Search Results (22,739)

Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with systemic health risks due to the production of acetaldehyde, a primary carcinogen that not only pollutes the environment but also endangers human health. In this study, a promising bacterial strain for biodegrading both ethanol and acetaldehyde was successfully isolated from the traditional fermented food Jiaosu and identified as Acetobacter ghanensis JN01 based on average nucleotide identity (ANI) analysis. Initial ethanol of 1 g/L was completely biodegraded within 4 h, while initial acetaldehyde of 1 g/L was also rapidly removed at 2 or 1 h by whole cells or cell-free extracts (CEs) of JN01, respectively, which indicated that JN01 indeed has a strong ability in the biodegradation of both ethanol and acetaldehyde. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 2.85 Mb draft genome of JN01 with 57.0% guanine–cytosine (GC) content and the key metabolic genes (adh1, adh2, and aldh) encoding involving alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), co-located with NADH dehydrogenase genes and ethanol-responsive regulatory motifs, supporting the metabolic pathway of transforming ethanol to acetaldehyde, and, subsequently, converting acetaldehyde to acetic acid. Furthermore, selected in vitro safety-related traits of JN01 were also assessed, which is very important in the development of microbial catalysts against both ethanol and acetaldehyde. Full article

Background: Thallium is a metal that is ubiquitous in our natural environment. Despite its potential for high toxicity, thallium is understudied and not regulated in food. The California Department of Public Health was alerted to a household cluster of elevated urine thallium levels noted among a mother (peak 5.6 µg/g creatinine; adult reference: ≤0.4 µg/g creatinine) and her three young children (peak 10.5 µg/g creatinine; child reference: ≤0.8 µg/g creatinine). Objectives: This case report identifies questions raised after a public health investigation linked a household’s thallium exposure to a commercially available food product. We provide an overview of the public health investigation. We then explore concerns, such as gaps in toxicological data and limited surveillance of thallium in the food supply, which make management of individual and population exposure risks challenging. Methods: We highlight findings from a cross-agency investigation, including a household exposure survey, sampling of possible environmental and dietary exposures (ICP-MS analysis measured thallium in kale chips at 1.98 mg/kg and 2.15 mg/kg), and monitoring of symptoms and urine thallium levels after the source was removed. We use regulatory and research findings to describe the challenges and opportunities in characterizing the scale of thallium in our food supply and effects of dietary exposures on health. Discussion: Thallium can bioaccumulate in our food system, particularly in brassica vegetables like kale. Thallium concentration in foods can also be affected by manufacturing processes, such as dehydration. We have limited surveillance data nationally regarding this metal in our food supply. Dietary reviews internationally show increased thallium intake in toddlers. Limited information is available about low-dose or chronic exposures, particularly among children, although emerging evidence shows that there might be risks associated at lower levels than previously thought. Improved toxicological studies are needed to guide reference doses and food safety standards. Promising action towards enhanced monitoring of thallium is being pursued by food safety agencies internationally, and research is underway to deepen our understanding of thallium toxicity. Full article

Cobalt, a rare element in the Earth’s crust, is widely used in industries due to its hardness and antioxidant properties. It also plays a vital role in physiological functions, being a key component of vitamin B₁₂. However, excessive cobalt intake can cause health issues. Detecting cobalt ions, especially Co²⁺, in food is crucial due to potential contamination from various sources. Fluorescent probes offer high sensitivity, selectivity, a rapid response, and ease of use, making them ideal for the accurate and efficient recognition of Co²⁺ in complex samples. In this context, a highly selective fluorescent probe, 2,2′-((3-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-1,2-phenylene) bis(oxy)) bis(N-(quinolin-8-yl) acetamide) (DQBM-B), was synthesized using chloroacetyl chloride, 8-aminoquinoline, 2,3-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, and benzidine as raw materials for the recognition of Co²⁺. Probe DQBM-B can exhibit fluorescence alone in DMF. However, as the concentration of Co²⁺ increased, Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) occurred, which quenched the original fluorescence of the probe. Probe DQBM-B shows better selectivity for Co²⁺ than other ions with high sensitivity (detection limit: 3.56 μmol L⁻¹), and the reaction reaches equilibrium within 30 min. Full article

