Significant Difference In Percentage Research Articles

Lipidomics of Microplasma-Irradiated Cells at Optimized Discharge Conditions for the Absorption of High-Molecule Drug

Microplasma irradiation is a promising technique for the transdermal delivery of high-molecular-weight drugs. In this technique, microplasma components interact with the skin surface or cell membranes, allowing the drugs to penetrate. For efficient and safe drug delivery, it is crucial to understand these interactions. To this end, this study investigated the effects of microplasma irradiation on cellular lipids, particularly those associated with cell membranes. Rat intestinal epithelial cells were treated with microplasma irradiation at two different voltages (4.0 kV or 4.5 kV). An untargeted lipidomic was conducted using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technique. The results revealed that microplasma irradiation at 4.0 kV induces a significant increase in cell membrane lipids within 10 min post-irradiation. All major cell membrane lipids, including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, and sphingomyelin, exhibited increases of over 25% within this short timeframe. Notably, this effect is transient, as lipid levels return to their baseline after 12 h. Furthermore, no significant differences in live and apoptotic cell percentages were observed between the control and 12 h post-irradiated cells. In contrast, irradiation at 4.5 kV did not elicit significant changes in cell membrane lipids, correlating with the absence of drug absorption under this condition. Hence, our study unveiled a correlation between the rapid increase in cell membrane lipids and enhanced drug absorption in microplasma-irradiated cells. This lipid augmentation potentially enhances membrane fluidity and permeability, thus facilitating drug absorption. Beyond elucidating the mechanisms and safety of microplasma-based drug delivery, our research provides valuable insights for advancing various microplasma-based biomedical technologies.

Abstract PO5-17-01: Pre-treatment tumor infiltrating lymphocytes are associated with higher likelihood of pathologic complete response among black women with TNBC receiving neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy

Abstract Background: High risk, early-stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogenous disease that is associated with early recurrence and high mortality, particularly among black women as compared to their white counterparts. Pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is a strong-predictor of long-term disease-free survival in TNBC, and the KEYNOTE-522 trial demonstrated that the addition of immunotherapy (pembrolizumab) to NACT resulted in a higher likelihood of pathologic complete response (pCR) in high-risk early-stage TNBC. Following these findings, the standard of care has been to administer the K522 regimen (K522R) in the neoadjuvant setting for patients with high risk early-stage TNBC. However, our understanding of the clinical and tumor characteristics to prognosticate response to K522 are lacking, and additional real-world data is needed to better understand if these variables differ among race. Methods: We evaluated 76 patients who were treated with the K522R at our institution. There were slides available from 29 patients’ pre-treatment biopsies for pathology review. In the available slides, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) were evaluated as the percentage of lymphocytes in the stroma within the tumor area. For the remaining cases that did not have available slides, these variables were retrieved from pathology reports and patients’ charts. Patient characteristics including age, race and body mass index (BMI) were acquired via retrospective chart review. These clinicopathologic variables were correlated with pCR, which was defined by the absence of invasive carcinoma in the breast and axillary lymph nodes at the time of surgery. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to correlate the above variables with pCR versus residual disease (RD). Results: Seventy-six pre-treatment biopsy specimens treated with the K522R were evaluated. The patient population spanned a broad spectrum of age, body habitus, and race, with mean age 55, mean BMI 28.3, and predominantly black (over 60 percent) population. At the time of analysis, 64 of the 76 patients had completed the K522R and subsequently undergone surgery at our institution. Of the 64 patients who had undergone definitive surgery, 31 (48.4%) achieved pCR. In univariate analysis, pre-treatment TIL was significantly associated with attainment of pCR, with TIL of 28.5% (± 19.1) in patients who achieved pCR versus 9.73% (± 9.40) in those who had RD (95% CI 1.03-1.21, p=0.014*). When TIL was further stratified by race, mean percentage of TIL was significantly higher among black women who achieved pCR (27.5% ± 4.7) compared to black women with RD (12.2% ± 3.05) (95% CI 0.021 – 0.197, p=0.016*). Additionally, mean percentage of TIL was higher overall among black women when compared to the white patients in our cohort, though this finding was not statistically significant (p=0.252). Conclusion: Our real-world data demonstrates high levels of pre-treatment TIL are significantly associated with achievement of pCR in patients with TNBC treated with the K522 regimen. When TIL was further stratified by race, black patients were found to have higher TIL than white patients. Within the black population, a statistically significant difference in TIL percentage was found in those achieving pCR compared to those with RD. It is well understood that black women often have poorer breast cancer outcomes than white women, and our finding of higher TIL percentage among this population, along with the significant association between TIL and attainment of pCR with chemoimmunotherapy, could have important implications for optimization of therapy. Further exploration of this phenomenon in larger, diverse breast cancer populations is warranted. Citation Format: Sarah Wood, Ji-Hoon Lee, Yuan Gao, Xiaoxian Li, Jane Meisel. Pre-treatment tumor infiltrating lymphocytes are associated with higher likelihood of pathologic complete response among black women with TNBC receiving neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy [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 PO5-17-01.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Prevent Peripheral Neuropathy and Pro Inflammatory Adipose Tissue Macrophage Phenotype in High-Fat-Fed Mice

