Weight Change Research Articles

Impact of Crude Oil Contamination and Low-Temperature Thermal Desorption on Soil Properties and Remediation Efficacy

ABSTRACT Crude oil contamination significantly alters soil properties, posing environmental risks and challenges for sustainable development. This study investigates the potential of low-temperature thermal desorption (LTTD) at 110°C as an environmentally friendly remediation technique for crude oil-contaminated soils. Soil samples contaminated with crude oil from Nigeria’s Niger Delta were analyzed for changes in Atterberg limits, specific gravity, linear shrinkage, sodium percentage (PS), and total dissolved solids (TDS). After LTTD treatment at 110°C for 30 minutes, the soils were assessed using gas chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy to evaluate microstructural and mineralogical changes. Contamination increased plasticity, shrinkage, and dispersivity, while reducing specific gravity. LTTD successfully removed up to 96% of hydrocarbons, but also caused a 15% weight change and minor alterations in hydrocarbon functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy revealed particle agglomeration after remediation, which may help counter the increased dispersivity caused by contamination. X-ray diffraction showed no significant mineralogical changes in the remediated soils. LTTD at 110°C proves effective in reducing hydrocarbons and mitigating crude oil-induced soil degradation, contributing to sustainable environmental management.

Bempedoic Acid for Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in People With Obesity: A CLEAR Outcomes Subset Analysis.

Obesity and hypercholesterolemia independently increase cardiovascular disease risk. This analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of bempedoic acid in people with obesity participating in the CLEAR (Cholesterol Lowering via Bempedoic Acid [ECT1002], an ACL-Inhibiting Regimen) Outcomes trial. CLEAR Outcomes randomized 13 970 patients to daily bempedoic acid 180 mg or placebo. Exploratory outcomes including major adverse cardiovascular events-4 (cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), weight change, and safety were assessed over a median of 40.7 months in 6177 patients with baseline body mass index ≥30 kg/m2. In people with obesity, bempedoic acid resulted in placebo-corrected reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of -22.5% and hs-CRP of -23.2% at 6 months. Bempedoic acid treatment resulted in a major adverse cardiovascular events-4 reduction of 23% (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77 [95% CI, 0.67-0.89]) versus placebo. Nonfatal and fatal MI were reduced by 32% (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.53-0.86]), coronary revascularization was reduced by 24% (HR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.63-0.92]), and fatal and nonfatal stroke were reduced by 36% (HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.45-0.89]) compared with placebo. At month 36, mean±SD change in weight from baseline was -2.3 (6.3) kg for bempedoic acid and -1.4 (6.1) kg for placebo. Adverse events were reported in 87.4% of bempedoic acid patients and 86.7% of placebo patients. The mean±SD change in uric acid at 6 months was 0.81 (1.26) mg/dL for bempedoic acid versus -0.04 (1.05) mg/dL for placebo. Among people with obesity, bempedoic acid reduced major adverse cardiovascular events, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and hs-CRP, with a safety profile consistent with previous reports. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique Identifier: NCT02993406.

Safety and Effectiveness of MiniMed™ 780G Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop Insulin Intensification in Adults with Insulin-Requiring Type 2 Diabetes.

Background: Early feasibility studies have demonstrated safe and effective automated insulin delivery use in individuals with suboptimally controlled type 2 diabetes (T2D). The present study investigated MiniMed™ 780G advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) therapy safety and effectiveness in adults with insulin-requiring T2D. Materials and Methods: This 13-site, single-arm, open-label study included 95 adults (mean ± standard deviation [SD] age of 60.3 ± 10.8 years and T2D duration of 18.6 ± 8.6 years) using basal-bolus insulin therapy. Participants underwent a run-in period (∼21 days) of open-loop or HCL followed by a study period (∼90 days) of AHCL. The primary safety end point was mean change in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline to the end of the 3-month study period. The primary and secondary effectiveness end points were noninferiority and superiority in the percentage of time in range (%TIR 70-180 mg/dL) during the last 6 weeks of the study period (computed by the Hodges-Lehmann method). Safety metrics, including the rates of severe hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), were summarized. Results: HbA1c was reduced from 7.9% ± 1.0% (62.4 ± 10.4 mmol/mol) at baseline to 7.2 ± 0.7% (54.7 ± 8.0 mmol/mol) (P < 0.001). The %TIR estimate was 80.9% (95% confidence interval: 78.4%, 83.1%), and the significance criteria for both the primary and secondary effectiveness end points were met (P < 0.001). While total daily insulin dose was increased from run-in to the end of the study (77.4 ± 38.5 U vs. 91.8 ± 49.3 U, P < 0.0001), announced carbohydrates were unchanged, and the number of daily user-initiated boluses was reduced (3.9 ± 1.9 vs. 3.2 ± 1.8, P < 0.0001). There was no significant change in participant weight or body mass index, no severe hypoglycemia, DKA, or HHS, and no serious or unanticipated adverse device effects. Conclusions: These findings show that MiniMed 780G AHCL use provides safe insulin intensification in type 2 diabetes and significantly improves mean HbA1c and %TIR.

