Search Results (407)

This article presents the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a centimeter-scale autonomous robot that achieves bidirectional locomotion and trajectory control through 3D-printed resonators actuated by piezoelectricity and integrated with miniature legs. Building on previous works that employed piezoelectric bimorphs, the proposed system replaces them with custom-designed 3D-printed resonant plates that exploit the excitation of standing waves (SW) to generate motion. Each resonator is equipped with strategically positioned passive legs that convert vibratory energy into effective thrust, enabling both linear and rotational movement. A differential drive configuration, implemented through two independently actuated resonators, allows precise guidance and the execution of complex trajectories. The robot integrates onboard control electronics consisting of a microcontroller and inertial sensors, which enable closed-loop trajectory correction via a PD controller and allow autonomous navigation. The experimental results demonstrate high-precision motion control, achieving linear displacement speeds of 8.87 mm/s and a maximum angular velocity of 37.88°/s, while maintaining low power consumption and a compact form factor. Furthermore, the evaluation using the mean absolute error (MAE) yielded a value of 0.83° in trajectory tracking. This work advances the field of robotics and automatic control at the insect scale by integrating efficient piezoelectric actuation, additive manufacturing, and embedded sensing into a single autonomous platform capable of agile and programmable locomotion. Full article

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses a critical global health burden, necessitating safer multi-target therapies. We pioneer the exploration of novel bioactive peptides from Tenebrio molitor larvae—an underexplored, sustainable, and edible insect protein—through proteomics-guided screening and bioassays. Six unique peptides (DK-7, WK-6, GR-7, FK-8, SK-6, and DK-8) demonstrated significant α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory effects, and significant glucose consumption enhancement in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Molecular docking revealed a binding topology where peptides interacted with α-glucosidase at its active sites (Glu271, Arg643, Arg647, Arg653, Tyr733, Lys765, and Glu767) and with DPP-IV at active residues (Phe357, Tyr547, Trp629, Asp729, and Gln731) through dual hydrogen-bond networks and hydrophobic interactions, establishing a novel inhibition mechanism. We wish to propose that insect-derived biopeptides have potential value as next-generation therapeutics, simultaneously advancing sustainable drug discovery and approximating functional food bioresources to biomedicine. Full article

Light is a fundamental ecological cue for insects, influencing physiological rhythms and behavior. We investigated how varying light intensities affect locomotion and foraging in H. axyridis color morphs, and examined the role of visual opsins. Three adult female morphs were assayed under white light at 1000, 5000, and 10,000 lx. Higher light intensity significantly elevated body temperature and locomotor activity across morphs, with the inherently dark f. conspicua morph exhibiting the greatest increases. Predation rates on pea aphids trended upward with intensity but differed significantly by morph: f. conspicua beetles consistently consumed more prey than f. succinea. RNAi knockdown of the UV-sensitive opsin HaUVSop-2 significantly reduced the crawling distance of satiated beetles under 5000 lux white light. Correspondingly, supplementation of white light with blue light (short wave) enhanced movement, whereas red supplementation increased aphid consumption. These results suggest that Short-wavelength light has the potential to stimulate the dispersal of ladybirds, whereas long-wavelength light may enhance predation on prey by increasing microenvironment temperature or improving prey recognition. We conclude that light intensity and spectrum jointly modulate H. axyridis behavior in a morph-dependent manner, mediated in part by visual opsins. Melanic morphs leverage thermal melanism to gain higher activity under bright light, implying an evolved trade-off between dispersal and stress tolerance. Our findings have practical implications: tailored lighting (e.g., blue-enhanced illumination to stimulate predation and dispersal of H. axyridis) could improve biological control efficacy in agroecosystems. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigates how consumers decide to adopt alternative proteins—specifically insect-based, cultured meat, and plant-based options—as part of a transition towards environmentally sustainable diets. Building on an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), the analysis adds personal moral norms and environmental concerns to better capture the ethical and normative drivers of food choice. Methods: Survey data from 948 residents of the Campania region (southern Italy) were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to assess the relationship among classical TPB constructs, personal moral norms, environmental concerns, and behavioural intention towards alternative protein consumption. Results: Personal moral norms emerge as the strongest predictor of behavioural intention, directly and indirectly influencing attitudes and environmental concerns. Subjective norms also affect intention, primarily by reinforcing moral norms and perceived behavioural control, although their direct impact is not significant. Classical TPB constructs show limited direct effects. Conclusions: The findings suggest that consumers’ sustainable food intentions are more strongly shaped by moral identity and the surrounding social context than by attitudes alone. The evidence supports the development of culturally sensitive strategies designed to strengthen moral and normative motivations and foster the adoption of alternative proteins. Full article

