The consumption of a mixture of leafy vegetables has always been a practice anchored in the dietary habits of the people of Brazzaville. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute and subacute toxicities of...The consumption of a mixture of leafy vegetables has always been a practice anchored in the dietary habits of the people of Brazzaville. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute and subacute toxicities of the aqueous extract of the recipe based on three leafy vegetables (Amaranthus hybridus L., Spinacia oleracea, Brassica campestris L.) in laboratory rodents. The aqueous extract of the food recipe was administered orally using a cannula. Regarding acute toxicity, the administration of single doses of 5000 and 10,000 mg/kg to mice had no significant effects on behavior. On the other hand, weight loss was significantly (**p < 0.01) compared to control mice (1 mL/100g). The results on subacute toxicity showed that daily administration of the aqueous extract of the food recipe at a dose of 1000 mg/kg for 21 days in rats resulted in a non-significant weight gain, and caused changes in some biochemical parameters including HDL-cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and ALAT activity.展开更多
Arsenicosis is common among villagers as they drink more contaminated-water since the arsenic-crisis in Bangladesh.Supplementation of vitamins and micronutrients in counteracting arsenic toxicity has been proved for a...Arsenicosis is common among villagers as they drink more contaminated-water since the arsenic-crisis in Bangladesh.Supplementation of vitamins and micronutrients in counteracting arsenic toxicity has been proved for arsenic treatment.This study was intended to assess protective and beneficial roles of some commonly eaten vegetables on the development and severity of arsenic-induced skin lesions.A case-control study among(N=122)adult rural-women(62 cases had various forms of arsenical skin-lesions e.g.melanosis/keratosis/mixed-lesions and 60 sex-age-matched healthy-controls)was conducted in Shaharstee Upazilla of Chandpur district,Bangladesh.Socio-demographic data recorded in a pre-tested-questionnaire,‘per-day vegetables ingestion’of cases and controls were measured qualitative and quantitatively(24-hour recall-methods,food-frequency/week and food history-record/week).Multiple logistic regression/MLR analyses were performed to find out protective roles of some dietary leafy-vegetables/LVs and non-leafy vegetables/NLVs on arsenicosis and their influences on the degree of severity of arsenicosis also determined.Abstinence from taking some LVs/NLVs among cases than controls is associated with increased risk for arsenicosis(P<0.05).Amongst all most-frequently eaten vegetables(n=17)per day Momordica diocia has the highest skin protective role on arsenicosis[Adjusted odds ratio/AOR 8.2,95%CI(2.11-31.9),P=<0.01],followed by Ipomoea acquatica(AOR:7.3),Basella alba(AOR:6.2),Solanum tuberosum(AOR:4.0),Vigna unguiculata sesquipedalis(AOR:3.2),Trichosanthes anguina(AOR:1.2)and Abelmoschus esculentus(AOR:1.2).Moreover,severe skin lesion was observed as compared to non-severe cases(mild/moderate)for less intake frequencies of vegetables.This study outlined that commonly eaten vegetables have protective and beneficial roles on arsenic-induced skin lesions.Large samples longitudinal study of this important field of therapeutic-intervention is warranted.展开更多
Diets containing high proportions of fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of onset of chronic diseases. The role of herbal medicines in improving human health is gaining popularity over the years, which also increase...Diets containing high proportions of fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of onset of chronic diseases. The role of herbal medicines in improving human health is gaining popularity over the years, which also increases the need for safety and efficiency of these products. Green leafy vegetables （GLVs） are the richest source of phenolic compounds with excellent antioxidant properties. Increased consumption of diets containing phenolic compounds may give positive and better results to human health and significantly improves the immune system. Highly selective, susceptible and versatile analytical techniques are necessary for extraction, identifica- tion, and quantification of phenolic compounds from plant extracts, which helps to utilize their important biological properties. Recent advances in the pre-treatment procedures, separation techniques and spectro- metry methods are used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds. The online coupling of liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry （LC-MS） has become a useful tool in the metabolic profiling of plant samples. In this review, the separation and identification of phenolic acids and flavonoids from GLVs by LC-MS have been discussed along with the general extraction procedures and other sources of mass spectrometer used. The review is devoted to the understanding of the structural configuration, nature and accumulation pattern of phenolic acids and flavonoids in plants and to highlighting the recent developments in the chemical investigation of these compounds by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. It concludes with the advantages of the combination of these two methods and prospects.展开更多
This work on nutrient and phytochemical composition of five wild green leafy vegetables consumed in Erei-Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria was aimed at identifying and determining the nutrient,...This work on nutrient and phytochemical composition of five wild green leafy vegetables consumed in Erei-Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria was aimed at identifying and determining the nutrient, and phytochemical compositions of Amaranthus viridis (Ikorodotaseach), Aeschylus glabra (Ididieriri), Alphanostylis lepthanta (Emornegbandip), Calcasia saxatilis, (Igbongonokpa) and Lonchocarpus sericeus (Ajuokoh). Analysis of moisture, protein, fiber, ash, fat and carbohydrate, micronutrients and phytochemicals was done using standard methods, while vitamins were done using AOAC, (1995). The data generated were subjected to T-test, standard deviation, standard error of the mean. The result of the proximate analysis showed that Amaranthus viridis had the highest protein value (9.73%) and the lowest carbohydrate value (4.60%) respectively. Aeschylea glabra recorded the highest fat value [9.73%]. The micro nutrient result revealed that copper (CU) and phosphorous (Ph) values were low and that the value for the other micro-nutrient differed significantly with the exception of calcium (Ca) values which did not differed significantly (P Amaranthus viridis had the highest value of Vitamin C. The phytochemicals and anti-nutrient contents of the vegetables were moderately high but not higher than the safe levels. Hence they are recommended for consumption.展开更多
The purpose of this paper was to identify content changes in the main nutritional indicators of three common leafy vegetables, and to provide a theoretical basis for the protection of leafy vegetables from acid rain. ...The purpose of this paper was to identify content changes in the main nutritional indicators of three common leafy vegetables, and to provide a theoretical basis for the protection of leafy vegetables from acid rain. The experiment investigated the effects of simulated acid rain on four main nutritional indicators, including soluble sugar, total free amino acid, soluble protein and vitamin C during the application of simulated acid rain(SAR) in pakchoi(Brassica rapa chinensis), rape(Brassica campestris L.) and lettuce(Lactuca sativa Linn. var. ramosa Hort). The vegetables were respectively exposed to SAR of pH=7.0, 5.6, 5.0, 4.0, 3.0 and a control level of pH=6.5. The concentrations of the four main nutritional indicators were determined at harvest. The results show that nutritional quality of the three leafy vegetable species decreased with the declining of pH values of SAR. The higher the acidity of SAR was, the more significant the inhibitions were. Nutritional quality of lettuce was the most affected by simulated acid rain, followed by pakchoi and rape. The change range of soluble protein content was higher than those of the other three indicators’ contents, which indicates that soluble protein is most sensitive to simulated acid rain.展开更多
