Search Results (2,809)

Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam is a dicotyledonous plant originally from tropical regions, with China and Spain acting as the main producers from outside and within the EU, respectively. The root, including only flesh, is the edible part, and the peel, leaves, stems, or shoots are considered by-products, which are generated due to being discarded in the field and during processing. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a comprehensive review of the nutritional value, phytochemical composition, and health-promoting activities of purple-fleshed sweet potato and its by-products, which lead to its potential applications in bakery products for the development of functional foods. The methodology is applied to the selected topic and is used to conduct the search, review abstracts and full texts, and discuss the results using different general databases. The studies suggested that purple-fleshed sweet potato parts are characterized by a high content of essential minerals and bioactive compounds, including anthocyanins belonging to the cyanidin or the peonidin type. The flesh and leaves are also high in phenolic compounds and carotenoids such as lutein and β-carotene. The high content of phenolic compounds and anthocyanins provides the purple-fleshed sweet potato with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power due to the modulation effect of the transcription factor Nrf2 and NF-kB translocation, which may lead to protection against hepatic and neurological disorders, among others. Furthermore, purple-fleshed sweet potato and its by-products can play a dual role in food applications due to its attractive color and wide range of biological activities which enhance its nutritional profile. As a result, it is essential to harness the potential of the purple-fleshed sweet potato and its by-products that are generated during its processing through an appropriate agro-industrial valorization system. Full article

The production of oak seedlings in intensive crops involves the modification of natural conditions, namely the degree of humidity, through artificial irrigation, which favors the appearance of the pathogen Erysiphe alphitoides, responsible for the Oak Powdery Mildew (OPM) disease. Thus, it is necessary to identify new substances and technologies to control OPM. In this sense, new products approved by the European Union (EU) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) were identified, both synthetic and, a great novelty, biological (based on chito-oligosaccharides-oligogalacturonans: COS-OGA). In order to quantify the results, a correlation was made with climatic factors, by sampling data related to temperature and relative humidity with Data Logger devices. The obtained results suggest that OPM has a high virulence in the temperature range of 20 to 30 °C; at a relative humidity above 75%. The data obtained from the field experiments show that the synthetic products controlled OPM with an effectiveness between 70% and 95%, and the biological product behaved almost similarly, between 60% and 90%, which creates high opportunities for environmentally friendly control of forest pathogens. Full article

The increasing frequency and duration of marine heatwaves (MHWs) due to climate change pose severe threats to aquaculture, causing drastic physiological and growth impairments in farmed fish, undermining their resilience against additional environmental pressures. To ensure sustainable production that meets the global seafood demand and animal welfare standards, cost-effective and eco-friendly strategies are urgently needed. This study explored the efficacy of the red macroalga Asparagopsis taxiformis on juvenile white seabream Diplodus sargus reared under optimal conditions and upon exposure to a MHW. Fish were fed with four experimental diets (0%, 1.5%, 3% or 6% of dried powdered A. taxiformis) for a prophylactic period of 30 days (T30) and subsequently exposed to a Mediterranean category II MHW for 15 days (T53). Biometric data and samples were collected at T30, T53 and T61 (8 days post-MHW recovery), to assess performance indicators, biomarker responses and histopathological alterations. Results showed that A. taxiformis supplementation improved catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities and reduced lipid peroxidation promoted by the MHW, particularly in fish biofortified with 1.5% inclusion level. No histopathological alterations were observed after 30 days. Additionally, fish biofortified with 1.5% A. taxiformis exhibited increased citrate synthase activity and fish supplemented with 1.5% and 3% showed improved digestive enzyme activities (e.g., pepsin and trypsin activities). Overall, the present findings pointed to 1.5% inclusion as the optimal dosage for aquafeeds biofortification with A. taxiformis, and confirmed that this seaweed species is a promising cost-effective ingredient with functional properties and great potential for usage in a climate-smart context. Full article

