Low Index Research Articles

Multi-scale structural and In vitro digestion properties of amino acids-tiger nut starch complexes and applications in noodles

Protein and its hydrolysates play crucial roles as nutritional components in daily diets and additives in food processing, their effect on starch digestion attracted extensive attention. In this study, tiger nut starch (TNS) mixed with multiple type of amino acids were subjected to annealing (ANN) treatment. Through the analysis of morphological characteristics, physicochemical properties, molecular structure, and enzyme inhibition effects of these amino acids, the mechanism of diverse in vitro digestion properties of the resulting mixtures were examined. Our findings revealed that the addition of phenylalanine (Phe), lysine (Lys), and histidine (His) significantly reduced rapidly digestible starch (RDS) content while increasing levels of slowly digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) content (p<0.05). Phe, Lys, and His were found to influence digestion properties through molecular interactions, as indicated by analyses of relative crystallinity (RC) and short-range order. Notably, Lys and His exhibited notable amylase inhibition effects consequently enhanced enzyme resistance, particularly His on α-amylase (11.98%) and Lys on α-glucosidase (89.33%). Finally, wheat noodles prepared with TNS-Lys and TNS-His showed favorable processing properties and digestion resistant, highlighting their promising applications in low glycemic index foods.

Preparing a Phytosome for Promoting Delivery Efficiency and Biological Activities of Methyl Jasmonate-Treated Dendropanax morbifera Adventitious Root Extract (DMARE).

(1) Background: Methyl jasmonate-treated D. morbifera adventitious root extract (MeJA-DMARE), enriched with phenolics, has enhanced bioactivities. However, phenolics possess low stability and bioavailability. Substantial evidence indicates that plant extract-phospholipid complex assemblies, known as phytosomes, represent an innovative drug delivery system. (2) Methods: The phytosome complex was created by combining MeJA-DMARE with Soy-L-α-phosphatidylcholine (PC) using three different ratios through two distinct methods (co-solvency method: A1, A2, and A3; thin-layer film method: B1, B2, and B3). (3) Results: Initial evaluation based on UV-Vis, entrapment efficiency (EE%), and loading content (LC%) indicated that B2 exhibited the highest EE% (79.98 ± 1.45) and LC% (69.17 ± 0.14). The phytosome displayed a spherical morphology with a particle size of 210 nm, a notably low polydispersity index of 0.16, and a superior zeta potential value at -25.19 mV. The synthesized phytosome exhibited superior anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting NO and ROS production (reduced to 8.9% and 55.1% at 250 μg/mL) in RAW cells and adjusting the expression of related inflammatory cytokines; they also slowed lung tumor cell migration (only 2.3% of A549 cells migrated after treatment with phytosomes at 250 μg/mL), promoting ROS generation in A549 cell lines (123.7% compared to control) and stimulating apoptosis of lung cancer-related genes. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, the MeJA-DMARE phytosome offers stable, economically efficient, and environmentally friendly nanoparticles with superior inflammation and lung tumor inhibition properties. Thus, the MeJA-DMARE phytosome holds promise as an applicable and favorable creation for drug delivery and lung cancer treatment.

Natural coil springs: Biomechanics and morphology of the coiled tendrils of the climbing passion flower Passiflora discophora

Tendrils of climbing plants possess a striking spring-like structure characterized by a minimum of two helices of opposite handedness connected by a perversion. By performing tensile experiments and morphological measurements on tendrils of the climbing passion flower Passiflora discophora, we show that these tendril springs act as coil springs within the plant's attachment system and resemble technical coil springs. However, tendril springs have a low spring index and a high pitch angle compared with typical metal coil springs resulting in a more complex loading situation in the plant tendrils. Moreover, the tendrils undergo a drastic shift from the fresh turgescent stage to a dried-off and dead senescent stage. This entails changes in material properties (elastic modulus in tension), morphology (tendril and helix diameter, number of windings), anatomy (tissue composition), and failure behavior (susceptibility to delamination) and reduces the degree of elasticity and strain at failure of the tendrils. Nevertheless, senescent tendrils remain functional as springs and maintain high energy dissipation capacity and high break force. This renders the system highly energy efficient, as the plant no longer needs to metabolically sustain the died-back tendrils. Because of its energy-storing spring system, its high energy dissipation and high safety factor, the attachment system can be considered a ‘fail-safe’ system. Statement of significanceThe use of coil springs as mechanical devices is not restricted to man-made machinery; striking spring structures can also be found within the attachment systems of climbing plants. Passiflora discophora climbs by using long thin tendrils with adhesive pads at their tips. Once the pads have attached to a support, the tendrils coil and form a spring-like structure. Here, we analyze the form and mechanics of these ‘tendril springs’, compare them with conventional technical coil springs, and discuss changes in the tendril springs during plant development. We reveal the main features of the attachment system, which might inspire new artificial attachment devices within the emerging field of plant-inspired soft-robotics.

