SAS Statistical Software Research Articles

Cross-sectional analysis of the association between information and communication technology and mental health among Korean workers.

The adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) has been the fastest and most widespread in the South Korean workplace. While ICT has several advantages, it can also cause stress among workers. However, the relationship between the introduction of ICT in the workplace and mental health problems among Korean workers remains unclear. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data obtained from the sixth Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS). In total, 40,019 participants answered a question about whether ICT had been introduced in their workplace. Among these, we compared the rate of complaints of mental health disorders between those who answered "yes" (n = 3,250) and those who answered "no" (n = 36,769). We analyzed the data using the SAS statistical software and calculated the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for anxiety, insomnia, and depression using multiple logistic regression models. We also stratified the data on Korean workers to assess the impact of ICT on subgroups. In our nationally representative cohort, on experiencing ICT incorporation at work, 384 participants (11.8%) reported anxiety, 138 (4.2%) reported insomnia, and 296 (9.1%) reported depression. In contrast, among participants who did not have access to ICT, 1,929 (5.2%) reported anxiety, 702 (1.9%) reported insomnia, and 4,404 (12.0%) reported depression. The ORs (95% CIs) for anxiety and insomnia complaint rates were 2.47 (2.19-2.79) and 2.55 (2.10-3.10), respectively, among workers who experienced new ICT adaptations in comparison with those who did not. However, no significant relationship was observed between ICT adoption and depression. The causes of mental health problems in the workplace should be identified and addressed. We found that the introduction of ICT in the workplace was significantly related to anxiety and insomnia symptoms among Korean workers, after controlling for the selected covariates. This information can be used to identify subgroups in the workplace that are vulnerable to ICT changes and tailor interventions to their social and demographic profiles.

The effect of high levels of Glycyrrhiza glabra powder on performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, immunity, intestinal microbial flora, intestinal morphology and breast muscle fatty acid profile in broilers

In order to investigate the effect of licorice medicinal plant on performance, carcass characteristics, fatty acid profile of breast muscle, intestinal microbial flora, blood constitutes and immunity of broiler chickens, an experiment using a completely randomized design with 3 treatments, 4 replications, 10 chicks per repetition and a total of 120 pieces of one-day-old male broiler chickens of commercial strain Ross 308 were performed for 42 days. Experimental treatments included three different levels of licorice (0, 300 and 400 mg/kg feed). Data was analyzed using SAS statistical software and averages were compared at the 5% probability level with Duncan's multiple range test. The results showed that although variation in feed consumption, weight gain and feed conversion ratio was not significant in any of the rearing periods (P≥0.05), the highest feed consumption, weight gain and the best feed conversion ratio was observed in the final period of chickens were fed with Diet containing 400mg/kg licorice. Also, according to the data, the best European index was related to this treatment. In addition, the use of two levels of licorice had no significant effect on carcass characteristics or intestinal microbial flora; however, the highest increase in body weight and the lowest number of Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria were observed at the higher level of licorice. However, these high levels did not lead to a decrease in abdominal fat. According to the results obtained, different levels of licorice led to a significant reduction of harmful fats such as cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL and LDL (P<0.05). Furthermore, although the level of HDL was not significant (P≥ 0.05), its highest amount was seen at high levels of licorice. In addition, the lowest amount of total protein, albumin and globulin was observed at the level of 400 mg/kg of licorice. According to these results, although the amount of glucose was lowest its level was not significant (P≥0.05), Also, the use of this same level of licorice had no significant effect on the function of the humoral immune system in response to antigen injection (SRBC Antibody against sheep red blood cell) or antibody titer against Newcastle virus and influenza (P≥0.05). Nevertheless, according to the data, the highest antibody titer against Newcastle virus and SRBC antigen was associated with this treatment. These results also showed that high levels of licorice led to an increase in the number of Bifidobacterium. Villi width and crypt depth decreased at the high dose of licorice, but the ratio of villi length to crypt depth increased. In addition, the use of different levels of licorice could not reduce the ratio of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids compared to the control group. Therefore, based on the results of this research, it is recommended to use the level of 400 mg/kg of licorice to supplement the diet of broilers of Ross 308 strain.

