Scholarly Works, Food Science and Technology

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CherryZZZ: A Protocol for a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Pilot Study Testing Tart Cherry Juice in Older Adults with Self-Reported Insomnia
VanderMark, Esther; Baniassadi, Amir; Wolfe, Alex; Cladis, Dennis P.; Dufour, Alyssa B.; Millar, Courtney L. (MDPI, 2026-03-14)
Introduction: Two small, preliminary pilot studies report that 2 weeks of daily tart cherry juice consumption (half of the dose in the morning, half of the dose at night) may increase sleep quantity (assessed via a sleep diary or 1 night of polysomnography) in older adults with insomnia. A study of longer duration, with doses closer to bedtime, and daily objective monitoring of sleep via a wearable device may potentiate the observed impact of tart cherry juice intake on sleep. With the proposed changes to the study protocol, it is paramount to evaluate the study’s feasibility. Methods: The current study is a single-site, randomized, double-blind, cross-over pilot study in 20 older adults with self-reported insomnia. Eligible individuals will be randomly assigned to consume 16 oz. of tart cherry juice/day or placebo juice for 4 weeks each, separated by a 3-week washout period. Information on study feasibility, including recruitment rate, retention rate, safety, compliance, and study practicality, will be collected, as well as pre- and post-arm evaluations of sleep quantity/quality and biomarkers related to melatonin, cortisol, serotonin, and inflammation. Discussion: Identification of a dietary intervention that improves sleep quantity and quality may serve as a novel and feasible approach for older adults who suffer from insomnia. If successful, such a strategy would help mitigate the plethora of health consequences associated with poor sleep.
Enhancing Food Preservation with Single Atom Catalysts: A Novel Approach to Antimicrobial Packaging
Wei, Wangyi; Huang, Haibo; Shuai, Danmeng; Kim, Young-Teck; Yin, Yun; Ponder, Monica A. (2025-07-28)
Introduction: Traditionally, antimicrobial agents in food packaging face the challenge of high cost, rapid exhaustion, and the inability to inactivate a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) mimic natural enzymes to catalyze production of reactive oxygen species that inactivate a broad range of foodborne bacteria. Purpose: To quantify the inactivation of select spoilage and pathogenic bacteria by ROS generated by Co-incorporated SACs in a packaging film. Method: E. coli ATCC 25922, Listeria innocua ATCC11288, Leuconostoc lactis ATCC 15520, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium BAA190 were inoculated at 5 log CFU/ml into SACs suspension with concentration ranging from 0.1 g to 1 g/L (n=3). Additionally, circular disks of Co-SAC incorporated Polylactic acid (PLA) films (10 mm diameter) were incubated in 5 log CFU/ml E. coli ATCC 25922 suspensions. Samples were stored at 4℃ for 72h, with sampling intervals every 24 h. Bacteria were enumerated on appropriate selective media, and the surviving colonies were counted. Result: Higher Co-SACs concentrations and longer incubation enhance efficacy against E. coli and S. enterica (P < 0.05), but not the other tested bacteria. Significant reductions of E. coli occurred 3.4± 0.34a log CFU/ml at 1g/L Co-SACs, compared to 2.84±0.06b at 0.5g/L 72 hours (P < 0.05). At 6h, 1 g/L Co-SACs reduced E. coli by 1.22 ± 0.07c log CFU/ml, significantly lower than at 72h.Similarly, S. enterica exhibited a 4.33±0.03c log CFU/ml reduction at 1g/L Co-SACs (P < 0.05). In contrast, Leu. lactis showed a minor reduction (0.45±0.06 log CFU/mL), while Listeria spp. remained unaffected at all SAC concentrations. Incorporation of Co-SACs (1 g/L) into the film resulted in a small increase in E. coli reduction (3.68±0.02 log CFU/ml) after 72 hours. Significance: Co-SACs demonstrated strong antimicrobial potential towards some selected bacteria, highlighting their promise for enhancing food safety in packaging films.
Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli from Meat Products and Human Samples in Botswana Using Molecular and Whole-Genome Approaches
Yi, Saehah; Bywater, Auja; Dintwe, Galaletsang; Sies, Ashton; Haidl, Thomas; Cameron, Andrew; Alexander, Kathleen A.; Ponder, Monica A. (2025-07-30)
Introduction: Botswana experiences high diarrheal illness rates in rural areas like the Chobe region, where E. coli from meat products and food handlers may contribute to antibiotic resistance (ABR) transmission, posing a potential threat to public health. Purpose: Characterize the ABR profiles of E. coli isolated from meat products and human feces to explore potential links between meat and human ABR transmission. Methods: Meat (chicken and beef) were collected from local grocery stores, and human fecal samples were obtained from food handlers in Kasane, Botswana. E. coli isolates were obtained by selective enrichment and plating on EMB and MacConkey agars. ABR profiles were determined for 12 antibiotics using the CLSI disk diffusion method. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on multidrug-resistant isolates using the Illumina Miseq platform and genomes were analyzed using Galaxy and BV-BRC. Results: E. coli was isolated from 66 of 124 meat samples and 230 of 507 human fecal samples, with 56.06% (37/66) of meat isolates and 43.04% (99/230) of human isolates showing resistance to at least one antibiotic. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 30.30% (20/66) of meat isolates and 11.74% (27/230) of human isolates. Disk diffusion testing revealed that tetracycline and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole were the most frequently detected resistances across both meat and human isolates. Whole-genome sequencing identified no shared sequence types (STs) between E. coli isolates from meat and human samples. However, both sources carried the same ABR genes, including sul2, blaTEM-1, tetA, and qnrS1, along with shared plasmid types (IncFIB, IncFII, IncX1), while integrons, detected only in meat isolates, suggest horizontal gene transfer through mobile genetic elements. Significance: The detection of shared antibiotic resistance genes and plasmid types between meat and human isolates underscores the importance of monitoring meat products to inform strategies for mitigating the transmission of antibiotic resistance in Botswana.
Water as a Driver of Antibiotic-Resistant and Pathogenic Escherichia coli Transmission in Areas with Mixed Land Use
Yi, Saehah; Alexander, Kathleen A.; Sies, Ashton; Cameron, Andrew; Cheng, Rachel; Ponder, Monica A. (2025-10-24)
Introduction: Aquatic environments are critical reservoirs and transmission pathways for Escherichia coli, linking human populations with surrounding ecosystems. The Chobe River in northern Botswana is a vital water source for people, livestock, and wildlife, creating opportunities for microbial exchange at the human-environment interface. Areas upstream of Kasane are protected parkland with limited human inputs. We hypothesized that anthropogenic drivers increase the persistence of antibiotic resistance (ABR) and pathogenic E. coli and that environmental isolates will be more similar to human isolates. Methods: Water (n = 324) was collected along a transect passing through pristine, mixed-land use and town environments. Human fecal samples (n = 507) were collected in Kasane, Botswana. E. coli isolates were obtained by selective enrichment and plating on EMB, passed for purity on MacConkey agar, and confirmed through phoA gene amplification by PCR. ABR profiles were determined against 12 antibiotics using CLSI disk diffusion. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on 12 multidrug-resistant isolates (six per source) on Illumina NextSeq platform, and genomes were analyzed in Galaxy and the BV-BRC platform. Results: E. coli was recovered from 96.60% (313/324) of water samples and 45.4% (230/507) of human fecal samples. Resistance to at least one antibiotic was detected in 27.16% (85/313) of water isolates and 43.0% (99/230) of human isolates, and multidrug resistance was observed in 12.78% (40/313) and 11.7% (27/230) of isolates, respectively. By land-use, ABR prevalence among water isolates was 33.33% (25/75) in mixed-use areas, 34.31% (35/102) in town areas, and 18.38% (25/136) in park areas. ABR patterns were similar across sources, with ampicillin, tetracycline, streptomycin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole being the most common. WGS revealed distinct sequence type (ST) distributions, with water isolates dominated by ST11 whereas human isolates spanned six different STs. Although no STs were shared between sources, one water isolate (ST2852) collected near town clustered with human isolates in the phylogeny. Human genomes carried multiple acquired ABR genes including blaCTX-M-15, blaTEM-1, qnrS1, tetA/B, and sul2, whereas water genomes lacked frequently acquired resistance genes despite exhibiting multidrug-resistant phenotypes. Virulence profiling identified shared adhesins and secretion systems across sources, while water isolates carried LEE, stx1, and hemolysin genes, and human isolates encoded siderophore systems, toxins, and serum resistance factors. All isolates from water and human were predicted to be human pathogens with probability > 0.9. Significance: This study highlights the circulation of antibiotic-resistant and potentially pathogenic E. coli across water and human sources in the Chobe region. Differences across land-use contexts indicate an anthropogenic signal shaping resistance ecology along the river. The detection of multidrug-resistant phenotypes in both sources, distinct sequence type distributions, and phylogenetic proximity of a town-adjacent water isolate to human genomes underscores the importance of genomic surveillance at the human-environment interface. Water serves as a major driver of E. coli transmission, facilitating the spread of ABR and pathogenic strains between humans and the environment. These findings provide a framework for monitoring resistance emergence in shared water systems, including the Chobe River, and for guiding strategies to mitigate public health risks.
