown shoots were grafted onto 1-year-old rootstock via chip budding and then cultured. After freezing in liquid nitrogen, the ‘‘Daeshim’’ variety exhibited a survival and regeneration rate of more than 70% and 50%, respectively. Applying the two-step freezing process to genetic resources from 24 mulberry species yielded average survival and regeneration rates of 85.3% and 75.5%, respectively. Morus alba showed survival and regeneration rates of 100%, confirming the efficacy of the two-step freezing method. These results indicate the high feasibility of ultra-low-temperature cryopreservation through two-step freezing of dormant buds from mulberry genetic resources. Additional research is required into the variations in regeneration rates with freezing period in liquid nitrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, Hyphantira cunea Drury, the fall webworms (FWW), is one of the most severe insect pest for various landscaping trees and mulberry trees. In this study, we investigated whether FWW might be managed by Sodium saccharin (SAC) which is a food additive and not toxic to humans and environment. We found that FWW larvae treated with various concentrations of SAC showed dose-dependent delayed development and low survival rates. The lethalconcentration 50% of FWW larvae to SAC was 0.03 M. We also confirmed that SAC can be used to control FWW larvae attacking mulberry trees in the field. Compared to not-treated or tap-water-spraying control groups, SAC-spraying groups showed significantly higher mortality rates of FWW larvae (56.2%). Thus, SAC can be used for control FWW larvae in mulberry trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry leaves are emerging as a new potential source for edible films and coatings in the food industry. Due to their bioactive components, mulberry leaves can offer various health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Edible coatings and films based on mulberry leaves have the potential to enhance the quality and shelf life of food products while preserving their physical and sensory attributes. In this context, natural edible films and coatings can minimize food spoilage, enabling the production of fresh, healthy, and high-quality products in the food industry. Therefore, this study summarizes the nutritional composition, phytochemical, biological, and pharmacological properties of mulberry leaves, their general applications, and their use as edible coatings and films in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Root knot disease caused by the nematode Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chit wood is a serious problem in mulberry and causes severe damage to growth and development of plants. Root knot nematode alter or depletes nutritional values of mulberry leaves and adversely affects to the silkworm health in turn decreases cocoon quality and quantity. The anatomical changes in the roots due to nematode infestation affects the cocoon crop negatively, because mulberry leaves main food source for silkworm Bombyx mori L. ultimately leads to economic loss in silk industry. Methods: Hence the present study has been taken up to understand the histopathological changes that occur in the roots of mulberry V1 variety plants infested with nematode Meloidogyne incognita studied under the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) with an interval of 15 and 60 days after nematode inoculation. Result: After fifteen days the root samples have shown thick starchy grains were accumulated in the parenchymatous cells and intracellular movement of juveniles. Sixty days after the infested root samples had shown a number of large sized galls or knots. Ultra-structural observation of the root gall cross sections under scanning electron microscope revealed that serious anatomical changes occur in the infested mulberry root tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry is a multipurpose tree in horticulture. Besides nutritional importance, it is used for raising silkworms, fodder and landscape. These is quite a wide genetic diversity among different mulberry genotypes. The present study was undertaken to evaluate certain morphological and biochemical properties of 20 genotypes of Morus alba, M. rubra, and M. nigra species distributed in Golestan Province, northern Iran. The highest leaf length (15.51 cm), petiole length (5.37 cm), vitamin C (4.34 mg/100 g) and phenol (31.89 mg/g) were recorded in M12 genotype. The highest fruit length (5.52 cm), pedicle length (17 mm), soluble solids (18.26%) and sucrose (31.64 mg/g) were recorded in M10 genotype. The amount of glucose (288.82 mg/g) and fructose (121.97 mg/g) were also dominant in M17 genotype. The utmost fruit fresh and dry weights (0.3-67.80 g), fruit diameter (1.99 cm), leaf width (11.94 cm) and flavonoids (24.67 mg/g) were also observed in the M20 genotype. The M1 and M2 genotypes had higher anthocyanin (1.13 µmol/g) and total antioxidant activity (66.71%) compared to other genotypes. Furthermore, fruit fresh and dry weights were positively correlated with fruit length and diameter, pedicle length, and leaf and petiole length. The highest positive correlation was observed among anthocyanin, vitamin C and phenols. The morphological and biochemical traits explained 99 % of the total variance of four and three main components. The results of cluster analysis grouped these genotypes into 3 main groups. Therefore, the highest heritability and genetic advance were found for fruit weight, petiole length, leaf width, antioxidant activity, fructose and flavonoids. The valuable pomological traits recorded for some genotypes may be useful for future breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Edible