Artículos de revista ISFOOD - ISFOOD aldizkari artikuluak

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Open Access
25 years of continuous sewage sludge application vs. mineral fertilizers on a calcareous soil affected pH but not soil carbonates
(Frontiers Media, 2022) De Soto García, Isabel Sonsoles; Zamanian, Kazem; Urmeneta Martín-Calero, Henar; Enrique Martín, Alberto; Virto Quecedo, Íñigo; Zientziak; Estatistika, Informatika eta Matematika; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Ciencias; Estadística, Informática y Matemáticas; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Inorganic and organic fertilizers have been widely used to maintain crop yields. However, several studies have demonstrated that the dissolution of carbonates in agricultural soils by the acidification induced by N-fertilizers can result in their total or partial loss in the tilled layer of some agricultural soils. The effect of inorganic and organic fertilization on carbonates in calcareous semiarid Mediterranean soils has been less studied and is still unclear. Based on a 25-year field experiment, we investigated the effects of different fertilization strategies on the soil pH, inorganic C content, and in the proportion of pedogenic carbonates in the topsoil (0-30 cm) of a carbonate-rich soil in Navarre (N Spain). Five treatments were compared: no amendments as a control (SC), mineral fertilization (MF), and the application of sewage sludge at different doses (80 Mg ha-1 every year (80-1), 40 Mg ha-1 every year (40-1) and 40 Mg ha-1 every four years (40-4). Results showed a decrease in soil pH values by increasing the amount of sewage sludge and a small alteration in the calcite structure particularly in 40-4. However, no significant differences between treatments were found in the total content of carbonates nor in the proportion of pedogenic carbonates. The high concentration of total carbonates in the soil (16.09 ± 0.48%), and of the proportion of pedogenic carbonates (40.21 ± 1.29%, assuming a δ13C of primary carbonates = 0 ‰) seemed elevated enough to compensate for the observed acidification in the studied soil. In the case of MF, no changes were observed in the pH values, nor in the carbonate content (total and pedogenic). This suggests that the use of sewage sludge could induce changes in the future at a faster rate and of greater dimension than the use of mineral fertilizers such as the ones used in this field (46% urea, superphosphate and ClK).
Open Access
An academic analysis with recommendations for water management and planning at the basin scale: a review of water planning in the Segura River Basin
(Elsevier, 2019) Martínez Aldaya, Maite; Custodio, Emilio; Llamas, Ramón; Fernández, María Feliciana; García, Jesús; Ródenas, Miguel Ángel; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Water resources management is particularly challenging in water-scarce basins, where low water availability is combined with a potential water demand exceeding the supply capacity of the natural system. This is the case of the Segura River Basin in south-eastern Spain. This paper aims at analysing the usefulness of incorporating new hydrological data and perspectives to improve the understanding of water availability and management and help promote more integrated water planning in the Segura Basin. In this basin, agriculture amounts to approximately 1366 hm3/year and accounts for 80% of the total blue water use. The forest and agriculture use of soil water amounts to 3065 and 1962 hm3/year, respectively. The unaccounted virtual water trade is also relevant and helps in mitigating water scarcity in the basin. The basin is a net virtual water-exporting region, with an average export of 1598 hm3/year, mainly in the form of fruits and vegetables, and imports approximately 1253 hm3/year, mainly related to feed for pig farms. Virtual water imports are four times larger than the disputed water transfer rate to the Segura Basin from other river basins. Water productivity analyses by sub-sectors are useful in understanding the economic rationale of the basin activities. Two types of agriculture coexist in the basin, namely, intensive industrial agriculture and occupational farming, which maintain the territory and landscape. From a Mediterranean country perspective, the analysis recommends considering climate fluctuations and temporal variability and trends of water availability and use, moving beyond the average values considered in river basin management plans. Groundwater reserve depletion continues to occur at a rate of 231 hm3/year, as water from wells is currently cheaper than using desalinated water in farms, and it does not cause boron-related water quality problems for irrigation. If socially costly administrative measures are not taken, groundwater reserve depletion will continue.