Análise descritiva por ordenação na caracterização sensorial de iogurte diet sabor morango enriquecido com concentrado protéico do soro
Loures, Milene Moreira Ribeiro; Minim, Valéria Paula Rodrigues; Ceresino, Elaine Berger; Carneiro, Renata C. V.; Minim, Luis Antonio (Universidade Estadual de Londrina, 2010)
Este estudo avaliou as características sensoriais de iogurte diet sabor morango enriquecidos com concentrado protéico de soro (CPS). Três formulações contendo 0,5%, 1% e 1,5% de CPS (F2, F3 e F4 em ordem crescente de concentração) e uma formulação controle sem adição de CPS (F1) foram desenvolvidas e avaliadas por meio da Análise Descritiva por Ordenação. Vinte provadores selecionados e treinados avaliaram as amostras caracterizadas pelos atributos: cor rosa, viscosidade, aroma característico de iogurte de morango, sabor característico de iogurte de morango, gosto doce, gosto ácido e consistência. As formulações diferiram significativamente (p < 0.05) nos atributos gosto doce e consistência. As amostras F3 e F4 apresentaram maior consistência confirmando a eficiência do CPS no aumento da consistência.
Faba Bean: Unlocking nutritional potential and agricultural sustainability
Singh, Madhvi; Balota, Maria; Huang, Haibo; O'Keefe, Sean; Carneiro, Renata (Elsevier, 2025-07)
Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) has been identified as a versatile specialty crop for North America due to its rich nutritional profile, ability to thrive in diverse climates, and economic potential. Although friendly to most diets, faba bean consumption is challenged by the presence of vicine and convicine—antinutritional compounds that trigger favism in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. This review delves into the genetic, molecular, and biochemical dimensions of vicine and convicine accumulation in faba beans, pinpointing knowledge gaps and unearthing historical and lesser-known insights about these compounds. This comprehensive review synthesizes and discusses recent efforts and challenges in enhancing nutrition of faba beans to promote its production and consumption in North America. We spotlight the strides made in breeding low-vicine and low-convicine varieties and critically assess attempts aimed at mitigating these favism-inducing factors. The development of low-vicine and low-convicine faba bean lines represents a significant advancement in crop breeding, addressing safety concerns for individuals with G6PD deficiency. By utilizing marker-assisted breeding techniques, researchers are effectively reducing vicine and convicine levels, even as the complete biosynthetic pathways of these compounds remain unresolved. Current research efforts are steadily progressing toward cultivars with minimal or no vicine and convicine, enhancing the safety and nutritional profile of faba beans. These breakthroughs hold the potential to transform faba beans into a more sustainable, inclusive, and widely consumed food source, expanding their utility in both human diets and agricultural systems.