Optimizing Desmostachya bipinnata-derived platinum nanoparticles for enhanced antibacterial and biofilm reduction

This study presents the green synthesis and comprehensive characterization of platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) using Desmostachya bipinnata (Db) extract, incorporated into two innovative mouthwash formulations (MW1 and MW2). UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed the successful synthesis of PtNPs, with distinct absorption peaks between 250 and 600 nm. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups, critical for the bioreduction and stabilization of PtNPs. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) revealed uniformly dispersed, spherical nanoparticles with a size range of 10–20 nm, while dynamic light scattering (DLS) confirmed a hydrodynamic diameter of 10–30 nm and a low polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.238, indicating excellent stability. Both formulations exhibited robust antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anti-plaque properties, with MW2 showing superior efficacy, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as well as a notable 70 % reduction in biofilm formation and a 60 % plaque reduction within 2 h of treatment. The study underscores the potential of Desmostachya bipinnata-derived PtNPs as a promising alternative to conventional mouthwash, offering enhanced antimicrobial efficacy, biofilm disruption, and plaque prevention, alongside excellent stability and biocompatibility for oral healthcare applications.

Ansa Cervicalis Stimulation Effects on Upper Airway Patency: A Structure-Based Analysis.

Ansa cervicalis stimulation (ACS) of the infrahyoid muscles has been proposed as a neurostimulation therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). ACS stabilizes the pharynx by pulling it caudally, but its specific effects on flow limitation caused by palatal, oropharyngeal lateral wall, tongue base, or epiglottis collapse remains unclear. To quantify the effect of ACS on collapsibility of different pharyngeal flow-limiting structures. Participants with OSA underwent bilateral ACS during drug-induced sleep endoscopy. Maximum inspiratory airflow was assessed over a range of positive airway pressures while ACS was applied. The flow-limiting structure for each breath was classified based on manometric and endoscopic findings and a linear mixed-effects model characterized their response to ACS. The influence of patient characteristics was explored with univariate models. Forty-one participants yielded 1761 breaths for analysis. On average, bilateral ACS decreased the observed pharyngeal critical closing (PCRIT) and opening (POPEN) pressures by -3.0 [95% confidence interval: [-3.6, -2.3] and -3.7 [-4.4, -3.0] cmH2O, respectively (p<0.001). During tongue base obstruction, modeled ACS effects for PCRIT and POPEN were -2.0 [-2.7, -1.4] and -3.1 [-3.8, -2.4] cmH2O, respectively (p<0.001). Greater reductions were generally observed for other flow-limiting structures. A lower apnea-hypopnea index was associated with a greater decrease in POPEN (p<0.01). Other patient characteristics, including body mass index, did not influence PCRIT or POPEN (p>0.05). Bilateral ACS decreased collapsibility of all airway flow-limiting structures. ACS generally had greater effects on palatal, oropharyngeal lateral wall, and epiglottic collapse than the tongue base.

Breast Reconstruction in Patients with Prior Breast Augmentation: Searching for the Optimal Reconstructive Option.

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer in patients with prior breast augmentation poses unique challenges for detection, diagnosis, and management. Mastectomy rates are increasing, and patients with prior augmentation often have a lower body mass index, making autologous techniques unsuitable. This study aims to assess the best reconstructive option in patients with a history of subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation. Materials and methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Patients with subglandular or dual-plane breast augmentation were included. Patients were divided into submuscular breast reconstruction (Group 2) or prepectoral breast reconstruction (Group 1) groups. Demographic and surgical data were collected. Results: A total of 47 patients were included, with 23 in Group 1 and 24 in Group 2. Complications occurred in 11 patients (23.4%), with significant differences between groups. The most common complication was seroma formation. Implant loss occurred in 4.3% of cases in Group 1, while no implant loss was observed in Group 2. Patient-reported satisfaction scores were similar between groups at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Subpectoral breast reconstruction with a tissue expander seems a safer and effective technique for patients with prior breast augmentation. It resulted in fewer complications. This approach should be considered as an option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in this cohort of patients.

