Mean Bi Research Articles

Periodontal disease indicators in adults with and without physical activity: a comparative analysis

Introduction: The intriguing link between periodontal disease severity and physical activity remains largely understudied, particularly in the Saudi Arabian population. Thus, the current research was intended to ascertain the effect of physical activity on the prevalence and indicators of periodontal diseases. Materials: The cross-sectional approach with convenience sampling was applied to the recruitment of 160 adult subjects attending gymnasiums, sports clubs, malls, primary health centres, and community dental health programs. Based on IPAQ scores, the participants were split into two distinct groups: a physically active group and a physically inactive group. The two study groups were compared with one another in terms of recorded parameters. The gathered data subsequently underwent statistical processing using SPSS 20.0. Results: Of the 160 subjects, 66.87% (n = 107) had gingivitis and 33.12% (n = 53) periodontitis. A lower mean PI (1.62±0.31) was observed in the physically active group compared to the physically inactive group (6.91±1.12). The physically active group had a mean BI of 19.01±4.53 and the inactive group 69.98±9.29. For physically active and inactive groups, mean PD measurements were 2.49±0.33 mm and 4.61±0.07 mm, respectively.Physically active individuals had a significantly lower mean CAL (2.98±0.88 mm) compared to the inactive group (5.37±1.02 mm). Parametric variances between groups are statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Insufficient engagement in physical activity has undeniably been identified as a risk factor for the development and severity of periodontal disease, marked by escalated indicators of gingivitis and periodontitis. The study findings unequivocally endorse the adoption of a consistent physical activity regimen as strategic initiatives to proactively address the incidence of inflammatory periodontal diseases. Many patients with different psychophysical characteristics seek periodontal therapy at dental clinics. This study alerts clinicians to the impact of physical inactivity in a wide-spectrum population and helps identify periodontal risk in sedentary patients. It also aids in treatment planning for these periodontally risky, physically inactive people. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.23 (Special Issue) 2024 p.S20-S25

Association of carotid intima-media thickness with periodontitis may depend on glycemic control.

There is evidence indicating that atherosclerosis is associated with periodontitis, especially in those with diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether glycemic control influences such association. Cross-sectional data on 214 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus were obtained including results of basic laboratory tests, a periodontal examination, and carotid measurements. The association of periodontal parameters and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) or carotid plaque (CP) was evaluated in subgroups. Mean cIMT was significantly correlated with mean PLI, mean BI or number of PD ≥4 mm in the whole sample and the group with poor glycemic control. In the group with good glycemic control, however, only the number of PD ≥4 mm was associated with mean cIMT. A multiple logistic regression analysis also revealed that each 1 increase in mean PLI, mean BI or number of PD ≥4 mm was correlated with an increased cIMT in the whole sample. In addition to confirming the relationship between periodontitis and atherosclerosis, our study found a stronger association in groups with poor glycemic control compared to those with good glycemic control, suggesting that blood glucose modifies the association between periodontitis and arterial injury.

Centroid for Solving Bi-Level Linear Fractional Programming Problems with Fuzzy Interval Coefficients by Utilizing MO-Technique

This paper presents an efficient and straightforward methodology with less computational complexities to title the bi-level objective linear fractional programming problem with fuzzy interval coefficients (BILOLFPP with FIC). To construct the methodology, the concept of mean technique is utilized to tackle the fuzzy numbers in addition to adding to α = [mean (ai) , mean (bi)] , i = 1, …, n, then. Accordingly, the fuzzy programming issue is converted into a single objective linear fractional programming problem (SOLFPP with FIC) by the utilize of weight function. The fuzzy technique has significant structural transform metamorphosis during the recent decades. Numerous to mention introduced have been undertaken to explanation fuzzy methodology for linear, non-linear programming issues. While, the previous finding that introduced have been conflicting, recent studies of competitive situations indicate that LFPP with fuzzy interval coefficients (LFPP with FIC) has an advantageous effect mostly on comparison situation. One of the suggestions which we found is interval approximations, closed interval approximation of sequential fuzzy number for resolving fuzzy number LFPP without changing it to a crisp issue. A new variant of modified simplex methodology is studied here just for resolving fuzzy number LFPP utilizing fuzzy arithmetic. Consequently, fuzzy representation of some important theories of fuzzy LFPP has been reproved. A fuzzy LFPP with FIC is worked out as numerical examples illustrate to the suggested methodology. On iterative processes, it decreases the overall processing time to explain, the modified simplex methodology for solving BILLFPP with FIC with out to crisp by taking numerical examples and compare with Nasseri, Verdegay and Mahmoudi methodology changing it to a crisp issue [9].

