Weak Positive Correlation Research Articles

Pathogenesis of respiratory failure in COVID-19 due to coagulopathy and endothelial dysfunction

Respiratory failure is known to be the main clinical manifestation of COVID-19. However, the mechanism of its development has not been sufficiently studied. The originality of the study is that for the first time, coagulation, fibrinolysis and endothelial dysfunction indicators were studied depending on the SpO2/FiO2 index in patients with COVID-19.The aim of the work. To assess the role of impaired activity of the blood coagulation system and the development of endothelial dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 in the pathogenesis of respiratory failure.Methods. The study included 134 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus having varying severity of the clinical picture. They were divided into three groups according to the SpO2/FiO2 index. We determined the number of venous blood cells and studied the level of transferrin (TF), D-dimer, tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), inter-cellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) in the blood serum.Results. The study revealed that the tissue factor content increased by 24 % in patients of the third group compared to the first. The PAI-1 level was high in the second group and significantly decreased in the third (p < 0.001). An increase in the D-dimer level was recorded in the second and third groups. The levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 molecules increased significantly in the third group of patients (p = 0.021 and p = 0.028, respectively). A moderate positive correlation was found between the SpO2/FiO2 index and the VCAM-1 level (p < 0.001), a weak positive correlation with PAI-1 (p = 0.012), and a weak negative correlation with TF (p = 0.027).Conclusion. Respiratory failure in patients with COVID-19 is caused by disorders in the hemostasis and fibrinolysis systems, as evidenced by an increase in the level of tissue factor and D-dimer, “consumption” of tissue activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor. Developing endothelial dysfunction, accompanied by increased secretion of adhesion molecules, aggravates the pathogenesis of respiratory failure.

Toilet Training Readiness Scale for 0-5-Year-Old Children: A New Measurement Tool Based on a Child-Centred Approach.

There is no standardised approach to toilet training in children. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the duration of toilet training in children aged 0-5 years and to develop a tool to assess the child's readiness to start toilet training. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 409 children aged 0-5 years. Social, economic, behavioural, and developmental characteristics that are effective in toilet training in healthy children were evaluated. A scale assessing children's readiness for toilet training (Toilet Training Readiness Scale-TTRS) was developed and content validated. The mean age of the 409 children included in this study was 44.69 ± 13.07 months (min = 4; max = 60 months). The mean age of initiation of toilet training was 26.8 months. Most frequently, urine and faeces trainings were started together (52.1%). In the logistic regression analysis performed to evaluate the factors affecting the duration of toilet training, it was found that the TTRS score, mother's employment status, family type, child's first reaction, toilet type, and continuity of training were important predictors. The duration of toilet training showed a weak negative correlation with the scores obtained from the TTRS and the number of children in the family but a weak positive correlation with the age at the beginning of toilet training. The TTRS scores were inversely proportional to the duration of toilet training. Family characteristics, socioeconomic conditions, and readiness of the child for and no interruption in toilet training are important in completing toilet training in a short time and successfully. If a child-focused approach is adopted, evaluating the child from this point of view and initiating the training at the appropriate time may help to complete a more successful and shorter toilet training. We recommend that the scale we have developed be studied in other studies and different groups.