We have examined the carotenoid contents of several dark green vegetables found to be associated with a lower risk of various epithelial cancers in our epidemiological study and animal study. Samples of these vegetabl...We have examined the carotenoid contents of several dark green vegetables found to be associated with a lower risk of various epithelial cancers in our epidemiological study and animal study. Samples of these vegetables were quantitatively examined by highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on a C-18 reversed-phase column for individual carotenoid content. Pure reference compounds (alpha-carotene, beta-carotent, lycopene, canthaxanthin, and lutein) and internal standard (beta-Apo-8'-carotenal) were employed to quantify xanthophylls and carotenes in these vegetables. The results indicated that fresh, dark-green, leafy vegetables were high in beta-carotene (0.94-9.36 mg/100 g) and oxygenated carotenoids or xanthophylls, primarily lutein (0.94-7.39 mg/100 g),whereas lycopene and alpha-carotene were not prominent and canthaxanthin was non existent in these vegetables. These analyses suggest that consumption of carotenoids such as lutein in addition to beta-carotene may be associated with a lower risk of cancers展开更多
The list of underutilized green leafy vegetables is enormous: ranging from commonly consumed and underutilized vegetables. There are data on commonly consumed vegetables, but information is sparse on nutritional, chem...The list of underutilized green leafy vegetables is enormous: ranging from commonly consumed and underutilized vegetables. There are data on commonly consumed vegetables, but information is sparse on nutritional, chemical and anti-nutritional properties of less explored vegetables. This work aimed to evaluate some attributes of less explored or underutilized leafy vegetables. Some nutritional and anti-nutritional contents of 10 under-utilized leafy vegetables(Amaranthus spinosus Linnaeus, Basella alba Linnaeus, Corchorous tridens L., Cyrtosperma senegalense(Schott), Erigeron floribundus Sch, Hoslundia opposita Vahl, Lagenaria siceraria(Molina) Standl, Ocimum basilicum L., Solanum aethiopicum L. and Talinum portulacifolium(Forssk.) Asch. ex Schweinf) were investigated. Cyrtosperma senegalense had the highest protein value(5.93%). Hoslundia opposita had the highest fat content(0.54%). Amaranthus spinosus was high in β-carotene content(346.3 mg · 100 g-1); Cyrtosperma senegalense had the highest moisture content. A. spinosus had the highest ascorbic acid content(108.1 mg · 100 g-1). The highest tannin level(0.0057%) was found in C. senegalense and the lowest(0.0003%) was found in Solanum aethiopicum. Saponin was the highest in C. tridens(0.0052%) and the lowest in T. portulacifolium(0.00014%). C. senegalense and S. aethiopicum had their highest and the lowest phytate values, respectively. Although anti-nutrients could interfere with nutrient utilization, their values in these vegetables were not at toxic levels.展开更多
A study was conducted to determine how the nitrogen(N)in the fertilisers can be quantified and what amounts of fertilizers should be given to leafy vegetables to achieve their requirements.This study also aimed to det...A study was conducted to determine how the nitrogen(N)in the fertilisers can be quantified and what amounts of fertilizers should be given to leafy vegetables to achieve their requirements.This study also aimed to determine the efficient use of water by the plant.The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block with three replicates and three levels of urea(T0=0 kg/ha,T1=43.5 kg/ha,T2=65 kg/ha).Estimation of growth parameters and biomass yield revealed that the treatments produced statistically identical values.But numerically,T1(43.5 kg of urea/ha)gave the highest yields and T2(65 kg of urea/ha)produced the lowest.It was the same for the determination of the water use efficiency(WUE)by the plant where T1 produced the highest values compared to T2.The yield curve as a function of the applied urea dose allowed the identification of the urea dose that corresponds to optimal yield in amaranth.From the dose of 65 kg of urea/ha,any increase becomes harmful to the plant.This results in a decrease in yield in the amaranth plant.展开更多
Background:Majority of human population is suffering from vitamins and mineral deficiencies.Leafy vegetables are used to overcome this problem.Heavy metal contaminations of vegetables cannot be underestimated as these...Background:Majority of human population is suffering from vitamins and mineral deficiencies.Leafy vegetables are used to overcome this problem.Heavy metal contaminations of vegetables cannot be underestimated as these are important components for diet.In Mumbai almost all the farms are closer to railway tracks along the harbour,central and western railways;local farmers in the absence of proper irrigation facilities use water from the drains to grow their crops.This Untreated sewage water increases heavy metals in soil and crops along with pathogens.Utilization of sewage water containing heavy metals due to small scale industries in urban areas deserves special attention as it makes environment quite unsuitable for human and animal health and growth of plants.Copper is essential element while in excess it can cause many diseases.Methods:The present study is undertaken with an aim to study presence of heavy metal i.e.copper in the vegetables,water and soil alongwith physico-chemical parameters.Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine copper content in vegetable samples like Spinacia oleracea and Amaranthus caudatus.Results:The level of copper present in the vegetable was found to be higher than the permissible limits with water being the major cause of excessive copper contamination.The physicochemical parameters were found to be exceeding the drinking water and irrigation standards.Conclusion:The irrigation water is the major source of copper which increases the copper content higher than the permissible limits.But more sampling and research is essential to understand the ingress of heavy metals in the leafy vegetables.展开更多
Leafy vegetables comprises of the majority of food intake around the world.A nuanced understanding of their phytonutrients,bioavailability and post-harvest processing will aid in understanding their utility in human h...Leafy vegetables comprises of the majority of food intake around the world.A nuanced understanding of their phytonutrients,bioavailability and post-harvest processing will aid in understanding their utility in human health better.Plant foods have a variety of dietary phytonutrients beneficial to us.With a lot of diversity in the variety of these leafy vegetables,it is of utmost importance as consumers to understand their benefits,functional properties,post processing changes that occurs until it reaches us.Some of the most popular green leafy vegetables include spinach,cabbage,lettuce and mustard greens.In this review,we provide a summary of the phytonutrients in such leafy greens with a detailed description of its bioavailability of nutrients,role of bio fortification,changes during harvest and post-harvest processing.As a low calorie food item,green leafy vegetables are ideal candidates to add valuable nutrients into our daily diets,and spinach especially is known to have multiple therapeutic implications in human health.Post-harvest processing may include addition of nutrients,increasing bio availability of important constituents,assessing effect of fertilizers and growth promoting factors on their nutrient content.All of these parameters need to be studied in depth to improve their beneficial effect in human nutrition and diet.展开更多
The production of hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings uses coco-peat as culture substrate in South China.Coco-peat has lowered density than peat-moss,and the friction between substrate block and pickup tool is s...The production of hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings uses coco-peat as culture substrate in South China.Coco-peat has lowered density than peat-moss,and the friction between substrate block and pickup tool is small.So,it is hard to pick up in mechanism transplantation.In order to increase the friction,the existing transplanting manipulator had relatively complex structures.To simplify the structure of transplanting manipulator and improve the stability of picking up substrate block,four stainless steel fingers with rectangular cross-section were used in this research.A vertical driving was used to realize the coupling effect that could insert and shrink at the same time,by applying different combination of constraints to the steel fingers.This could increase friction between the steel fingers and the substrate block,and then enhance the stability of the substrate block.Different combinations of constraints were applied to the rectangular stainless steel fingers(3 mm×0.8 mm).The working videos of steel fingers were taken by high-speed photography.High-speed motioned analysis software was used to acquire and analyze traces of steel fingers movements.When