Search Results (5,551)

Background: Children with food allergy (FA) may develop eating difficulties that extend beyond medically required allergen avoidance, including food neophobia, selective eating, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)-related symptoms. This mixed-methods study aimed to assess ARFID symptoms, food neophobia, diet quality, and food-related psychological experiences in children with FA. Methods: Seventy children with confirmed FA were enrolled in an observational cross-sectional mixed-methods study conducted at a tertiary pediatric allergy center. Quantitative assessment included the Eating Disorders in Youth-Questionnaire (EDY-Q), the Italian Child Food Neophobia Scale (ICFNS), and the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for Children and Adolescents (KIDMED). Qualitative data were collected from a purposive subsample of 26 children through semi-structured child-friendly interviews and drawing-based elicitation activities and were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: A positive EDY-Q screening result for ARFID-related symptoms was observed in 3 children (4.3%). Selective Eating showed the highest median EDY-Q domain score (median 1.50, IQR 0.67–4.00), followed by Food Avoidance Emotional Disorder (median 1.00, IQR 0.00–2.00) and Functional Dysphagia (median 0.00, IQR 0.00–2.00). Moderate food neophobia was observed in 45 children (64.3%), while 24 children (34.3%) were classified within the high food-neophobia category. KIDMED score was negatively correlated with EDY-Q total score (Spearman’s ρ = −0.302; p = 0.011), Selective Eating (ρ = −0.356; p = 0.002), and Functional Dysphagia (ρ = −0.238; p = 0.048). In an exploratory hierarchical regression, Selective Eating remained inversely associated with KIDMED after adjustment for demographic and FA-related covariates (β = −0.386; p = 0.002); however, the overall model did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.081), and the additional clinical covariates did not significantly improve model fit. Accordingly, the fully adjusted findings should be interpreted as exploratory. Qualitative analysis identified five themes: anticipatory fear of food and tasting, emotional memory of allergic reactions and generalization of risk, selective avoidance and food rigidity, reassurance-seeking and decision-making dependence, and ambivalent parental dynamics. Conclusions: Within this tertiary-care sample, positive EDY-Q screening results were uncommon, whereas broader food-related difficulties were identified. Pediatric FA assessment may benefit from attention to eating behavior, diet quality, and avoidance extending beyond confirmed allergens. Full article

This study systematically evaluated substrate-dependent variations in yield, nutritional composition, mineral profiles, taste-active compounds, electronic tongue profile, and metabolome of A. bisporus cultivated on corn stover-based substrates (CM1, CM2, CM3) and wheat straw-based substrate (WM4). Corn stover-based substrates supported the cultivation of A. bisporus, yielding 20.56–25.63 kg/m², comparable to WM4 (24.23 kg/m²). Biological efficiency of the corn stover treatments ranged from 80.32% to 88.58%; CM1 and CM2 were comparable to WM4 (91.35%), whereas CM3 showed a significantly lower biological efficiency than WM4 (p < 0.05). Crude protein and mineral elements (Cu, Fe, Zn) were substantially higher in mushrooms from corn stover-based substrates, whereas crude polysaccharide content was greater in WM4. Taste profile analysis revealed that corn stover-based substrates elevated umami and sweet amino acids alongside 5′-GMP and 5′-UMP, leading to enhanced equivalent umami concentration (EUC) and umami perception by the electronic tongue, while WM4 supported higher 5′-AMP accumulation. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis (CM3 vs. WM4) identified 3997 metabolic features. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that these substrate-dependent metabolic alterations were primarily driven by pathways such as the biosynthesis of amino acids, nucleotide metabolism, and 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism, underlying the metabolic adaptation of A. bisporus. These findings provide new insights into the compositional characteristics and quality formation of A. bisporus cultivated on corn stover-based substrates. Full article

