Count Index Research Articles

Effect of intake of probiotics and probiotic fermented foods on clinical outcomes among people living with HIV: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of probiotics and of probiotic-fermented foods on CD4 T-cell count, viral load, anaemia and body mass index (BMI) among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In this article, we systematically reviewed the evidence on the influence of probiotic supplementation on CD4 lymphocyte count, viral load and anaemia among PLHIV on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and those who were HAART-naive. Medical literature databases identified randomised trials and pre-post studies of probiotic supplementation and HIV-related outcomes, and random effects meta-analysis was conducted. The preponderance of the evidence suggests that probiotic supplementation only improved CD4 lymphocyte count modestly, with quantitatively greater impact among individuals who were HAART-naive compared to HAART-experienced individuals. Probiotic supplementation improved CD4 lymphocyte count by 53 cells/mm3 (95% CI: 22 to 85) from 18 studies. Probiotic supplementation however reduced haemoglobin concentration by -2.1 g/L (95% CI: -4.0 to -0.2). Although viral load remain unchanged in HAART-experienced participants following probiotic supplementation, HAART-naïve participants saw a decrease in viral load. There were too few studies on the impact of probiotic supplementation on viral load (N = 1). Probiotic supplementation resulted in a modest increase in CD4 lymphocyte count among HAART-naive individuals with no significant change observed among HAART-experienced ones. Viral load and haemoglobin concentration also remained unchanged following probiotic supplementation. Further rigorous and well-powered studies may evaluate the effect of probiotic supplementation on important clinical outcomes among PLHIV on HAART.

Preoperative assessment of retroperitoneal Liposarcoma using volume-based 18F-FDG PET/CT: implications for surgical strategy and prognosis

PurposeRetroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLPS) poses a challenging scenario for surgeons due to its unpredictable biological behavior. Surgery remains the primary curative option for RLPS; however, the need for additional information to guide surgical strategies persists. Volume-based 18F-FDG PET/CT may solve this issue.MethodsWe analyzed data from 89 RLPS patients, measuring metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and explored their associations with clinical, prognostic, and pathological factors.ResultsMTV, TLG of multifocal and recurrent RLPS were significantly higher than unifocal and primary ones (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.003 and P = 0.002, respectively). SUVmax correlated with FNCLCC histological grade, mitotic count and Ki-67 index (P for G1/G2 = 0.005, P for G2/G3 = 0.017, and P for G1/G3 = 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.024, respectively). MTG, TLG and SUVmax of WDLPS were significantly lower than DDLPS and PLPS (P for MTV were 0.009 and 0.022, P for TLG were 0.028 and 0.048, and P for SUVmax were 0.027 and < 0.001, respectively). Multivariable Cox analysis showed that MTV > 457.65 (P = 0.025), pathological subtype (P = 0.049) and FNCLCC histological grade (P = 0.033) were related to overall survival (OS).ConclusionsOur findings indicate that MTV is an independent prognostic factor for RLPS, while MTV, TLG, and SUVmax can preoperatively predict multifocal lesions, histological grade, and pathological subtype. Volume-based 18F-FDG PET/CT offers valuable information to aid in the decision-making process for RLPS surgical strategies.

Network pharmacology and experimental verification reveal the mechanism of Hedysari Radix and Curcumae Rhizoma with the optimal compatibility ratio against colitis-associated colorectal cancer