Climate variability and Aedes vector indices in the southern Philippines: An empirical analysis.

BackgroundVector surveillance is an essential public health tool to aid in the prediction and prevention of mosquito borne diseases. This study compared spatial and temporal trends of vector surveillance indices for Aedes vectors in the southern Philippines, and assessed potential links between vector indices and climate factors.MethodsWe analysed routinely collected larval and pupal surveillance data from residential areas of 14 cities and 51 municipalities during 2013–2018 (House, Container, Breteau and Pupal Indices), and used linear regression to explore potential relationships between vector indices and climate variables (minimum temperature, maximum temperature and precipitation).ResultsWe found substantial spatial and temporal variation in monthly Aedes vector indices between cities during the study period, and no seasonal trend apparent. The House (HI), Container (CI) and Breteau (BI) Indices remained at comparable levels across most surveys (mean HI = 15, mean CI = 16, mean BI = 24), while the Pupal Productivity Index (PPI) was relatively lower in most months (usually below 5) except for two main peak periods (mean = 49 overall). A small proportion of locations recorded high values across all entomological indices in multiple surveys. Each of the vector indices were significantly correlated with one or more climate variables when matched to data from the same month or the previous 1 or 2 months, although the effect sizes were small. Significant associations were identified between minimum temperature and HI, CI and BI in the same month (R2 = 0.038, p = 0.007; R2 = 0.029, p = 0.018; and R2 = 0.034, p = 0.011, respectively), maximum temperature and PPI with a 2-month lag (R2 = 0.031, p = 0.032), and precipitation and HI in the same month (R2 = 0.023, p = 0.04).ConclusionsOur findings indicated that larval and pupal surveillance indices were highly variable, were regularly above the threshold for triggering vector control responses, and that vector indices based on household surveys were weakly yet significantly correlated with city-level climate variables. We suggest that more detailed spatial and temporal analyses of entomological, climate, socio-environmental and Aedes-borne disease incidence data are necessary to ascertain the most effective use of entomological indices in guiding vector control responses, and reduction of human disease risk.

Role of fluoxetine in pharmacological enhancement of motor functions in stroke patients: A randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind trial

BackgroundStroke is the primary cause of disability worldwide, the second most common cause of dementia and the third leading cause of death. Only few studies were conducted to study the role of fluoxetine in motor recovery in either ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients with probably less severe paresis. However, the current study evaluates both the effectiveness and safety of fluoxetine in the stroke population with a more severe motor deficit. MethodsPatients who had acute or subacute stroke with hemiparesis and aged between 18 and 80 years with medical research council (MRC) scale score <4 were included in this randomized, Single-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 1:1 ratio to placebo or fluoxetine 20 mg/day orally for 90 days. The primary outcome measures were changes in barthel index, time taken to complete nine hole peg test and number of hand tapping movements in 30 s by the affected limb between baseline, 45th day and 90th day. The secondary outcome measure was evaluation of the drug tolerability. ResultsA total of 168 patients were assigned to fluoxetine (n = 84) or placebo (n = 84) group. Mean BI score significantly improved at 90th day in fluoxetine group (70.42 ± 10.56) than in placebo group (44.23 ± 8.52). Mean dexterity value decreased significantly at 90th day (2.61 ± 0.81) compared to baseline (3.98 ± 0.53) in fluoxetine group. However higher rate of decrease of mean dexterity value was seen in fluoxetine group when compared to placebo group. Mean number of hands tapping movements in 30 s increased significantly at 90th day (16.33 ± 3.58) compared to baseline (9.83 ± 2.92) in fluoxetine group. Few ADR reported during this study were dizziness, drowsiness and insomnia. ConclusionThe present study indicates that early prescription of fluoxetine is safe and may enhance motor function in patients presenting with severe motor impairments after stroke. However, the findings of the study should be confirmed in future controlled studies with large sample size.

Potentially Inappropriate Medications, Drug-Drug Interactions, and Anticholinergic Burden in Elderly Hospitalized Patients: Does an Association Exist with Post-Discharge Health Outcomes?

