Ideal Level Research Articles

The Optimal Dietary Sodium or Chloride Level of Broilers Fed a Corn–Soybean Meal Diet from 22 to 42 Days of Age

The objective of this study was to assess the ideal dietary Na or Cl level for chickens from 22 to 42 d of age, utilizing a corn–soybean meal diet that maintains a 1:1 ratio of Na to Cl. At 22 d of age, a total of 288 male broilers of Arbor Acres were selected and randomly divided into one of six treatments. Each treatment contained eight replicates, with six chicks in each replicate. The control chicks were given a basic diet including 0.02% Na and 0.07% Cl without added Na or Cl, while the birds in other treatments were given diets containing different Na or Cl levels (0.13%, 0.19%, 0.25%, 0.31%, and 0.37%). With increasing dietary Na or Cl levels, linear (p < 0.0001) and quadratic (p < 0.0001) increases occurred in ADG, ADFI, and average daily water consumption, while F/G exhibited a linear (p < 0.0001) and quadratic (p < 0.0001) decrease from 22 to 42 d of age in broilers. Linear (p < 0.02) and quadratic increases (p < 0.03) were found in the heart indicator, serum Cl− concentrations, and blood Na+ and Cl− concentrations, whereas the kidney indicator, blood K+ concentrations, and serum K+, UA, and glucose (GLU) concentrations showed a linear (p < 0.04) and quadratic (p < 0.004) decrease with an increase in dietary Na or Cl levels. The excreta water content, liver indicator, and jejunal crypt depth also showed a linear increase (p < 0.02). The ideal levels of dietary Na or Cl were estimated to be 0.07% to 0.12%, based on the most suitable broken-line and asymptotic models (p ≤ 0.0002) using those sensitive indicators mentioned above. It was suggested that the suitable dietary Na or Cl level of 0.12% would adequately fulfill the Na or Cl metabolic demands of chickens from 22 to 42 d of age.

Unveiling Efficiency: A Research Inquiry into Technical Staff Utilization in South Indian Clinical Laboratory using Workload Indicators Staffing Need (WSN) Analysis.

Background Effective clinical laboratories are the need of the hour, they play a significant role in healthcare, providing tests for diagnosis, treatment monitoring. Having skilled and adequate staffing is crucial for clinical laboratories to operate efficiently, manage their workload effectively, and deliver test results in a timely manner. Despite being critical for healthcare delivery, ensuring adequate staffing levels in clinical laboratories remains a complex challenge for healthcare providers worldwide due to resource constraints and workforce shortages. Methods This study evaluates the effectiveness of clinical laboratory staff utilization by considering workload, work pressure, and staffing requirements. We utilized the Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) method to assess the staffing in the clinical laboratory of a tertiary care hospital. Annual hospital statistics were collected for two years from June 2021 to May 2023 to calculate the average number of days (234) worked annually, percentage of workload, distribution of activity time measurement units, and the ratio of needed, surplus, and existing staff. The findings aim to provide valuable insights for optimizing staffing levels and ensuring an efficient laboratory environment. Result The analysis found a significant workforce gap in the laboratory between the current staff numbers and the calculated staffing needs. The WISN ratios ranged from 0.2 to 0.7, indicating the existing 33 staff members face a high workload burden. The calculated ideal staffing level was 46.33 personnel. These results demonstrate staff shortage and excess workload pressure on the current laboratory employees. Conclusion The results highlight the importance of optimizing staffing levels in clinical laboratories to ensure quality service delivery. The WISN methodology can be a useful tool in healthcare facilities for making evidence -based decisions for staff allocation, maximizing the utilization of employee skill sets, and establishing standard staffing benchmarks tailored to the needs of clinical laboratories.