the length which top end of the steel fingers moved outward(M)is equal to 1.5 mm,the length which guiding part widened(N)is equal to 1 mm,the shrinking distance of steel fingers is 4.2 mm.In this research,16-day hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings were used for performance,which cultivated with coco-peat substrate with the moisture in the substrate at 81%.The transplanting manipulator was attached to a Denso robotic arm to conduct transplanting performance test.When the shrinking distance of steel fingers increased from 0 mm to 3.2 mm and the inserting angle decreased from 80°to 77°,the lifting force of substrate block increased by 118%from 1.45 N to 3.16 N.However,excessive shrinkage stirred the substrate block,which would reduce the friction between the substrate block and pickup parts and lowered the lifting force of pickup part in the substrate block.The experimental results also demonstrated that when the shrinking distance of the steel fingers reached 3.2 mm and the root distribution rate reached 46%,the success rate of transplantation was 80%.When the leafy vegetable plug-seedlings root distribution rate reached 92%,the success rate of transplantation was 96.67%.The degree of root distribution rate was positively correlated with the transplantation success rate.Therefore,in order to ensure an acceptable success rate of transplantation,the root distribution rate of leafy vegetable plug-seedlings should be at least 90%.This study provides a technical reference for developing simplified transplanting manipulator that can be used to transplant the hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings with coco-peat as the culture substrate.展开更多
The success of growing vegetables indoors requires the most appropriate selection of lighting spectrum.This mini review discusses the impacts of LED spectral quality on different leafy vegetables with a focus on the s...The success of growing vegetables indoors requires the most appropriate selection of lighting spectrum.This mini review discusses the impacts of LED spectral quality on different leafy vegetables with a focus on the studies of Chinese broccoli(Brassica alboglabra),ice plants(Mesembryanthem crystallinum)and lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.cv.Canasta).For each species,plants exposed to different spectral LED lights were all under the same light intensity and same photoperiod.Chinese broccoli grown under red(R):blue(B)-LED ratio of 84:16(16B)had the highest light-saturated photosynthetic CO_(2) assimilation rate(Asat)and stomatal conductance(gs sat)compared to plants grown under other R:B-LED ratios.It was also shown that 16B is the most appropriate selection for Chinese broccoli to achieve the highest shoot productivity with a rapid leaf number and leaf area development.The highest concentrations of photosynthetic pigments,soluble and Rubisco protein on a leaf area basis were also observed in 16B plants.The results conclusively affirmed that the highest productivity of Chinese broccoli grown under 16B is closely linked to the highest photosynthetic performance on a leaf area basis.For ice plants grown under R:B-LED ratios of 90:10(10B),they had the highest shoot biomass with a faster leaf development compared to plants grown under other RB-LED combinations.However,there were no differences in Asat,gs sat,photosynthetic pigments,soluble and Rubisco proteins on a leaf area basis.In the case of lettuce plants,it was a surprise to observe that plants grown under 0B and 20G(20%green(G)-LED and 80%R-LED)had the highest shoot biomass,and largest total leaf area and light interception area but the lowest net maximal photosynthetic rate on a leaf area basis,compared to other plants.The combined RB-LED enhanced other photosynthetic parameters while 0B and 20G conditions had inhibitory effects on maximum quantum efficiency of PS II with lower photosynthetic pigments,total soluble protein and Rubisco protein.These results suggest that impacts of LED light quality on productivity of lettuce(L.sativa L.cv.Canasta)are closely linked to leaf traits not associated with photosynthetic performance on a leaf area basis.展开更多
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)includes a broad spectrum of liver dysfunction ranging from hepatic steatosis(intracellular triglyceride accumulation)to steatohepatitis.This study investigated the beneficial e...Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)includes a broad spectrum of liver dysfunction ranging from hepatic steatosis(intracellular triglyceride accumulation)to steatohepatitis.This study investigated the beneficial effect of Premna herbacea(a dietary leafy vegetable of North East India)and its active constituent in managing hepatic steatosis using high fat diet(HFD)-fed male Wistar rat and hepatocyte(CC1)cell culture models.Administration with methanolic leaf extract of Premna herbacea(PHME)(250 mg/kg body weight,oral gavage,20 weeks)reduced the gain in body weight and rise in serum lipid(triglyceride and total cholesterol)levels and enzymes(alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase)responsible for liver dysfunction in high fat diet(HFD)-fed rats.PHME administration further upregulated the phosphorylation of AMPK,ACC,and HMGCR,downregulated SREBP1 signaling pathways of lipid metabolism,and prevented hepatic steatosis in liver tissues of HFD-fed rats.Moreover,studies on cultured hepatocytes revealed that treatment with both crude extract and its ethyl acetate fraction(PHEA)significantly reduced intracellular lipid accumulation in palmitate(PA,0.75 mM)-treated cells.Chemical profiling(HPLC,HRMS,^(1)H and^(13)C NMR)of PHEA demonstrated the presence of Verbascoside,a caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycoside as a major phyto-constituent,which prevented cellular lipid accumulation and regulated the alteration in AMPK/SREBP/ACC/HMGCR signaling pathways of lipid metabolism in PA-treated cells.In conclusion,this study showed the prophylactic role of Premna herbacea and its active molecule,Verbascoside as a potential functional food in ameliorating hepatic steatosis by regulating AMPK/SREBP/ACC/HMGCR signaling cascade.展开更多
The Cd-tolerant and sodium alginate(SA)-synthesizing Pseudomonas putida XMS-1was characterized for Cd immobilization in solution.Additionally,the XMS-1 mutant constructed by deleting SA-synthesizing regulatory gene al...The Cd-tolerant and sodium alginate(SA)-synthesizing Pseudomonas putida XMS-1was characterized for Cd immobilization in solution.Additionally,the XMS-1 mutant constructed by deleting SA-synthesizing regulatory gene algB(△algB)were characterized for their roles in Cd uptake in Chinese chive in the Cd-contaminated soil.Between 12 and 48 h of incubation,the XMS-1△algBmutant significantly reduced solution Cd concentrations by 81%compared with the control but increased the Cd concentrations by 36%compared with XMS-1.After 48 h of incubation,the XMS-1△algB mutant significantly increased the Cd concentration by 36%and decreased the expolysaccharide(EPS)and SA concentrations by 30%-32%and cell surface-adsorbed Cd content by 24%in the Cd-containing medium,compared with XMS-1.The XMS-1△algB mutant significantly increased the root and leaf Cd contents of Chinese chive by 15%-50%and exchangeable Cd content by 17%and decreased the Fe-Mn oxideand organic matter-bound Cd contents by 17%-23%,compared with XMS-1.Furthermore,the XMS-1△algBmutant significantly decreased the EPS content by 33%,copies of algD gene involved in EPS production by 7.7-fold,and the interactions between the amino,hydroxyl,and carbonyl groups and Cd in the Cd-contaminated soil,compared with XMS-1.These results suggested that algB promoted XMS-1-mediated Cd-stabilizing related gene abundance and interactions between soil and Cd and decreased Cd uptake in Chinese chive.These findings may provide an effective and eco-friendly way using SA-producing bacteria for safe production of vegetables in the Cd-polluted soil.展开更多