Obesity and/or consumption of a high fat diet is associated with the development of peripheral neuropathy (PN) which is characterized by changes in epidermal innervation and increased sensitivity in the extremities. Evidence indicates that omega-3 fatty acids prevent the development of PN and attenuate adipose inflammation, but the interaction of PN and adipose tissue macrophage (ATMΦ) phenotype have not been investigated. We hypothesized that a diet high in unsaturated fatty acids may prevent PN and adipose inflammation, despite the high fat content. PURPOSE: Assess the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on signs of PN and ATMΦ phenotype in high-fat-fed mice. Methods: Male C57Bl/6 mice were randomized to (n = 12-14/group): 10% low fat fish oil (10% FO); 54% high fat fish oil (54% FO); 10% low fat lard (10% L); or 54% high fat lard (54% L) for 14 weeks. PN was characterized by the von Frey test for hindpaw sensitivity at baseline then biweekly through week 14. After 14 weeks, intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) was quantified by immunohistochemistry of the hindpaw footpad skin using anti-PGP 9.5. The relative percentage of total macrophage cells (F4/80+CD11b+) and M1 (CD206-CD11c+) and M2 (CD206+CD11c-) cell populations in epididymal adipose were identified using flow cytometry. Group differences were identified by 2 x 2 factorial ANOVA. Pearson correlations were used to assess the relationship between hindpaw withdrawal threshold and ATMΦ. Results: 54% L (35.3 ± 1.0 g) had greater body mass compared to all other groups: 10% FO (26.5 ± 0.7, p < 0.001); 10% L (27.8 ± 0.6, p = 0.001); and 54% L (35.3 ± 1.0, p < 0.001). Similarly, fasting insulin was greater in 54% L (3.1 ± 0.4 ng/mL) compared to all other groups: 10% FO (1.0 ± 1.0, p < 0.001); 10% L (1.6 ± 0.2, p < 0.001), and 54% FO (1.0 ± 0.1, p < 0.001). Fasting glucose was greater in 54% L (225.8 ± 7.5 mg/dl) compared to 10% FO (216.1 ± 7.7, p =0.04) and 54% FO (182.6 ± 6.6, p = 0.03), but not 10% L (180.7 ± 17.1, p = 0.483). Following the same pattern as body mass and insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was greater in 54% L (8.1 ± 1.1) compared to all other groups: 10% FO (2.2 ± 0.4, p < 0.001); 10% L (4.1 ± 0.6, p < 0.001); and 54% FO (2.2 ± 0.3, p < 0.001). Hindpaw sensitivity was greater in 54% L (0.08 ± 0.02 g) compared to 54% FO (0.19 ± 0.03, p = 0.02). IENFD was greater in 54% L (52.5 ± 2.2 fibers per mm) compared to 10% FO (44.1 ± 1.5, p = 0.04), but was not different from 10% L (49.7 ± 2.8, p = 0.47) or 54% FO (48.1 ± 3.0, p = 0.24). M1 ATMΦ percentage was greater in 54% L (11.7 ± 2.5 %) compared to all other groups: 10% L (3.8 ± 0.8, p = 0.001), 10% FO (5.2 ± 0.7, p = 0.014), and 54% FO (5.1 ± 0.6 %, p = 0.016). M2 ATMΦ percentage was greater in 10% L (59.7 ± 4.5 %) compared to all other groups: 10% FO (42.1 ± 5.0, p = 0.036), 54% L (41.4 ± 3.9, p = 0.027), and 54% FO (31.4 ± 3.6 %, p < 0.001), but there were no significant differences in M2 ATMΦ percentage in 54% L vs. 54% FO. There were no significant correlations between hindpaw sensitivity and M1 ATMΦ percentage, M2 ATMΦ percentage, or M1:M2 ratio. CONCLUSION: The negative metabolic effects of a high fat lard diet on body mass, glucose, insulin, and insulin resistance were prevented when the dietary fat source was omega-3 fatty acids instead of lard. Notably, mice fed a high fat lard diet had a higher percentage of the pro inflammatory M1 ATMΦ phenotype and developed signs of painful PN including hindpaw hypersensitivity and increased IENFD but these effects were prevented by omega-3 fatty acids in the 54% FO group, despite the high dietary fat content. Supported by the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Vaughnie Lindsay New Investigator Award. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Recovery of oculomotor nerve palsy after surgical and endovascular repair of unruptured internal carotid-posterior communicating artery aneurysms.