Assessing White Hibiscus Calyces as a Potential Ingredient for Kombucha
Adiegwu, Enid; Carneiro, Renata; Hurley, Ken; Sandbrook, Ann; O’Keefe, Sean (MDPI, 2026-02-06)
Kombucha’s growing popularity worldwide has been accompanied by a growing consumer interest in exploring new flavors and adopting healthier diets. In this preliminary consumer-driven study, we investigated the application of white hibiscus (WH) calyces in the development of novel kombucha beverages. Kombuchas were made from 100% black tea (BT), 100% WH, and 50% BT/WH blend infusions, then their pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), ethanol content, sucrose, glucose, and fructose concentrations were measured. Untrained sensory participants (N = 97) rated the kombuchas using a 9-point hedonic scale, described them using a check-all-that-apply list of attributes, and answered a willingness-to-pay (WTP) question. Tea infusion and fermentation time had a significant effect on pH, TTA, ethanol, sucrose, fructose, and glucose content (p < 0.05). High residual sugar levels observed in the WH kombucha indicated sluggish fermentation. Kombuchas differed significantly in overall-liking, color, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel liking, and WTP (p < 0.05). Overall, BT kombucha was preferred over the WH kombuchas (100% and blend). Sensory attributes “refreshing”, “floral”, “hibiscus”, “fruity”, and “sweet” were positive drivers of acceptability, while “pungent” and “astringent” were negative drivers. Results suggest that blends containing less than 50% WH may provide more appealing sensory attributes to consumers, and that further study is needed.
Identification and Mitigation of Inhibitory Substances Contained in High-Salinity Crude Glycerol Generated from Biodiesel Production for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Synthesis by Haloferax mediterranei
Zhang, Xueyao; Helm, Richard F.; McCoy, Emily L.; Zhao, Fujunzhu; Wang, Mingxi; Yebo Li, Stephanie Lansing; Huang, Haibo; Wang, Zhiwu (American Chemical Society, 2025-09-22)
High-salinity crude glycerol generated from biodiesel production poses significant challenges to microbial valorization due to inhibitory ingredients that severely limit microbial growth. This study identified and mitigated inhibitory substances contained in high-salinity glycerol sludge to enable its conversion to polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by the extreme halophilic archaeon Haloferax mediterranei. The long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) were consistently identified as the primary inhibitors by liquid chromatography−mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet−visible spectroscopy. Acid precipitation at pH 2 efficiently removed these LCFAs, substantially reducing the required feedstock dilution from 23 to 3 times, improving PHA titer by 40%. Furthermore, this dilution reduction also increased the feedstock salinity utilization, achieving a 46% reduction in external salt supplementation for H. mediterranei growth. In contrast, overliming and arrested anaerobic digestion were confirmed to be ineffective in inhibitor removal. This study provides deep insights into inhibitor chemistry and presents acid precipitation as an effective pretreatment strategy for waste valorization of highsalinity crude glycerol.
What's on a prophage: analysis of Salmonella spp. prophages identifies a diverse range of cargo with multiple virulence- and metabolism-associated functions
Yates, Caroline R.; Nguyen, Anthony; Liao, Jingqiu; Cheng, Rachel A. (American Society for Microbiology, 2024-06-25)
The gain of mobile elements, such as prophages, can introduce cargo to the recipient bacterium that could facilitate its persistence in or expansion to a new environment, such as a host. While previous studies have focused on identifying and characterizing the genetic diversity of prophages, analyses characterizing the cargo that prophages carry have not been extensively explored. We characterized prophage regions from 303 Salmonella spp. genomes (representing 254 unique serovars) to assess the distribution of prophages in diverse Salmonella. On average, prophages accounted for 3.7% (0.1%–8.8%) of the total genomic content of each isolate. Prophage regions annotated as Gifsy 1 and Salmon Fels 1 were the most commonly identified intact prophages, suggesting that they are common throughout the Salmonella genus. Among 21,687 total coding sequences (CDSs) from intact prophage regions in subsp. enterica genomes, 7.5% (median; range: 1.1%–47.6%) were categorized as having a function not related to prophage integration or phage structure, some of which could potentially provide a functional attribute to the host Salmonella cell. These predicted functions could be broadly categorized into CDSs involved in: (i) modification of cell surface structures (i.e., glycosyltransferases); (ii) modulation of host responses (e.g., SodC/SodA, SopE, ArtAB, and typhoid toxin); (iii) conferring resistance to heavy metals and antimicrobials; (iv) metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, and nucleotides; and (v) DNA replication, repair, and regulation. Overall, our systematic analysis of prophage cargo highlights a broader role for prophage cargo in influencing the metabolic, virulence, and resistance characteristics of Salmonella.