Study on resistance performance of hexagonal hull form with variation of angle of attack, deadrise, and stern for flat-sided catamaran vessel

Abstract The flat-sided hull vessel was designed with the purpose of simplifying hull production by eliminating the requirement for fairing, bending, and assembly of curved panel lines. Nevertheless, implementing the flat hull concept may marginally increase the hull resistance. The objective of the study is to investigate the impact of the hexagonal hull concept on resistance characteristics when altering the deadrise angle, angle of attack, and stern angle. Additionally, the resistance performances of the proposed hexagonal hulls were compared to evaluate the influence of the hull design geometry parameter. The contribution of this work is to identify the configuration of the design parameters to achieve an ideal level of resistance in a hexagonal catamaran hull design. The findings indicate that a greater angle of attack could potentially enhance wave generation and increase the resistance. Despite the increase in the wave resistance coefficient caused by the increment in deadrise angle, the overall resistance was reduced due to the significant reduction in wetted surface area resulting from the greater deadrise angle. As a result, the decrease in friction resistance was more pronounced than the increase in wave resistance. At last, the stern angle can cause a substantial oscillation in the curved line, resulting in a large increase in wave generation and overall resistance, particularly at high speeds.

Automation System of Water Circulation and Fish Feeding in Tilapia Fish Pond with Solar Panel Source

Tilapia cultivation requires good management of water quality and proper feeding to ensure optimal fish growth. One of the main challenges in this process is maintaining the water pH level within ideal limits and providing feed according to the needs of the fish based on their size. In addition, limited access to electricity in some locations makes fish pond management less efficient. This study aims to design an automated water circulation system that is regulated based on the water pH level and automatic feeding according to the needs of the fish, by utilizing solar panels as a power source. This system uses a pH sensor to monitor water conditions in real time and regulate water circulation to maintain ideal pH levels. Feeding is regulated based on the size and number of fish to ensure optimal feed efficiency and fish growth. This system is powered by solar panel energy, so it can operate independently without relying on conventional electricity networks. Test results show that the system is able to maintain water pH stability and automate feeding with high accuracy, while utilizing renewable energy effectively. The use of solar panels not only reduces dependence on electricity, but also reduces operational costs and supports environmental sustainability. This system is expected to increase the efficiency and productivity of tilapia cultivation, especially in areas with limited access to electricity.

Numerical Investigation of Thermal Performance Enhancement of Solar Reservoir using Flash Cycle

The main objective of this research is to model a solar reservoir system located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Solar reservoir acts as both a collector and long-term storage for thermal energy, potentially providing heat for a full year. Using a single input, the latitude angle, solar radiation for the location is calculated. A one-dimensional time-dependent steady-state model is employed to predict the annual temperature behavior within the storage zone of the solar reservoir. The model analyses the temperature range achievable in the lower convection zone (LCZ) of the reservoir. The findings suggest that the LCZ can reach temperatures as high as 80°C. Additionally, the study demonstrates that an increase in feed temperature can improve overall system efficiency. At the end of summer, temperatures as high as 70 °C were observed in the solar pond at a depth of 1.32 m. It reached 26 °C at its lowest point in early April. In an artificial solar pond, salt water is utilised to inhibit convection. There was a 26% concentration of salt NACL at the lake's bottom. The kind and concentration of salt have an impact on the pond's stability. It was determined that 80 g/kg of water is the ideal salt level for the small solar pond. This study demonstrates the potential for maintaining both salinity gradient and thermal performance over an extended period. Future research efforts could benefit from larger-scale experiments that bridge the gap between controlled environments and real-world applications.

Achieving theorical cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with high-volumen training in a phase II cardiac rehabilitation program