Unruptured posterior communicating artery (Pcom) aneurysms cause oculomotor nerve palsy (ONP). However, the time course of recovery after aneurysm repair remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the ONP course after clipping and coiling for unruptured Pcom aneurysms. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 25 consecutive patients with ONP due to unruptured Pcom aneurysms, undergoing aneurysm repair at our institution during 2012-2022. We analyzed the clinical data, angiographic results, and surgical complications. The time to ONP recovery was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method. This study included 14 patients undergoing surgical clipping and 11 undergoing endovascular coiling. The two groups exhibited no significant differences in complete or partial ONP percentage or in symptom presentation (ptosis, diplopia, ocular paralysis, pupillary light reflex disorder, or mydriasis). All patients achieved complete or partial recovery during the follow-up period. The median time to partial or complete improvement in ONP was significantly shorter for clipping compared to coiling (2 days vs. 33 days; p=0.009). Preoperative partial and complete ONP were stratified; clipping improved significantly earlier than coiling in the complete ONP group (p=0.010). In the early treatment group (based on the median duration of treatment), clipping resulted in earlier improvement than coiling (p=0.014). In the small aneurysm group (based on the median of the aneurysm maximum diameter), clipping resulted in earlier improvement than coiling (p=0.005). In ONP caused by an unruptured Pcom aneurysm, clipping may provide faster recovery than coiling, particularly in cases of early onset, complete palsy, and small aneurysms.

Association between childhood obesity and gut microbiota: 16S rRNA gene sequencing-based cohort study.

This study aimed to identify characteristic gut genera in obese and normal-weight children (8-12 years old) using 16S rDNA sequencing. The research aimed to provide insights for mechanistic studies and prevention strategies for childhood obesity. Thirty normal-weight and thirty age- and sex-matched obese children were included. Questionnaires and body measurements were collected, and fecal samples underwent 16S rDNA sequencing. Significant differences in body mass index (BMI) and body-fat percentage were observed between the groups. Analysis of gut microbiota diversity revealed lower α-diversity in obese children. Di-fferences in gut microbiota composition were found between the two groups. Prevotella and Firmicutes were more abundant in the obese group, while Bacteroides and Sanguibacteroides were more prevalent in the control group. To identify the characteristic gut genera in obese and normal-weight children (8-12-year-old) using 16S rDNA sequencing, and provide a basis for subsequent mechanistic studies and prevention strategies for childhood obesity. Thirty each normal-weight, 1:1 matched for age and sex, and obese children, with an obese status from 2020 to 2022, were included in the control and obese groups, respectively. Basic information was collected through questionnaires and body measurements were obtained from both obese and normal-weight children. Fecal samples were collected from both groups and subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing using an Illumina MiSeq sequencing platform for gut microbiota diversity analysis. Significant differences in BMI and body-fat percentage were observed between the two groups. The Ace and Chao1 indices were significantly lower in the obese group than those in the control group, whereas differences were not significant in the Shannon and Simpson indices. Kruskal-Wallis tests indicated significant differences in unweighted and weighted UniFrac distances between the gut microbiota of normal-weight and obese children (P < 0.01), suggesting substantial disparities in both the species and quantity of gut microbiota between the two groups. Prevotella, Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Sanguibacteroides were more abundant in the obese and control groups, respectively. Heatmap results demonstrated significant differences in the gut microbiota composition between obese and normal-weight children. Obese children exhibited lower α-diversity in their gut microbiota than did the normal-weight children. Significant differences were observed in the composition of gut microbiota between obese and normal-weight children.

Novel subtype of obesity influencing the outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy: Familial aggregation of obesity.

