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Copyright of Veterinarska Stanica is the property of Croatian Veterinary Institute 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 Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department 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.)

Introduction: The European chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) is a historically and ecologically important tree in the Iberian Peninsula. The species now faces challenges related to the abandonment of traditional management practices, and climate change, although the potential impact of the later on chestnut potential range remains unexplored. Methods: We assessed variations in chestnut potential range under different climate change scenarios in the Iberian Peninsula, by studying the current and projected habitat suitability of the species across distinct biogeographical regions (Atlantic and Mediterranean) and Regions of Provenance (RoPs). Environmental static (topography and soil parameters) and dynamic (bioclimatic variables) factors were used to build Species Distribution Models (SDMs). Future habitat suitability projections were based on an ensemble of five global circulation models (GCMs) for two climate change scenarios included in CMIP6. The SDMs were constructed using the Random Forest algorithm. Results and Discussion: Our model achieved an accuracy of 86.82%, with high sensitivity (89.91%) and specificity (83.73%). Favourable chestnut habitats were linked to wetter regions, and included factors associated with annual and seasonal precipitations, coldest quarter temperature, soil pH and annual mean temperature. Optimal conditions for chestnut trees include precipitation exceeding 800 mm/year and mean temperature ranging from 10-15°C. Future projections suggest a potential habitat loss for chestnut and slight changes in net primary productivity. The Regions of Provenance exhibit varying levels of resilience, with the Mediterranean regions being particularly vulnerable. We highlight the need to develop mitigation strategies to facilitate chestnut resilience in the face of threats related to climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to mimic the emissive mechanism of green fluorescent protein (GFP) by using chemical reagents, we systematically explored a micelle-triggered fluorescent system formed by non-conjugated simple amine molecules and cyclopentanol (CPA). Compared with its amphiphilic ring-type and linear homologues, we found that the fluorescent properties of the prepared systems were highly sensitive to the surrounding environment. The present work deepens our understanding of abnormal fluorescence mechanisms and provides a novel approach to designing highly efficient luminescent systems via green, facile and low-cost procedures, fundamentally distinct from traditional methods. Simultaneously, fluorescent micelles exhibit specific quenching of Fe3+ ions, which can be combined with chestnut lignin to prepare Fe3+ detection and adsorption materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive pest Cameraria ohridella annually colonizes trees of the genus Aesculus across Europe, causing dark brown damage called mines that gradually cover the leaf surface. This study aimed to compare the VOC profiles emitted by chestnut tree leaves with varying susceptibility to the pest and assess whether these profiles change due to larval feeding. The research involved a susceptible tree (Ae. turbinata) and resistant trees (Ae. glabra and Ae. parviflora). Over three growing seasons (2014, 2015, 2016), leaf damage and the profile of VOCs were analyzed biweekly from May to September. Leaf damage increased progressively in Ae. turbinata during all seasons. The VOC profiles differed both qualitatively and quantitatively among the trees and across years. More VOCs were identified in 2014 and 2015 than in 2016. The susceptible Ae. turbinata exhibited the highest VOC diversity in 2014, aligning with severe leaf damage—profiles of VOCs in Ae. turbinata were different from resistant trees. Statistical analysis revealed that in 2014 and 2015, differences in the profile of VOCs between susceptible and resistant trees were apparent near pest-feeding dates. In 2016, VOCs significantly distinguished the profile of susceptible trees that were present before the appearance of the first generation of the pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wine spirits are typically aged in wooden barrels. Recently, alternative ageing technologies, such as those using wood fragments in wine spirits stored in stainless steel tanks, have been investigated. However, a significant lack of information regarding the potential evolution of these beverages after bottling still remains. This study assessed the 12-month evolution of aroma in bottled wine spirits aged with chestnut wood using different technologies, including fragment application with several micro-oxygenation strategies and barrels (traditional). Chemical analysis using GC-FID and GC–MS methods, along with sensory analysis, was conducted on all sampled aged wine spirits. Significant changes in volatile compounds were detected over time, including volatile phenols, acids, and esters. Multivariate data analysis distinguished traditional and alternative aged samples, with slight sample discrimination based on bottle storage. Regarding the sensory results, a significant effect of the time in bottle in several sensory attributes was found, while the ageing technologies mainly affected the gustatory attributes. The tasters were also asked to rate the overall quality of the samples, which seems to be favoured by the time in the bottle. This initial assessment of the impact of 1 year of glass bottle storage on the volatile and sensory composition of aged wine spirits highlights that this stage must be considered as an additional technological factor in their production process. However, the differences induced by the wood ageing technologies applied remained evident after 1 year of glass bottle storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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 Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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.)

