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Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus are symbiotic starters widely used in yogurt fermentation. They exchange metabolites to meet their nutritional demands during fermentation, promoting mutual growth. Although S. thermophilus produces fumaric acid, and the addition of fumaric acid has been shown to promote the growth of L. bulgaricus monoculture, whether fumaric acid produced by S. thermophilus is used by L. bulgaricus during coculture remains unclear. Furthermore, the importance of fumaric acid metabolism in the growth of L. bulgaricus is yet to be elucidated. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the importance of fumaric acid metabolism in L. bulgaricus monocultures and coculture with S. thermophilus. We deleted the fumarate reductase gene (frd), which is responsible for the metabolism of fumaric acid to succinic acid, in L. bulgaricus strains 2038 and NCIMB 701373. Both Δ frd strains exhibited longer fermentation times than their parent strains, and fumaric acid was metabolized to malic acid rather than succinic acid. Coculture of Δ frd strains with S. thermophilus 1131 also resulted in a longer fermentation time, and the accumulation of malic acid was observed. These results indicated that fumaric acid produced by S. thermophilus is used by L. bulgaricus as a symbiotic substance during yogurt fermentation and that the metabolism of fumaric acid to succinic acid by fumarate reductase is a key factor determining the fermentation ability of L. bulgaricus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yeast is one of the co-products of ethanol plants, which can be used as a nutritional supplement in animal feed due to its high protein content. Given the importance of yeast contribution to the nutritional properties of DDG (dried distillers' grains), the aim of this study was to assess how different levels of aeration affect the biomass production and the quality of yeast providing new insights into yeast production, offering an alternative source of income for the corn ethanol industry. For this purpose, yeasts were grown in a fed-batch process, and different concentrations of aeration in the medium were tested, namely 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 volume of air per volume of wort per minute (v v−1 min−1). At the end of the cellular biomass production process, yeasts grown with 0.5 (v v−1 min−1) aeration in the reactor showed higher biomass formation (19.86 g L−1), cellular yield (g g−1), and a lower formation of succinic acid (0.70 g L−1) and acetic acid (0.11 g L−1). Aeration influenced an increase of 1.0% in the protein content in yeast. In conclusion, lower levels of aeration in the yeast production process enables more efficient sugar utilization for biomass formation and is a potential strategy to increase the protein content and the commercial value of DDG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms in the plant's rhizosphere are capable of solubilising insoluble soil phosphates and can promote plant growth. In this study, a total of 30 bacteria were isolated from soils in Changji city, and one highly efficient strain (B5) was identified as a member of Pseudomonadaceae. B5 exhibited phosphorus (P) solubilisation of 519.66 mg/L in a culture medium containing tricalcium phosphate (Ca3 (PO4)2). Results showed that strain B5 had a high P utilisation rate in a medium containing glucose (monosaccharide), ammonium sulphate and tricalcium phosphate. B5 treatment significantly promoted plant growth and increased the dry weight, the chlorophyll content as well as P content of tomato, marigold and cucumber. Moreover, B5 produced plant growth-promoting hormones, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) (4.18 g/L) and gibberellin (GA) (19.8 mg/L). In addition, organic acids including oxalic acid, succinic acid, gluconic acid, arabic-hexanoic acid and glutraic acid were produced by B5 under different phosphorus sources. Our results indicated that B5 is a potential candidate for development as a bioinoculant for horticultural application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids, prominent lipid-soluble phytochemicals in the human diet, are responsible for vibrant colours in nature and play crucial roles in human health. While they are extensively studied for their antioxidant properties and contributions to vitamin A synthesis, their interactions with the intestinal microbiota (IM) remain poorly understood. In this study, beta (β)-carotene, lutein, lycopene, a mixture of these three pigments, and the alga Osmundea pinnatifida were submitted to simulated gastrointestinal digestion (GID) and evaluated on human faecal samples. The results showed varying effects on IM metabolic dynamics, organic acid production, and microbial composition. Carotenoid exposure influenced glucose metabolism and induced the production of organic acids, notably succinic and acetic acids, compared with the control. Microbial composition analysis revealed shifts in phyla abundance, particularly increased Pseudomonadota. The α-diversity indices demonstrated higher diversity in β-carotene and the pigments' mixture samples, while the β-diversity analysis indicated significant dissimilarity between the control and the carotenoid sample groups. UPLC-qTOF MS analysis suggested dynamic changes in carotenoid compounds during simulated fermentation, with lutein exhibiting distinct mass ion fragmentation patterns. This comprehensive research enhances our understanding of carotenoid-IM interactions, shedding light on potential health implications and the need for tailored interventions for optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress-induced biochemical alterations in ovarian follicles compromise the function of granulosa cells (GCs) and the developmental competence of oocytes. Summer heat stress can have a far-reaching negative impact on overall fertility and reproductive success. Together with the heat stress, the rise of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), potential confounding hazards of in vitro handling and the absence of systemic body support in ART makes it imperative to study the heat stress ameliorative effects of vitamin C under in vitro conditions. Using in vitro heat stress treatment of 43 °C for two hours in bovine GCs, we studied the effects of vitamin C on cell growth, oxidative stress, apoptosis and cell cycle progression together with a comprehensive metabolomics profiling. This study investigates the molecular milieu underlying the vitamin C (VC)-led alleviation of heat-related disruptions to metabolic processes in bovine GCs. The supplementation of VC ameliorated the detrimental effects of heat stress by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis while restoring cell proliferation. Normal cell function restoration in treated GCs was demonstrated through the finding of significantly high levels of progesterone. We observed a shift in the metabolome from biosynthesis to catabolism, mostly dominated by the metabolism of amino acids (decreased tryptophan, methionine and tyrosine) and the active TCA cycle through increased Succinic acid. The Glutathione and tryptophan metabolism were important in ameliorating the inflammation and metabolism nexus under heat stress. Two significant enzymes were identified, namely tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2) and mitochondrial phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase (FARS2). Furthermore, our findings provide insight into the significance of B-complex vitamins in the context of heat stress during VC supplementation. This study underscores the importance of VC supplementation in heat stress and designates multiple metabolic intervention faucets in the context of ameliorating heat stress and enhancing reproductive efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Succinic acid (SA) is one of the top platform chemicals with huge applications in diverse sectors. The presence of two carboxylic acid groups on the terminal carbon atoms makes SA a highly functional molecule that can be derivatized into a wide range of products. The biological route for SA production is a cleaner, greener, and promising technological option with huge potential to sequester the potent greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide. The recycling of renewable carbon of biomass (an indirect form of CO2), along with fixing CO2 in the form of SA, offers a carbon-negative SA manufacturing route to reduce atmospheric CO2 load. These attractive attributes compel a paradigm shift from fossil-based to microbial SA manufacturing, as evidenced by several commercial-scale bio-SA production in the last decade. The current review article scrutinizes the existing knowledge and covers SA production by the most efficient SA producers, including several bacteria and yeast strains. The review starts with the biochemistry of the major pathways accumulating SA as an end product. It discusses the SA production from a variety of pure and crude renewable sources by native as well as engineered strains with details of pathway/metabolic, evolutionary, and process engineering approaches for enhancing TYP (titer, yield, and productivity) metrics. The review is then extended to recent progress on separation technologies to recover SA from fermentation broth. Thereafter, SA derivatization opportunities via chemo-catalysis are discussed for various high-value products, which are only a few steps away. The last two sections are devoted to the current scenario of industrial production of bio-SA and associated challenges, along with the author's perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The production of succinic acid (SA) from biomass has attracted worldwide interest. