Search Results (46)

The present paper provides a human activity-level classification model based on the patient’s lifelog collected from wearable devices. During about two months, the heart rate, step count, and calorie consumption for a total of 182 patients were collected from a wearable device. Using the lifelog data, the machine learning models were developed to classify the physical activity status of patients into five levels. Three types of wearable data with heart rate, step count, and calorie consumption were pre-processed as integrated data in time series. A total of 80% of the integrated data was used as the training dataset, and the remaining 20% was used as the test dataset. Sixteen algorithms were evaluated, including 12 traditional machine learning models (SVM, KNN, RF, etc.) and 4 deep learning models (CNN, RNN, etc.), and cross-validation was performed by dividing the training dataset into 5 folds. By changing the parameters required for training, the models with optimal parameters were derived. The performance of the final models with the new patient lifelog data was evaluated, and it was shown that the classification for human activity level based on heart rate and step count can be performed with high accuracy. Full article

Mercury hosts widespread smooth plains that are concentrated in the Caloris impact basin, in an annulus surrounding the Caloris basin, and in the adjacent northern smooth plains. The origins of these smooth plains are uncertain, although prior work suggests these plains in the northwestern Caloris annulus might reflect volcanic activity, impact ejecta, or a combination of the two. Deciphering the timing and mode of emplacement of these plains would provide a critical constraint on regional late-stage volcanism or impact effects. In this work, the region northwest of Caloris was investigated using geomorphological and color-based mapping, crater counting techniques, and spectral analyses with the goal of placing constraints on the source of the observed units and identifying the primary emplacement mechanism. Mapping and spectral analyses confirm previous findings of two distinct, yet intermingled, units within these plains, each with similar crater count model ages that postdate the formation of the Caloris impact basin. Mapping, spectra analysis, ages, and the identification of potential flow pathways are more consistent with a predominantly volcanic origin for the smooth plains materials, although these data do not rule out contributions from impact ejecta or impact melt. We propose several hypothetical scenarios, including post-emplacement modification by near-surface volatiles, to explain these observations and clarify the emplacement mechanism for these specific smooth plains regions. Further observations from the BepiColombo mission should provide data to potentially address the outstanding questions from this work. Full article

Background/Objectives: Menu calorie labeling policies aim to promote healthier eating habits, yet their effectiveness remains debated. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two alternative qualitative labeling strategies—Physical Activity Calorie Equivalent (PACE) labels and Percent Daily Intake (PDI) pie charts—compared to the standard numeric calorie count mandated in several countries, since they have been proposed to enhance consumer comprehension and decision-making. Methods: A nationwide online survey elicited responses from N = 885 individuals living in Italy. Survey participants were randomly assigned to one of three menu conditions: (1) numeric calorie labeling only, (2) numeric calories plus PACE labels, or (3) numeric calories plus a PDI pie chart. Participants selected a three-course meal from their respective menus. Data on sociodemographic factors, dietary habits, BMI, self-assessed nutritional knowledge, and psychological traits—restrained eating (DEBQ-R) and impulsivity (SUPPS-P)—were collected. Ordinal logistic regressions assessed the impact of labeling format, gender, and nutritional knowledge on total calories ordered. Results: Neither PACE labels nor PDI pie charts significantly influenced total calorie selection compared to numeric calorie labels alone. No significant interactions emerged between labeling format and gender or nutritional knowledge. However, age, BMI, and dietary habits were strongly associated with calorie choices: older adults, individuals with restrictive diets, and those with higher restrained eating scores selected lower-calorie meals, while participants with higher BMI or frequent meat intake opted for more calorie-dense options. Conclusions: Alternative calorie labeling formats alone may be insufficient to alter food choices in online settings. Future interventions should integrate motivational and educational strategies tailored to individual traits and dietary habits, rather than relying solely on calorie presentation format. Full article