Polypharmacy is very common in elderly patients and is associated with detrimental outcomes. Our objective was to evaluate the associations between a large panel of therapy quality indicators, including explicit lists of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs; Beers criteria and Screening Tool of Older Persons' potentially inappropriate Prescriptions [STOPP] criteria), the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) score, and the number of drug-drug interactions (DDIs), with respect to mortality, rehospitalization, and physical function decline within 3months from hospital discharge in a cohort of hospitalized elderly patients. We studied 2631 individuals aged ≥ 65years (median age 79.6; males 48.6%) enrolled in the REPOSI registry. The relationships with mortality and rehospitalization were evaluated using Cox regressions, and relationships with functional status change (as percentage variation of Barthel Index [BI]) were evaluated using mixed linear models. None of the studied indicators was associated with mortality and rehospitalization. Conversely, only ACB was associated with physical function decline, even after correction for confounders (adjusted mean BI variation of -7.55%; 95% confidence interval [CI] -12.37 to -2.47). The number of medications at discharge, particularly polypharmacy (more than five drugs daily), were the only therapy-related factors associated with mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.05 [95% CI 1.01-1.10] and 1.70 [95% CI 1.12-2.58], respectively) and rehospitalization (aHR 1.05 [95% CI 1.01-1.08] and 1.31 [95% CI 1.01-1.71], respectively). Polypharmacy, a very simple measure, outperformed sophisticated PIM and DDI indicators of quality of therapy as a correlate of primary clinical outcomes, whereas ACB was associated with physical function decline. Thus, innovative approaches to the definition and research of PIMs and DDIs are eagerly awaited from the perspective of averaging the quantitative burden and qualitative interaction of drugs.

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a Mixed-Valence Bismuthate, Na3Bi3O8.

Four types of bismuth oxides, Na3Bi3O8, NaBiO3, α-Bi2O3, and ε-Bi2O3, were obtained by hydrothermal reactions using NaBiO3·nH2O in NaOH solution. The crystal structure of a new phase (Na3 Bi3+)Bi25+O8 ((Na0.75Bi0.25)2BiO4) was determined by using single crystal X-ray diffraction data, and this compound was found to show a Na2MnCl4-related structure with a monoclinic system (space group, Pm) with the following lattice parameters: a = 5.990 (2) Å, b = 3.335 (2) Å, c = 10.108 (2) Å, and β = 91.08 (3)°. The final R-factors R1 and wR2 were 0.041 and 0.090 (all data), respectively. The new phase was composed of mixed valence states of Bi (Bi3+ and Bi5+, with a mean Bi valence of 4.30) with five distinct Bi sites, where two Bi5+ (Bi1 and Bi2) fully occupied the distorted octahedral sites and three Bi3+ (Bi3, Bi4, and Bi5) were statistically distributed at the split sites with Na+ (Na3, Na4, and Na5). The Na6 site is fully occupied. The distorted Bi5+O6 octahedra formed one-dimensional chains via edge-sharing along the b-axis, with the chains held by Bi3+/Na+ split sites. The structural feature except for the split distribution of Bi3+/Na+ was classified as a Na2MnCl4-type structure. DFT calculations based on a model discounting the split distribution of Bi3+/Na+ indicated that Bi 6s and O 2p orbitals form sp hybridization at the conduction band. This new mixed valence bismuth oxide exhibited photocatalytic activity for phenol degradation under visible light irradiation. In addition to Na3Bi3O8, the hydrothermal reaction using NaBiO3·nH2O in NaOH solution yielded micrometer-sized single crystals of an ilmenite-type NaBiO3 and two polymorphs of bismuth oxides with monoclinic (α-Bi2O3) and orthorhombic (ε-Bi2O3) structures, depending on the reaction temperature and NaOH concentration.