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is preferred for SA production due to its strong tolerance to low pH conditions, ease of genetic manipulation, and extensive application in industrial processes. However, when compared with bacterial producers, the SA titers and productivities achieved by engineered S. cerevisiae strains were relatively low. To develop efficient SA-producing strains, it's necessary to clearly understand how S. cerevisiae cells respond to SA. Results: In this study, we cultivated five S. cerevisiae strains with different genetic backgrounds under different concentrations of SA. Among them, KF7 and NBRC1958 demonstrated high tolerance to SA, whereas NBRC2018 displayed the least tolerance. Therefore, these three strains were chosen to study how S. cerevisiae responds to SA. Under a concentration of 20 g/L SA, only a few differentially expressed genes were observed in three strains. At the higher concentration of 60 g/L SA, the response mechanisms of the three strains diverged notably. For KF7, genes involved in the glyoxylate cycle were significantly downregulated, whereas genes involved in gluconeogenesis, the pentose phosphate pathway, protein folding, and meiosis were significantly upregulated. For NBRC1958, genes related to the biosynthesis of vitamin B6, thiamin, and purine were significantly downregulated, whereas genes related to protein folding, toxin efflux, and cell wall remodeling were significantly upregulated. For NBRC2018, there was a significant upregulation of genes connected to the pentose phosphate pathway, gluconeogenesis, fatty acid utilization, and protein folding, except for the small heat shock protein gene HSP26. Overexpression of HSP26 and HSP42 notably enhanced the cell growth of NBRC1958 both in the presence and absence of SA. Conclusions: The inherent activities of small heat shock proteins, the levels of acetyl-CoA and the strains' potential capacity to consume SA all seem to affect the responses and tolerances of S. cerevisiae strains to SA. These factors should be taken into consideration when choosing host strains for SA production. This study provides a theoretical basis and identifies potential host strains for the development of robust and efficient SA-producing strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: It is reported that anti‐enterovirus 71 (EV71) drugs have some side effects on human health. Notably, fungi plays a crucial role in promoting human health and anti‐virus. Grifola frondosa is a type of large medicinal and edible fungi, rich in active substances. The present study aimed to investigate the anti‐EV71 effect of G. frondosa and the potential active substances. RESULTS: In the present study, the water extract of G. frondosa was subjected to ethanol precipitation to obtain the water‐extracted supernatant of G. frondosa (GFWS) and water‐extracted precipitation of G. frondosa. Their inhibitory effects on EV71 virus were studied based on a cell model. The results showed that GFWS had stronger security and anti‐EV71 effects. In addition, the chemical constituents of GFWS were identified by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry, which were selected for further separation and purification. Three compounds, N‐butylaniline, succinic acid and l‐tryptophan, were isolated from GFWS by NMR spectroscopy. It is noteworthy that N‐butylaniline and l‐tryptophan were isolated and identified from the G. frondosa fruiting bodies for the first time. Our study found that l‐tryptophan has anti‐EV71 virus activity, which reduced EV71‐induced apoptosis and significantly inhibited the replication process after virus adsorption. Furthermore, it could also bind to capsid protein VP1 to prevent the virus from attaching to the cells. CONCLUSION: l‐tryptophan was an inhibitor of the EV71 virus, which could be used in infant nutrition and possibly provide a new drug to treat hand, foot and mouth disease. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humins are heterogeneous and polydisperse furanic macromolecules derived from sugar biorefinery. Improving wood properties by humination has become of interest recently. This study examined the photodegradation stability of European pine sapwood microveneers modified with humins at different concentrations of citric acid (CA) and succinic acid (SA) as reaction catalysts, e.g., 1.5 %, 3 %, and 4.5 % wt.%. The photostability of huminated wood was assessed after 48 h, 96 h, and 144 h of exposure to the accelerated weathering test by means of mass loss and finite-span tensile strength. The results were compared with unmodified and also unweathered samples. The FT-IR spectroscopy showed apparent changes in the chemical structure of wood by humination modifications. The weight percentage gains of the samples increased with increasing the concentration of the catalyst. While no differences were observed between the samples after two weeks of the water leaching. The strength losses of weathered microveneers were, however, mostly reduced by humin-based formulas containing catalysts, where the microveneers modified with 1.5 % and 3 % CA showed respectively 32 % and 41 % lower strength loss values than the unmodified samples after 144 h of weathering. Overall, the results showed a high potential for humins to protect wood against photodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An anthracene thiazole based Schiff base L was synthesized and employed for fluorescence switch-on detection of maleic acid in aqueous DMSO. The non-fluorescent L (10–5 M) showed an instantaneous and selective fluorescence enhancement at 506 nm upon interaction with maleic acid (10–5 M). Other potential carboxylic acids (10–5 M), such as malic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, cinnamic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, oxalic acid and malonic acid failed to alter the chromo-fluorogenic properties of L. Probe L can be employed to detect maleic acid down to 2.74 × 10–6 M. The probe L showed good linearity from 2.97 to 6.87 µM. Analytical utility of L was examined by detecting maleic acid in various food additives and drosophila larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Succinic acid was a building block chemical of many industrial products, among these, one of the most interesting applications concerns the bioplastics market. This compound can be produced through the biotechnological routes, but several challenges still need to be addressed. One of the greatest challenges has been the downstream process to recover and purify succinic acid from the fermentative broth. Succinic acid must be taken from the fermentation broth, that was composed of various compounds, such as cellular residues, proteins, and other acids, to reach a recovery and a purity >90%, in order to be marketed. Generally, the downstream process can be divided into three phases: pretreatment, separation and purification. Several studies have been carried out on different technologies with the aim to improve recovery and purity. To date, all these methods were applied only on laboratory-scale, due to various critical issues that emerged, such as high costs, which prevented their application on an industrial scale. This review highlighted the best obtained results from the recent studies and discussed on critical aspects and future perspectives on the topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe plastics pollution derived from the wide use and the past incorrect dispersion of petroleum-based plastics. The development of bioplastics/biopolymers with the same chemical/physical characteristics of conventional plastics can be a solution to the problems of their degradability. Polybutylene succinate was among the most investigated biopolymers for these characteristics that can be produced from bio-based succinic acid and butan-1,4-diol. Succinic acid can be produced through fermentation process using microorganisms as Actinobacillus succinogenes that were able to utilise glucose from several sources as lignocellulosic biomasses. Lignocellulosic biomass can be ideal candidates for glucose supply but the processes to release fermentable sugars can produce inhibitors (acids and furans) of the biological processes for succinic acid production. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the growth of A. succinogenes for the production of succinic acid under acetic acid and furfural at different concentration on inoculum with preadaptation and without adaptation. The results highlighted that pre-inoculum adaptation was essential for the growth of the strain and succinic acid production that decreased strongly under the synergistic effect of acetic acid and furfural in the broth (63% inhibition rate of growth) respect to inoculum with pre-inoculum adaptation (29% inhibition rate of growth). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This present work investigated the influence of black rice anthocyanins as antioxidants on the oxidation stability of oil. Malonic acid, succinic acid and succinic anhydride were grafted on black rice anthocyanins through acylation method to improve their antioxidant activity in oil. The results from fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed new absorption peaks near 1744 cm-1 and 1514 cm-1, which implied that malonic acid, succinic acid and succinic anhydride grafted on the -OH of glucoside and rutinoside through esterification reaction and resulted that the polarity of these were reduced. Total content of anthocyanin (TAC) decreased to 166. 