One-way ANOVA Research Articles

Associations Between Sociodemographic Characteristics, eHealth Literacy, and Health-Promoting Lifestyle Among University Students in Taipei: Cross-Sectional Validation Study of the Chinese Version of the eHealth Literacy Scale.

The popularization of the internet and rapid development of mobile devices have led to an increased inclination and opportunities to obtain health-related information online. The eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS), widely used for measuring eHealth literacy, assesses an individual's ability to search, understand, appraise, and use eHealth information. However, the Chinese version of the eHEALS multiple-factor model remains to be validated, and the correlation between eHEALS and the health-promoting lifestyle profile (HPLP) among university students is rarely explored in Taiwan. This study aimed to examine the fit, validity, and reliability of the Chinese eHEALS multiple-factor model and to clarify the predictive effects of eHEALS on the HPLP among university students. University students in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, were recruited, and 406 valid questionnaires including sociodemographic characteristics, eHEALS, and HPLP responses were collected. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to validate the Chinese eHEALS. Independent sample t test, 1-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between sociodemographic variables and the HPLP. Pearson product-moment correlation and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to ascertain the predictive effects of eHEALS on the HPLP. The Chinese eHEALS exhibited an optimal fit when delineated into the search, usage, and evaluation 3-factor model (comparative fit index=0.991, Tucker-Lewis index=0.984, root mean square error of approximation=0.062), and its validity and reliability were confirmed. The mean eHEALS score of university students was 3.17/4.00 (SD 0.48) points, and the score for the evaluation subscale was the lowest (mean 3.08, SD 0.56 points). Furthermore, there were significant sex, institution orientation, daily reading time, daily screen time, primary information channel, and perceived health status differences in the HPLP: male participants (t404=2.346, P=.02), participants attending general university (t404=2.564, P=.01), those reading ≥1 hour daily (F2,403=17.618, P<.001), those spending <3 hours on mobile devices or computers daily (F2,403=7.148, P<.001), those acquiring information from others (t404=3.892, P<.001), and those with a good perceived health status (F2,403=24.366, P<.001) had a significantly higher score. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, the eHEALS score remained an independent predictor of the HPLP. Compared to students with relatively high eHEALS scores, those with relatively low eHEALS scores had a 3.37 times risk of a negative HPLP (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=3.37, 95% CI 1.49-7.61), which could explain 14.7%-24.4% of the variance (Cox-Snell R2=0.147, Nagelkerke R2=0.244, P=.004). There is room for improvement in eHealth literacy among university students in Taipei. eHEALS may be used to screen students who require HPLP improvement, thereby providing appropriate eHealth literacy training programs, particularly those targeting evaluation literacy. Additionally, the 3-factor model of the Chinese eHEALS used in this study results in more definite scale content, thus increasing the practicality and applicability of this scale in health-promoting studies.

Efficiency of the photodynamic therapy on viability of Streptococcus mutans in the oral cavity using chitosan nanoparticles: an in vitro study.

This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on Streptococcus mutans biofilm in the oral cavity using the photosensitizer chloroaluminum phthalocyanine encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (ClAlPc/Ch) at three preirradiation times. Biofilms of Streptococcus mutans strains (ATCC 25,175) were cultivated on bovine tooth blocks and exposed to a 10% sucrose solution three times a day for 1min over three consecutive days. The samples were randomly distributed into five treatment groups (n = 5): (I) aPDT with ClAlPc/Ch with a preirradiation time of 5min (F5), (II) aPDT with ClAlPc/Ch with a preirradiation time of 15min (F15), (III) aPDT with ClAlPc/Ch with a preirradiation time of 30min (F30), (IV) 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), and (V) 0.9% saline solution (NaCl). After treatment, the S. mutans biofilms formed on each specimen were collected to determine the number of viable bacteria (colony-forming units (CFU)/mL). Data were analyzed for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey HSD tests to analyze the number of viable bacteria (α = 0.05). The one-way ANOVA showed a difference between the groups (p = 0.0003), and the Tukey HSD posttest showed that CHX had the highest microbial reduction of S. mutans, not statistically different from the F5 and F15 groups, whereas the NaCl group had the lowest microbial reduction statistically similar to the F30 group. The results demonstrate that aPDT mediated by ClAlPc/Ch when used at preirradiation times of 5-15min can be an effective approach in controlling cariogenic biofilm of S. mutans, being an alternative to 0.12% CHX.