Open Access
Adherence to the Mediterranean diet in metabolically healthy and unhealthy overweight and obese European adolescents: the HELENA study
(Springer, 2019) Arenaza Etxeberría, Lide; Huybrechts, Inge; Ortega, Francisco B.; Ruiz, Jonatan R.; Henauw, Stefaan de; Manios, Yannis; Marcos, Ascensión; Julián, Cristina; Widhalm, Kurt; Labayen Goñi, Idoia; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Purpose To examine the adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP) in metabolically healthy overweight or obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) European adolescents. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 137 overweight/obese adolescents aged 12-17 years old from the HELENA study were included. Height, weight, waist circumference and skinfold thickness were measured and body mass index and body fat percent were calculated. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, glucose, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and cardiorespiratory fitness (20 m shuttle run test) were measured. MHO and MUO phenotypes were categorized following the Jolliffe and Janssen criteria. Two non-consecutive 24 h recalls were used for dietary intake assessment and the adherence to the MDP was calculated using the Mediterranean dietary pattern score (MDP score) (range 0-9). Results A total of 45 (22 girls) adolescents (32.8%) were categorized as MHO. The adherence to the MDP was significantly higher in MHO than in MUO adolescents regardless of age, sex, body fat percentage, energy intake and center (MDP score: 4.6 +/- 1.6 vs. 3.9 +/- 1.5, p = 0.036), but this difference became non-significant after further adjustment for cardiorespiratory fitness. Participants who had a low adherence to the MDP (MDP score <= 4) had a higher likelihood of having MUO phenotype regardless of sex, age, energy intake, center and body fat percentage (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.01-4.81, p = 0.048). Conclusions Adherence to the MDP might be beneficial to maintain metabolic health in overweight/obese adolescents, yet cardiorespiratory fitness seems to play a key role on the metabolic phenotype.
Open Access
Adipose tissue modification through feeding strategies and their implication on adipogenesis and adipose tissue metabolism in ruminants
(MDPI, 2020) Urrutia Vera, Olaia; Mendizábal Aizpuru, José Antonio; Alfonso Ruiz, Leopoldo; Soret Lafraya, Beatriz; Insausti Barrenetxea, Kizkitza; Arana Navarro, Ana; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Dietary recommendations by health authorities have been advising of the importance of diminishing saturated fatty acids (SFA) consumption and replacing them by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), particularly omega-3. Therefore, there have been efforts to enhance food fatty acid profiles, helping them to meet human nutritional recommendations. Ruminant meat is the major dietary conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) source, but it also contains SFA at relatively high proportions, deriving from ruminal biohydrogenation of PUFA. Additionally, lipid metabolism in ruminants may differ from other species. Recent research has aimed to modify the fatty acid profile of meat, and other animal products. This review summarizes dietary strategies based on the n-3 PUFA supplementation of ruminant diets and their effects on meat fatty acid composition. Additionally, the role of n-3 PUFA in adipose tissue (AT) development and in the expression of key genes involved in adipogenesis and lipid metabolism is discussed. It has been demonstrated that linseed supplementation leads to an increase in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), but not in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), whilst fish oil and algae increase DHA content. Dietary PUFA can alter AT adiposity and modulate lipid metabolism genes expression, although further research is required to clarify the underlying mechanism.
