Mean Levels Research Articles

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) in children with obesity or type 1 diabetes as a marker of endothelial dysfunction: a cross-sectional study.

Pediatric obesity and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) represent two common chronic diseases associated with chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and long-term complications. The aim of the present study was to assess the possible diagnostic and prognostic value of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), a marker of inflammation and impaired endothelial function, in children with the diseases.In this cross-sectional study, children and adolescents with T1DM (N = 41) or obesity (N = 37), aged < 18 years old, and without proteinuria were included, together with children of similar age and without evident morbidity that served as controls (N = 42). Serum samples were obtained during standard outpatient follow up and the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) concentrations were measured using a commercially available sandwich ELISA kit (DUP00, R&D systems). Clinical and biochemical indices that were also assessed include body mass index (BMI) z-score, Tanner stages, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting lipid profile and serum creatinine. Mean serum suPAR levels were significantly higher in patients with obesity compared to patients with T1DM and controls, while children with T1DM had similar suPAR levels to controls. Also, serum suPAR levels showed a negative correlation with age (Spearman rho -0.359, p < 0.001) and serum creatinine levels (Spearman rho -0.334, p = 0.005), and a positive correlation with BMI z-score (Spearman rho 0.354, p = 0.009) in the whole cohort. Conclusion: Serum suPAR may be a useful predictive marker of inflammation or endothelial dysfunction for children with obesity and T1DM, as well as a promising therapeutic target. Further studies are needed in order to clarify whether the reported differences in suPAR levels could reflect a greater impairment of the inflammation status and endothelial function in children with obesity compared to children with T1DM. What is Known: • Paediatric obesity and type 1 diabetes are characterised by chronic inflammation and metabolic dysregulation. • Urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) has been proposed as a useful biomarker for chronic inflammation and cardiovascular risk in adults. What is New: • Serum suPAR levels were increased in children and adolescents with obesity compared to those with T1DM and healthy controls; thus, obesity may affect the inflammatory status and endothelial function to a higher degree than T1DM during childhood. • Serum suPAR may serve as a diagnostic and predictive marker of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction for children and adolescents with obesity and T1DM.

Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events

BackgroundMicroplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease in preclinical studies. Direct evidence that this risk extends to humans is lacking.MethodsWe conducted a prospective, multicenter, observational study involving patients who were undergoing carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic carotid artery disease. The excised carotid plaque specimens were analyzed for the presence of MNPs with the use of pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, stable isotope analysis, and electron microscopy. Inflammatory biomarkers were assessed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemical assay. The primary end point was a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from any cause among patients who had evidence of MNPs in plaque as compared with patients with plaque that showed no evidence of MNPs.ResultsA total of 304 patients were enrolled in the study, and 257 completed a mean (±SD) follow-up of 33.7±6.9 months. Polyethylene was detected in carotid artery plaque of 150 patients (58.4%), with a mean level of 21.7±24.5 μg per milligram of plaque; 31 patients (12.1%) also had measurable amounts of polyvinyl chloride, with a mean level of 5.2±2.4 μg per milligram of plaque. Electron microscopy revealed visible, jagged-edged foreign particles among plaque macrophages and scattered in the external debris. Radiographic examination showed that some of these particles included chlorine. Patients in whom MNPs were detected within the atheroma were at higher risk for a primary end-point event than those in whom these substances were not detected (hazard ratio, 4.53; 95% confidence interval, 2.00 to 10.27; P<0.001).ConclusionsIn this study, patients with carotid artery plaque in which MNPs were detected had a higher risk of a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from any cause at 34 months of follow-up than those in whom MNPs were not detected. (Funded by Programmi di Ricerca Scientifica di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05900947.)

Trends in Mercury Contamination Distribution among Human and Animal Populations in the Amazon Region.

Mercury contamination in the Amazon arising from both natural sources and intensive mining activities in the region is a significant public health concern. This metal is used to separate Au from sediments. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the impact of mining on mercury contamination in the animal and human populations of the Amazon. This overall objective was pursued through a systematic review of the existing literature to assess the impact of Hg and identify gaps in geographic coverage arising from this assessment. Herein, we employed PECO and PRISMA-ScR protocols to select articles published between 2017 and 2023 based on projected points on a map within the biogeographic boundaries of the Amazon. We found that mercury concentrations increase with trophic levels, reaching high values of 3.7 µg/g in the muscles of predatory fish and 34.9 µg/g in human hair. The mean level of mercury in human hair in the whole (Amazon) region exceeds 6 µg/g, surpassing tolerance levels. Although mining regions show high concentrations of Hg, the highest incidence was observed among populations with fish-based diets. It was concluded that continuous research and monitoring of fish in the region are required in order to accurately assess the risk associated with Hg contamination, especially since fish are the main source of protein in this region.

