Search Results (2,752)

The genus Sonchus (Asteraceae) comprises 98 species, including 17 predominantly herbaceous taxa native to the Mediterranean region. These plants have long been utilized as traditional wild food sources due to their high nutritional value, as they are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, essential minerals, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the taxonomy, geographic distribution, phytochemical composition, traditional uses, historical significance, and pharmacological properties of Sonchus species. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies from 1980 to 2024. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and methodological quality was assessed using standardized tools. A bibliometric analysis of 440 publications (from 1856 to 2025) reveals evolving research trends, with S. oleraceus, S. arvensis, and S. asper being the most extensively studied species. The review provides detailed taxonomic insights into 17 species and 14 subspecies, emphasizing their ecological adaptations and biogeographical patterns. Additionally, it highlights the cultural and medicinal relevance of Sonchus since antiquity while underscoring the threats posed by environmental degradation and changing dietary habits. Sonchus oleraceus and S. tenerrimus dominate the culinary applications of the genus, likely due to favorable taste, wide accessibility, and longstanding cultural importance. The comprehensive nutritional profile of Sonchus species positions these plants as valuable contributors to dietary diversity and food security. Finally, the study identifies current knowledge gaps and proposes future research directions to support the conservation and sustainable utilization of Sonchus species. Full article

In recent years, edible insects have gained significant attention as a sustainable and innovative source of feed for animal nutrition due to their excellent content of protein, fats, vitamins, and chitin. Among these, chitin is the least studied nutritional component, despite its promising properties and potential benefits. Chitin, an important polysaccharide found in the exoskeleton of arthropods, including insects, presents both negative and positive aspects in animal nutrition. As is known, the main drawback is its digestibility, which varies among livestock animal species depending on their ability to produce chitinase. However, chitin also exhibits benefits, including the enhancement of gut microbiota and immune response, together with the reduction in cholesterol and pathogen levels in animals. This review aims to summarise the current knowledge on the effects of chitin derived from edible insects on animal nutrition by analysing both the negative aspects and benefits for the different farmed animals for which insect feeding is legally permitted (fish, poultry, and pigs), while proposing future research directions. Full article

Fungi, from saprophytes to pathogens, face predictable daily fluctuations in light, temperature, humidity, and nutrient availability. To cope, they have evolved an internal circadian clock that confers a major adaptive advantage. This review critically synthesizes current knowledge on the molecular architecture and physiological relevance of fungal circadian systems, moving beyond the canonical Neurospora crassa model to explore the broader phylogenetic diversity of timekeeping mechanisms. We examine the core transcription-translation feedback loop (TTFL) centered on the FREQUENCY/WHITE COLLAR (FRQ/WCC) system and contrast it with divergent and non-canonical oscillators, including the metabolic rhythms of yeasts and the universally conserved peroxiredoxin (PRX) oxidation cycles. A central theme is the clock’s role in gating cellular defenses against oxidative, osmotic, and nutritional stress, enabling fungi to anticipate and withstand environmental insults through proactive regulation. We provide a detailed analysis of chrono-pathogenesis, where the circadian control of virulence factors aligns fungal attacks with windows of host vulnerability, with a focus on experimental evidence from pathogens like Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Magnaporthe oryzae. The review explores the downstream pathways—including transcriptional cascades, post-translational modifications, and epigenetic regulation—that translate temporal signals into physiological outputs such as developmental rhythms in conidiation and hyphal branching. Finally, we highlight critical knowledge gaps, particularly in understudied phyla like Basidiomycota, and discuss future research directions. This includes the exploration of novel clock architectures and the emerging, though speculative, hypothesis of “chrono-therapeutics”—interventions designed to disrupt fungal clocks—as a forward-looking concept for managing fungal infections. Full article

Wild edible fruit plants are integral to the cultural, nutritional, medicinal, and economic practices of Indigenous Isan communities in Roi Et Province, northeastern Thailand, a region characterized by plateau and lowland topography and a tropical monsoon climate. This study aimed to document the diversity, traditional uses, phenology, and conservation status of these species to inform sustainable management and conservation efforts. Field surveys and ethnobotanical interviews with 200 informants (100 men, 100 women; random ages) were conducted across 20 local communities to identify species diversity and usage patterns, while phenological observations and conservation assessments were performed to understand reproductive cycles and species vulnerability between January and December 2023. A total of 68 species from 32 families were recorded, with peak flowering in March–April and fruiting in May–June. Analyses of Species Use Value (0.19–0.48) and Relative Frequency of Citation (0.15–0.44) identified key species with significant roles in food security and traditional medicine. Uvaria rufa had the highest SUV (0.48) and RFC (0.44). Informant consensus on medicinal applications was strong for ailments such as gastrointestinal and lymphatic disorders. Economically important species were also identified, with some contributing notable income through local trade. Conservation proposed one species as Critically Endangered and several others as Vulnerable. The results highlight the need for integrated conservation strategies, including community-based initiatives and recognition of Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs), to ensure the preservation of biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and local livelihoods. Full article

