Fresh Vegetables Research Articles

Trends in biochemical, anatomical mechanisms and molecular aspects in enzymatic browning of apples: a review

Abstract Apples (Malus domestica Borkh), like fresh fruits and vegetables, are susceptible to enzymatic browning (EB) and especially during handling, storage and processing, mostly as a result of phenolic compounds being enzymatically oxidized, basically, by polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) enzymes. EB reduces consumer acceptance and marketability leading to postharvest losses of apples. This review focused on EB, addressing the trends in biochemical, anatomical mechanisms, molecular aspects and the future perspectives. At least 24 phenolic compounds were detected in apples, with the peel often retaining the highest concentrations. Phenolic compounds with low molecular weight, like catechin, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid seem to function as a more effective substrate for PPO. The first step in EB process is cell collapse either by cutting, peeling, bruising, senescence etc. The collapsed cells enable PPO to be in direct contact with the polyphenolic substrates localized either in cell vacuole or in the cell wall in the presence of oxygen to produce melanin, the brown polymer. A precise transformation of apple genomes is a major advance in gene-editing technology focused on improving crop quality, especially in post-harvest technology. The advancement of innovative genome editing techniques to attain precise and targeted alterations in apples for the mitigation of browning activity. Innovative genome editing methods are exploited to silence genes expressing PPOs and relative genes of oxidative enzymes, as well as underscoring notable differences in the constitutive expression pattern of critical phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzyme, constituting the most promising strategy to avert undesired browning in plants. Food scientists are seeking to select cultivars that are less sensitive to EB, in addition to using genetic engineering tools to inhibit the browning enzymes. The Arctic® apple is a unique example of this, as researchers focused on producing an apple resistant to EB with the goal of reducing waste and limiting the use of chemicals in apple industry.

Comparison of Preferences for Japanese Food in Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Singapore

Japanese cuisine has gained international acclaim, with dishes like sushi, ramen, and tempura widely available in restaurants around the world. Many Japanese foods are perceived as healthy; they contain fresh ingredients, seafood, and vegetables, which attract health-conscious consumers. The global spread of Japanese culture, including anime, manga, and traditional arts, has contributed to the increased interest in Japanese cuisine. The number of Japanese restaurants has surged globally, particularly in urban areas with diverse populations. As the economies of developing countries grow, a rising middle class with disposable income is emerging, leading to increased dining-out and a willingness to try international cuisines, including Japanese food. This study empirically examines the attitudes and preferences of people from different countries—two developing countries and two developed countries—for Japanese food in order to verify any significant differences. The results indicate that the preference for Japanese foods, as well as the frequency of visits to Japanese restaurants, is higher in developed countries than in developing countries. Since developing countries continue to experience economic growth, the future of Japanese restaurants in these regions looks promising, with numerous opportunities for growth and expansion. By understanding local markets, adapting to consumer preferences, and leveraging trends, entrepreneurs can successfully establish and grow Japanese dining establishments in these areas.

Usage of Beta-Lactam Antibiotics: Insight into Foodborne Escherichia coli Linked to Fresh Vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Globally, the consumption of fresh produce has increased due to their health and nutritional benefits. However, in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), there is a growing concern about fresh produce, harboring foodborne bacterial pathogens. Among the foodborne bacterial pathogens associated with the consumption of fresh produce is Escherichia coli known for causing foodborne infections. Based on the threat from foodborne infectious E. coli, beta-lactam (β-lactam) antibiotics are always the first-line treatment regularly used to mitigate these foodborne infections in SSA. As a result of misuse of prescribed and continuous use of unprescribed β-lactam antibiotics, there has been a growing resistance in E. coli strains associated with fresh produce, which includes vegetables in SSA. This review therefore discussed not only the usage of β-lactam antibiotics as first-line treatment for foodborne infections in SSA but also the consumption of fresh vegetables linked to resistant E. coli. In addition, country-based cases regarding β-lactam antibiotic-resistant E. coli isolates linked to fresh vegetables were also discussed. The details herein therefore serve as hands-on information for consumers, health personnel, and policymakers not only in SSA but also globally.