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe herb pair Astragali Radix (AR) and Curcumae Rhizoma (vinegar-processed, VPCR), derived from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) text ‘Yixuezhongzhongcanxilu’, have long been used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, notably colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). Hedysari Radix (HR), belonging to the same Leguminosae family as AR but from a different genus, is traditionally used as a substitute for AR when paired with VPCR in the treatment of CAC. However, the optimal compatibility ratio for HR-VPCR against CAC and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Aim of the studyTo investigate the optimal compatibility ratio and underlying mechanisms of HR-VPCR against CAC using a combination of comparative pharmacodynamics, network pharmacology, and experimental verification. Materials and methodsThe efficacy of different compatibility ratios of HR-VPCR against CAC was evaluated using various indicators, including the body weight, colon length, tumor count, survival rate, disease activity index (DAI) score, Haemotoxylin and Eosin (H&E) pathological sections, inflammation cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), tumor markers (K-Ras, p53), and intestinal permeability proteins (claudin-1, E-cadherin, mucin-2). Then, the optimal compatibility ratio of HR-VPCR against CAC was determined based on the fuzzy matter-element analysis by integrating the above indicators. After high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis for the optimal compatibility ratio of HR-VPCR, potential active components of HR-VPCR were identified by TCMSP and the previous bibliographies. Swiss Targets and GeneCards were adopted to predict the targets of the active components and the targets of CAC, respectively. Then, the common targets of HR-VPCR against CAC were obtained by Venn analysis. PPI networks were constructed in STRING. GO and KEGG enrichments were visualized by the David database. Finally, the predicted pathway was experimentally validated via Western blot. ResultsVarious compatibility ratios of HR-VPCR demonstrated notable therapeutic effects to some extent, evidenced by improvements in body weight, colon length, tumor count, pathological symptoms (DAI score), colon and organ indexes, survival rate, and modulation of inflammation factors (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), as well as tumor markers (K-Ras, p53), and down-regulation of intestinal permeability proteins (claudin-1, E-cadherin, mucin-2) in CAC mice. Among these ratios, the ratio 4:1 represents the optimal compatibility ratio by the fuzzy matter-element analysis. Thirty active components of HR-VPCR were carefully selected, targeting 553 specific genes. Simultaneously, 2022 targets associated with CAC were identified. 88 common targets were identified after generating a Venn plot. Following PPI network analysis, 29 core targets were established, with AKT1 ranking highest among them. Further analysis via GO and KEGG enrichment identified the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway as a potential mechanism. Experimental validation confirmed that HR-VPCR intervention effectively reversed the activated PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. ConclusionsThe optimal compatibility ratio for the HR-VPCR herb pair in alleviating CAC is 4:1. HR-VPCR exerts its effects by alleviating intestinal inflammation, improving intestinal permeability, and regulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.

Incidence and Management of Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Tumors in Pediatric Population: A Bicentric Experience with 6285 Appendectomies.

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare tumors that arise from neuroendocrine cells and are the most common tumors of the appendix. NETs of the appendix usually cause no symptoms and often go unnoticed until they cause acute appendicitis or are discovered during an accidental appendectomy. As the trend towards the conservative treatment of acute appendicitis increases in the pediatric population, the question arises as to whether the majority of NETs go undetected and are only discovered at an advanced stage. The purpose of the proposed study is to review the incidence and outcomes of treatment for NETs of the appendix in children and include the data presented in the data pool for further review. From 1 January 2009 to 1 November 2023, a total of 6285 appendectomies were performed in two large pediatric centers in Croatia. After a retrospective review of the case records and histopathologic findings, a total of 31 children (0.49%) were diagnosed with NET of the appendix and included in the further analysis. The primary outcome of this study was the incidence and treatment outcome of pediatric patients diagnosed with NET of the appendix. Secondary outcomes included the patients' demographic, clinical, and laboratory data and the histopathologic characteristics of tumor species. The overall incidence of NETs of the appendix was stable over the study years, with minor fluctuations. The median age of patients was 14 (interquartile range-IQR: 12, 16) years, with a female predominance (64.5%). The majority of patients (96.8%) presented with acute abdominal pain and underwent appendectomy because acute appendicitis was suspected. Acute appendicitis was confirmed by histopathology in 18 (58%) cases. NETs of the appendix were not detected preoperatively in any of the patients. Among patients with confirmed acute appendicitis, most (n = 14; 77.8%) were found to have non-perforated acute appendicitis. In most children, the tumor was located at the tip of the appendix (n = 18; 58.1%), and the majority of tumors had a diameter of less than 1 cm (n = 21, 67.7%). The mitotic count (n = 25, 80.6%) and Ki-67 proliferation index (n = 23, 74.2%) were low in most patients, so most tumors were classified as NET G1 (n = 25, 80.6%), while NET G2 and NET G3 were found in four (12.9%) and two (6.5%) patients, respectively. All children were treated with appendectomy only. The median follow-up time was 54 (IQR: 24, 95) months. The incidence of appendiceal NET among pediatric patients is very low. NET occurs most frequently in adolescents, with a female predominance. Most tumors are less than 1 cm in diameter, located at the tip, and associated with non-perforated appendicitis. Appendectomy is the treatment of choice, and major surgery was not necessary in our cohort.