TREND ANALYSIS AND CORRELATION OF TOURIST, RESTAURANT AND HOTEL VISITS IN KUNINGAN REGENCY

This study conducts an in-depth analysis of the tourism sector in Kuningan Regency, focusing specifically on hotel stays, tourist arrivals, and restaurant visits. Utilizing forecasting models and correlation analyses, the research aims to uncover trends and interdependencies within the sector. The primary objective is to identify actionable insights that can inform data-driven decision-making. The study employs the FBProphet algorithm for forecasting future trends and conducts Kendall correlation analysis to examine relationships among key variables. Data collected spans a time series of 84 months, from January 2016 to December 2022. FBProphet accurately predicts trends in hotel stays, while variations exist in predictions for tourist arrivals and restaurant visits. Mean values for hotel stays, tourist arrivals, and restaurant visits are 21,098.67, 135,647.33, and 130,660.83, respectively. Kendall correlation analysis reveals a moderate positive correlation (0.214, p-value = 0.004) between tourist arrivals and restaurant visits, a strong positive correlation (0.324, p-value = 1.291e-05) between tourist arrivals and hotel stays, and a weaker positive correlation (0.176, p-value = 0.019) between restaurant visits and hotel stays. These findings underscore the intricate dynamics of Kuningan Regency's tourism sector, providing stakeholders with critical insights for strategic planning. The research contributes significantly to sustainable growth initiatives by guiding stakeholders in leveraging the interconnected elements of tourism and making well-informed decisions.

An examination of the “top 100” articles published in 2023: an altmetric analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the “Top 100” articles that received the highest online attention in 2023. Design/methodology/approach The author examined data obtained from the Dimensions database. They determined the top 100 articles with the highest Altmetric Attention Score published in 2023 using the Dimensions database. The search was done on December 31, 2023, and the publication type was limited to articles. Furthermore, articles were analyzed to identify online attention platforms, subject categories, publication sources, access types and authorship patterns. The data were organized in Microsoft Excel for eventual examination. Findings The most discoursed article in 2023 has an Article Attention Score of 26156. The “Top 100 List” is dominated by COVID-19-related studies. X (249,064), Mendeley (2,445) and News (1,977) are the most prominent sharing and discussion platforms. There is an unequal distribution of articles in 28 subject categories. The top 100 articles were published in 67 journals. The majority of articles are accessible under the open-access model. The top 100 articles are written by 1,323 authors, with an authorship range of 1 to 308. The majority of articles are the result of collaborative work, and the correlation analysis between citations and AAS indicates a weak positive correlation possibly because of different factors influencing each metric and their methods of measuring scholarly impact. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to present online attention to academic articles published in 2023. This study examines the effect of online attention platforms on research, which may be used as a measure of research outcome.

Abstract B062: Physical Activity in African American Prostate Cancer Survivors and a Comparison of Self-report versus Accelerometer-Derived Measurement

Abstract Authors: Shannon Reed, Margaret Tovar, MPH, Paula Papanek, PhD, Patricia Sheean, Deepak Kilari, MD, Katie Bylow, MD, PhD, Whitney Morelli, PhD, Melinda Stolley, PhD Background: The Men Moving Forward intervention examines a lifestyle intervention's effects on body composition among Black/African American prostate cancer survivors (AAPCS). AAPCS. To assess PA, self-report and objective measures are being used. Studies use self-report measurements due to their simplicity and low cost, however, the congruent validity of self-report PA is often questioned. This study describes PA and strength training and also compares self- report PA to accelerometry-derived PA among AAPCS at baseline. Methods: AA men with non-metastatic PC were recruited to participate in a randomized, waitlist control trial testing the efficacy of a lifestyle intervention. The 16-week group and community-based intervention was developed with and for AAPCS and is grounded in the ACS Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines for Cancer Survivors. Participants completed the Godin Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (GLTPAQ) which queries about moderate and vigorous activities. The study added a question about the frequency of strength training. Participants also wore a GT3X accelerometer (Actigraph) for 7 days. Only men who wore the actigraph for at least 10 hours across 4 days were included in this analysis. Troiano 2008 cut points were used to measure moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA). Pearson’s correlation was used to assess linear correlation between objectively measured and self-reported MVPA. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: 73 AAPCS with a mean age of 65.8 years ± 6.9 were included in the analyses. Mean Godin score was 23.32 +16.80 (insufficient activity) with 45.2% classified as active (Godin score >24) and 54.8% as insufficiently active (Godin score<23). 30.2% strength trained at least twice weekly. Actigraph data showed a mean of 101.19 minutes per day of MVPA and that 73.68% of participants did not meet the guideline for 150 minutes per week of MVPA. The analysis revealed a weak positive correlation (r = 0.274, p = 0.019) between actigraph-recorded MVPA and self-reported MVPA. Conclusion: Study results suggest AAPCS overestimate their MVPA using the GLTPAQ when compared to accelerometry. Notably, a significant proportion did not meet the recommended level of physical activity. These findings underscore the importance of including objective measures of PA and the value of programming that is intentionally inclusive of AAPCS. To better support validity and reliability, participant perceptions of PA time and intensity may require improved clarification and description in studies relying solely on SR questionnaires. Citation Format: Shannon Reed, Margaret Tovar, Paula Papanek, Patricia Sheean, Deepak Kilari, Whitney Morelli, Katie Bylow, Melinda Stolley. Physical Activity in African American Prostate Cancer Survivors and a Comparison of Self-report versus Accelerometer-Derived Measurement [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B062.