Can Ischemia-Modified Albumin Be a Helpful Marker in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Childhood Intussusception?

Intussusception is the invagination of a proximal segment of the intestine into a more distal segment. The present study aimed to determine the sensitivity of the ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) and the correlation between IMA and the severity of intestinal ischemia in intussusception cases. Thirty-six consecutive children aged between 0 and 16 years presenting with the clinical and radiological features of intestinal obstruction caused by intussusception were enrolled in the study. The age- and sex-matched control group was composed of patients undergoing outpatient surgery. The patients were categorized as cases of type I (ileoileal), type II (ileocecal), and type III (colocolic) based on the ultrasonography findings. The mean IMA level of the intussusception group was 179.13 ± 220.33 ng/mL, whereas the mean level was found as 89 ± 70.9 ng/mL in the control group. When the patients were categorized as ileoileal, ileocecal, and colocolic, the mean IMA levels were detected as 235.65 ± 268.14 ng/mL, 174.46 ± 212.8 ng/mL, and 46.95 ± 19.56 ng/mL, respectively. There was a moderate correlation between the invaginated segment lengths measured by the surgeon during the operation and IMA levels. Our study findings reveal that IMA can be used as an auxiliary diagnostic marker in patients presenting with symptoms and signs suggestive of intussusception. Thus, patients can be screened for mechanical bowel obstruction due to intussusception and may be referred to pediatric surgery centers earlier for further examination.

THE Point prevalence of acetylcholinesterase inhibition, neuropathy and safety awareness among flower farm workers in naivasha, nakuru county, kenya.

Acetyl cholinesterase catalyses the hydrolysis of acetylcholine in the nerve synapses, thereby terminating nerve impulse, however, it is inhibited by organophosphates and carbamates. This study aimed to assess the level of acetyl cholinesterase inhibition and the resultant neuropathy in flower farm workers as well as the farmers’ awareness of safety measures and predisposing factors while handling pesticides. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 217 participants from different flower farms. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data to assess level of safety and predisposing awareness and to assess for neuropathy. Blood samples were collected to determine the cholinesterase levels using spectrophotometry technique at 405 nm. The mean serum cholinesterase level in flower farm workers in Naivasha was 5873.26 U/L. There was a positive correlation (R= 0.07) between the numbers of years worked in the industry and serum cholinesterase levels as shown by Karl Pearson`s coefficient. The point prevalence of cholinesterase inhibition in Naivasha was 14% indicating a significant risk of adverse health effects. The level of safety awareness and predisposing factors among workers on pesticide exposure was 65%, suggesting that while the majority of workers had some level of safety awareness, there is still room for improvement. The point prevalence of neuropathy was 38% of the participants presenting with varying symptoms of adverse effects of pesticide exposure. Musculoskeletal impairment was leading at 19.81%, followed by skin irritation at 13.36%.These findings highlighted the need for better safety measures and awareness campaigns in the flower farm industry to reduce the risk of acetyl cholinesterase inhibition.

The Role of Ferritin Level and D-Dimer in Severity of SARS-Covid-2-Infected Patients in Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf Governorate

