Nutritional Analysis Research Articles

#729 Application of ChatGPT to support nutritional recommendations for dialysis patients

Abstract Background and Aims The rising diversity of food preferences and the desire to provide better personalized care provide challenges to renal dietitians working in dialysis clinics. To address this situation, we explored the use of a Large Language Model (LLM), specifically, ChatGPT using the GPT-4 model (openai.com), to support nutritional advice given to dialysis patients. Method We applied a prompt that allows us to consider various factors that determine personalized dietary recommendations, menu options, and nutritional analysis. The prompt integrates several domains, including patient demographics (age, sex, race, and ethnicity) and food preferences (vegetarian, Indian, Latin American, Mediterranean, East Asian), laboratory data (levels of serum phosphate, potassium, albumin, calcium, and normalized protein catabolic rate), and clinical characteristics (height, BMI, comorbidities, and dialysis modality). Twenty virtual patients were created using Monte Carlo simulation in the statistical software R; we provided the characteristics of one randomly selected patient to ChatGPT (Fig. 1). The resulting daily recipe recommendations, cooking instructions, and nutritional analyses were reviewed and rated on a five-point Likert scale by an experienced renal dietitian. In addition, we entered the ChatGPT-generated recipes into an USDA-approved nutrient analysis software (ESHA research, Salem, OR, USA) for comparison. A pre-defined kidney-friendly recipe from the website of a large dialysis organization (Fresenius Medical Care (FMC), Waltham, MA, USA) was included for comparison as well. We were able to narrow down and personalize requests in a short dialogue with the bot, for example: “John is a hemodialysis patient. Age, years: 63.58; Height, cm: 181.52; BMI: 37.27; Serum albumin, g/dL: 3.08; Serum phosphate, mg/dL: 4.39; Serum potassium, mmol/L: 5.08; Total serum calcium, mg/dL: 8.63; nPCR, g/kg/day: 0.709; Sex: Male; Race/Ethnicity: Black; DM: No; CHF: No; Diet Restriction: No restriction; Food preferences: Latin American; Dialysis modality: HD; Budget: around $25. Can you create a one-day sample menu for this hemodialysis patient with recipes and nutritional analyses?” Results A daily menu comprising five recipes was created. The renal dietitian rated the recipes (2.9 on the 5-point Likert scale) and cooking instructions (4.8) as moderately satisfactory, but the nutritional analysis (2) was questionable. While ChatGPT's carbohydrate content estimation was relatively accurate, it underestimated calories by 36%, protein by 28%, and fat, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium by around 50% (Fig. 2A). Discrepancies observed with potassium may be partly explained by the analyses of raw vs. cooked ingredients (which may be altered by cooking techniques), unspecified portion sizes, and limited data for ChatGPT training (e.g., potassium is not a required nutrition label component). Interestingly, these discrepancies are much smaller with recipes garnered from the FMC website (Fig. 2B). The percentage differences between USDA's (=100%) and ChatGPT's estimations of recipes from different sources were shown in Fig. 2C. In addition, we explored the use of ChatGPT to create personalized dietary recommendations/menus in different languages, such as Mandarin. The translations, as judged by native speakers, were reliable. Conclusion While LLMs such as ChatGPT hold promise to provide personalized nutritional guidance to diverse populations of dialysis patients, we think that there is substantial room for improvement. Our findings underscore the importance of a critical approach and the need to assess qualitatively and quantitatively the output created by LLMs, especially regarding medical use cases.

Nutritional Status as a Prognostic Factor for Survival in Palliative Care: A Retrospective Observational Analysis of Home Parenteral Nutrition in Cancer Patients with Inoperable Malignant Bowel Obstruction.