#172 : The Comparison of Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Treatment Outcome for Patient Stimulated with Progestine-Primed Ovarian Stimulation (PPOS) and Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone Agonist (GnRHa) Long Protocol

Background and Aims: GnRHa long protocol is a traditional method with benefits such as synchronisation of follicular development, higher oocytes recovery, and improved endometrial thickness but it possesses higher fees with long injection timeline. However, PPOS is an ovarian stimulation protocol that can block the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) through progesterone instead of the traditional method. This prospective randomized trial is to investigate whether PPOS can be as effective as GnRHa long protocol in ICSI treatment for patients. Method: A total of 55 patients with mean age 36.67 who underwent ICSI cycle in TMC Fertility Centre Ipoh, Malaysia from Jan 2015 to December 2022 was analysed between PPOS and GnRHa long protocol. The embryological and clinical outcomes were measured using statistical analysis T-test with a significant value at p&lt;0.05. Patients above 42-years-old was excluded in this study. Results: Basic characteristics such as infertility duration, age, anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), antra-follicle count (AFC) and body mass index (BMI) were comparable in both groups. There was no significant difference found between PPOS and GnRHa long protocol in the number (mean± SD) oocytes retrieved [9.33±7.38 vs 8.55±7.44, p=0.352]; fertilized oocytes [5.79±4.92 vs 4.03±4.12, p=0.081]; number of blastocysts formed [4.35±2.82 vs 3.11±3.23, p=0.147] and utilized blastocysts [2.79±1.42 vs 2.35±2.66, p=0.300]. There was also no significant difference in clinical pregnancy rate (p=0.456) in both groups. No patient from either group experienced cycle cancellation due to the low number of oocytes expected. No ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS) syndrome was reported from both groups as well. Conclusion: PPOS in combination with embryo cryopreservation as an ovarian stimulation regimen was as effective as GnRHa long protocol during controlled ovarian stimulation (COH) under different endocrinal mechanisms as it can achieve comparable embryological and clinical outcome. Hence, it can be an alternative treatment for infertile patients in ART in terms of cost and treatment timeline.

Pediatric chronic kidney disease: blood cell count indexes as inflammation markers

Resumo Introdução: Doença renal crônica (DRC) é definida como um declínio progressivo das funções renais. Na infância, os principais fatores desencadeantes são anomalias congênitas dos rins e trato urinário (CAKUT) e glomerulopatias. Respostas inflamatórias apresentam desafios para diagnóstico e estadiamento, o que justifica estudos sobre biomarcadores/índices. Objetivo: Definir índices de contagem de células sanguíneas e verificar sua associação com etiologia e estadiamento da DRC pediátrica. Os índices incluídos foram: Razão Neutrófilo-Linfócito (NLR), Razão Neutrófilo-Linfócito Derivada (dNLR), Razão Linfócito-Monócito (LMR), Índice de Resposta à Inflamação Sistêmica (SIRI), Índice Agregado de Inflamação Sistêmica (AISI) e Índice de Inflamação Imune Sistêmica (SII). Métodos: Determinamos índices em 52 pacientes pediátricos com DRC e 33 controles saudáveis por cálculo matemático. Pacientes com DRC foram separados em cinco grupos conforme etiologia e estadiamento: Grupo IA: glomerulopatias em estágio 1 ou 2; IB: glomerulopatias em estágio 3 ou 4; IIA: CAKUT em estágio 1 ou 2; IIB: CAKUT em estágio 3 ou 4; e III: estágios 3 ou 4 de outras etiologias. Além disso, combinamos todos os pacientes com DRC em um grupo (IV). Grupo V foi um grupo controle saudável. Resultados: Observamos valores menores de LMR nos grupos IB e IIB comparados ao grupo V (p=0,047; p=0,031, respectivamente). Encontramos valores maiores de SIRI para o grupo III versus grupo V (p=0,030). Não houve diferença para outros índices quando os grupos foram comparados dois a dois. Conclusão: Os índices LMR e SIRI apresentaram resultados promissores na avaliação da inflamação, pois correlacionaram-se com as etiologias da DRC e, principalmente, com o estadiamento desses pacientes.

