Nutrient Deficiency Research Articles

Enhancing irrigation water quality efficiently with potassium feldspar-derived adsorbent: Heavy metal detoxification and nutrient augmentation

The pollution of Pb2+ and Cd2+ in both irrigation water and soil, coupled with the scarcity of vital mineral nutrition, poses a significant hazard to the security and quality of agricultural products. An economical potassium feldspar-derived adsorbent (PFDA) was synthesized using potassium feldspar as the main raw material through ball milling-thermal activation technology to solve this problem. The synthesis process is cost-effective and the resulting adsorbent demonstrates high efficiency in removing Pb2+ and Cd2+ from water. The removal process is endothermic, spontaneous, and stochastic, and follows the quasi-second-order kinetics, intraparticle diffusion, and Langmuir model. The adsorption and elimination of Pb2+ and Cd2+ is largely dependent on monolayer chemical sorption. The maximum removal capacity of PFDA for Pb2+ and Cd2+ at room temperature is 417 and 56.3 mg·g−1, respectively, which is superior to most mineral-based adsorbents. The desorption of Pb2+/Cd2+ on PFDA is highly challenging at pH≥3, whereas PFDA and Pb2+/Cd2+ are recyclable at pH≤0.5. When Pb2+ and Cd2+ coexisted, Pb2+ was preferentially removed by PFDA. In the case of single adsorption, Pb2+ was mainly adsorbed onto PFDA as Pb2SiO4, PbSiO3·xH2O, Pb3SiO5, PbAl2O4, PbAl2SiO6, PbAl2Si2O8, Pb2SO5, and PbSO4, whereas Cd2+ was primarily adsorbed as CdSiO3, Cd2SiO4, and Cd3Al2Si3O12. After the complex adsorption, the main products were PbSiO3·xH2O, PbAl2Si2O8, Pb2SiO4, Pb4Al2Si2O11, Pb5SiO7, PbSO4, CdSiO3, and Cd3Al2Si3O12. The forms of mineral nutrients in single and complex adsorption were different. The main mechanisms by which PFDA removed Pb2+ and Cd2+ were chemical precipitation, complexation, electrostatic attraction, and ion exchange. In irrigation water, the elimination efficiencies of Pb2+ and Cd2+ by PFDA within 10 min were 96.0 % and 70.3 %, respectively, and the concentrations of K+, Si4+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ increased by 14.0 %, 12.4 %, 55.7 %, and 878 %, respectively, within 60 min. PFDA holds great potential to replace costly methods for treating heavy metal pollution and nutrient deficiency in irrigation water, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution and paving a new way for the comprehensive utilization of potassium feldspar.

Investigating the effects of nutrition priming on germination indicators, the concentration of elements in seeds, and growth rate in the initial stages of Persian clover (Trifolium resupinatum L.)

Insufficient stand establishment and low seedling development of Persian Clover (Trifolium resupinatum L.) are major problems. A study involving laboratory and greenhouse conditions was conducted to determine seed priming effects on germination rate and growth index. To determine the best time for seed priming, pre-experiments were performed for 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 h. Afterward, germination parameters were measured in the laboratory by 16 different nutrient priming (B, Fe, Mg, Ca, and a combination of these) and two priming duration (one and two hours selected from pre-experiment). The greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the ability of nutrition priming with B + Fe + Mg + Ca to compensate for the deficiency of these soil nutrients where growth index (CGR and LAI) and SPAD index were measured in four treatments (control, nutrition priming, Nitrogen as starter fertilizers and nutrition priming + Nitrogen as a starter). Laboratory data for pre-experiment showed that one and two hours of hydro priming was suitable for clover seed. One hour of hydro priming led to a significant increase in germination rate (20%), length (26%) and weight (10%) vigor. Control, Priming with B + Ca, B + Mg and B + Mg + Ca led to highest germination percentage (≈96%), also B + Ca caused the highest length and weight vigor (61 and 2.22). The greenhouse experiment data illustrated that nutrition priming increased by about 10% in TDW, 23% in LAI, and 4% in SPAD index in the first 40 days of early growth stages, but increased by 27% in CGR, 47% in LAI, and 10% in SPAD index if combined with the application of nitrogen as a starter fertilizer.