The Importance of Dietary History: A Case of Scurvy Mimicking Vasculitis.

Scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, is now uncommon in developed countries with ample food resources. We present the case of a 28-year-old man with no significant past medical history who presented with lower extremity petechiae, initially raising suspicion for vasculitis. Although his skin biopsy findings were consistent with vasculitis, based on the characteristic perifollicular distribution of the purpura, the presence of corkscrew hairs, and the finding of a subfascial hematoma of gastrocnemius muscle, which raised suspicion for a bleeding tendency, led us to suspect scurvy. A detailed dietary history revealed that he had consumed an imbalanced diet with no intake of fresh fruits or vegetables for more than six months. Serum ascorbic acid concentration was measured to be less than 0.2 μg/mL, confirming the diagnosis of scurvy. In conclusion, scurvy can occur even in healthy young individuals without prior medical history living in developed countries and can present to rheumatologists as a mimicker of vasculitis. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of vasculitis, and a detailed dietary history should be obtained when suspected.

Veterans Affairs FreshConnectProduceRx: a study protocol for a pragmatic quasi-experimental study assessing health, healthcare costs, and implementation processes of a produce prescription program in VA medical centers

BackgroundFood insecurity, poor nutrition, and diet-related diseases create major intersecting health challenges. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has identified food insecurity as a high-priority problem and established regular clinical screening. Veterans with identified food insecurity and diet-sensitive cardiometabolic health conditions will benefit from the successful implementation of effective Food is Medicine interventions.MethodsThis pragmatic, quasi-experimental intervention study of effectiveness and implementation of a produce-prescription program is conducted in 2 VA hospital health systems in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Houston, Texas. Eligible Veterans have (a) a diet-sensitive cardiometabolic health condition (obesity, hypertension, and/or diabetes) identified in the electronic health record (EHR) by diagnostic codes (ICD-10) and/or lab values and (b) low-income identified by priority status in administrative data. Program enrollment is pragmatically integrated within the VA clinical care process of food security screening and service referrals. Eligible Veterans who screen positive for food insecurity during clinical care processes are referred to the intervention. The Veterans Affairs FreshConnect Produce Prescription (VA FCPRx) intervention program includes 12 months of a produce prescription allowance for purchasing fresh fruits or vegetables, provided as $100 monthly on a pre-paid card for use at local grocery stores. The program also includes culinary education through cooking courses provided by VA nutritionists or nutritional consults provided one-on-one by a VA dietitian. Process and outcome measures will be evaluated using the PRISM RE-AIM framework. Health outcomes related to diet-sensitive chronic conditions (e.g., HbA1c levels for patients with diabetes) and healthcare costs (e.g., outpatient costs) are assessed using EHR data. VA FCPRx participant outcomes are assessed in comparison to a group of similar Veterans using intention-to-treat analyses. Patient-reported outcomes, implementation strategies and outcomes, and staff and Veteran experience are assessed with a combination of surveys, focus groups, and program administrative data.DiscussionThis pragmatic quasi-experimental intervention study will provide important new evidence about the impact of a produce prescription program for U.S. Veterans on health outcomes, healthcare costs, and patient-reported outcomes. The assessment of effectiveness and implementation processes and outcomes will inform the design and scaling of impactful, pragmatic, cost-effective programs for food insecure Veterans with diet-sensitive cardiometabolic conditions.

A swift electrochemical detection of paraoxon ethyl pesticide based on Co-BTC metal organic framework synthesized by mechanochemical method.