Background/Objectives: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of the gut-brain axis for which the gastroenterologist is most often consulted. Gastrointestinal symptoms and decreased quality of life lead to a considerable burden of disease. The exact causes of IBS are not well understood, and no standard therapy has been established. The primary outcome of the study focused on the improvements of the IBS symptoms assessed through the validated questionnaire IBS-Severity Scoring System (IBS-SSS). Similarly, secondary outcomes geared towards the improvement of the quality of life (IBS-Quality of Life (IBS-QoL) and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI)) and specific IBS symptoms (bloating, abdominal distension, feeling of heaviness, abdominal pain, and flatulence), were assessed through self-administered questionnaires. Intestinal habits (consistency and frequency of depositions) through subject stratification into diarrhoea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C), mixed type (IBS-M), as well as the treatment tolerability were also evaluated. Methods: A randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial was conducted on 156 enrolled IBS patients (79 female and 77 male), aged 18–70 years, randomised (1:1 allocation ratio) to receive either two capsules per day of the food supplement (containing 480 mg of a complex of tannin extracts) or a placebo for 56 days. Linear random intercept mixed models (LMM) were used to analyse all experimental variables Results: Supplementation resulted in a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the primary outcome IBSS score, with respect to the placebo group, changing the IBS condition going from mild (242.3 ± 89.8) to moderate (148.1 ± 60.6). Similarly, all indicators concerning quality of life, and specific intestinal symptoms resulted in a significant improvement (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the tannin-based treatment showed the ability to modulate the response to different symptomatology such as diarrhoea and constipation, without side effects being reported. Conclusions: The use of a supplement based on chestnut and quebracho tannins presents great application potential in the management of IBS-related disorders, with the peculiarity of resolving opposite symptoms, such as diarrhoea and constipation, indiscriminately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of agriculture is seriously threatened by climate change. In Europe, chestnut ecosystems, which are growing mainly in Mediterranean climate, are facing during summertime increasing of heat and drought stresses. These induce fragilities on trees, leading to a reduction in productivity and predisposing them to pest and disease attacks. The plasticity of chestnut species under contrasting climate is known. Understanding the specific adaptation of cultivars to different climate features is now important to anticipating climate changes. Caucasian Region is considered the origin center of chestnut (Castanea sativa), which is characterized by climatic transition from the Mediterranean to the Euro-Siberian area. Mostly, areas of chestnut are concentrated in the countries around the Mediterranean Basin, thriving in regions with humid and Pré-Atlantic bioclimates. In Portugal, more than 95% of the chestnut area is located in the Center and North side of Portugal. This is an anisohydry species, characterized by good hydroplasticity: 90% reduction in A occurs when Ψwstem drops to −1.25 MPa, and a 50% reduction in A occurs at values of −1.7 MPa. The highest fatty acid contents in chestnut chloroplasts are a-linolenic acid (18:3), ranging between 40 and 50% of the total amount and being the unsaturated/saturated 2.27 for Longal. New strategies are being investigated in order to increase tolerance against those abiotic factors in chestnut species. They include the use of innovative irrigation techniques, which can increase production 22–37%. Fertilization with silicone (Si) has been investigated to promote the tolerance of plants against heat and drought stresses. Breeding programs, mostly (in Europe) against ink disease, have been performed since the middle of the XX century to create new genotypes (such the Portuguese ColUTAD®). ClimCast, a network of orchards, was created in Portugal with the aim of responding to the new challenges facing orchards in the context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is potentially a functional ingredient in animal nutrition that offers health benefits such as detoxification, while also promoting environmental sustainability through carbon sequestration, emission reduction, and its circular production. However, the heterogeneity of commercially available biochar products requires a detailed assessment of their functional properties for applications in animal feed. This study evaluates chestnut biochar from morphological, chemical, and metabolomic perspectives and assesses its functional properties. Metabolomic analysis of a water extract using QTOF HPLC-MS/MS confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds, such as hydroxybenzoic and succinic acids, highlighting its potential as a functional feed ingredient. The chestnut biochar inhibited the growth of the pathogenic E. coli strains F18+ and F4+, with maximum inhibition rates of 15.8% and 28.6%, respectively, after three hours of incubation. The downregulation of genes associated with quorum sensing (MotA, FliA, FtsE, and HflX, involved in biofilm formation and cellular division) suggests that biochar interferes with several aspects of the pathogenic process. Importantly, biochar was not found to adversely affect beneficial probiotic bacteria, such as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Limosilactobacillus reuteri. These findings support the potential of chestnut biochar as a versatile ingredient for sustainable animal nutrition, thus promoting animal welfare while offering environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green chemistry principles are pivotal in driving sustainable and innovative solutions to global health challenges. This study explores a hydroalcoholic extract from Castanea sativa (chestnut) burrs, an underutilized natural resource, as a potent source of antimicrobial compounds against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The extract demonstrated significant bactericidal activity, synergizing effectively with clarithromycin and showing additive effects with metronidazole. Remarkably, combining the extract with clarithromycin and sub-inhibitory concentrations of pantoprazole reduced clarithromycin's Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) to just 1.56% of its original value. Mechanistic studies suggest that the extract's polyphenolic compounds compromise bacterial