Palliative care patients with malignant bowel obstruction are particularly at risk of developing malnutrition, which in turn directly shortens survival time and worsens quality of life (QoL). According to the available data, the survival time in this patient group is often less than three months. To avoid further complications related to malnutrition and poor outcomes in oncological therapy, nutritional therapy such as home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is offered. The aim of this study was to investigate whether nutritional status is a prognostic factor for survival in palliative care patients with malignant inoperable bowel obstruction qualified for home parenteral nutrition and which nutritional assessment tool has the most accurate prognostic value. This retrospective observational analysis included 200 patients with malignant bowel obstruction referred for home parenteral nutrition between January 2018 and August 2023. The analysis included laboratory test results, body mass index (BMI), Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Nutritional Risk Index (NRI), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and malnutrition as defined by the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM). The average survival time of the patients was 75 days. Patients with higher NRI and PNI scores were more likely to survive (NRI: p < 0.001; PNI: p < 0.001). The GLIM criteria, SGA scores and BMI values did not prove to be good prognostic factors for survival (GLIM p = 0.922, SGA p = 0.083, BMI p = 0.092). The results suggest that the use of NRI and PNI may be helpful in prognosing survival in these patients and that prevention of the development of malnutrition through earlier nutritional assessment and intervention should be considered in this patient group.

Characterisation of wholegrain composite for pretzels: a comprehensive nutritional and functional analysis

SummaryWholegrain composite flours are used for bakery products to enhance their nutritional value and to decrease the reliance on wheat importation as well as to ensure food security in most developing countries. This work aimed to optimise oat, maize, barley and wheat flour levels in the development of nutritionally enriched wholegrain pretzels. Composite flour blends were prepared by mechanical mixing of oat flour (OF), barley flour (BF), maize flour (MF) and wheat flour (WF) in the following proportion: WF (100%) (T0 – control), W:B (90:10) (T1), W:M (90:10) (T2), W:O (90:10) (T3), W:B:M:O (85:5:5:5) (T4), W:B:M:O (76:8:8:8) (T5) and W:B:M:O (70:10:10:10) (T6). Wholegrain composite flour mixes were analysed for their proximate composition and antioxidant properties. The fat, protein, ash and moisture content significantly changed (P &lt; 0.05) in all treatments, while the fibre content increased. DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic and flavonoid content showed significant changes compared to the control. A rapid visco analyser determined multigrain flour's rheological and pasting properties, and the values showed significant (P &lt; 0.05) differences for peak viscosity, final viscosity and pasting temperature. The final product was analysed for proximate analysis, texture, colour and sensory evaluation. The increase in moisture, protein, fibre and ash content of the product was observed. Moisture, fat and fibre content of pretzels exhibited significant correlations (P &lt; 0.05) with the sensory parameters. A grouping of the samples in function of the chemical and sensory characteristics was depicted from the principal component analysis. Texture and colour analysis showed significant differences (P &lt; 0.05). Sensory evaluation results showed that the overall score for acceptability found for composite flour mix which contains 10% barley, 10% oat and 10% maize with wheat in a 30:70 ratio was accepted by the consumer. Consumption of wholegrain pretzels as snack food can contribute to a nutritious and balanced diet.

Agronomic and economic productivity of summer annual forage systems under different poultry litter application methods

AbstractPoultry litter (litter) is a nutrient dense fertilizer that increases nutritive value and yield in pastures in the mid‐southern US. Nutrient losses due to runoff and nitrogen volatilization are common when broadcasting litter. As such, incorporating litter below the soil surface (subsurface) was evaluated in comparison to broadcasting in 2021 and 2022 by quantifying yield and nutritive value of annual forages. The study was a randomized complete block design with three forage treatments—sorghum‐sudangrass only (Sorghum bicolor L.), cowpea only (Vigna unguiculata L.), and their mixture, and three litter application methods (broadcast, subsurface, and a no litter control). Litter was applied in 2021 only as biennial application is common to save on application cost. Nutritive analyses included neutral detergent fiber and crude protein (CP). Partial budgeting led to relative profitability estimates by accounting for yield and cost differences across treatments. In comparison to the second‐highest yielding forage mixture, sorghum‐sudangrass yielded 4.5%–18.4% more regardless of litter application method. The forage mixture did not improve forage nutritive value, as cowpea were vastly outcompeted and did not average more than 5% of the total forage harvested in mixtures. Cowpea yields did not benefit from litter application. Subsurface application resulted in 8%–10% greater CP content compared to no litter and broadcast litter, respectively, across all forage species. Sorghum‐sudangrass with subsurface applied litter earned nearly $70/acre more than sorghum‐sudangrass with broadcast litter, the next highest treatment combination, and, with lesser nutrient loss.