Influence of Ensiling Timing and Inoculation on Whole Plant Maize Silage Fermentation and Aerobic Stability (Preliminary Research)

Despite efforts to prevent atypical ensiling conditions, such as delayed ensiling or sealing, these issues frequently occur in practice. This study aimed to investigate the effects of delayed ensiling (forage held for 24 h) and sealing, along with inoculation using a blend of Lentilactobacillus buchneri and Lactococcus lactis, on the characteristics of the resulting silages. Whole-plant maize (Zea mays L.) was treated with or without a commercial inoculant and ensiled (36% dry matter) for 60 days in 3.0 L glass containers. The forage was either ensiled immediately or subjected to a 24 h delay before ensiling. During the delay, the forage was either covered or left uncovered. Each treatment was replicated five times. All data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS statistical software (version 9.4; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). Delaying the ensiling process by 24 h worsens fermentation parameters, significantly increases dry matter (DM) losses (p < 0.01), and significantly reduces aerobic stability and the hygienic quality of the silage (p < 0.01), as evidenced by higher concentrations of undesirable fermentation products and elevated yeast and mold counts. The inoculation has a significant impact on both forage before ensiling and the characteristics of the resulting silage. Maize forage treated with inoculant showed a lower temperature increase by 8.2–8.1 °C (p < 0.01) when delayed for 24 h before ensiling. In silages, it also resulted in a reduced pH (p < 0.01); increased concentrations of lactic acid; acetic acid; and 1,2-propanediol (p < 0.01); and decreased levels of negative fermentation indicators such as ammonia-N, alcohols, and butyric acid (p < 0.01) During both the fermentation and aerobic exposure periods, inoculated silages exhibited up to 36% and 2.6 times lower (p < 0.01) dry matter loss, while suppressing the growth of yeasts and molds by up to 2.6 and 3.1 times (p < 0.01), respectively, compared to non-inoculated silages. The results of this study support the recommendation to minimize the duration of aerobic exposure of fresh forage during silo filling and to use LAB-based inoculants.

How the Inclusion of Pigeon Pea in Beef Cattle Diets Affects CH4 Intensity: An In Vitro Fermentation Assessment

Tropical pastures intercropped with legumes have been gaining prominence for increasing the efficiency of livestock production systems when compared to pasture monocultures. Here, our objective was to understand the fermentation processes that tropical grass and legumes underwent when included in ruminant diets, which have previously been found to optimize animal performance while reducing the intensity of enteric CH4 emissions. For this purpose, three areas containing pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) and Urochloa spp. were sampled. Samples were dried, grounded, chemically analyzed, and included in five proportions (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) of pigeon pea in the diet. The diets were then analyzed using an in vitro fermentation technique. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS statistical software, considering bottles as replicates, and our results suggest that a 25% inclusion of pigeon pea is optimal for balancing CH4 mitigation and fermentation efficiency, highlighting the importance of more studies with this legume due to its benefits, especially as a supplement during drought periods that impact the production and quality of tropical pastures. It is important to consider that pigeon pea’s secondary compounds may have positively modulated the fermentation process and reduced CH4 emissions. However, excessive legume inclusion can negatively affect digestibility and animal health, impairing animal performance and the sustainability of pasture-based production systems.

Drugs causing prostate-specific antigen changes: the food and drug administration adverse event reporting system combined with Mendelian randomization analysis

ABSTRACT Background Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in men worldwide, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening is widely used for its early detection. Drug use may affect PSA levels, but the effect for most drugs is currently unknown. Methods This study first investigated drugs related to PSA changes through the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERs) database, and then used a Mendelian randomization (MR) method to explore the causal relationship between specific drugs and PSA changes using a genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. The statistical analysis software SAS and R were used in the study. Results Through analysis of the FAERs database, 22 drugs were found to be associated with an increase in PSA, and 14 drugs were associated with a decrease in PSA. MR analysis showed that the use of tamsulosin may lead to an increase in PSA. Heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test and leave-one-out Analysis verified the stability of the results. MR analyses for other drugs did not show statistical significance. Conclusion This study provided a basis for better understanding the impact of medications on prostate health, helping to avoid overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis of high-risk patients. However, research still requires larger-scale validation and in-depth exploration.

Effect of biochar and inorganic fertilizer on the quality of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) in Kenya

