Non-significant Correlation Research Articles

Effect of the Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) and Duration of Smoking on Central Neural Processing Using Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BAERs).

Purpose of study The goal of this research was to find the correlation of nicotine dependence and duration of smoking with the status of central neuronal processing in chronic smokers. Our primary objective was to record brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAERs) in chronic smokers and further find their correlation to the Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) scores and years of non-abstained smoking of the subjects. We postulated that smoking leads to myelination abnormalities which in turn causes decreased impulse conduction velocity. Methods After obtaining informed consent, we conducted BAER on 60 male smokers who were further classified into groups based on their HSI scores (low, moderate, and high nicotine dependency) and 20 age-matched, non-smoking males. The obtained data was examined using the two-way ANOVA test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Pearson's coefficient of correlationand the median (as a measure of central tendency) were calculated. Results We observed a non-significant negative correlation between wave I BAER latency and the degree of nicotine dependence. Wave II showed minimal correlation, whereas a positive correlation was seen in waves III, IV, and V. Interpeak latencies (IPL) I-III and III-V showed a non-significant positive correlation with the HSI score, whereas IPL I-V showed a significant positive correlation with the same. When correlated with the duration of smoking (years), the latencies (msec) of BAER waves I-V showed a pattern of progressively decreasing negative correlation, out of which waves I, II, and III were significantly affected. The IPL (msec) of waves I-III was non-significantly, yet positively, correlated, while the IPL of waves I-V and III-V showed a significant positive correlation to the duration of smoking. Conclusions The degree of nicotine dependence and duration of tobacco smoking progressively affected the latencies of BAER waves at the pontomedullary level of the brainstem. This indicates slower central neuronal processing at this level and an increased central transmission time, the extent of which is directly dependent on the extent of tobacco smoking. This is attributed to the myelination defects caused by direct and indirect effects of the toxic metabolites of tobacco smoke, chronic hypoxia, hypercapnia, and respiratory acidosis.

Evaluation of Patellar Dysplasia and Postoperative Pain After Mini-Open, Thin-Flap Trochleoplasty: A Retrospective Analysis of 75 Consecutive Cases.

The association between inherent patellar anatomy and postoperative pain after trochleoplasty in patients with patellar instability is poorly understood. The study purpose was to evaluate outcomes after mini-open, thin-flap trochleoplasty. The hypothesis was that more severe patellar dysplasia would be correlated with increased postoperative pain after trochleoplasty. Case series; Level of evidence 4. Patients with patellar instability who underwent mini-open, thin-flap trochleoplasty in combination with other individualized procedures between 2013 and 2022 were included. Patellar dysplasia was evaluated by calculating the Wiberg index at the widest and most distal cartilaginous parts of the patella on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. At the postoperative follow-up, participants completed the visual analog scale for usual pain (VAS-U), Banff Patellofemoral Instability Instrument 2.0 (BPII), global rating of change scale, and an evaluation of their current symptom state. Redislocations and complications were recorded. The correlation between the Wiberg index and the VAS-U was calculated with the Spearman rho. Between-group analyses based on demographic and pathoanatomic features were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test, independent-samples t test, and chi-square test. Included were 75 knees in 63 patients (median age at surgery, 19.1 years; IQR, 16-22 years) with a median follow-up of 44 months (IQR, 23.8-83.2 months). The median BPII score was 78.2 (IQR, 54.8-92.5), with 88% reporting an improvement in knee function relative to before surgery, but 21.1% remained dissatisfied with their current knee symptom state. New episodes of patellar dislocation were seen in 3 knees (4%), and 14 knees (18.7%) underwent reoperation with either revision surgery (n = 7; 9.3%) or arthroscopic synovectomy (n = 7; 9.3%). A weak positive, nonsignificant correlation was found between increased postoperative pain and a higher Wiberg index, both at the widest (r S = 0.16; P = .23) and most distal (r S = 0.02; P = .89) parts of the patella. Significantly worse VAS-U scores were seen in female versus male patients (P = .013). Good patient-reported results with a low risk of redislocation were seen in the study cohort, but reoperation rates were high, and 21% of the patients remained dissatisfied with their current symptom state. More pronounced patellar dysplasia (increased Wiberg index) had only a poor association with more severe postoperative pain in the current study.

