Search Results (691)

Rapid and accurate assessment of nutritional quality, particularly crude protein content and essential nutrient concentrations, remains a major challenge in the food and feed industries. In this study, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was combined with advanced chemometric modeling to predict the levels of crude protein and key macro- and micronutrients (Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe, Mn, P, Zn) in 61 barley forage samples composed of whole aerial plant parts ground prior to analysis. LIBS offers a compelling alternative to traditional analytical methods by enabling real-time analysis with minimal sample preparation. To minimize interference from atmospheric nitrogen, nitrogen spectral lines were excluded from the protein calibration model in favor of spectral lines from elements biochemically associated with proteins. We compared the performance of Partial Least Squares (PLSR) regression and Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) using fivefold cross-validation. ELM outperformed PLS in terms of prediction, achieving a coefficient of determination (R²) close to 1 and a ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) exceeding 2.5 for proteins and several nutrients. These results underscore the potential of LIBS-ELM integration as a robust, non-destructive, and in situ tool for rapid forage quality assessment, particularly in complex and heterogeneous plant matrices. Full article

Little information is available on the yellow-fleshed Zespri Zesy002 kiwifruit dynamic of mineral nutrient uptake and partitioning within organs. The aim of the present experiment was to find nutrient requirements and supply data for a specific nutrient management plan for Zesy002. The trial was conducted, for three years, in northern Italy, on a six-year-old kiwifruit orchard of the variety Zespri Zesy002. During the experiment organs were periodically sampled and analyzed for macro- and micronutrient concentration. A yearly nutrient uptake of 175 g N plant⁻¹, 16 g P plant⁻¹, 138 g K plant⁻¹, 235 g Ca plant⁻¹, 48 g Mg plant⁻¹, 17 g S plant⁻¹, 247 mg B plant⁻¹, 673 mg Cu plant⁻¹, 5.20 g Fe plant⁻¹, 473 mg Mn plant⁻¹, and 263 mg Zn plant⁻¹ was calculated, confirming that kiwifruit is a high-nutrient-demanding species. The nutrients found in the tree organs were divided in two factions: removed (not returned into the soil) and recycled (returned into the soil during and at the end of the growing cycle). The two fractions were similar for N, P, K, S, and Mn. The fraction recycled of Ca, Mg, Cu, and Zn was higher than the fraction removed, and the reverse was observed for Fe. These data created the basis for the determination of the correct nutritional plans that take into consideration not only nutrient requirements but also the dynamics of uptake during the season. Full article

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (FOC), remains a major constraint to global banana (Musa spp.) production, especially in tropical regions. Although soil conditions are known to modulate disease expression, the specific physicochemical drivers of FOC prevalence under field conditions are not well understood. This study investigated the relationships between soil properties and the Fusarium wilt incidence across 47 banana farms on Hainan Island, China, a tropical region dominated by highly weathered tropical soil (latosols). The disease incidence (%PDI) and FOC abundance were quantified, alongside key soil parameters, including the pH, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and macro- and micronutrient availability. The soils were predominantly acidic (mean pH 4.93), with low levels of organic carbon and exchangeable calcium (Ca) and elevated levels of available phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg). The Fusarium wilt incidence ranged from 1% to 78%, with significantly higher levels observed in younger plantations (<5 years old). Statistical analyses revealed strong negative correlations between the PDI and the soil pH, exchangeable Ca and Mg, and available K. Principal component analysis further confirmed the suppressive role of the pH and base cations in the disease dynamics. Farms older than five years exhibited better soil fertility indices and lower disease pressure, suggesting a temporal improvement in soil-mediated disease suppression. These findings underscore the critical role of soil acidification and nutrient imbalances, particularly Ca, Mg, and K deficiencies, in promoting FOC pathogenicity. Enhancing soil health offers a promising and sustainable strategy for managing Fusarium wilt in tropical banana production systems. Full article