Grains of Innovation: Exploring the Development of Multigrain Bhakarwadi

The development of multigrain bhakarwadi, a well-liked traditional Indian snack distinguished by its crispy texture and savoury flavour, is thoroughly examined in this study. This study explores the addi-tion of a variety of grains, including as lentils, rice, millet, and wheat, to the bhakarwadi formulation, based on the formulation of traditional recipes. The goal of the research is to optimize the grain blend to increase the snack's nutritional content while preserving its distinctive flavours and texture through a series of experiments and sensory evaluations. The first step of the study is to examine and evaluate the nutritional value of traditional bhakarwadi dishes. The suitability of different grain combinations for the bhakarwadi dough is next evaluated, taking into account elements like texture, flavours, and nutritional value. The study makes use of both conventional and contemporary methods, such as sensory analysis to determine consumer preferences and milling procedures to produce desirable grain particle sizes. The study also looks at the possible health advantages of multigrain bhakarwadi, emphasizing its higher fibre, protein, and vitamin content in comparison to traditional varieties. Furthermore, dietary limitations and allergy sensitivity are taken into account to ensure that the finished product is inclusive and accessible. All things considered, this study advances the realm of culinary innovation by proving that adding dif-ferent grains to conventional snacks is both desirable and feasible. Through the use of both conventional wisdom and contemporary nutritional analysis, multigrain bhakarwadi presents itself as a viable choice for consumers looking for tasty and nutritious snack substitutes.

Nutritional Analysis of Plant-Based Meat: Current Advances and Future Potential

This perspective article delves into the current state of the art pertaining to the nutritional aspects of plant-based meat and identifies future opportunities for improvement in this line of research. A comparative overview of the macro- and micronutrients of plant-based meat products vis-à-vis conventional animal meat is presented in the initial section. This article explains the differences in their nutritional profiles, highlighting the advantages (equivalent protein content, low saturated fat, source of dietary fiber) and challenges (incomplete amino acid profile, anti-nutrients, and low bioavailability of nutrients) of plant-based alternatives. Emphasis has been placed on the health challenges posed by anti-nutrients in plant-based meat and the role of phytase as a promising solution for mitigating these concerns. The latter sections of this article highlight the ability of phytase enzymes to cause a substantial reduction in phytic acid content and improve the absorption of iron and zinc from the food matrix while not affecting the textural attributes of end products. By deliberating on these critical factors, the article aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the nutritional aspects of plant-based meat and the scientific strategies to mitigate the nutritional challenges currently associated with this category of alternative protein products.

Production of Camellia oleifera Abel Seed Oil for Injection: Extraction, Analysis, Deacidification, Decolorization, and Deodorization.

