Potential Negative Effects Research Articles

Exploring user-avatar bond profiles: Longitudinal impacts on internet gaming disorder

Avatars serve as the virtual embodiment of users, facilitating their online interaction, with potential positive and negative effects. These effects range from enhancing social and personal development to facilitating disordered gaming patterns. As past literature has identified different disorder gaming patterns based on the connection an individual has with their avatar (referred to as the User-Avatar Bond [UAB]), the present study explored the gaming disorder risk based on a gamer's UAB profile. To investigate this, the present study comprised 565 online role-playing gamers (Mage = 29.3, SD = 10.6). Participants completed the User-Avatar Bond Questionnaire and the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short-Form over two waves, six months apart. Latent profile analysis was employed which identified four distinct UAB profiles: Identified Gamers, Compensated Gamers, Detached Gamers, and Differentiated Gamers. ANOVAs were conducted to assess differences in IGD behaviours within the profiles across the two waves. The findings suggested a significant difference between the profiles and IGD, where heightened avatar identification and compensation levels may act as risk factors for IGD behaviours. These findings provide crucial insight regarding the role of UAB in IGD development, treatment, and prevention.

Preference for digital media use, biobehavioral attention bias, and anxiety symptoms in adolescents

Adolescence is a critical developmental period of biological and social change during which 1 in 3 youth experience significant anxiety symptoms. The social-emotional lives of the majority of adolescents are largely conducted via digital media use (DMU; e.g., social media, text messaging). Yet the past decade of research on DMU and anxiety has yielded mixed results (e.g., Keles et al., 2020 review), leaving the complex role that DMU might play in the emergence and maintenance of anxiety poorly understood. A key step forward is to leverage psychophysiology to identify individual differences in cognitive and emotional processes that confer vulnerability to potential negative effects of DMU. Further, given the ubiquity of DMU, a greater focus is needed on measurements that move beyond sheer frequency to capture DMU in comparison to face-to-face (FTF) social interactions. This study examined attention bias (AB), characterized by selective and exaggerated attention toward or away from threat, as a moderator of the link between DMU and anxiety in adolescents (N = 75; 42 female) aged 12–14 years (M = 13.28, SD = 0.87). AB was indexed during a dot probe task using reaction time metrics (i.e., trial-level bias) and via ERPs capturing attentional selection and discrimination (N170) and cognitive control (N2) to threat compared to neutral faces. AB moderated associations between DMU and anxiety. A greater preference to use DMU vs FTF predicted greater anxiety among those with a greater behavioral bias away from threat, blunted N170, and blunted N2 in the presence of threat. Future research should examine potential causal and bidirectional links between DMU and anxiety and explore whether preferences for technology-mediated interactions and individual differences in threat processing increase risk.

From “Husky” to “Bulldog”– behavioural correlates between castration and breed groups in the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

Neutering dogs is a widespread method and is carried out for various behavioural and husbandry reasons. This study’s main objective is to investigate the behavioural correlations between neutering and the breed of male dogs. In order to possibly find breed-dependent differences in the behaviour of intact and castrated dogs, a differentiation between two clades - the “Huskies“(chow chow, shar pei, akita/shiba inu, alaskan malamute, siberian/alaskan husky) and the “Bulldogs” (german boxer, english/french bulldog, old english mastiff, boston terrier, english bull terrier, staffordshire bull terrier, american staffordshire terrier), based on Parker et al. [1], was made.Using an online questionnaire,, 31 neutered and 37 intact male dogs from the clade “Huskies“ and 30 neutered and 38 intact male dogs from the clade “Bulldogs”, participated in the study (N = 136).The survey included detailed questions on the dogs’ personality and any associated issues as well as a behavioural anamnesis. Further questions relating to four of the “big five” personality dimensions based on the “Budapest questionnaire” by Turcsán et al. from 2011 [2] were also added.The results show, that neutered males from both breed clades more frequently displayed aggression toward humans than intact males (multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.002). When it came to aggression towards other dogs, it was the “Huskies” that differed significantly from the “Bulldogs“(multinomial logistic regression, p = 0.04) with being more aggressive. There were also significant differences in stress-related behaviour depending on castration status and breed (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001; Cramer’s V = 0.33) and only the castration status had an impact on the significance (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001). The analysis also revealed significance for stress-indicating behaviour with dependence on neutering status (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001) and showed that stress as well as uncertainty are significantly more common in neutered dogs depending on breed and neutering status (multinomial logistic regression, p < 0.001; Cramer’s V = 0.42), in that only neutered “Bulldogs“ were stressed, but more “Huskies“ overall.According to the Budapest questionnaire data, the “Bulldog” clade had considerably greater extraversion scores overall (ordinal regression, p < 0.001) than the “Huskies“.Our findings highlight the risks and potential negative effects of neutering. Gonadectomy in no way substitutes for the dog receiving the necessary socialization, training, or bonding. Although in some circumstances it might have a favourable impact on the dog’s behaviour, it should not be seen as a panacea for unwanted behaviour. Given that not all behaviours are influenced by sex hormones, every castration decision must be weighed up individually.

