One-way ANOVA Research Articles

Premixed calcium silicate-based ceramic sealers promote osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells: A microscopy study.

To evaluate the effects of premixed calcium silicate based ceramic sealers on the viability and osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). The materials evaluated were TotalFill BC Sealer (TFbc), AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer (AHPbc), and Neosealer Flo (Neo). Standardized discs and 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 eluates of the tested materials were prepared. The following in vitro experiments were carried out: ion release, cell metabolic activity 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, cell migration, immunofluorescence experiment, cell attachment, gene expression, and mineralization assay. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test (p < .05). Increased Ca2+ release was detected in TFbc compared to AHPbc and Neo (*p < .05). Biological assays showed a discrete cell metabolic activity and cell migration in Neo-treated cell, whereas scanning electronic microscopy assay exhibited that TFbc group had a better cell adhesion process of substrate attachment, spreading, and cytoskeleton development on the niche-like structures of the cement than AHPbc and Neo. The sealers tested were able to induce overexpression of the CEMP-1, ALP, and COL1A1 genes in the first days of exposure, particularly in the case of TFbc (***p < .001). All materials tested significantly increased the mineralization of hPDLSCs when compared to the negative control, although more pronounced calcium deposition was observed in the TFbc-treated cells (***p < .001). Our results suggested that TFbc promotes cell differentiation, both by increasing the expression of key osteo/odontogenic genes and by promoting mineralization of the extracellular matrix, whereas this phenomenon was less evident in Neo and AHPbc. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: TFbc group had a better cell adhesion process of substrate attachment, spreading, and cytoskeleton development on the niche-like structures of the cement than AHPbc and Neo. The sealers tested were able to induce overexpression of the CEMP-1, ALP, and COL1A1 genes in the first days of exposure, particularly in the case of TFbc. All materials tested significantly increased the mineralization of hPDLSCs when compared to the negative control, although more pronounced calcium deposition was observed in the TFbc-treated cells.

Role of Non-verbal Communication Skills of Teachers and its Impact on Achieving Classroom Learning Objectives at Secondary Level

This descriptive study intends to investigate the influence of a teacher’s nonverbal communication on classroom learning objectives using a descriptive technique. This also determined the association between the unspoken behaviours of teachers working in various educational systems. The main objective of the research is to understand how non-verbal communication skills, including facial expressions, eye contact, pitch of voice, and physical appearance, collectively contribute to achieving classroom learning objectives. The quantitative survey method was used to present the study. This research was descriptive in nature. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was developed for data collection. This questionnaire was administered to a sample of 400 respondents who were randomly selected from 40 public and private secondary schools in Multan. Using SPSS software, the acquired data was tabulated and evaluated. The collected data was tabulated, analysed, and interpreted in the form of mean, frequency, percentage, and standard deviation. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to arrive at the conclusions. Frequencies and percentages were computed to illustrate the demographic items and questions, and one-way ANOVA and the independent sample t-test were utilized to illustrate the variations in teacher perspectives depending on various factors related to demographics.

Effect of adding natural coconut oil on the antifungal, flexural strength, and hardness properties of heat cure acrylic resin (an in vitro study)

Purpose. This study's objective was to estimate the effect of various quantities of the addition of natural coconut oil according to concentrations (1%, 2%, 3%) on the heat cured denture base material's anti-fungal, flexural strength, and hardness properties. Material and method. A total of 120 samples were created and (divided into three groups each groups contain forty samples) built regarding the attitude test: Candida albicans adherence test, flexural strength test, and hardness test. Next, each group was subdivided into three subgroups (control 0%, 1%, 2% and 3%) based on the various quantities of the added natural coconut oil, with (n=10 samples for each subgroup). Each group was assessed at 48 hours. One-way ANOVA and other statistical methods were used to analyze the data, Duncan and Dunnett’s tests for comparison means among all groups with control at p ≤0.05. Results. A One-way ANOVA showed a significant difference in the mean values of Candida albicans adherence, with the additive of natural coconut oil groups (1%, 2%) showing the highest antifungal effect compare with (3% additive groups). Adding 1% coconut oil had no significant difference on hardness and flexural strength, while adding 2% and 3% additive of coconut oil groups showed a significantly decrease than control groups at p ≤ (0.05). Conclusion. The antifungal properties of heat-cured acrylic resin are enhanced by the addition of coconut oil. However, when used in high concentrations (greater than 1%), it can result in a decrease in hardness and flexural strength.

