Group D2 Research Articles

Association of polychlorinated biphenyls with vitamin D among rural Chinese adults with normal glycaemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus

BackgroundEndocrine function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) typically differs from those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). However, few epidemiologic studies have explored how these differences impact the association between exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and vitamin D levels.MethodsThis study included 1,705 subjects aged 18–79 years from the Henan Rural Cohort [887 NGT and 818 T2DM]. Linear regression was applied to evaluate the associations between PCB exposure and vitamin D levels. Quantile g-computation regression (QG) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were applied to evaluate the impact of PCB mixtures on vitamin D levels. Interaction effects of ΣPCBs with HOMA2-%β and HOMA2-IR on vitamin D levels were assessed.ResultsPlasma ΣPCBs was positively associated with 25(OH)D2 in the NGT group (β = 0.060, 95% CI: 0.028, 0.092). Conversely, in T2DM group, ΣPCBs was negatively associated with 25(OH)D3 and 25(OH)D (β = -0.049, 95% CI: -0.072, -0.026; β = -0.043, 95% CI: -0.063, -0.023). Similarly, both QG and BKMR analysis revealed a negative association between PCB mixture exposure and vitamin D levels in the T2DM group, contrary to the results observed in the NGT groups. Furthermore, the negative association of ΣPCBs with 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D disappeared or changed to a positive association with the increase of HOMA2-%β levels.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that decreased β cell function may exacerbate the negative effects of PCB exposure on vitamin D levels. Recognizing T2DM patients’ sensitivity to PCBs is vital for protecting chronic disease health.

Local symmetry distortions during f-f transitions in HoAl3(BO3)4 single crystal

The polarized absorption spectra of the HoAl3(BO3)4 single crystal were studied in the region of f–f transitions 5I8→5F5, 5S2 + 5F4, 5F3 and 5F2 inside the 4f shell of the holmium ion as a function of temperature in the range of 5–90 K. In a number of absorption lines the splitting which are not provided by the local point group D3 symmetry of holmium ion in the crystal are found. This phenomenon is explained by local changes in the structure in both the excited and ground states of holmium under the influence of a perturbation caused by a photon. This perturbation mixes the ground and excited states and changes the interaction of the atom with its environment. It was also shown that the magnitude of the splitting depends on the polarization of the incident light and on the temperature of the sample.

Yellow mealworm: effects of adults breeding density on adults and larvae performances from an industrial perspective

A key aspect to optimise the Tenebrio molitor (TM) farm productivity is to find an optimal breeding density for adults. To this purpose, this study investigated, from an industrial perspective, the impact of 4 breeding densities (D1, D2, D3 and D4, equal to 0.8, 1.1, 1.3 and 1.6 adults/cm2, respectively) on mortality and reproductive performances of TM adults and larvae. Two weeks after pupae emergence, TM adults were randomly assigned to the four groups and housed in 48 breeding crates (60 x 40 x 14.5 cm; 12 crates/group). The trial consisted in 4 consecutive weeks of adults breeding (each week represented one oviposition), and 8 weeks of larvae growth. From each week of oviposition, a batch of larvae was obtained for a total of 4 batches of larvae (48 crates/batch). Larvae of each batch were grown until 8 weeks of age, corresponding to the period required to reach the selling size. Larvae were kept in the original crates until the 5th weeks of age, after which they were divided into additional crates to ensure a density of 4.2 larvae/cm2 and a final weight of 1500 g of larvae/crate (0.6 g of larvae/cm2). For each oviposition week, TM adult’s mortality, eggs hatchability, BW, feed intake, chemical composition and fatty acids (FAs) profile were evaluated, while ovary weight was measured at weeks 1 and 4. The number of larvae was monitored at week 5 of age while their chemical composition at week 5 and 8. Larvae feed intake and BW were monitored over the 8-weeks growth period. Individual feed intake and BW of adults increased with increasing breeding density (P<0.0001 and P<0.05, respectively). With increasing adults breeding density, the number of larvae per crate increased (P<0.001) while the grams of larvae/gram of adult decreased (R2=0.8856). Larvae from groups D2, D3 and D4 showed higher feed intake per crate and higher individual and total final BW than D1 (P<0.001). However, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) worsened with increasing breeding density (P<0.001). D4 larvae had higher percentages of protein (P<0.001), lipids (P<0.05) and cholesterol (P<0.001) compared to larvae from other groups. Concluding, a breeding density of 0.8 adults/cm2 maximised both grams of larvae produced/grams of adults and larvae FCR. However, breeding densities above 0.8 adults/cm2, resulted in a higher number of produced larvae per crate with a greater final mass weight making a density of 1.6 adults/cm2 the preferable choice from and industrial perspective.

