bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Specialty Malts on Wort and Beer Characteristics
Authors: Castro Luis F. , Affonso Abigail D. , Lehman Renata M.
Published: July 2021

Specialty malts are commonly used in brewing to provide flavor, aroma, and color to wort and beer. The use of specialty malts contributes to the variety of beer products; therefore, it is important to understand their effect on the characteristics of wort and beer. This study investigates the impact of various specialty malts on wort and beer properties. A control beer was prepared with 100% base malt, and four beer treatments were prepared with the addition of kilned, roasted, and caramel specialty malts. For each treatment, 20% of the base malt was substituted with the various specialty malts when preparing the wort. The fermentable sugars and free amino nitrogen (FAN) content for each wort were analyzed. Alcohol by volume (ABV), international bitterness units (IBU), diacetyl, and polyphenol content of each prepared beers were subsequently analyzed. Results showed that wort prepared with the addition of roasted and caramel malts contained a lower concentration of fermentable sugars and FAN than wort prepared with the base and kilned malts. Beers prepared with the addition of roasted and caramel malts exhibited the lowest levels of ABV, as well as the lowest levels of diacetyl. These beers also exhibited higher levels of total phenolic compounds compared to the other beer samples. No change was observed in IBU levels as a result of brewing with the different specialty malts. This study illustrates how the use of specialty malts impacts wort and beer properties, providing useful information to aid in the production of quality beer products.
Transformational Steam Infusion Processing for Resilient and Sustainable Food Manufacturing Businesses
Authors: Brooks Christopher , Swainson Mark , Beauchamp Ian , Campelos Isabel , Ishak Ruzaina , Martindale Wayne
Published: July 2021

Here we show how food and beverage manufacturers report more incisive sustainability and product fulfilment outcomes for their business enterprises when innovative processing technologies are used. The reported steam infusion technology heats food materials within a Vaction Pump device so that steam is directed into the food material within a much reduced volume, reducing the use of steam and processing time. This study reports how such technological interventions will enable supply chain stakeholders to demonstrate responsible consumption by connecting assessments for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions with consumer-focused outcomes such as product quality. The technology reported in this research not only improves operational agility by improving processing speed, but also improves the responsiveness of factory production to changes in demand. Heating procedures are systemic processes in the food industry that can be used to pasteurize, achieve commercially viable shelf-life, and provide cleaning in place. The reported research defines how these technologies can reduce the carbon footprint of products, improve quality attributes, and lower operating costs across supply chains. They provide an important step in developing distributed manufacturing in the food system because the technologies reported here are modular and can be installed into existing operations. The specific technology can reduce energy consumption by 17.3% compared to basic direct steam heating, with a reduction of 277.8 processing hours and 8.7 tonnes GHG emissions per kettle production line each year. Food and beverage manufacturers are increasingly required to report across the sustainability, nutrition, and product quality outcomes of their business enterprises more incisively so that supply chain stakeholders can demonstrate responsible production and consumption. The steam infusion technologies assessed in this research enable alignment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG12, Responsible Production and Consumption, using in situ data logging in factory trials for novel heating procedures used to process foods.
Wheat/Gluten-Related Disorders and Gluten-Free Diet Misconceptions: A Review
Authors: Sabença Carolina , Ribeiro Miguel , Sousa Telma de , Poeta Patrícia , Bagulho Ana Sofia , Igrejas Gilberto
Published: July 2021

In the last 10,000 years, wheat has become one of the most important cereals in the human diet and today, it is widely consumed in many processed food products. Mostly considered a source of energy, wheat also contains other essential nutrients, including fiber, proteins, and minor components, such as phytochemicals, vitamins, lipids, and minerals, that together promote a healthy diet. Apart from its nutritional properties, wheat has a set of proteins, the gluten, which confer key technical properties, but also trigger severe immune-mediated diseases, such as celiac disease. We are currently witnessing a rise in the number of people adhering to gluten-free diets unwarranted by any medical need. In this dynamic context, this review aims to critically discuss the nutritional components of wheat, highlighting both the health benefits and wheat/gluten-related disorders, in order to address common misconceptions associated with wheat consumption.
Adaptation and Validation of the Food Neophobia Scale: The Case of Hungary
Authors: Szakály Zoltán , Kovács Bence , Soós Mihály , Kiss Marietta , Balsa-Budai Nikolett
Published: July 2021