Evaluating the ability of the Wind Erosion Prediction System (WEPS) to simulate near-surface wind speeds in the Inland Pacific Northwest, USA

Wind speed is one of the main control factors of wind erosion and dust emissions, which are major problems in arid and semiarid regions of the world. Accurately simulating highly precise hourly wind speeds is critical and cost-efficient for land management decisions with the goal of mitigating wind erosion and land degradation. The Wind Erosion Prediction System (WEPS) is a process-based, daily time-step model that simulates changes in the soil–vegetation–atmosphere. However, to date, relatively few studies have been conducted to test the ability of the WEPS in simulating hourly wind speeds. In this study, the performance of the WEPS model was tested in the Inland Pacific Northwest (iPNW), where wind erosion is a serious problem. Hourly wind speeds were observed and simulated by the WEPS at 13 meteorological stations from 2009 to 2018 using the WEPS hourly wind speed probability histogram. Owing to increasing wind shear, the model is not as precise in reproducing high wind speeds. The WEPS inadequately simulated the hourly wind speeds at six of the 13 stations, with a low index of agreement (d < 0.5). The complex regional topography may be one of the reasons for this lack of agreement, because the WEPS’s performance of interpolation relies on spatial distances and surface complexity. Therefore, we validated the model using another wind-speed database to eliminate the impact of spatial interpolation. The performance of the WEPS was improved after removing the impact of spatial interpolation, producing d values > 0.5 at nine of the 13 stations. Our results suggest that the WEPS can accurately simulate hourly wind speeds and assess wind erosion in the absence of interpolation, whereas the model may be uncertain when invoking spatial interpolation. Some evidence also suggests that the model may have a tendency to underestimate observed hourly wind speeds. Pragmatically, this suggests that model users should consider the possibility that WEPS may underestimate wind erosion risk in the iPNW and plan implementation of conservation practices accordingly.

Antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of ethanol extracts from Syzygium cumini L. Skeels and Pogostemon cablin Benth

Syzygium cumini and Pogostemon cablin are mostly cultivated in tropical climates for culinary and perfumery purposes, yet their potential medicinal properties remain underreported. The aim of this study was to examine the antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of ethanol extracts from S. cumini (EESC) and P. cablin (EEPC). Reflux extraction was carried out using 96% ethanol on the collected plant specimens to produce EESC and EEPC. Secondary metabolites of each extract were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extracts were measured for total phenol and flavonoid levels and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. The immunomodulatory activity test was carried out in vivo by assessing several parameters, including the phagocytic index via the carbon clearance method, organ indices, antibody titers, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, using sheep red blood cells (SRBC) as antigens. The extracts were also examined for their anti-inflammatory activity in acute and chronic inflammation models. In the DPPH antioxidant test, EESC and EEPC had IC50 values of 12.33 µg/mL and 182.17 µg/mL, respectively. Both extracts showed immunosuppressant activity, marked by a phagocytic index of &lt;1. EESC yielded lower organ indices for the liver (p=0.025 at 200 mg/kg BW), spleen (p=0.028 at 100 mg/kg BW), and thymus (p=0.032 at 200 mg/kg BW) compared to the control group. For EEPC, lower organ indices were observed in the liver at 100 mg/kg BW (p=0.005) and 200 mg/kg BW (p=0.031). In the primary antibody titer and DTH tests, both EESC and EEPC showed immunosuppressant activity at 200 and 400 mg/kg BW (p&lt;0.05). The extracts suppressed both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Both EEPC (p=0.004) and EESC at 100 mg/kg BW (p=0.03) significantly reduced serum TNF-α levels. In conclusion, EESC and EEPC have the potential as immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents.

