Forest planning involves estimating the biomass of species present in the area.Two fundamental parameters are diameter and height through which it is possible to indirectly estimate of biomass present.Digitalisation o...Forest planning involves estimating the biomass of species present in the area.Two fundamental parameters are diameter and height through which it is possible to indirectly estimate of biomass present.Digitalisation of forestry operations,such as forest planning,is crucial and should be affordable and easy-to-use digital applications and open-source devices.A digital progressive web application(PWA)was designed to record measurements.The app was connected via bluetoot to an open-source IoT digital forestry caliper prototyped by modifying a commercial tree caliper.An economic analysis was carried out considering all costs necessary for the development and operation of the app on smartphones and the preparation of electronic means for creation of the digital caliper.A comparison was made between costs of detecting tree diameters through application of the technology developed compared to costs calculated by applying the use of a dendrometric caliper(three technological levels were considered:L1,L2 and L3).The PWA allowed for easy data entry and viewing,maps and tree densities.The open-source digital caliper showed accuracy and precision comparable with similar commercial devices(1.5%±0.9%and 0.0%±0.9%,respectively).Total time per operator was lower using the digital caliper.From an economic perspective,application of the digital technology was more sustainable than the traditional system.Use of the digital caliper in combination with the web application optimizes detection time of a single tree,and therefore decreases overall cost.展开更多
Snow damage on natural stands is an important problem concerning mountainous forest management.In the present research,the frequency and intensity of heavy snow damage on natural stands and the relationship of damages...Snow damage on natural stands is an important problem concerning mountainous forest management.In the present research,the frequency and intensity of heavy snow damage on natural stands and the relationship of damages with characteristics of trees,stand and topography were studied in mountainous forests of northern Iran.A systematic sampling design was applied to the study area(140 ha),with 122 circular plots.The grid dimension was100 m and each plot area was 1000 m^2.The four types of snow damage to trees include:crown damage(8.6%),stem breakage(5.4%),uprooting(3.2%),and bending(1.4%).The frequency of crown damage grew with an increase inthe diameter at breast height(DBH),while the frequency of stem breakage,uprooting and bending decreased with an increase the DBH.The frequency of crown damage,stem breakage,and total damages was related to tree species(p<0.01).Not all tree species were equally susceptible to snow damage.The amount of damage grew with increasing elevation and slope angle and decreased with increasing soil depth.Young trees(DBH<25 cm)were more susceptible to snow damage than other trees.Snow damage decreased by as the trees in the stand became more mixed in age.The susceptibility of trees to snow damage increased by height and slenderness coefficient.With adequate silvicultural operation,snow damage can be reduced to a minimum level in these natural forests.展开更多
Land degradation and early forms of desertification in both advanced economies and emerging countries reflect complex socio-environmental processes driven by multiple interactions between biophysical and socioeconomic...Land degradation and early forms of desertification in both advanced economies and emerging countries reflect complex socio-environmental processes driven by multiple interactions between biophysical and socioeconomic forces across different spatial scales.The present study investigates desertification risk,land degradation,and socio-demographic dynamics through the lens of“resilience,”adopting complex adaptive systems(CAS)thinking.The resilience of socio-environmental systems exposed to land degradation is defined as the capacity of a regional economy to respond to crises and reorganize by making changes to preserve functions,structure,and feedback,and to promote future development options.By reviewing the socioeconomic resilience of local socio-ecological systems exposed to land degradation,this study achieves a better comprehension of the multifaceted processes that lead to a higher risk of desertification and the intimate relationship with underlying population trends and demographic dynamics.A comprehensive approach based on resilience thinking was formulated to review both environmental and socio-demographic issues at the landscape scale,and provide a suitable foundation for sustainability science and regional development policies.展开更多
The present study analyzes the structure and dynamics of the forest landscape in a peri-urban area （Rome, Italy） during the city＇s expansion from 1949 to 2008 using landscape metrics and change detection anal- ysis...The present study analyzes the structure and dynamics of the forest landscape in a peri-urban area （Rome, Italy） during the city＇s expansion from 1949 to 2008 using landscape metrics and change detection anal- ysis of digital maps of the area （1500 km2）. While urban settlements increased continuously from 6.5 to 27.5 % of the study area, woodlands changed less clearly, with a moderate increase （from 11.2 to 11.9 % of the total area） and a higher fragmentation as a consequence of Rome＇s expansion. The structure of forest landscape changed along the urban-to-rural gradient with patch size increasing with the distance to the inner city in 1949 and substantial landscape homogeneity in 2008. The indicators proposed in this study inform dedicated measures for conserving forest and maintaining landscape diversity. Measures adopted in Rome＇s forestation plan to counteract woodlandfragmentation were analyzed and discussed. Based on the complex landscape dynamics found for Rome, an inte- grated multiscale planning approach targeting forest con- servation is considered a key contribution to urban sustainability.展开更多
Cereal is an essential source of calories and protein for the global population.Accurately predicting cereal quality before harvest is highly desirable in order to optimise management for farmers,grading harvest and c...Cereal is an essential source of calories and protein for the global population.Accurately predicting cereal quality before harvest is highly desirable in order to optimise management for farmers,grading harvest and categorised storage for enterprises,future trading prices,and policy planning.The use of remote sensing data with extensive spatial coverage demonstrates some potential in predicting crop quality traits.Many studies have also proposed models and methods for predicting such traits based on multiplatform remote sensing data.In this paper,the key quality traits that are of interest to producers and consumers are introduced.The literature related to grain quality prediction was analyzed in detail,and a review was conducted on remote sensing platforms,commonly used methods,potential gaps,and future trends in crop quality prediction.This review recommends new research directions that go beyond the traditional methods and discusses grain quality retrieval and the associated challenges from the perspective of remote sensing data.展开更多
In Italy,the hydro-geological protection of the Apennine territories is a well-known issue.For this reason,at the end of the 19th century,a new reforestation technique was proposed by the Inspector of Forest Service,P...In Italy,the hydro-geological protection of the Apennine territories is a well-known issue.For this reason,at the end of the 19th century,a new reforestation technique was proposed by the Inspector of Forest Service,Pietro Montanari to cope with difficult soil conditions of the mountain areas.This new approach was the first application of the so-called"gradoni"(small terraces)method of soil preparation.Each"gradone"was 100-120 cm wide and made with a slight counter slope(ca 10-15 degrees)to promote the accumulation of water and organic matter.Along each"gradone",bare root black pine seedlings(Pinus nigra Am.)were planted at a distance of 1 m from each other with a density of more than 3,000/ha.Nowadays,19,158 hectares of black pine forests are growing in the Apennine of the Abruzzi region,largely resulting from those reforestation projects realized since the beginning of the 20th century.A case study of Monte Plaia(42°00′12″N 13°53′39″E),that illustrates the situation after 70-110 years in consequence of lacking of silvicultural treatment and the application of aforest restoration method is presented.展开更多