In the Peninsular Malaysia and Northern Borneo island of Malaysia, various rich indigenous leafy vegetables and fruits grow and contribute to the nutritional and dietary values of the population. They have high water ...In the Peninsular Malaysia and Northern Borneo island of Malaysia, various rich indigenous leafy vegetables and fruits grow and contribute to the nutritional and dietary values of the population. They have high water contents, thus, naturally vulnerable to rapid food spoilage. Food preservation and processing play a vital role in the inhibition of food pathogens in fruits and vegetables that are prevalent in Malaysia. Lactic acid fermentation is generally a local-based bioprocess, among the oldest form and well-known for food-processing techniques among indigenous people there. The long shelf life of fermented vegetables and fruits improves their nutritional values and antioxidant potentials. Fermented leaves and vegetables can be utilized as a potential source of probiotics as they are host for several lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus confusus, Weissella paramesenteroides, Enterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus pentosus, Pediococcus acidilactici, Pediococcus pentosaceus and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. These strains may be more viable in metabolic systems whereby they can contribute to a substantial increase in essential biologically active element than industrial starter cultures. This review is aimed to address some essential fermented fruits and vegetables in Malaysia and their remarkable reputations as a potential sources of natural probiotics.展开更多
The knowledge and understanding of African leafy vegetables has diminished over time, but in the recent past year there is more interest in their research for their nutritive and medicinal values. Of value are those t...The knowledge and understanding of African leafy vegetables has diminished over time, but in the recent past year there is more interest in their research for their nutritive and medicinal values. Of value are those that have the potential to ameliorate soil nutrient levels. This is with the background that despite inorganic fertilizers （IF） have a dramatic impact on agriculture in the world, the economic situation in Sub-Saharan African calls for alternative methods to reduce soil fertility degradation. The use of leguminous vegetables may be a solution. The study looks at the potential contribution of a leguminous traditional vegetable-- Crotalaria brevidens to soil nitrogen under various treatments. During the study which was conducted over two seasons, C. brevidens was grown under two treatments of IF and organic fertilizer （OF） with a control in which there was no fertilizer （NF） applied. A non-leguminous vegetable--Amaranthus dubious （Amaranth） was grown under the same treatments for comparison purposes. Soil analysis was done before and after planting in the treatment subplots. Growth parameters were measured every fortnight and these included leaf number, shoot length, dry weight and nodule number for Crotalaria. Results indicated that the leguminous vegetable was not affected by external inputs and there were no significant differences between treatments and control. The non-leguminous vegetables responded well to both IF and OF treatments in all the measured parameters. This underlines the potential for improving soil nitrogen levels using leguminous vegetables, especially as intercrops with the non-leguminous types.展开更多
Jute mallow is a nutritious leafy vegetable. The leaves are rich in proteins, vitamins and essential amino acids. Molecular characterization of Jute mallow with focus on improvement of leaf yield is scarcely reported....Jute mallow is a nutritious leafy vegetable. The leaves are rich in proteins, vitamins and essential amino acids. Molecular characterization of Jute mallow with focus on improvement of leaf yield is scarcely reported. In the present study, inter sequence simple repeats (ISSR) molecular markers were employed to assess genetic diversity and relationships of 83 accessions of Jute mallow from different parts of Africa and Asia conserved at the World Vegetable Center East and Southern Africa. A total of 89 bands were amplified by 8 ISSR primers. Number of polymorphic bands per primer ranged from 2 to 6 with an average of 2.75 bands per primer. Polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.390 to 0.760 with average of 0.53. Average Nei’s gene diversity (h) and Shannon’s information index (I) were 0.335 and 0.494 respectively. The highest pairwise genetic distance was 0.431 observed in a population from East Africa accessions. PC1 and PC2 axis explained 21.69% and 11.66% of the total variation respectively. UPGMA cluster analysis grouped the accessions into six main clusters at genetic similarity coefficient of 0.53 as standard value for classification. These results have important implications for jute mallow breeding and conservation.展开更多
Antioxidants are highly beneficial to human health, and their accumulation in lettuce, one of the most popular leafy vegetables, depends on both genetic and environmental factors. Nitrogen(N) availability plays an ess...Antioxidants are highly beneficial to human health, and their accumulation in lettuce, one of the most popular leafy vegetables, depends on both genetic and environmental factors. Nitrogen(N) availability plays an essential role in regulating antioxidant accumulation, but the influence of genotype × N interactions on the antioxidant qualities of lettuce is poorly understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the variation of growth and antioxidant qualities of 20 lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.) genotypes(10 green lettuce genotypes and 10 red lettuce genotypes) under limited N(low N, LN) conditions and standard N(high N, HN) conditions. For all 20 genotypes, LN conditions reduced shoot(i.e., leaf) growth, but increased plant concentrations of vitamin C,glutathione, and phenolic compounds, with the exception of carotenoids, compared with HN conditions. Because of reduced biomass under LN conditions, not all lettuce genotypes exhibited increased antioxidant yields or total antioxidant capacity yield. The variation in antioxidant quality was primarily genetically determined. Generally, the green lettuce genotypes exhibited more pronounced increases in antioxidant yields and total antioxidant capacity yield than the red lettuce genotypes under LN conditions. These results suggest that even though LN conditions generally tend to improve the antioxidant qualities of lettuce, the extent of this effect is highly dependent on genotype. Therefore, genotype should be given priority in future studies that aim to improve antioxidant qualities in lettuce through N management.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the amino acid profile and quality indices of Clerodendrum volubile(C.volubile)leaves.Methods:Dried leaves of C.volubile were blended,defatted and subjected to amino acid analysis using the techn...Objective:To evaluate the amino acid profile and quality indices of Clerodendrum volubile(C.volubile)leaves.Methods:Dried leaves of C.volubile were blended,defatted and subjected to amino acid analysis using the technicon sequential multi-sample amino acid analyzer.The amino acid quality indices which covers for chemical score,essential amino acid index,nutritional index,true digestibility,protein digestibility corrected amino acid score,and digestible indispensable amino acid score were evaluated using standard formulas.Results:Amino acid analysis revealed glutamic acid to have the highest concentration,with cysteine having the least.Aspartic acid had the highest chemical score,this was followed by glycine,histidine and arginine,respectively.The least scores were observed in serine and methionine.Glutamic acid had the highest value for true digestibility and protein digestibility corrected amino acid score,with the least observed in cysteine.Digestible indispensable amino acid score evaluation showed histidine to have the highest value for infants(birth to 6 months),threonine for children(6 months to 3 years),while isoleucine was observed to have the highest value for older children,adolescents and adults.The essential amino acid index value was less than 4,while nutritional index value was less than 0.5.Conclusions:These results indicated the leaves of C.volubile as a potential source of amino acids in the human diet as portrayed by its amino acids profile and qualities.展开更多
文摘The consumption of a mixture of leafy vegetables has always been a practice anchored in the dietary habits of the people of Brazzaville. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute and subacute toxicities of the aqueous extract of the recipe based on three leafy vegetables (Amaranthus hybridus L., Spinacia oleracea, Brassica campestris L.) in laboratory rodents. The aqueous extract of the food recipe was administered orally using a cannula. Regarding acute toxicity, the administration of single doses of 5000 and 10,000 mg/kg to mice had no significant effects on behavior. On the other hand, weight loss was significantly (**p < 0.01) compared to control mice (1 mL/100g). The results on subacute toxicity showed that daily administration of the aqueous extract of the food recipe at a dose of 1000 mg/kg for 21 days in rats resulted in a non-significant weight gain, and caused changes in some biochemical parameters including HDL-cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and ALAT activity.
