Search Results (64)

The role of vitamin D in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk remains debated despite growing evidence. Prospective observational studies consistently show that low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations (below 40–50 nmol/L [16–20 ng/mL]) are associated with the highest risk of CVD incidence. In addition, a large prospective observational study found that serum 25(OH)D concentration was inversely correlated with CVD mortality rate to over 100 nmol/L. Randomized controlled trials have not generally demonstrated benefit due to faulty study designs, such as enrolling participants with baseline 25(OH)D levels > 50 nmol/L. However, a major trial found that 60,000 IU/month of vitamin D₃ supplementation reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events for participants with predicted 25(OH)D concentrations ≥ 50 nmol/L or taking statins or CV drugs by ~13 to ~17%. In addition, vitamin D supplementation studies have found modest reductions in several CVD risk factors. Other observational studies of vitamin D supplementation have reported reduced CVD risks (e.g., ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and myocardial infarction). Temporal ecological studies further support this relationship, revealing that CVD incidence rates are lowest in summer and CVD mortality rates are significantly higher in late winter—when 25(OH)D concentrations are lowest—compared to late summer. A previously reported analysis using eight of Hill’s criteria for causality in a biological system further strengthens the biological plausibility of vitamin D’s role in CVD risk reduction. Its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and reducing several cardiometabolic risk factors supports its inclusion as part of a comprehensive, multi-modal approach to cardiovascular health. Therefore, vitamin D should be considered an integral component in the prevention and management of CVD. Preferably, it should be used in combination with other nutritional supplements, a heart-healthy diet, and prescription medications to reduce the risk of CVD incidence. People should consider vitamin D₃ supplementation with at least 2000 IU/day (50 mcg/day) (more for those who are obese) when sun exposure is insufficient to maintain serum 25(OH)D concentrations above 75 nmol/L. To reduce CVD mortality rates, higher doses to achieve higher 25(OH)D concentrations might be warranted. Full article

Despite advances in technology, the overall management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) remains suboptimal. The idea of restricting carbohydrate intake to decrease glycemic spikes and insulin requirements has been revisited in recent years. After impressive results in the fields of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and epilepsy, low-carbohydrate (LCD) and ketogenic (KD) diets have gained renewed interest as a possible treatment option for T1DM. In this narrative review, we discuss the available data regarding LCDs and KDs in both the adult and pediatric populations. Research data is still scarce, as most studies are short-term and show considerable heterogeneity in dietary composition and patient outcomes. In general, carbohydrate restriction enhances glycemic control by reducing postprandial glucose excursions, improving time-in-range, and lowering HbA1c, with conflicting effects on other parameters such as lipid profile and body weight. Adverse effects such as hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis are rarely reported, although some concerns have been raised regarding growth in children. The correct implementation of these diets requires a multidisciplinary approach by highly specialized healthcare professionals, who will address the medical, social, and psychological concerns that a restrictive diet entails. Large-scale and long-term studies are needed to provide more robust data before carbohydrate restriction can be widely applied to patients with T1DM. Full article

Since 1989, California pollution control efforts have caused annual PM_2.5 averages to decrease. Despite the decline in ambient air concentrations of PM_2.5, the San Joaquin Valley (SJV) of California continues to violate the federal standard for PM_2.5. This study evaluated PM_2.5 trends, diurnal and seasonal patterns, pollution sources, and air quality improvements from 2000 to 2022 in the SJV. Hourly and daily PM_2.5 data from CARB and EPA-certified monitors were analyzed using regression models, polar plots, and Air Quality Index (AQI) classification methods. Monthly PM_2.5 concentrations peaked in winter (November–January) and during commute periods, with higher levels observed on Fridays and Saturdays. In this study, the highest daily PM_2.5 levels observed in Fresno and Bakersfield occurred during the autumn, most likely due to agricultural activities and higher wind speeds, with daily values greater than 25 µgm⁻³ and 50 µgm⁻³, respectively. In contrast, in Clovis, the highest daily PM_2.5 concentrations occurred in the winter during episodes characterized by low wind speeds, with values greater than 22 µgm⁻³. While PM_2.5 has declined since 1999, progress has slowed significantly since 2010. However, all sites exceeded the new EPA standard of 9 µgm⁻³. Without substantial changes to emission sources, meeting federal standards will be difficult. Full article

