Muscle strength and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/metabolicassociated fatty liver disease

This editorial comments on an article published in a recent issue of World Journal of Gastroenterology,entitled“Association of low muscle strength with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease:A nationwide study”.We focused on the association between muscle strength and the incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD),as well as the mechanisms underlying the correlation and related clinical applications.NAFLD,which is now redefined as MAFLD,is one of the most common chronic liver diseases globally with an increasing prevalence and is characterized by malnutrition,which may contribute to decreased muscle strength.Reduction of muscle strength reportedly has a pathogenesis similar to that of NAFLD/MAFLD,including insulin resistance,inflammation,sedentary behavior,as well as insufficient vitamin D.Multiple studies have focused on the relationship between sarcopenia or muscle strength and NAFLD.However,studies investigating the relationship between muscle strength and MAFLD are limited.Owing to the shortage of specific medications for NAFLD/MAFLD treatment,early detection is essential.Furthermore,the relationship between muscle strength and NAFLD/MAFLD suggests that improvements in muscle strength may have an impact on disease prevention and may provide novel insights into treatments including dietary therapy,as well as tailored physical activity.

Preparation and 1.06μm Fluorescence Decay of Nd3+-Doped Glass Ceramics Containing NaYF4 Nanocrystallites

Considered to be a candidate for large-size bulk materials used in lasers and other fields,Nd3+-doped glass ceramics containing NaYF4 nanocrystallites are prepared.Using x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy,we show that pure cubic NaYF4 is well precipitated in the glass matrix.To obtain the optical property of this material at 1.06 μm,the fluorescence decay of 4F3/2 energy levels is measured and analyzed.It is found that the fluorescence lifetime decreases first and then increases with the increasing dopant concentration due to the existing but finally weakening energy dissipation.As a result,a long radiation lifetime of about 191-444μs is obtained at 1.06μm in the prepared material.It is thus revealed that Nd3+-doped glass ceramic containing NaYF4 nanocrystallites is a potential candidate as a near-infrared laser material.