Showing papers in "Bulletin of the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca in 2020"

An overview of saponins - a bioactive group.

Abstract: Saponins are an important group of plant secondary metabolites that are widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. These biomolecules can be divided into two main classes represented by triterpenoid and steroid glycosides whose structure varies according to the number of sugar units attached in different positions. Despite saponins have been historically considered as anti-nutritional factors, recent studies have indicated that some saponin stereoisomers may show a number of pharmacological activities, such as anti-tumor, antioxidative, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, and neuro-protective activities. Nerveless, more attention in studying this group is necessary due to the fact that many active mechanisms are not fully elucidated. To have a systematic overview of saponin compounds, this review will describe the main aspects related to their structure, bioactivities and potential applications.

Mini Review About Monosodium Glutamate

Abstract: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is salt of sodium and glutamic acid. It is most commonly known as a flavouring enhancer in food processing, which provides umami taste that intensifies the meaty, savory flavor of food, as naturally occurring glutamate does in foods such as stews and meat soups. The amino acid glutamic acid it is naturally presents in food. Globally, commercial MSG’s consumption is increasing, markable high in Asia. Likewise, its production has known improvements regarding both method and technical equipment. Although MSG’s safety was evaluated by international organizations (EFSA, FDA) as safe and the limits were set up, there are studies concern about its side effects such as obesity, asthma, migraine headache, etc. The European Union classifies it as a food additive permitted in certain foods and subject to quantitative limits. The increase in commercially MSG use has raised the concern of both scientists and consumers about its safety. Therefore, due to a need of full comprehension about MSG, it is necessary to give more attention in studying it. Advantage in the development of analysis methods and technical equipments should be exploited to obtain higher accuracy result. This review provides a brief and general information about MSG with updates in its research.

Antioxidant Activity of Some Edible Flowers Water Extracts from Bulgaria

Abstract: Recently, there has been a considerable interest in finding natural antioxidants from plant materials to replace the synthetic ones. The edible flowers represent a valuable alternative source of bioactive compounds and have been used as food and herbs with increasing interest. The antioxidant properties of 7 edible flowers of the South Bulgaria, including Viola tricolor L., Cucurbita pepo L., Sambucus nigra L., Calendula officinalis L., Hibiscus rosasinensis L., Rosa damascena Mill., and Allium ursinum L. were evaluated. The contents of flower chemicals, such as total phenolics and total flavonoids content, were determined as well. By comparing decoction and infusion as methods of extraction, the decoction ones revealed to be the most appropriate in respect of the evaluated compounds. The results showed that the highest antioxidant activity was found in the Rosa damascena and Viola tricolor ones. The established total polyphenol content and total flavonoids in the decocts of Rosa damascena and Viola tricolor were 56.66 ± 0.48 and 135.82 ± 1.50 mg GAE/g dw and 28.60 ± 0.43 and 15.87± 0.52 mg QЕ/g dw, respectively. The present research extends the traditional knowledge and revealed an opportunity to obtain biological active substances of the nature and edible flowers in particular.

Smart Technologies for Personalized Nutrition and Consumer Engagement (Stance4health Eu H2020 - Funded Project)

Abstract: The overall objective of Stance4Health EU H2020 project is to develop Stance4Health will develop a complete Smart Personalised Nutrition (SPN) service in an interdisciplinary approach through the exchange of knowledge and methods of different disciplines (i.e. nutrition food sciences, nutrition-health sciences, consumer science-social anthropology-psychology, economics and computer sciences, among others) via shared knowledge-interactions. Based on the use of mobile technologies as well as tailored food production that will optimize the gut microbiota activity and long-term consumer engagement. Stance4Health will also increase the health status and well-being of individuals by adopting a longlasting healthy and sustainable dietary behaviour. A huge innovation capacity will be enhanced by creating new market opportunities and bringing other important benefits to the European society from the Circular Economy and the Digitisiting European Industry Focus Areas.

