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Article
Publication date: 12 February 2024

Mohammad Zamani, Zahra Sohrabi, Ladan Aghakhani, Kimia Leilami, Saeed Nosratabadi, Zahra Namkhah, Cain Clark, Neda Haghighat, Omid Asbaghi and Fatemeh Fathi

Previous research indicates that vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation may benefit overall health, but current evidence regarding its effects on lipid profile remains unclear…

Abstract

Purpose

Previous research indicates that vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation may benefit overall health, but current evidence regarding its effects on lipid profile remains unclear. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects of vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation on lipid profile (total cholesterol [TC], low-density lipoprotein [LDL], triglyceride [TG] and high-density lipoprotein [HDL]) in adults.

Design/methodology/approach

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, relevant studies were obtained by searching the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases (from inception to January 2022). Weighted mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated via a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were reported using standard methods.

Findings

Pooled analysis of six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation yielded significant reductions in TG (p = 0.631). A pooled analysis of five trials indicated a significant association between omega-3 and vitamin D treatment and reductions in TC (p = 0.001) and LDL (p = 0.001). Although, pooled analyses of omega-3 and vitamin D did not significantly affect HDL.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation lowers TG, TC and LDL in adults. Future, large-scale, RCTs on various populations are needed to elucidate further beneficial effects of vitamin D and omega-3 co-supplementation on lipid profile and establish guidelines for clinical practice.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 January 2024

Surender Kumar, Sanjay Yadav, Reetu Rani and Ashok Kumar Pathera

This paper aims to study the effects of plum powder and apple pomace powder additions on the quality properties of buffalo meat emulsion.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effects of plum powder and apple pomace powder additions on the quality properties of buffalo meat emulsion.

Design/methodology/approach

Buffalo meat emulsions were prepared using different levels (2%, 4% and 6%) of plum powder and apple pomace powder, respectively. The meat emulsions were analysed for the physico-chemical, sensory and textural properties of the meat emulsion.

Findings

The pH of meat emulsions decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with an increased level of plum powder and apple pomace powder. Water-holding capacity (43.1%–48.1%), emulsion stability (80.2%–92.2%) and cooking yield (85.4%–91.0%) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in plum powder and apple pomace powder added than the water-holding capacity (42.1%), emulsion stability (79.7%) and cooking yield (85.0%) of control emulsion. The moisture content was decreased significantly (p < 0.05), and crude fibre content was increased significantly (p < 0.05) with the increase in plum powder and apple pomace powder additions in meat emulsions. The total phenolic content and colour values (a* and b*) were significantly higher in plum powder and apple pomace powder added to meat emulsions. The sensory scores of meat emulsions were affected by the addition of plum powder and apple pomace powder. The meat emulsion added with 6% plum powder and 6% apple pomace powder showed significantly lower values of sensory overall acceptability. The hardness of meat emulsions increased with the addition of plum powder and apple pomace powder.

Originality/value

The results indicated that meat emulsions with a good cooking yield, fibre content, sensory acceptability and textural properties can be prepared by using plum powder and apple pomace powder.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 January 2024

Mohammed Hashim Abukari, Collins Afriyie Appiah, Alexander Kwarteng and Sherifa Iddrisu

The health of people living in prisons (PLP) frequently remains marginalised in national development discourse, particularly in resource-constrained settings like Ghana. This…

Abstract

Purpose

The health of people living in prisons (PLP) frequently remains marginalised in national development discourse, particularly in resource-constrained settings like Ghana. This study aims to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among PLP at a prison facility in the Northern Region of Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study involving 134 male persons in prison, aged 18–79 years, was conducted to assess their dietary habits, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sleep behaviour and physical activity practices. Serum lipid profile, fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood pressure (BP) and body mass indices of participants were also measured.

Findings

Almost half (48.1%) of the participants had abnormal lipid levels. Those with FBG in the diabetes range (= 7.0 mmol/l) constituted 3.9%, while 16.7% were in the impaired FBG range (6.1–6.9 mmol/l). Participants with BP within the pre-hypertension range were 54.5%. The majority of participants (92%) had a low daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Few participants were active smokers (5%) and alcohol users (2%). The average sleep duration at night among the participants was 5.54 ± 2.07 h. The majority (74%) of the participants were sedentary. About a quarter of the participants (24.6%) had overweight/obesity.

Originality/value

This study highlights the CVD risks among PLP. Findings suggest the need for targeted interventions, such as dietary and lifestyle modification strategies, regular physical activity and routine screening for diabetes, dyslipidaemia and hypertension. These interventions within the prison space could significantly improve the cardiovascular health of PLP in resource-limited settings.

