Search Results (516)

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the most important oilseed crops globally, valued for its high content of unsaturated fatty acids, proteins, and essential nutrients. However, weed infestation represents a major constraint on sesame productivity, competing for resources and releasing allelopathic compounds that can significantly reduce both yield and quality without timely control. To address the challenge of low detection accuracy in complex agricultural environments with dense weed distributions, this study proposes YOLOv12-BDA, a dynamic multi-scale architecture for small weed detection in sesame fields. The proposed architecture incorporates three key dynamic innovations: (1) an Adaptive Feature Selection (AFS) dual-backbone network with a Dynamic Learning Unit (DLU) module that enhances cross-branch feature extraction while reducing computational redundancy; (2) a Dynamic Grouped Convolution and Channel Mixing Transformer (DGCS) module that replaces the C3K2 component to enhance real-time detection of small weeds against complex farmland backgrounds; and (3) a Dynamic Adaptive Scale-aware Interactive (DASI) module integrated into the neck network to strengthen multi-scale feature fusion and detection accuracy. Experimental validation on high-resolution sesame field datasets demonstrates that YOLOv12-BDA significantly outperforms baseline models. The proposed method achieves mAP@50 improvements of 6.43%, 11.72%, 7.15%, 5.33%, and 4.67% over YOLOv5n, YOLOv8n, YOLOv10n, YOLOv11n, and YOLOv12n, respectively. The results confirm that the proposed dynamic architecture effectively improves small-target weed detection accuracy at the cost of increased computational requirements (4.51 M parameters, 10.7 GFLOPs). Despite these increases, the model maintains real-time capability (113 FPS), demonstrating its suitability for precision agriculture applications prioritizing detection quality. Future work will focus on expanding dataset diversity to include multiple crop types and optimizing the architecture for broader agricultural applications. Full article

Quiescence is a pivotal state for all living organisms and cells. However, recent research indicates a lack of uniformity among quiescent cells. That is, even if the primary feature of quiescence—the ability to restart divisions—is maintained, quiescent cells within populations exhibit variation in their cellular architecture and characteristics. While it is known that the process of entry into quiescence is influenced by a combination of nutrient starvation and temporal factors, the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we compare the transcriptomes of known homogenous fractions of dense quiescent yeast isolated from populations of different ecological histories. These populations have undergone experimental enrichment of certain types of quiescent cells during cycles of growth and starvation for 300 generations. Transcriptome analysis revealed discrepancies in terms of characteristics associated mainly with energy turnover processes, biosynthesis, and cell wall maintenance. The results of this study suggest that quiescent cells possess the capacity to adapt their transcriptome activity in accordance with their evolutionary history. Full article

Background: The consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) has increased globally, particularly in developed countries. UPFs are energy-dense and nutrient-poor, and they often contain additives that can disrupt gut flora and increase intestinal permeability. There is evidence to suggest that processed foods may contribute to the onset of IBD and also impact its progression and response to treatment. This study investigated whether children with IBD consume more UPFs than healthy controls and examined the association between UPF intake and disease activity. Methods: This pilot cross-sectional case–control study recruited children with IBD from the Gastroenterology Outpatient Clinic at the Heim Pál National Pediatric Institute in Budapest, Hungary, between December 2023 and February 2025. Age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were also enrolled. Dietary intake was assessed using two days of 24 h recalls. UPF intake was categorized using the NOVA system and expressed as a percentage of total daily energy intake. Results: A total of 47 children with IBD were matched with HCs. There was no difference in total energy intake between the two groups. Children with UC had a significantly higher intake of UPFs than HCs (MD: 10.5%, p = 0.02), whereas no difference was observed in children with CD after excluding oral nutritional support. No difference in UPF intake was observed between children with active or inactive disease. However, children receiving biological therapy consumed significantly fewer UPFs than those receiving other treatments (MD: 8%, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Children with IBD consume more UPFs compared to HC. The UPF intake of children with CD was not lower than healthy children despite the recommended Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED). Full article