Despite its health benefits, the production and quality of beetroot is still low in Kenya due to the application of non-recommended rates of fertiliser and soil amendment. This research aimed at contributing to the improvement of the beetroot quality in Kenya. It was designed to determine the effects of biochar and NPK (17-17-17) on the quality of beetroot in Kenya. An RCBD factorial experiment was conducted at Egerton University farm, Kenya, for two seasons. Biochar (0, 5, 10 t/ha) and NPK (0, 200, 300 and 400 kg/ha) were applied together before planting. Data were collected on beetroot diameter, total phenolics, total soluble solids, calcium, iron and phosphorus contents and analysed using SAS statistical software. The co-application of biochar and NPK significantly (p≤0.05) increased the beetroot diameter, iron, calcium, phosphorus, TSS and phenolics content in season two and not in season one. The sole application of biochar showed a significant increase in the iron content of beetroot in season one. However, biochar did not have a significant effect on beetroot diameter, mineral content, TSS and phenolics content of beetroot in season two. The sole application of NPK at 200, 300 and 400 kg/ha significantly (p≤0.05) increased the diameter of beetroot and iron content in both seasons one and two and also significantly improved the calcium and phosphorus content in season two. These NPK levels were not statistically different from each other, but different from the control. It is therefore recommended to apply NPK and biochar for quality beetroot.

Impact of military deployment on non-Hodgkin lymphoma subtype.

e19070 Background: Approximately 3.5 million activity duty service members (ADSM) have deployed to Afghanistan or Iraq from 2001-2022. During deployments, ADSMs are potentially exposed to deployment-related toxins and carcinogens, which could theoretically alter cancer biology. In terms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), it is unclear whether deployment affects NHL subtype or cancer-specific survival. Methods: Deployment and occupation data from the Defense Manpower Data Center was merged with data from the Department of Defense Tumor Registry. Documented cases of NHL diagnosed from 2001-2022 were identified. ADSMs and retirees were included; dependents and those under the age of 18 were excluded. Differences in NHL subtype (aggressive B-cell, indolent B-cell, T-cell) and cancer-specific survival were assessed by deployment status (previously deployed vs. never deployed). Occupation was assessed among those who deployed. Propensity score matching (2:1) for age at diagnosis, year of diagnosis, and gender was performed to minimize confounding. All data were carried out using SAS and Jump statistical software. This study was approved by the IRB. Results: There were 2,599 ADSMs and retirees diagnosed with NHL between 2001-2022. Approximately 15% had previously deployed (n=398). Compared with never deployed, military personnel who had previously deployed were more likely to have aggressive B-cell NHL (45% vs. 34%) and less likely to have indolent B-cell NHL (50% vs. 54%) or T-cell NHL (6% vs. 12%), p<0.001. Deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan did not impact NHL subtype. During deployment, occupations of Infantry, Engineering and Healthcare did not impact NHL subtype, whereas occupations of Pilot/Aircrew and Intelligence did, with less T-cell lymphoma diagnosed (0 vs. 7%, and 3% vs. 8%, respectively). When evaluating NHL subtype by race, it was noted that in comparison to White, Asian, Pacific Islander and Other Race, Black Race was associated with more T-cell NHL (21%), largely comprised of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Conclusions: After propensity score matching, prior deployment was associated with more aggressive B-cell lymphoma than military personnel who had never deployed. Deployment occupation affected NHL subtype diagnosed, with Pilots/Aircrew and Intelligence personnel being less likely to have T-cell lymphoma, whereas Black Race was associated with a higher likelihood of having T-cell lymphoma. This study sheds insights into the impact of deployment on cancer subtype. Ongoing investigations are assessing mortality differences by deployment as well as causes of death.

Effect of parity and lactation stage on milk yield, udder and teat morphometric traits of Friesian-Bunaji crossed cows

Abstract. Data for this study were collected from 40 multiparous (F1) Friesian x Bunaji cows at the dairy herd of the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) Shika, Nigeria, to assess the effect of parity and lactation stage on milk yield, udder and teat morphometric traits of Friesian-Bunaji crossed cows as well the relationships between the parameters measured. The data collected include udder circumference (UC), udder depth (UD), udder width (UW), fore teat length (FTL), and hind teat length (HTL) and were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The means with significant difference were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test modelled in SAS (2004) statistical package and the correlation analysis was performed using correlation procedure in SAS to identify relationships between morphometric traits and milk yield. The results obtained showed that parity had significant (p<0.05) effect on udder circumference, hind teat length and milk yield. The highest udder circumference (23.60±2.50 cm) and hind teat length (2.80±0.34 cm), respectively, were found in parity 5 and the least ones were obtained in parity 1. Parity 2 had significantly (p<0.05) higher milk yield (8.60±0.72 litres) followed by parity 4 (7.13±1.14 litres) but similar to parity 3 (6.67±0.58 litres) and the least (6.20±1.24 litre) was obtained in parity 5 (6.20±1.24 litres) but similar with parity 1 (6.25±0.75 litres). The results for lactation stage revealed no significant (p>0.05) difference in all the parameters except milk yield. The early lactation stage had significantly (p<0.05) higher milk yield (8.15±0.35 litre) followed by mid lactation stage (5.80±0.58 litre) but similar with the milk yield (4.38±0.86 litre) at late lactation stage. The results obtained for correlation indicated that the udder and teat morphometric traits and the milk yield measured showed varying degrees of relationships. The phenotypic correlations were positive and negative, low to high ranging from 0.00 to 0.69. The highest correlation coefficient (r=0.69; p<0.01) was obtained between udder circumference and udder depth. All the udder and teat morphometric traits measured were negatively correlated with the milk yield except udder width (UW) and had no significant (p>0.05) difference. Based on the results in this study, it can be concluded that parity has effect on udder circumference, hind teat length and milk yield with second parity having the highest milk yield 8.60±0.72 litre/day), while lactation stage had no effect in all the morphometric traits except on milk yield with the early stage having the highest milk yield (8.15±0.35 litre/day). The second parity and early lactation stage are recommended for high milk yield in Friesian x Bunaji cows in the studied area.

