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Bamboo shoots, as the young bamboo stems, are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as well as many bioactive substances beneficial to health, and are gaining in importance worldwide as a healthy food and dietary supplement. However, fresh bamboo shoots lignify rapidly after harvesting and contain cyanogenic glycosides, limiting the safe and healthy consumption of bamboo shoots. To this end, based on the changes in nutritional composition and the physiological properties of fresh and post-harvest bamboo shoots, factors affecting the preservation of post-harvest bamboo shoots are emphasized, including a series of physical and chemical regimes and various processing methods for post-harvest preservation. Furthermore, a systematic biorefinery approach for using bamboo shoot processing residue to prepare value-added products is also discussed. Finally, the article also discusses issues related to sustainable development, safeguarding food security, and addressing potential health impacts in order to provide a scientific basis for researchers to further develop and increase the added value of bamboo shoots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The Mediterranean diet (MD), known to prevent obesity, overweight and the related non communicable diseases (NCD), is based on typical dishes, foods and on a common cultural milieu. Although MD is the basis of dietary guidelines, the prevalence of obesity, overweight and NCD, is increasing both in Western regions, and even more in Middle Eastern regions (MER). This study aimed to analyze (i) the impact of different levels of adherence to the MD, in Italy and MER, on body mass index (BMI) (ii) the bromatological composition of a simulated 7-days food plan (7-DFP) based on Italian or MER typical meals, following MD criteria and the Italian or MER food base dietary guideline; (iii) the optimization of nutrients impacting on NCD. Methods The 7-DFPs were implemented using a dietary software. The association between adherence to MD and BMI was evaluated by pooled estimated ORs (with 95% confidence intervals and p-values). Pooled measures were obtained by the methods appropriate for meta-analysis. The different food-based guidelines have been compared. Results The pooled ORs of obese status comparing medium vs. high adherence to MD were: 1.19 (95% C.I.: 0.99; 1.42, p-value = 0.062) and 1.12 (95% C.I.: 0.90; 1.38, p-value = 0.311) for MER and Italy respectively. For the comparison of low vs. high adherence, the pooled ORs were 1.05 (95% C.I.: 0.88; 1.24, p-value = 0.598) for MER, and 1.20 (95% C.I.: 1.02; 1.41, p-value = 0.031) for Italy when outliers are removed. High adherence to the MD resulted as potential protective factor against obesity. In MER 7-DFP: total fats is higher (34.5 E%) vs. Italian 7-DFP (29.4 E%); EPA (20 mg) and DHA (40 mg) are lower than recommended (200 mg each); sugars (12.6 E%) are higher than recommended (

Background: The Mediterranean diet (MD), known to prevent obesity, overweight and the related non communicable diseases (NCD), is based on typical dishes, foods and on a common cultural milieu. Although MD is the basis of dietary guidelines, the prevalence of obesity, overweight and NCD, is increasing both in Western regions, and even more in Middle Eastern regions (MER). This study aimed to analyze (i) the impact of different levels of adherence to the MD, in Italy and MER, on body mass index (BMI) (ii) the bromatological composition of a simulated 7-days food plan (7-DFP) based on Italian or MER typical meals, following MD criteria and the Italian or MER food base dietary guideline; (iii) the optimization of nutrients impacting on NCD. Methods: The 7-DFPs were implemented using a dietary software. The association between adherence to MD and BMI was evaluated by pooled estimated ORs (with 95% confidence intervals and p-values). Pooled measures were obtained by the methods appropriate for meta-analysis. The different food-based guidelines have been compared. Results: The pooled ORs of obese status comparing medium vs. high adherence to MD were: 1.19 (95% C.I.: 0.99; 1.42, p-value = 0.062) and 1.12 (95% C.I.: 0.90; 1.38, p-value = 