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Main conclusion: This article explores possible future initiatives, such as the development of targeted breeding and integrated omics approach to boost little millet production, nutritional value, and environmental adaptation. Little millet (P. sumatrense) is a staple grain in many parts of Asia and Africa owing to its abundance in vitamins and minerals and its ability to withstand harsh agro-ecological conditions. Enhancing little millet using natural resources and novel crop improvement strategy is an effective way of boosting nutritional and food security. To understand the genetic makeup of the crop and figure out important characteristics linked to nutritional value, biotic and abiotic resistance, and production, researchers in this field are currently resorting on genomic technology. These realizations have expedited the crop's response to shifting environmental conditions by enabling the production of superior cultivars through targeted breeding. Going forward, further improvements in breeding techniques and genetics may boost the resilience, nutritional content, and production of little millet, which would benefit growers and consumers alike. The research and development on little millet improvement using novel omics platform and the integration of genetic resources are summarized in this review paper. Improved cultivars of little millet that satisfy changing farmer and consumer demands have already been developed through the use of these novel breeding strategies. This article also explores possible future initiatives, such as the development of targeted breeding, genomics, and sustainable agriculture methods. The potential for these measures to boost little millet's overall production, nutritional value, and climate adaptation will be extremely helpful in addressing nutritional security. Integrated omics for little millet improvement [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this modern world, climate change adversely affects global food security and India is not out of it. India is now going to be the most populous country in the world and a growing population means an ever-increasing demand for safe and healthy food. Cultivation of millets can help us in this aspect as they are nutrient-dense and capable of resisting a variety of harsh environmental conditions, including lack of moisture. Millets are coarse grains that have been traditionally grown and consumed in the Indian subcontinent for about 5000 years. Although they are tagged as “poor man's food grains” regular consumption of millets can help in maintaining the good health of individuals as they are packed with several essential micronutrients like phosphorous, fiber, protein, potassium, manganese, antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids etc. Millets have numerous health benefits, including helping to balance our blood glucose levels, keeping our heart in good condition, aiding in weight loss, battling cancer cells, promoting digestion, giving stronger bones, strengthening our cardiovascular system, and acting as an agent for anti-aging. This review work has described the promising potential of millets as the staple of our plate. Graphical abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is a water-soluble heavy metal. It has adverse effects on rivers and underground water in developing countries. Rice is a hydrophilic crop grown by extensive utilization of water. Presence of Cd in paddy water can lead to destruction of both quality and quantity of rice. To access the variation in impact of Cd on two elite rice cultivars of Pakistan i.e., indica (Super Basmati) and japonica (JP-5), a pot experiment with three replicates was carried out in completely randomized design. To induce stress conditions, both cultivars were subjected to elevated levels of Cd (50 mg/kg) as cadmium chloride. The results indicated that Cd stress had a high impact on morpho-physiological traits such as grain yield, thousand grain weight and tiller number in Supper Basmati compared to JP-5. This was due to high accumulation of the reactive oxygen species and lower levels of enzymatic antioxidants including peroxidase, catalase, carotenoids, glutathione, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, and phenols in Super basmati. The Cd translocation from roots to leaf and subsequently grains was higher in Super Basmati compared to JP-5. Nutritional profiling of grains showed low level of carbohydrates and proteins in Super Basmati compared to JP-5 which shows that JP-5 is more tolerant, nutritious, and high-yielding under Cd-stress conditions. JP-5 is thus recommended to be cultivated in Cd-stressed areas in future and breeders can further use it to improve crop performance in Cd-stress soil and ensure sustainable food production around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice landraces conserved by tribal farmers are important for their nutritional richness. Landraces are rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids useful to cure noncommunicable diseases and metabolic disorders. A study was carried out with 10 rice landraces from the tribal‐dominated belt of Southern Odisha to investigate grain nutrition, proximate composition, and vitamin and mineral contents. The protein content of the landraces was higher (>6 g/100 g) and the fat content was lower (<0.6 g/100 g) than popular Indian rice varieties. The mean nutrient content of 10 rice landraces was as follows: protein 6.3 ± 0.313 g/100 g, total dietary fiber 1.6 ± 0.094 g/100 g, fat 0.536 ± 0.008 g/100 g, ash 10.514 ± 6.753%, and total sugar 77.18 ± 2.118 g/100 g. The high genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was observed for alkali spreading value (31.11%), capacity of grain hydration (52.705), index of hydration (171.439), moisture (46.343%), and vitamin B2 (23.994%) in rice landraces. Few landraces had superior iron content: Kalamalli (1.49 mg/100 g), Kandulakathi (1.42 mg/100 g), and Dudhamani (1.39 mg/100 g) compared to popular Indian rice varieties. Tikichudi had highest moisture (19%) and fat (0.53 g/100 g) content, which signifies the taste quality of rice. Kanakchudi exhibited the highest fiber content (1.8 g/100 g) and ash content (22.80%). Kalamalli contained higher zinc (0.49 mg/100 g), iron (1.49 mg/100 g), potassium (108.33 mg/100 g), magnesium (78.33 mg/100 g), and phosphorus (125.00 mg/100 g), whereas Muktabali was found to have higher Ca (3.88 mg/100 g) and Baunsidubraj exhibited higher niacin (4.9 mg/100 g). The indigenous landraces Kalamalli, Kandulakathi, and Dudhamani had considerably high iron content, whereas Kalamalli, Baunsidubraj, and Muktabali possessed less phytic acid in comparison with existing varieties and other landraces reported from various states of our country. Landraces Kalamalli, Kanakchudi, Tikichudi, and Muktabali from southern Odisha, India, represented nutritionally better genetic pool for future rice improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chenopodium quinoa possesses remarkable nutritional value and adaptability to various agroecological conditions. Panicle architecture influences the number of spikelets and grains in a panicle, ultimately leading to productivity and yield. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the metabolites, nutrients, and minerals in Chenopodium quinoa accessions of varying panicle architecture. Metabolic profiling using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis identified seventeen metabolites, including flavonoids, phenolics, fatty acids, terpenoids, phenylbutenoid dimers, amino acids, and saccharides. Eight metabolic compounds were reported in this study for the first time in quinoa. Some metabolites were detected as differentially expressed. The compound (Z)-1-(2,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) butadiene and chrysin were found only in SPrecm. Sodium ((2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(6-amino-9H-purin-9-yl)-3,4-dihydroxtetrahydrofuran-2-yl) methyl hydrogen phosphate and elenolic acid were detected only in CHEN-33, and quercetin, 3-hydroxyphloretin-3'-C-glucoside, kurarinone, and rosmarinic acid were identified only in D-12175. Variable importance in projection (VIP) scores annotated ten metabolites contributing to variability. Mineral analysis using atomic absorption spectrophotometry indicated that the quantity of magnesium and calcium is high in D-12175. In comparison, SPrecm showed a high quantity of magnesium compared to CHEN-33, while CHEN-33 showed a high quantity of calcium compared to SPrecm. However, the proximate composition showed no significant difference among quinoa accessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum [Lam.] Verdc.) is an underutilized pulse crop primarily cultivated in South Asian countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It offers various nutraceutical properties and demonstrates remarkable resilience to both biotic and abiotic stresses. As a result, it has emerged as a promising crop for ensuring future food and nutritional security. The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional profile of 139 horsegram germplasm lines obtained from 16 Indian states that were conserved at the National Gene Bank of India. Standard analytical methods, including those provided by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), were used for this investigation. The study revealed substantial variability in essential nutrients, such as protein (ranging from 21.8 to 26.7 g/100 g), starch (ranging from 26.2 to 33.0 g/100 g), total soluble sugars (TSSs) (ranging from 0.86 to 12.1 g/100 g), phenolics (ranging from 3.38 to 11.3 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/g), and phytic acid content (ranging from 1.07 to 21.2 mg/g). Noteworthy correlations were observed, including a strong positive correlation between sugars and phenols (r = 0.70) and a moderate negative correlation between protein and starch (r = −0.61) among the studied germplasm lines. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted that the first three principal components contributed to 88.32% of the total variability, with TSSs, phytates, and phenols emerging as the most significant contributors. The cluster analysis grouped the accessions into five clusters, with cluster III containing the accessions with the most desirable traits. The differential distribution of the accessions from north India into clusters I and III suggested a potential geographical influence on the adaptation and selection of genes. This study identified a panel of promising accessions exhibiting multiple desirable traits. These specific accessions could significantly aid quality breeding programs or be directly released as cultivars if they perform well agronomically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millets are group of underutilized cereal crops with higher nutritional values. The present investigation used different classes of minor millets, including barnyard (sava), little (kutki), finger (ragi), kodo and foxtail millets, for evaluation of their nutritional parameters, i.e., the content of proteins, total amino acids, total sugars, insoluble fibers, soluble fibers, total dietary fibers, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), along with antinutritional and antioxidant parameters, viz., tannic acid, phytic acid, phenol, flavonoid, proline and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase activity were also thought to elevate millets as a viable staple meal. Foxtail millet showed the maximum inhibition, with an IC50 value of 20.46 ± 1.80 µg mL−1 with respect to α-amylase. The coefficient of correlation between nutritional and antinutritional compositions showed that the starch content was significantly and positively correlated with insoluble fiber (r = 0.465) and dietary fiber (r = 0.487). Moreover, sugar was positively correlated with the phytic acid (r = 0.707), Fe and Zn (r = 0.681) contents. To determine the peptides responsible for anticancer activity, the foxtail protein was subjected to ultrafiltration; it was found that the 3 kDa fraction retained the greatest anticancer activity. Selected millet germplasm line(s) that have the best nutraceutical properties could be used in millet improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horse gram is a nutrient-rich and photo-sensitive legume crop. The experiments were carried out to study the association among traits in horse gram. A total of six determinate and photo-insensitive horse gram mutants were raised in RBD with five replications in two locations in all three seasons (Kharif’22, Rabi’22 and Summer’23), and the mean data for ten quantitative traits were subjected to correlation and path analyses. The findings of correlation analysis indicated that the traits number of clusters per plant and number of pods per plant had a positive association with seed yield per hectare. Similarly, the path analysis revealed that the number of pods per plant and hundred seed weight exhibited a positive and direct effect on seed yield per hectare. There was a noticeable variation observed for both macro and micronutrients. From the current experiment, two determinate mutants TNAU-HGDM-004 and TNAU-HG-DM-001 were selected as nutrient-rich genotypes with high yield potential. Hence, these determinate mutants can be used as donors for yield as well as nutrient improvement programs in horse gram.