EXCORNSEED EU Project: Separation, Fractionation and Isolation of Biologically Active Natural Substances from Corn Oil and Other Side Streams to Be Used in Food, Specialty Chemicals and Cosmetic Markets

Abstract: The EXCornsEED project combines science, chemistry, biology, engineering and biotechnology tools and knowledge, to develop and validate an integrated process of innovative and highly sustainable extraction/ purification and concentration technologies being integrated in bio-refineries’ side streams in order to recover, characterise and prepare proteins and other bio-active compounds (i.e. peptides, polyphenols, amino acids, fibres, lipid compounds) as ingredients for food, specialty chemicals and cosmetic market. The approach will be upscaled from lab level (few grams, TRL3) up to industrial pilot level (1t/d capacity, TRL5) considering EU strategies for a bio-based economy to transform traditional bioethanol production into future biorefinery concept as well as circular economy, in order to maximize the utilization of industrial by-products.

Interdisciplinary Approach Towards Consumer Acceptability of Flavoured Honey: Case of Young Generation in Slovakia

Abstract: Flavoured honey is an increasingly popular product among consumers. Enriching honey with other healthy ingredients such as spices, herbs, dried fruits, pollen and propolis is a way to create new innovative products, with benefits for both, beekeepers and consumers. The purpose of the study was to test four types of flavoured honey among young consumers segment in Slovakia: honey with cacao, honey with cinnamon, honey with turmeric and honey with pollen, by using an interdisciplinary approach. The research combined sensory analysis, consumer research and laboratory tests methods aiming to find the consumer interest and acceptability of these products. Based on overall sensory analysis, honey with cacao and cinnamon obtained the best evaluations in terms of aroma, taste and colour, while honey with turmeric obtained the worst. Laboratory tests showed that all four types of flavoured honey have higher antioxidant activity than normal pure honey. Communicating these results to consumers partially influenced their preferences. The results of consumer research indicate that flavoured honey was perceived as innovative and natural product and the majority of respondents would buy it.

Studies regarding primary succession in a mine tailing pond from Bozanta, Maramureş County.

Abstract: The objective of this study is to carry out a vegetation study at the Bozanta’s tailing pond, located 5 km away from Baia-Mare.Between 2016 and 2017, using the metric frame, the existing species were identified and the following phytocenothic and population indices were determined: presence, frequency, presence classes, and the average abundance-dominance. Soil samples were taken to perform the following physico-chemical analyses: pH, P, K, N, humus and heavy metals.The floral inventory shows the presence of six tree species, four species of and 30 herbaceous species. Eleven years after the pond closure, the surface is covered with: 30% vegetation coverage, 35% water gloss and the 35% difference is occupied by arid. The average abundance-dominant synthetic indicator showed that the highest coverage is found in Betula pendula, Salix caprea, and in the grass species, Phragmites australis.The results of physicochemical analyses of the substrate showed very wide ranges of pH and different amounts of phosphorus, potassium and humus, and low amounts of nitrogen. The presence and concentration of the following heavy metals were determined from three samples: Cd, Pb, Ni, Cr. In regards to lead and chromium level, the alert threshold has not been reached.

Rheological Characterization of the Dough with Added Dietary Fiber by Rheometer: A Review

Abstract: Dietary fibers represent a group of food components approved for use in functional foods as they offer health benefits such as a lower risk for coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and constipation. The enriched bread with different sources of fiber is important in the actual market situation, with an increasing consumer aware of health benefits. This paper reviews recent studies dealing with bread dough rheological characterization by rheometer. The focus is on wheat-based dough and gluten-free dough with added dietary fiber, also. Rheological analysis by rheometer is a useful approach to study the effects of dietary fibers on dough behavior showing that fiber incorporation in bread formulation reduces the elasticity of bread and enhances the mechanical properties of bread.

FUNGUSCHAIN EU Project: Extracting Value from the Agricultural Offcuts of Commercial Mushroom Farming

Abstract: FUNGUSCHAIN project is implementing valorisation concepts of mushroom (Agaricus Bisporus) agricultural residues. Therefore, novel cascading approaches will be designed, in order to obtain innovative procedures to receive high value bio-based additives (antioxidants, antimicrobials and proteins), bioplasticizers by lipid conversion as well as biopolymers production from polysaccharides (glucans and fermentable sugars), using the remaining side streams and substrates. Final remaining substrates still being used by composting and/ or biogas synthesis, closing the agricultural cycle accordingly. The demonstration within a new biorefinery, including economical extraction methods, will attempt the industrial viability. At the end of the project, more than 65% of the emerged mushroom by-products/ waste will be valorised into high-value additives. Three key chains within European economy, namely, food, cleaning/cosmetic and plastic market will characterise and further validate the applicability of the obtained products within their production processes under compliance with legal EU and market requirements.