Emotional Intelligence And Test Anxiety Among Secondary School Students In EGOR Locality Of EDO State, Nigeria

The study investigated emotional intelligence and test anxiety among secondary school students in Egor Locality of Edo State, Nigeria with a view to guide them to overcome the usual fear syndrome associated with examinations.The study adopted a descriptive survey design.The target population consisted of 6069 (six thousand and sixty-nine) students in the 10 (ten) public Senior Secondary Schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. A sample size of 380 (three hundred and eighty) secondary school class 2 students, were randomly selected from five randomly selected secondary schools in the study area. Two instruments, the Schutte self-report Emotional intelligence test (Schutte et al., 1998) and the Test Anxiety Questionnaire (Nist & Diehl, 1990) were adapted to collect data for the study. Mean, Standard Deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and t-test were adopted to analyse the data. Findings indicated a moderate level of test anxiety among the students, though not found to be dependent on the sex of students. A non-significant negative correlation was also found to exist between emotional intelligence and test anxiety. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the government should continue to deploy professional counsellors to schools to assist in improving the usual fear syndrome associated with examinations among students. In addition, school counsellors as a routine service, should provide students with skills to improve emotional intelligence and strategies that would help to overcome test anxiety.

Performance of Biofortified Spring Wheat Genotypes for Grain Zinc and Iron Concentrations, Grain Yield and Associated Traits in Terai/plains of Nepal

Breeding for nutrient-rich high yielding wheat varieties is one of the most economical and feasible ways to improve micronutrient deficiency ad hoc building better consumer health among the rural people of South Asia. To identify the Zinc (Zn) and Iron (Fe) enriched high yielding wheat genotypes, 7th Harvest Plus Yield Trial (7th HPYT) and 8th Harvest Plus Yield Trial (8th HPYT) both composed of 50 genotypes (including two CIMMYT checks " Kachu#1" and "Baj#1" and one Local Check "Gautam") were evaluated in alpha lattice design with 2 replications under timely sown irrigated condition at NWRP, Bhairahawa during 2016/17 and 2017/18. The grain Zn concentration and Fe concentration varies among genotypes from 23.8 to 42.4 ppm and 20.6 to 60.6 ppm, respectively. The highly significant positive correlation was found between grain zinc and iron concentration (r = 0.74** in 7th HPYT and r=0.67** in 8th HPYT). This highly positive significant relation between grain Zn and grain Fe indicates that it is feasible to simultaneously improve both micronutrients. In addition, this study reveals that thousand grains weight (TGW) has shown highly significant positive correlation (r = 0.3) with grain zinc and (r=0.4) with grain iron in 7th HPYT to non-significant negative correlation (r = -0.1) with grain zinc and (r=-0.1) with grain iron in 8th HPYT. As Nepali farmers major trait of interest second to grain yield is TGW, this showed that Zn and Fe enriched wheat varieties with higher TGW (bold grain) is feasible. The 9 genotypes in 7th HPYT and 48 genotypes in 8th HPYT showed higher grain yield than local check variety "GAUTAM" which indicates that bio-fortified genotypes are capable of producing higher grain yield with added micronutrient supplements in them. This study recommended 17 genotypes from the 7th HPYT and 38 genotypes from the 8thHPYT based on higher grain yield, grain Zn and Fe concentration and these lines were included in national yield trial for further evaluation in different agro-ecological domain of Nepal. The genotypes with higher grain Zn and Fe concentration viz., 7HPYT409, 7HPYT410, 8HPYT417, 8HPYT404 and 7HPYT442 could be used as donor parents in national wheat breeding program and high yielding genotypes 7HPYT448, 7HPYT418, 7HPYT426, 7HPYT413, 8HPYT415, 8HPYT431, 8HPYT429, 8HPYT407 and 8HPYT405 would be further evaluated throughout the Terai region of Nepal, and outstanding genotype could be recommended as variety for Terai/plains of Nepal.