Oral Health Impact Profile and Self-perception of Patients in Brazil with Implant-supported Prostheses

Introduction: Implant supported prosthetic rehabilitation could re-establish the comfort and bring a confident smile to patients, allowing them to eat properly and to lead a social life free of traumas and complexes. Aim: To verify which type of implant-supported rehabilitation- overdenture or fixed denture effectively restores the comfort of the lower arch of partial edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional clinical study was performed in patients with completely edentulous lower arch treated with either overdenture (2 implants) or fixed denture (5-6 implants), obtained from a sample from Southern Brazil. The study sample was composed of 37 volunteers who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Half of them were rehabilitated with overdenture (O- ring and bar) and the other half with fixed denture (Branemark protocol). A clinical evaluation was performed to obtain the Index of Plaque (PI) and bleeding on probing indexes (BI). Three questionnaires were applied to quantify the patient’s level of satisfaction with their prosthetic treatment (OHIP-EDENT and masticatory ability questionnaires) up to one year after installation of the prosthesis. Results were analysed by the Mann-Whitney test (α=0.05). Results: All treatments were considered satisfactory regarding masticatory ability. However, fixed dentures had a statistically higher level of satisfaction compared to overdenture. There were significant differences in the mean PI and BI index between the groups. Conclusion: Both rehabilitation treatments increased the satisfaction and improved the oral health and masticatory ability of edentulous patients. However, although patients rehabilitated with fixed dentures presented higher level of satisfaction, they also showed higher plaque and bleeding on probing indexes.

138-LB: Digital-Tool-Supported Basal Insulin (BI) Titration: Real-World Effectiveness of My Dose Coach in India

Appropriate insulin titration is critical in helping people with T2DM meet glycemic targets, but rates of successful self-adjustment are low, highlighting a need for additional support. My Dose Coach (MDC) is an FDA-approved digital tool that combines a smartphone app for people with T2D and a web portal for healthcare professionals (HCPs). HCPs define an individualized long-acting BI dose plan, which MDC uses to give dose recommendations based on the user’s fasting blood glucose (FBG) readings and hypoglycemic event data. MDC was introduced in India in 2018. We evaluated real-world outcomes from people with T2D in India who were registered for MDC between Sep 1 and Dec 31, 2018. FBG and BI dose were logged directly by users in the MDC app. Users who reached goal were defined as those who logged three consecutive FBG measurements within their prescribed target range during their care plan. There were 337 people who were registered with MDC and had logged &amp;gt;1 FBG reading; 113 (34%) reached their FBG goal, 27 (8%) were still titrating and 197 (58%) were no longer actively using MDC (discontinued without reaching goal). Mean (SD) time to FBG target in the ‘at goal’ cohort was 25 (26.9) days. In this cohort, mean (95% CI) FBG at baseline was 165.8 (156.4, 175.1) mg/dL, which decreased to 108.0 (106.7, 109.2) mg/dL at goal (p&amp;lt;0.001). Mean (95% CI) BI dose increased from 16.2 (15.1, 17.4) units at baseline to 19.4 (17.6, 21.2) units at goal (p=0.012). Over the entire observation period, 35% of participants in the ‘at goal’ group experienced hypoglycemia (FBG &amp;lt;70 mg/dL or below individual HCP-defined cut-off of at least 70 mg/dL); mean 0.62 events. Most participants who continuously used MDC were able to successfully titrate BI and achieve target FBG. These data are very encouraging, showing the potential for simple digital titration tools, in appropriately selected people with T2D, to engage users in their own care, decrease the HCP burden and accelerate FBG target achievement in a resource-limited setting. Disclosure K.D. Modi: None. S. Jha: None. M. Panda: None. V. Raskar: Advisory Panel; Self; Sanofi. Speaker’s Bureau; Self; AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Novo Nordisk A/S, Sanofi. D. Mittal: None. R. Ghosh: Employee; Self; Sanofi. S. Griffen: Employee; Self; Sanofi. S. Abubucker: None. M. Saleh: Employee; Self; Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH. Funding Sanofi