Milk cholesterol reduction at pilot station level using beta-cyclodextrin.

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of cholesterol elimination from milk using betacyclodextrin at pilot station scale, because there is very little information considering this level of milk processing. β-cyclodextrin is a nontoxic, edible and chemically stable compound with affinity for nonpolar molecules like cholesterol, giving the opportunity for obtaining food products that can prevent the appearance of cardiovascular diseases. By applying of this procedure, the cholesterol reduction percentage was calculated as approximately 84 %, similar to the values reported by the specialty literature. Except fat and freezing point values, the other parameters values increased with an approximate percentage of 8, indicating a concentration phenomenon due to milk pasteurization. Fat concentration value decreased with 5.9 %, due to the cholesterol inclusion in the betacyclodextrin molecule and its elimination at the bottom of the centrifugal separator. However the variation of the parameters is insignificant, so this process could be considered efficient to be applied at a pilot station level.

Lipid Nanostructured Particles as Emerging Carriers for Targeted Delivery of Bioactive Molecules: Applications in Food and Biomedical Sciences (An Overview)

Abstract: Lipid nanoparticles are getting a growing scientific and technological interest, worldwide. Either Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs), Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs), Lipid Drug Conjugates (LDCs) or Polymer-Lipid Nanoparticles (PLNs) have been produced and investigated last years, being reccomended as emerging carrier systems for many food and biomedical applications. An overview of the last publications, mainly since 2017 is presented, underlying the most important methods and techniques used for their preparation (e.g. high shear homogenization in hot and cold conditions, ultrasound assisted melt emulsification) as well techniques applied for measuring the size, calorimetric properties, zeta-potential, etc. Most relevant data related to the use of food-grade ingredients and designed lipid nanoparticles as delivery systems for organic and inorganic bioactive molecules in food or packaging’s are presented. The major reason for this trend in food science is the aim to overcome problems associated with the low bioavailability of many lipophilic bioactive compounds which are claimed to bring benefits to human health (carotenoid or anthocyanin pigments, sterols, vitamins). Finally, the recent applications of different formulas of lipid nanoparticles as drug carriers for in vitro experiments or for in vivo therapy (oral, parenteral or transdermal formulas) are presented.

Assessment of the Distribution and Characteristics of the Oldest Forest Stand from the Romanian’s Western Plain

Abstract: The present study analysed the stand of the main forest formations from West Plain based on their composition, age classes, diameters, heights, and the spatial distribution. The stands’ analysis did not limit to the study of the distribution of forest species, but also covers aspects regarding the flora, climate and soil. In short, the study presents both the forest station as well as the forest type. The analysed stands belong to the period 1995-2008, from 121608 ha located in the West Plain. The stands are managed by 13 Forests Districts and contain 151 stand elements older than 120 years.

A review: bacterial diversity, physicochemical factors and quality of compost for white button mushroom cultivation.

Abstract: Composting is an aerobic biotic decomposition route that is governed by physicochemical and microbiological factors. The importance of bacterial flora throughout composting is well recognized. Though, diversity of the bacterial population during composting may differ with the composting material and nutrients content. Therefore, it is essential to study the different types of bacteria during the composting of various agricultural byproducts. The aim of this review is to evaluate the diversity of bacteria, physicochemical factors and quality of compost for cultivation of Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom) for enhancement of better productivity.

Romanian population perception about food risk behavior starting from their social and cultural profile.

Abstract: Our goal was to assess the Romanian’s food behavior according to their socio-cultural profile, in order to identify food behavior at risk and implement educational prevention methods. We performed a study based on the assessment of lifestyle and social aspects, based on an international project validated questionnaire of 26 questions, applied online in 2018 to a group of 821 adults, in Romania. The results underlined that socio-economic status was a contributing factor in food choices, people with low socio-economic status opted for low-price food, especially the elderly (40%). Regarding the preference for eating alone related to gender, both the female respondents (37.8%) and the males (50.6%) mostly disagreed, with statistical significance for males (p<0.022), also males were more influenced about what other people are eating (p<0.045). It is needed to implement new educational strategies, both in schools and adults communities, in order to reduce the risks for future chronic diseases.