Camellia seed oil (CSO), as a nutrient-rich edible oil, is widely used in foods, cosmetics, and other fields. In this work, the extraction, deacidification, decolorization, and deodorization processes of CSO were respectively optimized for meeting injectable oil standards. The results showed that the CSO extraction rate reached the highest level of 94% at optimized conditions (ultrasonic time, 31.2 min; reaction pH, 9.2; and reaction time, 3.5 h). The physicochemical indexes of CSO and 10 other vegetable oils were evaluated by the principal component analysis method, and the overall scores of vegetable oils were ranked as camellia seed oil > olive oil > rice oil > peanut oil > sesame oil > corn oil > soybean oil > sunflower oil > rapeseed oil > walnut oil > flaxseed oil. The physicochemical indicators of CSO were the most ideal among the 11 vegetable oils, which means that CSO is suitable as an injectable oil. Through the optimized processes of the deacidification, decolorization, and deodorization, the CSO acid value was reduced to 0.0515 mg KOH/g, the decolorization rate reached a maximum of 93.86%, and the OD430 was 0.015, meeting the requirement (≤0.045 of OD430) of injectable oil. After the deodorization process, these parameters of the refractive index, acid value, saponification value, iodine value, absorbance, unsaponifiable, moisture and volatiles, fatty acid composition, and heavy metal limits all met the pharmacopoeia standards of injectable oil in many countries and regions. The possibility of CSO as an injectable oil was first verified through refining-process optimization and nutritional index analysis, providing an important technical reference for the high-value utilization of vegetable oil.

Comparative Nutritional Analysis of Improved and Local Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) Cultivars.

Chickpeas have large variations in their types and nutrient composition, owing to diverse environmental conditions, breeding techniques, and cultivars. Thirty-one improved varieties of chickpeas bred for various agronomic traits like high yield, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to abiotic stress were analyzed for their nutrient composition, along with two local varieties. They were found to be rich in proteins (16.09-26.22g/100g) and dietary fiber (10.33-26.33g/100g) with moderate amounts of available carbohydrates (34.20-54.72g/100g) and to have a significant quantity of minerals like calcium (127.50-183.86mg/100g), iron (4.55-8.33mg/100g), and phosphorous (285.92-528.31mg/100g). They were found to be similar (fat, carbohydrates, dietary fiber) or statistically higher (protein, ash) than the local varieties for all the nutrient parameters that were analyzed. A significant difference was also found between the desi and kabuli varieties, where the desi variety was found to have significantly lower fat and available carbohydrates but high dietary fiber content. This study signifies that the varietal differences in nutritional composition are significant in chickpeas. Varieties likeSasho,ICCV 96030, andTeketayshowed desirable nutritional qualities associated with moisture, protein, dietary fiber, and minerals like zinc, phosphorous, iron, copper, and calcium. This data will be beneficial for manufacturers in the product development and value addition industries for the selection of varieties ideal for their needs since the nutrient component also confers several functional and physiochemical properties to the chickpea seed besides providing a nutritionally diverse diet.

Nutritional Profile, GC-MS Analysis and In-silico Anti-diabetic Phytocompounds Candidature of Jatropha gossypifolia Leaf Extracts.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder known to impair many physiological functions via reactive oxygen species (ROS). Aldose reductase, sorbitol dehydrogenase, dipeptidyl peptidase IV, α-amylase and α-glucosidase are pharmacotherapeutic protein targets in type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Inhibitors of these enzymes constitute a new class of drugs used in the management and treatment of T2DM. Some reports have claimed that medicinal plant extracts that serves as food (and as an antioxidant source) can reduce these alterations by eliminating ROS caused by DM. Ethnobotanical survey claims Jatropha gossypifolia commonly called "fignut" and "Lapa-lapa" in the Yoruba land of South-western Nigeria, to be used for the treatment and management of diabetes, in addition to its nutritive value. The nutritional composition and in-silico antidiabetic potential of the bioactive constituents of J. gossypifolia leaf extracts were investigated. Proximate, minerals and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis were carried out using standard procedures. Phytocompounds present in J. gossypifolia methanol (JGM) and ethyl acetate (JGE) leaf extracts were tested as potential antagonists of selected protein targets via in-silico techniques. Drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity of the promising docked ligands were also predicted. The proximate and mineral analysis revealed good nutritional composition and mineral content. Additionally, cyclo-pentadecane and dibutyl phthalate from methanol extract, and benzene- 1,2,4,5-tetramethyl, benzene-1,2,3,5-tetramethyl, and benzene-1,3-dimethyl-5-(1-methylethyl) from ethyl acetate extract were present in J. gossypifolia leaf which exhibited a better binding affinity than the clinically prescribed standard, metformin. Benzene-1,2,4,5-tetramethyl from JGE extracts exhibited the most promising antidiabetic potential in-silico, suggesting its candidature as diabetes-target-protein inhibitor which may be developed for the treatment of type-2 diabetes mellitus.