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a significant crop known for its resilience, versatility, and nutritional value. The research aimed to enhance yield and nutritional quality through the assessment of genetic variability, heritability, correlations, and causal relationships among traits. Variance component analysis in the F2 population of red sorghum genotypes from the cross between Paiyur 2 and IS 21731 revealed the influence of the environment on trait expression. High variability in flag leaf traits and single plant yield was observed. Traits such as plant height, stem girth, and flag leaf length exhibited high heritability and genetic advancement which indicated that these traits are influenced by additive genetic factors and are suitable for selection processes. Positive correlations were identified between single plant yield and traits like panicle weight and primary branches and hence selection based on these characteristics could directly contribute to improved yield in sorghum. Path analysis highlighted the direct and indirect effects of traits on grain yield with panicle weight emerging as a major driver. This study provided valuable insights into effective breeding strategies emphasizing traits such as panicle weight, primary branches, and seed index for enhancing both yield and nutritional quality in red sorghum genotypes.

Diet and nutrition are important factors in promoting and maintaining good health. Fruits are important sources of protective foods that are highly beneficial for maintaining good health and preventing diseases.The present study aimed to assess the nutritional profiling (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, moisture, ash, solids and vitamins content), anti-nutritional (oxalate, saponin and tannin) and physico-chemical (shape, colour, size and weight) parameters of Chrysophyllum oliviforme fruits. The nutritional contents were determined by Biuret, dry ash, and oven dry method for protein, ash and moisture content, respectively. The nutritional values of this fruit were: carbohydrates (5.30±0.21 mg/g), protein (6.30±0.19), lipids (14.00 %), thiamine (0.04 mg/g), calcium (3.29 mg/kg), potassium (348-370 mg/100 g). The results revealed that this plant C. oliviforme has a high nutritious value and suggested that its underutilized edible fruits could be a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.The study on underutilized edible fruit plant C.oliviforme L.appears to be the first report on its nutritional evaluation.This data may also helpimprove the nutritional and health status of rural populations nationwide by utilizing underutilized and neglected specialities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Locally adapted native indigenous plant species (NIPS) could restore the crop diversity in sustainable agriculture. Methods: Here, we report the molecular identification and nutritional profiling of some five NIPS of Karnataka; Musa paradisiaca cv. Nanjangud rasabale, Piper betle L. cv. Mysore betel leaf, Jasminum grandiflorum cv Mysore mallige, Solanum melongena L. cv. Udupi Mattu Gulla and S. melongena L. cv. Erangere badane of which the first four are Geographical Indication (GI) tagged. The samples were procured, authenticated and sequenced using two standard DNA barcodes: nuclear ITS2 and plastid rbcl. Results: The phylogenetic analysis using Neighborhood joining method revealed all the ITS2 tree topologies with higher genetic divergence than rbcl. All the rbcl tree topologies were monophyletic indicating sequence conservation. Though the concatenated ITS2 + rbcl trees had higher bootstrap support (> 98% except Solanum sp.) differences were observed because of the lack of available sequence deposition at species level. The proximate and nutritional profiling of the NIPS displayed superiority in terms of their nutritional profile and their potential application in phytopharmaceutical sector as nutritional supplements. Conclusion: To our best knowledge this is the first study reporting the screening of five NIPS plant species of Karnataka for phylogeny and nutritional analysis. We also anticipate that if research towards the identification of NIPS species is accelerated, these nutritionally enhanced crops could be used as a safe and sustainable food in changing global climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to directly measure and monitor poor nutrition in individual animals and ecological communities is hampered by methodological limitations. In this study, we use nutrigenomics to identify nutritional biomarkers in a freshwater zooplankter, Daphnia pulex, a ubiquitous primary consumer in lakes and a sentinel of environmental change. We grew animals in six ecologically relevant nutritional treatments: nutrient replete, low carbon (food), low phosphorus, low nitrogen, low calcium and high Cyanobacteria. We extracted RNA for transcriptome sequencing to identify genes that were nutrient responsive and capable of predicting nutritional status with a high degree of accuracy. We selected a list of 125 candidate genes, which were subsequently pruned to 13 predictive potential biomarkers. Using a nearest‐neighbour classification algorithm, we demonstrate that these potential biomarkers are capable of classifying our samples into the correct nutritional group with 100% accuracy. The functional annotation of the selected biomarkers revealed some specific nutritional pathways and supported our hypothesis that animal responses to poor nutrition are nutrient specific and not simply different presentations of slow growth or energy limitation. This is a key step in uncovering the causes and consequences of nutritional limitation in animal consumers and their responses to small‐ and large‐scale changes in biogeochemical cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining a nutritious diet is essential for humans if they want to live a healthier life. Several food businesses and food safety organizations play a significant role and offer useful ways for improving nutritional quality that assists consumers in making informed selections. Making poor food choices and consuming unhealthy meals are the main causes of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Nutritional profiling (NP) models are developed to evaluate the nutritional value, calorie content, and the amount of micronutrients and macronutrients contained in a given food accompanied by additional details on the nutritional anomaly provided by published standard nutrients and nutritional databases. To construct an ideal nutritional model that can facilitate food consumption, bioanalytical methods such as chromatography, microscopic techniques, molecular assays, and metabolomics can be applied. With the use of these technologies, one can learn more about the health advantages of nutrition and how to prevent disease. A wider element of NP is also provided by the developing technologies in the area of nutrition research, such as nanotechnology, proteomics, and microarray technology. In this review, we are focusing on the different bioanalytical techniques and the various protocols of NP and their application and refinement of the models. We have evaluated various NP techniques currently used in the food industry for the detection of different components present in food items.

Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum [Lam.] Verdc.) is an underutilized pulse crop primarily cultivated in South Asian countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It offers various nutraceutical properties and demonstrates remarkable resilience to both biotic and abiotic stresses. As a result, it has emerged as a promising crop for ensuring future food and nutritional security. The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional profile of 139 horsegram germplasm lines obtained from 16 Indian states that were conserved at the National Gene Bank of India. Standard analytical methods, including those provided by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), were used for this investigation. The study revealed substantial variability in essential nutrients, such as protein (ranging from 21.8 to 26.7 g/100 g), starch (ranging from 26.2 to 33.0 g/100 g), total soluble sugars (TSSs) (ranging from 0.86 to 12.1 g/100 g), phenolics (ranging from 3.38 to 11.3 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/g), and phytic acid content (ranging from 1.07 to 21.2 mg/g). Noteworthy correlations were observed, including a strong positive correlation between sugars and phenols (r = 0.70) and a moderate negative correlation between protein and starch (r = −0.61) among the studied germplasm lines. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted that the first three principal components contributed to 88.32% of the total variability, with TSSs, phytates, and phenols emerging as the most significant contributors. The cluster analysis grouped the accessions into five clusters, with cluster III containing the accessions with the most desirable traits. The differential distribution of the accessions from north India into clusters I and III suggested a potential geographical influence on the adaptation and selection of genes. This study identified a panel of promising accessions exhibiting multiple desirable traits. These specific accessions could significantly aid quality breeding programs or be directly released as cultivars if they perform well agronomically.

Millets are group of underutilized cereal crops with higher nutritional values. The present investigation used different classes of minor millets, including barnyard (sava), little (kutki), finger (ragi), kodo and foxtail millets, for evaluation of their nutritional parameters, i.e., the content of proteins, total amino acids, total sugars, insoluble fibers, soluble fibers, total dietary fibers, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), along with antinutritional and antioxidant parameters, viz., tannic acid, phytic acid, phenol, flavonoid, proline and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase activity were also thought to elevate millets as a viable staple meal. Foxtail millet showed the maximum inhibition, with an IC50 value of 20.46 ± 1.80 µg mL−1 with respect to α-amylase. The coefficient of correlation between nutritional and antinutritional compositions showed that the starch content was significantly and positively correlated with insoluble fiber (r = 0.465) and dietary fiber (r = 0.487). Moreover, sugar was positively correlated with the phytic acid (r = 0.707), Fe and Zn (r = 0.681) contents. To determine the peptides responsible for anticancer activity, the foxtail protein was subjected to ultrafiltration; it was found that the 3 kDa fraction retained the greatest anticancer activity. Selected millet germplasm line(s) that have the best nutraceutical properties could be used in millet improvement programs.