Study of Correlation of Complete Blood Count indices with the serum Troponin I level, ECG, Echocardiogram and Coronary Angiography extent of Myocardial Infarction at the time of admission.

Study of Correlation of Complete Blood Count indices with the serum Troponin I level, ECG, Echocardiogram and Coronary Angiography extent of Myocardial Infarction at the time of admission.

Pediatric chronic kidney disease: blood cell count indexes as inflammation markers.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as a progressive decline of kidney functions. In childhood, the main triggering factors are congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUT) and glomerulopathies. Inflammatory responses present challenges for diagnosis and staging, which justifies studies on biomarkers/indexes. To define blood cell count indexes and verify their association with pediatric CKD etiology and staging. The included indexes were: Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Derived Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (dNLR), Lymphocyte-Monocyte Ratio (LMR), Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI), Aggregate Index of Systemic Inflammation (AISI), and Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII). We determined the indexes in 52 pediatric CKD patients and 33 healthy controls by mathematical calculation. CKD patients were separated in five groups based on the etiology and staging: Group IA: glomerulopathies at stage 1 or 2; IB: glomerulopathies at stage 3 or 4; IIA: CAKUT at stage 1 or 2; IIB: CAKUT at stage 3 or 4; and III: stages 3 or 4 of other etiologies. In addition, we combined all patients with CKD in one group (IV). Group V was a healthy control group. Lower values of LMR were observed for groups IB and IIB compared to group V (p = 0.047, p = 0.031, respectively). Increased values of SIRI were found for group III versus group V (p = 0.030). There was no difference for other indexes when the groups were compared two by two. The LMR and SIRI indexes showed promising results in the evaluation of inflammation, as they correlated with CKD etiologies and specially staging in these patients.

Topically Applied Magnetized Saline Water Activates Autophagy in the Scalp and Increases Hair Count and Hair Mass Index in Men With Mild-to-Moderate Androgenetic Alopecia.

Introduction Water is essential for life and is vital for almost all functions of the human body. Recent studies have shown that treating water with magnets can alter its physicochemicalproperties, including intracluster bonds and water-ion interactions. Magnetized water also undergoes modifications in its physicochemical characteristics, such as pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. While there is a significant amount of literature on the use of magnetized water in agricultural settings, research on its potential biomedical applications is still limited. Based on previous findings indicating a potential relationship between autophagy activation and hair loss reversal, a pilot study was designed to explore the effects of topically applied magnetized saline water in patients with androgenetic alopecia. The hypothesis was that the process of water magnetization, which promotes the creation of hydroxyl ions, could potentially induce hair growth through the induction of alkali-induced autophagy in the scalp. Methods We recruited 20 Caucasian men with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia (Norwood-Hamilton stages II-III). Initially, we conducted a 12-week open-label study to evaluate the potential of a topical lotion containing 95% magnetized saline water (2 mL applied once daily) to increase hair count and hair mass index (HMI). Subsequently, we investigated the effect of the lotion on two autophagy markers (Beclin-1 and LC3B) in scalp biopsies from a subgroup of 10 men. Results Hair count significantly increased after 12 weeks of topical treatment with magnetized saline water (from 20.6 ± 9.8 at baseline to 32.5 ± 12.4 at 12 weeks, P < 0.001). Similarly, the mean HMI increased from 37.8 ± 11.4 at baseline to 45.1 ± 13.6 at 12 weeks (P < 0.01). At the molecular level, the topical lotion effectively increased Beclin-1 levels in scalp biopsies by 44% at 12 weeks as compared to the baseline. Similarly, LC3B levels increased by 36% from baseline to 12 weeks, indicating that the lotion effectively activated autophagy in the scalp. Conclusions After 12 weeks of topical treatment, a lotion containing magnetized saline water activated scalp autophagy and significantly increased hair count and HMI in men with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia.