The aim of the research was to develop a catch-and-release trap for monitoring and controlling RPW （Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, red palm weevil）. The RPW insects were attracted through the use of an aggregation phero...The aim of the research was to develop a catch-and-release trap for monitoring and controlling RPW （Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, red palm weevil）. The RPW insects were attracted through the use of an aggregation pheromone located into a dispenser inside the trap. The RPW adults entered through an entrance door into a sterilization room where they were sprayed with a solution containing the chemical sterilizer product ＂lufenuron＂. The adults were then forced to move into a contamination room where it was present a wet media containing spores and hyphae of Metarhizium anisopliae and spores and crystalline insecticidal proteins of Bacillus thuringensis. The sterilized and infected RPW adults were counted and released into the environment where they reached new palms and join natural populations of RPW. Preliminary experiments showed that the catch-and-release trap was able to reduce the fertility of RPW adults and to increase their mortality after contamination with entomopathogens. Moreover, the infected RPW adults were able to infect untreated RPW larvae leading to a larvae mortality of 93% within 30 days. In conclusion, the advanced catch-and-release trap represents a safe and effective tool to monitor and control the population of RPW pest without environmental pollution and risks for human health.展开更多
We report for the first time the occurrence of heteroplasmy in Grey Partridge(Perdix perdix)revealed by means of two mitochondrial fragments.The possible serious biological and management implications of this exceptio...We report for the first time the occurrence of heteroplasmy in Grey Partridge(Perdix perdix)revealed by means of two mitochondrial fragments.The possible serious biological and management implications of this exception to unilateral inheritance of mtDNA were underlined.展开更多
This study aims to analyze the factors affecting the costs of different logging systems, in particular considering three different bunching-extraction methods. Moreover the stumpage value of each plot was calculated, ...This study aims to analyze the factors affecting the costs of different logging systems, in particular considering three different bunching-extraction methods. Moreover the stumpage value of each plot was calculated, and a comparison analysis of the results is presented. The work was carried out in Central Italy, in an aged Quercus cerris L. coppice in hill zones, with a 45% average slope. Short wood system harvesting was applied. Felling and processing were performed by chainsaw, while extraction with three different methods： plot No. 1 with mules, plot No. 2 with a tractor with winch, plot No. 3 with polyethylene chute line. Transport of firewood from the forest track to the landing was made by a tractor loaded as a mule. In the plot No. 1 the costs per unit mass （30.76 ∈·t33% ^-1） were higher despite having the lower cost per hour （39.99∈·th^- 1）. The reason was the lower productivity （1.3 t33%·h^-1）. The plot No. 2 had the highest cost per hour （66.79 ∈·h^-1）. However, productivity was the highest （2.7 t33%·h^- 1）. This aspect was notable from the financial point of view （24.74 ∈·t33%^-1）. Plot No. 3 was the less expensive （23.92 ∈·t33%^-1）. Comparing the three methods, a reduction of the costs through more appropriate extraction systems may increase the stumpage value from 8.3 to 9.65 ∈·t33%^- 1.展开更多
Characterization of the relationship between sulfur and iron in both Strategy I and Strategy II plants, has proven that low sulfur availability often limits plant capability to cope with iron shortage. Here it was inv...Characterization of the relationship between sulfur and iron in both Strategy I and Strategy II plants, has proven that low sulfur availability often limits plant capability to cope with iron shortage. Here it was investigated whether the adaptation to iron deficiency in tomato （Solanum lycopersicum L.） plants was associated with an increased root sulfate uptake and translocation capacity, and modified dynamics of total sulfur and thiols accumulation between roots and shoots. Most of the tomato sulfate transporter genes belonging to Groups 1, 2, and 4 were significantly upregulated in iron-deficient roots, as it commonly occurs under S-deficient conditions. The upregulation of the two high affinity sulfate transporter genes, SlST1.1 and SlST1.2, by iron deprivation clearly suggests an increased root capability to take up sulfate. Furthermore, the upregulation of the two low affinity sulfate transporter genes SlST2.1 and SlST4.1 in iron-deficient roots, accompanied by a substantial accumulation of total sulfur and thiols in shoots of＆amp;nbsp;iron-starved plants, likely supports an increased root-to-shoot translocation of sulfate. Results suggest that tomato plants exposed to iron-deficiency are able to change sulfur metabolic balance mimicking sulfur starvation responses to meet the increased demand for methionine and its derivatives, al owing them to cope with this stress.展开更多
Liquid smoke is a natural product made up of smoke concentrate which is used to impart a smoky flavour without resorting to the traditional smoking technique:it is practical to use,cheap,easy to dose,able to control t...Liquid smoke is a natural product made up of smoke concentrate which is used to impart a smoky flavour without resorting to the traditional smoking technique:it is practical to use,cheap,easy to dose,able to control the presence of undesirable substances and,above all,with reduced environmental impact,unlike traditional smoking systems.On the other hand,it has a low preservation effect.Thus,the objective of this study was to design the production of an innovative fish product using liquid smoke in combination with natural compounds through three subsequent phases:1)economic concept evaluation to assess the acceptability of the proposed product through a qualitative and quantitative investigation;2)optimisation of the process(individuation of smoking liquid composition and process parameters)using modelling predictive tools,i.e.tertiary and secondary models;3)product realization and its evaluation in terms of microbiological profile,chemical-physical param-eters,and consumers’acceptability.Results show that sea bream and sea bass fillets could be sprayed using a solution composed by lemon extract(0.75%),acetic acid(0.5%),NaCl(2%),and liquid smoke(0.002%),packed under vacuum and stored at 4℃ for at least two weeks,during which spoilage bacteria maintained low cell loads.After 14 days,in fact,smoked fillets showed total viable count and psychrotrophs of about 5 log CFU/g,Pseudomonadaceae about 6 log CFU/g,while for Enterobacteriaceae cell loads of 2-3 log CFU/g were recorded.Other microbial groups were absent and pathogens were never detected.In addition,results from the consumer survey highlight that over 60%of the interviewed sample appeared inclined to accept innovation,with 50%of respondents also willing to pay a premium price of 20%,thus sug-gesting that the proposed eco-smoking technique could be adopted and help in ensuring a more sustainable food production.展开更多
