General Body Research Articles

Structural equation model analysis of the effect of visceral fat on osteoporosis

BackgroundOsteoporosis is a considerable public health challenge in Moyu County, Xinjiang. Here, we evaluated the influencing factors of osteoporosis in this region.MethodsWe recruited 7,761 participants and randomized them into normal and osteoporotic populations based on T-score. The effects of general conditions, body composition, calcium sources and exercise, respiratory exposure, and daily diet on osteoporosis were analyzed. Furthermore, a structural equation model was constructed to uncover the direct and indirect influencing factors of osteoporosis.ResultsAmong the participants, 1,803 (23.23%) had normal bone mass while 1,496 (19.28%) had osteoporosis. The univariate analysis showed significant differences in the general conditions, body composition, calcium sources and exercise, respiratory exposure, and daily diet. Stratification based on age (45 years) and body mass index (BMI) (18.5 kg/m2) showed variations in the body composition between the two groups; however, the visceral fat differed significantly. Logistic regression analysis affirmed the association of visceral fat index as it was included in all equations, except for age and female menopause. The structural equation exhibited that the general conditions, body composition, and, calcium sources, and exercise were direct factors of osteoporosis, while respiratory exposure and daily diet were indirect factors. The standardized path coefficient was highest in general conditions, followed by body composition, and lastly, calcium sources and exercise.ConclusionObesity, besides age and female menopause, is also an influencing factor of osteoporosis. The visceral fat index plays a vital role in osteoporosis. Our findings may provide experimental evidence for early prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Analysis of patients consulted to the neurosurgery clinic from the emergency department and evaluation of mortality

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze neurosurgical consultations in emergency department admissions, to reveal the characteristics of patients in need of neurosurgery and to analyze mortality in patients. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted retrospectively in the emergency department of a secondary care hospital. All patients consulted to the neurosurgery clinic from the adult emergency department between 01.01.2023-31.12.2023 were evaluated in the study. Demographic data, admission and/or admission complaint, diagnosis, comorbid disease status, anticoagulant use, surgical procedure status, Glasgow Coma Score at the time of arrival to the emergency department, duration of hospitalization and in-hospital mortality status were analyzed. Results: 595 patients were evaluated in the study. 59.5% of the patients were male and the mean age was 45.17±25.77 years. The most common type of admission was general body trauma due to fall (48.9%). The most common diagnosis was isolated lumbar vertebral fracture (15%). Intensive care unit hospitalization, surgical procedures and mortality rates were significantly higher in patients with a lower Glasgow Coma Score at admission (p

Occurrence of Body Posture Abnormalities in Overweight and Obese Children Aged 5-6 Years-Pilot Study.

The study aimed to assess the occurrence of body posture disorders and their changes under the influence of a physioprophylactic program in children depending on body weight. In the examined children, the general and segmental body composition and body posture were determined using a physiotherapeutic assessment based on the Kasperczyk method. Mass, overall, and segmental body composition were determined using the bioelectrical impedance method using a TANITA body composition analyzer. The study group of 76 children was divided due to body weight disorders into Group I (n = 51), in which BMI and fat mass values were within the normative limits for age and gender, and Group II (n = 19), comprising children whose body weight exceeded the norm and/or fat mass exceeded normative values. The examined children underwent a physioprophylactic. The program was conducted by qualified physiotherapists for 12 weeks, once a week for 30 min. The therapeutic program was focused on physioprevention of being overweight and the correction of body posture. A distal distribution of fat mass was observed in the examined group. Asymmetry in the sagittal plane was found in 35% of children. No statistically significant differences were found in the presence of asymmetry in the sagittal plane between the groups. No statistically significant differences were found in the occurrence of posture irregularities between the groups. There were no changes in the weight and body posture of the examined children under the influence of the physiotherapy program. The lack of correlation in the examined group between body weight and posture irregularities in 5-6-year-olds may suggest the acquisition of posture defects as a consequence of the persistence of overweight or obesity.