membrane integrity, enhancing antibiotic uptake, while pantoprazole disrupts bacterial ATPase activity. This research highlights the critical role of natural product extraction within the framework of green chemistry, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic antimicrobials. By harnessing bioactive compounds from plant sources, this approach addresses the pressing issue of antibiotic resistance while promoting the responsible use of natural resources. The findings underscore the transformative potential of green chemistry in developing effective, eco-conscious antimicrobial therapies that align with global sustainability goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop an appropriate method for evaluating the quality of chestnut resources. The 21 quality indicators of 25 chestnut varieties were detected and analyzed. The key indicators of affecting the quality of chestnut were selected through principal component analysis (PCA) coupled with correlation analysis and descriptive statistical analysis. The weights of these key indicators were calculated based on the entropy weight method to construct the gray correlation evaluation model. Our findings revealed notable differences (P<0.05) in various quality indicators among the different chestnut varieties and observed significant correlations among several of these indicators. The key indicators identified by PCA included moisture, the ratio of amylose to amylopectin (AA), total flavonoids, good fruiting rate, fruit shape index, hardness, soluble sugar, and reducing sugar. The weights of these key indicators obtained by entropy weighting methods were 14.08%, 14.64%, 15.64%, 7.74%, 9.41%, 9.11%, 18.90%, and 10.48%, respectively. The gray correlation analysis indicated that the overall qualities of the varieties Danli No.1, Dandong 9113, and qX-005 ranked among the top three. The 25 chestnut varieties were categorized into four groups by cluster analysis. The first group was ideal for developing functional beverages, the second was suited for kernel processing into canned food, preserved fruit, or chestnut powder for baked goods. The third group served as a high-quality food ingredient and the fourth group was best for frying and as a direct-sale nut. This study provides valuable insights for selecting superior resources and breeding high-quality chestnut varieties, while also laying a theoretical foundation for the comprehensive utilization of each type of chestnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qualitative and quantitative differences in the chemical composition between bee pollen originated from Castanea sativa (Türkiye and Slovenia), Salix spp. (Türkiye and Slovenia), and Quercus spp. (Türkiye) and androecia of Castanea sativa, Salix alba, and Quercus pubescens (apetalous trees) were evaluated for the first time by new high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) methods using marker compounds. N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was isolated, and its structure was elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). It was the main and the marker compound common to bee pollen (≈3–41 mg/g) and androecia (≈3–6 mg/g) samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the identification of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine in bee pollen originated from Salix spp. and androecia of C. sativa, S. alba, and Q. pubescens. The botanical origins of bee pollen were determined via phytochemical profiling using HPTLC-image analyses showing that bee pollen from the same botanical source had almost identical profiles regardless of collection location, geographical differences, and the bee race. In vitro tests and HPTLC-effect-directed analyses (EDAs) were performed to assess antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activities of bee pollen, androecia, and N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine. HPTLC-EDA combined with image analyses was used for comparing the activities of bee pollen, androecia, N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine, and also other marker compounds (quercetin, myricitrin, hyperoside, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, and rutin). The remarkable bioactivity of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was for the first time evaluated by HPTLC-EDA and in vitro tests. This is the first study performing HPTLC-XO inhibitory activity analyses on the HPTLC NH2 F254S plates. Further bioactivity studies on botanically and chemically well-characterized bee pollen samples are needed to aid in the use of bee pollen-containing supplements in the prevention and treatment of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: New programs and tools are needed in pig production as societal pressure to reduce antibiotic use leads to increasingly restrictive regulations. Neonatal diarrhea among newborn piglets is one of the key challenges in reducing antibiotic consumption. In this 4-week farm trial, we compared the use of a complementary feed containing a tannin extract derived from the wood of sweet chestnut with the standard antibiotic treatment used on the farm. All 18 litters in the study required treatment due to a high incidence of diarrhea among the piglets. The piglets in the nine litters of the control group received an oral antibiotic treatment. In contrast, the nine litters in the test group were initially treated with the complementary feed containing hydrolyzable tannins. If diarrhea persisted after three days, piglets were treated with antibiotics. The results showed that antibiotic consumption for diarrhea in the test group was reduced by 84% compared to the control group. Mortality rates were identical in both groups, with six piglets dying in each group. We conclude that the complementary feed containing a tannin extract has the potential to significantly reduce antibiotic use for neonatal diarrhea in newborn piglets while maintaining similar health outcomes. The objective of this farm trial was to investigate if the consumption of antibiotics could be reduced when piglets showing early signs of neonatal diarrhea were treated with an oral dose of tannin extract derived from sweet chestnut wood. The farm had a very high incidence of neonatal diarrhea among gilt litters. Gilts were randomized into test or control groups in a 1:1 ratio to compare the consumption of antibiotics used for piglets and piglet mortality during the four-week trial period. Control litters were treated with the oral antibiotic paromomycin, while test litters were treated with the complementary feed O-Nella-Protect. The farm trial included 18 gilt litters comprising 254 piglets. In the control group, 100% of the piglets received antibiotic treatment. In the test group, consumption of antibiotics used against