Background/Objectives: Obesity in adolescence is associated with a deterioration in cognitive functions, with significant implications for psychophysical well-being and academic performance. Recent studies highlight the importance of integrated interventions that combine nutrition education and physical activity to promote the overall health of students. The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an integrated intervention based on nutritional education and conscious body movement in improving cognitive functions, perceived well-being and nutritional knowledge in lower secondary school students with indicators of overweight and obesity. Methods: A quasi-experimental design with randomization at the class level was adopted, involving 60 students divided into an experimental group and control group. The intervention was divided into twelve weeks of activities, divided between nutritional education modules and physical activity courses. Standardized tests for the assessment of cognitive functions (Digit Span Forward, Digit Span Backward, Stroop Test, Trail Making Test B), motor tests (6-Minute Walk Test, Sit and Reach Test) and a food knowledge questionnaire were administered before and after the intervention. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements compared to the control group in all cognitive, motor, and nutritional knowledge measures, indicating the effectiveness of the integrated intervention in promoting cognitive and physical well-being. Conclusions: The findings support the role of school as a generative environment of integrated well-being, suggesting the need to develop and implement curricular programs that integrate nutrition education and physical activity to counteract the negative effects of obesity on cognitive function in adolescents. Full article

Selenium (Se) is an important trace element in our body; however, food composition data remain limited due to analytical challenges and interferences. Seafood, abundant in Thailand, is recognized as a rich source of Se. This study aimed to expand knowledge on Se content in seafood prepared using traditional Thai cooking methods. Twenty seafood species were selected and prepared by boiling, frying, and grilling. Inductively Coupled Plasma–Triple Quadrupole–Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) was used to analyze total Se contents in selected seafood species. Results revealed significant variation in Se content across species and cooking methods. The Indo-Pacific horseshoe crab showed the highest Se concentration, with fried samples reaching 193.9 μg/100 g. Se concentrations were in the range of 8.6–155.5 μg/100 g (fresh), 14.3–106.6 μg/100 g (boiled), 17.3–193.9 μg/100 g (fried), and 7.3–160.1 μg/100 g (grilled). Results found significant effects of species and cooking method on Se content (p < 0.05). Fried seafood exhibited the highest estimated marginal mean Se concentration (a 78.8 μg/100 g edible portion), significantly higher than other methods. True retention (%TR) of Se ranged from 40.4% to 100%, depending on species and method. Bigfin reef squid, wedge shell, and silver pomfret showed the highest %TR (100%), while splendid squid exhibited the lowest (52.5%). Significant interaction effects on %TR were also observed (p < 0.05). Fried seafood had the highest mean %TR (88.8%), followed by grilled (82.1%) and boiled (79.7%). These findings highlight the effects of both species and cooking method on Se retention, emphasizing the nutritional value of selected seafood in preserving bioavailable Se after cooking. Full article

Background: Addressing undernutrition and malnutrition requires a multi-pronged approach targeting different populations with appropriate interventions. Knowledge and perception (K&P) of Individuals and communities about nutrition to human health relationship/continuum is a prerequisite for addressing malnutrition in rural and mountain communities. Assessing K&P is essential for developing strategic interventions to up-scaling K&P of communities and achieving nutrition security. Homestead gardens are a proven intervention for achieving nutrition security for all family members of gardeners. Methods: This paper includes homestead gardeners from the Himalayan Mountain Region (HMR) as respondents. We developed a scale to assess the K&P of respondents, based on ratings from 20 judges. A total of 134 issues/items have been retained in the scale from macronutrients, micronutrients, minerals, and vitamins. A framework has also been developed and adopted for the study. A knowledge and perception index (KPI) has been developed based on the respondents’ responses. We have reviewed and analysed the national policy interventions for augmenting the K&P of the study community to achieve nutrition security. Results: The nutrition K&P of respondents are inadequate and far from the desirable level. Policy review and analysis indicate that the creation of K&P in the community to contribute to self and family nutrition security was previously highly neglected. Conclusions: The policy process of national, state, and county/district-level development sectors in developing countries under the HMR may take the initiative to ensure self-nutrition security by creating K&P of the community on nutrition issues. The designed scale is prudent requires testing and validation for measuring farmers’ K&P on nutrition, which may be adopted in future studies and policymaking not only nationally but also from an international perspective. Full article