INFLUENCE OF GENE POLYMORPHISM, SEVERITY OF CLINICAL COURSE OF THE DISEASE AND COMBINATION WITH COMORBIDITIES ON CELLULAR AND GENERAL REACTIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH COVID-19

Background. In the pathogenesis of COVID-19 development, cellular and general reactivity of the patient's body in response to exo- and endo-intoxication are important indicators, they are diagnostic markers of the severity of the disease. Aim: to find out and analyze the effect of gene polymorphism, severity of the clinical course of the disease and combination with comorbidities on the cellular and general body reactivity of patients with COVID-19. Materials and methods. The study included 204 patients with mild, moderate, and severe COVID-19-associated pneumonia who had comorbidities: cardiovascular disease (82 patients), endocrinopathy (46 patients), and comorbidities of the ENT organs, connective tissue, gastrointestinal tract, chronic kidney disease (CKD), who were grouped into the group "other comorbidities (76 patients). Among the patients were 51.97% (106) women and 48.03% (98) men. The average age of patients was 55.93±8.75 years. The polymorphism of the TMPRSS2 (rs12329760), FGB (rs1800790) and NOS3 (rs2070744) genes was investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real Time PCR). The level of cellular and general reactivity of the body of patients with coronavirus infection was determined by the cellular resistance index and leukocyte indices of intoxication (LII) according to J.Y. Kalf-Kalf, Reis, Himich, modified leukocyte index, intoxication index, hematological index of intoxication according to V.S. Vasiliev and nuclear index of endotoxemia. Results. It was found that patients with coronavirus infection carry mutational T-alleles of the gene (especially TT genotype) of the TMPRSS2 gene (rs12329760), A-allele of the FGB gene (rs1800790) and T-allele of the NOS3 gene (rs2070744) have the highest level of cellular resistance and cellular reactivity in response to endo- and exo-intoxication, which leads to a probable decrease in intoxication and is an adaptive defense response of the body. It was found that in the mild clinical course of coronavirus infection, the highest level of cellular reactivity and cellular resistance is observed, in the moderate course, the cellular reactivity of the body decreases by 81.34%, and in the severe course - by 45.35%, while high to moderate endo- and exo-intoxication, respectively, persists. In comorbidity with endocrinopathies or cardiovascular diseases (CVD), lower cellular resistance (especially in CVD) was found than in the combination of COVID-19 with other comorbidities in the remission/compensation phase - by 32, 64% (p<0.001) and 38.60% (p<0.001) against the background of higher endogenous intoxication according to the modified intoxication index and Reiss LI - by 30.21-40.0% (p≤0.032-0.017), respectively. Conclusion. The severity of the clinical course, the presence of comorbidities, polymorphism of the genes TMPRSS2 (rs12329760), FGB (rs1800790), NOS3 (rs2070744) have a multidirectional effect on cellular and general reactivity in patients with COVID-19.

“Born global” poduzeća u doba digitalizacije

This study contributes to the general body of knowledge on the born global theory in the specific context of digital marketing agencies. In today’s interconnected digital landscape, driven by rapid technological advancements and evolving market dynamics, many companies across diverse sectors are shifting their growth strategies toward proactive internationalization. This study looks at the determinants and challenges of the internationalization strategies of digital marketing agencies in Croatia. The motivations, obstacles, and strategic choices that guide these agencies on their ‘born global’ journey are explored through a qualitative analysis. The research findings revealed that these agencies are venturing into global markets by taking advantage of competitive pricing, gaining invaluable experience, and expanding their competencies. This experiential learning shapes their strategies and operations and increases their competitiveness. On the other hand, Croatian digital marketing agencies face numerous obstacles to internationalization, including a lack of resources and market information, language barriers, and the complexity of managing remote multicultural teams. To overcome these challenges, agencies employ various strategies, such as utilizing word of mouth and maintaining a physical presence in target countries, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and resource commitment in successful international expansion. In addition, agencies employ direct foreign investment, client-driven regional expansion, and remote working to navigate the complexities and opportunities of international business.