Influence of chronic wartime stress on the course of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Objective — to analyze levels of chronic stress hormones in patients with non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), who were exposed to psychogenic factors of wartime. Materials and methods. Examinations involved 88 patients with NAFLD, form them 38 subject were examined in the pre‑war period (comparison group), 50 patients were under the influence of stress during hostilities (main group). Control group consisted of 20 practically healthy subjects. Patients’ groups matched by age. The main group consisted of 28 men and 22 women, the comparison included 17 men and 21 women. The mean age in the main group was (51.6±7.7) years and in the comparison group (51.8±8.1) року. The trophological status of patients was monitored with the use of Body Composition Monitor.Omron BF­­511; hormones of chronic stress were assessed with solid‑phase enzyme immunoassay. Results. The assessment of levels of the chronic stress biochemical markers in NAFLD patients during the war demonstrated pronounced hyperprolactinemia in comparison with both control group and NAFLD patients examined in the pre‑war period. The dependence of stress hormone levels on the trophic status of patients and gender was revealed. A direct correlation between the prolactin level and the index of insulin resistance (IR), the percentage of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and the level of triglycerides (TG) was revealed. A weak positive correlation was also observed between the level of brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and IR, VAT, TG, and C‑reactive protein (CRP). The activity of the inflammatory process depended on the level of dihydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which confirms the direct correlation between the level of this hormone and ALT and CRP. Conclusions. The dependence of stress hormones levels on the trophic status of patients and gender was revealed. The level of DHEA in NAFLD patients with obesity and overweight significantly exceeded the corresponding indicators in the group with normal body mass index (BMI). In the group of overweight women who experienced negative consequences of military actions, the DHEA level significantly exceeded the corresponding indicators in comparison with the pre‑war period. Under the influence of military actions in patients of the main group, the reaction to stress was accompanied by an increase in prolactin levels in men with normal and overweight weight compared to the pre‑war period. In obese women from the main group, the hyperprolactinemia level significantly exceeded the corresponding values in the groups with normal and excessive BMI. The revealed correlation dependence between the stress hormones levels and metabolic factors indicates the influence of chronic stress on the main pathogenetic mechanisms of the development and progression of NAFLD in the conditions of war.

Challenges and Trends in Student Evaluation of Teaching: Analysis of SET Data from the University of Peloponnese

This study examines the effectiveness of Student Evaluations of Teaching at the University of Peloponnese, which has systematically collected anonymous evaluations since 2015. The analysis focused on participation rates, average scores, and the correlation between student evaluations and their academic performance. Participation rates were notably low, averaging 14.63%, with postgraduate students showing higher rates (27.33%) than undergraduates (10.77%). The average SET scores were moderately high, with postgraduates rating their courses slightly better (M = 4.137) than undergraduates (M = 3.899). A weak positive correlation was found between course grades and evaluations among undergraduates, whereas no significant correlation was observed for postgraduates. These findings highlight challenges in using SETs as reliable measures of teaching effectiveness and suggest the need for improved participation and more comprehensive evaluation methods. The results provide insights into enhancing assessment practices and contribute to the broader discourse on the validity of student evaluations in higher education.