0.311) for MER and Italy respectively. For the comparison of low vs. high adherence, the pooled ORs were 1.05 (95% C.I.: 0.88; 1.24, p-value = 0.598) for MER, and 1.20 (95% C.I.: 1.02; 1.41, p-value = 0.031) for Italy when outliers are removed. High adherence to the MD resulted as potential protective factor against obesity. In MER 7-DFP: total fats is higher (34.5 E%) vs. Italian 7-DFP (29.4 E%); EPA (20 mg) and DHA (40 mg) are lower than recommended (200 mg each); sugars (12.6 E%) are higher than recommended (< 10 E%). Calcium, Zinc, and vitamin D do not reach target values in both 7-DFPs. Conclusion: This study highlights that, even when 7-DFPs follow MD and refer to nutrient needs, it is necessary to verify nutrient excesses or deficits impacting on NCD. High MD adherence is protective toward NCDs. MD principles, and energy balance should be communicated according to socioeconomic and educational levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT More information is needed on the potential of using drill cuttings (crushed rocks) from the oil industry in agriculture and forestry. An experiment in forest nursery was carried out to evaluate the influence of substrates formulated from onshore gravel on characteristics of Ipê-branco (Tabebuia roseoalba) seedlings (i.e., growth, quality, and nutrition). We used five gravimetric proportions of gravel from drill cuttings mixed with Pinus-bark - commercial substrate (Mecplant® Florestal 3): control with only commercial substrate and zero gravel (G0), 2.5 % gravel (G2.5), 5 % gravel (G5), 7.5 % gravel (G7.5), and 10 % gravel (G10). In general, high proportion of drill cuttings increases density and decrease current moisture and total porosity of the formulated substrates. The drill cuttings proportions G2.5, G5 and G7.5 significantly contributed to the available water and readily available water in these substrates, with percentage values ranging 23 – 30 % higher than the G10 substrate. Increasing the gravel proportion generally resulted in increased pH levels, P, Na, K and metals (Cu, Fe, Ni, Mn, Cd, Zn, Cr and Pb), except for Ca and Mg nutrients that decreased. Heavy metal contents in all substrates did not exceed the permissible values in legal standards. The G2.5 and G5 substrates increased by 20 % approximately the stem diameter and height of seedlings, and G2.5 proportion also affected the root dry mass and Dickson quality index, with values two times higher than G0 substrate. Multivariate analysis proved suitable as a complementary approach to evaluate the seedling quality. Drilling cuttings addition, in general, increased the accumulation of nutrients and heavy metals of the Ipê-branco seedlings, and G2.5 and G5 substrates provided the greatest accumulation of the nutrients P, Ca, Pb and Zn in the shoot, while G2.5 proportion contributed with higher accumulation of N, Ca, Fe, Cr, Mn and Pb in the root. Adding drill cuttings as a conditioning component of the substrate at 2.5 and 5 % proportions is a viable alternative for using this residue to produce high-quality Tabebuia roseoalba seedling.

Bamboo shoots, as the young bamboo stems, are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as well as many bioactive substances beneficial to health, and are gaining in importance worldwide as a healthy food and dietary supplement. However, fresh bamboo shoots lignify rapidly after harvesting and contain cyanogenic glycosides, limiting the safe and healthy consumption of bamboo shoots. To this end, based on the changes in nutritional composition and the physiological properties of fresh and post-harvest bamboo shoots, factors affecting the preservation of post-harvest bamboo shoots are emphasized, including a series of physical and chemical regimes and various processing methods for post-harvest preservation. Furthermore, a systematic biorefinery approach for using bamboo shoot processing residue to prepare value-added products is also discussed. Finally, the article also discusses issues related to sustainable development, safeguarding food security, and addressing potential health impacts in order to provide a scientific basis for researchers to further develop and increase the added value of bamboo shoots.