Brucellosis (Malta Fever) In Pregnancy and Childbirth: A Case Report

Background: Brucellosis is a multi-organ infectious disease that can affect people of all ages. Systemic symptoms of brucellosis include back pain, headache, fatigue, weakness, general body pain, fever and chills, anorexia, muscle pain, sweating, weight loss, joint pain, cough, neurological symptoms, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. In this report, the case of a pregnant woman suffering from Malta fever with severe signs that she could not walk is reported. Case Presentation: In this paper, the case of a 28-year-old G3P2 female patient (third pregnancy, two normal deliveries) with 37 weeks of pregnancy and a history of brucellosis in the last two months, being under painkiller treatment, and who has been unable to walk (sacroiliitis) for two weeks, has been reported. Previously, treatment with gentamicin 2 times a day for 6 days was started, and in May 2022, the patient was admitted to Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad by ambulance. After consultation with an infectious disease specialist, the patient received gentamicin IV QID at a dose of 5 mg/kg, ceftriaxone BID at a dose of 1 mg and IV, and rifampin QID at a dose of 600 mg and PO. She was subjected to CBC differential test twice a week, and BUN and CR assessments were performed every other day. She has received acetaminophen 500 mg PO and Q 6 hrs in the hospital during hospitalization. Radiography of the pelvis was done to check the bilateral sacroiliac joint; it has been found to be normal and no evidence of joint effusion has been seen. After a week of hospitalization and observation in the hospital, vaginal delivery was performed without any problems and she gave birth to a baby boy with an Apgar score of 9-10. Conclusion: Clinical manifestations of brucellosis in pregnant women are weakness, arthralgia, fever, fatigue, excessive night sweats, anorexia, muscle pain, chills, depression, weight loss, headache, and back pain. The most common symptoms are fever, hepatomegaly, spleen involvement, joint complications, and obstetric symptoms, including vaginal bleeding, postpartum endometritis, pelvic or groin pain, premature rupture of membranes, and chorioamnionitis. Rifampicin and trimethoprim- sulfamethoxazole for 6 to 8 weeks constitute the most common and recommended treatment.

The Perpetual Impact of COVID-19 on the Geriatric Population's Quality of Life and Potential Preventive and Therapeutic Measures in Unani Medicine: An Evidence-based Review

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has affected the elderly population more severely than many other patient groups. Due to their constitutional weakness and co-morbidities, geriatric populations are more prone to complications and adverse outcomes, especially with a high viral load. The Unani system of medicine encompasses several guidelines for the prevention and treatment of epidemics, which are stratified for different types of people with respect to age, geography, and health status, among others. Objective: Since Unani drugs are both safe and efficient, it has been found that demand for them has surged since COVID. This paper aims to discuss the various immunomodulatory, longevity-promoting agents, and organ-specific tonics specified in Unani medicine for the care of the elderly, which may be helpful during epidemics, and also, to present the scientific evidence of their efficacy. Methods: A thorough assessment of the available literature was carried out utilizing several electronic databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Wiley Online, Google Scholar, and Springer Link, using the terms "Geriatrics," "Elderly," "SARS-CoV-2," "Unani," and many others, up until October 2022. A total of 61 pertinent reviews were included. To gather information on epidemics and their specific response in geriatrics, monographs in Urdu, Arabic, and English were explored in addition to classic Unani texts such Al-Qanun fit Tibb (The Canon of Medicine), Kamil-us-Sana'at (Liber Regius), Kitab al-Hawi fit Tibb (Liber Continence), and others. Plant names were confirmed by “The Plant List” (www.theplantlist.org). Results: During pandemics, Unani medicine aims to promote and preserve the health of the elderly by regulating six important factors (Asbāb Sitta Ḍarūriyya), which include adopting a specific diet, regimen and drugs as effective prophylactic strategies. However, the role of Unani medicine in immunological regulation relies on major organ protection, viz., general body tonic, nervine tonic, heart tonic, and liver tonic. Several Unani single drugs, such as Sibr (Aloe barbadensis Mill.), Zafran (Crocus sativus L.), and Mur (Commiphora myrrh Nees.), and formulations, such as Khameera Marwareed, Tiryaq-i- Arba, and Habb-i- Jadawar have also been found to be very effective in validated scientific preclinical and clinical studies. Furthermore, Unani drugs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and tonic actions, contributing to their holistic efficacy. Conclusion: It is observed in this review that Unani medicine employs a holistic approach to the health protection of the elderly. There are various dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, regimental therapy, and pharmacotherapy prescribed as per the individual’s requirements and needs to reduce geriatric mortality in times of epidemics. Modern pharmacological studies have discovered many bioactive compounds in health-protective drugs prescribed in Unani medicine, such as Vitis vinifera L., Ziziphus jujube Mill., and many others, further substantiating the literature.

Experimental animal research on the subchronic toxicity of “Dứa Tre Lão Nhà Quê” extract

“Dứa tre Lão nhà quê” extract (DTLNQ extract) was intended to treat several diseases such as dyslipidemia and venous insufficiency. To provide information on the its safety, this study evaluated the subchronic toxicity of DTLNQ extract. Wistar rats were divided into three groups and were given orally for 12 weeks: group 1 distilled water; group 2 and group 3: DTLNQ extract at 0.6g and 1.8g/kg b.w./day, respectively. General conditions and body weight change, hematological and biochemical parameters, and hepatic and renal histological examinations were evaluated in treated rats compared with the control group and baseline. The results showed that DTLNQ extract did not cause significant changes in general conditions, body weight gain, hematological parameters, biochemical parameters of hepatic and renal function tests and the histological examination of the liver and kidneys. Though the values of AST and ALT increased after 12 weeks of administration compared with the control group and baseline, they were within the normal limits or slightly greater than the upper limit of normal in rats.