Excessive fructose consumption is associated with metabolic syndrome (MS). This study evaluated the effect of two coffee by-products, coffee pulp (CP) and coffee silverskin (SK), on fructose-induced intestinal changes. Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to six groups (n = 6/group) for 10 weeks: Control, Fructose (FRU; 20% fructose in drinking water), CP, CP + FRU, SK, and SK + FRU. CP and SK were administered by oral gavage (250 mg/kg/day) using corn oil as vehicle. Intestinal morphology, gene expression (RT-qPCR), and gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA sequencing) were assessed. Fructose significantly increased jejunal expression of the glucose transporters SGLT1 and GLUT2. CP and SK reversed SGLT1 and GLUT2 overexpression and reduced GLUT5 expression relative to the FRU group. Fructose also markedly increased expression of sweet taste receptors TAS1R2 and TAS1R3 and the transcription factors SREBP-1c and ChREBP. Both CP and SK normalized TAS1R2 and TAS1R3 expression, whereas SK additionally prevented SREBP-1c and ChREBP overexpression. Both by-products restored fructose-induced reductions in microbial richness and alpha diversity. CP also modified beta diversity and increased the abundance of the genus Blautia compared with FRU. In conclusion, CP and SK reversed several fructose-induced intestinal alterations, namely in the jejunal expression of sugar-sensing and absorption-related genes. Additionally, CP showed microbiota-modulating effects, whereas SK modulated the jejunal expression of key transcription factors (SREBP-1c and ChREBP) involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Overall, these findings suggest that CP and SK may represent promising candidates for mitigating fructose-induced intestinal alterations. Full article

Dysgeusia is a clinically consequential, but still under-standardized, toxicity of cancer treatment. In the immunotherapy era, taste disturbances are increasingly relevant for patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies and T-cell-redirecting bispecific antibodies, with G protein-coupled receptor family C group 5 member D (GPRC5D)-directed treatment in multiple myeloma representing a particularly instructive high-burden model. We performed a structured critical narrative review with evidence mapping. PubMed/MEDLINE was searched from database inception to June 2026, complemented by citation tracking in Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov searches and guideline documents relevant to oncology nutrition, oral supportive care and cancer-related taste dysfunction. Search concepts covered cancer-related dysgeusia, immunotherapy-associated oral toxicity, GPRC5D/talquetamab-associated dysgeusia, oncology nutrition, oral–gut microbiome biology, natural taste modulators and miraculin-based interventions. Dysgeusia can reduce appetite, food enjoyment, dietary diversity and protein energy intake, thereby contributing to weight loss, malnutrition risk, distress, social withdrawal and, in severe cases, treatment modification or discontinuation. Available evidence is heterogeneous: general cancer-treatment-associated dysgeusia is supported by broader observational and interventional literature; immunotherapy-associated dysgeusia is less systematically characterized; and GPRC5D/talquetamab-associated dysgeusia represents the most clinically visible and target-specific immunotherapy-associated phenotype. Emerging pilot data suggest that dried miracle berry or miraculin-containing products may improve selected taste perception and nutritional parameters in cancer-related dysgeusia, but direct evidence in immunotherapy-associated dysgeusia is not yet established. We, therefore, propose a claim-disciplined precision supportive-care framework integrating systematic taste phenotyping, early nutritional risk assessment, oral health evaluation, microbiome-aware but hypothesis-generating endpoints, individualized flavor and texture adaptation, cautious use of natural taste modulators in selected patients and iterative monitoring of patient-centered outcomes. Future trials should test whether dysgeusia-focused nutritional and taste-modulating supportive care interventions can improve intake, quality of life and treatment persistence without compromising immunotherapy safety or efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: In phenylketonuria (PKU), adherence to protein substitute (PS) is frequently suboptimal due to poor palatability, high volume, and sensory fatigue. A novel phenylalanine (Phe)-free L-amino acid microtablet PS has been developed to address these barriers. The microtablets incorporate a cellulose-based taste-masking coating and a sodium-alginate inner matrix intended to enable controlled amino acid release over approximately three hours. This study evaluated their short-term tolerability, acceptability, and adherence in children with PKU, with extended follow-up in a subgroup. Methods: A 7-day observational study was conducted in participants with PKU aged ≥3 years on a low-Phe diet in a single centre. The test product provided protein equivalent (PE) 54 g/100 g. Participants replaced at least one daily dose of their usual PS with the test product, providing 10 g or 20 g/day PE, with one child receiving 80 g/day. Daily gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, PS intake, and adherence were recorded. Acceptability was assessed using structured ratings of palatability, ease of use, and overall preference. Longer-term tolerability and acceptability were then assessed in four adolescents who elected to continue the test product for an additional 28 days. Results: Ten participants completed the 7-day study. Adherence to the test product was high (80%), exceeding adherence to participants’ usual PS (70%). At baseline, nine participants reported none/mild GI symptoms, most commonly flatulence. One participant reported moderate/severe symptoms including constipation, flatulence, diarrhoea, bloating, burping, and abdominal discomfort. By day 7, all participants reported no or mild symptoms, with complete resolution in the child with moderate/severe baseline symptoms. Acceptability ratings were comparable between the test product and usual PS, and nine children (90%) reported no difficulty taking the test product. During the 28-day extension, adherence remained high, GI tolerance was maintained, and improved preference was noted, particularly due to reduced aftertaste. Conclusions: This novel slow-release PS microtablet was well tolerated, acceptable, and associated with high adherence. Its taste-masked, low-volume format offered practical advantages that may support sustained dietary adherence. Longer-term controlled studies are necessary to confirm these findings. Full article