Food neophobia is the fear or loathing of novel food, which may result in the rejection of the unfamiliar food item. The most frequently used and most reliable tool to measure adult food neophobia is the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS), which has been translated into several languages, making it possible to compare food neophobia levels around the world. The main objective of this research has been the adaptation and validation of the FNS in Hungary. In order to achieve the research objectives, a questionnaire survey was conducted on a representative sample of 500 adults; and, primarily, multivariate statistical tools were used. We found that despite the Hungarian population’s strong neophobic tendency, neophobia and neophilia are present at the same time. We identified two distinctive factors in the course of the exploratory factor analysis (“Willingness and trust” and “Rejection and particularity”), which distinctly separate the negatively and positively worded (reversed) FNS items. Based on these factors, four clusters were identified. Those belonging in the group of adventurous open-minded individuals constitute an ideal target group for the manufacturers of novel food items as well as products with unusual flavors, especially if those products also have health-enhancing and eco-friendly qualities.
Effect of Disclosed Information on Product Liking, Emotional Profile, and Purchase Intent: A Case of Chocolate Brownies Containing Edible-Cricket Protein
Authors: Gurdian Cristhiam E. , Torrico Damir D. , Li Bin , Tuuri Georgianna , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: July 2021

Edible insects, a sustainable and nutritious alternative to conventionally derived proteins, are unfamiliar to Westerners and often associated with negative sentiments. Edible-cricket protein (ECP) added to chocolate brownies (CB) [0% ECP = CBWO (without) vs. 6% w/w ECP = CBW (with)], and disclosed information [no ECP added = (−) vs. ECP with benefits = (+), ECP− and ECP+, respectively] yielded four CB treatments (CBWO−, CBWO+, CBW−, and CBW+). Subjects (n = 112 female and n = 98 male) rated liking, selected emotions before- and after-tasting, and determined consumption (CI) and purchase intent (PI) after tasting. Likings were analyzed with mixed-effects ANOVA and post hoc Tukey’s HSD test. Emotions were evaluated with Cochran’s-Q test and correspondence analysis. Emotions driving or inhibiting overall liking (OL) were assessed with penalty-lift analyses using two-sample t-tests. A random forest algorithm was used to predict PI and estimate variables’ importance. Female’s and male’s expected OL were higher for CBWO− than for CBWO+. Females’ actual OL was higher for CBWO than for CBW regardless of the disclosed information but males’ actual OL was the same across treatments. Females exhibited negative-liking disconfirmation for CBW−. In both tasting conditions, the disclosed information affected treatments’ emotional profiles more than formulation. After-tasting emotions “happy” and “satisfied” were critical predictors of PI.
Pigmented Corn Varieties as Functional Ingredients for Gluten-Free Products
Authors: Colombo Francesca , Di Lorenzo Chiara , Petroni Katia , Silano Marco , Pilu Roberto , Falletta Ermelinda , Biella Simone , Restani Patrizia
Published: July 2021

Oxidative stress, one among the several factors responsible for the gluten toxicity in celiac disease, together with inflammation and duodenal mucosal injury, are only partially reduced by the gluten-free diet. Thanks to their phenolic profile, the pigmented varieties of corn could be an interesting source of dietary antioxidants for the formulation of new gluten-free ingredients. The aim of this research was: (1) to characterize the phenolic profile and the associated antioxidant properties of corn samples with different pigmentation, using spectrophotometric and chromatographic techniques and (2) to assess the stability of anthocyanins during the gastro-intestinal digestion. The pigmented varieties showed a significantly higher content of polyphenols compared to the common yellow varieties and, as a consequence, a higher antioxidant activity. Although corn is among the cereals most frequently used in gluten-free products, it can produce an inflammatory response in some celiac patients. Therefore, after the chemical characterization, the safety of the pigmented varieties for celiac patients was confirmed using different in vitro models (cell agglutination test and the measure of transepithelial electrical resistance). Although in vivo studies are necessary, the data collected in this study underline that the pigmented corn could have a role in reducing the oxidative stress at the intestinal level in celiac subjects.
Immunomodulating Effect of the Consumption of Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) on Exercise-Induced Inflammation in Humans
Authors: Schulze Hendrik , Hornbacher Johann , Wasserfurth Paulina , Reichel Thomas , Günther Thorben , Krings Ulrich , Krüger Karsten , Hahn Andreas , Papenbrock Jutta , Schuchardt Jan P.
Published: July 2021

The vegetable watercress (Nasturtium officinale R.Br.) is, besides being a generally nutritious food, a rich source of glucosinolates. Gluconasturtiin, the predominant glucosinolate in watercress, has been shown to have several health beneficial properties through its bioactive breakdown product phenethyl isothiocyanate. Little is known about the immunoregulatory effects of watercress. Moreover, anti-inflammatory effects have mostly been shown in in vitro or in animal models. Hence, we conducted a proof-of-concept study to investigate the effects of watercress on the human immune system. In a cross-over intervention study, 19 healthy subjects (26.5 ± 4.3 years; 14 males, 5 females) were given a single dose (85 g) of fresh self-grown watercress or a control meal. Two hours later, a 30 min high-intensity workout was conducted to promote exercise-induced inflammation. Blood samples were drawn before, 5 min after, and 3 h after the exercise unit. Inflammatory blood markers (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, MCP-1, MMP-9) were analyzed in whole blood cultures after ex vivo immune cell stimulation via lipopolysaccharides. A mild pro-inflammatory reaction was observed after watercress consumption indicated by an increase in IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, whereas the immune response was more pronounced for both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α) after the exercise unit compared to the control meal. During the recovery phase, watercress consumption led to a stronger anti-inflammatory downregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α. In conclusion, we propose that watercress causes a stronger pro-inflammatory response and anti-inflammatory counter-regulation during and after exercise. The clinical relevance of these changes should be verified in future studies.
Which High-Speed Rail? LARG Approach between Plan and Design
Authors: Russo Francesco
Published: July 2021

