Search Results (9,584)

Background/Objectives: The growing prevalence of out-of-home eating is reflected in the contract catering sector, which worldwide generates billions of euros annually. Considering its large economic value and workforce, as well as the meals it offers in institutions, the sector may greatly impact human and planetary health. Thus, this scoping review aimed to analyze the availability of evidence on the nutritional quality (NQ) and environmental impact (EI) of institutional canteen menus/meals. Methods: The search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases and was limited to the period from 2013 to 2025. Quantitative articles that considered the NQ and/or EI of institutional canteen menus/meals were included. Results: Results revealed that most of the 107 articles included were conducted in high-income countries and in early-education centers. Additionally, most studies evaluated NQ in comparison to EI (n = 76 and n = 13, respectively), while only 18 studies evaluated both. It was also noted that interest in EI increased in recent years, with greenhouse gas emission being the most common indicator. Conclusions: This review contributes to identifying an imbalance in the available evidence, with substantially more data on the nutritional quality of institutional canteen menus and meals than on their environmental footprints, which are often assessed through greenhouse gas emissions while other environmental indicators remain largely overlooked. Moreover, the heterogeneity of study settings and the predominance of research conducted in developed countries limit the generalizability of current findings. Future studies should adopt a broader scope to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the nutritional and environmental sustainability of institutional catering systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Eating disorders (EDs) in adolescents are increasingly prevalent. In South Tyrol, a bilingual region in Northern Italy, not only actual gender and age prevalences can be compared to screening rates, but even the comparability of screening tools across languages can be examined. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis integrated clinical registry data with representative, online school-recruited adolescents (11 to 17) self-reports. 166 clinically diagnosed cases and 1465 screened adolescents (1246 German, 219 Italian), were examined. The SCOFF questionnaire (cutoff ≥ 2 for German and ≥3 for Italian), body mass index, body image perception, psychosocial and lifestyle indicators in proxy and self-reports were examined using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: The clinical dataset for 2024 has a prevalence rate of 0.4%. The SCOFF screening tool identified symptomatic cases in 10.6%, and an age-increasing trend among females. The overall SCOFF-prevalence did not differ between language versions, although responses to individual items varied significantly. Predictors of ED included body image, psychosomatic complaints, problematic social media use, and low social support, with differences between genders. Parents tended to underestimate their children’s perception of being “too thick.” Conclusions: In early adolescence, preventive strategies are needed and targeted interventions in late adolescence. For early detection and intervention, gender-sensitive prevention and active parental involvement is needed. The SCOFF questionnaire demonstrates utility across both languages, but bilingual comparison highlights the need for culturally adapted tools and cross-language validation. Full article

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) adversely affect health and athletic performance, yet their prevalence in adolescent female team athletes is understudied. Objectives: This exploratory pilot study assessed ED presence and associated factors in female basketball players aged 10–18 years from a high-level club in Granada, Spain. Methods: This cross-sectional pilot study examined 36 participants (mean age 13.3 ± 2.2 years) who completed the Spanish Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (S-EDE-Q). Body composition (Tanita TBF-300), sociodemographic characteristics, and sport-related factors were recorded. Associations between these covariates and S-EDE-Q global scores (GS) were examined via linear regression. Results: A higher Global Score (GS), indicating increased ED risk, correlated significantly with several factors: Lower paternal education (primary vs. university: p < 0.005) and lower socioeconomic level. Older age (AME = 0.30; p < 0.005) and greater muscle mass (p < 0.001). National competition level (p < 0.001), being a player in the pivot position (mean GS = 1.62), and presence of sport-related medical history (mean GS = 1.07). No associations were found with sport experience or weekly training hours. Conclusions: Although the overall risk of EDs is low, the association with specific factors (sociodemographic, anthropometric, and sports-related) allows vulnerable players to be identified. Longitudinal and larger-scale research is needed to confirm these initial findings and design targeted and early prevention strategies. Full article

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) caused by the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis present serious ecological and public health concerns due to the production of brevetoxins (BTX). Clay flocculation and sedimentation of cells, particularly with polyaluminum chloride (PAC)-modified clays, is a promising HAB mitigation approach. This study evaluated the efficacy of Modified Clay-II (MCII), a PAC-modified kaolinite clay, in reducing K. brevis cell abundance in mesocosm experiments and examined the bioavailability of BTX potentially released from settled floc back into the water column and sediment over the first 72 h after treatment. Additionally, we quantified trace metals in benthic clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) exposed to the floc post-treatment to assess metal accumulation and potential toxicological effects from MCII application. MCII treatment (0.2 g/L) resulted in a 91% reduction in K. brevis cell density and a 50% decrease in waterborne brevetoxins after 5 h. Brevetoxins accumulated in sediment post-flocculation, with BTX-B5 emerging as the dominant congener. Clams exposed to MCII-treated floc showed comparable tissue BTX levels to controls and significantly elevated aluminum concentrations, though without mortality. The aluminum accumulations in this study do not raise concerns for the health of the clams or the humans who eat them, given other dietary exposures. These findings support the potential of MCII for HAB mitigation while underscoring the need for further evaluation of exposure risks to all benthic species. Full article

