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This research unveiled new insights on the impact of incorporating whey proteins into kefir produced using three different methods. This aims to improve its quality and health benefits, primarily as a result of optimal proliferation of probiotic bacteria. In the initial part of the experiment, samples were prepared using three different methods (methods 1, 2, and 3) to examine the impact of introducing whey protein on bacterial count, the content of L(+)-lactic acid, lactase activity, and the lactic acid and ethanol levels. The methods differed primarily in the sequence of the inoculation milk with probiotic bacteria stage in the production cycle, as well as incubation time and temperature. No significant differences were found in the number of yeasts and bacteria between samples with and without whey proteins. However, it was revealed that the 5% addition of whey proteins enhanced the number of probiotic bacteria in kefir produced with method 2 (from 4.86 to 5.52 log cfu/mL) and method 3 (from 3.68 to 4.01 log cfu/mL). The second part of the research investigated the impact of whey proteins on firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, viscosity, color, and water activity of kefir. This part focused on testing samples with lower whey protein contents (1 and 3%, w/v). We found that the addition of 1% and 3% whey proteins resulted in decreased firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, and viscosity compared to the control kefir. On the other hand, the addition of 5% whey proteins resulted in increased firmness and consistency compared to the addition of 1% and 3% whey proteins. The addition of whey protein decreased the white index WI of the kefir samples. Overall, our results revealed that incorporating whey protein concentrate (WPC) in the production of probiotic kefir can enhance its health benefits while maintaining its rheological properties and overall quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey is one of the most valuable food products, which, in addition to its nutritional value, also has therapeutic properties. In our study, the physicochemical (Brix, viscosity, free acid content, pH, moisture, diastase activity, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), proline content, sugars content, and reducing sugars content) and microbial (mold and yeast content) characteristics and 15 element contents (As, Cd, K, Al, Pb, Hg, Ba, Ni, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Se) of the samples were evaluated. Among the essential elements, the maximum mean was related to K (630 ± 50.8 mg/kg), and the minimum mean was related to Se that was lower than the limit of detection. Also, among all toxic elements, the maximum mean was related to Ni (234 ± 54.7 µg/kg), and the minimum mean was related to Hg that was lower than the limit of detection. Furthermore, the mean of free acidity, pH, °Brix, moisture, diastase content, HMF, and proline content was 35.4 ± 1.27 meq/kg, 4.61 ± 0.21, 82.2 ± 3.08, 16.3 ± 0.33%, 9.10 ± 1.14 DN, 21.1 ± 2.65 mg/kg, and 482 ± 18.1 mg/kg, respectively. Also, the mean percentage of fructose, glucose, and sucrose was 32.4 ± 1.07% (27.5–40.0%), 27.2 ± 0.85% (23.5–31.7%), and 2.28 ± 0.70% (0.72–4.11%), respectively. Finally, the mean of mold and yeast in all samples was 14.2 ± 0.37 CFU/g. Also, the principal component analysis and heat map allowed us to determine a more accurate distinction between the physicochemical characteristics of bee honey. The results of our findings showed that in most cases, the results obtained were within the standard range, which indicates the good quality of Iranian honeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnitude of terrestrial carbon (C)‐climate feedback largely depends on the temperature sensitivity of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition (Q10). However, our understanding of determinants of Q10 for SOM fractions such as particulate and mineral‐associated organic matter (POM and MAOM, respectively) is still inadequate. Particularly, it remains unclear whether microbial effects on Q10 are fraction‐dependent, which induces large uncertainties in projecting soil C dynamics. Here, we conducted large‐scale topsoil sampling on the Tibetan Plateau, in combination with SOM fractionation and 300‐day laboratory incubation to assess SOM fraction‐dependent linkages between Q10 and microbial properties. We found that compared with MAOM, POM had larger Q10 and greater microbial diversity, and also structured distinct microbial communities as well as their co‐occurrence patterns. Furthermore, associations of Q10 with microbial properties differed between the two SOM fractions. Bacterial community composition and relative abundance of bacterial keystone taxa affected Q10 for POM and MAOM respectively, while bacterial alpha diversity showed opposite relationships with Q10 for POM and MAOM. These findings highlight the necessity of incorporating SOM fraction‐dependent microbial properties and their linkages with Q10 into Earth system models to accurately predict terrestrial C‐climate feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this eight-year grassland field trial, we compared the fertilization effects of biomass ashes (BMAs) and carbonated lime (CaCO3) in combined application with cattle slurry (CS). Our study focused on plant coverage, forage yield, and quality, as well as soil physicochemical and microbiological properties. The fertilization strategies included CS mixed with BMA or CaCO3 applied three times a year and a separate annual application of ash or CaCO3, independent of CS. Samplings were performed in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Despite an absence of observable effects on soil, microbial properties, and forage quality, CS application, with or without BMA/CaCO3, resulted in higher forage yields compared to the unfertilized control and plots receiving only ash or CaCO3. Forage properties remained consistent across treatments. However, the combined application of CS with both ash and CaCO3 led to a reduction in volatile organic compounds, total carbon, total nitrogen, nitrate, and electrical conductivity in the soil from 2010 to 2018. Additionally, the relative abundance of specific microbial families (Nitrosomonadaceae, Acidothermaceae, Bacillaceae, and Peptostreptococcaceae) varied based on whether soils received a single amendment or a combination thereof. Our findings suggest that BMA is a valuable substitute for traditional liming agents, regardless of the application mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excavation of agricultural topsoils traditionally used in city landscaping results in strong environmental impacts and a rarefaction of peri-urban fertile soils. The construction of fertile technosols in a circular economy approach using urban wastes is an attractive alternative to such unsustainable practices. However, these soils have specific characteristics, such as rapid pedogenesis and strong influence of parental materials, that conventional agronomic indicators may overlook. Here we investigated 21 monitoring indicators during the 24 months maturation of nine stockpiles of constructed technosols, differing on initial compost proportions and presence of prairial cover. We compared standard agronomic measurements to pools of inorganic nitrogen (Ninorg) and to various microbial related parameters. Carbon Substrate-Induced Respiration was used as proxy for active microbial biomass. We focused on three N-cycling microbial activities associated to Ninorg available to plants: free-living bacteria nitrogen fixation, nitrification and denitrification enzyme activities. The relative abundances of microbial genes associated with all these activities were also measured to evaluate microbial total and N-specific populations. Conventional agronomic parameters disclosed the importance of the initial proportions of compost and of the prairial cover but failed to monitor the temporal dynamic of technosols fertility. The monitoring of microbial parameters complemented these assessments, revealed the differences in N-fertility among technosols and informed on the maturation 18 months after establishment. This work provides new insights into the understanding of the maturation of silt and compost mixtures. Furthermore, these results highlight the potential of microbial indicators to improve the management of technosols constructed for urban landscapes.

