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Characterizing changes in beta cell function during prolonged hyperinsulinemia and dietary stress is important to study to prevent diseases like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and insulin resistance. This research investigates how a moderate sucrose (MS) diet affects insulin resistance and β-cell mass in two rat strains: LEW.1WR1 and Wistar Furth (WF). LEW.1WR1 rats seem to be sensitive to beta cell disruptions as weanlings. Twenty-one male LEW.1WR1 rats and sixteen male WF rats were studied over 18 weeks. The rats were divided into groups and given either the control or MS diet. Their body weight was monitored twice a week. Insulin tolerance tests (ITTs) and fasting blood glucose measurements were taken at intervals. Urine samples were analyzed to assess metabolic shifts, and pancreas tissue was examined to evaluate changes in β-cell mass. The LEW.1WR1 rats became overweight and showed higher insulin resistance than the WF rats. Both strains of rats on the MS diet displayed changes in urine metabolite profiles in terms of levels of lactic acid and alanine. This study highlights the impact or lack thereof of a moderate sucrose diet on body mass, insulin resistance, and β-cell mass, with notable effects observed specifically in LEW.1WR1 rats. These findings contribute to our understanding of how dietary sugar intake can affect metabolism when observed in models sensitive to metabolic defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coffee post-processing drying eliminates moisture content, reduces fungal and microbe growth, and develops unique aroma and flavor compounds. Thai coffee producers use controlled-environment drying (CED) techniques to improve the quality and cupping scores of the coffee. This research investigated how different drying methods, including sun drying (SD), controlled-environment drying at 20–30 °C, 50–55% RH, and fast drying (FD) at 30–45 °C influenced the physicochemical characteristics of coffee undergoing dry (DP), washed (WP), and honey (HP) processing. Results showed that true density, moisture content, water activity, color, caffeine, trigonelline, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, sucrose, and fructose in green coffee beans were significantly affected (p < 0.05) by both drying technique and post-harvest processing. Drying techniques and processing directly impacted the characteristics of green (GCB) and roasted coffee beans (RCB). Findings suggested a correlation between CED, SD, and FD based on the physicochemical and biochemical properties and sugar contents of both green and roasted coffee beans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arabinoside and derived nucleoside analogs, a family of nucleoside analogs, exhibit diverse typically biological activities and are widely used as antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and other drugs in clinical and preclinical trials. Although with a long and rich history in the field of medicinal chemistry, the biosynthesis of arabinoside has only been sporadically designed and studied, and it remains a challenge. Here, we constructed an in vitro multi-enzymatic cascade for the biosynthesis of arabinosides. This artificial biosystem was systematically optimized, involving an exquisite pathway design, NADP+ regeneration, meticulous enzyme selection, optimization of the key enzyme dosage, and the concentration of inorganic phosphate. Under the optimized conditions, we achieved 0.37 mM of vidarabine from 5 mM of sucrose and 2 mM of adenine, representing 18.7% of the theoretical yield. Furthermore, this biosystem also has the capability to produce other arabinosides, such as spongouridine, arabinofuranosylguanine, hypoxanthine arabinofuranoside, fludarabine, and 2-methoxyadenine arabinofuranoside, from sucrose, and corresponding nucleobase by introducing different nucleoside phosphorylases. Overall, our biosynthesis approach provides a pathway for the biosynthesis of arabinose-derived nucleoside analogs, offering potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The tubers of Gastrodia elata, used in traditional medicine for over two thousand years, are highly susceptible to fungal infections, making tuber rot a common issue during its cultivation. This study investigated a significant outbreak of brown rot disease affecting G. elata f. elata in Hunan Province, China. Typical symptoms include initial brown spots on the tuber surface that expand and darken, with the spots spreading inward and causing the surrounding tissue to transition from brown to black. In this study, the fungal pathogen causing brown rot disease on G. elata was isolated and examined in detail for morphological characteristics, including color, sporulation structures, and spore size. Its identification was further supported by phylogenetic analysis. The findings indicated that the fungal pathogen causing brown rot disease on G. elata f. elata was Clonostachys rosea. Gastrodia elata, commonly known as Tian Ma, is a perennial mycoheterotrophic orchid. Qianyang Tian Ma (QTM), a geographical indication agricultural product from Hongjiang City, Hunan Province, China, is primarily characterized by the red variety, G. elata f. elata. A severe outbreak of tuber brown rot disease was documented in QTM during the harvesting season in Hunan. The fungal pathogen associated with the disease was isolated on potato saccharose agar (PSA) and identified through morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Pathogenicity tests were performed on healthy tubers of G. elata f. elata. The results showed that the representative isolate, named TMB, produced white hyphal colonies with a ring structure, broom-like phialides, partially curved ellipsoidal conidia, and orange–yellow spherical ascocarps on PSA. Phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, LSU, rpb2 and tub2 sequences using Bayesian and maximum-likelihood methods identified the isolate TMB as Clonostachys rosea, based on morphological and phylogenetic data. Pathogenicity tests revealed typical disease symptoms on healthy G. elata tubers 15 days post-inoculation with the isolate TMB. C. rosea is known to cause diseases in economically important crops, but there are no reports of its occurrence on G. elata f. elata in China. This study provides valuable insights into the occurrence, prevention, and control of brown rot disease in G. elata f. elata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In rice, symbiotic N2 fixation via nodule bacteroids does not take place naturally. Although N2 fixation by endophytic and associative diazotrophs has been reported in rice, the main organs and seasonal regulation for the N2 fixation have not been elucidated. In this study, seasonal changes in nitrogenase (acetylene reduction) activity and carbohydrate contents in elongated culm (EC), unelongated stem (US), and crown root (CR) were investigated in manure compost (MC)- and chemical fertilizer (CF)-applied rice. Nitrogenase activity increased after rooting (June) and reached the highest activity in US of MC-applied rice at panicle initiation (August). The sucrose content in EC continued to increase after rooting regardless of the applied materials, whereas the glucose content in US increased after rooting only in CF-applied rice, suggesting higher consumption of glucose in US of MC-applied rice. There were significant differences among bacterial microbiota in EC, US, and CR at panicle initiation. In addition, Clostridia class anaerobes were more abundant in US of MC-applied rice than in EC and CR of MC-applied rice. Such difference was not observed in US of CF-applied rice. These results suggest the suitability of US of MC-applied rice at panicle initiation as a site of N2 fixation under anaerobic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research assesses the aboveground matter accumulation and Fv/Fm ratios (maximum quantum efficiency of PSII) in young plants (5 months old) of Agave mapisaga and Agave salmiana grown under greenhouse conditions. This study also evaluated changes in the relative abundance of several different metabolites (sugars, free amino acids, and soluble phenols) during the major daily phases (I, III, and IV) of Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). These two species were also investigated to determine if differences in these parameters were evident with respect to their geographical origins (i.e. Metepec, Tlajomulco, and Tlaxiaca, in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico). Differences in shoot mass (0.51−0.82 g plant−1), water content (75−93%), fructose (4−27 μmol g−1), glucose (57−73 μmol g−1), sucrose (10−30 μmol g−1), free amino acids (5−25 μmol g−1), soluble phenolics (0.7−3.5 μmol g−1), and Fv/Fm ratios (0.75−0.80) were evident between plants with different origins. Specifically, at the end of Phase I compared to Phase IV, the results showed significant reductions in dry matter (up to 3.3%) and also reductions in fructose/sucrose. Relative amino acid concentrations were lowest in Phase III (8.8 μmol g−1) compared to Phase I (16 μmol g−1). These are novel observations, since all these changes and the biochemical and physiological performance in the CAM phases have not been previously determined in Agave plants differing in their geographical origins. The morphological and physiological adaptations of Agave species, including the Classulacean acid metabolism (CAM), allow plants to develop in arid and semi-arid environments. Four diel phases have been described in CAM plants that regulate carbon metabolism, growth and yield. The hypothesis is that in early-development plants from seeds, growing under greenhouse conditions, of each genotype's physiological responses, including growth and metabolites concentrations, vary among CAM phases because of the species of Agave and the seed provenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous experiments found that acceptance of saccharin by rats was reduced if they had prior experience of sucrose or some other highly palatable solution. This study tested whether such successive negative contrast (SNC) effects involve acquisition of an aversion to the new taste. In three experiments, rats were switched from sucrose exposure in Stage 1 to a less palatable solution containing a new taste in Stage 2. In Experiments 1 and 2, a novel flavor was added to a saccharin solution at the start of Stage 2. In Experiment 1, preference tests revealed a weak aversion to the added vanilla flavor in the Suc-Sacch group, while in Experiment 2 an aversion was found in the Suc-Sacch group to the salty flavor that was used, compared with controls given access either saccharin or water in Stage 1. In Experiment 3, the Suc-Quin group, given quinine solution in Stage 2, displayed a greater aversion to quinine than a Water-Quin control group. These results support the suggestion that taste aversion learning plays a role in the initial suppression of intakes in a qualitative consummatory SNC effect. However, in the light of other evidence, it seems that the unusual persistence of successive negative contrast when rats are switched from sucrose to saccharin is not due to a long-lasting reduction in the value of saccharin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) filler is a type of bioactive functional glass that releases six different ions. This study examined the effects of the S-PRG filler eluate on Streptococcus mutans in the presence of sucrose. In a solution containing S. mutans, the concentrations of BO33−, Al3+, Sr2+, and F− were significantly higher in the presence of the S-PRG filler eluate than in its absence (p < 0.001). The concentrations of these ions further increased in the presence of sucrose. Additionally, the S-PRG filler eluate significantly reduced glucan formation by S. mutans (p < 0.001) and significantly increased the pH of the bacterial suspension (p < 0.001). Bioinformatic analyses revealed that the S-PRG filler eluate downregulated genes involved in purine biosynthesis (purC, purF, purL, purM, and purN) and upregulated genes involved in osmotic pressure (opuAa and opuAb). At a low pH (5.0), the S-PRG filler eluate completely inhibited the growth of S. mutans in the presence of sucrose and significantly increased the osmotic pressure of the bacterial suspension compared with the control (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that ions released from the S-PRG filler induce gene expression changes and exert an inhibitory effect on S. mutans in the presence of sucrose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia), which functions as a "dead-end trap tree" for the Asian long-horned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) in mixed plantations, can successfully attract Asian long-horned beetles for oviposition and subsequently kill the eggs by gum. This study aimed to investigate gum secretion differences by comparing molecular and metabolic features across three conditions—an oviposition scar, a mechanical scar, and a healthy branch—using high-performance liquid chromatography and high-throughput RNA sequencing methods. Our findings indicated that the gum mass secreted by an oviposition scar was 1.65 times greater than that secreted by a mechanical scar. Significant differences in gene expression and metabolism were observed among the three comparison groups. A Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes annotation and enrichment analysis showed that an oviposition scar significantly affected starch and sucrose metabolism, leading to the discovery of 52 differentially expressed genes and 7 differentially accumulated metabolites. A network interaction analysis of differentially expressed metabolites and genes showed that EaSUS1, EaYfcE1, and EaPGM1 regulate sucrose, uridine diphosphate glucose, α-D-glucose-1P, and D-glucose-6P. Although the polysaccharide content in the OSs was 2.22 times higher than that in the MSs, the sucrose content was lower. The results indicated that the Asian long-horned beetle causes Russian olive sucrose degradation and D-glucose-6P formation. Therefore, we hypothesized that damage caused by the Asian long-horned beetle could enhance tree gum secretions through hydrolyzed sucrose and stimulate the Russian olive's specific immune response. Our study focused on the first pair of a dead-end trap tree and an invasive borer pest in forestry, potentially offering valuable insights into the ecological self-regulation of Asian long-horned beetle outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sucrose phosphorylase (SPase), a member of the glycoside hydrolase GH13 family, possesses the ability to catalyze the hydrolysis of sucrose to generate α-glucose-1-phosphate and can also glycosylate diverse substrates, showcasing a wide substrate specificity. This enzyme has found extensive utility in the fields of food, medicine, and cosmetics, and has garnered significant attention as a focal point of research in transglycosylation enzymes. Nevertheless, SPase encounters numerous obstacles in industrial settings, including low enzyme yield, inadequate thermal stability, mixed regioselectivity, and limited transglycosylation activity. In-depth exploration of efficient expression strategies and molecular modifications based on the crystal structure and functional information of SPase is now a critical research priority. This paper systematically reviews the source microorganisms, crystal structure, and catalytic mechanism of SPase, summarizes diverse heterologous expression systems based on expression hosts and vectors, and examines the application and molecular modification progress of SPase in synthesizing typical glycosylated products. Additionally, it anticipates the broad application prospects of SPase in industrial production and related research fields, laying the groundwork for its engineering modification and industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing production and use of plastics significantly contribute to microplastics (MPs) contamination in the environment. Humans are exposed to MPs primarily through the gastrointestinal route, as these particles are present in beverages and food, e.g., sugar. Effective isolation and identification of MPs from food is essential for their elimination. This study aimed to evaluate factors influencing the isolation of MPs from sucrose solutions to determine optimal conditions for the process. Polyethylene particles were used to test separation methods involving chemical digestion with acids and filtration through membrane filters made of nylon, mixed cellulose ester, and cellulose acetate with pore sizes of 0.8 and 10 µm. The effects of temperature and acid type and its concentration on plastic particles were examined using scanning electron microscopy and µ-Raman spectroscopy. The results indicate that increased temperature reduces solution viscosity and sucrose adherence to MPs' particles, while higher acid concentrations accelerate sucrose hydrolysis. The optimal conditions for MPs' isolation were found to be 5% HCl at 70 °C for 5 min, followed by filtration using an efficient membrane system. These conditions ensure a high recovery and fast filtration without altering MPs' surface properties, providing a reliable basis for further analysis of MPs in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress plays significant roles in the development of type 2 diabetes and its complications. This study investigates effects of magainin-AM2 on high-sucrose diet induced redox imbalance and cognitive impairment in Drosophila melanogaster. Effects of various concentrations of sucrose, magainin-AM2 or a combination of both agents on mortality, eclosion rate, generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, activities of antioxidant enzymes, thiol system, and markers of cognitive functions in control and treated flies were examined. Results showed that the exposure of flies to high sucrose (30 %–60 % w/w) diet increased mortality rate (38–67 %, P < 0.001) and levels of glucose (1.8–1.9-fold, P < 0.001), hydrogen peroxide (1.4–1.5-fold, P < 0.01) and nitrite/nitrate (1.2-fold, P < 0.01). Decreased levels of total thiol (53–59 %, P < 0.01), non-protein thiols (59–63 %, P < 0.01), catalase activities (39–47 %, P < 0.01–0.05) and glutathione- s -transferase activities (31–43 %, P < 0.01–0.05) were also observed. Magainin-AM2 (0–10 μM/kg diet) did not affect fly mortality rate, levels of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite/nitrate, and activities of catalase and glutathione- s -transferase. However, the peptide produced a dose-dependent increase in total thiol 1.2–1.6-fold, P < 0.001–0.01)and increases non-protein thiol levels at 10 μM/kg diet (2.0-fold, P < 0.01). Magainin-AM2 inhibited sucrose-induced elevation of glucose (55–70 %, P < 0.001), hydrogen peroxide (11–12 %, P < 0.01) and nitrite/nitrate (20–34 %, P < 0.01–0.05). The peptide prevented sucrose-induced reduction in total and non-protein thiols (1.9–2.0-fold, P < 0.05) levels and activities of catalase (2.3–3.1-fold, P < 0.001) and glutathione- s -transferase (1.8–2.8-fold, P < 0.001–0.05). Magainin-AM2 inhibited sucrose-induced reduction in acetylcholinesterase activities (3.6–4.0-fold, P < 0.001), eclosion rate (18 %, P < 0.001) and negative geotaxis (1.3–14-fold, P < 0.001). These results indicate that beneficial actions of magainin-AM2 may also involve the prevention of hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative damage and encourage its further development as an anti-diabetic agent. Flies were exposed to feed supplemented with sucrose in the presence or absence of graded concentrations of peptide. Effects on peptide on hyperglycaemia, oxidative status and cognitive function were examined. Peptide-treated flies showed improved glucose metabolism, antioxidant status and cognitive function. [Display omitted] • High sucrose-diet impaired glucose homeostasis, antioxidant system and cognitive function in flies. • Magainin-AM2 inhibited sucrose-induced hyperglycaemia. • Magainin-AM2 ameliorated sucrose-induced imbalance in antioxidant status. • Magainin-AM2 improved cognitive function in high-sucrose fed flies. • Hypoglycaemic and cognitive effects of magainin-AM2 may be consequences of its antioxidative actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Cone enlargement is a crucial process for seed production and reproduction in gymnosperms. Most of our knowledge of cone development is derived from observing anatomical structure during gametophyte development. Therefore, the exact molecular mechanism underlying cone enlargement after fertilization is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that sucrose promotes cone enlargement in Torreya grandis, a gymnosperm species with relatively low rates of cone enlargement, via the TgNGA1‐TgWRKY47‐TgEXPA2 pathway.Cell expansion plays a significant role in cone enlargement in T. grandis. 