The utilisation of teledentistry in Australia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTeledentistry is the usage of information-based technologies to deliver healthcare services remotely. It is used to deliver care in regional, rural and remote regions and was particularly useful to deliver care during the COVID-19 pandemic. ObjectiveThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine teledentistry utilisation in Australia. MethodsThe databases PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched from inception to June-2024. The phrases “Dental” AND “Telehealth” AND “Australia” and “Teledentistry” AND “Australia” were used. Two authors completed the study selection and data extraction. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools were used to assess quality and bias. ResultsEighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. There were six diagnostic tests, six cross-sectional studies, 4 economic evaluations, one qualitative study and one expert opinion. Teledentistry was accurate for screening caries (average sensitivity=69.7 %, average specificity=97.4 %). There also appeared to be a non-significant negative correlation between specificity and sensitivity (r = 0.432). Opinions regarding teledentistry were mixed from clinicians but positive from patients. Teledentistry may also lead to savings for patients and healthcare providers. ConclusionTeledentistry increases healthcare access especially for people in regional, rural and remote areas. It is an effective screening tool for caries. Whilst the opinions of clinicians were mixed, potential implementation barriers were identified which could improve opinions of clinicians and increase implementation. Clinical ImportanceThis study demonstrates teledentistry as a satisfactory tool for screening caries. This could be beneficial to those with difficulties visiting dentists in-person, particularly if they live in regional, rural or remote areas.

An Index System for the Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Forest Ecological Product Value Realization in China

Forest Ecological Product Value Realization (FEPVR) is an important way for China to promote the transition and development of forestry and realize common prosperity. It is critical to assess the effectiveness of FEPVR rationally to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the progress of ecological civilization. Based on the Driver–Pressure–State–Impact–Response (DPSIR) model, in this study, we developed an evaluation index system for FEPVR effectiveness containing five subsystems and 37 indicators and assessed the effectiveness of FEPVR in China from 2011 to 2022 by using the linear weighted sum method, the coupling degree of coordination model, and Spearman’s correlation analysis. The results showed that the composite index increased from 0.1980 in 2011 to 0.6501 in 2022, with a general upward trend, but there is still great potential for improvement. The main contribution was from the Response subsystem. The year 2017 was an important turning point for FEPVR in China because its development started to speed up; the status of coupling coordination between different subsystems was gradually improving but was still at a low level. The relationship between all indicators was dominated by a non-significant correlation (52.4%), and the overall synergistic effect (27.8%) was greater than the trade-off effect (19.8%). This study provides a new perspective for evaluating the effectiveness of FEPVR and a decision-making reference for clarifying the direction of FEPVR optimization.

Understanding the Relationship Between User Game Preferences and Depressive Symptoms: A Pilot Study.

Objective: Following the initial measures taken to manage the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health conditions have become a critical concern. Mental health has become a foremost priority not only for health care providers but also for many other organizations, such as educational institutions, companies, and government agencies. A significant proportion of the Australian population having experienced mental disorders highlights the need for effective interventions. Those with pre-existing mental health issues experienced particularly pronounced effects. Among these challenges, advancements in technology offer new possibilities for mental health support. Videogames have shown effectiveness in mitigating symptoms of depression. Previous research has shown that game interface preferences correlate with players' emotional responses. This study aims to use MoodJumper, a game we designed, developed, and evaluated to examine the choice of game preferences in individuals with depressive symptoms. Materials and Methods: A pilot study was carried out after obtaining the Human Ethics committee's approval (n = 20). The participants were asked to fill out a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) questionnaire. They then played with the MoodJumper game for 20-30 minutes. Upon completing the game session, they were asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding their experience. Results: The results indicate a nonsignificant correlation between music preference, the direction of movement, and depressive symptoms meaning no significant relationship was found between depressive symptoms and chosen settings. However, a significant negative correlation was found between decision-making ability regarding game preferences and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scores showing the difficulty of choosing preferred settings when having depressive symptoms. Conclusion: This contribution paves the way for designing and evaluating more impactful game experiences for individuals with mental health challenges.

