Peak Percentage Research Articles

Identification of gamma irradiated polycarbonate-polybutylene terephthalate stiff polymer blend products using HS-GC/MS, FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy

In this study, the fragmentation products of Makro-blend stiff polymer due to gamma exposure were identified using Head space (HS), Gas Chromatography, and Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC/MS) techniques and Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy. As well the electronic transitions due to gamma exposure were examined using UV/Vis spectroscopy. For the un-irradiated and 10 kGy irradiated samples, one product was detected by (HS-GC/MS) method with a clear peak of Dimethoxyethane (MW = 90), which has a peak area percentage of 98.58% and 97.13%, respectively. With increasing gamma doses the number of identified components was increased. At 1200 kGy, ten components were detected: Biethylene (MW = 54), Dimethoxyethane (MW = 90), 1,1-Dimethoxy-2-propanone (MW = 118), 1,1-Dimethoxy-2-propanol (MW = 120), 1,1-Dimethoxycyclopentane (MW = 130), 1,1-Dimethoxyheptane (MW = 160), 1,1-Dimethoxyoctane (MW = 174), Dimethyl terephthalate (MW = 194), 4-(Diethoxymethyl) benzaldehyde (MW = 208), and Terephthalate dihexyl (MW = 334), which have peaks area percentages of 4.22, 2.98, 25.84, 2.2, 10.65, 38.86, 1.57, 5.91, 1.22, and 6.48, respectively. The recorded mass spectrum of each component confirms the molecular ion peak. The FTIR measurements demonstrate the decrease in the detected band intensities following gamma radiation. Accordingly, a chain scission occurs, which causes the carbonate bond to scission, resulting in the creation of a hydroxyl group and the (–H) abstraction from the backbone of the irradiation blend samples. The absorbance edge of the gamma-exposed samples shifted towards a higher wavelength. This pattern shows that the band gap energy is declining. The use of FTIR and HS-GC/MS in mass spectrometry analysis will be useful tools for examining radiation-induced polymeric fragments and advancing our understanding of the process underlying the creation of these fragments in polymers.

Percentage Predicted Peak Oxygen Consumption in People With Fontan Circulation: A Rapid Systematic Scoping Review and Validation Study.

Peak oxygen consumption (peak ) is routinely measured in people who have congenital heart disease and is reported as a percentage of predicted value, based upon age- and sex-matched normative reference values (NRVs). This study aimed to identify which NRVs are being used, assess whether NRVs are being applied appropriately, and evaluate if recommended NRVs are valid when applied to people with congenital heart disease. A systematic scoping review identified studies that reported peak percentage of predicted value in people with congenital heart disease. A modified risk of bias tool evaluated the included studies. Forty-five studies reported peak percentage of predicted value, and only 21 (47%) studies described or provided a reference on how their percentage of predicted value was calculated. The most cited NRVs were from Wasserman (n=12) and Cooper and Weiler-Ravell (n=7). Risk of bias analysis judged 63% of studies as having some concerns. The NRVs recommended by the American Heart Association were applied to participants with a Fontan circulation (n=70; aged 26.5±6.4 years; 59% women) to examine validity. Predicted peak values from the Wasserman NRV was not significantly associated to measured peak values (men: b=0.31, R2≤0.01; women: b=0.07, R2=0.02). Numerous NRVs have been applied to individuals with congenital heart disease and are often poorly reported and inappropriately matched to participants. The Wasserman NRV was the most cited but showed poor validity when applied to a Fontan cohort.

Algorithm prediction of single particle irradiation effect based on novel TFETs

In order to predict the single particle irradiation of tunnel field effect transistor (TFET) devices, a deep learning algorithm network model was built to predict the key characterization parameters of the single particle transient. Computer aided design (TCAD) technique is used to study the influence of single particle effect on the novel stacked source trench gate TFET device. The results show that with the increase of drain voltage, incident width of heavy ions (less than 0.04μm), and linear energy transfer, the drain transient current and collected charge also increase. The prediction results of deep learning algorithm show that the relative error percentage of drain current pulse peak (IDMAX) and collected charge (Qc) is less than 10%, and the relative error percentage of most predicted values is less than 1%. Comparison experiments with five traditional machine learning methods (support vector machine, decision tree, K-nearest algorithm, ridge regression, linear regression) show that the deep learning algorithm has the best performance and has the smallest average error percentage. This data-driven deep learning algorithm model not only enables researchers who are not familiar with semiconductor devices to quickly obtain the transient data of a single particle under any conditions; at the same time, it can be applied to digital circuit design as a data-driven device model reflecting the reliability of single particle transient. The application of deep learning in the field of device irradiation prediction has a highly promising prospect in the future.

