1
|
Campos-Avelar I, Montoya-Martínez AC, Parra-Cota FI, de los Santos-Villalobos S. Editorial: plant-microbial symbiosis toward sustainable food security. Plant Signal Behav 2024; 19:2298054. [PMID: 38183219 PMCID: PMC10773630 DOI: 10.1080/15592324.2023.2298054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
The use of plant-associated microorganisms is increasingly being investigated as a key tool for mitigating the impact of biotic and abiotic threats to crops and facilitating migration to sustainable agricultural practices. The microbiome is responsible for several functions in agroecosystems, such as the transformation of organic matter, nutrient cycling, and plant/pathogen growth regulation. As climate change and global warming are altering the dynamics of plant-microbial interactions in the ecosystem, it has become essential to perform comprehensive studies to decipher current and future microbial interactions, as their useful symbiotic mechanisms could be better exploited to achieve sustainable agriculture. This will allow for the development of effective microbial inoculants that facilitate nutrient supply for the plant at its minimal energy expense, thus increasing its resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses. This article collection aims to compile state-of-the-art research focused on the elucidation and optimization of symbiotic relationships between crops and their associated microbes. The information presented here will contribute to the development of next-generation microbial inoculants for achieving a more sustainable agriculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ixchel Campos-Avelar
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología del Recurso Microbiano, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (ITSON), Ciudad Obregon, Mexico
| | - Amelia C. Montoya-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología del Recurso Microbiano, Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (ITSON), Ciudad Obregon, Mexico
| | - Fannie I. Parra-Cota
- Campo Experimental Norman E. Borlaug, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP), Ciudad Obregon, Mexico
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pagaduan JE, Lazarescu C, Vallieres E, Skinner K, Zuckermann AM, Idzerda L. The impacts of the Nutrition North Canada program on the accessibility and affordability of perishable, nutritious foods among eligible communities: a scoping review. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2313255. [PMID: 38346231 PMCID: PMC10863516 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2313255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The Nutrition North Canada (NNC) program, introduced in April 2011 is a federal strategy to improve access to perishable, nutritious foods for remote and isolated communities in northern Canada by subsidising retailers to provide price reductions at the point of purchase. As of March 2023, 123 communities are eligible for the program. To evaluate existing evidence and research on the NNC program to inform policy decisions to improve the effectiveness of NNC. A scoping review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted in ten databases along with a supplemental grey literature search of government and non-government reports published between 2011 and 2022. The search yielded 172 publications for screening, of which 42 were included in the analysis. Narrative thematic evidence synthesis yielded 104 critiques and 341 recommendations of the NNC program across eight themes. The most-identified recommendations focus on transparency, communication, and support for harvesting, hunting, and community food initiatives. This review highlights recommendations informed by the literature to address critiques of the NNC program to improve food security, increase access to perishable and non-perishable items, and support community-based food initiatives among eligible communities. The review also identifies priority areas for future policy directions such as additional support for education initiatives, communication and transparency amidst program changes, and food price regulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Edward Pagaduan
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Calin Lazarescu
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric Vallieres
- Health Security and Regional Operations Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kelly Skinner
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Alexandra M.E. Zuckermann
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leanne Idzerda
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Naeem M, Burton EJ, Scholey DV, Alkhtib A, Broadberry S. Use of wheat dilution to improve digestive function in broilers: application in low protein diets. Br Poult Sci 2024; 65:144-153. [PMID: 38053490 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2023.2291487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
1. This study evaluated the effect of wheat dilution increasing in particle size in low crude protein diets on growth performance, digestive tract, nitrogen efficiency and litter quality in broiler chickens.2. Ross 308 male broiler chicks (n = 336) were allocated to one of four dietary treatments (each with 7 pens, 12 chicks per pen); Control (CON; commercial pellet diet with standard crude protein, CP: 22.50%), W578 (CON +20% wheat of geometric mean diameter (GMD) of 578 µm; CP: 20.25%), W1326 (CON +20% wheat of GMD 1326 µm; CP: 20.25%) and WW (CON +20% whole wheat, CP: 20.25%), from d 0 to 21 of age.3. Body weight gain was increased (P < 0.05) for birds fed CON compared to the low crude protein diets. However, WW increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain compared to W578 and W1326, while feed intake and feed conversion ratio on CON and WW were similar (P > 0.05). Birds fed W1326 showed the poorest (P < 0.05) FCR compared to CON, W578 and WW.4. Gizzard relative weight (g/kg body weight) was increased (P < 0.05) on WW compared to CON on d 14 and 21, whereas gastric isthmus diameter was significantly reduced on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578.5. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in the depth of gizzard mucosa of lamina propria between CON and WW at d 14 and 21. Birds fed WW increased (P < 0.05) gizzard tensile strength compared to W578 and W1326, whereas no difference was observed between WW and CON on d 14.6. No significant differences were seen for ileum villus height and mucosal layer between CON and WW on d 21, however, feeding CON increased the extent of the mucosal layer compared to W578 and W1326.7. Nitrogen excretion (g/kg BWG) was significantly lower (P > 0.05) on W1326 and WW compared with CON and W578. Litter nitrogen, moisture, and footpad scores significantly decreased (P < 0.05) for birds fed WW compared with CON.8. Diluting dietary protein content from 22.50 to 20.25% resulted in lower body weight gain in broilers. However, dilution with whole wheat resulted in comparable FCR, reduced nitrogen excretion, litter moisture and footpad dermatitis compared with a standard protein diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Naeem
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - E J Burton
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - D V Scholey
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - A Alkhtib
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - S Broadberry
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kearsey JL, West E, Vairinhos N, Constable N, Chu A, Douglas N, Charlton K. Evaluation of a Nutrition Education and Skills Training programme in vulnerable adults who are at high risk of food insecurity. J Hum Nutr Diet 2024; 37:418-429. [PMID: 37964660 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Australia, the prevalence of food insecurity increased by 1.5% between 2014 and 2016 and 2018 and 2020 due to effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. OzHarvest offers a 6-week Nutrition Education and Skills Training (NEST) programme to adults at risk of food insecurity. NEST provides 2.5-h weekly cooking workshops on simple, healthy and affordable meals. This study aimed to determine the immediate (post) and longer-term (6 months) impacts of participation in NEST. METHODS A quasi-experimental study with pre-post surveys (n = 258) and 6-month follow-up surveys (n = 20) was conducted from June 2019 to July 2022. Survey results were obtained from NEST programme participants (≥18 years) from six major Australian cities. RESULTS Participants demonstrated immediate improvement in nutrition knowledge (p < 0.001), food preparation behaviours (p < 0.001) and confidence and self-efficacy (n = 222; p < 0.001). Intake of discretionary foods decreased (p < 0.001), whereas fruit, vegetable and water intake increased (p < 0.001). Food security improved from 57% to 68% immediately after the completion of the programme (p < 0.001). Participants demonstrated longer-term improvements in nutrition knowledge (p < 0.001), cooking confidence (n = 8; p = 0.03), food preparation behaviours (p = 0.003) and increased vegetable (p = 0.03) and fruit intake (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Participation in OzHarvest's NEST programme results in short-term improvements in food security levels and dietary behaviours. Over the longer term, these changes were sustained but to a lesser degree, indicating that systemic changes are required to address underlying socio-economic disadvantages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jade L Kearsey
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elisha West
- OzHarvest Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nelia Vairinhos
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Angelica Chu
- OzHarvest Sydney, Alexandria, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nigel Douglas
- OzHarvest Sydney, Alexandria, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karen Charlton
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Molenaar A, Lukose D, Brennan L, Jenkins EL, McCaffrey TA. Using Natural Language Processing to Explore Social Media Opinions on Food Security: Sentiment Analysis and Topic Modeling Study. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e47826. [PMID: 38512326 DOI: 10.2196/47826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media has the potential to be of great value in understanding patterns in public health using large-scale analysis approaches (eg, data science and natural language processing [NLP]), 2 of which have been used in public health: sentiment analysis and topic modeling; however, their use in the area of food security and public health nutrition is limited. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the potential use of NLP tools to gather insights from real-world social media data on the public health issue of food security. METHODS A search strategy for obtaining tweets was developed using food security terms. Tweets were collected using the Twitter application programming interface from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2021, filtered for Australia-based users only. Sentiment analysis of the tweets was performed using the Valence Aware Dictionary and Sentiment Reasoner. Topic modeling exploring the content of tweets was conducted using latent Dirichlet allocation with BigML (BigML, Inc). Sentiment, topic, and engagement (the sum of likes, retweets, quotations, and replies) were compared across years. RESULTS In total, 38,070 tweets were collected from 14,880 Twitter users. Overall, the sentiment when discussing food security was positive, although this varied across the 3 years. Positive sentiment remained higher during the COVID-19 lockdown periods in Australia. The topic model contained 10 topics (in order from highest to lowest probability in the data set): "Global production," "Food insecurity and health," "Use of food banks," "Giving to food banks," "Family poverty," "Food relief provision," "Global food insecurity," "Climate change," "Australian food insecurity," and "Human rights." The topic "Giving to food banks," which focused on support and donation, had the highest proportion of positive sentiment, and "Global food insecurity," which covered food insecurity prevalence worldwide, had the highest proportion of negative sentiment. When compared with news, there were some events, such as COVID-19 support payment introduction and bushfires across Australia, that were associated with high periods of positive or negative sentiment. Topics related to food insecurity prevalence, poverty, and food relief in Australia were not consistently more prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic than before the pandemic. Negative tweets received substantially higher engagement across 2019 and 2020. There was no clear relationship between topics that were more likely to be positive or negative and have higher or lower engagement, indicating that the identified topics are discrete issues. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we demonstrated the potential use of sentiment analysis and topic modeling to explore evolution in conversations on food security using social media data. Future use of NLP in food security requires the context of and interpretation by public health experts and the use of broader data sets, with the potential to track dimensions or events related to food security to inform evidence-based decision-making in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annika Molenaar