Assessing Feeding Practices and Bottle-Feeding Trends: A Holistic Analysis of Infant and Child Nutrition in Pediatric Department of CMCH Larkana

Background: Breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal method for infant nutrition, yet bottle feeding remains prevalent due to various socio-economic and cultural factors. In Pakistan, understanding the dynamics between maternal demographics, infant feeding practices, and healthcare accessibility is essential for improving child health outcomes. Objective: This study aims to evaluate infant feeding practices, particularly the prevalence of bottle feeding, among mothers in a pediatric department in Pakistan, identifying the socio-demographic factors influencing these practices. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2023 to March 2024 at the Department of Pediatrics, SMBB Medical University, Children's Hospital, Larkana. We utilized non-probability purposive sampling to enroll 650 mothers. Data were collected through structured proformas focusing on demographics, feeding practices, and healthcare utilization. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 to assess correlations between feeding methods and maternal characteristics. Results: Among the mothers surveyed, 86% reported using bottle feeding. The age distribution of infants showed 43% (0–5 months), 28% (6–11 months), and 29% (12–23 months). Educational status of mothers varied, with 38% having no formal education. Antenatal care was received by 44% of participants, while postnatal care was slightly higher at 45%. Breastfeeding counseling was received by only 41% of mothers, with 31% informed about the disadvantages of bottle feeding. Conclusion: The high rate of bottle feeding and the substantial gaps in antenatal and postnatal care highlight the need for targeted healthcare interventions to promote breastfeeding and enhance maternal and child health services. Improved counseling on feeding practices and better healthcare access are critical for addressing the health needs of this population.

Prediction of Probable Allergens in Food Items Using Convolutional Neural Networks

Food monitoring and nutritional analysis play a crucial role in addressing allergen-related health issues, and their importancecontinues to grow in our daily lives. In this study, we utilizeda convolutional neural network (CNN) to recognize and analyze food images, assess the nutritional content of dishes, and provide information on potential allergens. Identifying food items from images poses a significant challenge due to the wide variety of foods available. To address this, we leveraged the Logmeal API, which utilizes CNN to identify various types of meals, their ingredients, and potential allergens.

Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and termites (Blattodea: Termitoidae) in the diet of wild white-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tricuspis) in forest-savanna habitats of Cameroon.

The white-bellied pangolin Phataginus tricuspis (Rafinesque 1821) is a semiarboreal species occurring in tropical sub-Saharan Africa. It is the world's most trafficked African pangolin species based on volumes recorded in seizures. Reintroduction of confiscated live pangolins and ex-situ rearing are being explored worldwide as a conservation action. However, the husbandry of seized animals is challenging as the diet of the white-bellied pangolin is poorly known and little studied. We analyzed the stomach contents of dead white-bellied pangolins from two forest-savanna protected areas. Stomach content samples from 13 white-bellied pangolin specimens contained ~165,000 Arthropoda, mostly Hymenoptera (60.34%) and Blattodea (39.66%). Overall, we identified 39 termite and 105 ant species consumed as prey by pangolins. Individual pangolins examined had fed on a maximum of 31 ant species and 13 termite species. The termite and ant species richness varied significantly across the pangolins'last consumed meal. We recorded 24 ant genera dominated by Crematogaster (relative importance [RI] = 17.28). Out of 18 termite genera recorded, the genus Pseudacanthotermes (RI = 17.21) was the most important prey. Ten ant species were preferentially eaten by white-bellied pangolin, with Crematogaster acis being the most common prey species. Four species of termite were most frequently eaten with Pseudacanthotermes militaris being the most abundant. The mean abundance of ants and termites varied among pangolin individuals. The season did not influence the mean abundance of termites eaten by pangolin individuals. However, ant abundance in stomach contents was significantly higher in the dry season. An improved understanding of pangolin feeding behavior and prey selection may help inform conservation husbandry efforts. For example, nutritional analysis of the food eaten by wild pangolins can guide the development of nutritional diets for captive pangolins.