The quality of protein is based on their amino acid composition, especially on the content and availability of essential amino acids. Cereals are important sources of protein for human nutrition, but are limited in the amounts of essential amino acids, notably lysine. The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical composition and amino acid profiles of different cereals that are important for nutritional purposes in human diet. The content of protein, moisture and crude fat in cereals varied significantly from 7.83 to 13.22%, 11.45 to 13.80%, and from 1.67 to 6.35%, respectively. The obtained results showed that oat had the highest contents of crude protein (13.22%), crude fat (6.35%) and crude cellulose (9.42%) compared to other cereals. Significant (p < 0.05) variation existed in the content of essential and nonessential amino acids among samples with the highest level in oat and wheat. Essential amino acids accounted for one-third of the total amino acids in the tested cereals. Glutamic acid was found to be the most abundant amino acid. It could be concluded that the amino acid composition of oat is the most favorable among cereals due to its high protein content and the content of lysine which can be found in limited amounts in most of the cereals.

The potential of drying to preserve the nutritional quality of a small freshwater fish Henicorhynchus siamensis was assessed. Drying time to reach moisture content and water activity of 10 g/100g and 0.65 ranged from 55 h at 50 °C to 20 h at 80 °C, respectively. Dried fish powder is rich in macronutrients (protein, lipid and ash) and essential minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc) due to water removal and despite lipid loss. It is still rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids although docosahexaenoic acid was reduced except at 60°C. Vitamin A was rapidly degraded and manganese was concentrated at high level. However, mean score for the nutritional adequacy of the 15 nutrients (SAIN) and score of nutrients to limit (LIM) show that the fish powder can be used as a food ingredient for example in the formulation of fish snack or instant soup. With the abundance of Henicorhynchus siamensis, dried fish powder from this species could contribute to food security in Cambodia, especially vulnerable people in rural areas.

Aside from having high nutritional values, edible insects can also be considered a feasible and practicable venture and means of generating income, particularly in rural areas, where edible insects are cultivated and reared as mini-livestock for human food and animal feed [[17]]. The current study backs up previous findings that crude protein content ranged from 30.25 to 84.56 g/100 g, d.w. in twenty Assam edible insect species [[35]], 22.64 to 70.48 g/100 g, d.w. in five Manipur aquatic insect species [[36]], and 68.54 to 79.33 g/100 g, d.w. in five Assam soil-dwelling scarabs [[41]]. Keywords: entomophagy; nutritive value; edible aquatic insects; nutritional profiling EN entomophagy nutritive value edible aquatic insects nutritional profiling 976 10 11/17/22 20221101 NES 221101 1. The manganese content of aquatic insects has not previously been measured, but it is consistent with terrestrial insects such as soil-dwelling scarabs in Assam and edible insects in Zambia [[34], [41]]. [Extracted from the article]

• The proximate composition, antioxidants composition and antioxidant activity of three traditional green leafy vegetables Spilanthes acmella (L.) L., Eryngium foetidum L., and Cissus quadrangularis L. is reported. • Proximate composition results show the nutritional potential of traditional green leafy vegetables. • Antioxidant components such as polyphenols and flavonoids were dominated in S. acmella. • C. quadrangularis L. is rich in antioxidative vitamin C and exhibited the highest antioxidant activity suggesting its health benefits to humans. • Daily required nutrient intake (DRNI) calculation revealed the potential of the three plants in contribution towards daily diet requirements of human beings. Consumption of traditional leafy vegetables (TLVs) is important for ensuring food and nutritional security. Traditional leafy vegetables are rich in both macro and micro nutritional components such as proteins, fat, minerals and vitamins, antioxidant pigments, phytochemicals and several other bioactive metabolites. It is therefore important to bio-prospect the nutritional components and antioxidant potential of the locally available leafy vegetables. The aim of this study was to quantify the nutritional, antioxidative components and antioxidant activity of three TLVs namely Spilanthes acmella (L.) L., Eryngium foetidum L., and Cissus quadrangularis L. Methods such as Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC), Anthrone, Lowry's, colorimetric assays, 1,1, diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazine (DPPH) scavenging assay were used for the estimation of proximate components, water soluble carbohydrate, protein, other bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity respectively. We observed variations in the proximate, antioxidative components and antioxidant activities of the three TLVs and their extracts. Results revealed that crude fiber was highest in the leaves of C. quadrangularis (9.34%) followed by S. acmella (8.42%) and E. foetidum (0.62%). The total crude protein content was highest in S. acmella (110.19 mg/g) as compared to C. quadrangularis (9.88 mg/g) and E. foetidum (81.34 mg/g). The moisture content was found to be highest in E. foetidum (85.66%) followed by S. acmella (82.32%) and C. quadrangularis (56.64 %). Elevated water-soluble carbohydrate was found in E. foetidum (53.41 mg/g). Analysis of antioxidative components revealed that E. foetidum presented the highest concentration of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids whereas C. quadrangularis exhibited least concentrations. Highest concentration of ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid quantity was observed in C. quadrangularis (6.54 mM/g FW and 12.11 mM/g FW respectively). This study further observed that, S. acmella possesses a higher quantity of polyphenols and flavonoids (27.46 mg GAE/g DW and 14.07 mg QE/g DW respectively) than the other two species. The methanolic extract of the plants shows significant antioxidant activity. Among the three plants, C. quadrangularis showed the highest antioxidant activity with an IC 50 value of 1.097 mg/ml in the DPPH assay. The results of the study revealed the nutritional and antioxidant potential of the three traditional leafy vegetables. The supplementation of the diets with such traditional crops and their promotion will promote good health and wellbeing among the people. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits play an important role in maintaining a healthy life. Nectarine is a hybrid fruit of peach and plum, wherein efforts were made to develop intermediate moisture food products (jam and jelly) from nectarine varieties (May Fire, Snow Queen, and Silver King). The study aimed to determine the effect of storage on the nutritional (TSS, pH, acidity, ascorbic acid, and sugars) and sensory parameters (color, taste, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability) of jam and jelly at different storage intervals. Storage had a nonsignificant effect on the total soluble solids, with reported mean values of 69.670 Brix, while the pH content of jam varied significantly from 2.90-2.20 during 6 months of storage. The values for acidity and total sugars increased (P=0.05) significantly from 1.92-2.03 percent and 57.04 to 56.93 percent, respectively. However, the ascorbic acid content decreased significantly from 4.64 - 1.66 mg/100 g. In the case of jelly, the total soluble solids and pH decreased from 67.78 - 67.440 Brix and 2.70 - 2.48, respectively, during storage for 6 months at ambient temperature. The ascorbic acid content decreased from 4.56 - 2.10 mg/100 g. Among cultivars, there was a nonsignificant difference in the nutritional parameters of jam, but in the case of jelly, different cultivars had a significant effect on TSS, pH, and ascorbic acid content. Organoleptically, the nectarine jam was rated as 'liked very much', while the jelly 'liked slightly', with good storage acceptance up to 6 months. Being nectarine as a superfood can be explored to develop speciality food products for vulnerable sections of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 120 highly diverse cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] genotypes, including indigenous and exotic lines, were evaluated for different biochemical traits using AOAC official methods of analysis and other standard methods. The results exhibited wide variability in the content of proteins (ranging from 19.4 to 27.9%), starch (from 27.5 to 42.7 g 100 g−1), amylose (from 9.65 to 21.7 g 100 g−1), TDF (from 13.7 to 21.1 g 100 g−1), and TSS (from 1.30 to 8.73 g 100 g−1). The concentration of anti-nutritional compounds like phenols and phytic acid ranged from 0.026 to 0.832 g 100 g−1 and 0.690 to 1.88 g 100 g−1, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the traits was calculated to understand the inter-trait relationship. Multivariate analysis (PCA and HCA) was performed to identify the major traits contributing to variability and group accessions with a similar profile. The first three principal components, i.e., PC1, PC2, and PC3, contributed to 62.7% of the variation, where maximum loadings were from starch, followed by protein, phytic acid, and dietary fiber. HCA formed six distinct clusters at a squared Euclidean distance of 5. Accessions in cluster I had high TDF and low TSS content, while cluster II was characterized by low amylose content. Accessions in cluster III had high starch, low protein, and phytic acid, whereas accessions in cluster IV contained high TSS, phenol, and low phytic acid. Cluster V was characterized by high protein, phytic acid, TSS, and phenol content and low starch content, and cluster VI had a high amount of amylose and low phenol content. Some nutri-dense accessions were identified from the above-mentioned clusters, such as EC169879 and IC201086 with high protein (>27%), TSS, amylose, and TDF content. These compositions are promising to provide practical support for developing high-value food and feed varieties using effective breeding strategies with a higher economic value.