Runoff simulation modeling method integrating spatial element dynamics and neural network for remote sensing precipitation data

Effective management of water resources amidst global climate change necessitates advancements in runoff simulation techniques. This study introduces a novel methodology that integrates a spatial element dynamic model with a neural network designed for satellite precipitation product (SPP) and remote sensing data to address the complex dynamics of precipitation-runoff processes. Implemented in the Songhua River basin of China, the methodology features a runoff estimation module that operates across both high-resolution and SPP grid scales. This module synergizes spatial attributes with fuzzy classification for refined confluence optimization, and yielding simulations through long short-term memory network. The results indicate that the proposed multi-scale production-confluence scheme achieved Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) scores of 0.87 and 0.84 during calibration (2011–2015) and validation (2017 and 2018) periods, respectively, representing an 8.15% improvement in peak percentage error (PPE10%) over conventional hydrologic models. Additionally, the scheme demonstrated superior simulation performance at tributary sites set compared to main channel sites set, with differences of 0.08 and 0.07 in NSE and Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE), respectively. The introduction of the surface Ⅱ operator for adjusting precipitation intensity effectively improved runoff estimation accuracy, reducing the average error by 25.48% across both site sets. This study provides a scientific foundation for applying SPP in hydrological modeling and offers decision support for managing water resources.

Establishing the Locomotor Performance Profile of Elite Ladies Gaelic Football across Position and Quarters

The aim of the current investigation was to examine the locomotor performance profile of elite ladies Gaelic football (LGF) players in relation to playing position and quarters of play. Thirty (n = 30) elite LGF players (age: 24 ± 4 years, height: 169 ± 5 cm, body mass: 61 ± 4 kg) were monitored using 10 Hz GPS technology (Playertek; Catapult Sports; Australia) resulting in 145 individual samples collected over 18 competitive matches across the 2021 and 2022 LGF seasons. Locomotor performance was determined across the following variables: total distance covered (TD, m), relative distance (m·min−1), high-speed running (HSR, ≥ 4.4 m·s−1), very high-speed running (VHSR, ≥ 5.5 m·s−1), relative HSR (RHSR; m·min−1), peak velocity (m·s−1), percentage peak velocity (%PeakV), accelerations (n; ≥ 3 m·s−2), and decelerations (n; ≤ −3 m·s−2). Data were classified based on playing position and quarter of play. The greatest TD was covered by half-backs, midfielders, and half-forwards, with these positions covering significantly greater distances than full-backs (p < 0.05). Similarly, half-backs, midfielders, and half-forwards covered the greatest high-speed distance (HSR). When running performance was analysed across quarters, a significant position by quarter interaction was observed for all running performance variables, except peak velocity and percentage peak velocity. A consistent trend for reduced locomotor performance was evident in the second and fourth quarters across all positional lines. The current data provide coaches with the position-specific locomotor requirements of LGF match-play, which can inform the design of training content for LGF players, along with match-day strategies. Given the reduction in locomotor performance observed across the match, performance staff may consider the use of nutritional interventions, rewarm-up strategies, or specific substitution policies to mitigate the decrement in locomotor performance observed across match-play.

Validating respiratory sarcopenia diagnostic criteria by mortality based on a position paper by four professional organizations: Insights from the Otassha study.