Intensive shallot cultivation needs high application rates of inorganic fertilizers that can cause environmental problems. Therefore, it is essential to lessen the rate of inorganic fertilizers by environmentally friendlier approaches, such as the application of biostimulants like amino acids. The present study determined the most effective dosage and application method of amino acid biostimulant to increase shallot yield and growth while using only half the amount of inorganic fertilizers. The research was arranged in a randomized complete block design with two factors and four blocks as replications. The first factor was the dose of amino acids biostimulant (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 L/ha), and the second factor was the application method (through leaves and soil). Data were observed on nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), manganese (Mn), boron (B), indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin, zeatin, kinetin, nitrate reductase activity (NRA), chlorophyll as well as the growth and yield of shallot. The results showed that the application of amino acids biostimulants increased IAA, gibberellin, and kinetin content in both application methods. Amino acids biostimulants increased N, P, K, B, Mn, and chlorophyll. Amino acids biostimulant 1 L/ha was the best dosage to increase leaf diameter, leaf dry weight, total dry weight, number of bulbs (5.63 per plant; 44%), and productivity (16.46 tons/ha; 33.77%). The application through the leaves improved NRA, leaf area, and crop growth rate. It was indicated that amino acid biostimulant through leaves provides a useful instrument for plant growth, allowing the reduction of inorganic fertilizer without compromising crop yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-based fertilizers have been ratified to be effective in ameliorating tea growth and the fertility of soil. However, the effect of integrated fertilization on tea growth and quality and the chemical properties of the soil in tea gardens are unclear. To address this, from 2020 to 2021, five different treatments were carried out in the greenhouse of the Tea Research Institute, Hangzhou, CAAS, including CK (control), NPK (chemical fertilizers), RC (rapeseed cake), NPK+B (chemical fertilizer + biochar), and NPK+RC, to investigate the effects of different fertilizations on soil chemistry and tea growth and quality. The results indicated that NPK+B and NPK+RC significantly improved the different amino acid and catechin concentrations in the young shoots, stems, and roots of the tea compared to the CK. The plant growth parameters, e.g., the plant height, no. of leaves, mid-stem girth, and fresh weights of stems and leaves, were significantly increased with integrated fertilization (NPK+B and NPK+RC) compared to the CK and solo organic and inorganic fertilizers. The chlorophyll contents (Chl a, Chl b, and Chl a+b) were generally higher with NPK+RC than with the CK (37%, 35%, and 36%), RC (14%, 26%, and 18%), and NPK (9%, 13%, and 11%) treatments. Integrated fertilization buffered the acidic soil of the tea garden and decreased the soil C:N ratio. NPK+RC also significantly increased the soil's total C (31% and 16%), N (43% and 31%), P (65% and 40%), available P (31% and 58%), K (70% and 25%), nitrate (504% and 188%), and ammonium (267% and 146%) concentrations compared to the CK and RC. The soil macro- (Mg and Ca) and micronutrients (Mn, Fe, Zn, and Cu) were significantly improved by the RC (100% and 72%) (49%, 161%, 112%, and 40%) and NPK+RC (88% and 48%) (47%, 75%, 45%, and 14%) compared to the CK. The chlorophyll contents and soil macro- and micronutrients were all significantly positively correlated with tea quality (amino acids and catechin contents) and growth. These results indicated that integrated fertilization improved the soil nutrient status, which is associated with the improvement of tea growth and quality. Thus, integrated nutrient management is a feasible tool for improving tea growth, quality, and low nutrient levels in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is a popular grain and forms part of the daily diet of people throughout the world. However, the consumption of rice and its products is sometimes limited by its high glycemic index due to its high starch content, low protein content and quality, and low bioavailability of minerals due to the presence of anti‐nutritional factors. This has partly stimulated research interest in recent times toward the use of bioprocessing techniques such as germination as cheap and natural means to improve the nutritional quality, digestibility, and health properties of cereals, including rice, to partially achieve nutrition and food security in the developing regions of the world. This review highlights the impact of germination on the nutritional quality, health‐promoting properties, and techno‐functional characteristics of germinated brown rice grains and their products. The review demonstrated that germinated rice grains and their products have improved nutritional quality and digestibility, modified functional properties, and showed antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐diabetic, anti‐obesity, anti‐cancer, and anti‐cardiovascular activities. Germination appears to be a suitable bioprocessing method to improve the nutritional quality and bioactive constituents and modify the techno‐functional properties of rice grains for diverse food applications and improved global