Skills Acquisition and Student Motivation in Badminton Training Towards Enhanced Sports Educational Program

The study examined skills acquisition and learner motivation in badminton training to improve sports educational programs. It addressed respondent profiles, skill integration levels, motivation factors, significant differences, and relationships between skills integration and motivation, culminating in a proposed program to enhance both areas. The study employed a quantitative research design and used the descriptive correlational research and utilized 377 respondents who are enrolled in badminton classes in three selected Chinese universities. The study found that senior, female students from Hunan Normal University dominated the sample, with skill integration from badminton training rated as moderate, indicating room for improvement. Significant differences in skill integration and motivation were noted based on school attended, but not by age or sex, suggesting that institutional factors play a key role. A weak positive correlation between skill integration and motivation suggests other factors may also influence student motivation.

Physical Education Administrators’ Instructional Leadership Affecting Their Leadership Efficacy

This study explored the impact of teaching leadership on leadership effectiveness of sports managers at Hunan Normal University. Through teachers' evaluation of sports managers in promoting professional learning, building relationships, collaboration, organizational skills, and teaching practices, their effectiveness levels in content knowledge, teaching knowledge, classroom management, evaluation, and technology application were analyzed. The results show that there is a weak positive correlation between the teaching leadership practices of sports managers and their leadership effectiveness. Based on the research results, this paper puts forward suggestions on improving the leadership of sports managers, aiming to promote the professional development of teachers, strengthen collaboration, improve teaching quality, and ultimately improve students' learning outcomes.

Data base of Cognitive functions and their relation to balance and agility in athletes from differents sports branches

Successful performance in each sport requires high ability in various features, including motor and perceptual-cognitive skills. This study aimed to compare the balance and agility in athletes from several sports branches to find out how cognitive functions relate to these parameters. Seventy-three individuals aged 18-30 were included in this prospective-descriptive study. In the assessment of cognition, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale, d2 Test of Attention, and a Bassin Anticipation Timer Device were used. While Prokin-TecnoBody was used to measure the balance skills, Illinois Agility Test (IAT) was used for agility. IAT times showed positive weak correlations with both the absolute error-score (AES) at 8mph (r=0.260, p=0.040) and mediolateral balance score (ML)(r=0.255, p=0.043). While there was a negative weak correlation between AES at 3mph and anteroposterior score of balance (r=-0.267, p=0.035), we found positive weak correlation between AES at 8mph and ML of balance (r=0.253, p=0.046). It was found that the IAT scores of the sedentary group were significantly lower than athletes (p=0.000). According to AES at 3mph, there were significant differences between tennis players and both sedentary and volleyball players (p=0.008, p=0.002, respectively). When the AES at 8mph compared, the only statistically significant difference was between tennis players and sedentary (p=0.008). In conclusion, this study shows how cognitive functions, particularly coincidence anticipation timing (CAT), correlate with essential physical performance factors like agility and balance across different sport branches, suggesting that improving cognitive skills could enhance overall athletic performance and inform mental training strategies in sports. It is recommended that future sports science research focus on enhancing CAT through targeted training programs.

Cognitive functions and their relation to balance and agility in athletes from different sports branches

Successful performance in each sport requires high ability in various features, including motor and perceptual-cognitive skills. This study aimed to compare the balance and agility in athletes from several sports branches to find out how cognitive functions relate to these parameters. Seventy-three individuals aged 18-30 were included in this prospective-descriptive study. In the assessment of cognition, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale, d2 Test of Attention, and a Bassin Anticipation Timer Device were used. While Prokin-TecnoBody was used to measure the balance skills, Illinois Agility Test (IAT) was used for agility. IAT times showed positive weak correlations with both the absolute error-score (AES) at 8mph (r=0.260, p=0.040) and mediolateral balance score (ML)(r=0.255, p=0.043). While there was a negative weak correlation between AES at 3mph and anteroposterior score of balance (r=-0.267, p=0.035), we found positive weak correlation between AES at 8mph and ML of balance (r=0.253, p=0.046). It was found that the IAT scores of the sedentary group were significantly lower than athletes (p=0.000). According to AES at 3mph, there were significant differences between tennis players and both sedentary and volleyball players (p=0.008, p=0.002, respectively). When the AES at 8mph compared, the only statistically significant difference was between tennis players and sedentary (p=0.008). In conclusion, this study shows how cognitive functions, particularly coincidence anticipation timing (CAT), correlate with essential physical performance factors like agility and balance across different sport branches, suggesting that improving cognitive skills could enhance overall athletic performance and inform mental training strategies in sports. It is recommended that future sports science research focus on enhancing CAT through targeted training programs.