Extracorporeal Blood Purification and Acute Kidney Injury in Cardiac Surgery

Cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) remains a significant problem following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Various strategies are proposed to attenuate CSA-AKI, including extracorporeal blood purification (EBP), but little is known about the effect of EBP through an acrylonitrile-sodium methallylsulfonate/polyethyleneimine membrane during CPB. To determine whether the use of an EBP device in a nonemergent cardiac surgery population reduces CSA-AKI after CPB. This double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2 tertiary hospitals in Spain. Patients 18 years or older undergoing nonemergent cardiac surgery who were at high risk for CSA-AKI were enrolled from June 15, 2016, through November 5, 2021, with follow-up data through February 5, 2022. Of 1156 patients assessed, 343 patients were randomized (1:1) to either receive EBP or standard care. Nonselective EBP device connected to the CPB circuit. The primary outcome was the rate of CSA-AKI in the 7 days after randomization. Among 343 patients randomized (169 to receive EBP and 174 to receive usual care), the mean (SD) age was 69 (9) years and 119 were females. The rate of CSA-AKI was 28.4% (95% CI, 21.7%-35.8%) in the EBP group vs 39.7% (95% CI, 32.3%-47.3%) in the standard care group (P = .03), with an adjusted difference of 10.4% (95% CI, 2.3%-18.5%) using a log-binomial model (P = .01). No significant differences (P > .05) were observed in most of the predefined clinical secondary end points or post hoc exploratory end points. In a sensitivity analysis, EBP was found to be more effective in terms of CSA-AKI reduction in patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, low left ventricular ejection fraction (<40%), and lower body mass index (<30). No differences were observed between the groups in adverse events tracking. The use of a nonselective EBP device connected to the CPB circuit in a nonemergent population of patients undergoing cardiac surgery was associated with a significant reduction of CSA-AKI in the first 7 days after surgery. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02518087.

Predictors of Poor Outcomes in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients Admitted to the Emergency Department With COVID-19: A Prospective Study.

Objectives Long-term consequences of COVID-19 in the post-pandemic era are still being investigated. Despite the growing data on COVID-19, there remains a lack of information regarding predictors of poor outcomes among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with COVID-19. Methods A single-center prospective cohort study was conducted with a total of 172 adult COPD patients with COVID-19 pneumonia included. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted to define independent factors associated with ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation, or all-cause mortality in 30 days following COVID-19 pneumonia. receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses evaluated the diagnostic performance of the independent predictors. Results Out of all the patients, 73 (42.4%) experienced poor outcomes. Lower forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (OR= 0.949, p= 0.004), higher radiological severity score (OR= 1.15, p= 0.004), and lower respiratory rate oxygenation (ROX) index (OR= 0.867, p<0.001) were independently associated with poor outcomes.ROX index was found a better predictor of poor outcome than oxygen saturation (SaO2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) and partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)/FiO2 ratio (area under the curve (AUC)=0.80 vs. 0.73, p=0.01; AUC= 0. 80 vs. 0.63 p=0.001). A significant decline in FEV1 values compared to baseline values was observed (55.9 ±12.9 vs. 62.1±10.0; p<0.001). Conclusion Lower baseline FEV1, higher COVID-19 radiological severity score, and lower ROX index are strongly associated with poor outcomes in COPD patients with COVID-19.

Factors and prediction model associated with resumption of social outings in stroke survivors 6 months after onset: a multicenter prospective study

ABSTRACT Objectives To identify factors associated with the resumption of social outings 6 months after stroke onset and develop a simple clinically practical prediction model. Materials and methods Participants were recruited from first-ever stroke survivors admitted to three rehabilitation wards, and resumption of social outings 6 months after stroke onset was assessed using the Japanese version of the Frenchay Activities Index. The association of physical and cognitive functions with activities of daily living at admission to the rehabilitation ward and resumption of social outings 6 months after stroke onset was examined using logistic regression and decision trees. Results Notably, 63.2% of the 57 stroke survivors who participated in this study had lower Frenchay Activities Index scores for social outings 6 months after stroke onset than before. Logistic regression analysis revealed that attention deficit and grooming on the Functional Independence Measure (FIMTM) were significantly associated with decreased social outing scores 6 months after stroke onset. A decision tree model was created to predict the resumption of social outings using the presence or absence of attention disorders and FIMTM grooming score (>2 or ≤ 2). Conclusions The results of this study suggest that attention deficit and beyond a certain level of independence in grooming (FIMTM >2) at admission to the rehabilitation ward are associated with recovery to the pre-stroke level of social outings 6 months after stroke onset. The decision tree created in this study holds promise as a simple model to predict the resumption of social outings among stroke survivors.

