Child stunting is associated with low circulating essential amino acids

AbstractBackgroundStunting affects about one-quarter of children under five worldwide. The pathogenesis of stunting is poorly understood. Nutritional interventions have had only modest effects in reducing stunting. We hypothesized that insufficiency in essential amino acids may be limiting the linear growth of children.MethodsWe used a targeted metabolomics approach to measure serum amino acids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and other metabolites using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in 313 children, aged 12–59months, from rural Malawi. Children underwent anthropometry.FindingsSixty-two percent of the children were stunted. Children with stunting had lower serum concentrations of all nine essential amino acids (tryptophan, isoleucine, leucine, valine, methionine, threonine, histidine, phenylalanine, lysine) compared with nonstunted children (p<0.01). In addition, stunted children had significantly lower serum concentrations of conditionally essential amino acids (arginine, glycine, glutamine), non-essential amino acids (asparagine, glutamate, serine), and six different sphingolipids compared with nonstunted children. Stunting was also associated with alterations in serum glycerophospholipid concentrations.InterpretationOur findings support the idea that children with a high risk of stunting may not be receiving an adequate dietary intake of essential amino acids and choline, an essential nutrient for the synthesis of sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids

Association of Body Mass Index With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Among Adult Population in Ksa: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) stands as a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia stemming from anomalies in insulin secretion, insulin action, or a combination thereof. Its global prevalence has soared, posing substantial public health ramifications. This scenario holds for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where the prevalence of DM has surged to a critical juncture, warranting heightened attention as a paramount health challenge. In this milieu, the identification of robust markers conducive to early detection and preventive interventions for DM is a matter of paramount significance. One such marker of potential relevance is the Body Mass Index (BMI), a metric ubiquitously deployed to gauge an individual's weight status Methods: A cross-sectional study design will be employed to investigate the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) among the adult population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The study will be conducted within various urban and rural settings across different regions of KSA, aiming for a representative geographic distribution. The study population will comprise adults aged 18 years and older residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.&nbsp; A multistage stratified random sampling method will be used. Firstly, distinct geographical regions will be chosen as strata. Then, within each stratum, random sampling will be performed to select specific cities, neighborhoods, and households. From these households, eligible individuals will be invited to participate. Individuals aged 18 years and older, regardless of gender, who are willing to participate and provide informed consent will be eligible for inclusion. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions affecting BMI and T2DM status will be excluded. Data will be collected through structured interviews. Information on demographics, medical history, lifestyle factors, and dietary habits will be gathered through face-to-face interviews. Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist circumference) will be obtained using standardized procedures. The data collection instruments will include a questionnaire encompassing demographic and medical history sections, lifestyle assessment, and dietary intake. Standardized instruments will be used for anthropometric measurements to ensure consistency. The questionnaire will undergo expert review and pilot testing to enhance its validity. Anthropometric measurements will be taken by trained professionals using calibrated equipment to ensure reliability. Pre-established protocols will be followed for both data collection and measurement procedures. Results: The researchers obtained results and information from 808 adults collected from various regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A multi-stage stratified random sampling method was used. There was no significant difference between the number of males and females in the sample, as the number of males reached 407, representing 50.4%. The average age in the study was 40 years. There was a statistical significance between gender and cumulative blood sugar. The normal blood sugar level was the most common in the study at 69%, followed by those with diabetes at 21.28% Conclusion: The most common values ​​that affect type 2 diabetes mellitus among the adult population in KSA were BMI followed by blood pressure, family history, number of medications, family history, and commitment to taking medications

The Impact of the Optimal spatial Impression on the Fifth Dimension of Interactive Mural Design