The end of court-ordered desegregation and U.S. children's health: Quasi-experimental evidence.

School racial segregation significantly impacts racial disparities in U.S. children's health. Recently, school segregation has been increasing, partially due to Supreme Court decisions since 1991 that have made it easier for school districts to be released from court-ordered desegregation. We investigated the association of the end of court-ordered desegregation with child health using the 1997-2018 waves of the National Health Interview Survey (N=8,182 Black, 16,930 White children). We exploited quasi-random variation in the timing of school districts' releases from court orders to estimate effects on general health, body weight, mental health, and asthma, using difference-in-differences and event-study methods (including traditional and heterogeneity-robust estimators). Heterogeneity-robust difference-in-differences analyses show that release was associated with increased school segregation, improved mental health among Black children, and better self-reported health among White children. For heterogeneity-robust event-study analyses, school segregation increased steadily over time after release, with worse self-reported health and higher risk of asthma episodes among Black children 18+ years after release. Black children's mental health temporarily improved in the short term. In contrast, White children had improved self-reported health, mental health, and risk of asthma episodes in some years. Interventions to address the harms of school segregation are important for reducing racial health inequities.

Examination of the Thermal Stability and Swallowing Safety of a Self-Developed Enteral Nutrition Thickening Agent

To experimentally validate the effects of a self-developed heat-stable thickening agent on the textual characteristics of enteral nutrition solutions of standard concentration and its applicability in improving dysphagia. A gradient of different doses of the self-developed thickening agent (1.0 g, 1.5 g, 2.0 g, 2.5 g, and3.0 g) and three commonly used commercial thickeners were mixed with 23.391 g of a complete nutrition formula powder dissolved in 85 mL of purified water to prepare 100 mL standard concentration nutrition solutions. The textual parameters (cohesiveness, viscosity, thickness, and hardness) of these nutrition solutions were measured using a texture analyzer at various temperature gradients (20 ℃, 40 ℃, 60 ℃, and 80 ℃) to compare their thermal stability. A dysphagia rat model was created via epiglottectomy to explore the effects of the thickener on lung tissue damage scores and levels of inflammatory markers. The rats were divided into a test intervention group, a positive control group, a negative control group, and a blank control group (no surgery and normal feeding after fasting for one day), with 15 rats in each group. After fasting for one day post-surgery, the test intervention group was fed with the standard concentration nutrition solution thickened with the self-developed thickener, while the positive control group was given a standard concentration nutrition solution thickened with product 3, and the negative control group was fed a normal diet. All groups were fed for two weeks with food dyed with food-grade green dye. General conditions, body mass, and food intake were observed and recorded. After two weeks, abdominal aorta blood was collected, and heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney tissues were harvested and weighed to calculate the lung tissue organ coefficient. The organ conditions were evaluated using routine H&E staining, and lung damage was semi-quantitatively analyzed based on the Mikawa scoring criteria. Blood supernatants were collected to measure the total serum protein and albumin levels to determine the nutritional status of the rats. The expression of IL-6 and TNF-α genes in lung tissues was measured by RT-qPCR. IL-6 and TNF-α protein expression levels in lung tissues, lung tissue homogenate, and serum were measured by ELISA. The aspiration incidence rate was calculated. Within the dosage range of 1.0 g to 3.0 g, the self-developed thickener in the test samples exhibited superior thermal stability in cohesiveness compared to the three commercially available thickeners, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.01). The differences in the thermal stability of viscosity and hardness between the self-developed thickener and the three commercially available thickeners were not statistically significant. The viscosity stability was optimal for the self-developed thickener, followed by the commercially available thickeners 1 and 3, with thickeners 2 being the least stable, though the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Product 1 showed the best thermal stability in thickness, followed by the self-developed thickener and product 2, while the product 3 exhibited the worst performance, with the difference being statistically significant (P<0.01). The self-developed thickener had the best thermal stability in hardness at temperatures ranging from 20℃ to 80 ℃, followed by products 1 and 2, with product 3 being the least stable. However, the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Animal experiment results indicated that the body weight gain in the positive control group and the test intervention group was lower than that in the blank and negative control groups (P<0.01). The spleen coefficient of the intervention group was lower than that of the positive control group and the blank control group (P<0.01), while the heart, liver, and kidney coefficients were lower than those of the blank control group (P<0.01). The differences in the lung coefficient of the intervention group and those of the other three groups were no statistically significant. Levels of TP and ALB in the test intervention group, the positive control group, and the negative control group were all lower than those in the blank control group, with statistically significant differences (P<0.01). ELISA results showed that serum IL-6 levels in the blank and test intervention groups were lower than those in the negative and positive control groups (P<0.05), while the difference in the other indicators across the four groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). There were no statistically significant differences among the four groups in terms of lung tissue damage pathology scores, or in the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α gene expression in lung tissues. The aspiration incidence rate was 0% in all groups. The self-developed enteral nutrition thickening agent demonstrated excellent thermal stability and swallowing safety. Further research to explore its application in patients with dysphagia is warranted.