No energy, no autophagy-Mechanisms and therapeutic implications of autophagic response energy requirements.

Autophagy is a lysosome-mediated self-degradation process of central importance for cellular quality control. It also provides macromolecule building blocks and substrates for energy metabolism during nutrient or energy deficiency, which are the main stimuli for autophagy induction. However, like most biological processes, autophagy itself requires ATP, and there is an energy threshold for its initiation and execution. We here present the first comprehensive review of this often-overlooked aspect of autophagy research. The studies in which ATP deficiency suppressed autophagy in vitro and in vivo were classified according to the energy pathway involved (oxidative phosphorylation or glycolysis). A mechanistic insight was provided by pinpointing the critical ATP-consuming autophagic events, including transcription/translation/interaction of autophagy-related molecules, autophagosome formation/elongation, autophagosome fusion with the lysosome, and lysosome acidification. The significance of energy-dependent fine-tuning of autophagic response for preserving the cell homeostasis, and potential implications for the therapy of cancer, autoimmunity, metabolic disorders, and neurodegeneration are discussed.

Development of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Markers and Population Genetic Analysis of the Hadal Amphipod Alicella gigantea across the Mariana and New Britain Trenches

Alicella gigantea, the largest amphipod scavengers found to date, play key roles in the food web of the hadal ecosystem. However, the genetic structure of A. gigantea populations among different trenches has not been reported yet. In this study, SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) markers were developed for three A. gigantea geographic populations collected from the southern Mariana Trench (SMT), the central New Britain Trench (CNBT), and the eastern New Britain Trench (ENBT), based on the SLAF-seq (specific locus amplified fragment sequencing) technology. A total of 570,168 filtered SNPs were screened out for subsequent population genetic analysis. Results showed that the inbreeding levels across the three geographic populations were relatively low, and the genomic inbreeding coefficients of the three populations were similar in magnitude. Based on the results of phylogenetic analysis, population structure analysis, and principal component analysis, it is believed that the three A. gigantea geographic populations belong to the same population, and the kinship relationship between the ENBT and CNBT populations is close. Moreover, the differential candidate adaptive sites on the SNPs suggest that there may be variations in metabolic rates among the three geographic populations, possibly linked to differences in food availability and sources in different trenches, ultimately resulting in different survival strategies in A. gigantea populations within distinct trenches. Compared with the Mariana Trench, the New Britain Trench has a richer organic matter input, and it is speculated that the A. gigantea Mariana Trench population may adopt a lower metabolic rate to cope with the harsher environment of nutrient deficiency.

Bioaccessibility and Caco-2 cell uptake of iron chlorophyllin using a biologically relevant digestion model

Iron deficiency remains a top nutrient deficiency worldwide. Iron chlorophyllin (IC), a compound structurally analogous to heme, utilizes the protoporphyrin ring of chlorophyll to bind iron. IC has previously been shown to deliver more iron to Caco-2 cells than FeSO4, the most common form prescribed for supplementation. However, previous test conditions used digestive conditions outside of those observed in humans. This study sought to assess IC bioaccessibility and Caco-2 cell uptake using physiologically relevant digestive solutions, pH, and incubation time, as compared to other iron sources (i.e., FeSO4, and hemoglobin (Hb)). Co-digestion with ascorbic acid (AA) and albumin was also investigated.Following gastric, duodenal, and jejunal digestion, IC-bound iron was less bioaccessible than iron delivered as FeSO4, and IC-bound iron was less bioaccessible than Hb-bound iron. IC-bound iron bioaccessibility was not affected by AA and was enhanced 2x when co-digested with a low dose of albumin. However, Caco-2 cell incubation with IC-containing digesta increased cell ferritin 2.5x more than FeSO4 alone, and less than Hb. IC with AA or with 400 mg albumin also increased cell ferritin more than IC alone, with the greatest increases observed following incubation of digesta containing IC + AA + 400 mg albumin.These results suggest IC can serve as an improved source of iron for supplementation as compared to FeSO4. These results also support further in vivo investigations of IC-based iron delivery in populations at risk of iron deficiency.