Study of Seasonal Incidence of Rice Earhead Bug (Coreidae: Hemiptera)

This study investigates the relationship between climatic factors and the population dynamics of the rice earhead bug (Leptocorisa acuta) in Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh. Through correlational analysis, we examined the associations between rainfall, rainy days, morning relative humidity (RH), evening RH, evening vapour pressure, wind velocity, maximum temperature, morning vapour pressure, evaporation, sunshine, and the prevalence of rice earhead bugs. Results indicate a negative correlation between rice earhead bug population and both rainfall and rainy days, suggesting a potential suppression effect of increased precipitation on bug abundance. Morning RH, evening RH, evening vapour pressure, and wind velocity showed non-significant negative correlations with bug population, indicating that these factors may have limited influence on bug dynamics in our study area. Conversely, a positive non-significant correlation was observed between rice earhead bug population and maximum temperature, morning vapour pressure, evaporation, and sunshine. This implies that higher temperatures and increased solar radiation may have a subtle positive effect on bug abundance, although further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Overall, our findings shed light on the complex interplay between climatic factors and rice earhead bug dynamics, highlighting the importance of considering multiple variables in pest management strategies for rice cultivation.

Translation, reliability, and validity of the Chinese version of the Moral Identity Scale in a sample of male offenders

ABSTRACT Moral identity is crucial in offenders’ moral rehabilitation, yet no validated measure exists for Chinese male offenders. The present study translated the Moral Identity Scale (MIS) and examined its construct validity and reliability in Chinese male offenders (n = 542). A confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable fit for the data. The convergent validity was demonstrated by its significant positive correlations with the Moral-self subscale of the Moral Identity Questionnaire. Furthermore, MIS displayed negative correlations with Amorality and Moral Disengagement, and positive correlations with Moral Attitude, Empathic Concern, and Moral Responsibility, indicating a good nomological validity. Regarding discriminant validity, the revised MIS exhibited nonsignificant or weak correlations with Social Desirability and Retributive Justice Expectations, while the two subscales exhibited distinct correlations with Imagination with Sympathy and Perceived Social Injustice. The test-retest reliability over 4 weeks was .68 (n=113). These findings underscore the reliability and validity of the revised MIS.

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTIONAL ABILITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN LOWER LIMB AMPUTEES WITH PROSTHETICS IN CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS AND ADULTS

Background of the Study: Physical activity and exercise part of maintaining good health. Its benefits are associated with improved life quality in the physical, psychological, and social sectors. Physical exercise is therefore essential to the recovery of amputees. A person’s quality of life might suffer when a limb is amputated. The quality of life for amputees in order to improve health, though, is little understood. The primary objective of this study was to look into the quality of life and physical activity of male adults and adolescents who had lower limb prosthesis. Methodology: Lower-limb amputees participated in the cross-sectional, descriptive study. investigation.72 Adolescents (5-17 years) and male adults (18-40 years) with unilateral transtibial and transfemoral amputees participated. The World Health Organization Quality of Life scale (WHOQOL) self-administration questionnaire was used to evaluate quality of life. Whereas, to check lower extremity conditions in the participants, The Lower Extremity functionality Scale was used. Results: Low Extremity Functions had significant positive relationship with overall Quality of Life with mean 32.45±9.44 and the strength of the correlation was .24*. Moreover, components of Quality-of-Life Environmental Health and Physical Health shows significant positive relationship with Lower Extremity Functions. Physical Health and Social Relationship showed non-significant correlation with lower Extremity Function. Conclusion: It was concluded that the age group differences were not significant with the Quality of Life, Physical health, Psychological health, social relationship and environmental health. However, the results showed that the quality of life and the lower extremity functional scale had a positive relationship. If the QOL of the individual increases that LEFS also increases. The social relationships and the psychological health do not correlate with the lower extremity functions but, the physical health and the environmental health has a significant impact on it.