文摘Arsenicosis is common among villagers as they drink more contaminated-water since the arsenic-crisis in Bangladesh.Supplementation of vitamins and micronutrients in counteracting arsenic toxicity has been proved for arsenic treatment.This study was intended to assess protective and beneficial roles of some commonly eaten vegetables on the development and severity of arsenic-induced skin lesions.A case-control study among(N=122)adult rural-women(62 cases had various forms of arsenical skin-lesions e.g.melanosis/keratosis/mixed-lesions and 60 sex-age-matched healthy-controls)was conducted in Shaharstee Upazilla of Chandpur district,Bangladesh.Socio-demographic data recorded in a pre-tested-questionnaire,‘per-day vegetables ingestion’of cases and controls were measured qualitative and quantitatively(24-hour recall-methods,food-frequency/week and food history-record/week).Multiple logistic regression/MLR analyses were performed to find out protective roles of some dietary leafy-vegetables/LVs and non-leafy vegetables/NLVs on arsenicosis and their influences on the degree of severity of arsenicosis also determined.Abstinence from taking some LVs/NLVs among cases than controls is associated with increased risk for arsenicosis(P<0.05).Amongst all most-frequently eaten vegetables(n=17)per day Momordica diocia has the highest skin protective role on arsenicosis[Adjusted odds ratio/AOR 8.2,95%CI(2.11-31.9),P=<0.01],followed by Ipomoea acquatica(AOR:7.3),Basella alba(AOR:6.2),Solanum tuberosum(AOR:4.0),Vigna unguiculata sesquipedalis(AOR:3.2),Trichosanthes anguina(AOR:1.2)and Abelmoschus esculentus(AOR:1.2).Moreover,severe skin lesion was observed as compared to non-severe cases(mild/moderate)for less intake frequencies of vegetables.This study outlined that commonly eaten vegetables have protective and beneficial roles on arsenic-induced skin lesions.Large samples longitudinal study of this important field of therapeutic-intervention is warranted.
基金the funding support provided by Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD/RTV-5/2012) New Delhi, India
文摘Diets containing high proportions of fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of onset of chronic diseases. The role of herbal medicines in improving human health is gaining popularity over the years, which also increases the need for safety and efficiency of these products. Green leafy vegetables （GLVs） are the richest source of phenolic compounds with excellent antioxidant properties. Increased consumption of diets containing phenolic compounds may give positive and better results to human health and significantly improves the immune system. Highly selective, susceptible and versatile analytical techniques are necessary for extraction, identifica- tion, and quantification of phenolic compounds from plant extracts, which helps to utilize their important biological properties. Recent advances in the pre-treatment procedures, separation techniques and spectro- metry methods are used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds. The online coupling of liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry （LC-MS） has become a useful tool in the metabolic profiling of plant samples. In this review, the separation and identification of phenolic acids and flavonoids from GLVs by LC-MS have been discussed along with the general extraction procedures and other sources of mass spectrometer used. The review is devoted to the understanding of the structural configuration, nature and accumulation pattern of phenolic acids and flavonoids in plants and to highlighting the recent developments in the chemical investigation of these compounds by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. It concludes with the advantages of the combination of these two methods and prospects.
文摘This work on nutrient and phytochemical composition of five wild green leafy vegetables consumed in Erei-Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria was aimed at identifying and determining the nutrient, and phytochemical compositions of Amaranthus viridis (Ikorodotaseach), Aeschylus glabra (Ididieriri), Alphanostylis lepthanta (Emornegbandip), Calcasia saxatilis, (Igbongonokpa) and Lonchocarpus sericeus (Ajuokoh). Analysis of moisture, protein, fiber, ash, fat and carbohydrate, micronutrients and phytochemicals was done using standard methods, while vitamins were done using AOAC, (1995). The data generated were subjected to T-test, standard deviation, standard error of the mean. The result of the proximate analysis showed that Amaranthus viridis had the highest protein value (9.73%) and the lowest carbohydrate value (4.60%) respectively. Aeschylea glabra recorded the highest fat value [9.73%]. The micro nutrient result revealed that copper (CU) and phosphorous (Ph) values were low and that the value for the other micro-nutrient differed significantly with the exception of calcium (Ca) values which did not differed significantly (P Amaranthus viridis had the highest value of Vitamin C. The phytochemicals and anti-nutrient contents of the vegetables were moderately high but not higher than the safe levels. Hence they are recommended for consumption.
基金Supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(No.2005CB422207)
文摘The purpose of this paper was to identify content changes in the main nutritional indicators of three common leafy vegetables, and to provide a theoretical basis for the protection of leafy vegetables from acid rain. The experiment investigated the effects of simulated acid rain on four main nutritional indicators, including soluble sugar, total free amino acid, soluble protein and vitamin C during the application of simulated acid rain(SAR) in pakchoi(Brassica rapa chinensis), rape(Brassica campestris L.) and lettuce(Lactuca sativa Linn. var. ramosa Hort). The vegetables were respectively exposed to SAR of pH=7.0, 5.6, 5.0, 4.0, 3.0 and a control level of pH=6.5. The concentrations of the four main nutritional indicators were determined at harvest. The results show that nutritional quality of the three leafy vegetable species decreased with the declining of pH values of SAR. The higher the acidity of SAR was, the more significant the inhibitions were. Nutritional quality of lettuce was the most affected by simulated acid rain, followed by pakchoi and rape. The change range of soluble protein content was higher than those of the other three indicators’ contents, which indicates that soluble protein is most sensitive to simulated acid rain.
