Balanced Nutrition Research Articles

Balanço nutricional em mangueiras no semiárido brasileiro utilizando métodos diagnósticos nutricionais

ABSTRACT Nutritional assessment of mango trees based on diagnostic methods considering nutritional balance is recommended. This study aimed to establish optimum nutritional ranges using diagnostic methods, compare them, identify the most efficient diagnostic method, and select the nutrients responding best to the application of the diagnostic method. The study was conducted in commercial mango orchards in the São Francisco Valley. Nutritional content was calculated using the diagnosis and recommendation integrated system (DRIS-Beaufils, DRIS-Jones), modified DRIS (M-DRIS-Beaufils; M-DRIS-Jones), compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND), and mathematical chance (ChM) methods and compared using the chi-square test. Principal component analysis was applied to select the most efficient diagnostic method and the nutrients responsible for the greatest variability. The DRIS-Beaufils, M-DRIS-Beaufils, DRIS-Jones, M-DRIS-Jones, CND, and ChM methods generated nutritional sufficiency ranges for the evaluated cultivars. The nutritional diagnoses of the DRIS-Beaufils and M-DRIS-Beaufils methods were similar and discordant with those of DRIS-Jones, M-DRIS-Jones, and CND. The DRIS-Beaufils method, updated by Maia, proved to be more consistent for the nutritional assessment of mango trees. The nutrients N, P, K, Mg, and S in the Tommy Atkins cultivar; N, P, Mg, S, B, Mn, Zn, Mo, and Cl in the Kent cultivar; and N, P, K, Ca, S, B, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mo, and Cl in the Keitt cultivar showed significant responses to the application of the DRIS-Beaufils method updated by Maia.

Balanced Nutrition Practiced with Limitations During The Covid-19 Pandemic: An Experience in Subang, West Java

ABSTRACT Balanced Nutrition is a national program for all, decleared to combat non communicable diseases especially for Indonesian people from young age until elderly stage at any situation.The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices of Balanced Nutrition messages among parents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic era. Google online survey platform was used for data collection, distributed in September 2021 and September 2022. The top three Balanced Nutrition messages selected by the parents (n=71), as a proxy indicator for their knowledge, were drinking adequate and safe water, consuming variety of staple foods, eat plenty of vegetables and fruits (from total 10 questions). Parents had positive attitude toward drinking water, consuming a variety of staple food, washing their hands, and engaging in physical activity (from total 8 questions). An increase was shown in the proportion of parents who practiced for above four activities in September 2021, while a decrease in proportion of parents who consumed fruit, vegetable, and animal protein was found (from total 12 questions on practice). In September 2022, the following practices were implemented by a higher proportion of parents compared before and during the pandemic era, namely consumption of adequate water, daily physical activity, and daily fruit consumption. Parents who consumed vegetables daily and washing their hands at 4 critical times declined again in September 2022. Parents had some knowledge and positive attitudes, but their implementation faced limitations during the pandemic era. Online messaging can be an alternative method of intervention delivery method, as well as through the preschool setting. Support and investment of the local government would improve health and provide economic benefit eventually. Keywords: balanced nutrition, COVID-19, knowledge, attitude, practices, Indonesian parents ABSTRAK Gizi Seimbang merupakan program nasional, untuk mengatasi penyakit tidak menular terutama untuk masyarakat Indonesia dari usia dini sampai lanjut usia. Tujuan dari studi ini adalah menilai pengetahuan, sikap dan praktik pesan Gizi Seimbang pada orang tua sebelum dan selama pandemi COVID-19. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan memanfaatkan platform survei daring google, dibagikan pada September 2021 dan September 2022. Tiga pesan Gizi Seimbang yang paling banyak dipilih oleh orangtua (n=71), sebagai pendekatan pengukuran pengetahuan, adalah minum air cukup dan aman, konsumsi beragam pangan pokok, makan banyak sayuran dan buah (dari total 10 pertanyaan). Orang tua memiliki sikap positif terhadap minum air, konsumsi beragam pangan pokok, mencuci tangan, dan terlibat di aktivitas fisik (dari total 8 pertanyaan). Pada September 2021 terdapat peningkatan proporsi orang tua yang mengonsumsi buah, sayur dan protein hewani dibanding sebelum pandemi (dari total 12 pertanyaan perilaku). Pada September 2022, lebih banyak proporsi orang tua yang mengonsumsi cukup air, melakukan aktivitas fisik, dan makan buah dibandingkan sebelum pandemi. Orang tua yang mengonsumsi sayuran tiap hari dan mencuci tangan pada 4 waktu kritis kembali menurun pada September 2022. Orang tua memiliki pengetahuan dan perilaku positif namun praktiknya selama pandemi mengalami keterbatasan. Pesan daring merupakan cara alternatif menyampaikan pesan, juga melalui jalur sekolah anak usia dini. Dukungan dan investasi dari pemerintah setempat akan meningkatkan status kesehatan dan akhirnya memberikan manfaat ekonomis. Kata kunci: gizi seimbang, COVID-19, pengetahuan, sikap, praktik, orang tua Indonesia