Characterization of Escherichia coli Isolates in Recreational Waters: Implications for Public Health and One Health Approach

Escherichia coli is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of warm-blooded animals and is routinely used as an indicator of fecal contamination in recreational waters. While most E. coli are commensal, some can harbor pathogenic potential, posing a major public health risk. This study investigated the sources of fecal contamination in recreational waters through the characterization of E. coli isolates. Presumptive E. coli detection was performed using selective and differential media, confirmed by PCR, and followed by characterization. E. coli were detected in all studied aquatic environments, with most isolates belonging to phylogenetic groups D1 (24%, non-human mammals) and B1 (20%, birds), suggesting animals as primary contaminants sources. Among E. coli isolates, 35% were identified as diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC), with enterotoxigenic (34%) and enterohemorrhagic (26%) being the most prevalent pathotypes. Furthermore, 85% of all isolates and 86.5% of DEC isolates exhibited multi-drug resistance, with highest rates displayed in phylogenetic subgroups A1 (human and non-human mammals) and B1. This study highlights the importance of the One Health approach encompassing a human, animal, and environmental holistic health perspective to effectively manage public health strategies and ensure the safety of beachgoers.

The impact of the size of the energy deficit on the rate of body weight in 6 months and willingness to continue reduction program conducted online–An intervention study

AbstractOverweight and obesity are among the most serious public health problems, making new methods for their prevention, as well as treatment, constantly being sought. This study was designed as a 6 month intervention study. The main objective was to evaluate the effect of an energy deficit (10%, 20%, and 25%—groups D10, D20, and D25, respectively) on the rate of weight loss and waist and hip circumferences. The protocol was completed by 180 participants. Men as well as women comprised 90 patients each. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 30.5 ± 5.0 kg/m2 (min 21.3–max 49.2). Among the patients, there were 86 with a BMI indicating overweight. Fifty‐four patients had class 1 obesity, while the remaining 30 patients had class 2 or greater obesity. After 6 months of intervention, the D10 group noted a 7.6% (median) reduction in weight, the D20 group a 9.9% (median) reduction in weight, and the D25 group a 10.3% (median) reduction in weight. After the intervention, 51.7% of patients chose to continue further weight reduction already outside the research protocol. Key factors influencing the willingness to stay on the diet longer than 6 months were higher baseline body weight and/or higher BMI and a rate of weight loss of at least 1.5% of body weight per month. In summary, it appears that a larger energy deficit (on the order of 20%–25%) is most appropriate in terms of weight loss lasting 6 months and motivation for continued therapy.

Performance analysis and multi-objective optimization of a novel solid oxide fuel cell-based poly-generation and condensation dehumidification system