Post-hoc tests in one-way ANOVA: The case for normal distribution

Post-hoc tests in one-way ANOVA: The case for normal distribution

Anisotropic Icephobic Mechanisms of Textured Surface: Barrier or Accelerator?

Icing has been seen as an economic and safety hazard due to its threats to aviation, power generation, offshore platforms, etc., where passive icephobic surfaces with a surface texturing design have the potential to address this problem. However, the intrinsic icephobic principles associated with the surface textures, energy, elasticity, and hybrid effects are still unclear. To explore the anisotropic wettability, ice nucleation, and ice detaching behaviors, a series of textured poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)-based coatings with various texture orientations were proposed through a simple stamping method with surface functionalization. The anisotropic hydrophobic/icephobic phenomena and mechanisms were discovered from wettability evaluation, experimentally studied by icing/deicing experiments, and finally verified by microscopic numerical simulations. One-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA analysis) was used to analyze the effect of surface textures on hydrophobic/icephobic properties, which assisted in understanding anisotropic phenomena. Typical anisotropic ice nucleation and growth on the textured coatings were clarified using in situ environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) characterization. The ice/coating interfacial stress responses were studied by numerical stimulation at the microscopic level, further verifying the localized, amplified, and propagated stress at the ice/coating interface. The theoretical anisotropic responses, barrier effect, and accelerating effect were verified to interpret the anisotropic wettability and icephobicity, depending on the specific surface conditions. This study revealed the basics of the anisotropic icephobic mechanisms of textured icephobic surfaces, further facilitating the R&D of passive icephobic surfaces.

Neuroimmune response and oxidative stress in the prefrontal cortex mediate seizure susceptibility in experimental colitis in male mice.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder. Oxidative stress and inflammatory responses have a vital role in the pathophysiology of IBD as well as seizure. IBD is associated with extraintestinal manifestations. This study aimed to explore the relationship between colitis and susceptibility to seizures, with a focus on the roles of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in acetic acid-induced colitis in mice. Forty male Naval Medical Research Institute mice were divided into four groups: control, colitis, pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), and colitis + PTZ. Colitis was induced by intrarectal administration of acetic acid, and seizures were induced by intravenous injection of PTZ 7 days postcolitis induction. Following the measurement of latency to seizure, the mice were killed, and their colons and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were dissected. Gene expression of inflammatory markers including interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, NOD-like receptor protein 3, and toll-like receptor 4, as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitrite levels were measured in the colon and PFC. Histopathological evaluations were performed on the colon samples. Data were analyzed by t-test or one-way variance analysis. Colitis decreased latency to seizure, increased gene expression of inflammatory markers, and altered levels of MDA, nitrite, and TAC in both the colon and PFC. Simultaneous induction of colitis and seizure exacerbated the neuroimmune response and oxidative stress in the PFC and colon. Results concluded that neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the PFC at least partially mediate the comorbid decrease in seizure latency in mice with colitis.

Determinants of Quality of Life in Serbian Infertile Couples

Background: This study aimed to examine the quality of life and the factors that determine the quality of life of infertile couples. Methods: The research was conducted as a cross-sectional study at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic "Narodni Front" in Belgrade, the Special Gynecology Hospital "Ferona" in Novi Sad, the Special Hospital for the Treatment of Sterility and In Vitro Fertilization "Spebo Medikal" in Leskovac and the General Hospital in Valjevo, Serbia in 2022, on a sample of 378 infertile couples. The data were collected by means of a questionnaire, the integral part of which is the standardized FertiQoL scale. Independent t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to determine differences. A value of P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Women achieve a significantly lower score on the quality-of-life questionnaire (69.34±11.05) compared to men (73.96±9.87). Women exhibit significantly lower scores in the area of physical, emotional and social functioning (P&lt;0.05). Men who live in the countryside show a lower quality of life score in the emotional (P=0.029) and social (P=0.042) domains. In addition, men over 40 years of age and with a high level of education have a lower quality of life (P=0.08). Conclusion: Women have a lower quality of life, as do men from rural areas and over 40 years of age. A multidisciplinary approach and community education, as well as the provision of social support with a special emphasis on emotional and material support, would significantly contribute to improving the quality of life of infertile couples.