Biochemical composition of seaweeds is known to vary with species and environment. Kappaphycus alvarezii is an important commercial source of carrageenans (gel-forming and viscosifying polysaccharides). The nutritional and mineral composition of three (brown, green and pale yellow) colour forms of edible seaweed K. alvarezii is investigated in the current study. The brown colour form of this seaweed contained highest ash content of (25.99±0.22 %), crude fibre (21.0±0.68 %), and protein (8.92±0.41 %), while, the green form had highest carbohydrate (22.0±0.00 %) and sulphate (5.89±0.00 %) content. On the other hand, the pale yellow colour form had highest lipid content (0.72±0.00 %). Amongst the 17 minerals analyzed, highest total mineral macro-elements (viz. Na, K, Ca and Mg) were recorded in the brown form (18.8±0.71 g/100 g d wt) followed by the pale yellow (17.3±1.07 g/100 g d wt) and green colour form (11.9±1.22 g/100 g d wt). The micro-elements varied within the three colour forms; however, the brown colour form had maximum micro-element content (P, Cd, Pb, As, Hg, Cr, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Co, Mo and Ni; 19.96±0.24mg/100 g d wt), followed by green (8.6±0.64 mg /100 g d wt) and pale yellow form (7.15±0.58mg /100 g d wt). On the basis of this study, it could be said that these three colour forms (i.e. brown, green and pale yellow) of Kappaphycus alvarezii could be utilized as a condiment in the omnivorous diet; however, a daily intake of 5.68 g d wt is recommended in case of the brown form, while in case of the green and pale yellow form a maximum daily intake of 9.55 and 10.5 g d wt, respectively is recommended. The study also reveals that the three colour-forms differed in their nutritional and mineral composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multifaceted challenges concerning women's health in hills of Uttarakhand is associated with increasing malnutrition in the State, which ultimately affect the nutritional dividend of the nation. Sub-Himalayan range of the northern Indian subcontinent include regions where an overwhelming number of rural women have always been a part of the active work force in agriculture and allied sector. Present study is an attempt to document the nutritional status of farm women emphasizing their food consumption pattern, dietary intakes and diversification, energy and nutrient balance in Uttarakhand State in the year 2019-20. Collected field level data were analyzed with the help of suitable statistical techniques. It was found that 48 % women in foot hills and 40% women in mid hills had low dietary diversity. The findings also suggest that the prevalence of Chronic Energy Deficiency was high among farm women and energy balances in the respondents (from 171.97 kcal to 415.32 kcal) are corresponding to different grades of BMI. Multivariate regression analysis were employed to drive relationships between high dietary diversity (≥5 food groups) and other independent variables as age, BMI, MUAC, CC, skinfold measurements, body density (D), % body fat, fat mass, fat free mass (kg) . It was found that MDD-W is positively correlated with independent variables (R2=0.702, Adjusted R2=0.721, Standard Error of Estimate=0.0312).

The nutritive value of five edible aquatic insects of Assam—Hemipterans; water bug (Diplonychus rusticus Fabricius) family belostomatidae; giant water bug (Lethocerus indicus Lepeletier and Serville) family belostomatidae; water scorpion (Laccotrephes sp.) family nepidae, water stick (Ranatra sp.) family nepidae; Coleopterans diving beetle (Cybister sp.) family dytiscidae—based on their proximate and elemental composition, antioxidant and antinutritional properties were assessed by using standard methods of analysis. Analytical studies revealed that the selected aquatic insect species have high nutritive value and are rich sources of protein (50.03 to 57.67%) and other nutrients (fat, carbohydrate and crude fiber, etc.) along with superior energy contents (331.98 to 506.38 kJ/100 g). The aquatic insect species also contained appreciable amounts of major and trace dietary elements. Phenol and flavonoid contents reflect its high antioxidant activity (80.82 to 91.47% DPPH inhibition). Tannin (18.50 to 60.76 mg tannic acid equivalent/100 g), phytic acid (11.72 to 97.30 mg/100 g) and oxalic acid (2.93 to 5.34 mg/100 g) as antinutritional compounds were registered below the toxic level (0.52% or 520 mg/100 g). The present findings indicate that the selected aquatic insect species can be considered as ideal candidates for exploration as food and feed to ensure nutritional and livelihood security of this region.