Cognitive Shifts: Exploring the Impact of AI on Generation Z and Millennials

Abstract Our study focuses on exploring the cognitive changes that Artificial Intelligence has on two generational cohorts: Millennials and Generation Z. Artificial Intelligence has developed so much that it can intervene in solving problems, streamlining tasks, and providing information very fast. However, there might be a risk regarding this technology that could have a negative effect on critical thinking, decisionmaking, and memory. Through our research paper, we focused on discovering if Artificial Intelligence has an impact on the cognition of two generations: Millenials and Generation Z. For this, we used an approach in which we integrated mixed research methods, both quantitative and qualitative, to ascertain the complex interaction between AI and cognition. The results indicated that neither the educational background nor the generational differences produced significant outcomes, suggesting that both generations can integrate AI technologies into their everyday lives. Although the benefits are obvious, there are some concerns about cognitive shifts, so that, through a balanced integration of Artificial Intelligence in everyday life, we can end up capitalizing on its potential for a positive cognitive impact. Based on the research findings, we discovered a complex connection between the use of AI among Generation Z and Millennials and cognitive changes, suggesting a uniform cognitive involvement with AI technologies among the respondents. However, certain concerns remain regarding the potential negative effects that can be represented by the addiction that it can cause, and by a certain cognitive laziness. This paper contributes to this field by highlighting the need for a balanced approach to the integration of Artificial Intelligence in educational and professional environments, advocating strategies that capitalize on the advantages of Artificial Intelligence while mitigating the negative impact on cognition

A multi-evidence approach in an Amazonian river based on land use, water quality, histopathological effects and habitat selection behavior in fish

The Amazon rivers constitute the largest river basin in the world, with a high level of biodiversity. The Tocantins River is one of the most important rivers in this region, which has been impacted by different land uses. The objective of this study was to carry out a multi-evidence analysis focusing on the water quality of the Tocantins River, close to the municipality of Marabá-PA. We analyzed forest cover and water quality and, using the model organism Danio rerio, performed toxicity tests for histopathological effects, as well as the habitat selection approach by exposing fish to different river water samples in a multi-compartment device. The results showed that the studied area has already lost almost 30% of its forests in recent decades. Regarding water quality, the upstream (C1) and downstream (C5) points are the least impacted. On the other hand, the other points (C2–C4), closer to the city, greater input of pollutants was detected. Fish exposed to water samples from the most impacted sites showed several oedemas and hyperplastic cells in the gills. Regarding habitat selection behavior, there was a marked avoidance by samples with the highest contamination load. The results of this study lead to the understanding of the potential negative effects of human activities on local Amazonian biodiversity, since the potential toxicity of the environment, in conjunction with changes in the habitat selection process, could lead to a decline in populations of aquatic organisms, altering the environmental balance.

Assessing the impact of contraceptive use on mental health among women of reproductive age – a systematic review

BackgroundContraceptive use is the principal method by which women avoid unintended pregnancy. An unintended pregnancy can induce long-term distress related to the medical, emotional, and social consequences of carrying that pregnancy to term.ObjectivesThis review investigates the effects of modern contraception techniques such as birth control pills, long-acting reversible contraceptives (e.g., intrauterine devices, implants), and condoms on mental health status.MethodsWe searched multiple databases from inception until February 2022, with no geographical boundaries. RCTs underwent a quality assessment using the GRADE approach while the quality of observational studies was assessed using the Downs and Black scoring system. Data were analyzed through meta-analysis and relative risk and mean difference were calculated and forest plots were created for each outcome when two or more data points were eligible for analysis.Main resultsThe total number of included studies was 43. In women without previous mental disorders, both RCTs (3 studies, SMD 0.18, 95% CI [0.02, 0.34], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (RR 1.04 95% CI [1.03, 1.04]) detected a slight increase in the risk of depression development. In women with previous mental disorders, both RCTs (9 studies, SMD − 0.15, 95% CI [-0.30, -0.00], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (SMD − 0.26, 95% CI [-0.37, -0.15]) detected slight protective effects of depression development. It was also noticed that HC demonstrated protective effects for anxiety in both groups (SMD − 0.20, 95% CI [-0.40, -0.01]).ConclusionsAmong women with pre-existing mental disorders who use hormonal contraceptives, we reported protective association with decreased depressive symptoms. However, the study also draws attention to some potential negative effects, including an increase in the risk of depression and antidepressant use among contraceptive users, a risk that is higher among women who use the hormonal IUD, implant, or patch/ring methods. Providers should select contraceptive methods taking individual aspects into account to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