nutrition and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of experimental research on the peculiarities of the chemical composition of kohlrabi varieties 'Azur', 'Videnska Synia', 'Videnska Bila' and 'Hihant' cultivated in field conditions in the Forest Steppe of Ukraine. The goal of the research was to track changes in the biochemical composition of kohlrabi under the effect of varietal factor. The experiment was carried out in the years 2018-2021. It was found that the vegetation period of the variety 'Hihant' is 145 days, while the vegetation period of varieties 'Azur', 'Videnska Synia' and 'Videnska Bila' ranges between 60 and 80 days. As a result of the longer vegetation period, 'Hihant' overcomes other varieties under study by the content of water (88.7%) and dietary fiber (2.1 g/kg). Kohlrabi variety 'Videnska Synia' is the most suitable for dietary nutrition, since it has a higher content of vitamins A, B1, B9, B4, C, B3, and essential amino acids, such as arginine, valine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine and phenylalanine, compared to other varieties. The content of linoleic, linolenic and palmitic acids is also the highest in 'Videnska Synia'. However, the content of vitamin B6 is the highest in 'Hihant'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was carried out to determine the effects of different organic fertilizer forms on important quality elements of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) seeds. The experiment was conducted according to the completely randomized blocks experimental design with three replications. In the experiment, palmitic acid (PALA), stearic acid (SA), and behenic acid (BA) from saturated fatty acids and palmitoleic acid (PLA), oleic acid (OA), linoleic acid (LA), and linolenic acid (LNA) ratios from unsaturated fatty acids were investigated. Besides these, quality factor such as oleic acid/linoleic acid (O/L) ratio, which is one of the oil stability values and iodine value (IV), unsaturated fatty acids/saturated fatty acids (USFA/SFA) ratio, and oil ratio and oil yield were investigated. As a result of these applications, the values of crude oil yield 27.08–40.68 kg ha−1 and some important quality properties of crude oil ratios 0.75–1.09%, PLA 0.250–0.372%, OA 12.00–22.85%, LA 22.97–29.97%, LNA 19.37–26.01%, PALA 19.53–23.53%, SA 5.27–7.04%, BA 1.86–2.37%, O/L acid ratio 0.402–1.043%, IV 113.73–136.76, and USFA/SFA ratio 2.08–2.74 were obtained.

There are so many literatures about vegetarians being less prone to chronic, noninfectious diseases, which are, however, the main cause of the decline in quality of life and mortality in developed countries. However, according to various scientific sources, vegetarian and especially vegan diets often contain less saturated fats, protein, calcium, vitamins D and B12, or long-chain ω-3 PUFAs. One of the most common pathology associated with a predominantly plant diet is osteopenia and osteoporosis. An analysis of 13 studies has shown that vegetarians and vegans are at a higher risk of reducing of bone mineral density, thereby increasing the incidence of fractures. At the same time, plant-based diets are usually richer in many other micronutrients important for bone health: vitamins C and K, carotenoids, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, or silicon. Moreover, with the deepening of our knowledge about the role of nutrients in the body and the features of the nutritional status of the population, the quality of vegetarian and vegan diets also increases. They are less and less prone to micronutrient deficiencies. Recent studies show that BMD, as well as the risk of osteoporotic fractures, at least in vegetarians, equaled these indicators in omnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various fungi play a crucial part in the decomposition of organic materials during composting, which is a cost-effective process of converting various unstable and complicated organic substances into a stable and humus-like substance. Composting is the regulated transformation of wastes and biodegradable organic materials into stable products with the help of microbes. Although composting has been around for a while, it still has significant drawbacks that limit how widely it is utilized and how effectively it works. Microbes detection, nutrient status that is low, a lengthy composting process, a lengthy mineralization process, and odor creation are some of the drawbacks. The consumption of synthetic chemical fertilizers can be decreased through composting. These fertilizers are used to feed crops with the macroand micronutrients they need. The current study explains how to compost quickly, biodegradable solid wastes without endangering the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ecuador, the agriculture and livestock sectors are very important within the economy of rural areas. These activities generate a large amount of waste whose management is not optimized. Thus, the aim of this work was to characterize different agro-livestock wastes generated in a rural area, the parish of San Andrés (Chimborazo-Ecuador), in order to know their composition to design suitable composting processes for their treatment. To this end, different physicochemical and chemical parameters were determined in 24 crop residue samples and 18 manure samples, and two piles were elaborated with the same proportion of wastes (51% vegetable residue + 35% cow manure + 14% sawdust) and composted by turning