Of the approximately 100,000 km of High-Speed Rail (HSR) lines in the world today, half are in operation and half are planned or under construction. The implementation of HSRs are planned in various countries with different characteristics to pursue different objectives. Today, the results are known, and therefore, the differences between the planned and achieved objectives can be verified. Italy is one of the countries that first built an HSR, and now, at the national planning level, Italy has decided to implement an HSR in Southern Italy. The problem is therefore not “whether” to realize an HSR but “which” type of HSR to realize. Italy is an important case study at the international level because it is possible to extend the HSR network in three different ways: upgrading existing lines by increasing the speed to 200 km/h, building a new line with speeds of 300 km/h with heavy freight trains, and building a new line with speeds of 300 km/h without heavy freight trains. The problem is how to find the best alternative in order to pursue sustainable development while considering national planning. To solve this problem, at the intermediate level between planning and design, the theoretical Lean, Agile, Resilient, Green (LARG) paradigm is proposed and applied. This approach can be extended to all countries that are launching massive and expensive programs to construct HSR lines or to upgrade existing lines.
Hyaluronan and Collagen Are Prominent Extracellular Matrix Components in Bovine and Porcine Ovaries
Authors: Parkes Wendena S. , Amargant Farners , Zhou Luhan T. , Villanueva Cecilia E. , Duncan Francesca E. , Pritchard Michele T.
Published: July 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a major component of the ovarian stroma. Collagen and hyaluronan (HA) are critical ovarian stromal ECM molecules that undergo age-dependent changes in the mouse and human. How these matrix components are regulated and organized in other mammalian species with reproductive characteristics similar to women such as cows and pigs, has not been systematically investigated. Therefore, we performed histological, molecular, and biochemical analyses to characterize collagen and HA in these animals. Bovine ovaries had more collagen than porcine ovaries when assessed biochemically, and this was associated with species-specific differences in collagen gene transcripts: Col3a1 was predominant in cow ovaries while Col1a1 was predominant in pig ovaries. We also observed more HA in the porcine vs. bovine ovary. HA was distributed across three molecular weight ranges (<100 kDa, 100–300 kDa, and >300 kDa) in ovarian tissue and follicular fluid, with tissue having more >300 kDa HA than the other two ranges. Transcripts for HA synthesis and degradation enzymes, Has3 and Hyal2, respectively, were predominant in cow ovaries, whereas Has2, Kiaa1199, and Tmem2 tended to be predominant in pig ovaries. Together, our findings have implications for the composition, organization, and regulation of the ovarian ECM in large mammalian species, including humans.
Genetic Interaction of SEEDSTICK, GORDITA and AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 2 during Seed Development
Authors: Paolo Dario , Orozco-Arroyo Gregorio , Rotasperti Lisa , Masiero Simona , Colombo Lucia , de Folter Stefan , Ambrose Barbara A. , Caporali Elisabetta , Ezquer Ignacio , Mizzotti Chiara
Published: July 2021

Seed development is under the control of complex and coordinated molecular networks required for the formation of its different components. The seed coat development largely determines final seed size and shape, in addition to playing a crucial role in protecting the embryo and promoting germination. In this study, we investigated the role of three transcription factors known to be active during seed development in Arabidopsis thaliana: SEEDSTICK (STK) and GORDITA (GOA), two MADS-domain proteins, and AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 2 (ARF2), belonging to the ARF family. Through a reverse genetic approach, we characterized the seed phenotypes of all the single, double and triple loss-of-function mutants in relation to seed size/shape and the effects on metabolic pathways occurring in the seed coat. This approach revealed that dynamic networks involving these TFs are active throughout ovule and seed development, affecting the formation of the seed coat. Notably, while the genetic interaction among these genes results in synergies that control the promotion of cell expansion in the seed coat upon pollination and production of proanthocyanidins, functional antagonists arise in the control of cell proliferation and release of mucilage.
Severity of Idiopathic Scoliosis Is Associated with Differential Methylation: An Epigenome-Wide Association Study of Monozygotic Twins with Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Carry Patrick , Terhune Elizabeth , Trahan George , Vanderlinden Lauren , Wethey Cambria , Ebrahimi Parvaneh , McGuigan Fiona , Åkesson Kristina , Hadley-Miller Nancy
Published: July 2021