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading global cause of death, with obesity acting as a significant contributing factor through mechanisms such as chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and endothelial dysfunction. Molecular pathways at the interface of obesity, diet, and CVDs reveal how altered lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory signaling contribute to CVD progression. Despite advancements in treatment, effective management of CVDs, particularly in the context of obesity, remains a challenge. This review addresses the gap in understanding the relationship between obesity, nutritional status, and CVD progression, evaluating the impact of dietary interventions such as low-carb, Mediterranean, ketogenic, and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diets on cardiovascular health. Key findings indicate that adipokines, interleukins, and tumor necrosis factor alpha play significant roles in inflammatory responses and insulin resistance, further exacerbating cardiovascular dysfunction. Furthermore, optimized dietary strategies have been shown to modulate several molecular pathways, improving cardiovascular risk factors and enhancing metabolic health. This review underscores the significance of understanding molecular metabolic pathways in the intricate relationship between obesity, diet, and CVDs. It highlights the role of personalized nutrition and comprehensive dietary patterns in the management of CVDs and advocates for further research to optimize dietary strategies for sustained cardiovascular health. Full article

Existing drone image processing algorithms for small target detection in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) aerial images struggle with challenges like missed detection of small objects, information loss from downsampling, loss of low-dimensional features, and information drop of contextual features. In order to alleviate the four problems just mentioned, we propose a self-adaptive small target detection method, NSC-YOLOv8, based on the YOLOv8 model. First, we introduce a small target detection head that enhances the model’s ability to fuse shallow and deep features, effectively handling low-pixel targets. Second, a Non-lossy Downsampling Block (NDB) is introduced into the backbone, which optimizes the detection accuracy of small targets in large scenes through dimensional transformation. In addition, we introduce a Self-Adaptive Embedding Block (SAEB) based on low-dimensional information, which enhances the comprehensive performance of the model by expanding the local sensing field to enhance the focus on important contextual information. Finally, we design a Content-Aware Resampling Block (CARB), which is able to enhance the model’s ability to recognize small targets by resampling low-dimensional features. Experiments on the VisDrone2019-DET dataset show that NSC-YOLOv8s improves target detection accuracy over YOLOv8s, with an 11.7% increase in mAP@0.5. Additionally, removing a large detection head and adjusting the bottom-up layers reduces NSC-YOLOv8s’ parameters by 1.2 M compared to YOLOv8s. Therefore, NSC-YOLOv8 shows better performance in small target detection for UAV imagery. Full article

Members of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) participated in the odor profile method (OPM) training program. The OPM is the flavor profile analysis (FPA) standard method applied to air samples. The FPA method is a widely used standard method in drinking water taste and odor evaluations. It was found that pre-screening of potential OPM trainees for anosmia cases was necessary. After odor characteristics were defined by odor references and standardized terminology, the trainees were able to accurately describe single odors. However, the trainees could not always simultaneously perceive all odors within a mixture. Therefore, a method to separate the odors in a mixture should be applied in the future for environmental analysis by the OPM. After a half-day training session every day for a week, a panel could be formed to accurately determine the characteristics of atmospheric odors from various facilities. With the help of an intensity scale defined by sugar solutions, the panel could also report average odor intensity values consistent with the facilities’ operation. However, a high variance of individual intensity values relative to panel average was noted. It was likely caused by the simultaneous presence of multiple odors in the air and a lack of definition of low odor intensity values by sugar solutions. Secondly, lower odor intensities were reported when sampling bags were used for the OPM analysis compared to direct sniffing at the facilities’ fenceline, apparently because of the narrow valve opening of the sampling bags. The feasibility of quick adoption of the OPM by a regulatory team as demonstrated in this study is essential for the OPM to be considered as a method to evaluate atmospheric malodors as the FPA for drinking water analysis. Full article