Functions, accumulation, and biosynthesis of important secondary metabolites in the fig tree (Ficus carica).

Ficus carica is an economically important horticultural plant. Due to its abundant secondary metabolites, F. carica has gained interest for its applications in medicine and as a nutritional supplement. Both external and internal factors affect the accumulation of secondary metabolites in F. carica. The assembly of the F. carica genome has facilitated functional analysis of key genes and transcription factors associated with the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, particularly anthocyanin. In this review, we summarize the various types and functions of secondary metabolites, with a particular focus on flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenes. We also explore the factors influencing their biosynthesis and accumulation, including varieties, tissue, environmental factors (e.g., light), stresses (e.g., high temperature, low temperature, drought, nutrient deficiencies, salinity), hormonal treatments, and developmental factors. Furthermore, we discuss the involvement of structural genes and transcription factors in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, specifically anthocyanin and furanocoumarins, knowledge of which will promote the breeding and genetic engineering of novel F. carica varieties.

Foliar Nutrient Application with Macro and Micro Nutrients Alters Yield and Total Antioxidative Capacity of Bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Background: Plant nutrient deficiency is the major challenge in agriculture results in lower crop yield and quality. This may lower the farmer’s income by reducing marketable value. In other hand, eating nutrient dense vegetables is the most cost effective strategy to combat malnutrition. The efficiency of inorganic micronutrients applied into soils is low as they become easily fixed to soil particles. Hence, exogenous application of nutrients is an effective option to enhance plant nutrient use efficiency. Methods: This study was conducted at SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu during 2022-2023 to alleviate nutrient insufficiency challenges in bhendi variety Senora by using Randomized block design with seven different treatments viz., T1- Control, T2- Nutrient consortia 1 (N + K + B + Fe+ Mn + Zn @ 1% ), T3- Nutrient consortia 2 (N + K + Fe+ Cu + B @ 1%), T4- Nutrient consortia 3 (N + K + Mg + B + Fe + Zn @ 1%), T5- Nutrient consortia 4 (T2 + NAA + SA@ 1%), T6- Nutrient consortia 5 (T3 + NAA + SA @ 1%), T7- Nutrient consortia 6 (T4 + NAA + SA @ 1%), sprayed at 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing. Result: Various physiological, biochemical, yield and quality parameters were measured to evaluate the effects of Nutrient consortia. The results of field experiment strongly improved that the eight biochemical parameters viz., chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, chlorophyll a/b ratio, chlorophyll stability index, leaf soluble protein, lipid peroxidation by melondialdehyde and proline content. The yield and quality traits such as number of fruits per plant, total fruit yield, total phenolics and total antioxidants activity were significantly increased through application of Nutrient consortia 6 followed by Nutrient consortia 4. So this can be used as yield and quality enhancer formulation of bhendi crops.

Undernutrition levels in Scottish older-adult population: a secondary data analysis of the Scottish Health Survey 2021