Recent advances in computational biology have provided powerful tools for analyzing, modeling, and optimizing probiotic microorganisms, thereby supporting their development as promising agents for improving human health. The essential role of the microbiota in regulating physiological processes and preventing disease has driven interest in the rational design of next-generation probiotics. This review highlights progress in in silico approaches for enhancing the functionality of probiotic strains. Particular attention is given to genome-scale metabolic models, advanced simulation algorithms, and AI-driven tools that provide deeper insight into microbial metabolism and enable precise probiotic optimization. The integration of these methods with multi-omics data has greatly improved our ability to predict strain behavior and design probiotics with specific health benefits. Special focus is placed on modeling probiotic–prebiotic interactions and host–microbiome dynamics, which are essential for the development of functional food products. Despite these achievements, key challenges remain, including limited model accuracy, difficulties in simulating complex host–microbe systems, and the absence of unified standards for validating in silico-optimized strains. Addressing these gaps requires the development of integrative modeling platforms and clear regulatory frameworks. This review provides a critical overview of current advances, identifies existing barriers, and outlines future directions for the application of computational strategies in probiotic research. Full article

The increasing demand for food necessitates that agri-food systems adopt innovative techniques to enhance food production while optimizing the use of limited resources, such as water. In agriculture, hydrogels are being increasingly used to enhance water retention and reduce irrigation requirements. However, most of these materials are based on synthetic polymers that are not biodegradable. This raises serious environmental and health concerns, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable, biodegradable alternatives. Biomass-derived from agro-industrial waste presents a substantial potential for producing hydrogels, which can effectively function as water collectors and suppliers for crops. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the application of agro-industrial waste for the formulation of hydrogels. Additionally, it offers a critical analysis of the development of hydrogels utilizing natural and compostable materials. Agro-industrial and food waste, which are rich in hemicellulose and cellulose, have been utilized to enhance the mechanical properties and water absorption capacity of hydrogels. These biomaterials hold significant potential for the development of effective hydrogels in agricultural applications; they can be either hybrid or natural materials that exhibit efficacy in enhancing seed germination, improving water retention capabilities, and facilitating the controlled release of fertilizers. Natural hydrogels derived from agro-industrial waste present a sustainable technological alternative that is environmentally benign. Full article

The widespread use of pesticides in modern agriculture has significantly enhanced food production by managing pests and diseases; however, their degradation in soil can lead to unintended consequences for soil fertility and nutrient cycling. This review explores the mechanisms of pesticide degradation, both abiotic and biotic, and the soil factors influencing these processes. It critically examines how degradation products impact soil microbial communities, organic matter decomposition, and key nutrient cycles, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. This review highlights emerging evidence linking pesticide residues with altered enzymatic activity, disrupted microbial populations, and reduced nutrient bioavailability, potentially compromising soil structure, water retention, and long-term productivity. Additionally, it discusses the broader environmental and agricultural implications, including decreased crop yields, biodiversity loss, and groundwater contamination. Sustainable management strategies such as bioremediation, the use of biochar, eco-friendly pesticides, and integrated pest management (IPM) are evaluated for mitigating these adverse effects. Finally, this review outlines future research directions emphasizing long-term studies, biotechnology innovations, and predictive modeling to support resilient agroecosystems. Understanding the intricate relationship between pesticide degradation and soil health is crucial to ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security. Full article

The extract of powdered raspberry pomace was characterized in terms of its phenolic profile and antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Kuromanin, chlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, and pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside were found to be the major phenolic compounds, while the antioxidant activity of the extract correlated positively with the total phenolic content (TPC), which was 472.9 ± 0.1 mg GAE/g dw. The extract also showed good antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive foodborne bacteria. More importantly, in vitro bioaccessibility of phenols from the raspberry pomace extract was 5-fold higher when the extract was incorporated into meringue cookies. Although the concentrations of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and tannins decreased after the oral, gastric, and intestinal phases of digestion, the TPC slightly increased as the compounds were released from the food matrix. The content of available phenolics was 4-fold lower in the case of a commercial raspberry colorant, demonstrating that the waste from raspberry pomace could serve as a valuable health-promoting ingredient for functional food formulations. Full article

The genus Trichoderma plays a pivotal role in sustainable agriculture through its multifaceted contributions to plant health and productivity. This review explores Trichoderma’s biological functions, including its roles as a biocontrol agent, plant growth promoter, and stress resilience enhancer. By producing various enzymes, secondary metabolites, and volatile organic compounds, Trichoderma effectively suppresses plant pathogens, promotes root development, and primes plant immune responses. This review details the evolutionary adaptations of Trichoderma, which has transitioned from saprotrophism to mycoparasitism and established beneficial symbiotic relationships with plants. It also highlights the ecological versatility of Trichoderma in colonizing plant roots and improving soil health, while emphasizing its role in mitigating both biotic and abiotic stressors. With increasing recognition as a biostimulant and biocontrol agent, Trichoderma has become a key player in reducing chemical inputs and advancing eco-friendly farming practices. This review addresses challenges such as strain selection, formulation stability, and regulatory hurdles and concludes by advocating for continued research to optimize Trichoderma’s applications in addressing climate change, enhancing food security, and promoting a sustainable agricultural future. Full article