Although aging is an irreversible process, the rate of aging can be delayed by a reasonable diet. As a nutrient-dense natural product, royal jelly (RJ) has an enormous potential for applications in medicine and health promotion. However, the exact physiological activity of RJ with varying freshness and concentration has not been fully clarified, and more investigation is needed to determine their precise contributions. Here, fresh RJ (just produced recently) and RJ stored for 2 weeks at −20 °C, 4 °C or 25 °C were tested at concentrations of 100, 50, 25 and 12.5 μg/mL on Caenorhabditis elegans. Fresh RJ, with concentrations of 100 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL and 25 μg/mL, could extend the lifespan of C. elegans by 16.37%, 9.53% and 4.32%, while RJs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C were ineffective. In terms of body length, treatment with fresh RJ significantly enlarged the body size by around 48%. Although RJ stored at 4 °C and 25 °C could also promote nematode growth, its activity diminishes as storage temperature increases. RJs stored at −20 °C and 4 °C with concentrations of 100 μg/mL significantly increased the pumping rate of nematodes by 58% and 50%. But non-fresh RJ or low-concentration RJ (≤25 μg/mL) had no effects on the motility of C. elegans. In addition, fresh RJ could improve the reproductive capacity of C. elegans, with the highest increase reaching approximately 25%. Even when stored at 25 °C, RJ also significantly enhanced the reproductive capacity of C. elegans, increasing it by approximately 14.8%. Moreover, qPCR showed that RJ could significantly affect the expression of multiple genes associated with aging and vitality. Fresh RJ significantly up-regulated bec1 and hsp16.2 3.19- and 2.80-fold, while RJ stored at 25 °C significantly up-regulated sod3 and gpd1 3.80- and 3.40-fold. Our results suggested that the activity of RJ on C. elegans is related to its freshness and concentration, while RJ also contains active components that are independent of freshness. Therefore, it is necessary to explore effective methods for accurately assessing the freshness of RJ. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nutrition during the reproductive years shapes women’s immediate health, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term offspring well-being. This position paper narratively synthesizes and critically appraises evidence on how dietary patterns, macro-/micronutrients, and supplementation influence women’s health, female fertility, and reproductive outcomes, to inform practical recommendations. Methods: We narratively reviewed recent reviews, cohort studies, clinical trials, and public-health guidance on macronutrients, key micronutrients, dietary patterns (with emphasis on the Mediterranean diet), ultra-processed food (UPF) intake, and targeted supplementation relevant to menstrual, metabolic, cardiovascular, skeletal, and reproductive outcomes. Results: Balanced, diverse diets rich in whole and minimally processed foods support hormonal regulation, ovulatory function, healthy gestation, and chronic-disease risk reduction. Priority nutrients include iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin B12, and long-chain omega-3s (DHA), with supplementation considered when dietary intake or bioavailability is inadequate. Evidence consistently links Mediterranean-style eating to improved metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, IVF success, lower gestational diabetes risk, and favorable neonatal outcomes. High UPF consumption is associated with poorer diet quality, inflammation, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and potential reproductive impairment, warranting a reduction in favor of nutrient-dense foods. Diet also influences cardiovascular and bone health through effects on lipids, glycemia, blood pressure, and mineral/vitamin status, with fiber-rich carbohydrates, unsaturated fats (notably olive oil), and adequate calcium–vitamin D emerging as central levers. Conclusions: For women of childbearing age, a Mediterranean-aligned, minimally processed dietary pattern—tailored to individual needs and complemented by prudent use of folate, iron, vitamin D, calcium, B12, and DHA when indicated—offers robust benefits across reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, and skeletal domains. Public-health actions should improve access to healthy foods, curb UPF marketing, and embed personalized nutrition counseling in routine care; further longitudinal research from preconception through postpartum is needed. Full article

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with multispectral sensors are transforming precision viticulture by enabling detailed monitoring of vineyard variability. Vegetation indices such as NDVI, NDRE, GNDVI, and SAVI are widely applied to estimate vine vigor, canopy structure, and water status. Beyond agronomic traits, UAV-derived indices can inform grape composition, including sugar content (°Brix), total phenolics, anthocyanins, titratable acidity, berry weight, and yield variables measurable in the field or laboratory to validate spectral predictions. Strengths of UAV approaches include high spatial resolution, rapid data acquisition, and flexibility across vineyard blocks, while limitations involve index saturation in dense canopies (e.g., Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon), environmental sensitivity, and calibration requirements across varieties and phenological cycles. Integrating UAV data with ground-based measurements (leaf sampling, yield mapping, proximal or thermal sensors) improves model accuracy and stress detection. Abiotic stresses (water deficit, nutrient deficiency) can be distinguished from biotic factors (pest and fungal infections), supporting timely interventions. Compared to manned aircraft or satellite platforms, UAVs offer cost-effective, high-resolution imagery for precision vineyard management. Future directions include combining UAV indices with machine learning and data fusion to predict grape maturity and wine quality, enhancing decision-making in sustainable viticulture and precision enology. Full article