3 mg/g, 163.7 mg/g and 150.2 mg/g, respectively after modification with succinic acid, malonic acid and succinic anhydride. Compared with native anthocyanins, the acylation of black rice anthocyanins partially reduced its antioxidant activity. In addition, DPPH clearance of molecular modified anthocyanins decreased to 62.6% (San-An). As revealed in the oil stability through the determination of primary oxidation products (PV) and secondary oxidation products (p-AV), Sa-An, Ma-An and San-An showed stronger antioxidant activity in Schaal oven accelerated oxidation test during 12 days than native black rice anthocyanin in both corn oil and flaxseed oil. Molecular modified black rice anthocyanins are expected to be used as colorants, antioxidants, etc. in oil-rich food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The only reliable factor that reduces the risk of colorectal carcinogenesis is physical activity. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of physical activity against gut microbiota, including mucosa-associated microbiota (MAM) on azoxymethane-induced colorectal tumors in obese mice. We divided the subjects into four groups: normal diet (ND), high-fat diet (HFD), ND + exercise (Ex), and HFD + Ex groups. The Ex group performed treadmill exercise for 20 weeks. Thereafter, fecal and colonic mucus samples were extracted for microbiota analysis. DNA was collected from feces and colonic mucosa, and V3–V4 amplicon sequencing analysis of the 16SrRNA gene was performed using MiSeq. The HFD group had significantly more colonic polyps than the ND group (ND 6.5 ± 1.3, HFD 11.4 ± 1.5, p < 0.001), and the addition of Ex suppressed the number of colonic polyps in ND and HFD groups (ND 6.5 ± 1.3, ND + Ex 2.8 ± 2.5, p < 0.05). The HFD group showed significantly lower concentrations of succinic, acetic, butyric, and propionic acids (mg/g) in feces, compared with the ND group (succinic acid HFD 0.59, ND 0.17; acetic acid HFD 0.63, ND 2.41; propionic acid HFD 0.10, ND 0.47; and N-butyric acid HFD 0.31, ND 0.93). In the case of ND, succinic acid and butyric acid tended to decrease with Ex (succinic acid ND 0.17, ND + Ex 0.12; N-butyric acid ND 0.93, ND + Ex 0.74 0.74). Succinic acid, acetic acid, butyric acid, and propionic acid levels in feces were significantly lower in the HFD group than in the ND group; in both feces and mucus samples, Butyricicoccus and Lactobacillus levels were significantly lower in the HFD group. Akkermansia was significantly increased in ND + Ex and HFD + Ex groups. Diet and exercise affected the number of colorectal tumors. Furthermore, diet and exercise alter intestinal MAM, which may be involved in colorectal tumor development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the monomers epoxy succinic acid (ESA) and maleic acid ethanolamine (PTA) were prepared, and then the terpolymer scale inhibitor P(ESA-AA-PTA) was synthesized by aqueous solution polymerization using ESA, PTA, and acrylic acid (AA) as monomers. The structures of the synthesized monomers and polymers were characterized by FTIR. The optimum synthesis conditions of the terpolymer were obtained by static scale inhibition experiment, and the effects of the amount of scale inhibitor, test temperature, test time, and solution pH on the inhibition performance of the four scales, CaCO3, CaSO4, BaSO4, and SrSO4, were discussed. The results showed that the best CaCO3 scale inhibition efficiency was 85% when the molar ratio of ESA:AA:PTA was 1:1:0.5, the initiator dosage was 10 wt%, the polymerization time was 3.5 hours and the polymerization temperature was 95 °C. In the optimum water environment, the scale inhibition efficiency of CaCO3 scale and CaSO4 scale reached 100%, BaSO4 scale could reach 75% and SrSO4 scale could reach 54%. P(ESA-AA-PTA) had better scale inhibition properties than the majority of commercially available oilfield scale inhibitors. SEM and XRD results showed that the addition of P(ESA-AA-PTA) scale inhibitor hindered the growth of crystals and made the microscopic morphology of scale samples changed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the use of epoxidized esters of succinic acid, oleic acid, and propylene glycol as a bioplasticizer for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and compared the results with the commercial phthalate plasticizer di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate. The chemical properties, structure, and biodegradation of the obtained bioplasticizer were analyzed. In order to analyze the influence of different PVC processing conditions on the properties of the obtained samples, the gelation process was carried out at 170, 180, 190, and 200°C at a time of 1.5–10.0 min. Mechanical properties, thermal characteristics, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, plasticizer migration, and color change were determined for the resulting plasticized PVC samples. The performed studies allowed to confirm the obtaining of a biodegradable bioplasticizer (after 28 days, the decomposition rate in respirometry test was 72.7%). The optimal conditions for PVC processing were determined. For them the properties of the obtained material were superior. Processing PVC at 170°C for 7.5 min proved to be the most optimal conditions for the bioplasticizer synthesized in this study. Under these conditions, tensile strength of about 23 MPa and elongation at break of 200% were obtained, while plasticizer migration was very low (4.4% after 7 days and 6.8% after 28 days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kluyveromyces marxianus has become an attractive non-conventional yeast cell factory due to its advantageous properties such as high thermal tolerance and rapid growth. Succinic acid (SA) is an important platform molecule that has been applied in various industries such as food, material, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. SA bioproduction may be compromised by its toxicity. Besides, metabolite-responsive promoters are known to be important for dynamic control of gene transcription. Therefore, studies on global gene transcription under various SA concentrations are of great importance. Here, comparative transcriptome changes of K. marxianus exposed to various concentrations of SA were analyzed. Enrichment and analysis of gene clusters revealed repression of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and glyoxylate cycle, also activation of the glycolysis pathway and genes related to ergosterol synthesis. Based on the analyses, potential SA-responsive promoters were investigated, among which the promoter strength of IMTCP2 and KLMA_50231 increased 43.4% and 154.7% in response to 15 g/L SA. In addition, overexpression of the transcription factors Gcr1, Upc2, and Ndt80 significantly increased growth under SA stress. Our results benefit understanding SA toxicity mechanisms and the development of robust yeast for organic acid production. Key points: • Global gene transcription of K. marxianus is changed by succinic acid (SA) • Promoter activities of IMTCP2 and KLMA_50123 are regulated by SA • Overexpression of Gcr1, Upc2, and Ndt80 enhanced SA tolerance [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli MLB (MG1655 ΔpflB ΔldhA), which can hardly grow on glucose with little succinate accumulation under anaerobic conditions. Two-stage fermentation is a fermentation in which the first stage is used for cell growth and the second stage is used for product production. The ability of glucose consumption and succinate production of MLB under anaerobic conditions can be improved significantly by using acetate as the solo carbon source under aerobic condition during the two-stage fermentation. Then, the adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) of growing on acetate was applied here. We assumed that the activities of succinate production related enzymes might be further improved in this study. E. coli MLB46-05 evolved from MLB and it had an improved growth phenotype on acetate. Interestingly, in MLB46-05, the yield and tolerance of succinic acid in the anaerobic condition of two-stage fermentation were improved significantly. According to transcriptome analysis, upregulation of the glyoxylate cycle and the activity of stress regulatory factors are the possible reasons for the elevated yield. And the increased tolerance to acetate made it more tolerant to high concentrations of glucose and succinate. Finally, strain MLB46-05 produced 111 g/L of succinic acid with a product yield of 0.74 g/g glucose. Synopsis: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research paper is to compare the effects of spraying four affordable plant biostimulants on the yield of pear trees and fruit quality at harvest and during cold storage for 2 months at 0 ºC. This study investigated the effect of bean extract solution of a concentration 0.1, 0.2 %, sodium alginate at 0.1, 0.2 %, succinic acid at 200 or 400 ppm, salicylic acid at 200 or 400 ppm, and a combination of bean extract at (0.1 % + succinic acid at 200 ppm), and treatments, in addition to control. Trees of “Le-Conte” cv. of 10 years old were sprayed with the abovementioned substances three times: at bud swelling date, at onset of fruit set, and after 2 months of the 2nd estimation. At harvest, pear fruits were stored at 0 ºC for 2 months. The present results clearly showed that, all treatments yielded in good results of increasing fruit number per tree and all parameters of fruit quality especially the combination of bean extract 0.1 %+ succinic acid 200 ppm induced the highest fruit yield, T.S.S., hue angle, fruit shape index, and increased T.S.S. and vitamin C content compared to control during cold storage. In the meantime, these treatments these treatments decreased fruit weight loss and acidity percentage. Bean extract at 0.1 or 0.2 % increased fruit yield, weight, volume, T.S.S., vitamin C content and fruit lightness, but caused a decrease in acidity and fruit weight loss during 2 months of cold storage. Therefore, we can recommend for “Le-Conte” pear growers to spray trees with a combination of the extract of germinated bean seeds at 0.1% + succinic acid at 200 ppm three