High Calcium Levels Research Articles

Correlation between ultrafiltration rate and hemoglobin level and erythropoietin response in hemodialysis patients

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between ultrafiltration rate (UFR) and hemoglobin levels and erythropoietin (EPO) response in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). 225 MHD patients were divided into three groups according to the UFR: < 10 ml/h/kg, 10–13 ml/h/kg, and >13 ml/h/kg. Clinical parameters and prognosis were compared among the groups. Multiple linear correlation and regression analyses were conducted. SPSS 26.0 (IBM, Chicago, IL, USA) was used to analyze all statistics. The UFR < 10 ml/h/kg group was older than the other groups (p < 0.05). The UFR > 13 ml/h/kg group had the highest SpKt/V (p < 0.05), monthly EPO dose/weight (p < 0.001), and EPO resistance index (p < 0.001), as well as the lowest dry weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), hemoglobin (p < 0.001), hematocrit (p < 0.05), and red blood cell count (p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that sex, dry weight, UFR, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, and C-reactive protein levels were associated with hemoglobin levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a higher UFR was associated with lower hemoglobin levels, while male sex and higher levels of calcium and albumin were associated with higher hemoglobin levels. High UFR is associated with more severe anemia and EPO resistance in MHD. This study provides new insights into anemia management in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Regional variations in the management of primary hyperparathyroidism in Sweden: population-based case-control study.

Substantial disparities in the utilization of parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism have been reported. This study aimed to analyse regional variations in parathyroidectomy incidence with respect to the patient's disease burden and socioeconomic status. A population-based case-control study included all patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy in Sweden between 2008 and 2017 and 10 matched controls. Data on demographic and socioeconomic variables, co-morbidities and drug prescriptions were collected from relevant national registers. Conditional logistic regression was used to analyse predictors of parathyroidectomy. A total of 8626 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (77% women) underwent parathyroidectomy during the study interval. The annual incidence of parathyroidectomy was 9.0 per 100 000 persons. The annual age-adjusted regional incidences of parathyroidectomy varied between 3.3 and 16.9 operations per 100 000 inhabitants. Except for a small underrepresentation of patients with lower education, no effect of socioeconomic variables was observed. Compared with matched controls, the parathyroidectomy group had increased odds ratios of having developed classical symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism and being prescribed medication against cardiovascular disorders and psychiatric illness at the time of parathyroidectomy. Increased risks of kidney stones and osteoporosis were observed 5 years before parathyroidectomy. Patients with primary hyperparathyroidism selected for parathyroidectomy from regions with a low incidence of operations had a higher prevalence of kidney stones, osteoporosis and hypertension, as well as larger adenomas and higher calcium levels at the time of parathyroidectomy compared with patients in high-incidence regions. The considerable variation in parathyroidectomy seems more likely associated with different clinical thresholds for detection of primary hyperparathyroidism and referral to surgery than socioeconomic disparities.

Loss of the putative Rab GTPase, Ypt7, impairs the virulence of Cryptococcus neoformans.

Small GTPases of the Rab family coordinate multiple membrane fusion and trafficking events in eukaryotes. In fungi, the Rab GTPase, Ypt7, plays a critical role in late endosomal trafficking, and is required for homotypic fusion events in vacuole biogenesis and inheritance. In this study, we identified a putative YPT7 homologue in Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungal pathogen causing life threatening meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised individuals. As part of an ongoing effort to understand mechanisms of iron acquisition in C. neoformans, we established a role for Ypt7 in growth on heme as the sole iron source. Deletion of YPT7 also caused abnormal vacuolar morphology, defective endocytic trafficking and autophagy, and mislocalization of Aph1, a secreted vacuolar acid phosphatase. Ypt7 localized to the vacuolar membrane and membrane contact sites between the vacuole and mitochondria (vCLAMPs), and loss of the protein impaired growth on inhibitors of the electron transport chain. Additionally, Ypt7 was required for robust growth at 39°C, a phenotype likely involving the calcineurin signaling pathway because ypt7 mutants displayed increased susceptibility to the calcineurin-specific inhibitors, FK506 and cyclosporin A; the mutants also had impaired growth in either limiting or high levels of calcium. Finally, Ypt7 was required for survival during interactions with macrophages, and ypt7 mutants were attenuated for virulence in a mouse inhalation model thus demonstrating the importance of membrane trafficking functions in cryptococcosis.