Penyuluhan Gizi dan Stunting serta Pemanfaatan Tepung Kulit Telur pada Kader Kesehatan di Kabupaten Sumedang

Sumedang still struggles with a stunting problem; based on the 2022 Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI), the percentage of stunted children in Sumedang is the highest among all cities in West Java. Health Cadres have a very potential role in stunting prevention from an early age, providing education about the importance and selection of healthy and balanced nutrition food during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the utilization of alternative food ingredients to improve the quality of nutrition in family food when conducting activities carried out at the Posyandu. This activity aims to enhance health cadres' knowledge through nutrition and stunting education and encourage the utilization of eggshell flour in creating family food innovations to prevent stunting from an early age. This activity uses pre-test and post-test questionnaires for measuring cadres’ knowledge about balanced nutrition and stunting prevention and a food creation competition based on eggshell flour, which is evaluated based on five criteria: creativity, nutritional facts, taste, texture, and presentation/serving. This activity effectively enhanced the knowledge regarding balanced nutrition and stunting prevention, as indicated by a significant increase in the average score before and after the intervention, with a p-value of 0.005. Furthermore, the food creation competition demonstrated the substantial potential of eggshell flour in preparing a diverse range of nutritious family food, including both savory and sweet dishes/snacks. This activity improved health cadres' knowledge and expanded the variety of healthy food through the innovative utilization of eggshell flour.

Data-driven development and validation of a nutrient-based score to measure nutritional balance of meals in the Philippines

BackgroundThe goal of the present study was to design an easily computable score, based on nutrient composition data instead of food groups, to evaluate the nutritional quality and balance of meals, adapted to the nutritional recommendations for Filipino adults.MethodThe score was defined as a weighted average of 9 nutrient scores. Protein, total fat, saturated fat, free sugars were scored as % of energy; calcium, fiber, sodium, vitamin C, magnesium were scored based on the local dietary reference intakes. The scoring algorithm was an adaption of a score previously developed by the authors based on US data. In the present study, the score was applied to 69,923 meals reported by 31,218 adult Filipinos aged 20 to 59 in the 2018 edition of the Philippine Expanded National Nutrition Survey to evaluate its validity and compare against exemplary meals designed as part of 24 h diet plans that meet local dietary guidelines.ResultsMeals from these exemplary menu plans, developed by local nutrition experts, scored on average 72.2 ± 13.9 (mean ± standard deviation) while those of survey participants scored 46.1 ± 12.9. Meal scores were significantly associated with the density of positive micronutrients (e.g., Vit A, Vit C) and favourable food groups (e.g. fruits, whole grains) not directly included in the algorithm.ConclusionThe score, between 0 and 100, is a valid tool to assess the nutritional quality of meals consumed by the PH population, accounting for both shortfall and excess nutrients, adjusted for the energy content of the meal. If applied to consumer-facing applications, it could potentially help users to understand which meals are nutritionally balanced.