Cladophora glomerata is a species of green algae from the Cladophoraceae family belonging to the class Ulvophyceae. This filamentous macroalga is generally associated with freshwater habitats, especially in nutrient-rich ecosystems. It produces high biomass and occupies large areas of freshwater. The robust filaments of Cladophora glomerata form dense mats that are easy to harvest. It is also rich in proteins, macro- and micronutrients, and other bioactive compounds. Therefore, its biomass could be used in various fields of sustainable agriculture, for example, promoting plant growth and yield, purifying soil, improving crop properties against biotic and abiotic stress, or it could be used in husbandry as a feed supplement. It is also becoming increasingly attractive for use in sustainable farming. This review provides an update with the latest information on the use of freshwater Cladophora glomerata in sustainable farming and suggests the most promising fields of research. Full article

Background: Albania is undergoing rapid nutrition transition, yet cardiometabolic (CM) risk in young adults is poorly characterized. We report baseline, cross-sectional findings from a WHO-aligned sentinel study examining diet, physical activity and early CM phenotypes, with fat quality examined as a modifiable exposure. Methods: Young adults recruited on campus (n = 262; median age, 21 years; 172 women, 90 men) underwent standardized anthropometry, seated blood pressure (BP) and fasting glucose (FG). Diet was assessed by two interviewer-administered 24 h recalls and activity outlined by the IPAQ-short form. We derived potential renal acid load (PRAL) and a MASLD-oriented nutrient score, computed a composite CM risk score (cCMRS: sex-standardized mean of WHtR, mean arterial pressure, FG) and fitted prespecified energy-partition models for isocaloric +5% of energy substitutions (SFA → PUFA; SFA → MUFA) with Benjamini–Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR) control. Results: Despite normal average BMI (23.4), risk clustering was common: elevated BP in 63% of men and 30% of women, impaired FG (100–125 mg/dL) in almost one third and central adiposity (WHtR ≥ 0.5) in 51% of men and 24% of women. Diets were SFA-rich (~17–19%E), sodium-dense and low in fiber and several micronutrients (e.g., vitamin D, folate, potassium). In isocaloric models, SFA → PUFA was associated with more favorable nutrient signatures: MASLD-oriented score −28% (p < 0.001; FDR-significant) and PRAL −33% (p = 0.007; FDR-borderline/suggestive). Conclusions: A waist-centric CM subphenotype—central adiposity co-occurring with upward BP shifts and intermittent dysglycemia—was detectable in young adults despite normal average BMI, against a background of poor diet quality and low activity. These baseline surveillance signals are not causal effects. Integration into routine with WHO-aligned NCD surveillance is feasible. Prospective follow-up (biomarker calibration, device-based activity, repeated waves) will refine inferences and inform scalable proactive prevention. Full article

Growing health consciousness drives demand for convenient, nutrient-dense snacks. This study evaluates five Sukkari date-mixed-nut bar formulations (DNB1–DNB5; date/nut ratios 40:60–80:20) through comprehensive biochemical and nutritional analyses. Macronutrient profiling showed that higher date ratios increased moisture and carbohydrates, whereas higher nut ratios enhanced protein, fat, and caloric density. Mineral assays revealed progressive increases in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace elements as date content decreased. The assessment of phytochemicals and antioxidants demonstrated that total phenolics, flavonoids, and radical-scavenging activities peaked in nut-rich bars, declining by ~50% in date-rich bars, underscoring nuts’ dominant antioxidant role. HPLC profiling identified catechol and vanillic acid as the major phenolics, with optimal release and retention at the 60:40 ratio (DNB3). Amino acid (AA) analysis confirmed positive correlations between nut content and total/essential AAs; DNB1–DNB2 achieved favorable essential-to-nonessential AA ratios (0.56–0.59) and higher protein quality indices. Fatty acid (FA) composition analysis revealed that oleic acid was identified as the major constituent across all formulations, coupled with optimal omega-6/omega-3 ratios. GC-MS analysis identified a total of 31 volatiles, mainly benzene derivatives and FA methyl esters. Results also revealed that notable variations attributed to different date/nut ratios significantly alter aroma profiles, with DNB3 yielding the most remarkable diversity of health-associated volatiles. Results from PCA and hierarchical clustering suggest that a single dominant dimension (PC1, 94.47% variance) governs compositional differences among the five date bar formulations, reflecting deliberate variation in ingredient proportions. The evidence suggests that DNB3’s (60:40 Sukkari date to mixed nut ratio) delivers balanced macro-nutrients, robust antioxidants, and diverse bioactives, positioning it as a health-promoting functional snack, aligning with its suitability for athletes, clinical nutrition applications, and health-conscious populations. These findings support the commercial development of optimized date-nut bars as nutrient-dense functional snacks, and future work should focus on scale-up production, shelf-life stability, and assessing in vivo bioavailability. Full article

