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Nutrients Sep 2021The health-transitions humans have delivered during the 20th Century associated with the nutrition is that from undernutrition to obesity, which perseveres in the... (Review)
Review
The health-transitions humans have delivered during the 20th Century associated with the nutrition is that from undernutrition to obesity, which perseveres in the current years of the 21st Century. Energy intake (EI) is a contributing factor and therefore a fascination in nutritional sciences. However, energy expenditure (EE) has not been usually considered as a conjoint factor. Thus, this study aimed to review if studies on adults consider data on dietary intake, specifically EI, and included data on EE and physical activity (PA). A search of MEDLINE from 1975 to December 2015 was managed. Our scoping review consisted of keywords related to EI, dietary allowances, and nutritional requirements. From 2229 acknowledged articles, 698 articles were finally taken fulfilling inclusion and quality criteria. A total of 2,081,824 adults (53.7% females) were involved, and most studies had been conducted in EEUU (241), Canada (42), Australia (30), Japan (32), and Brazil (14). In Europe, apart from UK (64), the Netherlands (31) and France (26) led the classification, followed by Sweden (18), Denmark (17), and France (26). Mediterranean countries are represented with 27 studies. A total of 76.4% did not include EE and 93.1% did not include PA. Only 23.6% of the studies contained both EI and EE. A large methodological diversity was perceived, with more than 14 different methods regarding EI, and more than 10 for EE. PA was only analyzed in scarce articles, and scarcely considered for interpretation of data and conclusions. Moreover, PA was often measured by subjective questionnaires. Dietary surveys show a large diversity regarding methodology, which makes comparability of studies difficult. EE and PA are missing in around 80% of studies or are not included in the interpretation of results. Conclusions regarding EI or diet adequacy in adults should not be taken without analyzing EE and PA.
Topics: Adult; Diet; Diet Records; Diet Surveys; Energy Intake; Energy Metabolism; Exercise; Female; Humans; Male; Nutritional Requirements
PubMed: 34579141
DOI: 10.3390/nu13093262 -
The Journal of Biological Chemistry Feb 2023It is a great honor to be invited to write a reflection of my lifelong bile acid research for the Journal of Biological Chemistry, the premier biochemistry journal in...
It is a great honor to be invited to write a reflection of my lifelong bile acid research for the Journal of Biological Chemistry, the premier biochemistry journal in which I am proud to have published 24 manuscripts. I published 21 manuscripts in the Journal of Lipid Research, also a journal of American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I started my reflection from my early education in Taiwan, my coming to America for graduate study, my postdoctoral training in cytochrome P450 research, and my lifelong bile acid research career at the not so "visible" Northeast Ohio Medical University. I have witnesses and help to transform this sleepy rural medical school to a well-funded powerhouse in liver research. Writing this reflection of my long, exciting, and rewarding journey in bile acid research brought back many good memories. I am proud of my scientific contribution. I attribute my lifelong academic success to working hard, perseverance, good mentoring, and networking. I hope that this reflection of my academic career may provide guidance to younger investigators who are pursuing academic teaching and research and might inspire the next generation of researchers in biochemistry and metabolic diseases.
PubMed: 36842499
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.103070 -
Frontiers in Cell and Developmental... 2022Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) are essential micronutrients whose concentration and location within cells are tightly regulated at the onset of infection. Two families of... (Review)
Review
Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) are essential micronutrients whose concentration and location within cells are tightly regulated at the onset of infection. Two families of Zn transporters (ZIPs and ZnTs) are largely responsible for regulation of cytosolic Zn levels and to a certain extent, Mn levels, although much less is known regarding Mn. The capacity of pathogens to persevere also depends on access to micronutrients, yet a fundamental gap in knowledge remains regarding the importance of metal exchange at the host interface, often referred to as nutritional immunity. ZIP8, one of 14 ZIPs, is a pivotal importer of both Zn and Mn, yet much remains to be known. Dietary Zn deficiency is common and commonly occurring polymorphic variants of ZIP8 that decrease cellular metal uptake (Zn and Mn), are associated with increased susceptibility to infection. Strikingly, ZIP8 is the only Zn transporter that is highly induced following bacterial exposure in key immune cells involved with host defense against leading pathogens. We postulate that mobilization of Zn and Mn into key cells orchestrates the innate immune response through regulation of fundamental defense mechanisms that include phagocytosis, signal transduction, and production of soluble host defense factors including cytokines and chemokines. New evidence also suggests that host metal uptake may have long-term consequences by influencing the adaptive immune response. Given that activation of ZIP8 expression by pathogens has been shown to influence parenchymal, myeloid, and lymphoid cells, the impact applies to all mucosal surfaces and tissue compartments that are vulnerable to infection. We also predict that perturbations in metal homeostasis, either genetic- or dietary-induced, has the potential to impact bacterial communities in the host thereby adversely impacting microbiome composition. This review will focus on Zn and Mn transport ZIP8, and how this vital metal transporter serves as a "go to" conductor of metal uptake that bolsters host defense against pathogens. We will also leverage past studies to underscore areas for future research to better understand the Zn-, Mn- and ZIP8-dependent host response to infection to foster new micronutrient-based intervention strategies to improve our ability to prevent or treat commonly occurring infectious disease.