diarrhea was reduced by 84% (p = 0.001) and consumption of antibiotics used for other illnesses was reduced by 45% (p = 0.045). In both test and control groups, six piglets died. Microbiological analysis identified both potential bacterial and viral pathogens. In conclusion, the farm trial indicates that even under the challenge of potentially serious bacterial and viral pathogens, a complimentary feed containing a tannin extract can support piglet health and reduce antibiotic consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The periderm plays a crucial role in trees, acting as a barrier protecting internal tissues against biotic and abiotic stresses, thus having an impact on tree physiology, ecology, and general performance. It consists of the meristematic phellogen, whose activity gives rise to suberized phellem (cork) cells outwardly and the parenchymatous phelloderm inwardly. Despite the periderm importance, intra-annual and seasonal changes in phellogen activity and phellem and phelloderm differentiation are poorly recognized. Therefore, we aimed to compare periderm development and functioning in successive years in horse chestnut, utilizing standard histological methods. We distinguished six stages of periderm development, including phellogen initiation and the differentiation of its derivatives. In the following years, the phellogen was active for a similar period, but produced fewer derivative cells. Importantly, some phellogen cells lost their meristematic characteristics before the end of the season and differentiated into phellem. To maintain periderm integrity, the remaining phelloderm cells underwent divisions, leading to phellogen re-initiation. Alternatively, when all periderm cells differentiated into the phellem, the new (subsidiary) phellogen originated from the underneath collenchyma. We postulate that phellogen re-initiation could be a mechanism ensuring the functional integrity of the periderm and discuss the role of phelloderm or collenchyma cells in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi can be used as bioindicators to assess the biodiversity and conservation status of different habitats because of their high adaptability and sensitivity to changes in water, air, and soil quality. In this study, records of macrofungi and lichenised fungi were extracted from GBIF, surveyed using GIS software, and used to compare the fungal diversity of the Pyrenean oak and chestnut groves of Castilla y León, analysing the possible implications of their presence for the conservation of these forest habitats. In Quercus pyrenaica forests, a greater number of lichen and macrofungi species and records were recorded than in Castanea sativa forests, although the greater area occupied by the former could have influenced this diversity. The higher presence of ectomycorrhizal macrofungal species in chestnut groves, as well as the higher sensitivity to pollution of lichens in Pyrenean oak-dominated environments, showed the relevance of the analysis of these data for a better understanding of the conservation status of forest habitats. However, in order to obtain more accurate results, it would be necessary to carry out specific studies on a smaller scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop an appropriate method for evaluating the quality of chestnut resources. The 21 quality indicators of 25 chestnut varieties were detected and analyzed. The key indicators of affecting the quality of chestnut were selected through principal component analysis (PCA) coupled with correlation analysis and descriptive statistical analysis. The weights of these key indicators were calculated based on the entropy weight method to construct the gray correlation evaluation model. Our findings revealed notable differences (P

Castanopsis argentea is an endangered tree naturally distributed in Java and Sumatera Island and considered a keystone species in the submontane forest ecosystem. A laboratory study was conducted to test the cross-amplification potential of seven pairs of Castanopsis cuspidata var. sieboldii microsatellite markers to be used for Castanopsis argentea. The rate of cross-amplification success, average number of alleles per locus (NA), observed heterozygosity (HO), expected heterozygosity (HE), and fixation index (FIS) were determined, and cross-amplification potential was investigated. The rate of amplification success was 85.71% (6 out of 7 markers were successful amplified), NA was 7.67, HO ranged from 0.467 to 0.923, HE ranged from 0.441 to 0.745, and the fixation index (FIS) ranged from −0.413 to 0.278. Results indicate the high transferability of C. cuspidata var. sieboldii microsatellite markers to C. argentea. Six markers were suitable for genetic diversity and population genetic studies on C. argentea.

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries 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.)

Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima Blume) is an important economic forest tree species and mainly cultivated in mountainous areas and wastelands, subjecting it to various abiotic stresses. The protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C) genes contributes largely to stress responses in plants. However, the characteristics and functions of PP2C genes in C. mollissima remain unknown. This study provides comprehensive analyses (including phylogenetic, synteny, RNA-seq, transgenic and yeast one-hybrid methods) revealing the characteristics of CmPP2C gene, which plays an important role in response to abiotic stress. Here, we identified 68 CmPP2Cs in the Chinese chestnut genome, and analyzed their characteristics and phylogenetic relationships. Furthermore, synteny analysis revealed that segmental and tandem duplication drove the expansion of the CmPP2C family to adapt to natural environmental pressures. RNA sequencing and co-expression analyses indicated that four hub CmPP2Cs in two key modules probably play important roles in the resistance to abiotic stress in chestnut. Among them, CmPP2C31 was significantly down-regulated under drought stress. Transgenic experiments via pollen magnetofection revealed that CmPP2C31 could positively and significantly regulate the drought resistance of Chinese chestnut seedlings. Subcellular localization showed that CmPP2C31 was a nuclear protein. Yeast one-hybrid assays suggested that EVM0007407 could regulate CmPP2C31 expression by binding to its promoter, thereby participating in abiotic stress resistance. These findings in our study provided detailed information on the CmPP2C family genes and laid a foundation for further elucidating the molecular mechanism of resistance to abiotic stress chestnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema 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.)