Assessing the degree of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury using PBPK modeling of sodium fluorescein disposition in ex vivo machine-perfused livers.

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is an intrinsic risk associated with liver transplantation. Ex vivo hepatic machine perfusion (MP) is an emerging organ preservation technique that can mitigate IRI, especially in livers subjected to prolonged warm ischemia time (WIT). However, a method to quantify the biological response to WIT during MP has not been established. Previous studies used physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to demonstrate that a decrease in hepatic transport and biliary excretion of the tracer molecule sodium fluorescein (SF) could correlate with increasing WIT in situ. Furthermore, these studies proposed intracellular sequestration of the hepatocyte canalicular membrane transporter multi-drug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2) leading to decreased MRP2 activity (maximal transport velocity; Vmax) as the potential mechanism for decreased biliary SF excretion. We adapted an extant PBPK model to account for ex vivo hepatic MP and fit a 6-parameter version of this model to control time course measurements of SF in MP perfusate and bile. We then identified parameters whose values were likely insensitive to changes in WIT and fixed them to generate a reduced model with only 3 unknown parameters. Finally, we fit the reduced model to each individual biological replicate SF time course with differing WIT and found the mean estimated value for each parameter and compared them using a one-way ANOVA. We demonstrated that there was a significant decrease in the estimated value of Vmax for MRP2 at 30 min WIT. These studies provide the foundation for future studies investigating real-time assessment of liver viability during ex vivo MP.

Influence of Some Plant Extracts on Antifungal Properties, Hardness, and Peel Bond Strength of Heat-Cured Denture Soft Liner

Background: Soft liners in dentures play a crucial role in enhancing patient comfort and preventing tissue irritation especially for patients with resorbed ridges. However, microbial colonization presents a challenge to their long-term effectiveness, particularly Candida albicans, leading to conditions like denture-induced stomatitis. Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical properties of heat cured soft liners incorporating plant extracts from Olea europaea and Ficus carcia, individually and synergistically. Patients and Methods: Extracts were obtained through Soxhlet extraction, and their antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans was determined using the broth microdilution method. Soft liner specimens were prepared with varying concentrations of the extracts and subjected to disk diffusion tests, shore A hardness measurements, and peel bond strength tests. Statistical analysis involved the use of one-way ANOVA and Dunnett tests. Results: Results demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, with the synergistic mixture exhibiting the highest inhibition zone against Candida albicans. Moreover, the addition of such extracts led to increased shore A hardness, with the highest levels recorded for synergistic groups. The extracts also displayed a significant decrease in peel bond strength, indicating potential challenges in adhesive properties. These findings suggest that while individual extracts show promise in antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical reinforcement of soft liners, their combination may lead to compromised adhesive properties. Conclusion: The study contributes valuable insights into the development of antimicrobial soft liners reinforced with Olea europaea and Ficus carcia extracts, advancing dental materials towards improved patient outcomes and enhanced oral health. Keywords: Soft liner, Olea europaea, Ficus carcia, Disk diffusion, Compressive strength.

Influence of Some Plant Extracts on Antifungal Properties, Hardness, and Peel Bond Strength of Heat-Cured Denture Soft Liner

Background: Soft liners in dentures play a crucial role in enhancing patient comfort and preventing tissue irritation especially for patients with resorbed ridges. However, microbial colonization presents a challenge to their long-term effectiveness, particularly Candida albicans, leading to conditions like denture-induced stomatitis. Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical properties of heat cured soft liners incorporating plant extracts from Olea europaea and Ficus carcia, individually and synergistically. Patients and Methods: Extracts were obtained through Soxhlet extraction, and their antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans was determined using the broth microdilution method. Soft liner specimens were prepared with varying concentrations of the extracts and subjected to disk diffusion tests, shore A hardness measurements, and peel bond strength tests. Statistical analysis involved the use of one-way ANOVA and Dunnett tests. Results: Results demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, with the synergistic mixture exhibiting the highest inhibition zone against Candida albicans. Moreover, the addition of such extracts led to increased shore A hardness, with the highest levels recorded for synergistic groups. The extracts also displayed a significant decrease in peel bond strength, indicating potential challenges in adhesive properties. These findings suggest that while individual extracts show promise in antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical reinforcement of soft liners, their combination may lead to compromised adhesive properties. Conclusion: The study contributes valuable insights into the development of antimicrobial soft liners reinforced with Olea europaea and Ficus carcia extracts, advancing dental materials towards improved patient outcomes and enhanced oral health.