Haematological response of starter broiler chickens fed diets containing graded levels of dried watermelon peel meal

The experiment was carried out to assess the hematological parameters of starter broiler chickens fed feed formulated with dried watermelon peel meal (DWPM). Ninety-six 21-day old broiler chickens were randomly assigned into four (4) treatments of twenty-four (24) birds each containing 0, 10, 20 and 30% DWPM and coded as D1, D2, D3 and D4 respectively in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment groups were further sub-divided into four (4) sub-groups of eight (8) birds to serve as replicate. At the end of the experiment, one bird per replicate was selected for blood analysis. Packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), platelets concentration (PC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), granulocyte and lymphocyte were measured. Results showed that the DWPM diet had no effect (P>0.05) on PCV, Hb, WBC, RBC, MCV, MCH, PC and MCHC. All mean values for the haematological parameters are above the normal range except WBC and RBC. In conclusion, the lack of significant effect suggests that, DWPM can be safely incorporated up to 12.5% in to the diets of starter broiler chicks without adverse haematological consequences. Nevertheless, careful consideration should be given to ensuring optimal nutritional balance and health status in broiler flocks.

Assessing Dietary Supplements, Nutritional Deficiencies, and the Potential of Personalized Nutrition

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened public awareness of health, leading to a surge in the consumption of dietary supplements, particularly vitamins and minerals. These micronutrients are vital for numerous physiological processes and overall health maintenance. However, the rapid expansion of the health product market has also resulted in the proliferation of substandard items and the risk of misuse or overconsumption. This study analyzes the ingredients in various health products and assesses the nutritional deficiencies prevalent in local populations. It emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition while cautioning against the excessive intake of certain supplements. The research also explores the potential of personalized nutrition, driven by advances in genomics and biotechnology, to provide tailored supplement recommendations. Additionally, the study highlights the need for stricter regulations and improved quality control in the health product industry to ensure consumer safety and confidence. By offering insights into the nutritional needs of individuals, this study aims to guide informed and responsible supplement use.

Focus on food instead of nutrients improves consumers’ understanding of meals’ nutrition quality

Abstract Background Nowadays, most of the information directed to consumers focuses on nutrients, ignoring the impact of the interactions between different foods, origin or degree of processing. The methodologies currently applied have led consumers to confuse foods with nutrients, meat and fish are often referred to as “proteins”, grains and potatoes are referred to as “carbohydrates, forgetting that these foods are source of other nutrients, such as fat, proteins or fibre. Furthermore, its efficacy is compromised by the difficulties of reading labels among consumers. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the understanding about food and nutritional information presented in menus to consumers, comparing the nutrient-focused approach (Nutrition Declaration) and the new food-focused approach (infographic - based on the Portuguese food Guide, from previous research). Methods 4 different meals were created, 2 balanced and complete in terms of food and nutrient content and 2 unbalanced and uncomplete. A questionnaire was applied, evaluating the understanding of the balance and healthiness of the meals, using the two approaches (nutrient-focused and food-focused). The order of presentation of the approaches and the meals was randomized for all participants. The questionnaire was distributed online through snowball sampling. Results 221 individuals participated, mostly female (67%), aged 25 to 54 years old. Evaluation of meals (“how balanced” and “how complete” the meal is) using the Nutrition Declaration did not allow to distinguish the quality of meals (Mb = 3,8;Mc=4,0), in opposite the Infographic returned significant differences between M1/M2 (Mb = 4,3;Mc=4,4) and M3/M4 (Mb = 2,5;Mc=2,6) (p < 0.01) allowing consumers to perceive differences between meals. The percentage of consumers that respond “I don’t know” to these questions decreased using the food-focused tool (13% vs 2%). Conclusions The food-focused approach allows for better understanding of meals’ nutritional balance. Key messages • The infographic provides more information about the daily food portions and how different meals and types of food contribute for complying food and nutritional recommendations. • The use of the infographic in menus, recipes, cookbooks and clinical advice may improve better food choices and a healthier lifestyle.