or passive aeration. Throughout the composting process, the temperature and oxygen concentration were recorded and the evolution of different physicochemical, chemical, and biological parameters and the quality of the final composts were studied. The results indicated that the agro-livestock residues presented notable macro and micronutrient and organic matter contents and low levels of heavy metals, these properties being positive for their subsequent treatment in a co-composting experiment. This experiment demonstrated that the composting processes are a feasible strategy for the treatment of these residues and yield compost with an adequate agricultural quality (notable nitrogen content, low heavy metal and soluble mineral salt contents and 92–94% in germination index). Moreover, the passive aeration system can be recommended because this aeration method reduced composting times and the work associated with the process. However, more studies are required on this composting system and other agro-livestock wastes to establish a management protocol for all the waste generated, which will contribute to the sustainability of the agro-livestock sector in the area studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) instrument is a tool used to measure nutrients in the soil, plants, fertilizers, and water, good measurement requires a specific extraction. This study was conducted from March to November 2013 at the Soil Testing and Research Laboratory, Indonesian Soil Research Institute. The soils were collected from the Banten, West Java, and Central Java. The experiment was carried out by the statistical method of two means. The soil used was 100 g of wind-dried soil, which was analyzed by extracting Morgan Venema, Wet Ashing HNO3 and HClO4, Morgan Wolf. The observation was made on the chemical properties of the soil with various concentrations and several extracts. The best extraction was determined based on the value of R2 and the significance of the regression equation between the results of soil analysis of several extractions with the percent yield and nutrient uptake as measured by ICP and AAS tools. The experimental results showed that the ICP-OES and AAS tools could be used with some extractions. This was indicated by the significant regression coefficient data on various extraction. The parameters K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn were obtained in the HNO3 and HClO4 extraction, which could be said to be the best extractions used in ICP and AAS equipment. Morgan Wolf extract obtained insignificant results on Cu measurements. This showed that the Cu parameters in the Morgan Wolf extract were not suitable for analysis with ICP.

Traditionally, fermented food and beverages are prepared by adding a mixture of plant residues as a starter or source of microbes. Most of the conventional fermented foods use a local starter which contains a mixture of herbs or old ferment or otherwise cereal dust-coated tablet. In this study, we have made an attempt to prepare a rice-based fermented food with the herbal starter (0.5% w/w) of Elephantopus scaber L. rhizome, and also examined its microbial and nutrient profiles. The food product is fortified with organic acid and titratable acidity of 0.58% and also contained an excellent source of microbes (LAB and Bifidobacterium sp.). The fermented food contains significant amount of fat, protein, minerals, vitamins, oligosaccharide, unsaturated fatty acids (ω3, ω6, ω7 and ω9) and a pool of free amino acids. The presence of phytochemical contents in the fermented rice was also exhibited significant effects against commercially available free radicals (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP and OH-radicals). Thus, food-grade microbes containing newly formulated fermented food would provide essential macro-and micro-nutrients to the individuals and convey the sustainability of good health. Therefore, the mentioned plant part would be used as an effective starter for aiding rice-based food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Fresh sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) gonads are a delicacy with short seasonal availability, very often heterogeneous in size and intrinsic characteristics. This study aimed to valorise this resource through the preparation of canned products (with/without Porphyra spp.) and evaluate their physicochemical and sensory quality (3–12 months). Canning contributed to a decrease in protein, K and most carotenoids contents; and a concentration of lipids, ash, Na and Se levels. A simulated 12-month ageing led to decrease the protein and β-carotene contents; and the Na and lutein levels concentration. The macroalgae addition resulted in an orange, darker and less soft product, with higher carbohydrates, Na, Se and carotenoids contents. A 25 g-dose contributes to significant daily intakes of protein (8–9%), EPA+DHA (47–53%), I (35–62%) and Se (30–47%). The products were commercially stable/sterile and had good sensory acceptance. Overall, canning constitutes a strategy to provide a nutritionally balanced product available all year-round. • Canned sea urchin gonads (with/without macroalgae) were prepared with light brine. • Canning and ageing resulted in some nutritional changes. • The macroalgae addition led to higher carbohydrates, Na, Se and carotenoids levels. • A 25 g dose contributes to significant daily intakes of protein, EPA+DHA, I and Se. • The stable and sterile products were sensorially