The Japanese Society for Respiratory Care and Rehabilitation, Japanese Association on Sarcopenia and Frailty, Japanese Society of Respiratory Physical Therapy, and Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition proposed the definition and diagnosis of respiratory sarcopenia using low respiratory muscle strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM; ASM/height2) instead of respiratory muscle mass; however, these parameters have not been validated. This study aimed to confirm the validity of the respiratory sarcopenia definition proposed by these four professional organizations. Participants of our cohort study in 2015 of 468 community-dwelling older people who were evaluated for sarcopenia and underwent spirometry were included in this analysis. We determined two respiratory sarcopenia models based on low skeletal muscle mass and respiratory muscle strength. Low skeletal muscle mass was defined by low ASM/height2, and low respiratory muscle strength was defined by peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) or percentage of predicted PEFR (%PEFR). Survival status was assessed 5 years after baseline assessment (in 2020). To evaluate the validity of the cut-off values for PEFR and %PEFR, we determined different respiratory sarcopenia models by sequentially varying the cut-off values for each parameter, including ASM/height2, from high to low. We subsequently calculated the hazard ratio (HR) for mortality for each respiratory sarcopenia model using the Cox proportional hazards model. Additionally, we plotted the HR for each combination of cut-off values for ASM/height2 and PEFR or %PEFR on a three-dimensional chart to observe the relationship between the different cut-off values and HR. A total of 31 people died during the 5-year observation period. With ASM/height2 cut-off values of approximately 7.0 kg/m2 for men and 5.7 kg/m2 for women and %PEFR cut-off values of 66-75%, respiratory sarcopenia was associated with mortality risk (HR, 2.36-3.27, point estimation range). The definition of respiratory sarcopenia by the four professional organizations is related to future health outcomes, and this definition is valid. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.

Creatinine clearance is maintained in a range of wet-bulb globe temperatures and work-rest ratios during simulated occupational heat stress.

We tested the hypothesis that compliance with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) heat stress recommendations will prevent reductions in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) across a range of wet-bulb globe temperatures (WBGTs) and work-rest ratios at a fixed work intensity. We also tested the hypothesis that noncompliance would result in a reduction in GFR compared with a work-rest matched compliant trial. Twelve healthy adults completed five trials (four NIOSH compliant and one noncompliant) that consisted of 4 h of exposure to a range of WBGTs. Subjects walked on a treadmill (heat production: approximately 430 W) and work-rest ratios (work/h: 60, 45, 30, and 15 min) were prescribed as a function of WBGT (24°C, 26.5°C, 28.5°C, 30°C, and 36°C), and subjects drank a sport drink ad libitum. Peak core temperature (TC) and percentage change in body weight (%ΔBW) were measured. Creatinine clearance measured pre- and postexposure provided a primary marker of GFR. Peak TC did not differ among NIOSH-compliant trials (P = 0.065) but differed between compliant versus noncompliant trials (P < 0.001). %ΔBW did not differ among NIOSH-compliant trials (P = 0.131) or between compliant versus noncompliant trials (P = 0.185). Creatinine clearance did not change or differ among compliant trials (P ≥ 0.079). Creatinine clearance did not change or differ between compliant versus noncompliant trials (P ≥ 0.661). Compliance with the NIOSH recommendations maintained GFR. Surprisingly, despite a greater heat strain in a noncompliant trial, GFR was maintained highlighting the potential relative importance of hydration.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We highlight that glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is maintained during simulated occupational heat stress across a range of total work, work-rest ratios, and wet-bulb globe temperatures with ad libitum consumption of an electrolyte and sugar-containing sports drink. Compared with a work-rest matched compliant trial, noncompliance resulted in augmented heat strain but did not induce a reduction in GFR likely due to an increased relative fluid intake and robust fluid conservatory responses.

The effect of CO2 on the age dependence of neurovascular coupling.

Prior studies have identified variable effects of aging on neurovascular coupling (NVC). Carbon dioxide (CO2) affects both cerebral blood velocity (CBv) and NVC, but the effects of age on NVC under different CO2 conditions are unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effects of aging on NVC in different CO2 states during cognitive paradigms. Seventy-eight participants (18-78 yr), with well-controlled comorbidities, underwent continuous recordings of CBv by bilateral insonation of middle (MCA) and posterior (PCA) cerebral arteries (transcranial Doppler), blood pressure, end-tidal CO2, and heart rate during poikilocapnia, hypercapnia (5% CO2 inhalation), and hypocapnia (paced hyperventilation). Neuroactivation via visuospatial (VS) and attention tasks (AT) was used to stimulate NVC. Peak percentage and absolute change in MCAv/PCAv, were compared between CO2 conditions and age groups (≤30, 31-60, and >60 yr). For the VS task, in poikilocapnia, younger adults had a lower NVC response compared with older adults [mean difference (MD): -7.92% (standard deviation (SD): 2.37), P = 0.004], but comparable between younger and middle-aged groups. In hypercapnia, both younger [MD: -4.75% (SD: 1.56), P = 0.009] and middle [MD: -4.58% (SD: 1.69), P = 0.023] age groups had lower NVC responses compared with older adults. Finally, in hypocapnia, both older [MD: 5.92% (SD: 2.21), P = 0.025] and middle [MD: 5.44% (SD: 2.27), P = 0.049] age groups had greater NVC responses, compared with younger adults. In conclusion, the magnitude of NVC response suppression from baseline during hyper- and hypocapnia, did not differ significantly between age groups. However, the middle age group demonstrated a different NVC response while under hypercapnic conditions, compared with hypocapnia.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study describes the effects of age on neurovascular coupling under altered CO2 conditions. We demonstrated that both hypercapnia and hypocapnia suppress neurovascular coupling (NVC) responses. Furthermore, that middle age exhibits an NVC response comparable with younger adults under hypercapnia, and older adults under hypocapnia.