trees and shrubs have been evaluated to improve animal nutrition and mitigate the emission of greenhouse gasses from ruminants. In the present study, researchers visited some farmers and identified eight potentially edible Brazilian trees. Nutritional value and gas (and methane) production from these edible trees were evaluated. The leaves of Aroeira, Candeia, and Jatobá had limited nutritional value. Samples of Santa Bárbara trees, Mulberry, and Tithonia showed an improved nutritional value. Furthermore, Tithonia decreased methane emissions and is a potentially edible tree for multifunctional redesigned ruminant production systems. The present study aims to evaluate the nutritional value of different tree and shrub leaves in Brazilian ruminant production systems. Eight potentially edible trees and shrubs were identified from interviews with 30 ruminant producers: Aroeira (ARO; Lithraea molleoides), Black Mulberry (BMU; Morus nigra), Candeia (CAN; Eremanthus erythropappus), Jatobá (JAT; Hymenaea courbaril), Gliricídia (GLI; Gliricidia sepium), Santa Bárbara tree (SBT; Mélia azedarach), Tithonia (TIT; Tithonia diversifolia), and White Mulberry (WMU; Morus alba). Four leaf samples of each edible tree were sampled, and chemical analyses and in vitro assays were performed. Edible trees (except CAN and JAT) had lower neutral detergent fiber content than Mombasa grass. In addition, SBT, BMU, WMU, and TIT had lower fiber content than the other evaluated edible trees. Consequently, SBT, TIT, BMU, and WMU had improved dry matter degradation. Among the edible trees and shrubs, SMW and WMU increased the potential for gas production (a parameter). On the other hand, CAN decreased the estimated gas production 48 h after incubation. Furthermore, TIT decreased methane production up to 24 h after in vitro fermentation. Thus, except ARO, CAN, and JAT, the edible trees evaluated in the present study are potential feeds in moderate- to high-producing animals. Additionally, TIT fermentation reduces in vitro methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry plants (Morus alba) have leaf shapes, ranging from unlobed to lobed, which are crucial for yield, growth, and adaptability, indicating their ability to adapt to their environment. Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) constitute a web of RNAs within the organism's transcriptional regulatory system, including protein-coding genes (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and others. In this study, samples for ceRNA sequencing were categorized into two groups: whole leaves and lobed leaves, each group with three replicates. In addition, we isolated, cloned, and characterized the precursor miRNA (miR156x) from the leaves of M. alba. miR156x precursor had a length of 107 base pairs and a minimum folding free energy of 50.27 kcal/mol. We constructed a pCAMBIA-35S-GUS-miR156x dual overexpression vector and established a transient transformation system for mulberry. At an optimal transformation solution (OD600 = 0.7), the GUS gene showed a higher expression in the leaves of transiently transformed mulberry with miR156x overexpression, four days after transformation, while the target genes of miR156x had decreased expression in the same leaves. Investigations into the transgenic mulberry plants uncovered various modifications to physio-chemical parameters including POD, SOD, PRO, MDA, soluble proteins and sugars, and chlorophyl content. miRNAs in the plants were found to act as negative regulators of gene expression in response to changes in leaf shape regulation, which was confirmed in vitro using dual-luciferase reporter assays. Subsequently, we cloned Maspl3 in vitro and conducted GST-Pull down assays, obtaining multiple proteins that interacted with the Maspl3 gene. This indicates that the miR156x/Maspl3/MSTRG.25812.1 regulatory module contributes to the differences in mulberry leaf shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cold storage has been widely used to maintain the quality of vegetables, but whether eating cold‐stored vegetables affects health remains unknown. RESULTS: This study used silkworms as an animal model to evaluate the effects of nutrient changes in cold‐stored mulberry leaves (CSML) on health. Compared with fresh mulberry leaves (FML), CSML contained lower vitamin C, soluble sugars and proteins, and higher H2O2, suggesting decreased antioxidant ability and nutrition. The CSML did not obviously affect larval survival rate, body weight or dry matter rate, cocoon shape, weight and size, or final rates of cluster and cocooning relative to the FML, suggesting CSML did not alter overall growth and development. However, the CSML increased the initial rates of cluster and cocooning and upregulated BmRpd3, suggesting CSML shortened larval lifespan and enhanced senescence. CSML upregulated BmNOX4, downregulated BmCAT, BmSOD and BmGSH‐Px and increased H2O2 in silkworms, suggesting CSML caused oxidative stress. CSML upregulated ecdysone biosynthesis and inactivation genes and elevated ecdysone concentration in silkworms, suggesting that CSML affected hormone homeostasis. CSML upregulated apoptosis‐related genes, downregulated sericin and silk fibroin genes and decreased sericin content rate in silkworms, suggesting oxidative stress and protein deficiency. CONCLUSION: Cold storage reduced nutrition and antioxidant capability of mulberry leaves. CSML did not influence growth and development of silkworm larva, but affected health by causing oxidative stress and reducing protein synthesis. The findings show that the ingredient changes in CSML had negative effects on health of silkworms. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper mulberry is a commonly found tree species with a long history of cultivation. It also serves as a crucial case study for understanding how woody plants adapt to low temperatures. Under cold treatment, we observed a substantial number of alternative splicing (AS) genes, showcasing the intricate landscape of AS events. We have detected all seven types of AS events, with the alternative 3′ splice site (A3) having the most. We observed that many genes that underwent differential AS were significantly enriched in starch and sucrose metabolism and circadian rhythm pathways. Moreover, a considerable proportion of differentially spliced genes (DSGs) also showed differential expression, with 20.38% and 25.65% under 12 h and 24 h cold treatments, respectively. This suggests a coordinated regulation between gene AS and expression, playing a pivotal role in the paper mulberry's adaptation to cold stress. We further investigated the regulatory mechanisms of AS, identifying 41 serine/arginine-rich (SR) splicing factors, among which 11 showed differential expression under cold treatment, while 29 underwent alternative splicing. Additionally, genes undergoing AS displayed significantly higher DNA methylation levels under cold stress, while normal splicing (non-AS) genes exhibited relatively lower methylation levels. These findings suggest that methylation may play an important role in governing gene AS. Finally, our research will provide useful information on the role of AS in the cold acclimation tolerance of the paper mulberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry fruits are popular in many countries because of their good taste, high nutritional value and medicinal properties. Studying the metabolic profile during fruit development can enhance our comprehension of the changes in fruit quality. In this study, a widely targeted metabolomic approach utilizing liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC‒MS) was employed to investigate the widespread metabolic changes during fruit development and ripening in mulberry fruits and combined with multivariate statistical methods to screen for significant changed metabolites (SCMs) at different developmental stages. A total of 981 metabolites in 12 categories were detected in mulberry fruit at three developmental stages (i.e., the fruit expansion stage in which mulberry fruits are green (MG), the fruit color change stage in which they are red (MR) and the fruit ripening stage in which they are purple (MP)). There were significant changes in the metabolic profile at the color change and ripening stages compared to the fruit expansion stage. Flavonoids primarily increased during fruit ripening and accumulated significantly during the mature stage. Large amounts of phenolic acids, lipids, and organic acids accumulated significantly during fruit expansion stage and decreased significantly during ripening. However, sugars accumulated significantly during ripening and were found to be associated with the sweetness of mulberry fruit. Assessment of the levels of different sugar and acid components during fruit development revealed that fructose and glucose were the main sugars, and citric and malic acids were the main organic acids. Meanwhile, the sugar-acid ratio increased significantly, which in turn improved the flavor quality of mulberry fruit. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the SCMs were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways such as galactose metabolism, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and flavonoid biosynthesis. The reliability of the metabolomics data was demonstrated through the validation of six genes encoding key enzymes using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT‒PCR). The results of this study provide valuable insights into the rational utilization of mulberry fruit resources and the efficient development of functional fruit products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding probiotics, prebiotics, and different types of jelly agents on a few key quality attributes of potentially functional mulberry jellies throughout a 10-day storage period at 4 °C. Mullbery juice was separately fermented at 37 °C for 24 h using Lactiplantibacillus plantarum O21; it was a favorable matrix for the proliferation of probiotics. Lactic acid fermentation positively affected the total anthocyanin concentration of investigated products. Also, antioxidant capacities of mulberry juices were improved by L. plantarum O21 fermentation. The results showed that the applied prebiotic–inulin addition and agar–agar addition, as a gelling agent in recipes of potentially functional mulberry jellies, were proved to be beneficial technological solutions, both in fresh and stored products, and obtained an appropriate, high number of LAB bacteria, good sensory quality, and beneficial antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry fruits are rich in bioactive components renowned for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. This study thoroughly investigated the impact of cultivation modes on the phenological stages, yield, bioactive components, and antioxidant activity of two mulberry cultivars, Yueshen Dashi (YS-DS) and Xinjiang Baisang (XJ-BS). Notably, greenhouse cultivation led to earlier phenology and shorter fruit development maturation durations compared to field cultivation. Despite a decrease in fruit production and firmness, the greenhouse-grown mulberries exhibited higher individual fruit fresh weight. The content of bioactive components, encompassing anthocyanins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C, and of antioxidant activity (measured in the FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging assays) was found to be lower in the greenhouse-grown mulberries than in those cultivated in the field. The contents of total polyphenols and flavonoids showed robust positive correlations in the FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging assays, which suggests that the antioxidant activity of mulberry fruit might be primarily attributable to the bioactive components of total polyphenols and flavonoids. Interestingly, the sugar content and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (HRSA) displayed an inverse relationship between the two cultivars in the greenhouse versus field conditions. The multivariate analysis highlighted distinct patterns for different cultivars under varying cultivation modes. This study underscores the potential to enhance bioactive components and antioxidant activity through effective manipulation of climate conditions, thereby unlocking the full nutritional potential of mulberry fruits on a large scale in greenhouse environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the structures produced by blending ligno‐cellulosic (ramie fibre, Boehmeria nivea L.) and protein fibres (mulberry silk, Bombyx Mori) with dissimilar mechanical properties. Ramie fibre, used for blending, is a ligno‐cellulosic fibre with very high tenacity but low elongation. On the other hand, silk (mulberry) fibre has lower tenacity with better elongation. Blended fibrous structures have shown satisfactory tensile strength and elongation, while other physical properties, such as coefficient of friction, brightness and flexural rigidity, have also been improved. Technical findings revealed that the coefficient of friction reduced from 0.79 to 0.48 and specific work of rupture improved from 2.3 to 3.43 mJ/tex after incorporation of silk in the ligno‐cellulosic fibre strand. Blended yarn cross‐sectional images showed that finer silk fibres came to the surface, whereas the comparatively coarser cellulose‐based ramie fibre migrated to the core. Atomic force microscopy of the blend structure was examined to assess the roughness and uniformity of the surface. Fourier Transform–infrared spectroscopy analysis verified the presence of amide groups (associated with silk fibre) and glucose ring groups (associated with the cellulose of Ramie fibre) in the same graph. In addition, innovative techniques of simultaneous coloration of the developed blends are also proposed scientifically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Condiment is the property of China Condiment and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the initial stages of restoring rocky desertification, the proliferation of nutrients strongly influences plant survival. The carbon–nitrogen doctrine in plants argues that a lower leaf carbon–nitrogen (C:N) ratio enhances the growth of plant nutrients. However, the mechanisms by which inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can influence plants during the restoration of rocky desertification are not thoroughly understood. This study used mulberry as a suitable example of a mycorrhizal plant in desertification areas to examine changes in growth, leaf carbon, nitrogen accumulation, and the carbon–nitrogen ratio post inoculation using AMF. The correlation between leaf carbon–nitrogen ratio and root morphology following AMF inoculation was also examined. The results demonstrated that inoculating mulberry with the dominant strains Funneliformis mosseae (Fm) and Rhizophagus intraradices (Ri) not only enhanced above-ground growth and improved carbon and nitrogen nutrient absorption but also had a more pronounced effect on leaf nitrogen accumulation than on carbon accumulation, resulting in a potential decrease in the leaf C:N ratio by 42.13%. It also significantly improved root morphology by exponentially increasing the number of connections and crossings by 120.5% and 109.8%, respectively. Further analysis revealed a negative correlation between leaf C:N ratio and root morphology, as well as between root length and the number of connections. Plants with more developed root systems exhibited greater competitiveness for nitrogen, resulting in a lower leaf C:N ratio. This study suggests that the inoculation of AMF could enhance leaf nitrogen accumulation and reduce the leaf C:N ratio by expanding the spatial absorption range of the root through positive changes in root morphology, thereby promoting plant nutrient growth. This study forms a fundamental scientific basis for the successful management of desertification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bombyx mori L., commonly known as the mulberry silkworm, holds significant economic importance due to its ability to produce silk. This insect has been domesticated for thousands of years and is highly specialized on feeding exclusively the mulberry leaves during its larval stages and so it is a monophagous insect. Different doses of yeast extract was given along with feed as feed additives and tested for its efficacy on the growth of B. mori through this study. The treatment was given to the larvae at it's fifth instar stage. The larvae were fed with fresh mulberry leaves coated in yeast extract every day at a regular interval. The experimental group, which received the extracts of yeast supplementation, exhibited the differences significantly in the larval weight (2.68±0.17), cocoon weight (2.10±0.20) and in the shell weight (1.70±0.15). This was tested at the experimental group at 1% concentration of yeast extract. The present study, conclude that adding yeast extract to the diet of silkworm can enhance their growth and thus the economic traits and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]