Exploring the relationship between spiritual care and patient advocacy of nurses from generations X, Y and Z working in intensive care clinics: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between spiritual care and patient advocacy across three generations of nurses working in intensive care units. DesignCross-sectional survey. MethodsData collection took place from July to August 2022 with 120 nurses in Turkey. Data collection tools included the Spiritual Caregiving Competency Scale, the Spirituality and Spiritual Care Assessment Scale, and the Patient Advocacy Scale for Nurses. Data on nurses’ demographics were evaluated using descriptive statistical methods (number, percentage, mean, standard deviation). Independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear multiple regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationships between variables, with results reported as 95% confidence intervals (CI). ResultsMore than half of the nurses were from Generation Y (39.2 %) and Generation Z (42.5 %). Generation Z’s mean patient advocacy score (156.96 ± 23.16) was statistically significantly higher than Generation X’s (139.32 ± 34.26). We determined that the spiritual competence scale communication sub-dimension score of Generation Y nurses working between 1–10 years was higher than that of Generation Z nurses. Additionally, as the patient advocacy scores of all generations increased, so did spiritual competence scores. ConclusionThe study found differences in patient advocacy and spiritual care competencies between generations. Thus, we recommend organizing courses, seminars, and in-service training on patient advocacy and spiritual care for intensive care nurses. Implications for clinical practiceThis study estimates nurses’ spiritual care competencies and patient advocacy levels from different generations and sheds light on the literature to eliminate differences in care between generations in nursing practices that evolve and change over time. It is recommended that courses, seminars, in-service training, spiritual activities, and interactive meetings be organized to encourage the participation of intensive care nurses to minimize the differences in spiritual care and patient advocacy among all generations of intensive care nurses.

Variation in Parameters of Complete Blood Count Using Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA), Sodium Citrate and Lithium Heparin: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction The primary anticoagulants utilized in hematology are ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA), lithium heparin, and citrate. Although various studies have investigated their impact on complete blood count (CBC) in various animals, limited data are available concerning humans. This study explores the differences in CBC parameters when using these anticoagulants. Methods This study was a cross-sectional study comprising 250 participants who underwent CBC tests with different anticoagulants. Blood samples were examined using the Medonic M51. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA, intra-class correlation coefficient, and concordance correlation coefficient, were employed as applicable, with significance level set at p-values &lt;0.05. Results One hundred eight participants (43.2%) were male, and 142 (56.8%) were female, with a mean age of 40.88±17.06 years ranging from 7 to 91 years. Comparing K2EDTA with lithium heparin, comparable values were found in 14 out of 23(60.87%) CBC parameters, while citrate showed similar results in 13(56.52%) parameters. Using K2EDTA as the standard, citrate showed perfect or substantial agreement in assessing 9 out of 23 CBC parameters (39.13%). Similarly, Lithium heparin showed perfect or substantial agreement in determining 9 out of 23(39.13%) parameters. Compared to K2EDTA, lithium heparin exhibited high precision and accuracy in estimating 13 out of 23(56.52%) CBC parameters. In contrast, citrate was accurate in 9 out of 23(39.13%) parameters. Conclusion Using citrate instead of K2EDTA for CBC estimation may yield inaccurate outcomes, whereas lithium heparin could serve as an alternative anticoagulant, requiring careful monitoring.