Open Access
Adults with metabolically healthy overweight or obesity present more brown adipose tissue and higher thermogenesis than their metabolically unhealthy counterparts
(Elsevier, 2024) Jurado Fasoli, Lucas; Sánchez Delgado, Guillermo; Alcántara Alcántara, Juan Manuel; Acosta, Francisco M.; Sánchez Sánchez, Rocío; Labayen Goñi, Idoia; Ortega, Francisco B.; Martínez Téllez, Borja; Ruiz, Jonatan R.; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Background: There is a subset of individuals with overweight/obesity characterized by a lower risk of cardiometabolic complications, the so-called metabolically healthy overweight/obesity (MHOO) phenotype. Despite the relatively higher levels of subcutaneous adipose tissue and lower visceral adipose tissue observed in individuals with MHOO than individuals with metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUOO), little is known about the differences in brown adipose tissue (BAT). Methods: This study included 53 young adults (28 women) with a body mass index (BMI) ¿25 kg/m2 which were classified as MHOO (n = 34) or MUOO (n = 19). BAT was assessed through a static 18F-FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan after a 2-h personalized cooling protocol. Energy expenditure, skin temperature, and thermal perception were assessed during a standardized mixed meal test (3.5 h) and a 1-h personalized cold exposure. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, energy intake was determined during an ad libitum meal test and dietary recalls, and physical activity levels were determined by a wrist-worn accelerometer. Findings: Participants with MHOO presented higher BAT volume (+124%, P = 0.008), SUVmean (+63%, P = 0.001), and SUVpeak (+133%, P = 0.003) than MUOO, despite having similar BAT mean radiodensity (P = 0.354). In addition, individuals with MHOO exhibited marginally higher meal-induced thermogenesis (P = 0.096) and cold-induced thermogenesis (+158%, P = 0.050). Moreover, MHOO participants showed higher supraclavicular skin temperature than MUOO during the first hour of the postprandial period and during the cold exposure, while no statistically significant differences were observed in other skin temperature parameters. We observed no statistically significant differences between MHOO and MUOO in thermal perception, body composition, outdoor ambient temperature exposure, resting metabolic rate, energy intake, or physical activity levels. Interpretation: Adults with MHOO present higher BAT volume and activity than MUOO. The higher meal- and cold-induced thermogenesis and cold-induced supraclavicular skin temperature are compatible with a higher BAT activity. Overall, these results suggest that BAT presence and activity might be linked to a healthier phenotype in young adults with overweight or obesity.
Open Access
Alginate edible coating and cold storage for improving the physicochemical quality of cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana l.)
(Herald Scholarsly Open Access, 2015) Pedro Carvalho, Catarina; Villaño Valencia, Débora; Moreno, Diego A.; Serrano, María; Valero, Daniel; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
The Cape gooseberry is an exotic tropical fruit and, nowadays, is the second most exported fruit from Colombia. Therefore, the high demand for quality required research for a better understanding of fruit behavior. Furthermore, postharvest quality properties play an important role in meeting consumer demands. Cold storage and edible coatings are reported as efficient technologies for extending shelf life and preserve the quality of fruits in postharvest. As there are no reports of studies about the effect of these technologies on shelf life, quality and antioxidant activity in Cape gooseberry, this work aim to evaluate the use of alginate 1% during 21 days of storage at 2ºC as an alternative for postharvest handling of this fruit. Cape gooseberry exhibits a high respiration rate and ethylene production at 20ºC. Alginate coat decreased significantly the metabolism activity of fruit during the cold storage without change significantly the fruit organoleptic quality and showing total phenolic, carotenoid contents and antioxidant activity. Alginate is an efficient edible coat for preserve the quality and bioactivity of Cape gooseberry during 21 days of storage at 2ºC.
Open Access
Análisis de la siniestralidad por vuelco de tractor en el período 2017-2021
(Interempresas Media, 2023) Casuso, G.; Arazuri Garín, Silvia; Mangado Ederra, Jesús; López Maestresalas, Ainara; Arnal Atarés, Pedro; Jarén Ceballos, Carmen; Ingeniería; Ingeniaritza; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Desde que en 1995 se promulgó la Ley 31/1995 (BOE nº269/1995) de Prevención de Riesgos Laborales se ha observado una disminución importante de la siniestralidad laboral en todos los sectores. Sin embargo, en el sector agrario esta disminución no ha sido del calado de otros sectores y, por ejemplo, los índices de mortalidad prácticamente se mantienen en el tiempo. Tal es así, que el sector agrario ha sido calificado por el Observatorio Estatal de Condiciones de Trabajo (OECT) como prioritario para el desarrollo de políticas preventivas eficientes que permitan reducir la siniestralidad en el sector en base al índice de accidentes graves y mortales ajustado por la población afiliada.