“I’m Staring at the Screen All the Time”: Technology Use and Mindfulness in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

ABSTRACT Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic, complex medical condition associated with higher rates of anxiety in adolescents. Higher rates of anxiety are associated with poorer glycemic control. Although technological advancements have been made to improve self-management of glycemia, few technological interventions aim to mitigate anxiety symptoms. Adolescents frequently use technology every day for school and socialization in addition to management of glycemia. Technology has not yet been leveraged to provide evidence-based interventions, such as mindfulness, for anxiety symptoms and other psychosocial comorbidity in adolescents with T1D. We aimed to examine technology preferences in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, their experiences with mindfulness practices, and their perceived acceptability of a mobile health application delivering mindfulness training. Twenty participants aged 14 to 17 years old with T1D participated in this qualitative descriptive study. Interview transcripts were organized using the ATLAS.ti software version 8 and coded using an in vivo approach and thematic analysis. Descriptive statistics regarding participant demographics and hemoglobin A1c levels were analyzed using SAS statistical software version 9.2. Findings supported heavy technology use, limited experience with mindfulness, and positive receptivity regarding an app that delivered a mindfulness training program specifically for adolescents with T1D. Thus, a mobile health application may be a feasible and acceptable way to deliver an evidence-based psychosocial intervention to this vulnerable population.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE THE EGGSHELL THICKNESS

The aim of the study was to investigate the shell thickness of table eggs using a destructive method with a focus on the technique of sampling from three locations in the equatorial plane, the sharp and the blunt end of the egg. The subject of the study was the eggshell thickness with membranes of the influence of the sample taken on the egg in equatorial plane 1, equatorial plane 2, equatorial plane 3, at the sharp end and the blunt end of the egg, and a laying hen of breed Dominant aged 61 weeks (3 small-breedings) and 104 weeks (1 small-breeding). The measurement of eggshell thickness was carried out using a DIAL INDICATOR deviation meter, with an accuracy of 0.01 mm and a maximum thickness of 30 mm. The SAS statistical package, version 8.2, was used for statistical evaluation of the results. The influence of the location of the eggshell sample taken in 3 locations of the equatorial plane, at the sharp and blunt end of the egg on its thickness in the range of average values of 0.32 to 0.40 mm was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The influence of laying hen age was statistically significant (P≤0.05) by a higher eggshell thickness in the range of average values of 0.38 to 0.40 mm at 104 weeks compared with eggshell thickness of average values of 0.32 to 0.35 mm at 61 weeks. A strong linear positive correlation in eggshell thickness was found between two variables at all investigated sample locations on eggs laid by laying hens Dominant regardless of age. The overall results of eggshell thickness indicate that its evaluation is a complex process as an indicator of eggshell quality due to multifactorial external and internal influence. Considering the trend of lengthening the laying cycle in laying hens for environmental reasons, it is important to address the influence of age, housing system and breed suitability in relation to optimizing the uniformity of the thickness as part of the shell quality of the eggs.

Reproductive Activity of Socorro Island Merino Ewes and Their Crosses with Pelibuey under Heat Stress Conditions.