The application of energy supply systems based on fuel cells contributes to meeting the requirement of sustainable development, and developing high-efficiency, low-pollution, and multifunction poly-generation systems coupled with fuel cells is increasingly attractive. This study proposes a novel combined cooling, heating, power poly-generation and dehumidification system including a solid oxide fuel cell, a gas turbine, a double effect absorption refrigerator, a condensation dehumidification unit, an organic Rankine cycle, and a heat exchanger. Thermodynamic, economic, and environmental analysis models of the entire system are developed to evaluate system comprehensive performance. The effects of system parameters such as the inlet temperature of fuel cell, steam to carbon ratio, air flow rate, and high temperature generator temperature on system performance are analyzed. The analysis findings reveal that the proposed system can provide power, cooling, and heating of 551.904 kW, 20.307 kW, and 193.009 kW, and the dehumidification capacity per unit is 14.516 g/kg when 1.238 kg/s of humid air is treated. The system exergy efficiency is found to be 70.534 %, and the system cost rate is 15.578 $/h with carbon dioxide emission being 0.301 kg/kWh at the design condition. Two groups of multi-objective optimizations of the whole system are further conducted to acquire the optimal system performance and working conditions. The optimization results demonstrate that the optimal exergy efficiency of 72.912 % appears at point C1 in the first group of optimization with the lowest carbon dioxide emission being 0.293 kg/kWh, and the optimal qualities of humid air are found to be 1.606 kg/s at C2 and D2 in the second group of optimization. After optimization, the system carbon dioxide emission is decreased by 0.008 kg/kWh, the exergy efficiency is increased by 2.378 %, and the quality of humid air in dehumidification process is developed by 0.368 kg/s. In summary, the proposed poly-generation and dehumidification system can meet multifunction energy demands and achieve good performance, and the research work could also provide theoretical basis for developing evaluation and optimization technologies of fuel cell-based poly-generation systems.

Characterization of nanoceria-modified silicone soft liners: Surface morphology, hardness, wettability, cytotoxicity, and antifungal properties in artificial saliva – An in vitro study

Statement of problemSoft liners are essential for denture wearers, which aids in the healing of soft tissue injuries caused by rough denture base surfaces. Silicone soft liners, while effective, can accumulate biofilm over time, necessitating enhancement. PurposeThis in vitro study aimed to assess the efficacy of silicone soft liners incorporating varying concentrations of cerium oxide nanoparticles. Materials and methodsA stainless-steel die as per ISO standard 10139-2-2018 (35 × 6 mm), Using G*Power 3.0.10 software, 400 samples were prepared with 95 % confidence interval and 80 % power. Samples were divided into five groups: surface morphology (Group A), surface hardness (Group B), wettability (Group C), cytotoxicity (Group D), and antifungal property (Group E). Each group was subdivided based on cerium oxide nanoparticle concentrations. Samples were stored in artificial saliva until evaluation. Surface morphology was examined via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface hardness using Shore A Durometer, wettability by drop shape analysis, cytotoxicity via MTT assay, and antifungal properties using crystal violet staining.Data were assessed for normal distribution using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests. ResultsSEM analysis showed optimal nanoparticle dispersion in Group A2(0.25 %) and A3 (0.5 %). Group B2 (0.25 %) exhibited the lowest mean surface hardness, decreasing from day 1 to day 30. Group C3 demonstrated the most hydrophobic surface across days. Group D2 exhibited the least cytotoxicity at all time intervals. Group E4 displayed the highest antifungal activity. ConclusionWithin study limitations, silicone soft liners modified with 0.25 % and 0.5 % cerium oxide nanoparticles exhibited superior properties in surface hardness and cytotoxicity. Optimal surface morphology and wettability were observed with 0.5 % concentration, while antifungal efficacy peaked at 1 %. These findings suggest clinical potential for treating damaged oral tissues. Clinical implicationsSoft liners modified with 0.25 % and 0.5 % cerium oxide nanoparticles may benefit patients with oral tissue abuse, offering enhanced therapeutic properties.