Background: The pandemic results of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) range from moderate to serious, necessitating the rapid assessment and association of diagnostic markers. Patients suffer from infection with SARS-Covid-2 had measurements of ferritin, LDH, and D-dimer. In addition to being a problem for healthcare institutions, the SARS-Covid-2 additionally represents a major financial burden. Aim: To assess the predictive importance of serum ferritin &amp; D-dimer levels as predictors for individuals at risk of serious and fatal infection with SARS-Covid-2. Methods: This study designs as Case-control study was done at AL-Amal Specialized Hospital for Communicable Diseases in Al-Najaf, Iraq, during the period of June to August of 2023. Prior to their enrollment in the clinical study, every individual participants provided written consent. 44 samples which included 22 patients (8 men and 14 women) and 20 control (8 men and 14 women) and varying age groups from 28 to 76 years old—were reported to have symptoms of SARS-Covid-2 infection. Results: The present investigation reveals significant differences between the patient and control groups, as well as between the patient and control groups' age groups and sexes. Patients who are older have a higher age-related prevalence of severe SARS-Covid-2 infection. In total, 22 COVID-19 patients were incorporated into this research; 8 (36.4%) were male and 14 (63.6%) were female. In comparison, there were 8 (36.4%) male and 14 (63.6%) female among 22 healthy control individuals. According to the statistical analysis, there were statistically significant differences between the female and male patients. There wasn't a noticeable difference in the mean serum level of ferritin between the SARS-Covid-2 infected patients' group and the control group (μg/l). Conversely, it was highly significant difference in mean serum level of D-Dimer between the COVID-19 patient group and the control group (μg/l). Conclusion: The age-specific prevalence of severe SARS-Covid-2 infections increases in older adults age of patients: Females showed higher rates of infection than males. Higher level Serum of D-dimer and ferritin are linked with outcomes in patientsCovid-19. Significantly elevated ferritin and D-dimer levels in infection with SARS-Covid-2 recovered individuals, which may serve as SARS-Covid-2 diagnostic biomarkers.

(215) Investigating if Hormonal Dysfunctions are Risk Factors in Men Complaining of Premature Ejaculation

Abstract Introduction Most epidemiological studies suggest that premature ejaculation (PE), also referred to as early ejaculation and rapid ejaculation, may be the most common male sexual disorder. The exact etiology of PE is unknown. Psychological/behavioristic and biogenic etiologies have been proposed. Objective Initial reports indicate that there are hormone differences between men with primary (lifelong) and secondary (acquired) PE. This study was designed to investigate hormone profiles of these two subgroups. Methods Men who presented to our outpatient clinic with PE were enrolled in this study. The diagnosis and classification (primary or secondary) of PE was based on patient medical and sexual history according to guidelines of international society of sexual medicine (ISSM) and European association of urology (EAU). Complete physical examination was done and we measured thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), testosterone (T), and prolactin (P) for all patients. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and independent-measures t-test for univariate analyses. Analysis of covariance was used for multivariable analyses. Results 506 men were included in this analysis. The average age of these men was 44±12 years old and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.7±5.5. The mean levels of T, TSH, and P for the entire sample was 4.38±1.69, 2.31±3.56, and 10.56±11.04, respectively. There were 267 men in the primary PE group and 239 men in the secondary PE group. The men with primary PE were significantly younger than those with secondary PE (37±11 vs. 52±12, p=0.001). There were no significant differences in BMI between the groups. On univariate analyses, there was no differences between the primary PE and secondary PE groups in T (4.39±1.66 vs. 4.38±1.84, p=0.94), TSH (2.31±4.89 vs. 2.20±2.07, p=0.76), and P (10.65±8.13 vs. 10.46±13.46, p=0.86). When controlling for age in multivariable analyses, there continued to be no differences between the two groups (p values ranging from p=0.56 to 0.81). Conclusions hormonal profile including T, TSH and P seem to be in the normal range in men with PE and there is no statistical difference in these hormones between primary and secondary PE Disclosure No.

Plasmatic profiles of cytokines/chemokines, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and MRI brain damage in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)

BackgroundPerinatal hypoxia triggers the release of cytokines and chemokines by neurons, astrocytes and microglia. In response to hypoxia–ischemia resting/ramified microglia proliferate and undergo activation, producing proinflammatory molecules. The brain damage extension seems to be related to both the severity of hypoxia and the balance between pro and anti-inflammatory response and can be explored with neuroimaging. AimsThe aim of this preliminary study was to explore possible relationships between plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and the severe brain damage detectable by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), performed during the hospitalization. MethodsIn 10 full terms neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) undergoing therapeutic hypothermia (TH), divided into cases and controls, according to MRI results, we measured and compared the plasma levels of CCL2/MCP-1, CXCL8, GFAP, IFN y, IL-10, IL-18, IL-6, CCL3, ENOLASE2, GM-CSF, IL-1b, IL-12p70, IL-33, TNFα, collected at four different time points during TH (24, 25–48, 49–72 h of life, and 7–10 days from birth). Five of enrolled babies had pathological brain MRI (cases) and 5 had a normal MRI examination (controls). Cytokines were measured by Magnetic Luminex Assay. MRI images were classified according to Barkovich’s score. ResultsMean levels of all cytokines and molecules at time T1 were not significantly different in the two groups. Comparing samples paired by day of collection, the greatest differences between cases and controls were found at times T2 and T3, during TH. At T4, levels tended to get closer again (except for IL-6, IL10 and IL18). Infants with worse MRI showed higher plasmatic GFAP levels than those with normal MRI, while their IL-18 was lower. The mean levels of CCL3MIP1alpha, GMCSF, IL1BETA overlapped throughout the observation period in both groups. ConclusionIn a small number of infants with worse brain MRI, we found higher levels of GFAP and of IL-10 at T4 and a trend toward low IL-18 levels than in infants with normal MRI, considered early biomarker of brain damage and a predictor of adverse outcome, respectively. The greatest, although not significant, difference between the levels of molecules was found in cases and controls at time points T2 and T3, during TH.