The Relationship Between The Human Behavior And The Environment Is A Mutual Relationship, Where Each Influences The Other, Especially With The Constant Environment Changes. Each Side Exchanges Variables Within A Dynamic Field Which Possesses A Group Of Expressive Traits Characterized With Diverse Civilizational Connotations. These Traits, If Neglected Will Lead To Intellectual ,Cultural And Emotive Dysfunctions Of Contemporary Citizens. The Surrounding Materialistic Conglomerates Are Visually Seen Spread In Every Aspect Of The Urbanized Environment . These Homogeneous And Heterogeneous Entities Combine Between Complexity And, Occasionally, Simplicity. Their Influences On Humans Cannot Be Denied, As They Range From Symbolism And Functionality, Which Play A Pivotal Role, Not Only In Forming The Spatial Impression, But Also Reflect On The Human Interactive Behavior. Research Problem: The Research Discusses Mainly The Issue Of Lacking An Absolute, Comprehensible Spatial Impression Concept In Contemporary Egyptian Society. This Concept Is Mandated To Amend The Unethical Behavior Of Citizens Towards Their Surrounding Environments And Therefore Affects The Economic, Social And Environmental Level Of The Country.Research Objective: •To Modify The Behavior By Achieving An Ideal Spatial Impression That Satisfies The Recipient's Needs.•To Achieve The Fifth Dimension Within The Interactive Mural Design In A Way That Fulfills Physical And Psychological The Needs Of The Recipient And The Surrounding Environment.Research Methodology: The Research Follows The Descriptive And Experimental Design On Different Groups Of Individuals Within A Community In A.R.E, To Conclude The Extent Of Response To The Spatial Impression And Its Impact On Their Behavior.The Results Of The Research Are An Attempt To Reach Various Combinations Of Mural Designs That Achieve The Fifth Dimension Of Design Within The Spatial Environment, Which In Turn Works On Behavioral Reformation For The Citizens

Design, Formulation, and Characterization of Valsartan Nanoethosomes for Improving Their Bioavailability

The objective of this study was to formulate and evaluate valsartan (VLT) ethosomes to prepare an optimized formula of VLT-entrapped ethosomes that could be incorporated into a sustained release transdermal gel dosage form. The formulation of the prepared ethosomal gel was investigated and subjected to in vitro drug release studies, ex vivo test, and in vivo studies to assess the effectiveness of ethosomal formulation in enhancing the bioavailability of VLT as a poorly soluble drug and in controlling its release from the transdermal gel dosage form. The acquired results are as follows: Dependent responses were particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimized VLT-ETHs had a nanometric diameter (45.8 &plusmn; 0.5 nm), a negative surface charge (&minus;51.4 &plusmn; 6.3 mV), and a high drug encapsulation (94.24 &plusmn; 0.2). The prepared VLT ethosomal gel (VLT-ethogel) showed a high peak plasma concentration and enhanced bioavailability in rats compared with the oral solution of valsartan presented in the higher AUC (0&ndash;&infin;). The AUC (0&ndash;&infin;) with oral treatment was 7.0 &plusmn; 2.94 (&mu;g.h/mL), but the AUC (0&ndash;&infin;) with topical application of the VAL nanoethosomal gel was 137.2 &plusmn; 49.88 (&mu;g.h/mL), providing the sustained release pattern of VLT from the tested ethosomal gel

Enhancement of indigenous microalgae culture using cheese whey as growth media for bioenergy and coproducts production

This study investigates the use of cheese whey to enhance the microalgae cultivation for bioenergy and coproducts in the framework of circular economy and pollution attenuation. A local isolated indigenous Chlorella vulgaris strain using a growth medium containing BG11 and cheese whey (BG11/CW) was used. Algae density, dry weight, organic carbon consumption, biochemical composition, fatty acid profile, Total pigments were investigated. The best growth is obtained in the BG11/CW culture media, with a dry biomass and cell density of 2.5 g/L, 6.5×107 Cells/ml, respectively. This represents 5 times the dry biomass obtained in the BG11medium (0.45 g/L, 1.68×107 cells/ml). Indigenous Chlorella vulgaris growth is favored by glycose availability after lactose degradation with a consumption of 62% on the 7th day. Pigments content was improved with an average value of 34.5 mg/gDW and 9 mg/mgDW for total chlorophylls and carotenoids, respectively. Chlorella vulgaris cultivation on BG11/CW has showed a high protein content with a value of 46%. Indigenous Chlorella vulgaris was able to accumulate a suitable lipid content that could reach 23%, which are rich in C16:00, C18:00, C18:1. This strain is a potential candidate for a sustainable bioenergy and coproducts that could contribute efficiently to promote the circular economy

Health related quality of life and psychological problems in Egyptian children with simple obesity in relation to body mass index

