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Sap yield for maple syrup production is well studied at annual scale. However, the phenological timings of sap production have been less explored. Our study tested the use of rain gauges for monitoring timings and dynamics of sap production at daily temporal resolution. The batteries of the rain gauges were tested under controlled conditions at temperatures ranging from -20 to 5 °C and logging intervals of 15 and 30 minutes. In 2022, eight rain gauges were installed in the field on maples located in four sites along a latitudinal gradient in Quebec, Canada. The batteries performed well at all temperatures in both field and controlled conditions, showing a higher state of charge at logging intervals of 30 minutes with temperatures warmer than -15 °C. The dynamics of sap exudation were correlated among and within sites, demonstrating that trees respond to common environmental factors at regional scale. The natural sap production was discontinuous, alternating productive and non-productive days. Overall, 74% of the sap was exudated during 20% of the sugar season, which matched the proportions described by the Pareto law. Such a heterogeneous and unbalanced distribution in sap exudation exposes small producers to challenges for the use of equipment and makes maple syrup production sensitive to climate hazards in a context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Using the framework of Adult Learning Theory, this study worked to uncover the composition of rural landowners' information sources and learner characteristics that impact information-seeking behavior among maple syrup producers in Wisconsin. Design: Regression models were used to analyze data from a survey targeted at Wisconsin maple syrup producers (N = 677). Findings: Maple syrup producers mostly learn through interactions with peers and underutilize expert resources, but opinion leaders and early adopters of new technologies are more likely to seek information through both formal and informal knowledge networks than maple producers who are not influencers in their community. Extrinsic motivation was associated with maple producers' tendency to engage in optimal knowledge acquisition, whereas intrinsic motivation was not. Practical implications: Professionals can optimize resources to design outreach programs and develop marketing strategies by targeting landowners based on their learner characteristics. Theoretical implications: Our research contributes to the adult learning literature and advances the theoretical understanding of micro-Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems by investigating the influence of different types of learning motivations on optimal knowledge acquisition. Originality/Value: This study identified landowner characteristics related to optimal knowledge acquisition and is the first to highlight the roles of family legacy and social norms as motivators that drive maple producers to acquire new skills and knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the widespread empirical adoption of calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2) for sanitizing 3/16-inch tubing after the maple sap collection season, there remains a dearth of scientific data on its best practice and effectiveness. To address this gap, we cultivated microbial mass in tubing through continuous maple sap flow at 7 °C for 5 weeks in the lab. The tubing was sanitized with 200, 400, or 600 ppm Ca(ClO)2 and retained Ca(ClO)2 for either 10 min, 1 h, 7 days, or 6 weeks. Half of the tubing segments underwent microbial analysis, while the other half were stored for 6 weeks post-flushing of the Ca(ClO)2 to determine microbial survival/growth. The level and presence of the microbial load were determined, and the inner tubing surfaces were visualized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The initial microbial load in the tubing was approximately 4–5 log CFU/cm2. A 10-min and 1 h contact time with 200 ppm Ca(ClO)2, and a 10-min exposure to 400 ppm Ca(ClO)2, achieved reductions of 2.4–2.8 log for Pseudomonas spp., 1.6–2.5 log for mold and yeast, and 2.3–3.3 log for psychrotrophic microorganisms. Microorganisms were recovered from the enrichment process after retaining 200 ppm Ca(ClO)2 for 6 weeks, indicating insufficient inactivation. Consequently, the data suggests the use of at least 400 ppm Ca(ClO)2 for 1 day. The SEM images supported the microbial count results, offering valuable insights for educating maple syrup producers on optimal tubing sanitation practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate projections across Québec indicate increased water stress and recurrent vulnerability of cropping systems. In recent years, reports of droughts and water stress have been recorded across the province. Many parts of Québec have experienced droughts in the past few years, which have had uninvestigated impacts on crops. These droughts have been described as some of the most significant in the last 80 years. On the positive side, climate change is likely to trigger shorter winters and therefore longer growing seasons for several crops. However, for crops like maple syrup, the regions suitable for their cultivation will shift northwards. Despite these projections, studies monitoring the susceptibility of barley to environmental changes, climate variability, and adaptive capacity across Québec are still limited. This study aims to provide a provincial-scale portrait of vulnerability of barley in Québec based on historical growing season precipitation, barley yield, and socioeconomic data (literacy and poverty rates) using a composite statistical model. Growing season precipitation data were downloaded from Ouranos. Barley