Details

International Journal of Prison Health, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2977-0254

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 January 2024

Abdelrahim Alqudah, Esam Qnais, Salsabeel H. Sabi, Yousra Bseiso, Omar Gammoh and Mohammed Wedyan

The purpose of this study was to explore the potential benefits of Coriandrum sativum (C. sativum) on anxiety, depression, sleep quality and memory among students.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the potential benefits of Coriandrum sativum (C. sativum) on anxiety, depression, sleep quality and memory among students.

Design/methodology/approach

This randomized controlled trial involved university students aged 18–25 years, who had no known allergies to C. sativum or were using psychotropic medication. After giving informed consent, participants were randomly assigned using a computer-generated random sequence to either 500 mg C. sativum seeds or a placebo. Primary outcomes measured changes in memory (prospective and retrospective memory questionnaire [PRMQ]), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), while secondary outcomes assessed sleep quality (Pittsburgh sleep quality inventory [PSQI]).

Findings

A sample of 86 students with a mean age of 20.05 ± 1.6 years was selected for the study. Initial assessments ensured no significant differences in demographic or study variables between the control and intervention groups. Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in memory (PRMQ: p = 0.006), anxiety (Hospital Anxiety Scale: p = 0.04) and depression (Hospital Depression Scale: p = 0.002), as well as in sleep quality (PSQI: p = 0.03) in the group receiving C. sativum compared to the control group.

Originality/value

This research offers initial insights into the potential benefits of C. sativum intake, specifically its role in enhancing memory performance and mitigating anxiety among student populations. The results present a compelling case for further research in this domain to solidify these preliminary conclusions.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 February 2024

Alissa Nicole DeBruyne and Sharareh Hekmat

The purpose of this study is to determine the viability of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 (L. rhamnosus GR-1) in five yogurt samples with or without quinoa, chickpea, soybean…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the viability of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 (L. rhamnosus GR-1) in five yogurt samples with or without quinoa, chickpea, soybean and rice flour over various fermentation periods and refrigerated storage durations, with a focus on exploring the potential of functional foods, which provide health benefits beyond nutritional value. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate consumer acceptance of yogurt fortified with functional flour. Using a nine-point hedonic scale, from 1 (dislike extremely) to 9 (like extremely), participants rated appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptability.

Design/methodology/approach

The samples were inoculated with the probiotic strain L. rhamnosus GR-1 and fermented for 0, 2, 4 and 6 h at 38°C, followed by refrigerated storage at 4°C for 1, 15 and 30 days, respectively. Microbial enumeration was performed throughout fermentation and storage to assess the viability of L. rhamnosus GR-1. A sensory evaluation involving 86 participants was conducted to assess the consumer acceptability of the yogurt samples.

Findings

Notably, L. rhamnosus GR-1 achieved viable counts of 108 colony-forming units per mL in all treatments at all fermentation time points. Over the 30-day storage period, no statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in average pH values were observed among the five treatments, and within each treatment, pH levels remained stable, with an overall mean of 4.2 ± 0.64. Treatment 4, which featured rice flour fortification, received higher hedonic scores from sensory panellists in terms of appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptability. These findings indicate that incorporating functional flours in conjunction with cow’s milk effectively promotes and preserves the viability of L. rhamnosus GR-1 in yogurt.

Originality/value

Exploring the potential of probiotic yogurt enriched with diverse functional flours to enhance nutritional content and health benefits as well as attract new consumers, this study addressed a critical gap in understanding consumer perceptions and generated insights for creating innovative and health-promoting dairy products.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 December 2023

Stanimir Čekerinac, Ana Starčević, Miloš Basailović, Dušan Sekulić and Nevena Divac

Prison settings have limited resources, and it is of particular interest to analyze which antipsychotics are commonly prescribed in these conditions and to determine the…

Abstract

Purpose

Prison settings have limited resources, and it is of particular interest to analyze which antipsychotics are commonly prescribed in these conditions and to determine the prevalence of the adverse effects.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional, epidemiological survey was used to measure the prevalence of antipsychotic prescribing among adult prisoners in Sremska Mitrovica Prison in 2020.

Findings

The prevalence of antipsychotic use was 7.58%. The most commonly prescribed antipsychotic was clozapine (45.36%), but also olanzapine, haloperidol and risperidone were prescribed. The incidence of extrapyramidal adverse effects was nonexistent and the metabolic parameters did not differ between participants using metabolic syndrome–inducing antipsychotics and those who were prescribed metabolically inert medications. The prescribed doses were lower compared with the recommended.

Research limitations/implications

This research includes certain points that should be cautiously considered. First, the data were cross-sectional and the findings did not provide causal interpretations. Second, the data are from a single penitentiary institution, albeit the largest in the country; however, that may affect the generalizability of the findings. Third, because the included subjects were not hospitalized, some laboratory analyses were not available, according to the local regulations, and thus the prevalence of metabolic syndrome could not be precisely determined.