13C labeling and sucrose feeding experiments indicated that sucrose‐induced changes in cell size and number contribute to cone enlargement in this species. RNA‐sequencing analysis, transient overexpression in T. grandis cones, and stable overexpression in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) suggested that the expansin gene TgEXPA2 positively regulates cell expansion in T. grandis cones.The WRKY transcription factor TgWRKY47 directly enhances TgEXPA2 expression by binding to its promoter. Additionally, the NGATHA transcription factor TgNGA1 directly interacts with TgWRKY47. This interaction suppresses the DNA‐binding ability of TgWRKY47, thereby reducing its transcriptional activation on TgEXPA2 without affecting the transactivation ability of TgWRKY47.Our findings establish a link between sucrose and cone enlargement in T. grandis and elucidate the potential underlying molecular mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of functional foods, Except for their nutritional role, is due to providing physiological benefits or reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Cake is a popular product among consumer meals. Therefore, reducing the amount of sucrose in the cake by making it functional with citrus fiber and essential oils is an effective step in the grain industry. The breakfast cakes containing isomalt, orange fiber and cinnamon essential oil were prepared in 8 groups. The physicochemical, color and sensory properties of breakfast cakes were investigated. The results showed that the pH of the prepared cakes was not significantly different from the control group (p>0.05). While the variables of orange fiber, isomalt, and cinnamon essential oil were effective in maintaining the moisture content of cakes (p<0.05). As expected, the fiber content of breakfast cakes increased with the addition of orange fiber (p<0.05). The fat and protein content of the treatments was lower than the control sample The protein of the treatments did not have a significant difference (p>0.05); however, they showed a significant difference with the control treatment(p<0.05), but their ash was significantly higher than these groups (p<0.05). A significant decrease in sucrose content was reported by replacing part of it by isomalt (p<0.05). Improvement in baking volume and weight loss of breakfast cakes containing orange fiber, isomalt, and cinnamon essence was also reported (p<0.05). Examining the color index of breakfast cakes showed an increase in the L* and b* values while the a* value decreased (p<0.05). Sensory evaluation showed an increase in the acceptability of cakes containing orange fiber, isomalt, and cinnamon essential oil compared to the control sample. Considering the total results, the breakfast cake containing 2% orange fiber, 2% isomalt, and 0.1% cinnamon essence was introduced as the best treatment in this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo cultivation, particularly Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), holds significant economic importance in various regions worldwide. Bamboo shoot degradation (BSD) severely affects productivity and economic viability. However, despite its agricultural consequences, the molecular mechanisms underlying BSD remain unclear. Consequently, we explored the dynamic changes of BSD through anatomy, physiology and the transcriptome. Our findings reveal ruptured protoxylem cells, reduced cell wall thickness and the accumulation of sucrose and reactive oxygen species (ROS) during BSD. Transcriptomic analysis underscored the importance of genes related to plant hormone signal transduction, sugar metabolism and ROS homoeostasis in this process. Furthermore, BSD appears to be driven by the coexpression regulatory network of senescence‐associated gene transcription factors (SAG‐TFs), specifically PeSAG39, PeWRKY22 and PeWRKY75, primarily located in the protoxylem of vascular bundles. Yeast one‐hybrid and dual‐luciferase assays demonstrated that PeWRKY22 and PeWRKY75 activate PeSAG39 expression by binding to its promoter. This study advanced our understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms governing BSD, offering a valuable reference for enhancing Moso bamboo forest productivity. Summary statement: The bamboo shoot degradation occurs first in the protoxylem and impacts phytohormone signalling, starch and sucrose metabolism, as well as reactive oxygen species homoeostasis. PeWRKY22 and PeWRKY75 activate PeSAG39 by binding to its promoters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanical stresses and strains acting on pharmaceutical glass tubing vials during freezing and thawing of model pharmaceutical formulations. Strain measurements were conducted inside of a laboratory-scale freeze-dryer using a custom wireless sensor. In both sucrose and trehalose formulations at concentrations between 5 % and 20 % w/v, the strain measurements initially increased before peaking in magnitude at temperatures close to the respective glass transition temperatures of the maximally freeze concentrated solutes, Tg'. We attribute this behavior to a shift in the mechanical properties of the frozen system from a purely elastic glass below Tg' to a viscoelastic rubber-like material above Tg'. That is, when the interstitial region becomes mechanically compliant at temperature above Tg'. The outputs were less predictable below 5 % w/v and tended to exhibit two separate peaks in strain output, one near the equilibrium melting temperature of pure ice and the other near Tg'. The peaks merged at concentrations between 4 and 5 % w/v where the largest strain magnitude was observed. The strain on primary packaging has traditionally been applied to evaluate the risk of damage or breakage due to, for example, crystallization of excipients. However, data collected during this study suggest there may be utility in formulation design or as a process analytical technology to minimize potentially destabilizing stresses and strains in the frozen formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Sugarcane is the main source of sugar worldwide, and 80% of the sucrose production comes from sugarcane. However, the genetic differentiation and basis of agronomic traits remain obscure. Here, we sequenced the whole‐genome of 219 elite worldwide sugarcane cultivar accessions. A total of approximately 6 million high‐quality genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected. A genome‐wide association study identified a total of 2198 SNPs that were significantly associated with sucrose content, stalk number, plant height, stalk diameter, cane yield, and sugar yield. We observed homozygous tendency of favor alleles of these loci, and over 80% of cultivar accessions carried the favor alleles of the SNPs or haplotypes associated with sucrose content. Gene introgression analysis showed that the number of chromosome segments from Saccharum spontaneum decreased with the breeding time of cultivars, while those from S. officinarum increased in recent cultivars. A series of selection signatures were identified in sugarcane improvement procession, of which 104 were simultaneously associated with agronomic traits and 45 of them were mainly associated with sucrose content. We further proposed that as per sugarcane transgenic experiments, ShN/AINV3.1 plays a positive role in increasing stalk number, plant height, and stalk diameter. These findings provide comprehensive resources for understanding the genetic basis of agronomic traits and will be beneficial to germplasm innovation, screening molecular markers, and future sugarcane cultivar improvement. Significance Statement: By whole‐genome sequencing of 219 worldwide sugarcane cultivars, our study furthers previous understanding of genetic basis of six important agronomic traits and selection signatures between cultivars and wild species, and during sugarcane cultivar improvement. Furthermore, sucrose content‐related loci were relatively fully selected and utilized in modern sugarcane cultivars, then cloning and validation of ShN/AINV3.1 would favor more increase in cane yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indirect selection for yield in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) production can be achieved by identifying and selecting for plant traits that are correlated to yield. This study aimed to identify and quantify sugarcane traits that are associated with ratooning ability to generate information for varieties' selection. Data sourced from three variety trials established at three sites, comprising eight varieties, and collected over six successive crops (plant cane and five ratoons) were used for this study. The data were subjected to linear mixed model, Spearman's correlation, and biplot analyses. Stalk