Unwinding the Threads of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Cutting-Edge for the Management of Inflammation: An Updated Review.

Inflammation serves as a protective response to combat cellular and tissue damage. There is currently a wide array of synthetic and traditional therapies available for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. However, it is necessary to create a drug delivery system based on nanotechnology that can improve the solubility, permeability, and bioavailability of current treatments. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) are inorganic materials known for their organised porous interiors, high pore volumes, substantial surface area, exceptional selectivity, permeability, low refractive index, and customisable pore sizes. This review offers concise insights into the progression of the pathophysiology of inflammation, as well as the inducers, mediators, and effectors that are involved in the inflammatory pathway. This study focuses on the growing significance of MSNPs in the treatment of neuroinflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritic inflammation, lung inflammation, and wound healing applications. This review also presents the latest information on the crucial role of MSNPs in delivering herbal medicines for the treatment of inflammation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted for this aim, utilising the Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases. A systematic review was undertaken utilising scholarly articles published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2024. The inflammatory mediators involved in the pathophysiology of inflammation include platelet-activating factor, lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase, Interferon-α, interleukin-6, interleukin- 1β, matrix metalloproteinases, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nuclear factor-κB, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, and phospholipase A2. MSNPs have the potential to be used in the treatment of neuroinflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritic inflammation, lung inflammation, and wound healing. The investigation of the MSNPs of plant-based compounds such as berberine, tetrahydrocannabinol, curcumin, and resveratrol has shown successful results in recent years for the purpose of managing inflammation. This review demonstrates that MSNPs have a strong potential to play a positive role in delivering synthetic and plant-based therapies for the treatment of inflammatory illnesses.

Fluorine fluid experimental determination of the refractive index, spectral and thermal variation, and transparency quantification of the MezzoCielo telescope

The MezzoCielo (or "half of the sky") is a telescope that aims to revolutionize the way astronomical observations are carried out: once operational, it will be able to continuously patrol the whole sky due to its extremely large field of view estimated to be around 104 square degrees, showing, at the same time, the spatial resolution required for scientific purposes. It is a monocentric optical device designed on the concept of an optical sphere; the latter requires the filling of its inner volume with special fluid in order to be actually convergent with a reasonable focal ratio (for spherical aberration reduction). This fluid must exhibit two main properties, namely, a low refractive index and an extremely high transparency in the visible range. In addition, many other characteristics are also required: thermal and chemical stability over time, no toxicity or flammability, and compatibility with glass and metals are some examples. On the basis of these considerations, two fluorine liquids have been selected: the fluids commercially known as FC-72, perfluorohexane with n d = 1.251 at T = 25°C, and Novec7200, ethoxy-nonafluorobutane with n d = 1.282 at T = 25°C. In this work, the experimental evaluation of their optical properties (refractive index and transparency) in the visible range and in the thermal interval [-10,+25]°C has been carried out in order to verify the data supplied by the manufacturer and to fully characterize their optical behaviour both spectrally and thermally. All the employed techniques have been firstly applied to commercial pure water, for which extensive literature could be used as reference for the procedures validation.

Spatial and historical patterns of sedimentary organic matter sources and environmental changes in the Ross Sea, Antarctic: implication from bulk and n-alkane proxies