Effect of soil additives on biogeochemistry of ultramafic soils—an experimental approach with Brassica napus L

Ultramafic soils are characterized by low productivity due to the deficiency of macroelements and high content of Ni, Cr, and Co. Incorporation of ultramafic soils for agricultural and food production involves the use of fertilizers. Therefore, this study aims to find the soil additive that decreases the metallic elements uptake by plant using Brassica napus as an example. In this study, we evaluate the effect of manure (0.5 g N/kg of soil), humic acids (1 g of Rosahumus/1 dm3 H2O; 44% C), KNO3 (0.13 g K/kg of soil), lime (12.5 g/kg of soil), (NH4)2SO4 (0.15 g N/kg of soil), and Ca(H2PO4)2) (0.07 g P/kg of soil) on the phytoavailability of metallic elements. The effect of soil additives on metallic elements uptake by Brassica napus was studied in a pot experiment executed in triplicates. Statistical analysis was applied to compare the effects of additives in ultramafic soil on plant chemical composition relative to control unfertilized ultramafic soil (one-way ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis test). The study shows that in almost all treatments, metallic elements content (Ni, Cr, Co, Al, Fe, Mn) is higher in roots compared to the aboveground parts of Brassica napus except for (NH4)2SO4, in which the mechanism of Mn accumulation is opposite. The main differences between the treatments are observed for the buffer properties of soil and the accumulation of specific metals by studied plants. The soils with the addition of lime and manure have the highest buffer properties in acidic conditions (4.9-fold and 2.1-fold increase relative to control soil, respectively), whereas the soil with (NH4)2SO4 has the lowest effect (0.8-fold decrease relative to control soil). Also, the addition of manure increases the biomass of aboveground parts of B. napus (3.4-fold increase) and decreases the accumulation of Ni (0.6-fold decrease) compared to plants cultivated in the control soil. On the contrary, the addition of (NH4)2SO4 noticeably increases the accumulation of Ni, Co, Mn, and Al in aboveground parts of B. napus (3.2-fold, 18.2-fold, 11.2-fold, and 1.6-fold, respectively) compared to plant grown in control soil, whereas the humic acids increase the accumulation of Cr in roots (1.6-fold increase). Therefore, this study shows that manure is a promising fertilizer in agricultural practices in ultramafic soil, whereas (NH4)2SO4 and humic acids must not be used in ultramafic areas.

Persons with Unilateral Transtibial Amputations Modulate Ipsilateral Hip and Contralateral Ankle Joint Work to Accelerate and Decelerate Walking

ABSTRACT Introduction Loss of power production at the ankle joint contributes to many problems people with unilateral transtibial (UTT) amputation experience during walking. Little is known about walking acceleration and deceleration, which is common in daily living and may require substantial compensatory behaviors from the residual lower-limb joints. Objective The aim of this study was to quantify individual lower-limb joint contributions to walking acceleration and deceleration in people with UTT amputations. We hypothesized that joint work on the prosthetic limb would be primarily modulated at the hip, and joint work on the sound limb would be primarily modulated at the ankle. Study Design The study is a repeated-measures design. Methods Six K3 level ambulators with UTT amputations participated. Participants performed a total of 40 walking trials while wearing their own nonarticulated dynamic prosthetic foot and socket. Each trial consisted of walking along a straight walkway. After walking approximately 2 m, participants received a cue instructing them to perform one of three walking conditions: continue walking at a constant average velocity, rapidly accelerate, or rapidly decelerate. We used ground reaction forces and motion capture data to derive joint kinematics and kinetics during the three walking conditions. We used one-way repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) to identify significant differences between conditions. Results For the sound limb, positive hip and ankle work was significantly greater during acceleration compared with constant average velocity or deceleration conditions, and negative knee work was significantly greater during acceleration compared with deceleration. For the prosthetic limb, negative ankle work was significantly greater during acceleration compared with deceleration. Conclusions People with UTT amputation who use nonarticulated prostheses primarily modulated joint work on their sound limb to accelerate or decelerate walking speed. Clinical Relevance Characterizing compensatory behaviors of people with a UTT amputation is important for understanding injury mechanisms, informing clinical guidelines, and improving future ankle-foot prosthesis designs.