Background/Objectives: The global population is rapidly aging, raising interest in dietary practices for promoting the healthspan. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the state of diet and longevity research over the past decade, addressing the lack of bibliometric synthesis within the field. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was performed using the keywords “diet” and “longevity” on English-language articles from the Web of Science database that were published from 2015 to 2024. Data were analyzed using Web of Science tools, InCites, and VOSviewer to identify trends in publication output, citation metrics, coauthorship networks, institutional contributions, and keyword co-occurrence patterns. Results: Overall, 2203 articles meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. Publication volume and citation counts gradually increased, peaking in 2021. Countries, including the United Kingdom, and organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health and Harvard University, had significant citation impact, and the United States and China led productivity. Molecular processes (oxidative stress and autophagy), dietary models (Mediterranean diet and calorie restriction), and public health issues (obesity and mortality) were the main thematic clusters. Model species, including Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster, were frequently used. Regional disparities in research production and notable terminology variability were noted. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the development and diversity of nutrition and longevity research while highlighting novel molecular and translational topics. More international cooperation, uniform language, and multidisciplinary frameworks are warranted to promote equal scientific advancement worldwide and connect mechanistic discoveries with therapeutic outcomes. Full article

Objective: Most recreational gym-goers independently consume nutritional supplements (NSs) without physician advice and a personalized diet. The present study examines the preference for nutritional supplements (NSs) based on protein and amino acids of 218 recreational gym-goers (males and females aged 18–60). It also investigates the NS’s impact on resistance training (RT) performance. Methods: All participants (n = 218) were regular members of two gym centers in Oradea. Baseline data and information about daily diet and supplement preferences were obtained through face-to-face interviews. At the same time, RT performance was assessed by measuring 1RM in six exercises three times (W0, W4, and W8). Results: Our findings reveal that 24.3% of participants did not consume NSs, while the majority (75.6%, p < 0.05) used them to improve their physical condition; men were more likely to consume NSs than women (83.3% vs. 63.9%, p < 0.05). Gym-goers were grouped based on their NS consumption: L-carnitine, creatine, whey protein (WP), and triple combination; the non-supplemented group was the control. The combination substantially correlated with a balanced diet, 3001–3500 and >3500 calories/day; creatine was appreciably associated with 2001–2500 calories/day; L-carnitine was associated with 151–200 g protein/day, while control was considerably linked with a vegetarian diet and <1000 calorie/day (r > 0.900, p < 0.05). The results showed that almost all participants exhibited progressive muscle strength improvements. As an overview, 1RM substantially varied with NS consumed, body weight status, and gender (p < 0.0001), except for the pull-up count, which varied with NS and gender (p < 0.0001). Additionally, 1RM significantly varied with age (deadlift and pull-ups), daily protein consumption (back squats, biceps, and triceps), daily calories (back squats), and diet type (biceps, triceps, and pull-up exercises), p < 0.05. On the other hand, most NSs associated with RT exercises led to a general increase in body weight. Only L-carnitine decreased it. Conclusions: Resistance training records of recreational athletes are significantly influenced by age, gender, body weight status, NS type, and daily diet features (p < 0.05). Our findings highlight the essential role of professional guidance in nutritional supplementation associated with a suitable diet for optimal RT performance of recreational athletes. Full article

This study aimed to identify kiwi kefir-like beverages with high levels of viable probiotic cells and low levels of calories, acids, and alcohol. To achieve this, microbiological and chemical characterizations were conducted on beverages inoculated with varying amounts of kefir grains (GW) and incubated at different agitation speeds (A), following a second-order orthogonal factorial design. For each experimental condition, three 24-h batch cultures were performed using three successive passages of kefir grains. Higher GW levels promoted greater nutrient consumption and metabolite production. However, an intermediate GW (1.80 g) resulted in the highest growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), acetic acid bacteria (AAB), yeasts, and free biomass in the fermented medium. Optimal agitation levels also enhanced nutrient consumption, free biomass, and metabolite pro-duction. AAB and yeast counts increased with higher agitation speeds, while LAB counts de-creased. Three beverages, produced during the second (A = 86 rpm, GW = 2.81 g) and third (A = 38 rpm, GW = 2.60 g; A = 86 rpm, GW = 1.80 g) kefir grain passages, exhibited LAB and yeast counts above 10⁶; CFU/mL, along with low total sugar and ethanol concentrations. These beverages may be considered suitable as potentially probiotic, low-alcohol, and low-calorie functional drinks. Full article