EEG correlates to perceived urgency elicited by vibration stimulation of the upper body

Conveying information effectively while minimizing user distraction is critical to human–computer interaction. As the proliferation of audio–visual communication pushes human information processing capabilities to the limit, researchers are turning their attention to haptic interfaces. Haptic feedback has the potential to create a desirable sense of urgency that allows users to selectively focus on events/tasks or process presented information with minimal distraction or annoyance. There is a growing interest in understanding the neural mechanisms associated with haptic stimulation. In this study, we aim to investigate the EEG correlates associated with the perceived urgency elicited by vibration stimuli on the upper body using a haptic vest. A total of 31 participants enrolled in this experiment and were exposed to three conditions: no vibration pattern (NVP), urgent vibration pattern (UVP), and very urgent vibration pattern (VUVP). Through self-reporting, participants confirmed that the vibration patterns elicited significantly different levels of perceived urgency (Friedman test, Holm–Bonferroni correction, p < 0.01). Furthermore, neural analysis revealed that the power spectral density of the delta, theta, and alpha frequency bands in the middle central area (C1, Cz, and C2) significantly increased for the UVP and VUVP conditions as compared to the NVP condition (One-way ANOVA test, Holm–Bonferroni correction, p < 0.01). While the perceptual experience of haptic-induced urgency is well studied with self-reporting and behavioral evidence, this is the first effort to evaluate the neural correlates to haptic-induced urgency using EEG. Further research is warranted to identify unique correlates to the cognitive processes associated with urgency from sensory feedback correlates.

Altering CO2 Laser Pulse Energy Settings Did Not Influence Differential Gene Transcription in Normal Skin in a Red DurocPig Model.

Fractional ablative CO2 lasers are used clinically to treat cutaneous burn scars with reported varying degrees of effectiveness. It was hypothesized that different laser pulse energy settings may lead to differential gene transcription in a porcine model. Uninjured skin from red Duroc pigs was treated with a fractional ablative CO2 laser set to 70, 100, or 120 mJ across the abdomen (n = 4 areas per treatment). Punch biopsies of both treated and untreated sites were taken before treatment (baseline), at 30 min, and at each hour for 6 h and stored in All-Protect tissue reagent. The biopsies were then used to isolate RNA, which was subsequently used in qRT-PCR for eight genes associated with wound healing and the extracellular matrix: CCL2, IL6, FGF2, TIMP1, TIMP3, COL1A2, MMP2, andDCN. RPL13a was used as a housekeeping gene to normalize the eightgenes of interest. One-way ANOVA tests were used to assess for differences among laser pulse energies and two-way ANOVA tests were used to assess the differences between treated and untreated areas. While six of the eight genes were upregulated after treatment (p < 0.05), there were no significant differences in gene expression between the different laser pulse energies for any of the eight genes. While laser treatment is correlated with a positive and significant upregulation for six of the eight genes 4 h after intervention, the pulse energy settings of the laser did not lead to a statistically significant difference in gene transcription among the treatment areas. Different laser pulse energies may not be required to induce similar cellular responses in a clinical setting.

Anticandidal effect of multiple sessions of erythrosine and potassium iodide-mediated photodynamic therapy

ABSTRACT Background Erythrosine+potassium iodide-mediated photodynamic therapy has shown an anticandidal effect. Single session, however, has inadequate fungal inhibition. Objectives We aimed to examine the effects of multiple aPDT sessions on Candida albicans inhibition and singlet oxygen formation. Methods 220 μM erythrosine +/-100 mM potassium iodide was applied to C. albicans biofilms for 1 min prior to irradiation at 530±10 nm using a 250 mW/cm2 light-emitting diode. Negative and positive controls were phosphate buffer saline and nystatin, respectively. Single, double and triple irradiation sessions with a 5 min resting time between sessions were performed. Post-treatment candidal counts were done at 0, 1 6 and 24 hr while log10 colony forming unit/ml was calculated and compared using a Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn’s post hoc test at a p<0.05 - Singlet oxygen amount was compared using one-way ANOVA with a post hoc test at a p< 0.05. Results Two and three irradiation sessions to erythrosine+potassium iodide could inhibit Candida albicans at 7.92 log10CFU/ml (p < 0.001) . Singlet oxygen from a combination groups was significantly higher than for erythrosine (positive control). Moreover, the correlation coefficient (r) between singlet oxygen production and decreased Candida albicans counts was equal to 1. Conclusion Multiple sessions PDT of 220 μM erythrosine+100 mM potassium iodide effectively inhibited a Candida biofilm.

