Search Results (16,806)

Heavy metal pollution has become a critical concern in agricultural ecosystems driven by a complex matrix of industrial practices, high-input fertilizers, metal-based agrochemicals, and wastewater irrigation. While the previous literature typically highlights general physiological symptoms of heavy metal stress, this review provides a novel, comprehensive framework that bridges three independent pillars: specific industrial applications dictating elemental pathway, localizes active root-zone transport kinetics, and an engineering-based evaluation of emerging remediation strategies. We systematically synthesized literature from 2000 to 2026 across major databases (WoS, PubMed and Google Scholar), applying strict inclusion criteria based on data validation, experimental reproducibility, and mechanistic depth. We examine the geochemical behavior, cellular toxicity, and plant resilience mechanics of seven priority elements like cadmium, lead, arsenic, aluminum, mercury, chromium and molybdenum. Rather than merely reiterating superficial visual damage like chlorosis or stunted growth, we focus on physiological and molecular root causes of phytotoxicity, including the structural hijacking of essential nutrient networks, intracellular reduction cascades and organelle-specific oxidative disruption. This review also discussed the discovery of specialized, energy-dependent eukaryotic transport mechanisms like ABC transporters and a comparative operational blueprint evaluating physical–chemical conventional remediation techniques against advanced in situ and ex situ biotechnological approaches, including biochar assistance, microbial engineering, rhizosphere synergies, and engineered nanomaterials. By systematically linking industrial source dynamics with cellular toxicological mechanisms and field-scale engineering feasibility, this review establishes an actionable roadmap for future genetic, agronomic, and management interventions aimed at securing global food. Full article

Cyclodextrins are cyclic carbohydrates capable of forming inclusion complexes with a wide range of molecules, thereby improving their solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Traditionally, cyclodextrins have been extensively applied in the food industry owing to their functionality and safety profile. However, their use in cosmeceuticals, a rapidly growing area that lies between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, remains relatively underexplored. Given the increasing demand for scientifically validated, high-performance skincare formulations, cyclodextrins are emerging as promising compounds that can address several formulation challenges. The principal question is whether cyclodextrins represent a worthwhile investment for the future of cosmeceutical innovation. This article aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of the current and potential roles of cyclodextrins as safe, effective, and multifunctional carriers in advanced skincare science. The current state of research on the application of cyclodextrins in cosmeceutical formulations is evaluated, with particular focus on active ingredients commonly used in dermatological care, such as vitamins A and C, coenzyme Q10, kojic acid, arbutin, and UV filters. For each of these compounds, relevant in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies are reviewed in order to assess how cyclodextrin complexation influences key parameters, including solubility, stability, controlled release, skin penetration, and the reduction in adverse reactions. In addition, the use of cyclodextrins in the treatment of dermatological conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and rosacea is examined, highlighting their potential value, particularly in combination with azelaic acid and salicylic acid, well-known agents used to manage these conditions. Beyond their advantages, the limitations and challenges that currently restrict broader implementation of cyclodextrins in cosmeceuticals are also discussed, including cost variability, solubility constraints with certain substances, formulation incompatibilities, and regulatory considerations. Future perspectives are explored, particularly the development of novel modified and amphiphilic cyclodextrins, as well as their integration into nanotechnology-based systems and into intelligent, personalized skincare. Full article