times: at growth start, at onset fruit set, and after 2 months, to raise fruit yield, and to improve fruit quality expressed as T. S. S., hue angle and vitamin C content at harvest and after cold storage at 0 ºC for 2 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of a reduced‐salt substitute (composed of NaCl, sodium gluconate, KCl, L‐histidine, and L‐lysine) applied in the fermentation of traditional Pixian douban (PXDB) were explored in this study according to sensory quality, physicochemical characteristics, color, colony count, and the contents of free amino acids (FAAs), organic acids, and volatile flavor compounds. The results showed that the PXDB with a 15% salt substitution had the most attractive reddish‐brown color, a mellow fragrance, and the lowest total colony count of the three pastes. The fermentation quality of the 15% salt substitute PXDB was superior to that of the control groups, its sensory quality was more readily accepted, and the contents of its amino acid nitrogen, FAAs and organic acids had increased by 0.1050, 0.3290, and 3.9068 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, the concentrations of the main aroma compounds in the PXDB containing the salt substitute were higher than those of the control. These included phenylethanol, 3‐methylthiopropanol, isoamyl alcohol, furfural, benzaldehyde, phenylacetaldehyde, nonanal, isoamyl aldehyde, 4‐ethylphenol, and, particularly, 2,6‐dimethylpyrazine, which had increased as much as 100 times. Correlation analysis showed that Glu, Phe, Tyr, Gly, Leu, Val, Asp, Ile, citric acids, and succinic acids were all positively correlated with the main aroma and contributed to the generation of PXDB's characteristic flavor, and main aroma substances in turn positively influence PXDB flavor sensory attributes. Overall, these results showed the application of the 15% salt substitute during PXDB fermentation improved the quality of the paste and, thus, would benefit the development of reduced‐salt PXDB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the L-malic acid titer achieved through Aspergillus niger fermentation reaches 201 g/L, meeting industrial demands satisfactorily. However, the co-presence of structurally similar fumaric acid and succinic acid in fermentation products suggests a theoretical potential for further improvement in L-malic acid production. In the tricarboxylic acid cycle, fumarate reductase mediates the conversion of succinic acid to fumaric acid. Subsequently, fumarase catalyzes the conversion of fumaric acid to L-malic acid. Notably, both enzymatic reactions are reversible. Our investigation revealed that A. niger contains only one mitochondria-located fumarase FumA. Employing CRISPR-Cas9 technology, we performed a replacement of the fumA promoter with a doxycycline-induced promoter Tet. Under non-inducing condition, the conditional strain exhibited increased levels of fumaric acid and succinic acid. It strongly suggests that FumA mainly promotes the flow of fumaric acid to L-malic acid. Furthermore, a promoter PmfsA that is exclusively activated in a fermentation medium by calcium carbonate was identified through RNA-sequencing screening. Utilizing PmfsA to regulate fumA expression led to a 9.0% increase in L-malic acid titer, an 8.75% increase in yield (glucose to L-malic acid), and an 8.86% enhancement in productivity. This research serves as a significant step toward expediting the industrialization of L-malic acid synthesis via biological fermentation. Additionally, it offers valuable insights for the biosynthesis of other organic acids. IMPORTANCE This study focuses on enhancing L-malic acid synthesis by modifying the tricarboxylic acid cycle within the mitochondria of Aspergillus niger. We emphasize the significant role of fumarase in converting fumaric acid into L-malic acid, enhancing our understanding of metabolic pathways in A. niger. The precise regulation of fumA is highlighted as a key factor in enhancing L-malic acid production. Furthermore, this research introduces a stringent conditional promoter (PmfsA), exclusively activated by CaCO3. The utilization of PmfsA for fumA expression resulted in heightened L-malic acid titers. The progress in metabolic engineering and bioprocess optimization holds promise for expediting industrial L-malic acid synthesis via biological fermentation. Moreover, it carries implications for the biosynthesis of various other organic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated organic acid and essential oil components in sweet chestnut (Castanea Sativa Mill) fruits collected from naturally growing chestnut trees within the borders of Giresun province. For this purpose, chestnut samples were collected from trees in 10 different areas in Giresun. The organic acid composition of chestnuts was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Essential oil components were identified with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Five different organic acids, including oxalic, quinic, maleic, citric and succinic acid, were investigated in chestnut samples, and the highest concentrations in chestnut samples were oxalic and citric acid. In the GC-MS analysis of chestnut samples, 18 essential oils were detected and terpinolene (TPO) was the most abundant. Another vital component found in chestnut samples is limonene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan exerts a significant influence on various chemical parameters affecting the quality of wine produced using multiple strains of Lachancea thermotolerans. The impact of chitosan on these parameters varies depending on the specific strain studied. We observed that, under the influence of chitosan, the fermentation kinetics accelerated for all examined strains. The formation of lactic acid increased by 41% to 97% across the studied L. thermotolerans strains, depending on the specific strain. This effect also influenced acidity-related parameters such as total acidity, which increased by 28% to 60%, and pH, which experienced a decrease of over 0.5 units. The consumption of malic acid increased by 9% to 20% depending on the specific strain of L. thermotolerans. Nitrogen consumption also rose, as evidenced by all L. thermotolerans strains exhibiting a residual value of Primary Amino Nitrogen (PAN) of below the detection limit, and ammonia consumption increased by 90% to 100%, depending on the strain studied. However, certain parameters such as acetic acid, succinic acid, and glycerol showed contradictory results depending on the strain under investigation. In terms of volatile composition, chitosan supplementation led to increased production of i-butanol by 32% to 65%, 3-methylbutanol by 33% to 63%, and lactic acid ethyl ester by 58% to 91% across all studied strains of L. thermotolerans. Other analyzed aroma compounds exhibited varying changes depending on the specific strain of L. thermotolerans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The synthesis of homodimeric bis - esters of abiraterone (an inhibitor of androgens synthesis used for treatment of prostate cancer) as a novel depot form of the drug intended for parenteral administration has been undertaken. The conjugate with succinic linker has been synthesized, while only mono-esters of malic and citric acid were obtained. The target 'twin' demonstrated excellent characteristics in preliminary biotests, proving the concept of long-lasting depot-prodrug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesTo evaluate the association between plasma metabolites, biochemical analytes, diagnostic imaging findings, and the histologic diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. To assess the effects of gemfibrozil therapy on hepatic lipid accumulation and associated diagnostic tests.AnimalsFourteen bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) with varying severity of hepatic lipid accumulation (with and without hepatic lipidosis) were included.ProceduresAnimals underwent coelomic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, and coelioscopic hepatic biopsies. Clinical pathology tests included lipidologic tests, hepatic biomarkers, and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Animals were medicated with gemfibrozil 6mg/kg orally once a day for 2 months in a randomized blinded clinical trial prior to repeating previous diagnostic testing.ResultsHounsfield units on CT were negatively associated with increased hepatic vacuolation, while ultrasound and gross evaluation of the liver were not reliable. Beta-hydroxybutyric-acid (BHBA) concentrations were significantly associated with hepatic lipidosis. Metabolomics and lipidomics data found BHBA and succinic acid to be potential biomarkers for diagnosing hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. Succinic acid concentrations were significantly lower in the gemfibrozil treatment group. There was a tendency for improvement in the biomarkers and reduced hepatic fat in bearded dragons with hepatic lipidosis when treated with gemfibrozil, though the improvement was not statistically significant.ConclusionsThese findings provide information on the antemortem assessment of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons and paves the way for further research in diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Background: Propionic acid fermentation from renewable feedstock suffers from low volumetric productivity and final product concentration, which limits the industrial feasibility of the microbial route. High cell density fermentation techniques overcome these limitations. Here, propionic acid (PA) production from glucose and a crude glycerol/glucose mixture was evaluated using Acidipropionibacterium acidipropionici, in high cell density (HCD) batch fermentations with cell recycle. The agro-industrial by-product, heat-treated potato