Analysis of the relationship between actual nutrition and physical activity and smoking among russian and foreign students of a medical university

A significant contribution to the preservation and improvement of the population health is made by a healthy lifestyle, one of the components of which is rational nutrition. Considering severe stress experienced by students due to the changed social environment, the study of nutritional characteristics and the role of behavioral factors in eating behavior among medical students remains an extremely topical issue of modern preventive medicine. Material and methods. As a result of a cross-sectional study, 197 students of the Saratov Medical University were interviewed, 100 (51 %) of them were russian students, 97 (49 %) were citizens of Central African countries. The method of 24-hour reproduction of daily diet, program complex “Individual diet 5.0 professional version”, questionnaire were used. Results and discussions. The study showed an imbalance in macro- and micronutrients intake of the daily food ration, a violation in the diet, insufficient consumption of vegetables and fruits, rare hot meals, dissatisfaction with the organization of meals in student canteens, frequent use of fast food by students regardless of their country of origin. The relationship of physical activity and smoking with the diet and the frequency of consumption of vegetables and fruits, low awareness of unbalanced nutrition as a risk factor for the development of alimentary-dependent diseases have been established. Conclusions. The nutritional behavior of russian and foreign students of Saratov Medical University does not meet all the principles of healthy eating recommended by WHO. Thus, it is necessary to improve the organization of catering in student canteens, taking into account the taste preferences of foreign students, the introduction of educational activities and healthy nutrition programs with the involvement of the students themselves in their preparation. The analysis of actual nutrition is a very important task, as it allows assessing the current socio-economic situation, as well as the effectiveness of educational programs in the framework of national projects on a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.

Metabolome and Transcriptome Association Analysis Reveals Mechanism of Synthesis of Nutrient Composition in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Seeds.

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) seeds are rich in nutrition, superior to other grains, and have a high market value. However, the biosynthesis mechanisms of protein, starch, and lipid in quinoa grain are still unclear. The objective of this study was to ascertain the nutritional constituents of white, yellow, red, and black quinoa seeds and to employ a multi-omics approach to analyze the synthesis mechanisms of these nutrients. The findings are intended to furnish a theoretical foundation and technical support for the biological breeding of quinoa in China. In this study, the nutritional analysis of white, yellow, red, and black quinoa seeds from the same area showed that the nutritional contents of the quinoa seeds were significantly different, and the protein content increased with the deepening of color. The protein content of black quinoa was the highest (16.1 g/100 g) and the lipid content was the lowest (2.7 g/100 g), among which, linoleic acid was the main fatty acid. A combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis exhibited that differentially expressed genes were enriched in "linoleic acid metabolism", "unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis", and "amino acid biosynthesis". We mainly identified seven genes involved in starch synthesis (LOC110716805, LOC110722789, LOC110738785, LOC110720405, LOC110730081, LOC110692055, and LOC110732328); five genes involved in lipid synthesis (LOC110701563, LOC110699636, LOC110709273, LOC110715590, and LOC110728838); and nine genes involved in protein synthesis (LOC110710842, LOC110720003, LOC110687170, LOC110716004, LOC110702086, LOC110724454 LOC110724577, LOC110704171, and LOC110686607). The data presented in this study based on nutrient, transcriptome, and metabolome analyses contribute to an enhanced understanding of the genetic regulation of seed quality traits in quinoa, and provide candidate genes for further genetic improvements to improve the nutritional value of quinoa seeds.