Nutritional Obesity and its Relationship to Body Mass Index and Resting Heart Rate among Practicing and Non-Practicing Students/University of Zakho; A Comparative Study

This comparative study investigates the relationship between nutritional obesity, body mass index (BMI), and resting heart rate (RHR) among practicing and nonpracticing students at the University of Zakho. The research aimed to identify the correlation between BMI and variables such as weight, height, and resting pulse, as well as to determine if there are significant differences in BMI and RHR between practicing and nonpracticing students. The study employed a descriptive approach with a comparative method of correlational relationships, using a sample of 71 students from the Departments of Physical Education and Sports Sciences and General Psychology. Key findings include a strong positive correlation between BMI and body weight, a positive correlation between BMI and RHR, and a non-significant correlation between BMI and height. The study also revealed significantly higher mean BMI and RHR in the nonpracticing group compared to the practicing group. These results highlight the beneficial effects of regular physical activity on weight management, obesity prevention, and cardiovascular fitness. The insights gained from this study can inform the development of targeted interventions and health promotion strategies to address obesity-related concerns among university students.

Detecting Potassium Rebound in a Prevalent Hemodialysis Population

Abstract Background One of the fundamental goals of hemo dialysis (HD) prescription is to maintain serum potassium (K) levels within a narrow normal range during both the intradialytic and interdialytic intervals. Considering the extraordinarily high rate of cardiovascular mortality in HD population, clinicians are obligated to explore whether factors related to dialytic K removal can be modified to improve clinical outcomes. Aim of the Work The aim of the study was to detect potassium rebound after HD sessions in patients on maintenance HD Patients and Methods This was a prospective cohort study that was held in Hemodialysis units in Nephrology department - Ain Shams University Hospital and Sheikh Zayed Specialized Hospital for 3 months. The study included 60 male and female ESRD patients on maintenance HD, in which prevalent HD patients on maintenance HD 3 times/week. Results We found that that there were significant positive correlations between K levels before the sessions, immediately after the sessions and after 6 hours of the sessions. While there was significant negative correlations between K levels immediately after HD sessions and Hb levels and urea levels. There was also a highly significant negative correlation between K levels before the sessions and time of session (in hours). While there were highly significant negative correlations between K levels immediately after the sessions, after 6 hours of sessions and time of session (in hours). There was non-significant negative correlations between all K levels (before HD sessions, immediately after the sessions and 6 hours after the sessions) and frequency of sessions (per week), with p value 0.388, 0.299 and 0.086 respectively. Also, it showed non-significant negative correlations between all K levels (before HD sessions, immediately after the sessions and 6 hours after the sessions) and frequency of sessions (per month), with p value 0.086, 0.089 and 0.083 respectively. Our results showed a significant positive relation between the number of K raising antihypertensive drugs used by the patients and K levels before HD sessions. Conclusion Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on maintenance dialysis have a high risk of developing hyperkalemia, generally defined as serum potassium (K+) concentrations of > 5.0 mmol/l, particularly those undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Currently, the key approaches to the management of hyperkalemia in patients with ESRD are dialysis, dietary K+ restriction, and avoidance of medications that increase hyperkalemia risk. Management of these modifiable factors plays a crucial role in preventing hyperkalemia in patients undergoing dialysis. The availability of new oral K+-binders may potentially reduce the need for a highly restricted diet in patients with ESRD, and reduce the risk of potentially life-threatening hyperkalemia and the cardiovascular complications associated with rapid shifts in serum K+ concentrations that can occur with HD.

Serum C-Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio and its Correlation with Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Abstract Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder affecting joints with a progressive symmetric inflammation leading to bone erosion, cartilage destruction and disability. Usually, RA activity is measured by using RA Score of Disease Activity involving 28-joint count (DAS-28). C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio (CAR) has been recently used as a new indicator to assess inflammation and predict prognosis of certain malignancies with Some studies demonstrated its correlation with disease activity of some inflammatory diseases, particularly Crohn’s disease and RA. Objectives: to assess the role of serum C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) in RA as a marker for activity of this disease. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 84 RA patients. Each patient was tested for albumin and CRP in addition to erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). CAR was calculated mathematically by dividing CRP on albumin value. RA activity was assessed by applying DAS-28-ESR scoring system. Results: The mean of CAR was 4.25. Significant correlation was found between CAR and DAS-28 CRP disease activity index, CRP, ESR and patient VAS and serum albumin. CAR was showing significant differences among high, medium and low-remission groups of disease activity. However, positive but nonsignificant correlation was found between CAR and the DAS-28-ESR disease activity scoring system, CDAI and the physician VAS. Conclusion: CAR, can be considered as useful initial simple investigation which can give an idea about degree of disease activity and the need for further evaluation and management with less time, cost and effort especially in areas with low medical resources and facilities.