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of spring and autumn seasons on the reproductive activity of Merino Socorro Island ewes and their crosses with Pelibuey under heat stress (HS) conditions in the tropics. All ewes (n = 80) were randomly assigned to one of two breeds during the first and second periods, respectively: (1) Twenty Socorro Island Merino ewes (SIM) and (2) 20 Pelibuey Crossbred ewes (PBC). Animals were fed the same diet and given water ad libitum. All statistical analyses were performed using SAS statistical software 9.12 procedures. In both seasons, a mean of more than 80 U of maximum THI was obtained, while in spring and autumn, the minimum THI exceeded 30 and 40 U, respectively. All animals were in oestrus and ovulated in both seasons. The frequency of animals in spring during the first 48 h of oestrus expression was greater (p < 0.05) than 48-55 h but similar (p > 0.05) than 55-65 h; in autumn during the first 48 h and 48-55 h were similar (p > 0.05), but different (p < 0.05) than 55-65 h. The duration of oestrus expression was longer in the spring than in the autumn (p < 0.05). The frequency of animals was higher (p < 0.05) in SIM than in PBC ewes during the first oestrus cycle (1-17 d) and was also higher (p < 0.05) in PBC than in SIM ewes during the second oestrus cycle (18-35 d). The SIM ewes produced more (p < 0.05) progesterone (P4) than the PBC ewes. During the sampling days of the oestrus cycle, more P4 was created in autumn than in spring (p < 0.05). Both breeds showed severe HS. In the future, ewes treated under assisted reproductive programs in the tropics may improve reproductive efficiency.

Abstract PO1-09-09: The journey of HR positive, HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer’s patients: heterogeneities and barriers in Brazilian public health system- a national survey

Abstract Background: Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm in Brazilian women, with high percent of patients diagnosed in advanced stages. Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) is a challenge in the country, where 75% of the population is covered by public health system (Sistema Único de Saúde, SUS). We conducted an on-line survey to describe the journey of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-), hormone receptor positive (RH+) mBC patients across public scenario in Brazil. Methods: An on-line survey comprised of 39 to 48 (depending on the kind of some questions, which could open another question in case of affirmative answer) objective questions were sent by e-mail to180 oncologists working in public and private health care system. Questions were focused on assessing wait time for first treatment after admission in the hospital in both systems, availability of oncological drugs within SUS according to essential medicines list by World Health Organization, and presence of palliative and multidisciplinary teams in both systems. Continuous variables were measured by median and mean. The level of statistical significance adopted was 5% with Teste p two-sided. Analyses were performed using SAS statistical software (version 25.0). Results: We had 150 respondents working in SUS and private health system, which fulfilled the inclusion criteria to participate in this survey. The other 30 respondents were excluded from the study because they worked exclusively in SUS or exclusively in the private system, and their answers were not analyzed. Median wait time for surgery was 60 days in the SUS (N=150) and 30 days in the private health system (N=150) e (p &amp;lt; 0,0001). Regardless of chemotherapy provided, median waiting time was 30 and 15 days in the SUS (N=150) and the private health system (N=150), respectively (p &amp;lt; 0,0001). Most oncologists in the SUS (N=125, 83.3%) pointed to endocrine therapy as their first-choice treatment in mBC. Concerning endocrine therapy in the SUS, Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist (GnRHa) was available, and it was prescribed by 54 (36.0%) and Fulvestrant for 72 (48.0%) of respondents. Considering chemotherapy, weekly paclitaxel alone or combined with platin were available and they were prescribed by 124 (82.6%) and 109 (72.6%) of oncologists respectively. Vinorelbine was available and it was prescribed according to oncologists’ report by 109 (72.6%) and Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) by 38 (25.3%) of oncologists. Oncologists answered agree or strongly agree that they had a multidisciplinary care team in SUS 77,3% (N =116) versus 87,3% (N=131) in the private system (p=0.022). Concerning palliative care 66,09% (N= 99) in the SUS versus 82,0% (N=123) in the private system answered that they agreed or strongly agreed that this service was available (p=0.001). Conclusions: The Brazilian government has continuously improved delivery of services and medicines via the public system (SUS), but there are still significant differences within this system and versus the private sector. Unavailability of endocrine therapy agents as GnRHa and Fulvestrant, and some chemotherapy agents as PLD and Vinorelbine for high percentage of patients, raises the existence of disparities within SUS. Also, longer waiting times for treatment in the SUS, lower availability of support teams such multidisciplinary and palliative care, they point out disparities between SUS and private health systems. The lack of a National Cancer Control Program and low health investment by Brazilian government might explain the difference in cancer patients’ access. Citation Format: Heloísa Resende, Igor Soares, Angélica Renó, Ana Cunha, Vinícius Aguiar, Letícia Tureta, Viviane Pereira. The journey of HR positive, HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer’s patients: heterogeneities and barriers in Brazilian public health system- a national survey [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO1-09-09.