Calorie information is often provided on food packaging and is a legal requirement in many countries. There is some evidence to suggest that attention to calorie counting can have a detrimental effect on those with eating disorders (EDs). The aim of this review is to summarise current research relating to the impact of restaurant menu calorie labelling on people with EDs. A search was carried out using the CINAHL Complete and Medline databases. Ten papers were included in the final review. Recent statistics show that the incidence of EDs is increasing. These studies assessed the impact of calorie information on people with EDs. Policies, such as calorie labelling on restaurant menus, could be a contributing factor. Studies exploring the effect the policy has had on obesity levels have not demonstrated a significant positive impact on reducing calorie intake. Qualitative studies conducted in England show the extent to which people with EDs are affected. Much of the data from the transcripts highlighted the negative thoughts that this policy has evoked. A review of the literature has demonstrated that this policy has had a negative impact on people with EDs and little benefit for those with obesity, who may also experience EDs. Full article

Background: Individuals with severe mental illness live, on average, up to 30 years less than the general population, with cardiovascular disease being the leading cause of death. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) plays a significant role in this, making it crucial to manage this issue in individuals with psychosis at the onset of the illness. The approach to managing this issue has evolved from a focus on calorie counting to a deeper understanding of hormone function, particularly the role of insulin resistance in MetS. Therefore, incorporating this perspective into mental health nursing consultations with individuals experiencing psychosis is of great interest. Methods: In accordance with the SPIRIT guidelines, an open randomized clinical trial is proposed, involving patients from a first-episode psychosis program. Results: The primary outcome will be significant weight loss (≥5%). Secondary outcomes will include changes in metabolic parameters, psychopathological status, quality of life, and physical activity. Participants will be assigned to two groups: one group will attend a series of six previously manualized nursing consultations, while the other will continue with their usual treatment. Results will be evaluated at six months and one year. Conclusions: This study will determine whether a mental health nursing consultation based on the carbohydrate–insulin model of obesity is effective in reducing weight and the risk of MetS in individuals with early-onset psychosis. This study was retrospectively registered on Clinical Trials—NCT06650943. Full article

Carbohydrates have a dietary role, but excessive consumption of high-calorie sugars can contribute to an increased incidence of metabolic diseases and dental caries. Recently, carbohydrates with sweetening properties and low caloric value, such as D-tagatose, have been investigated as alternative sugars. D-tagatose is a rare sugar that has nutritional and functional properties of great interest for health. This literature review presents an approach to the biological effects of D-tagatose, emphasizing its benefits for oral health. Studies report that D-tagatose has antioxidant and prebiotic effects, low digestibility, reduced glycemic and insulinemic responses, and the potential to improve the lipid profile, constituting an alternative for diabetes mellitus and obesity. It can also be observed that D-tagatose has an antioxidant action, favoring the elimination of free radicals and, consequently, causing a reduction in cellular oxidative stress. Furthermore, it also has antibacterial potential against oral species. Regarding oral health, studies have shown that D-tagatose efficiently reversed bacterial coaggregations, including periodontopathogenic species, and impaired the activity and growth of cariogenic bacteria, such as S. mutans. D-tagatose significantly inhibited biofilm formation, pH decrease and insoluble glucan synthesis in S. mutans cultures. Salivary S. mutans counts were also significantly reduced by the consumption of chewing gum containing D-tagatose and xylitol. In addition, there is evidence that tagatose is effective as an air-polishing powder for biofilm decontamination. The literature indicates that D-tagatose can contribute to the prevention of systemic diseases, also constituting a promising agent to improve oral health. Full article

Background: Maintaining adequate hydration is critical to optimal health, well-being, and performance. Those who are physically active in stressful environments, such as warm and/or humid scenarios, may be at particular risk for dehydration with ensuing loss of electrolytes, leading to sluggishness and impaired physical performance. Methods: We evaluated an electrolyte and amino acid product containing L-alanine and L-glutamine, as well as select vitamins [B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin), and vitamin C (ascorbic acid)]. Subjects (n = 40; four groups, n = 10) were randomized to consume either a placebo packet or one, two, or three packets daily of the test product for 4 weeks with site visits at 0, 2, and 4 weeks. We tested safety and tolerability by analyzing hematological parameters (complete blood counts), metabolic parameters (hepatic, renal, acid–base balance), urinalysis end products, thyroid status [T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine), TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)], tolerability (via questionnaire), vital signs, and dietary intake. Results: Statistical analyses displayed ten significant main effects (p < 0.05) with white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, urinary pH, thyroxine, urination frequency, calcium, calories, fat, and cholesterol. Interactions for time and group (p < 0.05) were observed for MCV, eGFR, potassium, overall tolerability, bloating, and cramping—demonstrating mild GA disturbances. Little to no change of physiological relevance was noted for any outcome variable, regardless of dosing level. Conclusions: Our results indicate the product was well-tolerated at all dosing levels and no significant adverse changes occurred in any of the test parameters compared to the placebo group, indicating relative safety of ingestion over a 4-week treatment period, at the volumes used, and outside the context of physical stress. Full article