Effect of biofloc technology in Farfantepenaeus aztecus culture: The optimization of dietary protein level on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non‐specific immune response, and intestinal microbiota

AbstractIn this study, a biofloc technology (BFT) based 90‐day feeding trial was performed to estimate the effects of four different dietary protein levels (290, 320, 350 and 380 g protein kg−1 diet; 29P, 32P, 35P, and 38P, respectively) on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non‐specific immune response, whole‐body proximate and fatty acid composition and intestinal microbiota of Farfantepenaeus aztecus. Final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate improved with protein levels up to 35P per kg of diet, below which decreased significantly. Significant differences were observed in total hemocyte count, acid phosphatase, respiratory burst, glutathione, alkaline phosphatase, and total antioxidant capacity indices of shrimp fed different dietary protein levels. Protease, lipase, and amylase activities of shrimp were also affected by dietary protein levels. Proteobacteria was the most abundant bacteria among the groups. Overall, this study revealed that using 35% dietary protein is optimal in F. aztecus culture under environmentally friendly BFT conditions. Furthermore, these results provide a theoretical basis for future research on the evaluation of functional ingredients in diet for more economical production of F. aztecus at optimal protein levels.

Thrombogenesis-related characteristics of platelets and platelet indices in pregnant COVID-19 women

Introduction. Thrombosis emerging in COVID-19 represents one of its most common complications. The period of pregnancy is accompanied by elevated susceptibility to infectious diseases and increased risk of thrombosis.Aim: to assess time-dependent change in platelet count and platelet indices in general clinical blood test in pregnant COVID-19 women related to illness onset and developed thrombosis.Materials and Methods. A retrospective analysis of 230 case histories from pregnant COVID-19 women at the third trimester was carried out. Of these, 99 women were selected who met the inclusion criteria: COVID-19 infection laboratory-verified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR); third trimester of pregnancy; presence/absence of thrombotic complications. All patients were divided into 2 groups: the control group consisted of 94 pregnant women aged 31.5 [28.0; 35.0] years without thrombotic complications and the average gestational age at illness onset was 34.1 [30.2; 37.6] weeks; the main group included 5 patients aged 33.0 [28.5; 37.5] years and the average gestational age at illness onset was 33.2 [30.2; 37.8] weeks, with thrombotic complications emerged during the disease course: thrombosis of upper and lower extremity veins; massive pulmonary embolism; thrombosis of the splenic vein at the spleen hilum; left atrial thrombus. The following parameters were evaluated dynamically (on day 6–8, 9–11, 12–15, 16–23 and 24–72 of the disease): total platelet count, thrombocrit, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width (PDW), large platelet count. A comparative analysis of the study data and a correlation analysis with the time from disease onset and detected thrombosis were carried out.Results. Over the entire observation period, there were noted increased RDW (16.30 [15.80; 16.50]%), average platelet volume (10.70 [9.70; 11.80] fl), and large platelet count (73.00 [59.00; 96.00]×109/L) along with platelet count (182.50 [155.00; 184.50]×109/L) tended to elevate in main vs. control group. A correlation was established between the above parameters and illness onset as well as thrombogenesis time point (p &lt; 0.05). The beginning of developing thrombosis in main group was mainly recorded on day 12–15 after the onset. РDW increased in both groups by day 16–23 of illness, but more pronounced changes were found in main group reaching 16.50 [16.40; 16.60]% compared to control group (16.10 [15.80; 16.40]%). By day 16–23, thrombocrit in both groups positively correlated with illness onset. In addition, large platelet count tended to rise in main group remaining, however, below the normal limit: 0.13 [0.11; 0.20]% compared to control group (0.26 [0.21; 0.31]%). Large platelet count was quite high and increased daily in both groups; the average large platelet count throughout entire observation period was lower in the main (73.00 [59.00; 96.00]×109/L) vs. control group (81.00 [66.00; 102.00]×109/L), so that in the former it sharply decreased down to 55.00 [42.00; 78.00]×109/L on day 16–23.Conclusion. These data mirror the course of thrombotic process and may serve as the basis for assessing the prognosis of thrombotic complications and identification of high-risk groups among pregnant COVID-19 women.

The association between oral inflammatory load and semen and sperm functional analysis: A cross-sectional study.