Association between frailty and fear of falling among the elderly in Latvia

Abstract Background Frailty and fear of falling in the ageing population represent notable public health challenges. Fear of falling among the elderly population is a significant concern, as it can lead to decreased mobility, loss of independence, and increased risk of injury. Frailty intensifies this fear, as frail individuals often have reduced strength, balance, and coordination, making them more susceptible to falls. Methods Data from the population-based survey SHARE with respondents aged 50+ in Latvia of Wave 9 (collected 2022) was analysed. Frailty was assessed using the SHARE-Frailty Instrument. Fatigue, appetite, walking difficulties, and physical activity were self-reported and grip strength was measured using a hand grip dynamometer. Fear of falling was evaluated using visual material. Financed by the project RSU internal and RSU with LSPA external consolidation No.5.2.1.1.i.0/2/24/I/CFLA/005, Postdoctoral Grant Associated factors of frailty and fall-related mortality in the older population in Latvia No.RSU-PG-2024/1-0005. Results The sample comprised 1439 older adults from Latvia (60.4 % female) with a mean age of 67.9 (95% CI 67.5 - 68.4). Based on SHARE-FI, frailty and pre-frailty prevalence were 7.2% and 44.5% respectively. In the study, 11.3% of females and 6.5% of males interviewed reported experiencing fear of falling. Frailty was correlated with fear of falling in 43.7% of frail individuals and 11.5% of pre-frail individuals. After adjusting for age and gender, those with pre-frailty and frailty had greater odds of fear of falling. Conclusions Understanding the interaction between the fear of falling and frailty in older adults can guide the development of public health policies and initiatives that aim to mitigate the fear of falling and, consequently, reduce the prevalence of frailty. Promoting healthy ageing behaviours, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and social engagement, can help prevent frailty and its associated risks. Key messages • Fear of falling results in limitation of activities, intensification of physical decline, and increased susceptibility to frailty. • Encouraging healthy ageing underscores the significance of early recognition of frailty symptoms and accessing suitable support.

The Importance of Acidified Biochar as a Sustainable Phosphorus Source and its Role in Balanced Nutrition for Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

The Importance of Acidified Biochar as a Sustainable Phosphorus Source and its Role in Balanced Nutrition for Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

Effect of Various Nitrogen Doses and Plant Growth Regulators on Nutrient Uptake and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L)

A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar, during season of 2019-20, to find out the effect of optimization of nitrogen doses for high yield potential of wheat with plant growth regulators. The experiment was laid out in randomized block and replicated thrice. The experiment ten treatment of different doses of fertilizer with plant growth regulators chlormequat chloride and tebuconazole applied at 0.2% and 0.1% respectively. Experimental revealed that application of 150% recommended doses of NPK resulted significantly higher available nitrogen (171.82 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (27.01 kg ha-1) and available potassium (192.27 kg ha-1) in soil after the harvest of wheat significantly highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by wheat recorded with 150% RDF of NPK with chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). Significantly highest grain and straw yield recorded with 150% NPK + chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%) at par with 100% RDF as compare to other treatments harvest index was recorded 125% RDF of N and chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%) and 150% RDF of N and chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). The uptake of key nutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium followed a similar pattern, with 150% recommended doses of NPK along chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). optimal NPK application resulted in positive nutrient balance in the soil. This investigation that managing nutrient with growth regulator in wheat is an economically viable and ecologically sound approach to improve both crop production and soil health through balanced nutrition.

Optimizing Productivity and Economics of Maize + Legumes Intercropping: A Study on the Impact of Natural and Organic Farming Practices