The proportion of the UK population over 65 years old is predicted to increase from 18.7% to 26% by 2066(1). However, healthy life expectancy (HLE) and disability free life expectancy (DLE) are decreasing(2, 3), which is particularly concerning in Scotland which also has the lowest overall life expectancy(4). Diet is a major modifiable factor in healthy aging(5) and should be a target to address declining HLE and DLE, but nutrient deficiencies in over 65s in Scotland are poorly understood. This study aimed to understand the presence and extent of inadequate intake of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals within over 60 year olds in Scotland.Secondary data analysis of the Scottish Health Survey 2021(6) was performed. Dietary data of older adults (≥ 60 years old, n = 1344) were analysed for protein, fibre, and micronutrient (from food sources) inadequacies, defined as percentage below estimated average requirement, reference nutrient intake or adequate intake(7, 8). Wald Z-test was used to analyse inadequacy between males and females, and urban and rural populations. Differences between Scottish index of multiple deprivation (SIMD) levels (1 [most deprived] to 5 [least deprived]) were analysed using χ2 test and cellwise sub-analysis(9) with Bonferroni corrections.The percentage of over 60s that had inadequate nutrient intake was highest for vitamin D (97%), fibre (93%), selenium (90%), potassium (79%) and Zinc (65%). Compared to males, females were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 18 of the 25 nutrients analysed, of which 11 were significant (p<0.05). Compared to rural populations, urban populations were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 22 of 25 nutrients analysed, of which 10 were significant. People in SIMD 1 were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 20 of 25 nutrients analysed, of which 14 were significant. 40% of over 60s had inadequate protein intake. Risk of inadequate protein intake was greatest for people in SIMD 1 (56%, p<0.001). 24% of over 60s had inadequate folate intake which was significantly higher in females than males (28% and 18%, respectively; p<.001), urban than rural (26% and 19%, respectively; p<.01), and in SIMD1 (36%; p<.001). Inadequate fibre intake was significantly higher in females than males (95% and 91% respectively, p<.01), and urban than rural (95% and 89%, respectively, p<.001). 26% of over 60s had inadequate calcium intake. Inadequate calcium intake was significantly higher in females than males (25% and 17%, respectively; p<.001).These data highlight a considerable undernutrition risk, both overall and within specific nutrients important for healthy aging, in Scotland’s older adult population. Those in SIMD 1, females, and urban dwelling demographics being particularly vulnerable. Although the extent of potential health implications, are dependent on key aspects such as nutrient absorption and utilisation.

Assessment of Nutritional Intake in Patients With Kidney Failure Treated by Haemodialysis on Dialysis and Non-dialysis Days

Introduction/Aims/ObjectiveInadequate nutritional intake in haemodialysis (HD) patients increases the risk of muscle wasting, nutrient deficiencies, leading to an increased risk of additional morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess nutritional intake on the dialysis and non-dialysis day of patients established on HD. MethodsWe employed a two-day dietary record, one on the day of dialysis and one on the non-dialysis day, and then determined nutritional intake using the Nutritics software. Muscle strength was assessed by hand grip strength (HGS) and body composition determined using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance recorded post-dialysis. ResultsWe recruited 51 established HD patients dialysing between May-July 2022, mean age 60±15 years, 52.9% male, and 51% diabetic. Only 25% achieved the calorie and protein intake recommended by Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI). Most patients had inadequate consumtion of fibre (96%), calcium (86%), iron (80%), zinc (82%), selenium (92%), folate (82%), vitamin A (88%), and (100%) vitamin D. On the other hand, the great majority followed the restriction guidelines for potassium (96%), phosphorus (86%), and sodium (84%), repectively. However, consumption was greater for potassium (P=0.007), phosphorus (P=0.015), and zinc (P=0.032) on non-dialysis vs dialysis days, but there was no difference in protein or calorie intake between days. ConclusionOur results suggest that many of our HD patients do not achieve the recommended nutritional targets. Patient compliance with restricting sodium, potassium and phosphate limits protein and calorie intake. HD patients are at increased risk of sarcopenia, so failure to achieve dietary protein intake will further increase this risk.

Retention and transition to adult health care in adolescent bariatric surgery

The American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend bariatric surgery as a treatment option for severe obesity. Bariatric surgery results in weight loss and improves obesity-related comorbidities. After surgery, adolescents and young adults require close observation and interdisciplinary care to help optimize weight loss, minimize nutrient deficiencies, address mental or physical health complications, and ensure a smooth transition to adult care. Yet, the extant literature on adherence and transition of care in bariatric programs is limited. Using 3 case studies from 2 bariatric programs, one on retention and 2 on transition of care, this paper highlights learning opportunities for care delivery after bariatric surgery. A quality improvement framework and an embedded electronic medical health registry can improve retention rates within a bariatric program. In addition, implementing a workflow ensures standardization of care; however, a key challenge is inadequate staffing. The programs established a transition of care policy and protocol by incorporating several of the Six Core Elements, a recognized guide for ensuring a safe and appropriate transfer from pediatric to adult care. Several research gaps remain, and further work is needed to determine and standardize best practices for adolescent bariatric surgery.