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Australia
| | | | - Linda Brennan
- School of Media and Communication, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eva L Jenkins
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Australia
| | - Tracy A McCaffrey
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Notting Hill, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Raycraft J. Perceived Impacts of Wildlife on Agropastoral Food Production in Northern Tanzania. Ecol Food Nutr 2024:1-25. [PMID: 38495022 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2024.2329978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Human-wildlife interactions can affect human wellbeing and wildlife population persistence. This paper addresses the perceived impacts of wildlife on agropastoral food production in the Tarangire ecosystem of northern Tanzania. It is based on sixteen months of collaborative ethnographic fieldwork with agropastoral Maasai communities (2019-2020; 2022; 2023), 240 semi-structured interviews, and a household survey (n = 1076). People felt that caterpillars, elephants, and zebras had the most significant effects on crop production, while hyenas were responsible for the bulk of livestock depredation by carnivores. These social costs of wildlife merit further attention from conservation policy makers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Raycraft
- Department of Anthropology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Boyd M, Ragnarsson S, Terry S, Payne B, Wilson N. Mitigating imported fuel dependency in agricultural production: Case study of an island nation's vulnerability to global catastrophic risks. Risk Anal 2024. [PMID: 38492971 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
A major global catastrophe would likely disrupt trade in liquid fuels. Countries dependent on imported oil products might struggle to sustain industrial agriculture. Island nations importing 100% of refined fuels are particularly vulnerable. Our case study aimed to estimate the agricultural land area and biofuel volumes needed to feed the population of New Zealand in the absence of trade. Results showed that stored diesel would quickly be exhausted with ordinary use (weeks) and even with strict rationing (months). To preserve fuel, we found that farming wheat (requiring as little as 5.4 million liters [L] of diesel per annum) was more fuel-efficient than potatoes (12.3) or dairy (38.7) to feed the national population under a climate-as-usual scenario. In a nuclear winter scenario, with reduced agricultural yields, proportionately greater diesel is needed. The wheat would require 24% of current grain-cropped land, and the canola crop used as feedstock for the required biofuel would occupy a further 1%-7%. Investment in canola biodiesel or renewable diesel refineries could ensure supply for the bare minimum agricultural liquid fuel needs. Were subsequent analysis to favor this option as part of a fuels resilience response and as a tradeoff for routine food use, expansion in refining and canola cropping before a catastrophe could be encouraged through market mechanisms, direct government investment, or a combination of these. Logistics of biofuel refining scale-up, post-catastrophe, should also be analyzed. Further, biodiesel produced in normal times would help the nation meet its emissions reduction targets. Other countries should conduct similar analyses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matt Boyd
- Adapt Research Ltd, Reefton, New Zealand
| | | | - Simon Terry
- NZ Sustainability Council, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ben Payne
- Adapt Research Ltd, Reefton, New Zealand
| | - Nick Wilson
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Singleton CR. Exploring the Interconnectedness of Crime and Nutrition: Current Evidence & Recommendations to Advance Nutrition Equity Research. J Acad Nutr Diet 2024:S2212-2672(24)00124-2. [PMID: 38492635 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea R Singleton
- Department of Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences, Tulane School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine. 1440 Canal Street, Suite 2200-20, MC-8319, New Orleans, LA 70125.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Willows ND, Loewen OK, Blanchet R, Godrich SL, Veugelers PJ, Alexander Research Committee. Indigenous Identity and Household Food Insecurity are Associated with Poor Health Outcomes in Canada. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38477299 DOI: 10.3148/cjdpr-2023-024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Purpose: To examine whether Indigenous identity and food insecurity combined were associated with self-reported poor health.Methods: Data from the 2015-2016 Canadian Community Health Survey and multiple logistic regression were employed to evaluate the association between Indigenous identity, household food insecurity, and health outcomes, adjusted for individual and household covariates. The Alexander Research Committee in Alexander First Nation (Treaty 6) reviewed the manuscript and commented on the interpretation of study findings.Results: Data were from 59082 adults (3756 Indigenous). The prevalence of household food insecurity was 26.3% for Indigenous adults and 9.8% for non-Indigenous adults (weighted to the Canadian population). Food-secure Indigenous adults, food-insecure non-Indigenous adults, and food-insecure Indigenous adults had significantly (p < 0.001) greater odds of poor health outcomes than food-secure non-Indigenous adults (referent group). Food-insecure Indigenous adults had 1.96 [95% CI:1.53,2.52], 3.73 [95% CI: 2.95,4.72], 3.00 [95% CI:2.37,3.79], and 3.94 [95% CI:3.02,5.14] greater odds of a chronic health condition, a chronic mental health disorder, poor general health, and poor mental health, respectively, compared to food-secure non-Indigenous adults.Conclusions: Health policy decisions and programs should focus on food security initiatives for all Canadians, including addressing the unique challenges of Indigenous communities, irrespective of their food security status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noreen D Willows
- Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB
| | - Olivia K Loewen
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB
| | - Rosanne Blanchet
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC
| | - Stephanie L Godrich
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for People, Place and Planet, Edith Cowan University, Bunbury, Western Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Agunbiade VF, Babalola OO. Drought Stress Amelioration Attributes of Plant-Associated Microbiome on Agricultural Plants. Bioinform Biol Insights 2024; 18:11779322241233442. [PMID: 38464334 PMCID: PMC10924568 DOI: 10.1177/11779322241233442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The future global food security depends on the availability of water for agriculture. Yet, the ongoing rise in nonagricultural uses for water, such as urban and industrial uses, and growing environmental quality concerns have increased pressure of irrigation water demand and posed danger to food security. Nevertheless, its severity and duration are predicted to rise shortly. Drought pressure causes stunted growth, severe damage to photosynthesis activity, loss in crop yield, reduced seed germination, and reduced nutrient intake by plants. To overcome the effects of a devastating drought on plants, it is essential to think about the causes, mechanisms of action, and long-term agronomy management and genetics. As a result, there is an urgent need for long-term medication to deal with the harmful effects of drought pressure. The review focuses on the adverse impact of drought on the plant, physiological, and biochemical aspects, and management measures to control the severity of drought conditions. This article reviews the role of genome editing (GE) technologies such as CRISPR 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) related spaces and short palindromic relapse between proteins in reducing the effects of phytohormones, osmolytes, external compounds, proteins, microbes (plant growth-promoting microorganism [PGPM]), approach omics, and drought on plants that support plant growth. This research is to examine the potential of using the microbiome associated with plants for drought resistance and sustainable agriculture. Researchers also advocate using a mix of biotechnology, agronomic, and advanced GE technologies to create drought-tolerant plant varieties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Funso Agunbiade
- Food Security and Safety Focus Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
| | - Olubukola Oluranti Babalola
- Food Security and Safety Focus Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dinour LM, Alsaidi M, Snyder C. Qualitative assessment of changes to university students' dietary intake by food security status in the context of COVID-19. J Am Coll Health 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38442358 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2024.2319195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore how university students' dietary intakes changed during COVID-19, and whether these changes differed by food security status. PARTICIPANTS Six hundred students attending a New Jersey public university. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey asked about student intake. Food security status was measured using the 18-item US Household Food Security Survey. Open-ended questions were content analyzed and themes were compared between food secure (FS) and food insecure (FI) students. RESULTS The most frequently reported dietary changes for FI students were food source/sourcing (22.7%), food variety (19.7%), and food/meal properties (19.7%). For FS students, themes differed: no change (31.5%), food source/sourcing (31.3%), and health/nutrition (13.7%). CONCLUSIONS Students indicated dietary changes during the pandemic regardless of food security status, although FI students more frequently reported smaller, less healthy, and less varied meals. Colleges and universities can provide support through enhanced outreach and assistance during emergencies or extended periods of disruption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Dinour
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | - Manar Alsaidi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | - Christopher Snyder
- PSEG Institute for Sustainability Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Damian-Medina K, Cernioglo K, Waheed M, DiMaggio DM, Porto AF, Smilowitz JT. Cross-Sectional Analysis of Infant Diet, Outcomes, Consumer Behavior and Parental Perspectives to Optimize Infant Feeding in Response to the 2022 U.S. Infant Formula Shortage. Nutrients 2024; 16:748. [PMID: 38474876 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In May of 2022, millions of U.S. parents encountered uncertainty in safely feeding their infants due to the infant formula shortage. METHODS An anonymous, electronic, cross-sectional, retrospective survey was used. RESULTS U.S. parents (n = 178) whose infants were ~10 weeks old during the shortage completed the survey. Of parents, 81% switched formulas during the shortage, 87% switched because they could not find the formula they typically used, 34% switched 3-5 times, 29% of parents visited ≥4 stores/24 h and 26% of parents traveled >20 miles/24 h to purchase formula. Use of infant formula increased (p < 0.01); in infants requiring specialty formula, use of intact cow's milk formula increased (p < 0.05) and use of premature infant formulas decreased (p < 0.05). Infants relying on specialty formulas experienced at least one undesirable outcome compared with non-specialty users. Parents used social media, relatives/friends and healthcare providers for support during the shortage, but their helpfulness scores were suboptimal. Parents reported the need for greater infant formula availability, free prenatal lactation education and postpartum lactation support. CONCLUSIONS Government, regulatory and healthcare policy oversight are needed to protect the infant feeding system, including more commercially available products, access to banked donor milk and lactation support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karla Damian-Medina
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Karina Cernioglo
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Maha Waheed
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | - Anthony F Porto
- School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Horn LN, Labuschagne MT. Editorial: Molecular and breeding mechanisms for enhanced performance in underutilized leguminous crops in Africa. Front Genet 2024; 15:1385989. [PMID: 38505829 PMCID: PMC10949365 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1385989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia N. Horn