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) Promotes Survival and Contraction of Myoepithelial Cells in Lacrimal Gland.

PEDF is critical for general health of the ocular surface. In order to study mechanisms of PEDF's action in lacrimal gland (LG) secretion, these visual structures were studied in a PEDF deficient (Pedf-/-) mouse model using biochemical, histochemical, and morphometric analyses. In Pedf-/- animals there were several ocular surface and LG disturbances not seen in controls. Notably, changes in body and LG weight, corneal sensitivity, tear film, ocular surface damage, and size of acini comprising the LG were evident. Survival of myoepithelial cells (MECs) surrounding the acini showed a PEDF survival dependence as there were significant reduction in MEC-specific P63 cells and Bcl2 expression levels, and increased TUNEL positive cells in PEDF deficient mice. Expression levels of the major contractile MEC proteins, α-SMA, calponin, and keratin 14, were also reduced with PEDF gene deletion and MECs contraction apparatus impaired, since oxytocin significantly reduced acinar area in controls but had no effect in PEDF deficient LGs, although the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) was expressed in both PEDF genotypes. These findings suggest that PEDF is essential to MECs survival and contractile function, and tear homeostasis on the ocular surface. Treatment with PEDF is likely to alleviate ocular-related conditions in diseases associated with dry eye as well as promote healthy MEC cell function in other secretory glands of the body.

Early postnatal weight changes in opioid-exposed infants managed using the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System Versus Eat, Sleep, Console

Background Despite the many clinical benefits of Eat, Sleep, Console (ESC) to manage infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a recent article theorized that ESC may place infants at an increased risk of excessive postnatal weight loss. The objective of this study was to compare weight changes in the early postnatal period among infants exposed to opioids in utero and managed using 1) the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System (FNASS) or 2) ESC. Methods Pre-post analysis of medical records for opioid-exposed infants born July 1, 2017-May 31, 2023. Type of feeding (exclusive breastfeeding, formula only, combination) and weight changes were compared between the FNASS (n = 45) and ESC (n = 25) groups. Results Type of feeding differed significantly between the groups during the first 5 days of life and at discharge: higher proportions of the FNASS group were exclusively breastfed and higher proportions of the ESC group received formula. There were no significant differences in daily weight changes over the first 5 days of life when we controlled for type of feeding. The average daily weight change during hospitalization did not differ significantly between the two groups (FNASS: median = −53.3 grams/day [IQR: −65.2, −40.8]; ESC: median = −45.9 [IQR: −57.8, −25.5]; p = 0.19). Conclusions We found no evidence of excessive weight loss in the early postnatal period among opioid-exposed infants managed using ESC as compared to FNASS. However, our findings suggest that breastfeeding should be more actively promoted and supported when centers transition from the FNASS model to ESC.