College Career Courses and Growth Toward Vocational Identity Achievement Status

This study used a longitudinal quasi-experimental design to explore the intersection of self-regulated learning and career development, while validating a manualized college career course as an effective career intervention. A group of undergraduate students enrolled in a for-credit college career course was compared to students in the general student body on measures of career exploration, career commitment, and commitment resistance to observe whether participation in the career course was associated with growth toward vocational identity achievement as observed by significant increases in both career exploration and career commitment and significant decreases in commitment resistance. Multilevel modeling revealed that the treatment group experienced significantly more growth toward vocational identity achievement compared to the control group. Additionally, career metacognitions were observed to differentially impact the effects of the career course on career exploration, career commitment, and commitment resistance.

Evaluation of the feeding safety of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) in the Sprague Dawley rat

This study aimed to evaluate the safety of Moringa by comparing the effects of different gavage doses of Moringa. The general behavior, body weight, food intake, blood indexes, serum biochemical indexes, and histopathology of rats were used to determine the safety threshold and to provide a reference for the further development and use of Moringa as animal feed. 40 Sprague Dawley rats were selected and given transoral gavage for 28 consecutive days. The T1, T2 and T3 groups were observed for general behavior, body weight, and food intake. Blood and serum biochemical indices were quantified, and histopathology was performed to evaluate the effect and safety of Moringa. The results of the toxicological test showed that (1) Only T1 groups experienced diarrhea. (2) The body weight and food intake of rats in each group were normal compared with the control group. (3) The hematological and serum biochemical indices of rats in the T1 group were significantly different from those of CK but were in the normal range; (4) The results of microscopic examination of the heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney of rats in each group were normal, but inflammation occurred in stomach and jejunum of rats in the T1 group, but not in the ileum. The gastrointestinal tract of rats in the T2 and T3 groups were normal. (5) No abnormal death occurred in any of the treatment groups.The results of this study revealed that gavage of Moringa homogenate at a dose of 6 g/kg BW can cause diarrhea in rats. Although there is no pathological effect on weight, food intake, blood and serum biochemical indicators in rats, there are pathological textures in the gastrointestinal tissue caused by diarrhea. Therefore, the safety threshold of Moringa homogenate should be ≤ 3 g/kg BW.

Amrita: The ancient herb with modern healing potential and safety features

Tinospora cordifolia Willd commonly known, as “Amrita” or “Guduchi”, is a large deciduous, extensively spreading climbing shrub with several coiling branches, a dioecious medicinal herb. It is designated as Rasayana in Ayurveda as it enhances general body resistance and promotes longevity, an anti-stress, adaptogen, and a potential plant for providing resistance against infections. The plant is well known as Indian bitter and is generally prescribed for fever, diabetes, dyspepsia, jaundice, urinary problems, skin diseases, gastrointestinal diseases including dyspepsia, flatulence, gastritis, jaundice, chronic diarrhea and dysentery, splenomegaly, and hemorrhoids. The herb has been reported to be significant for the management of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and the treatment of leprosy, helminthiasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some of the most significant formulations in which Guduchi is prime ingredient are Guduchyadi churn, Guduchi taila, Dashmoolarishtha, Sanjivani vati, Punchnimba churana, Guduchi ghrita, Amritaguggulu, Amritashtaka churna, Kantakari avaleha, Chyavanaprasha, Guduchi sattva, Brihat guduchi taila, Stanyashodhana kashaya churana. The most dominant constituents in guduchi include terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, lignans, steroids, C6-C3 derivatives and polysaccharides along with other components. There are no adverse effects of any kind reported so far as prescribed under reasonable dose application. It has promising potential as a tonic in infants and stimulates immunity in children besides facilitating growth. Due to the presence of immense medicinal properties, this plant has been over-exploited by pharmaceutical companies and folk people for traditional remedies. This in turn has led to the acute scarcity of this plant. Therefore, it is of prime importance and urgent need for its conservation.