The rise in diabetes and obesity worldwide has created an urgent demand for low-sugar, nutrient-dense foods with appealing flavors. This study established an endogenous and “rapid validation–stable production” platform to enhance the flavor of edible tomato fruits by integrating two key technologies in the MicroTom cherry tomato: (1) TRV viral vector-mediated transient expression and (2) Agrobacterium-mediated stable genetic transformation. We employed the human sweet taste receptor TAS1R2 for in vitro functional validation and objectively demonstrated that tomato-derived recombinant thaumatin II exhibits receptor-binding activity equivalent to that of the native protein, overcoming the limitations of traditional sensory evaluation. Non-targeted metabolomic analysis (covering 1236 metabolites) confirmed that thaumatin II expression did not significantly alter the profiles of sugars, organic acids, or key flavor compounds in tomato fruits. This provides safety data supporting the development of “ready-to-eat sugar-substitute fruits.” Our strategy offers a solution and theoretical technical support for the development of low-sugar, high-nutrient foods. Full article

Early childhood caries (ECC) remains a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting marginalized populations. While traditional research emphasizes behavioral and biological risk factors, emerging evidence highlights the critical role of environmental determinants. This narrative synthesis aims to highlight the role of environmental determinants as a risk factor for ECC pathogenesis. Environmental toxins (e.g., lead, perfluoroalkyl acids, tobacco smoke, air pollution) disrupt enamel development, impair salivary function, and compromise immune responses, directly increasing caries susceptibility. Environmental degradation, including air pollution, reduces ultraviolet B radiation exposure, limiting endogenous vitamin D synthesis that is vital for enamel mineralization and immune regulation. These risks are compounded in low- and middle-income countries, where structural inequities, inadequate sanitation, and climate disruptions exacerbate ECC burdens. We introduce ecovitality—the resilience of ecosystems supporting human health—as a novel framework linking ecological vitality to oral health. Degraded environments limit access to fluoridated water and nutrient-dense foods while promoting sugary diets and endocrine disruptors. A One Health approach is advocated to address interconnected environmental, social, and biological determinants of the risk for ECC. Despite global reductions in tobacco use and lead exposure, the Global Burden of Disease 2021 analysis reports stagnation in ECC prevalence. This underscores the critical need for longitudinal and mechanistic studies to establish causality, quantify the contributions of environmental controls, and explore how mitigating these risks can reduce the global ECC burden. Such evidence may promote interdisciplinary action to align oral health promotion for children with the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

Background: Natural solutions, such as locally available food resources (LAFRs) and nontimber forest products (NTFPs), are recognized for their bioactive potential in addressing health challenges. Despite Mizoram’s rich biodiversity, the population faces increasing risks of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs). Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed priority dietary preferences, food group consumption, dietary diversity score, and lifestyle practices, alongside a review of the nutraceutical potential of LAFRs and NTFPs. A three-day dietary recall was analyzed using t-tests at a 5% significance level against standards from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). One-way ANOVA was further employed to examine potential differences in food group consumption among occupational, gender, and age groups. Results: Results revealed strong cultural preferences for carbohydrate-rich breakfasts and meat-based dinners, with lunch often skipped or replaced by snacks. Over 85% of participants reported inadequate intake of milk, fruits, pulses, and nuts. Compared with older and high-income women, younger women exhibited the lowest intake of food groups and nutrient-dense foods. Occupation significantly influenced dietary patterns, with heavy workers consuming more cereals but fewer micronutrient-rich foods. A shift from traditional to modern dietary and lifestyle practices was observed, influencing overall diet quality and long-term health outcomes. The mean Dietary Diversity Score (0–10) was 5.6 ± 1.3, indicating significant gender differences in diet variety (males: 5.8 ± 1.2; females: 5.4 ± 1.4; p = 0.04). The review highlights that LAFRs and NTFPs serve as valuable sources of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and bioactives with antidiabetic and anticancer properties while also providing essential micronutrients. Conclusions: The findings reveal a marked dietary transition in Mizoram and underscore the urgent need for food-based strategies to address nutrient gaps and the growing burden of NCDs. Full article