Monitoring and detection of organophosphate pesticides in fresh vegetables and fruits are essential due to their increased usage and harmful effects on the environment and human health. This study presents the development and evaluation of a straightforward non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for detecting paraoxon ethyl (PoE), one of the most widely used pesticides to protect crops from pests. We have synthesized nanostructured Co-Benzene Tricarboxylic acid (BTC) metal organic framework (MOF) by a mechanochemical method at room temperature and used it directly as an electrode material to modifya glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical detection of PoE has been carried out using a Co-BTC/GCE in a phosphate-buffered saline at pH 7.0. The modified electrode displayed a remarkable electrocatalytic response towards the reduction of PoE through the appearance of a sharp peak at - 0.68V with high selectivity over a wide concentration range of 1-1770µM and a low detection limit of 0.13µM. Also, the sensor exhibited high stability and reproducibility, making it a promising tool for PoE detection in farm-fresh brinjal, grape, and strawberry. Thus, the developed sensor provides an affordable, sensitive, and dependable platform for pesticide detection and supporting environmental conservation initiatives.

Evaluating a 52-week fresh food prescribing program in Ontario, Canada: A mixed-methods study on food insecurity, fruit and vegetable intake, and health

BackgroundFood insecurity is linked with suboptimal diet and comprises an important risk factor for nutrition-related chronic diseases. Fresh food prescription programs are designed to improve access to healthy foods, but there is limited evidence on the impacts of such programs in the Canadian context. The objective of this mixed methods study was to assess changes in food security, fruit and vegetable intake, and health among adult participants of a fresh food prescribing program in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.MethodsA total of 57 adult participants who were experiencing food insecurity and had ≥ 1 cardio-metabolic condition or micronutrient deficiency received fresh food prescriptions from their healthcare practitioner, which included a nutrition and cooking information package and weekly vouchers ($10 per person in household) for an online produce market for 52 consecutive weeks. Pre-, mid-, and post-intervention surveys, blood pressure measurements, and clinical bloodwork were collected to assess food security, fruit and vegetable intake, self-reported health, and blood biomarkers of cardio-metabolic and nutritional health. We used a single-arm repeated-measures evaluation and paired t-tests and Fisher’s exact tests to assess changes. Linear regression models were used to assess factors associated with change in fruit and vegetable intake. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants to expand on survey findings. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using an inductive constant comparative approach.ResultsForty-nine participants completed post-intervention data collection. The proportion of participants experiencing severe food insecurity decreased after the intervention from 38.1% to 23.8%. Intake of fruit, orange vegetables, and ‘other’ vegetables increased during the intervention (p < 0.05). Mean triglyceride, fasting insulin, and ascorbic acid levels improved (p < 0.05). More severe food insecurity and lower fruit and vegetable intake at baseline, as well as more frequent interaction with healthcare providers, were associated with a greater increase in fruit and vegetable intake from pre- to post-intervention (p < 0.05). In interviews, participants reported that the program increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables, improved mental and physical health, provided social connections, and reduced financial stress.ConclusionsFresh food prescription programs may improve food security and increase fruit and vegetable intake, but further research is needed to determine their long-term health impacts.

Evidence of microplastic accumulation on the surface of lettuce and analysis of contamination sources.

Evidence of microplastic accumulation on the surface of lettuce and analysis of contamination sources.

Emerging Technologies in Dried Fruit Snacks: Nutritional Enrichment and Sustainable Production.

Entrenched eating habits, characterized by the consumption of highly processed foods rich in energy, fat, sugar, and salt, as well as eating snacks between meals or replacing meals with snacks, alongside inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables, have harmful effects on human health. Due to the seasonality of raw materials and limited access to fresh fruit and vegetables, the surplus is often available on the market in dried form, which could be stored much longer. Thus, fruits and vegetable snacks produced through diverse drying techniques are gaining commercial importance within global food processing. However, each process affects the food quality. In this review, a different novel process was presented for obtaining high-nutritional dried snacks, which can help with the enrichment of the dried fruit snacks, including vacuum impregnation, osmotic dehydration, edible coatings, and modifications of the drying process. For this purpose, nonthermal methods applicable to drying were described, such as pulsed electric field, ultrasound treatment, high hydrostatic processing, pulsed light, and cold plasma. Furthermore, different drying methods, including hybrid drying, were presented as methods for obtaining healthy dried snacks. Moreover, some aspects of safety, microbial quality, and storage conditions were discussed for keeping a good quality of dried snacks. The article concludes with guidance for obtaining and maintaining high-quality dried snacks and provides recommendations for future research.