In higher plants, NO3 can induce its own uptake and the magnitude of this induction is positively related to the external anion concentration. This phenomenon has been characterized in both herbaceous and woody plants...In higher plants, NO3 can induce its own uptake and the magnitude of this induction is positively related to the external anion concentration. This phenomenon has been characterized in both herbaceous and woody plants. Here,different adaptation strategies of roots from two maize（Zea mays L., ZmAGOs） inbred lines differing in nitrogen use efficiency（NUE） and exhibiting different timing of induction were discussed by investigating NO3 ‐induced changes in their transcriptome. Lo5 line（high NUE） showing the maximum rate of NO3 uptake 4 h after the provision of 200 mmol/L NO3 treatment modulated a higher number of transcripts relative to T250（low NUE） that peaked after 12 h. The two inbred lines share only 368 transcripts that are modulated by the treatment with NO3 and behaved differently when transcripts involved in anion uptake and assimilation were analyzed. T250 line responded to the NO3 induction modulating this group of Researchgenes as reported for several plant species. On the contrary,the Lo5 line did not exhibit during the induction changes in this set of genes. Obtained data suggest the importance of exploring the physiological and molecular variations among different maize genotypes in response to environmental clues like NO3 provision, in order to understand mechanisms underlying NUE.展开更多
Celiac Disease(CD)represents a clinical,nutritional,and social issue and the only way for a relief is a strict gluten free diet;apart from serological effects and histological injuries,it is well known that CD is alwa...Celiac Disease(CD)represents a clinical,nutritional,and social issue and the only way for a relief is a strict gluten free diet;apart from serological effects and histological injuries,it is well known that CD is always related to a strong dysbiosis of gut microbiota.In the literature there are several approaches to counteract CD,but they are generally based on the idea that gluten should be excluded.In this field,a novel approach is Gluten Friendly^(TM) technology(GF),a temperature-based treatment of wheat seeds able to make gluten less immunogenic.This narrative review addresses GF technology(multi-step treatment of wheat seeds at high temperatures for short time through microwave processing,alternated with water evaporation phase),along with some hypotheses occurring at chemical and structural levels,which are probable responsible of the reduced immunoreactivity.The second core topic is on the effect of GF flour and bread on pro-technological microorganisms and on gut microbiota in vitro and in vivo,with also a focus on the results of a first clinical trial.GF can exert a positive effect on Lactobacillus spp.and enhanced butyrate producers,with a positive response at immunological and histological levels in some subjects,while in other subjects there were injuries and/or inflammatory markers.The initial imprinting of gut microbiota plays a drastic role,as some pro-inflammatory genera(Slackia and Sutterella)could delay GF effects,while others(e.g.Eisenbergiella)could favor it.展开更多
This study investigated the effect of hazelnut skin by-products supplementation on lamb myofibrillar proteome changes during post-mortem storage(0,4,and 7 days).Gel-based proteomics and bioinformatics approaches were ...This study investigated the effect of hazelnut skin by-products supplementation on lamb myofibrillar proteome changes during post-mortem storage(0,4,and 7 days).Gel-based proteomics and bioinformatics approaches were applied to reveal the underlying biochemical pathways and their importance in lamb meat texture development.Twenty-two Valle del Belice male lambs were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments:control(C)for lambs fed with maize-barley diet,and hazelnut skin(H)for lambs fed hazelnut skin by-product as maize partial replacer in the concentrate diet(150 g/kg DM basis).A greater myofibrillar fragmentation index(MFI)was found in meat from the C group at day 0 of storage(91.33 vs 98.38 in H and C groups,respectively).Conversely,starting from 4 days of storage,higher MFI values were observed in meat from lambs fed hazelnut skin(113.74 and 116.1 vs 99.28 and 107.26 in H and C groups at 4 and 7 days,respectively).Myofibrillar proteome changes estimated by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting revealed a degradation of desmin(P<0.01)and troponin T(P<0.001)intact proteins,and an increase in the abundance of the appearing 30 kDa fragment(P<0.001)after 4 days of storage in meat from H than the C group.In-depth proteomics and bioinformatics revealed 44 proteoforms(26 unique proteins),mainly involved in actin filament-based process/cytoskeleton organization,energy metabolism,and heat shock proteins,as the major interconnected pathways impacted by hazelnut by-product feeding strategy on lamb meat quality.Twelve proteins were proposed in this trial as po-tential biomarkers of lamb meat texture as a consequence of hazelnut skin by-products supplementation.展开更多
Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a thermophilic,acidophilic,and spore-forming microorganism,able to spoil fruit juices.Few data are available on the effects of different acids of juices;thus,the goal of this resear...Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a thermophilic,acidophilic,and spore-forming microorganism,able to spoil fruit juices.Few data are available on the effects of different acids of juices;thus,the goal of this research was to study the effect of 5 weak acids(malic,citric,ascorbic,tartaric,and lactic acids),compared to hydrochloric acid(strong acid,control)on two isolates of A.acidoterrestris from soil(C1 and C13).Acids were combined through a full randomized design with pH(2,3,and 4),temperature(5 or 45℃)and duration of storage(2,7 and 14 days)as categorical predictors.Total population(spores+cells)and spores were assessed.The results of this paper suggest that acid-resistance of A.acidoterrestris could be strongly affected by the kind of acid;on total population,malic and ascorbic acids exerted the highest antimicrobial action,probably depending on pKa and acid concentration,but also on other factors(for example the size and the ability of acids to enter the cells).Results also confirm that weak acids could mainly act on activated spores/cells,rather than on spores.To some extent,acids could play an antimicrobial effect also on spores mainly at pH 2.In conclusion,this paper offers a first insight on potentialities and limits of weak acids on A.acidoterrestris and could contribute to understand the growth/inactivation of this spoiling microorganism,as a preliminary step to design and/or optimize new approaches for controlling it.展开更多
This study aimed to characterize and compare the muscle proteomes of goat Longissimus thoracis(LT)and Semitendinosus(ST)muscles taken early post-mortem from young crossbred males.Thanks to a quantitative proteomics ap...This study aimed to characterize and compare the muscle proteomes of goat Longissimus thoracis(LT)and Semitendinosus(ST)muscles taken early post-mortem from young crossbred males.Thanks to a quantitative proteomics approach,129 differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)were identified.The proteins belong to five interconnected biological pathways:muscle contraction and structure(n=47),catalytic,metabolism&ATP processes(n=33),binding and transport(n=23),oxidative stress and cell redox homeostasis(n=10),response to stress and protein folding(n=6).An additional group of miscellaneous proteins(n=10)grouped proteins playing other functions.The chemometrics analyses allowed clear separations of the muscles and evidenced 14 common proteins(ACTB,ACTN3,TMOD4,TPM3,TNNT1,AK1,AKR1B1,ACAA2,GPI,AGL,DNPEP,RTN4,ATP2A1,and CAVIN4)that could be considered as potential biomarkers.Overall,the study provided the first insights on the differences between goat LT and ST muscles and the basis related to the regulation of the skeletal muscle.Moreover,it resulted that a better understanding of the muscle characteristics would help in developing practices/processes to monitor meat quality and reduce the variations in fresh quality of meat,aged meat,and/or processed goat meat products.展开更多