The Effect of Emotional Abuse on Periodontal Status and Salivary Resisti

Background: Emotional abuse is a widespread form of child abuse. It is suggested that the adverse outcomes from all forms of abuse mostly result from the emotional impacts. Resistin, a polypeptide high in cysteine, can serve as a valuable biochemical indicator of periodontal tissue damage when detected in the saliva. Objective: To assess the relationship of emotional abuse with periodontal status and salivary resistin levels. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study included 522 intermediate school students aged 13-15 years in Kirkuk/Iraq. Information on emotional abuse was obtained using Glaser criteria which is a self-administered, structured, questionnaire form. The levels of emotional abuse were categorized into mild (score between 24-26), moderate (score between 27-42), and severe (score between 43-72). Periodontal health was assessed by using the community periodontal index (CPI). Non-stimulated saliva was collected and salivary resistin levels were evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The most common level of abuse was moderate. The largest percentages of participants with dental calculus were observed in moderate (48.2%) and severe (57.5%) abuse groups and the highest mean number of sextants with gingival bleeding was observed in participants who experienced a moderate level of abuse (0.34). While the level of resistin was higher in the mild abuse group (237.06), all of its relationships with the periodontal condition were non-significant. Conclusion: Emotional abuse affects salivary resistin levels but has no obvious effect on periodontal status. Non-significant correlations were observed between salivary resistin levels and the levels of abuse with periodontal conditions.

Disagreement of Rehabilitation Adherence Perceptions Among Athletic Trainers and Injured Collegiate Athletes

Collegiate athletic trainers continue to report adherence to physical rehabilitation programs to be a problem in collegiate athletics, as rehabilitation adherence among collegiate athletes can range between 40% and 90%. Inconsistent appropriate adherence to these programs may limit patients’ ability to successfully recover from their sports injuries. This study sought to understand if differences in perception of rehabilitation adherence existed between athletic trainers and collegiate athletes. A nonsignificant fair inverse correlation was found between the athletic trainer perceptions and patient self-perceptions of rehabilitation adherence after an examination of 19 separate physical rehabilitation programs led by 5 collegiate athletic trainers (R = −.48, p = .06). Given the found practitioner–patient disconnect, collegiate athletic trainers should consider further encouraging patient involvement within their rehabilitation programs through various tactics such as the use of patient-rated outcomes or conversations that minimize patient distress.

Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 for the diagnosis of cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in long-term coronavirus disease 2019.

Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 (COMPASS-31) is an easy-to-use screening tool for the evaluation of autonomic dysfunction in various diseases affecting neural function but has rarely been used in the assessment of long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the COMPASS-31 score in detecting dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system in patients 3 months after COVID-19 infection. Fifty-nine subjects were recruited and grouped into 2: (a) controls (n = 31) who had never had positive polymerase chain reaction results for COVID-19 before and (b) the post-COVID-19 patients (n = 28) who had confirmed COVID-19 infection 3-6 months before recruitment. COMPASS-31 questionnaire was utilized to evaluate subjective symptoms or evidence of autonomic dysfunction. Autonomic dysfunction was assessed objectively by cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests (CARTs) and heart rate variability (HRV). For comparison of quantitative variables between two groups, t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, as appropriate, were used. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV), negative likelihood ratio (LR), and positive LR were used as measures of diagnostic accuracy. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis determined the overall accuracy of COMPASS-31. The median COMPASS score was found to be significantly higher in post-COVID-19 participants than controls (15.5 vs. 10, P = 0.021). The median total CART score was also significantly higher in post-COVID-19 participants (0 vs. 1, P < 0.001). Out of 6 domains of the COMPASS score, the median value for orthostatic dysfunction was found to be significantly higher in post-COVID-19 participants than controls (12 vs. 0, P = 0.008). There was significantly fair accuracy of the COMPASS score with an area under the receiver operating curve 0.68 (0.54-0.82) following the total CART score ≥2 as the gold standard in the diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction (P = 0.021). The best cutoff point of the total COMPASS score was 12.5, where the optimal values of sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were achieved. Nonsignificant and weak correlations between CARTs, HRV parameters, and COMPASS score were found. COMPASS-31 could be used as a user-friendly screening tool to detect autonomic dysfunction in post-COVID-19 cases with acceptable sensitivity and specificity.