Starch is one of the most important constituents of chestnuts, accounting for 38% to 71% of the dry mass. Its structure and physicochemical properties can also dominate the edible quality of chestnuts, and their suitability for processing in food and non-food industries. Natural chestnut starch has been limited to the application, due to the low thermal stability and susceptibility to aging during processing. The physical, chemical, and enzymatic treatments can be expected to fully meet industrial needs and suitability. However, only one to three treatments have been reported to compare the structure and physicochemical properties of chestnut starch under various pre-treatments. In this study, the chestnut starch was subjected to a series of treatments, including the pregelatinization, pressure heat, microwave cooking, ultrasound-pressure heat, acid hydrolysis-pressure heat, and pullulanase-pressure heat, with the untreated chestnut starch as the control group. The present study aims to reveal the significant differences in the structural and physicochemical properties of chestnut starch from different varieties and origins. The structural and physicochemical properties of chestnut starch were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), laser particle size analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). A comparison was then performed on the structural and physicochemical properties of chestnut starch under different pre-treatment, including physical, enzymatic, and acid treatments, as well as their effects on the structure and digestive properties of chestnut starch. The results showed that there was no new functional group produced in the chestnut starch under physical, enzyme, and acid treatments, indicating the only variation in the internal order of starch molecules. The particles of chestnut starch were decomposed into small molecules, and then recrystallized to form the denser starch crystals; The diffraction peaks of chestnut starch were replaced by two broad peaks at 23.1°, 22.80° and 24.13° under physical, enzyme, and acid treatments, respectively, with one weak diffraction peak near 19.89°. Their crystal structures were transformed into B+V-type crystal structures, as the particle sizes increased. The distributions of D10, D50, and D90 were in the ranges of 7.31-65.89 μm, 101.96-119.96 μm and 147.54-199.19 μm, respectively. There was a decrease in the short-range ordered degree, relative crystallinity, enthalpy of pasting, and range of pasting temperature. While the degree of double helix all increased. The shape of chestnut starch granules was changed from oval, sunflower seed-shaped, and triangular to amorphous agglomerates or agglomerated external morphology, with rough and uneven surfaces. In terms of physicochemical properties, the swelling power and solubility of chestnut starch increased under physical, enzyme, and acid treatments. Specifically, the contents of total starch, fat, and branched-chain starch significantly decreased (P<0.05), with the content of straight-chain starch ranging from 23.70% to 76.17%. The highest content of straight-chain starch was found in the Pullulanase-pressure heat treatment (76.17%). In addition, Pullulanase-press heat treatment significantly improved the RS content (Resistant starch, RS) in the chestnut starch from 48.69% to 61.78% (P<0.05). Therefore, the purulanase-pressure heat treatment can be expected to serve as the denser crystal structure and higher content of resistant starch. The finding can also provide a strong reference for the deep processing of chestnut starch in the food field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niphades castanea Chao (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), an important fruit insect pest of chestnuts (Castanea spp.), could cause chestnut involucre abscission ahead of time through larvae boring and feeding basal involucres, eventually causing huge economic losses. In this research, mitochondrial (COI and COII) and nuclear (ITS1) markers were used to investigate genetic variation among 15 different geographical populations of chestnut pest N castanea. The molecular diversity of N. castanea populations revealing three main phylogenetic clusters, with cluster I specifically distributed at high elevations in the western sampling points. Mitochondrial genes indicated population expansion events, and the ITS1 marker suggested a history of population expansion. Genetic diversity differentiation was significant among populations, indicating that geographical isolation impacts genetic differentiation among these places. AMOVA analyses confirmed substantial genetic differentiation between populations. Mantel correlogram analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between genetic differentiation and altitude/geographical distance at lower elevations and ranges, which reversed to a negative correlation at higher altitudes and ranges for all markers, indicating the role of altitude and geographical distance in shaping genetic diversity in N. castanea. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the distribution, genetic diversity, and evolutionary history of N. castanea in the central of China, underscoring the impact of geographical factors on its genetic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most prominent problems related to biological invasions is the variation of local species composition, which often leads to ex novo interspecific interactions. Here, we explored and analysed the native species composition of gall inducers and their associated parasitoids and inquilines in Spanish areas invaded by Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu 1951 (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae), an invasive pest of chestnut trees. After a quantitative description of these species' assemblages, we analysed through bipartite networks the level of the trophic specialisation of parasitoids and inquilines when considering either the host taxonomic identity, the host plant species or the host gall morphological type. We sampled galls of D. kuriphilus and native species of Cynipidae in different Spanish areas, including those where the exotic parasitoid Torymus sinensis Kamijo 1982 (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) had been released for D. kuriphilus biological control. The results indicate that the native parasitoids recruited by D. kuriphilus come almost exclusively from native communities on