Effect of fortification with CaCO3 nanoparticles obtained from eggshell on the physical and sensory characteristics of three food matrices

Food fortification has attracted interest in recent years, due to the understanding that micronutrient deficiency is one of the causes of the global burden of disease, and that food fortification aims to prevent or correct a demonstrated deficiency of one or more nutrients in a specific population or population groups. Nutritional value is an important concern regarding fortification and new product development. However, people are not willing to sacrifice the organoleptic characteristics of food products. Therefore, the effect of CaCO3 nanoparticles (NPs-CaCO3) and commercial CaCO3 on the physical and sensory properties of three food matrices (cookies, fruit rolls and dairy desserts) was evaluated. A texture analysis was performed on cookies and fruit rolls; a viscosity analysis on dairy desserts; and a color analysis and sensory profile on the three matrices. The results showed that both types of calcium increase hardness in fortified biscuits and fruit rolls but, in the latter case, commercial calcium caused a higher increase in hardness (p < 0.05). Viscosity was higher in the desserts with NPs. Color presented significant changes in all the fortified matrices. These findings demonstrated that Ca-NPs are a good strategy for food fortification compared to commercial calcium carbonate, as fortification with high levels of calcium is a challenge for the food industry due to its effects on the product. The results showed that, in the matrices with commercial calcium, the changes were more evident, while the matrices fortified with Ca-NP have a better sensory response than commercial Ca, with a higher level of acceptance by the judges. Therefore Ca-NPs can be considered to be a good source of calcium for food product fortification that causes a slight effect on physical and sensory properties.

Effect of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) on Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Its Potential Mechanisms.

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is more prevalent in chronic diseases and, if left untreated, can lead to serious consequences, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), cerebrovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, which have become significant public health issues globally. Metabolic syndrome is significantly influenced by the daily diet of patients. The dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet, originally designed to prevent or control hypertension, offers additional metabolic benefits due to its nutrient composition. The DASH diet recommends the intake of potassium, magnesium, calcium and fibre while limiting total fat, saturated fat and sodium, which is beneficial for patients with MS. Due to its limited fat content and high levels of fibre and calcium, individuals following the DASH diet are less prone to being overweight and obese and have lower concentrations of total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, the DASH diet can reduce blood pressure and is effective in correcting glucose and insulin abnormalities. This review comprehensively summarises the health benefits of the DASH diet on the risk factors of MS and describes the potential mechanisms based on available evidence.

Enhancing Human Treg Cell Induction through Engineered Dendritic Cells and Zinc Supplementation.

Regulatory T (Treg) cells hold promise for the ultimate cure of immune-mediated diseases. However, how to effectively restore Treg function in patients remains unknown. Previous reports suggest that activated dendritic cells (DCs) de novo synthesize locally high concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D, i.e., the active vitamin D or 1,25(OH)2D by upregulating the expression of 25-hydroxy vitamin D 1α-hydroxylase. Although 1,25(OH)2D has been shown to induce Treg cells, DC-derived 1,25(OH)2D only serves as a checkpoint to ensure well-balanced immune responses. Our animal studies have shown that 1,25(OH)2D requires high concentrations to generate Treg cells, which can cause severe side effects. In addition, our animal studies have also demonstrated that dendritic cells (DCs) overexpressing the 1α-hydroxylase de novo synthesize the effective Treg-inducing 1,25(OH)2D concentrations without causing the primary side effect of hypercalcemia (i.e., high blood calcium levels). This study furthers our previous animal studies and explores the efficacy of the la-hydroxylase-overexpressing DCs in inducing human CD4+FOXP3+regulatory T (Treg) cells. We discovered that the effective Treg-inducing doses of 1,25(OH)2D were within a range. Additionally, our data corroborated that the 1α-hydroxylase-overexpressing DCs synthesized 1,25(OH)2D within this concentration range in vivo, thus facilitating effective Treg cell induction. Moreover, this study demonstrated that 1α-hydroxylase expression levels were pivotal for DCs to induce Treg cells because physiological 25(OH)D levels were sufficient for the engineered but not parental DCs to enhance Treg cell induction. Interestingly, adding non-toxic zinc concentrations significantly augmented the Treg-inducing capacity of the engineered DCs. Our new findings offer a novel therapeutic avenue for immune-mediated human diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis, by integrating zinc with the 1α-hydroxylase-overexpressing DCs.