Land consolidation impacts the abundance and richness of natural enemies but not pests in small‐holder rice systems

Abstract Traditional small‐holder agricultural landscapes in southern China are being consolidated to increase mechanisation levels in agriculture, but it is unclear how this influences rice arthropod communities in these landscapes. Here, based on a six‐year study in 20 rice fields, we evaluated the impact of land consolidation on arthropod communities, crop damage, and rice yield. We also analysed how effects of land consolidation were moderated by the proportion of large semi‐natural habitat patches and insecticide use. We found that, compared to consolidated fields, rice fields in traditional farmlands had a higher abundance and family richness of natural enemies, but a similar abundance of rice pests. Land consolidation did not significantly interact with the proportion of large semi‐natural habitat patches or insecticide application, in terms of affecting arthropods. The proportion of semi‐natural habitat reduced the negative effect of insecticide application on key rice pests, but no equivalent interaction occurred for natural enemies. Synthesis and applications: Land consolidation can have negative impacts on the abundance and richness of natural enemies, but not pests in small‐holder rice systems, and these impacts are independent from insecticide application and proportion of semi‐natural habitat in the landscape. We recommend the implementation of agri‐environmental measures or re‐establishing field margin vegetation during the consolidation process to mitigate these potential negative effects, although trade‐off between enhancing crop yields and preserving rice arthropod biodiversity should be considered. We encourage future research to focus on the detailed assessment of the function of linear habitats for a better understanding of the impact of land consolidation.

Correlation between Duration of Social Media Use and Sleep Pattern Disorders In Children Aged 10-12 Years at SD Negeri Kepatihan 05 Jember

Social media usage can both positively and negatively affect children's sleep patterns, with potential negative effects on the quality and quantity of sleep. However, until now, more evidence is needed about the phenomenon in a population of school-age children. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the duration of social media use and sleep pattern disturbances in children aged 10-12 years at SD Negeri Kepatihan 05 based on the theory of problematic smartphone use. The research design uses a correlational approach with a cross-sectional approach. The population of children aged 10-12 years at SD Negeri Kepatihan 05 Jember is 250 respondents. The number of samples was 104 using simple random sampling. Data collection on the duration of social media use used an observation sheet while sleep pattern disturbances used a questionnaire sheet. Data analysis used rho sperm with the condition α ≤ 0.05. The results showed that there was a relationship between the duration of social media use and disturbed sleep patterns in children aged 10-12 years. The correlation in this study shows an r-value of 0.230 which identifies the degree of weak relationship, p-value of 0.019. The duration of social media use has been found to have a positive relationship with disturbed sleep patterns. This study concluded that prolonged social media use can disrupt sleep patterns in children, emphasizing the need for parental monitoring in this context.

Disrupted one-carbon metabolism in heifers negatively affects their health and physiology.