- Multidisciplinary Research Services, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - M. T. Labuschagne
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Aldubaybi AA, Coneyworth LJ, Jethwa PH. Assessing the prevalence and potential drivers of food insecurity and the relationship with mental wellbeing in UK university students: A cross-sectional study. NUTR BULL 2024; 49:96-107. [PMID: 38311588 DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) among university students in the United States has been associated with poor mental wellbeing, but very little is known about the relationship between FI and mental wellbeing in the UK university population. Here we examined the prevalence of FI, determined potential drivers for it and its relationship with mental wellbeing and coping ability. Students studying at UK universities (n = 289) completed an online self-reported questionnaire to obtain socio-economic characteristics including financial status, FI status (Household Food Insecurity Access scale), mental wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale) and coping ability (coping flexibility scale). FI was observed in 28% of the participants and was associated with financial independence, running out of money, borrowing money and lacking confidence to purchase healthy foods (p < 0.05). Although we cannot determine directionality, logistic regression analysis revealed those who were judged as FI were more likely to shop often (OR = 3.139 95% CI 1.533-6.429), never snacked between meals (OR = 4.261 95% CI 1.309-13.875) and the amount of food purchased was affected by perceptions of the price of food in general (OR = 2.954 95% CI 1.675-5.210). Financial instability and the inability to access nutritious food may contribute to the decrease in mental wellbeing (p < 0.01) and lower ability to cope with stressful situations (p < 0.01) in food-insecure students although the direction of these relationships cannot be determined from this cross-sectional study. This study has identified that there is a need to develop appropriate strategies to combat FI in university students and to improve mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afnan A Aldubaybi
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Lisa J Coneyworth
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Preeti H Jethwa
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shankar A, Ravi C. Loneliness Among Older Indian Workers: Findings From the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India. J Appl Gerontol 2024; 43:293-301. [PMID: 37862794 DOI: 10.1177/07334648231206890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of adults aged 60 years and over who work is growing. However, there has been relatively limited research assessing the determinants of wellbeing in this cohort. Given the known relationship between loneliness and socioeconomic disadvantage, the present analysis assessed the role of working conditions and food security on loneliness among employed Indians aged 60 years and over (N = 9035), using data from wave 1 of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India. Just over 11% of participants reported being lonely most or all of the time. Food insecurity and work that involved exposure to unpleasant conditions was associated with increased loneliness, while work requiring more mental effort was associated with lower loneliness. Policies that ensure skills training to support job transitions for older adults working in unpleasant conditions, and greater food security in later life are important to ensure wellbeing in this group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Shankar
- Department of Psychological Sciences, FLAME University, Pune, India
| | - Chaitanya Ravi
- Department of Social Sciences, FLAME University, Pune, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Headrick G, Abdul K, Guru S, DeHonney A, Moran AJ, Surkan PJ, Raja S, Mui Y. "We Want to Eat and be Healthy just like Everybody Else:" How Social Infrastructures Affect Nutrition Equity in a Racialized Urban Community in the United States. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102106. [PMID: 38486713 PMCID: PMC10937309 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Food security and nutrition equity, 2 social determinants of health, are impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the racialization of urban communities. Few studies to date have examined how the use of social infrastructures in the United States during COVID-19 affected the ability to achieve food security and nutrition equity. Objectives To describe how the use of social infrastructures impacts food security and nutrition equity in a majority Black and urban community in the United States. Methods Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 40 low-income, urban, and predominately Black people living in Buffalo, New York in May-July 2022.A thematic analysis using a phronetic iterative approach informed by the Social Ecological Model, Walsh's Family Resilience Framework, and a framework focused on the advancement of nutrition equity. Results We identified 9 themes mapped across 3 interrelated domains that impact nutrition equity, including 1) meeting food needs with dignity, 2) supply and demand for fresh and healthy foods, and 3) community empowerment and food sovereignty. We found that people used coping strategies, such as food budgeting and cooking skills, paired with different social infrastructures to meet food needs. People commonly used the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and food pantries to meet food needs over receiving support from family members or friends outside of the household. Poverty, challenges accessing and affording healthy food, and the inability to reciprocate support to others undermined the advancement of nutrition equity despite social infrastructures being available for use. Historical and ongoing acts of disempowerment and disinvestment also hindered the advancement of nutrition equity. Conclusions Sustained, community-led investment is needed to address structural inequities preventing the advancement of nutrition equity. Social infrastructures should be expanded to inclusively support low-income populations, so wealth generation is possible to address the root cause of food insecurity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabby Headrick
- The Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kiera Abdul
- The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shireen Guru
- The University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning, The University at Buffalo State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | | | - Alyssa J. Moran
- The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Pamela J. Surkan
- The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Samina Raja
- The University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning, The University at Buffalo State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Yeeli Mui
- The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chapman LE, Berkowitz SA, Ammerman A, De Marco M, Ng SW, Zimmer C, Caspi CE. Examining Changes in Food Security, Perceived Stress, and Dietary Intake in a Cohort of Low-Wage Workers Experiencing an Increase in Hourly Wage. Health Promot Pract 2024; 25:263-273. [PMID: 36373653 PMCID: PMC10183054 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221128005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether an increase in hourly wages was associated with changes in food security and perceived stress among low-wage workers. We also determined whether changes in food security and stress were associated with changes in diet. SETTING Wages is a prospective cohort study following 974 low-wage workers in Minneapolis, MN, where an ordinance is incrementally increasing minimum wage to US$15/hr from 2018 to 2022, and a comparison community with no minimum wage ordinance (Raleigh, NC). Interaction models were estimated using generalized estimating equations. PARTICIPANTS Analyses used two waves of data (2018 [baseline], 2019) and included 219 and 321 low-wage workers in Minneapolis and Raleigh (respectively). RESULTS Average hourly wages increased from US$9.77 (SD US$1.69) to US$11.67 (SD US$4.02). Changes in wages were not associated with changes in food security (odds ratio = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.89, 1.23], p = .57) or stress (β = -0.01, 95% CI [-0.04, 0.03], p = .70) after 1 year of policy implementation. Changes in food security were not associated with changes in diet. However, we found significant changes in the frequency of fruit and vegetable intake across time by levels of stress, with decreased intake from Wave 1 to 2 at low levels of stress, and increased intake at high levels of stress (incidence rate ratio = 1.17, 95% CI [1.05, 1.31], p = .01). CONCLUSIONS Changes in wages were not associated with changes in food security or stress in a sample of low-wage workers. Future research should examine whether full implementation of a minimum wage increase is associated with changes in these outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Seth A. Berkowitz
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alice Ammerman
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Molly De Marco
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shu Wen Ng
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Catherine Zimmer
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ahmed T, Noman M, White JC, Ma C, Wang Q, Li B. Quantum dots: next shift to combat plant diseases. Trends Plant Sci 2024:S1360-1385(24)00047-5. [PMID: 38431495 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Plant diseases caused by microbial pathogens significantly reduce agriculture productivity and worsen food insecurity. Recently, Qiu et al. revealed that polyethyleneimine (PEI)-coated MXene quantum dots (QDs) improve tolerance in cotton seedlings against Verticillium wilt disease by maintaining oxidative system homeostasis. This finding shows how customized QDs can be used to enhance crop disease resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Temoor Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Xianghu Laboratory, Hangzhou 311231, China; MEU Research Unit, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Muhammad Noman
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Treats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Plant Protection and Microbiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Jason C White
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Chuanxin Ma
- Key Laboratory for City Cluster Environmental Safety and Green Development of the Ministry of Education, School of Ecology, Environment and Resources, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, MOA Key Lab of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Bin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology and Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Junqueira Pinelli J, Sousa Guimarães A, Suela Silva M, Silveira Junqueira de Moraes T, Carlota Gonçalves M, Hilsdorf Piccoli R. Emulsified and Nanoemulsified Essential Oils in the Control of Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium sporogenes in Mortadella. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2024. [PMID: 38422213 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2023.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridium botulinum is a foodborne pathogen responsible for severe neuroparalytic disease associated with the ingestion of pre-formed toxin in food, with processed meats and canned foods being the most affected. Control of this pathogen in meat products is carried out using the preservative sodium nitrite (NaNO2), which in food, under certain conditions, such as thermal processing and storage, can form carcinogenic compounds. Therefore, the objective was to use nanoemulsified essential oils (EOs) as natural antimicrobial agents, with the aim of reducing the dose of NaNO2 applied in mortadella. The antimicrobial activity of nanoemulsions prepared with mixtures of EOs of garlic, clove, pink pepper, and black pepper was evaluated on endospores and vegetative cells of C. botulinum and Clostridium sporogenes (surrogate model) inoculated in mortadella prepared with 50 parts per million NaNO2. The effects on the technological (pH, water activity, and color) and sensory characteristics of the product were also evaluated. The combinations of EOs and their nanoemulsions showed sporicidal effects on the endospores of both tested microorganisms, with no counts observed from the 10th day of analysis. Furthermore, bacteriostatic effects on the studied microorganisms were observed. Regarding the technological and sensorial characteristics of the product, the addition of the combined EOs had a negative impact on the color of the mortadella and on the flavor/aroma. Despite the strong commercial appeal of adding natural preservatives to foods, the effects on flavor and color must be considered. Given the importance of controlling C. botulinum in this type of product, as well as the reduction in the amount of NaNO2 used, this combination of EOs represents a promising antimicrobial alternative to this preservative, encouraging further research in this direction.
Collapse
|
20
|
Mozaffarian D, Aspry KE, Garfield K, Kris-Etherton P, Seligman H, Velarde GP, Williams K, Yang E. "Food Is Medicine" Strategies for Nutrition Security and Cardiometabolic Health Equity: JACC State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:843-864. [PMID: 38383100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
"Food Is Medicine" (FIM) represents a spectrum of food-based interventions integrated into health care for patients with specific health conditions and often social needs. Programs include medically tailored meals, groceries, and produce prescriptions, with varying levels of nutrition and culinary education. Supportive advances include expanded care pathways and payment models, e-screening for food and nutrition security, and curricular and accreditation requirements for medical nutrition education. Evidence supports positive effects of FIM on food insecurity, diet quality, glucose control, hypertension, body weight, disease self-management, self-perceived physical and mental health, and cost-effectiveness or cost savings. However, most studies to date are quasiexperimental or pre/post interventions; larger randomized trials are ongoing. New national and local programs and policies are rapidly accelerating FIM within health care. Remaining research gaps require rigorous, iterative evaluation. Successful incorporation of FIM into health care will require multiparty partnerships to assess, optimize, and scale these promising treatments to advance health and health equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dariush Mozaffarian
- Food is Medicine Institute, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Karen E Aspry
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kathryn Garfield
- Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation, Harvard Law School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Gladys P Velarde
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Kim Williams
- University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Eugene Yang
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dias MI, Corrêa RCG, Steinmacher NC, Pinela J, Pereira C. Editorial: Emerging unconventional plants for derived food products and ingredients. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1373439. [PMID: 38463941 PMCID: PMC10920297 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1373439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Dias
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para a Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Rúbia C. G. Corrêa
- Post-Graduate Program in Clean Technologies, Cesumar Institute for Science, Technology and Innovation—ICETI, Cesumar University—UNICESUMAR, Maringá, Brazil
| | | | - José Pinela
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para a Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Carla Pereira
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para a Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li J, Xiao Q, Wu H, Li J. Unpacking the Global Rice Trade Network: Centrality, Structural Holes, and the Nexus of Food Insecurity. Foods 2024; 13:604. [PMID: 38397581 PMCID: PMC10887519 DOI: 10.3390/foods13040604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The challenging international landscape and exacerbated extreme weather conditions contribute to the instability of global grain trade, complicating its impact on food security. This complexity is particularly pronounced for varieties like rice, which are heavily affected by policy-driven trade restrictions. There is insufficient research on how a country's rice trade characteristics affect food security. A network analysis approach is adopted to intricately dissect the structural characteristics of rice trade. To explore causality with food insecurity, this paper chooses structural holes and centrality as representatives of trade network characteristics and regresses them on the food insecurity indicator. With cross-national data spanning over 30 years, the network analysis provides a clear portrayal of the dynamic changes in international rice trade. The overall resilience of the trade network has increased, but specific countries' vulnerability has also risen. Unlike the changing trends in features observed in grain and food trade networks, there is a notable intensification in the imbalance of power distribution in the rice trade network compared to over 30 years ago. The panel data regression results show that constraint, indicating the scarcity of structural holes or connections to stronger trading partners, significantly and positively influences a country's level of food insecurity. Based on these findings, the policy proposal for importing countries emphasizes creating strategic trade connections. By choosing appropriate trade partners that reduce constraint, food security can be enhanced, even without improvements in other conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Li
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; (J.L.); (Q.X.); (H.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-Arid Arable Land in Northern China, The Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qin Xiao
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; (J.L.); (Q.X.); (H.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-Arid Arable Land in Northern China, The Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Haixia Wu
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; (J.L.); (Q.X.); (H.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-Arid Arable Land in Northern China, The Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jianping Li
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; (J.L.); (Q.X.); (H.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Arid and Semi-Arid Arable Land in Northern China, The Institute of Agricultural Resources and Regional Planning, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nwanna E, Ojo R, Shafiq N, Ali A, Okello E, Oboh G. An In Silico In Vitro and In Vivo Study on the Influence of an Eggplant Fruit ( Solanum anguivi Lam) Diet on Metabolic Dysfunction in the Sucrose-Induced Diabetic-like Fruit Fly ( Drosophila melanogaster). Foods 2024; 13:559. [PMID: 38397536 PMCID: PMC10888091 DOI: 10.3390/foods13040559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Africa faces immense food and health insecurity challenges, a problem partly attributed to food loss and waste during postharvest handling and distribution. In the context of research to meet the sustainable development goals, this project specifically addressed the postharvest loss of the ripe indigenous eggplant (Solanum anguivi lam) fruit called "Igba Yinrin" by Yoruba in South-West Nigeria, which is usually discarded in farms. The study was carried out on ripe and unripe fruits to better understand their value by comparing their effects in diabetes treatment. Methods: The study sought to assess the effects of a diet including ripe or unripe mature eggplant fruits in the sucrose-induced diabetic-like fruit fly. Bioactive compounds were identified and quantified with HPLC-UV, while the antioxidant vitamin (A, C, E), carotenoid, and mineral (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, P, and Zn) content was analyzed in the fruits. Extracts were used to investigate their in vitro anti-inflammatory properties on cyclooxygenases (COX 1 and 2), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), and anti-diabetes enzymes [α-amylase and α-glucosidase], while extract-supplemented diets (0.25-1% concentration) were fed to the fruit flies for 14 days. Results: Interestingly, the results showed that the ripe fruits had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher total phenol and flavonoid content, as well as a higher content of vitamins, carotenoids, and minerals, than the unripe fruits. The in vivo activities of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione transferase (GST)] and the total thiol level increased, while the blood glucose, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased in Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly). An in silico docking analysis showed strong binding affinity of the above-mentioned enzymes under investigation with the ligands hesperidin, naringin, and myricetin, which are bioactive compounds contained in the examined extracts. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in the biological effects of the ripe and unripe fruit extracts on inflammatory and anti-diabetes enzyme activities, which means that the ripe fruit, usually discarded, could serve as a sustainable alternative source of food nutrients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Nwanna
- Functional Foods and Nutraceutical Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure 340252, Nigeria
- Veterinary Medicine Teaching and Research Center, University of California, Tulare, CA 93274, USA
| | - Roseline Ojo
- Functional Foods and Nutraceutical Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure 340252, Nigeria
| | - Nusrat Shafiq
- Synthetic & Natural Product Discovery Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Government College Women University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Awais Ali
- Department of Biochemistry, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Emmanuel Okello
- Veterinary Medicine Teaching and Research Center, University of California, Tulare, CA 93274, USA
| | - Ganiyu Oboh
- Functional Foods and Nutraceutical Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure 340252, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Panwar V, Bakkeren G. Editorial: Plant genomics and pathogenomics: from technology to application in improving crop disease resistance. Front Plant Sci 2024; 15:1349113. [PMID: 38410730 PMCID: PMC10895055 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1349113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Panwar
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, India
| | - Guus Bakkeren
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Summerland, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ejiohuo O, Onyeaka H, Unegbu KC, Chikezie OG, Odeyemi OA, Lawal A, Odeyemi OA. Nourishing the Mind: How Food Security Influences Mental Wellbeing. Nutrients 2024; 16:501. [PMID: 38398825 PMCID: PMC10893396 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Food insecurity is a significant public health problem worldwide and critical to mental health. There is a complex relationship between food security and mental health. We carried out a narrative review study aiming to address how food insecurity impacts mental wellbeing by focusing on the mental health repercussions of food insecurity, recognizing its pivotal role in attaining Sustainable Development Goals 2 (on hunger) and 3 (on enhancing global wellbeing). A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar, incorporating Google searches for pertinent reports and policy documents. To address these questions, we emphasized and elucidated the interconnectedness between food security and mental health. The review shows that food security and mental health share a profound relationship influenced by multifaceted factors like socioeconomic conditions, access to nutritious food, and societal inequalities. We then provide recommendations for integrating food security into mental health strategies based on the insights and conclusions drawn. Strategies ranging from sustainable farming practices to urban agriculture initiatives and digital mental health services demonstrate avenues for enhancing food safety and mental wellbeing. This highlights the need for collaborative interdisciplinary efforts and systemic reforms to address these interconnected challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ovinuchi Ejiohuo
- Department of Psychiatric Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Bukowska 70, 60-812 Poznan, Poland
| | - Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kingsley C. Unegbu
- Department of Vegetable Crops, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-594 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Obinna G. Chikezie
- Department of Seed Science and Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 62-081 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Omowale A. Odeyemi
- College of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile Ife 220005, Osun, Nigeria;
| | - Adebola Lawal
- Hospital Management Board, Government House and Protocol Clinic, Akure 340283, Ondo, Nigeria;
| | - Olumide A. Odeyemi
- Office of Research Services, Research Division, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Galanakis CM. The Future of Food. Foods 2024; 13:506. [PMID: 38397483 PMCID: PMC10887894 DOI: 10.3390/foods13040506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The global food systems face significant challenges driven by population growth, climate change, geopolitical conflicts, crises, and evolving consumer preferences. Intending to address these challenges, optimizing food production, adopting sustainable practices, and developing technological advancements are essential while ensuring the safety and public acceptance of innovations. This review explores the complex aspects of the future of food, encompassing sustainable food production, food security, climate-resilient and digitalized food supply chain, alternative protein sources, food processing, and food technology, the impact of biotechnology, cultural diversity and culinary trends, consumer health and personalized nutrition, and food production within the circular bioeconomy. The article offers a holistic perspective on the evolving food industry characterized by innovation, adaptability, and a shared commitment to global food system resilience. Achieving sustainable, nutritious, and environmentally friendly food production in the future involves comprehensive changes in various aspects of the food supply chain, including innovative farming practices, evolving food processing technologies, and Industry 4.0 applications, as well as approaches that redefine how we consume food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charis M. Galanakis