height, stalk population, stalk mass, and stalk sucrose mass were significantly correlated with cane and sucrose yield across all ratoon crops, suggesting that varieties that combine these traits over multiple crops will have higher ratoon cane and sucrose yields. Significant correlation between brix and sucrose content suggested that brix can be used to indirectly select for sucrose content. Measuring brix is easier, cheaper, and faster than measuring sucrose content. Significant site and variety effects on ratoon crop yields indicated the existence of opportunities to identify good ratooning varieties that are specifically and or broadly adapted to different growing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To satisfy the ever-increasing share of consumers who are lactose intolerant, vegan or require foods with less simple sugars, chocolate companies are constantly looking for new formulations. In the present research, the nutritional and sensory profile of two novel chocolates was evaluated. In the first, milk powder was replaced by coconut copra, almond and isolated soy protein, and in the second dark chocolate-based, sucrose was replaced by coconut sugars, stevia and erythritol, resulting in a reduction in calorific value of about 8%. The substitution of milk powder with vegetal ingredients affected the chocolate mineral profile, with high iron and copper concentrations and less potassium, calcium and phosphorus. The vegan samples showed the presence of medium-chain fatty acids from coconut oil, mainly lauric acid. Esters, the group responsible for the fruity aroma, represented mainly by benzaldehyde, furfural and vanillin, were prevalent in the vegan sample. The novel chocolate without added sucrose provides approximately 2182.6 kJ/hg registering a reduction in caloric value of more than 8% compared to the standard sample. In addition, the presence of coconut sugar, with its low glycaemic index (35), made the novel chocolate healthier than plain sucrose-containing dark chocolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chocolate mass is a cocoa butter-based suspension, which mainly consists of sugar and cocoa particles dispersed in a continuous lipid phase. During chocolate manufacturing, sugar particles have to be ground to sizes below 25–30 µm. Such a fine grinding is carried out either by five roll refiners or by ball mills. Despite obtaining similar particle size distributions at the end, the grinding procedures result in different chocolate mass properties. The reasons for that are not fully understood, so far. Therefore, changes in particle sizes and surface properties of sucrose particles as well as their interactions with surrounding cocoa butter during the different grinding processes were investigated including atomic force microscopy techniques to characterize local surface states. It was found that especially the alteration of surfaces during continued grinding differed. In the case of roller grinding, surface states became more inhomogeneous and different surfaces states at microscopic level existed in parallel. More homogenous surfaces but with a higher degree of amorphous states were formed during grinding in the ball mill. Variations in macroscopic behavior of the suspension can be explained by the differences in interaction of particles with each other and with the surrounding lipid phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Methamphetamine addiction is a persistent and intractable pathological learning and memory, whereas no approved therapeutics is available. However, few attentions have been paid to how associative learning participates in the formation of intractable memory related to drug addiction Objectives and methods: To investigate the role of associative learning in methamphetamine addiction and the underlying neurobiological mechanism, methamphetamine self-administration, oral sucrose self-administration, chemogenetic neuromanipulation, and fiber photometry in mice were performed in this study. Results: We reported that associative learning increased methamphetamine-induced self-administration, but not oral sucrose self-administration. In addition, the enhancement of methamphetamine-induced self-administration was independent of more methamphetamine consumption, and remained with higher drug-taking and motivation in the absence of visual cues, suggesting the direct effects of the associative learning that enhanced methamphetamine-induced self-administration. Moreover, chemogenetic inactivation of the secondary visual cortex (V2) reduced the enhancement of the drug-taking induced by associative learning but did not alter sucrose-taking. Further fiber photometry of V2 neurons demonstrated that methamphetamine-associative learning elicits V2 neuron excitation, and sucrose-associative learning elicits V2 neuron inhibition. Conclusions: Therefore, this study reveals the neurobiological mechanism of V2 excitability underlying how associative learning participates in the formation of intractable memory related to drug addiction, and gives evidence to support V2 as a promising target for stimulation therapy for methamphetamine addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fecal microbiota of two healthy adults was cultivated in a medium containing commercial fructooligosaccharides [FOS; 1-kestose (GF2), nystose (GF3), and 1F-fructofuranosylnystose (GF4)]. Initially, the proportions of lactobacilli in the two feces samples were only 0.42% and 0.17%; however, they significantly increased to 7.2% and 4.8%, respectively, after cultivation on FOS. Most FOS-utilizing isolates could utilize only GF2; however, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Lp02 could fully consume GF3 and GF4 too. The FOS operon (fosRABCDXE) was present in Lc. paracasei Lp02 and another Lc. paracasei strain, KCTC 3510T, but fosE was only partially present in the non-FOS-degrading strain KCTC 3510T. In addition, the top six upregulated genes in the presence of FOS were fosABCDXE, particularly fosE. FosE is a β-fructosidase that hydrolyzes both sucrose and all three FOS. Finally, a genome-based analysis suggested that fosE is mainly observed in Lc. paracasei, and only 13.5% (61/452) of their reported genomes were confirmed to include it. In conclusion, FosE allows the utilization of FOS, including GF3 and GF4 as well as GF2, by some Lc. paracasei strains, suggesting that this species plays a pivotal role in FOS utilization in the human gut. Keypoints: • Lc. paracasei Lp02 could fully utilize commercial FOS including GF2, GF3 and GF4. • A specific β-fructosidase (FosE) was responsible for the utilization of three FOS molecules. • The specific β-fructosidase (FosE) was mainly observed in Lc. paracasei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A natural low fruit set is reported in cranberry. It is hypothesised that a carbohydrate shortage limits fruit set, and thus yield potential. We aimed to evaluate the effect of carbohydrate availability induced by shade and saccharose spraying during reproductive stages of 'Stevens' cranberry to identify critical periods for yield and juice quality (soluble solids, acidity, and colour). Two independent experiments were conducted. On five separate dates, artificial shade (90% shade nets) was imposed for two weeks. On the same dates, 417 kg ha−1 of saccharose was sprayed as a 10% w/v solution. Results showed that shading from full bloom to the beginning of the fruit set reduced fruit number and juice colour. In contrast, 10% saccharose spray increased yield by 22% compared to the control without compromising juice quality. Therefore, the period between the end of full bloom and the beginning of fruit growth is the most critical stage for 'Stevens' cranberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) is an important tropical and subtropical fruit, and most of its cultivars bloom once a year (once-flowering, OF). Dimocarpus longan cv. 'Sijimi' (SJ) is a tropical ecotype variety that blooms several times a year (continuous-flowering, CF) without the need for low-temperature induction. Several studies have focused on the mechanism of continuous flowering in SJ longan; however, none used leaves as research material. As leaves are a key organ in sensing floral-induction signals, we compared gene-expression differences between mature leaves of CF (SJ) and OF (D. longan cv. 'Shixia' (SX) and D. longan cv. 'Chuliang' (CL)) longan by transcriptome sequencing. An average of 47,982,637, 43,833,340 and 54,441,291 clean reads were obtained for SJ, SX and CL respectively, and a total of 6745 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected. Following Metabolic pathways, Plant-pathogen interaction and Biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, most of the other genes were assigned to the KEGG classifications of MAPK signaling pathway- plant, Plant hormone signal transduction, Amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism and Starch and sucrose metabolism. WGCNA analysis clustered genes into 27 modules, among which bisque4 and darkorange2 module genes specifically were expressed at low and high levels in SJ, respectively. Different gene-expression patterns were detected between CF and OF longan in bisque4 and darkorange2 modules, especially the high levels of transcription factor (TF) expression and the large number of gibberellic acid (GA)-signaling-pathway-specific genes expressed at high levels in CF longan (SJ). Floral-induction-gene expression levels in CF longan, such as levels of GA-signaling-related and FT genes, were always high. In CF longan, after vegetative-growth accumulation, flowers could be directly induced, thereby eliminating the need for low-temperature induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serendipita indica is a very promising root-associated endophytic fungus that is widely used on various plants; however, whether it affects the growth and