Quality Evaluation of Ginger-Spiced Hibiscus Sabdariffa Drink Sweetened with Dates and Sucrose

Sweetening of Hibiscus sabdariffa drink (zobo) with sucrose is a major drawback on its health benefits. This research assessed the quality of ginger-spiced Hibiscus sabdariffa “zobo” drink sweetened with dates and sugar. Four samples of zobo drink were produced and the drink samples were assessed for physico-chemical properties, nutrient composition, antioxidant properties and sensory qualities. Data was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 at P&lt;0.05 and means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. The pH was between 2.88 and 2.96 while obrix was 3-14.5 and titratable acidity was 0.78 - 0.83. The ranges for the nutrient composition are; moisture content (82.41% - 90.46 %), ash content (0.13%-0.68%), crude fiber (0.00% - 0.02%), fat content (0.18% - 0.92%), protein content (0.45%-2.41%), carbohydrate content (8.77% - 13.65%). Results for the antioxidant properties ranges; total flavonoid content (19.12 – 32.30 mg/ml), phenolic content (38.34 to 45.53 mg/ml), diphenyl picrylhydrazyl (60.90-65.12 %), ferric reducing antioxidant power (40.04 – 50.50 mg GAE/ml) and total reducing power (0.63 – 0.93 µg/ml). The sensory results showed that the samples were all acceptable in terms of colour, aroma and overall acceptability. However, there was preference for sample with 5 % dates and 5 % sucrose. Addition of dates to zobo is beneficial in terms of crude fibre, vitamin C, antioxidant activities and sensory qualities.

Effect of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Combined With Hyaluronic Acid on Bone Formation in Dental Implant Sockets: An In Vivo Study in Sheep.

The goal was to evaluate the effect of the combined growth factor of hyaluronic acid (HA) and advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF)on acceleration and maturation of bone formation around titaniumdental implants in the bone-free space (jumping distance) of anover-preparation socket. Thirty-two titanium dental implants were placed in four sheepand distributed into one control group (A) and three experimental groups (B, C, and D) in two different time periods.Each sheep received eight implants. The eight implants in each sheep were distributed into four groups. The first period was one month after the initial placement, 16 implants were used in two sheep. The second period was three months after the initial placement; another 16 implants were used in the other two sheep.All implants were placed in over-prepared implant sockets, resulting in minimal primary stability. In Group A: the space between the dental implant and the bone of the inner wall of the socket was left without a growth substrate material. In Group B: we added HA between the dental implant and the bone of the inner wall of the socket. In Group C: we added A-PRF between the dental implant and the bone of the inner wall of the socket. In Group D: we added a combination of HA and A-PRF between the dental implant and the bone of the inner wall of the socket. Data was collected for each group at one month and three months at the same time. A high-resolution, desktop micro-CT system (Bruker Skyscan 1275, Kontich, Belgium) was used to scan the specimens. The NRecon software (ver. 1.6.10.4, SkyScan) and CTAn (SkyScan) were used for the visualization and quantitative measurement of the samples. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means of the four study groups in the same period. A post hoc test was used after ANOVA to compare the means of two samples at the same time. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. After one month and three months of using combined HA and A-PRF on Group D, significant acceleration was observed in bone formation in all tests around dental implants compared with other groups, while no significant acceleration was observed when they were used separately; all three study groups showed significant results when compared with thecontrol group. Our data showed that using a combination of HA and A-PRF had a significanteffect on the acceleration of the bone formation and ossification process when added to bone-free space (jumping distance) around implants while leaving space without any growth substrates might delay the boneossification process.

Assessment of Vertical Force Generated with Single File Systems during Shaping of Constricted Root Canals.

This study aimed to evaluate the shaping force generated with OneShape (OS) and HyFlex EDM (HEDM) systems designed for single file shaping, in comparison with ProTaper Next (PTN). Maxillary premolar teeth received access cavity preparation and their canals were shaped with OS, HEDM, or PTN to size 25 according to manufacturer's instructions with consistent pressure on the files to give a gentle "in-and-out" movements of 2 mm amplitude. The canal shaping was completed with a total of three insertions. After each insertion, 1% NaOCl irrigation and recapitulation with K-file size 15 were performed. The vertical shaping force was measured using a force gauge (M5-20 Advanced Digital Force Gauge; Mark-10 Corporation, NY). The shaping time was analyzed by using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and differences between the mean apical and coronal maximum force values were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. The level of significance was set as 0.05. The magnitude of the vertical forces increased with successive advancements of the instruments within the canal. During canal shaping procedures in all groups, the apical and coronal maximum force values of the OS and HEDM ranged from 2.5 to 7.2 N and 1.3 to 2.9 N, respectively. PTN generated the lowest maximum apical forces during the second and third insertions (p < 0.05). HEDM generated significantly less maximum coronal forces than both OS and PTN during the first insertion while the use of OS was associated with the highest amount of force values in the second and third insertions (p < 0.05). In terms of shaping time, no significant differences were detected among the three tested systems (p = 0.606). The tested single file systems were associated with higher shaping forces in the apical direction that were significant in the second and third insertions.