Epigenetic mechanisms may contribute to idiopathic scoliosis (IS). We identified 8 monozygotic twin pairs with IS, 6 discordant (Cobb angle difference > 10°) and 2 concordant (Cobb angle difference ≤ 2°). Genome-wide methylation in blood was measured with the Infinium HumanMethylation EPIC Beadchip. We tested for differences in methylation and methylation variability between discordant twins and tested the association between methylation and curve severity in all twins. Differentially methylated region (DMR) analyses identified gene promoter regions. Methylation at cg12959265 (chr. 7 DPY19L1) was less variable in cases (false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.0791). We identified four probes (false discovery rate, FDR < 0.10); cg02477677 (chr. 17, RARA gene), cg12922161 (chr. 2 LOC150622 gene), cg08826461 (chr. 2), and cg16382077 (chr. 7) associated with curve severity. We identified 57 DMRs where hyper- or hypo-methylation was consistent across the region and 28 DMRs with a consistent association with curve severity. Among DMRs, 21 were correlated with bone methylation. Prioritization of regions based on methylation concordance in bone identified promoter regions for WNT10A (WNT signaling), NPY (regulator of bone and energy homeostasis), and others predicted to be relevant for bone formation/remodeling. These regions may aid in understanding the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and IS.
But There Is Magic, Too: Confronting Adolescents’ Realities in Francesca Lia Block’s Fairy-Tale Rewritings
Authors: Walz Marie Emilie
Published: July 2021

Many rewritings of fairy tales use this genre to address the darkest, most violent, most unjust, and most painful aspects of human experiences, as well as to provide hope that it is possible to overcome or at least come to terms with such experiences. Francesca Lia Block’s The Rose and the Beast: Fairy Tales Retold (pub. 2000) is an example of such a use of fairy-tale material. Block’s stories transform traditional fairy tales to narrate the painful realities adolescents can be faced with in modern-day American society. In doing so, Block’s stories draw attention to the violence, both literal and ideological, inherent in well-known versions of fairy tales, as well as to the difficulty of confronting painful realities. Yet, as they depict young heroines (not) facing all kinds of ordeals, the stories also use the figure of the helper to restore hope to the protagonists and lead them to a new, often re-enchanted, life. Employing fairy-tale elements to both address suffering and provide hope, The Rose and the Beast thus offers complex and liminal narratives, or ‘anti-tales’, which deeply resonate with their intended adolescent audience’s in-between stage of life.
Undiagnosed Hypertension in a Workplace: The Case of a Logistics Company in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Bokaba Morongwa , Modjadji Perpetua , Mokwena Kebogile Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

A large proportion of the population with hypertension remains undiagnosed, untreated, or inadequately treated, contributing to the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases in South Africa. A workplace may either mitigate or accentuate the risk factors for hypertension. A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension and associated factors among 312 employees in a Logistics Company, South Africa. A modified, validated, self-administered WHO STEPwise questionnaire was used to collect data on demography, lifestyle factors, anthropometry and blood pressure (BP). Hypertension was defined at BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg. Data was analysed using STATA 14. Mean age of employees was 40 ± 10 years, with a 50% prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension. No significant association was observed between occupation and undiagnosed hypertension, except for high prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension among truck drivers and van assistants (43%), and general workers (27%), having higher odds of increased waist-to-height ratio. Hypertension was associated with age (OR = 2.3, 95%CI; 1.21–4.27), alcohol use (AOR = 1.8, 95%CI; 1.05–2.93), waist circumference (AOR = 2.3, 95%CI; 1.29–4.07) and waist-to-height-ratio (AOR = 3.7, 95%CI; 1.85–7.30). Improved and effective workplace health programs and policies are necessary for management of undiagnosed hypertension among employees. Longitudinal studies on mediation of occupation in association of demographic and lifestyle factors with hypertension in workplaces are needed.
Towards Personalized Medicine: Non-Coding RNAs and Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Cavaliere Anna Franca , Perelli Federica , Zaami Simona , Piergentili Roberto , Mattei Alberto , Vizzielli Giuseppe , Scambia Giovanni , Straface Gianluca , Restaino Stefano , Signore Fabrizio
Published: July 2021

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most frequent female cancer associated with excellent prognosis if diagnosed at an early stage. The risk factors on which clinical staging is based are constantly updated and genetic and epigenetic characteristics have recently been emerging as prognostic markers. The evidence shows that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a fundamental role in various biological processes associated with the pathogenesis of EC and many of them also have a prognosis prediction function, of remarkable importance in defining the therapeutic and surveillance path of EC patients. Personalized medicine focuses on the continuous updating of risk factors that are identifiable early during the EC staging to tailor treatments to patients. This review aims to show a summary of the current classification systems and to encourage the integration of various risk factors, introducing the prognostic role of non-coding RNAs, to avoid aggressive therapies where not necessary and to treat and strictly monitor subjects at greater risk of relapse.
Recent Trends in Sedentary Time: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Fang Hui , Jing Yuan , Chen Jie , Wu Yanqi , Wan Yuehua
Published: July 2021