“The Catholic Church Has a Big Structure”

The general body of literature on the theology of liberation tends to focus either on ecclesiastical debate, theological intricacies, or discussion within the church. Not much attention is paid to the empirical investigation of how civil society members might be influencing the rhetoric of the local church. This article takes a different approach and explores how liberation movements in Ukraine and Hong Kong inform and inspire elements of the theology of social justice within local Catholic communities through bringing to life their social dreams and engaging the churches in action. Looking at how churches and activists interact in the aftermath of the Euromaidan and the Umbrella Movement, we explore how grassroots activists approach religious hierarchies and how, in these circumstances, the clergy of the churches might be pressured into maneuvering between the social dreams of civil society and the Vatican.

Spectral variations within solar flare ribbons

Context. Solar flare ribbons are intense brightenings of primarily chromospheric material that are responsible for a large fraction of the chromospheric emission in solar and stellar flares. We present an on-disc observation of flare ribbon substructures in an X9.3-class flare observed by the Swedish 1-m Solar Telescope. Aims. We aim to identify categories of ribbon substructures seen in the Ca II 8542 Å, Hα, and Ca II K lines, focusing on their spatial locations and their (spectro-)polarimetric properties. Methods. We used COlor COllapsed Plotting (COCOPLOT) software to assist in identifying areas of interest. Results. We present five categories of spectral profiles within the general body of the flare ribbon: (1) extremely broadened spectral line profiles, where the standard Fabry–Perot interferometer wavelength windows (≈70 km s−1) are not sufficiently wide to allow for a complete analysis of the dynamics and atmospheric conditions. The mechanisms causing this degree of this broadening are not yet clearly understood; (2) long-lived, dense kernels that manifest as more saturated chromospheric line profiles with lower signal in both Stokes parameters. They are interpreted as footpoints of bunched magnetic field loops, whose chromospheric lines form at greater heights than the nearby areas; (3) Doppler-shifted leading edges of the flare ribbon in regions that transiently display lower Stokes signals due to the emission dominating at greater heights in the atmosphere; (4) condensed coronal rain overlapping the flare ribbons in the line of sight, producing exceptionally high Doppler shifts near the footpoints; and (5) compact blueshifted areas close to areas with coronal rain down-flows, which are understood to be material that has been thrown up as a result of the down-flowing material impacting the chromosphere. Additionally, a ribbon formation height of about 700 km with respect to penumbral features is estimated using correlating structures on the ribbon and the underlying photosphere. Conclusions. When selecting areas of the flare ribbon for more general analysis (especially small regions consisting of a few pixels or low-resolution averages), it is important to be aware of the variety of substructures present within a flare ribbon and of the spatial context that can produce these differences. General behaviors across the ribbon should not be inferred from regions that show localized differences.

Adiposity indicators exhibit depot- and sex-specific associations with multimorbidity onset: A cohort study of the UK Biobank.

This study investigated the depot- and sex-specific associations of adiposity indicators with incident multimorbidity and comorbidity pairs. We selected 382 678 adults without multimorbidity (≥2 chronic diseases) at baseline from the UK Biobank. General obesity, abdominal obesity and body fat percentage indices were measured. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses of general obesity indices revealed that for every one-unit increase in body mass index, the risk of incident multimorbidity increased by 5.2% (95% confidence interval 5.0%-5.4%). A dose-response relationship was observed between general obesity degrees and incident multimorbidity. The analysis of abdominal obesity indices showed that for every 0.1 increment in waist-to-height ratio and waist-to-hip ratio, the risk of incident multimorbidity increased by 42.0% (37.9%-46.2%) and 27.9% (25.7%-30.0%), respectively. Central obesity, as defined by waist circumference, contributed to a 23.2% increased risk of incident multimorbidity. Hip circumference and hip-to-height ratio had protective effects on multimorbidity onset. Consistent findings were observed for males and females. Body fat percentage elevated 3% (0.2%-5.9%) and 5.3% (1.1%-9.7%) risks of incident multimorbidity in all adults and females, respectively. Arm fat percentages elevated 5.3% (0.8%-9.9%) and 19.4% (11.0%-28.5%) risks of incident multimorbidity in all adults and males, respectively. The general obesity indices, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-hip ratio and central obesity increased the onset of comorbidity pairs, whereas hip circumference and hip-to-height ratio decreased the onset of comorbidity pairs. These adiposity indicators mainly affect diabetes mellitus-related comorbidity onset in males and hypertensive-related comorbidity onset in females. Adiposity indicators are predictors of multimorbidity and comorbidity pairs and represent a promising approach for intervention.