Mismanagement of rural wastewater can lead to environmental contamination with the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Fungi with bioremediating potential constitute a sustainable alternative to decontaminate such wastewater before its reuse. This study evaluated the ability of Aspergillus oryzae pellets to remove 2,4-D from natural and sterile rural wastewater (i.e., with/without native microbiota). The pellets were produced by incubating conidial solutions of A. oryzae strains RCA2, RCA4, RCA5, and RCA10 in synthetic wastewater for 21 days at 25 °C. The wastewater samples were characterized physicochemically and microbiologically upon arrival at the laboratory. Afterwards, they were supplemented with 1, 2.5, or 5 mmol L⁻¹ of 2,4-D and inoculated with the pellets. Physicochemical characterization was repeated throughout the experiment. Herbicide removal and the presence of 2,4-D degradation intermediate, 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), were assessed through high-pressure liquid chromatography with UV/Vis detection (HPLC-UV) and mass spectrometry. At the beginning of the assay, the macro- and micronutrient content in the samples were suitable to sustain fungal growth. By the end, pH had increased and sodium and nitrate levels decreased in comparison with the control. RCA2, RCA4, and RCA10 removed over 80% of 2,4-D after 7 days of incubation, at the three herbicide concentrations tested. Moreover, wet fungal biomass had increased by the end of the assay. These findings demonstrate that RCA2, RCA4, and RCA10 can grow, form pellets, and remove 2,4-D in natural rural wastewater, which makes them potential candidates for bioremediation strategies aimed at improving the quality of water set to be reused. Full article

Plant pruning is the selective removal of specific plant parts to enhance growth, shape, and health. In this work, the effects of pruning were evaluated regarding the physiological parameters, maturity, quality, and harvest indices and the nutritional quality features of twelve chayote [Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw] (Cucurbitaceae) varieties. GC-FID approaches were utilized to determine CO₂ assimilation rates. The results demonstrated that pruning upregulated the leaf temperature and conductance but decreased transpiration and CO₂ assimilation rates within the evaluated period (06:30 a.m.–16:23 p.m.). It was noted that the implementation of pruning also impacted samples with enhanced photosynthetically active radiation activity, with a positive correlation with CO₂ assimilation. The macro- and micronutrient content was higher in samples with an epidermis, especially for S. edule var. albus spinosum. Nevertheless, the analyzed samples presented low (5–10 mL CO₂ kg⁻¹ h⁻¹), medium (10–15 mL CO₂ kg⁻¹ h⁻¹), and high levels (15–20 mL CO₂ kg⁻¹ h⁻¹) of respiratory intensity and weight loss (7–17%)—effects attributed to botanical differences between the studied chayote varieties. This work demonstrates, for the first time, the effects of pruning in chayote orchards and expands the knowledge regarding the implementation of effective approaches to produce plants with culinary, cultural, and medicinal implications. Further approaches are required to determine the effects of pruning on chayote after harvest. Full article

Enhanced weathering of silicate rocks in agriculture is an option for atmospheric CO₂ removal and fertility improvement. The objective of our work is to characterise some of the agricultural consequences of a basaltic powder amendment on soil-crop systems. Two doses of basalt (80 and 160 t ha⁻¹) were applied to two types of slightly acid soils (sandy or silty clayey), derived from long-term trials at Bordeaux (INRAE, France) and Rothamsted Research (England), respectively. For each soil, half of the pots were planted with ryegrass; the other half were left bare. Thus, the experiment had twelve treatments with four replications per treatment. Soil pH increased with the addition of basalt (+0.8 unit), with a 5% equivalence of that of reactive chalk. The basalt contained macro- and micronutrients. Some cations extractable in the basalt before being mixed to the soil became more extractable with increased weathering, independent of plant cover. Plant uptake generally increased for macronutrients and decreased for micronutrients, due to increased stock (macro) and reduced availability (micronutrients and P), related to pH increases. K supplied in the basalt was responsible for a significant increase in plant yield on the sandy soil, linked to an average basalt K utilisation efficiency of 33%. Our general conclusion is that rock dust applications have to be re-evaluated at each site with differing soil characteristics. Full article

Background: Adequate nutrition is fundamental to the health and performance of young athletes. However, many fail to meet nutritional recommendations. Nutrition education programmes are promising, cost-effective strategies for improving dietary habits. However, research gaps persist, coupled with notable variability amongst the intervention programmes targeting youth athletes. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional knowledge of Portuguese youth athletes and to evaluate the effectiveness of a nutrition education programme in improving football players’ understanding of a healthy diet. Methods: Participants were recruited from a local football club through public announcement. Male youth football players aged 13 to 18 years, training at least 3 times per week and competing regularly over the past six months, were eligible. The baseline assessment included anthropometric measurements, an assessment of the adherence to the Mediterranean diet using the KIDMED questionnaire, and an assessment of general and sports nutrition knowledge via a structured questionnaire. Following the intervention—comprising three face-to-face educational sessions and two digital infographics—the KIDMED and nutrition knowledge questionnaires were re-administered. Results: A sample of 38 male footballers were eligible for this study. Most participants exhibited a healthy body weight, with a corresponding adequate body composition. The mean KIDMED score indicated moderate adherence to the Mediterranean diet with no statistically significant difference between the baseline and post-intervention (6.79 ± 1.52 versus 6.97 ± 2.01, p > 0.05). There was a significant enhancement in overall nutrition knowledge, accompanied by notable improvements in the comprehension of macro- and micronutrient sources and sports nutrition principles. Conclusions: This pilot programme proved effective in enhancing young football players’ knowledge of nutrient sources and sports nutrition. Full article