Open Access
Anthocyanin metabolites in human urine after the intake of new functional beverages
(MDPI, 2020) Agulló, Vicente; Villaño Valencia, Débora; García-Viguera, Cristina; Domínguez-Perles, Raúl; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Sugar intake abuse is directly related with the increase of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance. Along this line, the development of new beverages using alternative sweeteners could help with combatting the pathophysiological disorders associated to the consumption of sugar. To provide evidence on this issue, in the present work, the bioavailability of anthocyanins was evaluated after the acute ingestion of a new maqui-citrus-based functional beverage rich in polyphenols, and supplemented with a range of sweeteners including sucrose (natural high caloric), stevia (natural non-caloric), and sucralose (artificial non-caloric), as an approach that would allow reducing the intake of sugars while providing bioactive phenolic compounds (anthocyanins). This approach allowed the evaluation of the maximum absorption and the diversity of metabolites excreted through urine. The beverages created were ingested by volunteers (n = 20) and the resulting anthocyanin metabolites in their urine were analyzed by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS. A total of 29 degradation metabolites were detected: Caffeic acid, catechol, 3,4-dihidroxifenilacetic acid, hippuric acid, trans-ferulic acid, 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzaldehyde, trans-isoferulic acid, and vanillic acid derivatives, where peak concentrations were attained at 3.5 h after beverage intake. Sucralose was the sweetener that provided a higher bioavailability for most compounds, followed by stevia. Sucrose did not provide a remarkably higher bioavailability of any compounds in comparison with sucralose or stevia. The results propose two sweetener alternatives (sucralose and stevia) to sucrose, an overused high calorie sweetener that promotes some metabolic diseases.
Open Access
Antibrowning compounds for minimally processed potatoes: a review
(Taylor & Francis, 2020) Bobo García, Gloria; Arroqui Vidaurreta, Cristina; Merino Antón, Gorka; Virseda Chamorro, Paloma; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
This review covers some recent advances in browning prevention in minimally processed potatoes (MPP). Polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.10.3.1, PPO) is one of the main enzymes involved in browning of potatoes. Antibrowning agents are used in combination with other compounds and techniques to reduce browning such as physical treatments with modified atmospheres and cold temperatures in processing and storage. Due to increasing concerns involving toxicity from various traditional food preservatives, this review focuses on studies involving substances that have different mechanisms to control browning. These substances include reducing agents, acidulants, chelating agents, enzyme inhibitors, complexing agents or others, such as Maillard reaction products and natural extracts.
Open Access
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and microbial-modulating activities of nutraceuticals and functional foods
(Hindawi, 2017) Peluso, Ilaria; Magrone, Thea; Villaño Valencia, Débora; Chen, Oliver; Palmery, Maura; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
This special issue highlights the importance of using different methodological approaches in order to clarify the mechanisms of the potential health effects of nutraceuticals.
Open Access
Application of MIR spectroscopy to the evaluation of chemical composition and quality parameters of foal meat: a preliminary study
(MDPI, 2020) Ruiz Darbonnens, Marta; Beriain Apesteguía, María José; Beruete Díaz, Miguel; Insausti Barrenetxea, Kizkitza; Lorenzo, José M.; Sarriés Martínez, María Victoria; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
The aim of this work was to study the potential of mid-infrared spectroscopy to evaluate the chemical composition and quality parameters of foal meat according to differences based on slaughter ages and finishing diets. In addition, the wavelength ranges which contribute to this meat quality differentiation were also determined. Important characteristics as moisture and total lipid content were well predicted using Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy (MIR) with Rv2 values of 82% and 66%, respectively. Regarding fatty acids, the best models were obtained for arachidonic, vaccenic, docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with Rv2 values over 65%. Quality parameters, as instrumental colour and texture and sensory attributes did not reach high prediction coefficients (R2). With the spectra data of the region 2198–1118 cm-1, samples were accurately classified according to slaughter age (78%) and finishing diet (72%). This preliminary research shows the potential of MIR spectroscopy as an alternative tool to traditional meat chemical composition methods. Finally, the wavelength range of the spectrum from 2198 to 1118 cm-1 showed good results for classification purposes.