Soybeans (Glycine max) are nutrient-dense legumes and a high-quality plant-based protein source containing all essential amino acids. With a protein content of 36–40%, soy surpasses many other plant-derived proteins in nutritional value. Its bioactive components, particularly peptides and isoflavones, contribute to reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and the risk of chronic diseases. In undernourished regions such as Pakistan, where protein-energy malnutrition is prevalent among women and children, soy offers a sustainable and cost-effective nutritional intervention. This review synthesizes findings from biochemical analyses, nutritional profiling, and clinical trials evaluating the impact of soybean protein and its bioactive compounds on growth, metabolic health, immune function, and disease prevention. Emphasis was placed on studies relevant to food-insecure populations and technological innovations enhancing soy product bioavailability. Soy protein has been shown to have positive effects on hormonal regulation, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and immune support. Technological approaches such as fortification and fermentation improve nutritional bioavailability and sensory acceptance. The integration of soy into local diets enhanced nutritional adequacy, promoted environmental sustainability, and aligned with Sustainable Development Goals. Soybeans represent a sustainable, nutrient-rich solution to combat protein-energy malnutrition in vulnerable communities. Their high-quality protein profile, therapeutic properties, and adaptability to local food systems make them an effective strategy for improving public health and supporting environmental resilience. Full article

Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski has been introduced into many countries due to its ornamental and economic value. However, it has been listed in the world’s 100 worst alien invasive species due to its invasive nature. This species easily escapes cultivation and forms dense ground cover. It reproduces asexually through ramet formation from stem fragments. It also produces a large number of viable seeds that establish extensive seed banks. The movement of stem fragments and the dispersal of seeds, coupled with human activity, contribute to its short- and long-distance distribution. S. trilobata grows rapidly due to its high nutrient absorption and photosynthetic abilities. It exhibits high genetic and epigenetic variation. It can adapt to different habitats and tolerate various adverse environmental conditions, including cold and high temperatures, low and high light irradiation, low nutrient levels, waterlogging, drought, salinity, and global warming. S. trilobata has powerful defense systems against herbivory and pathogen infection. These systems activate the jasmonic acid signaling pathway, producing several defensive compounds. This species may also acquire more resources through allelopathy, which suppresses the germination and growth of neighboring plants. These life history traits and defensive abilities likely contribute to its invasive nature. This is the first review to focus on the mechanisms of its invasiveness in terms of growth and reproduction, as well as its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions and defend itself. Full article

Background: Bariatric surgery (BS) is the most effective long-term treatment for severe obesity, but many patients develop food intolerances that either reduce protein and micronutrient intake or shift consumption toward easily tolerated, calorie-dense “safe” foods (e.g., sweets, ice cream, sugar-sweetened beverages, refined-flour snacks), compromising nutrient adequacy and weight-loss maintenance. This narrative review summarizes evidence on the prevalence, mechanisms, and clinical impact of food intolerances after BS, focusing on red meat, dairy, water, cereal, and vegetables, and offers practical nutritional management strategies. Methods: A targeted literature search of PubMed and Cochrane Library from the past 10 years was conducted. Studies were selected based on relevance and quality. Results: Intolerance patterns vary by food type and surgical method. Red meat is the most frequently problematic food, with some patients symptomatic for years despite gradual improvement. Dairy products cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases, partly due to lactose intolerance. Cereal products may initially cause swallowing difficulties but are generally well tolerated two years postoperatively. Water intolerance mainly occurs shortly after sleeve gastrectomy (SG), linked to sleeve aperistalsis and edema, resolving within weeks. Cooked vegetables are overall well tolerated across procedures. Mechanisms behind intolerance include mechanical restriction, altered gastric emptying, exaggerated entero-hormonal responses, and new taste aversions. Conclusions: Food intolerances are a common, procedure-specific consequence of BS, requiring systematic assessment and personalized dietary management. Early management—modification of consistency, portion control, and supplementation—can improve product tolerance, prevent nutritional deficiencies, and support sustainable weight loss. However, further prospective studies on the mechanisms of food intolerances are needed. Full article