The fast and effective monitoring of agrochemical residues is essential for assuring food safety, since many agricultural products are sprayed with pesticides and commercialised without waiting for the pre-harvest interval. In this study, we investigated the use of spectral reflectance combined with principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) to evaluate the discrimination of fungicide-contaminated lettuces, considering three maximum residue limits (MRLs) [3.5, 5, and 7 mg carbon disulphide (CS₂) kg⁻¹]. The non-systemic Mancozeb fungicide (dithiocarbamate) was adopted in this research. Spectral reflectance (Vis/NIR) was measured by a hand-held spectrometer connected to a clip probe with an integrating sphere. The lettuce spectra were pre-treated (centring, standard normal variate, and first derivative) before data processing. Our findings suggest that PCA recognised inherent similarities in the fungicide-contaminated lettuce spectra, categorising them into two distinct groups. The PLS-DA models for all MRLs resulted in high accuracy levels, with correct discriminations ranging from 94.5 to 100% for the external validation dataset. Overall, our study demonstrates that spectroscopy combined with discriminating methods is a promising tool for non-destructive and fast discrimination of fungicide-contaminated lettuces. This methodology can be used in industrial food processing, enabling large-scale individual analysis and real-time decision making. Full article

Foods contaminants pose a challenge for food producers and consumers. Due to its spontaneous formation during heating and storage, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a prevalent contaminant in foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Colorimetric assays, such as the Seliwanoff test, offer a rapid and cost-effective method for HMF quantification but require careful optimization to ensure accuracy. We addressed potential interference in the Seliwanoff assay by systematically evaluating parameters like incubation time, temperature, and resorcinol or hydrochloric acid concentration, as well as the presence of interfering carbohydrates. Samples were analyzed using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer in scan mode, and data obtained were validated using HPLC, which also enabled quantification of unreacted HMF for assessing the protocol’s accuracy. Incubation time and hydrochloric acid percentage positively influenced the colorimetric assay, while the opposite effect was observed with the increase in resorcinol concentration. Interference from carbohydrates was eliminated by reducing the acid content in the working reagent. HPLC analyses corroborated the spectrophotometer data and confirmed the efficacy of the proposed method. The average HMF content in balsamic vinegar samples was 1.97 ± 0.94 mg/mL. Spectrophotometric approaches demonstrated to efficiently determine HMF in complex food matrices. The HMF levels detected in balsamic vinegars significantly exceeded the maximum limits established for honey. This finding underscores the urgent need for regulations that restrict contaminant levels in various food products. Full article

The combination of high-density, high-time-resolution inorganic scintillation crystals such as Lutetium Yttrium Oxyorthosilicate (LYSO), Yttrium Orthosilicate (YSO) and Bismuth Germanate (BGO) with Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) sensors is widely employed in medical imaging, particularly in Positron Emission Tomography (PET), as well as in modern particle physics detectors for precisely timing sub-detectors and calorimeters. During the assembly of each module, following individual component testing, the crystals and SiPMs are bonded together using optical glue and enclosed in a light-tight, temperature-controlled cooling box. After integration with the readout electronics, the bonding is initially tested. The final readout electronics typically comprise Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) or low-power Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) and amplifiers, designed not to heat up the temperature-sensitive SiPM sensors. However, these setups are not optimal for testing the optical bonding. Specific setups were developed to test the LYSO + SiPM modules that are already bonded but not enclosed in a box. Through large data collection, small deviations in bonding can be detected if the SiPMs and LYSOs have been thoroughly tested before our measurement. The Monte Carlo simulations we used to study how parameters—which are difficult to measure in the laboratory (LYSO absorption length, refractive index of the coating)—affect the final result. Our setups for particle physics and PET applications are already in use by research institutes and industrial partners. Full article