Studies have suggested a correlation between periodontitis and reduced male fertility. Inflammation has been described as the link between these ailments. Oral inflammatory load (OIL) can be measured through oral polymorphonuclear neutrophil (oPMN) count, which is associated with periodontal diseases. This cross-sectional study assessed the possible correlation between OIL and the functional parameters of sperm cells. In 229 volunteers, oral rinse and semen samples were assessed for oPMN, semen polymorphonuclears (sPMNs), sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, morphology, and sperm DNA fragmentation index (SDFi). A multiple linear regression model was conducted to evaluate the relationships between oPMN and semen parameters. The effect of elevated oPMN counts on total motility rate, progressive rate, and percentage of sperm cells with normal morphology was significant (P<0.001), with an inverse relationship, i.e., with every unit increase in oPMN count, the mentioned parameters would decline by 0.573, 0.367, and 0.407 units, respectively. oPMN counts also correlated positively with sPMN counts and SDFi (P<0.001), i.e., with every unit increase in the oPMN measures, sPMN counts would increase by 0.126 million/mL, with an 0.733% increase in SDFi. However, there was no significant association between oPMN counts and sperm concentration. OIL, as represented by oPMN counts, might affect male fertility as there is a positive correlation between the levels of these inflammatory cells and decreased sperm motility, abnormal morphological changes, increased sPMN counts, and increased SDFi.

Immunomodulatory effect of Myrtenol on benzo (a) pyrene-induced lung cancer in Swiss albino mice via modulation of tumor markers, cytokines and inhibition of PCNA expression.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Although many diagnostic and treatment regimens have been followed in the treatment for lung cancer, increasing mortality rate due to lung cancer is depressing and hence requires alternative plant based therapeutics with with less side-effects. Myrtenol exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Hence we intended to study the effect of Myrtenol on B(a)P-induced lung cancer. Our study showed that B(a)P lowered hematological count, decreased phagocyte and avidity indices, nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction, levels of immunoglubulins, antioxidant levels, whereas Myrtenol treatment restored them back to normal levels. On the other hand, xenobiotic and liver dysfunction marker enzymes and pro-inflammatory cytokines were elevated on B(a)P exposure, which retuned back to normal by Myrtenol. This study thus describes the immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of Myrtenol on B[a]P-induced immune destruction.

Assessment of the performance of haematological and non-invasive fibrotic indices for the monitoring of chronic HBV infection: a pilot study in a Ghanaian population

ObjectiveHaematological and liver fibrotic markers could be appreciably utilized for effective monitoring of Chronic Hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection, thereby increasing patient’s treatment outcome. The objective of this study was to assess the applicability of complete blood count (CBC) and non-invasive liver-fibrotic indices as markers of prognostic outcome and monitoring in HBV infections.ResultsSignificant differences in levels of white cell and differentials counts, red blood cell count, hemoglobin indices, and platelet indices were observed between HBV-infected patients (cases) and uninfected persons (controls). Levels of haemoglobin (Hb), total white blood cells (tWBC), neutrophils, monocytes, platelets, and Platelet Distribution width (PDW) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the cases compared to the controls. Total and indirect bilirubin; De-Ritis ratio, Aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI) and RDW-to-platelet ratio (RPR) were elevated in cases compared with controls (p-value < 0.05). In a multivariate adjusted model to test the significance of markers, Hemoglobin Index (beta coefficient = − 0.876, p-value < 0.001), NLR (beta coefficient = − 0.839, p-value < 0.001), MPV_10000 (beta coefficient = − 0.333, p-value < 0.001) and Albumin (beta coefficient = − 0.059, p-value = 0.014), were associated with HBV infection status. Receiver operative characteristics curve analysis showed Hemoglobin Index (AUC = 0.744) and MPV_10000 (AUC = 0.730) as better prognostic markers for HBV-infection.

Age-related differences in risk factors, clinical characteristics, and outcomes for intracerebral hemorrhage.

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe form of stroke that remains understudied in the young adults. We aimed to investigate the clinical presentation, and risk factors associated with ICH in this age group and compare them to older patients. Our study included ICH patients admitted between March 2016 and December 2021 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from our ongoing prospective cohort database. Demographic characteristics, etiology, risk factors, and clinical outcomes were compared between elderly and young patients. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis was employed to explore risk factors associated with the functional outcome at 3-months. We selected 1,003 patients (mean age, 59.9 ±13.8 years old), 746 (74.4%) patients were aged >50 years. The logistic regression analysis showed young patients have a higher proportion of secondary ICH, higher white blood cell count and higher body mass index (BMI), but less diabetes mellitus. Of all patients, predictors of 3-month functional independence was first-ever ICH and age ≤50 years. The history of nephropathy and stroke, higher baseline NIHSS score, larger hematoma volume, and the presence of hydrocephalus were associated with poor outcomes. And the white blood cell count could significantly influence the prognosis among young ICH patients. Three-month functional outcome based on modified Rankin scale score was better in young patients than the elderly (OR, 1.232; 95% CI, 1.095-1.388; p < 0.001). The highest incidence of ICH occurs in the age groups of 50-59 and 60-69. ICH in young adults had higher white blood cell and BMI compared to the elderly, and differs in etiological distribution. The young patients also had similar short-term mortality but more favorable functional outcomes than the elderly. Furthermore, NIHSS score and larger hematoma volumes were associated with poor outcome in all patients.