Eating disorder risk assessment and sociocultural attitudes toward body image among Polish and Turkish professional female football players.

IntroductionFootball requires high physical fitness and often involves maintaining a specific physique, leading to harmful eating behaviors due to internal and external pressures. Cultural norms influence the prevalence and types of eating disorders (ED), with differences in eating habits, beauty standards, and socio-cultural pressures affecting ED development. This study assesses ED risk and analyzes socio-cultural attitudes toward body image among Polish and Turkish female football players.MethodsThe study was conducted from April to June 2024 and included 103 professional female football players aged 18–35 from Polish (n = 49) and Turkish (n = 54) clubs. Data were collected using the CAWI method via Google Forms. Participants completed EAT-26 and SATAQ-3 questionnaires, assessing ED risk and socio-cultural attitudes toward body image.Results40.8% of participants were at risk for ED. No differences in ED prevalence were found between groups of different nationalities. Polish footballers at risk of ED scored higher on the Internalization-Pressure and Information subscales and the overall SATAQ-3 score. A weak but significant positive correlation was found between SATAQ-3 and EAT-26 scores.DiscussionThe study finds no nationality-based differences in ED prevalence among professional female football players, but ED is widespread, affecting about 40% of players. Nutritional status impacts ED risk, with higher risk among underweight and overweight players. Polish players are more influenced by socio-cultural standards of body image promoted by mass media. The study underscores the need for regular screening and psychological support.

Reliability and validity of the modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (mYFAS 2.0) in a sample of individuals with depressive disorders

BackgroundFood addiction (FA) is strongly associated with depressive symptoms. The reliability and validity of the Modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (mYFAS 2.0) were not previously determined in clinical samples in Brazil. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the mYFAS 2.0 in adult individuals with depressive disorders.MethodsThe data stems from a survey investigating FA in a convenience sample of subjects diagnosed with a depressive disorder. Participants answered mYFAS 2.0 and scales for binge eating, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and alcohol and nicotine use. Height and weight were measured to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI). We evaluated the factor structure, reliability, convergent, discriminant, criterion, and incremental validity.ResultsThe sample encompassed 303 participants with a mean age of 37.03 ± 11.72 years, 84.16% of whom were women. The Cronbach’s alpha for the mYFAS 2.0 was satisfactory (alpha = 0.915). The best goodness-of-fit model was a single factor, and mYFAS 2.0 showed convergent validity with binge eating and discriminant validity with the alcohol and nicotine use measures. Food addiction presented a weak positive correlation with depressive and anxiety symptoms and BMI. Three food addiction symptoms provided the best balance between sensitivity (80.95%) and specificity (74.81%). Incremental validity over binge eating symptoms was confirmed (t = 4.040, β = 0.681, p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe Brazilian mYFAS 2.0 performed satisfactorily in this clinical sample of participants with a depressive disorder. These findings suggest it may be a brief, useful, and valid food addiction screening tool for this group.