Evaluation of slay composition in the sediments of the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi Dam, Beni Bouayach, Northern Morocco

This research analyses and identifies clays from the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi dam in Beni Bouayach, northern Morocco, to assess their suitability for various applications. The study employed X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence, infrared spectroscopy, and physicochemical methods. Elemental analysis revealed high silicon and calcium levels alongside iron, aluminum, potassium, titanium, sulfur, manganese, and trace amounts of zinc, nickel, and chromium. These components suggest a clay composed mainly of montmorillonite, calcite, and quartz. The physicochemical characteristics included a neutral pH of 7.6, an average density of 2.04 g/cm3, a 16.01% moisture content, a swelling index above 0.65%, and a 0.64% loss on ignition. The XRD results support these findings. Infrared spectroscopy shows two prominent absorption bands: one at 3620 cm-1, linked to the -OH group, and another indicative of SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedral units at approximately 400 cm-1 and 600 cm-1, respectively. The comprehensive analysis of this study reveals the clay composition and provides valuable insights into its potential industrial applications. Various elements and specific physicochemical properties suggest that these clays could be valuable in industries requiring specific mineral compositions and characteristics. This work lays the groundwork for future exploration and exploitation of these natural resources, highlighting their potential in diverse fields.

Nutritional value and chemical composition of quinoa leaves (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.) at different phenological stages

This study aimed to assess the phenological profile and nutritional characteristics of the leaves of four different quinoa varieties. The researchers analyzed the chemical composition, total phenolic compounds (TPC), and antioxidant capacity (AC) of quinoa leaves at various stages of growth. Two varieties, Blanca Junín and Blanca Criolla, displayed similar phenological profiles, while Pasankalla and Salcedo had earlier flowering stages. The study found that the early stages of quinoa leaves contained higher levels of protein, moisture, ash, magnesium, TPC, and AC. In contrast, the late stages had higher amounts of carbohydrates, calcium, and crude fiber. The third phenological stage showed the highest protein content, with Pasankalla and Blanca Junín having 36.00 g/100g and 42.44 g/100g, respectively. Salcedo reached this protein content at the second phenological stage, with 38.25 g/100g. Quinoa leaves were also found to be rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, with Blanca Junín and Pasankalla having the highest calcium levels in the sixth phenological stage. The second phenological stage consistently yielded the highest levels of TPC and AC in all quinoa varieties. Overall, this study highlights the nutritional value of quinoa leaves and suggests that they could be a promising plant-based protein ingredient.

Clinical Significance of Stiffness during Endoscopic Surgery for Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Retrospective Study.

Studies regarding hematoma stiffness and removal difficulty are scarce. This study explored the association between hematoma stiffness and surgical results of endoscopic hematoma removal for intracerebral hemorrhage. It also aimed to clarify factors associated with hematoma stiffness. We classified intracerebral hematoma as either soft or firm stiffness by retrospectively evaluating operative videos by two neurosurgeons. The interobserver reliability of the classification was assessed by calculating the κ values. We investigated the relationship between hematoma stiffness and surgical results. Favorable hematoma removal (FHR) was defined as a residual hematoma volume of ≤15 mL or removal rate of ≥70%. Furthermore, we compared the background characteristics, imaging findings, and laboratory data between the two groups. Forty patients were included in this study. The mean baseline hematoma volume was 69.9 mL (range, 41.3-97.6 mL). FHR was accomplished in 35 cases (87.5%). Thirty-four patients (85%) were in the soft hematoma group (group S). Six patients (15%) were in the firm hematoma group (group F). Classification of hematoma stiffness demonstrated an excellent degree of interobserver agreement (κ score = 0.91). Patients in group S had a high FHR rate (p = 0.018) and short endoscopic procedure times (p = 0.00034). The island sign was present in group S (p = 0.030). Patients in group F had significantly high fibrinogen levels (p = 0.049) and low serum total calcium (p = 0.032), hemoglobin (p = 0.041), and hematocrit (p = 0.011) levels. Hematoma stiffness during endoscopic surgery for intracerebral hemorrhage correlates with surgical results, including the endoscopic procedure time and accomplishing rate of FHR.