Abstract Background and Puropose Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is an interdisciplinary therapeutic program with demonstrated success rates in reducing cardiovascular outcomes. To obtain these benefits, it is important to achieve a level of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRFIt) that should be close to the ideal according to age and gender (theorical). The best way to measure it, is through VO2p, or with its surrogate value in METs-load. In our Phase II CR program, both aerobic and strength training is supervised 3 times per week, but emphasis is placed on weekly aerobic training volume (TVol) for a sufficient dose, in order to guarantee outcomes. Our hypothesis is that with adequate TVol, CRFit will be achieved at ideal levels (theorical). The aim of the study is to evaluate the safety and achievement in CRFit measured by METs-load in patients with heart disease during a high-volume Phase II CR program. Methods Quasi-experimental study of a comprehensive Phase II CR program in which patients were evaluated by initial and final exercise testing. Depending on the result, they were assigned for 4-6 weeks (4 to those patients with >5METs and 6 to those with <5METs) to 3 weekly concurrent training sessions (30 mins of aerobic at 70-85% of their heart rate reserve plus strength training), in addition to the corresponding educational, nutritional and psychological intervention. TVol was calculated by METs/week (METs-minute obtained by ergo or treadmill multiplied by 90 minutes). Progressions were made to achieve a weekly program average TVol>500 METs/week according to guidelines recomendations. An adverse event was defined as malignant ventricular arrhythmias, cardiorespiratory arrest, or death. Results A population of 522 patients was analyzed, 72% men, average age of 58.8 years (+-0.59), with coronary ischemic disease, heart failure and cardiomyopathies as the most common heart diseases. Regarding the average theorical METs (8.23, +-0.6), our patients achieved final average METs of 10.2 (+-0.26) and 90.02% (+-0.53) of attendace (Figure 1). The average of TVol were 637.4 (+-37.35) METs/week. The differential between the initial and final METs (Delta1) was correlated by Spearman with the differential between the final METs and its theorical (Delta2) and a significant moderate correlation was found (r=0.32 Spearman, p <0.001). TVol and Delta2 shows a strong and significant correlation (r=0.72 Spearman, p<0.001) (Figure 2). No adverse events were reported in any of the training sessions. Conclusion The Phase II CR program with concurrent training only 3 times per week but with TVol>600 METs/week is safe and guarantees a CRFit above the ideal level (theorical). We recommend to measure and fullfill training volume as a strategy to achieve promising results in exercise tolerance and functional capacity in patients with heart disease.

Analysis of Optimal Water Levels in the Great Lakes Based on A Comprehensive Satisfaction Function

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the optimal water levels in the Great Lakes to meet the needs of multiple stakeholders and thus achieve sustainable development in the region. The Weight-Function-Synthesis-Optimization (WFSO) model was used in this study. By classifying the water level needs of different interest groups, their respective satisfaction functions are established, and the overall satisfaction function is formed by weighting. In addition, the quadratic polynomial function is used to fit the optimal monthly water level time series of Lake Ontario, and the fitting effect is good, fully reflecting the periodic and seasonal changes in the water level of Lake Ontario. By considering the priorities of various stakeholders, this paper defines an overall satisfaction metric, "allsa," and identifies a time series of monthly optimal water levels for Lake Ontario and beyond. The ideal water level was determined to be 74.9 meters. The study results suggest that maintaining this water level can maximize the satisfaction of ecosystems, transportation, real estate, terminals, and hydropower companies, and promote sustainable development of the region.

Comparison of intensive treatment versus standard treatment in lowering blood pressure and its association with cognitive decline and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background The ideal blood pressure target level for preventing cognitive decline or dementia in patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) remains unclear. Purpose This study aims to investigate whether intensive blood pressure reduction compared to standard treatment is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline or dementia in adults with SAH. Methods PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing intensive treatment versus standard treatment for blood pressure reduction in patients with SAH. A random-effects model was used for analyzing the results, which were presented as relative risk (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity was examined using the I² statistic. Statistical analysis was performed using R software version 4.2.3. Results A total of 5 RCTs and 46,658 patients were included, of whom 23,726 (50,85%) underwent intensive therapy for SAH treatment. The mean age of participants ranged from 62.8 to 80.9 years in the intensive treatment group while it ranged from 63.3 to 80.3 years in the standard treatment group. Occurrence of dementia or probable dementia was significantly lower in the intensive treatment group (3.8% vs. 4,3%; RR 0.88; 95% CI: 0.80 - 0.96; p= 0.0049; I²=0%). Dementia or Cognitive decline (16.4% vs. 18.8%; RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.83 - 0.90; p < 0.000001; I²=0%), and cognitive decline (13.2% vs. 15.2%; RR 0.88; 95% CI 0.80 - 0.98; p= 0.014; I²=53%) also tended towards the intensive treatment group. Additionally, no significant association was found in mortality (6.4% vs. 7.3%; RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.75 - 1.02; p= 0.09; I²=28%) and serious adverse effects (34.4% vs. 35.5%; RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 - 1.06; p=0.73; I²=63%). Conclusion Our study shows that intensive blood pressure treatment is associated with a fewer occurrence of dementia, probable dementia and cognitive decline in comparison to the standard blood pressure target.General Analysis