The influence of maternal gestational weight gain on adverse perinatal outcomes

ObjectiveTo analyze the impact of maternal gestational weight gain (GWG) on adverse outcomes for mothers and infants.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted, collecting relevant information on 9,058 singleton pregnancies and newborns from prenatal check-ups and deliveries at Guangdong Women and Children Hospital from 2017 to 2022. The subjects were grouped according to different GWG, and logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of GWG on adverse outcomes, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), large-for-gestational-age infants (LGA), small-for-gestational-age infants (SGA), and preterm births.ResultsAmong the 9058 participants included in the study, there were 438 cases (4.8%) of HDP, including 266 cases (2.9%) of gestational hypertension and 172 cases (1.9%) of preeclampsia. Additionally, there were 2018 cases (22.3%) of GDM; Among the adverse birth outcomes for newborns, the prevalence was 9.7% for SGA, 9.9% for LGA, 1.4% for early/mid-term preterm births, and 4.2% for late preterm births. After adjusting for confounding factors, the results showed that, excessive GWG was a risk factor for HDP (OR=1.829, P&amp;lt;0.05) and LGA (OR=1.792, P&amp;lt;0.05) compared to the normal gestational weight gain group. Insufficient GWG increased the risk of GDM (OR=2.203, P&amp;lt;0.05), SGA (OR=1.474, P&amp;lt;0.05) and was also a risk factor for early/mid-term preterm infants (OR=3.326, P&amp;lt;0.05) and late preterm infants (OR=1.715, P&amp;lt;0.05).ConclusionExcessive GWG is a risk factor for the occurrence of HDP and LGA, while insufficient GWG increases the risk of GDM, SGA and preterm infants (especially early/mid-term preterm infants). Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen the monitoring of weight changes during pregnancy in women of childbearing age, guide nutritional management during pregnancy, and keep GWG within a reasonable range to prevent adverse outcomes for mothers and infants.

Altered food liking in depression is driven by macronutrient composition.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by changes in appetite and body weight as well as blunted reward sensitivity (‘anhedonia’). However, it is not well understood which mechanisms are driving changes in reward sensitivity, specifically regarding food. Here, we used a sample of 117 participants (54 patients with MDD and 63 healthy control participants [HCPs]) who completed a food cue reactivity task with ratings of wanting and liking for 60 food and 20 non-food items. To evaluate which components of the food may contribute to altered ratings in depression, we tested for associations with macronutrients of the depicted items. In line with previous studies, we found reduced ratings of food wanting (p=.003) but not liking (p=.23) in patients with MDD compared to matched HCPs. Adding macronutrient composition to the models of wanting and liking substantially improved their fit (ps<.001). Compared to carbohydrate-rich foods, patients with MDD reported lower liking and wanting ratings for high-fat and high-protein foods. Moreover, patients with MDD showed weaker correlations in their preferences for carbohydrate- versus fat- or protein-rich foods (ps<.001), pointing to potential disturbances in metabolic signaling. To conclude, our results suggest that depression-related alterations in food reward ratings are more specific to the macronutrient composition of the food than previously anticipated, hinting at disturbances in gut–brain signaling. These findings raise the intriguing question of whether interventions targeting the gut could help normalize aberrant reward signals for foods rich in fat or protein.

Efficacy and safety of a novel oral hydrogel capsule in adults with overweight or obesity: the pivotal randomized RESET study.

The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the Epitomee capsule versus placebo as an adjunct to high-intensity lifestyle intervention in participants with overweight or obesity. The Randomized Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of the Epitomee Capsule Trial (RESET) was a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled pivotal trial in adults with baseline BMI of 27.0 to 40.0 kg/m2. The co-primary endpoints at week 24 were percentage change from baseline in body weight for the Epitomee and placebo groups and proportion of Epitomee-treated patients achieving ≥5% weight loss compared with a 35% threshold. The primary safety endpoint was the incidence of device-related serious adverse events. A total of 138 participants received Epitomee and 141 received placebo. Mean (SD) change in body weight from baseline was -6.6% (6.5%) with Epitomee and -4.6% ( 4.7%) with placebo; least-squares means were -6.1% (0.6%) and -4.2% (0.6%), respectively (p = 0.0054). Fifty-six percent of Epitomee-treated participants attained ≥5% weight loss from baseline, which was significantly greater than the 35% predefined threshold (p < 0.0001). Twenty-seven percent of Epitomee-treated and eleven percent of placebo-treated participants achieved ≥10% weight loss. Adverse event rates were similar between the groups. No device-related serious adverse events occurred. The Epitomee capsule is a safe and efficacious nonpharmacological option for weight management with potential broad application in participants with overweight or obesity.

Influence of complex feed additive on the microstructure of the spleen of white rats

When assessing the impact of various drugs (including feed additives), information on their effect on the proliferation of cells in the immunogenesis organs is very important. The feed additive was administered orally using an atraumatic probe in the form of a powder suspension for 90 days: the first group of rats served as a control, they were given tap water and compound feed; animals of the second experimental group received tap water with a feed additive in the form of fish meal at a dose of 800 mg / kg; and the third group - at a dose of 600 mg / kg. It was found that when using a complex feed additive (fish meal) in different doses, no significant changes in the clinical status of white rats are observed. Evaluation of the linear values of the rat spleen (length, width, thickness, diameter) showed that they were at the level of control animals. The average body weight of animals in the experimental groups was almost at the level of control rats. It was also found that the change in spleen weight was parallel to the increase in body weight of rats. This characterized their proportional growth and development. According to the results of the study of the histological picture of the spleen, it can be concluded that, despite the different doses of the feed additive, there are no visual changes in the organ at the microstructure level. The studies were conducted as part of the scientific work on the topic "Hygiene of processing biological waste by microbial synthesis."