The production of sparkling cider could intercept the needs of non-habitual consumers of this alcoholic-beverage.This investigation was aimed to develop procedures for the production of sparkling ciders using the Ital...The production of sparkling cider could intercept the needs of non-habitual consumers of this alcoholic-beverage.This investigation was aimed to develop procedures for the production of sparkling ciders using the Italian apple variety‘Limoncella’by application of both Champenoise and Charmat methods.First of all,the authors apply a chemometric approach to evaluate the effects of duration of the pectolytic treatment carried out on crushed apples and of the sugar added before refermentation on physicochemical,and sensory characteristics of the Champenoise sparkling ciders.The pectolytic treatment was able to influence colour,alcohol,pH,bitterness(higher when the treatment was shorter),titratable and volatile acidity,soluble solids,CO_(2),total phenolics,sweetness,saltiness,bitterness,and volatile alcohols(higher when the treatment was longer).The addition of sugar increased alcohol,soluble solids,and CO_(2),and decreased the production of volatile compounds.Then,the effects of the refermentation methods(Champenoise or Charmat)on the same parameters were evaluated.Charmat and Champenoise sparkling ciders differed for parameters showing higher values in the second type,i.e.colour(9.982 and 14.296 SRM),organic acid concentrations,CO_(2)(6.35 and 7.55 g/L),phenolic(313 and 424 mg/L)and volatile content,foam persistence(2.2 and 3.8),and saltiness(2.1 and 3.2)--and for some sensory attributes such as taste quality and harmony that received higher scores in Charmat sparkling ciders(4.9±0.7 and 4.9±0.0,respectively)than the Champenoise ciders(3.7±0.5 and 3.7±0.4,respectively).Several esters,alcohols,terpenes,acids,phenols,and norisoprenoids had odour activity values>1.Principal Component Analysis(PCA)was able to homogeneously group Champenoise ciders based on the duration of the pectolytic treatment and the addition of sugar before fermentation.PCA was also able to distinguish sparkling ciders by refermentation methods.The results indicated that the chemometric approach is a sensitive tool to monitor the quality and authenticity of local sparkling cider productions.The reduction of the pectolytic treatment time was critical to avoid dramatic increases of lactic acid content.The Champenoise method preserved the cider phenolic content but negatively affected their sensory quality.展开更多
Micronutrient deficiency is a form of malnutrition responsible for different metabolic diseases,widely shared among developing low-and middle-income African countries.While deficiencies of calcium,iron,vitamin A,zinc,...Micronutrient deficiency is a form of malnutrition responsible for different metabolic diseases,widely shared among developing low-and middle-income African countries.While deficiencies of calcium,iron,vitamin A,zinc,and selenium have been counteracted mainly by implementing mandatory food fortification programs,little attention was given so far on strategies to decrease inadequate intake of water-soluble B-group vitamins.In this review,we summarize the physiological role of B-group vitamins,and discuss the approaches commonly used to tackle their deficiencies in Africa,namely(i)dietary diversification,(ii)supplementation,and(iii)fortification,with the main focus being here the microbial-based biofortification of food.We report the increasing evidence of plant-based African fermented foods as important sources of these vitamins and how microbial-based biofortification strategies may enhance their content and bioavailability during plant-based fermentation,especially seen for folate(vitamin B9),riboflavin(vitamin B2),and cobalamin(vitamin B12).The selection of pro-technological functional microbial strains from spontaneous fermentation and/or unconventional food matrices,the employment of vitamin overproducing lactic acid bacteria,as well as the implementation of adequate food processes are promising tools that could be implemented in the production of staple home-made fermented foods to counteract B-group vitamins deficiencies.Further research is needed to explore the biotechnological potential of underexploited indigenous microbial strains and the impact of fortified foods on gut host health.展开更多
Aligning with the growing demand for salt reduction strategies and the need to protect food biodiversity,this study aims to develop healthy savory biscuit-like snacks with reduced sodium content.An ancient(Automonia B...Aligning with the growing demand for salt reduction strategies and the need to protect food biodiversity,this study aims to develop healthy savory biscuit-like snacks with reduced sodium content.An ancient(Automonia B)and modern(Bolero)soft wheat variety were combined with various concentrations of salt(0%,1%,2%)and glasswort powder(1%,4%,and 8%).Physical and microstructural analysis revealed that Bolero samples exhibited significantly higher hardness values(76.88±15.4 N)compared to Autonomia B(54.5±11.5 N).However,hardness decreased in both varieties as the concentration of glasswort increased,reaching average values of 67.17±5 N for Bolero and 41.6±3.5 N for Autonomia B.The total porosity of Bolero snacks was lower compared to Autonomia B,but other microstructural attributes,e.g.structure thickness and separation,were closely linked to textural properties.Salt and glasswort concentrations significantly influenced the sensory properties of biscuits formulated with two wheat varieties,while visual attributes remained consistently acceptable.Saltiness perception was mainly driven by salt but was also significantly enhanced by glasswort,supporting its role as a natural“green salt”ingredient.Overall taste showed a non-linear response,with moderate salt and glasswort levels maximizing pleasantness.These results highlight glasswort as a promising strategy for sodium reduction without compromising sensory quality,offering an innovative,scalable and biodiversity-enhancing strategy solution for industry-driven saltreduction programs.展开更多
Proteases were extracted and biochemically characterized from different Brassica oleracea varieties(B.oleracea var.palmifolia(black cabbage,BC),B.oleracea var.sabellica(curly kale,K),and B.oleracea var.botrytis(white ...Proteases were extracted and biochemically characterized from different Brassica oleracea varieties(B.oleracea var.palmifolia(black cabbage,BC),B.oleracea var.sabellica(curly kale,K),and B.oleracea var.botrytis(white cauliflower,WC)).Calf rennet(CR)and Cynara cardunculus crude extracts(CC)were used as reference samples.The catalytic study used two different substrates:the synthetic peptide Bz-Phe-Val-Arg-pNA(BPVA-pNA),which contains para-nitroaniline(pNA),and azocasein(AzC)as a macromolecular substrate.The effect of temperature and pH on the proteolytic activity were also evaluated.Brassica proteases were further proposed as milk coagulants,and their coagulating efficiencies were evaluated.Bovine casein was incubated with the plant extracts,and the relative breakdown products were observed through electrophoresis.BC,K,and WC contain proteases which hydrolyze the macromolecular substrate(AzC)and synthetic peptides with Arg in P-1(BPVA-pNA).Therefore,among the three B.oleracea varieties and control extracts,K leaf extracts displayed greater catalytic efficiency against AzC.Brassica extracts showed a lesser milk clotting index but visible milk curd formation.More importantly,the protease activities of BC and K extracts exhibited great catalytic activity over a broad range of pH(3.6-9.0)and temperatures(40-70℃)using AzC as a substrate.Current pH and thermal tolerance results indicate that B.oleracea var.palmifolia and B.oleracea var.sabellica proteases could have broad applications in food technology.Many plant resources,which could represent potential sources of efficient proteases,are still unexploited.展开更多
基金supported by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture,Ministry of Agriculture,Food Sovereignty and Forestry(MASAF),National program sub project Precision Forestry(AgriDigit program)(DM 36509.7305.2018 of 20/12/2018).