IQOS news media coverage in Israel: a comparison across three subpopulations.

Philip Morris International's (PMI) IQOS, a leading heated tobacco product globally, entered the Israeli market in 2016. IQOS and/or electronic cigarette use is higher in Israel's Arab population (2.8% vs 1.2% of Jews). However, previous research indicated possible targeting of the Ultra-orthodox Jewish population with more IQOS paid ads. This paper examined how IQOS is framed in news media articles directed at three subpopulations in Israel: Arab, Ultra-orthodox Jews and general public. Media articles (January-October 2020) were obtained from Ifat media and were coded using abductive coding. Characteristics of articles (photo and article content) targeting each subpopulation were compared using χ2, Fisher's exact test, one-way analysis of variance and median test, as appropriate. Of the 63 unique articles identified, 16 targeted Arab, 24 Ultra-orthodox Jews and 23 general public. Arab and Ultra-orthodox Jewish media significantly differed from the general public's media in their positive framing of PMI (100% Arab and 75% Ultra-orthodox Jews vs 52% general public, p=0.004), and IQOS (100% Arab and 88% Ultra-orthodox Jews vs 61% general public, p=0.006). Arab media differed from others by highlighting IQOS' retail locations (81% vs 17% Ultra-orthodox Jews and 13% general public), social benefits (88% vs 8% Ultra-orthodox Jews and 17% general public) and reflecting content from PMI's press release (100% vs 46% Ultra-orthodox Jews and 35% general public; ps <0.001). IQOS was framed more positively in media targeting minority populations (Arab and Ultra-orthodox Jews), compared with general public. Arabic media in particular emphasised IQOS' retail accessibility and social benefits. These findings highlight the need for media surveillance and regulation, especially of minority-oriented media.

Preosteoblast Adhesion and Viability Study of Freeze-Dried Bovine Bone Block Scaffold Coated with Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome.

Combining a three-dimensional scaffold with growth factors before implantation is one method used to increase scaffold bioactivity in bone tissue engineering. The mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-conditioned medium (CM), called secretome, contains many proteins and growth factors required for tissue repair and growth. This study evaluated the bioactivity of a bovine bone scaffold combined with the secretome of human umbilical cord MSCs (hUC-MSCs) by analyzing MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion and viability on the scaffold. This in vitro laboratory study evaluated the effect of hUC-MSC secretome applied to bovine bone scaffolds processed using various techniques on MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion and viability. The three experimental groups included deproteinized bovine bone mineral-secretome (DBBM-CM), freeze-dried bovine bone-secretome (FDBB-CM), and decellularized FDBB-CM, whereas the control group was treated with DBBM alone. The cell adhesion test was performed using the centrifugation method after 6 and 24 hours, whereas the cell viability test was conducted using the trypan blue exclusion method after 24, 48, and 72 hours. Cell attachment was visualized after 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and viewed under inverted fluorescence microscopy. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance, followed by a post hoc test in cases of significant differences. Statistical analyses showed significantly greater adhesion of the preosteoblasts to the FDBB-CM scaffold at 6 hours (p = 0.002). The results of the adhesion test at 24 hours and the viability tests at all observation times showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). This study found that the average MC3T3-E1 cell adhesions and viabilities were highest for the FDBB-CM and DBBM-CM scaffolds. DBBM scaffolds with the secretome had better cell adhesion and viability than those without the secretome. The addition of MSC secretome increased bovine bone scaffold bioactivity especially in DBBM and FDBB scaffolds.

Health-related quality of life and utility values among patients with anxiety and/or depression in a low-income tertiary care setting: a cross-sectional analysis.