In this study, we evaluated the effects of Bermuda grass and perennial ryegrass feeding on the proximate composition, shear force, fatty acid profile, and flavor characteristics of goat meat (rectus femoris). Thirty castrated Korean native black × Boer crossbred goats (10 months old) were divided into two groups (n = 15 per group) and fed forage-based diets consisting of 35% forage (either Bermuda grass or perennial ryegrass) and 65% commercial concentrate for 4 months. The Bermuda grass group showed a significantly higher fat content and lower shear force (p < 0.05), along with higher relative proportions of linoleic and α-linolenic acids. Aroma analysis revealed higher methanethiol and 2-methylheptanal levels in the Bermuda grass group, whereas taste profiling revealed a stronger umami flavor and lower sourness and saltiness. Overall, Bermuda grass feeding may improve selected meat quality characteristics of goat meat without adversely affecting growth performance. However, its nutritional implications should be interpreted cautiously because of the lower UFA/SFA ratio observed in the present study. Full article

Bamboo shoots undergo rapid postharvest quality deterioration. To evaluate the effects of organic acid treatments on the quality preservation of green bamboo (Dendrocalamopsis oldhami) shoots (GBSs) and lei bamboo (Phyllostachys praecox f. preveynalis) shoots (LBSs), shoots were immersed in oxalic acid (2.5, 5, 7.5 mmol·L⁻¹), ascorbic acid (28.4, 56.8, 85.2 mmol·L⁻¹), citric acid (26, 52, 78 mmol·L⁻¹), or salicylic acid (0.5, 1, 1.5 mmol·L⁻¹) for 10 min and then stored at 4 °C for 14 days. Changes in weight loss, soluble protein, soluble sugar, lignin, cellulose, taste attributes (sweetness, bitterness, astringency, umami), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities were monitored. Postharvest organic acid treatments effectively preserved the storage quality of both GBSs and LBSs by reducing weight loss; suppressing lignin and cellulose increases; maintaining higher soluble protein, soluble sugar, sweetness, and umami; and inhibiting bitterness, astringency, and PAL/POD/PPO activities. Optimal treatments were variety-specific when evaluated by the principal component analysis (PCA) comprehensive evaluation model: 5 mmol·L⁻¹ oxalic acid (OA2) for GBSs, and 56.8 mmol·L⁻¹ ascorbic acid (AA2) for LBSs. In contrast, 56.8 mmol·L⁻¹ ascorbic acid (AA2) performed best for both GBSs and LBSs when evaluated by the quality index model. Further comparison revealed that the PCA comprehensive evaluation model provided a more accurate and discriminative assessment of preservation efficacy for different organic acids than the quality index model. Moreover, OA2-treated GBSs had a longer shelf life than AA2-treated LBSs. Consequently, by employing the PCA comprehensive evaluation model, this study demonstrated that 5 mmol·L⁻¹ oxalic acid can effectively preserve bamboo shoot quality, and variety-specific organic acid selection is essential for optimal storage. Full article