Among the various species of trees, black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn.) is one of the most commonly used trees for the reforestation and restoration programs of degraded forestlands in the Hyrcanian forest, particularly in the skid trails. The effects of reforestation with black alder on the recovery of litter (thickness, C, N, C/N) and soil physicochemical, biochemical, biological, and microbial properties in the skid trails with three levels of compactions were examined over a 27‐year period. Results showed that the litter characteristics such as thickness, carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and C/N were at the highest level in low intensity traffic as compared to those of medium and frequent intensities. Results showed that the values of total porosity, macroporosity, aggregate stability, silt, and clay were at the lowest level in the natural stand. The highest values of soil pH, C, C/N ratio, and C storage were recorded under the skid trail with frequent machine passages. The restoration values of soil physical and chemical properties were significantly higher in the low level of machine traffic after a period of 27 years where black alder reforestation was performed on the skid trails, as compared to the medium and frequent machine traffic levels, as well as the undisturbed area. Black alder litter affected soil nitrogen and the maximum amounts of earthworm density and dry mass. This also includes fine root biomass. These data were recorded in the trails with low machine traffic as compared to those of medium and frequent traffic. The results clearly showed that black alder is effective in reaching the objectives of restoration programs, given that it promotes soil organic matter, builds up soil structure via root‐soil feedback, and improves the soil by creating a major source of nitrogen through enhancing the nitrogen cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve higher crop yields and maintain environmental conservation, it is imperative to adopt novel agricultural methods that improve both the quantity and quality of produce. The following study focused on investigating the effectiveness of integrated use of biogas slurry and inorganic nutrigation on spinach growth and nutrient uptake through drip irrigation. A field experiment was conducted using a split-plot design; spinach was cultivated with seven different treatments: biogas slurry nutrigation (BSN) (T1), integrated inorganic + organic nutrigation: 40% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + BSN (T2), 60% RDF + BSN (T3), 80% RDF + BSN (T4), 100% RDF (T5), slurry broadcasting (SB) (T6), and control (T7). The results showed that spinach grown with (T4) 80% RDF + BSN exhibited optimum plant height and leaf count compared to spinach under other treatments and was at par with T5 100% RDF for crop parameters. T5 treated plants demonstrated the longest roots, followed by T4 treated plants. The highest recorded yield of 5.72 tons ha−1 was achieved in treatment T5 with 100% RDF, followed closely by T4 with 80% RDF + BSN at 5.52 tons ha−1 and T3 with 60% RDF + BSN at 5.36 tons ha−1. These three treatments exhibited comparable yields, showcasing the effectiveness of incorporating biogas slurry nutrigation in conjunction with inorganic fertilizer for achieving high spinach yields. In terms of macronutrient content in spinach leaves, significant differences were found for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents. Incorporating biogas slurry into the soil modified microbial enzyme activities, specifically dehydrogenase and phosphatase. Normally, alkaline phosphatase shows greater activity than acidic phosphatase, but the addition of biogas slurry equalized the enzymatic activity of both, establishing a harmonized enzymatic profile. Our results suggest that fertilizing spinach with integrated biogas slurry nutrigation (if properly filtered) + inorganic nutrigation through drip nutrigation is a viable strategy for improving the morphological parameters and productivity of spinach while also contributing to environmental preservation and a reduction in production costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of hybrid cooking (ultrasound - ohmic - infrared) and ohmic cooking alone on textural and microbial properties of beef were investigated to get safer and high quality cooked beef. In hybrid cooking, the beef samples pre-treated with ultrasound for 10, 20 and 30 minutes were cooked ohmically at 40, 55 and 70 Volt for 7 minutes, finally infrared cooking was applied to each side of beef at 3 different temperatures (163, 191 and 218 °C) for 3 minutes. Texture profile of beef muscle (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience) was followed during the processing of hybrid and ohmic cooking alone. At hybrid cooking, voltage increment had a significant effect (p<0.05) on hardness, chewiness and gumminess values. On the other hand, generally springiness, cohesiveness and resilience values were not affected significantly (p>0.05) by voltage gradient. After ohmic cooking alone, total aerobic mesophilic bacteria (TAMB) count significantly decreased (p<0.05) from 5.73 to 4.02 log cfu/g, while total coliform (TC) count decreased from 5.01 to below detection limit by increasing voltage level. However, hybrid cooking process was successful for killing of microorganisms as TC and TAMB counts mainly reached well below detection limits. In this study, hybrid cooking can be considered to be more efficient over ohmic cooking alone since it gave synergistic effects with respect to textural properties and provide best microbiological safety and quality of beef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research unveiled new insights on the impact of incorporating whey proteins into kefir produced using three different methods. This aims to improve its quality and health benefits, primarily as a result of optimal proliferation of probiotic bacteria. In the initial part of the experiment, samples were prepared using three different methods (methods 1, 2, and 3) to examine the impact of introducing whey protein on bacterial count, the content of L(+)-lactic acid, lactase activity, and the lactic acid and ethanol levels. The methods differed primarily in the sequence of the inoculation milk with probiotic bacteria stage in the production cycle, as well as incubation time and temperature. No significant differences were found in the number of yeasts and bacteria between samples with and without whey proteins. However, it was revealed that the 5% addition of whey proteins enhanced the number of probiotic bacteria in kefir produced with method 2 (from 4.86 to 5.52 log cfu/mL) and method 3 (from 3.68 to 4.01 log cfu/mL). The second part of the research investigated the impact of whey proteins on firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, viscosity, color, and water activity of kefir. This part focused on testing samples with lower whey protein contents (1 and 3%, w/v). We found that the addition of 1% and 3% whey proteins resulted in decreased firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, and viscosity compared to the control kefir. On the other hand, the addition of 5% whey proteins resulted in increased firmness and consistency compared to the addition of 1% and 3% whey proteins. The addition of whey protein decreased the white index WI of the kefir samples. Overall, our results revealed that incorporating whey protein concentrate (WPC) in the production of probiotic kefir can enhance its health benefits while maintaining its rheological properties and overall quality.