The American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) is widely appreciated for its high nutritional value and characteristic volatile profile, making it an important raw material for the food industry, particularly in the sector of minimally processed products. However, thermal processing may significantly alter its volatile composition, leading to aroma losses and degradation of product quality. Therefore, understanding the impact of processing conditions on aroma stability is essential for developing new post-harvest technologies that preserve the volatile profiles of processed fruit products. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of thermal treatment and protein matrix modification on the volatile organic compound (VOC) profile of fresh-cut cranberry fruit. Samples were heated at 50, 100, and 200 °C, with and without gelatin addition as a protein-based matrix modifier. VOCs were analysed using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME–GC–MS). High-temperature treatment (200 °C) resulted in substantial changes in the volatile composition of the reference cranberry fruit and contributed to the complete loss of characteristic native terpenoids. The addition of gelatin significantly improved the retention of hydrophobic volatiles under thermal stress, maintaining D-limonene at 20.3% of the total volatile fraction, whereas this compound was absent in samples processed without the modifier. Furthermore, gelatin successfully altered the course of thermally induced reactions, reducing undesirable furfural formation from 23.95% to 7.28%. These changes indicate that protein-assisted matrix modification can effectively limit aroma degradation and preserve the volatile profile during thermal processing. The findings demonstrate the potential of this approach as a novel technological strategy for enhancing aroma stability, reducing processing-related quality losses, and supporting the development of fresh-cut cranberry products with enhanced volatile compound retention. Full article

Rice yield is a complex polygenic trait influenced by intricate interactions among component characters. In this study, integrative quantitative genetics and multivariate models were used to dissect yield architecture and trait networks, and identify the promising genotypes among 21 rice genotypes that were tested in a randomized block design with three replicates. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant genotypic differences (p < 0.001) for most agronomic, yield, and grain-quality traits. Genetic variability analysis revealed high genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, together with high heritability and genetic advance, for grain density per panicle, number of grains per panicle, biomass, flag leaf area, tillering ability, harvest index, and grain yield, indicating considerable genetic potential for genetic improvement. Pearson’s correlation and path coefficient analyses revealed that biomass and number of grains per panicle were the major determinants of grain yield per hill, with biomass exhibiting the strongest positive association (r = 0.678) and the largest direct effect. Principal component analysis indicated that the first two principal components explained 51.4% of the total phenotypic variation, with yield components, biomass, tillering traits, and grain-quality attributes contributing most strongly to genotype differentiation. Hierarchical cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into four distinct clusters, revealing substantial phenotypic divergence and valuable parental combinations for hybridization. The multi-trait selection index identified VAR16 as the most promising genotype, followed by VAR1, VAR17, VAR18, and VAR12, owing to their desirable combination of high grain yield and superior grain quality. Overall, this study offers a robust foundation for ideotype breeding and parental selection to enhance rice productivity and grain quality under subtropical conditions. Full article

Propolis has gained widespread interest due to its multiple applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the sensory differences among propolis samples collected in the Mexican Comarca Lagunera region and to identify the sensory attributes highest-rated by a trained sensory panel. The methodology involved collecting ten propolis samples following the guidelines of the Mexican Official Standard NOM-003-SAG/GAN-2017. A panel of 24 panelists was established, evaluating the samples using an attribute-specific categorical scale and a nine-point hedonic Likert scale. The attributes considered were color, aroma, taste, consistency, and overall acceptance. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation coefficients, hierarchical cluster analysis, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test. Results indicated that taste and aroma were the most relevant sensory attributes, predominantly characterized by a bitter taste and intense aroma. Both attributes showed statistically significant differences. Samples TLA1 and SB1 obtained the highest scores in these parameters. Conversely, SB2 and SB3 showed lower acceptability across all evaluated attributes. This study highlights the need for continued multidisciplinary research aimed at the sensory characterization of propolis and at strengthening its regional documentation. Such efforts will contribute to its commercial valuation, geographical differentiation, and consolidation as a bee product with high functional potential. Full article

Industrial processing of tomato generates large amounts of tomato pomace (TP), whose disposal and stabilization are challenging due to its high moisture content. This study evaluated, for the first time, the effects of increasing inclusion levels of enzymatic pre-treatment, vacuum paddle-dehydrated TP (ETP), in extruded diets for adult dogs. Three diets containing 0%, 2% or 4% ETP, replacing wheat bran and sunflower meal, were produced. Three two-bowl tests assessed palatability, and a feeding trial was performed using a four 3 × 3 Latin square design with 12 healthy adult Beagle dogs across three 28-day periods. Inclusion of ETP had negligible effects on the chemical composition of diets and kept unaffected palatability, body weight, food intake, fecal consistency and output. Fecal pH was lower, and valerate proportion was higher, in dogs fed the 2% ETP diet. All diets exhibited high digestibility (>90%) without effects of dietary treatments. Overall, ETP, a locally sourced co-product of the food industry, may represent a more sustainable alternative to imported raw materials, although further studies are needed to explore its effects on fecal microbiota and health-related parameters. Full article