Does COVID-19 Infection Change Thyroid Hormone Levels? A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study in Iran

Background: There is a paucity of research investigating the changes in thyroid hormones in individuals affected by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the levels of thyroid hormones in individuals affected by COVID-19 infection in Ahvaz, Iran. Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study on 78 patients with COVID-19 infection and 80 individuals without infection. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (TT3), and tetraiodothyronine (TT4) were measured in hospitalized patients at baseline and one month after recovery and in participants without infection. The data were analyzed using a paired t-test, the Chi-square test, the Wilcoxon test, and the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Results: The level of TSH at baseline in the hospitalized patients was significantly lower than that in the control group (1.24 ± 1.08 vs. 2.05 ± 1.02 mlU/L, respectively, P &lt; 0.0001). The mean level of TT3 was 1.20 ± 0.24 and 1.28 ± 1.25 ng/dL in the case and control groups, respectively (P = 0.188). The level of TT4 in the case group was high at baseline in comparison to the control group (8.48 ± 2.27 vs. 7.76 ± 1.43 ng/dL, P = 0.076), which was reduced in the follow-up period. Thirty-five (44.8%) patients had severe disease and were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). The level of TSH was non-significantly lower in patients with severe disease than those with moderate disease. Conclusions: Patients with COVID-19 infection showed abnormalities in thyroid hormones, such as decreased levels of TSH and TT3. Patients with severe COVID-19 showed lower levels of TSH and unchanged levels of TT3 and TT4 in comparison to the patients with moderate disease. Further investigation into thyroid function in patients with COVID-19 is recommended.

Immediate impacts of COVID-19 vaccination on glycemic control in type 1 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended in diabetic patients since diabetes is associated with worse clinical outcomes in COVID-19 infection. The safety profile of different types of COVID-19 vaccines, especially on glycemic control, can be explored due to availability of data from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar was conducted using a search strategy for studies published till January 2023 in English language. Comparative observational studies reporting glycemic control obtained from CGM before and after COVID-19 vaccination in T1DM patients were included. The primary outcome was time in range (TIR) metric of proportion of glucose results falling within the range: 3.9-10mmol/l. Other outcomes were time above range (TAR) (>10mmol/l), time below range (TBR) (<3.9mmol/l), coefficient of variation (CV), and mean blood glucose levels. The pooled outcomes were compared pre-vaccination and post-vaccination using Hedges' g (HG) with 95% CI. A total of seven studies (632 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. COVID-19 vaccination caused small and statistically insignificant decrease in TIR after both the first (HG = 0.21, 95% CI: -0.02 to 0.44, P=0.07) and second dose (HG = 0.09, 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.21, P = 0.19). Likewise, TAR was not affected after neither first (HG = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.22 to 0.03, P = 0.12) nor second vaccine dose (HG = -0.07, 95% CI: -0.21 to 0.06, P = 0.30). Likewise, TBR, mean blood glucose levels, and CV were not significantly altered following uptake of either of the doses. COVID-19 vaccination has an excellent safety profile in T1DM patients owing to its minimal impacts on immediate glycemic control.

Cardiac function may be compromised in patients with elevated blood cobalt levels secondary to metal-on-metal hip implants.