Estimation of BMP-15 gene expression and its Association to Hormonal Profile in Iraq Patient with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy affecting reproductive aged women. The objective of this study was determine the gene expression levels in patients with PCOS and its reflects in hormonal reproductive : Luteinizing hormone(LH), Prolactin hormone(PRL) , Testosterone hormone (T), Follicle Stimulating hormone (FHS) , estradiol (E2). Fifty patient with PCOS and twenty healthy control group recruited from the Al-Zahra Teaching Hospital and AL-karama Teaching Hospital, in Wasit provinces/Iraq ,based on criteria of Rotterdam.The hormonal profile was carried out by Addendum-Mini VIDAS apparatus. BMP-15 gene expression was estimated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The mean of Testosterone(1.58±0.17), prolactin (18.42± 1.12), Luteinizing hormone (10.98 ± 0.89 ) was a significant (P&lt;0.05) and follicle-stimulating hormone (8.35± 0.42) was high significant (P≤0.01) but the Estradiol hormone decrease in patient with PCOS (39.73± 2.76) was a significant (P&lt;0.05) when compared to healthy control group (0.412±0.04),(13.12±1.13), (5.06±0.40), (6.83±0.34), (49.73±3.43) respectively. The result of BMP-15 gene expression in patient with PCOS that were a significant (P&lt;0.05) . The result showed there were non-significant correlation between PMP-15gene expression and hormonal profile of (E2, PRL,FSH, LH and T). The women with PCOS have high levels of the hormone (LH, PRL, T and FSH) and low levels of the E2 hormone and the gene expression of BMP-15 was high level in patient with PCOS.

Relationship of cognitive measures to mRNA levels in lymphocytes from patients with schizophrenia and controls

Patients with schizophrenia show substantial cognitive deficits and abnormalities in neurotransmitter-related levels of mRNA in brain or peripheral blood lymphocytes. However, the relationship of cognitive deficits as measured by the MATRICS battery and mRNA levels in brain or lymphocytes has not been sufficiently explored. We measured levels of methylation or neurotransmitter-related mRNAs in lymphocytes of 38 patients with chronic schizophrenia (CSZ) and 33 non-psychotic controls (controls) by qPCR using TaqMan probes. We assessed cognitive function in these patients and controls with the MATRICS battery. We used correlation analysis and scatter plots to assess the relationship of lymphocyte mRNA levels to MATRICS domain and composite scores. CSZ subjects had a consistently negative correlation between mRNA levels in lymphocytes and MATRICS cognitive variables of speed of processing, attention-vigilance, working memory, visual learning, and overall composite score. It is uncertain whether these negative correlations represent a causative relation between specific mRNA levels and cognitive deficits. Controls had either positive correlations or non-significant correlations between mRNA and most of the MATRICS variables. There were statistically significant differences in the correlations between mRNA and MATRICS variables between CSZ vs controls for several mRNAs (DNMT1, DNMT3A, BDNF, NR3C1, FPRF3, CNTNAP2). Our data show a different relationship between mRNA levels in peripheral blood lymphocytes and MATRICS cognitive variables in CSZ vs controls. The substantive significance of these differences needs further investigation.

Shared Genetic Influences Between Loss-of-Control Eating and Body Mass Index in Adolescent Twins.