Identifying and Managing Risks in High-Tech Supply Networks using Explainable Artificial Intelligence

Supply chains have become vital in enabling the smooth movement of material and information in the swiftly changing high-tech industries. By utilising technological innovations like automation and AI, supply chains may improve both safety and effectiveness at every level of the process, from manufacturing to sustainability. The necessity to adjust operations, give the adoption of technology top priority for resilience, and improve supply chain management efficiency. Transformation of the Supply Chain is becoming a choice of subject, when it comes to maintain the ideal inventory levels and Just in Time service deliveries. Both AI and ML are the utmost importance for the maintenance of the inventory or service through the technology. It not only helps in reducing the loss of opportunity costs, but also it resolves the issue of overstocks of any inventory and the enhanced level of service delivery. This ultimately results in the optimum utilization of the resources through the help of technology. Moreover, it is the win-win situation for the customer and provider. Even while technology has only recently begun to be incorporated into supply chains, the manufacturing and distribution sectors have adopted it more quickly, emphasising the need for effective risk identification and mitigation techniques. Notwithstanding the possible advantages of transforming the supply chain, there are obstacles and limitations that make an entire technological shift complex. The chapter also explores the concept explainable AI which can be understood as the set of techniques that makes the decision-making processes of AI systems comprehensible to humans. Acknowledging the inherent complexities and relationships within these chains, the goal of this chapter is to explore risk identification and management in high-tech supply networks. A competent and nimble stakeholder base can manage the complex landscape of the high-tech world through the incorporation of innovative technologies, proactive actions, and constructive alliances.

Enhanced Organic Solvent Nanofiltration Membranes with Double Permeance via Laser‐Induced Graphitization of Polybenzimidazole

AbstractThis study investigates the fabrication of organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) membranes through laser‐induced graphitization of polybenzimidazole (PBI). Employing a CO2 laser, the polymer is converted into graphene, resulting in controlled submicron‐scale porous 3D structures, a feat not achievable with traditional methods such as chemical crosslinking. The effectiveness of this process hinges on precise adjustments of laser parameters, such as fluence, to attain the ideal graphitization levels. The findings indicate that partial graphitization, as opposed to excessive, is crucial for preserving the membrane's microstructure and enhancing its functional properties. The partially graphitized PBI‐LIG (Polybenzimidazole ‒ Laser‐induced Graphene) membranes achieved up to 94% rejection of Congo red from ethanol, with an ethanol permeance rate of 12.14 LMH bar−1—nearly twice that of standard PBI membranes. Additionally, these membranes showcased outstanding chemical stability and solvent resistance, maintaining over 99% structural integrity and experiencing <1% weight loss after prolonged exposure to various industrial solvents over a week. These results highlight the potential of laser‐graphitized PBI membranes for applications in harsh chemical conditions, paving the way for further optimization of high‐performance OSN membranes. This research advances membrane technology, merging laser engineering with materials science, and contributes to environmental sustainability and industrial efficiency.

Cardiovascular Health Among Young Men and Women in Puerto Rico as Assessed by the Life's Essential 8 Metrics.

Cardiovascular health (CVH) in young adulthood is associated with CVD in later life, yet CVH in young adults in the United States falls below ideal levels, with noticeable sex differences. Research on CVH in young adults in Puerto Rico is scarce. This study examined CVH and sex differences in CVH in a large cohort of young adults in Puerto Rico. Data from 2162 Puerto Rican young adults aged 18 to 29 residing in PR were obtained from the PR-OUTLOOK (Puerto Rico Young Adults' Stress, Contextual, Behavioral, and Cardiometabolic Risk) study (2020-2023). Participants were recruited through various media and community outreach. CVH scores, graded on a 0 (worst) to 100 (best) scale, were derived from survey responses, physical exams, and laboratory assays. Linear regression with the margins postestimation command was used to determine adjusted means (95% CIs) for CVH scores by sex, controlling for age, marital status, education, childhood material deprivation, subjective social status, health insurance, and depressive symptoms. CVH was less than ideal (score<80) in 72.6% of the cohort (70.5% of women, 75.9% of men, P<0.05). Men had a significantly lower adjusted mean overall CVH score than women (70.7 versus 73.0) and lower adjusted mean scores for nicotine exposure (78.3 versus 86.7), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (80.6 versus 86.4), and blood pressure (79.5 versus 92.2). Women had a significantly lower adjusted mean physical activity score compared with men (50.4 versus 59.5). Less-than-ideal CVH is notable among young adults, with men having worse CVH than women. These identified sex differences warrant further investigation and the design of interventions to enhance and preserve CVH.