Background: Excessive use of chemical fertilizers in a cropping system adversely affects the soil health and crop productivity. To ensure food security, nutritional balance and environmental sustainability, a shift towards eco-friendly organic farming based agricultural systems was imperative. But it also poses challenges for small farmers who owe a small number of animals and they need to purchase bulk organic manures. Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) emerges as an alternate and advocate for low-input, climate-resilient practices which include beejamrit, jeevamrit, achhadana and whapasa. With the aim of increasing the production of the crops per unit area in the present study, different intervals (14, 21 and 28 days) of jeevamrit under natural farming plots and matka khad (30 days interval) under organic farming plots were tested in different maize based intercropping systems. Methods: A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 and 2021 at the Zero Budget Natural Farm (ZBNF), Department of Organic Agriculture and Natural Farming, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur. The experiment was comprised of thirteen treatments which were tested in randomized block design with three replications. Result: Among different treatments significantly higher values of yield attributes and yield of maize were recorded under maize + lobia and jeevamrit spray at 14 days interval during kharif 2020 and maize + soybean and jeevamrit spray at 14 days interval during kharif 2021. In case of economics, higher gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio were recorded under maize + soybean and jeevamrit spray at 14 days interval during kharif 2020, whereas during kharif 2021, maize + soybean and matka khad spray at 30 days interval resulted in the highest returns.

Relationship Between Breakfast Habits and Learning Achievement in Student of Senior High School 1 Kertosono Nganjuk Regency

Breakfast is an actual meal that is had between 6:00 and 9:00 in the morning and contribute provide 15 to 30 percent of the daily energy intake. Breakfast in the morning is very important for school children because it will have an impact on their learning achievement. This study aimed to examine the correlation between breakfast habits and learning achievement in students of SMA Negeri 1 Kertosono Nganjuk Regency. This study uses a cross-sectional design and is an analytical observational study. Simple random sampling was the sample method employed, with a sample size of 58 students. The data collection method was carried out by interviewing breakfast habits and taking data on the value of the 2nd Midterm Exam in the 2023/2024 academic year. The results of statistical tests utilizing the Spearman Rank Correlation test appear that there's no relationship between breakfast habits and learning achievement in students of SMA Negeri 1 Kertosono Nganjuk Regency. Nevertheless, students are expected to always have breakfast every day with a diverse menu and portions in accordance with balanced nutrition guidelines before carrying out learning activities at school.

Sexuality in Older Adults: Comprehensive Strategies for Clinicians and Patient-Centered Care

Introduction: Healthcare providers play a crucial role in promoting sexual health among older adults, an important yet often neglected aspect of aging well. Although sexuality evolves beyond the reproductive years, it remains a meaningful part of life for many. Despite the natural decline in sexual activity with age, numerous older adults continue to value and engage in fulfilling sexual relationships. Unfortunately, targeted interventions to support later-life sexuality are lacking, creating gaps in care. Intervention: Sexuality in older adults is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Clinicians should include comprehensive sexual health assessments, including STI screenings, as part of routine care. Providing age-appropriate sexual education and resources helps promote lifelong sexual wellness. Open communication between healthcare providers and patients is vital for addressing sexual concerns, often left unspoken due to stigma or discomfort. Additionally, adopting lifestyle medicine principles—such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and social connection—can enhance sexual health and overall well-being. Conclusion: Specialized training for healthcare professionals on the unique aspects of older adult sexuality is essential to bridge knowledge gaps. A holistic, evidence-based approach will empower providers to better support the evolving sexual health needs of older adults, improving their quality of life.

Determination of nutritional sufficiency ranges for pomelo (Citrus grandis Osbeck) grown on alluvial soils using DRIS.

Pomelo is an important tropical fruit with a high nutrient content and economic value in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD). The Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS) helps determine the leaf nutrient status of various plants worldwide. However, the DRIS-based nutritional balance in pomelo leaves remains to be established. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to (i) construct the DRIS norms and indices for nutrients, including macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg) and trace elements (Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn) in pomelo leaves, and (ii) establish nutrient sufficiency value ranges for sustainable pomelo cultivation in the VMD. We collected 270 leaf samples at three stages of pomelo growth, i.e., flowering, fruit development, and postharvest, and calculated DRIS indices for various nutrients. The DRIS indices established for various nutrients in pomelo leaves were accurate and reliable, as indicated by the high coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.43-0.93, p < 0.05) between nutrient concentrations and their DRIS indices. We observed that pomelo leaves were deficient in N (IN = -6.82), P (IP = -24.0), and Fe (IFe = -0.40) at the flowering stage and most deficient in P (IP = -15.6), K (IK = -11.7), Fe (IFe = -0.50), and Mn (IMn = -2.31) at the fruit development stage. However, only N (IN = -2.64) and P (IP = -13.4) shortages were observed at the postharvest stage. Thus, in this study, we evaluated nutrient value ranges (deficient, balanced, and excess) in pomelo leaves at their different growth stages and established DRIS indices for various nutrients. The results contribute to our understanding of the nutritional status of pomelo leaves, which can help growers improve plant health for sustainable pomelo production.