Variation and prognostic potential of the gut antibiotic resistome in the FINRISK 2002 cohort

The spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has severely reduced the efficacy of antibiotics and now contributes to 1 million deaths annually. The gut microbiome is a major reservoir of antibiotic resistance in humans, yet the extent to which gut antibiotic resistance gene load varies within human populations and the drivers that contribute most to this variation remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate, in a representative cohort of 7095 Finnish adults, that socio-demographic factors, lifestyle, and gut microbial community composition shape resistance gene selection and transmission processes. Resistance was linked not only to prior use of antibiotics, as anticipated, but also to frequent consumption of fresh vegetables and poultry, two food groups previously reported to contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Interestingly, resistance was not linked to the consumption of high-fat and high-sugar foods, but was consistently higher in females and urban high-income individuals, who currently have generally lower mortality rates. Nevertheless, during the 17-year follow-up, high resistance was associated with a 1.07-fold increase in mortality risk, comparable to elevated blood pressure, and with a heightened risk of sepsis. These findings highlight risks and socio-demographic dimensions of antibiotic resistance that are particularly relevant in the current context of global urbanization and middle-class growth.

LIFESTYLE HABITS AND INTENTIONS TO PROVIDE LIFESTYLE CONSULTATIONS FOR PATIENTS OF MEDICAL STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS

Aim. To assess the lifestyle habits of sixth-year students of the Faculty of Medicine and medical and dental residents of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and their intentions to provide lifestyle medicine consultations to patients.Materials and methods. An anonymous, instantaneous questionnaire survey of students and residents was conducted between August and November 2022. The questionnaire contained 39 questions about the subjects' lifestyle habits and intentions to apply lifestyle knowledge when consulting patients. A link to the questionnaire and an invitation to participate in the study were distributed to students and residents via email. The response rate was 38.8 percent.Results. Females were more likely to choose fresh vegetables, fruits, and berries every day, while men were more likely to consume red meat every day and choose sweetened beverages. Males were more likely to be overweight than females. Almost two-thirds of the respondents experienced significant emotional stress. As many as 29.2 percent of the respondents consumed alcohol at least once a week, and a third smoked daily or occasionally. About half of the respondents had sufficient knowledge to provide counseling on nutrition and physical activity. A third of all respondents noted that they had sufficient knowledge to counsel patients on quitting bad habits. Most often, the respondents intended to provide counseling on nutrition and physical activity to patients (69.9 percent and 67.3 percent, respectively). Future doctors noted that lifestyle counseling is usually not provided due to a lack of time. Most indicated that a family doctor or a lifestyle medicine specialist should provide lifestyle counseling. Relationships were found between the future doctors' lifestyle and their intention to provide counseling: those who consumed fresh vegetables daily had more knowledge to provide counseling on nutrition and weight management issues, and those who exercised 2-3 times a week were more likely to provide physical activity counseling.Conclusions. Only some of the future doctors followed healthy lifestyle recommendations. Females’ lifestyle habits were healthier compared to males. Most medical students and residents are positive about counseling patients on healthy lifestyle issues, but they would like to gain more knowledge in all lifestyle areas.

SMART TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS FOR POSTHARVEST LOSS REDUCTION: A REVIEW

Postharvest losses remain a major threat to food security globally, particularly among low and middle-income countries where the losses of fruits and vegetables are over 30%. This study systematically examines recent technological innovations aimed at mitigating such losses along the postharvest supply chain. Drawing on a diverse range of empirical research, the review examines the performance of emerging technologies like plant-derived edible coatings, modified atmosphere packaging, solar-powered cold storage in mobile containers, evaporative cooling containers and hermetic dry chain systems. These technologies have demonstrated quantifiable gains in the shelf life, nutritional value and marketability of perishable agricultural produce. For instance, application of biodegradable coatings and films derived from essential oils has been associated with 40 to 70% reduction in microbial spoilage of fresh fruits and vegetables. Similarly, solar-powered evaporative coolers and on-the-go cold chain solutions have enhanced storage durations and reduced weight loss in leafy greens and tomatoes in off-grid rural locations. Yet, their successful implementation is usually hindered by systemic constraints such as farmers' lack of expertise, financial limitations and inadequate infrastructure. Field evidence highlights the necessity for context-specific design, farmer-centered training, and inclusive policy assistance. The research finds that optimal outcomes are achieved when smart technologies are implemented in conjunction with cooperative strategies that tackle behavioral, structural, and institutional issues. Propelling smart postharvest solutions will entail ongoing research, public-private partnerships and inclusive innovation pathways that accommodate the realities of smallholder producers.