Feeding Programs and Addition High Levels of Calcium, Phosphorus and Vitamin D3 to Aged Laying Hens’ Diets on Productive Performance

This study was conducted in poultry farm belong to Department of Animal Production/College of Agriculture/University of Anbar from 15/3/2022 to 6/6/2022 (84) days, 3 periods (28 days/period). The aim of studying was studying effect of feeding programs and addition high levels of Calcium, phosphorous and vitamin D3 to aged laying hens’ diets on productive performance. In this study, 150-layer hens of Lohmann Brown breed, aged 52 weeks were used in this experiment. Laying hens were distributed randomly to ten treatments with five replicates per treatment (3 hens/replicate) in close system (cages). A completely randomized experimental design with a 2x2x2 factorial arrangement consisting Morning feeding with once time (A1), Evening feeding with twice times equal half (A2) 6 hours difference between the first and second period. Feed Additives (B) included: B1(3000 IU vitamin D3, 3.5% Ca and 0.5% P). B2(5000 IU vitamin D3, 4% Ca and 0.6% P.), B3(5000 IU vitamin D3, 4.5% Ca and 0.7% P), B4 (7000 IU vitamin D3, 4% Ca and 0.6% P), B5 (7000 IU vitamin D3, 4.5% Ca and 0.7% P). During the experimental periods hen’s performance traits included egg production H.D%, egg weights, egg mass, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio were recorded. The results of statistical analysis showed that no effect of feeding programs A1 and A2 on productive performance which included egg production (H.D %), egg weight, egg mass, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio.

The association of serum toxic metals and essential elements during early pregnancy with body mass index trajectory of infants during the first years: A prospective study

To the best of our knowledge, prior research has yet to delve into the combined and interactive relationships between maternal exposure to essential elements and toxic metals and infancy’s continuous growth and trajectories. This study aims to discern infant growth trajectories in the first year of life and to determine the associations of maternal serum levels of essential elements and toxic metals with growth trajectory. Within a Chinese prospective cohort in 2019 − 2021, 407 mother−infant pairs were included, and the serum levels of five essential elements (zinc, calcium, copper, magnesium and iron) and two toxic metals (cadmium and lead) in early pregnancy were assessed. The growth trajectory of infants was followed until age one year. Raw BMI and height values were transformed to age- and sex-specific BMI and height standard deviation (SD) scores. Latent-class group-based trajectory models and piecewise linear mixed regression were estimated to determine infant growth trajectories and growth velocity, respectively. The individual relationship between maternal metallic element levels and infant growth trajectory was examined using multinomial logistic regression models and linear mixed regression, while joint associations and interactive relationships were explored using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) following confounder adjustments. Four distinct trajectory patterns based on BMI-z score (low-rapid BMI gain group, normal-stable BMI group, very low-rapid BMI gain group and normal-rapid BMI gain group) and length-for-age (high-stable length group, low-stable length group, normal-rapid length gain group, very low-rapid length gain group) were identified during the first year post-birth, respectively. In single-metal and multiple-metal models, infants born to mothers with higher serum Zn and lower serum Cu levels were associated with a normal-rapid BMI gain trajectory during the first year. Serum Cu exhibited a positive correlation with the rate of BMI change solely in infants aged 6–12 months. Further, the BKMR analysis revealed a statistically significant and negative joint effect of the five essential elements on the likelihood of normal-rapid BMI/length gain trajectory when serum levels of these elements fell below the 70th percentile compared to median levels. In addition, high levels of serum copper and calcium interactively affect the rates of BMI change during 6–12 months old (β: −0.21, 95% CI: −0.44, −0.03, P = 0.04, P-interaction=0.04). In conclusion, maternal trace elements at early pregnancy are linked to infant growth patterns and growth velocity in the first year of life.

The Potential Uses of Baobab Tree's Medicinal Effects in Dentistry: A Literature Review.

Adansonia digitata (Baobab) tree is an African tree with a long history in traditional medicine. The local inhabitants of Africa have been using the different tree components to treat medical diseases, such as fever, diarrhea, malaria, cough, dysentery, and microbial infections. Recently, the tree gained the attention of scientists due to its medical and pharmaceutical properties and nutritional values, which generated a myriad number of investigations regarding its phytochemical and macro- and micronutrient contents. The fruit pulp is especially rich in vitamin C, pectin, fibers, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, and copper. Additionally, the leaves contain high levels of calcium, while the seeds are considered a good source of protein and fat. Altogether, they contain a variety of polyphenols, fatty acids, and amino acids. The tree extracts possess potent antioxidant, cell-protective, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, no information was found in the literature about the use of Baobab tree products in the dental field. The aim of this review is to discuss the well-documented medical effects and chemical and mineral components of the different Baobab tree parts from a dental point of view to open more areas of research concerning its potential applications in the dental field. Antioxidants and vitamin C are known to help in maintaining healthy periodontal and gingival tissues. They also help in wound healing and alveolar bone integrity. Moreover, phytochemicals and phenolic compounds have been utilized in controlling dental plaque and manufacturing intracanal medications as they manifest antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Furthermore, calcium and phosphorus incorporation in dental biomaterials is commonly used in vital pulp therapy and repairing bone defects. After reviewing the reported medicinal and pharmaceutical activities of the Baobab tree, it can be inferred that the tree extracts possess potential uses in the dental field, which requires further investigation for validation.