Consumer meat safety knowledge and hygiene practices in a veterinary disease-controlled area of South Africa

Consumers’ practices and knowledge play a significant role in ensuring meat safety and hygiene application. This is important in an environment where the slaughter and release of such meat is restricted and not always controlled and monitored. This could have been contributed by the lack of slaughter facilities; the controlled movement of live animal restrictions applicable in a typical veterinary diseases-controlled area. The aim of this investigation was to identify meat hygiene practices and general meat safety knowledge applied by consumers of central Bushbuckridge, South Africa. Structured interviews (n=81) were conducted with consumers observed purchasing meat from local meat supply centres. Data analysis was achieved by SAS Statistical software (Version 26) SAS and graphs were drawn using MS Excel 2020. The majority (84.2%, σ=29.4) of the consumers indicated that meat supplied in the region were from registered facilities. The general belief amongst the consumers was that routine hygiene inspection was conducted by authorities at all meat distributing or butchery facilities (74.1%, σ=39.7). None of the facilities or/and butcheries in the study area was registered and therefore, no formal regulated practices could have been conducted. Slaughter and distribution of meat within the area were seen as a good business by 78.6%, σ=18.9 of the consumers, and as a result, the consumers did not have a problem with widespread slaughter and release of this meat to the public outside of those facilities. The extent of hygiene application practices at household level varied. These included the assurance that perishable products were properly handled after purchase (84.1%, σ=8.3), and the handling or transportation of sourced meat did not comply with cold chain management prescripts (39.9%, σ=44.9). The likelihood of consumers feeling the same about meat hygiene concerns and practices is undoubtedly low as represented by a high standard deviation (σ) of the responses. These results show that consumers were relying on authorities for meat safety assurances. This ought to caution authorities on consumer practices and needed interventions such as animal movement policies enforcement. The adoption of such policies by consumers lies with the development and rollout of consumer awareness and meat safety assurances training programs. Key words: abattoir, consumer practices, illegal slaughter, meat safety, meat hygiene

Abstract 7445: Association between C-reactive protein and cognitive impairment in IDH-mutant gliomas

Abstract Cognitive impairment is common in primary brain tumor (PBT) patients, as a result of the disease and secondary damage from directed and systemic therapy. Recently, the risk in patients with IDH-mutant gliomas and role of interconnectivity of the tumor with neurons and the tumor microenvironment has heightened interest in exploration of biomarkers of impairment to inform care. Here, we investigate Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores and peripheral blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in a cross-sectional cohort of 47 adult IDH-mutant PBT patients enrolled in a natural history study (NHS, NCT02851706: PI T. Armstrong). MoCA raw scores (range 0-30) were dichotomized (≤ 25 = cognitive dysfunction). Baseline CRP was quantified in banked serum samples in duplicate using (V-Plex/Vascular Injury Panel-2, Meso Scale Discovery [MSD], Rockville, MD) in a QuickPlex SQ 120 instrument (MSD). Lab personnel were blinded to diagnosis and clinical status. To reduce skewness in CRP raw values, we used log transformation. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and logistic regression were conducted using IBM SPSS and SAS Statistics software. The sample was predominately male (62%), white (70%), with high-grade gliomas (III/IV) (68%) and an average age at diagnosis of 36 years (SD: 9; median: 34; range: 20-53). The mean MoCA score was 25 (SD: 5; median: 26; range: 11-30). Dichotomizing MoCA scores showed that less than half (43%) of participants exhibited moderate-severe (≤ 25) cognitive impairment. MoCA binary group was negatively correlated with levels of CRP (r=-0.42, p&amp;lt;.003). The log mean concentration of CRP was higher in participants with cognitive impairment (7.99, SD=0.47 vs 7.57, SD=0.45, p&amp;lt;.003) than those without impairment. Finally, when controlling for age and sex, CRP remained predictive of cognitive impairment (OR 8.18, 95% CI 1.70,39.23). Higher levels of CRP were associated with lower MoCA scores in a cross-sectional sample of patients with IDH-mutant gliomas, suggesting an association between the severity of inflammation and cognitive impairment in IDH-mutant glioma patients. Further analysis in large, more diverse longitudinal cohorts will be needed to validate these findings in this population and compare to those with IDH-WT tumors and develop predictive models to inform biomarker development. Citation Format: McKenzie C. Kauss, Michelle L. Wright, Dhaivat Raval, Emory Hsieh, Kaitlynn Slattery, Terri S. Armstrong, Tito R. Mendoza, Vivian A. Guedes. Association between C-reactive protein and cognitive impairment in IDH-mutant gliomas [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 7445.