The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit peel is an agro-industrial by-product rich in bioactive compounds. In this study, the bioactivity of pomegranate peels (cv. Ako) extracted with acetone, diethyl ether, and n-hexane was assessed by evaluating toxic (contact and ingestion), repellent, antifeedant, and nutritional effects towards Sitophilus granarius (L.) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) adults. Contact toxicity assays revealed significant mortality induced by the acetone and n-hexane extracts, with 24-h LD₅₀ values of 76.93 and 81.14 $\mathsf{\mu }$g/adult, respectively. In ingestion bioassays, at the highest dose tested (750 $\mathsf{\mu }$g/disk), the acetone pomegranate peel extract showed a strong feeding deterrence (FDI: 80%), and significantly reduced food consumption (RCR) and relative growth rate (RGR). In filter paper repellency assays, the acetone extract induced positive contact repellency, with PR values ranging from 80% to 30%. GC-MS analysis identified sitosterol, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, and $\alpha$-tocopherol as the major constituents of the acetone extract. These results highlight the potential of pomegranate peel as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds for stored-product insect pest management. Full article

Agricultural facilities in tropical regions such as Hainan China face dual challenges from summer typhoons and occasional winter cold waves. Traditional greenhouses are generally constructed at a low height to resist typhoons, which hinders mechanized operations, while the use of insect-proof screens compromises thermal insulation. To resolve these contradictions, this study designs a typhoon-resistant multi-span greenhouse with an elevatable roof. Its core innovation lies in adopting a mechatronic steel cable system to achieve synchronized elevation of single-span roof surfaces. During daily operations, the roof is elevated to facilitate mechanized field operations; during typhoons or cold waves, the roof is lowered to the ground, reducing wind load impact and improving thermal insulation performance. The greenhouse’s elevating system incorporates multiple safety functions, including bidirectional self-locking and overload protection. Structural calculations using PKPM 2010 software show that under two working conditions—roof elevated (basic wind pressure of 0.45 kN/m²) and roof lowered (basic wind pressure of 1.30 kN/m²)—all indicators meet the requirements of relevant codes. Compared with an ordinary circular-arch greenhouse of the same size and under the same loads, the steel consumption of the standard single-span frame (6 m span, 4 m bay width) of the Elevating Greenhouse is only 67.38 kg, a 35% reduction compared with 103.58 kg for the ordinary greenhouse, significantly reducing construction costs. This study provides an innovative, safe, and economical technical solution for protected agriculture in tropical regions. Full article

This study analyzes global data on human exposure to pesticides, focusing on glyphosate, POPs, carbamates, and organophosphates, which are among the most widely used in agricultural and urban environments, providing an overview of global human contamination by these substances. Current research has increasingly focused on the unintended consequences of pesticide use, including food, water, and soil contamination, biodiversity loss (especially beneficial insects such as pollinators), and the growing evidence of adverse impacts on human health (neurological, reproductive, endocrine, and carcinogenic effects). Therefore, we compiled information from several existing studies that evaluated pesticide residues in human biological samples, specifically urine, blood, and breast milk, to assess the extent of exposure. The analysis takes a global perspective, highlighting the importance of monitoring exposure in countries that demonstrate exceptionally high pesticide use (in terms of absolute volume), such as Brazil, the United States, and China, which are among the largest global consumers. The data cover both contemporary pesticides, whose consumption is driven by intensive agriculture in these and other countries, and persistent legacy compounds (POPs) that continue to circulate in nature and accumulate in the human body decades after their ban in many countries. Globally, there is a wide disparity in global regulations, and many developing countries continue to use pesticides that have been banned or severely restricted in more developed nations. Finally, it provides a critical overview of global data on human pesticide contamination. The data reinforce the critical importance of establishing preventive initiatives and strengthening surveillance and monitoring systems to detect and control pesticide residues in human populations globally, ultimately aiming to mitigate the harms of chronic pesticide exposure to human health and well-being. Full article

The consumption of edible flowers has gained increasing global attention, driven by the demand for natural and functional foods. Edible flowers are consumed in various forms, including fresh, dried, or as ingredients in derived products such as infusions, dietary supplements, and honey. Their growing popularity is associated not only with their ability to enhance sensory properties, such as aroma, color, and flavor, but also with their potential health-promoting effects. Nevertheless, their consumption entails safety concerns related to possible contamination with pesticide residues, heavy metals, insects, microorganisms, and naturally occurring toxic compounds. Among these, tropane alkaloids (TAs) and pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) represent major toxicological concerns. These alkaloids may be detected even in non-producing species due to cross-contamination in the field, horizontal transfer through soil, or pollination by bees that have previously visited TA- or PA-producing plants. This review addresses the risks associated with the consumption of edible flowers and flower-derived products, with particular emphasis on studies published since 2018. It provides an overview of the occurrence of TAs and PAs in fresh flowers, floral infusions, dietary supplements, and honey. Furthermore, it summarizes the analytical methodologies employed, including sample preparation and detection techniques, and compiles the reported concentrations of these alkaloids. The evidence presented highlights the need for continued investigation to establish reliable risk assessments and ensure consumer safety. Full article