yield data were collected from the Institut de la Statistique du Québec, and the socio-demographic data were collected from the Advisory Council of Poverty and the Institut de la Statistique du Québec. A vulnerability index with sub-indices (sensitivity, exposure, and adaptive capacity) is deployed. It is hypothesised that (1) vulnerability is inversely associated with adaptive capacity, and (2) the peripheral regions of Québec are more vulnerable and less adaptive to climate stressors. Initial results show that when the vulnerability index for barley is more prominent, the associated index of adaptive capacity is relatively lower. A significant gradient between the peripheral and southern regions of Québec is observed, with vulnerability lowest around Montreal/Laval and gradually increasing towards the peripheral regions. A better understanding of vulnerability warrants a change in approach from focusing solely on climate-related variables to integrating socioeconomic proxies. The challenge, however, has been how to introduce these socioeconomic proxies into empirical and process-based crop models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, tree sap has been used globally for medicinal purposes, in fermented beverages, and for syrup production. Maple tree sap is notably concentrated into syrup and is valued as a natural sweetener rich in phenolic compounds and minerals compared to refined sugar. Recently, syrups from other trees like black walnut (Juglans nigra) and sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) have gained popularity, yet their properties are not well understood scientifically. To address this gap, we collected sycamore, black walnut, and maple syrup samples and analyzed their physicochemical and functional properties. Our findings showed significant differences among the syrups in pH, browning intensity, and water activity (p < 0.05). Sycamore syrup had the highest total phenolic content, followed by black walnut and maple syrups. Both black walnut and sycamore syrups exhibited similar antioxidant activity, significantly higher than maple syrup (p < 0.05). High-resolution mass spectrometry identified 54 phenolic acids and 22 flavonoids in these syrups, including Acetylsalicylic acid, 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, and syringic acid, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, sycamore syrups and most black walnut syrups displayed varying degrees of antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and/or Gram-negative microorganisms. This study offers insights into the properties and potential health benefits of these specialty tree syrups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapping maple trees to produce maple syrup offers many benefits for producers. Since potential producers likely value some of these benefits more than others, communicators seeking to encourage more people to begin maple syrup production should use messaging that emphasizes the benefits that best resonate with potential producers. To test this strategy, known as emphasis message framing, we ran Facebook advertisements aimed at people living in Wisconsin, the fourth-leading U.S. state in annual maple syrup production, to test four message frames: building community, achieving food self-sufficiency, engaging in the lifestyle of working the land, and spending time in nature. Overall, the frame of working the land was the most effective in terms of link clicks and post reactions. However, among people ages 55+, who were more likely than younger Facebook users to engage with our advertisements, the food self-sufficiency frame received the most clicks while the nature frame received the most post reactions. In all age groups, women were more likely to click on our ads than men. These findings can be applied to future efforts to grow the number of small-scale maple syrup producers in Wisconsin and beyond. Additionally, our results underscore the importance of establishing a clear goal and segmenting audiences when designing social media campaigns. Our methods can serve as a blueprint for anyone seeking to empirically test the effectiveness of different message frames in public outreach related to agriculture or food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Neokestose is considered to have a prebiotic function. However, the physiological activity of neokestose remains unknown. Neokestose has a blastose, a sucrose analog, in its structure. We previously demonstrated that oral administration of blastose to diabetic rats suppressed the increase in plasma glucose (PG) concentration after sucrose administration. Therefore, neokestose might have a similar effect. In this study, we investigated the effects of neokestose on PG concentrations and the mechanism of its action. We first administered neokestose orally to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and observed that the expected consequent increase in PG concentration was significantly suppressed. Next, we examined the inhibitory effect of neokestose on glycosidase activity, but observed only a slight inhibitory effect. Therefore, we hypothesized that neokestose might be hydrolyzed by gastric acid to produce blastose. We performed an acid hydrolysis of neokestose using artificial gastric juice. After acid hydrolysis, peaks corresponding to neokestose and its decomposition products including blastose were observed. Therefore, we suggest that neokestose and blastose, a decomposition product, synergistically inhibit glycosidase activity. These findings support the potential use of neokestose as a useful functional oligosaccharide that can help manage plasma glucose concentrations in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Neokestose