Effect of buccal fat autotransplantation on improving the alveolar socket bone regeneration: An in-vivo study

BackgroundThere are various materials used for socket preservation following dental extraction. The aim of the present animal study was to histologically investigate the efficacy of buccal fat autotransplantation on alveolar bone regeneration following dental extraction. Study designIn this prospective, double-blind laboratory experiment with a split-mouth design, 16 mandibular second premolar teeth in eight beagle dogs were extracted, and half of the extraction sockets were randomly filled using buccal fat autotransplantation. Other samples were left untouched to heal normally by the formed blood clot. Buccal fat autotransplantation was the primary predictor variable, and the type and amount of newly formed bone were the primary outcome variables. Assessment methods were the H & E coloring technique and histomorphometric evaluation. The significance level was set at 0.05, and data was subjected to Chi-Square and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests using SAS statistical software version 9.4. ResultsFrom the total number of 16 samples in 8 dogs, 50% of the samples in the intervention group represented inflammation with lower intensity compared to 33% in the control group; however, this difference was not considered statistically significant (Chi-Square test, P-value = 0.55). Wilcoxon test results showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the mean amount of total bone formation (Z = 0.00, P-value = 1.00). ConclusionIt was inferred from the outcomes of the present study that when compared to the normal healing of the socket, buccal fat autotransplantation did not represent with superior outcome concerning the socket bone regeneration.

Genomic Surveillance and Mutation Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Variants among Patients in Saudi Arabia.

The genome of severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has undergone a rapid evolution, resulting in the emergence of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants with amino acid changes. This study aimed to sequence the whole genome of SARS-CoV-2 and detect the variants present in specimens from Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, we sought to analyze and characterize the amino acid changes in the various proteins of the identified SARS-CoV-2 variants. A total of 1161 samples from patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia, between 1 April 2021 and 31 July 2023, were analyzed. Whole genome sequencing was employed for variant identification and mutation analysis. The statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Analytical Software SAS, version 9.4, and GraphPad, version 9.0. This study identified twenty-three variants and subvariants of SARS-CoV-2 within the population, with the Omicron BA.1 (21K) variant (37.0%) and the Delta (21J) variant (12%) being the most frequently detected. Notably, the Omicron subvariants exhibited a higher mean mutation rate. Amino acid mutations were observed in twelve proteins. Among these, the spike (S), ORF1a, nucleocapsid (N), and ORF1b proteins showed a higher frequency of amino acid mutations compared to other the viral proteins. The S protein exhibited the highest incidence of amino acid mutations (47.6%). Conversely, the ORF3a, ORF8, ORF7a, ORF6, and ORF7b proteins appeared more conserved, demonstrating the lowest percentage and frequency of amino acid mutations. The investigation of structural protein regions revealed the N-terminal S1 subunit of the S protein to frequently harbor mutations, while the N-terminal domain of the envelope (E) protein displayed the lowest mutation frequency. This study provides insights into the variants and genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2, underscoring the need for further research to comprehend its genome evolution and the occurrence of mutations. These findings are pertinent to the development of testing approaches, therapeutics, and vaccine strategies.

Audiological Manifestations in Patients with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis.

Background and Objectives: Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare, autoimmune, multisystemic disease characterized by vasculitis and necrotizing granuloma that commonly affects the upper and lower respiratory tract and kidneys. Audiovestibular dysfunction in GPA diseases may have different clinical presentations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate hearing function in patients with GPA and to compare the results with a healthy control group. Materials and Methods: A total of 34 individuals participated in the study. The GPA group consisted of 14 participants, and the control group was composed of 20 healthy participants with no signs or symptoms of ear disease. The ages ranged from 18 to 65 years old, with a mean age of 43.8 years. The participants underwent a complete audiological evaluation using otoscopy, impedance audiometry, pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry-evaluation of speech thresholds, and speech recognition in quiet. Both ears were tested. All of the participants of the study were native Lithuanian speakers. Data were statistically analyzed using the Statistical Analysis System software SAS® Studio 3.8. A p value < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: 92.85% of patients from the GPA group reported hearing-related symptoms: hearing loss, tinnitus, and fullness in the ears. The arithmetic means of all hearing thresholds at frequencies from 125 Hz to 8000 Hz were significantly higher in the GPA group. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the two groups in the Speech Detection Threshold, Speech Recognition Threshold, Speech Discomfort level, and Word Recognition Scores. Conclusions: The frequency of hearing loss, the average hearing thresholds, and speech thresholds were higher in GPA patients than in healthy individuals. The most common type of hearing loss was sensorineural. Audiological assessments should be considered during the routine evaluation of patients with GPA disease to prevent hearing-related disabilities.