In this eight-year grassland field trial, we compared the fertilization effects of biomass ashes (BMAs) and carbonated lime (CaCO3) in combined application with cattle slurry (CS). Our study focused on plant coverage, forage yield, and quality, as well as soil physicochemical and microbiological properties. The fertilization strategies included CS mixed with BMA or CaCO3 applied three times a year and a separate annual application of ash or CaCO3, independent of CS. Samplings were performed in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Despite an absence of observable effects on soil, microbial properties, and forage quality, CS application, with or without BMA/CaCO3, resulted in higher forage yields compared to the unfertilized control and plots receiving only ash or CaCO3. Forage properties remained consistent across treatments. However, the combined application of CS with both ash and CaCO3 led to a reduction in volatile organic compounds, total carbon, total nitrogen, nitrate, and electrical conductivity in the soil from 2010 to 2018. Additionally, the relative abundance of specific microbial families (Nitrosomonadaceae, Acidothermaceae, Bacillaceae, and Peptostreptococcaceae) varied based on whether soils received a single amendment or a combination thereof. Our findings suggest that BMA is a valuable substitute for traditional liming agents, regardless of the application mode.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the chemical and microbial properties of date syrup during different stages of production line from the raw material to the final product. The amounts of total soluble solids, pH, acidity, total and reducing sugars, polyphenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and microbial count were measured and the type of microorganisms was determined based on phenotypic characteristics in different stages of production. The obtained results showed that during the stages of juice clarification and concentration, pH gradually decreased and acidity, total sugar, reducing sugar and total solid matter increased and reached their maximum in the syrup. Comparison of traditional syrup with factory produced syrup indicated more pH and acidity, total and reducing sugar, total soluble solid, polyphenolic compounds and lower antioxidant activity for traditional syrup compared to the produced one. In general, the content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity gradually decreased in different stages of production, so that date syrup (279 mg of gallic acid per 100 grams of sample and 33%) indicated higher content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity than dates (388 mg of gallic acid per 100 g of sample and 57%). The results of the microbial test revealed the lowest microbial load for the produced syrup compared to dates and different syrups. However, the presence of B. licheniformis in the syrup makes the product sour, in this regard finding a suitable solution to increase the shelf life of the product seems necessary. The traditional syrup showed a lower microbial load than the produced syrup, although B. licheniformis was observed in the traditional syrup despite the high heat treatment. Based on the obtained results, the date syrup was free of coliforms, which indicates maintaining the hygienic principles of manufacture during the production line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango tree pruning results in high biomass output, which is a serious agricultural and environmental problem. Vermicomposting is a potential, fast and sustainable tool to address these challenges. For sixty days, the experiment was carried out in six vermireactors containing five earthworm species by Eudrilus eugeniae, Eisenia fetida, Aporrectodea rosea, Lumbricus rubellus, and Lampito mauritii, as well as composting (without earthworm) using mango tree pruning waste biomass along with cattle dung as an instant preferred feeding material for earthworms. The pH, TOC, C/N and C/P ratios of the waste were substantially reduced by the earthworm activity. However, after vermicomposting, the levels of macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S) and micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) and microbial count substantially increased. The TOC content of waste was reduced by 42–55%, and the C/N of vermicompost ranged from 5.58 to 11.38. The results showed that earthworm fecundity was highest in vermireactors containing Eudrilus eugeniae and Eisenia fetida. The current study was ultimately determine that vermicomposting using Eudrilus eugeniae or Eisenia fetida is an effective strategy for utilising mango tree pruning waste, ensuring environmental sustainability and improving farmer revenue.

In this study, a total of 43 chestnut honey samples were randomly selected and collected from the Erfelek, Ayancık, and Türkeli districts of Sinop. The pollen content of all honey samples was determined, revealing that chestnut pollen accounted for over 90% in most cases. The chestnut honey from the Sinop region is considered of high quality compared to other chestnut honeys, primarily due to its low HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) levels, low moisture content, high proline content, and significant pollen content. The antibacterial activities of these honey samples were assessed using the agar well diffusion method, Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC), and Minimal Bactericidal Concentrations (MBC) methods. It is worth mentioning that certain samples exhibited significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones ranging from 15 to 20 mm, which is comparable to standard antibiotics. The antioxidant activities of all honey samples were evaluated using a 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine assay. The results obtained indicate that the chestnut honey produced from the chestnut forests in the Sinop province meets the criteria outlined in the Turkish Food Codex Honey Communiqué. The high proline content exceeding 1000 mg/kg and very low hydroxymethyl furfural values below 1 mg/kg observed in certain chestnut honey samples contribute to their high quality and safety. Additionally, the average pH of 4.81 and free acidity values below 50 meq/kg recorded for the analyzed honeys further reinforce these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In poultry slaughterhouses, carcasses can be contaminated with microorganisms at various points during the slaughtering processes, affecting some quality characteristics and shelf life of chicken meat. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different de-feathering methods on the meat quality characteristics and shelf life of broiler chickens. Forty male broilers 42 days of age (Ross 308) were used in the experiment. After slaughtering, they divided into 2 groups and first group was de-feathered by simple dry plucking method (DPM) and the other was a classic wet method (CWM). 5 fillets and 5 drumsticks from each treatment group were analyzed 0, 3, 5, and 7th days of storage time. The water holding capacity (WHC), color, pH and Warner-Bratzler shear force value (W-BSFV) were analyzed for meat quality characteristics of the raw meat samples. Total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, total psychrophilic bacteria, numbers of microorganisms assessed critically for food safety such as coliform bacteria, E. coli, Enterococcus spp. Campylobacter spp. also, the presence of Salmonella spp. in carcasses was determined. The results indicated that the skin colors of the fillets and drumsticks were yellower and the meat color of the drumsticks was darker in the DPM group than CWM. On the other hand, no significant effects of the plucking method were detected on the WHC and W-BSFV of the samples. The pH value of the fillets was higher in CWM group (P

Over-fertilization has a significant impact on soil microbial properties and its ecological environment. However, the effects of long-term fertilization on microbial properties on a large scale are still vague. This meta-analysis collected 6211 data points from 109 long-term experimental sites in China to evaluate the effects of fertilizer type and fertilization duration, as well as soil and climate conditions, on the effect sizes on various microbial properties and indices. The organic fertilizers combined with straw (NPKS) and manure (NPKM) had the highest effect sizes, while the chemical fertilizers N (sole N fertilizer) and NPK (NPK fertilizer) had the lowest. When compared with the control, NPKM treatment had the highest effect size, while N treatment had the lowest effect size on MBN (111% vs. 19%), PLFA (110% vs. −7%), fungi (88% vs. 43%), Actinomycetes (97% vs. 44%), urease (77% vs. 25%), catalase (15% vs. −11%), and phosphatase (58% vs. 4%). NPKM treatment had the highest while NPK treatment had the lowest effect size on bacteria (123% vs. 33%). NPKS treatment had the highest while N treatment had the lowest effect sizes on MBC (77% vs. 8%) and invertase (59% vs. 0.2%). NPKS treatment had the highest while NPK treatment had the lowest effect size on the Shannon index (5% vs. 1%). The effect sizes of NPKM treatment were the highest predominantly in arid regions because of the naturally low organic carbon in soils of these regions. The effect sizes on various microbial properties were also highly dependent on soil texture. In coarse-textured soils the effect sizes on MBC and MBN peaked sooner compared with those of clayey or silty soils, although various enzymes were most active in silty soils during the first 10 years of fertilization. Effect sizes on microbial properties were generally higher under NPKM and NPKS treatments than under NPK or N treatments, with considerable effects due to climate conditions. The optimal field fertilizer regime could be determined based on the effects of fertilizer type on soil microorganisms under various climate conditions and soil textures. This will contribute to the microbial biodiversity and soil health of agricultural land. Such controls should be used for adaptation of fertilization strategies to global changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a meat quality trait of major economic importance in animal production. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that meat quality can be improved by regulating the gut microbiota. However, the organization and ecological properties of the gut microbiota and its relationship with the IMF content remain unclear in chickens. Here, we investigated the microbial communities of 206 cecal samples from broilers with excellent meat quality. We noted that the cecal microbial ecosystem obtained from hosts reared under the same management and dietary conditions showed clear compositional stratification. Two enterotypes, in which the ecological properties, including diversity and interaction strengths, were significantly different, described the microbial composition pattern. Compared with enterotype 2, enterotype 1, distinguished by the Clostridia_vadinBB60_group, had a higher fat deposition, although no discrepancy was found in growth performance and meat yield. A moderate correlation was observed in the IMF content between 2 muscle tissues, despite the IMF content of thigh muscle was 42.76% greater than that of breast muscle. Additionally, the lower abundance of cecal vadinBE97 was related to higher IMF levels in both muscle tissues. Although vadinBE97 accounted for 0.40% of the total abundance of genera in the cecum, it exhibited significant and positive correlations with other genera (accounting for 25.3% of the tested genera). Our results highlight important insights into the cecal microbial ecosystem and its association with meat quality. Microbial interactions should be carefully considered when developing approaches to improve the IMF content by regulating the gut microbiota in broilers.