is considered to have a prebiotic function. However, the physiological activity of neokestose remains unknown. Neokestose has a blastose, a sucrose analog, in its structure. We previously demonstrated that oral administration of blastose to diabetic rats suppressed the increase in plasma glucose (PG) concentration after sucrose administration. Therefore, neokestose might have a similar effect. In this study, we investigated the effects of neokestose on PG concentrations and the mechanism of its action. We first administered neokestose orally to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and observed that the expected consequent increase in PG concentration was significantly suppressed. Next, we examined the inhibitory effect of neokestose on glycosidase activity, but observed only a slight inhibitory effect. Therefore, we hypothesized that neokestose might be hydrolyzed by gastric acid to produce blastose. We performed an acid hydrolysis of neokestose using artificial gastric juice. After acid hydrolysis, peaks corresponding to neokestose and its decomposition products including blastose were observed. Therefore, we suggest that neokestose and blastose, a decomposition product, synergistically inhibit glycosidase activity. These findings support the potential use of neokestose as a useful functional oligosaccharide that can help manage plasma glucose concentrations in patients with diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maple syrup is an important part of the economy in various regions of the United States. Studies on maple syrup production potential mostly use climatic factors as determinants and, therefore, fail to account for non-climatic factors. In this study, we applied a stochastic production function framework to establish a relationship between maple syrup yield and a set of climatic (temperature and tapping season length) and non-climatic determining factors, such as the number of maple trees and utilization rate of the potential number of taps. Tree characteristics, climatic, and other factors had mixed effects on syrup yield. The number of maple trees, the number of taps, and the minimum temperature had marginal negative effects on average syrup yield, while the length of the season and the maximum temperature had positive effects. A predictive model was developed and used to estimate the potential production of maple syrup under low, medium and high utilization levels in Kentucky, a likely region for maple syrup production. This model could be useful for maple syrup research, education, and extension in maple-producing states.

Abstract Background and objectives The literature about oral manifestations and dental management in maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is sparse. The aim of this report is to present a new case of MSUD with special emphasis on oral findings and to review the relevant literature. Method A case report of a 4-year-old boy with MSUD was described according to the CARE guidelines for describing case reports. Scoping review of relevant literature was performed, according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, by searching PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the grey literature for articles describing dental management and/or oral manifestations in MSUD. Results The initial search identified 219 articles, but only 4 met the inclusion criteria. Rampant caries and plaque induced gingivitis were the main oro-dental findings in MSUD. Other oral findings included enamel hypoplasia, skeletal abnormalities, and abnormal oral behaviors. Disease-related factors appeared to play a major role in the development of the observed oral phenotype. Conclusion Oral health in MSUD seems to be influenced by the reliance on semi-synthetic diet and associated neurocognitive complications. Tailored oral health promotional interventions should be included in the multidisciplinary management of patients with MSUD.

Sap exudation is the process whereby trees such as sugar (Acer saccharum Marsh.) and red maple (Acer rubrum L.) generate unusually high positive stem pressure in response to repeated cycles of freeze and thaw. This elevated xylem pressure permits the sap to be harvested over a period of several weeks and hence is a major factor in the viability of the maple syrup industry. The extensive literature on sap exudation documents competing hypotheses regarding the physical and biological mechanisms that drive positive pressure generation in maple, but to date, relatively little effort has been expended on devising mathematical models for the exudation process. In this paper, we utilize an existing model of Graf et al. (J Roy Soc Interface 12:20150665, 2015) that describes heat and mass transport within the multiphase gas–liquid–ice mixture in the porous xylem tissue. The model captures the inherent multiscale nature of xylem transport by including phase change and osmotic transport in wood cells on the microscale, which is coupled to heat transport through the tree stem on the macroscale. A parametric study based on simulations with synthetic temperature data identifies the model parameters that have greatest impact on stem pressure build-up. Measured daily temperature fluctuations are then used as model inputs and the resulting simulated pressures are compared directly with experimental measurements taken from mature red and sugar maple stems during the sap harvest season. The results demonstrate that our multiscale freeze–thaw model reproduces realistic exudation behavior, thereby providing novel insights into the specific physical mechanisms that dominate positive pressure generation in maple trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of antibiotics to promote