Assessing the Efficacy of Medium- and High-Reality Simulators in Normal Labor Management: A Randomized Controlled Trial

IntroductionIn recent years, the use of simulation has become integral to midwifery education. This study systematically examined the effectiveness of high- and medium-reality simulators in the management of normal labor, focusing on their impact on normal delivery skills, student satisfaction, and self-confidence in learning. The evaluation encompassed both laboratory and hospital settings, providing a comprehensive assessment of the simulators' efficacy in enhancing key aspects of midwifery education. Material and methodIn this experimental randomized controlled study, the sample group comprised 102 students enrolled in the midwifery department of a university in Türkiye. These students were randomly assigned to three groups utilizing Research Randomizer (https://www.randomizer.org). The students consisted of a control group (d1 = slide and video presentation, 30 people) and two experimental groups (d2 = medium-reality simulator, 32 people; d3 = high-reality simulator, 33 people). Data were collected by a single observer using various tools, including the Introductory Information Form, the Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale, and the Normal Birth Evaluation Form. Pre- and post-test applications were conducted in both laboratory and hospital settings. This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.org with the registration number NCT05999409. FindingsSimulation-based learning did not lead to a significant difference between the groups in terms of students' satisfaction and self-confidence in learning (p > .05). However, it was observed that the utilization of both medium- and high-reality simulations significantly impacted students' normal delivery skills, leading to a statistically significant difference between the groups (p < .05). ConclusionMedium- and high-reality simulation training proved effective in enhancing the normal delivery skills of midwifery students, with a notable positive impact. However, this training did not have a significant influence on student satisfaction and confidence. The findings suggest that incorporating medium- and high-reality simulation training is crucial for midwifery students to be able to improve their skills in hospital practice.

The impact of different doses of intrathecal dexmedetomidine used as adjuvant to hyperbaric prilocaine in short ambulatory procedures under spinal anesthesia: a randomized controlled study

Objective: This study aimed to determine the most effective dose of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to prilocaine in spinal anesthesia. Methods: Sixty-nine adult patients (21 to 65 y) scheduled for elective surgeries under spinal anesthesia were included in the study. Patients received spinal anesthesia with 3 mL of prilocaine and 0.5 mL dexmedetomidine of dose according to randomization of 5,10 and15 µg (D5, D10 and D15 respectively). Time of the first request of analgesia was set as a primary outcome. Results: Time of the first request of rescue opioid was significantly shorter in D5 group (8 ± 6 h) compared to D15group (21 ± 4 h) (P &lt; 0.018). 24 h of postoperative Nalbuphine consumption was higher in D5 group (4.67 ± 0.59 mg) compared to D15 group (2.5 ± 0.71 mg) (P = 0.012). The onset of sensory and motor blocks was significantly earlier in group D15 and D10 compared to group D5. Group D15 showed a significantly prolonged duration of sensory and motor blockade than Groups D10 and D5. The duration of sensory and motor blockade was significantly prolonged in group D10 compared with group D5 (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: 10 and 15 μg dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to prilocaine in spinal anesthesia shortened the onset of both sensory and motor block, prolonged the duration of sensory block, motor block, and the time to first analgesic. Clinical trial registration: The study was registered on Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (www.pactr.org) (ID: PACTR202204558879194-April 2022). Keywords: Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine; Hyperbaric prilocaine; Ambulatory Surgery; Spinal Anesthesia Citation: Biekhet EG, Elazzazi H, Hussein W, Zedan M, Abdelhamid BM. The impact of different doses of intrathecal dexmedetomidine used as adjuvant to hyperbaric prilocaine in short ambulatory procedures under spinal anesthesia: a randomized controlled study. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(4):664−672; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i4.2509 Received: February 20, 2024; Reviewed: April 01, 2024; Accepted: April 20, 2024

Citrinin Provoke DNA Damage and Cell-Cycle Arrest Related to Chk2 and FANCD2 Checkpoint Proteins in Hepatocellular and Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines.