Dietary (Poly)phenols in the Management of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Narrative Review
Lobene, Andrea J.; Biruete, Annabel; Mirmohammadali, Seyedeh Nooshan; Ellis, Leah M.; Cladis, Dennis P. (MDPI, 2025-11-07)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 850 million individuals globally and has no cure. The treatment of CKD centers on lifestyle interventions, including dietary changes, that slow disease progression. As emerging evidence suggests that fruit and vegetable-derived (poly)phenols may slow CKD, the goal of this narrative review is to synthesize current knowledge on the role of dietary (poly)phenols in CKD. To identify relevant articles, we searched databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to identify relevant articles, using keywords including (poly)phenols, CKD, gut microbiome, and cardiovascular disease, among others. The relevant articles were synthesized into a summary of the evidence for (poly)phenols as a therapeutic strategy in CKD, though the paucity and heterogeneity of available research in this area precludes the identification of specific doses or types of (poly)phenols needed to slow CKD progression. The review is supplemented through our discussion of the gut microbiota and microbially derived metabolites as key targets in mediating the progression of CKD itself as well as subsequent cardiovascular outcomes. Finally, we discuss the integration of (poly)phenol-rich dietary patterns into CKD nutrition guidelines, highlighting future research directions to elucidate the potential therapeutic role of (poly)phenols in CKD.
Determining Aroma Compounds and Their Relation to Consumer Acceptability in United States Edamame
Miller, Rebekah J.; Duncan, Susan E.; Carneiro, Renata; Lahne, Jacob; Kuhar, Thomas P.; Zhang, Bo; Yin, Yun (American Chemical Society, 2025-06-06)
Edamame is a highly nutritious crop with significant economic value, but its consumption in the United States depends predominantly on imported products. Efforts in domestic edamame breeding aim to develop varieties that satisfy both agronomic performance and consumer expectations. Aroma profiles of 10 genotypes grown in 2019 across 4 U.S. locations were analyzed using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Sixteen aroma compounds were identified across edamame genotypes and growing locations. Significant differences in individual aroma concentrations were observed (p < 0.05) across genotypes and growing locations. The compounds 1-octen-3-ol, hexanal, and octanal consistently exhibited the highest odor activity values in all samples. The relationship between aroma compound profiles and previously published consumer acceptability was also examined. Correlation analysis revealed limited strong associations (>|0.5|) between aroma compounds and sensory attributes, with only one compound, 1-octanol, showing a strong correlation with overall consumer liking. No individual aroma compounds were found to strongly associated with consumer liking or disliking.
Rechargeable Manganese Dioxide Hard Carbon Lithium Batteries in an Ether Electrolyte
Xia, Dawei; Rosenberg, Keith; Li, Yilin; Hu, Anyang; Sun, Chengjun; Li, Luxi; Nordlund, Dennis; Sainio, Sami; Huang, Haibo; Lin, Feng (Electrochemical Society, 2024-03-31)
Earth-abundant, cost-effective electrode materials are essential for sustainable rechargeable batteries and global decarbonization. Manganese dioxide (MnO2) and hard carbon both exhibit high structural and chemical tunability, making them excellent electrode candidates for batteries. Herein, we elucidate the impact of electrolytes on the cycling performance of commercial electrolytic manganese dioxide in Li chemistry. We leverage synchrotron X-ray analysis to discern the chemical state and local structural characteristics of Mn during cycling, as well as to quantify the Mn deposition on the counter electrode. By using an ether-based electrolyte instead of conventional carbonate electrolytes, we circumvent the formation of a surface Mn(II)-layer and Mn dissolution from LixMnO2. Consequently, we achieved an impressive similar to 100% capacity retention for MnO2 after 300 cycles at C/3. To create a lithium metal-lean full cell, we introduce hard carbon as the anode which is compatible with ether-based electrolytes. Commercial hard carbon delivers a specific capacity of similar to 230 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 without plateau, indicating a surface-adsorption mechanism. The resulting manganese dioxide
Development of a hard cider flavor wheel using free word sorting and multivariate statistical techniques