Infant-Led Incubator Weaning: A Promising Paradigm Shift in Preterm Neonatal Care.

Thermoregulation is paramount in preterm infant care, traditionally addressed through nurse-led incubator weaning protocols. Recent research has introduced infant-driven incubator protocols that are demonstrating promise. This study, conducted at a freestanding academic pediatric hospital in the mid-Atlantic, examined the impact of infant-led incubator weaning on a specific neonatal cohort. The primary hypothesis posited that infants in the infant-led weaning group would wean out of the incubator at earlier gestational ages and lower weights, while maintaining comparable or greater weight gain during the transition to open cribs. A retrospective chart review compared 40 infants weighing less than 1500 g before and after a weaning protocol change. Infant-led weaning demonstrated lower weights at weaning to crib (M =1836.80 g) compared with nurse-led weaning (M =1975.9 g), with statistical significance (t [36]=2.27, P =.02, Cohen's d =0.74). Infants in the infant-led group had a lower weight change 5 days prior to weaning (M =141 g) compared with the nurse-led group (M =185 g), which is also statistically significant (t [36]=1.93, P =.03, Cohen's d =0.63). T-tests revealed no significant differences in gestational age at wean to crib, change in weight post-weaning, gestational age, or days to discharge. Infant-led weaning emerges as a safe alternative with potential benefits for preterm neonates and their families. While initial positive outcomes are evident, further research with a larger neonatal cohort is imperative to validate the efficacy of infant-led weaning as a successful alternative to traditional methods.

Relationship between decreased activities of daily living, decreased physical strength and future weight loss in community-dwelling older adults.

Weight loss is among the diagnostic criteria for frailty and is associated with increased mortality among older people. This study aimed to identify factors associated with future weight loss among community-dwelling older people. A multidimensional questionnaire-based prospective cohort study was carried out. The questionnaire included the Kihon Checklist, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) scale, Activity Scale for the Elderly, Fall Risk Index-21 and Dietary Variety Score. The associations among the scores of the scales and the 3-year weight change from study entry were assessed. The participants were categorized into the non-weight loss group, <4.5-kg weight loss group and >4.5-kg weight loss group. In total, 982 participants completed the follow up. Their mean age was 73.4 ± 5.1 years, and 545 (55.5%) participants were women. Among the IADL questionnaire subitems, depositing and withdrawing money from the bank, walking, interacting with people, taking medication, and cooking were associated with 3-year weight loss. Furthermore, cooking was strongly associated with weight loss. However, there was no association between eating frequency and weight loss. Finally, low IADL and physical function scores were associated with a doubled risk of future weight loss. An association was found between 3-year weight loss and physical fitness and IADL, such as walking, among community-dwelling older people. Future weight loss in older people can be caused by a decline in IADL and physical fitness before a decline in dietary intake. Furthermore, maintaining IADL and physical fitness can prevent future weight loss and frailty. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••-••.

Fluid Management in ELGANs: Striking the Perfect Balance!

Managing fluid and electrolytes in extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) is often challenging because of their distinctive fluid physiology. Most of the fluid loss in the first week of life is trans-epidermal due to the immature barrier function of the skin. ELGANs also have a developmental tendency for exaggerated diuresis and natriuresis. Allowing an initial weight loss of 6-12% promotes physiological extracellular contraction. Also, restricted fluid intake in the first week of life may decrease the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, patent ductus arteriosus, and necrotizing enterocolitis. A protocol-based approach for fluid management in ELGANs, developed based on physiology and available evidence, is the best strategy. Based on the estimated dermal and renal losses and desired weight change, the authors recommend initiating total fluids on the first day of life at 100 mL/kg/d in neonates at 26-27 wk gestation and 110 mL/kg/d at 24-25 wk gestation. The subsequent fluid rate is determined based on rigorous monitoring of weight, urine output, and serum sodium, with a typical daily increment in fluids of 10-20 mL/kg and a maximum fluid rate of 150-160 mL/kg/d in 26-27 wk and 160-180 mL/kg/d in 24-25 wk gestation neonates by day 7 of life. Fluid strategy should ideally be revised every 12h in the first few days of life. A humidified incubator is the ideal care environment to minimize trans-epidermal losses. Since most of these recommendations are not based on concrete evidence from trials, it is advisable to periodically audit the outcomes and devise a unit-specific fluid strategy.