Background/Objectives: Taste dysfunction is a highly prevalent yet underrecognized complication among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), significantly impairing nutritional intake, treatment adherence, and quality of life (QoL). This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical management of taste dysfunction associated with HNC and its treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Methods: A structured literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library for articles published between January 2015 and February 2025. Studies were included if they investigated taste dysfunction related to HNC, focusing on pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. A total of 47 original studies were analyzed through a narrative synthesis due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes. Results: Taste dysfunction in HNC patients arises from tumor-related inflammation, cytotoxic injury from chemotherapy, and radiation-induced epithelial and neural damage. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy often exert synergistic negative effects on gustatory function. Management strategies identified include dietary counselling, nutritional supplementation (zinc, lactoferrin, monosodium glutamate, miraculin), pharmacological agents targeting salivary function, and non-pharmacological interventions such as acupuncture, photobiomodulation, and reconstructive surgery. However, the evidence is limited by small sample sizes, methodological variability, and the frequent exclusion of HNC patients from broader dysgeusia trials. Reported prevalence of taste dysfunction ranged from 39% to 97.4%, with higher rates observed among patients treated with radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy. Conclusions: Taste dysfunction remains a critical yet unmet clinical challenge in HNC patients. High-quality, targeted research is urgently needed to develop standardized assessments and evidence-based management strategies to improve patient outcomes. Full article

The environmental impact of milk production, particularly its share of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, is a topic under investigation in various parts of the world. This paper presents an overview of current knowledge on the carbon footprint (CF) of milk production at the farm level, with a particular focus on technological, environmental and organisational factors affecting emission levels. The analysis is based on a review of, inter alia, 46 peer-reviewed publications and 11 environmental reports, legal acts and databases concerning the CF in different regions and under various production systems. This study identifies the main sources of emissions, including enteric fermentation, manure management, and the production and use of feed and fertiliser. It also demonstrates the significant variability of the CF values, which range, on average, from 0.78 to 3.20 kg CO₂ eq kg⁻¹ of milk, determined by the farm scale, nutritional strategies, local environmental and economic determinants, and the methodology applied. Moreover, this study stresses that higher production efficiency and integrated farm management could reduce the CF per milk unit, with further intensification having, however, diminishing effects. The application of life cycle assessment (LCA) methods is essential for a reliable assessment and comparison of the CF between systems. Ultimately, an effective CF reduction requires a comprehensive approach that combines improved nutritional practices, efficient use of resources, and implementation of technological innovations adjusted to regional and farm-specific determinants. The solutions presented in this paper may serve as guidelines for practitioners and decision-makers with regard to reducing GHG emissions. Full article

Clinical trials serve as a cornerstone in the meticulous assessment of the efficacy and myriad health benefits that functional foods offer. These trials are not merely confined to the specific domain of functional foods; rather, they resonate throughout the expansive realms of nutrition science and public health, illuminating the intricate interdependencies that exist among these disciplines. This interconnectedness is becoming increasingly apparent, emphasizing the significant influence of scientific inquiry on fostering healthier dietary habits and shaping well-informed public health strategies. Functional food clinical trials yield essential insights into the potential of functional foods to enhance health outcomes, thereby playing a pivotal role in the prevention of various ailments and substantially elevating the quality of life for individuals in diverse contexts. By delivering consistent and compelling results, these trials bolster the foundational knowledge requisite healthcare practitioners to navigate dietary decisions wisely. Ultimately, the impact of such trials transcends individual health, contributing to the collective well-being of communities. They serve as a vital link between scientific progress and practical implementation, ensuring that the benefits of research are seamlessly integrated into everyday dietary practices, thereby promoting a healthier society at large. Full article