Due to its health promoting properties owing to a high phenolic content and sensory acceptability, cocoa has gained interest as an additive of choice in many food products. The purpose of this study was to incorporate cocoa powder (CP) in vermicelli. Different proportions of cocoa powder (5, 10, 15 and 20%) were prepared by mixing it into a blend of wheat flour and rice flour (60:40) as base ingredients. The quality parameters, including nutritional characteristics, antioxidant activity, cooking and functional properties, and sensory acceptability, were studied. The nutritional profiling showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the protein, fat, ash, and carbohydrate alongside a significiant decrease in the moisture content. Similarly, an antioxidant activity increased significantly at p < 0.05, with the increase of cocoa powder concentration. It can be concluded that vermicelli with the 10% cocoa powder incorporated was the best treatment since it was rated as the highest in overall acceptability compared to the other formulations. The bulk density, cooked weight, cooking time, gruel solid loss, and water absorption capacity of samples with 10% cocoa powder were 0.714 g/cm3 , 11.56 g, 7.21 min, 0.47 g/100 g, and 146%, respectively. The energy value of the optimised cocoa-based vermicelli was 375 kcal/100g of sample.

The sago grub (Rhynchophorus bilineatus) [Montrouzier, Coleoptera, Dryophthoridae] is a local delicacy in the Papua Province in Indonesia. In this study, the nutrient content of the edible insect was measured using chromatographic and spectrometric methods. The results showed that it contains 10.39 g protein and 17.17 g oil/ 100 g fresh weight. The sago grub meets the FAO/WHO requirements of 40% essential amino acids and a 0.60 ratio between essential to non-essential amino acids. Its limiting amino acid is methionine + cysteine. The major fatty acids found in the sago grub are palmitic (42%), oleic (45%), and linoleic (3%) acids. Although vitamin E is exclusively produced by photosynthetic organisms, a gram of sago grub oil contains 51 μg vitamin E, which is composed mainly of tocopherols (92%). In contrast with palm oil, the sago grub oil contains δ-tocopherol (0.12 μg/g oil), and a significantly high amount of β-tocopherol (3.85 μg/g oil). It is a source of zinc and magnesium and contains safe levels of heavy metals. Based on these nutritional properties, the Indonesian sago grub can be considered as a good source of nutrients, and its propagation and utilization should be encouraged especially in other areas of Indonesia and maybe in neighboring countries where they are also endemic, and where malnutrition is prevalent. The consumption of edible insects should be considered as a component of dietary diversification – a sustainable way of alleviating the nutritional status of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a growing body of literature published on ultra-processed foods (UPF). This has been driven by an ambiguous definition that can be easily applied to observational work. Nutritionally, UPF have been given the umbrella label of being " energy-dense, high in unhealthy types of fat, free sugars and salt, and poor sources of protein, dietary fibre and micronutrients" (Monteiro et al., 2018). Unfortunately, such overarching statements are imprecise and not necessarily reflective of all modern food products. This commentary evaluates the NOVA classification system and includes an analysis of 50 foods falling under its definition of being 'ultra-processed' yet classified as 'healthy' according to the UK Nutrient Profiling Model. Nutritional profiles were also compared against European Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 Nutrition Claims. No statistically significant correlations were found between the number of ingredients and energy, saturated fat, total sugar, sodium, AOAC fibre and protein. The majority of UPFs identified were low in saturated fat (84 percent), low in sugar (80 percent) and a source of fibre (60 percent). Thirty eight percent were low salt and 30 percent a source of protein. Based on the findings of this commentary it is suggested that rigorous nutritional analyses should be conducted alongside 'processing loads'. Overarching and tautological definitions could lead to the public avoiding all UPFs and have unintended consequences such as fibre and micronutrient shortfalls. • UPFs have been gaining interest, particularly from a health stance. • Categorization systems tend to focus on 'processing levels' and overlook nutritional profiles. • UPFs (those with 5 + ingredients) have been labelled as 'nutritional demons'. • There are always exceptions and some UPFs may have a functional role to play in health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice landraces conserved by tribal farmers are important for their nutritional richness. Landraces are rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids useful to cure noncommunicable diseases and metabolic disorders. A study was carried out with 10 rice landraces from the tribal-dominated belt of Southern Odisha to investigate grain nutrition, proximate composition, and vitamin and mineral contents. The protein content of the landraces was higher (>6 g/100 g) and the fat content was lower (<0.6 g/100 g) than popular Indian rice varieties. The mean nutrient content of 10 rice landraces was as follows: protein 6.3 ± 0.313 g/100 g, total dietary fiber 1.6 ± 0.094 g/100 g, fat 0.536 ± 0.008 g/100 g, ash 10.514 ± 6.753%, and total sugar 77.18 ± 2.118 g/100 g. The high genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was observed for alkali spreading value (31.11%), capacity of grain hydration (52.705), index of hydration (171.439), moisture (46.343%), and vitamin B2 (23.994%) in rice landraces. Few landraces had superior iron content: Kalamalli (1.49 mg/100 g), Kandulakathi (1.42 mg/100 g), and Dudhamani (1.39 mg/100 g) compared to popular Indian rice varieties. Tikichudi had highest moisture (19%) and fat (0.53 g/100 g) content, which signifies the taste quality of rice. Kanakchudi exhibited the highest fiber content (1.8 g/100 g) and ash content (22.80%). Kalamalli contained higher zinc (0.49 mg/100 g), iron (1.49 mg/100 g), potassium (108.33 mg/100 g), magnesium (78.33 mg/100 g), and phosphorus (125.00 mg/100 g), whereas Muktabali was found to have higher Ca (3.88 mg/100 g) and Baunsidubraj exhibited higher niacin (4.9 mg/100 g). The indigenous landraces Kalamalli, Kandulakathi, and Dudhamani had considerably high iron content, whereas Kalamalli, Baunsidubraj, and Muktabali possessed less phytic acid in comparison with existing varieties and other landraces reported from various states of our country. Landraces Kalamalli, Kanakchudi, Tikichudi, and Muktabali from southern Odisha, India, represented nutritionally better genetic pool for future rice improvement., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors. Food Science & Nutrition published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Segregating progenies for the flesh colour of tetraploid potatoes were developed by hybridization of contrasting parents Bareilly Red (Red skin, round shape, deep eyes, cream flesh with red broad vascular ring) and CP3770 (Red skin, round shape, medium deep dark red eyes, yellow flesh). Molecular profiling (ISSR and SSR markers), agronomical performance and nutritional profiling were undertaken on 64 coloured progenies. A highly polymorphic and diagnostic SSR marker (STM2005) was identified in the parents for tuber flesh colour and accordingly it showed segregating profiles in the progenies. Advanced stage clones like MSP/15-26 (yellow flesh with red vascular ring), MSP/15-44 (Yellow flesh with red vascular ring), MSP/15-51 (red purple flesh), MSP/15-56 (yellow flesh with red vascular ring/medulla, multi-coloured chips) and MSP/15-64 (purple red scattered flesh) showed superiority for nutritional components and are potential clones for use as elite germplasm and release as variety under speciality potato sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oysters are highly esteemed sea food and considered a delicacy throughout the world. Yet this resource is not optimally utilised in several parts of the world. The aim of this study is to highlight its nutritional importance. Biochemical composition and nutritional attributes of oyster meat are discussed. Proximate composition, fatty acid and amino acid profiles and mineral content were determined in oysters (Crassostrea madrasensis). Moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and ash contents in the oyster were 82.64%, 9.41%, 3.25% 3.2% and 1.01%, respectively and it was rich in macro-minerals and trace elements especially selenium. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were highest of the total lipids among which eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and linoleic acid were the prominent fatty acids. The n-3/n-6 index was high indicating a predominance of n-3 fatty acids in the species. Total amino acid content was 99.33 g/100 g crude protein, of which, essential amino acid lysine was the most abundant. Valine had the lowest essential amino acid score (EAAS) (0.17) while threonine had the highest EAAS of 3.62. Chemical score was 17% and the lowest limiting amino acid was valine. Protein efficiency ratio, essential amino acid index and biological value of oyster were 3.92, 120.2 and 174.0, respectively which indicates that the protein is of superior quality. Data on biochemical composition, nutritional attributes and quality indices of C. madrasensis protein may prove important for future policies regarding exploitation of this species and for inducing favourable changes in consumer preferences.