Plastics are inexpensive and widely used but persist in the environment due to improper disposal. Insect-mediated biodegradation has gained attention, notably involving Tenebrio molitor larvae. Despite morphological similarities and larger size, Zophobas atratus larvae remain less studied. This work evaluated the impact of larval stage on the biodegradation of pristine and post-consumer extruded polystyrene (XPS) and the physiological effects of an XPS-based diet. Smaller (L1) and larger (L2) larvae were tested. L2 showed higher XPS consumption, weight gain, and survival, while XPS-fed larvae overall exhibited reduced lipid content and increased moisture, flavonoids, and phenolics compared to wheat bran-fed controls. Scanning electron microscopy revealed surface fragmentation in frass, more pronounced in L1, suggesting greater mechanical or enzymatic action. High-performance size exclusion chromatography indicated molecular weight reduction, with L1 more effective on pristine XPS and L2 on post-consumer XPS, likely due to nutritional residues. FTIR analysis showed oxidative changes in both groups, more prominent in L1. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed earlier degradation onset in L1 frass, supporting the presence of oxidized oligomers. Overall, Z. atratus larvae can biodegrade XPS, with degradation influenced by developmental stage and substrate type. These findings inform biotechnological strategies for sustainable plastic waste management. Full article

Diaphorina citri Kuwayama is a key pest of citrus and insect vector of Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, causing significant losses in Florida and other regions. The naturally occurring effective ladybeetle predators and their impact on D. citri reduced from years of insecticide use against this pest and are not available commercially. Additionally, most species are large-sized, while most eggs and neonates of D. citri are in hard-to-reach locations such as unopened leaves, which makes access difficult for them. We evaluated a commercially available small-sized predatory ladybeetle Rhyzobius lophanthae Blaisdell against D. citri immatures. A single adult consumed an average of 24.9 eggs and 8.7 first and second instar nymphs of D. citri within 24 h. Beetles exhibited Type II functional response against nymphs with an attack rate of 0.92 h⁻¹ and a handling time of 0.08 h. Their consumption rate increased with nymphal density up to twenty per shoot. In the field test, beetles lived 10 days longer when confined with new shoots infested with D. citri immatures in a voile fabric sleeve cage in citrus trees every two days, versus seven days. In an open field release of R. lophanthae in a citrus orchard, these ladybeetles were found foraging in sentinel and neighboring trees infested with D. citri. The consumption rate of R. lophanthae on D. citri immatures and its survival in Florida orchards suggest its potential for biological control and Integrated Pest Management. Full article

Interest in more sustainable diets for the global population of 528 million companion dogs is steadily increasing, encompassing nutritionally sound cultivated meat, vegan, and microbial protein-based dog foods. Factors driving these alternative dog foods include lower impacts on the environment, fewer welfare problems related to intensively farmed animals and wild-caught fish, and potentially superior canine health outcomes, relative to conventional meat-based dog food. Through a questionnaire with 2639 responses, this study aimed to gain insights into dog guardians’ current feeding patterns and dog food purchasing determinants, acceptance of more sustainable dog diets, and sources of information used for decisions about dog diets. Key results included that 84% (2188/2596) of respondents currently fed either conventional or raw meat-based dog food. More than 43% (936/2169) of this group of respondents who answered found at least one of the more sustainable alternative dog foods acceptable, with purchases of these alternatives hinging most commonly upon the nutritional soundness of the products. Cultivated meat-based dog food was the most popular alternative (selected by 24%, 529/2169), followed by vegetarian (17%, 359/2169), insect-based (16%, 336/2169), and vegan (13%, 290/2169) dog food. The top three information sources used to make decisions regarding dog diets were labels/packaging (selected by 42% of all respondents, 1080/2596), scientific articles/books (38%, 989/2596), and business webpages (35%, 900/2596). Numerous human and dog demographic variables had impacts on current diets, acceptance of alternative diets, and information sources used. Notably, human diet and dog diet were the factors most commonly associated with current and potential purchasing decisions, as well as with information sources used. For instance, greater reductions by guardians in the consumption of animals were associated with greater acceptance of more sustainable dog diets. It should be noted that, due to the reliance on convenience sampling and the overrepresentation of respondents from the UK, of female guardians, of respondents with higher education, and of vegan guardians, the reported relative frequencies of subgroups were not fully representative of the global dog guardian population. Association estimates were based on regression analyses to minimize any resultant bias effects. Full article