Revealing microbial hazards in raw vegetables from Dhaka city markets: antibiotic resistance and food safety challenges

Consuming fresh vegetables is crucial for maintaining good health, yet it's important to ensure their safety. Bacteria present on these vegetables can cause illness, underscoring the necessity for vigilance throughout the entire process from cultivation to consumption. This study has identified a significantly elevated prevalence of microorganisms in raw vegetables, primarily attributable to their consumption in an unprocessed state. The overarching objectives of this research encompassed the evaluation of microbiological contamination levels in raw vegetables, the isolation and characterisation of bacterial species therein, the establishment of antibiotic resistance profiles within the isolated microbial populations, and an assessment of the safety of these microorganisms concerning human consumption. A total of fifty-four samples, representing six distinct varieties of vegetables, were procured from various marketplaces within Dhaka city. These samples were expeditiously transported to the Research Laboratory at Primeasia University for analysis. For isolation of microbes, cultivated on selective media. Bacterial levels in the vegetables were determined through the employment of the plate count technique. Subsequent biochemical testing confirmed the likely identities of the isolated microorganisms. Antibiotic susceptibility was established via the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique conducted on the Mueller-Hinton agar medium. The range of microbial counts observed exhibited variability, spanning from 9.82 log CFU/g to 4.36 log CFU/g. Notably, cucumbers displayed the lowest bacterial percentage (12.71%), while Coriander leaves registered the highest incidence (25.4%). Furthermore, the research disclosed a higher prevalence of bacteria in vegetables sourced from local markets as opposed to those obtained from supermarkets. Among the bacterial species identified were Vibrio cholerae (12.50%), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (5.55%), Klebsiella spp. (11.81%), Escherichia coli (8.33%), and Salmonella spp. (9.08%) were the top five associated with foodborne illnesses. Additionally, Pseudomonas spp. (20.83%) and Staphylococcus aureus (25.69%) were indicative of contamination. Furthermore, the study involved an evaluation of antibiotic sensitivity in various bacterial isolates, with meropenem (90%) and chloramphenicol (70%) demonstrating significant efficacy across all isolated strains. Conversely, resistance was observed with respect to other antibiotics. These findings underscore the imperative for a heightened emphasis on personal hygiene and underscore the importance of raising awareness in this regard

Ships Surgeons as Physicians and Hygienists: Health at Sea During the Seven Years' War and Napoleonic Wars.

The rise of England as a global empire in the Seven Years' War (1756-1763) depended on the health of the seamen in the Royal Navy. Under constant danger from combat and manning a sailing battleship in open water, their greatest risk were contagious disease and dietary deficiencies, notably scurvy. During the conflict disease and desertion resulted in nearly 100 times the deaths from direct contact with the enemy. Tasked with the treatment of grievous injuries far from land, ship's surgeons had the greater responsibility of maintaining the general health and nutrition of the crew. Reformists like James Lind, Sir Gilbert Blane, and Thomas Trotter led to improvements in nutrition, especially the general issue of antiscorbutic fruit, fruit juice, and fresh vegetables; smallpox vaccination; and improved cleanliness of clothing and berths. The better overall health of its seamen was an important factor in the Royal Navy's decisive victory over France at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805).

Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Bacteria Isolated from Fresh Vegetables in Free State Province, South Africa

The important role of antibiotics cannot be overestimated, as human health relies heavily on them for the treatment of infectious diseases. In this study, the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of pathogens isolated from spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea) collected from Free State Province were investigated. A total of 38 isolates representing 10 species, Enterobacter cloacae (5.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (13.2%), Micrococcus luteus (5.3%), Staphylococcus sciuri (5.3%), Acinetobacter haemolyticus (5.3%), Burkholderia cepacia (15.8%), Pseudomonas luteola (15.8%), Escherichia coli (18.4%), Citrobacter freundii (5.3%), and Serratia marcescens (10.5%), were confirmed by the Analytical Profile Index (API). We evaluated antibiotic resistance patterns of 38 unduplicated isolates using the disk diffusion method. As a result, E. coli (18.4%), B. cepacia (15.8%), P. luteola (15.8%), S. aureus (13.2%), and S. marcescens (10.5%), as well as 5.3% each for E. cloacae, M. luteus, S. sciuri, A. haemolyticus, and C. freundii, showed resistance to tested antibiotics. The majority (84%) of the isolates showed resistance to tetracycline, and penicillin had a value of 71%. A total of 79% of the antibiotic-resistant isolates demonstrated multidrug resistance (MDR) to several classes such as β-lactams, chloramphenicol, tetracycline, aminoglycosides, and macrolides. The results highlight the importance of monitoring the microbiological quality of leafy greens as they contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria that could affect human health when consumed.

Abstract P3-05-08: Examining Racial Disparities in the Association between Food Swamps, Liquor Store Density, and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Mortality among Georgia Cancer Center Patients

Abstract Purpose: Breast cancer (BRCA) is the 4th leading cause of cancer death in the United States (U.S.) and is one of 13 obesity-related cancers. Healthy food consumption (i.e. eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, less processed foods) is a protective factor shown to decrease obesity risk and postmenopausal BRCA death, but racial and ethnic disparities regarding postmenopausal BRCA continues to persist. Also, residing in geographical areas with no access to healthy food options and more unhealthy food options (i.e. food swamps) reduces access to healthy foods and has been severely understudied. The influx of liquor stores in the South, or businesses that advertise and sell unhealthy food products including processed foods and alcohol, may contribute to elevated postmenopausal BRCA death. We assessed the relationship between residing in food swamps and liquor store density with risk of postmenopausal BRCA death among a subsample of Georgia Cancer Center patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis utilizing 2012, 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2020 data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Environment Atlas and linked them via county FIPS codes with 2016 – 2022 postmenopausal BRCA death (restricted to 45+ years old) patient data from the Georgia Cancer Center’s electronic medical record database. Food swamp score (FS) was calculated as the ratio of fast-food and convenience stores to grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Liquor store density was calculated as the proportion of beer, wine, and liquor stores to Georgia county populations per 100,000. We categorized FS and liquor store density to low versus high; higher scores indicated patients residing in counties with poorer healthy food resources or greater access to liquor stores. Multilevel Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the association between FS and postmenopausal BRCA death. Results: Out of 282 Georgia Cancer Center patients, the majority of NH-Black and Other patients and married patients resided in high FS and liquor store dense scored counties, respectively (p – value &amp;lt; 0.0001). Overall, patients at the high level of FS counties had an increased risk of postmenopausal BRCA death (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 4.00, 95% CI = 1.06 – 15.1). In our fully adjusted models, NH-Black and Other patients residing in high FS scored counties had a non-significantly higher risk of postmenopausal BRCA death (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 2.27, 95% CI = 0.37 – 14.0) compared to NH-Whites living in low FS scored counties. Conclusions: Our subsample of cancer patients living in the worst food environments had increased risk of postmenopausal BRCA death. Local and state policymakers should make a concerted effort to partner with community stakeholders and farmers to employ sustainable approaches at combating obesity and BRCA by increasing healthier accessible food sources (e.g. community gardens, indoor hydroponic vertical gardens). Citation Format: Malcolm S. Bevel, April Parham, Aashka Sheth, Meng-Han Tsai, Sydney Elizabeth Andrzejak, Samantha R. Jones, Justin X. Moore. Examining Racial Disparities in the Association between Food Swamps, Liquor Store Density, and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Mortality among Georgia Cancer Center Patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2024; 2024 Dec 10-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2025;31(12 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-05-08.