Organic carbon (OC) burial in the Antarctic marginal seas is essential for regulating global climate, particularly due to its association with ice shelf retreat. Here, we analyzed total OC (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), radiocarbon isotope, n-alkanes and relative indicators in surface and core sediments from the Ross Sea, West Antarctica. Our aim was to investigate spatial and historical changes in OC sources, and to explore the influencing factors and implications for ice shelf retreat since the last glacial maximum (LGM). Our results revealed distinct spatial patterns of OC sources as indicated by n-alkane indicators in surface sediments. In the Western Ross Sea, n-alkanes predominantly originated from phytoplankton and bacteria, as evidenced by their unimodal distribution, low carbon preference index (CPI) of short-chain n-alkanes (CPIL = 1.41 ± 0.30), and low terrestrial/aquatic ratio (TAR = 0.22 ± 0.14). In the Southwest Ross Sea, n-alkanes were derived from marine algae and terrestrial bryophytes, indicated by bimodal distribution, low ratio of low/high molecular-weight n-alkanes (L/H = 0.62 ± 0.21), low CPI of long-chain n-alkanes (CPIH = 1.18 ± 0.16), and high TAR (1.26 ± 0.66). In contrast, the Eastern Ross Sea exhibited n-alkanes that were a combination of phytoplankton and dust from Antarctic soils and/or leaf waxes from mid-latitude higher plant, as suggested by both unimodal and bimodal distributions, high L/H (1.60 ± 0.58) and CPIH (2.04 ± 0.28), and medium TAR (0.61 ± 0.30). Geologically, during the LGM (27.3 – 21.0 ka before present (BP)), there was an increased supply of terrestrial OC (TOC/TN = 13.63 ± 1.29, bimodal distribution of n-alkanes with main carbon peaks at nC17/nC19 and nC27). From 21.0 to 8.2 ka BP, as glaciers retreated and temperatures rose, the proportion of marine n-alkanes significantly increased (TOC/TN = 9.09 ± 1.82, bimodal distribution of n-alkanes with main carbon peaks at nC18/nC19 and nC25). From 8.2 ka BP to the present, as the ice shelf continued to retreat to its current position, the marine contribution became dominant (TOC/TN = 8.18 ± 0.51, unimodal distribution of n-alkanes with main carbon peak at nC17/nC18/nC19, and low TAR (0.41 ± 0.32)). This research has significant implications for understanding the variations in Antarctic OC sources and their climatic impacts in the context of accelerated glacier melting.

HEART RATE VARIABILITY IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS AND TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES

Objective of the study: To investigate the state of the autonomic nervous system in athletes based on heart rate variability indicators. Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 142 male athletes (67 football players and 75 track and field athletes) aged 17-20 years, with an average age of 18.5±1.5 years. Depending on the type of higher nervous activity, athletes were divided into 4 groups: sanguine (41.55%), choleric (28.87%), phlegmatic (19.01%), and melancholic (10.56%). Heart rate variability (HRV) was studied using the "BioMouse" system. A t-test for independent samples (Welch's t-test) was used to analyze the significance of differences between the groups. Results of the study: It was found that the highest adaptive capabilities were observed in phlegmatic athletes, who demonstrated high SDNN and HF values, as well as a low tension index (IN). Their calm temperament allows for better adaptation to physical exertion and maintaining a balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity. The lowest adaptive capabilities were observed in melancholics, who showed high IN and LF values, as well as low SDNN and HF, indicating an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system and lower resilience to physical stress. Overall, beginner athletes tended to have slightly higher heart rates and lower HRV indicators (SDNN), LF, and HF compared to more experienced athletes of the 2nd-3rd ranks. This is due to the fact that first-year athletes have not yet fully adapted to physical loads, leading to more pronounced dominance of the sympathetic nervous system and less parasympathetic activity. KEYWORDS: variability, heart rate, athletes, football players, track and field athletes, autonomic nervous system, physical exertion

Silver and Copper Nanoparticles Hosted by Carboxymethyl Cellulose Reduce the Infective Effects of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli:F4 on Porcine Intestinal Enterocyte IPEC-J2.

Zero-valent copper and silver metals (Ms) nanoparticles (NPs) supported on carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were synthesized for treating Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli fimbriae 4 (ETEC:F4), a major cause of diarrhea in post-weaned pigs. The antibacterial properties of Cu0/CMC and Ag0/CMC were assessed on infected porcine intestinal enterocyte IPEC-J2, an in vitro model mimicking the small intestine. The lower average particle size (218 nm) and polydispersity index [PDI]: 0.25) for Ag0/CMC, when compared with those of Cu0/CMC (367 nm and PDI 0.96), were explained by stronger Ag0/CMC interactions. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and half inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Ag0/CMC were lower in both bacteria and IPEC-J2 cells than those of Cu0/CMC, confirming that silver nanoparticles are more bactericidal than copper counterparts. IPEC-J2, less sensitive in MNP/CMC treatment, was used to further investigate the infective process by ETEC:F4. The IC50 of MNP/CMC increased significantly when infected IPEC-J2 cells and ETEC were co-treated, showing an inhibition of the cytotoxicity effect of ETEC:F4 infection and protection of treated IPEC-J2. Thus, it appears that metal insertion in CMC induces an inhibiting effect on ETEC:F4 growth and that MNP/CMC dispersion governs the enhancement of this effect. These results open promising prospects for metal-loaded biopolymers for preventing and treating swine diarrhea.