Background: Prematurity and low birth weight (LBW) drive infant morbidity and mortality, requiring nutritional interventions, especially in food-insecure settings. In Indonesia, regional disparities in food security hinder adequate nutrition for premature and LBW infants, exacerbating health challenges. The aim of study is to investigate and determine factors associated with prematurity and LBW in children from food-insecure and food-secure households. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional study with 657 mothers of children aged 36–59 months, conducted using random sampling. Data was collected via standardized questionnaires and analyzed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results: The adjusted model showed that children of food-insecure households had a higher risk of LBW (AOR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.29–0.99; p < 0.05). LBWs were found to significantly less occur in food-insecure households. Low maternal education was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (AOR = 3.23; 95% CI:1.78–5.84; p < 0.001). Furthermore, prematurity correlated with house ownership (p < 0.01), indicating the household’s wealth condition. Maternal education and house ownership were linked to prematurity, indicating the risk to child health outcomes. In summary, maternal education, employment status, and household income were linked to food insecurity, indicating the risk to child health outcomes. Conclusion: Strategies to improve child health outcomes are essential, including enhancing maternal nutrition knowledge to improve child feeding practices, promoting gender equality in career development, and reducing food insecurity in households. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in older adults where frailty complicates treatment outcomes. Multimodal prehabilitation—comprising nutritional support, physical exercise, and psychological interventions—has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance patients’ resilience before CRC surgery. Clinical studies demonstrate that prehabilitation significantly reduces postoperative complications, shortens hospital stays, and improves functional recovery. Nutritional interventions focus on counteracting malnutrition and sarcopenia through tailored dietary counseling, protein supplementation, and immunonutrients like arginine and glutamine. Physical exercise enhances cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength while modulating immune and metabolic pathways critical for surgical recovery. Psychological support reduces anxiety and depression, promoting mental resilience that correlates with better postoperative outcomes. Despite clear clinical benefits, the molecular mechanisms underlying prehabilitation’s effects—such as inflammation modulation, immune activation, and metabolic rewiring—remain poorly understood. This review addresses this knowledge gap by exploring potential biological pathways influenced by prehabilitation, aiming to guide more targeted, personalized approaches in CRC patient management. Advancing molecular insights may optimize prehabilitation protocols and improve survival and quality of life for CRC patients undergoing surgery. Full article

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are steroid hormones that are essential for plant growth, development, and environmental adaptation. They control the division, elongation, and differentiation of various cell types throughout the entire plant life cycle, affecting growth and the stress response. Therefore, fine-tuning of BR biosynthesis and modulation of signaling pathways offer possibilities for developing cultivars characterized by adjusted plant architecture or improved stress tolerance to benefit crop production. Additionally, precise BR treatments can be employed to increase the productivity of crop plants. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the genetic basis of traits related to BR metabolism and signaling in cucurbits, the second largest vegetable family, which contributes significantly to global vegetable production and nutritional security. We summarize the current knowledge concerning BR biosynthesis mutants, the role of BRs in stress mitigation, and the potential of the exogenous application of BRs to alleviate stress during cucurbit production. We also discuss how genes related to BR metabolism can be used to develop gene editing strategies to advance precision breeding in cucurbits. Full article

Small-scale farms deserve attention and support because they play crucial and important roles. Apart from ensuring provision of food security, they also provide other economic, environmental, and social–cultural benefits. In the United States of America, these farms are agriculturally, culturally, and geographically different. They have varied needs that trigger an array of distinct biophysical, socioeconomic, and institutional challenges. The effects of these challenges are exacerbated by economic uncertainty, technological advancements, climate change, and other environmental concerns. To provide ideal services to the small-scale farm audience, it is necessary to understand these challenges and opportunities that can be leveraged to enhance their productivity and profitability. This article reviews the challenges faced by small-scale farming in the United States of America. It then reviews possible pathways to enhance their productivity and profitability. The review revealed that U.S. small-scale farms face several challenges. They include accessing farmland, credit and capital, lack of knowledge and skills, and technology adoption. Others are difficulties to insure, competition from corporations, and environmental uncertainties associated with climate change. The paper then reviews key pathways to enhance small-scale farmers’ capacities and resilience with a positive impact on their productivity and profitability. They are enhanced cooperative extension services, incentivization, strategic marketing, annexing technology, and government support, among others. Based on the diversity of farms and their needs, responses should be targeted towards individual needs. Since small-scale farm products have an effect on human health and dietary patterns, strategies to increase productivity should be linked to nutrition and health. Full article

The objective of this research was to conduct a comprehensive review of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) culture in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), identify knowledge gaps, and propose strategies oriented towards intelligent and sustainable aquaculture. A systematic review and bibliometric analysis of 387 articles published between 1941 and 2025 in the Scopus database was carried out. Since 2011, there has been a sustained growth in scientific production, with the United States, Denmark, Finland, and Germany standing out as the main contributors. The journals with the highest number of publications were Aquacultural Engineering, Aquaculture, and Aquaculture Research. The conceptual analysis revealed the following three thematic clusters: experimental studies on physiology and metabolism; research focused on nutrition, growth, and yield; and technological developments for water treatment in RAS. This evolution reflects a transition from basic approaches to applied technologies oriented towards sustainability. There was also evidence of a thematic transition toward molecular tools such as proteomics, transcriptomics, and real-time PCR. However, there is still limited integration of smart technologies such as the IoT. It is recommended to incorporate self-calibrating multi-parametric sensors, machine learning models, and autonomous systems for environmental regulation in real time. Full article