juice, was used as N-source. Results: Using 40 g/L glucose for nine consecutive batches yielded an average of 18.76 ± 1.34 g/L of PA per batch (0.59 gPA/gGlu) at a maximum rate of 1.15 gPA/L.h, and a maximum biomass of 39.89 gCDW/L. Succinic acid (SA) and acetic acid (AA) were obtained as major by-products and the mass ratio of PA:SA:AA was 100:23:25. When a crude glycerol/glucose mixture (60 g/L:30 g/L) was used for 6 consecutive batches with cell recycle, an average of 35.36 ± 2.17 g/L of PA was obtained per batch (0.51 gPA/gC-source) at a maximum rate of 0.35 g/L.h, and reaching a maximum biomass concentration of 12.66 gCDW/L. The PA:SA:AA mass ratio was 100:29:3. Further addition of 0.75 mg/L biotin as a supplement to the culture medium enhanced the cell growth reaching 21.89 gCDW/L, and PA productivity to 0.48 g/L.h, but also doubled AA concentration. Conclusion: This is the highest reported productivity from glycerol/glucose co-fermentation where majority of the culture medium components comprised industrial by-products (crude glycerol and HTPJ). HCD batch fermentations with cell recycling are promising approaches towards industrialization of the bioprocess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new cocrystal (ACP−SA) of 4−acetylpyridine (ACP) with succinic acid (SA) has been synthesized by slow evaporation method and characterized. The single crystal X-ray diffraction technique confirmed the coexistence of ACP and SA molecules in a 1:0.5 ratio in an asymmetric unit. The ACP−SA crystallizes in a monoclinic space group P21/n, with a = 9.0185(14) Å, b = 8.8955(14) Å, c = 10.9044(18) Å, β = 93.017(3)°, V = 873.6(2) Å3, Z = 4. Classical O−H⋯N and non classical C−H⋯O hydrogen bonds aid in stabilizing the supramolecular architecture of ACP−SA by creating D(2) and R 4 4 (22) motifs. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) computations were performed to get insights into the structure and intermolecular interactions of ACP−SA cocrystal. The TGA/DSC thermogram revealed that the cocrystal began to degrade at temperatures over 78 °C and retained its crystallinity up to 106 °C. The nature of the interactions and their contribution to the crystal packing is quantitatively measured using Quantum topological atoms in molecule (QTAIM), 3D Hirshfeld surfaces analysis and 2D fingerprint plots. The maximum percentage contribution of H⋯H (40%), O⋯H (32%) and C⋯H (11.6%) interactions were identified from Hirshfeld surfaces analysis. With the aid of both experimental and computational methods, the crystal packing and hydrogen bonding were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been proposed that the quality of acidic soils can be improved in the presence of alkaline byproduct amendments containing silicon (Si), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K). In the present study, we aimed to explore the effect of byproduct amendments on ameliorating acidic soil in Jiaodong Peninsula of China in the existence of different types of low-molecular-weight organic acids (LOAs, such as malic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, and succinic acid) that are usually excreted by plant roots. Therefore, a 60-day incubation test was carried out to assess the effect of byproduct amendments and LOAs on soil physicochemical properties, soil available Mg and Ca, cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil respiration, and enzyme activities. The results showed that in the presence of LOAs, the byproduct amendments could still increased the soil pH and decreased the soil exchangeable acid and exchangeable Al3+. Compared with the control group (CK), all byproduct amendment-containing treatments could increase soil available Mg and Ca, soil CEC, soil respiration, and soil sucrase (S-SC) activity. The addition of byproduct amendments could significantly improve the chemical and biological properties of the acidic brown soils in Jiaodong Peninsula of China. However, LOAs, especially the LOAs that could precipitate with Ca in byproduct amendments, negatively impair the ameliorating effect on acidic soil compared with byproduct amendments alone treatment. When using byproduct amendments to ameliorate acidic soil, the type of LOAs secreted by plant roots was an influencing factor that must be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic usage by microbes as a carbon source is a promising strategy to increase the recycling quota. 1,4‐butanediol (BDO) is a common monomer derived from polyesters and polyurethanes. In this study, Ustilago trichophora was found to be an efficient cell‐factory to valorize BDO. To investigate product formation by U. trichophora, we refined the traditional ion exclusion liquid chromatography method by examining eluent, eluent concentrations, oven temperatures, and organic modifiers to make the chromatography compatible with mass spectrometry. An LC‐UV/RI‐MS2 method is presented here to identify and quantify extracellular metabolites in the cell cultures. With this method, we successfully identified that U. trichophora secreted malic acid, succinic acid, erythritol, and mannitol into the culture medium. Adaptive laboratory evolution followed by medium optimization significantly improved U. trichophora growth on BDO and especially malic acid production. Overall, the carbon yield on the BDO substrate was approximately 33% malic acid. This study marks the first report of a Ustilaginaceae fungus capable of converting BDO into versatile chemical building blocks. Since U. trichophora is not genetically engineered, it is a promising microbial host to produce malic acid from BDO, thereby contributing to the development of the envisaged sustainable bioeconomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methane (CH4), which is an important component of the greenhouse gases from paddy ecosystems, is a major contributor to climate change. CH4 emissions from paddy ecosystems are closely related to the rice root system; however, how the rice root system affects CH4 emissions remains unclear. We conducted a field experiment in 2023 at the Heping Irrigation District Rice Irrigation Experiment Station in Qing'an County, Heilongjiang Province. The field experiment used five local rice varieties with similar fertility periods to observe rice root morphology and physiology indexes, CH4 emission fluxes, and cumulative CH4 emissions. A structural equation model (SEM) was established to investigate the effects of root characteristics on the CH4 emissions from rice and understand the potential mechanisms of these effects. The results showed that the seasonal patterns of CH4 emission fluxes were similar in different rice varieties, and that, during the tillering to heading–flowering stages, the cumulative CH4 emissions accounted for 89.8–92.6% of the total cumulative CH4 emissions of rice. Significant negative correlations were observed between CH4 emission fluxes and root volume, root dry weight, root oxidation activity (ROA), and root radial oxygen loss (ROL) (r = −0.839, −0.885, −0.401 and −0.934, p < 0.05), while there were significant positive correlations between root diameter; malic acid, citric acid, and succinic acid contents; and CH4 emission fluxes (r = 0.407, 0.753, 0.797, and 0.685, p < 0.05). The SEM showed that CH4 emission fluxes were directly influenced by ROL and organic acid contents, while the other root indicators had indirect effects by modulating ROL and organic acid contents. ROL and root volume had the largest total effect, indicating that ROL and root volume were the most significant root physiological and morphological indicators affecting CH4 emission fluxes. This study provides theoretical support and reference data for achieving sustainable agricultural development in the black soil region of Northeast China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an FDA-approved drug for treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; but it is susceptible to sublimation leading to its loss during processing. Cocrystals can protect against thermal energy via the interaction of DMF with a coformer via weak forces of interaction. With this hypothesis, we have, for the first time, prepared DMF cocrystals using the solvent evaporation method using coformers like citric acid and succinic acid screened by in-silico predictions and hydrogen bonding properties. Analysis using infra-red (IR), powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and sublimation evaluation characterized cocrystals and their thermostability. Comparative analysis of the release profile has been done by dissolution and pharmacokinetic study of DMF and its cocrystals. The cocrystals have improved thermal stability and better pharmacological activities than DMF. In the safety and efficacy evaluation of the formulated cocrystals, they were found to be non-cytotoxic, antioxidant, and inhibiting IL-6 and TNF-α in PBMC induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We have obtained cocrystals of DMF with improved thermal stability and better pharmacological activities than DMF. [Display omitted] • DMF cocrystals have been prepared using the slow evaporation method. • DMF cocrystals are more thermostable than DMF and less prone to sublimation. • DMF cocrystals have similar pharmacokinetics as DMF. • DMF cocrystals have better pharmacological activities than DMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics have constituted the mainstay of acne therapy despite acne being classified as an inflammatory disorder. The indiscriminate usage of antibiotics over the years has thus fueled the issue of antimicrobial resistance. Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) can acquire resistance due to chromosomal mutation or genetic acquisition. C. acnes can transfer resistance to other resident flora, complicating the management of skin and soft tissue infections. It can also transfer resistant strains to other body sites and to immunocompromised and elderly patients thus putting them at risk of serious infections. Recent studies have highlighted the physiologic role of C. acnes in maintaining the normal homeostasis of the skin microbiome. The role of Malassezia in causation of acne has piqued interest in recent times. The efficacy of antibiotics in acne is attributed to their para‐antibiotic, anti‐inflammatory action rather than antimicrobial action. Thus, usage of low‐dose antibiotics and alternatives to antibiotics has been advocated. Some alternative therapies showing efficacy in acne are probiotics, oral zinc, precision therapy using succinic acid, bacteriophages, and anti‐biofilm therapy like myrtacin, topical azelaic acid, and salicylic acid. Using isotretinoin in early stages of acne can reduce the incidence of scarring and alleviate the need for antibiotics. Thus, a gradual shift from antibiotics to alternative therapies in acne is the need of the hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report on the role of H-bonding in the growth of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP) crystals with additives like malic acid (MA), succinic acid (SA) and ascorbic acid (ASA). Pure and the additives doped ADP single crystals grown by natural evaporation method at room temperature are analysed for the intermolecular interactions and are examined by powder X-ray diffraction. The results confirm that the samples are single crystalline with additional planes due to additives in the solution. DSC thermograms for ADP and doped ADP crystals show that the additives increase the stability of the crystal and the latent heat of fusion (ΔHf) of the samples depend inversely on the H-bond distances. Results from the FT-IR spectra indicate minimal influence of additives on the grown ADP crystal. Changes in the O–H–O hydrogen bond reflect the local environment. The additives show a marginal influence on the dipole moment values, with the doped ADP showing higher values than pure ADP. The NLO properties exhibit a reverse trend, with ADP + MA showing nearly seven times the value of pure ADP crystal. The enhanced stability and NLO property of the doped ADP compared with pure ADP demonstrate that the presence and strength of H-bonds play a key role in the overall structure of ADP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Succinic acid is one of the most used building blocks in different production chains. Conventionally, this carboxylic acid is produced through petrochemical routes, but can be also produced via biological routes. Many microorganisms, such as Actinobacillus succinogenes, synthesized succinic acid as an intermediate of many biochemical pathways, as the Krebs cycle. Nowadays, the industrial production of bio-succinic acid has been limited due to different critical issues, like the low productivity and yield and downstreaming processes. To improve the bio-based production, the operative conditions of the fermentation process needed to be optimized especially when agro-industrial residues were used as sugars feedstock. To this aim, in this study fermentation batch tests were performed by using different concentrations of A. succinogenes at a given glucose concentration. The results suggested that glucose consumption and succinic acid production were not directly influenced by the initial bacterial concentration respect to glucose concentration. But the best results were obtained at the ratio of bacteria:glucose equal to 1:1 and further tests will be necessary to implement succinic acid yield and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based succinic acid production holds great promise for the process sustainability through the use of renewable resources such as lignocellulosic biomass and the use of microorganisms that can utilize CO2 in fermentation processes. A critical review of the latest findings on succinic acid production from lignocellulosic biomass was discussed, by highlighting all the key aspects of optimization processes at different levels of the process from pre-treatment to succinic acid production. Chemical-physical pretreatments seemed to be the most appropriate for the pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass, but many strategies are still needed to solve the problem of variability in initial composition, the presence of post-treatment inhibitory compounds and the use of green solvent. In addition, the saccharization-fermentation process seemed to be the most suitable for the fermentative process of hydrolysates obtained from pretreatment to produce bio-based succinic acid. Certainly new studies and strategies are still needed to overcome the weaknesses of the whole process of succinic acid production from lignocellulosic biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Succinic acid is a key platform chemical in modern biochemical manufacturing. Optimization of the production of succinic acid production in terms of product titers and economy of resources is of vital importance. In this work, we have studied the succinic acid production by using both produced using growing and resting cells of Actinobacillus succinogenes. First, the process catalyzed by resting cells was enabled by the development of a two-step inoculum strategy which was crucial for the bacterial adaptation to the carbon source. The process was performed in the absence of nitrogen source, disabling cell duplication, and restricting endogenous respiration. While the product yields were almost identical when using growing cells (0.44 g‧g−1) and cells in resting state (0.43 g‧g−1); very interestingly, the by-product formation was dramatically reduced when operating with resting cells. Next, the format of resting cells was studied; biofilms were found to be more active than cells in suspension, in terms of specific activity, but the lower cellular concentration in biofilms affected negatively the acid final titers. Finally, a complete and simplified kinetic model was proposed and successfully fitted to the relevant retrieved data of biomass, substrate, products, and by-products both in production with growing and resting cells. These results pave the way for the optimization of succinic acid production processes with reduced nitrogen source consumption, promoting a higher selectivity to the target acid, which facilitates the subsequent downstream separation operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering Korea's gradual shift toward an aging society, consumer interest in compounds with physiological benefits, including antioxidant and anticancer effects, has surged. This study explored the potential of Tetragonia tetragonoides (Pall.) Kunze, commonly known as New Zealand Spinach (NZS), a halophyte with reported health benefits, including efficacy in treating gastrointestinal diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. This study also introduced a novel callus culture system for NZS, allowing for the rapid in vitro production of secondary metabolites. Optimal callus induction (100%) and biomass production (0.416 g) were achieved by adding 2.0 mg·L−1 6-BA (6-Benzylaminopurine) and 0.5 mg·L−1 2,4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) among five auxin and cytokinin combinations. Two distinct callus types, TGC [TDZ (Thidiazuron)-supplemented Green Callus] and TNYC [TDZ + NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid)-supplemented Yellow Callus], were identified, each with unique characteristics. The calli showed total phenolic and flavonoid contents comparable to those of NZS leaves grown in the greenhouse. An expression analysis of six genes (CHS, CHI, F3H, F3′H, FLS, and DFR) involved in the kaempferol biosynthesis revealed an enhanced flavonoid biosynthesis-related gene expression in TGC, emphasizing its potential for compound production. GC-MS analysis identified distinct compound profiles in TGC and TNYC, with 2,3-butanediol and succinic acid being the predominant compounds among the nine and forty-four components, respectively. These calli offer a stable supply of functional compounds and present an environmentally sustainable solution. The derived callus culture system is anticipated to contribute to the development of healthy functional foods or pharmaceuticals from halophyte NZS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternaria alternata, a notorious phytopathogenic fungus, has been documented to infect several plant species, leading to the loss of agricultural commodities and resulting in significant economic losses. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) hold immense promise as biocontrol candidates. However, the potential of LABs derived from fruits remains largely unexplored. In this study, several LABs were isolated from tropical fruit and assessed for their probiotic and antifungal properties. A total of fifty-five LABs were successfully isolated from seven distinct fruits. Among these, seven isolates showed inhibition to growth of A. alternata. Two strains, isolated from fruits: Ficus benghalensis, and Tinospora cordifolia exhibited promising antifungal properties against A. alternata. Molecular identification confirmed their identities as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MYSVB1 and MYSVA7, respectively. Both strains showed adaptability to a wide temperature range (10--45 °C), and salt concentrations (up to 7%), with optimal growth around 37 °C and high survival rates under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Among these two strains, Lpb. plantarum MYSVB1 demonstrated significant inhibition (p < 0.01) of the growth of A. alternata. The inhibitory effects of cell-free supernatant (CFS) were strong, with 5% crude CFS sufficient to reduce fungal growth by >70% and complete inhibition by 10% CFS. Moreover, the CFS was inhibitory for both mycelial growth and conidial germination. CFS retained its activity even after long cold storage. The chromatographic analysis identified organic acids in CFS, with succinic acid as the predominant constituent, with lactic acid, and malic acid in descending order. LAB strains isolated from tropical fruits showed promising probiotic and antifungal properties, making them potential candidates for various applications in food and agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The production of halophyte plants, like Salicornia ramosissima, is increasing as they are highly valued for human consumption and due to their ability to grow in unutilized cultivation areas, like saline soils. However, only the green tips are commercialized, while the remaining plant is considered a residue. This study aimed to explore the potential of these salicornia by-products to be included in aquafeeds for juvenile European seabass, partially replacing wheat meal. The results obtained indicate that this substitution is possible with no apparent adverse effects on the fish and on the economic viability of the feeds. Additionally, the inclusion of salicornia in the diets was related to the decrease in compounds in fish muscle usually used as stress biomarkers and with the increase in DHA levels, one of the most relevant Omega-3 fatty acids for human nutrition. Therefore, data from this study suggest that salicornia by-products are a viable alternative to partially replace wheat meal in diets for juvenile European seabass, allowing salicornia farmers to valorize a residue and to implement the principles of circular economy in halophyte farming and the aquaculture industry. The green tips of Salicornia ramosissima are used for human consumption, while, in a production scenario, the rest of the plant is considered a residue. This study evaluated the potential of incorporating salicornia by-products in diets for juvenile European seabass, partially replacing wheat meal, aspiring to contribute to their valorization. A standard diet and three experimental diets including salicornia in 2.5%, 5% and 10% inclusion levels were tested in triplicate. After 62 days of feeding, no significant differences between treatments were observed in fish growth performances, feeding efficiency and economic conversation ratio. Nutrient digestibility of the experimental diets was unaffected by the inclusion of salicornia when compared to a standard diet. Additionally, salicornia had significant modulatory effects on the fish muscle biochemical profiles, namely by significantly decreasing lactic acid and increasing succinic acid levels, which can potentially signal health-promoting effects for the fish. Increases in DHA levels in fish fed a diet containing 10% salicornia were also shown. Therefore, the results suggest that salicornia by-products are a viable alternative to partially replace wheat meal in diets for juvenile European seabass, contributing to the valorization of a residue and the implementation of a circular economy paradigm in halophyte farming and aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(1,4-butylene succinate) (PBS) is a promising sustainable and biodegradable synthetic polyester. In this study, we synthesized PBS-based copolyesters by incorporating 5–20 mol% of –O2CC6H4CO2– and –OCH2CH2O– units through the polycondensation of succinic acid (SA) with 1,4-butanediol (BD) and bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). Two different catalysts, H3PO4 and the conventional catalyst (nBuO)4Ti, were used comparatively in the synthesis process. The copolyesters produced using the former were treated with M(2-ethylhexanoate)2 (M = Mg, Zn, Mn) to connect the chains through ionic interactions between M2+ ions and either –CH2OP(O)(OH)O− or (–CH2O)2P(O)O− groups. By incorporating BHET units (i.e., –O2CC6H4CO2– and –OCH2CH2O–), the resulting copolyesters exhibited improved ductile properties with enhanced elongation at break, albeit with reduced tensile strength. The copolyesters prepared with H3PO4/M(2-ethylhexanoate)2 displayed a less random distribution of –O2CC6H4CO2– and –OCH2CH2O– units, leading to a faster crystallization rate, higher Tm value, and higher yield strength compared to those prepared with (nBuO)4Ti using the same amount of BHET. Furthermore, they displayed substantial shear-thinning behavior in their rheological properties due to the presence of long-chain branches of (–CH2O)3P=O units. Unfortunately, the copolyesters prepared with H3PO4/M(2-ethylhexanoate)2, and hence containing M2+, –CH2OP(O)(OH)O−, (–CH2O)2P(O)O− groups, did not exhibit enhanced biodegradability under ambient soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A environment-friendly polymer blends were prepared by the basis of bio-sourced polylactide (PLA) and aliphatic poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) via melt compounding process. 1,4-butanediol and succinic acid was used together with tetrabutyltitanate as catalyst to synthesize PBS via esterified and polycondensation. The chemical structure of PBS was studied by 1H NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The effects PBS content on thermal behavior, mechanical properties, phase morphology, and thermal stability of PLA/PBS blends were systematically investigated. DSC and DMA results showed that glass transition temperature (Tg) and cool crystallizaiton temperature (Tcc) of PLA was influenced by PBS. The different phase morphologies of the PLA/PBS blends formed after addition of PBS into PLA. The various phase morphologies from that blend influenced the rheological behavior and further influenced the mechanical properties in PLA/PBS blends, the well dispersed PBS increased the elongation at break of 8.1 ± 0.1 kJ/m2 with around 80.0% over than neat the PLA. Finally, the PLA/PBS blends have excellent mechanical and thermal properties by analyzing the toughening mechanism and crystallization morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although a high titre of malic acid is achieved by filamentous fungi, by‐product succinic acid accumulation leads to a low yield of malic acid and is unfavourable for downstream processing. Herein, we conducted a series of metabolic rewiring strategies in a previously constructed Myceliophthora thermophila to successfully improve malate production and abolish succinic acid accumulation. First, a pyruvate carboxylase CgPYC variant with increased activity was obtained using a high‐throughput system and introduced to improve malic acid synthesis. Subsequently, shifting metabolic flux to malate synthesis from mitochondrial metabolism by deleing mitochondrial carriers of pyruvate and malate, led to a 53.7% reduction in succinic acid accumulation. The acceleration of importing cytosolic succinic acid into the mitochondria for consumption further decreased succinic acid formation by 53.3%, to 2.12 g/L. Finally, the importer of succinic acid was discovered and used to eliminate by‐product accumulation. In total, malic acid production was increased by 26.5%, relative to the start strain JG424, to 85.23 g/L and 89.02 g/L on glucose and Avicel, respectively, in the flasks. In a 5‐L fermenter, the titre of malic acid reached 182.7 g/L using glucose and 115.8 g/L using raw corncob, without any by‐product accumulation. This study would accelerate the industrial production of biobased malic acid from renewable plant biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ideally, the dressings used in the clinic have characteristics that help the wound closure process. Among several factors that affect the success of this healing process, there is debridement. It manages the wound bed components and the re-epithelialization process. Still, the property of debridement is not generally associated with dressings. Here, we show a chemically modified bacterial cellulose film conjugated to a proteolytic enzyme, papain, as a dressing with debridement properties. Bacterial cellulose films were reacted with a spacer derived from succinic acid and finally had this enzyme covalently immobilized in its structure by an amide bond. FT-IR and UV–vis showed bands typically of bioconjugated polymer. Enzymatic immobilization was very effective under the conditions applied with high yield (33% w/w), and these remained activated after the coupling reaction. The bacterial cellulose film with the enzyme papain attached to it was also very compatible with fibroblast cells, suggesting that it could be a promising wound dressing material for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of succinic acid from corn stover is a promising and sustainable route; however, during the pretreatment stage, byproducts such as organic acids, furan-based compounds, and phenolic compounds generated from corn stover inhibit the microbial fermentation process. Selecting strains that are resistant to stress and utilizing nondetoxified corn stover hydrolysate as a feedstock for succinic acid production could be effective. In this study, A. succinogenes CICC11014 was selected as the original strain, and the stress-resistant strain A. succinogenes M4 was obtained by atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis and further screening. Compared to the original strain, A. succinogenes M4 exhibited a twofold increase in stress resistance and a 113% increase in succinic acid production when hydrolysate was used as the substrate. By conducting whole-genome resequencing of A. succinogenes M4 and comparing it with the original strain, four nonsynonymous gene mutations and two upstream regions with base losses were identified. Key points: • A high-stress-resistant strain A. succinogenes M4 was obtained by ARTP mutation • The production of succinic acid increased by 113% • The mutated genes of A. succinogenes