physiological activity of an oilseed crop (Camellia oleifera) under field conditions remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the effects of S. indica inoculation on root colonization rate, growth rate, photosynthetic parameters, mineral element concentrations and related gene expression, and sugar concentrations and expression of their transporter genes in four-year-old C. oleifera trees in the field. The results showed that the root colonization rate of C. oleifera increased from 3.37% to 9.42% following being inoculated with S. indica. Inoculation with S. indica significantly increased the plant height (46.81%), net photosynthetic rate (69.16%), nitrogen balance index (14.44%), chlorophyll index (21.08%), leaf K (7.4%), leaf Ca (13.52%), root P (17.75%), root K (12.80%), soil NH4+-N (17.78%), available K (26.66%), Olsen-P (184.30%), easily extractable glomalin-related soil protein (39.26%), and soil organic carbon (16.25%) concentrations compared to the uninoculated treatment. Inoculation with S. indica also significantly up-regulated the expression of CoHKT1;1 and CoCAX1;2 in the leaves and roots and CoPht1;1, CoPht1;2, and CoPht1;3 in the leaves. Plants inoculated with S. indica also presented significantly higher leaf glucose, fructose, and sucrose concentrations, accompanied by up-regulated expression of CoSWEET2a, CoSWEET7, CoSWEET9b, CoSWEET17a, and CoSWEET17b. These results suggest that S. indica has significant potential as a biostimulant for enhancing the growth and nutritional profile of C. oleifera, thereby contributing to sustainable oilseed production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary flowering is the phenomenon in which a tree blooms twice or more times a year. Along with the development of blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) fruits in spring, a large number of secondary flowers on the strong upright spring shoots were noticed in blueberries planted in the greenhouse. To reveal the cause and possible regulatory mechanism of the phenomenon, we clarified the phenological characteristics of flower bud differentiation and development on the spring shoots by combining phenological phenotype with anatomical observation. Furthermore, the changes in carbohydrates, trehalose-6-phosphate (Tre6P), and the relationship among the key enzyme regulatory genes for Tre6P metabolism and the key regulatory genes for flower formation during the differentiation process of apical buds and axillary buds were investigated. The results showed that the process of flower bud differentiation and flowering of apical and axillary buds was consistent, accompanied by a large amount of carbohydrate consumption. This process was positively correlated with the expression trends of VcTPS1/2, VcSnRK1, VcFT, VcLFY2, VcSPL43, VcAP1, and VcDAM in general, and negatively correlated with that of VcTPP. In addition, there is a certain difference in the differentiation progress of flower buds between the apical and axillary buds. Compared with axillary buds, apical buds had higher contents of sucrose, fructose, glucose, Tre6P, and higher expression levels of VcTPS2, VcFT, VcSPL43, and VcAP1. Moreover, VcTPS1 and VcTPS2 were more closely related to the physiological substances (sucrose and Tre6P) in axillary bud and apical bud differentiation, respectively. It was suggested that sucrose and trehalose-6-phosphate play a crucial role in promoting flower bud differentiation in strong upright spring shoots, and VcTPS1 and VcTPS2 might play a central role in these activities. Our study provided substantial sight for further study on the mechanism of multiple flowering of blueberries and laid a foundation for the regulation and utilization of the phenomenon of multiple flowering in a growing season of perennial woody plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Scientiarum Naturalium Universitatis Pekinensis is the property of Editorial Office of Acta Scientiarum Naturalium Universitatis Pekinensis and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Chestnuts become sweetened with better tastes for fried products after cold storage, but the possible mechanism is not clear. The dynamics of sugar components and related physiological responses, as well as the possible molecular mechanism in chestnuts during cold storage, were investigated. Sucrose accumulation and starch degradation contributed to taste improvement. Sucrose content reached the peak after two months of cold storage, along with the accumulation of reducing sugars of maltose, fructose and glucose to a much lesser extent. Meanwhile, alpha-amylase and beta-amylase maintained high levels, and the activities of acid invertase and sucrose synthase increased. Transcriptome data demonstrated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in the process of starch and sucrose metabolism pathway, revealing the conversion promotion of starch to sucrose. Furthermore, DEGs involved in multiple phytohormone biosynthesis and signal transduction, as well as the transcription regulators, indicated that sucrose accumulation might be interconnected with the dormancy release of chestnuts, with over 90% germinated after two months of cold storage. Altogether, the results indicated that cold storage improved the taste of chestnuts mainly due to sucrose accumulation induced by DEGs of starch and sucrose metabolism pathway in this period, and the sweetening process was interconnected with dormancy release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of pain management of 1 ml of 24% sucrose given orally compared to routine care given one minute before vaccination for reduction of pain. Methods: This double-blind randomized controlled trial included term neonates visiting Pediatric OPD for immunization. Neonates were randomly assigned into two groups (Group A- Sucrose, Group B- Swaddling). Commercially available sucrose solution (StayHappi solution 24%) was given in a dose of 1 ml to the neonates. Video recording of the neonate's facial expression was done during the procedure. Duration of cry, latency of onset of cry as well Modified Neonatal Facial Coding Score (MFCS) were the outcome variables. Results: The mean (SD) of birth weight and gestational age was 2729 (321.6) g and 38.24 (0.84) d, respectively. Analysis showed significant difference in total MFCS across the groups (P <0.001). Total MFCS was significantly lower in sucrose group [4.88 (1.07) vs. 7.17 (0.95)]. The duration of cry (in seconds) was also found to be significantly lower in sucrose group. Conclusions: Administration of 1 ml 24% sucrose one minute prior to immunization is efficacious in pain management during injectable immunization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chocolate-flavored milk contributes to excessive intake of added sugars among children and adolescents, which why it is a good candidate product for sucrose replacement. This study investigates how replacing sucrose partially or completely with different sweetener systems affects the sensory profile and consumer liking. Five chocolate-flavored milk treatments were formulated, varying in sucrose replacement level (partial: 58%; complete: 100%) and sweetener system (synthetic: acesulfame-K; natural: rebaudioside M-erythritol blend). Relative-to-Reference Scaling by a trained panel confirmed that no significant differences in the sensory profile when partial sucrose replacement was compared to sucrose, whereas the complete replacement increased bitter taste, pungent flavor, licorice flavor and mouth-drying. A total of 104 consumers evaluated the treatments for liking and indicated their temporal perceptions with temporal check-all-that-apply. Latent variable clustering performed on liking ratings revealed two clusters, which perceived temporal sensory characteristics differently depending on the sweetener system. Cluster 1 preferred the sucrose control over treatments with complete and partial replacement using a natural sweetener system, with complete replacement being perceived as having off-flavor. Cluster 2 preferred the sucrose control over partial and complete replacement using either of the sweetener replacements investigated, which were characterized as off-flavored and bitter. Understanding these consumer segments enables the food industry to develop effective low-energy formulations using synthetic and natural non-nutritive sweeteners, leading to reduced sugar consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumacaesia Roxb., a critically endangered herb in the Zingiberaceae family, can be conserved through microrhizomes, which are easily transported, germinate like seeds, and are independent of seasonal variations. The current investigation attempts to induce microrhizomes of this endangered herb for conservation purpose using high concentration of sucrose. To encourage the establishment of microrhizomes, six-month-old cultures of C.caesia were transferred to Murashige and Skoog supplemented with containing 8 mg L−1 benzyladenine, 8 mg L−1 kinetin, 100 mg L−1 citric acid, 200 mg L−1 adenine sulphate, and 2 mg L−1 indole-3-acetic acid (standard medium). For this, standard medium was examined with sucrose concentrations of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%. The standard medium with 9% sucrose showed the highest rate of microrhizome formation (now referred as microrhizome production medium, MPM). During acclimatization, the survival rate of microrhizomes exceeded 90%. The physiology behind the microrhizome formation was also evaluated using enzymatic and non-enzymatic tests on days 0, 30, and 60 after inoculation. Superoxide dismutase activity, an enzymatic defence molecule, and total soluble sugar and ascorbate content, a non-enzymatic defence molecule, both increased in the MPM microrhizomes relative to the control [shoot multiplication medium (standard medium with 3% sucrose) at day 0]. Further, protein, 