DOES HEALTH LITERACY AND LIFE SATISFACTION PROMOTE HEALTHY EATING AMONG MARRIED WOMEN IN TURKEY?

Healthy nutrition is very important in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall health. This study aimed to assess the influence of health literacy (HL) and life satisfaction on healthy eating habits among married women aged 18-64. The present cross-sectional study was conducted from 2022 to 2023. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with women attending family health centers in the central district of Yozgat province. Data collection instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Healthy Eating Attitudes Scale (HEAS), the Adult Life Satisfaction Scale (ALSS), and the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire-Short Form (EHLS-TR-16). A total of 303 women participated in the study. It was found that 59.4% of the women in the research group exhibited high levels of dietary attitudes, with 26.1% achieving an ideal high level. Women's dietary attitudes were influenced by increased life satisfaction (β=0.359), receiving nutritional information from healthcare professionals (β=0.124), and higher health literacy (β=0.113). No significant relationships were observed between healthy eating attitudes and factors such as age, body mass index, family income level, education level, household size, profession and spouse's profession, and education level. Women with higher life satisfaction, those who receive nutritional information from healthcare professionals, and those with higher health literacy have more positive attitudes toward healthy eating. It is recommended that women receive education on both health literacy and healthy eating.

The effect of ideal body mass index and physical fitness level on dysmenorrhea reduction

Many women experience dysmenorrhea, which affects their daily activities due to physical and psychological symptoms. This study aims to analyze the impact of an ideal body mass index (BMI) and physical fitness level on reducing dysmenorrhea. An experimental research approach with a control group pretest-posttest design was employed. The study involved 92 female students, with a final sample of 80 divided into high and low-fitness groups. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, ensuring they had an ideal BMI, regular menstrual cycles, and experienced dysmenorrhea. Data collection included questionnaires on demographics, BMI, menstrual characteristics, pain intensity, pain quality, and a 2.400 m Cooper physical fitness test. The results revealed that participants with an ideal BMI and high physical fitness showed a significant reduction in dysmenorrhea, with an average decrease of 35,95 and a standard deviation of 4,681. Those with an ideal BMI but low physical fitness also experienced a reduction, with an average decrease of 31,4 and a standard deviation of 1,827. The study concludes that ideal BMI and physical fitness significantly influence the reduction of dysmenorrhea, with a more pronounced effect in those with higher physical fitness levels. Factors such as BMI, diet, and exercise routine are critical in managing dysmenorrhea. Keywords: body mass index, physical fitness, dysmenorrhea, menstrual pain, women’s health

Design of Time Series Fuzzy Segmentation Algorithm for Communication Data Classification

In order to solve the problem that the imbalance of communication data sets leads to a significant increase in classification difficulty, a classification algorithm for fuzzy segmentation of time series is proposed. The principal component analysis method is used to obtain the eigenvector with the largest eigenvalue. The time series of data is established according to the interval number theory. The segmentation target of the communication data time series is characterized by the Langmuir distance measurement function between data and categories. The classification result of fuzzy segmentation is obtained based on the judgment relationship between the difference of fuzzy classification matrix and the closing condition. The experimental results show that the number of data in the three classification situations of the algorithm in this paper is always at the corresponding ideal level, with high accuracy and low error and failure.

Evaluation of a Workplace Diabetes Prevention Program Delivered via Distance Learning: A Qualitative Study.