The objective of this study was to determine the dose-dependent response of one-carbon metabolite (OCM: methionine, choline, folate, and vitamin B12) supplementation on heifer dry matter intake on fixed gain, organ mass, hematology, cytokine concentration, pancreatic and jejunal enzyme activity, and muscle hydrogen peroxide production. Angus heifers (n = 30; body weight [BW] = 392.6 ± 12.6kg) were individually fed and assigned to one of five treatments: 0XNEG: total mixed ration (TMR) and saline injections at days 0 and 7 of the estrous cycle, 0XPOS: TMR, rumen-protected methionine (MET) fed at 0.08% of the diet dry matter, rumen-protected choline (CHOL) fed at 60g/d, and saline injections at days 0 and 7, 0.5X: TMR, MET, CHOL, 5-mg B12, and 80-mg folate injections at days 0 and 7, 1X: TMR, MET CHOL, 10-mg vitamin B12, and 160-mg folate at days 0 and 7, and 2X: TMR, MET, CHOL, 20-mg vitamin B12, and 320-mg folate at days 0 and 7. All heifers were estrus synchronized but not bred, and blood samples were collected on days 0, 7, and at slaughter (day 14) during which tissues were collected. By design, heifer ADG did not differ (P = 0.96). Spleen weight and uterine weight were affected cubically (P = 0.03) decreasing from 0XPOS to 0.5X. Ovarian weight decreased linearly (P < 0.01) with increasing folate and B12 injection. Hemoglobin and hematocrit percentage were decreased (P < 0.01) in the 0.5X treatment compared with all other treatments. Plasma glucose, histotroph protein, and pancreatic α-amylase were decreased (P ≤ 0.04) in the 0.5X treatment. Heifers on the 2X treatment had greater pancreatic α-amylase compared with 0XNEG and 0.5X treatment. Interleukin-6 in plasma tended (P = 0.08) to be greater in the 0XPOS heifers compared with all other treatments. Lastly, 0XPOS-treated heifers had reduced (P ≤ 0.07) hydrogen peroxide production in muscle compared with 0XNEG heifers. These data imply that while certain doses of OCM do not improve whole animal physiology, OCM supplementation doses that disrupt one-carbon metabolism, such as that of the 0.5X treatment, can induce a negative systemic response that results in negative effects in both the dam and the conceptus during early gestation. Therefore, it is necessary to simultaneously establish an optimal OCM dose that increases circulating concentrations for use by the dam and the conceptus, while avoiding potential negative side effects of a disruptive OCM, to evaluate the long-term impacts of OCM supplementation of offspring programming.

AI, automation and the lightening of work

AbstractArtificial intelligence (AI) technology poses possible threats to existing jobs. These threats extend not just to the number of jobs available but also to their quality. In the future, so some predict, workers could face fewer and potentially worse jobs, at least if society does not embrace reforms that manage the coming AI revolution. This paper uses the example of Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson’s recent book—Power and Progress (2023)—to illustrate some of the dilemmas and options for managing the future of work under AI. Acemoglu and Johnson, while warning of the potential negative effects of an AI-driven automation, argue that AI can be used for positive ends. In particular, they argue for its uses in creating more ‘good jobs’. This outcome will depend on democratising AI technology. This paper is critical of the approach taken by Acemoglu and Johnson—specifically, it misses the possibility for using AI to lighten work (i.e., to reduce its duration and improve its quality). This paper stresses the potential benefits of automation as a mechanism for lightening work. Its key arguments aim to advance critical debates focused on creating a future in which AI works for people not just for profits.

Body dissatisfaction and beyond: Investigating attitudes towards calorie labels on UK food menus

In 2022 the British government made calorie labels on menus a legal requirement to encourage healthier food choices while dining out. Yet, little research has explored perceptions of calorie labels on menus in the United Kingdom or tested whether there may be groups of people vulnerable to potential negative effects of calorie labels, such as those with body dissatisfaction. This between-subjects, convergent mixed-methods study addressed these enquiries. Participants were 562 adults who completed an online survey where hypothetical food orders were made from a menu. The study found that participants who viewed a menu with calorie labels ordered fewer calories. Quantitative results did not find that participants with higher levels of body dissatisfaction were at significantly greater odds of using calorie labels to order fewer calories. However, our qualitative (thematic) analysis revealed that experiences of calorie labels could be shaped by body image concerns. Themes further drew on how calorie labels were empowering, but there were also concerns about their oversimplicity. Findings are discussed in relation to implications for future calorie labelling policies. Given the inconsistent findings amongst the limited amount of literature investigating the role of body dissatisfaction in how calorie labels are used, future research is crucial. In the meantime, as a cautionary measure, clinicians involved in supporting individuals with body or food-related concerns should be aware of the challenges their clients may experience in facing calorie labels on menus when dining out.

Value creation or political trick? An event study on anti-ESG regulations

This paper examines the effect of the anti-ESG regulations approved in 18 states from 2021 to 2023. Focusing on the fuel energy sector, we find that the regulatory intervention leads to 0.8 % to 3.5 % cumulative abnormal stock returns (CARs) around the regulation approval dates. The market reactions are found to be more positive and pronounced when the firm has poor previous ESG performance, when the firm is financially more constrained, and when the regulation is less controversial. Meanwhile, although fuel energy firms have more institutional ownership afterwards, their carbon emission also increases, indicating potential negative economic effects of anti-ESG policies.