This paper systematically reviews and synthesizes the relevant literature on sedentary time research. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to evaluate the publications from 2010 to 2020 in the Web of Science (WoS) core collection database. Derwent Data Analyzer software was used for the cleaning, mining, and visualization of the data. Historical trends of the topics, main contributors, leading countries, leading institutions, leading research areas, and journals were explored. A total of 3020 publications were studied. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia are the three most productive countries. The Australian institution Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute led the list of productive institutions, and Ekelund U published the most papers. Sedentary time raised the concerns of scholars from 106 research areas, and public health was the dominant field. Physical activity, accelerometer, children, and obesity were the most frequently used keywords. The findings suggest that sedentary time is rapidly emerging as a global issue that has detrimental effects on public health. The hotspots shifted in the past 10 years, and COVID-19 was the most popular topic of sedentary time research.
Archaeoastronomy of the Temples of the Bekaa Valley
Authors: Magli Giulio
Published: July 2021

The Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, is famous worldwide due to the magnificent temple of Heliopolitan Jupiter at Baalbek. In recent years, new research revived the interest in the unsolved problems posed by the Baalbek monuments, including original dating and construction phases, relationships with the landscape, and nature of the cult practiced. In a preliminary paper, we used archaeoastronomy to propose that the project of the Temple of Jupiter was a unified one conceived under Herod the Great, and that the cult was strongly connected to the renewal of the seasonal cycles. Here, we extend and confirm this analysis considering the other temples of the Baalbek proper and the three prominent sanctuaries which lie in the Bekaa Valley on the way to Baalbek from Berytus, showing the existence of an orientation custom which appears to originate in Baalbek and to inform all these sacred places.
Early Physiological Response of Potato Plants to Entomopathogenic Fungi under Hydroponic Conditions
Authors: Tomilova Oksana G. , Kryukova Natalia A. , Efimova Marina V. , Kovtun Irina S. , Kolomeichuk Liliya V. , Kryukov Vadim Yu. , Glupov Victor V.
Published: July 2021

Endophytic entomopathogenic fungi are promising agents for the promotion of plant growth, the activation of immunity, and protection against phytopathogens. However, physiological changes in plants after treatment with fungi are insufficiently studied. We investigated the effect of potato inoculation with conidia from Metarhizium robertsii and Beauveria bassiana on the growth (fresh and dry weight, length of shoots and roots, counts of stolons and leaves, and total surface area of leaves) and physiological parameters (pigment contents, free proline and malondialdehyde content, and activity of antioxidant enzymes) at the initial stage of the plant–fungus interaction (seven days) under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that the fungi could act as an immune-modulating factor for plants based on the increase in malondialdehyde and proline contents. At the same time, we observed growth retardation and a decrease in the content of photosynthetic pigments, which may be caused by a tradeoff between plant growth and the immune response.
Applying the Social Vulnerability Index as a Leading Indicator to Protect Fire-Based Emergency Medical Service Responders’ Health
Authors: Haas Emily J. , Furek Alexa , Casey Megan , Yoon Katherine N. , Moore Susan M.
Published: July 2021

During emergencies, areas with higher social vulnerability experience an increased risk for negative health outcomes. However, research has not extrapolated this concept to understand how the workers who respond to these areas may be affected. Researchers from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) merged approximately 160,000 emergency response calls received from three fire departments during the COVID-19 pandemic with the CDC’s publicly available Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) to examine the utility of SVI as a leading indicator of occupational health and safety risks. Multiple regressions, binomial logit models, and relative weights analyses were used to answer the research questions. Researchers found that higher social vulnerability on household composition, minority/language, and housing/transportation increase the risk of first responders’ exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Higher socioeconomic, household, and minority vulnerability were significantly associated with response calls that required emergency treatment and transport in comparison to fire-related or other calls that are also managed by fire departments. These results have implications for more strategic emergency response planning during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as improving Total Worker Health® and future of work initiatives at the worker and workplace levels within the fire service industry.
Binge Drinking and Obesity-Related Eating: The Moderating Roles of the Eating Broadcast Viewing Experience among Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Jiye , Choi Saegyeol , Kim Hyekyeong , An Soontae
Published: July 2021