This study aims to focus on developing a food supplement for the geriatric population using disposal mushrooms, oats, and lactose-free milk powder. Lactose intolerance is most common in older adults, raising the demand for lactose-free foods. One of the major global challenges currently faced by humankind is food waste (FW). Most of the food that is produced for human consumption has not been utilized completely (1/3rd–1/2 unutilized), resulting in agricultural food waste. Mushrooms are highly valuable in terms of their nutritional value and medicinal properties; however, a significant percentage of mushroom leftovers are produced during mushroom production that do not meet retailers’ standards (deformation of caps/stalks) and are left unattended. Oats are rich in dietary fibre beta-glucan (55% water soluble; 45% water insoluble). Lactose-free milk powder, oats, and dried mushroom leftover powder were blended in different ratios. It was observed that increasing the amount of mushroom leftover powder increases the protein content while diluting calories. The product with 15% mushroom powder and 30% oat powder showed the highest sensory scores and the lowest microbial count. The GCMS and FTIR analyses confirmed the presence of ergosterol and other functional groups. The results of the XRD analysis showed that the product with 15% mushroom powder and 30% oat powder had a less crystalline structure than the product with 5% mushroom powder and 40% oat powder and the product with 10% mushroom powder and 35% oat powder, resulting in more solubility. The ICP-OES analysis showed significant concentrations of calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, and zinc. The coliform count was nil for the products, and the bacterial count was below the limited range (3 × 10² cfu/g). The product with 15% mushroom powder and 30% oat powder showed the best results, so this developed product is recommended for older adults. Full article

Background: Telomere attrition and mitochondrial dysfunction are two fundamental aspects of aging. Calorie restriction (CR) is the best strategy to postpone aging since it can enhance telomere attrition, boost antioxidant capacity, and lower the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Since ROS is produced by mitochondria and can readily travel to cell nuclei, it is thought to be a crucial molecule for information transfer between mitochondria and cell nuclei. Important variables that affect the quality and functionality of sperm and may affect male reproductive health and fertility include telomere length, mitochondrial content, and the ratio of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to nuclear DNA (nDNA). Telomere damage results from mitochondrial failure, whereas nuclear DNA remains unaffected. This research aims to investigate potential associations between these three variables and how they might relate to body mass index. Methods: Data were collected from 82 men who underwent IVF/ICSI at the University Hospital of Ioannina’s IVF Unit in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. Evaluations included sperm morphology, sperm count, sperm motility, and participant history. To address this, male participants who were categorized into three body mass index (ΒΜΙ) groups—normal, overweight, and obese—had their sperm samples tested. Results: For both the normal and overweight groups, our results show a negative connection between relative telomere length and ΒΜI. As an illustration of a potential connection between mitochondrial health and telomere maintenance, a positive correlation was found for the obese group. Only the obese group’s results were statistically significant (p < 0.05). More evidence that longer telomeres are associated with lower mitochondrial content can be found in the negative connection between telomere length and mitochondrial content in both the normal and overweight groups. However, the obese group showed a positive association. The data did not reach statistical significance for any of the three groups. These associations may affect sperm quality since telomere length and mitochondrial concentration are indicators of cellular integrity and health. Moreover, the ratio of mtDNA to nDNA was positively correlated with the relative telomere lengths of the obese group, but negatively correlated with the normal and overweight groups. In every group that was studied, the results were not statistically significant. According to this, male fertility may be negatively impacted by an imbalance in the copy number of the mitochondrial genome compared to the nuclear DNA in sperm. Conclusions: Essentially, the goal of our work is to determine whether mitochondria and telomere length in human sperm interact. Understanding these connections may aid in the explanation of some male infertility causes and possibly contribute to the creation of new treatment modalities for problems pertaining to reproductive health. The functional implications of these connections and their applications in therapeutic settings require further investigation. Full article