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) increases the dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) level in overlying water, photosynthesis of macrophytes and further exudates input to sediment. Such effects of rising CO2 are closely coupled to sediment types with various levels of available nutrients. However, how sediment types influence the effect of rising CO2 on aquatic plant traits, root-derived carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) inputs to the sediment are poorly understood. We explored the effects of DIC levels (normal or high) and sediment types (sand or clay) on the submerged macrophyte Myriophyllum spicatum with a pot experiment. Plant traits (such as tissue C or N contents, branch number, specific root length, and height) and biomass accumulation were assessed. The C and N availabilities of the aquatic environment (sediment, overlying water and porewater) and microbial enzymes activities and biomass were measured during the beginning, middle and end of the experiment. The high DIC level increased the specific root length and leaf N content of M. spicatum but decreased the root/shoot ratio, leaf C content and root C content. However, sediment types and its interaction with the DIC level had almost little effect on plant traits (except the leaf N content and root C content). The environmental C and N availabilities were significantly affected by the DIC level, sediment type and sampling time. Sediment microbial properties (microbial biomass and enzymes) were affected by the sediment type and sampling time. We observed that rising CO2 exerted small changes in sediment dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and DOC in the porewater and overlying water increased over time, which implied diffusion fluxes from the pore space to the overlying water. The path model indicated that plant traits directly contributed to an increase in plant biomass or indirectly through microbial properties. In summary, rising atmospheric CO2 strongly affects plant traits, biomass and exudates input to sediment. The canopy traits respond more sensitively under rising CO2, which possibly leads to a higher biomass allocation to the aboveground and further a dominance of M. spicatum in natural communities of submerged macrophytes. The diffusion of organic C from sediment to overlying water possibly weaken the role of root exudates in the priming effect and further affect the decomposition of organic matter, which should be considered in the future study of C cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In poultry slaughterhouses, carcasses can be contaminated with microorganisms at various points during the slaughtering processes, affecting some quality characteristics and shelf life of chicken meat. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different defeathering methods on the meat quality characteristics and shelf life of broiler chickens. Forty male broilers 42 days of age (Ross 308) were used in the experiment. After slaughtering, they divided into 2 groups and first group was de-feathered by simple dry plucking method (DPM) and the other was a classic wet method (CWM). 5 fillets and 5 drumsticks from each treatment group were analyzed 0, 3, 5, and 7th days of storage time. The water holding capacity (WHC), color, pH and Warner-Bratzler shear force value (W-BSFV) were analyzed for meat quality characteristics of the raw meat samples. Total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, total psychrophilic bacteria, numbers of microorganisms assessed critically for food safety such as coliform bacteria, E. coli, Enterococcus spp. Campylobacter spp. also, the presence of Salmonella spp. in carcasses was determined. The results indicated that the skin colors of the fillets and drumsticks were yellower and the meat color of the drumsticks was darker in the DPM group than CWM. On the other hand, no significant effects of the plucking method were detected on the WHC and W-BSFV of the samples. The pH value of the fillets was higher in CWM group (P<0.01), but there were no differences between the pH values of drumsticks of two groups. The microorganism levels, however, were influenced significantly (P<0.01) by the plucking methods and the storage time. The shelf life of the carcasses was shortened, due to the high microbial load in DPM group. It is concluded that simple DPM may be used by low capacity farms which produce the broilers for consumers who prefer yellow-skinned chicken meat at the expense of reduction in the shelf life due to increased microbial load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Conservation practices promoted soil aggregation and organic carbon accumulation. • Macroaggregate carbon was a major contributor to soil organic carbon. • Conservation practices enhanced mineral protection of organic carbon. • Conservation practices reduced the microbial network complexity within aggregates. • The joint role of soil minerals and microbes modulates organic carbon accumulation. Soil aggregates with spatially heterogeneous microenvironments influence microbial communities and mineral protection in agricultural soils and play a pivotal role in soil organic carbon (OC) turnover. However, the mechanisms through which conservation practices affect microbial properties and mineral protection to regulate soil OC accumulation at the aggregate scale has not been determined in the black soil region of Northeast China. Here, we investigated the potential mechanisms of soil OC accumulation in two sets of conservation (Cons) and conventional (Conv) soil samples: (1) Cons (no-tillage with straw mulching) and Conv (rotary tillage with straw removal) in a Phaeozem (Lishu County) and (2) Cons (rotary tillage with straw incorporation) and Conv (rotary tillage with straw removal) in a Chernozem (Da'an County). The soil aggregates were classified into three fractions: macroaggregates (0.25–2 mm), microaggregates (0.053–0.25 mm), and silt and clay (< 0.053 mm). Cons significantly increased soil OC by increasing macroaggregate-associated OC. Cons significantly increased the concentrations of free iron oxides (Fe d), iron-bound OC and calcium-bound OC in macro- and microaggregates (except in calcium-bound OC within microaggregates in Lishu) and increased exchangeable calcium (Ca exe) in Da'an. Additionally, Cons significantly increased the relative abundance of Gemmatimonadota in functionally and topologically important (FTI) taxa within macroaggregates. In Da'an, the relative abundance of Ascomycota in FTI taxa within the macroaggregates and microaggregates was significantly greater in Cons. Cons significantly reduced microbial network complexity (except in microaggregates in Lishu). Structural equation modeling indicated that conservation practices regulated stable OC pools accumulation through mineral protection (mainly Ca exe and Fe d) and network complexity to increase macroaggregate-associated OC. Our findings emphasize the joint role of soil minerals and microbes in increasing soil OC through the modulation of macroaggregate-associated OC accumulation, which has important implications for enhancing soil quality and improving agricultural sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stockpiles of technosols constructed from mixtures of silt and compost represent a sustainable practice in urban planning. • Conventional agronomic indicators of soil fertility only assess the initial importance of parent materials. • Complementary to agronomic indicators, N-related microbial properties disguised an accurate assessment of fertility dynamics. Excavation of agricultural topsoils traditionally used in city landscaping results in strong environmental impacts and a rarefaction of peri -urban fertile soils. The construction of fertile technosols in a circular economy approach using urban wastes is an attractive alternative to such unsustainable practices. However, these soils have specific characteristics, such as rapid pedogenesis and strong influence of parental materials, that conventional agronomic indicators may overlook. Here we investigated 21 monitoring indicators during the 24 months maturation of nine stockpiles of constructed technosols, differing on initial compost proportions and presence of prairial cover. We compared standard agronomic measurements to pools of inorganic nitrogen (N inorg) and to various microbial related parameters. Carbon Substrate-Induced Respiration was used as proxy for active microbial biomass. We focused on three N-cycling microbial activities associated to N inorg available to plants: free-living bacteria nitrogen fixation, nitrification and denitrification enzyme activities. The relative abundances of microbial genes associated with all these activities were also measured to evaluate microbial total and N-specific populations. Conventional agronomic parameters disclosed the importance of the initial proportions of compost and of the prairial cover but failed to monitor the temporal dynamic of technosols fertility. The monitoring of microbial parameters complemented these assessments, revealed the differences in N-fertility among technosols and informed on the maturation 18 months after establishment. This work provides new insights into the understanding of the maturation of silt and compost mixtures. Furthermore, these results highlight the potential of microbial indicators to improve the management of technosols constructed for urban landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-thermal methods can be used to reduce the adverse effects of conventional thermal pasteurization on food. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ultrasound method regarding the effect of the three variables of ultrasound power (10, 105, and 200 watts), ultrasound temperature (0, 30, and 60 °C), and ultrasound duration (2, 6 and 10 min) on microbial load as well as total phenol content of sour cherry juice. According to the results, the most effective treatment in preserving the quality characteristics and the highest phenol content of all sour cherry juice samples was the pasteurized treatment by ultrasonic method with 10-watt power, 0 °C, and 6 min. It was assumed that by increasing the ultrasound power from 10 to 200 watts, the ultrasound temperature from 0 to 60 °C, and the ultrasound duration from 2 to 10 min, the total microbial count and the populations of coliforms, and mold and yeast decreased significantly (p

T Ni(II) complexes of Schiff's base macrocyclic ligands i.e. 2,3,9,10-tetraphenyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradeca-1,3,8,10-tetraene (BDP), 2,4,10,12-tetramethyl-1,5,9,13 tetraazacyclohexadeca-1,4,9,12-tetraene (ADP) and 2,3,9,10-tetramethyl-1,4,8,11 tetraazatetradeca-1,3,8,10-tetraene (DDP) have been synthesized. All these synthesized complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility measurement, IR and UV-Visible spectral studies. On the basis of elemental analysis, the complexes have been found to have the general composition Ni(Lig)X2 where Lig = BDP, ADP, DDP and X = Cl-, SO42- and NCS-. Molar conductance of complexes has been measured in DMSO solvent and the obtained values indicate non-electrolytic nature of all complexes i.e. counter ions are present inside the coordination sphere. Magnetic moments and electronic spectral data suggested six coordinated octahedral geometry for the Ni(II) complexes. The ligand field parameters have been calculated for metal complexes by using various energy level diagrams. In vitro synthesized complexes have been examined against the growth of the some plant pathogenic fungi in order to assess their microbial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional thermal pasteurization may cause pigment degradation as well as loss of nutritional value of fruit juices. It is therefore essential to develop non-thermal pasteurization methods to maximize retention of bioactive compounds while minimizing color changes in sour cherry juices. Ultrasound is an emerging non-thermal technology that could ensure microbial safety and extended shelf-life of fruit juices without having negative effect on their phytonutrient content. The aim of present study was to investigate the non-thermal method of ultrasound and the effect of three variables of ultrasound power (10, 105 and 200 W), ultrasound temperature (0, 30 and 60 ° C) and ultrasound time (2, 6 and 10 minutes) on Microbial load and Color properties of whole sour cherry juice and its comparison with heat treatment (90 ° C, 30 s). Examination of color parameters showed that with increasing ultrasonic power from 10 to 200 watts, ultrasonic temperature from zero to 60 ° C and ultrasonic time from 2 to 10 minutes, the amount of a *, b *, L * and microbial contamination in pasteurized sour cherry juice significantly (p≤0.05) decreased. Also, in sour cherry juice samples pasteurized by ultrasonic method in optimal conditions (ultrasonic power 109 watts, temperature 60 ° C and time 9.5 minutes) no microorganisms grow and no significant difference was observed between the microbial load of the samples with the pasteurized sample. and also the color parameters (L *, b * and a *) of the sample pasteurized by ultrasound method was higher in optimal conditions. According to these results, it can be said that the use of ultrasound in optimal conditions in pasteurization of sour cherry juice, in addition to reducing microbial contamination of this food product, effectively preserves color compounds such as anthocyanins in sour cherry juice. Therefore, the sample was more desirable in terms of quality properties than the pasteurized sample at 90 ° C for 30 seconds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to establish the dry aging period of beef loin in an electric field refrigeration system. Beef loins (Korea quality grade 2) were dry aged at 0, −1, and −2 °C temperature in an electric field refrigeration system (air velocity, 5 ± 2 m/s) and aging stopped as the value of TPC reached 7 log CFU/g. Samples were examined by aging yield, trimming yield, pH, color, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking yield, shear force, total plate count (TPC), 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and volatile basic nitrogen (VBN). The results for aging yield, trimming yield, redness, yellowness, and chroma decreased with increasing the dry aging period. Contrariwise, those for pH, lightness, hue angle, WHC, and cooking yield increased with the dry aging period. In shear force, the lowest value occurred at four weeks at all temperatures. The results for TPC, TBARS, and VBN increased with aging period, and VBN at 6 weeks at 0 °C and 9 weeks at −1 °C exceed the standard value (20 mg/100 g), while dry aging temperature had an effect on physico-chemical and storage properties by lower temperatures showed slower progress. Therefore, dry aging on an electric field refrigerate system can be used until 4 weeks at 0 °C, 8 weeks at −1 °C, and 10 weeks at −2 °C. However, considering physico-chemical properties, 4 weeks at every temperature is suitable for manufacturing soft dry-aged beef loin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The migration and transformation mechanisms of arsenic (As) in soil environments necessitate an understanding of its influencing processes. Here, we investigate the subsurface biogeochemical transformation of As and iron (Fe) through amended in the top 20 cm with iron oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) and organic fertilizer (OF). Our comprehensive 400-day field study, conducted in a calcareous soil profile sectioned into 20 cm increments, involved analysis by sequential extraction and assessment of microbial properties. The results reveal that the introduction of additional OF increased the release ratio of As/Fe from the non-specific adsorption fraction (136.47 %) at the subsoil depth (40–60 cm), underscoring the importance of sampling at various depths and time points to accurately elucidate the form, instability, and migration of As within the profile. Examination of bacterial interaction networks indicated a disrupted initial niche in the bottom layer, resulting in a novel cooperative symbiosis. While the addition of FeOB did not lead to the dominance of specific bacterial species, it did enhance the relative abundance of As-tolerant Acidobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes in both surface (39.2 % and 38.76 %) and deeper soils (44.29 % and 23.73 %) compared to the control. Consequently, the amendment of FeOB in conjunction with OF facilitated the formation of poorly amorphous Fe (hydr)oxides in the soil, achieved through abiotic and biotic sequestration processes. Throughout the long-term remediation process, the migration coefficient of bioavailable As within the soil profile decreased, indicating that these practices did not exacerbate As mobilization. This study carries significant implications for enhancing biogeochemical cycling in As-contaminated Sierozem soils and exploring potential bioremediation strategies. The long-term exposure of sewage irrigation has potential adverse effects on the local ecosystem, causing serious environmental problems. Microorganisms play a vital role in the migration and transformation of arsenic in calcareous soil in arid areas, which highlights the necessity of understanding its dynamics. The vertical distribution, microbial community and fate of arsenic in calcareous farmland soil profile in northwest China were studied through field experiments. The results of this work have certain significance for the remediation of arsenic-contaminated soil in arid