Efecto de Plectranthus amboinicus sobre parámetros de la canal y visceral del pollo Cobb 500

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of Plectranthus amboinicus in the feed of Cobb 500 broilers, on carcass and visceral parameters, using an open house located at the "Santa Inés" farm of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of the Technical University of Machala (Ecuador). A Completely Randomized Design was used, where 6 treatments were evaluated, each with 4 Experimental Units of 10 birds·m2, for a total of 240 broilers. Treatments (T) arrangement were as follows: T1, consumed a basal diet with Antibiotic as a Growth Promoter (GPA) (Bacitrazine zinc 15%) and coccidiostat (LERBEK® "Clopidol 20% + Methylbenzoquate 1.67%"), while in T2, T3, T4 and T5 contained the dehydrated ground leaf of P. amboinicus at 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00%, respectively and, finally, T6 or Control, which did not include APC, coccidiostat or dehydrated P. amboinicus in the balanced mixture. The variables evaluated were: antemortem weight, expressed in kg; in percentage, blood, feathers, evisceration, carcass yield, thighs, against–thighs, breast, shoulder, wings, neck, paws, head, heart, liver, gizzard, spleen, intestines and gizzard fat, in relation to antemortem weight; and thickness of abdominal fat in mm. To discriminate the results, an ANOVA was applied prior to assumptions of normality and homogeneity, using Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) procedure, with a confidence level of 95%. All data were processed using the PROC GLM (General Linear Model) procedure of the SAS statistical package. The results confirm that P. amboinicus does not have a detrimental effect on the carcass or viscera, which shows the margin of safety and potential use in feed.

Validation and analysis of the metric properties of the Leadership Virtues Questionnaire in work and organizational psychologists and individuals who perform leadership functions in Chile.

The literature on leadership and personal competencies exhibits limitations in terms of construct definition, behavior specifications and valid theory-based measuring strategies. An explanatory design with latent variables and the statistical software SAS 9.4 were used for the validation and adaptation to Spanish of the Leadership Virtues Questionnaire applied to work and organizational psychologists and people who exercise leadership functions in Chile. The levels of agreement between judges for the adaptation to the Spanish language and the confirmatory factor analysis of first order with four dimensions shows insufficient statistical indices for the absolute, comparative and parsimonious adjustments. However, a second-order confirmatory factor analysis with two dimensions presents a satisfactory fit for the item, model, and parameter matrices. The measurement of Virtuous Leadership would provide relevant inputs for further evaluation and training based on ethical competencies aimed at improving management, which would, in turn, allow for its treatment as an independent variable to generate an ethical organizational culture.

Knowledge and Behavior of Primary Care Physicians Regarding Utilization of Standardized Tools in Screening and Assessment of Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders at a Large Integrated Health System.

Standardized screening, objective evaluation, and management of behavioral health conditions are major challenges in primary care. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) provide standardized screening and symptom management tools for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and Mood Disorders (MD), respectively. This study explores family physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the utilization of GAD-7, PHQ-9, and MDQ in outpatient primary care offices. The study method was a cross-sectional electronic and paper survey utilizing a self-administered questionnaire that assessed primary care physicians' demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices in rural and urban outpatient clinical settings regarding GAD-7, PHQ-9, and MDQ. Statistical software SAS 9.4 was used for descriptive and Chi-Square statistics. Out of 320 total participants,145 responded (45.3%). Responding family physicians demonstrated a high level of familiarity with the GAD-7 (97.9%), PHQ-9 (97.9%), and MDQ (81.3%) assessment tools. However, the reported utilization rates were relatively lower than knowledge, with 62.7%, 73.1%, and 31.9% extremely likely or likely to utilize the GAD-7, PHQ-9, and MDQ as screening and monitoring tools, respectively. Less than a quarter of the total respondents use the objective score for the future management of GAD, with significantly more residents utilizing the score for GAD-7 compared to attendings (P < .05). There was no statistical significance difference between residents and attendings for the objective evaluation of Major Depressive Disorder (P = .26) and Mood Disorders (P = .05). Despite being knowledgeable of the utility of GAD-7, PHQ-9, and MDQ, the primary care physicians in a large integrated health system in Central Pennsylvania and Northern Maryland report inconsistent utilization in their practice. Further studies are needed to determine the underlying factors contributing to the suboptimal usage of these screening tools and ways to increase it.