To describe the health-related quality of life (HRQoL), estimate the associated health state utility values (HSUVs) and explore factors associated with HRQoL of patients with anxiety and/or depression in a resource-limited hospital setting. A cross-sectional survey involving 462 participants was conducted in a hospital setting. The Amharic version of the EQ-5D-5L assessed HRQoL, while the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 measured severity of anxiety and depression symptoms respectively. HSUVs were analysed based on clinical and demographic profiles; mean differences were compared using t-tests and one-way ANOVA; Scheffe's post hoc comparisons and effect sizes (Cohen's d statistic) were used to assess the magnitude of group differences. Factors associated with HRQoL were explored using regression analysis. The mean HSUV was 0.87 (SD = 0.17) and the EQ VAS was 71.4 (SD = 19.1). Patients with both anxiety and depression scored significantly lower (HSUV = 0.83 [0.16], EQ VAS = 64.4 [17.9]) compared to those with either anxiety only (HSUV = 0.88 [0.17], EQ VAS = 75.3 [17.9]) or depression only (HSUV = 0.89 [0.18], EQ VAS 74.4 [19.7]). Males had slightly higher mean scores than females, while those aged 18-35 years demonstrated the highest scores on both the EQ-5D-5L and EQ VAS. Older age (β=-0.002), higher PHQ-9 scores (β=-0.008) and comorbid hypertension (β=-0.07) associated with lower HSUVs. Lower EQ VAS scores were associated with being female (β=-4.4), having comorbid hypertension (β=-7.4) and higher PHQ-9 scores (β=-0.86), while a positive association was found with having 'more than enough' income (β = 11.8). Older age, severity or co-diagnosis of anxiety or depression and comorbid conditions were associated with lower HRQoL, highlighting the need for better interventions to improve the HRQoL of patients with anxiety and depression in Ethiopia.

Multicultural Academic Experience and Multicultural Counselling Competency in Addressing Polygamous Family Structures Among Registered Counsellors in Malaysia

To effectively conduct counselling sessions, professional counsellors in Malaysia need to possess multicultural competence, especially considering the discrepancies between the ideal and the actual understanding of polygamous marriages. This study examines the relationship between multicultural academic experience, multicultural counselling competency, and the competency of counsellors in addressing polygamous family structures among 370 registered counsellors in Malaysia. The collected data was analysed using Pearson Correlations, One-Way ANOVA and Multiple Regressions. The findings indicate that the respondents demonstrated high multicultural academic experience and multicultural counselling competency. There was a significant positive correlation between multicultural academic experience and multicultural counselling competency, as well as the competency of counsellors in handling polygamous families. Moreover, there were noteworthy variations in competency levels based on ethnicity. This study highlights the crucial role of multicultural academic experience and multicultural counselling competency in predicting the competency of counsellors when dealing with polygamous families. Further validation of the Counselors’ Multicultural Competency on the Polygamous Family Structure Scale is recommended in future studies encompassing larger and more diverse populations.

Evaluation of Glutathione S-transferases Expression as Biomarkers by Heavy Metals in Geloina expansa from Sepang Besar River, Selangor, Malaysia

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are enzymes involved in phase II of detoxification metabolism and could be used as biomarkers for water pollution. This study aims to determine heavy metal concentrations in the soft tissue of the mangrove clam Geloina expansa, as well as the expression of GSTs in the species. The acid digestion method was used to digest the samples, followed by a standard USEPA 6010B procedure using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to measure the heavy metal contents in the samples. GST enzyme activity was measured using 1-chloro-2, 4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) as substrate. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare the mean values of heavy metal concentration, protein concentration, enzyme activity, and specific activity. There was a significant difference (p&lt;0.05) for Zn, total protein, and specific activity in G. expansa, but no significant difference in Pb, Cu and enzyme activity. GST enzyme activities were estimated at 0.16 ± 0.01 µmol/min, with a protein content of 1.24 ± 0.04 mg. The specific activity for GST was 0.13 ± 0.01 µmol/min/mg, calculated as the ratio of enzyme activity to the total protein. GST-specific activity positively correlates with Pb concentration in the soft tissue of G. expansa. Detailed studies on the effects of pollution on the expression of GST need to be further investigated for the future use of this species as an efficient biomarker model.

Twitter Discussions on #digitaldementia: Content and Sentiment Analysis.