areas, and provide new insights for the migration, transformation and remediation of arsenic in this kind of soil. [Display omitted] • Vertical distribution of As and bacterial communities were studied. • Addition of FeOB and OF for remediation. • FeOB promoted the formation of amorphous iron oxides. • As bioavailability increase sharply in the deeper layers of treatment. • Acidobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes abundance increased by adding the bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over-fertilization has a significant impact on soil microbial properties and its ecological environment. However, the effects of long-term fertilization on microbial properties on a large scale are still vague. This meta-analysis collected 6211 data points from 109 long-term experimental sites in China to evaluate the effects of fertilizer type and fertilization duration, as well as soil and climate conditions, on the effect sizes on various microbial properties and indices. The organic fertilizers combined with straw (NPKS) and manure (NPKM) had the highest effect sizes, while the chemical fertilizers N (sole N fertilizer) and NPK (NPK fertilizer) had the lowest. When compared with the control, NPKM treatment had the highest effect size, while N treatment had the lowest effect size on MBN (111% vs. 19%), PLFA (110% vs. −7%), fungi (88% vs. 43%), Actinomycetes (97% vs. 44%), urease (77% vs. 25%), catalase (15% vs. −11%), and phosphatase (58% vs. 4%). NPKM treatment had the highest while NPK treatment had the lowest effect size on bacteria (123% vs. 33%). NPKS treatment had the highest while N treatment had the lowest effect sizes on MBC (77% vs. 8%) and invertase (59% vs. 0.2%). NPKS treatment had the highest while NPK treatment had the lowest effect size on the Shannon index (5% vs. 1%). The effect sizes of NPKM treatment were the highest predominantly in arid regions because of the naturally low organic carbon in soils of these regions. The effect sizes on various microbial properties were also highly dependent on soil texture. In coarse-textured soils the effect sizes on MBC and MBN peaked sooner compared with those of clayey or silty soils, although various enzymes were most active in silty soils during the first 10 years of fertilization. Effect sizes on microbial properties were generally higher under NPKM and NPKS treatments than under NPK or N treatments, with considerable effects due to climate conditions. The optimal field fertilizer regime could be determined based on the effects of fertilizer type on soil microorganisms under various climate conditions and soil textures. This will contribute to the microbial biodiversity and soil health of agricultural land. Such controls should be used for adaptation of fertilization strategies to global changes.

Background and Objectives Falafel is one of the most popular artisanal foods in Iran, especially in Khouzestan province. However, no comprehensive study has been performed to evaluate its microbiological and chemical properties. This study aims to evaluate microbiological and chemical properties of falafel samples collected from street food market in Ahvaz, Iran. Subjects and Methods Microbiological tests including total viable count (TVC), psychrophilic count, Escherichia coli test, staphylococcus aureus test, coliform count, bacillus cereus test, Salmonella test, and mold count were performed to evaluate microbiological properties of falafel samples (cooked and uncooked). The chemical properties were assessed by performing protein test, ash, carbohydrate, lipid, salt, peroxide, and acidity tests. All tests were done according to the methods described by the Institute of Standards & Industrial Research of Iran (ISIRI). Results Microbiological tests revealed that TVC (108 cfu/g), coliform count (3.7×10³ cfu/g) and mold count (1.3×10³ cfu/g) were significantly higher than the amounts set by the ISIRI (P<0.05), indicating high contamination of uncooked falafel samples. The major problems observed by chemical tests was the high content of lipid (20.11%) and peroxide value (47.85 meq/kg) which were significantly higher than the values set by the ISIRI (P<0.05). Conclusion Microbiological and chemical properties of falafel are poor, indicating the poor hygienic conditions of its preparation in street food market. We recommend more attention to and supervision on the preparation of artisanal foods such as falafel in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining optimum quality and eliminating dates of contamination, cleanup and packaging to extend the shelf life is one of the country's priorities and policies. Edible coatings with vegetable oils are one way to prevent the growth of microorganisms. In this study, the influence of the coating with natural zein and chitosan polymers along with the essential oil of Roman anise on the microbial behavior of Matsafati dates during one-year storage at 2 and 4 °C and a second year at 10 °C was examined. The results showed that the microbial sample of Bam region with 32% moisture content had a high microbial burden. Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, and Alternaria alternata were growing on it. These fungi, especially Aspergillus niger were involved in the rotting and lactic acid bacteria were involved in the rancidity of Mazafat dates. In this study, the number of Aspergillus niger fungi using edible coatings of zein and chitosan as well as anise oil in three logarithmic cycles was reduced and the Penicillium fungi were eliminated. In general, the lowest microbial growth was observed in zein treatment and the highest in the control sample. The use of anise oil had the effect of reducing the total count of microorganisms. According to microbial results, the use of zein treatment is recommended.

Background and Objectives Falafel is one of the most popular artisanal foods in Iran, especially in Khouzestan province. However, no comprehensive study has been performed to evaluate its microbiological and chemical properties. This study aims to evaluate microbiological and chemical properties of falafel samples collected from street food market in Ahvaz, Iran. Subjects and Methods Microbiological tests including total viable count (TVC), psychrophilic count, Escherichia coli test, staphylococcus aureus test, coliform count, bacillus cereus test, Salmonella test, and mold count were performed to evaluate microbiological properties of falafel samples (cooked and uncooked). The chemical properties were assessed by performing protein test, ash, carbohydrate, lipid, salt, peroxide, and acidity tests. All tests were done according to the methods described by the Institute of Standards & Industrial Research of Iran (ISIRI). Results Microbiological tests revealed that TVC (108 cfu/g), coliform count (3.7×10³ cfu/g) and mold count (1.3×107#179; cfu/g) were significantly higher than the amounts set by the ISIRI (P<0.05), indicating high contamination of uncooked falafel samples. The major problems observed by chemical tests was the high content of lipid (20.11%) and peroxide value (47.85 meq/kg) which were significantly higher than the values set by the ISIRI (P<0.05). Conclusion Microbiological and chemical properties of falafel are poor, indicating the poor hygienic conditions of its preparation in street food market. We recommend more attention to and supervision on the preparation of artisanal foods such as falafel in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Due to development of dairy industries, consumption of Doogh in Iran as a functional fermented beverage is increasing. On the other hand in case of using the preservatives to reduce the microbial contamination in Doogh may rising the risk of chronic diseases during long time. In this study, the protective effect of natamycin as preservative on microbial population in Iranian Doogh at different storing temperatures extensively investigated. Methods: Microbial analyses included total count of microorganisms, population of fungi (mold and yeast), coliforms, Escherichia coli, coagulase positive staphylococci, and lactic acid bacteria on Doogh samples were extensively evaluated. Results: Microbial population in Doogh samples stored at 4 °C in both treatments )with and without natamycin( was less when compare to samples stored at 25 °C and 35 °C during the shelf life period. At 25 °C, natamycin was able to significantly (P Conclusion: According to the findings, it can be concluded that paying attention to the microbial quality of raw milk, heat treatment and cooling system during transportation, environmental hygienic conditions, as well as the storage condition of the final product at refrigerated temperatures by food retailers and consumers can effectively reduce the microbial population of Doogh and preventing the spoilage.