Open Access
Application of ozone for the postharvest treatment of fruits and vegetables
(Taylor & Francis , 2013-11-04) Horvitz Szoichet, Sandra Susana; Cantalejo Díez, María Jesús; Tecnología de Alimentos; Elikagaien Teknologia; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Fruits and vegetables consumption has risen noticeably during recent decades, leading to a greater frequency of foodborne illnesses associated with fresh produce. Novel industrial applications and improvements in ozone technology together with new regulatory actions worldwide have emerged in recent years, making its use in the food industry easier. This technology has attracted considerable commercial interest, especially because ozone does not leave any residues on the treated produce and it is also accepted by many organic grower organizations. However, discrepancies regarding the efficacy of this technology are often found in the bibliography and further research is still needed. These differences could be attributed to a great variability in the conditions of the research work: method of ozone generation and application, O3 concentration and exposure time to the gas, as well as the way in which produce is packed. In this sense, standardization in the working conditions and in the units to measure ozone concentration will be useful to better understand the mode of action and the effects of ozone on food products. Consequently, it would be possible to improve its potential as a sanitizer in the food industry.
Open Access
Application of the elastic curve equation for the verification of structures assimilable to continuous beams
(World Scientific Publishing, 2024) Gimena Ramos, Faustino; Gonzaga Vélez, Pedro; Goñi Garatea, Mikel; Valdenebro García, José Vicente; Senosiain Carasusan, María Aranzazu; Ingeniería; Ingeniaritza; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
This paper analyzes the beam under isolated and uniform loads, extending this calculation towards the structural type of the continuous beam, by means of a single expression of the elastic curve. A general expression of the bending is proposed, deduced by integrating the different differential equations of the elastica, associated to each section between discontinuities produced by the loads. In this paper, support reactions are incorporated into the load system. Therefore, the continuous beam is understood as a bar made up of sections aligned between discontinuities. With this, the isostatic beam, the hyperstatic beam and the continuous beam can be treated by means of the same integrated expression of the displacement, also called the Macaulay method. Equivalent notations are provided to the expression of bending for the cases of traction-compression and torsion, obtained through the same reasoning and sequence of operations. The formulation of elastic type and the associated operations shown allow us to cover the analysis of the generic structural form, which we can define as the beam of any number of spans, or continuous beam of >n spans. The load system is also generalized, being able to contemplate loads of a different nature and form of distribution, both static and mobile. The examples that have been developed always provide analytical results of solicitation and deformation. They intend to explain the systematic path followed from the approach of the structural problem to its mathematical modelling, and the resolution procedure developed to obtain useful values for the structural verification. In these examples, an increasing degree of complexity and generalization has been followed. The expressions obtained are validated by comparing them with those that are usual in the structural literature for the same or similar problems.