Background/Objectives: Microcapsules are particles 1–1000 µm in size, with a core containing the active substance (in liquid, solid, or gaseous state) and a shell typically composed of natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic polymers. Although natural polymer-based microcapsules have applications in food, cosmetics, and other industries, this review primarily focuses on their role in pharmaceutical drug delivery. In recent years, natural macromolecules have gained increasing attention as coating materials due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, mucoadhesive properties, and ability to enable controlled and targeted drug release. Based on previous research, this review provides an overview of microcapsules, the most common microencapsulation methods, natural polymers used as wall materials, and their pharmaceutical applications across different routes of administration. Results: By encapsulating active ingredients, microcapsules enhance their bioavailability, prolong their release, protect them, enable targeted delivery, and mask unpleasant tastes and odors. Among the most commonly used microencapsulation techniques are physical methods (spray drying, spray cooling, solvent evaporation, spray coating, and freeze drying) and physicochemical methods (coacervation). Natural polymers, particularly polysaccharides and proteins, have been successfully used in oral, topical, transdermal, pulmonary, and colon-targeted drug delivery systems, as well as for the stabilization and delivery of peptides, proteins, probiotics, and vaccines. Conclusions: Proper selection of microencapsulation technique depends on the properties of the polymer and the core material. Natural polymers represent versatile pharmaceutical excipients owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, safety, mucoadhesive behavior, and ability to provide controlled and targeted drug delivery. Their successful application with a wide range of therapeutic agents and administration routes highlights their considerable potential for the development of advanced drug delivery systems. Full article

Foodborne pathogens rely on colonization, biofilm formation, virulence expression, and environmental adaptation as fundamental biological drivers of food safety risk. Quorum sensing (QS), a cell-density-dependent microbial communication mechanism, coordinates the expression of these key phenotypes by integrating intraspecies, interspecies, and host-derived signals, making QS an attractive intervention target in food microbial control. Although QS research has advanced considerably in recent years, existing reviews have largely focused on individual bacterial species or specific classes of signal molecules. A systematic integration of how QS coordinately drives both food spoilage and pathogen virulence remains lacking. In this review, we conceptualize the QS network as a central regulatory hub connecting microbial signal perception to hazardous phenotype expression. We systematically examine the mechanistic roles of QS in food spoilage, biofilm formation, host colonization and invasion, and toxin production. We also summarize current QS-targeted intervention strategies, including inhibition of signal synthesis, enzymatic signal degradation, receptor antagonism, and indirect regulation via beneficial microorganisms. Building on the available evidence, we further analyze the key challenges limiting practical application: signal system specificity, ecological safety, industrial-scale feasibility, and microbial adaptability. Overall, QS-based strategies offer a non-bactericidal route for food microbial control, although substantial barriers remain for translation into complex food matrices. Reframing QS function and intervention from the perspective of food safety risk formation provides an analytical framework that bridges mechanistic understanding with practical application. This framework also establishes a theoretical foundation for developing next-generation food preservation and foodborne disease control strategies. Full article