Recently, there has been a notable rise in binge drinking and in the popularity of eating broadcasts via TV and online platforms, especially in Korea. This study analyzed the moderating effect of the eating broadcast viewing experience on the relationship between binge drinking and obesity-related eating behaviors. Cross-sectional self-reported online survey data were collected from 1125 Korean adults. Moderation models for restrained, emotional, and external eating behaviors were tested using moderation analyses with Hayes’s PROCESS version 3.5 compatible with SPSS. As a result, the eating broadcast viewing experience moderated the relationship between binge drinking frequency and external eating (Fchange = 2.686, p = 0.045). More frequent binge drinking was associated with a higher level of external eating in participants who only watched online eating broadcasts, especially among women. Participants in their twenties showed the same above association; additionally, those who only watched TV eating broadcasts showed an inverse association, indicating that more frequent binge drinking was associated with a lower level of external eating. Consequently, an eating broadcast viewing experience was one of the environmental factors associated with binge drinking that influences obesity-related eating behaviors.
Assessment of Body Composition, Lower Limbs Power, and Anaerobic Power of Senior Soccer Players in Portugal: Differences According to the Competitive Level
Authors: Tereso Diogo , Paulo Rui , Petrica João , Duarte-Mendes Pedro , Gamonales José M. , Ibáñez Sergio J.
Published: July 2021

Background. During a soccer game, the most diversified stimuli occur all the time, the physical condition level plays a determinant role, and there may be variations according to the competitive level. In this sense, the present study aimed to verify differences in body composition, lower limbs power, and anaerobic power, comparing senior soccer players of different competitive levels. Methods. Participants were 81 players belonging to six soccer teams, aged between 18 and 35 years, with a mean age of 23.14 ± 4.23 years, who were divided into three distinct competitive levels: Elite, Sub-Elite and Non-Elite. The players performed bioimpedance evaluations on a tetrapolarInbody270 scale (body composition), the Countermovement Jump (CMJ) through the ChronoJump (lower limbs power), and Running Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) (anaerobic power). Results. Based on the competitive level analysis, we verified that the players present body composition values similar to each other regardless of the competitive level in which they play. Concerning the performance evaluations, we verified that the elite players present higher values of highest jump (p = 0.012; d = 0.76, moderate; and p = 0.022; d = 0.71, moderate) and maximum force produced (p = 0.05; d = 0.64, moderate; and p = 0.002; d = 1.00, moderate), together with higher values of anaerobic power (p < 0.001; d = 2.43, very large; and p < 0.001; d = 2.22, very large), compared to the others. Conclusions. We can thus conclude that there is a homogeneity regarding the body composition of soccer players, regardless of their competitive level; in turn, elite players show better performance indicators in all variables.
Effect of Increasing C/N Ratio on Performance and Microbial Community Structure in a Membrane Bioreactor with a High Ammonia Load
Authors: Xu Huaihao , Deng Yuepeng , Li Xiuying , Liu Yuxian , Huang Shuangqiu , Yang Yunhua , Wang Zhu , Hu Chun
Published: July 2021

Herein, the responses of the operational performance of a membrane bioreactor (MBR) with a high ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N) load and microbial community structure to increasing carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratios were studied. Variation in the influent C/N ratio did not affect the removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and NH4+-N but gradually abated the ammonia oxidization activity of sludge. The concentration of the sludge in the reactor at the end of the process increased four-fold compared with that of the seed sludge, ensuring the stable removal of NH4+-N. The increasing influent COD concentration resulted in an elevated production of humic acids in soluble microbial product (SMP) and accelerated the rate of membrane fouling. High-throughput sequencing analysis showed that the C/N ratio had selective effects on the microbial community structure. In the genus level, Methyloversatilis, Subsaxibacter, and Pseudomonas were enriched during the operation. However, the relative abundance of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) involved in nitrification declined gradually and were decreased by 86.54 and 90.17%, respectively, with influent COD increasing from 0 to 2000 mg/L. The present study offers a more in-depth insight into the control strategy of the C/N ratio in the operation of an MBR with a high NH4+-N load.
The Impact of Organised Sport, Physical Education and Active Commuting on Physical Activity in a Sample of New Zealand Adolescent Females
Authors: Gale Jennifer T. , Haszard Jillian J. , Scott Tessa , Peddie Meredith C.
Published: July 2021

Background: The majority of adolescents do less physical activity than is recommended by the World Health Organization. Active commuting and participation in organised sport and/or physical education individually have been shown to increase physical activity in adolescents. However, how these domains impact physical activity both individually and in combination has yet to be investigated in a sample of New Zealand female adolescents from around the country. Methods: Adolescent females aged 15–18 y (n = 111) were recruited from 13 schools across eight locations throughout New Zealand to participate in this cross-sectional study. Participants completed questions about active commuting, and participation in organised sport and physical education, before wearing an Actigraph GT3X (Actigraph, Pensacola, FL, USA) +24 h a day for seven consecutive days to determine time spent in total, MVPA and light physical activity. Results: Active commuters accumulated 17 min/d (95% CI 8 to 26 min/d) more MVPA compared to those who did not. Those who participated in sport accumulated 45 min/d (95% CI 20 to 71 min/d) more light physical activity and 14 min/d (95% CI 5 to 23 min/d) more MVPA compared to those who did not. Participation in physical education did not seem to have a large impact on any component of physical activity. Participation in multiple domains of activity, e.g., active commuting and organised sport, was associated with higher accumulation of MVPA but not light activity. Conclusion Active commuting and sport both contribute a meaningful amount of daily MVPA. Sport participation has the potential to increase overall activity and displace sedentary behaviour. A combination of physical activity domains may be an important consideration when targeting ways to increase physical activity in adolescent females.
Decision Making in Health Management during Crisis: A Case Study Based on Epidemiological Curves of China and Italy against COVID-19
Authors: Filho Salvador Ávila , Ávila Júlia Spínola , Mrugalska Beata , de Souza Naiara Fonseca , Gomes de Carvalho Ana Paula Meira , Gonçalves Lhaís Rodrigues
Published: July 2021