The Improved Chemical, Mechanical, Rheological, and Pasting Characteristics of Protein-Rich Brown Rice by Parboiling Process Integrated with Nitrogen Fertilization

Abstract: The effects of nitrogen fertilization (NF, 60-100 kg ha-1) and parboiling operation (soaking temperature (SoT, 50-80°C) and steaming time (StT, 10-15 min)) on the protein content (PC), amylose content (AC), gelatinization temperature (GT), hardness value (HV), peak viscosity (PV), trough viscosity (TV), final viscosity (FV), breakdown (BD), setback (SB) point, peak time (PTi), and pasting temperature (PTe) of brown rice were evaluated. Results showed that the GT, HV, FV, and TV were significantly increased by increasing the NF, SoT, and StT levels. An increase in the SoT and StT levels led to a significant reduction in PC, AC, BD, and TV values. The AC (17.13-16.83%) and PV (1605-1588 cP) values were decreased by increasing the NF level, while the PC (8.78-9.46%) and BD (226.9-247.7 cP) values were increased. Rheological parameters of BD (336.4 cP), FV (3608.5 cP), and SB (1843.5 cP) were notably increased using the combined treatment of 100 kg ha-1 NF and of 80°C SoT. The best triple treatments for the improved GT (5.0 °C), HV (19.37 N), as well as FV (3923 cP), and SB (1949 cP) were 60 kg ha-1 NF+80°C SoT+15 min StT, 100 kg ha-1 NF+80°C SoT+15 min StT, and 100 kg ha-1 NF+80°C SoT+10 min StT, respectively.

Application of the Biolog® Identification System for Aflatoxin-Producing Fungi Associated with Maize (Zea mays L.) Contamination in Romania

Abstract: Cereals are very susceptible to fungal attacks. Fungi have a unique biochemical pathway to assimilate a vast array of available substrates and produce toxic secondary metabolites, such as mycotoxins, which represent a clear public health concern. In this context, a maize survey was conducted in order to assess the diversity of mycotoxin-producing fungi. Low levels of total aflatoxins, acceptable by the European Union, were detected in maize samples. A semi-automated Biolog® Microbial Identification System was used for the identification of the fungal strains. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for the quantification of total aflatoxins. The results indicated that Fusarium udum and Rhizopus oryzae were the prevalent fungi for the assessed maize samples, while both control and treated samples showed low levels of total aflatoxins, which did not exceed 1.5 μg kg-1. The registered total aflatoxin concentrations were consistent with the European regulations.

Wild Herbivore Forage Preferences in Semi-Natural Mountain Hay-Meadows

Abstract: In the context of increasing grassland abandonment we observed wild herbivore impact on the vegetation in order to understand their influence. To quantify semi-natural grassland usage by wild herbivores, we determined grazing intake in semi-natural hay-meadows surrounded by forest vegetation. Grazing exclusion cages were placed at three locations in the Valea Mare village area situated in Bistrița-Năsăud County, Romania, from 1 April 2014 – 5 October 2014. Sampling took place at two times during this period, first shortly before the hay meadows were mowed and second at the end of the vegetation growing season. Herbage air dry matter yield was measured using two types of observation plots (cage protected plots and unprotected plots). Plant composition on the studied hay-meadows was analyzed using PC-ORD (in order to explain the preference of herbivores for each location. Although herbage production did not vary significantly between locations, the herbage intake of total dry matter production did vary between locations. Wild animals grazed through the entire growing season and based upon the floristic composition analyses we explained differences in herbage intake based on plant species preference. The management of these meadows maintains an offer of good quality forage throughout summer, and the forest surrounding grasslands provides cover when needed. In order to inhibit woody vegetation and to conserve speciesrich open landscape further observation need to be made about the optimal deer species densities.