Zooplankton frequently face dietary limitation caused by imbalances between their nutrient requirements and the nutrient content of their phytoplankton food. While insufficient nutrition is acknowledged to affect growth and reproduction of zooplankton, the effect of dietary limitation on other aspects of their metabolism remains poorly studied. One understudied biochemical response associated with nutrient stress is changes to the free amino acid (FAA) composition of body tissues resulting from changes in dietary supply. We examined changes in FAA composition in two cladoceran species ( Daphnia magna and Daphnia pulex) in response to stress created by ecologically relevant food conditions: low food quantities, high algal carbon: nitrogen (C:N) ratios, and high algal C: phosphorus (P) ratios. We measured 14 FAA after extracting them from lyophilized whole Daphnia grown under these contrasting algal diets. Generally, low food quantity and low algal P increased body FAA content in both daphnid species while many essential FAA decreased due to N-limitation. While significant responses to diet were seen for each daphnid species, the nature of these responses depended on the type of nutritional stress, the FAA examined, and on the species. Non-parametric discriminant analysis exhibited a high predictive ability to classify unknown zooplankton into the correct diet category. The observed changes in body FAA profiles of Daphnia illustrate strong effects that algal food quality can have on the biochemistry of planktonic consumers. Furthermore these results demonstrate body FAA composition of zooplankton may provide an important source of information about zooplankton nutrient limitation especially combined with other nutrient-dependent molecular responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is a globally important vegetable crop providing a source of important nutritional compounds through carotenoid content whilst adding flavour and texture to many diets. Temperature influences growth, yield and quality of carrots in many different ways. The influence of varying temperatures on yield and quality parameters of carrots has been a topic for research during the last three decades. An attempt was done to analyze inbreds for quantitative and qualitative traits for the selection of inbreds for high temperature stress. The inbreds showed variation in plant weight, foliage weight, root weight, root length and root girth with average of 233.71g, 74.16g, 164.13g, 21.62 cm, whereas root girth ranged from 4.77-3.70 cm respectively. Anthocyanin content estimated to be highest in dark purple black inbred line IPC-126 (333.81 mg/100g) while the total carotenoid content was highest in root tissue of IPC-124 (14.46 mg/100g). The lycopene content ranged from 0.50 mg/100g (IPC-126) to 11.85 mg/100g (IPC-124). TSS ranged from 6.7 to 10.48 °Brix. Some inbreds performed well under extreme high temperature without affecting any quality attributes. Such inbreds could be selected for further breeding program. The results of our study will help in development of high quality superior hybrids using the promising inbreds in tropical carrot.

The potential of drying to preserve the nutritional quality of a small freshwater fish Henicorhynchus siamensis was assessed. Drying time to reach moisture content and water activity of 10 g/100g and 0.65 ranged from 55 h at 50 °C to 20 h at 80 °C, respectively. Dried fish powder is rich in macronutrients (protein, lipid and ash) and essential minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc) due to water removal and despite lipid loss. It is still rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids although docosahexaenoic acid was reduced except at 60°C. Vitamin A was rapidly degraded and manganese was concentrated at high level. However, mean score for the nutritional adequacy of the 15 nutrients (SAIN) and score of nutrients to limit (LIM) show that the fish powder can be used as a food ingredient for example in the formulation of fish snack or instant soup. With the abundance of Henicorhynchus siamensis , dried fish powder from this species could contribute to food security in Cambodia, especially vulnerable people in rural areas., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Maintaining a nutritious diet is essential for humans if they want to live a healthier life. Several food businesses and food safety organizations play a significant role and offer useful ways for improving nutritional quality that assists consumers in making informed selections. Making poor food choices and consuming unhealthy meals are the main causes of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Nutritional profiling (NP) models are developed to evaluate the nutritional value, calorie content, and the amount of micronutrients and macronutrients contained in a given food accompanied by additional details on the nutritional anomaly provided by published standard nutrients and nutritional databases. To construct an ideal nutritional model that can facilitate food consumption, bioanalytical methods such as chromatography, microscopic techniques, molecular assays, and metabolomics can be applied. With the use of these technologies, one can learn more about the health advantages of nutrition and how to prevent disease. A wider element of NP is also provided by the developing technologies in the area of nutrition research, such as nanotechnology, proteomics, and microarray technology. In this review, we are focusing on the different bioanalytical techniques and the various protocols of NP and their application and refinement of the models. We have evaluated various NP techniques currently used in the food industry for the detection of different components present in food items., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Mondal, Chakraborty, Bera, Ghosh and Kar.)