Calvert, Martha D.; Neill, Clinton L.; Ac-Pangan, Marlon F.; Stewart, Amanda C.; Lahne, Jacob (Wiley, 2024-04-01)
Flavor wheels are visual tools built from standardized sensory lexicons that are used in many different industries to improve communication, marketing, and quality discrimination among products. To date, flavor wheels have been developed for spices, coffee, wine, beer, and many other foods and beverages-yet no flavor wheel has been constructed for hard cider. While there is no single established method for constructed flavor wheels, most approaches are based on sensory descriptive analysis (DA) and free word sorting activities that investigate the semantic similarity and dissimilarity of descriptive terms. This research study utilized multiple DA studies for the generation of a sensory lexicon, followed by independent word sorting tasks with cider industry professionals (N = 40) and untrained consumers (N = 58) to establish two flavor wheels that are broadly understandable to a variety of industry stakeholders. Based on the results of DISTATIS and additive tree partitioning, this research showcases a workflow for developing and refining flavor wheels that incorporate both stakeholder and researcher input and can be built upon by other analysts.Practical ApplicationsThis research demonstrates an accessible methodology for developing flavor wheels that incorporates input from diverse parties and considers the semantic associations of terms used by cider consumers and industry professionals. The proposed methodology is a useful framework for other sensory scientists seeking to efficiently develop flavor wheels for multiple audiences. As a demonstration, this research also delivers two flavor wheels-one that highlights discrepancies in how industry consumers and producers semantically understand sensory experiences compared to trained sensory personnel, and a second wheel that showcases how hard cider can more objectively be described. Together, these flavor wheels are tools for improving sensory communication, education, and marketing in the US hard cider industry.
New Pathways of Mutational Change in SARS-CoV-2 Proteomes Involve Regions of Intrinsic Disorder Important for Virus Replication and Release
Tomaszewski, Tre; DeVries, Ryan S.; Dong, Mengyi; Bhatia, Gitanshu; Norsworthy, Miles D.; Zheng, Xuying; Caetano-Anollés, Gustavo (SAGE Publications, 2020-01)
The massive worldwide spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is fueling the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the first whole-genome sequence was published in January 2020, a growing database of tens of thousands of viral genomes has been constructed. This offers opportunities to study pathways of molecular change in the expanding viral population that can help identify molecular culprits of virulence and virus spread. Here we investigate the genomic accumulation of mutations at various time points of the early pandemic to identify changes in mutationally highly active genomic regions that are occurring worldwide. We used the Wuhan NC_045512.2 sequence as a reference and sampled 15 342 indexed sequences from GISAID, translating them into proteins and grouping them by month of deposition. The per-position amino acid frequencies and Shannon entropies of the coding sequences were calculated for each month, and a map of intrinsic disorder regions and binding sites was generated. The analysis revealed dominant variants, most of which were located in loop regions and on the surface of the proteins. Mutation entropy decreased between March and April of 2020 after steady increases at several sites, including the D614G mutation site of the spike (S) protein that was previously found associated with higher case fatality rates and at sites of the NSP12 polymerase and the NSP13 helicase proteins. Notable expanding mutations include R203K and G204R of the nucleocapsid (N) protein inter-domain linker region and G251V of the viroporin encoded by ORF3a between March and April. The regions spanning these mutations exhibited significant intrinsic disorder, which was enhanced and decreased by the N-protein and viroporin 3a protein mutations, respectively. These results predict an ongoing mutational shift from the spike and replication complex to other regions, especially to encoded molecules known to represent major β-interferon antagonists. The study provides valuable information for therapeutics and vaccine design, as well as insight into mutation tendencies that could facilitate preventive control.