Physical activity among hospitalized older adults \u2013 an observational study

BackgroundLow level of physical activity is common among hospitalized older adults and is associated with worse prognosis. The aim of this paper is to describe the pattern and level of physical activity in a group of hospitalized older adults and to identify factors associated with physical activity.MethodsWe measured physical activity on day three after admission using accelerometer based activity monitors and time in upright position as outcome measure. We collected data of physical function (Short Physical Performance Battery, SPPB. 0–12), cognitive function (Mini Mental Status Examination, MMSE, 0–30 and diagnosis of cognitive impairment at discharge, yes/no), personal Activities of Daily Living (p-ADL, Barthel Index, BI, 0–20) and burden of disease (Cumulative Illness Rating Scale, CIRS, 0–56). We analyzed data using univariable and multivariable linear regression models, with time in upright position as dependent variable.ResultsWe recorded physical activity in a consecutive sample of thirty-eight geriatric patients. Their (mean age 82.9 years, SD 6.3) mean time in upright position one day early after admission was 117.1 min (SD 90.1, n = 38). Mean SPPB score was 4.3 (SD 3.3, n = 34). Mean MMSE score was 19.3 (SD 5.3, n = 30), 73% had a diagnosis of cognitive impairment (n = 38). Mean BI score was 16.4 (SD 4.4, n = 36). Mean CIRS score was 17.0 (SD 4.2, n = 38). There was a significant association between SPPB score and time in upright position (p = 0.048): For each one unit increase in SPPB, the expected increase in upright time was 11.7 min. There was no significant association between age (p = 0.608), diagnosis of cognitive impairment (p = 0.794), p-ADL status (p = 0.127), CIRS score (p = 0.218) and time in upright position. The overall model fit was R2 0.431.ConclusionParticipants’ mean time in upright position one day early after admission was almost two hours, indicating a high level of physical activity compared to results from similar studies. Physical function was the only variable significantly associated with physical activity indicating that SPPB could be a useful screening tool and that mobilization regimes should be delivered routinely for patients with reduced physical function.

Comparison of 3-Month Stroke Disability and Quality of Life across Modified Rankin Scale Categories

Background and Purpose: Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-2 has been used to define “good outcome” while stroke patients with mRS 3 are grouped with mRS 4-6 as having “poor outcome.” Long-term data comparing quality of life (QoL), particularly across the mRS 2, 3, and 4 subgroups, are sparse. Methods: Participants in the Interventional Management of Stroke 3 (IMS3) trial with documented 3-month mRS, functional disability (Barthel index [BI]), and self-reported EQ5D-3L QoL questionnaires at 3 months after stroke were included. EQ5D-3L summary indices were calculated using published utility weights for the US population. BI and EQ5D-3L indices were compared across mRS categories using multiple pairwise comparisons with appropriate alpha error corrections. Results: Four hundred twenty-three patients were included (mean age 64 ± 13 years, median baseline NIHSS 16 [IQR 12-19], mean BI 84.1 ± 25.3, and mean EQ5D-3L index 0.73 ± 0.24). While significant differences in BI were observed across mRS categories, QoL in the mRS 2 and 3 categories was similar. Based on BI and EQ5D-3L index, mRS 3 status was more similar to mRS 2 than to mRS 4 status, and large heterogeneity in the mRS 3 group was observed. Conclusions: Ischemic stroke patients who achieve mRS 2 and 3 functional outcomes seem to have similar health-related QoL scores. mRS 0-3, rather than 0-2, should be considered a good outcome category in moderate to severe ischemic stroke.

Effect of using fluoxetine at different time windows on neurological functional prognosis after ischemic stroke.

To evaluate the effect of using fluoxetine at different time intervals after ischemic stroke on neurological functional prognosis in China. The patients enrolled were randomly allocated to three groups. Group A received fluoxetine 20 mg/day immediately; group B received fluoxetine 20 mg/day 7 days after enrollment; and group C did not receive fluoxetine. The therapeutic duration of fluoxetine was 90 days and the follow-up period was 180 days. The mean NIHSS score at day 90 was significantly lower in group A than group C (P = 0.005), while at day 180, the mean score in group A was significantly lower than groups B and C (P = 0.035, P = 0.000), respectively. The mean BI score at day 90 was significantly higher in group A than group C (P = 0.001), while at day 180, the mean score in group A was significantly higher than groups B and C (P = 0.036, P = 0.000), respectively. Regression analysis indicated that lower NIHSS score and higher BI score at day 180 were attributed to the early administration of fluoxetine. In patients with ischemic stroke, early administration of fluoxetine may improve the neurological functional prognosis.