Exploitation and Management of Low Input Grassland Systems

Abstract: By this research the authors aimed to analyse the evolution and management of low-input grassland from a specific area in the Apuseni Mountains, in order to define what can be the result of a low input grassland system on the botanical composition of the grasslands and on the income of the farmers. In addition a full description of Flanders area with special attention to its grassland management is given, such that one can make a comparation between those two different cultures: the Province of East Flanders, Belgium and the area of Apuseni Mountains, Cluj County, Romania. Flanders (Belgium) and the area of Cluj County, Apuseni Mountains (Romania), are completely different not only in terms of their people with their own life-styles and culture, but also in terms of uses and management of arable land and grasslands.

Varietal Evaluation and Clustering of Early Maize Genotypes in Mid-Western Hilly Region of Nepal

Abstract: Eleven early maize (Zea mays) genotypes were evaluated for their yield and yield component traits at the research block of Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS) Lumle, Kaski, Nepal during Kharif season of 2016. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Results showed that all the studied genotypes differed significantly for grain yield as well as other yield component traits except number of kernel per row. Out of tested genotypes COMPOZ-NIPB, EEYC1, POP-445/POP-446 were three top performer genotypes yielding 6.89, 5.38 and 5.19 t ha-1. Early mid Katamari, Rajahar local, Manakamana-5, EEYC1 were statistically at par with Arun-4(standard check) and will be needed further evaluation and improvement by a selection of desirable traits. Eleven genotypes occupied three different clusters and showed that early maize genotypes suggest considerable genetic diversity among themselves. Genotypes belong to cluster one having the highest yield potentials so need to be further evaluation in different location of mid hill and recommended best variety for that domain.

Study Regarding Growing and Development Stages at Soybean Genotypes

Abstract: Soybean is one of the most important sources of vegetable oil and protein. The aim of this study is to evaluate the behavior of 75 European soybean genotypes from four maturity groups regarding the influence of climatic conditions of 2020 on soybean main growing and development stages. The experiment was conducted at the ARDS Turda in 2020, using a complete randomized block design with three replications. Dates of emergence (VE) and beginning of flowering (R1), were recorded for all 75 soybean cultivars from each of the four maturity groups (000 to I). Results obtained show that growing, and development stages of the studied soybean genotypes are according both with: thermal units and daily period from sunrise to sunset. Effects of daylength and temperature on soybean development were estimated. The rate of development to flowering was fastest for the very early genotypes than for genotypes in the semi-early maturity group (MG).

Phytonutrients and Antioxidant Activity of Extracts from Five Edible Flowers Used in Culinary

Abstract: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the natural pigments (chlorophylls, carotenoids and anthocyanins), phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of water and 95% ethanol extracts from five edible flowers snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus), carnation (Dianthus plumarius), garden geranium (Pelargonium hortorum), petunia (Petunia integrifolia) and dahlia (Dahlia decorative). It was found that water extracts gave higher extractive yields. The highest carotenoids and total anthocyanins content were detected in snapdragon and dahlia flowers. The total phenolic content dominated in water extracts of petunia, garden geranium, carnation and snapdragon above 30 mg GAE/g of dry extract. Sinapic acid was detected in all edible flowers. Gallic, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, rosmarinic, sinapic and ferulic acid were detected only in carnation. Antioxidant activity was the highest in ethanol extracts of petunia, garden geranium, carnation by FRAP method. The current study demonstrated the future application of edible flower extracts as a source of antioxidants for culinary purposes.

Effects of Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus on Yield and Yield Components in Different Winter Wheat Genotypes

Abstract: Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus is a Luteovirus disease that affects small grain yields. The climatic conditions of the agricultural year favoured the development of vectors, so that the virus attack caused significant damage on different genotypes. The first visible symptom includes plant stunting and yellowing and purpling, so that plant height was the first traits affected reducing with 24.58 to 44.33 % compared to the unaffected plants. Regarding the main yield components their performance or reduced with 37.89 % to 74.35 % for weight of spike, 33.66 to 87.70% for number of grains per spike and from 50.90 to 88.03 % in case of weight of grains per spike. Grain yield as a complex and most important feature that characterizes a genotype was affected between 49.05 to 87.76 % which suggest that the infection can have a different intensity depending on certain morpho-physiological traits.