文摘Forest planning involves estimating the biomass of species present in the area.Two fundamental parameters are diameter and height through which it is possible to indirectly estimate of biomass present.Digitalisation of forestry operations,such as forest planning,is crucial and should be affordable and easy-to-use digital applications and open-source devices.A digital progressive web application(PWA)was designed to record measurements.The app was connected via bluetoot to an open-source IoT digital forestry caliper prototyped by modifying a commercial tree caliper.An economic analysis was carried out considering all costs necessary for the development and operation of the app on smartphones and the preparation of electronic means for creation of the digital caliper.A comparison was made between costs of detecting tree diameters through application of the technology developed compared to costs calculated by applying the use of a dendrometric caliper(three technological levels were considered:L1,L2 and L3).The PWA allowed for easy data entry and viewing,maps and tree densities.The open-source digital caliper showed accuracy and precision comparable with similar commercial devices(1.5%±0.9%and 0.0%±0.9%,respectively).Total time per operator was lower using the digital caliper.From an economic perspective,application of the digital technology was more sustainable than the traditional system.Use of the digital caliper in combination with the web application optimizes detection time of a single tree,and therefore decreases overall cost.
文摘Snow damage on natural stands is an important problem concerning mountainous forest management.In the present research,the frequency and intensity of heavy snow damage on natural stands and the relationship of damages with characteristics of trees,stand and topography were studied in mountainous forests of northern Iran.A systematic sampling design was applied to the study area(140 ha),with 122 circular plots.The grid dimension was100 m and each plot area was 1000 m^2.The four types of snow damage to trees include:crown damage(8.6%),stem breakage(5.4%),uprooting(3.2%),and bending(1.4%).The frequency of crown damage grew with an increase inthe diameter at breast height(DBH),while the frequency of stem breakage,uprooting and bending decreased with an increase the DBH.The frequency of crown damage,stem breakage,and total damages was related to tree species(p<0.01).Not all tree species were equally susceptible to snow damage.The amount of damage grew with increasing elevation and slope angle and decreased with increasing soil depth.Young trees(DBH<25 cm)were more susceptible to snow damage than other trees.Snow damage decreased by as the trees in the stand became more mixed in age.The susceptibility of trees to snow damage increased by height and slenderness coefficient.With adequate silvicultural operation,snow damage can be reduced to a minimum level in these natural forests.
文摘Land degradation and early forms of desertification in both advanced economies and emerging countries reflect complex socio-environmental processes driven by multiple interactions between biophysical and socioeconomic forces across different spatial scales.The present study investigates desertification risk,land degradation,and socio-demographic dynamics through the lens of“resilience,”adopting complex adaptive systems(CAS)thinking.The resilience of socio-environmental systems exposed to land degradation is defined as the capacity of a regional economy to respond to crises and reorganize by making changes to preserve functions,structure,and feedback,and to promote future development options.By reviewing the socioeconomic resilience of local socio-ecological systems exposed to land degradation,this study achieves a better comprehension of the multifaceted processes that lead to a higher risk of desertification and the intimate relationship with underlying population trends and demographic dynamics.A comprehensive approach based on resilience thinking was formulated to review both environmental and socio-demographic issues at the landscape scale,and provide a suitable foundation for sustainability science and regional development policies.
文摘The present study analyzes the structure and dynamics of the forest landscape in a peri-urban area （Rome, Italy） during the city＇s expansion from 1949 to 2008 using landscape metrics and change detection anal- ysis of digital maps of the area （1500 km2）. While urban settlements increased continuously from 6.5 to 27.5 % of the study area, woodlands changed less clearly, with a moderate increase （from 11.2 to 11.9 % of the total area） and a higher fragmentation as a consequence of Rome＇s expansion. The structure of forest landscape changed along the urban-to-rural gradient with patch size increasing with the distance to the inner city in 1949 and substantial landscape homogeneity in 2008. The indicators proposed in this study inform dedicated measures for conserving forest and maintaining landscape diversity. Measures adopted in Rome＇s forestation plan to counteract woodlandfragmentation were analyzed and discussed. Based on the complex landscape dynamics found for Rome, an inte- grated multiscale planning approach targeting forest con- servation is considered a key contribution to urban sustainability.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42271396)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(ZR2022MD017)+1 种基金the Key R&D Project of Hebei Province(22326406D)The European Space Agency(ESA)and Ministry of Science and Technology of China(MOST)Dragon(57457).
文摘Cereal is an essential source of calories and protein for the global population.Accurately predicting cereal quality before harvest is highly desirable in order to optimise management for farmers,grading harvest and categorised storage for enterprises,future trading prices,and policy planning.The use of remote sensing data with extensive spatial coverage demonstrates some potential in predicting crop quality traits.Many studies have also proposed models and methods for predicting such traits based on multiplatform remote sensing data.In this paper,the key quality traits that are of interest to producers and consumers are introduced.The literature related to grain quality prediction was analyzed in detail,and a review was conducted on remote sensing platforms,commonly used methods,potential gaps,and future trends in crop quality prediction.This review recommends new research directions that go beyond the traditional methods and discusses grain quality retrieval and the associated challenges from the perspective of remote sensing data.
文摘In Italy,the hydro-geological protection of the Apennine territories is a well-known issue.For this reason,at the end of the 19th century,a new reforestation technique was proposed by the Inspector of Forest Service,Pietro Montanari to cope with difficult soil conditions of the mountain areas.This new approach was the first application of the so-called"gradoni"(small terraces)method of soil preparation.Each"gradone"was 100-120 cm wide and made with a slight counter slope(ca 10-15 degrees)to promote the accumulation of water and organic matter.Along each"gradone",bare root black pine seedlings(Pinus nigra Am.)were planted at a distance of 1 m from each other with a density of more than 3,000/ha.Nowadays,19,158 hectares of black pine forests are growing in the Apennine of the Abruzzi region,largely resulting from those reforestation projects realized since the beginning of the 20th century.A case study of Monte Plaia(42°00′12″N 13°53′39″E),that illustrates the situation after 70-110 years in consequence of lacking of silvicultural treatment and the application of aforest restoration method is presented.