Comprehensive health assessment of retired martial arts athletes: bone density, dietary intake, physical activity, and wellbeing

Regular physical activity offers benefits like enhanced bone density, which often persists post-retirement. However, retirement can lead to weight gain and changes in quality of life due to reduced physical activity. Therefore, this study investigates the long-term effects of elite athletic experience by comparing retired Jordanian male elite athletes (ages 40–50) with non-athletes of the same age. The differences were explored in weight changes, bone density, quality of life, happiness, stress, insomnia, physical activity, and dietary intake to understand how martial arts impact these health dimensions.MethodsA descriptive case-control study was conducted among 30 retired male elite athletes and 20 age-matched non-athletes. Bone density and body composition were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans. Additional assessments included anthropometric measurements, a 3-day dietary recall, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), quality of life (WHOQOL), happiness (Subjective Happiness Scale), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), and insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index).ResultsRetired athletes showed significantly higher Z-scores for the left femur (neck and total) and the AP spine, with p-values &amp;lt;0.05. Among non-athletes, 65% had normal bone density with a Z-score ≥ −1.9 and a T-score &amp;gt; −1.1, 20% had abnormal bone density with a Z-score &amp;lt; −1.9, and 15% had osteopenia with a T-score between −1.1 and −2.4. In contrast, 100% of retired athletes had normal bone density with a Z-score ≥ −1.9 and a T-score &amp;gt; −1.1. Retired athletes exhibited greater weight changes than non-athletes, with a p-value &amp;lt;0.05; the average weight gain among retired athletes was 18.548 kg, and the mean weight gain among non-athletes was 4.3 kg. There were statistically significant mean differences in perceived stress levels between retired athletes and non-athletes with a p-value &amp;lt;0.05. In contrast, there were no statistically significant mean differences between the groups in quality of life, subjective happiness, and the Insomnia Severity Index.ConclusionThe study reveals that retired elite athletes maintain better bone density but face greater weight gain and stress than their non-athlete counterparts. Both groups enjoy a high quality of life and low levels of insomnia. These findings underscore the importance of continued physical activity for health and suggest that both retired athletes and non-athletes should adopt a balanced lifestyle to manage weight and stress effectively.

Establishment of an animal model for monkeypox virus infection in dormice

This study aims to establish an animal model of monkeypox virus (MPXV) infection in dormice through intranasal inoculation. Male dormice aged 4–5 months were selected as experimental subjects and administered different titers of MPXV (103.5 PFU, 104.5 PFU, and 105.5 PFU, respectively) via nasal instillation. Within 14 days post-infection, clinical indicators such as survival rate, body weight changes, respiratory status, and mental state were continuously monitored. Additionally, tissue samples from the lungs, liver, spleen, and trachea of dormice from each group were collected on the 5th and 10th days for virus titer detection, and histopathological analysis was performed on lung samples collected on the 5th and 10th days. Dormice infected with MPXV exhibited typical symptoms such as appetite loss, continuous body weight reduction, aggravated respiratory difficulties, accompanied by lethargy, chills, and other clinical manifestations similar to human monkeypox infection. Virological tests further confirmed the distribution of MPXV in multiple vital organs of dormice, including the lungs, liver, spleen, and trachea, with particularly significant pathological damage observed in lung tissue. An MPXV infection model in dormice was successfully established through intranasal inoculation with a titer of 105.5 PFU MPXV, which can be used for studying the infection mechanism and pharmacology of MPXV.