- Research & Innovation Department, Galanakis Laboratories, 73131 Chania, Greece;
- College of Science, Taif University, Taif 26571, Saudi Arabia
- Food Waste Recovery Group, ISEKI Food Association, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Biguezoton AS, Ilboudo GS, Wieland B, Sawadogo RWY, Dah FF, Sidibe CAK, Zoungrana A, Okoth E, Dione M. Molecular Epidemiology of Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus in West Africa: Is Lineage IV Replacing Lineage II in Burkina Faso? Viruses 2024; 16:244. [PMID: 38400020 PMCID: PMC10891519 DOI: 10.3390/v16020244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at investigating the genetic lineages of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) currently circulating in Burkina Faso. As part of PPR surveillance in 2021 and 2022, suspected outbreaks in different regions were investigated. A risk map was produced to determine high-risk areas for PPR transmission. Based on alerts, samples were obtained from three regions and all sampled localities were confirmed to fall within PPR high risk areas. We collected swab samples from the eyes, mouth, and nose of sick goats. Some tissue samples were also collected from dead animals suspected to be infected by PPRV. In total, samples from 28 goats were analysed. Virus confirmation was performed with RT-PCR amplification targeting the nucleocapsid (N) gene. Partial N gene sequencing (350 bp) was carried out using the RT-PCR products of positives samples to characterise the circulating lineages. Eleven sequences, including ten new sequences, have been obtained. Our study identified the presence of the PPRV lineage IV in the three studied regions in Burkina Faso with a genetic heterogeneity recorded for the sequences analysed. Previously published data and results of this study suggest that PPRV lineage IV seems to be replacing lineage II in Burkina Faso.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abel S. Biguezoton
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l’Elevage en Zone Subhumide (CIRDES), Unité de Recherche Maladies à Vecteurs et Biodiversité (UMaVeB), Bobo-Dioulasso 01 BP 454, Burkina Faso
| | - Guy Sidwatta Ilboudo
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Ouagadougou 01 BP 1496, Burkina Faso
| | - Barbara Wieland
- Institute of Virology and Immunology (IVI), 3147 Mittelhausern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rahinata W-Y. Sawadogo
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l’Elevage en Zone Subhumide (CIRDES), Unité de Recherche Maladies à Vecteurs et Biodiversité (UMaVeB), Bobo-Dioulasso 01 BP 454, Burkina Faso
| | - Fairou F. Dah
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l’Elevage en Zone Subhumide (CIRDES), Unité de Recherche Maladies à Vecteurs et Biodiversité (UMaVeB), Bobo-Dioulasso 01 BP 454, Burkina Faso
| | - Cheick A. K. Sidibe
- Service Diagnostic et Recherche, Laboratoire Central Vétérinaire (LCV), Bamako BP 2295, Mali
| | - Adrien Zoungrana
- Centre International de Recherche-Développement sur l’Elevage en Zone Subhumide (CIRDES), Unité de Recherche Maladies à Vecteurs et Biodiversité (UMaVeB), Bobo-Dioulasso 01 BP 454, Burkina Faso
| | - Edward Okoth
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Michel Dione
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Dakar BP 24265, Senegal
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Hussain MM, Niazi NK, Bibi I, Ali F, Al-Misned F, Hussain K, Shahid M, Rehman A, Wang H. Unveiling the significance of foliar-applied silicon, selenium and phosphorus for the management and remediation of arsenic in two different rice genotypes. Int J Phytoremediation 2024; 26:294-303. [PMID: 37493366 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2023.2240448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Under paddy soil conditions, rice plants are vulnerable to arsenic (As) accumulation, thus causing potential threat to human health. Here we investigated the influence of foliar-applied phosphorus (P: 10 and 20 mg L-1), silicon (Si: 0.6 and 1.5 g L-1) and selenium (Se: 5 and 10 mg L-1) on As accumulation, morphological and physiological attributes of two contrasting rice genotypes (KSK-133 and Super Basmati) under As stress (25 mg kg-1 as arsenate). Silicon foliar dressing significantly (p < 0.05) reduced grain As uptake (up to 67%) and improved rice growth and chlorophyll content (28-66%) in both rice genotypes over their controls. Phosphorus foliar application resulted in a notable decrease (17%) in grain As uptake of coarse rice genotype (KSK-133), while it slightly increased grain As uptake in the fine one (Super Basmati; 6%) compared to controls. However, foliar-applied Se did not show significant effects on rice plants growth attributes and As uptake in both genotypes. Similarly, biochemical and enzymatic attributes (i.e., lipid peroxidation, electrolyte leakage, peroxidase and catalase) were improved with Si application in rice plants, except for P treatment that was only effective for coarse one. Foliar-applied Si also resulted in reduced cancer risk and hazard quotient (< 0.10) for both rice genotypes. This study advances our understanding on critical role of different foliar-applied nutrients and rice genotypes, which is imperative to develop effective As remediation and management strategies in coarse and fine rice genotypes and protect human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Mahroz Hussain
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Nabeel Khan Niazi
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Irshad Bibi
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Fawad Ali
- Centre of Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan Campus (4111), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF), Mareeba (4880), QLD, Australia
| | - Fahad Al-Misned
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Hussain
- Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahid
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Vehari Campus, Vehari, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Hailong Wang
- Biochar Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yao Z, Guo H, Wang Y, Zhan Y, Zhang T, Wang R, Zheng X, Butterbach-Bahl K. A global meta-analysis of yield-scaled N 2 O emissions and its mitigation efforts for maize, wheat, and rice. Glob Chang Biol 2024; 30:e17177. [PMID: 38348630 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.17177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining or even increasing crop yields while reducing nitrous oxide (N2 O) emissions is necessary to reconcile food security and climate change, while the metric of yield-scaled N2 O emission (i.e., N2 O emissions per unit of crop yield) is at present poorly understood. Here we conducted a global meta-analysis with more than 6000 observations to explore the variation patterns and controlling factors of yield-scaled N2 O emissions for maize, wheat and rice and associated potential mitigation options. Our results showed that the average yield-scaled N2 O emissions across all available data followed the order wheat (322 g N Mg-1 , with the 95% confidence interval [CI]: 301-346) > maize (211 g N Mg-1 , CI: 198-225) > rice (153 g N Mg-1 , CI: 144-163). Yield-scaled N2 O emissions for individual crops were generally higher in tropical or subtropical zones than in temperate zones, and also showed a trend towards lower intensities from low to high latitudes. This global variation was better explained by climatic and edaphic factors than by N fertilizer management, while their combined effect predicted more than 70% of the variance. Furthermore, our analysis showed a significant decrease in yield-scaled N2 O emissions with increasing N use efficiency or in N2 O emissions for production systems with cereal yields >10 Mg ha-1 (maize), 6.6 Mg ha-1 (wheat) or 6.8 Mg ha-1 (rice), respectively. This highlights that N use efficiency indicators can be used as valuable proxies for reconciling trade-offs between crop production and N2 O mitigation. For all three major staple crops, reducing N fertilization by up to 30%, optimizing the timing and placement of fertilizer application or using enhanced-efficiency N fertilizers significantly reduced yield-scaled N2 O emissions at similar or even higher cereal yields. Our data-driven assessment provides some key guidance for developing effective and targeted mitigation and adaptation strategies for the sustainable intensification of cereal production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhisheng Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
- College of Earth and Planetary Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Haojie Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
- College of Earth and Planetary Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yang Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
- College of Earth and Planetary Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Tianli Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xunhua Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
- College of Earth and Planetary Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Klaus Butterbach-Bahl
- State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
- Institute for Meteorology and Climate Research, Atmospheric Environmental Research, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
- Pioneer Center Land-CRAFT, Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Thomson JL, Landry AS, Walls TI. Direct and Indirect Effects of Food and Nutrition Security on Dietary Choice and Healthfulness of Food Choice: Causal Mediation Analysis. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102081. [PMID: 38328776 PMCID: PMC10847738 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Links between diet and food security are well established, but less is known about how food and nutrition security affect a household's ability to decide what to consume. Objectives This study's purpose was to quantify and compare causal pathways from 1) food and nutrition security to perceived dietary choice and 2) food and nutrition security to perceived healthfulness of food choice while testing for mediation by perceived limited availability of foods and utilization barriers to healthful meals. Methods Causal mediation analysis was conducted using an observational data set. Exposures included food insecurity and nutrition insecurity; mediators included perceived limited availability and utilization barriers; outcomes included perceived dietary choice and healthfulness choice; covariates included income and education. Results Dietary choice (range 0-4) was 0.9 to 1.1 points lower for participants with food/nutrition insecurity compared with participants with food/nutrition security (direct effects). Neither mediation nor moderation by perceived limited availability were present. Seventeen percent and 11 %, respectively, of the effects of food and nutrition security on dietary choice could be contributed to utilization barriers (mediation). Moderation by utilization barriers was present only for nutrition security (differences in dietary choice only present when barriers were low). Healthfulness choice (range 0-4) was 0.6 to 0.7 points lower for participants with food/nutrition insecurity compared with participants with food/nutrition security (direct effects). Mediation by perceived limited availability and utilization barriers was not present. Moderation was present only for nutrition security (differences in healthfulness choice only present when perceived limited availability was low; differences in healthfulness choice only present when barriers were low). Conclusions Food and nutrition security affect food choices, with utilization barriers acting as an intermediary step. When environmental and household utilization barriers to healthful food purchasing and preparation are high, the ability to decide what to consume does not differ between households with nutrition security and those with nutrition insecurity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Thomson
- Delta Human Nutrition Research Program, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Stoneville, MS, United States
| | - Alicia S Landry
- Department of Nutrition and Family Sciences, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, AR, United States
| | - Tameka I Walls
- Delta Human Nutrition Research Program, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Stoneville, MS, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Julceus EF, Frongillo EA, Mendoza JA, Sauder KA, Malik FS, Jensen ET, Dolan LM, Bellatorre A, Dabelea D, Reboussin BA, Reynolds K, Pihoker C, Liese AD. Self-Reported Food Security in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: Association with Hemoglobin A 1c and Mental Health Symptoms Independent of Household Food Security. J Nutr 2024; 154:543-553. [PMID: 38072157 PMCID: PMC10900134 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Typically, child exposure to food insecurity is assessed by caregiver reports of household food security. Child report has the potential for greater accuracy because it pertains only to the child whose experiences may differ from caregiver reports. OBJECTIVE We assessed if adolescent-reported food insecurity was associated with levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), acute diabetes-related complications, depressive symptoms, and disordered eating behaviors in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, independently from household food security. METHODS In a cross-sectional analysis of the multicenter SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Cohort Study (phase 4, 2016-2019) including 601 adolescents aged 10-17 y with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers, household food security, and adolescent-reported food security were assessed using the 18-item Household Food Security Survey Module and the 6-item Child Food Security Assessment questionnaire. Age-stratified (10-13 and 14-17) regression models were performed to estimate independent associations, adjusting for sociodemographics, clinical factors, and household food security. RESULTS Food insecurity was reported by 13.1% (n = 79) of adolescents and 15.6% (n = 94) of caregivers. Among adolescent-caregiver dyads, 82.5% (n = 496) of reports were concordant and 17.5% (n = 105) discordant, Cohen's κ= 0.3. Adolescent-reported food insecurity was not independently associated with HbA1c, diabetic ketoacidosis, and severe hypoglycemia, including in age-stratified analyses. Adolescent-reported food insecurity was independently associated with elevated odds of depressive symptoms [odds ratio (OR): 3.6; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.3, 10.3] and disordered eating behaviors (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.4, 4.6) compared with adolescents reporting food security; these associations remained in both age groups for disordered eating behaviors and in the older group for depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with type 1 diabetes may experience food insecurity differently than caregivers. Adolescent-reported food insecurity was independently associated with depressive symptoms and disordered eating behaviors and thus may be an important attribute to assess in addition to household food security in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel F Julceus