Practical implications

The prevalence of the antipsychotic use in prison environment is significantly higher than in general population. The most frequently prescribed antipsychotics are clozapine and olanzapine. The prevalence of adverse effects is rare, however, that is possibly due to low doses of the prescribed antipsychotics. The list of therapeutic options available to the incarcerated persons in this facility is also limited. The list of available antipsychotics does not include some atypical antipsychotics with more favorable safety and tolerability profile, such as aripiprazole or cariprazine. Long-acting antipsychotic injectables were also not available to these patients. Laboratory analyses are not regularly conducted and do not include some essential parameters such as lipid status or differential blood count. Low-dose antipsychotics for behavioral symptoms appears to be well tolerated under prison conditions where adherence is assured. It is effective during the prison stay but long-term effects, especially after release from prison, had not been studied.

Social implications

This paper advocates for better quality of health care in this correctional facility: more therapeutic options and better laboratory monitoring. The authors justify the use of clozapine in this settings due its benefits in reducing violence and aggression; however, further research would be necessary to clarify does the use of clozapine in incarcerated persons cause behavioral improvements that could result in shorter incarcerations, less recidivism and better quality of life.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first insight of the antipsychotic prescribing practice in Serbia. There is very limited data on prisoners’ health care, especially mental health care, in Balkan countries. The antipsychotic prescribing pattern in this sample is characterized with higher than expected clozapine use, but without expected adverse effects.

Details

International Journal of Prison Health, vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2977-0254

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 5 April 2024

Kajal Lahiri and Paul Noroski

The authors examine whether or not applicants and recipients of federal disability insurance (DI) inflate their self-assessed health (SAH) problems relative to others. To do this…

Abstract

The authors examine whether or not applicants and recipients of federal disability insurance (DI) inflate their self-assessed health (SAH) problems relative to others. To do this, the authors employ a technique which uses anchoring vignettes. This approach allows them to examine how various cohorts of the population interpret survey questions associated with subjective self-assessments of health. The results of the analysis suggest that DI participants do inflate the severity of a given health problem, but by a small but significant degree. This tendency to exaggerate the severity of disability problems is much more apparent among those with more education (especially those with a college degree). In contrast, racial minorities tend to underestimate severity ratings for a given disability vignette when compared to their white peers.

Article
Publication date: 8 March 2024

Jann E. Freed

This paper aims to help HR leaders understand the value of building community and advice on how they can build community in their teams and organizations.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to help HR leaders understand the value of building community and advice on how they can build community in their teams and organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The author draws from recent data about loneliness and community and incorporates real-world strategies and suggestions.

Findings

Building community is often overlooked or undervalued, but HR leaders can take steps to help employees feel as though they are part of a community and be more engaged in their work.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills a need that has been identified across major publications in the USA in recent years: how HR leaders can help employees combat loneliness and social isolation and feel more engaged at work.

Details

Strategic HR Review, vol. 23 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1475-4398

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Communicating Climate
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-643-6

Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Luigi Piper, Lucrezia Maria de Cosmo, M. Irene Prete, Antonio Mileti and Gianluigi Guido

This paper delves into evaluating the effectiveness of warning messages as a deterrent against excessive fat consumption. It examines how consumers perceive the fat content of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper delves into evaluating the effectiveness of warning messages as a deterrent against excessive fat consumption. It examines how consumers perceive the fat content of food products when presented with two distinct label types: (1) a textual warning, providing succinct information about the fat content, and (2) a pictorial warning, offering a visual representation that immediately signifies the fat content.

Design/methodology/approach

Two quantitative studies were carried out. Study 1 employed a questionnaire to evaluate the efficacy of textual and pictorial warning messages on high- and low-fat food products. Similarly, Study 2 replicated this comparison while incorporating a neuromarketing instrument to gauge participants’ cerebral reactions.

Findings

Results indicate that pictorial warnings on high-fat foods significantly deter consumers’ purchasing intentions. Notably, these pictorial warnings stimulate the left prefrontal area of the cerebral cortex, inducing negative emotions in consumers and driving them away from high-fat food items.

Originality/value

While the influence of images over text in shaping consumer decisions is well understood in marketing, this study accentuates the underlying mechanism of such an impact through the elicitation of negative emotions. By understanding this emotional pathway, the paper presents fresh academic and managerial perspectives, underscoring the potency of pictorial warnings in guiding consumers towards healthier food choices.

Highlights

 

  1. Textual warnings do not seem to discourage high-fat product consumption.

  2. A pictorial warning represents the fat content of an equivalent product.

  3. Pictorial warnings decrease the intention to purchase a high-fat product.

  4. Pictorial warnings determine an increase in negative emotions.

Textual warnings do not seem to discourage high-fat product consumption.

A pictorial warning represents the fat content of an equivalent product.

Pictorial warnings decrease the intention to purchase a high-fat product.

Pictorial warnings determine an increase in negative emotions.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

1 – 10 of 20