Preparation, Nutrition Analysis, and Sensory Evaluation of Stingless Bee Honey Candy

Preparation, Nutrition Analysis, and Sensory Evaluation of Stingless Bee Honey Candy

Clean and green bioconversion – a comprehensive review on black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae for converting organic wastes to quality products

Abstract Food security remains a pressing global concern, exacerbated by population growth, diminishing agricultural lands, and climate uncertainties. As the demand for high-quality protein sources like eggs, meat, and milk escalates, conventional feed ingredients face challenges in meeting the burgeoning needs of livestock production. The projected increase in poultry and pig consumption further strains the availability of protein-rich feed sources, necessitating sustainable alternatives. Insects, notably black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), offer numerous advantages, including efficiently converting organic substrates into high-quality protein, fat, minerals, and vitamins. Their rapid reproduction, minimal environmental footprint, and ability to thrive on various organic materials make them an attractive protein source. However, consumer acceptance remains a hurdle, hindering their direct consumption despite their nutritional value. Incorporating BSFL into animal diets, especially poultry and swine, demonstrates promising results regarding growth and production. This review comprehensively overviews BSFL production systems, processing techniques, and nutritional profiles. Various factors influencing BSFL growth and feed quality are discussed, highlighting the importance of optimizing breeding systems and feed formulations. Processing methods are elucidated to ensure the safety and quality of BSFL-based products. Nutritional analysis reveals BSFL as a rich source of essential amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals, making them suitable replacements for soybean meal and fish meal. Despite the economic and environmental benefits of BSFL utilization, challenges persist, including regulatory issues, consumer perceptions, and production scalability. Standardized production protocols and legislative frameworks are needed to facilitate the widespread adoption of BSFL in animal feed industries. In conclusion, integrating BSFL into animal diets presents a promising solution to address protein shortages in livestock production while promoting sustainable resource utilization.

AI Gym Buddy Using Mediapipe

The AI Gym Trainer is a system that provides multiple features designed to provide personalized fitness coaching and nutrition tracking. Imposing the advanced pose estimation capabilities of Mediapipe, the system provides real-time responses to exercise performance, focusing on posture, alignment, and technique.This feature is helpful because users will receive accurate guidance in workout sessions, which in turn enhances effectiveness while minimizing the risk of injury. Furthermore, the AI Gym Trainer is implemented using machine learning algorithms, which makes it capable of providing tailor workout routines to individual preferences and abilities, encouraging a personalized training experience. Through a user- friendly interface accessible through a desktop or web application, users can seamlessly interact with the system, track their progress, and receive personalized recommendations. Additionally, the system has a feature of a Flask-based food tracking feature which enhances the capabilities, allowing users to monitor their calorie intake and receive nutritional analysis. This comprehensive approach addresses both physical activity and dietary habits, and provides users with a holistic platform for managing their fitness goals. Evaluation through rigorous testing and user trials demonstrates the effectiveness and potential impact of the AI Gym Trainer in promoting overall health and well-being. With its combination of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design, the AI Gym Trainer represents a significant advancement in personalized fitness coaching and nutrition tracking, catering to the diverse needs of individuals striving to achieve their fitness goals.

Selective deforestation and exposure of African wildlife to bat-borne viruses

Proposed mechanisms of zoonotic virus spillover often posit that wildlife transmission and amplification precede human outbreaks. Between 2006 and 2012, the palm Raphia farinifera, a rich source of dietary minerals for wildlife, was nearly extirpated from Budongo Forest, Uganda. Since then, chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, and red duiker were observed feeding on bat guano, a behavior not previously observed. Here we show that guano consumption may be a response to dietary mineral scarcity and may expose wildlife to bat-borne viruses. Videos from 2017–2019 recorded 839 instances of guano consumption by the aforementioned species. Nutritional analysis of the guano revealed high concentrations of sodium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. Metagenomic analyses of the guano identified 27 eukaryotic viruses, including a novel betacoronavirus. Our findings illustrate how “upstream” drivers such as socioeconomics and resource extraction can initiate elaborate chains of causation, ultimately increasing virus spillover risk.

