Article
Chemistry, Applied
Ines Medina-Lozano, Juan Ramon Bertolin, Aurora Diaz
Summary: Wild and traditional lettuce varieties have higher levels of total ascorbic acid (vitamin C) compared to commercial varieties, while commercial varieties have significantly higher levels of anthocyanins. Green lettuce has higher TAA content compared to red lettuce. Cyanidin 3-O-(6'-O-malonylglucoside) is the most abundant anthocyanin.
Review
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Y. Maphosa, V. A. Jideani, L. Maphosa
Summary: Bambara groundnut is an important legume grown mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. Despite its nutritional value, it faces various pressures and requires advanced technologies and management approaches to increase production. Efforts should be intensified to improve the overall utilization and yield of Bambara groundnut.
JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Carmen Romero Ferreiro, David Lora Pablos, Agustin Gomez de la Camara
Summary: Front-of-pack labels like Nutri-Score can help consumers identify healthier foods, but should be accompanied by complementary labels indicating the level of food processing, such as the NOVA classification. Ultra-processed foods were found in all Nutri-Score categories, highlighting the need for additional information to make more informed food choices.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Zelin Xiao, Yuying Pan, Chao Wang, Xiongcai Li, Yiqing Lu, Ze Tian, Lieqiong Kuang, Xinfa Wang, Xiaoling Dun, Hanzhong Wang
Summary: Rapeseed sprouts are nutritionally balanced and rich in active nutrients, making them a potential functional vegetable. Germination increases the content of vitamin E and glucosinolates, which are beneficial to health. The nutritional composition of rapeseed sprouts is closely related to that of seeds, indicating great breeding potential.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Konstantina Kotsou, Theodoros Chatzimitakos, Vassilis Athanasiadis, Eleni Bozinou, Christina Adamaki-Sotiraki, Christos I. Rumbos, Christos G. Athanassiou, Stavros I. Lalas
Summary: Recently, edible insects have gained increasing attention due to their high-quality and cost-efficient protein source with a low ecological footprint. Tenebrio molitor, considered as an edible insect by EFSA in 2021, has the potential to replace conventional protein sources and be used in various food products. In this study, albedo orange peel waste, a commonly produced food by-product, was used as a feed additive for T. molitor larvae to improve the circular economy and enhance the nutritional value of the insects. The results showed that increasing the percentage of orange peel albedos in the feed resulted in an increase in carotenoids and vitamin A content in the larvae by up to 198%, vitamin C by up to 46%, and protein and ash content by up to 32% and 26.5%, respectively. Therefore, using albedo orange peel waste for T. molitor larvae feeding is highly recommended for achieving enhanced nutritional value and reducing the cost of insect farming.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Anna Czech, Marek Szmigielski, Iwona Sembratowicz
Summary: Organically grown vegetables of the Allium L. genus have higher antioxidant capacity and nutritional value compared to conventionally grown vegetables. They are rich in minerals and bioactive compounds, displaying stronger antioxidant potential.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Cristian Sandoval, Jorge Farias, Mauricio Zamorano, Christian Herrera
Summary: The present review examined the relationship between vitamin deficiency and chronic liver disease. It was found that alcohol patients have low blood vitamin levels and that antioxidant mechanisms can prevent alcohol-induced liver damage. However, the effectiveness of antioxidants remains uncertain. Deficiencies in nutritional vitamins can rapidly develop during chronic liver disease.
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Lichao Sun, Fengjiao Xin, Hal S. Alper
Summary: Food additives and colorants play a crucial role in the food industry, sourced mainly through natural extraction, chemical synthesis, and bio-production. Increasing demand for sustainability, safety, and natural products has spurred interest in bio-based production methods, leading to the development of new additives and colorants. The potential of microbial hosts offers promising opportunities for the production of these food additives and colorants.
BIOTECHNOLOGY ADVANCES
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Jing-Yu Feng, Rui Wang, Kiran Thakur, Zhi-Jing Ni, Yun-Yang Zhu, Fei Hu, Jian-Guo Zhang, Zhao-Jun Wei
Summary: This review explores the transformation of okara from waste to value-added food, discussing its bioactive compounds, treatment methods, and potential as a bio-valorization substrate. It not only contributes to a zero-waste approach but also enhances the economic and nutritional value in the food and health industries.
TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Horticulture
Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu, Nqobile P. Hlophe, Johannes Van Staden, Jeffrey F. Finnie
Summary: This review critically evaluates the ethnobotanical uses, nutritional value, phytochemical profiles, and biological activities of the Brachystelma genus. The potential of micropropagation in ensuring the sustainability of Brachystelma species is also assessed. The study finds that while there is anecdotal evidence of the food and medicinal uses of many Brachystelma species, empirical data on their nutritional and phytochemical profiles, as well as their biological activities, are lacking. Further research and optimization of propagation protocols are necessary to address this gap and ensure the sustainability of Brachystelma species.