Intelligent food packaging (IFP) is among the key technologies for overcoming global challenges of food safety and food resource waste. Its core lies in monitoring the quality of food in real-time without damage. Sodium alginate (SA), a natural polysaccharide characterized by biodegradability and excellent biocompatibility, can form hydrogels with a 3D network structure, high water content, and functional modification capability, making it an ideal matrix for developing IFP sensing and indicator platforms. Based on the gel chemistry fundamentals of SA, this paper deeply analyzes the structure-activity relationship between sensing mechanism and material structure, and summarizes the existing modification strategies and functional integration paths. The paper also provides a detailed discussion on the application principles and latest advancements of SA-based hydrogels in colorimetric/visual sensing, gas sensing, time-temperature indicator (TTI), and controlled-release carriers for active substances. The current research results show that the detection limit of SA hydrogel beads loaded with anthocyanins for volatile amines can reach 15–25 ppm, and the color difference ΔE can reach 34.2 after 7 days of storage at 4 °C, which is strongly correlated with microbial indicators, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), pH, etc. The color difference value (ΔE) response of Co-Imd microcrystalline functionalized SA film to ammonia gas reached 23.7 within 60 min, and it had antibacterial activity. The activation energy of Immobilization of laccase on sodium alginate/soluble starch microcapsules to develop a TTI (27.32–61.13 kJ/mol) was highly matched with the activation energy of Agaricus bisporus. The hydrogel microspheres loaded with Cur@Se reduced the total oxidation value of the oils by 53%. The G/SA/nZnOs cryogel pad extended the shelf life of shrimp from 4 days to 6 days at 4 °C. In addition, this paper also discusses the challenges faced by SA-based hydrogels in large-scale production and long-term stability evaluation, and looks forward to future development trends such as integration with artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and multi-functional integration, in order to provide theoretical support for in-depth research and industrial application in this field. Full article

In the context of increasing beef import dependence, global feed-market volatility, climate risks, and sustainability-oriented livestock transformation, strengthening the resilience of China’s beef cattle industry is essential for food security, rural livelihoods, and green livestock development. Using panel data from 31 Chinese provinces from 2012 to 2022, this study constructs a four-dimensional resilience evaluation system covering foundational, resistance, recovery, and sustainability capacities, and applies the entropy weight method, kernel density estimation, the Dagum Gini coefficient, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and an obstacle degree model. The results show that the national resilience index of China’s beef cattle industry increased from 0.105 in 2012 to 0.167 in 2022, although the overall level remained relatively low. Sustainability capacity exhibited a shallow U-shaped trajectory, while foundational, resistance, and recovery capacities improved more steadily. The average Dagum Gini coefficient was 0.277, indicating persistent regional imbalance in beef cattle industry resilience. Provincial disparities widened, positive spatial agglomeration weakened, and local spatial heterogeneity became more pronounced. The key constraints included insufficient forage supply, a low level of production scale, weak breeding infrastructure, and lagging innovation capacity, with clear spatial heterogeneity. This study develops a resilience evaluation framework for long-cycle livestock industries and provides empirical evidence and policy implications for the sustainable development of the beef cattle industry in China and other developing livestock systems. Full article

Pitaya is a tropical fruit widely recognized for its intense coloration and abundance of bioactive compounds and natural pigments, associated with antioxidant properties and potential functional applications. However, its high moisture content and structural fragility make it highly susceptible to post-harvest deterioration and limit its shelf life, highlighting the need for effective preservation strategies to enable its industrial utilization. This study evaluated the production of spray-dried red pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis) powder using the whole-fruit (pulp, peel, and seeds), since studies addressing entire fruit utilization remain scarce. The effects of air temperature (T), air flow rate (AF), maltodextrin concentration (M), and feed flow rate (FF) on moisture content, water activity, drying yield, bioactive compounds (total phenolic, flavonoid, ascorbic acid, and betalains), and color parameters were investigated. Spray drying successfully produced pitaya powders characterized by reduced moisture levels and water activity, satisfactory drying yield, and preserved bioactive compounds contents under selected processing conditions. The optimized spray drying conditions (T = 132.7 °C, AF = 1.51 m³/min; M = 9%, and FF = 0.55 L/h) were identified through the desirability function approach, indicating a balanced performance between drying efficiency and compound retention. Color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, H°, and ΔE) showed changes related to the operational conditions analyzed when compared with the fresh fruit. These findings support the valorization of the pitaya whole fruit and its use as a source of natural bioactive compounds for food applications. Full article