Ancient Practice of Garbh Sanskar and its Importance in Modern Scenario

Garbh Sanskar is ancient practice of nurturing mental, physical and emotional environment of mother during her pregnancy stage to promote overall well-being of both mother as well as her unborn child. This ancient practice combines holistic habits that include balanced nutrition, Yoga, recitation of Mantra, prayer and meditation, etc. This process inculcates positive values in the subconscious mind of Garbh (fetus) and also nourish mother in all means to manifest optimal strength in all dimensions. The practices of Garbh Sanskar maintain well being of mother and child, these effects subsequently reflects in the later stages of pregnancy and after the child birth. The current scenario witnessed hampered pattern of life style which significantly deteriorate health of women carrying fetus, this may cause problem in normal child birth or disrupt health of new born. Therefore practices of Garbh Sanskar become crucial in modern’s day life style to prevent mother and child from the harmful effects of stressful pattern of current scenario. This article highlights ancient practice of Garbh Sanskar and its importance in modern scenario.

BALANCED NUTRITION EDUCATION AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS SCREENING OF MALE ADOLESCENTS IN DORMITORY

Introduction: Adolescence is a golden period of reproductive, psychological and intelligence development. During the transition period between childhood and adulthood, biological, emotional, social and cognitive changes occur. Fulfilling nutrition during this period is important. This activity aims to educate teenagers about balanced nutrition and screen their nutritional status. Methods: This community service activity is carried out by providing education about balanced nutrition through lecture and discussion methods. While screening the nutritional status of adolescents is done through anthropometric measurements of body weight and height. The results of anthropometric measurements were then processed using the BMI formula according to age to obtain a z-score that describes the nutritional status of adolescents. This activity was carried out in dormitory of a high school with 36 young male participants. Results: Based on verbal observation and evaluation, students can receive and understand the material about balanced nutrition that is given properly. The results of the nutritional status screening showed that 31 of the adolescents in this activity (86%) had good nutrition but there were still students who had problems with thinness (3%), overweight (8%) and obesity(3%). Conclusion: It is recommended that schools and boarding schools follow up on students who are not in the good nutrition category. Students are directed to consume a balanced diet and physical activity so as to achieve the ideal body weight according to their height and age.

Menumbuhkan Kesadaran Gizi Seimbang Melalui Edukasi dan Pengecekan Status Gizi pada Santriwati di Maahad Tahfiz Al-Qur’an Darul Falah, Selangor, Malaysia

Maahad Tahfiz Al-Qur’an Darul Falah, Selangor, Malaysia, is an institution focused on Qur’an memorization for female students. Due to their intense activities, including memorization requiring high concentration, balanced nutrition is essential for supporting their academic performance and health. However, their nutritional intake has not been fully optimized. Initial observations indicated that some students have limited knowledge of balanced nutrition, which may affect their health and nutritional status. This community service program aimed to raise awareness about the importance of balanced nutrition through education, nutritional status checks, and counseling. The program included three main activities: (1) Nutrition education through lectures and interactive sessions, covering basic concepts of balanced nutrition, the food pyramid, and guidelines from the Ministry of Health Malaysia; (2) Nutritional status checks through height and weight measurements to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), identifying students' nutritional categories and related issues; and (3) Nutritional counseling, conducted after the status checks, teaching students how to achieve or maintain an ideal weight and offering advice on healthy eating and lifestyle habits. The program, which involved 40 students, found that 60% of them had a normal nutritional status, while some were underweight (12.5%), overweight (20%), and obese (7.5%). The education and counseling sessions helped improve the students' understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition and provided guidance on how to maintain or achieve a healthy weight, supporting their overall health and academic.