growth and prevent diarrhea in livestock production has raised concerns about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits, have been proposed as alternatives to antibiotics. In this study, we produced and characterized a downgraded maple syrup-based feed supplement containing Bacillus velezensis FZB42 as a potential synbiotic for animal nutrition. An optimized fermentation medium was developed through a central composite design to produce B. velezensis FZB42 at both the laboratory and pilot scale, reaching a concentration of 6.15 ± 0.46 × 109 CFU/mL. Subsequently, B. velezensis FZB42 was incorporated into a protective whey permeate matrix and spray-dried, resulting in a 31.4% yield with a moisture content of 4.38%. The survival of B. velezensis FZB42 in a simulated gastrointestinal tract was evaluated using the TIM-1 system, revealing a survival rate of 16.05% after passage through the gastric, duodenal, jejunal, and ileal compartments. These findings highlight the possibility of B. velezensis FZB42 being an economically viable and possibly functional synbiotic supplement and effective alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in livestock production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The literature about oral manifestations and dental management in maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is sparse. The aim of this report is to present a new case of MSUD with special emphasis on oral findings and to review the relevant literature. Method: A case report of a 4-year-old boy with MSUD was described according to the CARE guidelines for describing case reports. Scoping review of relevant literature was performed, according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, by searching PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the grey literature for articles describing dental management and/or oral manifestations in MSUD. Results: The initial search identified 219 articles, but only 4 met the inclusion criteria. Rampant caries and plaque induced gingivitis were the main oro-dental findings in MSUD. Other oral findings included enamel hypoplasia, skeletal abnormalities, and abnormal oral behaviors. Disease-related factors appeared to play a major role in the development of the observed oral phenotype. Conclusion: Oral health in MSUD seems to be influenced by the reliance on semi-synthetic diet and associated neurocognitive complications. Tailored oral health promotional interventions should be included in the multidisciplinary management of patients with MSUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-industrial wood ash may be an effective forest soil nutrient supplement but its use in Canada is largely restricted because of unknown concentrations of trace metal contaminants. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marshall) is particularly sensitive to low soil calcium (Ca) levels, and though maple syrup is of great economic importance in Canada, it is unknown how wood ash could affect sap chemistry. Non-industrial wood ash (NIWA; 6 Mg·ha−1) applied to experimental plots in Muskoka, Ontario was rich in Ca (27%), while metal concentrations were well below provincial regulatory limits. One-year post-application, significant increases were observed in the treated plots in the soil pH and base cations (Ca, K, and Mg) in the surface soil horizons, and metal concentrations in the litter. Sap yield in the control plots was significantly lower in the first-year post-application than in the second year, but no other differences were found. In both tapping years, sap sweetness remained similar and differences in nutrient and metal concentrations between treatments were generally small and inconsistent. Foliar chemistry remained largely unchanged 1 year following application, except for K that was twice as high in the treated plots. Ultimately, NIWA is unlikely to significantly alter sugar maple sap chemistry, indicating that it is a viable nutrient supplement that can enhance soil fertility in sugar bushes with no impact on sap sweetness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Food adulteration is a global concern, whether it takes place intentionally or incidentally. In Canada, maple syrup is susceptible to being adulterated with cheaper syrups such as corn, beet, cane syrups, and many more due to its high price and economic importance. RESULTS: In this study, the use of attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy was investigated to detect maple syrups adulterated with 15 different sugar syrups at different concentration levels. The spectra were collected in the range of 4000–650 cm−1 in the absorbance unit. These spectra were used to build six libraries and three models. A method that is capable of performing a qualitative library search using a similarity search, which is based on the first derivative correlation search algorithm, was developed. This method was further evaluated and proved to be able to capture adulterated and reject non‐adulterated maple syrups, belonging to the color grades golden and amber maple syrups, with an accuracy of 93.9% and 92.3%, respectively. However, for the maple syrup belonging to the dark color grade, this method demonstrated low specificity of 33.3%, and for this reason it was only able to adequately detect adulterated samples from the non‐adulterated ones with an accuracy of 81.4%. CONCLUSION: This simple and rapid method has strong potential for implementation in different stages of the maple syrup supply chain for early adulteration detection, particularly for golden and amber samples. Further evaluation and improvements are required for the dark color grade. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Maple syrup is a sought-after commodity, and used as a condiment and a sweetener. Also, it is an active target of economically motivated adulteration (EMA), similar to other foods such as lemon juice and honey. Objective This study is aimed to detect low cost sugar adulteration in maple syrup via an internal standard method using malic acid through solid-phase extraction (SPE) and LC with isotope ratio mass spectrometric detection (LC–IRMS). Methods In this work, an optimized SPE sample preparation procedure was used for the isolation of organic acids from maple syrup. Using LC–IRMS, malic acid was separated from other organic acids and the δ13C value of malic acid was determined. Eleven maple syrup samples, domestic or imported from Canada, were evaluated for 13C/12C ratios (δ13C values) using combustion module—cavity ring down spectrometry (CM-CRDS) and compared to the δ13C values obtained from well-established elemental analyzer–isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA–IRMS) methods. The δ13C values of isolated malic acid analyzed by SPE–LC–IRMS were used as internal standards and compared to the δ13C values of bulk maple syrup; difference (δ13Csugars − δ13Cmalic acid) values greater than 3.6‰ are indicative of low-cost sugar adulteration. Results Overall, the results obtained from SPE–LC–IRMS provided a faster, novel analysis approach for determining low-cost sugar adulteration in maple syrup for regulatory purposes. This method also provided lower detectable limits of adulteration versus current literature reports using bulk analysis and comparable detection limits to Tremblay and co-workers who utilized an internal standard method. Conclusion SPE–LC–IRMS is a robust method that can be used for detecting adulteration in maple syrup samples for regulatory purposes. Highlights SPE-LC-IRMS is a faster, novel analysis approach for determining C4 adulteration in maple syrup with lower detection limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree sap is important in the diet of the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis). I investigated the use of 66 trees in sap feeding by gliders at 32 sites (equating to 32 glider groups) in eight surveys over 2 years in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales to evaluate the potential to use such trees in population monitoring. I estimated the probability of detecting two different types of glider incision made on the sap trees within 0-3 months of a survey: one representing bouts of sap feeding and the other representing the testing of the suitability of these trees for sap feeding. The probability of detecting each type of incision varied by season, being lowest in autumn and highest in spring (feeding: 0.30 ± 0.03 (s.e.) to 0.51 ± 0.04; testing: 0.40 ± 0.04 to 0.63 ± 0.03). I also investigated whether detection of any new incision differed between individual sap trees at a site. The probability of detection per survey was equivalent (0.76 ± 0.03) between trees and between years. The incisions accumulate over a year, so scoring any incisions made since a previous annual survey will increase this probability. New incisions were detected in each of the two sample years at all sites indicating short-term stability in home range occupancy and demonstrating a useful method of population monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overconsumption of added sugars is now largely recognized as a major culprit in the global situation of obesity and metabolic disorders. Previous animal studies reported that maple syrup (MS) is less deleterious than refined sugars on glucose metabolism and hepatic health, but the mechanisms remain poorly studied. Beyond its content in sucrose, MS is a natural sweetener containing several bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and inulin, which are potential gut microbiota modifiers. We aimed to investigate the impact of MS on metabolic health and gut microbiota in male C57Bl/6J mice fed a high-fat high-sucrose (HFHS + S) diet or an isocaloric HFHS diet in which a fraction (10% of the total caloric intake) of the sucrose was substituted by MS (HFHS + MS). Insulin and glucose tolerance tests were performed at 5 and 7 wk into the diet, respectively. The fecal microbiota was analyzed by whole-genome shotgun sequencing. Liver lipids and inflammation were determined, and hepatic gene expression was assessed by transcriptomic analysis. Maple syrup was less deleterious on insulin resistance and decreased liver steatosis compared with mice consuming sucrose. This could be explained by the decreased intestinal a-glucosidase activity, which is involved in carbohydrate digestion and absorption. Metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis revealed that MS intake increased the abundance of Faecalibaculum rodentium, Romboutsia ilealis, and Lactobacillus johnsonii, which all possess gene clusters involved in carbohydrate metabolism, such as sucrose utilization and butyric acid production. Liver transcriptomic analyses revealed that the cytochrome P450 (Cyp450) epoxygenase pathway was differently modulated between HFHS + S- and HFHS + MS-fed mice. These results show that substituting sucrose for MS alleviated dysmetabolism in diet-induced obese mice, which were associated with decreased carbohydrate digestion and shifting gut microbiota. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The natural sweetener maple syrup has sparked much interest as an alternative to refined sugars. This study aimed to investigate whether the metabolic benefits of substituting sucrose with an equivalent dose of maple syrup could be linked to changes in gut microbiota composition and digestion of carbohydrates in obese mice. We demonstrated that maple syrup is less detrimental than sucrose on metabolic health and possesses a prebiotic-like activity through novel gut microbiota and liver mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The teaching strategy of blended learning (incorporating both online and experiential education) was used to design a university course covering multiple aspects of maple syrup and sugar history, ecology, management, production, and consumption to attract students. A key aspect of the course is to introduce students with little-tono previous experience of traditional practices, indigenous knowledge, or ways of knowing that are different from Western academia, with the intent of building more cultural literacy and acknowledgments of diverse perspectives. The goal in developing course content was to explore the integrated fields that contribute knowledge related to maple syruping and sugaring activities, making it “something for everyone” to increase applicability for students of all levels and experiences, as well as increasing student enrollment and engagement. Student feedback and assessment from the course indicate increased understanding within core areas covered, as well as a strong partiality for content on cultural significance. Survey results of class outcomes demonstrate a successful approach, in addition to increasing enrollment of students from across campus. The course model may work well for other natural science topics, especially those that may attract students eager to learn and experience local foods or artisanal materials from natural systems. An overview of course content is provided along with examples of how the course could be adapted for other topics or regions of interest to further similar unit goals for developing more culturally literate students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maple syrup is a well-known natural sweetener made from the sap harvested from maple trees (Acer sp.). The North American scientific literature regarding maple syrup has predominantly originated in the Northeastern United States and Canada. However, the range of this Holarctic genus extends across the continent and all species produce sap with the potential for syrup production. This study focuses on two maple species commonly found in Northern Utah, namely the native boxelder (Acer negundo) and the introduced Norway maple (Acer platanoides). Thirty trees of each species were tapped in Cache Valley, UT, USA, on 19 Feb 2022, and measured for daily sap yield and sugar content until the season ended 37 days later on 27 Mar 2022. The same trees were re-tapped on 1 Mar 2023 and taps were removed 41 days later on 10 Apr 2023. Average 2022 sap yields were 22.1 L for boxelder and 7.5 L for Norway maple per tree. In 2023, average sap yields were 26.4 L for boxelder and 9.3 L for Norway maple per tree. Boxelder trees produced an average sap yield more than double that of Norway maple in both years. Sugar content was similar for both species ranging from 2.2% to 2.8%. Air temperatures were analyzed using data from Utah AgWeather System weather stations nearest to the trees, and air temperature had a significant impact on sap yield. It was found that an average daily air temperature of 0.5 °C and a daily air temperature difference of ∼10 °C with a minimum air temperature close to −5 °C and a maximum air temperature of ∼6 °C was the optimal condition for production. An analysis of the mineral nutrient concentrations in the sap and soil showed no correlation. These findings indicate that there is potential for using Utah’s maple species for syrup production.

Major listeriosis outbreaks have been associated with fresh produce contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Strains that synthesize the Pss exopolysaccharide (EPS) have an estimated 102 to 104-fold advantage over nonsynthesizing strains in causing listeriosis. They more readily attach to the surfaces of fruit and vegetables forming EPS-biofilms that better withstand stresses associated with produce storage and consumption. Here, we show that the threat to fresh produce safety posed by the listerial EPS-biofilms may be countered by broadly available maple products. We serendipitously discovered that aqueous extracts of wood from several Acer (maple) and Carya (pecan, hickory) species inhibit the formation of listerial EPS-biofilms without affecting bacterial viability. One active ingredient in maple wood was identified as nortrachelogenin-8'-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (NTG). At 120 μM, this lignan decreased colonization of the EPS-synthesizing L. monocytogenes on cantaloupe pieces by approximately 150-fold, and on cut celery and lettuce by 10 to 11-fold. Another lignan, lariciresinol, which is abundant in a common food sweetener, maple syrup, had antibiofilm activity comparable to that of NTG. Diluted in the range of 1:200 to 1:800 maple syrup from two random manufacturers prevented formation of listeiral EPS-biofilms. Importantly, not only did maple products drastically decrease colonization of fresh produce by the EPS-synthesizing strains, they also decreased, by 6 to 30-fold, colonization by the L. monocytogenes strains that do not synthesize measurable EPS, including strains from the infamous 2011 cantaloupe listeriosis outbreak. Inhibition of surface colonization by various listerial strains, broad availability of maple sap and syrup as well as maple lumber processing waste position maple products as potential antibiofilm agents for protecting fresh produce from L. monocytogenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental work developed a vegetable drink from coconut milk, pistachios and maple syrup to take advantage of the nutritional benefits contained in each ingredient. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used, employing an Analysis of Variance and Tukey's test, three beverage treatments (B1, B2 and B3) with four replicates, modifying the amounts of coconut milk, pistachios and maple syrup. Calcium content was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The treatment that obtained the highest calcium content was B3, with a statistical mean of 638.43±15.10 mg/kg, followed by B2 with a mean of 538.87±24.14 mg/kg, and finally B1 with a mean of 430.48±28.34 mg/kg. The results of the protein and fiber content analysis for the treatment with the highest calcium content (B3) were 3.95% and 2.75%, respectively. Microbiological analyses were also performed on B3. INEN Standard 2337 was used as a reference for the determination of the microbiological characteristics of juices, pulps, concentrates, nectars, fruit and vegetable drinks. All parameters evaluated in the vegetable drink met the requirements established by the reference standard, indicating that the product was produced under adequate hygienic conditions and is suitable for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maple syrup industry generates substandard syrups and sugar sand as by-products, which are underused. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the physicochemical composition of these products to assess their potential for valorization. Using HPLC analysis, we measured sugar and organic acid content as well as total polyphenol content using the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Additionally, we evaluated the in vitro digestibility using the TIM-1 model. We showed that the composition of ropy and buddy downgraded syrups is comparable to that of standard maple syrup, whereas sugar sand's composition is highly variable, with carbohydrate content ranging from 5.01 mg/g to 652.89 mg/g and polyphenol content ranging from 11.30 µg/g to 120.95 µg/g. In vitro bioaccessibility reached 70% of total sugars for all by-products. Organic acid bioaccessibility from sugar sand and syrup reached 76% and 109% relative to standard maple syrup, respectively. Polyphenol bioaccessibility exceeded 100% during digestion. This can be attributed to favorable extraction conditions, the breakdown of complex polyphenol forms and the food matrix. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that sugar sand and downgraded maple syrups exhibit digestibility comparable to that of standard maple syrup. Consequently, they hold potential as a source of polyphenols, sugar or organic acids for applications such as industrial fermentation or livestock feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maple syrup industry has growth potential in the United States. Foresters can help expand the maple syrup industry by supporting private forest management decisions to improve maple tree health and sap production. This study examined the influence of advice solicitation, active listening, and forester traits (i.e. expertise, confidence, trustworthiness, shared forestland values) on outcomes of professional advice about maple syrup production and sugarbush management. Regression models were used to analyze data from a survey targeted at Wisconsin maple syrup producers (n  = 149). Compared with unsolicited advice, advice outcomes were more positive when landowners actively sought it, although advice solicitation had a stronger influence on perceived quality of advice than advice utilization. Landowners evaluated advice more positively and had greater intention to use the advice when the forester actively listened to them. Perceiving positive traits in the forester has the strongest impact on landowners' evaluations and adoption of advice. Study Implications: By examining the role of forester traits, giving (un)solicited advice, and active listening in affecting private forest landowners' perceptions and use of advice about maple syrup production and sugarbush management, this study informs the design of training programs aimed at equipping foresters with effective communication skills. To achieve optimal communication outcomes, foresters should tactfully create the perception that the landowner requested their advice, such as by eliciting questions and encouraging landowners to explain their management motivations. Further, foresters should demonstrate expertise, show confidence, build trust, and create compatible management philosophies with the landowner by acknowledging the landowner's perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of antibiotics to promote growth and prevent diarrhea in livestock production has raised concerns about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits, have been proposed as alternatives to antibiotics. In this study, we produced and characterized a downgraded maple syrup-based feed supplement containing Bacillus velezensis FZB42 as a potential synbiotic for animal nutrition. An optimized fermentation medium was developed through a central composite design to produce B. velezensis FZB42 at both the laboratory and pilot scale, reaching a concentration of 6.15 ± 0.46 × 109 CFU/mL. Subsequently, B. velezensis FZB42 was incorporated into a protective whey permeate matrix and spray-dried, resulting in a 31.4% yield with a moisture content of 4.38%. The survival of B. velezensis FZB42 in a simulated gastrointestinal tract was evaluated using the TIM-1 system, revealing a survival rate of 16.05% after passage through the gastric, duodenal, jejunal, and ileal compartments. These findings highlight the possibility of B. velezensis FZB42 being an economically viable and possibly functional synbiotic supplement and effective alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in livestock production.