Thermoanalytical Investigation of the Curing Kinetics of Sodium Silicate as an Inorganic Binder for 3D Sand Printing

This study investigates the development and application of climate friendly processes in the foundry industry, particularly with regard to the use of inorganic binders to reduce emissions and pollution. An inorganic binder system based on water glass, which is used in 3D printing technology for the production of sand molds and core, is being tested and the possibility of determining a kinetic model for the curing kinetics of sodium silicate as an inorganic binder is investigated. The aim is to use a kinetic model to better describe the microwave process currently required in binder jetting for drying the binder and catalyzing the chemical reaction of the binder during curing. For sodium silicate in particular, there is still no scientific knowledge available in this respect, which is why basic investigations based on thermogravimetry or heat flow difference calorimetry must first be carried out. In this way, it should be possible to simulate the drying process in the microwave, which has so far been based on empirical values, in order to maximize the efficiency of this process and also the quality of the components. The results indicate that the weight loss and weight changes depend on the heating rates and that a heating rate of 30 K/min is not sufficient to fully cure the sample at 500 °C. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that the fastest weight loss occurs at the beginning of the measurement, indicating a partial pre-curing of the sample before the measurement. From the measurements, an average activation energy of 144.18 kJ/mol could be determined using the Friedman method and 123.36 kJ/mol and 123.31 kJ/mol using the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose methods, respectively. Measurements of the heat flow at a heating rate of 30 K/min indicate partially exothermic reactions during the curing process.

Short-term caloric restriction or resveratrol supplementation alters large-scale brain network connectivity in male and female rats

IntroductionDietary interventions such as caloric restriction (CR) exert positive effects on brain health. Unfortunately, poor compliance hinders the success of this approach. A proposed alternative is resveratrol (Rsv), a CR-mimetic known to promote brain health. Direct comparison between the effects of Rsv and CR on brain health is lacking, with limited knowledge on their sex-specific effects. Therefore, we aimed to compare and unravel the sex-specific impact of these dietary interventions on spontaneous brain activity.MethodsHere, we used resting-state fMRI to investigate functional connectivity (FC) changes in five prominent resting-state brain networks (RSNs) in healthy 4 month old male and female F344 rats supplemented to either 40% CR or daily Rsv supplementation (10 mg/kg, oral) for the duration of 1 month.ResultsOur results demonstrated a decreased body weight (BW) in CR rats, as well as an increase in body weight in male Rsv supplemented rats, compared to female Rsv supplemented rats, whereas this difference between sexes was not observed in the control or CR groups. Furthermore, we found that both CR or Rsv supplementation induce a female-specific decrease of FC between the subcortical network and hippocampal network, and between the subcortical network and lateral cortical network. Moreover, Rsv supplementation lowered FC within the hippocampal network and between the hippocampal and the default mode like network, the lateral cortical network and the sensory network—an effect not observed for the CR rats.DiscussionOur findings reveal that both CR and Rsv induce a similar female-specific decrease of FC in RSNs associated with memory and emotion, all the while CR and Rsv induce dissimilar changes in body weight and other within- and between-RSN FC measures. Altogether, this study provides insight into the effects and comparability of short-term CR and Rsv supplementation on brain connectivity within- and between-RSNs in both male and female F344 rats, providing a FC reference for future research of dietary effects.

Influence of complex feed additive on the microstructure of the spleen of white rats

Feeding calves during the dairy period is a very important and responsible moment, since it is during this period that the intensive growth and development of animals, the formation of the immune system, and the reserve for future productivity take place. Therefore, diets should be balanced not only in terms of the nutritional value of the main components, but also in terms of vitamin and mineral composition. Very often, in order for the diet to be balanced in biologically active substances, various feed additives are used, the effectiveness of which varies. Therefore, the purpose of the research was to evaluate the possibility of using and study the effect of liposomal feed additives on the growth and safety of calves. The research was conducted in one of the farms of the Leningrad region. The duration of the experiment was 60 days. During the study period, the drug "LipoLad" was introduced into the diet of experimental animals in the form of a feed additive, the animals of the control group received the main diet of the dairy period. The dynamics of changes in live weight were determined by the results of weighing calves at the ages of 2 and 4 months, in addition, the effectiveness of the drug was checked by the safety of young animals during the study period. At the end of the experiment, biochemical blood tests were performed. As a result of the conducted research, it was found that the use of liposomal feed additives has a positive effect on the growth and safety of young animals.