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and hydrogen peroxide content also increased. The biochemical results proved that 9% sucrose in MPM induces osmotic stress which eventually led to the formation of C.caesia microrhizomes, an in vitro storage organ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) contains isoflavones, and in particular genistein, which have clinically proven roles. As a result, this bioactive compound is greatly valued in the pharmaceutical industry. Hence, this study was aimed to develop an adventitious root culture system for the production of soy isoflavones (genistein) using hypocotyl explants. In solid culture system, auxin (IAA, 0–57.0 µM; NAA, 0–53.7 µM; and IBA, 0–49.2 µM), media strength (¼x, ½x, ¾x, 1x, and 2x) and in the liquid culture system, IBA (0–49.2 µM), media strength (¼x, ½x, ¾x, 1x, and 2x), and sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) were optimized. After 30 days of culture, IBA at 39.3 µM demonstrated the maximum response in root parameters, with the 1x solid MS medium showing improved root parameters compared to other medium strengths. For liquid system culture optimization, full strength MS medium supplemented with 39.3 µM IBA showed the highest root biomass in liquid medium. Among sucrose concentrations, the highest accumulation of root biomass was observed at 3% (3.87 g flask − 1) followed by 4% (3.65 g flask − 1), however, 4% sucrose proved favorable for genistein synthesis (9.34 mg g− 1 DW) compared to 3% (6.29 mg g− 1 DW). Additionally, the maximum levels of phenolic and flavonoid content were observed at 4% sucrose, correlating with higher antioxidant activities in DPPH and FRAP assays. Gene expression analysis of isoflavone biosynthetic genes revealed higher levels of expression at 4% sucrose compared to the control. These results underscore the crucial role of determining the optimum culture conditions and the effect of sucrose in enhancing root biomass and genistein content in soybean adventitious root cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugar content is a critical indicator of fruit quality and is mainly controlled by sugar transporters. Sugars will eventually be exported transporters (SWEET) proteins play an indispensable role in sugar allocation between and within plant organs. Sucrose is the major sugar in many fruits and the predominant form of sugar translocated in peach (Prunus persica). However, the role of the multiple peach SWEET genes in sucrose allocation to fruit remains elusive. In this study, a total of 19 SWEET candidates have been identified in the peach genome, and two Clade III SWEET genes, PpSWEET9a and PpSWEET14, are found to be highly expressed in mature source leaves and branches. Complementation assays, transgene manipulations, and protein interaction studies reveal that PpSWEET9a and PpSWEET14 serve as sucrose efflux proteins and form a heterooligomer that synergistically directs sucrose allocation from source leaves to fruits. Our findings provide insights into the effect of SWEETs on sugar accumulation in peach fruit and identify genetic candidates for improving fruit quality. PpSWEET9a and PpSWEET14 function as sucrose efflux proteins in peach by forming a heterooligomer that synergistically facilitates the allocation of sucrose from source leaves to fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to investigate the cryoprotective effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) replacing sucrose on surimi during frozen storage. Substitution or partial substitution of 0.1% EGCG for sucrose (1.5%) was added to surimi, and the surimi samples without and with commercial cryoprotectants (4% sucrose and 4% sorbitol) were used as the control group. RESULTS: The results obtained suggest that, with the increase in frozen storage time, the structural performance of surimi protein gradually weakened (e.g. the decrease in the surface hydrophobicity, the increase in the total sulfhydryl and solubility, and the protein myosin heavy chain bands became shallow) and surimi gel quality gradually deteriorated (e.g. the decrease in water‐holding capacity, gel strength and all texture profile attributes). However, compared with the other three group surimi samples during the frozen period, the surimi proteins with partial replacement of sucrose by EGCG had a higher total sulfhydryl group content and solubility of proteins, as well as lower surface hydrophobicity of protein, suggesting that the addition of EGCG as a partial substitute for sucrose can enhance the antifreeze ability of surimi. Meanwhile, the surimi gel with the partial replacement of sucrose by EGCG had a higher water retention capacity, gel strength and texture attributes (e.g. hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience), indicating that the addition of EGCG as a partial substitute for sucrose can inhibit the deterioration of surimi gel quality. CONCLUSION: Overall, EGCG partially replacing sucrose can play an alternative cryoprotectant with a lower sweetness to prevent the quality of surimi from deteriorating. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectoine, a biologically significant compound, was successfully produced by a strain of bacteria capable of utilizing sucrose. In a ground-breaking approach, we harnessed the potential of sugar beet molasses, a by-product rich in sucrose, amino acid, and vitamins, as a growth medium for this purpose. Through meticulous investigation, we identified the ideal conditions for maximizing ectoine synthesis. This remarkable milestone was reached by introducing only 1 g of (NH₄)₂SO₄ and 5 mL of molasses per liter, maintaining a pH level of 8.0, upholding a 7.5% NaCl concentration, employing agitation at 120 rpm, and sustaining a temperature of 30 °C. This study marks a pioneering endeavour as it represents the first instance where molasses has been effectively employed to produce ectoine through the cultivation of Nesterenkonia sp. We showcased the production of 75.56 g of the valuable compound ectoine utilizing 1 L of waste molasses with this specific bacterial strain. These findings hold tremendous promise, not only in terms of resource utilization but also for the potential applications of ectoine in various biological contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Rice tillering is one of the most important agronomical traits largely determining grain yield. Photosynthesis and nitrogen availability are two important factors affecting rice tiller bud elongation; however, underlying mechanism and their cross‐talk is poorly understood.Here, we used map‐based cloning, transcriptome profiling, phenotypic analysis, and molecular genetics to understand the roles of the Decreased Tiller Number 1 (DTN1) gene that encodes the fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphate aldolase and involves in photosynthesis required for light‐induced axillary bud elongation in rice.Deficiency of DTN1 results in the reduced photosynthetic rate and decreased contents of sucrose and other sugars in both leaves and axillary buds, and the reduced tiller number in dtn1 mutant could be partially rescued by exogenous sucrose treatment. Furthermore, we found that the expression of nitrogen‐mediated tiller growth response 5 (NGR5) was remarkably decreased in shoot base of dtn1‐2, which can be activated by sucrose treatment. Overexpression of NGR5 in the dtn1‐2 could partially rescue the reduced tiller number, and the tiller number of dtn1‐2 was insensitive to nitrogen supply.This work demonstrated that the sugar level regulated by photosynthesis and DTN1 could positively regulate NGR5 expression, which coordinates the cross‐talk between carbon and nitrate to control tiller bud outgrowth in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn recent years, the worldwide increase in lifestyle diseases and metabolic disorders has been ascribed to the excessive consumption of sucrose and added sugars. For this reason, many approaches have been developed in order to replace sucrose in food and beverage formulations with alternative sweetening compounds. The raising awareness concerning the synthetic sweeteners due to their negative impact on health, triggered the need to search for alternative substances. Natural sweeteners may be classified in: (i) non-nutritive (e.g., neohesperidine dihydrochalcone, thaumatin, glycyrrhizin mogroside and stevia) and (ii) bulk sweeteners, including both polyols (e.g., maltitol, mannitol, erythritol) and rare sugars (e.g., tagatose and allulose). In this review we discuss the most popular natural sweeteners and their application in the main food sectors (e.g., bakery, dairy, confectionary and beverage), providing a full understanding of their impact on the textural and sensory properties in comparison to sucrose. Furthermore, we analyze the use of natural sweeteners in blends, which in addition to enabling an effective replacement of sugar, in order to complement the merits and limits of individual compounds. Finally, microencapsulation technology is presented as an alternative strategy to solving some issues such as aftertaste, bitterness, unpleasant flavors, but also to enhance their stability and ease of use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of obesity and related consequences, including insulin resistance and Alzheimer's-like neuropathology, has increased dramatically. Contributing to this prevalence is the shift in lifestyle preference away from wholesome foods and exercise to the Western-style diet and sedentarism. Despite advances in drug development, a healthy diet and regular exercise remain the most effective approaches to mitigating the unwanted sequelae of diet-induced obesity on brain health. In this study, we used the high-fat high-sugar (HFHS) mouse model of neurodegeneration to examine the effects of exercise training (HFHS+Ex), genistein treatment (HFHS+Gen), and combination treatment (HFHS+Ex+Gen) on proteins relating to neurodegeneration in the brain of male mice. After a period of 12 weeks, as expected, HFHS feeding increased body weight, adipose tissue weight, and systemic plasma inflammation (TNF-α) compared to lean mice fed a standard diet. HFHS feeding also increased protein expression of brain markers of insulin resistance (pGSK-3β, p-IR), apoptosis (caspase 3), early neurofibrillary tangles (CP13), and amyloid-beta precursor (CT20). Compared to HFHS mice, Ex decreased body weight, plasma TNF-α, and expression of pGSK-3β, caspase 3, CP13, amyloid-β precursor (22c11), and ADAM10. Treatment with Gen was equally protective on these markers and decreased the expression of p-IR. Combination treatment with Ex and Gen afforded the greatest overall benefits, and this group exhibited the greatest reduction in body and adipose tissue weight and all brain markers, except for 22c11 and ADAM10, which were decreased compared to mice fed an HFHS diet. In addition, levels of 4G8, which detects protein levels of amyloid-β, were decreased with combination treatment. Our results indicate that exercise training, genistein supplementation, or combination treatment provide varying degrees of neuroprotection from HFHS feeding-induced Alzheimer's pathology. Future perspectives could include evaluating moderate exercise regimens in combination with dietary supplementation with genistein in humans to determine whether the same benefits translate clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The large-scale biocatalytic application of oxidoreductases requires systems for a cost-effective and efficient regeneration of redox cofactors. These represent the major bottleneck for industrial bioproduction and an important cost factor. In this work, co-expression of the genes of invertase and a Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase from Burkholderia xenovorans to E. coli W ΔcscR and E. coli BL21 (DE3) enabled efficient biotransformation of cyclohexanone to the polymer precursor, ε-caprolactone using sucrose as electron source for regeneration of redox cofactors, at rates comparable to glucose. E. coli W ΔcscR has a native csc regulon enabling sucrose utilization and is deregulated via deletion of the repressor gene (cscR), thus enabling sucrose uptake even at concentrations below 6 mM (2 g L−1). On the other hand, E. coli BL21 (DE3), which is widely used as an expression host does not contain a csc regulon. Results: Herein, we show a proof of concept where the co-expression of invertase for both E. coli hosts was sufficient for efficient sucrose utilization to sustain cofactor regeneration in the Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of cyclohexanone. Using E. coli W ΔcscR, a specific activity of 37 U gDCW−1 was obtained, demonstrating the suitability of the strain for recombinant gene co-expression and subsequent whole-cell biotransformation. In addition, the same co-expression cassette was transferred and investigated with E. coli BL21 (DE3), which showed a specific activity of 17 U gDCW− 1. Finally, biotransformation using photosynthetically-derived sucrose from Synechocystis S02 with E. coli W ΔcscR expressing BVMO showed complete conversion of cyclohexanone after 3 h, especially with the strain expressing the invertase gene in the periplasm. Conclusions: Results show that sucrose can be an alternative electron source to drive whole-cell biotransformations in recombinant E. coli strains opening novel strategies for sustainable chemical production. Highlights: Heterologous co-expression of an invertase gene improved the capacity of E. coli to utilize sucrose as an electron donor for whole-cell biotransformations. The invertase improved the efficiency of the Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of cyclohexanone catalyzed by a Baeyer–Villiger Monooxygenase both in the laboratory strain, E. coli BL21 (DE3) and in E. coli W ΔcscR, an E. coli strain bearing a deregulated sucrose operon. Periplasmic production of invertase for both hosts was prominent at a sucrose concentration of 10 mM. E. coli strains with invertase exported to the periplasm showed full conversion of 5 mM cyclohexanone within less than three hours using photosynthetically generated sucrose from Synechocystis S02. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the lower limit of porosity that can be achieved in freeze‐cast sintered lithium titanate (LTO) materials while maintaining the characteristic pore directionality. LTO materials were fabricated with solid loading varying in the range of 30–37 vol.%. Sucrose and cationic dispersant were used to vary viscosity and total solute concentration in the aqueous LTO suspensions. Two series of suspension compositions were selected for freeze‐casting. In one series, aqueous suspensions were prepared by mixing deionized (DI) water, sucrose, and LTO powder, while in the other series, aqueous suspensions were prepared by mixing DI water, sucrose, cationic dispersant (1‐hexadecyl)trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and LTO powder. With increasing solid loading from 30 to 37 vol.%, porosity in the sintered materials decreased from about 50 to 36 vol.%. LTO materials fabricated from suspensions containing sucrose exhibited well‐developed characteristic freeze‐cast microstructure. Unexpectedly, LTO materials fabricated from suspensions containing sucrose and dispersant exhibited cellular pore morphology irrespective of the solid loading. Sample height had an impact on microstructure evolution in the transition zone and zone length. With the increasing solid loading from 30 to 37 vol.%, the compressive strength of sintered LTO materials having the characteristic freeze‐cast microstructure increased from about 110 to 240 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sucrose intake is a potential risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Individual characteristics such as sex, play arole in the biological variation of the disease, potentially related to genetic regulation. This research evaluated sex differences in biochemical, histopathological, and gene expression responses associated with NAFLD in C57bl/6N mice on a high sucrose diet. Female and male mice were assigned to control or high sucrose diets (50% sucrose solution) for 20 weeks. After sacrifice, blood and hepatic tissue were collected for analysis. Female mice revealed moderate-to-high NAFLD, whereas male mice showed mild-to-moderate NAFLD. Sex-specific variations were observed in Cd36 gene expression, an upregulation in females compared with the male group, and Adipor1 gene expression showed significant downregulation in the female group in response to high sucrose diet compared with the control group. These findings highlight the importance of considering gender disparities in the treatment and management of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane is a crucial crop for sugar and bioenergy production. Saccharose content and total weight are the two main key commercial traits that compose sugarcane's yield. These traits are under complex genetic control and their response patterns are influenced by the genotype-by-environment (G×E) interaction. An efficient breeding of sugarcane demands an accurate assessment of the genotype stability through multi-environment trials (METs), where genotypes are tested/evaluated across different environments. However, phenotyping all genotype-in-environment combinations is often impractical due to cost and limited availability of propagation-materials. This study introduces the sparse testing designs as a viable alternative, leveraging genomic information to predict unobserved combinations through genomic prediction models. This approach was applied to a dataset comprising 186 genotypes across six environments (6×186=1,116 phenotypes). Our study employed three predictive models, including environment, genotype, and genomic markers as main effects, as well as the G×E to predict saccharose accumulation (SA) and tons of cane per hectare (TCH). Calibration sets sizes varying between 72 (6.5%) to 186 (16.7%) of the total number of phenotypes were composed to predict the remaining 930 (83.3%). Additionally, we explored the optimal number of common genotypes across environments for G×E pattern prediction. Results demonstrate that maximum accuracy for SA (ρ=0:611) and for TCH (ρ=0:341) was achieved using in training sets few (3) to no common (0) genotype across environments maximizing the number of different genotypes that were tested only once. Significantly, we show that reducing phenotypic records for model calibration has minimal impact on predictive ability, with sets of 12 non-overlapped genotypes per environment (72=12×6) being the most convenient costbenefit combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to engineer and optimise a dysbiotic biofilm model to develop in vitro root caries for investigating microbial modulation strategies. The model involved growing complex biofilms from a saliva inoculum collected from four volunteers using two strategies. In the first strategy ("pre-treatment strategy"), bovine root slabs were used, and two natural compounds were incorporated at time 0 of the 10-day biofilm experiment, which included sucrose cycles mimicking the cariogenic environment. In the second strategy ("post-treatment strategy"), mature biofilms were grown in a modified Calgary biofilm device coated with collagen and hydroxyapatite for 7 days and then were exposed to the same natural compounds. The metatranscriptome of each biofilm was then determined and analysed. Collagenase activity was examined, and the biofilms and dentine were imaged using confocal and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mineral loss and lesion formation were confirmed through micro-computed tomography (μ-CT). Results: The pH confirmed the cariogenic condition. In the metatranscriptome, we achieved a biofilm compositional complexity, showing a great diversity of the metabolically active microbiome in both pre- and post-treatment strategies, including reads mapped to microorganisms other than bacteria, such as archaea and viruses. Carbohydrate esterases had increased expression in the post-treated biofilms and in samples without sugar cycles, while glucosyltransferases were highly expressed in the presence of sucrose cycles. Enrichment for functions related to nitrogen compound metabolism and organic cyclic component metabolism in groups without sucrose compared to the sucrose-treated group. Pre-treatment of the roots with cranberry reduced microbial viability and gelatinase (but not collagenase) activity (p < 0.05). SEM images showed the complexity of biofilms was maintained, with a thick extracellular polysaccharides layer. Conclusions: This root caries model was optimized to produce complex cariogenic biofilms and root caries-like lesions, and could be used to test microbial modulation in vitro. Pre-treatments before biofilm development and cariogenic challenges were more effective than post-treatments. The clinical significance lies in the potential to apply the findings to develop varnish products for post-professional tooth prophylaxis, aiming at implementing a strategy for dysbiosis reversal in translational research. 