The growing demand for meat products has made quality and safety assessment a priority throughout production, processing, storage, distribution, and consumption. Meat quality encompasses sensory attributes, physicochemical properties, nutritional composition, microbial status, freshness, and safety-related characteristics. Conventional sensory, physicochemical, and microbiological methods provide reliable reference measurements, but they are generally time-consuming, labor-intensive, destructive, and unsuitable for real-time or online inspection. This review summarizes recent advances in non-destructive technologies for meat quality assessment, including spectroscopy, imaging and machine vision, odor and taste sensing, ultrasonic and electrical methods, low-field nuclear magnetic resonance, and multi-source information fusion. After outlining the fundamental principles and representative applications of each technology, this review further compares the types of sensing information they provide, the quality attributes they are suitable for assessing, their application scenarios, practical limitations, and model validation requirements. Current evidence indicates that these technologies have considerable potential for rapid screening, process monitoring, quality visualization, and intelligent evaluation. However, practical deployment still requires reliable reference measurements, representative calibration datasets, robust models, external validation, and standardization across instruments and production conditions. Future research should prioritize sensor miniaturization, calibration transfer, standardized datasets, explainable intelligent evaluation, and practically deployable multi-source fusion. Full article

Yunnan ‘Bingtang’ oranges possess significant market competitiveness due to their unique taste and high sugar content. However, the limited efficiency of traditional quality inspection methods severely hampers the industrial grading process. Sugar content (Brix), as a core indicator of internal quality, is also a key factor determining consumer repurchase rates. This study focuses on the characteristic ‘Bingtang’ orange variety “Yunguan Orange” in the Longling Chu Orange Demonstration Base in Yunnan Province. Hyperspectral imaging data and corresponding sugar content values were collected during three critical stages from fruit set to harvest, and sugar content prediction research was conducted within the 400–1000 nm spectral range. Based on the extraction of regions of interest (ROI), Multispectral Scattering Correction (MSC) coupled with the Savitzky-Golay first-order derivative (SG-1st Deriv) method was employed to preprocess the raw spectral data (RAW). This study focused on investigating the performance of the Competitive Adaptive Weighted Sampling (CARS) algorithm across six prediction models. Raw full spectra (RAW) and the Sequential Projection Algorithm (SPA) were adopted as comparative schemes in ablation experiments to systematically analyze the influence of different feature extraction strategies. Experimental results showed that the coefficient of determination (R²) for most models exceeded 0.8 on the test set, while the root mean square error (RMSE) remained below 1.0. The findings indicate that under the current experimental conditions, this system can realize acceptable quantitative analysis for tested Yunguan oranges and greatly lower the overall model complexity. It clarifies the compatibility of the CARS algorithm with various prediction models, and systematically integrates three innovations of multi-stage sampling, SPA/CARS comparison and multi-type model evaluation, providing critical theoretical support and technical parameters for the development of low-cost, real-time online sorting equipment. Full article

Algorithm-aversion research predicts that consumers prefer human curators to algorithmic ones in subjective decision domains, including taste-based hedonic recommendation. Drawing on the algorithmic-symbiosis paradigm and on assortment-perception theory, this paper identifies a boundary condition on that prediction: disclosing that recommendations are AI-curated rather than human-curated lifts purchase intention in hedonic e-commerce but not in utilitarian e-commerce. The mechanism is a search-side option-breadth inference—the consumer’s attribution about the size of the option pool the curator considered upstream—which is diagnostic in preference-formative consumption categories where consumers build, rather than match, a preference. Three online experiments deployed through a Chinese consumer panel test the framework. Study 1 ($N=228$) finds the predicted Disclosure × Product-type interaction (${\eta }_p^2=0.025$) with the AI-versus-human lift confined to the hedonic cell ($d=0.65$). Study 2 ($N=257$) isolates the option-breadth pathway against trust and competence as competing mediators. Study 3 ($N=519$) extends the design to a second hedonic category, decomposes option breadth into search-side and display-side subdimensions through an eight-item bi-factor scale, tests mentalizing alongside option breadth as a competing mediator, and brings the moderated-mediation test by consumer AI familiarity to conventional statistical power (index of moderated mediation $=+0.065$, 95% CI $[+0.014,+0.118]$). Implications for interactive-marketing practice and algorithmic-disclosure regulation are discussed. Full article