In December 2019, a new infectious respiratory disease called COVID-19 was identified in Wuhan, Hubei province, in China and quickly reached pandemic status in March 2020, in uncertain and frightening situation. The objective of this study was to analyze the epidemiological curves from the fight against COVID-19 in China and Italy, establishing parameters that can assist with the decisions of health-planning managers. This study was conducted using the principles of the grounded theory methodology and a practical method of comparison between the real and ideal curves, based on the contamination and death data by SARS-CoV-2 in China and Italy. For this purpose, we built graphs, including parameters, such as, among others, amplitude, height, saturation point, acceleration, lethality, event, risk, and efficiency. The results of our study showed that China exhibited amplitude and height of the active contamination and death curve 2 times smaller than those of Italy which exhibited several saturations. It was investigated that Italy presented a qualitative risk of 5–6, whereas for China it was 4. According to the parameters, China and Italy presented health management that was able to reduce the impact caused by the virus. The implementation of adequate health management with these practical tools can guide perception of the crisis critical levels, avoiding major disasters. We intend to continue to validate the method in the analysis of data from Brazil and the USA.
Consumers’ Food Safety Risk Communication on Social Media Following the Suan Tang Zi Accident: An Extended Protection Motivation Theory Perspective
Authors: Zhu Ying , Wen Xiaowei , Chu May , Zhang Gongliang , Liu Xuefan
Published: July 2021

There are many hidden safety hazards in homemade food due to an absence of food preparation and storage knowledge, and this has led to many food safety incidents. The purpose of this study was to explore the influencing factors of consumers’ food risk communication behavior on social media in northeast China, using the protection motivation theory. We integrate the Suan Tang Zi food poisoning accident and the protection motivation theory to develop a conceptual model to predict food safety risk communication on social media. We conducted a questionnaire which adapted measures from the existing Likert scales. A total of 789 respondents from northeast China participated in this study. We tested our hypotheses using a structural equation model. Results show that perceived severity, perceived vulnerability and self-efficacy have a significant influence on consumer protection motivation. Response efficacies have a positive impact on consumer protection motivation, but response barriers have a negative impact on consumer protection motivation. Additionally, information need and protection motivation of consumers have a significant impact on food safety risk communication on social media. Overall, the protection motivation theory accounted for 71% of the variance in food safety risk communication on social media. Practical implications and suggestions are proposed for the related stakeholders, as well as consumers, to encourage the public to participate in the food risk communication in this study. The research findings presented the social media as a kind of food risk communication channel contributes to consumers acquire accurate information on food quickly, in turn, reduce the probability of food poisoning in daily life. Protection motivation theory may provide some insights into how we can increase the rate of food safety risk communication on social media.
Subjective Well-Being and Its Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivational Correlates in High Performance Executives: A Study in Chilean Managers Empirically Revisiting the Bifactor Model
Authors: Pradenas Daniela , Oyanedel Juan Carlos , da Costa Silvia , Rubio Andrés , Páez Dario
Published: July 2021

This study analyzes the relationship between work satisfaction, family satisfaction, and general well-being in high performance managers in Santiago, Chile. The importance of the satisfaction of intrinsic and extrinsic needs and motivations was examined to advance in the development of a positive organizational psychology, which investigates the factors that reinforce well-being. Seventy-five executives from large and medium-sized companies were surveyed and 8 in-depth interviews were carried out. The main predictors of well-being are, from family satisfaction, the family’s ability to cope with stress and, from work satisfaction, extrinsic aspects such as material conditions of the job and stability, and intrinsic aspects such as recognition and the ability to organize one’s own work. The more general regression model shows that extrinsic job and family satisfaction predict general well-being, not intrinsic satisfaction. The results are discussed in the framework of classical models of motivation, such as Herzberg’s, their relationship to Deci and Ryan’s self-determination theory, and the current study of well-being in organizations.
Community Environment Perception on Depression: The Mediating Role of Subjective Social Class
Authors: Zhang Liqin , Wu Lin
Published: July 2021