A longitudinal study of the association between the outcome of bariatric surgery and mental health indicators in Chinese patients: an examination of the interaction effect

BackgroundThe prevalence of obesity currently represents a significant public health concern. Besides the physical burden, obesity is also associated with mental health issues. The mutual relationship between mental health issue and surgical outcome remains unclear, particularly in the population of ethnic Chinese patients. The objective of this Taiwanese study aims to evaluate the changes in physical and mental health before and after surgery and investigate the association between surgical outcome and mental health status.MethodsThe study population comprised patients who had undergone bariatric surgery at least one year prior (with the follow-up durations predominantly within two years). We collected and compared pre- and post-operative mental health status (using the Chinese Health Questionnaire, CHQ, and the Taiwanese Depressive Questionnaire, TDQ) and physical indicators to evaluate and establish their relationships. Furthermore, formal psychiatric diagnoses were confirmed by psychiatrists to analyze the differences between the groups with and without such diagnoses.ResultsA total of 147 patients were included in the study. Following surgery, notable improvements were observed in physical condition and mental health. The average body mass index (BMI) decreased by 13.46 (SD 8.28), the CHQ scores decreased by 1.52 (SD 2.76), and the TDQ scores decreased by 5.08 (SD 8.58). The prevalence of any psychiatric disorder in these patients was found to be 34%. There was no significant difference in the Percentage of Total Weight Loss (%TWL) between individuals with or without psychiatric disorders. However, patients with psychiatric disorders had higher CHQ and TDQ scores after surgery. In multiple linear regression models, the TDQ-by-follow-up duration interaction was predictive of the %TWL, and both married status and the level of tertiary education were identified as negatively associated factors.ConclusionsPatients who underwent bariatric surgery exhibited a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders, but the presence of pre-operative psychiatric disorders did not significantly affect weight change after surgery. Despite the improvements in physical and mental health post-surgery, the findings indicate that the impact of depression on effectiveness of bariatric surgery is modulated by the time elapsed since the surgery, emphasizing the importance of ongoing mental health care for these patients.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Association between weight change across adulthood and risk of chronic kidney disease: NHANES 1999–2020

Background Obesity is a recognized risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but whether weight change is associated with CKD remains unclear. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between weight change patterns across adulthood and the risk of CKD. Methods Data for 34,187 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2020 were analyzed. The weight change patterns of participants were assessed across different time intervals, including transitions from obesity to non-obesity, non-obesity to obesity, and remaining stable obesity. Absolute weight changes were also analyzed, categorizing participants into various weight gain and loss groups. Furthermore, stratified analyses were conducted to explore potential interactions between age, sex, and smoking status about CKD risk. Results The study found that individuals transitioning from obesity to non-obesity, non-obesity to obesity, and remaining stable obesity had an elevated risk of developing CKD throughout adulthood compared to those maintaining stable non-obesity weight patterns. Moreover, a J-shaped or U-shaped relationship was observed between CKD risk and absolute weight changes, with both extreme weight gain (≥20 kg) and substantial weight loss (>2.5 kg) associated with increased CKD risk. Stratified analyses revealed that age and sex played significant roles in these associations, with stronger effects observed among participants under 60 years at baseline. Conclusions This study underscores the link between weight change across adulthood and the risk of CKD. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding extreme weight fluctuations may reduce CKD risk. These insights can be considered when developing CKD prevention and management strategies.

"Weigh Easy": Use of an At-Home Weight Reporting System to Improve Weight Monitoring in Infants With a Cleft.

To evaluate the effectiveness and parental satisfaction of an at-home weight reporting system for the maintenance of weight stability in infants with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP). A prospective cohort of infants with CLP was provided an at-home scale to track weekly weights compared to a retrospective cohort of infants with CLP that underwent standard weight checks at routine healthcare appointments. Tertiary care pediatric hospital. Infants from 0 to 3 months of age who presented to a large midwestern Cleft Clinic with a diagnosis of CLP without a secondary major birth difference. "Weigh Easy" at-home scale and reporting system. Weight loss or plateau. Infants enrolled in the prospective cohort (n = 25) were significantly less likely to have a destabilizing weight loss compared to the retrospective cohort (n = 131) (OR = 0.09, 95% CI = 0.01-0.60, P = .001 at 30 g/day; OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.04-0.60, P = .001 at 25 g/day; OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.09-0.61, P = .002 at 20 g/day). Over at least 90 days of data collection, the prospective group had a median of 12 weight changes compared to 4 in the retrospective cohort (P < .001). The Parent Satisfaction Survey (n = 17) revealed 94.1% preferred to weigh their child at home with the Weigh Easy Scale compared to commuting to a publicly available scale and 88.2% would recommend the "Weigh Easy" scale to their friends and family. Providing parents of infants with CLP with the "Weigh Easy" scale identifies feeding and nutritional needs more quickly than standard weight checks.