The Effects of Different Fattening Methods and Sex on Fattening Performance in Native Turkish Geese

The animal material of the study consisted of native Turkish geese. Regardless of the sex of the chicks, the first 4 wk of age were fed together, and the 5 and 6 week of age were fed ad libitum in groups using the starter feed. From the sixth wk onwards, four fattening method were formed until the 16 week of age as feed, pasture + cracked barley, pasture + feed and pasture. In the feed, pasture + cracked barley, pasture + feed groups, general body weight increase averages are 39.81, 37.46 and 39.90 g, respectively; average feed daily consumption is 426.95, 207.99 and 200.76 g, respectively; feed conversion ratio were 10.72, 5.55 and 5.03, respectively. At the end of the study, body weights were determined as 4209, 4108, 4239 and 3971 g in the feed, pasture + cracked barley, pasture + feed groups and pasture groups, respectively (P&amp;lt;0.01). As a result, the average body weight of geese was found to be similar with some literature data, which is lower than some literature data. This may be due to the fact that the geese used in the study are native Turkish geese and no selection studies have been performed on them. Although the highest body weight increase was determined in the pasture + feed group, it was concluded that it would be more appropriate to make pasture feed since the geese fed economically in the pasture provide body weight increase similar to other groups. It was determined that fattening with only feed is not economical for goose breeding and does not provide much daily weight gain compared to other groups.

A Longitudinal Mixed Methods Case Study Investigation of the Academic, Athletic, Psychosocial and Psychological Impacts of Being a Sport School Student Athlete

BackgroundSport schools are popular environments for simultaneously delivering education and sport to young people. Previous research suggests sport school involvement to have impact (i.e. the positive/negative, intended/unintended and long/short-term outcomes, results and effects) on student athlete’s holistic (i.e. academic, athletic, psychosocial and psychological) development. However, previous research is limited by (1) cross-sectional methods, (2) limited multidimensional assessments, (3) lack of consideration for athlete characteristics (e.g. sex) and (4) failure to evaluate how sport school features affect student-athlete impacts.ObjectivesThe study, using a mixed methods case study approach, aims to (1) longitudinally evaluate the impact of sport school involvement on the holistic development of student athletes, (2) evaluate the impact on holistic development by student-athlete characteristics and (3) explore the features and processes of the sport–school programme that drive/facilitate holistic impacts.MethodsA longitudinal mixed methods design was employed across one full academic school year (33 weeks). Six data-collection methods (i.e. online questionnaire, physical fitness testing battery, academic assessment grades, log diaries, field notes/observation and timeline diagram/illustration) were used to assess the academic, athletic, psychosocial and psychological impacts for 72 student athletes from one sport school in the United Kingdom (UK).ResultsStudent athletes developed positive long-term holistic overall impacts (i.e. academically, athletically and personally), including maintaining stable and relatively high levels of sport confidence, academic motivation, general recovery, life skills, resilience and friends, family and free time scores. Despite positive impacts, juggling academic and sport workload posed challenges for student athletes, having the potential to lead to negative holistic impacts (e.g. fatigue, stress and injury). Positive and negative impacts were linked to many potential features and processes of the sport school (e.g. academic and athletic support services versus insufficient training load build-up, communication, coordination, flexibility and planning). Furthermore, when considering student-athlete characteristics, females had lower sport confidence, higher general stress and body image concerns and less general recovery than males and student athletes who played sport outside the school had lower general recovery.ConclusionsThis mixed method, longitudinal study demonstrated sport school involvement resulted in many positive academic (e.g. good grades), athletic (e.g. fitness development), psychosocial (e.g. enhanced confidence) and psychological (e.g. improved resilience) impacts attributed to the academic and athletic support services provided. However, juggling heavy academic and athletic workloads posed challenges leading to negative impacts including fatigue, pressure, stress and injury. Furthermore, holistic impacts may be sex dependent and further support may be required for female student athletes in sport school environments. Overall, these findings demonstrate the complex nature of combining education and sport commitments and how sport schools should manage, monitor and evaluate the features of their programme to maximise the holistic impacts of sport–school student athletes.