Stratigraphic variation in ichnofabrics at the “Shackleton Site” (IODP Site U1385) on the Iberian Margin: Paleoenvironmental implications

Ichnofabric analysis was conducted on cores from Site U1385 (IODP Expedition 339) to interpret paleoenvironmental conditions at the southwest margin of the Iberian Peninsula during the Pleistocene. Site U1385 provides an important record for the study of orbital and suborbital-scale climate variability, changes related to ocean/atmosphere dynamics, and affected environmental parameters. A detailed study of the ichnofabric characterization is presented, focusing on the types of ichnofabrics, relative abundance, amount of bioturbation, grouping, ichnofabric succession/transitions and vertical distribution. Seven ichnofabrics were differentiated; green mottled ichnofabric, Planolites ichnofabric, Taenidium &Planolites ichnofabric, Thalassinoides-like &Palaeophycus ichnofabric, Planolites &Thalassinoides/Thalassinoides-like ichnofabric, Zoophycos ichnofabric, and Chondrites ichnofabric. They exhibit significant differences in terms of ichnofabric features as well as in their stratigraphic distribution. The most abundant ichnofabrics are Planolites &Thalassinoides/Thalassinoides-like ichnofabric and green mottled ichnofabrics, with a dominance of the middle tier ichnofabrics. The degree of bioturbation is moderate, with a mean BI around 3, but showing a clear bimodal distribution: one group of intervals is characterized by high bioturbation (BI=6), while another displays low-moderate BI values (BI=1–2). In general, ichnofabric features confirm generally good environmental conditions (oxic environment and high food availability) for the macrobenthic tracemaker community, especially favorable in the uppermost part of the sediment. A complete ichnofabric succession, from deep to shallow tier ichnofabrics, is commonly registered (i.e., Zoophycos ichnofabric or Chondrites ichnofabric to Planolites &Thalassinoides/Thalassinoides-like ichnofabric, and then either to green mottled ichnofabric, or to Planolites ichnofabric and then green mottled ichnofabric). However, there are some intervals where an incomplete succession between deep and shallow ichnofabrics is observed (i.e., Chondrites ichnofabric to green mottled ichnofabric or Zoophycos ichnofabric to green mottled ichnofabric), indicating relevant modifications of environmental parameters such as oxygen or food supply. Types of ichnofabrics and the Bioturbation Index show significant short-term changes through the studied core. Such variations are probably correlated to millennial-scale climatic perturbations, such as glacial terminations and related phenomena (Heinrich events, ice-rafting events, etc.), or long-term cyclic patterns related to orbital climate variability. The patterns could be tied to a significant change in the climate system, such as the one associated with the middle Pleistocene transition.

Recovery of activities of daily living among older people one year after hip fracture.

This article aims to determine the functional recovery of older people, who were previously independent in activities of daily living (ADLs) and without cognitive impairment, in the year following a fall-related hip fracture. A cohort study was carried out among patients admitted to University General Hospital of Albacete (Spain). Consecutive sampling was performed. Variables included demographic, habitual residence, type of hip fracture, mental status (Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire [SPMSQ] Pfeiffer), and independence in ADLs (according to the Barthel Index [BI]) prior to the fall and after the fracture. For 205 patients, 1 year after surgery, the mean BI score was 78.09 (SD = 25.13); (vs. 90.02 before the hip fracture), 59% showed urinary continence (vs. 79%), and 65% walked without assistance (vs. 82%). Regarding predictors of recovery, results indicate that patients who are older, who suffer complications after hospital discharge, or who reside in nursing homes experience poorer recovery in ADLs. Only 47.9% of the patients regained prior levels of autonomy 1 year after surgery.

The effect of citicoline on stroke: A comparative study from the Eastern part of India.

Citicoline is a novel neuroprotective agent used in acute stroke with a significantly favorable outcome. A hundred patients who suffered from either an ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and who presented to the hospital within 48 h of stroke onset were enrolled for the study. Of these 100 patients (age- and sex-matched), 50 patients were treated with citicoline along with the standard stroke management and considered as 'cases'. The other 50 patients who were administered the standard stroke treatment were considered as 'controls.' The baseline parameters of the patients was assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. The patients were reassessed at follow up at the end of the 1st and 3rd month of the commencement of the therapy and their outcome was evaluated by the Barthel Index score (BI). The mean BI scores of all categories at the 1st and 3rd month were significantly higher in the citicoline treatment group (P < 0.001 at the 1st month and P = 0.002 at the 3rd month). An analysis of the categorized BI score showed that there was a significant difference in the number of patients in the categorized BI score (85-100) (at the 1st month follow-up: 0% in control vs. 7% in case group [P < 0.05]; and, at the 3rd month follow-up: 10% in control vs. 36% in citicoline case group [P < 0.05]). In the subgroup analysis, both patients suffering from either ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke (including all categories of BI score) in the citicoline treatment group showed a significantly higher mean BI score at the 1st month (ischemic: P = 0.003, hemorrhagic: P =0.04) and also at the end of the 3rd month (ischemic: P = 0.03, hemorrhagic: P = 0.03). An analysis of the categorized BI score (85-100) at the end of the 3rd month in both the hemorrhagic as well as the ischemic subgroups showed a significant incidence of improvement in the citicoline group compared with the control group (hemorrhagic-- control: 6.66% vs. 31.81%, P < 0.05 and ischemic-- control: 11.41% vs. 35.71%, P < 0.05). In patients suffering from stroke and presenting within 48 h of onset, treatment with citicholine increases the probability of complete recovery and a favorable outcome at the 1st month and at the end of the 3rd month in all the stroke groups.