Open Access
Assessing hillslope-channel connectivity in an agricultural catchment using rare-earth oxide tracers and random forests models
(Universidad de la Rioja, 2017) Masselink, Rens Hein; Temme, A.J.A.M.; Giménez Díaz, Rafael; Casalí Sarasíbar, Javier; Keesstra, Saskia D.; Proyectos e Ingeniería Rural; Landa Ingeniaritza eta Proiektuak; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Soil erosion from agricultural areas is a large problem because of off-site effects like the rapid filling of reservoirs. To mitigate the problem of sediments from agricultural areas reaching the channel, reservoirs and other surface areas it is important to understand hillslope-channel connectivity and catchment connectivity. To determine the functioning of hillslope-channel connectivity and the continuation of transport of these sediments in the channel, it is necessary to obtain data on sediment transport from the hillslopes to the channels. Simultaneously, the factors that influence sediment export out of the catchment need to be studied. For measuring hillslope-channel sediment connectivity, rare-earth oxide (REO) tracers were applied to a hillslope in an agricultural catchment in Navarre, Spain, preceding the winter of 2014-2015. The results showed that during the winter no sediment transport from the hillslope to the channel was detected. To test the implication of the REO results at the catchment scale, two contrasting conceptual models for sediment connectivity were assessed using a random forest (RF) machine learning method. The RF method was applied using a 15-year period of measured sediment output at the catchment scale. One model proposes that small events provide sediment for large events, while the other proposes that only large events cause sediment detachment and small events subsequently remove these sediments from near and in the channel. For sediment yield prediction of small events, variables related to large preceding events were the most important. The model for large events underperformed and, therefore, we could not draw any immediate conclusions whether small events influence the amount of sediment exported during large events. Both REO tracers and RF method showed that low intensity events do not contribute any sediments from the hillslopes to the channel in Latxaga catchment. Sediment dynamics are dominated by sediment mobilization during large (high intensity) events. Sediments are for a large part exported during those events, but the system shows a memory of the occurrence of these large events, suggesting that large amounts of sediments are deposited in and near the channel after these events. These sediments are gradually removed by small events. To better understand the delivery if sediments to the channel and how large and small events influence each other, more field data on hillslope-channel connectivity and within-channel sediment dynamics is necessary.
Open Access
Assessing outcomes of genetic selection panels to predict marbling in crossbred beef cattle
(Oxford University Press, 2020) Weber, Tanya M.; Buseman, Brianna J.; Nasados, James A.; Lancaster, Jessica M.; Insausti Barrenetxea, Kizkitza; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of genetic panel marbling indexes [Igenity (IT) and PredicGEN (PG)] to predict marbling and tenderness of crossbred cattle. Steers (n = 23) were harvested at the University of Idaho Meat Science Laboratory, and blood samples were submitted to Neogen and Zoetis for genetic panel analysis. Forty-eight hours posthar-vest, one boneless strip loin was collected from each carcass, and six 2.54-cm thick steaks were cut from each strip loin. Steaks were aged for 14 and 21 d and assigned to consumer sensory evaluation or Warner-Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF) analysis. Results were analyzed using the Mixed Model procedure of the Statistical Analysis System (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC). Carcasses were grouped by marbling index score into Low IT (IT indexes 3-6; n = 16; marbling score (MS) = 410), High IT (IT indexes 7-10; n = 7; MS = 496), Low PG (PG index <50; n = 9; MS = 398), or High PG (PG index >= 50; n = 14; MS = 458). Mean MS was observed to be greater in High IT steaks than Low IT (P < 0.01) and greater in High PG steaks than Low PG (P = 0.01). There was a trend observed in WBSF between IT marbling groups (P = 0.06); however, no difference in WBSF was observed between PG marbling groups (P = 0.83). Consumers did not report differences between IT marbling groups in terms of acceptability (P = 0.99) or tenderness (P = 0.24). Additionally, consumers could not detect differences between PG marbling groups in terms of acceptability (P = 0.75) or tenderness (P = 0.40). Consumers consistently preferred Choice steaks over Select steaks in terms of acceptability (P = 0.02) and tenderness (P = 0.02). In conclusion, though consumers were not able to tell the difference between steaks from each of the genetic panels, using genetic panels to predict marbling, in conjunction with proper nutrition and handling practices, could be a beneficial tool to producers making decisions about retaining ownership at the feedlot.