Quercus galls, except for one species from Rosa. Galls of D. kuriphilus had the second most diverse species composition; despite this species assemblage arose ex novo in less than a decade. The bipartite networks resulted more specialised when considering host plant taxa than when gall types and the host taxa were accounted. In such trophic webs, there were few parasitoid/inquiline specialist and many generalist species, which agrees with the rapid recruitment by D. kuriphilus. Higher parasitoid species richness in D. kuriphilus galls is likely due to their being a largely unexploited available resource for the native natural enemies of cynipid wasps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to characterize the chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) tannin product, Farmatan Plus® (Tanin Sevnica d.d., Sevnica, Slovenia), and to subsequently examine its effects on the blood metabolic parameters of fattening lambs, particularly in relation to their health status. Thirty lambs were randomly divided into three treatment groups: a control group without added tannin and two groups that received 9.46 g of the tannin product/kg of the diet dry matter (DM) and 18.87 g of the tannin product/kg of the diet DM. Metabolic parameters such as contents of total protein, globulin, urea, and liver enzymes (AST and GGT) were measured over a trial period of 60 days to evaluate the effects of tannin supplementation. This study represents the first in-depth characterization of Farmatan Plus®, demonstrating its richness in bioactive compounds such as vescalin and castalagin. The results showed no significant adverse effects on lamb health, with all parameters remaining within normal physiological ranges (p > 0.05). These results support the safe inclusion of chestnut tannins in the diet of lambs and underline their potential as a functional feed additive that can positively influence the health and growth performance of ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article sets out to explore how one can think with notions of the archive, and archival practice, from the departure point of young children's engagements with the environment. The notion of 'tiny archives' is introduced and explored by engaging with photographs and stories related to young children's collecting of nature things — such as stones, sticks and chestnuts — in different spaces in their everyday lives. The notion brings to the fore how young children's practices and collections of things can contribute to knowledge about and beyond early childhood, and for the future. Moreover, it offers an avenue for grappling with the question of how young children — a notably underrepresented group — can be situated in archival theory by theorizing the archive within the particularities of early childhood, rather than the other way around. By doing this, the article offers an approach to archival agency that encompasses the wordless narratives from beginning of life by focusing on what is already 'going on' in young children's lives. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of attending to the everyday, ephemeral, dispersed, fragile, scattered and broken as important aspects of thinking with notions of the archive to include the tiny histories of the youngest of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White markings are characteristic of many equine breeds, being quite common in the Pura Raza Español horses (PRE). These white markings are the result of a lack of melanocytes in the skin and hair. In certain horse breeds, such as the PRE, the presence and extension of white facial markings is penalised in the breed's patron and morphological competitions, so it would be interesting to include it in their selection genetics programs to select against the presence of this special feature. The aim of this study was to calculate the prevalence of white facial markings in a representative population sample of PRE and determine its prevalence depending on the coat colour, its genetic parameters and the influence of systematic effects. The white facial markings have been classified into 5 score. A total of 42,080 PRE horses were analysed. Genetic parameters were estimated using a Bayesian procedure with the BLUPF90 software. Systematic effects included in the model were: birth period, sex, birth stud geographical area and inbreeding coefficient. The pedigree information included 93,322 horses. The prevalence was 34.2%. Systematics factors were significant in the presentation of facial white markings. Heritability in real scale ranged from 0.53 for black to 0.32 for the chestnut coat colour population, both in the linear heterogeneity model. White facial markings were more prevalent in inbred chestnut males of Spain. The additive genetic base shows that the prevalence could be managed by genetic selection. HIGHLIGHTS: PRE with white marks produce financial losses and those that invade a large portion of the eye orbit cannot registered as animals of the breed The prevalence was 34.2%, being the large white markings more affected by systematic risk effects. Genetic base of white facial markings in PRE is very related with the coat colour, and presents high-moderate heritability. White markings could be reduced by genetic selection using breeding values in all the PRE horses as a selection criterion into its breeding program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollen quality of nine Anatolian chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) cultivar/genotypes and two hybrid (Castanea sativa × Castanea crenata) cultivars were evaluated in this study. Fort his aim, anther and pollen sizes, amounts of pollen produced in an anther, pollen viability rate and germination percentages were determined. Significant differences were found among the cultivars in terms of the examined characteristics. It was determined that the average amount of pollen per anther of the varieties/genotypes was 5111-8000 pieces, and pollen germination rates varied between 16.93% and 35.35% at 5% sucrose concentration and 23.01% to 36.63% at 10% sucrose concentration. Pollen viability of the cultivars was found to be over 60%. Overall, it has been concluded that the pollination potential of chestnut cultivars/genotypes is sufficient and that alternative options can be offered to producers based on their regional distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the effects of enzyme extraction (E‐DF), enzyme‐acid