Little is known about how distance learning impacts delivery of the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) despite a rapid shift to this platform during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency. We explored how a workplace DPP, delivered via distance learning, impacted knowledge, motivation, and behavioral skills of participants throughout the program. We conducted repeated qualitative interviews with distance learning participants at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months from September 2020 to July 2022. Three study team members coded interview data using individual responses as the unit of analysis. We used a thematic approach, using the information-motivation-behavioral skills framework, to analyze responses and generate understanding of the program's impact. The 27 individuals who participated in the interviews (89% women, mean age 56 years) reported the distance learning platform was effective in changing their behavior. The program's focus on food logging and setting limits on specific types of caloric intake was perceived as essential. Education on ideal levels of fat and sugar consumption, lessons on how to read food labels, and dissemination of recipes with healthy food substitutions allowed participants to initiate and sustain healthy decision-making. Strategies to increase physical activity, including breaking up exercise throughout the day, made reaching their goals more feasible. Participants reported food logging and weight reporting, as well as group support during sessions, either sustained or increased their motivation to adhere to the program over time. A workplace DPP delivered via distance learning successfully prompted improvements in the knowledge, motivation, and behavioral skills necessary to increase healthy eating and physical activity among participants.

Identification of the genetic background of laboratory rats through amplicon-based next-generation sequencing for single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping

BackgroundLaboratory rats, as model animals, have been extensively used in the fields of life science and medicine. It is crucial to routinely monitor the genetic background of laboratory rats. The conventional approach relies on gel electrophoresis and capillary electrophoresis (CE) technologies. However, the experimental and data analysis procedures for both of these methods are time consuming and costly.ResultsWe established a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing scheme using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) to address the genetic background ambiguity in laboratory rats. This methodology involved three rounds of PCR and two rounds of magnetic bead selection to improve the quality of the sequencing data. We simultaneously analysed 100 laboratory rats (including rats of 5 inbred strains and 2 in-house closed colonies), and the sequencing depth varied from an average of 108.25 to 5189.89, with sample uniformity ranging from 82.5 to 97.5%. A total of 98.9% of the amplicons were successfully genotyped (≥ 30 reads). Genetic background analysis revealed that all 38 experimental rats from the 5 inbred strains were successfully identified (without a heterozygous allele). For the 2 in-house closed colonies, the average heterozygosity (0.162 and 0.169) deviated from the typical range of 0.5–0.7, indicating a departure from the ideal heterozygosity level. Additionally, we employed multiplex PCR-CE to validate the NGS-based method, which yielded consistent results for all the rat strains. These results demonstrated that this approach significantly improves efficiency, saves time, reduces costs and ensures accuracy.ConclusionBy utilizing NGS technology, our developed method leverages SNP genotyping for genetic background identification in laboratory rats, demonstrating advantages in terms of labour efficiency and cost-effectiveness, thereby rendering it well suited for projects involving extensive sample cohorts.

Process Integration Technique for Targeting Carbon Credit Price Subsidy

Mitigating climate change requires a portfolio of strategies and the use of carbon dioxide removal techniques or negative emissions technologies (NETs) will be necessary to achieve to achieve this goal. However, the high implementation costs of advanced NETs lead to expensive carbon credits, hindering their broad acceptance and use. One potential solution involves governmental support through subsidies, aiming to boost the availability of NET-derived carbon credits. This research uses a graphical technique based on an extension of pinch analysis to identify the ideal subsidy level for carbon dioxide removal, taking into account factors such as carbon pricing, supply, and demand. The proposed approach modifies the limiting composite curve (LCC) methodology to accurately determine the optimal subsidy and establish the baseline amount of subsidized carbon dioxide removal needed. The approach enables the convenient and efficient construction of the LCC using a composite table algorithm. To illustrate the proposed methodology, two case studies composed of different NETs and demand sectors are investigated. The results show the most advantageous subsidy levels for these technologies, providing valuable insights to guide policymakers and investors in their decarbonization efforts. This research contributes to the development of effective governance and investment strategies by optimizing NET subsidy allocation. Such optimization is crucial for facilitating the widespread implementation of these technologies, which are in-line with the global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Clinical utility of NT-pro BNP in patients with acute cardiac failure: an observational study