Application of lysine as a potential alternative to sodium salt in frankfurters: With emphasis on quality profile promotion and saltiness compensation

This study aimed to investigate the effect of lysine (Lys) on quality profile promotion and saltiness compensation in reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters. The results showed that the cooking loss of reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters decreased from 5.63 to 3.45% when the Lys level increased from 0.1 to 0.7%, as well as enhanced water contents and saltiness in a Lys dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the corresponding peak area percentage (A21) of reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters remarkably increased from 79.63% to 81.48% with the increased level of Lys. However, a higher level of Lys (≥ 0.5%) obviously reduced the textural properties of reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters, which was clearly verified by looser and rougher microstructures. Furthermore, hydrogen bonds were found to be the dominant molecular force in Lys-added reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters. Meanwhile, 0.3% Lys was found to exhibit the optimal sodium salt-replacing effect due to the highest degree of quality profile promotion and saltiness compensation. Additionally, directional triangle sensory evaluation further confirmed that the reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters treated with 0.3% Lys was perceived to be similar to control frankfurters, resulting a 50% salt-reduction effect. Thus, our results suggested that Lys could be applied as an efficient sodium salt alternative in reduced‑sodium salt frankfurters.

Trends in Public Drug Plan Expenditures for Patients With Crohn Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Initiating Targeted Immune Modulator Therapy

The objective of this analysis was to examine the changes in drug expenditures with the initiation of targeted immune modulator (TIM) treatment in patients diagnosed with Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Patient cohorts for CD and UC were identified from hospitalizations in Canada. Expenditure data for TIMs with a Health Canada–approved indication for the treatment of CD or UC were extracted from all provincial drug plans (except Quebec) and Yukon from 2016 to 2021, and a descriptive analysis was performed to assess the expenditure patterns. Annual expenditures on TIMs for patients with CD increased each year from 2016 to 2019 before decreasing in 2020 and 2021, whereas expenditures on TIMs in UC increased each year, generally by a greater percentage than was observed in CD (peak percentage growth of 92.5% for UC versus 15.9% for CD in 2018). Expenditures associated with TIM initiation among patients with CD and UC were driven by infliximab and adalimumab, with the 2 drugs accounting for nearly all expenditures in both indications in 2016 and most expenditures in 2021. In both CD and UC, vedolizumab expenditures increased over time, as did the proportions of TIM expenditures on ustekinumab in CD and tofacitinib in UC, albeit to a lesser extent than vedolizumab.

Plateletcrit and absolute immature platelet count are not impacted by platelet transfusions: a single-centre prospective study

BACKGROUND This is the first study in which the impact of platelet transfusions on seven platelet indices was evaluated in platelet transfusion-dependent patients admitted in the ICU. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Among a cohort of 21 ICU patients prospectively studied over eleven months, a total of 19 ICU patients were enrolled. Seven platelet indices were measured before and then, within 18–24 h, after platelet transfusions using the Sysmex XN-10 analyser and statistically investigated as follows: i) apheresis vs. pooled platelet transfusions; ii) pre– vs. post–platelet transfusions; and iii) platelet count (PC) increment vs. PC decrement group. RESULTS A 79.2% of platelet transfusion episodes in ICU patients showed an increase in PC increment within 18–24 h, of which 73.7% had a peak percentage immature platelet fraction (%-IPF) above 10.0% during their stay. No difference was observed in the measurements of platelet indices between the apheresis and pooled platelet transfusion doses (all p > 0.05). Of the seven platelet indices investigated, plateletcrit (PCT) and absolute immature platelet count (A-IPF) were not influenced by platelet transfusions and thus proven to be stable (0.06 vs. 0.07%, p = 0.0901 and 4.6 vs. 4.9 × 109/L, p = 0.4559, respectively), despite their close proximity to platelet transfusion. But the overall effectiveness of these indices in detecting changes over time was not hindered. CONCLUSION A-IPF and PCT are stable after platelet transfusions, regardless of whether patient’s respond to or do not respond to platelet transfusion doses. PCT and A-IPF may thus prove useful in monitoring patient transfusion support and guiding management in thrombocytopenic patients.