extraction (EAc‐DF), enzyme‐alkaline extraction (EAl‐DF), ultrasonic‐enzyme extraction (EU‐DF), and microwave‐enzyme extraction (EM‐DF) on the yield, chemical composition, structural characteristics, physicochemical properties, physiological activities, and hypoglycemic activities of dietary fiber (DF) from Chinese chestnut. EAl‐DF had the highest yield (25.44 ± 0.70%) among all five extraction methods. The structural analysis indicated that other extracts, particularly EAl‐DF, had a more complex and porous structure than E‐DF. Analysis of monosaccharide composition showed that the main sugars in Chinese chestnut DF included Ara, Gal, Glc, and Man. Notably, EAl‐DF exhibited the highest water and oil retention ability and hypoglycemic activity. The DFs extracted by five methods can resist digestion in the digestive tract. These results indicate that enzymatic‐alkaline method is a high‐quality method for extracting DF from Chinese chestnut. And this study provides a theoretical basis for the efficient preparation and development of Chinese chestnut DF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chestnut orchards are a multifunctional resource, providing not only fruit or wood but also playing a role in the conservation of mountain and hillside landscapes. In the Piemonte Region, Italy, a rich genetic heritage of chestnut genotypes has contributed to considerable biodiversity and environmental value. The study aimed to valorize an important example of the chestnut agrobiodiversity in the Piemonte Region by focusing on the 'Marrone di Chiusa Pesio' (MCP) cultivar (cv). A multidisciplinary approach was applied, involving genetic and morphological analyses, Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), and phytochemical and nutritional profiling. The plant census provided identification and geolocation of 187 MCP specimens; the 20 most representative trees were genetically analyzed, and then, through the VTA, their morpho-functional status was evaluated. The nutraceutical properties and phytochemical composition were assessed by measuring the total polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant capacity (AOC), and other phytochemical classes through spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. The results showed significantly higher TPC values (ranged from 36.51 ± 1.60 mgGAE/100 g of dried weight—DW to 103.14 ± 1.24 mgGAE/100 g DW) compared to other 'Marrone-type' cultivars, along with high levels of key phenolic markers, bioactive compounds, and nutritional substances. These included tannins (about 22–28 mg/100 g DW) and cinnamic acids (about 23–25 mg/100 g DW), followed by flavonols, benzoic acids, organic acids, monoterpenes, vitamin C, and catechins, listed in order of predominance. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed to observe the distribution of the samples and their correlations based on the chemical composition. The results confirmed the interesting phytochemical properties of the 'Marrone di Chiusa Pesio' nuts, together with their good morphological and functional properties. Given the ongoing genetic erosion of Castanea sativa cultivars, due to cultivation abandonment and climate change, the main factors contributing to the progressive loss of biodiversity worldwide, the presented approach aimed to provide an overview of the conservation status of the local agrobiodiversity. This study highlighted the value of a local chestnut cultivar, presenting the low conservation status of the few remaining specimens. The goal was to define the significant phenotypic variation regarding MCP in the considered area due to environmental variations, which may be of interest in its genetic adaptation to climate change. The study may potentially encourage the development of strategies for actively conserving the forest agrobiodiversity and hillside ecosystem services in the highly diverse landscapes of the Alpine valleys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien species pose a challenge to ecosystem stability and crop production, so understanding their interactions with the natural communities they invade is crucial to mitigate negative effects.The oriental chestnut gall wasp, Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae), is an invasive insect that attacks chestnut trees. It was first recorded in Spain in 2012 and is now presumably present in the majority of chestnut stands in the country.We assessed variation in the abundance of D. kuriphilus galls and the composition of their associated parasitoid community (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) during a 4‐year period (2014–2017) in 12 sampling sites in Catalonia (Spain, northeastern Iberian Peninsula), and identified which species contributed most significantly to the control of D. kuriphilus.The results show that the abundance of individual parasitoid species varied during the study period and that the number of species increased year after year. There was also a transition in the parasitoid community composition across the years.Our data suggest that the joint action of the non‐native parasitoid Torymus sinensis Kamijo and the native T. notatus (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Torymidae) led to the decline of D. kuriphilus until it was no longer considered a pest. Also, the observed pool of parasitoid species ended up being relatively homogeneous across sites over the years, which may be due to the high natural dispersal of these parasitoids (both by active flight and passive wind dispersal). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document from the EPPO Bulletin outlines a diagnostic protocol for Cryphonectria parasitica, a fungus causing blight of chestnut and other tree species. The fungus is native to Eastern Asia but has spread to North America and Europe. The document provides detailed information on the symptoms, signs of presence, detection methods, and identification of the fungus. It also includes protocols for isolation, real-time PCR tests, and performance characteristics. The document emphasizes the importance of accurate identification and reporting of the fungus for effective disease control. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the importance of considering pathogen invasions in ecosourcing strategies for resilience in changing environments, using examples such as the impact of chestnut blight on American chestnuts and kauri dieback on New Zealand's kauri trees. It highlights the need for a broad ecosourcing approach that includes disease resistance to mitigate the effects of pathogen invasions on native species. The article also mentions successful breeding studies with New Zealand's coastal cresses to develop hybrids that outperform original species in terms of growth and resistance to virus infection. The text emphasizes the necessity of monitoring and protecting planting materials from pests and diseases to ensure the success of conservation and revegetation programs. [Extracted from the article]