Microbial Community Analysis and Food Safety Practice Survey-Based Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment for Controlled Environment Hydroponic/Aquaponic Farming Systems
Dong, Mengyi; Feng, Hao (Frontiers, 2022-01)
Hydroponic and aquaponic farming is becoming increasingly popular as a solution to address global food security. Plants in hydroponic systems are grown hydroponically under controlled environments and are considered to have fewer food safety concerns than traditional field farming. However, hydroponics and aquaponics might have very different sources of microbial food safety risks that remain under-examined. In this study, we investigated the microbiomes, microbial hazards, and potential bacterial transmission routes inside two commercial hydroponic and aquaponic farming systems using 16S-ITS-23S rRNA sequencing and a hydroponic food safety practice survey. The hydroponic farming system microbiome was analyzed from the fresh produce, nutrient solution, tools, and farmworkers. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes were the main components of hydroponic/aquaponic farming systems, with Pseudomonas being the most abundant genus in fresh produce samples. We further identified the presence of multiple spoilage bacteria and potential human, plant, and fish pathogens at the subspecies level. Spoilage Pseudomonas spp. and spoilage Clostridium spp. were abundant in the hydroponic microgreen farm and aquaponic lettuce farm, respectively. Moreover, we demonstrated the mapping of Escherichia coli 16s-ITS-23s rRNA sequence reads (∼2,500 bp) to small or large subunit rRNA databases and whole-genome databases to confirm pathogenicity and showed the potential of using 16s-ITS-23s rRNA sequencing for pathogen identification. With the SourceTracker and overlapping amplicon sequence variants, we predicted the bidirectional transmission route between plants and the surrounding environment and constructed the bacteria transmission map, which can be implemented in future food safety risk control plans.
Laser-driven sustainable modulation of growth, metabolomics, bioactive compounds, and physical attributes in broccoli, radish, and kale sprouts
Yildiz, Gulcin; Li, Yanfeng; Dong, Mengyi; Sun, Jianghao; Zhou, Bin; Feng, Hao (Elsevier, 2025-12-30)
Sprouts are valued for their bioactive compounds, yet conventional methods limit their biochemical potential. This study introduces a laser treatment (450 nm, 85 mW) to enhance the biochemical and physicochemical quality of broccoli, radish, and kale sprouts. Laser-treated seeds were germinated at 25 °C for 120 h and assessed for germination rate and biochemical properties, including total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), antioxidant activity (DPPH), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity. UHPLC-HRMS-based metabolomics revealed enhanced glucosinolate and flavonoid pathways. Optimal exposure (180 s) significantly increased TPC (broccoli: 22.6, radish: 25.2, kale: 27.8 mg GAE/g), TFC (broccoli: 42.7, radish: 53.4, kale: 54.4 mg QE/g), and antioxidant activity (broccoli: 10.95, radish: 20.68, kale: 25.09 μmol TE/g). Laser treatment also elevated GABA (broccoli: 4.5, radish: 4.2, kale: 4.8 mg/100 g) and PAL levels (broccoli and kale: 17, radish: 15 mg/h/100 g). SEM, DSC, and texture analyses indicated greater surface roughness, improved thermal stability (ΔTd = +6–8 °C), and reduced compressibility (16–20 %) , reflecting beneficial physicochemical modifications.
Contextualizing hard cider flavor language and market position
Neill, Clinton L.; Lahne, Jacob; Calvert, Martha; Hamilton, Leah (Cambridge University Press, 2024-08-01)
This paper investigates the market position of hard cider within the broader alcoholic beverage market. The first experiment identifies two distinct consumer segments-around 40% prioritize flavor attributes, while 53% prefer production information. The second experiment utilizes a basket- and expenditure-based choice experiment and a multiple discrete choice extreme value model to assess hard cider's standing among commonly consumed alcoholic beverages. Results reveal that hard cider is perceived as a complement to red and white wine but is independent from beer. The study suggests marketing hard cider in conjunction with white wine to capitalize on observed complementarity. Emphasizing the importance of addressing both consumer segments-those valuing flavor notes and those prioritizing production information-the research offers valuable insights for optimizing hard cider market strategies.