Patient-reported experience with Fabry disease and its management in the real-world setting: results from a double-blind, cross-sectional survey of 280 respondents

BackgroundFabry disease (FD) is a rare X-linked lysosomal storage disorder with a heterogeneous clinical presentation. Patients with FD may exhibit early signs/symptoms including neuropathic pain, gastrointestinal complaints, and dermatologic manifestations. FD may ultimately progress to renal, neurologic, and cardiac dysfunction. Current treatments for FD have significantly improved the management and outcomes for patients with FD, but important clinical and convenience limitations still exist.MethodsTo illuminate the impact of FD on daily life from the patient’s perspective, we asked adult patients (≥ 18 years old) with FD in the United States and Canada to complete a 33-question online survey to assess patient-reported disease severity, management, and treatment outcomes.ResultsA total of 280 respondents with FD completed the survey; they had a mean age of 47 years, and 68% (191/280) were women. Most were currently receiving FD treatment (84%, 234/280) with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) (89%, 208/234) or chaperone therapy (11%, 26/234). Common symptoms included low energy/fatigue (72%, 201/280), tingling (62%, 174/280) or pain in the hands/feet (60%, 168/280), ringing in ears/hearing loss (54%, 151/280), general body pains/pain crises (51%, 143/280), and abdominal/stomach pain (50%, 140/280). More than half (51%, 144/280) of respondents reported their symptoms as bothersome (38%, 106/280) or difficult to control (14%, 38/280). Temporary symptom worsening between infusions was reported by about half of respondents: 51% (108/211) currently receiving ERT and 48% (14/29) previously receiving ERT. Only 48% (59/122) of respondents reported their symptom worsening to their physician. Of those who reported it, 41% (24/59) said that their physician prescribed medication to manage their symptoms or changed their treatment regimen.ConclusionsOur analysis highlights the gap between current standard-of-care in disease monitoring and patient perception of disease progression among patients with FD. This information may be helpful for healthcare providers and drug developers seeking to improve the care of patients with FD by addressing unmet needs of high relevance.

Strategies for the development of mental toughness of construction professionals: the case of Ghana

Purpose The construction sector is recognized for subjecting its workers to various psychological pressures and mental stressors. As a result, it is crucial to explore and discover effective strategies to support these workers in managing and enduring these demanding circumstances. Mental toughness is a concept that has been advocated to aid individuals in coping and adapting to pressures and challenges. Therefore, it is imperative to explore strategies critical to developing mental toughness among construction professionals. Thus, the purpose of this study is to identify critical strategies for the development of mental toughness among construction professionals. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, ScienceDirect and PubMed databases to identify the strategies for the development of mental toughness. These identified strategies were used to develop a structured closed-ended questionnaire to aid in data collection. Of the 317 questionnaires distributed, 207 were collected and used for data analysis. The data were analysed using mean score ranking and one sample t-test. Findings The study highlighted 12 critical strategies for the development of mental toughness among construction professionals. These include recognizing and rewarding achievements, taking time for self-care, organizing mental training programs, using positive self-talk, embracing a growth mindset, providing social support/developing a strong support network, creating a challenging training environment, engaging in regular physical exercise, fostering a mastery motivational climate, setting clear but challenging goals, practicing mental imagery and practicing reflection on setbacks and failures. The analysis results indicated that all of the strategies, except one (which involves practicing reflection on setbacks and failures), displayed significance. By incorporating these strategies, construction firms and the industry as a whole can empower their workforce to cope and/or overcome the various demands and stressors that work and life places on them. Research limitations/implications The study highlights the significance of recognizing and rewarding achievements, fostering a growth mindset and implementing mental training programs to cultivate mental toughness among construction professionals. Moreover, promoting self-care practices and offering social support are essential strategies for enhancing mental resilience in the construction industry. By adopting these evidence-based approaches, construction organizations can create a mentally tough workforce capable of handling the challenges and demands of the industry effectively. Originality/value This study contributes significantly to the general body of knowledge in mental health management among employees in the construction industry. It does set the pace for the development of the general well-being of construction professionals in the achievement of mental toughness goals.