Elevated blood cobalt levels secondary to metal-on-metal (MoM) hip arthroplasties are a suggested risk factor for developing cardiovascular complications including cardiomyopathy. Clinical studies assessing patients with MoM hips using left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have found conflicting evidence of cobalt-induced cardiomyopathy. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is an echocardiography measurement known to be more sensitive than LVEF when diagnosing early cardiomyopathies. The extent of cardiovascular injury, as measured by GLS, in patients with elevated blood cobalt levels has not previously been examined. A total of 16 patients with documented blood cobalt ion levels above 13 µg/l (13 ppb, 221 nmol/l) were identified from a regional arthroplasty database. They were matched with eight patients awaiting hip arthroplasty. All patients underwent echocardiography, including GLS, investigating potential signs of cardiomyopathy. Patients with MoM hip arthroplasties had a mean blood cobalt level of 29 µg/l (495 nmol/l) compared to 0.01 µg/l (0.2 nmol/l) in the control group. GLS readings were available for seven of the MoM cohort, and were significantly lower when compared with controls (-15.5% vs -18% (MoM vs control); p = 0.025)). Pearson correlation demonstrated that GLS significantly correlated with blood cobalt level (r = 0.8521; p < 0.001). However, there were no differences or correlations for other echocardiography measurements, including LVEF (64.3% vs 63.7% (MoM vs control); p = 0.845). This study supports the hypothesis that patients with elevated blood cobalt levels above 13 µg/l in the presence of a MoM hip implant may have impaired cardiac function compared to a control group of patients awaiting hip arthroplasty. It is the first study to use the more sensitive parameter of GLS to assess for any cardiac contractile dysfunction in patients with a MoM hip implant and a normal LVEF. Larger studies should be performed to determine the potential of GLS as a predictor of cardiac complications in patients with MoM arthroplasties.

Chemical composition of Gariss produced from milk of camels with different watering intervals using some traditional containers in Al-Koma Locality, North Darfur State, Sudan

BackgroundThe nomadic camels herders utilizing the extensive production system in Sudan depend mainly on fermented milk, locally known as Gariss, as their main stable food for several months during the year.MethodsThis study was conducted to assess some factors (locations, types of containers used for preparing Gariss and camels watering intervals) affecting the compositional content of Gariss that is commonly prepared by nomadic camel herders. Gariss samples (n-118) were collected during February 2018, from nomadic herders in 4 locations in Al-Koma Locality, North Darfur State, Sudan.Results and discussionThe chemical analysis conducted during this study indicated that the mean levels of the total solids, fat, protein and ash content and the pH values of Gariss samples revealed 7.35 ± 0.22%, 2.58 ± 0.08%, 1.86 ± 0.04% and 0.67 ± 0.01% and 3.77 ± 0.03, respectively. The data showed that Gariss prepared in Siin showed the highest total solids (7.7 ± 0.71%), protein (2.02 ± 0.18%), fat (2.60 ± 0.19%) and ash (0.68 ± 0.04%) content, while it revealed the lowest pH value (3.61 ± 0.11). Gariss prepared in plastic containers showed the lowest total solids (7.30 ± 0.23%) and protein (1.48 ± 0.28%). Moreover, Gariss from milk of camels that drink water every 14 days revealed high values for total solids (7.91 ± 0.29%), fat (2.80 ± 0.11%), protein (1.99 ± 0.05%) and pH (3.78 ± 0.04), while it showed the lowest ash (0.67 ± 0.02%) content compared to those made from milk of camels with drinking water frequency of 10 days.ConclusionThe study concluded that the compositional content of Gariss was affected by the frequency of water drinking by camels in addition to the containers used for its preparation; as the compositional content of Gariss from Siin showed the best values followed by that stored in Bokhsa. Thus, the study recommends that Siin and Bokhsa should be considered as valuable ethnic containers in keeping camel fermented milk with better compositional content.

Investigating the diagnostic and prognostic value of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgG/IgM ELISA tests in patients infected with coronavirus Delta variant.

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Spike IgG/IgM antibodies in patients infected with coronavirus Delta variant. This analytical observational study included 270 unvaccinated patients (aged ≥18 years) diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Delta variant who referred to Emergency Department of our hospital. The serum levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgG and IgM were measured by indirect ELISA. Main measured outcomes included anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgG and IgM, chest computed tomography (CT) severity score, clinical and laboratory findings which were prospectively evaluated throughout the study period. The IgM levels in critical patients were significantly higher than non-critical patients (p<0.05). But the mean level of IgG in critical patients was not significantly different from its level in non-critical patients (p>0.05). However, a significant positive correlation was observed between the levels of both antibodies and chest CT severity score (p<0.0001); this implies that their levels may reflect the degree of lung involvement. The IgM level on 15th-16th days after symptoms onset was significantly associated with the hazard of death even after adjusting for all other factors (adjusted HR (95%CI):1.28(1.014_1.63), p=0.03), whereas IgG was not (p>0.05). The survival probability among patients with IgM level ≥8.67 RU/ml (34.2%) was significantly lower than those with IgM level <8.67 RU/ml (99.5%, p=0.0001). Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgM antibody was significantly associated with the disease severity and risk of death in unvaccinated patients infected with coronavirus Delta variant. However, further large-scale investigations on diverse infected populations are required to precisely determine the diagnostic/prognostic value of these antibodies.