Digital dementia is a term that describes a possible decline in cognitive abilities, especially memory, attributed to the excessive use of digital technology such as smartphones, computers, and tablets. This concept has gained popularity in public discourse and media lately. With the increasing use of social media platforms such as Twitter (subsequently rebranded as X), discussions about digital dementia have become more widespread, which offer a rich source of information to understand public perceptions, concerns, and sentiments regarding this phenomenon. The aim of this research was to delve into a comprehensive content and sentiment analysis of Twitter discussions regarding digital dementia using the hashtag #digitaldementia. Retrospectively, publicly available English-language tweets with hashtag combinations related to the topic of digital dementia were extracted from Twitter. The tweets were collected over a period of 15 years, from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2022. Content analysis was used to identify major themes within the tweets, and sentiment analysis was conducted to understand the positive and negative emotions associated with these themes in order to gain a better understanding of the issues surrounding digital dementia. A one-way ANOVA was performed to gather detailed statistical insights regarding the selected tweets from influencers within each theme. This study was conducted on 26,290 tweets over 15 years by 5123 Twitter users, mostly female users in the United States. The influencers had followers ranging from 20,000 to 1,195,000 and an average of 214,878 subscribers. The study identified four themes regarding digital dementia after analyzing tweet content: (1) cognitive decline, (2) digital dependency, (3) technology overload, and (4) coping strategies. Categorized according to Glaser and Strauss's classifications, most tweets (14,492/26,290, 55.12%) fell under the categories of wretched (purely negative) or bad (mostly negative). However, only a small proportion of tweets (3122/26,290, 11.86%) were classified as great (purely positive) or swell sentiment (mostly positive). The ANOVA results showed significant differences in mean sentiment scores among the themes (F3,3581=29.03; P<.001). The mean sentiment score was -0.1072 (SD 0.4276). Various negative tweets have raised concerns about the link between excessive use of digital devices and cognitive decline, often known as digital dementia. Of particular concern is the rapid increase in digital device use. However, some positive tweets have suggested coping strategies. Engaging in digital detox activities, such as increasing physical exercise and participating in yoga and meditation, could potentially help prevent cognitive decline.

Sleep Problems and Gambling Disorder: Cross-Sectional Relationships in a Young Cohort.

To investigate the potential association between gambling disorder and symptoms of sleep problems (including insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness). It was hypothesised that, compared to controls, individuals with gambling disorder would have significantly greater disturbance of sleep, as indicated by increased scores in: (1) sleep items on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D); (2) total score on the HAM-A and HAM-D; and (3) the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Secondary analysis of previously published data from 152 young adults, aged 18-29 years. Individuals were stratified into three groups: controls, those at risk of gambling disorder, and those with gambling disorder. One-way ANOVAs with post-hoc tests were conducted to determine whether groups differed significantly in sleep item scores and total scores of the HAM-A and HAM-D, and the ESS. HAM-D scale insomnia item scores were significantly higher in the disorder group, when compared to controls, this being particularly marked for middle and late insomnia. The HAM-A item score indicated significantly worse sleep quality in the disorder group, compared to at risk and control groups. Total HAM-A and HAM-D scores were significantly higher in the disorder group, but ESS scores did not differ significantly. Measures of disruptions in sleep were significantly higher in gambling disorder than controls. Anxiety and depressive symptom severity was also significantly higher in the gambling disorder group. Further research could have implications for identification and treatment of sleep disorders and psychiatric comorbidities in gambling disorder.

Exploration on the protective effect of liraglutide on renal injury in diabetic nephropathy rats based on ROS-NLRP3 inflammasomes

Objective: To investigate the effect of liraglutide on diabetic nephropathy in rats and its regulatory mechanism. Methods: The diabetic nephropathy rat model was constructed with high-glucose-high-fat diet in combination with STZ, and was randomly divided into normal saline group and liraglutide group. The rats in liraglutide group were given sc 200 μg/kg of liraglutide, and the rats in normal saline group were given sc 20 mg/kg of normal saline twice a day for 4 weeks. The normal control group was not treated with any treatment. The biochemical indexes such as rat body weight, 24-hour urine total protein quantification (UTP), fasting blood glucose (FPG), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (TC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) were measured. HE staining, Masson staining and PAS staining were used to observe the pathologically morphological changes in renal tissues. Western-blot was used to detect the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome-related protein in renal tissues. Elisa was used to measure the serum levels of interleukin-18 (IL-18) and IL-1β. SPSS 26.0 statistical software and Graph Prism 9.0 software were used for analysis and mapping. The t-test was used for the comparison of measurement data between two groups, one-way ANOVA was used for the comparison among multiple groups, and Tukey’s test was used for the comparison in the same group. Results: Compared with the normal saline group, FBG, UTP, BUN, Scr, TC and TG in the liraglutide group were significantly decreased (p &lt; .01), the glomerular basement membrane was slightly thickened, with the tubular lumen slightly dilated and the lesion damage alleviated; the expression levels of NLRP3, ASC and caspase-1 inflammasome-related proteins were decreased (p &lt; .01), and the levels of IL-18 and IL-1β were decreased (p &lt; .01).Conclusion: Liraglutide can inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome mediated by oxidative stress in renal tissues through ROS-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, thereby inhibiting the inflammation, and finally playing an anti-diabetic nephropathy renal injury role.