PubMed: 35832795
DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.924820 -
Cureus Dec 2022On March 11, 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was classified as a pandemic, setting in motion unprecedented practice changes across the healthcare industry....
On March 11, 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was classified as a pandemic, setting in motion unprecedented practice changes across the healthcare industry. Never was this more evident than in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). SNFs were tested on multiple fronts, requiring innovation and perseverance at levels never before seen. Lessons learned from this setting to better prepare for the next pandemic include: updating and standardizing infection control and prevention policies, ensuring the supply chain keeps up with demand, updating infrastructure, creating a work environment that promotes well-being, and having clear communication plans.
PubMed: 36601216
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32157 -
JMIR Formative Research Dec 2021The impact of qualitative olfactory disorders is underestimated. Parosmia, the distorted perception of familiar odors, and phantosmia, the experience of odors in the...
BACKGROUND
The impact of qualitative olfactory disorders is underestimated. Parosmia, the distorted perception of familiar odors, and phantosmia, the experience of odors in the absence of a stimulus, can arise following postinfectious anosmia, and the incidences of both have increased substantially since the outbreak of COVID-19.
OBJECTIVE
The aims of this study are to explore the symptoms and sequalae of postinfectious olfactory dysfunction syndrome using unstructured and unsolicited threads from social media, and to articulate the perspectives and concerns of patients affected by these debilitating olfactory disorders.
METHODS
A thematic analysis and content analysis of posts in the AbScent Parosmia and Phantosmia Support group on Facebook was conducted between June and December 2020.
RESULTS
In this paper, we identify a novel symptom, olfactory perseveration, which is a triggered, identifiable, and usually unpleasant olfactory percept that persists in the absence of an ongoing stimulus. We also observe fluctuations in the intensity and duration of symptoms of parosmia, phantosmia, and olfactory perseveration. In addition, we identify a group of the most common items (coffee, meat, onion, and toothpaste) that trigger distortions; however, people have difficulty describing these distortions, using words associated with disgust and revulsion. The emotional aspect of living with qualitative olfactory dysfunction was evident and highlighted the detrimental impact on mental health.
CONCLUSIONS
Qualitative and unsolicited data acquired from social media has provided useful insights into the patient experience of parosmia and phantosmia, which can inform rehabilitation strategies and ongoing research into understanding the molecular triggers associated with parosmic distortions and research into patient benefit.
PubMed: 34904953
DOI: 10.2196/29086 -
Frontiers in Psychology 2020Grit, which is originally conceptualized as passion and perseverance for long-term goals, has been associated with optimal performance. Although previous meta-analytic... (Review)
Review
Grit, which is originally conceptualized as passion and perseverance for long-term goals, has been associated with optimal performance. Although previous meta-analytic and systematic reviews summarized how grit relates to performance outcomes, they possess considerable shortcomings, such as (a) absence of summary on the association of grit with well-being outcomes; (b) absence of discussion on social, psychological, and emotional mechanisms linking grit to well-being; and (c) lack of elaboration on how alternative models can resolve fundamental problems in the grit construct. This integrative review provides a comprehensive summary on the link of grit to performance and well-being outcomes. Importantly, it elaborates how alternative models can potentially address flaws in the existing grit theory. Future research directions are discussed on how to move forward the science of grit.
PubMed: 33584397
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.545526 -
Critical Care (London, England) May 2023Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is an important cause of post-operative morbidity and mortality for children undergoing cardiac surgery requiring... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
BACKGROUND
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is an important cause of post-operative morbidity and mortality for children undergoing cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Dysregulated inflammation is widely regarded as a key contributor to bypass-related MODS pathobiology, with considerable overlap of pathways associated with septic shock. The pediatric sepsis biomarker risk model (PERSEVERE) is comprised of seven protein biomarkers of inflammation and reliably predicts baseline risk of mortality and organ dysfunction among critically ill children with septic shock. We aimed to determine if PERSEVERE biomarkers and clinical data could be combined to derive a new model to assess the risk of persistent CPB-related MODS in the early post-operative period.
METHODS
This study included 306 patients < 18 years old admitted to a pediatric cardiac ICU after surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) for congenital heart disease. Persistent MODS, defined as dysfunction of two or more organ systems on postoperative day 5, was the primary outcome. PERSEVERE biomarkers were collected 4 and 12 h after CPB. Classification and regression tree methodology were used to derive a model to assess the risk of persistent MODS.
RESULTS
The optimal model containing interleukin-8 (IL-8), chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3), and age as predictor variables had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.86 (0.81-0.91) for differentiating those with or without persistent MODS and a negative predictive value of 99% (95-100). Ten-fold cross-validation of the model yielded a corrected AUROC of 0.75 (0.68-0.84).