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a prevalent eating disorder lacking adequate pharmacological interventions. This review examines the therapeutic potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), medications approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity now being investigated for eating disorders through their modulation of metabolic and reward pathways. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, through May 2025, to examine GLP-1RA effects on BED, including preclinical and clinical studies, mechanistic investigations, and relevant reviews. GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) are expressed in hypothalamic nuclei, regulating energy homeostasis and mesolimbic circuits controlling food reward. Preclinical studies demonstrate that GLP-1RAs reduce food-seeking behavior, suppress dopamine signaling in reward circuits, and modulate neural transmission in key brain regions. These effects extend beyond appetite suppression to directly modify reward processing underlying compulsive eating. Emerging clinical evidence with semaglutide and liraglutide report reductions in binge eating episodes, decreased food cravings, and improved symptom scores. However, current studies remain small-scale with methodological limitations, and translating findings from animal models to human eating disorder complexity presents significant challenges. This review integrates preclinical and clinical evidence demonstrating that GLP-1RAs modulate both metabolic and reward pathways. By elucidating the underlying neurobiological mechanisms, GLP-1RAs may offer advantages over current symptom-focused therapies for BED. Full article

In recent years, microwave and ultrasound technology has been under extensive development in drying technologies. Researchers are constantly searching for improved solutions or alternatives to hot air drying. The goal of this work was to determine the intermittent action of ultrasound and microwaves on convective drying. An examination of five specific cases of stationary and nonstationary drying processes was conducted. The evolution of moisture content and drying rate over process time was discussed, and the average drying rate and time, drying constant, effective diffusion coefficient, and specific energy consumption were also compared. To identify the differences between the dried products, the quality characteristics such as: water activity, color, shrinkage, rehydration, polyphenol content, odor, and flavor of apples were analyzed. The results indicate that intermittent drying provides a good alternative to convective drying, including when combined with microwave and ultrasound treatments. Applying microwaves or ultrasound intermittently resulted in an increase in the effective diffusion coefficient (by 68%) and drying rate (by 117%) and a reduction in drying time (by 53%), compared to convective drying. This processing method resulted in lower energy consumption by up to 13% and well-preserved quality attributes—this could be very promising for the production of healthy, ready-to-eat apple snacks. Full article

Fresh lettuce is a key ingredient in ready-to-eat salads that are considered a valued dietary choice. Lettuce quality is strongly influenced by soil management practices, particularly in sustainable farming systems. This study evaluated the effects of three different soil disinfestation methods (flame weeding, microwave irradiation, and biological control (Trichoderma spp. inoculation) on the quality traits of Lactuca sativa L. var. Margò grown in a protected environment in southern Italy in a winter growth cycle. Minerals, nitrate content, colorimetric parameters, carotenoids, polyphenols, and antioxidant activity were assessed. The treatment with Trichoderma spp. significantly reduced nitrate accumulation (−21.3%) and increased some phenolic compounds and P (22%), while microwave irradiation treatment boosted total phenolic content by 44%. Flame weeding, although partially effective, was associated with a slight increase in carotenoids. Overall, microwave irradiation and Trichoderma spp. treatments emerged as the most promising options for balancing food safety and nutritional value. These findings offer valuable insights about the effect of soil disinfestation strategies on leafy vegetable quality. Full article

Background: Malnutrition is prevalent among older adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), but the roles of dietary intake and meal patterns are less understood in community settings. Objective: To investigate the associations between dietary intake, meal patterns, and malnutrition risk among community-dwelling older adults. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study including 200 adults aged ≥60 years in San Pa Tong District, Chiang Mai and used standardized questionnaires to collect sociodemographic, health, and dietary data. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment–Full Form (MNA-FF), with scores <24 indicated malnutrition risk. Meal patterns included overnight fasting duration, meal skipping, and eating frequency. Associations were examined using multivariable logistic regression with adjustment for confounding. Results: Overall, 23% of participants were at risk of malnutrition. Micronutrient inadequacy was widespread, and 92.5% exceeded the sodium upper limit. In multivariable models, higher vitamin E intake was independently associated with a lower likelihood of malnutrition (OR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01–0.45), whereas longer overnight fasting increased risk (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.30–2.89) and having more eating episodes was protective (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06–0.57). Conclusions: Adequate vitamin E intake and regular meal patterns were associated with reduced malnutrition risk. Public health interventions should prioritize micronutrient adequacy, sodium reduction, and the promotion of regular eating patterns. Full article

Background: Celiac disease (CeD) is a chronic, immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. While a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) remains the cornerstone of treatment, inadequate follow-up can lead to persistent symptoms, nutritional deficiencies, and long-term complications. Aim: This narrative review summarizes best practices in celiac disease follow-up, with emphasis on multidisciplinary, nutritional, clinical, and preventive care strategies to optimize long-term outcomes. Main Findings: High-quality follow-up requires coordinated care involving gastroenterologists, dietitians, primary care providers, and other specialists. Nutritional challenges of the GFD include high cost, limited fortification, suboptimal nutrient content, and increased risk of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Patients also face psychosocial and behavioral burdens such as anxiety, social isolation, and disordered eating. Evidence-based strategies for follow-up include structured clinical and serologic monitoring, laboratory assessments, bone health evaluation, cancer risk reduction, and preventive care. Novel tools such as gluten immunogenic peptide testing, digital health platforms, and artificial intelligence are emerging as adjuncts to clinical management. Implications: Structured, patient-centered follow-up that integrates medical, nutritional, and psychosocial dimensions is essential to achieving mucosal healing, maintaining long-term health, and improving quality of life in individuals with CeD. Full article

Background: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a visceral fat depot surrounding the myocardium. It contributes to coronary artery disease (CAD) through local inflammation, while its metabolic activity, including the expression of uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) and incretin receptors (GLP-1R, GIPR), may exert protective effects. The relationship between EAT immunohistochemical features and imaging-derived volume remains unclear. Methods: We prospectively studied 50 patients undergoing cardiac surgery: 25 with CAD undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and 25 without CAD undergoing valve replacement. EAT samples were immunohistochemically stained for CD3, CD68, MPO, UCP-1, GLP-1R, and GIPR. Preoperative CT was used to quantify EAT volume. Results: Patients with CAD more frequently had higher CD3 immunopositivity compared to the control group (84.0 vs. 58.3%, p = 0.047), with no difference in MPO and CD68 immunoexpression. UCP-1 expression was elevated in CAD patients (p = 0.004), whereas GLP-1R and GIPR immunopositivity were similar. EAT volume did not differ between CAD and non-CAD patients (102.87 cm³ vs. 99.38 cm³, p = 0.964) but correlated modestly with BMI (r_s = 0.325, p = 0.021). UCP-1 and GLP-1R immunopositivity, as well as larger LVEDD (left ventricular end-diastolic diameter), were positively associated with greater EAT volume. Conclusions: EAT in CAD exhibits increased T-cell infiltration and elevated UCP-1 expression, indicating an inflammatory yet metabolically active profile. Larger EAT volume was associated with UCP-1 and GLP-1R expression, underscoring the immunometabolic role of EAT in CAD. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sustainable nutrition is essential for human and planetary health. The Transtheoretical Model-based Sustainable Nutrition Behavior Scale (TTM-SNBS) was developed to assess sustainable nutrition behaviors and the dynamic processes of behavior change in adolescents. Methods: The item pool was generated through literature review and expert consultation using the Delphi technique (10 experts, three rounds). Construct validity was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Reliability was evaluated through Cronbach’s alpha and test–retest methods. External validity was examined through correlations with the Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviors Scale (SHEBS), following COSMIN standards. The study included 512 adolescents aged 14–18 years (54% female) from public high schools in Ankara, Türkiye. Results: Initially, 75 items were developed through expert evaluation. After preliminary testing, two items with low and negative correlations were removed; 73 were retained for validation. Factor analyses and refinement produced a 45-item final validated scale comprising one stage of change item and five subscales: cognitive processes (14 items), behavioral processes (18 items), decisional balance—pros (4 items), decisional balance—cons (4 items), and self-efficacy (4 items). Items showed good discrimination (>0.27). Cronbach’s alpha values ranged from 0.67 to 0.93, and fit indices were acceptable (χ²/df = 2.8–4.2; RMSEA = 0.045–0.065). External validity was supported by significant positive correlations with the SHEBS. Conclusions: The TTM-SNBS is the first psychometrically validated, theory-based instrument to assess sustainable nutrition behaviors in adolescents. It offers a reliable and valid instrument to support future research and interventions promoting sustainable dietary practices. Full article