Genotype and environment interaction and stability analysis for seed yield in yellow mung bean (Vigna radiata L.)

Nine yellow seeded mung (Vigna radiata L.) genotypes were evaluated along with three checks for their yield performance during three years (2007, 2010 and 2011). Pooled analysis of variance and stability analysis were performed. The genotypic (G) × environment (E) interaction and both variance due to genotypes and environment were significant. The portioning of G × E interaction into linear and non-linear components indicated that both predictable and unpredictable components shared the interaction. On the basis of stability parameters, the top yielding genotypes such as BGS-9 (605.444 Kg/Ha), Sel-4 (519.778 Kg/Ha) and China mung (567.000 Kg/Ha) exhibited high mean yield. Based on stability parameters the genotypes YM-5 (459.889 Kg/Ha), YM-8 (451.333 Kg/Ha) exhibited low mean performance along with regression value nearer to unity (bi=1) and non significant deviation from regression (S2 di=0) indicating the high stability and wider adaptability across the three environments. The genotypes BGS-9 (605.444 Kg/Ha) and Sel-4 (519.778 Kg/Ha) exhibited high mean value and bi values (bi&gt;1) and non significant deviation (S2 di &lt; 0) value indicating adapted for high performance environments (These genotypes are sensitive to environments and give maximum yield when inputs are not limited).

Relationship Among and Repeatability of Ten Stability Indices for Grain Yield of Food Lentil Genotypes in Iran

The objective of this research work was to evaluate whether different stability indices of phenotypic stability vary in their repeatability. Lentil yield data of eighteen genotypes, proprietary of Dryland Agricultural Research Institute, evaluated in twelve environments over the 2002-2005 year period in four locations of Iran were used for combined analysis of variance in three datasets. I: Across locations in a single evaluation year (dataset A), II: Across locations in each of two single evaluation year (dataset B) and III: Across all of locations in three years (dataset C). Single year data of yield, of response parameters: coefficient of variation (CVi), Shukla stability variance, deviation mean squares (ER), coefficient of determination (R 2 ), coefficient of regression bi, Wricke ecovalence, and AMMI parameters including: SIPC!, ASV, MASV and D1 were correlated with multi year results. Among different ten stability statistics, only desirability D1 index of Annicchiarico (1997) had highly significant correlation with mean yield. CVi was significant correlated with Shukla variance and Wricke ecovalence, bi, SIPC1 parameter. Shukla variance and Wricke ecovalence indices showed highly significant rank correlation each other and also indicated significant correlated with ER, bi and ASV. Pinthus’s coefficient of determination (R 2 ) showed significant positive correlation with ASV, MASV and bi indices. The ER statistic had positive significant correlations with the mean yield, bi, ASV and MASV stability statistics. SIPC1 parameter indicated positive significant correlation with CVi, Shukla variance, ASV and MASV. D1 Parameter had no significant correlation with ASV and MASV parameters and positive significant correlation with mean yield. Repeatability of three pair years' results (data set C) were highest for bi, R 2 , MASV and D1 parameters where rank correlation coefficients amounted to about 0.70. Repeatability of two pair years' results were highest for yield, SIPC1 and ASV parameters where rank correlation coefficients amounted to about 0.60. The bi, R 2 , MASV and D1 parameters were relatively more repeatable than SIPC1 and ASV parameters in single (dataset A) and 2-year comparisons (dataset B). Although these parameters are indices depended and proportional to yield, provides a superior way to integrate mean performance and stability into a single measure, which can be assessed visually on biplots.