CONCLUSIONS
We present a novel risk prediction model to assess the risk for development of multiple organ dysfunction after pediatric cardiac surgery requiring CPB. Pending prospective validation, our model may facilitate identification of a high-risk cohort to direct interventions and studies aimed at improving outcomes via mitigation of post-operative organ dysfunction.
Topics: Prospective Studies; Cohort Studies; Multiple Organ Failure; Cardiopulmonary Bypass; Biomarkers; Critical Care; Infant; Child, Preschool; Humans; Heart Defects, Congenital; Shock, Septic
PubMed: 37210541
DOI: 10.1186/s13054-023-04494-7 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Oct 2023The history of esophagectomy reflects a journey of dedication, collaboration, and technical innovation, with ongoing endeavors aimed at optimizing outcomes and reducing... (Review)
Review
The history of esophagectomy reflects a journey of dedication, collaboration, and technical innovation, with ongoing endeavors aimed at optimizing outcomes and reducing complications. From its early attempts to modern minimally invasive approaches, the journey has been marked by perseverance and innovation. Franz J. A. Torek's 1913 successful esophageal resection marked a milestone, demonstrating the feasibility of transthoracic esophagectomy and the potential for esophageal cancer cure. However, its high mortality rate posed challenges, and it took almost two decades for similar successes to emerge. Surgical techniques evolved with the left thoracotomy, right thoracotomy, and transhiatal approaches, expanding the indications for resection. Mechanical staplers introduced in the early 20th century transformed anastomosis, reducing complications. The advent of minimally invasive techniques in the 1990s aimed to minimize complications while maintaining oncological efficacy. Robot-assisted esophagectomy further pushed the boundaries of minimally invasive surgery. Collaborative efforts, particularly from the Worldwide Esophageal Cancer Collaboration and the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group, standardized reporting and advanced the understanding of outcomes. The introduction of risk prediction models aids in making informed decisions. Despite significant improvements in survival rates and postoperative mortality, anastomotic leaks remain a concern, with recent rates showing an increase. Prevention strategies include microvascular anastomosis and ischemic preconditioning, yet challenges persist.
Topics: Humans; Esophagectomy; Postoperative Complications; Esophageal Neoplasms; Anastomotic Leak; Robotic Surgical Procedures; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 37893504
DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101786 -
Materials (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2023Due to its resistance to natural degradation and decomposition, plastic debris perseveres in the environment for centuries. As a lucrative material for packing... (Review)
Review
Due to its resistance to natural degradation and decomposition, plastic debris perseveres in the environment for centuries. As a lucrative material for packing industries and consumer products, plastics have become one of the major components of municipal solid waste today. The recycling of plastics is becoming difficult due to a lack of resource recovery facilities and a lack of efficient technologies to separate plastics from mixed solid waste streams. This has made oceans the hotspot for the dispersion and accumulation of plastic residues beyond landfills. This article reviews the sources, geographical occurrence, characteristics and recyclability of different types of plastic waste. This article presents a comprehensive summary of promising thermochemical technologies, such as pyrolysis, liquefaction and gasification, for the conversion of single-use plastic wastes to clean fuels. The operating principles, drivers and barriers for plastic-to-fuel technologies via pyrolysis (non-catalytic, catalytic, microwave and plasma), as well as liquefaction and gasification, are thoroughly discussed. Thermochemical co-processing of plastics with other organic waste biomass to produce high-quality fuel and energy products is also elaborated upon. Through this state-of-the-art review, it is suggested that, by investing in the research and development of thermochemical recycling technologies, one of the most pragmatic issues today, i.e., plastics waste management, can be sustainably addressed with a greater worldwide impact.
PubMed: 37444877
DOI: 10.3390/ma16134563 -
Frontiers in Psychology 2023Recent years have witnessed increasing attention to personality strength (grit) due to its merit in goal-seeking language learning processes. Two facets of grit, namely... (Review)
Review
Recent years have witnessed increasing attention to personality strength (grit) due to its merit in goal-seeking language learning processes. Two facets of grit, namely perseverance of effort (PE) and consistency of interest (CI), play a critical role in overcoming learning difficulties and strengthening willpower to pursue learning goals. The current review seeks to explore various issues related to grit, including its factor structure, the relationship between grit and frequently associated factors, as well as the utility of PE and CI in facilitating language learning. This exploration is based on the findings of 32 empirical articles published between 2017 and 2022 from three databases. The results indicate that although research which examines the role of grit has entered a fast growth phase since 2020, there is still a need for expansion and diversification in scopes, participants, research methods, and language contexts. Moreover, previous studies have not adequately addressed the critical issue of grit's conceptualization and factor structure. Finally, this study suggests that future researchers should impartially assess the factor structure and nature of PE and CI, to provide more robust evidence to clarify the relationship between grit and diverse emotions and positive institutions, in order to advance understanding of grit in second language learning.
PubMed: 37727745
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1238788