well accepted for up to 12 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil analysis is one of the main analytical procedures in every soil- and plant-focused laboratories and mandatory for farmers in many countries as basis for fertilization planning. High-quality results at low cost are required but may be influenced by the analytical technique used. The aim is to test if the less expensive Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (MP-AES) technique gives satisfactory results for analyzing the macronutrients phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) and the micronutrients cupper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) compared to the more expensive and traditionally used analytical techniques like Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Nine cultivated soil samples were extracted by use of ammonium lactate solution, and the extracts were analyzed by using three analytical techniques. All instruments gave small variations for P, Mg and Ca but for potassium, MP-AES analyzed in the range of 15–25% lower values than ICP-MS. For MP-AES and ICP-OES, the differences were not significant. For the micronutrients, there was no significant differences between MP-AES and ICP-OES except for Cu where ICP-OES measured higher values. ICP-MS measured higher values than MP-AES especially for Cu and Zn. The MP-AES is, however, a good alternative to more expensive ICP instruments if results are to be used for fertilization planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweeds have been incorporated in the daily diet of several human cultures since ancient times, due to their nutritional characteristics and healthy properties. The brown seaweeds Undaria pinnatifida, Saccharina latissima, Sacchoriza polyschides, and Laminaria ochroleuca were collected in the Viana do Castelo (Portugal) bay to assess their proximate composition analysis. As a result, the algal biomass was dried, and its moisture and ash content were determined. The dried biomass was then analyzed for total nitrogen/total protein (using the Kjeldahl method), total fiber content (through fiber analyzer digestion), total lipids (in a Soxhlet apparatus), and fatty acid characterization (by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). Apart from phosphorus, which was analyzed by spectrophotometry, the ashes were employed for mineral and trace element characterization via dry mineralization and quantified using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Moreover, the total phenolic content was assessed spectrophotometrically by the Folin-Ciocalteu method in the algal aqueous extracts. Analyses showed that their protein concentrations ranged from 12 to 24% dry weight (DW), while lipid concentrations varied between 0.51% and 1.52% DW. Regarding the carbohydrate concentration in these seaweeds, a concentration between 48% and 60% DW was observed. The S. polyschides had the highest overall total phenolic content (6.19 × 10−3 g GAE/100 g of dried algae), while L. ochroleuca had the lowest amount (3.72 × 10−3 g GAE/100 g of dried algae). U. pinnatifida had the highest total fatty acid content (35.13 mg/g DW), whereas S. latissima presented the lowest value (22.59 mg/g DW). Significant concentrations of highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) were observed in both seaweeds, with U. pinnatifida having the highest value (10.20 mg/g DW) and S. latissima the lowest content (4.81 mg/g DW). It is also highlighted that these seaweeds have a nutritional relevance as a source of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ecuador, the agriculture and livestock sectors are very important within the economy of rural areas. These activities generate a large amount of waste whose management is not optimized. Thus, the aim of this work was to characterize different agro-livestock wastes generated in a rural area, the parish of San Andrés (Chimborazo-Ecuador), in order to know their composition to design suitable composting processes for their treatment. To this end, different physicochemical and chemical parameters were determined in 24 crop residue samples and 18 manure samples, and two piles were elaborated with the same proportion of wastes (51% vegetable residue + 35% cow manure + 14% sawdust) and composted by turning or passive aeration. Throughout the composting process, the temperature and oxygen concentration were recorded and the evolution of different physicochemical, chemical, and biological parameters and the quality of the final composts were studied. The results indicated that the agro-livestock residues presented notable macro and micronutrient and organic matter contents and low levels of heavy metals, these properties being positive for their subsequent treatment in a co-composting experiment. This experiment demonstrated that the composting processes are a feasible strategy for the treatment of these residues and yield compost with an adequate agricultural quality (notable nitrogen content, low heavy metal and soluble mineral salt contents and 92–94% in germination index). Moreover, the passive aeration system can be recommended because this aeration method reduced composting times and the work associated with the process. However, more studies are required on this composting system and other agro-livestock wastes to establish a management protocol for all the waste generated, which will contribute to the sustainability of the agro-livestock sector in the area studied.

Soil nutrients are the key factors in soil fertility, which have important roles in plant growth. Determining soil nutrient contents, including macro and micronutrients, is of crucial importance in agricultural productions. Conventional laboratory techniques for determining soil nutrients are expensive and time-consuming. This research was aimed to develop linear regression (LR) models for remote sensing of total nitrogen (TN) (mg/kg), available phosphorous (AP) (mg/kg), available potassium (AK) (mg/kg), and micronutrients such as iron (Fe) (mg/kg), manganese (Mn) (mg/kg), zinc (Zn) (mg/kg), and copper (Cu) (mg/kg) extracted by DTPA in rain-fed agricultural lands in the northwest of Iran. First, 101 soil samples were collected from 0–30 cm of these lands and analyzed for selected nutrient contents. Then a linear regression along with principal component analysis was conducted to correlate soil nutrient contents with reflectance data of different Landsat OLI bands. Finally, the spatial distributions of soil nutrients were drawn. The results showed that there were linear relationships between soil nutrient contents and standardized PC1 (ZPC1). The highest significant determination coefficient with an R2 value of 0.46 and the least relative error (%) value of 11.97% were observed between TN and ZPC1. The accuracy of the other LR's developed among other soil nutrient contents and remotely sensed data was relatively lower than that obtained for TN. According to the results obtained from this study, although remote sensing techniques may quickly assess soil nutrients, new techniques, technologies, and models may be needed to have a more accurate prediction of soil nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilean agribusiness generates large quantities of by-products and they have been little studied. According to the literature they represent important sources of sugar, protein, lipid, micronutrient, fiber, and others that have a broad field of action. In this work, by-products (white and red grape seeds, peach stones, avocado seeds, olive pomace, and corn cob) of Chilean agribusiness are characterized chemically with a view to their functional and nutritional potential. They are analyzed following standardized methodology which revealed that byproducts are found to be a suitable source of protein (0.59-10.00 % on DW), fiber (33.85-71.93 % on DW), lipid (0.61-14.4 % on DW)), organic matter (77.34-99.87 % on DW), inulin (8.3-33 mg fructose/g dry sample), and a wide range of essential metals. They are rich in K, Ca, and Mg. Moreover, they have very good antioxidant capacity (FRAP, and DPPH), and total phenolics and flavonoids contents. In conclusion, Chilean agribusiness by-products are attractive potential sources of food products, which could be used for nutritional purposes, and for the development of technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selliera radicans was recognized as one of the foods consumed by the oldest human settlement in America (Monte Verde, Chile) that had a diet with a high component of plants. Objective: This study aims at investigating nutritional and functional characteristics of S. radicans, a native halophyte from Chile. Materials and Methods: An analysis of total protein, carbohydrate, ash, and moisture from S. radicans leaves was performed, using standard methods. The content of macro and micronutrients was quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry. The inulin content was carried out based on the Seliwanoff reactions. S. radicans leaves were extracted with methanol and the total content of phenolic and flavonoids and antioxidant activity were evaluated by spectroscopic method. Results: Leaves from cultivated plants proved to be a suitable source of proteins (7.5 % on DW), ash (6.8 % on DW), and a wide range of macro and micronutrients, where Ca, K, and Na had the highest values. In addition, inulin (2.3% on DW), total phenolics (63.4 GAE/g LDW) and flavonoids (21.8 QE/g LDW), and antioxidant capacity (10 TE/g LDW) were noted. Conclusions: According to the results, cultivated S. radicans leaves are promising sources of food with beneficial health properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CoronaVirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic that started in China and influenced the whole world, causing more than 2.5 million people to die. There is not enough evidence to date that any diet, food, or nutrient prevents or treats COVID-19. However, it is thought that optimal nutrition can be a preventive form of "pre-rehabilitation" against deadly viruses. This paper aims to review the latest scientific data that examine the relationship between COVID-19 and nutrition. In this context, this study focuses on the relationship of COVID-19 with dietary protein, bioactive compounds, zinc, selenium, vitamins C and D, omega-3, probiotics, and the Mediterranean diet, which are particularly emphasized in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camu-camu [Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh] is a native plant of the Amazon basin floodplains that is facing a domestication process in dry land. This study aimed to evaluate, qualitatively and quantitatively, camu-camu fruits obtained at the first harvest, in dry land areas, under mineral and organic fertilization. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with 10 treatments and 4 replications. Each experimental plot consisted of 4 lines with 5 holes (3 plants hole-1). Fertilization with organic residues (filter cake and compost + filter cake) every four months provided a higher fruit yield (326 g plant-1). However, the yield was lower when mineral fertilization or its combination with organic matter (76 ± 40 g plant-1) was used. Fertilization with filter cake + compost increased the fruit weight (8.91 g) and size (2.47 cm in diameter and 2.30 cm in length). The mineral and organic fertilization did not influence the chemical characteristics of the camu-camu fruits.