Citrinin (CIT), a polyketide mycotoxin produced by Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Monascus species, is a contaminant that has been found in various food commodities and was also detected in house dust. Several studies showed that CIT can impair the kidney, liver, heart, immune, and reproductive systems in animals by mechanisms so far not completely elucidated. In this study, we investigated the CIT mode of action on two human tumor cell lines, HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma) and A549 (lung adenocarcinoma). Cytotoxic concentrations were determined using an MTT proliferation assay. The genotoxic effect of sub-IC50 concentrations was investigated using the alkaline comet assay and the impact on the cell cycle using flow cytometry. Additionally, the CIT effect on the total amount and phosphorylation of two cell-cycle-checkpoint proteins, the serine/threonine kinase Chk2 and Fanconi anemia (FA) group D2 (FANCD2), was determined by the cell-based ELISA. The data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism statistical software. The CIT IC50 for HepG2 was 107.3 µM, and for A549, it was >250 µM. The results showed that sensitivity to CIT is cell-type dependent and that CIT in sub-IC50 and near IC50 induces significant DNA damage and cell-cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, which is related to the increase in total and phosphorylated Chk2 and FANCD2 checkpoint proteins in HepG2 and A549 cells.

P-110 Live birth of blastocyst culture in women with previous poor blastocyst formation: a cohort study

Abstract Study question Do cumulative live birth rates(CLBRs) in the second cycle differ between blastocyst-stage and cleavage-stage transfer in women with low blastocyst progression during initial IVF ? Summary answer The CLBRs following subsequent oocyte retrievals were comparable for extended culture with blastocyst-stage embryo versus cleavage-stage transfers. What is known already Fresh blastocyst-stage embryo transfer increases live birth rates when compared to cleavage- stage embryo transfer in women with good prognosis. However, it remains unclear whether a blastocyst-culture approach can still be considered for women with a history of failed or reduced blastocyst formation. Study design, size, duration A retrospective cohort study evaluating outcomes of the second IVF/ICSI in women who had a history of poor blastocyst development in their first-time retrievals at a single fertility center from September 2019 to December 2021. Women fulfilled embryo quality criteria of having at least two good-quality cleavage-stage embryos (graded 1-2) on day 3 were included for analysis. Participants/materials, setting, methods A total of 396 patients were analyzed and categorized into two groups. Group D5/6: Extending culture of all embryos to blastocyst-stage in vitro followed by blastocyst transfer; Group D3: transfer or cryopreservation of one or two of the highest quality cleavage-stage embryo(s) on Day3.The main outcome measure was the CLBR per oocyte retrieval.Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between two culture approaches and live birth outcomes after adjusting for possible confounders. Main results and the role of chance The CLBRs (57.01% versus 49.48%) were numerically higher in women in D5/6 group (N = 107) than those in D3 group (N = 289) although the difference was attenuated and did not reach statistical significance after controlling for confounders (aOR: 1.27, 95%CI 0.78, 2.07,P=0.345). All subgroup analyses showed similar conclusions as the main model, even restricting on women with a limited number of quality embryos 3 days post-fertilization. Among cycles with only 2 or 3 good-quality cleavage embryos, Day3 transfers were still associated with lower CLBR compared to all blastocyst culture and transfer (aOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.87). Limitations, reasons for caution The retrospective nature of the present study, alongside the selection bias towards blastocyst culture, may predispose to the risk of residual confounding. The cohort of women characterized by previous failed or reduced blastocyst formation was comparatively small. Larger prospective studies focusing on the unique group are still needed. Wider implications of the findings Even in poor prognosis IVF patients with a history of poor blastocyst formation and/ or blastulation failure, all blastocyst culture and transfer can still be considered when at least two good-quality embryos are available at day 3. These findings are clinically relevant and require additional investigation. Trial registration number Not Applicable

Enteroviruses Associated with Hand Foot and Mouth Disease in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India in 2022.