The chestnut tree (Castanea sativa Mill.) is gaining importance in the mountainous regions of southern Europe due to the high value of its fruits. It is essential to establish effective cultivation protocols, considering that this species is still relatively understudied. In this study, we present the outcomes of the initial establishment of a chestnut orchard conducted through a nutrient omission trial for four years. The treatments included a fertilization plan with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and boron (NPKB), the control, and four other treatments corresponding to the omission of each nutrient (-NPKB, N-PKB, NP-KB, NPK-B). The -NPKB and NP-KB treatments showed significantly lower trunk circumferences and canopy volumes compared to the other treatments. The NPK-B treatment resulted in the lowest fruit production, with a total accumulated yield (2020–2022) of 0.56 kg tree–1, a value significantly lower than that of NPKB (1.12 kg tree–1) and N-PKB (1.19 kg tree–1). The assessment of nutrient concentrations in the leaves revealed plants with deficient levels of B and K in treatments that did not receive these nutrients. Conversely, N levels in the leaves in the -NPKB treatment fell within the sufficiency range (20 to 28 g kg–1). This suggests that the sufficiency range should be adjusted to higher values, given the treatment's effect on tree growth. It was also observed that the -NPKB treatment led to lower soil organic matter compared to the other treatments, likely due to reduced herbaceous vegetation development under the canopy, leading to decreased organic substrate deposition in the soil. The main findings of this study are that N and K were crucial elements for the optimal growth of chestnut trees, while B played a significant role in fruit production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The susceptibility of seven species of chestnuts to the horse chestnut leaf miner was studied in the arboretum of the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MBG RAS), taking into account their interspecific characteristics. Using pheromone delta traps, the highest number of Cameraria ohridella moths was shown for Aesculus hippocastanum and the lowest for Aesculus chinensis. A number of anatomical parameters of leaves were investigated, such as the thickness of the epidermal cell wall and the thickness of the palisade and spongy parenchyma layers. As a result, it was shown that the most infected chestnut species had a greater thickness of the nutritious parenchyma tissue. No dependence was found between the degree of susceptibility to the horse chestnut leaf miner and such indicators as the content of chlorophyll a + b and carotenoids in the leaves of seven species of chestnuts. Nevertheless, resistance of different species of the genus Aesculus to Cameraria ohridella under increased tannin content in leaves has been shown. Evaluation of phenolic compounds and flavonoids has not established their reliable role as repellents. The high levels of carbohydrates found during the study contributed to increased susceptibility to the horse chestnut leaf miner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The value of quality spirits is derived from their unique sensory profile, which is frequently achieved via the maturation of the distillate with wood. Traditionally these are barrels, but there is a growing interest in the use of wood chips, which offer new economic, environmental and sensory opportunities. The aim of this study was to ascertain the impact of wood chips (cherry, chestnut, oak, juniper) on the physicochemical attributes and sensory profile of apple distillate. Antioxidant activity (AOX), total polyphenol content (spectrophotometric method), acidity and ester content (titration method) and colour (CIELab) were determined. A sensory analysis was also conducted. The results demonstrated that the distillate was most influenced by chestnut wood, both in terms of its physicochemical characteristics (AOX 53 mg/100 mL, esters 0.83 g/L) and sensory qualities (4.5 points). The distillates aged with cherry and oak wood chips exhibited poorer outcomes (AOX 14 and 12 mg/100 mL, respectively), whereas the least impact on the physicochemical parameters was observed in the case of juniper wood chips (AOX 7.5 mg/100 mL). The maturation of apple distillates in wood chips presence led to enhanced sensory evaluation outcomes, with the most notable improvement observed in the case of chestnut wood chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chestnut is a widely appreciated fruit in Europe, Asia, and North America, playing a significant role in the diets of people in these regions. Due to its high nutritional value and diverse health benefits, chestnuts have been gaining considerable research attention. The aim was a comprehensive literature review on the nutritional benefits of chestnuts and the sustainable valorization of their by-products. Following the methodology, all the relevant literature was collected and reviewed. Based on the reviewed data, the chemical composition of chestnuts holds great importance, especially in the food industry, where understanding their nutritional properties can enhance product development. Furthermore, chestnut processing generates a substantial amount of waste, including shells and leaves, which are rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. Valorizing these by-products presents opportunities for their application across various industries, leading to increased profits, reduced environmental pollution, and enhanced sustainability. This review aims to provide insights into the nutritional benefits of chestnuts and chestnut by-products and explore potential alternative applications for these materials in the food industry. Such applications will possibly positively affect producers' income and are in line with the circular economy strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]