Article
Plant Sciences
Sara Monteiro, Fernando H. Reboredo, Maria Manuela Lageiro, Vanda M. Lourenco, Joao Dias, Fernando Lidon, Marta Abreu, Antonio P. L. Martins, Nuno Alvarenga
Summary: The baobab fruit from different locations in Namibe province, Angola, has variation in its nutritional composition, suggesting geographical location dependence. The fruit has high nutritional value and potential to improve diets in Africa.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Elphee Medici, Winston J. Craig, Ian Rowland
Summary: Concerns for human and planetary health have led to a shift towards healthier plant-based diets. Plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDA) have experienced exponential market growth due to their lower environmental impact compared to dairy products. Our study analysed the nutritional profiles of leading PBDA across Europe and found that they displayed a favourable macronutrient profile despite lower protein levels. Therefore, our analysis supports the inclusion of fortified PBDA in environmentally sustainable food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) for healthy populations.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Karna Ramachandraiah, Geun-Pyo Hong
Summary: Polymeric nanomaterials show promise in improving sustainability in the food value chain by enhancing delivery of fertilizers, growth hormones, insecticides, and improving storage of minimally processed plant foods. However, edible nanocomposite coatings/films may not always be beneficial, and a complete replacement of conventional packaging is unlikely. Nanoscaled natural polymers can also be potentially used in sensor fabrication, offering enhanced sensitivity and specificity while reducing time and expenses in analysis.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Sisi Huang, Kan Yu, Qiushui Xiao, Banghui Song, Weiling Yuan, Xiaoling Long, Duanwu Cai, Xuxing Xiong, Wei Zheng
Summary: This study established an agricultural strategy of bio-nano-selenium to improve the added value and functionality of radish. The results showed that exogenous supplementation of bio-nano-selenium significantly increased radish yield and quality traits, as well as the selenium content in various parts.
JOURNAL OF FOOD COMPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Asrat Asfaw, Paterne Agre, Ryo Matsumoto, Alice Adenike Olatunji, Alex Edemodu, Theresa Olusola, Oluchi Lawrencia Odom-Kolombia, Michael Adesokan, Oladeji Emmanuel Alamu, Patrick Adebola, Robert Asiedu, Busie Maziya-Dixon
Summary: This study identified genetic factors underlying the sensory and textural quality attributes of boiled and pounded yam. A genome-wide association study was conducted, and 13 SNP markers significantly associated with yam quality were identified.
JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ludovica Spagnuolo, Susanna Della Posta, Chiara Fanali, Laura Dugo, Laura De Gara
Summary: The study investigated the inhibitory effect of polyphenol compounds extracted from hazelnut skin on AGEs, demonstrating a concentration-dependent inhibition on the BSA-AGEs model. The phenolic compounds in hazelnut skin possess antioxidant properties, potentially hindering the formation of AGEs and suggesting a new strategy for supporting therapeutic approaches in chronic diseases.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chiara Fanali, Valeria Gallo, Susanna Della Posta, Laura Dugo, Leone Mazzeo, Marco Cocchi, Vincenzo Piemonte, Laura De Gara
Summary: This study investigated the extraction of phenolic compounds from hazelnut byproducts using different DESs, selecting the most efficient one for ultrasound-assisted solid liquid extraction. By optimizing the conditions, a higher recovery of phenolic compounds was achieved compared to traditional organic solvents.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Ilaria Pacifico, Laura De Gara, Annamaria Stellari, Laura Marinoni, Tiziana M. P. Cattaneo
Summary: This study utilized solar drying technology to process papaya fruits, producing stable, microbiologically safe dried products with extended shelf life. These products were used to create functional foods aimed at improving the nutritional health of school-age children, and received high levels of appreciation from students, showing promise for inclusion in school menus. This approach offers a potential solution to address food loss and malnutrition issues in developing countries.