Open Access
Assessing soil properties controlling interrill erosion: an empirical approach under Mediterranean conditions
(Wiley, 2017) Ollobarren del Barrio, Paul; Giménez Díaz, Rafael; Campo-Bescós, Miguel; Landa Ingeniaritza eta Proiektuak; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Proyectos e Ingeniería Rural; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Soil erodibility is a complex phenomenon that comprises a number of different soil properties. However, most current (empirical) erodibility indices are based on only a few soil properties. A feasible soil characterization of interrill erosion (IE) prediction at large scale should be based on simple, quick and inexpensive tests to perform. The objective of this work was to identify and assess those soil properties that best reflect soil vulnerability to IE. Twenty‐three agricultural soil samples located in Spain and Italy were studied. Forty‐nine different physical and chemical soil properties that presumably underpin IE were defined. Experiments were carried out in the field (in microplots using simulated rainfall) and in the lab. The most relevant variables were detected using multivariate analysis. Six key variables were finally identified: RUSLE K factor, a granulometric/organic matter content index, exchangeable sodium percentage, shear strength, penetration resistance and permeability of soil seal. The latter is proposed as a useful technique to evaluate soil susceptibility to crusting even when the crust is not present at the time of the field survey. The selected variables represented a wide range of soil properties, and they could also be successfully applied to different soils with different characteristics than those evaluated in our experiments.
Open Access
Assessment of dry-aged beef from commercial aging locations across the United States
(Elsevier, 2022) Lancaster, Jessica M.; Smart, Jaxon H.; Van Buren, Jessie; Buseman, Brianna J.; Weber, Tanya M.; Insausti Barrenetxea, Kizkitza; Nasados, James A.; Glaze, Benton; Price, William J.; Colle, Michael J.; Bass, Phillip D.; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Modern dry-aging is a culinary-inspired practice that involves storing meat at refrigerated temperatures without protective packaging. The dry-aging process has been observed to create unique flavors. The objective of the current study was to survey commercial dry-aging facility environments and observe palatability differences related to consumer acceptance. Seventy-two bone-in beef strip loins (Institutional Meat Purchase Specification #175) were acquired. Strip loins were randomly assigned to each of ten commercial dry-aging facilities. Additionally, a set of strip loins were wet-aged at the University of Idaho meat laboratory. Strip loins were shipped overnight to respective aging locations and dry-aged for 45-days then returned overnight to the University of Idaho meat laboratory. Strip loins were fabricated into steaks, vacuum packaged, and then frozen until further analyzed. Commercial dry-aging facility cooler conditions were observed to be different (P < 0.01) for temperature (0.74–5.26 °C), percent relative humidity (64.87–99.21%), and wind speed (0.56–2.03 m/s). Intrinsic meat quality parameters including pH and water activity were not different (P > 0.05) among treatment-locations. Consumer taste panels indicated a difference (P < 0.01) in acceptability (6.27–7.24), tenderness (6.65–7.54), and flavor (5.58–6.79) based on aging treatment-location. Overall, the findings indicate that conditions within individual dry-aging facilities aid in producing unique dry-aged beef flavors.
Open Access
Assessment of soil factors controlling ephemeral gully erosion on agricultural fields
(Wiley, 2017) Ollobarren del Barrio, Paul; Campo-Bescós, Miguel; Giménez Díaz, Rafael; Casalí Sarasíbar, Javier; Landa Ingeniaritza eta Proiektuak; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Proyectos e Ingeniería Rural; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
The soil factor is crucial in controlling and properly modeling the initiation and development of ephemeral gullies (EGs). Usually, EG initiation has been related to various soil properties (i.e. sealing, critical shear stress, moisture, texture, etc.); meanwhile, the total growth of each EG (erosion rate) has been linked with proper soil erodibility. But, despite the studies to determine the influence of soil erodibility on (ephemeral) gully erosion, a universal approach is still lacking. This is due to the complex relationship and interactions between soil properties and the erosive process. A feasible soil characterization of EG erosion prediction on a large scale should be based on simple, quick and inexpensive tests to perform. The objective of this study was to identify and assess the soil properties – easily and quickly to determine – which best reflect soil erodibility on EG erosion. Forty‐nine different physical–chemical soil properties that may participate in establishing soil erodibility were determined on agricultural soils affected by the formation of EGs in Spain and Italy. Experiments were conducted in the laboratory and in the field (in the vicinity of the erosion paths). Because of its importance in controlling EG erosion, five variables related to antecedent moisture prior to the event that generated the gullies and two properties related to landscape topography were obtained for each situation. The most relevant variables were detected using multivariate analysis. The results defined 13 key variables: water content before the initiation of EGs, organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, relative sealing index, two granulometric and organic matter indices, seal permeability, aggregates stability (three index), crust penetration resistance, shear strength and an erodibility index obtained from the Jet Test erosion apparatus. The latter is proposed as a useful technique to evaluate and predict soil loss caused by EG erosion.