Self-Esteem, Self-Concept and Academic Performance in Middle-School Students According to their Sport Context

Introduction: Academic performance is favored in students who practice sports with body contact and develops an increasing value in self-concept when a comparison is established with those who don’t are engaged in sports without body contact. Methods: This study aimed to analyze and relate variables of self-concept, self-esteem and other variables such as aerobic capacity (VO2 max), handgrip strength and academic achievement, within the modalities that they practiced, with and without body contact. 132 middle-school students between 10 and 11 years old (69 boys and 63 girls) who attended the 5th and 6th grades participated. Results: It was found a mean level of behavior, physical appearance, school competence, social acceptance and higher academic performance in the group without body contact. A T-test was applied on self-concept variables, self-esteem, aerobic capacity (VO2 max) and academic performance, and the Mann-Whitney test on physical appearance variables and handgrip strength, finding only differences in the behavior variable, with a value of α = 0.014. A linear regression analysis was also presented in order to identify the best predictors of academic performance Conclusions: The practice of sports with body contact promotes a significant increase in behavior levels, compared to students without body contact, however the practice of this type of sports doesn’t show higher levels of self-esteem and academic performance, once compared to other students practicing sports without body contact. The best predictors identified were global self-concept, school competence and aerobic capacity.

A study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top three causes of mortality worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency in COPD has been associated with poor lung function and decreased muscle power, which further increases the risk of exacerbations. The role of vitamin D in preventing acute exacerbations of COPD has conflicting results in the literature. Hence, we planned this study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbations among COPD patients in a tertiary care center in north India. This was a prospective randomized control trial that was performed on 100 consecutive stable COPD patients attending the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan, India. The patients with subnormal vitamin D3 levels (i.e., less than 30 ng/mL) were divided into the intervention and control groups. Baseline demographic profiles, lung function, COPD assessment test (CAT) score, modified Medical Research Council grade and chest radiology were performed and repeated after 12 months in all these patients. All these parameters were recorded and compared with the baseline values obtained at the beginning of the study. Out of 100 subjects, 96 had vitamin D deficiency, of which 48 were assigned to the intervention group and 48 to the control group. Among the 100 subjects, 74 (74%) were males and 26 (26%) were females, with a mean age of 66.9±9.4 years. The mean vitamin D level was 14.71±6.69 in these 96 patients. The vitamin D level improved after 3 months of supplementation to the mean level of 45.56±16.18 in the intervention group. Vitamin D supplementation was positively correlated with a decrease in the rate of acute exacerbations in the intervention group in terms of reduction in mean CAT score (4.17 in intervention and 1.43 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), number of acute exacerbations (1.7 in intervention and -1.05 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), and number of emergency visits (p=0.0121) during the 9-month period after attainment of a normal vitamin D level. Vitamin D supplementation plays a key role in COPD patients with D3 hypovitaminosis in decreasing COPD acute exacerbations, improving the CAT score, and reducing the number of emergency visits.

AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF EFFECT ON LIPID PROFILE BY SHORT TERM USE OF LOW DOSE STEROID THERAPY IN COMMON ORTHOPAEDIC CONDITIONS