Background/Objectives: Many patients suffering from liver cirrhosis are eventually added to waiting lists for liver transplantation whose priority is established based on scales such as the Child–Pugh score. However, two marker rhythms of the circadian system, motor activity and distal temperature, are not evaluated. Methods: To determine the relationship between the functional status of the circadian system and the Child–Pugh scale in patients awaiting liver transplantation, distal temperature, motor activity, and light exposure rhythms were monitored for a full week using a wrist device (Kronowise 6.0) in 63 patients (17 women, 46 men) aged between 20 and 76 years. Results: Circadian parameters (amplitude, regularity, and fragmentation) of motor activity rhythms, distal temperature, and light exposure worsen in close association with liver disease severity as assessed by using the Child–Pugh score. Likewise, the worsening of rhythmic parameters and liver disease is associated with a deterioration in the markers of the red series: count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. Conclusions: These results indicate the utility of ambulatory monitoring of marker rhythms to complement the clinical information provided by the Child–Pugh scale and to help establish nutrition, physical exercise, and sleep guidelines that promote better survival and quality of life in these patients. Full article

Monitoring areas susceptible to desertification contributes to the strategic development of regions located in environments of extreme hydric and social vulnerability. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the process of soil degradation in the Desertification Nucleus of Cabrobó (DNC) over the past three decades using remote sensing techniques. This study used primary climatic data from TerraClimate, geospatial data of land use and land cover (LULC), and vegetation indices (SAVI and LAI) via Google Earth Engine (GEE) from Landsat 5/TM and 8/OLI satellites, and established the aridity index (AI) from 1992 to 2022. The results indicated 10 predominant LULC classes with native vegetation suppression, particularly in agriculture and urbanization. SAVI ranged from −0.84 to 0.90, with high values influenced by La Niña episodes and increased rainfall; conversely, El Niño episodes worsened the rainfall regime in the DNC region. Based on the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), it was possible to correlate normal and severe drought events in the DNC with years under the influence of El Niño and La Niña phases. In summary, the AI images indicated that the DNC remained semi-arid and that the transition to an arid region is a cyclical and low-frequency phenomenon, occurring in specific periods and directly influenced by El Niño and La Niña phenomena. The Mann–Kendall analysis showed no increasing trend in AI, with a Tau of −0.01 and a p-value of 0.97. During the analyzed period, there was an increase in Non-Vegetated Areas, which showed a growing trend with a Tau of 0.42 in the Mann–Kendall analysis, representing exposed soil areas. Annual meteorological conditions remained within the climatic pattern of the region, with annual averages of precipitation and actual evapotranspiration (ETa) close to 450 mm and an average temperature of 24 °C, showing changes only during El Niño and La Niña events, and did not show significant increasing or decreasing trends in the Mann–Kendall analysis. Full article

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder whose etiology is not known today, but everything indicates that it is multifactorial. For example, genetic and epigenetic factors seem to be involved in the etiology of ASD. In recent years, there has been an increase in studies on the implications of gut microbiota (GM) on the behavior of children with ASD given that dysbiosis in GM may trigger the onset, development and progression of ASD through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. At the same time, significant progress has occurred in the development of artificial intelligence (AI). Methods: The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review of articles using AI to analyze GM in individuals with ASD. In line with the PRISMA model, 12 articles using AI to analyze GM in ASD were selected. Results: Outcomes reveal that the majority of relevant studies on this topic have been conducted in China (33.3%) and Italy (25%), followed by the Netherlands (16.6%), Mexico (16.6%) and South Korea (8.3%). Conclusions: The bacteria Bifidobacterium is the most relevant biomarker with regard to ASD. Although AI provides a very promising approach to data analysis, caution is needed to avoid the over-interpretation of preliminary findings. A first step must be taken to analyze GM in a representative general population and ASD samples in order to obtain a GM standard according to age, sex and country. Thus, more work is required to bridge the gap between AI in mental health research and clinical care in ASD. Full article