The Association of the Proportion of Plant-Based Protein With Nutrient Deficiency Risk Among Older Adults in the US

The Association of the Proportion of Plant-Based Protein With Nutrient Deficiency Risk Among Older Adults in the US

Sigma S Involved in Bacterial Survival of Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum

Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum, a plant pathogenic bacterium that can survive for a long time in soil and water, causes lethal wilt in the Solanaceae family. Sigma S is a part of the RNA polymerase complex, which regulates gene expression during bacterial stress response or stationary phase. In this study, we investigated the role of sigma S in R. pseudosolanacearum under stress conditions using a rpoS-defective mutant strain of R. pseudosolanacearum and its wild-type strain. The phenotypes of rpoS-defective mutant were complemented by introducing the original rpoS gene. There were no differences observed in bacterial growth rate and exopolysaccharide production between the wild-type strain and the rpoS mutant. However, the wild-type strain responded more sensitively to nutrient deficiency compared to the mutant strain. Under the nutrient deficiency, the rpoS mutant maintained a high bacterial viability for a longer period, while the viability of the wild-type strain declined rapidly. Furthermore, a significant difference in pH was observed between the culture supernatant of the wild-type strain and the mutant strain. The pH of the culture supernatant for the wild-type strain decreased rapidly during bacterial growth, leading to medium acidification. The rapid decline in the wild-type strain’s viability may be associated with medium acidification and bacterial sensitivity to acidity during transition to the stationary phase. Interestingly, the rpoS mutant strain cannot utilize acetic acid, D-alanine, D-trehalose, and L-histidine. These results suggest that sigma S of R. pseudosolanacearum regulates the production or utilization of organic acids and controls cell death during stationary phase under nutrient deficiency.

Advancements in Remote Sensing Technologies for Assessing Abiotic Stress in Plants: a Comprehensive Review

One of the key elements influencing crop production across the globe is abiotic stress. Early detection and corrective action in this regard can help to lessen the effects of stresses on crop growth and output. Recent advances in remote sensing hold a vital role in the early identification of abiotic stress across a broader area with less involvement of money, time, and labour. Remote sensing technology has become an indispensable tool in the field of agriculture, particularly for detecting abiotic stress in plants. This paper reviews the application of remote sensing techniques for the assessment of abiotic stress factors such as drought, flood, salinity, and nutrient deficiency. Furthermore, the review explores the critical aspects of data acquisition, processing, and analysis, underscoring the importance of machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques in enhancing the accuracy of stress detection.

Application of 2-Iminoselenazolidin-4-Ones (ISeA) for Beta vulgaris L. and Brassica rapa L. Plants Se-Biofortification

Due to widespread selenium deficiency in food the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a new Se(II)-containing organic chemical compound 2-iminoselenazolidin-4-ones (ISeA) in the form of a nanoscale associate (1–5 nm) solution for Swiss chard and komatsuna plants biofortification. Application of the chosen substance as a foliar treatment (2 mg·L−1) and as an additive to a hydroponic nutrient solution (10 mg·L−1) was performed. Both cultures had a high level of Se absorption, distribution and accumulation in leaves two or more times greater than in petioles. Se content in chard petioles (15 mg·L−1) when applying ISeA as a component of the nutrient solution exceeded the accumulation of Se during foliar treatment (9.6 mg·L−1) and the same trend in the komatsuna leaves was observed. When applying ISeA to the nutrient solution, an increase in komatsuna and chard biomass was seen at 36 and 68% and for leaf treatment by 21 and 45%, respectively. For komatsuna and chard an increase in the ratio of dry to fresh weight was also observed to be 27 and 26%, and for foliar treatment—0 and 16%, respectively. Treatments led to increase in chard plants height (7–17%), enlargement of leaves (19–42%), a rise in photosynthetic pigments (20–60%) and anthocyanin (2.9 and 2.2 times) concentration, and for komatsuna—the multiplication of leaves number (28%) and their surface area (27–29%) as well as a rise in the concentration of anthocyanin (1.0 and 1.6 times) with foliar treatment and nutrient solution enrichment.