A Summarized Review of Formulation, in Vitro Evaluation of Sunscreen

The efficacy and safety of sunscreens are diminished when their agents permeate the skin, resulting in systemic circulation and unidentified negative effects. The filters in sunscreens muster main on the skin's surface with minimal penetration through the dermis in order to preserve their safety and efficacy. Sunscreen should always be worn, even in the event that filters manage get through. Damage like as erythema, the production of free radicals, aging of the skin, and skin cancer brought on by UV radiation. Research is being done to limit skin penetration, assess sun protection factor (SPF), and improve formulation properties and stability in order to target potential negative effects caused by topical absorption of sunscreens. In vitro or in vivo investigations are used in current assays to determine sunscreen penetration since they mimic the physiological conditions of use. This review objectives are to reexamine data on sunscreen skin penetration over the last ten years and identify variables that may increase skin penetration or boost sunscreen efficacy. Sunburn is caused by ultraviolet B radiation, but ultraviolet A may be more damaging to the skin. Sunscreens should ideally block both wavebands. A sunscreen sun protection factor is mostly determined by how well it blocks ultraviolet B. The efficiency of preventing ultraviolet A is not measured. Sunscreens may be organic or inorganic chemicals. If metal oxide sunscreens are made into nanoparticles, their cosmetic acceptance might increase. It doesn’t seem that absorbing organic sunscreens and nanoparticles has any appreciable systemic effects. Frequent use of sunscreen prevents melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis from developing.

Therapeutic potential of culinary spices: applications, efficacy, and optimal dosage - A review

Spices have long been used in the kitchen and have therapeutic properties. Ayurveda prescribes specific instructions for administering any medicine, such as an examination of Prakriti (individual constitution), Agni (digestive capacity), Dosha (individual humors)[1] ,and so on, as well as the cautious usage of certain medicines to guarantee optimal and safe use. In today's society, spices are used to stimulate the immune system, yet using spices as medicine inadvertently may have an unwanted effect on the body. This review attempts to objectively analyse the probable detrimental effects of medicinal plants used as spices and interpret the concern of Ayurveda in order to use these spices more effectively. According to the Spices Board of India, there are 52 spices classified, and 31 medicinal plants have been discovered for use as spices in Indian cuisine and home medicines beginning with 06 Nighantu.[14]Collected data was checked for reported adversities on several search engines, yielding 20 plants with indications of potential adverse effects. Furthermore, essential Ayurvedic principles were presented to help people use these spices more effectively, get the most out of them, and minimize any potential negative effects. This emphasizes the significance of using spices with caution and getting the opinion of an Ayurvedic physician before consuming them as medicine.

Attitudes Towards Filial Responsibility in 11 European Countries

This study examines how attitudes towards filial responsibility (AFR) have changed in 11 European countries between 2001 and 2017, based on data from the International Social Survey Programme. These countries include various types of welfare states and family traditions. The study also analyses the change in AFR according to the respondents’ gender and age. The findings indicate that in 2017, individuals reported lower filial responsibility than in 2001, with the exception of Great Britain, where the AFR increased. The most substantial decreases in AFR were observed in Hungary, France, Denmark, and Finland. This negative shift is visible in both genders and all age groups, particularly late middle-aged women. However, despite the varying intensity of AFR change, it was challenging to identify clear patterns in the variations between countries. These results highlight potential negative effects on political proposals for long-term care for older adults supported by younger generations.

Anthropogenic noise effects on Risso's dolphin vocalizations in the Gulf of Taranto (Northern Ionian sea, central Mediterranean sea)

Anthropogenic noise may significantly affect marine mammals' vocalizations. The aim of this work is to describe for the first time the acoustic features of the click trains, buzzes, burst pulses and whistles produced by the Risso's dolphins in the Gulf of Taranto (Northern Ionian Sea, Central Mediterranean), the concurrent levels of noise to which dolphins are exposed, and the potential reactive changes in the acoustic structure of the species vocalizations. About 6 h of recordings were collected from April 2019 to September 2022 during daytime boat surveys. Elevated ambient noise levels were mainly present at the frequencies lower than 63 Hz, at about 1 kHz and 50 kHz likely attributable to anthropogenic activity, such as shipping and sonars. Even if the acoustic features of all the vocalizations can be disrupted, especially with increasing noise below 1 kHz and between 20 and 63 kHz, the click trains were the most affected vocalizations, showing changes in their Inter-Click-Interval and in the Peak Amplitude. Since these vocalizations are used for navigation and searching for prey, their alteration raises concerns on the potential negative effects on the well-being of the Risso's dolphin population in the Gulf of Taranto.