Green energy is expected to play an increasingly important role in the energy sector, so the volume of biogas production and the formation of anaerobic digestates is likely to increase in the future. A wide range of biodegradable organic materials are used in anaerobic digesters to produce biogas. This review focuses on the properties of anaerobic digestates and their effects on physical, chemical and biological soil parameters discussing the benefits, limitations and potential risks. Due to the variety of technologies and raw materials used, anaerobic digestates have diverse properties. Therefore, their impact on specific soil parameters, such as bulk density, aggregate stability, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic matter (SOM) or microbial activity can vary in magnitude and direction. These effects are also influenced by the variety of soils. Although digestates usually have a significant macro- and micronutrient content, their potentially toxic components or high salt content may limit their use. Despite the limitations, the application of anaerobic digestates generally has more advantages than disadvantages. The use of good-quality anaerobic digestates can improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil, increase soil nutrient and SOM content, as well as soil microbial activity. Full article

Depression affects approximately 280 million people worldwide and is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly among young people. Despite numerous studies on the pathogenesis of this disorder, many factors remain unclear. New data in the literature suggest that proper concentrations of essential macro- and micronutrients play an important role in maintaining mental health and that disturbances in the metabolism of mineral compounds may contribute to the development and progression of depressive disorders. Numerous clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that low concentrations of these elements are associated with impaired neurotransmitter activity, increased exposure to oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, all of which may contribute to the onset or exacerbation of depression. Additionally, some macro- and micronutrients may contribute to metabolic and hormonal disorders, thereby exacerbating their impact on mood regulation. A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed database covering the period from 2020 to 2025 yielded relevant human studies on calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine in relation to depression, which were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. This review summarizes the effects of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine on supporting prevention, slowing progression, and helping treatment of depression. Understanding the impact of proper nutrition, including ensuring optimal concentrations of minerals, can help develop dietary strategies or proper supplementation of macronutrients and micronutrients aimed at preventing and improving the functioning of patients with depression. Full article

Large-fruited cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) is a species known for its highly valued fruit and is typically propagated vegetatively through the rooting of stem cuttings. Studies on the rooting of stem cuttings of large-fruited cranberry have shown that the morphological traits of the root system are a key indicator of the effectiveness of this process. To support rooting, gel coatings based on polysaccharides and containing auxins, especially the indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) W4 variant, were developed and applied. These significantly influenced root length (increase of 44.6% compared to control W0), surface area (increase of 32.4% compared to W0), volume (increase of 26.7% compared to W0), and average thickness, which translated into better nutrient uptake and a higher degree of plant nourishment. The W4 coating, combining mineral components, polysaccharides, and IBA, reduced transpiration and maintained moisture, promoting effective rooting. The associated metabolic changes were confirmed by analyses of oxidative stress markers and chlorophyll fluorescence. The study demonstrated that enhanced root system development was closely linked with the increased accumulation of macro- and micronutrients in the aerial parts of the plants, directly contributing to improved growth and potential yield. These findings highlight that effective rooting—achieved through the targeted metabolic stabilisation of the rooting environment—is essential for the successful vegetative propagation of large-fruited cranberry. Full article

Tropical fruits have become increasingly popular due to their interesting nutritional composition. This rise in their consumption has resulted in more by-products generated during their production, processing, and commercialization. Papaya, for instance, is one of the leading tropical fruits produced globally due to its essential macro- and micronutrients for a healthy diet. On the other hand, dragon fruit, less known worldwide, is gaining popularity due to its nutrient and bioactive compound content. This review uses bibliometric analysis as a tool to investigate the scientific literature related to these two fruits, focusing specifically on their by-products. The objective is to identify the key authors and countries that are making substantial contributions to the research on these fruits and their by-products, such as peels and seeds. It will provide an overview of existing topics and highlight areas needing further investigation to enhance understanding and practical applications. This approach will help guide future research and innovations related to these fruits and their potential uses. Full article