Sedimentary factors controlling the organic matter enrichment in oil shale, Seyitömer Lacustrine Basin, Western Anatolia: New implications from organic and inorganic geochemistry

AbstractWestern Anatolia, an important segment of the Alp‐Himalayan Belt, hosts numerous Neogene lacustrine basins with potential oil shale reserves surpassing 1.6 billion tonnes. Among these basins, the Seyitömer Basin (Kütahya) stands out, containing oil shales that are intercalated with claystone, marl, limestone and coal layers. This study presents a comprehensive dataset of organic and inorganic chemistry to gain insight into the palaeoclimate and palaeoenvironmental factors that control the enrichment of organic matter. The studied samples exhibit high total organic carbon contents, averaging 12.85% (ranging from 2.22 to 36.21%), high hydrogen indices (486–812 mgHC/g rock) and low oxygen indices (33–70 mgCO2/g total organic carbon), indicating their substantial hydrocarbon‐source potential. These characteristics indicate predominantly ‘excellent’ to occasionally ‘very good’ source rock qualities and very high oil potential. Their pyrolysis, gas chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometer parameters indicate an immature‐early mature characteristic for Seyitömer oil shale samples. They comprise dominantly Type‐I kerogen with minor Type‐II kerogen and lacustrine algal organic matter. Their sedimentological characteristics, along with various geochemical values, such as total organic carbon versus S, B versus Ga and dibenzothiophene/phenanthrene, reveal a moderately deep fresh/brackish to saline lacustrine environment. The Ga/Rb, K/Al and Sr/Cu ratios suggest dominantly humid and warm climate conditions, occasionally interrupted by periods of less humidity. The prevalence of warm and humid climate conditions leads to intense chemical weathering processes, supported by high Chemical Index of Alteration and low Rb/Sr ratios in the associated oil shale samples. Intense chemical weathering and high runoff resulted in dissolved nutrient enrichment, promoting ecological dynamics favourable to increased productivity. Their low Pr/Ph and Mo/total organic carbon ratios, high Ni/Co ratio and, relatively low MoEF/UEF ratio, along with well‐developed lamination of the oil shales, indicate the presence of anoxic conditions in the bottom water. These anoxic conditions would have facilitated the preservation potential of organic matter in the samples. Thus, the palaeoclimate conditions integrated with sedimentary factors have an important role in the ecological dynamic and physical–chemical environmental conditions, ultimately contributing to the organic matter enrichment of the studied samples. This work provides a case study to better understand the sedimentary factors controlling organic matter enrichment in the lacustrine basins of the Alp‐orogenic belt.

Outcomes and Cost-Effectiveness of Hospital Outpatient Versus Ambulatory Surgery Center Lumbar Decompression Surgery.

Retrospective Chart Review. Outpatient spinal surgeries in Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) have gained traction due to their potential cost efficiencies and improved perioperative processes. This study aims to compare the cost-effectiveness and patient outcomes of lumbar laminectomies performed in hospital settings vs ASCs. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 771 patients who underwent 1 or 2-level outpatient laminectomy between 2019 and 2023. Patient demographics, 90-day and one-year clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and one-year episode of care costs were evaluated. A one-year cost-effectiveness analysis was performed using the EQ-5D to measure quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). ASC patients demonstrated lower body mass index and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores, with a higher prevalence of 1-level laminectomies compared to hospital patients. ASC-based laminectomy was associated with lower initial surgery cost and one-year episode of care costs ($5662 ± 4748 vs $10229 ± 9202, P < 0.001), with similar rates of complications and postoperative resource utilization. These trends remained after controlling for patient demographics, comorbidities, and number of levels treated. In patients completing baseline and 1-year EQ-5D scores, ASC-based laminectomy was over twice as cost-effective as hospital procedures ($64873/QALY gained vs $152630). The findings support the safety and one-year cost effectiveness of ASCs for appropriately selected patient populations undergoing lumbar laminectomy. Additional studies are needed to replicate these findings across institutions, and to assess the cost effectiveness of ASC-based laminectomy beyond one-year postoperatively.