文摘We have examined the carotenoid contents of several dark green vegetables found to be associated with a lower risk of various epithelial cancers in our epidemiological study and animal study. Samples of these vegetables were quantitatively examined by highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on a C-18 reversed-phase column for individual carotenoid content. Pure reference compounds (alpha-carotene, beta-carotent, lycopene, canthaxanthin, and lutein) and internal standard (beta-Apo-8'-carotenal) were employed to quantify xanthophylls and carotenes in these vegetables. The results indicated that fresh, dark-green, leafy vegetables were high in beta-carotene (0.94-9.36 mg/100 g) and oxygenated carotenoids or xanthophylls, primarily lutein (0.94-7.39 mg/100 g),whereas lycopene and alpha-carotene were not prominent and canthaxanthin was non existent in these vegetables. These analyses suggest that consumption of carotenoids such as lutein in addition to beta-carotene may be associated with a lower risk of cancers
文摘The list of underutilized green leafy vegetables is enormous: ranging from commonly consumed and underutilized vegetables. There are data on commonly consumed vegetables, but information is sparse on nutritional, chemical and anti-nutritional properties of less explored vegetables. This work aimed to evaluate some attributes of less explored or underutilized leafy vegetables. Some nutritional and anti-nutritional contents of 10 under-utilized leafy vegetables(Amaranthus spinosus Linnaeus, Basella alba Linnaeus, Corchorous tridens L., Cyrtosperma senegalense(Schott), Erigeron floribundus Sch, Hoslundia opposita Vahl, Lagenaria siceraria(Molina) Standl, Ocimum basilicum L., Solanum aethiopicum L. and Talinum portulacifolium(Forssk.) Asch. ex Schweinf) were investigated. Cyrtosperma senegalense had the highest protein value(5.93%). Hoslundia opposita had the highest fat content(0.54%). Amaranthus spinosus was high in β-carotene content(346.3 mg · 100 g-1); Cyrtosperma senegalense had the highest moisture content. A. spinosus had the highest ascorbic acid content(108.1 mg · 100 g-1). The highest tannin level(0.0057%) was found in C. senegalense and the lowest(0.0003%) was found in Solanum aethiopicum. Saponin was the highest in C. tridens(0.0052%) and the lowest in T. portulacifolium(0.00014%). C. senegalense and S. aethiopicum had their highest and the lowest phytate values, respectively. Although anti-nutrients could interfere with nutrient utilization, their values in these vegetables were not at toxic levels.
基金The authors’ thanks go to the International AtomicEnergy Agency (IAEA) for funding the fellowshipand experiments. Their gratitude goes to the authorities of the National Centre for AgronomicResearch (CNRA) and the IAEA National LiaisonOfficers (NLO) of Côte d’Ivoire who made thisfellowship possible. Their thanks also go to theauthorities of Kenya Agricultural and LivestockResearch Organization (KALRO) and Irrigation andDrainage Management and Problem of Soil (IDMPS)Program for hosting the fellowship.
文摘A study was conducted to determine how the nitrogen(N)in the fertilisers can be quantified and what amounts of fertilizers should be given to leafy vegetables to achieve their requirements.This study also aimed to determine the efficient use of water by the plant.The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block with three replicates and three levels of urea(T0=0 kg/ha,T1=43.5 kg/ha,T2=65 kg/ha).Estimation of growth parameters and biomass yield revealed that the treatments produced statistically identical values.But numerically,T1(43.5 kg of urea/ha)gave the highest yields and T2(65 kg of urea/ha)produced the lowest.It was the same for the determination of the water use efficiency(WUE)by the plant where T1 produced the highest values compared to T2.The yield curve as a function of the applied urea dose allowed the identification of the urea dose that corresponds to optimal yield in amaranth.From the dose of 65 kg of urea/ha,any increase becomes harmful to the plant.This results in a decrease in yield in the amaranth plant.
文摘Background:Majority of human population is suffering from vitamins and mineral deficiencies.Leafy vegetables are used to overcome this problem.Heavy metal contaminations of vegetables cannot be underestimated as these are important components for diet.In Mumbai almost all the farms are closer to railway tracks along the harbour,central and western railways;local farmers in the absence of proper irrigation facilities use water from the drains to grow their crops.This Untreated sewage water increases heavy metals in soil and crops along with pathogens.Utilization of sewage water containing heavy metals due to small scale industries in urban areas deserves special attention as it makes environment quite unsuitable for human and animal health and growth of plants.Copper is essential element while in excess it can cause many diseases.Methods:The present study is undertaken with an aim to study presence of heavy metal i.e.copper in the vegetables,water and soil alongwith physico-chemical parameters.Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine copper content in vegetable samples like Spinacia oleracea and Amaranthus caudatus.Results:The level of copper present in the vegetable was found to be higher than the permissible limits with water being the major cause of excessive copper contamination.The physicochemical parameters were found to be exceeding the drinking water and irrigation standards.Conclusion:The irrigation water is the major source of copper which increases the copper content higher than the permissible limits.But more sampling and research is essential to understand the ingress of heavy metals in the leafy vegetables.
文摘Leafy vegetables comprises of the majority of food intake around the world.A nuanced understanding of their phytonutrients,bioavailability and post-harvest processing will aid in understanding their utility in human health better.Plant foods have a variety of dietary phytonutrients beneficial to us.With a lot of diversity in the variety of these leafy vegetables,it is of utmost importance as consumers to understand their benefits,functional properties,post processing changes that occurs until it reaches us.Some of the most popular green leafy vegetables include spinach,cabbage,lettuce and mustard greens.In this review,we provide a summary of the phytonutrients in such leafy greens with a detailed description of its bioavailability of nutrients,role of bio fortification,changes during harvest and post-harvest processing.As a low calorie food item,green leafy vegetables are ideal candidates to add valuable nutrients into our daily diets,and spinach especially is known to have multiple therapeutic implications in human health.Post-harvest processing may include addition of nutrients,increasing bio availability of important constituents,assessing effect of fertilizers and growth promoting factors on their nutrient content.All of these parameters need to be studied in depth to improve their beneficial effect in human nutrition and diet.
基金The authors acknowledge that this work was supported by the“intelligent agricultural machinery and equipment”of key research and development project in Guangdong Province(2019B020222004)the Guangdong Province modern agriculture innovation team of protected agriculture for generic key technology systems(2019-2023),2019 South China Agricultural University doctoral innovative talents(domestic training)cultivation project(CX2019N009).