Radioprotective ingredients of a composite dairy product

Food products that have an anti-radiation effect and can be used in conditions of increased radiation are of particular interest. Scientifically based rationing of such products in the daily diet will make it possible to effectively use them to adapt the body to increased radiation and eliminate the effects of radiation exposure during treatment or examination. The purpose of the research presented in the paper is to analyze the nutritional and physiological causes of chronic nutrient deficiency of radioprotective microelements in the diet, to study the qualitative and biological characteristics of radioprotective ingredients to create a milk-based anti-radiation composition. The experimental part of the study has related to researching the mineral composition of selected ingredients and their antioxidant activity. The data obtained indicate that milk thistle flour contains a large amount of calcium, and sunflower meal contains potassium. In terms of potassium content, sunflower meal exceeds the microelement content in milk thistle by 50 %. The amount of calcium in milk thistle is 67 % higher compared to sunflower meal. In addition, plant raw materials are a source of magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, phosphorus and have pronounced antioxidant activity. As a result a scientific substantiation of the addition of ingredients for the production of radioprotective fermented milk product and its use in therapeutic and prophylactic nutrition for adults has been carried out in order to prevent radiation complications and remove radionuclides from the body. The normalized amount of ingredients for consumption per day has been calculated according to recommended diets, nutritional, physiological value, and physiological activity. Standards have been established for enriching micronutrients in the production of a radioprotective dairy product designed to increase the body's resistance to the action of free radical processes and enhance antioxidant capacity under conditions of radiation exposure.

A systematic review on the impact of nutrition and possible supplementation on the deficiency of vitamin complexes, iron, omega-3-fatty acids, and lycopene in relation to increased morbidity in women after menopause

SummaryA balanced and healthy diet during the menopausal transition and after menopause is crucial for women to reduce the risk for morbidities and chronic diseases due to deficiency of essential nutrients.PurposeThe objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of studies that analyzed the impact of vitamin and nutrient deficiencies in postmenopausal women in relation to increased morbidities and chronic conditions.MethodsObservational studies were searched in the databases PubMed, UpToDate, and Google Scholar.ResultsWe searched 122 studies, of which 90 were included in our analysis. The meta-analysis of the data could not be performed because of the heterogeneity of the statistical methods in the included studies. In our study, we focused on the aspects of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, omega-3-fatty acids, and lycopene, belonging to the family of carotenoids. Postmenopausal women with deficiencies of these nutrients are more vulnerable to comorbidities such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, metabolic diseases, osteoporosis, obesity, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, cognitive decline, dementia, and stroke. We concluded that women after menopause tend to have a greater probability of suffering from deficiencies in various vitamins and nutrients, and consequently have an increased risk of developing morbidities and chronic diseases.ConclusionIn conclusion, maintaining optimum serum levels of nutrients and vitamins, either through a balanced and healthy diet consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, and fats or by taking appropriate supplementation, is essential in maintaining optimal health-related quality of life and reducing the risk for women during the menopausal transition and after menopause. Nevertheless, more recent studies need to be assessed to formulate adequate recommendations to achieve positive clinical outcomes.

Health behavior and psychological treatment utilization in adults with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder symptoms

BackgroundAvoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), an eating disorder not associated with weight and shape concerns, results in nutrient or energy deficiencies related with further health consequences and a pronounced need for specialized treatment. These interventions need to be tailored to individual health behavior. However, research about health behavior and treatment utilization in ARFID is scarce, particularly in adults, as ARFID is more common in children despite occurring across the lifespan. One important aspect of health behavior is the individual’s health regulatory focus (i.e., health prevention and health promotion). Additionally, symptoms of eating disorders have generally been associated with various health risk behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, or unhealthy physical (in)activity. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate health behavior and psychological treatment utilization in adults with symptoms of ARFID.MethodsA representative adult population sample (N = 2415) completed several self-report questionnaires assessing symptoms of eating disorders and health behavior. Differences between groups (symptoms of ARFID vs. no symptoms of ARFID) were tested with analysis of variance, Mann-Whitney-U-tests, and binary logistic regression.ResultsIndividuals with symptoms of ARFID (n = 20) did not differ in their health regulatory focus, smoking status, physical activity or psychological treatment utilization from individuals without symptoms of ARFID (n = 2395). However, they reported higher alcohol misuse than individuals without symptoms of ARFID.ConclusionThe findings suggest a relevance of further exploration of the relationship between alcohol misuse and ARFID, given the preliminary nature of these results. This exploration could inform treatment strategies for addressing potential comorbid substance misuse. Furthermore, the low psychological treatment utilization in adults with symptoms of ARFID suggest a need for more specialized psychological treatment services, public education about ARFID being an indication for psychological treatment, and further research about treatment barriers.