Background: Digital Supply Chain Adoption (DSCA) has emerged as a critical strategic imperative associated with Operational Performance (OP); however, empirical evidence within Thailand’s food and beverage manufacturing industry remains limited. Methods: A structured survey of 200 supply chain professionals was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4. To ensure analytical rigor and mitigate potential method bias, a retrospective comparison design was employed. Furthermore, DSCA was operationalized as a Type II reflective-formative higher-order construct, and Digital Dynamic Capabilities (DDC) as a Type I higher-order construct. Results: DSCA was positively associated with all perceived performance dimensions, with cost reduction exhibiting the strongest direct association (β = 0.510, p < 0.001). DDC significantly moderated the statistical relationships for quality and productivity performance. However, the moderating role of DDC on cost reduction was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Within the investigated sample, DSCA was more closely associated with perceived cost efficiencies, whereas DDC showed a supplementary moderating role specific to quality and productivity outcomes. The findings are also consistent with the integrated Dynamic Capabilities View and Technology, Organization, and Environment (DCV-TOE) perspective, suggesting that statistical associations between digital transformation and operational outcomes may vary across performance dimensions rather than follow a uniform pattern. Full article

Colorimetric sensor array (CSA) technology has been increasingly applied in food quality and safety analysis due to its advantages of low cost, visual readout, high sensitivity and suitability for on-site monitoring. However, a dedicated review that systematically integrates advances in sensing materials, application scenarios, analytical strategies and practical implementation of CSA technology for real food matrices is still lacking. This review summarizes the fundamental characteristics of CSA technology from the relevant studies published during the past 5 years. The literature was retrieved using keywords such as “colorimetric sensor array” and “food quality detection,” and was filtered by predefined criteria prioritizing original research with verified sensing performance and practical validation in food applications. Emphasis is placed on the design and performance of sensitive materials. Furthermore, using a task-oriented framework, representative studies on CSA applications in food spoilage detection, adulteration identification, food composition analysis, contamination monitoring, food storage monitoring and volatile compound detection are discussed. In addition, the integration of CSA systems with portable devices, machine learning algorithms and intelligent detection platforms is critically analyzed. Finally, the detection characteristics, current challenges and future development prospects of CSA technology in food quality and safety analysis are highlighted. This review is expected to provide valuable insights for further development, optimization and practical implementation of intelligent CSA-based sensing systems in the food industry. Full article

Entrepreneurial exit intention represents an important yet underexplored stage of the entrepreneurial process. Prior research has identified several antecedents of entrepreneurial exit intention, but it has largely overlooked entrepreneurial addiction and its underlying psychological mechanisms. Drawing on self-regulation theory, this study examines the relationships among entrepreneurial addiction, entrepreneurial burnout, career adaptability, locus of control, well-being, and entrepreneurial exit intention. Data were collected from 250 entrepreneurs in Thailand’s digital services, software, and food and beverage industries and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that entrepreneurial addiction is positively associated with entrepreneurial exit intention both directly and indirectly through entrepreneurial burnout. Internal locus of control weakens the relationship between entrepreneurial addiction and burnout, whereas career adaptability and well-being unexpectedly strengthen the hypothesized relationships. The study contributes to the entrepreneurial exit literature by identifying entrepreneurial addiction and burnout as important self-regulatory antecedents of entrepreneurial exit intention. The findings also provide evidence compatible with self-regulation theory and suggest that psychological resources may not consistently function as protective resources under conditions of excessive entrepreneurial engagement. Full article

Due to limitations in stability, solubility, and functional properties, natural proteins often fail to meet the demands of industrial production. Traditional chemical or enzymatic methods for protein modification suffer from high costs and the generation of numerous byproducts. In contrast, physical techniques offer a new approach to the green modification of macromolecules by inducing structural changes in proteins. Based on these techniques, the construction of protein–polyphenol composite systems is considered an effective strategy for enhancing food quality. This article systematically reviews the molecular mechanisms by which physical fields regulate protein–polyphenol interactions, summarizes how physical techniques improve the functional properties of composite systems and their applications in food, and aims to provide theoretical support for the development of novel functional food ingredients and their industrial applications. Full article