Inflammatory stress response after transanal vs laparoscopic total mesorectal excision: a cohort study based on the TaLaR trial.

Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is a novel approach to radical surgery for low rectal cancer; however, it is not clear whether taTME causes a more severe inflammatory stress response than laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (laTME). Therefore, the authors conducted this study to address this question, with the secondary objective of analyzing the predictive effect of inflammatory indexes on postoperative infective complications between laTME and taTME. A total of 545 cases of laTME and 544 cases of taTME from the TaLaR randomized controlled trial were included. Inflammatory stress response was assessed via C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-monocyte ratio, and prognostic nutritional index. Inflammatory indexes were measured and calculated preoperatively (t1) and on postoperative days one (t2) and seven (t3). The accuracy of inflammatory indexes as predictor of infective complications was evaluated by areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Preoperative blood parameters were comparable between the two surgical methods. There were no significant differences in CRP, white blood cell count, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-monocyte ratio, or prognostic nutritional index between the two surgical methods at any time point ( P >0.05). Among the inflammatory indexes at three time points, CRP on the first postoperative day was the most accurate predictor of infective complications, which is suitable for two surgical methods. The AUC was 0.7671 ( P <0.0001) with a cutoff of 39.84mg/l, yielding 94% sensitivity and 47% specificity. Compared with laTME, taTME surgery has no obvious disadvantage with respect to the postoperative inflammatory stress response. In addition, inflammatory indexes were favorable in predicting infective complications, with the best results for CRP on the first postoperative day. Defining the specific predictors for laTME and taTME is unnecessary.

Comparative studies of knapsack, boom, and drone sprayers for weed management in soybean (Glycine max L.)

The study titled, "Comparative Evaluation of Knapsack, Boom, and Drone Sprayers for Weed Management in Soybean (Glycine max L.)" was carried out during the Kharif season 2021-22 at an experimental farm affiliated with the Department of Agronomy, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani. The primary objective was to evaluate the comparative efficacy of various sprayers in controlling weeds in soybeans and their work efficiency. The Randomized Block Design (RBD) included ten treatments of pre-emergence (PE) and post-emergence (POE) herbicides applied by knapsack, boom, and drone sprayers. Pendimethalin 30% EC @ 750 g a.i ha−1 was used for pre-emergence herbicide application, and Imazamox 35% EC + Imazethapyr 35% WG @ 70 g a.i ha−1 were used for post-emergence. These treatments were tested on soybean Monocot and Dicot weed count, weed dry weight, weed index, and weed control efficiency. The sprayers were compared for time, water, labor, herbicide, and overall work efficiency. A knapsack sprayer showed the best results for pre- and post-emergence herbicide application, with the lowest weed count, dry weight, control efficiency, and weed index. Boom and drone sprayers followed in effectiveness. Herbicide application was faster with the drone sprayer than with hand weeding, cultural practices, boom sprayer, and knapsack sprayer. Compared to knapsack and boom sprayers, the drone sprayer used less water and labour. Drone sprayers work most efficiently, followed by boom and knapsack sprayers. This study focuses on the prevalence of herbicides and their impact on non-target ecosystems. It aims to develop mitigation strategies by optimizing spraying efficiency and reducing herbicide usage during pre and post emergence. The dissemination of efficient weed management practices that reduce environmental impacts and increase the efficiency of soybean cultivation is consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 15: life on land.

Can YouTube Be Considered a Reliable Learning Tool for Urology Trainees Seeking Information on Testicular Exploration?