The Effect of the Single-Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass With Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S) on Circulating Concentrations of 25-OH Vitamin D and B12 at 1 Year Postsurgery

More than 650 million adults in the world are obese. Bariatric surgery has proven to be an effective treatment; however, it is underutilized. A relatively new procedure, the single-anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S), has shown greater weight loss success than leading procedures but little is known about its effects on nutrient deficiencies. The present review aims to explore the effects of the SADI-S on blood concentrations of 25-OH vitamin D and vitamin B12 up to 1 year postsurgery. Findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency is more prevalent than vitamin B12 deficiency in patients who have undergone the SADI-S; however, there was no clear cause and effect relationship.

The impact of malnutrition on cognition in older adults: A systematic review

BackgroundThere is a lack of evidence to support the hypothesis that malnutrition may promote cognitive decline. This study aimed to explore the available literature on this topic. MethodsA systematic review was undertaken of studies investigating the effect of nutritional status on cognitive function in adults of any age, using Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and Global Health via OvidSP from earliest available dates to January 2024. Studies were excluded if they were conducted in animal or paediatric populations, or if they did not include measurements of baseline nutritional status or follow-up assessment of cognitive function. Selected studies were assessed for quality, and data extracted. A meta-analysis was not conducted due to the heterogeneity of the data. ResultsA total of nine studies (three randomised and six observational) was retrieved, including total 8697 subjects who were all in older age group. Study quality was generally poor. Seven of the nine studies supported the hypothesis that baseline nutritional status is predictive of change in cognitive function at later assessment, but all studies failed to control for significant confounders and six of the nine had large amounts of missing data at follow-up, so that it remains unclear whether nutrition is independently associated with later cognitive function. ConclusionMalnutrition may be associated with subsequent development of cognitive dysfunction in older adults. Higher quality studies in a wider range of age groups are needed to investigate whether nutritional status has an independent impact on cognitive function, and whether this is related to specific nutrient deficiencies.

Advancing Agricultural Sustainability: Smart Monitoring of Oil Palm Seedlings Through Innovative Image Processing Techniques

Good oil palm seedlings planted in Malaysia can enhance the nursery area, the economy, and rural employment. Nitrogen (N), potassium (K), \and magnesium (Mg) deficiencies in oil palm seedlings could have an adverse effect on growth and seedling quality. In contrast, excess fertiliser in oil palm seedlings could reduce macronutrients and soil organic matter levels. Moreover, various diseases appear on the oil palm seedling leaves resulting from nutrient deficiencies. Oil palm seedlings with nutrient deficiencies were more susceptible to pathogens and diseases than healthy oil palm seedlings. Thus, image processing made it possible to quickly and accurately control oil palm seedlings' growth and avoid diseases. In this research study, image processing was proposed to classify nutrient deficiencies in oil palm seedling leaves subjected to the three different fertiliser rates. The dataset for this research study was collected from a nursery and consisted of 868 images classified into four classes (Healthy, Nitrogen, Potassium and Magnesium). According to the experiment's findings, the Xception model achieved the highest percentage of classification accuracy, 98.60%, within a short time. It can be concluded that the proposed implementation of image processing for the classification of nutrient deficiencies in oil palm seedling leaves was effective. However, more datasets could be added in the future to achieve a better balance and enhance classification performance.