User experience of and satisfaction with computer-aided design software when designing dental prostheses: A multicenter survey study.

The current study aimed to compare the responses and satisfaction reported by users with varying levels of experience when using different types of computer-aided design (CAD) software programs to design crowns. A questionnaire was used to evaluate user responses to five domains (software visibility, 3Dscanned data preparation, crown design and adjustment, finish line registration, and overall experience) of various CAD software programs. The study included 50 undergraduate dental students (inexperienced group) and 50 dentists or dental technicians from two hospitals (experienced group). The participants used four different CAD software programs (Meshmixer, Exocad, BlueSkyPlan, and Dentbird) to design crowns and recorded the features using the questionnaire. Statistical analyses included one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests to compare scores and verify the interaction between user response and experience. User evaluation scores in the domains of software visibility and 3D-scanned data preparation varied between software programs (P < 0.001), with Exocad being favored by the experienced group. When evaluating crown design and finish line registration, Dentbird and Exocad scored significantly higher than the other software in both groups as they offered automation of the process using deep learning (P < 0.001). Two-way ANOVA showed that prior experience of using CAD significantly affected the users' responses to all queries (P < 0.001). User response and satisfaction varied with the type of CAD software used to design dental prostheses, with prior experience of using CAD playing a significant role. Automation of design functions can enhance user satisfaction with the software.

Coinfection of viruses in children with community-acquired pneumonia

BackgroundVirus, particularly respiratory tract virus infection is likely to co-occur in children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Study focusing on the association between common viruses coinfection and children with CAP is rare. We aimed to study the association between seven common viruses coinfection and clinical/laboratory indexes in children with CAP.MethodsSix hundred and eighty-four CAP cases from our hospital were enrolled retrospectively. Seven common viruses, including influenza A (FluA), influenza B (FluB), human parainfluenza virus (HPIV), Esptein-Barr virus (EBV), coxsackie virus (CoxsV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV) were investigated for their associations with CAP. We analyzed the differences of hospitalization days, white blood cell (WBC), c-reactive protein (CRP), platelet (PLT), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), procalcitonin (PCT), urine red blood cell (uRBC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CKMB) among different viruses coinfection groups by using one-way ANOVA analysis. The differences of clinical/laboratory indexes between ordinary and severe pneumonia groups, as well as non-virus vs multi co-infection viruses groups, and single vs multi co-infection viruses groups by using independent samples T test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were applied to test the the predictive value of the clinical/laboratory parameters for the risk of viruses coinfections among CAP. Binary logistic analysis was performed to test the association between various indexes and viruses co-infection.ResultsEighty-four multiple viruses coinfections yielded different prognosis compared with that in 220 single virus coinfection. CMV coinfection was associated with longest hospitalization days, highest ALT, AST and CKMB level. HSV coinfection was associated with highest WBC count, CRP, ESR, and BUN. EBV coinfection was associated with highest PLT and PCT level. FluB coinfection was associated with highest Scr level. CoxsV coinfection was associated with highest uRBC, LDH and CK level. ROC curve analyses showed that CK had the largest area under the curve (AUC: 0.672, p < 10–4) for the risk of viruses coinfections risk in CAP. Significant association between PLT, uRBC, BUN, CK, and CKMB and virus coinfection risk in CAP was observed.ConclusionsMultiple viruses coinfections indicated different prognosis. Different viruses coinfection yielded varying degrees of effects on the cardiac, liver, kidney and inflamatory injury in CAP. The alterations of clinical/laboratory parameters, particularly CK may be associated with the risk of viruses coinfections in CAP.

Investigation of ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations using veterinary ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET).

To compare ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations and evaluate correlations among tests. Sixty-eight privately owned dogs. The study categorized canine eyes into three groups based on the craniofacial ratio (CFR): brachycephaly (≤0.52), mesocephaly (>0.52 to <0.67), and dolichocephaly (≥0.67). All eyes were examined using an ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET) to determine lipid layer thickness (LLT) of the tear film, tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT), and meibomian gland loss rate of the lower eyelids (MGLRL). Schirmer tear test 1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time (TBUT) were also performed. Statistical analyses involved one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, post hoc Holm-Sidak test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. While STT-1 showed no significant difference among dog groups, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower values in TBUT, NIBUT, and LLT, and a higher TMH, compared to mesocephalic and dolichocephalic dogs. Additionally, brachycephalic dogs exhibited a significantly higher MGLRL than dolichocephalic dogs. Correlations among tests were generally weak to moderate (r < .6) except for a strong correlation between CFR and LLT (r = .641, p < .001), and between TBUT and NIBUT (r = .899, p < .001). Brachycephalic morphology predisposes dogs to a significantly thinner lipid layer and diminished tear film stability, likely due to factors such as impaired meibomian gland function and increased ocular exposure compared to other cephalic conformations, thereby increasing their risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). OSA-VET shows a valuable tool to provide more comprehensive and precise diagnosis for canine ocular surface disorders.