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a vital staple food and an important source of energy and macro- and micronutrients for billions of people. However, rice can accumulate undesirable levels of toxic trace elements, especially inorganic arsenic, which may pose a health risk. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of 29 essential and toxic elements and the fractions of four As species in 58 rice samples purchased in Croatian supermarkets. In addition, the influence of rice variety, cultivation methods, and origin on the composition of trace elements was analysed. The elements were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and As species were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with ICP-MS. Organic brown rice had higher concentrations of essential trace elements (Se, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Co, Cr) than white rice, with organic brown rice containing more essential elements than conventionally grown rice. The average total arsenic concentration (tAs) across all samples was 142 ± 57 µg/kg, with brown, conventionally grown rice containing a higher amount. Arsenite was the predominant arsenic species. Regional differences in As and Se concentrations were observed. These results emphasize the complex relationship between trace elements in rice and their potential impacts on health. Full article

Pollen, the male gametophyte of flowering plants, is collected by honeybees as a primary source of protein and converted into bee pollen through the enzymatic activity of digestive secretions. The nutrients in bee pollen are available in amounts well beyond those of proteins, comprising macronutrients such as carbohydrates, lipids and dietary fiber, as well as micronutrients such as minerals, vitamins, organic acids, and phenolic compounds. This study aimed to determine the macro and trace mineral content of bee pollen from different botanical and geographical origins, and to assess their bioaccessibility through simulated in vitro digestion, their dietary contribution, and potential health risks. Seven bee pollen samples were investigated, three with a monofloral origin of above 80%, from Nigella spp., Helianthus annuus and Castanea sativa, and four with a multifloral origin. Mineral composition revealed potassium as the most abundant element, while iron, manganese, and copper were found at trace levels. Castanea sativa pollen had the highest overall mineral content, whereas Nigella spp. showed the lowest values for calcium, magnesium, and copper. The bioaccessibility of bee pollen was highest during the gastric phase for most minerals except copper, where most of the samples peaked in the intestinal phase. Overall, mineral bioaccessibility after simulated digestion followed the order K > Mg > Cu > Ca > Mn > Fe > Zn. While for manganese, the consumption of bee pollen showed the highest contribution to recommended dietary intake (16% for women and 12% for men), calcium had the lowest, with less than 1% of the RDA at a consumption level of 40 g/day. Health risk assessment confirmed that consuming 40 g/day of bee pollen poses no risk because the target hazard quotient and hazard index are below the risk threshold of 1.0. Full article

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seeds have been essential for human nutrition for millennia. The products and by-products of hemp seeds are gaining popularity nowadays as food, feed and medicine for their high nutritional and nutraceutical properties. In parallel, concerns about phytate, an antinutritional compound limiting nutrient bioavailability in hemp seeds and seed meal are rising. Hemp seeds contain an array of nutrients, but their bioavailability is mostly unknown. Here, we report nutrient and phytate concentrations and phytate contents in source seeds and multiplied seeds of seven industrial hemp varieties. We estimated the bioavailability of specific nutrients based on calculated molar ratios of phytate to minerals. Seed multiplication was carried out in a phytotron using a compost-based growth medium. Five macronutrients (P, K, Mg, S, Ca), four micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu) and Cr were measured in seeds using ICP-OES. Seed phytate was determined using a UV-visible spectrophotometer rapid colourimetric assay. The results revealed significant differences between seven industrial hemp varieties for most macro- and micronutrient concentrations (not Fe), phytate concentration and content and phytate-to-mineral molar ratios in both source and multiplied seeds. Multiplied hemp seeds had higher K, Mn and Zn and, lower Cr and phytate concentrations and lower phytate content than source seeds. Considering nutrient bioavailability, Ca and Fe are non-bioavailable, and Zn is bioavailable in hemp seeds. Ferimon has increased Zn bioavailability in source and multiplied seeds, indicating the variety’s potential for seed production in Western Australia. Full article

The genetic diversity of banana plants (Musa spp.) can result in different phosphorus requirements, highlighting the importance of studies performed to optimize phosphate fertilization in order to improve the productivity and sustainability of banana plantations. This study assessed the effects of phosphate fertilization on the duration of the harvest season, bunch mass, soil fertility and foliar nutrition of BRS SCS Belluna banana plants. A replicated trial was performed in two consecutive harvests, with different phosphorus levels, i.e., 25, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150% of the recommended level for the crop. Soil analyses included macro- and micronutrients, silicon, acidity, organic matter, cation exchange capacity and base saturation. Leaf tissue was analyzed for mineral content. Thermophosphate had different effects on soil fertility and leaf nutrients. Calcium and phosphorus in the soil increased linearly. In the leaf, a reduction in zinc content was mainly observed. The lower temperatures and accumulated rainfall that occurred during the second harvest season are related to a greater number of days between flowering and harvest and a lower bunch mass. These results could support fertilization programs aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of phosphorus nutrition in banana plantations. Full article