Calf circumference-albumin index significantly predicts the prognosis of older patients with cancer cachexia: A multicenter cohort study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the combined prognostic value of calf circumference (CC) and serum albumin on mortality in patients with cancer cachexia aged ≥65 years. MethodsThis multicenter cohort study involved 5322 older patients in hospital with cancer cachexia. The combined indicator of CC and albumin was defined as the calf circumference-albumin (CCA) index. Harrell's C index, a time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, was used to assess the prognostic performance of the CCA index and other indices. The optimal thresholds method was used to determine the cutoff values of CC and albumin, and the association between the CCA index and all-cause mortality was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard regression models. ResultsA total of 3875 men and 1447 women with a mean age of 72.0 years (range: 68.0–78.0 years) and a mean follow-up time of 55.0 months (range: 25.0–85.0 months) were included in the study. A total of 1269 patients were classified into the low CCA index group (0 score) by the optimal thresholds method. In the overall population, the CCA index showed better differentiating power at predicting mortality in older patients with cancer cachexia compared with CC or albumin alone (C index = 0.639; 95% CI: 0.612–0.666; P < 0.05). The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the CCA index had the highest prognostic value of all the measures studied (P < 0.05). In the overall population, male and female patients with a high CCA index (2 score) showed better performance than those with a low CCA index (0 or 1 score). ConclusionsThe CCA index could significantly predict the mortality of older patients with cancer cachexia, which might provide renewed assistance for future clinical management.

8790 A Case Of Ectopic Cushing’s Syndrome Secondary To Diffuse Idiopathic Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Cell Hyperplasia (DIPNECH)

Abstract Disclosure: T. Goettemoeller: None. R. Lopez Fanas: None. K. Cedeno: None. A. Manavalan: None. Introduction: Ectopic Cushing’s syndrome is a rare disease accounting for &amp;lt;20% of cases of endogenous Cushing’s syndrome. DIPNECH is a poorly understood lung disease characterized by abnormal proliferation of neuroendocrine cells in the bronchial mucosa. It can be a precursor to pulmonary carcinoid tumors and has rarely been associated with ACTH production. Clinical Case: A 70-year-old female with intellectual disability and hypertension presented with diffuse edema and weakness. Examination was notable for hypertension, anasarca, and hirsutism. In addition to hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis, hypercortisolism was observed: random serum cortisol - 50.1 ug/dL, late-night salivary cortisol - 1.72 mcg/dL (normal &amp;lt; 0.09 mcg/dL) and 24-hour urine free cortisol - 1,845.9 mcg (normal: 4.0 – 50.0 mcg/24h). Cortisol level remained &amp;gt; 25 ug/dL after high-dose dexamethasone suppression test. Ketoconazole was initiated and titrated to achieve normal 24-hour urine free cortisol levels and spironolactone was added to manage hypokalemia. An MRI of the sella and pituitary was unremarkable while an abdomen and chest CT identified a 2.5 cm well-circumscribed right middle lobe pulmonary nodule and mild thickening of the bilateral adrenal glands. A gallium-DOTATATE scan revealed a 2.1 cm right middle lobe pulmonary nodule with mildly increased uptake. A transbronchial biopsy of the right middle lobe nodule confirmed a carcinoid tumor. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was positive for CHR, SYN, CD56, and AE1/3. Ki-67 stain showed a low proliferative index. A right middle lobectomy was performed with pathology revealing two typical carcinoid tumors measuring 2.8 and 0.7 cm each, with multiple carcinoid tumorlets and foci of neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia consistent with DIPNECH. IHC staining for ACTH was positive in the carcinoid tumors and tumorlets. Four days after surgery, AM cortisol was 8.1 ug/dL and potassium levels and blood pressure normalized off ketoconazole and spironolactone. The patient was discharged, but was readmitted a month later for anasarca, lethargy, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis. A recurrence of Cushing’s syndrome was confirmed, and medical therapy was resumed. A chest CT revealed post-surgical changes. Her course was complicated by an aspiration event, septic shock, PEA arrest, resuscitation, and intubation. The patient’s care was ultimately transitioned to hospice. Conclusion: Florid Cushing’s syndrome due to ectopic ACTH production associated with DIPNECH is an exceedingly rare condition. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent the numerous complications that may arise, and close follow-up after tumor removal is critical to ensure continued remission has been achieved. Presentation: 6/1/2024