Fat Consumption and Related Changes in Micronutrients Intake and Child Anthropometric Development

Abstract: Imbalanced food intake due to high fat consumption tends to have important consequences over general health conditions, regardless of age. The aim of this paper was to analyze fat intake considering the child`s general nutritional needs, micronutrient requirements and the main anthropometric development data. A transversal study has been conducted on a sample of 287 healthy Romanian children aged 36 to 84 months. The sample was divided into: underweight, normal weight and overweight study groups. Among the study subjects, the total fat intake was lower than the daily references depending on gender and age (p=0.0001). Differences were identified between both saturated (p=0.0001) and unsaturated (p=0.0001) fat intake. Saturated fat intake was significantly correlated with the body weight (p=0.0001), the height (p=0.001) and the BMI (p=0.001). Both dietary cholesterol (p=0.018; r=0.189) and saturated fat (p=0.01; r=0.265) were related to individual height. Lack of relationship was seen regarding zinc, selenium, sodium and fat intake (p>0.05). Yet, monounsaturated fat intake was correlated with iron, magnesium and phosphor. Polyunsaturated fat intake was correlated with both phosphorus and potassium in the underweight group. Conclusions: Daily lack of dietary fats have been associated with a significant decrease in growth speed, weight gain and a higher risk of general developmental delay.

Evaluating plant biodiversity in natural and semi-natural areas with the help of aerial drones.

Abstract: In the era of abundant information, wisdom has become a scarce resource. Exploration and measurement of biodiversity yield copious amounts of information fragmented into numerous categories and types, following the pattern of life itself. We aim to review the potential of charting the plant diversity of woodlands, grasslands, marshlands, and other natural and semi-natural areas relevant to conservation by using low-altitude, low-cost, Earth Observation technology, such as small aerial drones, that captures images which can be mapped and analyzed. As this technology is new and quickly evolving, we limited the search to published research between 2012-2019. We have found applications for forestry, agro-forestry, horticulture, grasslands, ecological restoration, and other areas. In terms of technological progress, new hardware components and cameras and new software tools leverage drones’ power to deliver a greater quantity and quality of information. There are promising efforts to develop low-cost drone technology that facilitate better biodiversity conservation results. For analysis, software tools are also improving to take advantage of increases in computing power and artificial intelligence programming. Our findings serve as an introduction to low-cost teledetection for biodiversity conservation, with drones providing an advantage in monitoring habitats by increasing information quantity, accuracy, and ease of analysis with the aid of automation.

Changes in the Chemical Composition of Turkish White Cheese According to Storage TemperatureChanges in the Chemical Composition of Turkish White Cheese According to Storage Temperature

Abstract: The aim of this study is to highlight changes in the chemical composition, namely pH, total dry matter percentage (DM%), total nitrogen and protein, titratable acidity, salt content and biogenic amines, of Turkish white cheese according to storage temperature. The results confirmed that a decrease was observed in pH values of the samples during storage. Titratable acidity was observed to show a trend of increase (P > 0.05). As per these results, there was an increase in DM% in cheese samples stored at all three temperatures, namely 5, 15, and 25°C, on day 11, but a decrease was observed on day 31. An increased trend was seen in samples after day 31. In addition, an increased trend in the amount of salt in the samples, depending on time, was determined. The concentration of biogenic amines, tryptamine, 2-phenylethylamine, putrescine, cadaverine, tyramine, spermidine and spermine, with dominated biogenic amines relate to shelf life, were putrescine, cadaverine, and tyramine, and were increased based on storage temperatures.