Pediatric loss-of-control (LOC) eating is associated with high BMI and predicts binge-eating disorder and obesity onset with age. Research on the etiology of this common comorbidity has not explored the potential for shared genetic risk. This study examined genetic and environmental influences on LOC eating and its shared influence with BMI. Participants were 499 monozygotic and 398 same-sex dizygotic twins (age = 17.38 years ± 0.67, BMIz = 0.03 ± 1.03, 54% female) from the Colorado Center for Antisocial Drug Dependence Study. LOC eating was assessed dichotomously. Self-reported height and weight were converted to BMIz. Univariate and bivariate twin models estimated genetic and environmental influences on LOC eating and BMIz. More girls (21%) than boys (9%, p < 0.001) reported LOC eating. The phenotypic correlation with BMIz was 0.03 in girls and 0.18 in boys. Due to the nonsignificant phenotypic correlation in girls, bivariate twin models were fit in boys only. Across all models, the best-fitting model included genetic and unique environmental effects. Genetic factors accounted for 0.51 (95% CI: 0.23, 0.73) of the variance of LOC eating in girls and 0.54 (0.18, 0.90) in boys. The genetic correlation between LOC eating and BMIz in boys was 0.45 (0.15, 0.75). Findings indicate moderate heritability of LOC eating in adolescence, while emphasizing the role of unique environmental factors. In boys, LOC eating and BMIz share a proportion of their genetic influences.

Evaluation of Plasma Fibrinogen Level, Platelet Count &amp; Lipid Profile as Predictors of Cardiovascular Disease among Bangladeshi Healthy Male Smokers

Background: Smoking represents a substantial global health challenge, correlating with heightened rates of mortality and morbidity, notably including the onset of cancer. Within tobacco smoke are carcinogenic substances capable of perturbing cellular mechanisms and immune responses, thereby potentially influencing coagulation metrics and lipid profiles. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the plasma fibrinogen level, platelet count &amp; lipid profile as predictors of cardiovascular disease among Bangladeshi healthy male smokers. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019. Seventy male participants aged 20 to 40 years were enrolled, comprising 35 healthy non-smokers (Group A) and 35 male smokers (Group B). Smokers were further categorized into two groups based on pack year (5-15 pack year for B1 &amp; &gt;15 pack year for B2). Coagulation parameters including plasma fibrinogen and platelet count and lipid profile were assessed. Results: The study comprised 70 subjects, evenly divided into Group A and Group B, with comparable mean ages of 33.17 ± 2.91 years and 34.11 ± 3.18 years, respectively, and similar mean body mass index (BMI) values of 24.36 ± 2.28 kg/m2 and 24.68 ± 2.33 kg/m2. Plasma fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in Group B (315.55 ± 67.79 mg/dL) compared to Group A (222.49 ± 23.03 mg/dL), as were platelet counts (285.14 ± 34.33 x109/L in Group B vs. 235.20 ± 46.83 x109/L in Group A). Further stratification of Group B revealed higher fibrinogen levels in both subgroups, B1 and B2, compared to Group A, with B2 exhibiting the highest fibrinogen levels. Platelet counts followed a similar trend, with both B1 and B2 having significantly higher counts than Group A. Plasma fibrinogen level was positively correlated with pack-years of smoking, while platelet counts showed a positive but statistically non-significant correlation. Smokers exhibited elevated total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, along with decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels compared to non-smokers. Moreover, there was a significant positive correlation between pack-years of smoking and TC, TG, and LDL levels, while HDL levels exhibited a significant negative correlation. These findings underscore the complex interplay between smoking, coagulation parameters, and lipid profiles, emphasizing the multifaceted impact of smoking on cardiovascular health. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study highlights the intricate relationship between smoking, coagulation parameters, and lipid profiles in a cohort of 70 subjects. Smokers exhibited elevated plasma fibrinogen levels and platelet counts compared to non-smokers, with a significant positive correlation observed between pack-years of smoking and these coagulation parameters. Additionally, smokers demonstrated higher levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein, alongside lower levels of high-density lipoprotein, indicative of dyslipidemic state in the direction of increased risk for coronary artery disease. Furthermore, the discovered alterations in plasma fibrinogen, platelet, and lipid profiles serve as early predictors of cardiovascular disease, advocating for proactive management strategies in individuals with a smoking history.