文摘The aim of the research was to develop a catch-and-release trap for monitoring and controlling RPW （Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, red palm weevil）. The RPW insects were attracted through the use of an aggregation pheromone located into a dispenser inside the trap. The RPW adults entered through an entrance door into a sterilization room where they were sprayed with a solution containing the chemical sterilizer product ＂lufenuron＂. The adults were then forced to move into a contamination room where it was present a wet media containing spores and hyphae of Metarhizium anisopliae and spores and crystalline insecticidal proteins of Bacillus thuringensis. The sterilized and infected RPW adults were counted and released into the environment where they reached new palms and join natural populations of RPW. Preliminary experiments showed that the catch-and-release trap was able to reduce the fertility of RPW adults and to increase their mortality after contamination with entomopathogens. Moreover, the infected RPW adults were able to infect untreated RPW larvae leading to a larvae mortality of 93% within 30 days. In conclusion, the advanced catch-and-release trap represents a safe and effective tool to monitor and control the population of RPW pest without environmental pollution and risks for human health.
文摘We report for the first time the occurrence of heteroplasmy in Grey Partridge(Perdix perdix)revealed by means of two mitochondrial fragments.The possible serious biological and management implications of this exception to unilateral inheritance of mtDNA were underlined.
文摘This study aims to analyze the factors affecting the costs of different logging systems, in particular considering three different bunching-extraction methods. Moreover the stumpage value of each plot was calculated, and a comparison analysis of the results is presented. The work was carried out in Central Italy, in an aged Quercus cerris L. coppice in hill zones, with a 45% average slope. Short wood system harvesting was applied. Felling and processing were performed by chainsaw, while extraction with three different methods： plot No. 1 with mules, plot No. 2 with a tractor with winch, plot No. 3 with polyethylene chute line. Transport of firewood from the forest track to the landing was made by a tractor loaded as a mule. In the plot No. 1 the costs per unit mass （30.76 ∈·t33% ^-1） were higher despite having the lower cost per hour （39.99∈·th^- 1）. The reason was the lower productivity （1.3 t33%·h^-1）. The plot No. 2 had the highest cost per hour （66.79 ∈·h^-1）. However, productivity was the highest （2.7 t33%·h^- 1）. This aspect was notable from the financial point of view （24.74 ∈·t33%^-1）. Plot No. 3 was the less expensive （23.92 ∈·t33%^-1）. Comparing the three methods, a reduction of the costs through more appropriate extraction systems may increase the stumpage value from 8.3 to 9.65 ∈·t33%^- 1.
基金financially supported by grants from Italian M.I.U.R.-PRIN 2009Rothamsted Research receives funding from the BBSRC in the UK
文摘Characterization of the relationship between sulfur and iron in both Strategy I and Strategy II plants, has proven that low sulfur availability often limits plant capability to cope with iron shortage. Here it was investigated whether the adaptation to iron deficiency in tomato （Solanum lycopersicum L.） plants was associated with an increased root sulfate uptake and translocation capacity, and modified dynamics of total sulfur and thiols accumulation between roots and shoots. Most of the tomato sulfate transporter genes belonging to Groups 1, 2, and 4 were significantly upregulated in iron-deficient roots, as it commonly occurs under S-deficient conditions. The upregulation of the two high affinity sulfate transporter genes, SlST1.1 and SlST1.2, by iron deprivation clearly suggests an increased root capability to take up sulfate. Furthermore, the upregulation of the two low affinity sulfate transporter genes SlST2.1 and SlST4.1 in iron-deficient roots, accompanied by a substantial accumulation of total sulfur and thiols in shoots of＆amp;nbsp;iron-starved plants, likely supports an increased root-to-shoot translocation of sulfate. Results suggest that tomato plants exposed to iron-deficiency are able to change sulfur metabolic balance mimicking sulfur starvation responses to meet the increased demand for methionine and its derivatives, al owing them to cope with this stress.
基金funded by the project PO FEAMP 2014/2020-Measure 1.26“Valorizzazione di specie ittiche affumicate mediante tecniche tradizionali e innovative”,Apulia region.(CUP N.B71B17000990009Project leader:UNCI-Agroalimentare).
文摘Liquid smoke is a natural product made up of smoke concentrate which is used to impart a smoky flavour without resorting to the traditional smoking technique:it is practical to use,cheap,easy to dose,able to control the presence of undesirable substances and,above all,with reduced environmental impact,unlike traditional smoking systems.On the other hand,it has a low preservation effect.Thus,the objective of this study was to design the production of an innovative fish product using liquid smoke in combination with natural compounds through three subsequent phases:1)economic concept evaluation to assess the acceptability of the proposed product through a qualitative and quantitative investigation;2)optimisation of the process(individuation of smoking liquid composition and process parameters)using modelling predictive tools,i.e.tertiary and secondary models;3)product realization and its evaluation in terms of microbiological profile,chemical-physical param-eters,and consumers’acceptability.Results show that sea bream and sea bass fillets could be sprayed using a solution composed by lemon extract(0.75%),acetic acid(0.5%),NaCl(2%),and liquid smoke(0.002%),packed under vacuum and stored at 4℃ for at least two weeks,during which spoilage bacteria maintained low cell loads.After 14 days,in fact,smoked fillets showed total viable count and psychrotrophs of about 5 log CFU/g,Pseudomonadaceae about 6 log CFU/g,while for Enterobacteriaceae cell loads of 2-3 log CFU/g were recorded.Other microbial groups were absent and pathogens were never detected.In addition,results from the consumer survey highlight that over 60%of the interviewed sample appeared inclined to accept innovation,with 50%of respondents also willing to pay a premium price of 20%,thus sug-gesting that the proposed eco-smoking technique could be adopted and help in ensuring a more sustainable food production.