文摘The production of hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings uses coco-peat as culture substrate in South China.Coco-peat has lowered density than peat-moss,and the friction between substrate block and pickup tool is small.So,it is hard to pick up in mechanism transplantation.In order to increase the friction,the existing transplanting manipulator had relatively complex structures.To simplify the structure of transplanting manipulator and improve the stability of picking up substrate block,four stainless steel fingers with rectangular cross-section were used in this research.A vertical driving was used to realize the coupling effect that could insert and shrink at the same time,by applying different combination of constraints to the steel fingers.This could increase friction between the steel fingers and the substrate block,and then enhance the stability of the substrate block.Different combinations of constraints were applied to the rectangular stainless steel fingers(3 mm×0.8 mm).The working videos of steel fingers were taken by high-speed photography.High-speed motioned analysis software was used to acquire and analyze traces of steel fingers movements.When the length which top end of the steel fingers moved outward(M)is equal to 1.5 mm,the length which guiding part widened(N)is equal to 1 mm,the shrinking distance of steel fingers is 4.2 mm.In this research,16-day hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings were used for performance,which cultivated with coco-peat substrate with the moisture in the substrate at 81%.The transplanting manipulator was attached to a Denso robotic arm to conduct transplanting performance test.When the shrinking distance of steel fingers increased from 0 mm to 3.2 mm and the inserting angle decreased from 80°to 77°,the lifting force of substrate block increased by 118%from 1.45 N to 3.16 N.However,excessive shrinkage stirred the substrate block,which would reduce the friction between the substrate block and pickup parts and lowered the lifting force of pickup part in the substrate block.The experimental results also demonstrated that when the shrinking distance of the steel fingers reached 3.2 mm and the root distribution rate reached 46%,the success rate of transplantation was 80%.When the leafy vegetable plug-seedlings root distribution rate reached 92%,the success rate of transplantation was 96.67%.The degree of root distribution rate was positively correlated with the transplantation success rate.Therefore,in order to ensure an acceptable success rate of transplantation,the root distribution rate of leafy vegetable plug-seedlings should be at least 90%.This study provides a technical reference for developing simplified transplanting manipulator that can be used to transplant the hydroponic leafy vegetable plug-seedlings with coco-peat as the culture substrate.
基金We thank the Singapore Millennium Foundation(SMF-Farming System)and Nanyang Technological University(NTU AcRF Tier 1,RP 1/18 HJ)for their financial support.
文摘The success of growing vegetables indoors requires the most appropriate selection of lighting spectrum.This mini review discusses the impacts of LED spectral quality on different leafy vegetables with a focus on the studies of Chinese broccoli(Brassica alboglabra),ice plants(Mesembryanthem crystallinum)and lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.cv.Canasta).For each species,plants exposed to different spectral LED lights were all under the same light intensity and same photoperiod.Chinese broccoli grown under red(R):blue(B)-LED ratio of 84:16(16B)had the highest light-saturated photosynthetic CO_(2) assimilation rate(Asat)and stomatal conductance(gs sat)compared to plants grown under other R:B-LED ratios.It was also shown that 16B is the most appropriate selection for Chinese broccoli to achieve the highest shoot productivity with a rapid leaf number and leaf area development.The highest concentrations of photosynthetic pigments,soluble and Rubisco protein on a leaf area basis were also observed in 16B plants.The results conclusively affirmed that the highest productivity of Chinese broccoli grown under 16B is closely linked to the highest photosynthetic performance on a leaf area basis.For ice plants grown under R:B-LED ratios of 90:10(10B),they had the highest shoot biomass with a faster leaf development compared to plants grown under other RB-LED combinations.However,there were no differences in Asat,gs sat,photosynthetic pigments,soluble and Rubisco proteins on a leaf area basis.In the case of lettuce plants,it was a surprise to observe that plants grown under 0B and 20G(20%green(G)-LED and 80%R-LED)had the highest shoot biomass,and largest total leaf area and light interception area but the lowest net maximal photosynthetic rate on a leaf area basis,compared to other plants.The combined RB-LED enhanced other photosynthetic parameters while 0B and 20G conditions had inhibitory effects on maximum quantum efficiency of PS II with lower photosynthetic pigments,total soluble protein and Rubisco protein.These results suggest that impacts of LED light quality on productivity of lettuce(L.sativa L.cv.Canasta)are closely linked to leaf traits not associated with photosynthetic performance on a leaf area basis.
文摘Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)includes a broad spectrum of liver dysfunction ranging from hepatic steatosis(intracellular triglyceride accumulation)to steatohepatitis.This study investigated the beneficial effect of Premna herbacea(a dietary leafy vegetable of North East India)and its active constituent in managing hepatic steatosis using high fat diet(HFD)-fed male Wistar rat and hepatocyte(CC1)cell culture models.Administration with methanolic leaf extract of Premna herbacea(PHME)(250 mg/kg body weight,oral gavage,20 weeks)reduced the gain in body weight and rise in serum lipid(triglyceride and total cholesterol)levels and enzymes(alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase)responsible for liver dysfunction in high fat diet(HFD)-fed rats.PHME administration further upregulated the phosphorylation of AMPK,ACC,and HMGCR,downregulated SREBP1 signaling pathways of lipid metabolism,and prevented hepatic steatosis in liver tissues of HFD-fed rats.Moreover,studies on cultured hepatocytes revealed that treatment with both crude extract and its ethyl acetate fraction(PHEA)significantly reduced intracellular lipid accumulation in palmitate(PA,0.75 mM)-treated cells.Chemical profiling(HPLC,HRMS,^(1)H and^(13)C NMR)of PHEA demonstrated the presence of Verbascoside,a caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycoside as a major phyto-constituent,which prevented cellular lipid accumulation and regulated the alteration in AMPK/SREBP/ACC/HMGCR signaling pathways of lipid metabolism in PA-treated cells.In conclusion,this study showed the prophylactic role of Premna herbacea and its active molecule,Verbascoside as a potential functional food in ameliorating hepatic steatosis by regulating AMPK/SREBP/ACC/HMGCR signaling cascade.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41977199).