Examining the Effect of Agrochemicals on Soil Microbiological Activity, Micronutrient Availability, and Uptake by Maize (Zea mays L.) Plants

Agricultural practices profoundly influence soil microbial populations and physicochemical properties, vital for crop growth and quality. This study aims to explore the impact of diverse agrochemical applications on soil microbial dynamics, physicochemical properties, and maize yield and proximate properties. Topsoil samples, collected at depths of 1 to 15 cm, were transported to Jimma University for maize cultivation. Over 120 days, soil and maize samples were collected at specified intervals for analysis, including soil pH, microbial populations, and nutrient content. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA (p &lt; 0.05) was conducted. Soil bacterial and fungal populations were measured on days 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 120. The highest total mesophilic bacterial count (TMBC) was in compost-treated pots (G) and the lowest in those receiving macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosates (B). The highest total mesophilic fungal count (TMFC) was in pots with glyphosates and compost (F), and the lowest was in pots treated with macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosates (B). Pots treated with macronutrient fertilizers and glyphosates (B), macronutrient fertilizers (A), and micronutrient fertilizers (C) showed the lowest Fe and Zn levels. Maize in pots treated with macronutrient fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B) exhibited the lowest protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Notably, compost-treated soils showed the highest bacterial and fungal counts, Fe, and Zn concentrations, while micro-mineral fertilizer combined with glyphosate (B) depleted the soil. Agrochemical treatments negatively affected maize yield quality, indicating complex treatment-related changes in soil parameters.

(096) UNDERSTANDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHRONIC PAIN AND DEPRESSION IN LOCALIZED PROVOKED VULVODYNIA

Abstract Introduction Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) is a disease characterized by chronic pain in the vulva in response to touching the vulvar vestibular epithelium. As with other chronic pain disorders, vulvodynia is often found accompanied with depression, and depressive symptoms aggravate pain severity and persistence. While there is clear evidence of a connection between chronic vulvar pain and depression, the mechanism of this bidirectional relationship is largely unknown. Accumulating evidence suggests that inflammation plays a central role in depression. Since the pathophysiology of LPV also involves inflammation, we aim to better understand these relationships by pharmacologically inhibiting the enzyme that plays a key role in both inflammation and depression: soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). Objective To elucidate the role of sEH in localized provoked vulvodynia, which might be involved in the chronic pain and depression comorbidity prevalent in vulvodynia patients, and discuss the clinical significance of using sEH inhibitors, such as 1-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-3-(1-propionylpiperidin-4-yl) urea (TPPU), for patients suffering from this condition. Methods Vulvar punch biopsies obtained from painful sites within the vulvar vestibule and non-painful sites within the external vulva of 6 LPV patients and 6 age/race-matched healthy controls were used to generate a library of primary fibroblast strains. Cells were treated with the inflammatory instigator interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and TPPU. Quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to assess the effects of sEH inhibition. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 10.0.2. Comparisons among groups were performed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or two-way ANOVA, followed by post-hoc Tukey test. Results Vulvodynia patients produce increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), when compared with controls. Interestingly, mRNA (P = 0.0091) and protein (P = 0.0198) levels of sEH were significantly lower in the painful vestibule of these patients. When sEH was inhibited with TPPU, we observed a significant decrease in IL-6 levels (P = &amp;lt;0.0001), but not PGE2 (P = 0.6452). These preliminary findings are of fundamental importance as cytokines can directly contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. Conclusions Patients with vulvodynia are more likely to develop depressive symptoms than patients without vulvar pain. Likewise, patients with depression are more likely to develop vulvodynia than patients without depression. Our results suggest that sEH may play a role in this bidirectional mechanism, which could serve as a novel therapeutic target for chronic pain and depression comorbidity. Disclosure No.

Determining female-specific high-intensity activity GPS thresholds in women's rugby union: Use of current use of male-derived absolute speed thresholds underestimates true levels.