This paper analyzes the possibility of using pomace powder of musky squash (PPMS, 10–30% of the formulation) for the manufacture of foamy confectionery products based on Jerusalem artichoke syrup, which is a natural substitute for sugar syrup used in the food industry. The content of biologically active compounds (polyphenols, carotenoids) as well as the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of pumpkin powder were evaluated. Sensory analysis was applied to measure the degree of product acceptance and the analysis revealed that the optimal amount of PPMS accepted by the tasters was 15%. The addition of PPMS increased pH and free water retention, color, and lightness intensification. During the storage period (40 days), the hardness and gumminess showed an essential increase and the cohesion of the samples gradually decreased. The addition of PPMS led to the improvement of textural parameters, thus contributing to the extension of the shelf life of products by 10 days, compared to the control sample. Mutual information analysis was applied to determine the influence of PPMS concentration and storage time of foamy confectionery products on mean total score, mean sensory profile score, moisture content, water activity, antioxidant activity, hardness, cohesiveness, and gumminess. The results of this research indicate that the use of pumpkin pulp in the manufacture of foamy confectionery products can significantly increase their biological value and sensory characteristics and ensure an extension of the products’ shelf life. Full article

This study examines the significant growth of e-commerce in Romania, which has surpassed the rates of expansion observed in other more developed countries of the European Union. Based on market analysis by sector-specific companies, the Romanian e-commerce market has reached over €6.5 billion. This rapid growth trajectory is expected to continue, driven by various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the natural evolution of the market. The main purpose of this study is to assess the expansion of the e-commerce market in Romania, identify the key factors behind this growth, and project future market values. Data for this analysis has been collected from industry reports, market analysis, and relevant statistical databases. The study uses a quantitative approach, utilizing financial data and growth rates to forecast future market trends. The dataset includes financial figures from e-commerce sales, digital services such as bill payments, and airline and hotel bookings from 2018 to 2023. Projections for 2024 and beyond were derived from this historical data. In 2019, the e-commerce market in Romania was valued at €4.68 billion, representing a significant increase compared to previous years. By 2020, amid the pandemic, the market value increased to €5.5 billion, marking a 38.4% increase from the previous year. Forecasts for 2024 estimate that the market will exceed €8 billion. In addition, when related digital services are included, the total market value could exceed €10 billion, illustrating the substantial economic impact of the online sector and the growth potential. This study highlights the dynamic nature of the e-commerce landscape in Romania and underlines the significant economic opportunities it presents. Full article

Water stress on crops can severely disrupt crop growth and reduce yields, requiring the accurate and prompt diagnosis of crop water stress, especially in semiarid regions. Infrared thermal imaging cameras are effective tools to monitor the spatial distribution of canopy temperature (Tc), which is the basis of the daily water stress index (DWSI) calculation. This research aimed to evaluate the variability of plant water stress under different soil cover conditions through geostatistical techniques, using detailed thermographic images of Neem canopies in the Brazilian northeastern semiarid region. Two experimental plots were established with Neem cropped under mulch and bare soil conditions. Thermal images of the leaves were taken with a portable thermographic camera and processed using Python language and the OpenCV database. The application of the geostatistical technique enabled stress indicator mapping at the leaf scale, with the spherical and exponential models providing the best fit for both soil cover conditions. The results showed that the highest levels of water stress were observed during the months with the highest air temperatures and no rainfall, especially at the apex of the leaf and close to the central veins, due to a negative water balance. Even under extreme drought conditions, mulching reduced Neem physiological water stress, leading to lower plant water stress, associated with a higher soil moisture content and a negative skewness of temperature distribution. Regarding the mapping of the stress index, the sequential Gaussian simulation method reduced the temperature uncertainty and the variation on the leaf surface. Our findings highlight that mapping the Water Stress Index offers a robust framework to precisely detect stress for agricultural management, as well as soil cover management in semiarid regions. These findings underscore the impact of meteorological and planting conditions on leaf temperature and baseline water stress, which can be valuable for regional water resource managers in diagnosing crop water status more accurately. Full article