2cRgxuoMbmgt6TZPkgExXQ Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freeze drying has been well applied in the preparation of high-efficiency viability probiotic powders. However, the process is generally accompanied by probiotic viability deficiency, which poses a problem for further application. In this study, various kinds of cryoprotectant formulations (skim milk, maltodextrin, and sucrose) were tested to enhance the survival of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NBC99 after freezing and freeze-drying. An I-optimal experimental design-oriented optimization model was presented to optimize the cryoprotective medium, and the highest cell survival was observed with 25% skim milk, 8.71% maltodextrin, and 1.13% sucrose cryoprotectant as the optimum condition. L. plantarum NBC99 has been a good potential strain for the manufacture of an industrial probiotic, and this research has aimed to investigate the long-term protective effects of optimum cryoprotectant formulations on the viability of bacteria. The results showed the potential value of freeze-dried probiotic L. plantarum NBC99 culture for commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The 'assimilates inhibition hypothesis' posits that accumulation of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) in leaves reduces leaf net photosynthetic rate, thus internally regulating photosynthesis. Experimental work provides equivocal support mostly under controlled conditions without identifying a particular NSC as involved in the regulation.We combined 3‐yr in situ leaf gas exchange observations (natural dynamics) in the upper crown of mature Betula pendula simultaneously with measurements of concentrations of sucrose, hexoses (glucose and fructose), and starch, and similar measurements during several one‐day shoot girdling (perturbation dynamics). Leaf water potential and water and nitrogen content were measured to account for their possible contribution to photosynthesis regulation.Leaf photosynthetic capacity (A/Ci) was temporally negatively correlated with NSC accumulation under both natural and perturbation states. For developed leaves, leaf hexose concentration explained A/Ci variation better than environmental variables (temperature history and daylength); the opposite was observed for developing leaves.The weaker correlations between NSCs and A/Ci in developing leaves may reflect their strong internal sink strength for carbohydrates. By contrast, the strong decline in photosynthetic capacity with NSCs accumulation in mature leaves, observed most clearly with hexose, and even more tightly with its constituents, provides support for the role of assimilates in regulating photosynthesis under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 on various parameters of cucumber plants under salt stress, the salt-sensitive cucumber variety "Jinyou No. 4" was used as the test material, and coconut bran was used to simulate salt stress by applying NaCl solution. The results indicated that salt stress significantly reduced the morphological structure, relative growth rate, root morphology, and photosynthetic parameters of the cucumber plants. Leaf starch, soluble sugar, and sucrose contents significantly increased, whereas their levels in roots decreased. Cell membrane damage leads to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, with notable increases in the activities of major antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and POD. Nitrogen metabolism was disrupted, as evidenced by a significant decrease in nitrate nitrogen content and an increase in ammonium nitrogen content, as well as a significant reduction in the activity of NR enzymes involved in nitrogen metabolism. The enzyme activity in the cucumber rhizosphere soil decreased. However, Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 significantly enhanced the growth of cucumber seedlings under salt stress, improved photosynthetic efficiency, and facilitated sugar transformation and transport via glucose metabolism. Additionally, Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 reduced the reactive oxygen content and increased antioxidant enzyme activity. It also increased the activity of substrate enzymes and decreased the diversity of rhizosphere soil microorganisms but also increased the abundance of Asticcacaulis, Acinetobacter, Brevundimonas, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacter. These findings demonstrate that Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 is a promising bioinoculant for alleviating salt stress in cucumber production and improving soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterlogging stress (WS) hinders kernel development and directly reduces peanut yield; however, the mechanism of kernel filling in response to WS remains unknown. The waterlogging‐sensitive variety Huayu 39 was subjected to WS for 3 days at 7 days after the gynophores touched the ground (DAG). We found that WS affected kernel filling at 14, 21, and 28 DAG. WS decreased the average filling rate and kernel dry weight, while transcriptome sequencing and widely targeted metabolomic analysis revealed that WS inhibited the gene expression in starch and sucrose metabolism, which reduced sucrose input and transformation ability. Additionally, genes related to ethylene and melatonin synthesis and the accumulation of tryptophan and methionine were upregulated in response to WS. WS upregulated the expression of the gene encoding tryptophan decarboxylase (AhTDC), and overexpression of AhTDC in Arabidopsis significantly reduced the seed length, width, and weight. Therefore, WS reduced the kernel‐filling rate, leading to a reduction in the 100‐kernel weight. This survey informs the development of measures that alleviate the negative impact of WS on peanut yield and quality and provides a basis for exploring high‐yield and high‐quality cultivation, molecular‐assisted breeding, and waterlogging prevention in peanut farming. Summary statement: Waterlogging stress upregulated the expression of the gene encoding tryptophan decarboxylase (AhTDC), inhibited the sucrose input and transformation ability in kernel, which reduced the 100‐kernel weight. These results reveal the mechanism of the reduction of peanut kernel weight under WS, provide a basis for molecular‐assisted breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global contraction of biodiversity pushed most members of Felidae into threatened or endangered list except the domestic cat (Felis catus) thence preferred as the best model for conservation studies. One of the emerging conservation strategies is vitrification of ovarian tissue which is field-friendly but not yet standardized. Thus, our main goal was to establish a suitable vitrification protocol for feline ovarian tissue in field condition. Feline ovarian tissue fragments were punched with biopsy punch (1.5 mm diameter) and divided into 4 groups. Group 1 was fresh control (Fr), while the other three were exposed to 3 vitrification protocols (VIT_CT, VIT_RT1 and VIT_RT2). VIT_CT involved two step equilibrations in solutions containing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG) for 10 min each at 4 °C. VIT_RT1 involved three step equilibration in solutions containing DMSO, EG, polyvinylpyrrolidone and sucrose for 14 min in total at room temperature, while in VIT_RT2 all conditions remained the same as in VIT_RT1 except equilibration timing which was reduced by half. After vitrification and warming, fragments were morphologically evaluated and then cultured for six days. Subsequently, follicular morphology, cellular proliferation (expression of Ki-67, MCM-7) and apoptosis (expression of caspase-3) were evaluated, and data obtained were analysed using generalised linear mixed model and chi square tests. Proportions of intact follicles were higher in Fr (P = 0.0001) and VIT_RT2 (P = 0.0383) in comparison to the other protocols both post warming and after the six-day culture. Generally, most follicles remained at primordial state which was confirmed by the low expression of Ki-67, MCM-7 markers. In conclusion, VIT_RT2 protocol, which has lower equilibration time at room temperature has proven superior thus recommended for vitrification of feline ovarian tissue. • Domestic cat ovarian tissue vitrification protocol as a model for endangered felids. • Manifold cryoprotectants in vitrification media produce better post-warm integrity. • Lower equilibration time at room temperature ensures better tissue morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]