Differences in the preoperative characteristics and weight loss outcomes after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) between patients with familial aggregation of obesity (FAO) and patients with sporadic obesity (SO) have not been elucidated. To explore the impact of SG on weight loss and the alleviation of obesity-related comorbidities in individuals with FAO. A total of 193 patients with obesity who underwent SG were selected. Patients with FAO/SO were matched 1:1 by propensity score matching and were categorized into 4 groups based on the number of first-degree relatives with obesity (1SO vs 1FAO, 2SO vs 2FAO). The baseline characteristics, weight loss outcomes, prevalence of obesity-related comorbidities and incidence of major surgery-related complications were compared between groups. We defined FAO as the presence of two or more first-degree relatives with obesity. Patients with FAO did not initially show significant differences in baseline data, short-term postoperative weight loss, or obesity-related comorbidities when compared to patients with SO preoperatively. However, distinctions between the two groups became evident at the two-year mark, with statistically significant differences in both percentage of total weight loss (P = 0.006) and percentage of excess weight loss (P < 0.001). The FAO group exhibited weaker remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (P = 0.031), hyperlipidemia (P = 0.012), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (P = 0.003) as well as a lower incidence of acid reflux (P = 0.038). FAO patients is associated with decreased mid-to-long-term weight loss outcomes; the alleviation of T2DM, hyperlipidemia and NAFLD; and decreased incidence of acid reflux postoperatively.

A targeted educational intervention increases oral anticoagulation rates in high-risk atrial fibrillation patients

BackgroundAnticoagulation is the cornerstone of atrial fibrillation (AF) management for stroke prevention. Recently, we showed that AF patients’ oral anticoagulation (OAC) rates in a large US multispecialty health system are above 80%. ObjectiveThis study sought to improve OAC rates in AF patients via an educational intervention targeted to primary care providers with low OAC rates. MethodsPrimary care clinicians were stratified by proportions of their AF patients at elevated stroke risk not on anticoagulation medication. Clinicians with the lowest rates of anticoagulation were assigned to a target group receiving an educational program consisting of e-mail messaging summarizing anticoagulation guidelines. All other clinicians were assigned to a comparison group. Data from a six-month lead-in phase were compared with a six-month follow-up period to determine if the proportion of AF patients treated with OACs had changed. ResultsThere were 141 primary care clinicians with patients who met the inclusion criteria, with 36 (25.53%) assigned to the educational intervention (EG) and 105 (74.47%) assigned to the comparison group (CG). At baseline there was a significant difference in percent of high-risk AF patients who were untreated in the EG (20.65%) as compared to the high-risk patients who were untreated in the CG (13.64%, p=0.001). After the educational intervention, high-risk AF patients without anticoagulation decreased in both EG (15.47% p=0.047) and CG (10.14% p=0.07) with greater absolute reduction in the EG (5.19% versus 3.50%). ConclusionA targeted education program was associated with increased anticoagulation rates for AF patients at high risk of stroke.

Use of various sources of calcium in the diets of broiler and its effects on carcass and some meat quality

The study was aimed to assess the impact of adding eggshells as calcium sources in broiler diets on carcass traits, meat quality, and chemical composition ,three hundred one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly designed CRD . Each treatment included five replications and each replicate containing twenty birds. The dietary of first treatment was control (0% eggshell) the second and the third treatments were eggshell powder as a replacement for limestone at 50% and 100%, respectively. .The chickens were fed a basal diet during the starting and finished periods. Ten broilers were chosen randomly from each treatment group and slaughtered at age 42 days to evaluate meat quality. The results showed that no significant differences (p&lt; 0.05) between treatments regarding pre-slaughter in live body weight, carcass weight, and percentage of each carcass cuts weight, as well as immunological organs such as the spleen and bursa. However, a substantial difference in dressing percentage was observed. Except for pH, yellowness, and chroma, no significant differences were noticed in drip loss, cooking loss, lightness, redness, color ,tenderness. Meanwhile, the bird chemical composition treatments had no significant differences in moisture, protein, and ash percentages. However, there was a considerable change in fat %. Except for broilers' pH, yellowness, and chroma, the substitution of eggshell powder for limestone resulted in comparable carcass characteristics, chemical composition, and meat quality. However, there was a significantly differ in fat %. Except for broilers' pH, yellowness, and chroma, the substitution of eggshell powder for limestone resulted in comparable of some carcass characteristics, chemical composition, and meat quality.