Abstract P3-08-23: Using a SMART Approach to Culturally-Adapt and Remotely Deliver a Weight Loss Intervention for Latina Breast Cancer Survivors: The ¡Vida! Study Methods

Abstract Background: Cancer is the leading cause of death in the US Hispanic/Latinx population and Latina women are 20% more likely to die from breast cancer (BC) compared to non-Latina women. An estimated 80% of US Latina women have overweight or obesity, which is a major contributor to BC incidence and recurrence. Culturally tailored, effective, and accessible weight loss interventions for Latina BC survivors are needed. Aims: The ¡Vida! Study primary aim is to compare the effectiveness of adaptive weight loss interventions in decreasing total body weight by ≥7% at 12 months in Latinas with early-stage BC and obesity not on current chemoradiotherapy. The secondary aim will investigate baseline characteristics as moderators of the intervention effects to inform personalized strategies for weight management. Exploratory aims will examine other moderators and mediators of intervention effects, effects of the intervention on cardiometabolic biomarkers, and contextual factors that contribute to study outcomes. Design: Participants will be recruited from NCI SEER registries in California and Washington. This study is a 4-group, 2-stage, sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) of: 1) the ¡Vida! Program, 2) ¡Vida! + Experiential Learning (EL), 3) ¡Vida! + EL + health coaching (HC), or 4) ¡Vida! + EL + HC + delivered groceries (DG). In Stage One, participants will be randomized to ¡Vida! or ¡Vida! + EL. In Stage Two, at week 8 participants who do not respond to the intervention (i.e., loss of &amp;lt;2% of their body weight) will be re-randomized to receive additional components. A community advisory board of project stakeholders, community-based organizations in Washington and California representing medical services, social services, and patient-advocates will provide input throughout the study process. Intervention: The ¡Vida! Program adapts the National Diabetes Prevention Program to Latina BC survivors using the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications. Live, remotely delivered, nutritional and physical activity (PA) educational sessions through the Fred Hutch Cancer Center Cook for Your Life website will be delivered over 12 months. The EL component will include live, virtual, hands-on sessions delivered by lifestyle health educators (promotoras) and will focus on increasing knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy to achieve and maintain weight, diet and PA goals. The HC component will include individualized remote sessions. Health coaches will identify patient diet and PA goals, and support weight loss self-efficacy, motivation for adopting a hypocaloric high-quality diet, and increasing moderate-to-vigorous PA. The DG component will include a bag of supplemental fresh vegetables, whole grains, and healthy oils. DG will include ingredients used in recommended recipes and recipes prepared in the EL sessions. Data Collected: Baseline data will be collected on participant demographics, clinical characteristics, acculturation, and taste preferences. Body weight, daily PA, and accelerometry; patient-reported food intake and diet quality, global quality of life, social support, perceived stress, and self-efficacy for healthy eating and PA; and dried blood spot biomarkers will be monitored for change between baseline and 12 months. Conclusion: The ¡Vida! trial is on track to open in Fall 2024. The results of this adaptive, remotely delivered, and culturally tailored weight loss trial in Latina early-stage BC survivors will identify scalable, effective, personalized strategies to support weight loss and improve BC related outcomes due to obesity in this population with high cancer health disparities. Citation Format: Blake Langley, Eileen Rillamas-Sun, Jennifer Whitten, Yarizel Herrera, Sheryl Rothmuller, Sara Buzali, Jennifer Dearden, Ashkan Ertefaie, Chongzhi Di, Nancy Davidson, Rachel Yung, India Ornelas, Heather Greenlee. Using a SMART Approach to Culturally-Adapt and Remotely Deliver a Weight Loss Intervention for Latina Breast Cancer Survivors: The ¡Vida! Study Methods [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2024; 2024 Dec 10-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2025;31(12 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-08-23.