Background: Obesity in childhood or adolescence could affect quality of life (QOL). There is little existing information about the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of obese children and adolescents. Objective: To assess HRQOL and psychiatric co-morbidities in obese children and adolescents; and their relationship to body mass index (BMI). Methods: Fifty obese children and adolescents were compared to 50 healthy age-, sex- and pubertal stage-matched non obese children and adolescents serving as controls. They were assessed by child self-report and parent proxy report using a pediatric HRQOL inventory scale, also, Children Anxiety Scale and Children Depression Inventory (CDI) were assessed. Results: Obese children had total HRQOL score: 69.1 ± 8.4 versus 81.1 ± 7.8 respectively, p < 0.001 and their parents had total score: 62.9 ± 9.5 versus 74.9 ± 7.2 respectively, p < 0.001. Obese children reported lower health-related QOL scores in all domains than controls. BMI standard deviation score (SDS) correlated negatively with total score and all domains in child self report and parent proxy report. Anxiety (mild: 8%, moderate: 38%, severe: 54%) and depression (mild: 18%, moderate: 24%, severe: 58%) were pre-existing or diagnosed in all obese children with significant positive correlations between BMISDS and each of anxiety (r = 0.81, p < 0.01) and CDI scores (r = 0.78, p = 0.01). BMI (OR: 5.72, 95%CI: 2.57–5.9) and waist circumference (OR:2.27, 95%CI:1.99–5.31) SDSs were independent risk factors affecting the total QOL score. Conclusions: Obese children and adolescents have lower health-related QOL that correlated negatively with BMI, also they are more susceptible to anxiety and depression symptoms than non obese children

Personal Protective Equipment Detection: A Deep-Learning-Based Sustainable Approach

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can increase the safety of the worker for sure by reducing the probability and severity of injury or fatal incidents at construction, chemical, and hazardous sites. PPE is widely required to offer a satisfiable safety level not only for protection against the accidents at the aforementioned sites but also for chemical hazards. However, for several reasons or negligence, workers may not commit to and comply with the regulations of wearing the equipment, occasionally. Since manual monitoring is laborious and erroneous, the situation demands the development of intelligent monitoring systems to offer the automated real-time and accurate detection of PPE compliance. As a solution, in this study, Deep Learning and Computer Vision are investigated to offer near real-time and accurate PPE detection. The four colored hardhats, vest, safety glass (CHVG) dataset was utilized to train and evaluate the performance of the proposed model. It is noteworthy that the solution can detect eight variate classes of the PPE, namely red, blue, white, yellow helmets, head, person, vest, and glass. A two-stage detector based on the Fast-Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (RCNN) was trained on 1699 annotated images. The proposed model accomplished an acceptable mean average precision (mAP) of 96% in contrast to the state-of-the-art studies in literature. The proposed study is a potential contribution towards the avoidance and prevention of fatal/non-fatal industrial incidents by means of PPE detection in real-time

Indigenous microalgae strains characterization for a sustainable biodiesel production

International audienceMicroalgae have been widely recognized as a promising feedstock for sustainable biofuels production to tackle global warming and pollution issues related to fossil fuels uses. This study identified and analyzed indigenous microalgae strains for biodiesel production, specifically Chlorella vulgaris and Coelastrella thermophila var. globulina, from two distinct locations in Algeria. Molecular identification confirmed their identity, and the microalgae exhibited notable growth characteristics. Local Chlorella vulgaris and Coelastrella thermophila var. globulina showed a good growth and high biomass yield, compared to Chlorella vulgaris CCAP211/11B reaching a weight of 1.48 g/L, 1.95g/L and 2.10 g/L, respectively. Lipids content of local Chlorella vulgaris, Coelastrella thermophila var. globulina, and Chlorella vulgaris CCAP211/11B, were found to be 31.39 ± 3.3%, 17 ± 2.26%, and 19 ± 0.64%, respectively. Chlorella vulgaris stood out as a candidate for biodiesel production due to its equilibrium between SFA and PUFA (43.24% and 45.27%). FAs are predominated by SFA and MUFA for Coelastrella thermophila var. globulina with value of 81.49% (SFA+MUFA). Predicted biodiesel qualities are complying with ASTM6751 and EN14214 standards. Studied microalgae have therefore a promising potential for biodiesel production. However, optimising cultivation conditions is necessary to enhance biomass and lipids yield at large scale. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved