bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the ability of desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria) to grow when feeding on tomato leaves (Solanum lycopersicum) versus wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Yakti W. , Widjaja E. , Förster N. , Mewis I. , Ulrichs C.
Published: November 2023

The desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) is a notorious swarm-forming agricultural pest widely collected for its use as food and feed. Its ability to grow on tomato leaf waste as a sole nutritional source was investigated given its ability to consume a wide range of plants. The growth and nutrient composition of desert locusts and their generated frass were compared in nymphs reared on tomato leaves versus wheatgrass. The desert locusts demonstrated higher growth on wheatgrass diet, but they also thrived on tomato leaves without observed mortalities. An average production of 14.38 g desert locust biomass consumed 375.8 g of fresh tomato leaves. Desert locusts fed with tomato leaves had higher crude protein content (61% compared to 58% in wheatgrass-fed desert locusts) and lower fat content (8% compared to 14% in wheatgrass-fed desert locusts). The diet also influenced the levels of Ca, Cu, Mn, S, and Zn in the desert locust biomass. Furthermore, the analysis of the generated frass revealed significant differences in the levels of B, Ca, Cu, K, Mg, Mo, Na, P, S, Zn, and N, depending on the plant material provided. The findings suggest that the desert locust can be reared efficiently on tomato leaves, transforming this waste stream into a protein-rich insect biomass and frass.
Study of nutritional content and antioxidant activity of prepupae and pupae stages of Samia ricini
Authors: Swargiary A. , Daimari M. , Roy M.K.
Published: November 2023

Sericulture is a common practice around the globe. The silk produced by moths is widely known, but the nutritional potential of silkworms for human consumption is not well recognized. The present study analyses the nutritional contents and antioxidant properties of the prepupae and pupae stages of Samia ricini. Proximate analysis was carried out following AOAC methods. The antioxidant activity was studied by Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl, and 2,2’-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) assays. The study observed substantial quantity of nutritional content in both the prepupae and pupae stages of S. ricini. The moisture content was found to be 70-72% in wet tissue weight. Protein content was 13-15% and 46-51% in wet and dry tissue, respectively. The study observed significant increase in protein content from prepupae to pupae stages. Fats and carbohydrate content also showed significant differences between the two stages of S. ricini. The pupae showed more potent antioxidant activity compared to prepupae. The IC50 values for pupae were 3.29 ± 0.12 mg/mL and 1.79 ± 0.32 mg/mL for DPPH and ABTS assay. In contrast, prepupae stage showed weaker antioxidant properties with IC50 values of 7.26 ± 0.52 mg/mL and 3.11 ± 0.12 mg/mL. The present study suggests that the pupae of S. ricini could be an alternative source of proteins, antioxidants, and beneficial food to incorporate into daily diet compared to the prepupae stage.
Ultrasound and microwave-assisted extraction of silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) oil and its quality characterisation
Authors: Patil A.R. , Wadje P. , Meenatchi R.
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (USAE) and Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MWAE) methods on the quality parameters and yield of silkworm pupae oil. The selected key independent variables that impact the extraction process, such as power levels, liquid-solid (L/S) ratio, and time for the extraction of SPO (silkworm pupae oil), were optimised. The extracted silkworm pupa oil was further characterised for oil quality, thermal behaviour using DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimeter), colour values and fatty acid profile for its suitability for various food applications. USAE resulted in a maximum oil yield of 36.60 ± 0.20% at 400 W with an L/S ratio of 6 ml/g at 20 min pulsation time. The fatty acid profile of SPO through GC-MS revealed significant amounts of linoleic acid and linolenic acid (6.50% and 67.18%) in USAE, followed by MWAE (34.40 ± 0.20%). Further, the FTIR spectra revealed high-intensity bands ranging between 2300-3000 cm−1, associated with functional groups from long-chain alkyl groups and triglycerides. It was observed that SPO had Omega-3 and Omega-6 long chain fatty acids and triglycerides which are essential for human health. Antioxidant activity exhibited high free radical scavenging in USAE (27.46 ± 0.15%) followed by MWAE (26.63 ± 0.15%). The morphology of SEM images of USAE exhibits microstructural damage to cells resulting in the release of more oil. DSC thermograph displayed that crystallisation and melting curve temperatures for USAE and MWAE were lower than SXLE (soxhlet extraction) alone due to higher amounts of unsaturated fatty acids. SPO extracted using USAE exhibited higher oil yield with significant antioxidant capacity and good thermal properties for its application in food products.
African edible insects as human food – a comprehensive review
Authors: Siddiqui S.A. , Aidoo O.F. , Ghisletta M. , Osei-Owusu J. , Saraswati Y.R. , Bhardwaj K. , Khalid W. , Fernando I. , Golik A.B. , Nagdalian A.A. , Lorenzo J.M. , De Palo P. , Maggiolino A.
Published: November 2023

In Africa, food insecurity seems to be a continual problem as a result of various factors such as extreme poverty, water scarcity, land degradation, and climate change. As a result, chronic hunger and malnutrition are still prevalent in many African countries. Consequently, the utilization of available and affordable natural food sources is needed to accommodate the energy and nutritional requirements of the people, such as edible insects. Edible insects are abundant and locally available throughout Africa, hence could be utilized as low-cost, nutritious, and sustainable foods. Around 500 species have been recorded in sub-Saharan Africa out of the 2,100 known edible insect species worldwide. The consumption of insects, also known as entomophagy, has been historically practiced by indigenous people of Africa. To date, edible insects are seen in Africa as a good opportunity, particularly for rural households, to improve their livelihoods at an economic and nutritional level. Edible insects are a great source of energy and nutrients – and their rearing only requires a small amount of water, land and feeding resources. Entomophagy may also serve as an ecologically sound control measure for insect pests, such as locusts, that periodically wreak havoc on agricultural fields. The combination of being a highly nutritious food source and having economic advantages made edible insects very attractive in all the African regions. Their promotions into the diet would ameliorate the well-being of the population and boost economic growth in Africa. However, African countries need local and regional legal frameworks to achieve smooth functioning of marketing of edible insects and their products.
The effect of adult density on the reproductive output and hatching performance of the lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Ormanoğlu N. , Baliota G.V. , Rumbos C.I. , Athanassiou C.G.
Published: November 2023

Commercial availability of insect biomass for food and feed calls for the methodical investigation of all the complications that can deteriorate the insect farming efficiency. An appropriate stocking density is thus instrumental for the establishment of sustainable and cost effective insect farming protocols; high densities may lead to reduced insect fitness and reproduction, while low densities will result to a proportionally lower per capita yield. The present study deals with the estimation of the optimum adult density of the lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), a species with great potential as food and feed source based on its high growth performance and reproductive output. However, limited data is available so far regarding the effect of adult density on its reproductive performance. Four different adult densities, ranging from 1.1 to 8.2 cm2 per adult, were evaluated in laboratory experiments in terms of reproductive output (number of eggs) and larval emergence for a period of 45 days of continuous oviposition. According to our results, the reproduction output, expressed as the cumulative number of eggs per adult and the cumulative larval hatching rate, was not affected by the adult densities tested here. Although high hatching rates that in most of the cases exceeded 85% were observed within the initial oviposition interval, these rates were in all treatments drastically reduced to 48-56% after 30 to 36 d. High adult survival (over 93%) was observed during the trial. In this experiment, the maximum reproductive output was observed in the highest density of adults that were left to oviposit continuously for a month. Data as such provide an opportunity to further exploit A. diaperinus in high-throughput production systems.
Understanding attitudes and associations of Costa Ricans towards insect consumption
Authors: Fallas P. , Quirós-Ramı́rez A.
Published: November 2023

Insect-based foods are still considered a novelty in Costa Rica. Although there is no tradition of entomophagy in this country, some insect-based products are being recently introduced as innovations into the market. Pioneering in creating nutritious and appealing insect-based foods represents an important opportunity to cater to a growing population and promote a sustainable local food system development. Consumer perception is one of the main barriers for introducing edible insects in Costa Rica, as in many other occidental countries. Costa Rican consumers in this and previous studies showed resistance to consuming and accepting insects as part of their everyday diet. This exploratory qualitative study aimed at revealing the patterns explaining such resistance. In this study, twelve potential consumers from urban settings, aged between 25 and 45, were selected to complete a structured survey and attend a one-on-one in-depth interview session where different projective techniques were applied. The data were analysed systematically to gain a deeper understanding of thoughts, perceptions, reservations, and motivations to consume insect-based foods. Five different patterns were identified and unpacked: whole insects, movement, texture, dirt, and bad taste. These patterns are based on expectations from previous experiences with insects in non-edible contexts, are drivers of disgust, and prevent the participants from thinking of insects as food.
Performance of black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens, l.) on different feed substrates
Authors: Somarny W.W.M.Z. , Kuppusamy G. , Samat N. , Azam-Ali S.
Published: November 2023

The study assessed the nutrient composition of Sesbania grandiflora (SG) and Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves, and agro-industrial by-products, including soybean waste (SBW), wheat pollard (WP), rice bran (RB), and milk-extracted coconut meat (MECM) to determine the potential of these resources as feed substrates for rearing black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). Developmental studies of BSFL were conducted for three weeks with four replicates for each substrate. The nutrient composition and growth performance data were collected until half of the larvae had transformed into prepupae. The crude protein (CP) content of BSFL ranged from 26 to 57 g/100 g on a dry matter (DM) basis. The CP levels of larvae declined significantly () as the development time progressed. The ether extract (EE) or crude fat levels of larvae ranged between 6 and 55 g/100 g DM and were significantly () different between substrates. In all samples, larval amino acid profiles were characterised by high levels of glutamic acid (4.08 g/100 g DM) and leucine (2.48 g/100 g DM). The SBW-fed larvae showed a shorter development time (12.75 ± 0.25 days); the longest was MECM-fed larvae (28.5 ± 0.29 days). Larvae on the higher protein feed (SG, MO, and SBW) had the highest feed reduction and larval yield compared to the lower protein group (WP, RB, and MECM). The study demonstrated that BSFL can thrive on a range of substrates where all six feedstuffs (SG, MO, SBW, WP, RB, and MECM) have the potential to be employed in mass production of BSFL with high nutritional values. The selection of a good quality substrate for BSFL production is critical since the substrate’s nutrient composition influences the development and nutrient composition of the larvae.
Socio-economic analysis of edible insect species collectors and vendors in Nagaland, North-East India
Authors: Mozhui L. , Kakati L.N. , Ao B. , Kezo V. , Meyer-Rochow V.B.
Published: November 2023