文摘In higher plants, NO3 can induce its own uptake and the magnitude of this induction is positively related to the external anion concentration. This phenomenon has been characterized in both herbaceous and woody plants. Here,different adaptation strategies of roots from two maize（Zea mays L., ZmAGOs） inbred lines differing in nitrogen use efficiency（NUE） and exhibiting different timing of induction were discussed by investigating NO3 ‐induced changes in their transcriptome. Lo5 line（high NUE） showing the maximum rate of NO3 uptake 4 h after the provision of 200 mmol/L NO3 treatment modulated a higher number of transcripts relative to T250（low NUE） that peaked after 12 h. The two inbred lines share only 368 transcripts that are modulated by the treatment with NO3 and behaved differently when transcripts involved in anion uptake and assimilation were analyzed. T250 line responded to the NO3 induction modulating this group of Researchgenes as reported for several plant species. On the contrary,the Lo5 line did not exhibit during the induction changes in this set of genes. Obtained data suggest the importance of exploring the physiological and molecular variations among different maize genotypes in response to environmental clues like NO3 provision, in order to understand mechanisms underlying NUE.
基金funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program,under grant agreement No.732640support from the Italian Ministry of Health(Ricerca Corrente 2022-2024)to OP.
文摘Celiac Disease(CD)represents a clinical,nutritional,and social issue and the only way for a relief is a strict gluten free diet;apart from serological effects and histological injuries,it is well known that CD is always related to a strong dysbiosis of gut microbiota.In the literature there are several approaches to counteract CD,but they are generally based on the idea that gluten should be excluded.In this field,a novel approach is Gluten Friendly^(TM) technology(GF),a temperature-based treatment of wheat seeds able to make gluten less immunogenic.This narrative review addresses GF technology(multi-step treatment of wheat seeds at high temperatures for short time through microwave processing,alternated with water evaporation phase),along with some hypotheses occurring at chemical and structural levels,which are probable responsible of the reduced immunoreactivity.The second core topic is on the effect of GF flour and bread on pro-technological microorganisms and on gut microbiota in vitro and in vivo,with also a focus on the results of a first clinical trial.GF can exert a positive effect on Lactobacillus spp.and enhanced butyrate producers,with a positive response at immunological and histological levels in some subjects,while in other subjects there were injuries and/or inflammatory markers.The initial imprinting of gut microbiota plays a drastic role,as some pro-inflammatory genera(Slackia and Sutterella)could delay GF effects,while others(e.g.Eisenbergiella)could favor it.
文摘This study investigated the effect of hazelnut skin by-products supplementation on lamb myofibrillar proteome changes during post-mortem storage(0,4,and 7 days).Gel-based proteomics and bioinformatics approaches were applied to reveal the underlying biochemical pathways and their importance in lamb meat texture development.Twenty-two Valle del Belice male lambs were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments:control(C)for lambs fed with maize-barley diet,and hazelnut skin(H)for lambs fed hazelnut skin by-product as maize partial replacer in the concentrate diet(150 g/kg DM basis).A greater myofibrillar fragmentation index(MFI)was found in meat from the C group at day 0 of storage(91.33 vs 98.38 in H and C groups,respectively).Conversely,starting from 4 days of storage,higher MFI values were observed in meat from lambs fed hazelnut skin(113.74 and 116.1 vs 99.28 and 107.26 in H and C groups at 4 and 7 days,respectively).Myofibrillar proteome changes estimated by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting revealed a degradation of desmin(P<0.01)and troponin T(P<0.001)intact proteins,and an increase in the abundance of the appearing 30 kDa fragment(P<0.001)after 4 days of storage in meat from H than the C group.In-depth proteomics and bioinformatics revealed 44 proteoforms(26 unique proteins),mainly involved in actin filament-based process/cytoskeleton organization,energy metabolism,and heat shock proteins,as the major interconnected pathways impacted by hazelnut by-product feeding strategy on lamb meat quality.Twelve proteins were proposed in this trial as po-tential biomarkers of lamb meat texture as a consequence of hazelnut skin by-products supplementation.
文摘Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a thermophilic,acidophilic,and spore-forming microorganism,able to spoil fruit juices.Few data are available on the effects of different acids of juices;thus,the goal of this research was to study the effect of 5 weak acids(malic,citric,ascorbic,tartaric,and lactic acids),compared to hydrochloric acid(strong acid,control)on two isolates of A.acidoterrestris from soil(C1 and C13).Acids were combined through a full randomized design with pH(2,3,and 4),temperature(5 or 45℃)and duration of storage(2,7 and 14 days)as categorical predictors.Total population(spores+cells)and spores were assessed.The results of this paper suggest that acid-resistance of A.acidoterrestris could be strongly affected by the kind of acid;on total population,malic and ascorbic acids exerted the highest antimicrobial action,probably depending on pKa and acid concentration,but also on other factors(for example the size and the ability of acids to enter the cells).Results also confirm that weak acids could mainly act on activated spores/cells,rather than on spores.To some extent,acids could play an antimicrobial effect also on spores mainly at pH 2.In conclusion,this paper offers a first insight on potentialities and limits of weak acids on A.acidoterrestris and could contribute to understand the growth/inactivation of this spoiling microorganism,as a preliminary step to design and/or optimize new approaches for controlling it.
文摘This study aimed to characterize and compare the muscle proteomes of goat Longissimus thoracis(LT)and Semitendinosus(ST)muscles taken early post-mortem from young crossbred males.Thanks to a quantitative proteomics approach,129 differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)were identified.The proteins belong to five interconnected biological pathways:muscle contraction and structure(n=47),catalytic,metabolism&ATP processes(n=33),binding and transport(n=23),oxidative stress and cell redox homeostasis(n=10),response to stress and protein folding(n=6).An additional group of miscellaneous proteins(n=10)grouped proteins playing other functions.The chemometrics analyses allowed clear separations of the muscles and evidenced 14 common proteins(ACTB,ACTN3,TMOD4,TPM3,TNNT1,AK1,AKR1B1,ACAA2,GPI,AGL,DNPEP,RTN4,ATP2A1,and CAVIN4)that could be considered as potential biomarkers.Overall,the study provided the first insights on the differences between goat LT and ST muscles and the basis related to the regulation of the skeletal muscle.Moreover,it resulted that a better understanding of the muscle characteristics would help in developing practices/processes to monitor meat quality and reduce the variations in fresh quality of meat,aged meat,and/or processed goat meat products.
基金The manuscript includes results obtained within the project entitled“Valorizzazione della mela Limoncella e melicoltura sostenibile nelle aree rurali dei Monti Dauni”acr.VALMELA funded by PSR PUGLIA 2014/2020-Misura 16-Cooperazione-Sottomisura 16.2-“Sostegno a progetti pilota e allo sviluppo di nuovi prodotti,pratiche,processi e tecnologie”.