Tree endotherapy has risen to prominence in the field of precision agriculture as an innovative and sustainable method of tree care, being respectful of both environmental protection and consumer health needs. A comprehensive review of the state of the art of research in this field has made it possible to spotlight the main advantages of tree infusion, which has undergone significant progress in step with technological innovation and an increased understanding of tree anatomy and physiology. The major criticalities associated with this technique, as well as the biological and technical–operational obstacles that still hinder its wider use, are also highlighted. What emerges is an innovative and rapidly expanding technique in tree care, in both the cultivation and phytosanitary management of fruit and ornamental trees. Some of the strengths of the endotherapy technique, such as the next-to-no water consumption, the strong reduction in the use of fertilizers and pesticides, the possibility of using biological control agents (BCAs) or other products of natural origin, the precision administration of the product inside the xylem of the tree, and the efficacy (20–90%) and persistence (1–2 years) of treatments, make it one of the cornerstones of sustainable tree protection at present. With a very low consumption of the “active ingredient”, endotherapy has a negligible impact on the external environment, minimizing the drift and dispersal of the active ingredient and thus limiting the exposure of non-target organisms such as beneficial insects, birds, and wildlife. The large-scale application of the technique would therefore also help to achieve an important goal in “climate-smart agriculture”, the saving of water resources, significantly contributing to climate change mitigation, especially in those areas of the planet where water is a precious resource. Full article

Over the past few decades, people have become increasingly aware of how the ingredients in their food affect their health, leading to significant changes in dietary habits. A notable trend is the growing demand for high-protein foods. However, as consumption of high-protein products increases, manufacturers face challenges in sourcing enough protein to meet this rising demand. One promising alternative is insect protein, which has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its high nutritional value, with Acheta domesticus protein containing up to 80% protein per gram. To explore this potential, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of integrating different concentrations (10%, 12.5%, and 15%) of Acheta domesticus protein powder into cocoa cream products. The study’s findings indicated that incorporation of Acheta Domesticus protein resulted in a limited alteration in the particle size distribution of the cocoa cream, while sensory evaluations confirmed the absence of a gritty texture. In addition to sensory analysis, the study examined chemical composition, rheological properties, texture, color, and thermal characteristics. These results were compared with a control sample. The findings of this study indicate that the samples with 12.5 and 15% of the added protein can claim a nutritional statement “source of protein”. Full article

Edible insects, particularly Tenebrio molitor (Linnaeus) (mealworm) and Zophobas morio (Fabricius) (superworm), have drawn increasing attention as alternative protein sources. This study aims to develop an accurate molecular detection method for T. molitor, an EU-approved food species, and to differentiate it from Z. morio, which remains unapproved for human consumption in the EU. The process enables precise and sensitive identification methods by optimizing singleplex and duplex PCR techniques targeting 16S rRNA and COI gene regions. The DNA of T. molitor was detected in various food matrices, including pastries, chocolate, and porridge, while avoiding cross-reactivity with Z. morio, Gryllus asimilis, and Locusta migratoria. The detection limit for both singleplex and duplex PCR was 10 pg of DNA, ensuring robustness against inhibitory effects from complex food matrices. The developed approach ensures reliable detection and compliance with EU regulations regarding insect-based foods, providing a critical tool for food authentication and preventing adulteration. The key advancements of this approach lie in its improved specificity and sensitivity, allowing for the ability to detect complex food matrices. An applied perspective was evaluated using real commercial food products. Full article

As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for alternative protein sources. Entomophagy, the consumption of insects, has long been practiced in many cultures worldwide and is now gaining increasing interest in Western countries. In this work, we developed novel, functional insect-based ingredients from the house cricket (Acheta domesticus) by utilizing optimized enzymatic hydrolysis, using two enzymes (Alcalase^® or Flavourzyme^®) coupled with spray drying. A Box–Behnken experimental design was used to optimize enzymatic treatments and maximize spray-drying performance and product solubility. Under optimized conditions, spray-dried hydrolyzed cricket protein (HCP) produced using Alcalase^® achieved a solids recovery of 51.44% and a solubility of 58.28 ± 0.5%. In comparison, Flavourzyme^®–HCP, under optimized conditions, exhibited a higher solubility of 61.25 ± 0.8%. Additional functional properties were improved for Alcalase^®–HCP and Flavourzyme^®–HCP, respectively, including foaming capacity at pH 4 (26.80 ± 4.0%, 36.27 ± 1.0%) and 10 (50.98 ± 2.8%, 47.06 ± 1.6%), and foaming stability in acidic conditions at pH 4 (24.18 ± 4.0%, 30.39 ± 2.9%). Moreover, the emulsion stability, especially at pH 7 (74.70 ± 3.5%, 52.04 ± 2.8%) and 10 (68.20 ± 11.3%, 69.72 ± 3.2%), was also enhanced. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate optimized enzymatic hydrolysis coupled with spray drying to enhance the functional properties of A. domesticus protein powder. Overall, we established optimized processing conditions to produce spray-dried functional insect ingredients with desirable functional attributes. Full article