Does Behavioral Intention Predict Physical Activity Behaviors Related to Adolescent Obesity?

BACKGROUND: According to the Theory of Planned Behavior, the single best predictor of a person’s behavior is intention to perform that behavior; with attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control predictive factors of intention. The purpose of this study was to examine the extent behavioral intention predicted physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors linked to childhood obesity . METHODS: A convenience sample of 318 middle school students were administered a129-item valid and reliable instrument. Multiple regression was used to establish predictors for each behavior. RESULTS: The mean BI scores for participating in less than two hours of screen time per day ( M = 12.31, SD = 5.42) and at least 60 minutes of PA per day ( M = 12.84, SD = 7.18) denoted a moderate intent to participate in the behavior. However, 25% and 33% of students indicated a weak intention to participate in the respective behaviors. Regression showed BI was predictive for screen time among overweight students, and participation in PA among all students, ( p < 0.05) . CONCLUSIONS: BI was linked to PA and sedentary behaviors related to obesity prevention in adolescents. On average, students reported moderate intention for each of the behaviors; however, weak intentions existed in over 25% of students, and should be considered when evaluating overall likelihood to participate in the relevant behavior. Students who were overweight or obese had lower intentions to participate in less screen time or more PA, which is important to consider when framing behavior change messages for this population.

Control of muscle sympathetic nerve activity in men and women: calculation of “error signal” and its relationship to resting blood pressure

Sympathetic neural control has a central role in the regulation of blood pressure. In humans, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) is strongly controlled by the arterial baroreflex. Our goal was to evaluate a calculation of blood pressure "error signal" for MSNA burst occurrence and test if there was a gender difference in the relationship between this signal and resting blood pressure. Baseline MSNA was measured in healthy young men (n=49) and women (n=23). T50 (the DBP at which there is a 50% likelihood of an MSNA burst) was calculated. Mean DBP was subtracted from the T50 as an approximate "error signal" for burst activation. We found a positive relationship between this "error signal" and MSNA (bursts/100 heartbeats; BI) in both young men (slope=0.19, r2=0.67, p&lt;0.001) and women (slope=0.32, r2=0.78, p&lt;0.001). Thus, if DBP was lower than T50, there was an increased likelihood of MSNA bursts and vice versa. Women had a greater average "error signal" (i.e., mean T50 ‐ DBP = ‐5 ± 1 in women and ‐2 ± 0.4 in men), a 59 % steeper slope of the error signal:MSNA relationship, and lower mean BI (31 ± 2 vs 42 ± 4, p&lt;0.05), suggesting that mechanisms exist in women to counteract the larger "driving force" for generation of a MSNA burst. These apparent gender differences in control of MSNA may contribute to differences in prevalence of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension. NIH HL83947, UL1‐RR24150, Swedish Research Council 12170.

Independencia para actividades de la vida diaria en ancianos previamente autónomos intervenidos por fractura de cadera secundaria a una caída tras 6 meses de evolución

ObjectiveTo measure recovery of independence in activities of daily living (ADL) 6 months after surgery in elderly patients (previously independent and without cognitive impairment) with hip fracture caused by a fall. MethodWe performed a longitudinal, prospective cohort study of patients who were previously independent for ADL, or had mild dependence, and who showed no cognitive impairment. Consecutive sampling was performed. The variables studied were age, sex, habitual residence, type of hip fracture, mental status (SPMSQ Pfeiffer), and independence in ADL (according to Barthel Index [BI]) prior to the fall and 6 months after the fall. ResultsThe study included 207 patients. There was a predominance of female sex (74.4%) and pertrochanteric fractures (45.9%). The mean age was 80.17 years old (SD=6.95), and 7.7% were institutionalized. Six months after surgery, the mean BI score was 73.37 (SD=26.76) (versus 90.05 before the fall), 16.8% showed urinary incontinence (versus 5.9%), 59.2% walked without assistance (versus 82.4%) and 24.6% climbed stairs unaided (versus 50.7%). The ability to walk down the street was regained in 64.6% (versus 82.1% before the fall). Recovery of autonomy for ADL was statistically significantly lower in patients unable to walk outdoors, who were institutionalized or who had mild cognitive impairment before the fall. ConclusionsOnly 33.6% of patients regained prior levels of autonomy 6 months after surgery.