Introduction YouTube, the world's largest video platform, hosts thousands of educational surgical videos that many trainees rely on to enhance their understanding and proficiency in various surgical procedures. Consequently, a crucial inquiry arises regarding the trustworthiness of these videos as a valuable resource for these trainees. In this article, we address this question by focusing on one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the field of urology and assessing the effectiveness of these videos as an educational tool for urology trainees (ST3+:Specialty Training Year 3 and above). Methodology We conducted a comprehensive search on YouTube for all videos related to 'Testicular Exploration'. After applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, we identified a total of nine eligible videos for analysis. These videos were assessed using the LAParoscopic Surgery Video Educational GuidelineS (LAP-VEGaS) scoring system, which categorized them into two distinct groups. The first group, known as the 'high-quality group', included videos that scored 11 points or higher according to the LAP-VEGaS scoring criteria. The second group, termed the 'low-quality group', consisted of videos that scored less than 11 points using the LAP-VEGaS scoring tool. Additionally, we collected data on various metrics, such as video view counts, duration, likes and dislikes counts, comments count, like ratio, view ratio, and power index, and performed a comparative analysis between the two aforementioned groups. Results Between April 2013 and September 2023, the selected videos exhibited an average total view count of 95,546±138,000. The videos had an average duration of 6.35±2.26 minutes. Furthermore, the mean values for both likes and dislikes were 461.55±581 and 2.89±2.86, respectively. In contrast, the mean like ratio, view ratio, and power index were 0.98±0.0112, 176,00±13,100, and 173.80±131, respectively. The mean LAP-VEGaS scores for videos related to testicular exploration were 9.94±2.05. It is noteworthy that the first group had a statistically higher number of dislikes; however, the view count, comments count, likes count, and view ratio were statistically lower in the same group. Conclusion Videos related to testicular exploration on YouTube exhibit notably low quality and do not serve as a valuable resource for urology trainees. Key factors such as video duration, total view count, and viewer interactions (including likes, dislikes, and comments) should not be relied upon as indicators of educational video quality. Consequently, it is advisable for urology trainees to refrain from using YouTube as a primary source for learning about testicular exploration. Instead, they should seek guidance and support from experienced senior colleagues, educational supervisors, or consultants to explore more reliable sources of information for this surgical procedure.

Bacteriological assessment of pipe-borne, borehole, and well water sources available to students in Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

The provision of clean water, microorganisms-free water is crucial in preventing the transmission of waterborne diseases. This study was conducted with the objective of evaluating the bacteriological quality of water sources accessible to students within Nasarawa State University Keffi. Sixteen samples, comprising ten from piped source, three from boreholes, and three from wells, were subjected to bacteriological quality assessment. The total bacterial count was analyzed using the pour plate technique, while the total coliform count and bacteriological index were assessed through the most probable number technique. Among the various water sources examine, pipe-borne water exhibited the lower bacterial contamination with a mean of 0.6×106 CFU/100 mL in contrast to borehole and well water sources, which recorded mean of 1.6×106 and 3.2×106 CFU/100 mL, respectively. Additionally, pipe-borne water demonstrated the lowest mean total coliform count, registering 22 MPN/100 mL. Notably, Notably, the water samples were found to harbor bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterobacter aerogens, and Citrobacter sp. Alarming findings from this study highlight the unsuitability of most water samples for human consumption, as they fail to meet the quality standards established by the World Health Organization. Consequently, it is necessary to implement measures aimed at safeguarding water sources from contamination and curbing the proliferation of diseases. Furthermore, it is pertinent to prioritize adequate treatment of domestic water sources prior to consumption to ensure public health and well-being.

Physiological changes of Capsicum baccatum var. pendulum during ontogenesis and rest after harvest

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological quality of seeds of young finger pepper during ontogenesis and rest after harvest. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with five replications. The treatments consisted of the harvest of the fruit at 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 days after anthesis (DAA), and two rest conditions: no rest and post-harvest resting for 10 days. The seeds were evaluated for water content, dry mass of the seeds, germination, first germination count (germination energy) and germination speed index. The harvesting period and the post-harvest resting period of the fruits affect the physiological quality of the “Dedo-de-moça” pepper seeds. Seeds with maximum physiological quality (germination and strength) and dry matter are obtained with fruits harvested between 70 and 80 days after anthesis. The post-harvest resting period of fruits allows the anticipation of the harvest to 57 days after the anthesis, without compromising the physiological quality of the seeds.