Introduction:Corticosteroids, potent anti-inflammatory drugs used for decades, provide symptomatic relief but carry risks like infection and chronic conditions. Despite complications, theyre prescribed for orthopedic issues. Glucocorticoids influence lipid levels, with conflicting effects. Steroids are termed a double-edged sword. This study aims to assess lipid profile effects of short-term, low-dose steroid therapy in Orthopedics and Rheumatology, evaluating glucocorticoid therapy impact and investigating other effects on musculoskeletal patients. Materials and Methods:This prospective, non-randomized observational study was conducted, focusing on patients with orthopedic and rheumatological issues. Over 150 patients were included, selected through convenient sampling. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 18-65 without dyslipidemia or cardiovascular conditions, while exclusion criteria included those with specific medical conditions or high BMI. Patients provided written informed consent before undergoing blood tests for lipid profile and blood sugar levels, with vital signs measured. They received Medrol 4 mg thrice daily for ten days, after which outcomes including lipid levels, blood sugar, and blood pressure were assessed. Results:At baseline, 88.67% had desirable cholesterol levels and 11.33% had borderline levels. At follow-up, 20.67% had borderline levels and 79.33% had desirable levels, a statistically significant difference. Mean cholesterol levels decreased from 169.16 ± 19.70 mg/dl to 161.11 ± 27.60 mg/dl, also significant. For triglycerides, 92.67% had normal levels at baseline, decreasing to 65.33% at follow-up, with mean levels increasing from 131.33 ± 6.97 mg/dl to 139.12 ± 23.88 mg/dl. HDL levels showed improvement, with 84.67% having desirable levels at baseline compared to 43.33% at follow-up, with mean levels increasing from 41.09 ± 5.13 mg/dl to 50.71 ± 4.21 mg/dl. LDL levels decreased from 132.43 ± 16.86 mg/dl to 122.59 ± 16.93 mg/dl, with significant changes in distribution. Conclusions:Short-term steroid use for orthopedic conditions affects lipid profiles: Total cholesterol, LDL, and TG rise significantly, countered by increased HDL, offering protection. Long-term effects on lipid profiles and cardiovascular risk require further study. Risk of avascular necrosis due to subtle lipid profile changes also warrants investigation.

Acceptability of Meat Crackers with African Hito Meat

The acceptability of crackers with African Hito (c. gariepinus) meat was conducted to determine the level of acceptability of crackers with African Hito meat. This study aimed to answer the following questions: (1) What is the level of acceptability of crackers as to 20, 40, and 60 grams of crackers with African hito (c. gariepinus) meat in terms of its taste, aroma, texture, appearance, and general acceptability? (2) Is there a significant difference in the level of acceptability of crackers as to 20, 40, and 60 grams of African hito (c. gariepinus) in terms of its taste, aroma, texture, appearance, and general acceptability? This study used a universal purposive sampling technique that involved one hundred twelve (112) faculty and staff and students at Iloilo State College of Fisheries. Respondents were given a sensory evaluation checklist to evaluate the product. Mean and overall acceptability levels were measured with the use of a 5-point hedonic scale to answer problems 1 and 2. The 3 products, 20, 40, and 60 grams of African hito (c. gariepinus) meat, underwent a sensory evaluation to determine acceptability. African hito (c. gariepinus) meat crackers with 20 grams, 40 grams, and 60 grams in terms of appearance, aroma, taste, texture, general acceptability, and total level of acceptability are evaluated as extremely acceptable by the respondents. The inferential results showed that the level of acceptability as to 20, 40, and 60 grams of African hito meat in terms of appearance, aroma, taste, texture, and general acceptability has a p-value of 0.000 which is lower than the set of 0.05 alpha level of significant, this means that there is a significant difference between variables tested.

Deep Semisupervised Transfer Learning for Fully Automated Whole-Body Tumor Quantification and Prognosis of Cancer on PET/CT.

Automatic detection and characterization of cancer are important clinical needs to optimize early treatment. We developed a deep, semisupervised transfer learning approach for fully automated, whole-body tumor segmentation and prognosis on PET/CT. Methods: This retrospective study consisted of 611 18F-FDG PET/CT scans of patients with lung cancer, melanoma, lymphoma, head and neck cancer, and breast cancer and 408 prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT scans of patients with prostate cancer. The approach had a nnU-net backbone and learned the segmentation task on 18F-FDG and PSMA PET/CT images using limited annotations and radiomics analysis. True-positive rate and Dice similarity coefficient were assessed to evaluate segmentation performance. Prognostic models were developed using imaging measures extracted from predicted segmentations to perform risk stratification of prostate cancer based on follow-up prostate-specific antigen levels, survival estimation of head and neck cancer by the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis, and pathologic complete response prediction of breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Overall accuracy and area under the receiver-operating-characteristic (AUC) curve were assessed. Results: Our approach yielded median true-positive rates of 0.75, 0.85, 0.87, and 0.75 and median Dice similarity coefficients of 0.81, 0.76, 0.83, and 0.73 for patients with lung cancer, melanoma, lymphoma, and prostate cancer, respectively, on the tumor segmentation task. The risk model for prostate cancer yielded an overall accuracy of 0.83 and an AUC of 0.86. Patients classified as low- to intermediate- and high-risk had mean follow-up prostate-specific antigen levels of 18.61 and 727.46 ng/mL, respectively (P < 0.05). The risk score for head and neck cancer was significantly associated with overall survival by univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses (P < 0.05). Predictive models for breast cancer predicted pathologic complete response using only pretherapy imaging measures and both pre- and posttherapy measures with accuracies of 0.72 and 0.84 and AUCs of 0.72 and 0.76, respectively. Conclusion: The proposed approach demonstrated accurate tumor segmentation and prognosis in patients across 6 cancer types on 18F-FDG and PSMA PET/CT scans.