Effects of Voice Therapy using Semi-Occluded Ventilation Mask and Speech Tasks on Adults with Vocal Fatigue

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the vocal changes in adults experiencing subjective vocal fatigue through a three-week intervention employing a semi-occluded ventilation mask (SOVM), which is a type of semi-occluded vocal tract exercise (SOVTE), and Korean speech materials. Methods: We implemented a three-week intervention program using an SOVM and a protocol based on Korean speech materials for 22 Korean adults (5 males and 17 females, aged 25.81 ± 7.31 years) reporting subjective vocal fatigue. The SOVM was fabricated by establishing a semi-occluded environment using a silicone plug with a central hole, which was inserted into the front opening of an air-cushion mask, typically used in medical context. Participants were also instructed to perform home training sessions twice a day until the subsequent intervention. The outcomes of multi-dimensional voice evaluations were compared pre- and post-intervention to assess vocal changes. Results: Post-intervention, significant improvements were observed in specific acoustic measurements (jitter percent, shimmer percent, noise-to-harmonic ratio, and cepstral peak prominence of vowel phonation) and the severity indices derived from those acoustic parameters. Additionally, a significant reduction in patient-reported outcome measures was noted following the intervention. Conclusion: The findings suggest that voice intervention using the SOVM and Korean speech materials has the potential to alleviate vocal fatigue and enhance vocal quality in individuals with vocal fatigue complaints.

Comparative analysis of HEC-HMS and SWAT hydrological models for simulating the streamflow in sub-humid tropical region in India.

Assessment of water availability in sub-humid regions is important due to distinct climatic and environmental conditions. In this study, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) models have been assessed in simulating streamflows in the sub-humid tropical Kabini basin in Kerala, India, spanning 1260 km2. Calibration and validation utilized daily weather data from 1997 to 2015 from the Muthankera gauging station. The study investigated the impact of routing methods on runoff simulation in the ArcSWAT, exploring Muskingum and Variable Storage methods. Evaluation metrics encompassed Nash-Sutcliffe Efïciency (NSE), Coefficient of Determination (R2), Percent bias (PBIAS), RMSE-observations standard deviation ratio (RSR), and Peak Percent Threshold Statistics (PPTS) approach for high-flow values. The result indicates that HEC-HMS outperforms SWAT concerning R2 and NSE values during daily calibration and validation. Monthly simulations showed HEC-HMS closely aligning with SWAT (Variable storage), outperforming SWAT (Muskingum). The PPTS approach proved effective in simulating high-flow values. Both models exhibited proficiency in streamflow analysis within the study area, promising predictive potential for future hydrological studies in sub-humid regions.

FOLATES–RELATED AND BONE MARROW DISORDERS PROMOTE ATRIAL CARDIOMYOPATHY INPATIENTS AFFECTED BY PAROXYSMAL ATRIAL FIBRILLATION VIA BOTH EPCS AND ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION

Abstract Background Atrial Cardiomyopathy (AC) has been recently postulated to explain those embolic strokes not due to atrial fibrillation (AF) and paradoxical embolism. Pathogenic mechanisms underlying AC are still largely unknown. Folate cycle disorders (FD) are a yet underrated pro–thrombotic dysmetabolism. FD could hinder both endothelial and circulating endothelial progenitor cell (EPCs) functioning, therefore providing one–shot explanation to both atrial fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction (ED). Purpose This study aims to enquire for the hypothesis that: 1) atrial fibrosis (AFib) would relate to FD (intended as both: a)MTHFR C677T inherited mutations and b)bone–marrow function disorders, here referring to erythropoiesis diversions) and 2) AF patients would show dysfunctional EPCs. Methods We studied 59 consecutive patients admitted to the cardiology Unit of the General Hospital“F.Miulli”, with preserved EF, subjected to AF ablation. AFib was quantified in term of percentage of bipolar peak–to–peak voltage points below 0,5mV with respect to the wholeness of picked points. Blood count cell was evaluated at the admission. MTHFR C677T genotypes and serum folate were assessed. EPCs isolation and characterization were performed by cytometry analysis (CD45, CD34, CD133, VEGFR2 and KDR). EPCs functional wound healing assay was performed to determine the percentage of EPCs able to "fix the wound” and compared with matched–controls. Results Baseline characteristics did not differ between Sample and Control groups (Fig. 1 – Left Table). % of Afib significantly differs between C677T MTHFR homozigosis patients (n=15) with respect to non–C677TMTHFR homozygosis patients (n=44) (Fig.1 – Right graph. – p &amp;lt; 0,02). Once univariate analysis was performed, subsequent multivariate analysis highlight highest fit, once merged RBC, RDW–SD and folates values were inputed (Fig.2 – superior graph. – R2=0,39;p=0,0001). Either RBC, RDW–SD and folates coefficient reached significance (p &amp;lt; 0,0001; p &amp;lt; 0,01; p &amp;lt; 0,05 respectively). Number of EPCs signifi cantly differs between AF patients and matched controls (Fig 2 – inferior graph. –p &amp;lt; 0,001). Conclusions Our findings support the hypothesis that genetically determined folates dysmetabolism (MTHFR dysfunction) promotes AFib via a complex cardiac–bone marrow networking involving circulatingEPCs and unraveled by erythropoiesis diversions. Such results suggest a pathogenic role of folate cycle disorders in the AC development.

LONG–TERM FUNCTIONAL LIMITATIONS ON CARDIOPULMONARY EXERCISE TESTING IN A COHORT OF PATIENTS WITH EMOTIONS–TRIGGERED TAKOTSUBO SYNDROME

Abstract Background In patients with prior Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), long lasting functional cardiac limitations were described as compared with normal subjects. Emotions–triggered Takotsubo syndrome (E–TTS) has more favorable outcomes than TTS preceded by a physical trigger or by no identifiable factors. The aim of the present study was to assess long–term cardiac functional limitations in a cohort of asymptomatic E–TTS patients. Methods We enrolled n=39 asymptomatic patients with a diagnosis of E–TTS. Cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) were performed at 30 [12–40] months median follow–up from the acute event. A cohort of n=39 individuals matched for age, sex, body mass index and comorbidities served as control. Results Despite recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction, patients with prior E–TTS had lower peak VO2 and percentage of predicted peak VO2 (17.8 ± 3.6 vs 22.5 ± 6.5; P &amp;lt; 0.001 and 75.2 ± 14.1 % vs 100.6 ± 17.1%, P &amp;lt;0.001), VO2 at anaerobic threshold (AT) (11.1 [10.1–12.9] vs 14.4 [12.5–18.7]; P &amp;lt;0.001), peak O2 pulse (9.7 ± 2.5 vs 13.1 ± 3.5; P &amp;lt;0.001) and higher VE/VCO2 slope (30.4 ± 3.7 vs 27.2 ± 3.5; P &amp;lt;0.001) compared with matched controls. We found no statistically significant differences in heart rate reserve (HRR), respiratory equivalent ratio (RER), mean blood pressure and peak PetCO2 between patients and controls. Conclusions Despite their overall favorable outcome, asymptomatic patients with E–TTS were found to have long–term subclinical functional cardiac impairments. CPET proved to be a useful tool in the long–term evaluation of E–TTS patients after recovery of LVEF. Further studies are needed to fully clarify the origin of the detected CPET abnormalities as well as their prognostic relevance in patience with recovered E–TTS.

SARS-CoV-2 Viral Shedding and Rapid Antigen Test Performance - Respiratory Virus Transmission Network, November 2022-May 2023.