Absolute and Relative Washout Rates Associated With Parathyroid Adenoma.

Background Parathyroid adenoma is a benign parathyroid gland tumor that causes excessive parathyroid hormone production, leading to primary hyperparathyroidism. High serum calcium levels characterize it. Accurate diagnosis and localization of adenomas are crucial for effective surgical management. Computed tomography is a fundamental imaging technique used to identify and characterize parathyroid adenomas. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the absolute and relative contrast washout rates of parathyroid adenoma and the thyroid gland, and compare enhancement patterns to establish the absolute and relative washout rates of parathyroid adenoma. Materials & methods This retrospective study analyzes the CT findings of 33 patients with histopathologically proven parathyroid adenomas. All patients with 4D CT scans have been included with no exclusion criteria. The mean attenuation was measured in Hounsfield units for the parathyroid adenoma and thyroid gland in the non-enhancing, arterial, venous, and delayed phases, depending on the region of interest. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Student's t-test was used to evaluate the differences in measurements between the parathyroid adenoma and thyroid tissue. One-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the difference in calculations between the parathyroid adenoma and thyroid tissue. P-values <0.001 were considered statistically significant. Results The most common location of parathyroid adenomas is inferior to the thyroid gland. The average pre-contrast attenuation of the parathyroid adenoma is 61.8 ± 15.5 HU compared to 105.5 ± 15.2 HU of the thyroid gland. The arterial attenuation of the parathyroid adenoma is 170.3 ± 40.7 HU, relatively comparable to the thyroid gland arterial attenuation, which is 188.0 ± 9.6 HU. The venous and delayed-phase attenuation of the parathyroid adenoma were 146.8 ± 37.5 and 96.8 ± 26.7 HU, respectively,and 178.8 ± 20.2 HU and 149.3 ± 15.2 HU for the thyroid gland, respectively. The calculated absolute and relative arterial washout rates for the parathyroid adenoma were 69.4 ± 13.4% and 43.2 ± 8.0%, respectively, as compared to 46.4 ± 9.9% and 20.6 ± 6.7% for the thyroid gland. The calculated absolute and relative venous washout rates for the parathyroid adenoma were 58.0 ± 21.4% and 33.0 ± 13.7%, respectively, as compared to 37.2 ± 17.2% and 15.9 ± 9.6% for the thyroid gland. Conclusions Parathyroid adenoma demonstrated a significantly higher washout rate than the thyroid gland tissue. Absolute arterial washout ≥69% and relative arterial washout ≥43% indicate parathyroid adenoma. Moreover, absolute venous washout ≥58% and relative venous washout ≥33% can be considered diagnostic factors for parathyroid adenoma. Further, pre-contrast attenuation of <60 Hounsfield units has a substantial predictive value for parathyroid adenoma in addition to the described washout rate. Increased awareness of the washout rate can increase the success rate of four-dimensional computed tomography interpretation.

Comparitive Nutritional Analysis Of Sweet Yam Bean (Jicama) Milk With Soya Milk -- A Review

The current research focuses on conducting a comprehensive nutritional comparison between sweet yam bean milk and soy milk. Sweet yam bean, also known as Jicama, is an ancient Mexican root vegetable akin to potatoes or turnips. It is safe for consumption, possesses a slightly sweet taste, and has low sugar content, making it a suitable carbohydrate source for individuals with diabetes or those pursuing a low-sugar diet. On the other hand, soy has been a staple ingredient for thousands of years. The study involved an examination of the proximate composition, mineral content, protein fractions, antinutritional elements, and rotenoids in the seeds of Pachyrhizus erosus, the sweet yam bean. In comparison to other legumes, soy seeds exhibited high levels of proteins, lipids, iron (Fe), and calcium (Ca). The predominant protein fraction was mainly composed of globulins, followed by glutelins. Minimal amounts of antinutritional compounds, such as tannins, hemagglutinating activity, and trypsin inhibitory activity, were detected in the sweet yam bean seeds. By conducting this comprehensive comparative analysis, we aim to provide valuable insights into the nutritional benefits and potential applications of sweet yam bean (Jicama) milk, especially in relation to soy milk, which has been a longstanding nutritional staple.