In Nagaland insects like the Eri silkworm Samia cynthia ricini and the Indian honey bee Apis cerana indica are reared for commercial purposes rather than just household uses. Of the marketed edible insects in India, Hymenoptera contribute 34% followed by Orthoptera (25%), Coleoptera (16%), Hemiptera (12%), and Lepidoptera (9%) while Odonata and Blattodea contribute 2% each. The present study estimates that an insect seller may earn Rs. 600-800 (US $7.51-10.01) per kg from various types of insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, katydid, water and diving beetles, ants, stink bugs and tent caterpillars. For 1 litre of honey an insect seller may earn Rs. 532-1600 (US $6.66-20.02) and for 1 kg of wood larvae (largely beetle larvae), carpenter “worms” (= Cossus spp. moth larvae) and hornets the vendor can demand Rs. 3,300-3,750 (US $41.29-56.31). The contribution of the edible insect sector towards the socio-economy and livelihood improvement of the people in both rural and urban communities is highlighted and discussed. Given the insect bio-resource in the region, the consumption of edible insects, coupled with mass production, processing, and marketing (as successfully implemented in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and some African countries like Cameroon and Nigeria), can be a boon to Nagaland.
Identifying the optimal combinations of temperature and macronutrient balance for rearing Tenebrio molitor larvae
Authors: Rho M.S. , Lee K.P.
Published: November 2023

The yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), is one of the few edible insects commercially produced around the globe as alternative protein sources for food and feed. Temperature and nutrition are the two most influential environmental determinants of growth and development in insects, but little is known about their combined effects in T. molitor. Here we examined how temperature and dietary protein:carbohydrate (P:C) balance act in concert to influence key performance traits in T. moltior larvae reared on one of the 36 treatment combinations of six temperatures (19, 22, 25, 28, 31, and 34 °C) and six protein:carbohydrate ratios (P:C = 1:5, 1:2, 1:1, 2:1, 5:1, and 1:0). Apart from females accumulating higher lipid content than males, there were no sex differences in all measured traits. Survivorship was high at low temperatures (<25 °C) and high P:C ratios (>1:1), but decreased with increasing temperature and decreasing P:C ratio. An increase in temperature accelerated development but resulted in reduced pupal mass. Thermal optimum for pupal mass (19.3 °C) was thus much lower than that for development time (28.1 °C). Growth rate peaked at 27.9 °C and P:C 1.65:1 and decreased as both temperature and P:C ratio deviated from their optimum. All four key performance traits (survivorship, development time, pupal mass, and growth rate) were expressed at high levels and, hence, optimized at temperatures between 25.7 °C and 27.4 °C and P:C ratios between 1.17:1 and 2.94:1. Food consumption rate was the highest at a high P:C ratio of 8.4:1, whereas post-ingestive food utilization was the most efficient at a moderate P:C ratio of 1:1.27. The rate and efficiency of food processing were optimized at temperatures between 24.5 °C and 29.9 °C and P:C ratios between 1:1.01 and 3.98:1. Our results have implications for improving the production and nutritional value of T. molitor larvae.
Standardisation of fermented pellet feed of Tenebrio molitor larvae for use as a biodiesel raw material
Authors: Hwang D. , Lee S.H. , Goo T.-W. , Lee K.-S. , Yun E.-Y.
Published: November 2023

To use mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) as a raw material for biodiesel production, after selecting three raw materials (wheat bran, mealworm frass, food waste) among 10 raw materials, WB50-FW50 (wheat bran:food waste = 50:50), which had the highest weight gain rate (WGR) and body fat content increase efficacy, was determined to be the optimal raw material combination. As a result of fermenting WB50-FW50 using microorganisms (Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Pediococcus acidilactici) with excellent enzymatic activities to increase the absorption rate in the body, WGR was increased by 40% compared to non-fermented WB50-FW50. To increase the value of the product and the convenience of distribution and use, we attempted to manufacture a pellet-type feed with a diameter of 6 mm and length of 10 mm. Based on the selection of inexpensive raw materials without adversely affecting viability and WGR, 0.05% sorbic acid was added as a preservative, and 20% agar was added as an excipient. The drying time after pellet moulding was determined to be 50 min, considering the high WGR, and the final pellet-type fermented mixed feed with sorbic acid and agar (PFMF) preparation was completed. Finally, compared to powdered wheat bran, a conventional mealworm feed, PFMF fed to mealworms increased WGR by 25.6% and body fat content by 18.8%. In conclusion, we suggest that the PFMF is a valuable feed with high economic feasibility, eco-friendliness, and convenience for breeding of mealworms for biodiesel production.
Rheological, textural properties and storage stability of mayonnaise formulated with protein hydrolysate derived from yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor)
Authors: Phuah E.-T. , Lee Y.-Y. , Tang T.-K. , Lim S.A. , Rambli M.
Published: November 2023

Yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor), the larva stage of darkling beetle, confers high nutritional and functional protein and it can serve as a sustainable protein source. The present study therefore evaluated the effect of replacing the egg yolk as emulsifier with yellow mealworm protein hydrolysate powder (YMPH) (0-100%) at 20% increment levels on the rheological and textural properties, colour attributes, emulsion microstructure and storage stability of mayonnaise. The emulsion stability results demonstrated that mayonnaise with up to 60% substitution of YMPH displayed excellent storage stability for 3 weeks (<2% phase separation). In terms of textural properties, all samples showed no significant difference () in firmness whereas consistency decreased steadily with increasing YMPH concentration levels. Microstructure observation of all mayonnaise formulations demonstrated a gradual increase in oil droplet size in parallel with the increase in YMPH concentration. For rheological properties, all mayonnaise exhibited similar gel-like behaviour with greater storage modulus (G’) than loss modulus (G”) and loss tangent (tan δ) less than 1.0. For the colour attributes, increasing YMPH level led to significant decrease () in the L* and b* factors from 73.0 to 27.2 and 23.9 to 8.1, respectively. However, the overall a* factor value increased significantly () from 1.11 to 5.10 as the YMPH concentration increased. This study revealed that insect-based protein hydrolysate has a good potential to serve as an emulsifier.
Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) as a sustainable and concentrated source of bioavailable lutein for feed
Authors: Morand-Laffargue L. , Creton B. , Halimi C. , Sabatier D. , Desmarchelier C. , Borel P.
Published: November 2023

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are increasingly used to recycle and convert food waste into feed. We attempted to assess whether they can bioaccumulate lutein, a xanthophyll used as a food coloring, and whether it is then sufficiently bioavailable for an economically relevant incorporation of BSFL into feed. Vegetables and larvae lutein concentrations were measured by HPLC. Lutein bioaccessibility was estimated by in vitro digestion and lutein absorption efficiency by Caco-2 cells. BSFL were at least as rich, and sometimes richer (), in lutein than the vegetables they were reared on. For example, the larvae reared on kale contained 160.2 ± 3.4 mg/kg vs 23.0 ± 3.5 mg/kg of lutein, on a fresh weight basis, for the kale substrate. For the same substrate, lutein bioaccessibility was not statistically different between BSFL and the substrate (respectively, 14.8 ± 1.2% and 16.2 ± 2.8%; ). Finally, by considering the lutein concentration in BSFL enriched in lutein and in lutein-rich substrates, as well as the bioaccessibility and intestinal absorption efficiency of lutein contained in these matrices, it was estimated that consumption of lutein-enriched larvae would lead to a theoretical amount of absorbed lutein about 2 to 13 times higher compared to that following the consumption of an equal quantity of lutein-rich vegetables. Thus, BSFL can be used as a sustainable and concentrated source of bioavailable lutein for feed and, indirectly, for food.
Low energy electron beam to support safe whole dried insect products
Authors: Peguero D.A. , Gold M. , Duewell T. , Waser A. , Dubovcova B. , Vandeweyer D. , Zurbrügg C. , Mathys A.
Published: November 2023

Product safety is a major concern when using edible insects and insect-derived products due to insects’ diverse microbial community. Therefore, development of reliable post-processing treatments are required. Commonly used thermal treatments are effective against microorganisms but can have negative effects on product quality and nutritional value. Low-energy electron beam (LEEB) is an emerging non-thermal surface treatment technology for microbial decontamination of low water activity goods while preserving product quality. However, its potential application as an insect post-processing treatment has not been explored. To assess the effectiveness of LEEB treatment (250 keV and 12 kGy), three separate experiments were conducted with dried black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) and yellow mealworm (YMW). First, to assess LEEB’s potential in inactivating microorganisms in insect products, LEEB treatment was conducted on dried BSFL inoculated with Escherichia coli K-12. Secondly, the effect of LEEB treatment on reducing naturally occurring microbial populations after microwave drying was evaluated. Finally, a six-month controlled shelf-life study (24 °C, 65% RH) was conducted to assess the long-term efficacy of LEEB treatment by monitoring physical, chemical and microbiological parameters. LEEB achieved a 4-log10 reduction of inoculated E. coli K-12 on dried BSFL and was effective in reducing numbers of all microbiological parameters (aerobic and anaerobic counts) in YMW. Specifically, in non-inoculated samples, aerobic and anaerobic total viable counts (TVC) were reduced by approximately 4-log10 colony forming units per gram (cfu/g) in YMW. In contrast, LEEB treatment moderately reduced microbial numbers in BSFL, with aerobic and anaerobic TVC reduced by approximately 1–2-log10 cfu/g following LEEB treatment. Microbial counts in both BSFL and YMW remained lower than the control throughout the shelf-life. LEEB treatment did not have an influence on the peroxide value. Therefore, LEEB can be an effective and gentle processing technique to support safe dried insect products.
Heritability of fat accumulation in the house fly and its implication for the selection of nutritionally tailored phenotypes
Authors: Boatta F. , Smit J.A.H. , Lautenschutz M.A.W.M. , Ellen E.D. , Ellers J.
Published: November 2023