GPS speed thresholds in women's rugby union are usually based on data derived from the men's game. However, evidence suggests the maximum speeds achieved by female players are 2-8km.h-1 slower and the volume of high-intensity running (HIR) in women's rugby may be underestimated. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of adjusting absolute thresholds on the volume of high-intensity locomotion. GPS units recorded movement data from 58 players across 18 English Premier15s matches. Distance in HIR and sprint (Spr) zones were calculated using male-derived criteria: AbsMale (HIR >18km.h-1; Spr ≥21km.h-1). Two alternative thresholds were compared: AbsFVmax (HIR >16km.h-1; Spr ≥19km.h-1); AbsFemale (HIR >14km.h-1; Spr ≥17km.h-1). Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and effect sizes to determine differences in distances between thresholds. AbsMale HIR and Spr distances were 63±71m and 30±53m. Significantly greater distances at higher-intensity speeds were observed with female-adjusted thresholds. AbsFVmax: HIR: 139±116m (p=0.01, ES 0.80); Spr: 60±90m (p=0.131, ES 0.41) and AbsFemale: HIR: 239±157m (p<0.01, ES 1.45); Spr: 137±152m (p<0.01, ES 0.94). 24 players (41%) achieved speeds greater than the 21km·h-1 threshold with the male-derived thresholds. At AbsFVmax threshold this increased to 44 (76%) and 100% at the AbsFemale threshold. Existing male-derived thresholds appear to underestimate high-intensity locomotion of female players. With adjusted thresholds, specifically the AbsFemale, the proportional volume of high-intensity activity in the women's game (8.2% total distance) aligns more closely to that observed during men's match-play.

Effects of Cognitive-Motor and Motor-Motor Dual Tasks on Gait Performance in Older Adults with Sarcopenia.

With the advent of global aging, the health of the older population has become a critical public health challenge. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dual-tasking on gait performance in patients with sarcopenia. Thirty participants with sarcopenia (age: 70.73 ± 4.12 yr, MMSE score: 26.90 ± 3.00), including 14 males and 16 females, were selected according to the diagnostic criteria of the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia. All participants were instructed to perform the gait test in three modes: single task (ST), cognitive-motor dual task (CMDT), and motor-motor dual task (MMDT). Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA to evaluate the effects of different task types on gait parameters of the participants. (1) Compared with ST walking, gait frequency, step length, and step speed decreased, and the gait cycle and double-support phase increased in patients with sarcopenia during dual-task walking (p < 0.05); (2) Compared with ST walking, gait variability indices such as stride frequency, stride length, and support period significantly increased in patients with sarcopenia during dual-task walking (p < 0.05). The increased difficulty in postural control caused by dual-task interference may reduce the safety of motor strategies in patients with sarcopenia and increase the risk of falls. Future studies should focus on the effects of exercise interventions on multitasking patterns in people with sarcopenia to promote balance function in these populations.

Job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy: a multicenter cross-sectional study among registered nurses in Sweden and Norway

BackgroundHealthcare organizations worldwide face persistent challenges relating to turnover and intention to leave the nursing profession among registered nurses. Factors contributing to their retention and well-being at work include high job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy. Few multicenter studies have investigated these factors in relation to work experience in a Nordic context. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy among registered nurses.MethodsThis multicenter cross-sectional study survey was part of a larger overarching Swedish-Norwegian project, and was conducted among registered nurses (n = 1137) in September 2021. The participants worked in a variety of health care units, e.g., hospital units, primary health care, and home care. Data was subjected to descriptive and comparative statistical analysis; chi-square test, one-way between-groups analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis test.ResultsThe findings show that job satisfaction is reported as lowest in registered nurses with medium-term work experience as compared to newly qualified and long-term work-experienced registered nurses. Professional competence and self-efficacy are reported as higher among registered nurses with long-term work experience as compared to those with medium-term work experience and newly qualified registered nurses. However, the participants reported their professional competence as highest in relation to the same factor – “Value-based nursing care” – regardless of their work experience.Conclusions and implicationsThis study underscores the need for continuous support and professional development for registered nurses throughout their careers. Proactive support for newly qualified nurses may improve job satisfaction as they progress to being registered nurses with medium-term work experience. Tailored interventions to address the distinct needs of both newly qualified and medium-term work-experienced registered nurses are crucial for nurturing a sustainable nursing workforce.