The present investigation was carried out to study the soil microbial dynamics and enzyme activities as influenced by organic nutrients management in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] under Typic Haplustepts soil of Rajasthan. The experiment comprised 12 treatment combinations of organic source of nutrients, i. e. control (T1), 100% RDF (T2), 100% FYM (T3), 100% vermicompost (T4), 100% compost (T5), 100% green-leaf manure (T6), 50% FYM + 50% vermicompost (T7), 50% FYM + 50% compost (T8), 50% FYM + 50% green-leaf manure (T9), 50% vermicompost + 50% compost (T10), 50% vermicompost + 50% green leaf manure (T11) and 50% compost + 50% green-leaf manure (T12). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with four replications. The soil microbial population (bacterial, fungal, actinomycetes) at 30 DAS, 60 DAS, dehydrogenase activity and alkaline phosphatase activity of soil significantly influenced due to organic nutrient fertilization, viz. 100% vermicompost treatment (T4) in pooled analysis. However, the application of 100% vermicompost (T4) on bacterial population, fungal population, actinomycetes population of soil at 30 DAS and 60 DAS was found statistically at par with the application of 50% FYM + 50% vermicompost (T7), 50% FYM + 50% compost (T8), 50% vermicompost + 50% compost (T10) and 50% vermicompost + 50% green-leaf manure (T11) in pooled analysis.

This study focused on the physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics of soils from different grasslands in the Budapest area. Our aim was to assess the influence of anthropogenic activities on these soils by comparing three types of site: urban, green‐urban and non‐urban. From these sites, a total of 72 topsoil samples were collected and analysed. The results indicated that many properties of soils varied greatly between the different types of site. Urban soils had significantly higher pH, carbonate and salt content, but smaller organic carbon content than the other soils. These differences could be explained in part by the greater artefact content, as the latter was significantly correlated with most of the main soil properties. Concentrations of the heavy metals measured (Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) were generally smaller in non‐urban soils. In urban and green‐urban soils, Cu, Cr, Ni and Pb levels were above the natural background levels, due to anthropogenic inputs in the city. Results of microbiological analyses were controversial. According to most probable number (MPN), there was no significant difference between types of site for bacterial and fungal numbers in soil. However, dehydrogenase activity and the number of bacterial cells were larger in non‐urban than in urban soils. It was also found that microbial parameters were influenced by many soil properties, for example organic matter and macronutrient (N, P, K) content of soils, the presence and amount of artefacts and metal concentrations in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, edible coatings made of gelatin from the skin and waste of sturgeon and extract of Portulaca oleracea were used for fish sausages. The results showed that the extracted gelatin had a good solubility and could be used as a biopolymer for the fabrication of edible coatings. Then, the mixed solution of gelatin and extract were used to coat the fish sausage samples. The chemical, microbial, and sensory properties of the coated/uncoated fish sausages were studied during the storage. The results showed that the sausage samples coated with a gelatin solution (concentration of 3%) in the presence of 1.5% Portulaca oleracea extract had a better shelf life, microbial attributes, chemical properties, and sensory acceptance compared to other samples. In the case of lipid oxidation, the lowest thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) value was related to the sample which was coated with 3% gelatin coating containing 1.5% of extract. The highest amount of TBARS at day 30 of storage was found with control sample which was not coated. These results suggested that the edible coating made of sturgeon skin gelatin and extract from Portulaca oleracea plant can be effectively used to improve the quality and shelf-life of different food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors controlling dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrogen (DON) production in degraded fen peatlands remains largely equivocal. Thus, the purpose of this research was to determine whether short-term changes in DOC and DON content and microbial properties are related to variations in weather conditions, soil properties and human activity. The study was conducted in May and September 2017–2019 to determine the seasonal variations in the abovementioned parameters in soil layers (0–30 cm) of a long-term agricultural peatland additionally affected by open-pit mining. We found that the most critical environmental factors that shape microbial community structure and activity are air temperature and precipitation, which explained 59.9% of the variability. Air temperature was also the most important explanatory factors for DOC and DON variation, which explained 18.9% of the total variability. Moreover, in the case of DOC and DON production, significant positive correlations with soil organic carbon content (DOC r = 0.46, p

• Positive priming effects were found in limestone soils. • Negative priming effects were found in clastic rock soils. • Soil geochemistry, C accessibility and F:B ratio drive of priming effect. Lithology is a pivotal factor in controlling soil organic carbon (C) stabilization. The decomposition of soil organic matter can be potentiated by plant C inputs, a phenomenon termed the 'priming effect' (PE), which is a crucial yet highly unpredictable factor in soil C dynamics. However, our understanding of lithology's influence on soil PE remains scant. Here, we quantified soil priming effects in forest soils with different lithology (limestone and clastic rock). Our findings reveal a positive PE intensity in limestone soils, averaging at 0.34 ± 0.28 mg CO 2 -C/g SOC. Conversely, clastic rock soils exhibited a negative PE intensity, averaging at −0.38 ± 0.48 mg CO 2 -C-1 g SOC. Glucose amendment primed 189.2 % more organic C from the limestone soil than from the clastic rock. Greater PE intensity is associated with higher soil pH, exchangeable calcium/magnesium and lower short-range order iron/aluminum minerals, simple SOC chemical structures, lower iron– and calcium–associated C, dissolved organic C and fungi:bacteria ratio. Additionally, the magnitude and direction of priming effect was negatively correlated with the ratio of fungal to bacterial growth on glucose, and microbial C use efficiency, but correlated positively with total oxidative enzyme activity. Our results provide evidence that priming effects intensity is inherently dependent on lithology, carrying significant implications for refining C cycling models amid changing environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yogurt is an ideal source of gut microbes. Newly formulated six yogurt samples apart from control were prepared using 10 % and 20 % of coconut milk as partial substitute of milk; followed by incorporation of date molasses (10 %, 15 % and 20 %). Samples were analyzed for physicochemical properties such as moisture, ash, fat, protein, total solids (TS), total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity, total phenolic contents (TPC) along with microbial and sensory properties. pH, acidity and microbiological characteristics were examined on the 1st and 7th day (refrigeration at 4°C). A significant (p<0.05) decrease in moisture content (ranged- 69.06% to 76.12%) in enriched samples was observed in comparison with control (80.33%). Significant (p<0.05) positive effect of treatment in TS, TSS, fat, protein, ash and TPCs of yogurt samples had been noticed. pH and acidity for each treatment level were not significant (p<0.05) in paired comparison (1st day and 7th day) but the significant effect of treatments in pH and acidity (p<0.05) was marked. The total coliform count was observed as nil in control and experimental yogurt at 1st and 7th day (storage at 4°C). For all developed samples, total viable bacteria count at 7th day was significantly higher than that of at 1st day (p-value < 0.05). However, these results were significantly lower than in controlled sample. Yogurt formulated using 10% coconut milk followed by 20% date molasses revealed significant higher value for taste, flavor and overall acceptability (p<0.05) but color and texture change were not significant (p<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to establish the dry aging period of beef loin in an electric field refrigeration system. Beef loins (Korea quality grade 2) were dry aged at 0, −1, and −2 °C temperature in an electric field refrigeration system (air velocity, 5 ± 2 m/s) and aging stopped as the value of TPC reached 7 log CFU/g. Samples were examined by aging yield, trimming yield, pH, color, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking yield, shear force, total plate count (TPC), 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and volatile basic nitrogen (VBN). The results for aging yield, trimming yield, redness, yellowness, and chroma decreased with increasing the dry aging period. Contrariwise, those for pH, lightness, hue angle, WHC, and cooking yield increased with the dry aging period. In shear force, the lowest value occurred at four weeks at all temperatures. The results for TPC, TBARS, and VBN increased with aging period, and VBN at 6 weeks at 0 °C and 9 weeks at −1 °C exceed the standard value (20 mg/100 g), while dry aging temperature had an effect on physico-chemical and storage properties by lower temperatures showed slower progress. Therefore, dry aging on an electric field refrigerate system can be used until 4 weeks at 0 °C, 8 weeks at −1 °C, and 10 weeks at −2 °C. However, considering physico-chemical properties, 4 weeks at every temperature is suitable for manufacturing soft dry-aged beef loin.