Analysis of calcium levels in the carapace of rajungan crab (&lt;i&gt;Portunus pelagicus&lt;/i&gt;)

This research aims to determine differences in calcium levels in small crabs (Portunus pelagicus) in three parts, namely carapace/shell, claw feet and abdomen. This research was conducted from May to June 2023 at UD. Bumi Nusantara Pattiro Sompe, Sibulue, Bone Regency, South Sulawesi. The research method used is an experimental method. with three types of samples (abdomen, claw feet and carapace/shell), calcium level parameters with two repetitions. Data were analyzed using T-test. Based on the research results, it shows that the highest calcium levels are in the carapace/shell (46.77%), followed by the claws (41.91%), while the lowest are in the abdomen (40.76%). The conclusion of this study is that there is a significant difference in levels calcium between the carapace/shell and the abdomen and claw legs but did not differ significantly between the abdomen and claw legs.

Water and mineral composition of the exudate resulting from scarification of pau-pombo trees by black-tufted marmosets

Black-tufted marmosets to obtain tree exudates for food often use Tapirira guianensis trees. Tree exudates are sources of calories, nutrients and water. In seasonal droughts, the high concentration of water in the exudates can be an immediate source for marmosets. One of the most important elements for the metabolism of marmosets is calcium, but it remains to be proven whether T. guianensis gum is rich in calcium. This study characterizes the water and mineral composition of the exudate that is consumed by black-tufted marmosets in urban forests in the Cerrado domain. Orifice and stem exudate samples were collected from eight scarified T. guianensis trees. The composition of the exudate was characterized using bromatological methods. The exudate was shown to have high levels of water and calcium, which are essential for the metabolism of marmosets. Due to its characteristics, T. guianensis may be an important tree species for the feeding ecology of marmosets and should be taken into consideration when making wildlife management plans in the Cerrado domain.

The effect of serum calcium on the association of depression with infertility among U.S. women

This study aimed to explored the association between depressive symptoms and infertility among U.S. women, and the effect of serum calcium on this association. We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013–2018), relating to women aged 20–45 years. Depressive symptoms were determined using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9 scores ≥10), and interview data were used to identify self-reported infertility. Of 2708 women (mean age: 32.7 ± 7.5 years), 274 were depressed and 12.0 % self-reported being “ever-infertile.” Depressive symptoms were associated with infertility in multivariable logistic regression (OR, 1.62; 95 % CI, 1.11–2.38). Depressive symptoms were associated with infertility among participants who were obese (OR, 1.68; 95 % CI, 1.03–2.74), had not received psychological counseling (OR, 1.60; 95 % CI, 1.03–2.50), were antidepressant users (OR 3.22; 95 % CI, 1.15–9.00), and had high serum calcium levels (OR, 2.05; 95 % CI, 1.25–3.35). A significant interaction between serum calcium and depression was observed for infertility (P = .038, interaction likelihood ratio test). In sensitivity analyses, the association between depressive symptoms and infertility remained after excluding women aged ≥35 years (OR, 1.87; 95 % CI, 1.08–3.23), lowering the cut-off for PHQ-9 scores (≥5) (OR, 1.48; 95 % CI, 1.12–1.96), excluding women with some gynecological diseases (OR, 1.63; 95 % CI, 1.07–2.49), and using inverse probability of treatment weighting (OR, 1.64; 95 % CI, 1.17–2.31). ConclusionOur findings indicate that depression is associated with infertility among U.S. women and serum calcium may have an effect on the association. Interventions such as serum calcium reduction, weight management and psychosocial counseling for infertility treatment in individuals with depression may be integrated into routine clinical practice. Additionally, more caution could be exercised when using antidepressants.