文摘The Cd-tolerant and sodium alginate(SA)-synthesizing Pseudomonas putida XMS-1was characterized for Cd immobilization in solution.Additionally,the XMS-1 mutant constructed by deleting SA-synthesizing regulatory gene algB(△algB)were characterized for their roles in Cd uptake in Chinese chive in the Cd-contaminated soil.Between 12 and 48 h of incubation,the XMS-1△algBmutant significantly reduced solution Cd concentrations by 81%compared with the control but increased the Cd concentrations by 36%compared with XMS-1.After 48 h of incubation,the XMS-1△algB mutant significantly increased the Cd concentration by 36%and decreased the expolysaccharide(EPS)and SA concentrations by 30%-32%and cell surface-adsorbed Cd content by 24%in the Cd-containing medium,compared with XMS-1.The XMS-1△algB mutant significantly increased the root and leaf Cd contents of Chinese chive by 15%-50%and exchangeable Cd content by 17%and decreased the Fe-Mn oxideand organic matter-bound Cd contents by 17%-23%,compared with XMS-1.Furthermore,the XMS-1△algBmutant significantly decreased the EPS content by 33%,copies of algD gene involved in EPS production by 7.7-fold,and the interactions between the amino,hydroxyl,and carbonyl groups and Cd in the Cd-contaminated soil,compared with XMS-1.These results suggested that algB promoted XMS-1-mediated Cd-stabilizing related gene abundance and interactions between soil and Cd and decreased Cd uptake in Chinese chive.These findings may provide an effective and eco-friendly way using SA-producing bacteria for safe production of vegetables in the Cd-polluted soil.
基金Universiti Malaysia Sarawak for the support of this research。
文摘In the Peninsular Malaysia and Northern Borneo island of Malaysia, various rich indigenous leafy vegetables and fruits grow and contribute to the nutritional and dietary values of the population. They have high water contents, thus, naturally vulnerable to rapid food spoilage. Food preservation and processing play a vital role in the inhibition of food pathogens in fruits and vegetables that are prevalent in Malaysia. Lactic acid fermentation is generally a local-based bioprocess, among the oldest form and well-known for food-processing techniques among indigenous people there. The long shelf life of fermented vegetables and fruits improves their nutritional values and antioxidant potentials. Fermented leaves and vegetables can be utilized as a potential source of probiotics as they are host for several lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus confusus, Weissella paramesenteroides, Enterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus pentosus, Pediococcus acidilactici, Pediococcus pentosaceus and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. These strains may be more viable in metabolic systems whereby they can contribute to a substantial increase in essential biologically active element than industrial starter cultures. This review is aimed to address some essential fermented fruits and vegetables in Malaysia and their remarkable reputations as a potential sources of natural probiotics.
文摘The knowledge and understanding of African leafy vegetables has diminished over time, but in the recent past year there is more interest in their research for their nutritive and medicinal values. Of value are those that have the potential to ameliorate soil nutrient levels. This is with the background that despite inorganic fertilizers （IF） have a dramatic impact on agriculture in the world, the economic situation in Sub-Saharan African calls for alternative methods to reduce soil fertility degradation. The use of leguminous vegetables may be a solution. The study looks at the potential contribution of a leguminous traditional vegetable-- Crotalaria brevidens to soil nitrogen under various treatments. During the study which was conducted over two seasons, C. brevidens was grown under two treatments of IF and organic fertilizer （OF） with a control in which there was no fertilizer （NF） applied. A non-leguminous vegetable--Amaranthus dubious （Amaranth） was grown under the same treatments for comparison purposes. Soil analysis was done before and after planting in the treatment subplots. Growth parameters were measured every fortnight and these included leaf number, shoot length, dry weight and nodule number for Crotalaria. Results indicated that the leguminous vegetable was not affected by external inputs and there were no significant differences between treatments and control. The non-leguminous vegetables responded well to both IF and OF treatments in all the measured parameters. This underlines the potential for improving soil nitrogen levels using leguminous vegetables, especially as intercrops with the non-leguminous types.
文摘Jute mallow is a nutritious leafy vegetable. The leaves are rich in proteins, vitamins and essential amino acids. Molecular characterization of Jute mallow with focus on improvement of leaf yield is scarcely reported. In the present study, inter sequence simple repeats (ISSR) molecular markers were employed to assess genetic diversity and relationships of 83 accessions of Jute mallow from different parts of Africa and Asia conserved at the World Vegetable Center East and Southern Africa. A total of 89 bands were amplified by 8 ISSR primers. Number of polymorphic bands per primer ranged from 2 to 6 with an average of 2.75 bands per primer. Polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.390 to 0.760 with average of 0.53. Average Nei’s gene diversity (h) and Shannon’s information index (I) were 0.335 and 0.494 respectively. The highest pairwise genetic distance was 0.431 observed in a population from East Africa accessions. PC1 and PC2 axis explained 21.69% and 11.66% of the total variation respectively. UPGMA cluster analysis grouped the accessions into six main clusters at genetic similarity coefficient of 0.53 as standard value for classification. These results have important implications for jute mallow breeding and conservation.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30971859)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2016YFD0200103).
文摘Antioxidants are highly beneficial to human health, and their accumulation in lettuce, one of the most popular leafy vegetables, depends on both genetic and environmental factors. Nitrogen(N) availability plays an essential role in regulating antioxidant accumulation, but the influence of genotype × N interactions on the antioxidant qualities of lettuce is poorly understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the variation of growth and antioxidant qualities of 20 lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.) genotypes(10 green lettuce genotypes and 10 red lettuce genotypes) under limited N(low N, LN) conditions and standard N(high N, HN) conditions. For all 20 genotypes, LN conditions reduced shoot(i.e., leaf) growth, but increased plant concentrations of vitamin C,glutathione, and phenolic compounds, with the exception of carotenoids, compared with HN conditions. Because of reduced biomass under LN conditions, not all lettuce genotypes exhibited increased antioxidant yields or total antioxidant capacity yield. The variation in antioxidant quality was primarily genetically determined. Generally, the green lettuce genotypes exhibited more pronounced increases in antioxidant yields and total antioxidant capacity yield than the red lettuce genotypes under LN conditions. These results suggest that even though LN conditions generally tend to improve the antioxidant qualities of lettuce, the extent of this effect is highly dependent on genotype. Therefore, genotype should be given priority in future studies that aim to improve antioxidant qualities in lettuce through N management.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the amino acid profile and quality indices of Clerodendrum volubile(C.volubile)leaves.Methods:Dried leaves of C.volubile were blended,defatted and subjected to amino acid analysis using the technicon sequential multi-sample amino acid analyzer.The amino acid quality indices which covers for chemical score,essential amino acid index,nutritional index,true digestibility,protein digestibility corrected amino acid score,and digestible indispensable amino acid score were evaluated using standard formulas.Results:Amino acid analysis revealed glutamic acid to have the highest concentration,with cysteine having the least.Aspartic acid had the highest chemical score,this was followed by glycine,histidine and arginine,respectively.The least scores were observed in serine and methionine.Glutamic acid had the highest value for true digestibility and protein digestibility corrected amino acid score,with the least observed in cysteine.Digestible indispensable amino acid score evaluation showed histidine to have the highest value for infants(birth to 6 months),threonine for children(6 months to 3 years),while isoleucine was observed to have the highest value for older children,adolescents and adults.The essential amino acid index value was less than 4,while nutritional index value was less than 0.5.Conclusions:These results indicated the leaves of C.volubile as a potential source of amino acids in the human diet as portrayed by its amino acids profile and qualities.