Depression has become a major social issue of global concern, which has seriously threatened the quality of an individual’s life. Although the relationship between community environment and depression has aroused heated debate, the empirical research on the relationship between community environment perception and public depression is still relatively insufficient. Data for this study are from China Family Panel Studies in 2016, which were conducted by the institute of Social Science Survey, Peking University. This paper has tested group differences in the influence of community environment on public depression, as well as the mediating role of subjective social class between community environment perception and depression, so as to further explore the social psychological effect of community environment. The empirical study found that there are group differences in the impacts of community environment perception on depression. Specifically, men, rural residents, and people aged 60 and under are more likely to be depressed which were affected by the perception of community environment. Furthermore, we have found that the subjective social class can partly mediate community environment perception and depression. That is to say, the perception of community environment can induce depression by influencing the individual’s subjective social class. Among them, community living environment and community public facilities have the greatest impact, community emotional attachment and community security situation have the second impact, and neighborhood mutual aid and neighborhood relationship have the least impact. In other words, the community environment is deeply endowed with a social psychological effect. To ameliorate the public’s depression, it is necessary to consider the construction of community physical environment and the cultivation of harmonious community culture as powerful measures not to be ignored. In short, the important role of community environmental intervention in alleviating the public’s depression caused by social class cognition deserves attention.
Effect of the Use of Metronome Feedback on the Quality of Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Yang Dongjun , Lee Wongyu , Oh Jehyeok
Published: July 2021

Although the use of audio feedback with devices such as metronomes during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a simple method for improving CPR quality, its effect on the quality of pediatric CPR has not been adequately evaluated. In this study, 64 healthcare providers performed CPR (with one- and two-handed chest compression (OHCC and THCC, respectively)) on a pediatric resuscitation manikin (Resusci Junior QCPR), with and without audio feedback using a metronome (110 beats/min). CPR was performed on the floor, with a compression-to-ventilation ratio of 30:2. For both OHCC and THCC, the rate of achievement of an adequate compression rate during CPR was significantly higher when performed with metronome feedback than that without metronome feedback (CPR with vs. without feedback: 100.0% (99.0, 100.0) vs. 94.0% (69.0, 99.0), p < 0.001, for OHCC, and 100.0% (98.5, 100.0) vs. 91.0% (34.5, 98.5), p < 0.001, for THCC). However, the rate of achievement of adequate compression depth during the CPR performed was significantly higher without metronome feedback than that with metronome feedback (CPR with vs. without feedback: 95.0% (23.5, 99.5) vs. 98.5% (77.5, 100.0), p = 0.004, for OHCC, and 99.0% (95.5, 100.0) vs. 100.0% (99.0, 100.0), p = 0.003, for THCC). Although metronome feedback during pediatric CPR could increase the rate of achievement of adequate compression rates, it could cause decreased compression depth.
A Novel Strategy for the Assessment of Radon Risk Based on Indicators
Authors: Mancini Simona , Vilnitis Martins , Guida Michele
Published: July 2021

Among the physical pollutants affecting indoor air, the radioactive gas radon may turn out to be the most hazardous. Health effects related to radon exposure have been investigated for several decades, providing major scientific evidence to conclude that chronic exposures can cause lung cancer. Additionally, an association with other diseases, such as leukemia and cancers of the extra-thoracic airways, has been advanced. The implementation of a strategy to reduce the exposure of the population and minimize the health risk, according to the European Directive 59/2013/Euratom on ionizing radiations, is a new challenge in public health management. Starting from an understanding of the general state-of-the-art, a critical analysis of existing approaches has been conducted, identifying strengths and weaknesses. Then, a strategy for assessing the radon exposure of the general population, in a new comprehensive way, is proposed. It identifies three main areas of intervention and provides a list of hazard indicators and operative solutions to control human exposure. The strategy has been conceived to provide a supporting tool to authorities in the introduction of effective measures to assess population health risks due to radon exposure.
The Effects of Horticultural Activity Program on Vegetable Preference of Elementary School Students
Authors: Kim Ha-Ram , Kim Seon-Ok , Park Sin-Ae
Published: July 2021

This study was conducted to investigate effects of a horticultural activity program based on a mediating variable model for improving vegetable preference among elementary students. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 136 students and 136 primary carers in Seoul, South Korea. Based on the mediation model for improving children’s vegetable preference, 12 sessions were conducted, including gardening, nutrition education, and cooking activities using harvests. The program was conducted weekly for 12 weeks from March to July 2019. To investigate the effect of this program, mediating factors of the children were evaluated before and after the program. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify the mediating factors. The nutrition index, attitude, knowledge, and eating habits of the primary carers were evaluated. Results showed children’s nutrition and gardening knowledge, dietary self-efficacy, outcome expectancies, and vegetable preference were significantly improved (p < 0.001). Primary carers showed significant improvement in the nutrition index, knowledge, and attitude (p < 0.05). The correlation analysis confirmed that most of the mediating factors had significant correlations (p < 0.05). Therefore, administering a structured program involving horticultural activities and nutrition education as mediating factors for 12 sessions was effective in improving eating behavior for vegetables elementary school students and primary carers.