As population immunity to SARS-CoV-2 evolves and new variants emerge, the role and accuracy of antigen tests remain active questions. To describe recent test performance, the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by antigen testing was compared with that by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and viral culture testing during November 2022-May 2023. Participants who were enrolled in a household transmission study completed daily symptom diaries and collected two nasal swabs (tested for SARS-CoV-2 via RT-PCR, culture, and antigen tests) each day for 10 days after enrollment. Among participants with SARS-CoV-2 infection, the percentages of positive antigen, RT-PCR, and culture results were calculated each day from the onset of symptoms or, in asymptomatic persons, from the date of the first positive test result. Antigen test sensitivity was calculated using RT-PCR and viral culture as references. The peak percentage of positive antigen (59.0%) and RT-PCR (83.0%) results occurred 3 days after onset, and the peak percentage of positive culture results (52%) occurred 2 days after onset. The sensitivity of antigen tests was 47% (95% CI=44%-50%) and 80% (95% CI=76%-85%) using RT-PCR and culture, respectively, as references. Clinicians should be aware of the lower sensitivity of antigen testing compared with RT-PCR, which might lead to false-negative results. This finding has implications for timely initiation of SARS-CoV-2 antiviral treatment, when early diagnosis is essential; clinicians should consider RT-PCR for persons for whom antiviral treatment is recommended. Persons in the community who are at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness and eligible for antiviral treatment should seek testing from health care providers with the goal of obtaining a more sensitive diagnostic test than antigen tests (i.e., an RT-PCR test).

Purification and characterization of 3-O-methyl-D-glucose from the seed coat of Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper

Vigna mungo. L (Black gram) belonging to the Leguminosae family is a most abundant source of protein for human and animal diets. Over 8.5 million tonnes of black gram are being produced worldwide, and after confiscating the endosperm for the protein source, the seed coat is dumped as agro-waste and used as feed for the cattle. This study aims to investigate and profile the metabolites in three distinct parts of V. mungo seeds: coat, cotyledon, and intact seed. Also, it has been hypothesized that sugar methylation plays a pivotal role in facilitating black gram seed germination by serving as an energy source during metabolic processes. In our study, A total of forty-nine compounds belonging to the class such as fatty acids, saccharides, triterpenes, sterols, and vitamins were detected in various parts of V. mungo seed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Most interestingly, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose (3-OMG) was commonly detected in methanolic extract of coat, intact seed, and cotyledon with peak area percentages of 3.076, 1.157, and 1.100 %, respectively. Based on the highest peak area percentage in the coat, this compound was purified by using a silica gel column with a mesh size of 60–120 followed by Biotage SNAP cartridge KP-C18-HS (12 g). The yield and purity of the purified fractions were found to be 11.78 & 94.19 %, respectively by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Further, the mass confirmation of purified fraction containing 3-OMG (m/z - 217.06 g/mol) was done by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and reconfirmed with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS). The MS/MS analysis of the fragment showed m/z 206.91 for 3-OMG which corresponds to the association of the sodium adduct. The concentration of 3-OMG was quantified as 332.65 µg/g of dry weight in the coat of V. mungo by HPLC analysis. Also, among the antioxidant assays conducted, such as DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and NOS, it was observed that the methanolic extract of coat exhibited the most significant antioxidant activity. The 3-OMG is commonly used as a non-metabolized analogue of glucose by regulating glucose transporter, especially GLUT-4 that regulates the absorption of glucose by insulin into muscle and fat cells. This study supports the black gram seed with coat as an alternative medicine to regulate blood glucose.

The variability of physical enjoyment, physiological responses, and technical-tactical performance according to the bout duration of small-sided games: a comparative study between female and male soccer players