(1) Background: Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs), characterized by high toxicity and strong lipophilicity, which promote their bioaccumulation in human tissues. Their detection in breast milk raises concerns about early-life exposure during lactation. Although dietary intake is the primary route of maternal exposure, environmental pathways—including inhalation, dermal absorption, and residential proximity to contaminated sites—may also significantly contribute to the maternal body burden. (2) Methods: This narrative review examined peer-reviewed studies investigating maternal and environmental determinants of dioxin and dl-PCB concentrations in human breast milk. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2000–2024), identifying a total of 325 records. Following eligibility screening and full-text assessment, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. (3) Results: The included studies consistently identified key exposure determinants, such as high consumption of animal-based foods (e.g., meat, fish, dairy), living near industrial facilities or waste sites, and maternal characteristics including age, parity, and body mass index (BMI). Substantial geographic variability was observed, with higher concentrations reported in regions affected by industrial activity, military pollution, or inadequate waste management. One longitudinal study from Japan demonstrated a declining trend in dioxin levels in breast milk, suggesting the potential effectiveness of regulatory interventions. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight that maternal exposure to dioxins is influenced by identifiable environmental and behavioral factors, which can be mitigated through public health policies, targeted dietary guidance, and environmental remediation. Breast milk remains a critical bioindicator of human exposure. Harmonized, long-term research is needed to clarify health implications and minimize contaminant transfer to infants, particularly among vulnerable populations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Previous studies assessing dietary intake have used self-report methods, prone to misreporting. Using researcher-conducted weighed food records, we assessed rural and urban mothers’ energy and nutrient intakes of concern and compared them to recommended nutrient intakes (RNIs). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in rural (Asaase Kokoo) and urban (University of Ghana Staff Village) communities. Dietary data were collected from fifty-four mothers (26 rural, 28 urban) on 2 weekdays and 1 weekend day, analyzed with software, and programmed with West African, FNDDS, Kenyan, Ugandan, and USDA food composition databases. Results: Mean (SD) ages (years) were 35.8 (11.6) and 44.4 (7.6), and mean energy intakes (kcal) were 2026 (461) and 1669 (385) for rural and urban mothers, respectively. Mean percentage contributions of macronutrients to energy intake were within recommended ranges for rural and urban mothers. All participants met or exceeded vitamin A RNI, irrespective of location. While all rural mothers met or exceeded iron RNI, some urban mothers (14.3%) did not. Few rural (7.7%) and urban mothers (10.7%) did not meet zinc RNI. About half of rural (46.2%) and urban mothers (53.6%) did not meet folate RNI. Most rural (96.1%) and urban mothers (92.8%) met or exceeded fiber RNI. Conclusions: Overall, rural mothers had higher energy and nutrient intakes than urban mothers. While most met RNIs, there were some micronutrient inadequacies, particularly folate, where almost half of rural and urban mothers consumed below RNI. Our findings indicate the need for tailored interventions to prevent nutrient deficiencies or excesses in Ghanaian mothers. Full article

Background/Objectives: Adolescence is a critical period for the early detection of metabolic syndrome (MetS), a condition that increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases in adulthood. Timely identification of at-risk adolescents enables targeted prevention strategies. This study aimed to analyze the discriminative capacity and accuracy of six biochemical and/or anthropometric indices related to lipid metabolism and adiposity for the early detection of MetS in a sample of Spanish adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out according to the STROBE guidelines. A sample of 981 adolescents aged 11–16 years old were randomly recruited from schools in Southeastern Spain. The presence or absence of MetS was determined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. The following biochemical and/or anthropometric indices were evaluated: triglyceride glucose index, visceral adiposity index, logarithm children’s lipid accumulation product, triglyceride glucose-body mass index, triglyceride glucose-waist circumference, and triglyceride glucose-waist-to-hip ratio. Results: The triglyceride glucose-waist-to-hip ratio and triglyceride glucose-body mass index parameters were the strongest indicators associated with MetS in boys and girls, respectively, after adjusting for several factors. Moreover, all evaluated indices showed optimal AUC values, with the visceral adiposity index and triglyceride glucose-waist circumference index exhibiting the highest discriminative capacity in both genders. Conclusions: The evaluated biochemical and anthropometric indices—particularly visceral adiposity index and triglyceride-glucose-waist circumference—show promise as accessible biomarkers for identifying adolescents at metabolic risk. These indices may serve as practical tools in preventive health strategies aimed at improving metabolic health by screening adolescents at risk of MetS, thereby helping to reduce the future burden of non-communicable diseases. Full article