With the prevalence of obesity and overweight increasing at an alarming rate, more and more researchers are focused on identifying effective weight loss strategies. The ketogenic diet (KD), used as a treatment in epilepsy management for over 100 years, is additionally gaining popularity as a weight loss method. Although its efficacy in weight loss is well documented, the areas where it may be beneficial to other dietary approaches need to be carefully examined. The objective of this paper is to identify the potential benefits of the KD over alternative dietary weight loss strategies based on a comprehensive literature review. It has been shown that the KD may be more bioenergetically efficient than other dietary strategies, inter alia owing to its effect on curtailing hunger, improving satiety and decreasing appetite (influence on hunger and satiety hormones and the sensation of hunger), inducing faster initial weight loss (associated with lower glycogen levels and reduced water retention), and controlling glycaemia and insulinemia (directly attributable to the low-carbohydrate nature of KD and indirectly to the other areas described). These effects are accompanied by improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation (through ketone bodies and avoidance of pro-inflammatory sugars), reduced need for pharmacological obesity control (the diet’s mechanisms are similar to those of medication but without the side effects), and positive impacts on psychological factors and food addiction. Based on the authors’ review of the latest research, it is reasonable to conclude that, due to these many additional health benefits, the KD may be advantageous to other diet-based weight loss strategies. This important hypothesis deserves further exploration, which could be achieved by including outcome measures other than weight loss in future clinical trials, especially when comparing different diets of equal caloric value. Full article

Gasification of lignocellulosic biomass has been widely highlighted as one of the most robust and promising low-carb approaches toward sustainable energy production. The gasification syngas obtained from agro-industrial residues can produce heat, power, biohydrogen, and other drop-in biofuels via F-T (Fischer-Tropsch) synthesis. However, the tar formation during the thermochemical process imposes severe limitations on the commercial scale of this technology. Tar elimination is a critical step for avoiding damage to equipment and not restricting the further application of syngas. In this context, this work sheds light on the biomass gasification field and reviews some aspects of tar formation and technologies for its reduction and removal. The approaches for dealing with tar are primary methods, which suppress or remove tar within the gasifier, and secondary methods, which remove tar in post-operation treatment. Catalytic reforming offers the most cost-effective pathway to removing tar. The bimetallic combination of nickel with other metals and using biochar as support have been intensely investigated, showing excellent tar conversion capacity. Recent research has provided new trends in non-thermal plasma-catalyzed biomass tar reforming. Future studies should focus on the integration of catalysts with multiple techniques to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fatty liver disease (FLD), particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing global health concern that underscores the need for effective dietary management strategies. With over 25% of patients seeking dietary advice through platforms like YouTube, the quality and reliability of this information remain critical. However, the disparity in educational value and engagement metrics between professional and non-professional content remains underexplored. This study evaluates YouTube’s role in disseminating dietary advice for FLD management, focusing on content reliability, engagement metrics, and the educational value of videos. Methods: This cross-sectional study systematically analyzed 183 YouTube videos on FLD and dietary advice. Videos were selected based on relevance, English language, and non-promotional content. Scoring systems, including DISCERN, Global Quality Score (GQS), and the Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI), were employed to assess reliability, quality, and educational value. Engagement metrics such as views, likes, dislikes, and interaction rates were analyzed across uploader categories, including healthcare professionals, patients, and undefined sources. Results: Videos uploaded by healthcare professionals demonstrated significantly higher DISCERN scores (4.2 ± 0.8) and GQS ratings (4.1 ± 0.6) compared to patient-generated content (DISCERN: 2.8 ± 0.9; GQS: 3.0 ± 0.7). However, patient-generated videos achieved higher engagement rates, with median views reaching 340,000 (IQR: 15,000–1,000,000) compared to 450,050 (IQR: 23,000–1,800,000) for professional videos. Nutritional recommendations spanned diverse approaches, including low-carb diets, Mediterranean diets, and guidance to avoid processed foods and sugars. A significant proportion of videos lacked evidence-based content, particularly among non-professional uploads. Conclusions: YouTube represents a widely accessed but inconsistent source of dietary advice for FLD. While healthcare professional videos exhibit higher reliability and educational value, patient-generated content achieves broader engagement, revealing a critical gap in trusted, accessible dietary guidance. These findings highlight the need for clinicians and content creators to collaborate in curating and disseminating evidence-based content, ensuring patients receive accurate, actionable advice for managing FLD. Full article