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jason A Mendoza
- Fred Hutch Cancer Center, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Katherine A Sauder
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD Center), Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Faisal S Malik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Elizabeth T Jensen
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Lawrence M Dolan
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Anna Bellatorre
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD Center), Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Dana Dabelea
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD Center), Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Beth A Reboussin
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Kristi Reynolds
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Catherine Pihoker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Angela D Liese
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Orkin S, Zhao X, Setchell KDR, Carr E, Arce-Clachar AC, Bramlage K, Huang R, Fei L, Beck AF, Fawaz R, Valentino PL, Xanthakos SA, Mouzaki M. Food Insecurity and Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Severity. J Pediatr 2024; 265:113818. [PMID: 37931698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the association between food insecurity and pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS Cross-sectional study of patients < 21 years of age with histologically confirmed NAFLD. The Household Food Security Survey Module was administered to determine food insecurity status. Skin lipidomics were performed to explore pathophysiologic mechanisms. RESULTS Seventy-three patients with histologically confirmed NAFLD completed the Household Food Security Survey Module. Of these, the majority were male (81%) and non-Hispanic (53%), with a mean age at biopsy of 13 ± 3 years. Food insecurity was seen in 42% (n = 31). Comparison of features between food insecure and food secure subgroups revealed no differences in sex, ethnicity, BMI z-score, aminotransferases, or histologic severity. However, children experiencing food insecurity presented on average 2 years before their food secure counterparts (12.3 ± 3.0 vs 14.4 ± 3.6 years, P = .015). A subset of 31 patients provided skin samples. Skin lipidomics revealed that food insecurity was associated with down-regulated features from the lipoamino acid class of lipids, previously linked to inflammation and adipocyte differentiation. CONCLUSIONS Food insecurity is highly prevalent in children with NAFLD and is associated with earlier presentation. Lipidomic analyses suggest a possible pathophysiologic link that warrants further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Orkin
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Xueheng Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH; Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Kenneth D R Setchell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH; Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Emily Carr
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, New Haven, CT
| | - Ana Catalina Arce-Clachar
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Kristin Bramlage
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Rong Huang
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Lin Fei
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH; Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Andrew F Beck
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH; James M. Anderson Center for Health Systems Excellence, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Rima Fawaz
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, New Haven, CT; Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Pamela L Valentino
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Stavra A Xanthakos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Marialena Mouzaki
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Almajed OS, Aljouie AA, Alharbi MS, Alsulaimi LM. The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Pediatric Oral Health: A Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e53567. [PMID: 38445162 PMCID: PMC10914081 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This narrative review examines the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on pediatric oral health, emphasizing disparities in dental caries prevalence and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among children from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Utilizing an extensive literature search through PubMed, Google Scholar, and the chat.consensus.app plugin, we synthesized findings from studies published up to December 2023. The review highlights a consistent association between lower SES and adverse pediatric oral health outcomes, influenced by parental education, household income, food security, and neighborhood conditions. It also underscores the importance of the life-course perspective, showing how early-life socioeconomic disadvantages can have long-lasting effects on oral health. Furthermore, the review points to the critical role of school-based oral health education programs and the complex interplay between mental health, SES, and pediatric oral health. By examining the impact of socioeconomic factors across different childhood stages and the effectiveness of educational interventions, this review calls for targeted interventions and policy initiatives aimed at reducing socioeconomic inequalities in pediatric oral health. The findings advocate for a multifaceted approach to improve oral health outcomes for children across socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring equitable access to oral health care and promoting overall well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar S Almajed
- Pediatric Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, SAU
- Dental Public Health, King's College London, London, GBR
| | - Alhareth A Aljouie
- Pediatric Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, SAU
| | - Mayar S Alharbi
- Pediatric Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, SAU
| | - Leenah M Alsulaimi
- Pediatric Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, SAU
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Islam MR, Garcia SC, Islam MA, Bashar MK, Roy A, Roy BK, Sarker NR, Clark CEF. Ruminant Production from Napier Grass ( Pennisetum purpureum Schum): A Review. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:467. [PMID: 38338109 PMCID: PMC10854711 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) supports a significant proportion of animal production in subtropical and tropical regions, but its quality is low and when offered alone, results in low ruminant production. Shifting the management of Napier grass towards a higher-quality feed increased milk yield and liveweight gain for small, mature cattle without supplementation. This review highlights the opportunity for further increases in milk and meat production for differing classes of livestock in the tropics and subtropics by improving the nutritive value of Napier grass using new best management practice flowing on to improve food security for the millions of people in these regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Rafiqul Islam
- Livestock Production and Welfare Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia; (M.R.I.); (S.C.G.)
- Dairy Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Sergio C. Garcia
- Livestock Production and Welfare Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia; (M.R.I.); (S.C.G.)
- Dairy Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - Md. Ashraful Islam
- Department of Dairy Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Babuganj, Barishal 8210, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Khairul Bashar
- Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh; (M.K.B.); (B.K.R.)
| | - Anamika Roy
- Department of Livestock Services, Krishi Khamar Sarak, Farmgate, Dhaka 1215, Bangladesh;
| | - Biplob Kumer Roy
- Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh; (M.K.B.); (B.K.R.)
| | - Nathu Ram Sarker
- Krishi Gobeshona Foundation, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council Complex, Farmgate, Dhaka 1215, Bangladesh;
| | - Cameron Edward Fisher Clark
- Livestock Production and Welfare Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia; (M.R.I.); (S.C.G.)
- Dairy Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ngoma TN, Monjerezi M, Leslie JF, Mvumi BM, Harvey JJ, Matumba L. Comparative utility of hermetic and conventional grain storage bags for smallholder farmers: a meta-analysis. J Sci Food Agric 2024; 104:561-571. [PMID: 37607216 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.12934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Postharvest management is critical to attaining household food, nutrition, and income security. Hermetic grain storage bags offer an effective pesticide-free way to protect stored grain against fungal and insect infestation. We evaluated articles indexed in the Web of Science that included experiments comparing the storage efficacy of conventional and hermetic storage bags based on grain germination rate, insect infestation, physical damage, mycotoxin contamination, and changes in weight and moisture content. Compared with grain stored in hermetic bags, grain stored in conventional bags lost 3.6-fold more seed viability, contained 42-fold more insects, had 11-fold more physical damage, and lost 23-fold more grain weight, while grain moisture levels were similar for both hermetic and conventional storage bags. Mycotoxin contamination levels were not as frequently assessed. Levels could be low in grain stored in both types of bags, or levels could be low in hermetic bags and significantly higher in conventional bags. The improved properties of grain stored in hermetic bags can increase food security and household income by providing safe storage options for maintaining seed germinability, and for consumption and/or sale when food supplies are high, or when prices are low. Hermetic bags are economically feasible for use by subsistence farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa for grain for household consumption and for carrying-over seed for planting in the next season. Additional studies are needed to verify the mycotoxin contamination results and to determine if there are differences in functional food characteristics, e.g. flavor and cooking properties, that have not been as comprehensively studied. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theresa N Ngoma
- Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Lilongwe, Malawi
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Maurice Monjerezi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
- Centre for Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS), University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - John F Leslie
- Department of Plant Pathology, Throckmorton Plant Sciences Center, Kansas State University, Kansas, USA
| | - Brighton M Mvumi
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jagger Jw Harvey
- Department of Plant Pathology, Throckmorton Plant Sciences Center, Kansas State University, Kansas, USA
- Feed the Future Innovation Lab for the Reduction of Post-Harvest Loss, Kansas State University, Kansas, USA
| | - Limbikani Matumba
- Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Lilongwe, Malawi
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Orjiakor EC. Nurturing Food Security for All: Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 Social Protection Responses Among Vulnerable Population Groups in Nigeria. Ecol Food Nutr 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38276988 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2024.2307434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
This study examines the impact of government and humanitarian interventions during COVID-19 on food security among vulnerable populations in Nigeria. Data from a survey conducted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in July 2020 was used, with a sample of 4,833 households drawn from various vulnerable groups such as refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Using matching methods, the results indicate that targeted support initiatives helped alleviate immediate food insecurity challenges during the pandemic. This underscores the significance of focused interventions in mitigating the adverse impact of economic shocks on food security for vulnerable populations.