Alternaria Genus and the Diseases Caused to Agricultural and Horticultural Plants

Abstract: This work is a bibliographic approach to the historical and most recent taxonomy on Alternaria genus. The genus Alternaria consists largely of species of saprophytic, endophytic and parasitic fungi. The United States Fungal host index ranks the genus Alternaria on the 10th place based on the number of host plants, with over 4,000 species. Govind et al. (2016) tells us that most species of this genus are missing the sexual form, with the exception of a few species, which have, in addition to the anamorphic form, the telemorphic form. With the discovery of several species and due to the superficiality of past research, the inclusion of this genus in the taxonomy has become problematic. At the beginning, the taxonomic classification was performed according to the morphology of the species. This bibliographic approach wants to clarify some of the aspects concerning the old and actual taxonomy ambiguities of Alternaria genus. The method used is consulting the scientific literature. The present reclassification of the species was performed by analysing the DNA of each species in 2013 by Woudenberg et al. and fit the Alternaria species in 25 sections. In 2016 Lawrence et al. added 2 other sections and in 2019 Ghafri et al. forms a new section based on the new species Alternaria omanensis. In conclusion Alternaria genus is now divided in 28 sections, each section contains species that are genetically related. Even though most of the ambiguities have been clarified at present, there are still ambiguities regarding the species within and between sections.

The Effect of Starch and Amidated Pectin on Rheological Behavior of Iota-Carrageenan Gels

Abstract: Experiments were conducted to study the rheological behavior of iota-carrageenan Gels to which potato starch and low-esterified amidated pectin were added. The rheological measurements of carrageenan jellies were performed by a texture analyzer at different concentrations of gelling agent (iota-carrageenan) and fixed concentrations of starch (1.3 %) and pectin (0.3%). Following the experiments, rheological patterns related to rupture force, rupture deformation and firmness of the gels were evaluated. Potato starch and low esterified amidated pectin at certain concentrations do not show synergistic effects with iota-carrageenan. The addition of low esterified amidated pectin or potato starch in iota-carrageenan gel results in a significant reduction in deformation and a minimal reduction in the rupture force.

Evaluation of Anthropical Pressures on Community Interest Habitats and Species in Natura 2000 Cold Someș

Abstract: The list of habitats of community interest within the Natura 2000 site ROSCI0233, as provided in the Natura 2000 standard, comprises 8 habitats of community interest. Two important activities were carried out: identification and inventory of habitats and species and assessment of negative influences that could affect the natural distribution area, the structure and functions. The assessment of the conservation status has highlighted the existence of significant anthropogenic pressures on some habitats (deforestation, land use change), which led to their unfavorable conservation status (habitat 9410, habitat 91D0*, habitat 91E0*, habitat 9110, habitat 9130).

Influence of Organic Fertilization on Nutritional Characteristics and Antioxidant Capacity of Melon Fruits

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the influence of organic fertilization on nutritional characteristics and antioxidant capacity of three melon varieties fruits (Cucumis melo L.) Hybrid 15 F1, Desserten 5, and Galia. The trials were carried out under greenhouse conditions in the infested with root-knot nematodes soil. Galia was grown with mineral fertilization. The other two varieties were treated with organic fertilizers Liquid “Humus Active” during vegetation and Neem cake twice before planting and during flowering. The dry matter, ash, titratable acidity, pH, carbohydrate, protein, lipid content, pigments, total phenols, and total flavonoids, and the antioxidant capacity were evaluated. Desserten 5 demonstrated the highest sugars content – sucrose (5.32 g/100 g), glucose (1.35 g/100 g) and fructose (2.51 g/100 g), as well as the highest carotenoids (90 μg/100 g fw), total phenols (540 mg GAE/100 g fw), and total flavonoids content (73 mg QE/100 g fw) and antioxidant capacity(25 mM TE/100 g). The results revealed that the nutritional value of melon fruits could be improved by using organic fertilization for the production of foods for healthy nutrition.

Identification of molecular markers specific to the bovine species used in the production of food products of animal origin.

Abstract: Molecular markers are a helpful tool for species detection of meat origin, in order to determine with accuracy the possible fraud of animal-based food products. In this study, blood, milk and cheese samples were taken from the Romanian “Bălțata” bovine species. In the blood extraction stage, the commercial Wizard Genomic DNA Extraction Kit was used, and for the milk and cheese extraction, the SureFood®PREP Advanced kit was used. Target DNA amplification in all the three matrices was performed with the StockMarks for Cattle kit. It was found that the analyzed loci had the size of the fragments within the reference range given by the kit used, which concludes that the blood, milk and the cheese have the same origin, from the same animal of the bovine species. Therefore, through the genotyping technique, traceability of food products can be achieved and the species of origin can be identified.