Background. BNP along with its inactive N-terminal fragment, NT-pro BNP, plays a crucial role as serum biomarkers in the management of heart failure (HF). Increased levels indicate various pathophysiological processes such as cardiac structural and functional abnormalities, myocardial stretching caused by heightened filling pressure, and activation of neuro-hormones. Aim. To evaluate the clinical use of NT-Pro BNP in cases of suspected cardiac failure and its effectiveness in distinguishing between cardiac and respiratory dyspnea. Materials and methods. The research was carried out at Saveetha Medical College in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, as a case-control study. One hundred patients, between the ages of 40 and 70, who were suspected of having Acute cardiac failure, were recruited for the study from January 2023 to January 2024. Results. The proportion of people with cardiac dysfunction as evaluated by Echocardiography was 69% in the study population, and the mean NT pro-BNP was significantly higher among the cardiac dysfunction group as compared to the pulmonary dysfunction group. The NT PRO BNP's predictive validity was shown to be good (AUC 0.871, 95% CI 0.780 to 0.961, p-value &lt;0.001). Conclusion. The current study has tested the sensitivity and various cut-off values of NT Pro BNP and found the cut-off level of ≥1000 may be the ideal cut-off level, as it provided a better combination of sensitivity and specificity (87% and 74.2% respectively). A lower cut-off value (500) leads to an increase in sensitivity (98.6%), at the cost of specificity (64.5%).

The Adverse Impact of Bisphenol A Exposure on Optimal Cardiovascular Health as Measured by Life's Essential 8 in U.S. Adults: Evidence from NHANES 2005 to 2016.

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of global morbidity and mortality, with cardiovascular health (CVH) remaining well below the ideal level and showing minimal improvement in the U.S. population over recent years. Bisphenol A (BPA), a pervasive environmental contaminant, has emerged as a potential contributor to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This cross-sectional study delves into the impact of BPA exposure on achieving optimal CVH, as assessed by the Life's Essential 8 metric, among U.S. adults. Methods: Analyzing data from 6635 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2005 and 2016, BPA exposure was quantified through urinary BPA levels, while optimal CVH was defined using the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 criteria, scoring between 80 and 100. Multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching were employed to evaluate the association between BPA exposure and CVH. Results: This study reveals that individuals in the highest tertile of urinary BPA levels were 27% less likely to attain optimal CVH compared with those in the lowest tertile (OR, 0.73; 95% CI: 0.59-0.92). This negative association persisted across diverse demographics, including age, sex, and race, mirrored in the link between urinary BPA levels and health factor scores. Conclusions: The findings underscore the potential benefits of reducing BPA exposure in enhancing the prevalence of optimal CVH and mitigating the burden of cardiovascular disease. Given the widespread use of BPA, ongoing monitoring of BPA's impact on CVH is essential. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the long-term and causative connections between BPA and CVH. These insights contribute to understanding the complex interplay between environmental factors and CVH outcomes, informing targeted interventions to mitigate cardiovascular disease risk within the population.

Consumer Acceptance of Novel Lucuma Fruit Ice Cream in the US Market.

This study explored the use of lucuma fruit powder in an ice cream formulation for the US market. Six ice cream prototypes were developed using five different lucuma fruit powder variants. A central location test was conducted with frequent ice cream consumers (n = 106) to assess acceptance, attribute intensity rating, ideal intensity levels, and purchase intent against a control sample with caramel flavor. The mean overall liking score for all lucuma ice creams was moderate. The overall, aroma, and flavor liking scores were significantly higher (p < 0.05) for lucuma ice cream samples, whereas the control sample was liked significantly more for texture. The Terrasoul variant of lucuma ice cream was the most liked among all samples, and the control was liked the least. Only the Terrasoul ice cream sample was successful in delivering significantly strong caramel, fruit, and sweet flavor levels; the other lucuma ice cream samples were more comparable to the control. The inclusion of lucuma powder increased powdery mouthfeel perception, negatively impacting texture liking. Consumers perceived all ice cream samples to be weak in flavor and fell short of delivering ideal levels. The US consumers had low-moderate food neophobia scores for lucuma fruit, with 57% showing interest in buying lucuma ice creams.