Open Access
Assessment of the main factors affecting the dynamics of nutrients in two rainfed cereal watersheds
(Elsevier, 2020) Hernández García, Iker; Merchán Elena, Daniel; Aranguren Erice, Itxaso; Casalí Sarasíbar, Javier; Giménez Díaz, Rafael; Campo-Bescós, Miguel; Valle de Lersundi, Jokin del; Ingeniaritza; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Ingeniería
Nutrient dynamics and factors that control nutrient exports were observed in two watersheds, namely Latxaga and La Tejería, with similar climatic and management characteristics throughout 10 years (2007–2016). Similar patterns were observed in intra-annual and inter-annual dynamics with higher NO3 − concentration and NO3 −-N yield during the humid seasons (i.e., winters and hydrological year 2013). Regarding concentration, Latxaga showed a higher decrease of nitrate due to a higher development of vegetated areas. High discharge events produced nitrate dilution due to the presence of tile-drainage at La Tejeria. At Latxaga, where tile-drainage was not observed, an increase in concentration occurred as a response to high discharge events. Comparing both watersheds, La Tejería presented ca. 73 ± 25 mg NO3 − L−1 while at Latxaga, the concentration observed was almost three times lower, with ca. 21 ± 15 mg NO3 − L−1 throughout the study period. Similar patterns were observed for the NO3 −-N yield, with 32 kg NO3 −-N ha−1 year−1 and 17 kg NO3 −-N ha−1 year−1 at La Tejería and Latxaga, respectively. Regarding phosphorous, the observed concentrations were 0.20 ± 0.72 mg PO4 3− L−1 and 0.06 ± 0.38 mg PO4 3− L−1 at La Tejería and Latxaga, respectively, with PO4 3−-P yields being 71 kg PO4 3−-P ha−1 year−1 and 33 kg PO4 3−-P ha−1 year−1. Annual phosphate-P yield distribution in both watersheds followed similar patterns to those observed for the nitrate-N yield, with higher yields in the humid season. Regarding concentration, highly erosive rainfall that occurred in summer, mobilizing sediments and probably generating desorption of phosphorous in the stream channel, increased phosphate concentration. This research adds to the knowledge base regarding the dynamics of nutrients and the controlling factors in complex agricultural systems with Mediterranean characteristics.
Open Access
Association between adherence to Swedish dietary guidelines and Mediterranean diet and risk of stroke in a Swedish population
(MDPI, 2022) González Padilla, Esther; Tao, Zhen; Sánchez Villegas, María Almudena; Álvarez Pérez, Jacqueline; Borné, Yan; Sonestedt, Emily; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Dietary factors associated with stroke risk are still rather unknown. The aim was to examine the association between adherence to healthy dietary patterns and incidence of stroke among 25,840 individuals from the Swedish Malmö Diet and Cancer Study cohort. Dietary data were obtained using a combination of a 7-day food record, diet questionnaire, and interview. A Swedish Dietary Guidelines Score (SDGS), including five dietary components based on the current Swedish dietary guidelines, and a modified Mediterranean diet score (mMDS), composed of ten dietary components, were constructed. Over a mean follow-up period of 19.5 years, 2579 stroke cases, of which 80% were ischaemic, were identified through national registers. Weak, non-significant associations were found between the dietary indices and the risk of stroke. However, after excluding potential misreporters and individuals with unstable food habits (35% of the population), we observed significant inverse association (p-trend < 0.05) between SDGS and mMDS and total and ischaemic stroke (HR per point for total stroke: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.92–1.00 for SDGS and 0.95; 95% CI: 0.91–0.99 for mMDS). In conclusion, high quality diet in line with the current Swedish dietary recommendations or Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of total and ischaemic stroke.