An Innovative Prototype to Measure Carbon Dioxide, Ethylene, and Nitric and Nitrous Oxides in the Soil Air

ABSTRACT Agricultural intensification has increased the consumption of inputs, mainly fertilizers, which may increase emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG). The improvement of our knowledge on GHG dynamics in the soil is mandatory to optimize the use of fertilizers and reduce environmental impacts. We developed an electronic sensor prototype based on Arduino to monitor concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2), ethylene (C2H4), ammonia (NH3), and nitrogen oxides (N2O/NOx) in the soil air in a greenhouse experiment with soybean (Glycine max L.) under two treatments: single inoculation (Bradyrhizobium spp.) or triple co-inoculation (Bradyrhizobium spp. Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescens) in a completely randomized design. One-way analysis of variance, as well as correlation between plant traits at 35 days of emergence and the average daily concentration of gases in the soil air were performed. Although not affecting plant growth or yield-related traits, co-inoculation increased CO2, while decreased NOx concentrations compared with single inoculation, whereas C2H4 emission changed with the plant growth stage. Although co-inoculation increased respiration, decreased N losses by denitrification, mitigating the total emissions of GHG. The prototype showed to be efficient for monitoring GHG across the experiment at a low cost and easy use, contributing for monitoring GHG concentrations in the soil air.

Synthetic and Natural Vitamin C Modulation of Leaded Paint-Induced Nephrotoxicity of Automobile Painters in Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

Introduction: Lead (Pb) occupational exposure in painters has been documented to be contacted via additives in paints due to its many important properties and vitamin C has been the most widely studied when it comes to Pb- induced oxidative stress.  Aim: This study aimed at the use of freshly squeezed orange-juice due to its accessibility in investigating the modulating role of synthetic and natural vitamin-C on leaded paint-induced nephrotoxicity of automobile painters.  Study Design and Methods: Sixty (60) male automobile painters were consecutively selected and divided equally into 2 groups. Vitamin-C and orange juice were administered daily to painters for 4 weeks at dosage levels of 200 and 184 mg/day respectively. Thirty (30) male non-painters constituted the control group. Orange juice vitamin-C content was assessed by titrimetric method and synthetic vitamin-C served as the standard drug. Renal biomarkers and reduced glutathione (GSH) were done by Colorimetry. Urine aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and Pb were assessed by ELISA technique and atomic absorption spectrophotometry respectively. Phytochemical screenings (quantitative/qualitative) and proximate analysis were done using standard methods. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test for pairwise comparison. Statistical significance was p&lt; 0.05.  Results: Baseline results at 0-week of orange juice administered group showed a significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher serum Pb, urea and creatinine compared to non- painters. Also, their urine baseline results at 0-week showed a significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher levels of ALA and GSH compared to non-painters. Orange juice administration at 4 weeks showed significant (P&lt;0.05) reductions in concentrations of lead, urea, and creatinine in serum, decreased concentrations of GSH and ALA in urine but increased urine Pb compared to baseline. However, compared with baseline, after 4 weeks of vitamin-C supplementation, serum Pb, urine GSH, and urine ALA were significantly (P&lt;0.05) reduced and urine Pb significantly (P&lt;0.05) increased. A positive correlation was observed at 2-weeks of taking orange- juice between serum lead and urine ALA (r= 0.703) and GSH (r= 0.913) but 4-week positive correlation between urea and urine GSH (r= 1.000). A negative correlation was observed at 2-week of taking vitamin-C between serum creatinine and urine lead (r= -0.857) while 4-week a negative correlation was observed between urine GSH and urine lead (r= -0.743). Presence of tannin, phenol, saponin, alkaloid, and flavonoid was detected in orange juice.  Conclusion: Orange juice administration conferred significant amelioration to renal and lead toxicity biomarkers by 4 weeks. The presence of phytochemicals suggests why orange juice may be a viable alternative in amelioration of toxic effects of leaded paint among automobile painters.