Fats make up a large fraction of the larval biomass in insects and are of increasing relevance for industrial purposes. The quantity of fats accumulated during the larval period can vary greatly among individuals. To selectively breed favourable fat accumulation phenotypes for commercial purpose, a genetic component underlying these differences would be required. In this study we determined the heritability of larval fat accumulation in the common housefly (Musca domestica L.). A nested paternal half-sib breeding design resulted in a total of 47 full-sib families, which produced in total 633 larvae, each phenotyped for their dry weight and fat content (absolute and relative). Adult selection was strictly standardized to reduce the variation in fat content induced by differences in development time during the immature stages: sires and dams were separated according to their pupation day and emergence day, and subsequently pooled into randomized groups. Two animal models were built to estimate the heritability of larval fat accumulation: (1) a Markov Chain Monte Carlo linear mixed model (MCMCglmm) where three sets of priors were used, and (2) one based on linear mixed model using restricted maximum likelihood (ASReml). The results showed a moderate heritability for larval absolute fat content for both MCMCglmm (between 0.30 and 0.38, depending on the set of prior used) and ASReml (0.37 ± 0.11). Slightly higher estimates were obtained for the relative fat content with both the MCMCglmm (between 0.34-0.48) and ASReml (0.47 ± 0.10). In contrast, heritability estimates for larval dry weight were low and could be obtained only with the MCMCglmm model (between 0.11-0.22). This work provides valuable insights into the quantitative genetics of larval fat characteristics, a trait of high relevance for the emerging sector producing insects for feed and food.
Shelf life of the preheated and ready-to-eat long-horned grasshopper Ruspolia differens Serville
Authors: Ssepuuya G. , Claes J. , Van Der Borght M. , Van Campenhout L. , Nakimbugwe D.
Published: November 2023

Ruspolia differens is an edible insect delicacy in sub-Saharan Africa, majorly harvested from the wild, with a very short shelf life (24 hours depending on the handling conditions). Combinations of preheating, roasting and drying, and storage at refrigerated and room temperature were used to prolong its shelf life. Product quality was evaluated using sensory, microbial and chemical analyses. To allow transportation from the harvesting areas to the market, preservation up to 9 hours at room temperature was possible using only preheating (boiling at 100 °C for 6 minutes). Combinations of preheating and roasting (for 25 and 35 minutes at 165 °C) resulted in moisture contents of 21.3 and 10.4% with shelf life at refrigeration temperature of 25 and 54 days, respectively. Aroma was the main factor determining the shelf life. Further drying of preheated and roasted grasshoppers resulted in a product with 4.5% moisture. In combination with vacuum packaging, storage at room temperature was possible for at least 20 weeks. This research therefore contributes to long term storage of the surplus harvested R. differens, and thus to increased food security.
Ability of black soldier fly larvae to bioaccumulate tocopherols from different substrates and measurement of larval tocopherol bioavailability in vitro
Authors: Morand-Laffargue L. , Vairo D. , Halimi C. , Chiarello E. , Creton B. , Sabatier D. , Borel P.
Published: November 2023

Edible insects are an emerging approach to provide sustainable proteins in feed. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) can also bioaccumulate micronutrients from various substrates. The purpose of this study was to assess whether BSFL can bioaccumulate significant concentrations of bioavailable α and ɣ-tocopherol (TOC) from vitamin E (VE) rich substrates. BSFL were reared on VE rich substrates, e.g. wheat germ oil, bran, etc. α and γ-tocopherol were quantified in larvae and substrates by HPLC. VE bioaccessibility was estimated using an in vitro model of digestion. Uptake efficiency of micellarized VE by intestinal cell was estimated using Caco-2 cells. BSFL were at least as rich in α-TOC, but not ɣ-TOC, as their rearing substrates. VE bioaccessibility was almost always significantly lower in BSFL than in corresponding substrates. Conversely, VE uptake efficiency was either not significantly different or significantly higher in BSFLs than in substrates. Thus, VE enrichment of BSFL from VE rich substrates, in particular co-products such as brans and oil cakes, could be an innovative way to recycle VE and to provide significant amounts of sustainable VE in farm animal feed.
Can the ‘Clean Slate’ ‘Go Big’ on Its Own? The Contribution of the Union Default
Authors: Gall Gregor , Harcourt Mark
Published: November 2023