Differentiating Growth Patterns in Winter Wheat Cultivars via Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imaging

Wheat is one of the most widely grown cereal crops, serving as a key factor in sustaining the nutritional and food balance in numerous countries. The use of non-contact methods for wheat monitoring allows for the rapid diagnosis of vegetation density, crop growth, and the presence of weeds and diseases in the investigated fields. This study aims to assess the potential for differentiating growth patterns in winter wheat cultivars by examining them with two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the Mavic 2 Pro and Phantom 4 Pro, equipped with a multispectral camera from the MAPIR™ brand. Based on an experimental study conducted in the Southern Dobruja region (Bulgaria), vegetation reflectance indices, such as the Normalized-Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), and Enhanced Vegetation Index 2 (EVI2), were generated, and a database was created to track their changing trends. The obtained results showed that the values of the NDVI, EVI2, and SAVI can be used to predict the productive potential of wheat, but only after accounting for the meteorological conditions of the respective growing season. The proposed methodology provides accurate results in small areas, with a resolution of 0.40 cm/pixel when flying at an altitude of 12 m and 2.3 cm/pixel when flying at an altitude of 100 m. The achieved precision in small and ultra-small agricultural areas, at a width of 1.2 m, will help wheat breeders conduct precise diagnostics of individual wheat varieties.

Occurrence of Malnutrition among Seniors in Poland Depending on the Place of Residence: An Analysis of Socioeconomic and Health Risk Factors.

The aging population in Poland poses significant socioeconomic and health challenges, particularly regarding malnutrition among seniors. This study examines the impact of place of residence on the nutritional status and related health outcomes of older adults. Data were collected from 338 community-dwelling seniors and those in long-term care facilities. The results indicate that long-term care residents exhibited significantly higher frailty and depression levels and poorer nutritional status, functional fitness, gait, and balance compared to those in communities. Self-reported quality of life did not differ significantly between groups. Regardless of residence, having a family correlated with better nutritional status, quality of life, and functional fitness and lower frailty and depression levels. Malnutrition was significantly associated with reduced functional fitness across all residences, and well-nourished individuals in care facilities had lower functional fitness than those who were at home. Community-dwelling residents had significantly lower frailty levels, with frailty negatively correlating with nutritional status. Normal nutritional status was linked to higher balance and gait scores, indicating a lower fall risk, with the risk further reduced for those living in community settings. Additionally, normal nutritional status correlated with lower depression levels and higher quality of life, with malnourished individuals experiencing better quality of life in community-dwelling settings. These findings underscore the critical role of residence and family support in elderly nutrition and health outcomes.

Post Bariatric Surgery Nursing Care

Morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) above 40 or having a BMI of 35 and comorbidities along with obesity. Bariatric surgeries can be grouped into three. These are restrictive surgeries, malabsorption (impairing absorption) surgeries, and both restrictive and malabsorption surgeries. In bariatric surgery, restrictive surgeries such as vertical band gastroplasty (VGB), adjustable gastric banding (AGB) surgeries, malabsorption surgeries such as biliopancreatic diversion (BPD)/duodenal switch (DS) surgeries, and both restrictive and malabsorption surgeries such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgeries, are commonly performed. Post-bariatric surgery care should include a multidisciplinary team consisting of a surgeon, an endocrinologist, a psychiatrist, a dietitian, and a nurse specializing in bariatric surgery. Nursing care after obesity surgery is evaluated as early postoperative care (1-3 days) and late postoperative care. Close observation, careful and complete evaluation are important in the specialist nursing care of bariatric surgery patients. In bariatric surgery, patients are provided with routine post-operative nursing care such as oxygen and hemodynamic monitoring, pain management, mobilization, wound care, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, early and frequent ambulation, drain care, fluid balance nutrition, training, and emotional support.