The spatial ecology of feral horses (Equus ferus f. caballus) in Greece has never been studied before, including home range size and habitat selection. We tracked two mares fitted with global positioning system collars between September 2020 and August 2021 in a portion of Mount Menoikio in Central Macedonia, Northern Greece. We used K-select analysis to assess habitat selection for the study period by combining location data with several environmental variables. The mean home ranges for horses varied from 26.72 km² (95% Minimum Convex Polygon; SE = 0.442) to 27.84 km² (95% Kernel Density; SE = 1.83). Both horses selected areas with flat and smooth topography near natural grasslands with high green productivity. Conversely, they avoided areas near broadleaved forests and pastures, as well as at north-facing aspects. Overall, suitable habitats corresponded to a small portion (15.1%) of the available habitat. Our findings could assist land managers in mapping primary horses’ habitat in the wider region and implement management regimes that will aid in preserving natural grasslands. Full article

Background/Objectives: Although long-term COVID-19 symptoms are common, little is known about the management of post-COVID-19 condition. The aim of the current report is to evaluate the effects of a combination of lactoferrin, lysozyme, lactobacillus, resveratrol, vitamins, and oligoelements (PIRV-F20^®) on the exercise capacity of post-COVID-19 patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients referred to a specific outpatient clinic dedicated to post-COVID-19 condition from April 2022 to April 2023 was conducted. Subjects of both sexes, aged ≥18 years, with previous COVID-19 in the preceding 12 months, persistent symptoms consistent with post-COVID syndrome, and initial exercise impairment were included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: active cancer, end-stage conditions, severe musculoskeletal conditions, or patients with a history of limited functional capacity, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Patients who reported having taken PIRV-F20^® for at least 6 weeks were compared to patients who refused this treatment. Six-minute walking distance was the primary endpoint. Results: Forty-four patients (56.8% women, aged 49.1 ± 18.1 years) were included in the study. The group of patients who reported having taken PIRV-F20^® exhibited a significant improvement of 6MWD (median: +40 m; IQR: 10–65 m, p vs. baseline: 0.02), which was significantly superior (p: 0.01) when compared to the controls (median: +10 m; IQR: −5–30 m). No differences were found with regard to muscular strength, echocardiographic parameters, and perception of symptoms. Conclusions: Post-COVID-19 individuals who reported having taken PIRV-F20^® for at least six weeks showed a significant improvement in exercise capacity. This finding should be confirmed in larger, prospective, randomized controlled trials. Full article

Currently, the utilization of hyperprolific sows has stimulated the search for supplements aimed at enhancing piglet survival, as these sows yield more offspring than they can adequately feed with their colostrum production. In contrast, intensive goat farming often yields surplus colostrum, thus necessitating its removal, since kids are exclusively fed colostrum through lactation solely within the initial day of birth. The objective of this study was to examine and compare the fatty acid (FA) profiles of colostrum from sows and goats, together with possible influencing factors such as sow parity and the postpartum day of the goat, for possible use as an energy supplement for neonatal piglets. Swine colostrum was collected from sows with a 0–5 parity. In addition, samples of goat colostrum were collected on their first (D1) and second (D2) days of postpartum milking. The FA profiles of the colostrum were analyzed via gas chromatography. The parity value of the sows did not affect (p > 0.05) the FA colostrum composition. High proportions of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were found in both types of colostrum. Levels of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were significantly higher in D1 goat colostrum, whereas saturated FAs of less than 14 carbons (4:0, 6:0, 8:0, 10:0, and 12:0) were found in higher proportions in D2. These FAs play an important role in colostrum as they are a readily available source of energy and have also been attributed strong antibacterial activity. Therefore, goat colostrum, especially D2, could be used as an alternative energy supplement for newborn piglets, in particular for the weakest and smallest of the litter, which are the most in need. Full article