EUROPEAN FOOD RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sara Cimini, Vittoria Locato, Valentina Giacinti, Michela Molinari, Laura De Gara
Summary: Understanding the metabolic alterations in response to stress in tolerant and sensitive plants is crucial for improving plant resilience. This study investigated the mechanisms underlying salt tolerance in two rice varieties and found that the differential regulation of cell-cycle progression and cell-death patterns at the root level is consistent with the different phenotypes observed after salt exposure. The tolerant variety showed a highly responsive antioxidative capacity and a different pattern of H2O2 accumulation compared to the sensitive variety. These findings highlight the role of ROS and antioxidative pathways in rice's response to salt stress.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Simone Grasso, Maria Vittoria Di Loreto, Alyexandra Arienzo, Valentina Gallo, Anna Sabatini, Alessandro Zompanti, Giorgio Pennazza, Laura De Gara, Giovanni Antonini, Marco Santonico
Summary: The growing demand for quick and healthy food products has increased the interest in fresh and ready-to-eat leafy green vegetables. However, these vegetables have been recognized as a potential source of food poisoning outbreaks due to the retention of microflora after minimal industrial processing. Current laboratory techniques for pathogen detection are expensive, time-consuming, and unable to provide prompt results. This study proposes a novel electrochemical sensing system that can provide real-time information on microbiological risk, making it potentially suitable for industrial production lines.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Simone Grasso, Francesca Di Marcello, Anna Sabatini, Alessandro Zompanti, Maria Vittoria Di Loreto, Costanza Cenerini, Francesco Lodato, Laura De Gara, Christian Cherubini, Giorgio Pennazza, Marco Santonico
Summary: This study aims to investigate mechanical stimulation as a driving force for plant interaction with the environment. Experimental setups were developed to test the effects of mechanical stimuli at different wavelengths on micro-interactions in plants, particularly the germination process. The use of sound waves as a substitute for chemical solutions shows great potential for large-scale applications in the primary sector.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Daniela Lo Presti, Joshua Di Tocco, Sara Cimini, Stefano Cinti, Carlo Massaroni, Rosaria D'Amato, Michele A. A. Caponero, Laura De Gara, Emiliano Schena
Summary: Global climate change and population growth present challenges for agricultural outputs. Wearable sensors are being developed to monitor plant growth and microclimate parameters. This research proposes two wearable sensors based on fiber Bragg gratings, which have high sensitivity and can withstand various environmental factors. Experimental tests show that these sensors can effectively monitor dimensional changes in plants, offering promising applications in smart agriculture for improving crop quality, agricultural efficiency, and profits.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Joshua Di Tocco, Daniela Lo Presti, Carlo Massaroni, Stefano Cinti, Sara Cimini, Laura De Gara, Emiliano Schena
Summary: This study proposed a multi-sensor wearable platform for monitoring the growth of plant organs and microclimate. The platform consists of a custom flexible strain sensor and a commercial sensing unit, and showed promising results in preliminary tests.
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Annamaria Altomare, Michele Fiore, Gabriele D'Ercole, Elena Imperia, Roberta Maria Nicolosi, Susanna Della Posta, Gabriella Pasqua, Michele Cicala, Laura De Gara, Sara Ramella, Michele Pier Luca Guarino
Summary: Radiotherapy-induced mucositis (RIOM) is a common side effect of anti-neoplastic treatments, affecting patients' quality of life and treatment response. Recent evidence suggests that natural compounds can potentially prevent and treat this damage without compromising treatment efficacy.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Mariacristina Siotto, Marco Germanotta, Alessandro Guerrini, Simona Pascali, Valeria Cipollini, Laura Cortellini, Elisabetta Ruco, Yeganeh Manon Khazrai, Laura De Gara, Irene Aprile
Summary: This preliminary analysis examined the relationship between sarcopenia, nutritional status, and recovery in stroke patients. The study found that sarcopenic patients had worse muscle quality and lower nutritional scores. Additionally, they exhibited slower functional recovery during rehabilitation. The results highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis and evaluation of sarcopenia and nutritional status to improve outcomes for post-stroke patients.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Claudia Di Rosa, Elisa De Arcangelis, Virginia Vitelli, Salvatore Crucilla, Martina Angelicola, Maria Carmela Trivisonno, Francesco Sestili, Emanuele Blasi, Clara Cicatiello, Domenico Lafiandra, Stefania Masci, Maria Cristina Messia, Laura De Gara, Emanuele Marconi, Yeganeh Manon Khazrai
Summary: This study aims to investigate the impact of high-amylose (HA) flours on blood glucose and found that they can improve glycemic response. HA biscuits and HA bread showed lower glycemic index and were well-liked in a survey. However, further studies are needed to determine the optimal composition of HA products for beneficial effects on post-prandial glycemia.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ludovica Spagnuolo, Susanna Della Posta, Chiara Fanali, Laura Dugo, Laura De Gara
Summary: Glycation and accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) occur in aging, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases, and are increased in diabetic patients. A diet rich in polyphenols, like hazelnut skin extract, has a protective effect. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of hazelnut skin polyphenolic extract to protect macrophages from AGEs-induced damage, and found that it effectively reduced cell damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress caused by AGEs.
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Chiara Spiezia, Claudia Di Rosa, Danilo Fintini, Pietro Ferrara, Laura De Gara, Yeganeh Manon Khazrai
Summary: Childhood obesity is a global issue, with millions of children and adolescents being overweight. Obesity can lead to comorbidities such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is a complex condition involving insulin resistance, cytokine signaling, and alteration of the gut microbiota. Lifestyle modifications, including low-fat, low-sugar diets rich in dietary fiber, are recommended for managing pediatric NAFLD.
Review
Plant Sciences
Manuel Bellucci, Vittoria Locato, Thomas D. Sharkey, Laura De Gara, Francesco Loreto
Summary: In recent years, anthropogenic activities and climate change have negatively affected plant growth and productivity by increasing exposure to environmental stresses and pollutants. Plants activate defenses, including isoprene, to combat these stresses, but isoprene can also contribute to air pollution. This review summarizes the impact of air and soil pollutants on isoprene emissions and examines the potential effects on the functioning of ecosystems and the evolution of plant species.
JOURNAL OF PLANT INTERACTIONS
(2023)