In a quest to meet the rising demand for nutrient-rich products, this study delves into the realm of innovative bars enriched with Aronia melanocarpa by-product powder. By repurposing waste material from fruit pressing, the research unveils a sustainable approach to enhancing the health profile of food products. Two variants of bars were used: one as a control and the other enriched with freeze-dried aronia by-product powder. Both bars had similar nutrient content, containing approximately 10% fibre, 12.20% protein, 20.51% fat, and 429–430 kcal calories. The investigation showcases a remarkable 61% increase in antioxidant activity in bars enriched with freeze-dried aronia powder compared to traditional bars. In vitro digestion tests demonstrated enhanced nutrient release in aronia powder-enriched bars. Moreover, a 70-day storage analysis demonstrated the microbiological stability of the bars, which is essential for their commercial viability (final total viable cell count 4.41 log₁₀ CFU/g). Also, total fungi-yeast and moulds increased to 4.17 ± 0.131 log₁₀ CFU/g for aronia bars and to 3.91 ± 0.107 log₁₀ CFU/g for control bars after 70 days of storage. This collaborative research effort not only sheds light on the nutritional and physico–chemical characteristics of the innovative bars but also propels the development of functional food products with heightened antioxidant content and bioactive compounds. Full article

In this study, we developed an AI-based real-time motion feedback system for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) during rehabilitation, aiming to enhance their interest and motivation. The effectiveness of the system in improving upper-limb muscle strength during the Thera band exercises was evaluated. The motion analysis program, including exercise repetition counts and calorie consumption, was developed using MediaPipe, focusing on three key motions (chest press, shoulder press, and arm curl) for upper extremity exercises. The participants with SCI were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG = 4) or control group (CG = 5), engaging in 1 h sessions three times a week for 8 weeks. Muscle strength tests (chest press, shoulder press, lat pull-down, and arm curl) were performed before and after exercises. Although both groups did not show significant differences, the EG group exhibited increased strength in all measured variables, whereas the CG group showed constant or reduced results. Consequently, the computer program-based system developed in this study could be effective in muscle strengthening. Furthermore, these findings may serve as a valuable foundation for future AI-driven rehabilitation exercise systems. Full article

Obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are frequently associated conditions characterized by low-grade inflammation. Very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) strategies are commonly used to simultaneously obtain weight loss and an improvement of liver steatosis. We evaluated the efficacy of 8 weeks’ VLCKD in decreasing the white blood cell (WBC) and platelet (PLT) counts, as well as liver steatosis and fibrosis, diagnosed using transient elastography (FibroScan). Metabolic and anthropometric parameters commonly associated with MASLD were also evaluated. This study included 87 participants; 58 women and 29 men aged between 18 and 64 years with overweight (18%) or obesity (82%), but not taking any medication. Anthropometric measurements, bioimpedance analysis, and biochemical assays were performed before and after the dietary intervention. BMI (kg/m²) (p-value < 0.001), waist circumference (cm) (p-value < 0.001), and fat mass (kg) (p-value < 0.001) were significantly decreased following VLCKD. After VLCKD, the FibroScan parameter CAP (db/m), which measures the accumulation of fatty liver, significantly decreased (p-value < 0.001), as did liver stiffness (kPA), the FibroScan parameter quantifying liver fibrosis (p-value < 0.05). Seemingly, WBC (p-value < 0.001) and PLT (p-value < 0.001) counts were lowered by VLCKD in the whole group; however, the decrease in WBC and platelet counts were significant only in patients with steatosis (CAP ≥ 215 dB/m). Fasting blood glucose (p-value < 0.001), insulin (p-value < 0.001), HbA1c (p-value < 0.001), triglycerides (p-value < 0.001), total cholesterol (p-value < 0.001), LDL-cholesterol (p-value < 0.001), HDL-cholesterol (p-value < 0.001); γGT (p-value < 0.001) blood levels and insulin resistance (as measured by HOMAIR) (p-value < 0.001); and systolic (p-value < 0.001), and diastolic (p-value < 0.001) blood pressure levels, were all significantly lower after VLCKD. In contrast, blood levels of vitamin D were higher following the diet (p-value < 0.001). We conclude that treating subjects with overweight and obesity with VLCKD is followed by a simultaneous reduction in WBCs and platelets, the expression of low-grade inflammation, and of liver steatosis and fibrosis. Therefore, we can hypothesize that VLCKD decreases general and liver low-grade inflammation, thus improving liver health. Full article