Unions’ presence and influence in the United States continue to atrophy. One key reason for this decline is the difficulties in certifying via the National Labor Relations Act. Consequently, labor-oriented scholars have developed proposals to overhaul and/or supplement this process. One of the most far-reaching is the ‘Clean Slate’. We contend that, though a welcome advance, ‘Clean Slate’ is a necessary but insufficient law reform to revive unions. Accordingly, we suggest a complementary policy, the union default, to the ‘Clean Slate’. With a union default, ‘Clean Slate’ would produce a much swifter and more dramatic resurgence in union membership and resources, sparking a badly needed virtuous upward spiral.
“Our God is Woman! Our Mission is Protest! Our Weapons Are Bare Breasts!”
Authors: Palmer Heather
Published: November 2023

Femen deploys specific rhetorical and performative strategies that, while invoking revolutionary movements such as second-wave feminism and the historical avant-garde, normalize and universalize Eurocentric beauty myths as a standard of value and locus point of agency. Emerging in an era of media exposure, this privileging constellates around their trademark strategy of engagement, the circulation of images from their topless protests privilege whiteness, beauty, and youth. Using a critical media literacy framework to read the rhetorical performances of such bare-breasted bodies, I offer an analysis of Femen’s form of pop feminism, “sextremism,” that finds that, although their protests foreground performance, procedure, and action, the group fails to substantively critique and challenge the commodification of expression, desire, and political interaction in their representations and circulation. Despite such failure, Femen illustrate three characteristics of a feminist rhetoric of unruliness: appropriation of the revolutionary avant-garde, a parrhesiastic and agonistic tone of discursive delivery, and the strategic mobilization of material bare bodies in public and digital spaces. I conclude by offering a reading of Femen as a form of biopolitics, a praxis of bare literacies that realize radical openness or vulnerability by way of public exposure to powerful hegemonic patriarchal systems. Ultimately, this analysis is informed by Agamben’s central question in Homo Sacer: In what way does bare life dwell in the polis?
Decarbonizing Conference Travel: Testing a Multi-Hub Approach
Authors: Kremser Stefanie , Charlton-Perez Andrew , Richter Jadwiga H. , Santos Jose , Danzer Julia , Hölbling Stefanie
Published: November 2023

As the global research enterprise grapples with the challenge of a low-carbon future, a key challenge is the future of international conferences. An emerging initiative that combines elements of the traditional in-person conference and a virtual conference is a multi-hub approach. Here we report on a real-world trial of a multi-hub approach, the World Climate Research Programme/Stratosphere-Troposphere Processes and their Role in Climate (WCRP/SPARC) General Assembly held in Qingdao–Reading–Boulder during the last week of October 2022 with more than 400 participants. While there are other examples of conferences run in dual-hub or hybrid online and in-person formats, we are not aware of other large atmospheric science conferences held in this format. Based on travel surveys of participants, we estimate that the multi-hub approach reduced the carbon footprint from travel by between a factor of 2.3 and 4.1 times the footprint when hosting the conference in a single location. This resulted in a saving of at least 288 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2eq) and perhaps as much as 683 tCO2eq, compared to having the conference in one location only. Feedback from participants, collected immediately after the conference, showed that the majority would again attend another conference in a similar format. There are many ways that the format of the SPARC General Assembly could have been improved, but this proof of concept provides an inspiration to other groups to give the multi-hub format a try.
Telemedicine in home-based care for COVID-19 patients
Authors: Van Nguyen Si , Duong Huong Nguyen Viet , Nguyen Hieu Bao , Doan My Ai Thao , Nguyen Duc Thanh , Tran An Tuan , Hoang Khoi Kim , Ly Oanh Hoang , Dang Thanh Xuan , Tran Tung Ho Thanh , Tran Hung Quang , Nguyen Nam Ba , Nguyen Thuy Thi Thu , Rai Raghu , Le Pham An
Published: November 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has made devastating impacts on public health and global economy. While most people experience mild symptoms, it is highly transmissible and deadly in at-risk populations. Telemedicine has the potential to prevent hospitalization and provide remote care.

Methods

This retrospective study included 336 people with COVID-19, among which 141 (42%) and 195 (58%) were in Delta and Omicron dominant groups, respectively. Patients were confirmed to have COVID-19 by PCR or rapid test and were cared for via telemedicine. Severe cases were hospitalized for more intensive treatment. 

Results

The majority of individuals recovered at home (97.02%), while 2.98% required hospitalization. All hospital admissions were in Delta dominant group. No deaths were reported. Delta dominant group was more likely to develop loss of taste and smell, decreased appetite and need longer treatment time than those in Omicron dominant group.

Conclusions

Telemedicine is a safe measure to provide at-home care for people with COVID-19 infections caused by both Delta and Omicron variants.