Collapse
|
37
|
El Bilali H, Ben Hassen T. Regional Agriculture and Food Systems Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of the Near East and North Africa Region. Foods 2024; 13:297. [PMID: 38254598 PMCID: PMC10815245 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected agri-food systems worldwide. However, while the impacts differed from one country/region to another, the scholarly literature seems to focus on developed countries in the Global North. Consequently, this review scrutinizes the literature on the pandemic's impacts in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. A search on the Web of Science in March 2023 generated 334 documents, of which 151 were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. According to the bibliometric analysis, the most active nations are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon. In general, the coverage of studies is better in the Gulf region than in the less developed countries of North Africa and those suffering from wars (cf. Libya, Syria, and Yemen). Studies generally focus on crop production and the downstream food chain (cf. distribution and consumption). While the pandemic influenced every pillar of food security, this research concentrates on access and utilization. Meanwhile, the lion's share of the literature deals with the pandemic's socio-economic effects, especially those linked to food (in)security and health. The pandemic, which laid bare the agri-food system vulnerabilities, should be seized to foster the transition towards more resilient agri-food systems in the NENA region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid El Bilali
- International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM-Bari), Via Ceglie 9, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Ben Hassen
- Program of Policy, Planning, and Development, Department of International Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Thompson C, Ortmann AC, Makhalanyane T, Thompson F. Leveraging marine biotechnology for an All-Atlantic sustainable blue economy. Trends Biotechnol 2024:S0167-7799(23)00367-0. [PMID: 38233231 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Despite the lack of research, development, and innovation funds, especially in South Atlantic countries, the Atlantic is suited to supporting a sustainable marine bioeconomy. Novel low-carbon mariculture systems can provide food security, new drugs, and climate mitigation. We suggest how to develop this sustainable marine bioeconomy across the entire Atlantic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice C Ortmann
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Thulani Makhalanyane
- Department of Microbiology, School of Data Science and Computational Thinking, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Fabiano Thompson
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Sekoai PT, Roets-Dlamini Y, O’Brien F, Ramchuran S, Chunilall V. Valorization of Food Waste into Single-Cell Protein: An Innovative Technological Strategy for Sustainable Protein Production. Microorganisms 2024; 12:166. [PMID: 38257991 PMCID: PMC10819637 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapidly increasing population and climate change pose a great threat to our current food systems. Moreover, the high usage of animal-based and plant-based protein has its drawbacks, as these nutritional sources require many hectares of land and water, are affected by seasonal variations, are costly, and contribute to environmental pollution. Single-cell proteins (SCPs) are gaining a lot of research interest due to their remarkable properties, such as their high protein content that is comparable with other protein sources; low requirements for land and water; low carbon footprint; and short production period. This review explores the use of food waste as a sustainable feedstock for the advancement of SCP processes. It discusses SCP studies that exploit food waste as a substrate, alongside the biocatalysts (bacteria, fungi, yeast, and microalgae) that are used. The operational setpoint conditions governing SCP yields and SCP fermentation routes are elucidated as well. This review also demonstrates how the biorefinery concept is implemented in the literature to improve the economic potential of "waste-to-protein" innovations, as this leads to the establishment of multiproduct value chains. A short section that discusses the South African SCP scenario is also included. The technical and economic hurdles facing second-generation SCP processes are also discussed, together with future perspectives. Therefore, SCP technologies could play a crucial role in the acceleration of a "sustainable protein market", and in tackling the global hunger crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T. Sekoai
- Biorefinery Industry Development Facility, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Yrielle Roets-Dlamini
- Bioprocessing Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (Y.R.-D.); (F.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Frances O’Brien
- Bioprocessing Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (Y.R.-D.); (F.O.); (S.R.)
| | - Santosh Ramchuran
- Bioprocessing Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (Y.R.-D.); (F.O.); (S.R.)
- School of Life Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Viren Chunilall
- Biorefinery Industry Development Facility, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- Discipline of Chemical Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Atoloye AT, Akinsola O, Murillo M. Examining Factors Associated with the Use of Community Food Resources: An Application of the Andersen Model to Inform Future Interventions. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:76. [PMID: 38248540 PMCID: PMC10815130 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The role of the food environment in shaping nutrition and health has gained substantial attention from policymakers, public health researchers, and advocacy groups. To promote equities in food access and nutrition outcomes, understanding factors linked with the utilization of local community food resources is crucial. Using Andersen's service utilization model, we explained how adults use their neighborhood food resources. In a cross-sectional study design, an online survey was conducted in REDCap Version 13.4.0 via the Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) involving 1830 adults with a mean age of 37.9 ± 12.1 years. Participants answered questions on predisposing, enabling, and need factors that influence their use of different community food resources. The predisposing factors that were statistically significant included age, family size, marital status, race, and ethnicity. The enabling factors included travel time, travel mode, income, and shopping decision motivators (such as being able to use Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) vouchers, delivery services, great sales, and coupons). Food security and community food resources need for lower food price were the significant need factors. However, these factors vary by the types of food resources. In conclusion, enhancing the utilization of community-based food access initiatives and programs among underserved families requires consideration of family composition, racial and ethnic diversity, and transportation access.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abiodun T. Atoloye
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ojuederie OB, Igwe DO, Ludidi NN, Ikhajiagbe B. Editorial: Neglected and underutilized crop species for sustainable food and nutritional security: prospects and hidden potential. Front Plant Sci 2024; 14:1358220. [PMID: 38264018 PMCID: PMC10803604 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1358220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Omena Bernard Ojuederie
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biotechnology Unit, Faculty of Science, Kings University, Ode-Omu, Osun, Nigeria
- Food Security and Safety Focus, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
| | - David Okeh Igwe
- Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Ndiko Ndomele Ludidi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Beckley Ikhajiagbe
- Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
So JTH, Nambiar S, Byrne R, Gallegos D, Baxter KA. Dads at Mealtimes: Associations between Food Security, Household and Work Chaos, and Paternal Feeding Practices among Australian Fathers Living with Disadvantage. Nutrients 2024; 16:205. [PMID: 38257098 PMCID: PMC10820457 DOI: 10.3390/nu16020205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding how fathers engage in feeding while experiencing disadvantage is important for family-focused interventions. A cross-sectional online survey involving 264 Australian fathers was conducted to explore feeding involvement and the relationships between feeding practices, food insecurity, and household and work chaos. Practices related to coercive control, structure, and autonomy support were measured for two age groups (<2 years and 2-5 years). Multivariable linear regression was used to examine the associations for each practice. Three-quarters of the sample were food insecure, impacting adults more than children, and correlated with household chaos. Food insecurity was associated with increased 'persuasive feeding' and 'parent-led feeding' in younger children. Household chaos was positively associated with coercive control practices in both younger and older child groups, with the strongest associations for 'using food to calm' and 'overt restriction', respectively. In older child groups, household chaos was negatively associated with 'offer new foods' and 'repeated presentation of new foods'. Structure practices had no significant relationships with any factors, and work chaos did not predict any feeding practices. These findings emphasize a need for societal and structural support to address food insecurity and household chaos. Tailored strategies are crucial to support fathers in responsive feeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T. H. So
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (S.N.); (R.B.); (D.G.); (K.A.B.)
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Smita Nambiar
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (S.N.); (R.B.); (D.G.); (K.A.B.)
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Rebecca Byrne
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (S.N.); (R.B.); (D.G.); (K.A.B.)
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Danielle Gallegos
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (S.N.); (R.B.); (D.G.); (K.A.B.)
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Kimberley A. Baxter
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (S.N.); (R.B.); (D.G.); (K.A.B.)