Quantitative analyses of the macronutrient content of eight popular commercial 'ready-to-feed' baby meals for 6-9-month old infants in the UK market have been undertaken in order to ascertain their nutritional suitability in relation to the total daily dietary intake as well as nutritional profiling of the products. The chemical analyses conducted included Kjeldhal for protein, acid hydrolysis and extraction for fat, phenol sulphuric acid for carbohydrate and Association of Official Analytical Chemists 985.29 for fibre. The only difference found between different varieties (meat- and vegetable-based) was with respect to the protein content ( P = 0.04) per 100 g of food. The experimentally determined concentrations of macronutrients (g/100 kcal) were compared with the declared values provided by the manufacturers on the product labels and, despite some variations, the values obtained comply with regulatory requirements ( Commission Directive 2006/125/ EC). The total daily intake of fat (27.0 g per day) - based on the menu composed from commercial complementary food - is suggested to exceed the daily recommended values for fat (31%), if the intake of snacks and desserts are incorporated. These findings imply that the formulation of recipes, based on a standard commercial menu, is an important consideration in relation to the nutritional quality of the diet of infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Oysters are highly esteemed sea food and considered a delicacy throughout the world. Yet this resource is not optimally utilised in several parts of the world. The aim of this study is to highlight its nutritional importance. Biochemical composition and nutritional attributes of oyster meat are discussed. Proximate composition, fatty acid and amino acid profiles and mineral content were determined in oysters (Crassostrea madrasensis). Moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and ash contents in the oyster were 82.64%, 9.41%, 3.25% 3.2% and 1.01%, respectively and it was rich in macro-minerals and trace elements especially selenium. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were highest of the total lipids among which eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and linoleic acid were the prominent fatty acids. The n-3/n-6 index was high indicating a predominance of n-3 fatty acids in the species. Total amino acid content was 99.33g/100g crude protein, of which, essential amino acid lysine was the most abundant. Valine had the lowest essential amino acid score (EAAS) (0.17) while threonine had the highest EAAS of 3.62. Chemical score was 17% and the lowest limiting amino acid was valine. Protein efficiency ratio, essential amino acid index and biological value of oyster were 3.92, 120.2 and 174.0, respectively which indicates that the protein is of superior quality. Data on biochemical composition, nutritional attributes and quality indices of C. madrasensis protein may prove important for future policies regarding exploitation of this species and for inducing favourable changes in consumer preferences. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There is currently no economically viable method to monitor the nutrition of individual goats reared in confinement. Fecal near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (“fecal NIRS”) enables to predict dietary attributes, based on the analysis of the reflectance of feces in the Near Infrared. Fecal NIRS calibration datasets comprise fecal NIR spectra paired with their associated dietary information. Dedicated trials to generate such datasets are costly, but such datasets are also the outcome of digestibility trials conducted by the hundreds throughout the world. We asked whether data-mining past digestibility trials in which fecal samples were retained could be used to construct fecal NIRS calibrations. This depends on the stability of fecal NIR spectra over years. Using fecal samples that were NIR-scanned in 2003, kept in dry storage at room temperature for 3 years and then scanned again in 2006, we found that the spectra changed, in particular in NIR regions related with CP and digestibility, but the five principal component scores, explaining almost all the spectral variability, were not modified. Fecal NIRS calibration equations based on 375 fecal samples collected in three countries from dairy goats between 1978 and 2001 were less precise and accurate than those based on a subset of 134 samples collected after 1988, which predicted the dietary percentages of hay, silage, corn stover, and beet pulp with high and accuracy values – estimated by the standard error of cross-validation (SECV) – of 4.1%, 3.2%, 6.0%, and 2.2% of DM, respectively. The and SECV for dietary percentage of concentrate was 0.89 and 6.4%, respectively. All dietary chemical percentages were predicted with values above 0.93. The SECV values for dietary percentages of CP, NDF, ADF, and ADL were 0.9%, 2.9%, 1.7%, and 0.60% of DM. External validations of NDF and ADF were satisfactory. The digestibility of OM and NDF featured values of 0.88 and 0.94, with SECV values of 2.7% and 4.1%. The intakes of DM and CP were predicted with and SECV values of 264 and 45gd−1, respectively. These results suggest that monitoring the feeding efficiency and nutritional traceability of individual goats by fecal NIRS is potentially feasible. Recent fecal samples should be used, but moderately aged samples (<18 years) may be generally used and older samples can contribute to some calibrations. The challenge for the goat industry would be to organize cooperatively the collection and calibration of fecal NIRS data-sets and exploiting them cooperatively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We describe a method for gene function discovery and chemical mode-of-action analysis via nutrient utilization using a high throughput Nutritional Profiling platform suitable for filamentous microorganisms. We have optimized the growth conditions for each fungal species to produce reproducible optical density growth measurements in microtiter plates. We validated the Nutritional Profiling platform using a nitrogen source utilization assay to analyze 21 Aspergillus nidulans strains with mutations in the master nitrogen regulatory gene, areA. Analysis of these data accurately reproduced expected results and provided new data to demonstrate that this platform is suitable for fine level phenotyping of filamentous fungi. Next, we analyzed the differential responses of two fungal species to a glutamine synthetase inhibitor, illustrating chemical mode-of-action analysis. Finally, a comparative phenotypic study was performed to characterize carbon catabolite repression in four fungal species using a carbon source utilization assay. The results demonstrate differentiation between two Aspergillus species and two diverse plant pathogens and provide a wealth of new data on fungal nutrient utilization. Thus, these assays can be used for gene function and chemical mode-of-action analysis at the whole organism level as well as interspecies comparisons in a variety of filamentous fungi. Additionally, because uniform distribution of growth within wells is maintained, comparisons between yeast and filamentous forms of a single organism can be performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]