Seaweeds have been incorporated in the daily diet of several human cultures since ancient times, due to their nutritional characteristics and healthy properties. The brown seaweeds Undaria pinnatifida, Saccharina latissima, Sacchoriza polyschides, and Laminaria ochroleuca were collected in the Viana do Castelo (Portugal) bay to assess their proximate composition analysis. As a result, the algal biomass was dried, and its moisture and ash content were determined. The dried biomass was then analyzed for total nitrogen/total protein (using the Kjeldahl method), total fiber content (through fiber analyzer digestion), total lipids (in a Soxhlet apparatus), and fatty acid characterization (by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). Apart from phosphorus, which was analyzed by spectrophotometry, the ashes were employed for mineral and trace element characterization via dry mineralization and quantified using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Moreover, the total phenolic content was assessed spectrophotometrically by the Folin-Ciocalteu method in the algal aqueous extracts. Analyses showed that their protein concentrations ranged from 12 to 24% dry weight (DW), while lipid concentrations varied between 0.51% and 1.52% DW. Regarding the carbohydrate concentration in these seaweeds, a concentration between 48% and 60% DW was observed. The S. polyschides had the highest overall total phenolic content (6.19 × 10−3 g GAE/100 g of dried algae), while L. ochroleuca had the lowest amount (3.72 × 10−3 g GAE/100 g of dried algae). U. pinnatifida had the highest total fatty acid content (35.13 mg/g DW), whereas S. latissima presented the lowest value (22.59 mg/g DW). Significant concentrations of highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) were observed in both seaweeds, with U. pinnatifida having the highest value (10.20 mg/g DW) and S. latissima the lowest content (4.81 mg/g DW). It is also highlighted that these seaweeds have a nutritional relevance as a source of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

In this investigation the extraction curve of macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) and micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) were determined in the cultivation of fig. A system of intensive production of fig in greenhouse and hydroponics was established with 1.25 plants m−2. The determination of the nitrogen content was done by the micro-Kjeldahl method. The P was by the yellow molybdovanadate method throughon a spectrophotometer. The K was determined by flamometry and the Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Of the organs analyzed, the stem was the that accumulated more dry matter, then, the leaves and finally the fruits. The nutrient extraction dynamics presented similar upward behavior in all nutrients. The demand for macronutrients in decreasing order was N > K > P > Ca > Mg and for the micronutrients Cu > Fe > Mn > Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Paso del Norte region is characterized by its dynamic industries and active agriculture. Throughout the years, urban and agricultural soils from this region have been exposed to xenobiotics, heavy metals, and excess of hydrocarbons. In this study, samples of urban [domestic workshops (DW)] and agricultural-intended (AI) soils from different sites of Ciudad Juárez, Mexico were evaluated for their fertility, element content, and microbial diversity. Chemical analyses showed that nitrites, nitrates, P, K, Mg, and Mn were predominantly higher in AI soils, compared to DW soils (p ≤ 0.05). The composition of soil microbial communities showed that Proteobacteria phylum was the most abundant in both soils (67%, p ≤ 0.05). In AI soils, Paracoccus denitrificans was reduced (p ≤ 0.05), concurring with an increment in nitrates, while the content of nitrogen was negatively correlated with the rhizobium group (r 2 = −0.65, p ≤ 0.05). In DW soils, the Firmicutes phylum represented up to ~25%, and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria strongly correlated with a higher Cu content (r 2 = 0.99, p ≤ 0.0001). The monotypic genus Sulfuricurvum was found only in oil-contaminated soil samples. Finally, all samples showed the presence of the recently created phylum Candidatus saccharibacteria. These results describe the productivity parameters of AI soils and its correlation to the microbial diversity, which are very important to understand and potentiate the productivity of soils. The data also suggest that soils impacted with hydrocarbons and metal(oid)s allow the reproduction of microorganisms with the potential to alleviate contaminated sites. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • In DW soils, Proteobacteria strongly correlated with a higher Cu content. • Nitrates reduce Paracoccus denitrificans in AI soils. • Oil-contaminated and toxic metal(oid)s impacted soils contain biorremediating microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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 Hortscience Journal of Suez Canal University is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)