The short and long-term potential negative effects of thyroxine therapy in children and adolescents

The short and long-term potential negative effects of thyroxine therapy in children and adolescents

Investigation of the Effects of Labware Contamination on Mass Spectrometry-Based Human Serum Lipidome Analysis.

Polypropylene microcentrifuge tubes (MCTs) are increasingly used in lipidome sample preparation. In the absence of a comprehensive study evaluating ramifications of plasticware utilization in mass spectrometry-based lipidomic analyses, we conducted a systematic analysis to elucidate potential negative effects ascribable to labware contamination in serum lipidomics. During serum lipid extractions, tested glassware introduced 24 labware contaminants. In contrast, Eppendorf polypropylene MCTs contributed 485 contaminant features, many of which could be erroneously putatively identified as lipids via their m/z values. Eppendorf MCTs contamination engendered severe ion-suppression of 40 low abundance serum lipids, while generating mild to modest lipid ion-suppression across a multitude of higher abundance coeluting lipids. Less compatible polypropylene MCTs from an alternative manufacturer introduced a staggering 2,949 contaminant m/z values, severely affecting 75 coeluting serum lipids and causing more frequent and pronounced ion-suppression instances. Furthermore, by performing serum extractions with varied initial volumes, it was ascertained that labware-induced lipid ion-suppression is a dynamic phenomenon, contingent on both lipid and labware contaminant concentrations where low-abundance lipids are disproportionately impacted by coelutes of suppressive contaminants. In addition to lipid ion-suppression, the identification and quantification of 7 fatty acid endogenous serum lipids were compromised by the leaching of structurally identical surfactants from MCTs. MCTs artificially introduced 10 additional primary amides extraneous to serum samples. Utmost caution is imperative in interpreting data concerning primary amides and fatty acids when employing plastic labware. Through this investigation, we aspire to elevate awareness regarding the pernicious impact of labware contamination on lipidome analysis.

A framework for studying the effects of offshore wind energy development on birds and bats in the Eastern United States

Offshore wind energy development (OWED), while a key strategy for reducing carbon emissions, has potential negative effects to wildlife that should be examined to inform decision making and adaptive management as the industry expands. We present a conceptual framework to guide the long-term study of potential effects to birds and bats from OWED. This framework includes a focus on exposure and vulnerability as key determinants of risk. For birds and bats that are exposed to OWED, there are three main effects of interest that may impact survival and productivity: 1) collision mortality, 2) behavioral responses, including avoidance, displacement, and attraction, and 3) habitat-mediated effects to prey populations. If these OWED effects cause changes in survival and/or breeding success (e.g., fitness), they have the potential for population-level consequences, including changes in population size and structure. Understanding the influence of ecological drivers on exposure and effect parameters can help to disentangle the potential impacts of OWED from other stressors. We use this theoretical framework to summarize existing relevant knowledge and identify current priority research questions (n=22) for the eastern United States, where large-scale development of OWED is primarily in the planning and early construction phase. We also identify recommendations for study design and further prioritization of research topics.

Dietary amino acid profile and risk of hypertension: findings from the Ravansar cohort study

IntroductionHypertension (HTN) is a significant global health concern associated with morbidity and mortality. Recent research has explored the potential relationship between dietary protein intake and the development of HTN. This study aims to investigate the association between dietary amino acids and the incidence of HTN.MethodsThis nested case-control study utilized data from the Ravansar Non-Communicable Disease (RaNCD) Cohort Study. The study included 491 new HTN cases identified over a 6-year follow-up period. For each case, four controls were randomly selected through density sampling. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) consisting of 125 food items was used to calculate dietary amino acid intake. HTN was determined based on systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg and/or current use of antihypertensive medication in subjects without pre-existing HTN at the start of the cohort study. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios for HTN risk.ResultsThe median intake of all amino acids was lower in patients with HTN compared to the control group. After adjusting for various variables in different models, the risk of developing HTN tended to increase with higher dietary amino acid intake (excluding tryptophan and acidic amino acids). Specifically, individuals in the third tertile had a higher risk of developing new HTN than those individuals in the lowest tertile, although this difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).ConclusionThe findings suggest that there may be an association between increased dietary amino acid intake and the risk of developing HTN, although this association was not statistically significant in this study. Further investigations in diverse populations are needed to explore the relationship between amino acids and HTN, as well as to determine the potential positive and negative effects of specific amino acid patterns on hypertension.