Hydrothermally Assisted Conversion of Switchgrass into Hard Carbon as Anode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Li, Yilin; Xia, Dawei; Tao, Lei; Xu, Zhiyuan; Yu, Dajun; Jin, Qing; Lin, Feng; Huang, Haibo (American Chemical Society, 2024-05-23)
Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are emerging as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries, reducing the reliance on scarce transition metals. Converting agricultural biomass into SIB anodes can remarkably enhance sustainability in both the agriculture and battery industries. However, the complex and costly synthesis and unsatisfactory electrochemical performance of biomass-derived hard carbon have hindered its further development. Herein, we employed a hydrothermally assisted carbonization process that converts switchgrass to battery-grade hard carbon capable of efficient Na-ion storage. The hydrothermal pretreatment effectively removed hemicellulose and impurities (e.g., lipids and ashes), creating thermally stable precursors suitable to produce hard carbon via carbonization. The elimination of hemicellulose and impurities contributes to a reduced surface area and lower oxygen content. With the modifications, the initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and cycling stability are improved concurrently. The optimized hard carbon showcased a high reversible specific capacity of 313.4 mAh g(-1) at 100 mA g(-1), a commendable ICE of 84.8%, and excellent cycling stability with a capacity retention of 308.4 mAh g(-1) after 100 cycles. In short, this research introduces a cost-effective method for producing anode materials for SIBs and highlights a sustainable pathway for biomass utilization, underscoring mutual benefits for the energy and agricultural sectors.
A Green, Fire-Retarding Ether Solvent for Sustainable High-Voltage Li-Ion Batteries at Standard Salt Concentration
Xia, Dawei; Tao, Lei; Hou, Dong; Hu, Anyang; Sainio, Sami; Nordlund, Dennis; Sun, Chengjun; Xiao, Xianghui; Li, Luxi; Huang, Haibo; Lin, Feng (Wiley-V C H Verlag, 2024-10-01)
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are increasingly encouraged to enhance their environmental friendliness and safety while maintaining optimal energy density and cost-effectiveness. Although various electrolytes using greener and safer glyme solvents have been reported, the low charge voltage (usually lower than 4.0 V vs Li/Li+) restricts the energy density of LIBs. Herein, tetraglyme, a lesstoxic, non-volatile, and non-flammable ether solvent, is exploited to build safer and greener LIBs. It is demonstrated that ether electrolytes, at a standard salt concentration (1 m), can be reversibly cycled to 4.5 V vs Li/Li+. Anchored with Boron-rich cathode-electrolyte interphase (CEI) and mitigated current collector corrosion, the LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) cathode delivers competitive cyclability versus commercial carbonate electrolytes when charged to 4.5 V. Synchrotron spectroscopic and imaging analyses show that the tetraglyme electrolyte can sufficiently suppress the overcharge behavior associated with the high-voltage electrolyte decomposition, which is advantageous over previously reported glyme electrolytes. The new electrolyte also enables minimal transition metal dissolution and deposition. NMC811||hard carbon full cell delivers excellent cycling stability at C/3 with a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.77%. This work reports an oxidation-resilient tetraglyme electrolyte with record-high 4.5 V stability and enlightens further applications of glyme solvents for sustainable LIBs by designing Boron-rich interphases.
Survival of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes on Food Contact Surfaces in Produce Packinghouses
Etaka, Cyril A.; Silva, Eugenia M.; Hamilton, Alexis M.; Murphy, Claire M.; Strawn, Laura K. (MDPI, 2025-09-18)
Short-season (90 d) produce packing operations may run double shifts with no clean breaks in between. This practice can result in produce contamination from food contact surfaces that are not cleaned and sanitized. Our study examined the survival of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes on polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, and stainless steel surfaces that contact produce in operations that have a short packing season. Coupons were spot-inoculated with five-strain cocktails of rifampicin-resistant Salmonella or L. monocytogenes (~7 log CFU/coupon), stored at 22 °C and 45–55% relative humidity, and enumerated at 0, 0.06, 0.25, 1, 2, 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, 30, 60, and 90 d. Significant differences were evaluated (p ≤ 0.05), and survival was modeled using linear and biphasic models. Salmonella reductions varied significantly by surface type, with rubber showing the greatest survival, followed by stainless steel at 90 d. In contrast, Salmonella concentrations on polycarbonate, polypropylene, and PVC were below the limit of detection at 90 d. L. monocytogenes reductions were not significantly different across materials at 90 d. Biphasic models better fit the inactivation of both pathogens. These findings highlight the importance of clean breaks and focusing interventions where pathogens demonstrate greater persistence in short-season packinghouses.

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