Study on compressive strength of bamboo (Guadua amplexifolia J. Presl) in San Jorge River basin, Colombia

Bamboo is a fast-growing plant commonly used to produce handicrafts, baskets, furniture, and other goods. Guadua amplexifolia J. Presl, a native woody bamboo species of Colombia, has been the subject of limited scientific research. This study conducted in the San Jorge River basin in Montelíbano (Córdoba) evaluated Guadua amplexifolia J. Presl's compressive strength to find its potential applications. Samples from four- and five-year-old bamboo culms were collected for analysis. The findings showed a positive correlation between the modulus of rupture and density. In contrast, the modulus of elasticity showed a weak positive correlation. It was seen that the predominant mode of compressive strength failure was type A (accounted for 66.7 %) in the samples tested. The mean value for the modulus of rupture was 43.1 x10−3 MPa, and the mean modulus of elasticity value was 1075.5 x10−3 MPa. Earlier studies reported lower calculated values for modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity for G. amplexifolia J. Presl bamboo than other bamboo species.

Experts’ prediction of item difficulty of multiple-choice questions in the Ethiopian Undergraduate Medicine Licensure Examination

BackgroundThe ability of an expert’s item difficulty ratings to predict test-taker actual performance is an important aspect of licensure examinations. Expert judgment is used as a primary source of information for users to make prior decisions to determine the pass rate of test takers. The nature of raters involved in predicting item difficulty is central to set credible standards. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare raters’ prediction and actual Multiple-Choice Questions’ difficulty of the undergraduate medicine licensure examination (UGMLE) in Ethiopia.Method815 examinees’ responses to 200 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) were used in this study. The study also included experts’ item difficulty ratings of seven physicians who participated in the standard settings of UGMLE. Then, analysis was conducted to understand experts’ rating variation in predicting the actual difficulty levels of examinees. Descriptive statistics was used to profile the mean rater’s and actual difficulty value for MCQs, and ANOVA was used to compare the mean differences between raters’ prediction of item difficulty. Additionally, regression analysis was used to understand the interrater variations in item difficulty predictions compared to the actual difficulty. The proportion of variance of actual difficulty explained from rater prediction was computed using regression analysis.ResultsIn this study, the mean difference between raters’ prediction and examinees’ actual performance was inconsistent across the exam domains. The study revealed a statistically significant strong positive correlation between the actual and predicted item difficulty in exam domains eight and eleven. However, a non-statistically significant very weak positive correlation was reported in exam domains seven and twelve. The multiple comparison analysis showed significant differences in mean item difficulty ratings between raters. In the regression analysis, experts’ item difficulty ratings of the UGMLE had 33% power in predicting the actual difficulty level. The regression model also showed a moderate positive correlation (R = 0.57) that was statistically significant at F (6, 193) = 15.58, P = 0.001.ConclusionThis study demonstrated the complex process for assessing the difficulty level of MCQs in the UGMLE and emphasized the benefits of using experts’ ratings in advance. To ensure the exams maintain the necessary reliable and valid scores, raters’ accuracy on the UGMLE must be improved. To achieve this, techniques that align with the evolving assessment methodologies must be developed.

The variations in health cost based on the traditional obesity parameters among patients with coronary artery diseases undergoing cardiac catheterization

BackgroundIn the literature, obesity has been correlated with coronary artery diseases (CADs) and high health costs. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between obesity parameters and the health costs among patients with CADs undergoing cardiac catheterization.MethodA secondary data analysis was done for an original study. The original study was conducted among 220 hospitalized patients undergoing cardiac catheterization from two main hospitals located in the Middle and Northern regions of Jordan. Bivariate Pearson’s correlation and forward linear regression analysis were calculated in this study.ResultsThe average health cost for the participants was 1,344 JOD (1,895.63 USD). A significant positive moderate correlation (r = 0.4) was found between hip circumference (HC) and health cost. There were significant positive weak correlations between low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HS-CRP), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and depression, and the health cost (correlation coefficient 0.17, 0.3, 0.29, 0.22 and 0.17, respectively. HC, waist circumference (WC), waist-height ratio (WHtR), waist-hip ratio (WHR), and body adiposity index (BAI) were significantly associated with health costs among male participants. In contrast, among females, none of the obesity parameters was significantly associated with health costs. The forward regression analysis illustrated that an increase of HC by 3.9 cm (β (0.292) * SD (13.4)) will increase the health cost by 1 JOD (0.71 USD). The same analysis revealed that HS-CRP increased by 0.4 mg/dl (β (0.258)*SD (1.43)), or triglycerides increased by 8.3 mg/dl (β (0.241)* SD (34.3)), or depression score increased by 0.32 score (β (0.137)* SD (2.3)), or total cholesterol increased by 4 mg/dl (β (0.163)* SD (24.7)), the health cost will increase by one JOD (0.71 USD).ConclusionHealthcare providers, including nurses, should significantly consider these factors to reduce the health costs for those at-risk patients by providing the appropriate healthcare on time.