Comparison of progesterone protocol versus gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol in terms of preventing premature LH surge and assisted reproductive technology outcome in infertile women: a randomized controlled trial.

Progesterone can be used instead of GnRH agonists and antagonists in order to avert a premature LH surge during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocol. Nonetheless, there is limited knowledge regarding its utilization. Thus, this study compared the effects of progesterone and GnRH antagonists (GnRH-ant) on premature LH surges and assisted reproductive technology (ART) results in infertile women undergoing ART. In this clinical trial, the progesterone protocol (study group) and GnRH-ant protocol (control group) were tested in 300 infertile individuals undergoing IVF/ICSI. The main outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. The secondary outcomes included premature LH rise/surge, the quantity of follicles measuring ≥ 10 and 14mm, oocyte maturity and fertilization rate, the number of viable embryos, high-quality embryo rate and pregnancy outcomes. The study group exhibited a statistically significant increase in the number of retrieved oocytes, follicles measuring 14mm or greater, and viable embryos compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The study group alsoincreased oocyte maturity, chemical pregnancy rate, and clinical pregnancy rate (P < 0.05). Both groups had similar mean serum LH, progesterone, and E2 levels on trigger day. The control group had more premature LH rise than the study group, although this difference was not statistically significant. In conclusion, it can be stated that the progesterone protocol and the GnRH-ant protocol exhibit similar rates of sudden premature LH surge in infertile patients. However, it is important to note that the two regiments differ in their outcomes in ART. This study was retrospectively registered in the Iranian website ( www.irct.ir ) for clinical trials registration ( http://www.irct.ir : IRCT-ID: IRCT20201029049183N, 2020-11-27).

The Effect of Dietary Organic Copper and Zinc Trace Minerals on some Yield and Mineral Levels and Histological Structure of Testes.

This study aims to investigate the effects of providing Cu and Zn minerals with an organic structure reduced by 25% compared to the recommended (NRC) inorganic value on parameters such as the age at which lambs achieve 50% sperm motility yield, some developmental parameters, testis histology, as well as serum, wool, and fecal mineral levels in lambs. The study involved 12 male lambs in the T1 group (organic minerals) and 11 in the T2 group (inorganic minerals) of the Kıvırcık breed. Lambs received minerals from mothers during the last month of fetal period and suckling, continuing individual feeding post-weaning. During individual feeding, T1 received 5.25mg/kg DM copper-chelate and 15.0mg/kg DM zinc-chelate, while T2 received 7mg/kg DM copper-sulfate and 20mg/kg DM zinc-sulfate. The mothers received identical mineral amounts in the last month of pregnancy and lactation. The ewes birthed offspring solely for the supply of experimental groups. Lambs, averaging about 18.5kg, underwent bi-weekly electroejaculation, concluding the trial for those with 50% semen motility. Statistical analyses were carried out using the GLM method. No differences were observed between groups in the average age at which lambs achieve 50% sperm motility, live weight, scrotum, and testicular measurements at this age (P > 0.05). Histological analyses revealed no difference in tubule area between T1 and T2 groups (P > 0.05), but tubular epithelium height was greater in T1 (P < 0.01). End-of-trial serum copper, as well as weaning day and end-of-trial serum and fleece zinc mean values, did not differ between groups (P > 0.05). However, T1 had higher mean values for serum Cu on the weaning day (P < 0.01), fleece copper on the weaning day (P < 0.05) and at the end of the trial (P < 0.001). Additionally, the T1 group exhibited lower mean levels of fecal copper (P < 0.05) and fecal zinc (P < 0.001). In conclusion, despite organic copper and zinc levels being 25% lower in the examined parameters, comparable or improved results were achieved with inorganic copper and zinc.