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kimhi A. Food Security in Israel: Challenges and Policies. Foods 2024; 13:187. [PMID: 38254488 PMCID: PMC10814053 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This article analyzes Israel's food security in comparison to other developed countries, using multiple indicators divided into four sections: food availability, food affordability, food quality and safety, and natural resources and resilience. Overall, the state of food security in Israel is better than in most countries, but the threats to food security arising from the triple risk of climate change, international conflicts, and disruptions in global supply chains, require better preparation for the future. Israel's population growth and the slowdown in the growth rate of its agricultural production, as well as the short-term political desire to reduce prices, are leading the country to increasingly rely on food imports. Such imports expose Israel to even greater global risks, and require the formulation of a risk-management strategy that will balance local production and imports. The global triple risk to food security is currently exacerbated for Israel by the risk of shortage of labor due to the security situation, making this risk-management strategy even more necessary. This calls for the establishment of a governmental authority to oversee the formulation of a long-term food-security strategy, to break it down into feasible objectives and policy measures, and to supervise their implementation. Most importantly, in order to maintain and perhaps even enhance the productive capacity of the agricultural sector, the government must reinstall trust between farmers and the state by establishing a stable long-term policy environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayal Kimhi
- Shoresh Institution for Socioeconomic Research, Kochav Yair 44864, Israel; or
- Department of Environmental Economics and Management, Institute of Environmental Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Janni M, Maestri E, Gullì M, Marmiroli M, Marmiroli N. Plant responses to climate change, how global warming may impact on food security: a critical review. Front Plant Sci 2024; 14:1297569. [PMID: 38250438 PMCID: PMC10796516 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1297569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Global agricultural production must double by 2050 to meet the demands of an increasing world human population but this challenge is further exacerbated by climate change. Environmental stress, heat, and drought are key drivers in food security and strongly impacts on crop productivity. Moreover, global warming is threatening the survival of many species including those which we rely on for food production, forcing migration of cultivation areas with further impoverishing of the environment and of the genetic variability of crop species with fall out effects on food security. This review considers the relationship of climatic changes and their bearing on sustainability of natural and agricultural ecosystems, as well as the role of omics-technologies, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, phenomics and ionomics. The use of resource saving technologies such as precision agriculture and new fertilization technologies are discussed with a focus on their use in breeding plants with higher tolerance and adaptability and as mitigation tools for global warming and climate changes. Nevertheless, plants are exposed to multiple stresses. This study lays the basis for the proposition of a novel research paradigm which is referred to a holistic approach and that went beyond the exclusive concept of crop yield, but that included sustainability, socio-economic impacts of production, commercialization, and agroecosystem management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Janni
- Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Bari, Italy
- Institute of Materials for Electronics and Magnetism (IMEM), National Research Council (CNR), Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Maestri
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Interdepartmental Centers SITEIA.PARMA and CIDEA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mariolina Gullì
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Interdepartmental Centers SITEIA.PARMA and CIDEA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marta Marmiroli
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Interdepartmental Centers SITEIA.PARMA and CIDEA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Nelson Marmiroli
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per le Scienze Ambientali (CINSA) Interuniversity Consortium for Environmental Sciences, Parma/Venice, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Thakur M, Modi VK, Feng S. Editorial: Food sustainability: challenges and opportunities for the future. Front Nutr 2024; 10:1341427. [PMID: 38249597 PMCID: PMC10796659 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1341427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Thakur
- Amity Institute of Food Technology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Vinod K. Modi
- Amity Institute of Food Technology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Simin Feng
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tadele Z, Farrant JM, Bull SE, Mumm RH. Editorial: Orphan crops: breeding and biotechnology for sustainable agriculture, food and nutrition. Front Plant Sci 2024; 14:1349215. [PMID: 38239211 PMCID: PMC10795503 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1349215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Zerihun Tadele
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jill M. Farrant
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Simon E. Bull
- Molecular Plant Breeding, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Plant Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular Plant Biology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rita H. Mumm
- African Orphan Crops Consortium, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, United States
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Walton S, Jessani NS, Jue‐Wong H, Hazel EA, Akseer N, Kante AM, Youssoufa O, Heidkamp R, Bamogo A, Amouzou A. Climate shocks and nutrition: The role of food security policies and programs in enhancing maternal and neonatal survival in Niger. Matern Child Nutr 2024; 20:e13566. [PMID: 37794716 PMCID: PMC10750024 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Niger is afflicted with high rates of poverty, high fertility rates, frequent environmental crises, and climate change. Recurrent droughts and floods have led to chronic food insecurity linked to poor maternal and neonatal nutrition outcomes in vulnerable regions. We analyzed maternal and neonatal nutrition trends and subnational variability between 2000 and 2021 with a focus on the implementation of policies and programs surrounding two acute climate shocks in 2005 and 2010. We used four sources of data: (a) national household surveys for maternal and newborn nutritional indicators allowing computation of trends and differences at national and regional levels; (b) document review of food security reports; (c) 30 key informant interviews and; (d) one focus group discussion. Many food security policies and nutrition programs were enacted from 2000 to 2020. Gains in maternal and neonatal nutrition indicators were more significant in targeted vulnerable regions of Maradi, Zinder, Tahoua and Tillabéri, from 2006 to 2021. However, poor access to financial resources for policy execution and suboptimal implementation of plans have hindered progress. In response to the chronic climate crisis over the last 20 years, the Nigerien government and program implementers have demonstrated their commitment to reducing food insecurity and enhancing resilience to climate shocks by adopting a deliberate multisectoral effort. However, there is more that can be achieved with a continued focus on vulnerable regions to build resilience, targeting high risk populations, and investing in infrastructure to improve health systems, food systems, agriculture systems, education systems, and social protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Walton
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Nasreen S. Jessani
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Centre for Evidence Based Health CareStellenbosch UniversityCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Heather Jue‐Wong
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Hazel
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Nadia Akseer
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Almamy Malick Kante
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | | | - Rebecca Heidkamp
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Assanatou Bamogo
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Agbessi Amouzou
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, International Health DepartmentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Munialo CD, Mellor DD. A review of the impact of social disruptions on food security and food choice. Food Sci Nutr 2024; 12:13-23. [PMID: 38268897 PMCID: PMC10804122 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
At times of severe social disruption, be that war, conflict, pandemic, or economic downturn, both the availability and consumption of healthy dietary patterns can be adversely affected with any effects often outlasting the initial social disruption. For instance, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and lockdown restrictions followed, households were reported to consume unhealthy diets. In some cases, this seemed to be a response to the situation and a coping mechanism. In contrast, in other cases, it was a consequence of limited food availability or access, with some communities finding that fresh foods became difficult to source due to the disruption in global supply chains. The example presented by the impact of conflict in Ukraine, which has also disrupted global food supply chains, at a macrolevel, food systems and at a microlevel, individual and community shows that food choices may respond to different global events in similar ways. Therefore, in this review, a range of events/disruptions are considered, beyond pandemics and wars, including climate disasters (e.g., fire, famine, and floods) that have been shown to impact food supply and consequently, food security. The importance of this can be seen as inadequate and nutritionally poor diets have a concomitant effect on health, which extends beyond the initial period of societal stress and disruption of food supply chains. Hence, the impact of such disruptions on consumer behavior which includes food choice needs to be corroborated. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the impact of such disruptions on consumer behavior and food choices. Additionally, this review provides some practical strategies that can be used to ensure the availability of healthy diets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire D. Munialo
- Food, Land and Agribusiness ManagementHarper Adams UniversityNewportUK
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Avenant-Oldewage A, Nagasawa K, Dos Santos QM, Oldewage WH. Pathology caused by introduced Neoergasilus japonicus (Copepoda: Ergasilidae) to the skin of indigenous Tilapia sparrmanii in South Africa and scanning electron microscopy study of wound-inflicting structures. J Fish Dis 2024; 47:e13867. [PMID: 37794617 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Neoergasilus japonicus, a fish ectoparasite indigenous to eastern and southern Asia, has been introduced to various regions, including Europe and North and South America, where it spreads at an alarming rate. The parasite is not host-specific. It was also collected from the Vaal-Orange and Limpopo river systems in South Africa. This report describes the morphology of the wound-inflecting structures in N. japonicus and relates their morphology to the pathological effect on Tilapia sparrmanii. Host tissue with parasites attached was imbedded in resin for histological sectioning and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Additional specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopy. Adult female parasites attach by inserting the hooked tips of the antennae into the epidermis. The maxillulae are minute but have sharp tips. The maxillae have sharp tips on the endopod and brush-like setae on the exopod. The mandibles are armed with sharp tips. These structures are used to remove the epidermis of the host and brush it into the buccal cavity. Host tissue in the intestine confirms that adult females consume host tissue leaving the dermis exposed to opportunistic diseases. The microscopic size of the parasite prevents casual observation, and its occurrence in Africa is, therefore, probably underreported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazuya Nagasawa
- Laboratory of Aquaculture, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | | | - Willie H Oldewage
- SPECTRUM Analytical Facility, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Moersdorf J, Rivers M, Denkenberger D, Breuer L, Jehn FU. The Fragile State of Industrial Agriculture: Estimating Crop Yield Reductions in a Global Catastrophic Infrastructure Loss Scenario. Glob Chall 2024; 8:2300206. [PMID: 38223898 PMCID: PMC10784200 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202300206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Modern civilization relies on a complex, globally interconnected industrial agriculture system to produce food. Its unprecedented yields hinge on external inputs like machinery, fertilizers, and pesticides, rendering it vulnerable to disruptions in production and international trade. Such a disruption could be caused by large-scale damage to the electrical grid. Solar storms, nuclear detonations in the upper atmosphere, pandemics, or cyber-attacks, could cause this severe damage to electrical infrastructure. To assess the impact of such a global catastrophic infrastructure loss on major food crops (corn, rice, soybean, wheat), we employ a generalized linear model. The predictions show a crop-specific yield reduction between 15% and 37% in phase 1, the year after the catastrophe, assuming rationed use of fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel stocks. In phase 2, when all stocks are depleted, yields decrease by 35%-48%. Soybean is less affected in phase 1, while all crops experience strong declines in phase 2. Europe, North and South America, and parts of India, China, and Indonesia face major yield reductions, potentially up to 75%, while most African countries are less affected. These findings underscore the necessity for preparation by highlighting the vulnerability of the food system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Moersdorf
- Institute for Landscape Ecology and Resources Management (ILR)Research Centre for BioSystemsLand Use and Nutrition (iFZ)Justus Liebig University GiessenHeinrich‐Buff‐Ring 2635390GiessenGermany
- Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters (ALLFED)LafayetteCO80026USA
| | - Morgan Rivers
- Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters (ALLFED)LafayetteCO80026USA
| | - David Denkenberger
- Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters (ALLFED)LafayetteCO80026USA
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of CanterburyChristchurchCanterbury8041New Zealand
| | - Lutz Breuer
- Institute for Landscape Ecology and Resources Management (ILR)Research Centre for BioSystemsLand Use and Nutrition (iFZ)Justus Liebig University GiessenHeinrich‐Buff‐Ring 2635390GiessenGermany
- Centre for International Development and Environmental Research (ZEU)Justus Liebig University GiessenSenckenbergstraße 335392GiessenGermany
| | - Florian Ulrich Jehn
- Institute for Landscape Ecology and Resources Management (ILR)Research Centre for BioSystemsLand Use and Nutrition (iFZ)Justus Liebig University GiessenHeinrich‐Buff‐Ring 2635390GiessenGermany
- Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters (ALLFED)LafayetteCO80026USA
| |
Collapse
|