Trace metal pollution in tropical freshwater ecosystems poses growing public health concerns, particularly in regions where fisheries are central to food security; however, little is known about metal exposure risks in the Western Amazon. This study presents the first assessment of trace metal concentrations in fish sold at the main market in El Coca, a rapidly growing city in the Ecuadorian Amazon. We analyzed 11 trace metals in 17 commercially important species and estimated seven health risk indices based on two fish consumption scenarios and international reference dose standards. Our results show that all species exceeded recommended thresholds for arsenic, mercury, and lead, while one species surpassed guidelines for aluminum. Metal concentrations varied by species and river of origin: small catfish from the Payamino River had elevated cadmium, chromium, copper, and manganese levels, potentially linked to upstream gold mining, whereas larger catfish showed higher mercury and arsenic accumulation. Monte Carlo simulations of risk indices suggested overall low disease risk, but the lack of local demographic data limits accurate assessments for vulnerable groups. Despite sampling limitations, our findings offer the first baseline for monitoring trace metal exposure in the northern Ecuadorian Amazon and underscore the need for targeted public health strategies in this understudied region. Full article

Municipal wastewaters pose a severe risk to the environment and human health when discharged untreated. This is due to their high content of pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, which can cause diseases like cholera. Herein, the research and development of porphyrin-modified polyethersulfone (PES) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes was conducted to improve bacterial inactivation in complex municipal wastewater and enhance the fouling resistance and filtration performance. The synthesis and fabrication of porphyrin nanofillers and the resultant membrane characteristics were studied. The incorporation of porphyrin-based nanofillers improved the membrane’s hydrophilicity, morphology, and flux (247 Lm⁻² h⁻¹), with the membrane contact angle (CA) decreasing from 90° to ranging between 58° and 50°. The membrane performance was monitored for its flux, antifouling properties, reusability potential, municipal wastewater, and humic acid. The modified membranes demonstrated an effective application in wastewater treatment, achieving notable antibacterial activity, particularly under light exposure. The In-BP@SW/PES membrane demonstrated effective antimicrobial photodynamic effects against both Gram-positive S. aureus and Gram-negative E. coli. It achieved at least a 3-log reduction in bacterial viability, meeting Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for efficient antimicrobial materials. Among the variants tested, membranes modified with In-PB@SW nanofillers exhibited superior antifouling properties with flux recovery ratios (FRRs) of 78.9% for the humic acid (HA) solution and 85% for the municipal wastewater (MWW), suggesting a strong potential for long-term filtration use. These results highlight the promise of porphyrin-functionalized membranes as multifunctional tools in advanced water treatment technologies. Full article

Insect pests cause severe damage and yield losses to many agricultural crops globally. The use of chemical pesticides on agricultural crops is not recommended because of their toxic effects on the environment and consumers. In addition, pesticide toxicity reduces soil fertility, poisons ground waters, and is hazardous to soil biota. Therefore, applications of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are an alternative, eco-friendly solution to chemical pesticides and mineral-based fertilizers to enhance plant health and promote sustainable food security. This review focuses on the biological and ecological aspects of these organisms while also highlighting the practical application of molecular communication approaches in developing a novel plant health product. This insight will support this innovative approach that combines PGPR and EPNs for sustainable crop production. Several studies have reported positive interactions between nematodes and bacteria. Although the combined presence of both organisms has been shown to promote plant growth, the molecular interactions between them are still under investigation. Integrating molecular communication studies in the development of a new product could help in understanding their relationships and, in turn, support the combination of these organisms into a single plant health product. Full article

Adulteration detection in medicinal plant powders remains a critical challenge in quality control. In this study, we propose a hyperspectral imaging (HSI)-based method combined with deep learning models to quantitatively analyze adulteration levels in Anoectochilus roxburghii powder. After preprocessing the spectral data using raw, first-order, and second-order Savitzky–Golay derivatives, we systematically evaluated the performance of traditional machine learning models (Random Forest, Support Vector Regression, Partial Least Squares Regression) and deep learning architectures. While traditional models achieved reasonable accuracy (R² up to 0.885), their performance was limited by feature extraction and generalization ability. A single-channel convolutional neural network (CNN) utilizing individual spectral representations improved performance marginally (maximum R² = 0.882), but still failed to fully capture the multi-scale spectral features. To overcome this, we developed a multi-channel CNN that simultaneously integrates raw, SG-1, and SG-2 spectra, effectively leveraging complementary spectral information. This architecture achieved a significantly higher prediction accuracy (R² = 0.964, MSE = 0.005), demonstrating superior robustness and generalization. The findings highlight the potential of multi-channel deep learning models in enhancing quantitative adulteration detection and ensuring the authenticity of herbal products. Full article