Trial registration

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board Committee of University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (IRB No: 22115–DHYD).
Competences to self-manage low back pain among care-seeking adolescents from general practice - a qualitative study
Authors: Straszek Christian Lund , Skrubbeltrang Lotte Stausgaard , O’Sullivan Kieran , Thomsen Janus Laust , Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: November 2023

Background

There is limited knowledge about when and how adolescents with low back pain (LBP) interact with health care providers. This limits our understanding of how to best help these young patients. This study aimed to understand when and how care-seeking adolescents with LBP interact with health care providers and which health literacy competencies and strategies do they use to self-managing their LBP.

Method

Ten semi-structured interviews (duration 20–40 min) were conducted online among adolescents aged 15–18 with current or recent LBP (pain duration range; 9 months – 5 years). The interview guide was informed by literature on health literacy and self-management in patients. We conducted a semantic and latent thematic data analyses.

Results

Three major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Self-management, (2) Pain and Function, and (3) Communication. All adolescents were functionally limited by their pain but the main reason to consult a health care provider was an increase in pain intensity. Many were able to navigate the healthcare system, but experienced difficulties in communicating with health care providers, and many felt that they were not being taken seriously. Their first line self-management option was often over-the-counter pain medicine with limited effects. Most adolescents expressed a desire to self-manage their LBP but needed more guidance from health care providers.

Conclusion

Adolescents with LBP seek care when pain intensifies, but they lack self-management strategies. Many adolescents want to self-manage their LBP with guidance from health care providers, but insufficient communication is a barrier for collaboration on self-management.
A safe and simple exposure and Pringle maneuver in laparoscopic anatomical liver resection of segment 7
Authors: Li YongKun , Wu Ke , Li Jing , Zheng Lu , You Nan
Published: November 2023

Background

Laparoscopic access to liver segment 7 (S7) is difficult for deep surgical situations and bleeding control. Herein, our proposed laparoscopic technique for S7 lesions using a self-designed tube method is introduced.

Methods

Clinical data of patients who underwent laparoscopic anatomical liver resection of S7 (LALR-S7) with the help of our self-designed tube to improve the exposure of S7 and bleeding control in the Second Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University) from April 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed to evaluate feasibility and safety.

Results

Nineteen patients were retrospectively reviewed. The mean age was 51.3 ± 10.3 years; mean operation time, 194.5 ± 22.7 min; median blood loss, 160.0 ml (150.0–205.0 ml); and median length of hospital stay, 8.0 days (7.0–9.0 days). There was no case conversion to open surgery. Postoperative pathology revealed all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Free surgical margins were achieved in all patients. No major postoperative complications were observed. Patients with postoperative complications recovered after conservative treatment. During outpatient follow-up examination, no other abnormality was presented. All patients survived without tumor recurrence.

Conclusions

The preliminary clinical effect of our method was safe, reproducible and effective for LALR-S7. Further research is needed due to some limitations of this study.
Persistent CMV pneumonitis in HIV infection: a case report
Authors: Frederick Abbye W. , Kitchell Ellen , McCormick-Baw Clare , Kukkar Vishal , Jain Mamta K.
Published: November 2023

We present a rare case of pathology-proven CMV pneumonitis in a patient with HIV infection after presenting with cough and fever. This presentation was complicated by recurrence of symptoms after treatment in the setting of continued uncontrolled HIV infection. This case raised the importance of further discussion regarding best treatment guidelines for CMV pneumonitis for patients with HIV.
Vaginal CO2 laser therapy for genitourinary syndrome in breast cancer survivors—VagLaser study protocol: a randomized blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Jacobsen Sine , Glavind-Kristensen Marianne , Jensen Anders Bonde , Forman Axel , Bor Pinar
Published: November 2023

Background

Vaginal CO2 laser therapy is a new treatment option for genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Its potential is particularly interesting in breast cancer survivors, where existing treatment options often are insufficient as hormonal treatment is problematic in these women. The objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of vaginal laser treatment for alleviation of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in breast cancer survivors treated with adjuvant endocrine therapy. The secondary objective is to explore the importance of repeated vaginal laser treatment and the long-term effects in this patient population.

Methods

VagLaser consist of three sub-studies; a dose response study, a randomized, participant blinded, placebo-controlled study and a follow-up study. All studies include breast cancer survivors in adjuvant endocrine therapy, and are conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Randers Regional Hospital, Denmark. The first participant was recruited on 16th of February 2023. Primary outcome is vaginal dryness. Secondary subjective outcomes are vaginal pain, itching, soreness, urinary symptoms and sexual function. Secondary objective outcomes are change in vaginal histology (punch biopsy), change in vaginal and urine microbiota, and change in vaginal pH.

Discussion

More randomized controlled trials, with longer follow-up to explore the optimal treatment regimen and the number of repeat vaginal laser treatments for alleviation the symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in breast cancer survivors treated with endocrine adjuvant therapy, are needed. This study will be the first to investigate change in vaginal and urine microbiota during vaginal laser therapy in breast cancer survivors.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06007027 (registered 22 August, 2023).