Evaluating dietary exposure and risk characterization of aflatoxin B1, citrinin, and ochratoxin A co-occurrence in pigmented rice consumed in Thailand

In recent years, pigmented rice, often referred to as functional rice, has attracted increasing attention due to its perceived health benefits arising from an abundance of phytochemicals. However, there is limited information on the occurrence and risks of mycotoxins due to long-term consumption of pigmented rice. This study assessed the co-occurrence and contamination levels of aflatoxins, citrinin (CIT), and ochratoxin A (OTA) in various pigmented rice samples sourced from Thailand, and also evaluated the potential health risks for consumers. The results indicated varying levels of mycotoxin contamination among the different tested pigmented rice varieties, with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) being the most prevalent (39.1 %), followed by CIT (17.3 %) and OTA (14.5 %). The co-occurrences of AFB1-CIT and CIT-OTA were the most prevalent combination observed in the pigmented rice samples. Although the AFB1 and CIT levels remained below regulatory limits, some samples had OTA levels exceeding these limits, though by a small percentage. Furthermore, the anthocyanin content in pigmented rice showed a weak positive correlation with the AFB1 level (p < 0.05). The estimated risk of liver cancer incidence associated with the consumption of pigmented rice containing AFB1 was in the range 0.012–0.061 cases/100,000 persons/year, depending on consumption rate and behavior. The risk posed by CIT exposure was considered negligible. However, the exposure assessments suggested a potential risk of OTA exposure, particularly in scenarios with higher consumption rates. Cumulative risk assessment of AFB1-OTA co-occurrence indicated an amplified health risk compared to single mycotoxin exposure. These findings offer valuable evidence, encouraging further research aimed at mitigating the risks associated with mycotoxin contamination in pigmented rice.

422 The use of 3D kinematics for improved gait assessment in broilers

Abstract Genetic selection for high growth rates in broiler chickens has resulted in larger broilers and changes in broiler gait. Traditionally, broiler gait is assessed using visual observation which is subjective and labor intensive. In contrast, newer technologies are available which can be adapted to objectively score changes in broiler gait, thereby, increasing the validity and reliability of gait scoring with less labor required. The objective of this study was to compare the use of 3D kinematics versus visual scoring to assess broiler gait. Second, to determine how strain and age affect 3D kinematic gait metrics in broilers. Four strains of broiler chickens were used; two heritage strains: 1957 (H57; n = 52) and 1977 (H77; n = 51); and two commercially available strains: Cobb (n = 50) and Ross (n = 53). All broilers were weighed weekly throughout the study. Kinematic markers were placed along the spine and bony landmarks of each leg. Commercial strains had kinematic recordings and body weights (BW) recorded every week for 4 wk while Heritage strains had measurements recorded every week for 6 wk. Visual gait scoring was completed using a 5-point scale each week by two trained observers. Data were analyzed using the correlation procedure in SAS to determine the relationship between visual gait score and kinematic metrics as well as the GLIMMIX procedure to determine the effects of strain, age, and strain x age on all gait parameters. There was a weak positive correlation (r &amp;lt; 0.2) between visual gait score and all kinematic metrics. Cobb were the heaviest strain (1,292.6 ± 14.71 g P &amp;lt; 0.001) while H57 broilers were the lightest (326.4 ± 9.99 g P &amp;lt; 0.001). Each week, the BW of all strains increased significantly. Total Stride Time differed significantly by strain (P &amp;lt; 0.001; Cobb: 26.3 ± 0.47 cs, Ross: 23.1 ± 0.39 cs, H77: 23.7 ± 0.28 cs, H57: 21.5 ± 0.26 cs) and Age (P &amp;lt; 0.01; Commercial: wk 3: 21.8 ± 0.54 cs, wk 6: 28.1 ± 0.68 cs and Heritage: wk 3: 19.7 ± 0.42 cs, wk 8: 25.4 ± 0.52 cs). Total stride length (SL) also significantly differed by strain. Cobb had the longest SL of the two commercial strains (P &amp;lt; 0.001; 88.6 ± 1.94 mm) while H77 had the longest stride of the heritage strains (97.9 ± 1.51 mm). Total SL also increased with age resulting in longer stride times. Heavier birds, such as Cobb, had longer stride Times and SL compared with lighter birds such as the H57 strain. In conclusion, visual gait score and kinematic metrics were not found to be measuring the same things. However, kinematics can be a used as an informative and objective tool for assessing gait metrics associated with broiler lameness such as changes in stride length and stride time.