Evaluation of the Physicochemical Parameters and Nutrient of Milk Powder of Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biochemical characteristics of tigernut milk powder and its effects on the growth of pups fed on breast milk. To achieve this objective, the physicochemical parameters, macronutrient content, minerals, antioxidants and anti-nutritional factors of tigernut milk powder were determined. At the end of the experiment, it was found that the milk powder had a pH (5.63 ± 0.01), a titratable acidity content (0.04 ± 0.01%) and a moisture content (4.73 ± 0.29 %) favourable to its preservation. It contains macronutrients such as carbohydrates (59.78 ± 1.34 %), fiber (15.86 ± 0.80 %), total sugars (10.28 ± 0.08%), reducing sugars (4.21 ± 0.66%), protein (3.22 ± 0.04 %), fat (31.50 ± 0.11 %) and an energy value (535.55 ± 1.20 kcal). The milk powder had an ash content of 1.37 ± 0.19%, with high levels of calcium (119.33 ± 1.15 mg/100g), potassium (799.23 ± 1.98 mg/100g), sodium (102.11 ± 1.46 mg/100g), phosphorus (148.06 ± 0.62 mg/100g) and magnesium (94.44 ± 0.83 mg/100g). Certain therapeutic compounds were determined, such as antioxidant factors: polyphenols (3.87 ± 0.08 mg EAG/100g), tannins (0.88 ± 0.1 mg ETA/100g), flavonoids (0.05 ± 0.1 mg EQ/100g) and vitamin C (100 mg/100g) and anti-nutritional factors: oxalates (5.86 ± 1.03 mg) and phytates (34.66 ± 0.18 mg). These results enable us to assess the nutritional quality of milk powder from tigernut.

Efficacy of a lifestyle intervention for elderly in long-term care: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Long term care (LTC) services represent an important element of worldwide health systems, providing medical care and social services to thousands of elderlies. In this setting inadequate food consumption and lack of physical exercise represent major causes of mortality and morbidity due to malnutrition, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and dehydration. While it has been acknowledged that these conditions are potentially reversible with proper lifestyle medicine interventions, the latter are rarely implemented and evaluated in LTC owing to their intrinsic complexity. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of a three-months combined food-physical exercise lifestyle intervention in elderlies living in an Italian LTC facility. The diet was designed to provide high levels of energy, proteins, leucine, and calcium. The physical exercise treatment was delivered two times per week, with a moderate to high effort requested to subjects. At baseline and at the end of the intervention subjects were evaluated using the Barthel Index, Activities of Daily Living, and Tinetti scales. Results 54 participants took part to the trial. At the end of the study the intervention group showed a significant improvement in all the scales. They burned 287 Kcal/week, significantly more than the control group. In contrast to the study protocol, they introduced 11% less calories than the control group. Conclusions This intervention has been proved effective in increasing functionality, with the beneficial effect that might be primarily attributed to the physical exercise, considering the low adherence to diet in the intervention group. This evidence supports the hypothesis that these interventions, despite the effectiveness, are complex to be powerfully implemented. While our results encourage the efficacy of lifestyle interventions in LTC, more studies are needed to deeply understand barriers and facilitators for an effective implementation. Key messages • This lifestyle intervention proved effective in improving functionality in institutionalized elderlies. • The low adherence to diet highlights challenges and complexities of lifestyle interventions in LTC.

Investigating Effects of Reverse Osmosis-Treated Water on the Corrosion Rate of Chains in Armoured Face Conveyor for Longwall Mining

Premature failure of armoured face conveyor (AFC) chains due to corrosion is a significant proportion of the unplanned downtime experienced on longwall equipment. The AFC chains are constantly in contact with water and wet coal. The premature failure issue of AFC chains has become more prominent since the introduction of longwall top-coal caving with its additional AFC. Reverse osmosis (RO) is a popular water treatment method for reducing salinity and dissolved solids, but its impact on the corrosion of the AFC chains is unclear. This study has been commissioned to investigate the direct effects of RO water on the corrosion of AFC chains. An immersion test was carried out using AFC chain steel submerged in two water samples: untreated dam water and treated water from an RO treatment plant. Elemental analysis was conducted for both water samples, and four corrosion indices were measured for both water samples. The RO water more vigorously dissolves calcium carbonate scales leading to increased corrosion of the AFC chains although the dam water has much higher levels of calcium, chloride, sulphate, sodium, and magnesium. Bicarbonate ions are the main alkaline factor of water that provides the buffering capacity to acids. Decreased alkalinity without balancing other ions in water causes high corrosivity and decreased scaling tendencies.