Protocol version: Version 1, Date 13.11.2023.
Basal gonadotropin levels combine with pelvic ultrasound and pituitary volume: a machine learning diagnostic model of idiopathic central precocious puberty
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhang Danbin
Published: November 2023

Objective

The current diagnosis of central precocious puberty (CPP) relies on the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) stimulation test, which requires multiple invasive blood sampling procedures. The aim of this study was to construct machine learning models incorporating basal pubertal hormone levels, pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and pelvic ultrasound parameters to predict the response of precocious girls to GnRHa stimulation test.

Methods

This retrospective study included 455 girls diagnosed with precocious puberty who underwent transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, brain MRI examinations and GnRHa stimulation testing were retrospectively reviewed. They were randomly assigned to the training or internal validation set in an 8:2 ratio. Four machine learning classifiers were developed to identify girls with CPP, including logistic regression, random forest, light gradient boosting (LightGBM), and eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, area under receiver operating characteristic (AUC) and F1 score of the models were measured.

Results

The participates were divided into an idiopathic CPP group (n = 263) and a non-CPP group (n = 192). All machine learning classifiers used achieved good performance in distinguishing CPP group and non-CPP group, with the area under the curve (AUC) ranging from 0.72 to 0.81 in validation set. XGBoost had the highest diagnostic efficacy, with sensitivity of 0.81, specificity of 0.72, and F1 score of 0.80. Basal pubertal hormone levels (including luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol), averaged ovarian volume, and several uterine parameters were predictors in the model.

Conclusion

The machine learning prediction model we developed has good efficacy for predicting response to GnRHa stimulation tests which could help in the diagnosis of CPP.
Determinants of the intention to work in aged care: a cross-sectional study to assess gerontological nursing competencies among undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Ho Mu-Hsing , Lee Jung Jae , Joo Jee Young , Bail Kasia , Liu Megan F. , Traynor Victoria
Published: November 2023

Background

There are huge demands for aged-care workers, and undergraduate gerontological nursing education plays a critical role in providing academic and professional training.

Purpose

To examine relationships of characteristics, aged-care education, and gerontological nursing competencies with the intention to work in aged care.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to undergraduate nursing students between April and June 2022 to gather characteristics, relevant aged-care education, gerontological nursing competencies, and intentions to work in aged care data. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to identify determinants of the intention to work in aged care.

Results

Students (n = 358) who were older (p < 0.001) and who were married (p < 0.001) had higher intentions to work in aged care. “Promoting mental health and psychological well-being”, “Providing evidence-based dementia care”, and “Enabling access to technology”, were also associated with positive intentions.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence on determinants of the intention to work in aged care, particularly gerontological nursing competencies.
A pilot study of multi-antigen stimulated cell therapy-I plus camrelizumab and apatinib in patients with advanced bone and soft-tissue sarcomas
Authors: Zhou Yan , Li Mei , Zhang Bing , Yang Cheng , Wang Yaling , Zheng Shuier , Tang Lina , Zhou Chenliang , Qian Guowei , Huang Yujing , Yu Wenxi , Li Hongtao , Wang Yonggang , He Aina , Shen Zan , Zhang Jianjun , Li Xiaoshuang , Yang Qingcheng , Hu Haiyan , Yao Yang
Published: November 2023

Background

Cell-based  immunotherapy shows the therapeutic potential in sarcomas, in addition to angiogenesis-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). Multi-antigen stimulated cell therapy-I (MASCT-I) technology is a sequential immune cell therapy for cancer, which composes of multiple antigen-loaded dendritic cell (DC) vaccines followed by the adoptive transfer of anti-tumor effector T-cells.

Methods

In this phase 1 study, we assessed MASCT-I plus camrelizumab (an ICI against PD-1) and apatinib (a highly selective TKI targeting VEGFR2) in patients with unresectable recurrent or metastatic bone and soft-tissue sarcoma after at least one line of prior systemic therapy. One MASCT-I course consisted of 3 DC subcutaneous injections, followed by 3 active T cell infusions administered 18–27 days after each DC injection. In schedule-I group, 3 DC injections were administered with a 28-day interval in all courses; in schedule-II group, 3 DC injections were administered with a 7-day interval in the first course and with a 28-day interval thereafter. All patients received intravenous camrelizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks and oral apatinib 250 mg daily.

Results

From October 30, 2019, to August 12, 2021, 19 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to schedule-I group (n = 9) and schedule-II group (n = 10). Of the 19 patients, 11 (57.9%) experienced grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events. No treatment-related deaths occurred. Patients in schedule-II group showed similar objective response rate (ORR) with those in schedule-I group (30.0% versus 33.3%) but had higher disease control rate (DCR; 90.0% versus 44.4%) and longer median progression-free survival (PFS; 7.7 versus 4.0 months). For the 13 patients with soft-tissue sarcomas, the ORR was 30.8%, DCR was 76.9%, and median PFS was 12.9 months; for the 6 patients with osteosarcomas, the ORR was 33.3%, the DCR was 50.0%, and median PFS was 5.7 months.

Conclusions

Overall, MASCT-I plus camrelizumab and apatinib was safe and showed encouraging efficacy in advanced bone and soft-tissue sarcoma, and schedule-II administration method was recommended.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04074564.