A - 3 The Relationship between Memory and Depression In an Elderly Chinese Cohort: a Baseline Analysis

Abstract Objective Explore the relationship between depression and memory aged 60 years and older while controlling for age, gender, and education. Method This study utilized data from the Characterization of Dementia in Asian-Pacific Islanders study by Bruce Miller, M.D., and Howie Rosen, M.D., at the Memory and Aging Center at UCSF. Inclusion criteria included participants age 60+ who completed the Benson Figure Test, GDS-30, and the Chinese Version Verbal Learning Test (CVVLT) in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Exclusion criteria included participants under age 60 and or experience history of neurological strokes or injuries, and disabilities related to memory. The final sample yielded 136 participants, including 41 (30.1%) males, 95 (69.9%) females, 120 (88.2%) right-handed, 3 (2.2%) left-handed, and 7 (5.1%) ambidextrous. Average age of participants was 71.46 (SD = 7.26). A memory composite score was computed based on average of performances on the Benson Figure Task delay and the CVVLT 10-minute delay. Raw GDS-30 scores represented depression. Results There was a weak positive correlation between memory composite scores, gender, and education, and a weak negative correlation between memory composite scores, age, and GDS-30 scores. Conclusions Findings indicate some evidence for a relationship between depression and memory in elderly Chinese populations. However, the sample was skewed, and consisted of less depressed and higher memory functioning participants. Despite these limitations, it is pertinent to explore how healthcare providers may outreach to this population to monitor risk factors, improve timeliness of dementia diagnosis, and maximize treatment of reversible causes, adherence to treatment plans, and help families care plan.

Differential impacts of ambient PM2.5 exposure on sperm quality in northern Thailand.

This study aimed to explore the correlation between ambient particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) concentration and sperm quality among northern Thai men exposed to the seasonal air pollution from the agricultural burning process. The demographic data and semen analysis of Thai men living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, who visited the infertile clinic were collected. The correlation test between the monthly amount of PM2.5 and sperm quality was carried out. From 2017 to 2021, 1,109 Thai men visited the Infertile Clinic. The correlation test between PM2.5 and sperm quality in years with a better climate revealed a weak positive correlation between the mean PM2.5 and percentage of progressive motile sperm and normal morphology (r=0.08, p=0.05 and r=0.1, p=0.02). However, there was a negative correlation between the mean PM2.5 and sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal sperm morphology during the years with a higher amount of ambient PM2.5, and especially PM2.5 exposure 3 months before semen collection (r=-0.12, p=0.01, r=-0.11, p=0.003, r=-0.15, p=0.004). Exposure to a high amount of PM2.5 air pollution negatively affects sperm quality.