M4 were detected and analyzed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial electrochemical systems have shown great value as a means of enhancing the efficiency of fermentation reactions, but at present, there is no reliable means to balance the extracellular electron supply and corresponding intracellular demands in these systems. The current work describes the unique use of an oxidation–reduction-potential (ORP)-level-controlled microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) system to successfully balance the extracellular electron supply and succinic acid fermentation via A. succinogenes (130Z). The ORP-controlled MEC system with neutral red (NR) yielded a significant increase in succinic acid production (17.21%). The utilization of NR in this MEC system improved the ORP regulatory sensitivity. The optimal approach to the ORP level control was the use of a −400 mV high-voltage electric pulse-based strategy, which increased the yield of succinic acid by 13.08% compared to the control group, and reduced the energy consumption to 52.29% compared to the potentiostatic method. When compared to the −1 V constant potential MEC system, the high-voltage electric pulse-based ORP strategy for the MEC system control provided sufficient electrons to this system while using less electricity (11.96%) and producing 12.48% (74.43 g/L) more succinic acid during fed-batch fermentation. The electronic utilization efficiency of the ORP-controlled MEC system was 192.02%, which was 15.19 times that of the potentiostatic system. The electronic utilization efficiency is significantly increased in the ORP-controlled MEC system. Succinic acid production is ensured by a high-voltage electric pulse-based method, while the influence on cell growth and power consumption are minimized. Fed-batch fermentation with the high-voltage electric pulse-based ORP strategy for MEC system control is noted to be ideal to achieve a further increase in succinic acid concentration and electronic utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the variances in the organic, chemical, and sensory attributes of fermented coffee beans, specifically examining how post-harvest processes influence cup quality. Coffee fruits from the Catuaí IAC-144 variety were processed using both natural coffee (NC) and pulped coffee (PC) methods. The fruits were then subjected to self-induced anaerobic fermentation (SIAF) using one of the following fermentation methods: solid-state fermentation (SSF) or submerged fermentation (SMF). Within these methods, either spontaneous fermentation (SPF) or starter culture fermentation (SCF) was applied. Each method was conducted over periods of 24, 48, and 72 h. For this purpose, two-hundred-liter bioreactors were used, along with two control treatments. Numerous parameters were monitored throughout the fermentation process. A comprehensive chemical profiling and sensory analysis, adhering to the guidelines of the Specialty Coffee Association, were conducted to evaluate the influence of these fermentation processes on the flavor, aroma, and body characteristics of the coffee beverage across multiple dimensions. Data analysis and predictive modeling were performed using machine learning techniques. This study found that NC exhibited a higher production of acids (citric, malic, succinic, and lactic) compared to PC, resulting in distinct chemical and sensory profiles. The decision tree showed that fructose and malic and succinic acids were identified as the main factors enhancing sensory notes during cupping. SMF promoted higher concentrations of lactic acid, while SSF led to increased ethanol content. Consequently, the SIAF process enhances the sensory quality of coffee, adding value to the product by generating diverse sensory profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the conducted study was to isolate, identify and characterize suitable bacterial strains from UCG wastewater as potential candidates for the bioaugmentation approach. For this purpose, the straightforward cultivation procedure and unique biochemical selection were employed to gain insights into the specific properties of bacteria. From the 100 strains isolated from UCG wastewater, three (Paenibacillus pasadensis SAFN-007, Peanibacillus humicus Au34, and Staphylococcus warneri DK131) demonstrated the capacity to degrade phenol and specific biochemical properties. Phenol degradation reached more than 90% for the above-mentioned strains, while the average phenol removal rate for other selected strains was 82.9%, ranging from 66.1% to 90%. The bacterial strains belong to multi-enzyme producers and constitute a possible source of potential technologically important enzymes. Phenotypic microarray plates were used to characterise the metabolic properties of the strains. It was found that 74%, 67.4% and 94.2% of the carbon metabolites tested were utilised by Paenibacillus pasadensis SAFN-007, Peanibacillus humicus Au34 and Staphylococcus warneri DK131, respectively. Among C sources, the strains have the capability to metabolize some substrates appearing in phenol pathways, such as: N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, succinic acid, a-hydroxy-glutaric acid-α-lactone, bromosuccinic acid, mono-methyl succinate, methyl-pyruvate, p-hydroxy-phenyl acetic acid, m-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, L-galactonic acid-β-lactone, D-galactonic acid-γ-lactone, phenylethylamine. Bacteria show different levels of tolerance to pH and osmolality, and they can thrive in different habitats. Another characteristic of these strains is their high resistance to many antibiotics (multi-resistant bacteria). These properties allow the use of the isolated bacterial strains as good candidates for bioremediation of phenol-contaminated environments. The wastewater from the underground coal gasification process is an example of a good extreme environment for the isolation of unique bacteria with specific metabolic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A process for synthesizing UV-curable ester/acrylate precursors from dicarboxylic acid mixtures, oxidized chemical recycling products of HDPE milk bottles, has been developed. The behavior and properties of the non-purified oxidized products were compared to its commercial diacid single components in producing the precursors. Two as-received oxidized products obtained at different conditions, i.e., Oxi-1 and Oxi-2, containing molar compositions of succinic acid (C4): glutaric acid (C5): adipic and longer dicarboxylic acids (C6+) of 55: 23: 22 and 67: 9: 24, were employed. The precursors were produced at high yields by end-capping the carboxylic groups with hydroxyethyl acrylate, utilizing p-TSA catalyst and MEHQ radical scavenger. With 5 mol% p-TSA and 3 wt% MEHQ, a reaction at 120 °C for 2 h was effective for synthesizing the precursors from Oxi-1, Oxi-2, and succinic acid. However, the optimal condition for adipic acid was at 140 °C for 4 h, implying lower esterification reactivity due to its longer methylene sequence. All ester/acrylate precursors were fully cured under UV lights within 10 min. DMA results of cured films from neat precursors (100CL-series) indicate that those derived from longer diacids yielded crosslinked networks with relatively lower Tg and rubbery plateau. However, when only 10% of the precursors were used as crosslinkers for acrylic acid/ethyl-hexyl acrylate (10CL-series), the influence of the starting material's diacid composition on the film's properties was lowered. The oxidized products from the nitric oxidation of HDPE have a high potential as value-added starting materials for UV-crosslinkers comparable to those from pure commercial diacids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel nanocomposites based on Polylactic acid (PLA) and Poly(glycerol succinic acid) (PGSU) containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles was prepared by salt leaching technique. FTIR, 1 H NMR, and 13 C NMR analysis evaluated molecular structures of synthesized PGSU. Prepared scaffolds were examined by FTIR and XRD analysis, and their results showed that possible interactions between PLA, PGSU, and n-HA can be seen, and also, the presence of PGSU decreased the amount of crystallinity. Microstructure analysis revealed that porous 3D structures could be seen on all samples even though interconnect structures on PLA70PGSU30H5 were visible. Dispersion of nanoparticles on the nanocomposite scaffolds was characterized, and their results showed that PGSU having functional groups has helped to dispersion and distribute nanoparticles. The thermal stability of the samples was done at high temperature due to the good interactions between the functional groups of polymer pairs and surface of nanoparticles, especially in samples PLA50PGSU50H5 and PLA70PGSU30H5, which were evaluated in the TGA test. Mechanical properties were done on dry and wet conditions on all of the scaffolds, and results showed that the bulk modulus of scaffolds containing PGSU has decreased and the pressure tolerance in these samples has decreased, but the volumetric strain has increased. Dynamic contact angles showed that the presence of PGSU and n-HA positively affected the hydrophobicity properties of PLA. MTT, Dapi, and cell adhesion analysis emphasized that the sample of PLA70PGS30H5 showed reasonable behavior against other samples. Also, Alizarin red exhibited that PGSU had a practical effect on different and standard culture mediums on the creation of calcination zones. Real-time PCR analysis was carried out on selected samples, and osteocalcin and osteopontin gens expressions showed that the presence of PGSU into PLA increases gene expression, and the addition of n-HA showed more intensity to the expression of the gens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]