An outbreak of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) which occurred in August-September, 2022 in NaviMumbai, India was prospectively investigated, to delineate the clinical manifestations and identify the etiological agent. Molecular characterization at ICMR-National Institute of Virology (NIV), Mumbai unit reported 69 (88.5%) cases out of 78 clinically diagnosed HFMD cases positive for enteroviruses. Thirty-nine (56.5%) children were positive for CVA6, 11 (15.9%) for CVA16, and one for CVA4 (1.4%). One case of co-infection (CVA16, CVA6) was reported. Fourteen (17.9%) cases had recurrent disease in the same season. CVA6 was associated with unusual extension of the rash beyond the conventional areas of hands, feet, and mouth, with involvement of body areas including face, axillae and trunk. Whole genome sequencing classified CVA6 as group D3 and CVA16 isolates as group B1c. Co-infection and recurrence of disease with atypical symptoms observed in this study highlight the need for continued vigilance of the evolutionary clinical characteristics of the enteroviruses causing HFMD.

Investigation of the relationship between plasma ghrelin levels and muscle atrophy in experimental diabetic rats

In this study, the relationship between plasma ghrelin levels and muscle atrophy was examined in an experimental diabetic rat model. 56 male Wistar albino rats, aged 8-10 weeks, were used in the study. The rats were divided into 8 groupsD1: one-week diabetes, C1: one-week control, D2: three-week diabetes, C2: three-week control, D3: six-week diabetes, C3: six-week control, D4: eight-week diabetes, C4: eight-week control. To induce diabetes, rats were injected with a single intraperitoneal dose of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin. At the end of the experiments, body weights and fasting blood sugar levels were measured. mTOR and myostatin levels of gastrocnemius muscle and plasma ghrelin levels were measured by ELISA method. Gastrocnemius muscle weight, cross-sectional area and histopathological images were examined. It was observed that the gastrocnemius weights of the D2, D3, D4 groups decreased significantly compared to their controls (p≤0.01). Muscle cross-sectional area decreased significantly in groups D3 and D4 compared to controls (p≤0.01). Muscle mTOR levels were found to be significantly lower in all diabetic groups compared to controls (p≤0.01). Although muscle myostatin levels were higher in the diabetic groups, this increase was only significant in the D4 group. Plasma ghrelin levels were significantly lower in all diabetic groups compared to controls (p≤0.01). A positive correlation was determined between plasma ghrelin levels and the final weights, muscle cross-sectional area, gastrocnemius weights and mTOR levels of the rats. Time-dependent muscle atrophy developed in diabetic rats and there was a relationship between muscle atrophy and plasma ghrelin level. We suggest that ghrelin plays a role in diabetes-induced muscle atrophy as well as cachexia and sarcopenia.

The EC50 of propofol with different doses of dexmedetomidine during gastrointestinal endoscopy: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

The goal of this study was to evaluate the dose-response relationship between dexmedetomidine and propofol in sedating patients and to determine the optimal dosage of dexmedetomidine during gastrointestinal endoscopy. One hundred fifty patients were divided into 5 groups, each receiving a loading dose of dexmedetomidine (0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0 µg/kg) or saline, with propofol for sedation. The median effective concentration (EC50) of propofol was calculated using the modified Dixon up-and-down approach. Adverse effects, vital signs, procedure, and recovery times were recorded. The EC50 of propofol in groups NS, D0.4, D0.6, D0.8, and D1.0 were 3.02, 2.44, 1.97, 1.85, and 1.83 µg/mL, respectively. Heart rate in the dexmedetomidine groups decreased more than the NS group (P < .001). The mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the NS group experienced a decline compared to groups D0.8 and D1.0 when the plasma concentration and effect-site concentration reached equilibrium. Additionally, the respiratory rate was found to be lower in groups NS, D0.4, D0.6, and D0.8 (P < .05). Recovery time in groups D0.8 and D1.0 was longer than the NS group (P < .05). Bruggemann comfort scales score was higher in group D1.0 (P < .05). No significant difference was found in the incidences of hypotension and bradycardia, and the dose of ephedrine and atropine. Respiratory depression was significantly reduced in groups D0.8 and D1.0 compared to the NS group. A single dose of 0.6 to 0.8 µg/kg of dexmedetomidine should be recommended in combination with propofol for gastrointestinal endoscopy. And the EC50 of propofol is 1.97 to 1.85 µg/mL.