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry 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.)

Copyright of Forestry Chronicle is the property of Canadian Institute of Forestry 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 aim of the study was to investigate the effects of replacing refined beet sucrose in gingerbread with different types of sweeteners (cane sugar, sorbitol, xylitol, maple syrup). The content of fat, dry matter, dietary fibre, ash, crude protein, amino acids, selected microelements, and caloric value were determined. Organoleptic and dimensional (3D-analysis) properties were also evaluated. The fat content in samples ranged from 11.13% to 11.97%, crude fibre content - from 0.53% to 0.55%, ash content - from 0.72% to 1.06%, and crude protein - from 7.92% to 8.12%. The analysis of amino acids revealed that glutamic acid was dominant in the samples with its concentration ranging from 19.14 mg g-1 (control sample) to 23.88 mg g-1 (sample with maple syrup). The caloric value was the highest in the control sample which contained sucrose from sugar beet and the one containing xylitol (~4,480 cal g-1). The lowest - in the sample with maple syrup (4,247 cal g-1). The total content of selected microelements determined in the tested samples with atomic absorption spectrometry (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Ni, Cr, Cd and Pb) were within the limits permitted by the regulations of the Slovak legislation. The 3D analysis of samples with Volscan Profiler indicated that volume, width and height was better in the samples with sweeteners than in the control sample. The gingerbread with xylitol had best organoleptic properties, as evaluated by sensory panellists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the comparative effects of maple syrup and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on blood biochemical indicators in female albino rats with induced kidney stone disease. Maple syrup, rich in antioxidants, and AuNPs, known for their biomedical applications, were evaluated for their potential therapeutic benefits or risks in renal health. Twenty sexually mature female albino rats were divided into five groups, including two control groups and three treatment groups. The treatment groups received varying concentrations of ethylene glycol to induce kidney stones, with or without maple syrup or AuNPs. Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and albumin levels were measured, along with urinary oxalate and calcium concentrations. The group treated with maple syrup plus 100 mg/kg ethylene glycol showed a significant decrease in blood urea nitrogen levels compared to the negative control group (p<0.05), and a marked reduction in urinary oxalate and calcium levels (p<0.001). Conversely, the group treated with maple syrup plus 200 mg/kg ethylene glycol and AuNPs did not exhibit significant differences from the negative control. These findings suggest that maple syrup, particularly at lower concentrations of ethylene glycol, may have protective effects against kidney stone pathology, potentially due to its antioxidant properties. However, further research is needed to understand the implications of AuNPs and higher concentrations of ethylene glycol in such treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maple syrup contained sucrose, glucose, and fructose as major saccharides; it also contained FOS such as 1-kestose and nystose. Separation of Fructosyl Oligosaccharides in Maple Syrup by Using Charged Aerosol Detection. It was used to determine the content of saccharides in maple syrup, which revealed that it contained not only fructose, glucose, and sucrose but also FOS such as 1-kestose and nystose. While the RID method could only detect sucrose, glucose, and fructose, this optimized method using CAD was able to observe the several rare saccharides as well as the major saccharides such as sucrose. [Extracted from the article]

Maple syrup production represents a prominent form of ton-timber forest production across the northeastern United States and Canada. Similar to farmers, maple syrup producers face complex size and scope decisions about the size or product diversification of their operation. Drawing upon 24 semi-structured interviews with small- and medium-sized producers in Maine, we apply the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to identify factors contributing to producers’ size and scope decisions, including common challenges they face in achieving optimal size and scope. We find that attitude and perceived behavioral control guided by economic, personal, environmental and communal factors, contribute to size and scope decisions with minimal influence from perceived norms. Major challenges for maple syrup producers in achieving optimal size and scope include lack of capital to invest in technology upgrades and equipment, difficulty in finding additional accessible sugar and red maple stands, and lack of access to commercial kitchen facilities. We suggest future research, policy and management recommendations in addressing these challenges. These findings can help inform outreach and policy strategies to support the viability and sustainability of the maple syrup industry as well as be extended to other non-timber forest production practices.