BackgroundThis study aimed to compare various factors, namely perceived enjoyment (PE), percentage of peak heart rate (%HRpeak), blood lactate (La), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and technical-tactical performance among soccer players across different bout durations (CB: continuous bout, MIB: medium intermittent bouts, and SIB: short intermittent bouts) and between male and female players during four-a-side (4vs4) small-sided games (SSGs) including goalkeepers.Methodssixteen female soccer players (age: 20.1 ± 0.5 years old) and sixteen professional male adults (age: 20.7 ± 0.7 years old) participated in the study. SSGs (4vs4) were performed in a CB: (1 × 12 min), and in an interval format: MIB: (2 × 6 min), and SIB: (3 × 4 min) with 2 min of passive recovery. PE was collected after each SSGs. The players’ heart rate (HR) was continuously measured, whereas ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and, blood lactate concentration ([La]) were determined at the end of each SSGs. Technical-tactical performance were analyzed during each session of SSGs. Pitch dimensions were (length x width) (25 × 32 m), and relative space per players was 100 m2.ResultsFor female soccer players, medium intermittent bouts (MIB) elicited significantly higher perceived enjoyment (PE) compared to continuous bouts (CB) (p < 0.001) and short intermittent bouts (SIB) (p < 0.01). Conversely, for male soccer players, CB resulted in higher PE compared to MIB (p < 0.001) and SIB (p < 0.001). During CB and MIB, peak heart rate (PeakHR) and percentage of peak heart rate (%HRpeak) were significantly higher in female players compared to SIB (PeakHR: CB: p < 0.001; PeakHR: MIB: p < 0.01; %HRpeak: CB: p < 0.001; %HRpeak: MIB: p < 0.01). Blood lactate (La) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were significantly greater in CB compared to MIB (La: p < 0.001; RPE: p < 0.01) and SIB (La: p < 0.001; RPE: p < 0.001) for female players only. For male players, CB resulted in significantly higher PeakHR, %HRpeak, La, and RPE compared to MIB (peak HR: p < 0.01, dunb = 1.35; %HR: p < 0.01; La: p < 0.01; RPE: p < 0.01) and SIB (peak HR: p < 0,01; %HR: p < 0.01; RPE: md = 0.87, p < 0.05). Regarding technical-tactical performance, in female players, the % of successful passes, successful tackles, and successful duels were higher during SIB compared to CB (p < 0.01; p < 0.001; p < 0.001) and MIB compared to CB (p < 0.01; p < 0.001; p < 0.001), while ball loss was lower during SIB compared to CB (p < 0.001) and MIB compared to CB (p < 0.001). In male players, % of successful passes and tackles were higher during CB compared to MIB (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05) and SIB (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05), while CB had a lower % of ball loss compared to MIB (p < 0.01) and SIB (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the % of successful duels between the bouts for either gender.ConclusionThis study showed a difference in physical enjoyment between male and female soccer players depending on the bout duration of SSGs. For that, trainers should consider intermittent bouts for female soccer players and continuous bouts for male soccer players when designing SSGs-based training in order to significantly improve PE, training load, and technical-tactical performance.

Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze

Medicinal plants are widely used in management of diseases all over the world. The antioxidant and anti- inflammatory activities of C. sinensis were studied in albino rats by using methanolic extracts of these plants. The phytochemical studies in Camellia sinensis showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, protein, phenols, saponins, tannins, phytosterols, phlobatannins and terpenoids. In the present GC-MS analysis, total 20 compounds were identified from the methanol extract of C.sinensi. Among the 20 compounds, the highest peak percentage was noted in the 1H- Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl (86.5030 %). From this study, methanolic leaves extract of C.sinensi showed good ABTS (86.44±6.1 μM TEAC/mg DW) followed by DPPH (78.72±6.2 %) and FRAPP (68.24±7.5 μM TEAC/mg DW) radical scavenging activities. In carrageenan induced paw edema in rats, oral administration of methanolic leaves extracts of C. sinensis showed that the MEV (mean edema volume) slightly decreased and percentage of inhibition (PI) gradually increased after 3 hrs of carrageenan injection. Plant extracts at 200 mg/kg, revealed better inhibition of edema volume. In future, stability studies are required to ensure the usage of this plant for formulations and in vivo pharmacokinetic evaluation.

Enhancing functional properties of rice starches through hydroxypropylation for development of reduced-fat white sauces

Present study investigated the preparation of commonly used white sauce with 50 % less added fat by using 10 % hydroypropylated Irri and Basmati rice starches in the formulation. The sauces incorporated with hydroxypropylated starches exhibited significantly lower gelatinization temperature and time, while the change in maximum viscosity was insignificant. Significantly improved stability at ambient, refrigeration, and freezing temperatures of reduced-fat white sauces was observed whereas change in the taste was insignificant. Basmati hydroxypropylated starch containing white sauce significantly mimicked the sensory properties of full-fat sauces. The hydroxypropyl groups were found to be 1.06 % and 1.16 % for Basmati and Irri hydroxypropylated starches, respectively. These values fall below the specified limit set by the Food and Drug Administration for the food grade hydroxypropylated starches. Significant improvements in peak viscosity, swelling power, solubility, percent transmittance, and water retention capacity were observed after the chemical modification of both rice varieties.