Intravenous Bolus of Dexmedetomidine for Treatment of Severe Shivering After Caesarean Delivery Under Combined Spinal-Epidural Anaesthesia: A Randomized Dose-Response Study.

Shivering occurs frequently after caesarean delivery. The present study aimed to investigate the ED50 and ED95 of an intravenous (i.v.) bolus of dexmedetomidine for treating severe shivering after caesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia. Seventy-five parturients with severe shivering after caesarean delivery were randomized into one of the five groups to receive an i.v. bolus of 0.2 (Group D1), 0.25 (Group D2), 0.3 (Group D3), 0.35 (Group D4) or 0.4 (Group D5) μg/kg of dexmedetomidine. Effectiveness of shivering treatment was defined as a standardized shivering score decreasing to ≤1 within 10 min of dexmedetomidine injection. The ED50 and ED95 were determined by probit regression. Adverse effects were also compared among the groups. The ED50 and ED95 of i.v. dexmedetomidine to treat severe shivering were 0.23 (95% CI, 0.16-0.26) μg/kg and 0.39 (95% CI, 0.34-0.52) μg/kg, respectively. No difference in the incidence of adverse effects was found between groups. An i.v. bolus of 0.39 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine will treat 95% of parturients experiencing severe shivering after caesarean delivery.

Serum vitamin D concentrations in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are more affected by UVB irradiation of food than irradiation of animals

Rabbits kept under ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiation respond with increasing serum vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, but it is unknown whether irradiation of the animals or their feed contributes more. Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups for a four-week period: the control group (C) received no UVB-exposure and non-irradiated hay (ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) concentration 2.22 µg/100 g dry matter). The direct exposure group (D) was provided with 12 h of UVB-irradiation daily and fed the same hay as group C in shaded areas to prevent UVB-irradiation thereof. The indirect exposure group (I) did not receive direct UVB-irradiation but was fed hay of the same batch that was exposed to 12 h of UVB-irradiation (vitamin D2 6.06 µg/100 g dry matter). Serum 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, ionised calcium, total calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium concentrations were measured weekly. There was no systematic effect on serum mineral concentrations. The serum 25(OH)D2 concentrations were significantly higher in group I compared to groups C and D from the second week onwards. 25(OH)D3 concentrations increased only in group D, with significant differences to both other groups from the third week onwards, yet at lower magnitudes than the noted increase of 25(OH)D2 in group I. Total 25(OH)D concentrations were highest in group I, intermediate in group D and lowest in group C. Serum total 25(OH)D concentration was more affected by UVB-irradiation of rabbits’ feed than by direct irradiation of the animals themselves. If rabbit serum total 25(OH)D concentrations should be managed, diet manipulation rather than animal UVB-exposure appears to be more effective.

Delay of reinforcement switches attention between elements of a compound stimulus in humans, Reynolds (1961) revisited

One experiment in instrumental conditioning studied the effect of delayed reinforcement on attention, considered as the stimulus control produced by each element of a compound sample stimulus (CSS). A two-element (shape and color) CSS indicated the response to be reinforced between three comparison stimuli in an online matching-to-sample task with human participants. Forty-eight university students were assigned to three groups with different reinforcement delays: 0 s, 8 s, and 16 s (D0, D8, and D16). After learning the task, a separate test took place, with the elements of the CSS presented separately. Group D0 responded more to the shape. The D8 group responded to both elements, while the D16 group responded more to the color. Results showed that attention to each element of the CSS changes as reinforcement delay increases. These findings are similar to those of Urcelay and Miller (2009) on Pavlovian conditioning, pointing out similarities between Reynolds’ findings and Pavlovian overshadowing.