Nutrition, health and welfare of Norwegian pet guinea pigs.

We examined aspects of husbandry, health and welfare of pet guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus, GP) in Norway. An online questionnaire (with 100 questions) was completed by 284 GP owners. Crossbreeds were the most common (36.6%). Most GPs were between one and four years of age (67.2%). The sex ratio was about 50-50%. Animals were mainly housed indoors (64.1%) and only nine GPs had less space than 0.72 m2. The incidence of stereotypic or negative behaviours was low. Nearly all GPs (93.3%) had ad libitum access to hay. Complete extruded or pelleted feeds were most commonly fed (80.6%). Almost 60% of the participants reported that their GP is fed fresh vegetables daily which may explain why 63.7% of the respondents never fed vitamin C supplements. Ectoparasites (21.1%) were the most prevalent health problems, followed by coughing and/or sneezing (19.7%), abscesses (12.7%), and overgrown nails (11.6%). The only significant associations were that GPs over 3 years had more than two simultaneous health problems (P < 0.005). Ovarian cysts were also more frequent among these animals (P < 0.005). The most commonly utilized source of husbandry information was the internet (80.3%).

Effects of staking techniques on growth and yield of tomato varieties in northwestern Ethiopia

Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicon L.) is amongst the most important fresh vegetables used worldwide. Growth and yield of tomatoes are constrained by a lack of improved varieties and inefficient agronomic methods, such as staking. Recognizing the fundamental importance of staking to reduce the effect of high moisture and disease on the growth and yield of tomatoes is essential. A field study was conducted on the effects of staking techniques on the growth and yield of tomato varieties in northwestern Ethiopia at the Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Debre Markos University, demonstration site under irrigation conditions in two growing seasons, 2021/22 and 2022/23. Cochero, Eshet, Metadel, and Miya varieties were used while three staking techniques (single-string staking as treatment one (S1), Florida weave string staking as treatment two (S2), and non-staking as a control treatment (S0)) were used. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Data were collected and analyzed using SAS 9.2 software. Means were separated by using LSD at a 5% probability level. Based on the results of the present experiment, Metadel with single-string staking recorded the maximum fruit yield (96.25 t ha− 1) and (103.72 t ha− 1) in both seasons. On the other hand, the Metadel variety combined with single-string staking gave the maximum marketable yield of 91.09 t ha− 1 and 96.97 t ha− 1 in the first and second seasons, respectively. Therefore, the adoption of Metadel with single-string staking techniques enables farmers to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and promote sustainable agricultural systems in regions of similar agro-ecological zones.

Segmenting consumers’ interest in fresh produce delivery: a decision tree approach in the Mid-Atlantic United States

PurposeThis study examines consumer interest in paying farmers and market staff to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to their homes. It also identifies the profiles of likely users based on observable predictor variables. Paying a fee for the service was explored rather than calculating precise monetary willingness to pay (WTP) estimates, offering a foundation for future research.Design/methodology/approachResponses were obtained from 1,054 Mid-Atlantic US consumers responsible for at least half of the household grocery purchases, participating in agritourism or purchasing food from direct marketers or local sources. This study applies the exhaustive chi-square automatic interaction detector (ECHAID), a decision tree-based classification method that extends the traditional automatic interaction detector (AID) technique. ECHAID systematically segments consumers into interpretable and actionable groups by identifying significant interactions among predictor variables, making it beneficial for market segmentation and consumer behavior analysis without requiring predefined assumptions about data distributions.FindingsSeven segments had index scores above 100%, indicating a higher-than-average likelihood of being willing to pay for the service. Respondents in five segments used online order and delivery systems to acquire fresh fruits and vegetables. Notable differences included past purchases from on-farm markets, curbside grocery pickup usage, changes in fresh fruit or vegetable consumption and the presence of children in the household.Originality/valueDespite the rise in third-party services for producers to manage and ship produce to local consumers, to date, no studies have yet provided insight into the socioeconomic and behaviors of likely users. Access to these data allows farmers to focus on potential customers rather than the mass market.