EFFECT OF MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND HARVESTING STAGE ON BOTANICAL COMPOSITION, BIOMASS YIELD, AND NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF NATURAL PASTURE UNDER TRADITIONAL LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION SYSTEM IN THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS OF ETHIOPIA

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/em&gt;Natural pasture is an essential source of livestock feed worldwide, particularly in Ethiopia. Though pastureland coverage and management practices are changing over time, studies are limited in addressing the status under the dynamics of smallholder management conditions. &lt;em&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; To evaluate natural pasture botanical composition, biomass yield, and nutritional value under different management and stages of harvesting in the central highlands of Ethiopia. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology:&lt;/strong&gt; The pasture was harvested at three stages (pre-flowering, mid-flowering, and after full flowering) under different management (extensive, semi-intensive where urea was used as a fertilizer, and seasonal grazing). Quadrats of 0.25 m&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt; were used for herbaceous species identification, biomass yield estimation and nutritive value analysis. Chemical composition of the samples were analyzed using Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy&lt;/em&gt;. &lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; Thirty-one herbaceous species were identified (38.71% grasses, 19.35% legumes, 9.67% sedges, and 32.26% forbs), which belong to 11 families.&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;The total biomass yield under semi-intensive management practice at full maturity stage was greater than seasonally grazed and extensively managed pasture. The species richness, species evenness Shannon-Wiener diversity (H’ max) and maximum possible diversity (H’max) were similar (P&amp;gt;0.05) under all management practices. &lt;em&gt;Natural pasture &lt;/em&gt;condition score was fair under seasonal grazing, while the score was excellent under extensive and semi-intensive management. Metabolizable energy (ME), and &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) were higher (P&amp;lt;0.5) under extensive management compared to the semi-intensive management. The pasture harvested at the pre-flowering stage had higher (P&amp;lt;0.05) CP content, IVOMD, and ME, but low neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and acid detergent lignin values. &lt;strong&gt;Implications:&lt;/strong&gt; The findings provide new insights into improving the biomass yield and quality of the pasture in semi-intensive pastureland management, and harvesting after the full flowering stage. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;em&gt;This study recommended&lt;/em&gt; semi-intensive management and harvesting after the full flowering stage for higher pasture biomass yield, pasture condition, and nutritional value in the highlands of Ethiopia. Further study is required to investigate the combined effects of fertilizer (organic, inorganic) application and other management on biomass yield and quality of natural pasture in similar and other areas in the highlands of Ethiopia. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;iframe class="ginger-extension-synonympopup" style="left: 134.956px; top: 88.8px; z-index: 56; padding: 0px; visibility: hidden; height: 152px;" src="chrome-extension://kdfieneakcjfaiglcfcgkidlkmlijjnh/ginger-popup/index.html"&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

Metabolomic profiling, nutritional parameters and potential bioactive metabolites of the edible mushroom Tricholoma mesoamericanum

SummaryEdible Mushrooms boast a diverse array of biomolecules with exceptional nutritional and bioactive benefits for humans. This study conducted metabolomic and nutritional analyses, aiming to identify potential bioactive metabolites in Tricholoma mesoamericanum from Pinus forests in Veracruz, Mexico. These mushrooms exhibited high carbohydrate and protein contents, coupled with a significant anti‐oxidant capacity. Metabolomic analysis identified 181 different compounds, with terpenoids, fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, and sphingolipids as the most enriched compound classes detected in T. mesoamericanum. Some compounds presented a positive correlation, while others demonstrated negative correlations with anti‐oxidant activity, ash, carbohydrate, fat, and protein contents. Notably, 39 of these compounds have previously demonstrated medicinal properties in other mushroom species, suggesting potential health benefits for humans. This study presents the first combined nutritional and metabolomic analysis of T. mesoamericanum, highlighting its value and underscoring the importance of sustainable management and further research to explore its bioactive potential, as unveiled in this investigation.