Molecular evidence of cherry leaf roll virus isolate from the phylogenetic group D1 infecting black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in Ukraine

Molecular evidence of cherry leaf roll virus isolate from the phylogenetic group D1 infecting black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in Ukraine

Evaluation of the Quality of Recovery from General Anesthesia in Dogs with Two Different Low Doses of Dexmedetomidine.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of recovery from general anesthesia with the administration of two low doses of dexmedetomidine in canine patients. For this blind randomized clinical trial study, 30 dogs undergoing general anesthesia for diagnostic procedures or elective surgery (ovariectomy/castration) were included. The patients were randomly divided into three groups, and at the end of anesthesia, they received a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 1 mcg/kg IV (D1), or a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 0.5 mcg/kg (D0.5), or a bolus of NaCl, in a total of 0.5 mL of solution for all three groups. After administration of the bolus, the anesthetist monitored the patients every 5 min by measuring heart rate, systolic and mean blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. The quality of recovery was also assessed using 4 different scales. The extubation time, time of headlift, and standing position were also recorded. Both groups receiving dexmedetomidine had better awakening and a lower incidence of delirium when compared to saline administration. The heart rate was lower, while the systolic pressure was higher in the two groups D1 and D0.5 compared to the NaCl with a low presence of atrioventricular blocks. The extubation time resulted significantly higher in the D1 (17 ± 6 min) compared to the D0.5 (10 ± 4 min) and NaCl (8 ± 3 min) (p < 0.0001); the headlift time D1 (25 ± 10 min) resulted significantly longer than the NaCl group (11 ± 5 min) (p = 0.0023) but not than the D0.5 (18 ± 9 min). No significant differences were found among the three groups for standing positioning (D1 50 ± 18 min, D0.5 39 ± 22 min, NaCl 28 ± 17 min). The preventive administration of a bolus of dexmedetomidine at a dosage of 0.5 mcg/kg or 1 mcg/kg IV during the recovery phase improves the quality of recovery in patients undergoing general anesthesia.

Comparison of short-term outcomes of D2 and D3 lymph nodes dissection for colon cancer

Background. D3 lymph node dissection remains controversial in colon cancer surgery.Aim. To compare the short-term of D2 and D3 lymph nodes dissection for colon cancer.Materials and methods. Design of the study – prospective randomize controlled study. Inclusion criteria: age over 18 years, colon adenocarcinoma cT3–4n0–2m0, patient consent to participate in the study. Exclusion criteria: distant metastases diagnosed preoperatively, cTis–T2, cT4b (pancreas, stomach, small intestine, ureter, bladder, kidney), emergent cases (limited to tumor perforation, acute bowel obstruction), history of previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy, synchronous or metachronous cancer, pregnancy or breastfeeding, refusal to participate in the study. withdrawal criteria were exploratory laparotomy/laparoscopy or other reasons for refusing resection.Results. A total of 436 patients were included in the study no differences were found in the clinical characteristics of groups D2 and D3. In the D2 lymph node dissection group the incidence of unintentional vascular injuries was in 7 (3.2 %) patients, in the D3 lymph node dissection group – in 15 (6.9 %) patients (p = 0.12). The operating time increased by 30 minutes in D3 lymph node dissection group (p p = 0.42). Hartmann’s procedure was performed in 2 (0.9 %) patients in the D2 lymph node dissection group. Complications IIIb were recorded in 5 (2.3 %) and 9 (4.1 %) patients in lymph node dissection groups D2 and D3, respectively (p = 0.42). Anastomotic leakage was not observed in the D2 lymph node dissection group; in the D3 lymph node dissection group, it was diagnosed in 3 (1.4 %) patients (p = 0.25). postoperative multiple-organ failure (Iv) or mortality (v) were not observed. grade 3 quality of the specimen was observed in 160 (73.4 %) patients in the D2 lymph node dissection group, 163 (74.8 %) in the D3 lymph node dissection group (p = 0.79). The median number of lymph node harvested was 11 more in the D3 lymph node dissection group (p &lt; 0.001). Apical lymph nodes were positive in 5 (2.3 %) patients in the D3 lymph node dissection group. There was no difference between the groups in R0 resection margin.Conclusion. D3 lymph node dissection is safe in terms of short-term outcomes in the treatment of colon cancer.