Apple and beetroot pomace flour (APF and BPF), along with two sweeteners, sucrose and a blend of sucrose substitutes (erythritol, stevia, inulin, and fructose), were simultaneously incorporated into three matrices formulated with agar, pectin, or gelatin as gelling agents. The aim was to produce jelly candies with high content of dietary fiber and dietary phenolics, and reduced energy value. The simultaneous incorporation of sucrose substitutes and pomace flour resulted in decrease of Carb:Fiber and Sugar:Fiber Ratio to extremely low values of 2.7–3.4 and 1.3–1.6 respectively, as well as in Energy:Fiber Ratio decrease to 9.2–12.3 kcal/g DF. Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI), as indicator of antioxidant potential, was calculated by assigning equal weight to Folin–Ciocâlteu, DPPH and FRAP assays applied upon in vitro digestion of 18 formulations of jelly candies. Results obtained for formulations with and without sucrose, as well as with and without APF or BPF, enabled insight into effects of pomace flour addition and sucrose substitution in each gelling matrix on functional properties. The incorporation and the substitution impact on postprandial glucose response were followed in vivo. Their superimposing resulted in glycemic index below 30 and low glycemic load. Efficiency of applied approach in functionalization of confectionery burden with energy and minimization of glucose spike represent an example of agro-residues re-introduction with the highest potential contribution to anti-obesity strategy. Full article

Vitamin D offers numerous under-recognized health benefits beyond its well-known role in musculoskeletal health. It is vital for extra-renal tissues, prenatal health, brain function, immunity, pregnancy, cancer prevention, and cardiovascular health. Existing guidelines issued by governmental and health organizations are bone-centric and largely overlook the abovementioned extra-skeletal benefits and optimal thresholds for vitamin D. In addition, they rely on randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which seldom show benefits due to high baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations, moderate supplementation doses, and flawed study designs. This review emphasizes the findings from prospective cohort studies showing that higher 25(OH)D concentrations reduce the risks of major diseases and mortality, including pregnancy and birth outcomes. Serum concentrations > 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L) significantly lower disease and mortality risks compared to <20 ng/mL. With 25% of the U.S. population and 60% of Central Europeans having levels <20 ng/mL, concentrations should be raised above 30 ng/mL. This is achievable through daily supplementation with 2000 IU/day (50 mcg/day) of vitamin D₃, which prevent diseases and deaths. Furthermore, a daily dose between 4000 and 6000 IU of vitamin D₃ to achieve serum 25(OH)D levels between 40 and 70 ng/mL would provide greater protection against many adverse health outcomes. Future guidelines and recommendations should integrate the findings from observational prospective cohort studies and well-designed RCTs to improve public health and personalized care. Full article

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major health issue defined by central obesity and at least two more of the following factors: high triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high fasting glucose. Managing MetS involves lifestyle changes, with the adherence to a Mediterranean diet (MeDi) playing a crucial role. MeDi, emphasizing the consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, has been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and improved glucoregulation. A randomized controlled trial showed that a low-carb MeDi resulted in a 30% lower relative risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to a low-fat diet. Additionally, meta-analytic data highlighted a strong inverse relationship between adherence to the MeDi and the incidence of diabetes. Furthermore, the MeDi’s anti-inflammatory properties help manage obesity-related low-grade chronic inflammation, crucial for weight management and the improvement of quality of life. The improvement of lipid profiles, reductions in low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol, and an increase in HDL cholesterol were also found to be linked to MeDi adherence. However, despite its benefits, adherence to the MeDi varies widely, often being low to moderate in many Mediterranean populations. Improving adherence through physician advice and patient education is crucial for maximizing the MeDi’s potential to prevent and manage diabetes and diabetes-related complications. Full article