Background: Parents’ dietary strategies shape children’s eating habits. This study investigated socio-demographic determinants of maternal feeding practices among school-aged children in the Pomeranian province of Poland. Using a cross-sectional survey conducted in July 2025, we compared feeding strategies based on family structure, maternal employment, and number of children, and identified distinct parenting profiles through cluster analysis. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in July 2025 among 719 mothers of elementary school children in Pomeranian Voivodeship, using a convenience sampling design. An abbreviated version of the Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire (CFPQ) with 16 items across eight subscales was used. ANOVA compared feeding strategies between groups, Spearman correlations examined associations, and k-means cluster analysis identified maternal parenting profiles. Results: Encouragement and modeling were the most frequent strategies, while monitoring was least common. Mothers raising children with a partner and those employed used monitoring, modeling, and encouragement more often. Single or non-working mothers relied more on food as a reward and for emotion regulation. Mothers of only children applied control and monitoring less intensively than mothers with multiple children. All strategies were positively correlated. Cluster analysis identified three parenting profiles: intensely directive, moderate, and emotional-supportive. Conclusions: Maternal feeding strategies vary with socio-demographic factors. Educational interventions promoting healthy eating should be tailored to family structure and mothers’ employment status. Full article

The Rural Development Administration (RDA) of the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), developed six temperate japonica rice varieties—MS11, Japonica 1, 2, 6, 7, and Cordillera 4—which were officially approved for release in tropical environments. These varieties offer improved eating quality, enhanced lodging resistance, and increased market value. Although initial evaluations indicated that the varieties were resistant to moderately resistant to major biotic stresses, recent field trials revealed a gradual increase in susceptibility over time. To address this, we conducted comprehensive evaluations of these varieties against rice blast under both greenhouse and field conditions and assessed their responses to bacterial leaf blight (BLB), rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV), and brown planthopper (BPH) under controlled environments. Additionally, whole-genome sequencing was employed to confirm the presence of known resistance alleles. Our findings revealed variable resistance profiles across the six varieties. Japonica 1 exhibited the most stable resistance to blast, supported by the presence of the Pi5 allele. Japonica 7 showed strong resistance to key BLB isolates and moderate resistance to a broader range of Xoo races, supported by the resistant Xa25/OsSWEET13 haplotype. In addition, Japonica 7, along with Japonica 6, carried the tsv1 gene for RTSV resistance. However, none of the six varieties possessed other major resistance genes for BPH. These results highlight the urgent need to introgress durable resistance genes into tropical japonica rice to enhance resilience and broaden the spectrum of biotic stress resistance—critical traits for sustainable rice production in tropical environments. Full article

In contrast to several high-income nations, childhood obesity prevalence is rising in low/middle-income countries. Our objective was to study risk factors and complications of childhood overweight/obesity in an urban lower middle-income country setting. This was an observational study. Children aged 2–18 years at a pediatric clinic in Chennai, India were enrolled over a 12-month period. The definition of overweight was >23rd and obesity >27th adult equivalent percentile Body Mass Index. Parents and children completed a risk-factor questionnaire. Children with obesity/overweight were evaluated for complications. Of 103 children enrolled, 61% were obese/overweight and 39% healthy weight. Independent predictors of absence of overweight/obesity were as follows: never/rarely consuming sugar-sweetened beverages, never/rarely eating out, and sleep duration > 11 h. Exercise performed rarely/never independently predicted overweight/obesity. No significant difference was observed with screen time or a vegetarian diet. Complications in 54 obese/overweight children included prediabetes (15%), hypertension (11%), dyslipidemia (22%), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (22%), acanthosis nigricans (24%), and anxiety/depression (17%). In conclusion, differences were observed in behaviors associated with childhood obesity in an urban lower middle-income environment compared to those in high-income nations. Behaviors associated with childhood obesity in an urban lower middle-income environment are similar to those reported from high-income nations, with some differences. Complications of overweight/obesity are common in this setting. Full article

Background/objectives: Overweight and obesity in adolescents is a significant public health concern, yet limited interventions exist in Australia to promote healthy behavior change in families and young people. This retrospective, real-world evaluation aimed to describe the impact of an 8-week e-Health program (Think, Eat And Move, [TEAM]) on anthropometric, behavioral and wellbeing outcomes in adolescents. Methods: Eligible TEAM program participants were aged 13–17 years, resided in Central or Eastern Sydney, Australia, had overweight/obesity, were at risk of or had a chronic health condition and/or required healthy lifestyle support. Retrospective program data were used to assess the impact of TEAM on weight, height and BMI z-score, dietary intake, physical activity and wellbeing indices. Results: Of 567 registered participants, 313 completed the TEAM program and were included in the analysis (median age 14.4 years, 56.2% female). The median (interquartile range) BMI z-score reduced from 1.8 (1.4–2.2) pre-program to 1.6 (1.1–2.1) post-program (p < 0.001, n = 262). Significant improvements in health behaviors following the program were observed, including increased consumption of fruit, vegetables and water; reduced consumption of confectionery and take-away foods; increased days of physical activity; and reduced sedentary time. Significant positive changes were also observed in knowledge and wellbeing measures. Conclusions: Adolescents completing the TEAM program demonstrated clinically important changes in anthropometry and improved nutrition and physical activity behaviors. E-Health modalities for promoting behavior change should be considered in public health strategies for adolescents. Full article