The literature on the qualitative experiences of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is limited. Qualitative interviews were conducted to investigate participants’ experiences with two types of NHL (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma [n = 20] and mantle cell lymphoma [n = 10]) and evaluate the comprehensiveness of patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures. Fatigue, tiredness, body aches, night sweats, lethargy, headache, appetite loss, altered taste, and weakness were the most frequent and bothersome symptoms. Key impacts were decreased physical performance, restricted activity, sadness, distress, fear of recurrence, and worry about future. Most participants expressed positive opinions about the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire–Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) (n = 22/28), EORTC QLQ-NHL-High Grade Module 29 (EORTC QLQ-NHL-HG29) (n = 12/16), EORTC QLQ-NHL-Low Grade Module 20 (EORTC QLQ-NHL-LG20) (n = 8/12), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Lymphoma (FACT-Lym) (n = 10/14), considering them relevant to their experiences (22/27, 13/15, 9/13, and 10/12, respectively). All measures adequately captured their experiences with NHL (QLQ-C30: n = 26/26, NHL-HG29: n = 14/14, NHL-LG20: n = 11/11, and FACT-Lym: n = 12/13). These findings provide a valuable framework for informing the selection of appropriate PRO measures in NHL clinical trials and identifying potentially meaningful trial endpoints. Full article

This study aimed to determine the effects of whey protein isolate (WPI)-based edible gel coatings, enriched with different additives, on the quality parameters of strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa). The coating solutions were prepared in five different formulations: control (uncoated), WPI-based gel coating (GC), WPI + magnesium powder (GCMg), WPI + cinnamon essential oil (GCEo), and WPI + magnesium + cinnamon essential oil (GCMgEo). In the study, each experimental group was stored at 4 °C for 21 days and evaluated in terms of color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, h°, ∆E), weight loss, pH, Water soluble dry matter (WSDM), moisture content, redox potential (Eh), adhesion rate of the coating, decay percentage, texture analysis, and sensory properties. The results revealed that the GCMgEo group yielded the most successful outcomes in terms of color stability, oxidative resistance, and microbial control. However, sensory evaluation scores in this group were found to be lower compared to other groups. The highest overall acceptability scores were observed in the control group up to the 14th day. The coating applications were found to preserve the firmness and integrity of the strawberries, while the adhesion percentage increased with certain additives. Moreover, WPI-based coatings formed a protective film on the fruit surface, providing protection against compression and mechanical damage. These results indicate that while edible coatings slow down the ripening process, some additives may have negative effects on aroma and taste. As a result, WPI-based edible gel coatings have the potential to extend the shelf life of strawberries and reduce quality losses. The addition of magnesium and cinnamon essential oil enhances the functional performance of the coatings but requires sensory optimization. This study reveals that naturally derived coating systems can offer an eco-friendly and effective alternative for preserving fresh fruits. Full article

SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to extrapulmonary complications in multiple organs, including the brain, both in the short-term and long-term. The neurological manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection ranges from benign signs like loss of smell and loss of taste to severe complications like encephalitis, stroke, and exacerbation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression. Pericytes are mural cells of the brain vasculature that help maintain the blood–brain barrier (BBB), regulate cerebral blood flow (CBF), modulate neuroinflammation, and clear toxic materials, including amyloid beta. Pericytes express ACE2, the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, and therefore may be targeted by either direct virus infection or virus-induced inflammatory cytokines induced by the virus in the brain. To further study the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on pericytes and BBB integrity, the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on brain pericytes, inflammation, and other neuropathological complications were analyzed in mice. K18 (human ACE2 transgenic) mice were infected with 10³ PFU of SARS-CoV-2 (delta strain), and the brains were analyzed at 6, 14, and 30 days post-infection (dpi). A significant reduction in the weight of infected mice was observed by 6 dpi. Viral nucleocapsid protein and infectious SARS-CoV-2 were observed in the brains of all mice by 6 dpi, and in some mice by 14 dpi, but not at 30 dpi. This observation suggests viral neurotropism with subsequent clearance at later timepoints. Despite virus clearance, the levels of inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α and IFN-γ were significantly elevated up to 30 dpi. We also observed a significant reduction in the level of brain pericytes by 14 dpi up to 30 dpi. Importantly, an increase was observed in the level of Friend Leukemia Integration 1 (FLI-1), a transcription factor known to promote pericyte cell death, from 14 dpi up to 30 dpi. The level of amyloid beta 1–42 was elevated in the brain of infected mice at 6 dpi, and this was maintained up to 30 dpi, and there was a decrease in neuronal density from 14 to 30 dpi. Furthermore, we observed an increased expression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-associated genes like PSEN1, BACE1, and APP. Furthermore, there was increased activation of several neurodegenerative pathways, including “G alpha (z) signaling pathway”, “Apelin muscle signaling pathway”, and “G beta-gamma (Gβγ) signaling”, in the brains of infected mice compared to control mice. Collectively, the observed neuropathology and unique molecular markers of neurodegenerative disease progression provide a novel mechanism by which COVID-19 may promote dementia/AD by contributing to pericyte loss and BBB dysfunction during infection. Full article

Selecting appropriate plant material is essential for successful vegetable production, as it directly affects product quality, market value, and consumer satisfaction. While major vegetable species already have stable markets, there is growing demand for innovative, healthy, and sustainable products, driving continuous development in the sector. This study provides an overview of novel vegetable products, ranging from native resources to recent innovations in widely consumed crops. Special emphasis is placed on neglected species, particularly edible halophytes, which offer high nutritional value and strong potential under climate change conditions. The study also examines unconventional plants not traditionally used as vegetables, which can contribute to diversifying diets and supporting local economies. At the same time, the vegetable industry continues to innovate by developing new products from common species, taking advantage of their variability in size, shape, color, and taste, including the rising trend of miniaturized vegetables. In addition, the concepts of “superfoods” and functional foods are critically analyzed to clarify their respective significance and distinguishing characteristics. The role of branding is also highlighted due to its increasing influence on consumer preferences. Overall, the study integrates contributions from farmers, industry, and researchers to expand vegetable diversity, promote innovation, and enhance product quality and consumer satisfaction. Full article

Background/Objectives: COVID-19 has triggered a global health crisis with sequelae extending beyond the acute phase of infection. Long COVID-19 is characterized by the persistence or new onset of symptoms weeks to months after the initial infection, including fatigue, cognitive impairment, and chemosensory dysfunction. Despite growing clinical evidence, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, distribution, and evolution of symptoms during the post-acute phases, with particular emphasis on olfactory and gustatory alterations. Methods: An observational study used a structured online questionnaire to collect demographic and clinical data from individuals with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants (n = 798) with persistent symptoms beyond 4–8 weeks were included. A subgroup of participants living in Sardinia underwent objective chemosensory assessment using the Sniffin’ Sticks test and the Taste Strips test for olfactory and gustatory function, respectively. Results: A high percentage of participants reported persistent symptoms consistent with long COVID-19, including fatigue, dyspnea, cognitive impairment, and chemosensory alterations. Olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions were among the most frequent manifestations. Objective assessments confirmed the presence and severity of these deficits, in accordance with data obtained using self-reported questionnaires. Symptom profiles evolved, suggesting possible central nervous system involvement and persistent inflammatory mechanisms. Conclusions: Long COVID-19 is a complex multisystem condition with a significant impact on quality of life. Chemosensory dysfunctions may serve as useful clinical markers for patient monitoring and stratification. Integrating subjective and objective data improves diagnostic accuracy and supports the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. Full article