Before metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), moderate weight loss and liver left lateral section (LLLS) volume reduction are desirable. Low-carb ketogenic diet-induced weight loss before MBS has been shown to have beneficial effects on the reduction in body weight (BW) and LLLS. However, the nutritional protocol of low-carb ketogenic diet may be hard to keep for prolonged periods due to the lack of sweet taste. Furthermore, transitioning to a low-carb ketogenic diet can cause people to crave foods that are restricted in the ketogenic diet, such as cookies, bread, pasta, and bagels. Therefore, many ready-to-eat low-carb ketogenic products (RLCKP) that mimic carbohydrate-rich foods despite a low-carb composition have been provided to make it easier for the patients to adopt a low-carb lifestyle. To date, there are no studies describing the dietary protocol for efficient and safe use of pre-operative RLCKP in terms of weight and LLLS volume reduction in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the safety and effectiveness of a 4-week diet using RLCKP in reducing BW and LLLS volume in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS. Patients with obesity (n = 42) with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 42.4 ± 9.2 kg/m² scheduled for MBS underwent a 4-week preoperative RLCKP diet intervention. Their weight, LLLS volume, and biochemical and metabolic parameters were measured before and after the diet. Patient compliance was assessed by the presence of ketonuria and weight loss. Qualitative methods (5-point Likert questionnaire) were used to measure diet acceptability and side effects. All patients completed the study. We observed highly significant decreases in BW (−6.5%, p < 0.001), and LLLS volume (−22.3%, p < 0.001) and an amelioration of patient clinical status. All patients showed a high frequency of acceptability and compliance in following the diet. No adverse side effects were reported. Based on our findings, we were able to support the hypothesis that a 4-week preoperative RLCKP diet is safe and effective in reducing BW, and LLLS volume in patients with obesity scheduled for MBS. Full article

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is likely to be approaching 38% of the world’s population. It is predicted to become worse and is the main cause of morbidity and mortality due to hepatic pathologies. It is particularly worrying that NAFLD is increasingly diagnosed in children and is closely related, among other conditions, to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Against this background is the concern that the awareness of patients with NAFLD is low; in one study, almost 96% of adult patients with NAFLD in the USA were not aware of their disease. Thus, studies on the therapeutic tools used to treat NAFLD are extremely important. One promising treatment is a well-formulated ketogenic diet (KD). The aim of this paper is to present a review of the available publications and the current state of knowledge of the effect of the KD on NAFLD. This paper includes characteristics of the key factors (from the point of view of NAFLD regression), on which ketogenic diet exerts its effects, i.e., reduction in insulin resistance and body weight, elimination of fructose and monosaccharides, limitation of the total carbohydrate intake, anti-inflammatory ketosis state, or modulation of gut microbiome and metabolome. In the context of the evidence for the effectiveness of the KD in the regression of NAFLD, this paper also suggests the important role of taking responsibility for one’s own health through increasing self-monitoring and self-education. Full article

In the field of nutrition, both low-carbohydrate (LCD) and low-fat (LFD) diets were initially intended for specific subgroups but are now being embraced by the broader population for various purposes, including aesthetics and overall health. This study aims to assess sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors influencing diet choices among public servants in the ELSA-Brasil cohort. Diets were classified as LCD or LFD based on the Brazilian Diabetes Society (<45%) and WHO guidelines (<30%) respectively. A total of 11,294 participants were evaluated (45.3% men; 54.7% women) with a mean age of 52 ± 0.08 years. Having overweight, altered waist circumference, and a history of smoking confers higher chances of adopting an LCD compared to the usual diet, while being over 52 years, non-White race/skin color, in a lower income stratum, and having diagnosis of hypertension and/or diagnosis of diabetes mellitus decrease these chances. Regarding LFDs, belonging to the non-White race/skin color, being over 52 years old, being divorced, and practicing low physical activity decrease the chances of following such a diet compared to the usual diet. In conclusion, factors like age, socioeconomic status, health, and physical activity levels can be the key to understanding why individuals choose restrictive diets beyond clinical advice. Full article