Background: Saffron roast chicken is one of the most popular and delicious foods in Iran, which is prepared from a mixture of saffron with chicken meat and then cooking the mixture. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of saffron on the chicken meat stored at refrigerator temperature. Methods: After mixing chicken meat with saffron powder stigma, the microbial, physicochemical and texture factors such as Staphylococcus aureus, Fecal coliforms, mold and yeast, pH, water holding capacity (WHC), percentage of cooking loss, lipid oxidation (TBARs) and textural profile analysis were measured. All of these experiments were carried out during the storage period. Results: In samples treated with saffron, TBARs (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) were less than control samples, and other parameters had no significant difference with the control sample. The overall conclusion is based on this principle that saffron reduces fat oxidation in chicken breast meat during storage, but has no statistically significant effect compared to the control sample in relation to other microbial parameters and texture quality. No antimicrobial activity was observed due to the lack of use of saffron as an aqueous or alcoholic extract. Conclusion: Saffron stigma powder can be considered as an improving agent of physico-chemical characteristics of chicken meat.

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Excessive consumption of red meat is associated with various diseases including coronary heart diseases and cancer. Lower health-related problems of chicken meat, consumption of chicken meat, and mechanically deboned chicken meat (MDCM) have been increased due to their cheaper prices. Thereby, chemical, microbial, and physical causes of chicken meat losses and the safety aspects are needed to be fully considered to save food by improved application of chicken meat and its by-product. This study investigated the effects of chicken classes, layer, and broiler, and different carcass cuts, fillet, skeleton, and the whole carcass, on physicochemical, protein, fat, ash, moisture, pH, and peroxide, and microbiological, total plate counts, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Campylobacter, and Salmonella, characteristics as well as introducing content changes of metal elements iron, calcium (Ca), lead, cadmium, and arsenic in MDCM. The highest values of physicochemical characteristics, calcium, iron, and heavy metals were observed in deboned layer chicken carcass and deboned broiler skeleton (p<0.05). Although Escherichia coli was detected in all of the treatments, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacter contamination were found only in the deboned layer and broiler skeleton. In conclusion, the application of MDCM by-products in meat products without thermal processing is not recommended. The broiler and layer skeleton MDCMs are not suitable for human consumption due to the high contents of heavy metals. However, the whole carcasses of layer chickens are suitable to be mutually used in MDCM at the end of the egg laying period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of edible coarse/nanoemulsions of alginate as coating containing Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oil (ZEO) on the microbial quality of fish fillets was investigated at three concentrations (i.e. 0.25%, 0.5% and 1% [w/v]) in 16 days of storage at 4°C. Moreover, a comparison was made between the fabricated coarse emulsion and nanoemulsion coatings by particle size and polydispersity index analyses. Sample analysis was performed with regard to total viable count (TVC), total psychrophilic count (TPC), hydrogen sulphide‐producing bacteria count (HSC) and Enterobacteriaceae count (ENC) on days 0, 4, 8, 12 and 16. According to the findings, all the samples showed increased microbial counts during the storage periods. The highest reduction rates of TVC (about 2 log CFU/g), TPC (about 1 log CFU/g), HSC (about 1.5 log CFU/g) and ENC (about 3 log CFU/g) were observed in the nanoemulsion of alginate containing 1% w/v ZEO (NE 1%) samples, compared with alginate and control samples. The microbial growth was significantly inhibited in all treatments, compared with that in the control (p <.05). Accordingly, it can be concluded that nanoemulsion coating was more effective than coarse emulsion to prolong the durability of fish fillets and revealed a faster and greater inhibition of microbial flora, compared with coarse emulsions during the storage time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is widely used as a food flavoring. The essential oil of this plant has antimicrobial effects on some foodborne pathogens. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of basil essence on the microbial and sensory properties of traditional Iranian white cheese during the period. METHODS: Cheese samples were prepared from local producers with concentrations of 0, 150 and 250 ppm of basil essential oil. On day 0, 15, 30, 60 and 90, the cheese samples were tested for the number of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, and also on the 90th ripening day for the sensory characteristics. RESULTS: The results of microbial assays showed that concentrations of 150 and 250 ppm of basil essential oil had a significant (P<0.05) inhibitory effect on aerobic mesophilic bacteria in the 60 and 90 days of ripening; meanwhile, the significant (P<0.05) inhibitory effect on the population of coliforms was observed on days 30, 60 and 90. Moreover, the concentration of 150 ppm of basil essential oil on day 90 and the concentration of 250 ppm on days 30, 60 and 90 demonstrated a significant (P<0.05) inhibitory effect on the population of Staphylococcus aureus. Sensory evaluation revealed that concentrations of the essential oil had no significant effect on the sensory properties of the samples. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that the above concentrations of basil essential oil can be used as a natural preservative in Iranian traditional White cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term fertilization alters soil microbiological properties and then affects the soil organic carbon (SOC) pool. However, the interrelations of SOC with biological drivers and their relative importance are rarely analyzed quantitatively at aggregate scale. We investigated the contribution of soil microbial biomass, diversity, and enzyme activity to C pool in soil aggregate fractions (>5 mm, 2–5 mm, 1–2 mm, 0.25–1 mm, and 0.25 mm aggregates rather than in 0.25 mm aggregates explained 21% and 2% of C, respectively. Overall, organic matter addition could contribute to higher C storage by boosting fungal community and enzyme activity rather than by changing microbial community diversity in macro-aggregates.

Six commercial natural honeys available on the Polish market were characterised with respect to their geographical and floral origins, physicochemical parameters and microbial properties. The study focused on a determination of the activity of the main enzymes, antioxidant capacity and identification of antimicrobial effects. Fructose was the predominant sugar in all tested honeys. The largest amount of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) was found in eucalyptus honey. It was found that thyme honey was characterised by the highest values of diastase number, invertase activity, antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content. A very week correlation between the antioxidant properties of tested honeys and their antimicrobial action against tested bacteria was observed. M. luteus and P. putida were resistant to most honey samples. All tested honeys showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and P. myxofaciens. B. subtilis was resistant only to eucalyptus honey.