文摘The production of sparkling cider could intercept the needs of non-habitual consumers of this alcoholic-beverage.This investigation was aimed to develop procedures for the production of sparkling ciders using the Italian apple variety‘Limoncella’by application of both Champenoise and Charmat methods.First of all,the authors apply a chemometric approach to evaluate the effects of duration of the pectolytic treatment carried out on crushed apples and of the sugar added before refermentation on physicochemical,and sensory characteristics of the Champenoise sparkling ciders.The pectolytic treatment was able to influence colour,alcohol,pH,bitterness(higher when the treatment was shorter),titratable and volatile acidity,soluble solids,CO_(2),total phenolics,sweetness,saltiness,bitterness,and volatile alcohols(higher when the treatment was longer).The addition of sugar increased alcohol,soluble solids,and CO_(2),and decreased the production of volatile compounds.Then,the effects of the refermentation methods(Champenoise or Charmat)on the same parameters were evaluated.Charmat and Champenoise sparkling ciders differed for parameters showing higher values in the second type,i.e.colour(9.982 and 14.296 SRM),organic acid concentrations,CO_(2)(6.35 and 7.55 g/L),phenolic(313 and 424 mg/L)and volatile content,foam persistence(2.2 and 3.8),and saltiness(2.1 and 3.2)--and for some sensory attributes such as taste quality and harmony that received higher scores in Charmat sparkling ciders(4.9±0.7 and 4.9±0.0,respectively)than the Champenoise ciders(3.7±0.5 and 3.7±0.4,respectively).Several esters,alcohols,terpenes,acids,phenols,and norisoprenoids had odour activity values>1.Principal Component Analysis(PCA)was able to homogeneously group Champenoise ciders based on the duration of the pectolytic treatment and the addition of sugar before fermentation.PCA was also able to distinguish sparkling ciders by refermentation methods.The results indicated that the chemometric approach is a sensitive tool to monitor the quality and authenticity of local sparkling cider productions.The reduction of the pectolytic treatment time was critical to avoid dramatic increases of lactic acid content.The Champenoise method preserved the cider phenolic content but negatively affected their sensory quality.
基金Project code PE0000003,Concession Decree No.1550 of October 11,2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research,CUP D93C22000890001,Project title“Research and innovation network on food and nutrition Sustainability,Safety and Security-Working ON Foods”(ONFoods)the beneficiary of a grant by University of Milan in the framework of‘Linea 2-A.2022”.
文摘Micronutrient deficiency is a form of malnutrition responsible for different metabolic diseases,widely shared among developing low-and middle-income African countries.While deficiencies of calcium,iron,vitamin A,zinc,and selenium have been counteracted mainly by implementing mandatory food fortification programs,little attention was given so far on strategies to decrease inadequate intake of water-soluble B-group vitamins.In this review,we summarize the physiological role of B-group vitamins,and discuss the approaches commonly used to tackle their deficiencies in Africa,namely(i)dietary diversification,(ii)supplementation,and(iii)fortification,with the main focus being here the microbial-based biofortification of food.We report the increasing evidence of plant-based African fermented foods as important sources of these vitamins and how microbial-based biofortification strategies may enhance their content and bioavailability during plant-based fermentation,especially seen for folate(vitamin B9),riboflavin(vitamin B2),and cobalamin(vitamin B12).The selection of pro-technological functional microbial strains from spontaneous fermentation and/or unconventional food matrices,the employment of vitamin overproducing lactic acid bacteria,as well as the implementation of adequate food processes are promising tools that could be implemented in the production of staple home-made fermented foods to counteract B-group vitamins deficiencies.Further research is needed to explore the biotechnological potential of underexploited indigenous microbial strains and the impact of fortified foods on gut host health.
基金funded by Agritech National Research Center and received funding from the European Union NextGenerationEU(PIANO NAZIONALE DI RIPRESA E RESILIENZA(PNRR)-MISSIONE 4 COM-PONENTE 2,INVESTIMENTO 1.4-D.D.103217/06/2022,CN00000022).
文摘Aligning with the growing demand for salt reduction strategies and the need to protect food biodiversity,this study aims to develop healthy savory biscuit-like snacks with reduced sodium content.An ancient(Automonia B)and modern(Bolero)soft wheat variety were combined with various concentrations of salt(0%,1%,2%)and glasswort powder(1%,4%,and 8%).Physical and microstructural analysis revealed that Bolero samples exhibited significantly higher hardness values(76.88±15.4 N)compared to Autonomia B(54.5±11.5 N).However,hardness decreased in both varieties as the concentration of glasswort increased,reaching average values of 67.17±5 N for Bolero and 41.6±3.5 N for Autonomia B.The total porosity of Bolero snacks was lower compared to Autonomia B,but other microstructural attributes,e.g.structure thickness and separation,were closely linked to textural properties.Salt and glasswort concentrations significantly influenced the sensory properties of biscuits formulated with two wheat varieties,while visual attributes remained consistently acceptable.Saltiness perception was mainly driven by salt but was also significantly enhanced by glasswort,supporting its role as a natural“green salt”ingredient.Overall taste showed a non-linear response,with moderate salt and glasswort levels maximizing pleasantness.These results highlight glasswort as a promising strategy for sodium reduction without compromising sensory quality,offering an innovative,scalable and biodiversity-enhancing strategy solution for industry-driven saltreduction programs.
文摘Proteases were extracted and biochemically characterized from different Brassica oleracea varieties(B.oleracea var.palmifolia(black cabbage,BC),B.oleracea var.sabellica(curly kale,K),and B.oleracea var.botrytis(white cauliflower,WC)).Calf rennet(CR)and Cynara cardunculus crude extracts(CC)were used as reference samples.The catalytic study used two different substrates:the synthetic peptide Bz-Phe-Val-Arg-pNA(BPVA-pNA),which contains para-nitroaniline(pNA),and azocasein(AzC)as a macromolecular substrate.The effect of temperature and pH on the proteolytic activity were also evaluated.Brassica proteases were further proposed as milk coagulants,and their coagulating efficiencies were evaluated.Bovine casein was incubated with the plant extracts,and the relative breakdown products were observed through electrophoresis.BC,K,and WC contain proteases which hydrolyze the macromolecular substrate(AzC)and synthetic peptides with Arg in P-1(BPVA-pNA).Therefore,among the three B.oleracea varieties and control extracts,K leaf extracts displayed greater catalytic efficiency against AzC.Brassica extracts showed a lesser milk clotting index but visible milk curd formation.More importantly,the protease activities of BC and K extracts exhibited great catalytic activity over a broad range of pH(3.6-9.0)and temperatures(40-70℃)using AzC as a substrate.Current pH and thermal tolerance results indicate that B.oleracea var.palmifolia and B.oleracea var.sabellica proteases could have broad applications in food technology.Many plant resources,which could represent potential sources of efficient proteases,are still unexploited.