Mask-Wearing Behavior Among Individuals Newly Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes: Insights From Community Health Screenings During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a severe impact on people with type 2 diabete (T2D) and their health behaviors. This study investigated the associations between T2D status and mask-wearing behaviors in public settings during the first wave of COVID-19 among community residents in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Outreach health checkups and self-report questionnaires were cross-sectionally conducted to measure for mask-wearing behavior, T2D status, and sociodemographic characteristics. Chi-square tests, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression were performed for data analysis. Out of 254 total participants, nearly one forth (24%) of them were newly diagnosed with T2D, while 15% of them reported that they had ever been diagnosed as T2D before. There were no statistically significant associations between mask-wearing behavior and T2D status in bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models. However, Chi-square test results showed significant differences (P=0.02) in percentages of inconsistent mask-wearing behavior among those who were newly diagnosed as T2D (19.4%), those who had known as T2D (7.9%), and those who had no T2D (7.1%). This discrepancy in the results suggests the need for further investigations using larger sample size and more representative community samples to examine the associations between mask-wearing behaviors and T2D. Early diagnostic services and the awareness education for T2D is imperative to reduce the disease severity and mortality for future pandemic particularly among undiagnosed individuals who are unaware of their T2D status,

Selective Adsorption of Cationic and Anionic Dyes using Ni/Al Layered DoubleHydroxide Modified withEucheuma cottonii

This study investigates the selective adsorption capabilities of Ni/Al Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) modified withEucheumacottoniifor the removal of cationic and anionic dyes from aqueous solutions. The primary objective was to evaluate the efficiencyand selectivity of these modified adsorbents towards different dyes, including rhodamine-b, malachite green, methylene blue(cationic dyes), and direct yellow, methyl orange, direct green (anionic dyes). The modification process aimed to enhancethe adsorption properties of LDHs, leveraging the natural adsorption capabilities ofEucheuma cottonii. Experimental resultsdemonstrated significant differences in adsorption percentages among the tested dyes, with malachite green showing thehighest adsorption efficiency among cationic dyes, indicating a strong affinity of the modified adsorbents towards cationic dyes.However, the ability to also adsorb anionic dyes suggests the dual-functionality of the modified LDHs, making them versatileagents for dye removal in water treatment applications.

Influence of shade and cold stratification on germination success of vegetative propagules from multiple Butomus umbellatus genotypes

Three experimental trials were conducted to investigate the influence of shade and cold stratification on germination success of vegetative propagules from multiple Butomus umbellatus genotypes. Shade level did not significantly impact germination of propagules in trial 1 (p=0.16); however, significant differences (p<0.0001) in germination percentages at the conclusion of the study were detected between genotypes. Rhizome segments of the triploid genotype one (G1) had the highest mean germination (95±1%); whereas bulbils of the diploid genotypes three (G3), four (G4), and five (G5) germinated to 9±2%, 1±1%, and 15±2%, respectively. Trial 2 focused on bulbils from G3, G4, and G5 diploid plants that were stratified at 4℃ for 35d. Like Trial 1, shade level was not significant (p=0.19) relative to the overall germination of cold-stratified bulbils. However, cold-stratified bulbils exhibited a much higher mean germination (≥93%) for all three genotypes. In Trial 3, the cold stratification treatments were significant and positively correlated to overall germination for G4 (p=0.005, r=0.77) and G5 (p=0.002, r=0.82), but not G3 (p=0.22, r=0.40) bulbils. Germination time significantly differed between genotypes in all cold-stratification treatments except for the 0, 120, and 180-day treatments. These studies demonstrate that a high percentage of vegetative propagules produced by B. umbellatus are capable of successfully germinating under laboratory conditions, but some require extended periods of cold exposure. Given that a single diploid bulbil can produce thousands of bulbils within a growing season; long term management of this species will need to be focused towards limiting bulbil production.

Differences in Aurelia coerulea and Nemopilema nomurai colony proliferation and biofouling invasion at various in situ polyp densities in Jiaozhou Bay, China

Scyphozoan polyp colonies are typically patchily distributed on substrate surfaces at varying densities in the natural environment. We investigated the differences in Aurelia coerulea and Nemopilema nomurai colony proliferation and biofouling invasion at high and low in situ polyp densities in Jiaozhou Bay, China, to explore potential polyp density-dependent effects. The study found that in situ A. coerulea polyp colonies on settling plates consistently survived at high initial density (24.4 ± 2.8 ind•cm−2) over a one-year experiment, but 60% of colonies disappeared at low initial density (0.6 ± 0.1 ind•cm−2). Polyp density in these colonies constantly fluctuated with a significant difference between the two treatments, decreasing by 71.5 ± 37.0% relative to the original level at high initial density by the end of the experiment, but increasing by 237.4 ± 662.7% at low initial density. In contrast, all N. nomurai polyps, whether at high or low initial density (1.9 ± 0.6 ind•cm−2 and 0.2 ± 0.0 ind•cm−2), died after approximately six weeks. Strobilation occurred in A. coerulea, but not in N. nomurai owing to the untimely die-off of polyp colonies. No significant differences in strobilation percentage, number of discs strobila−1 and the calyx diameter of polyps were observed between the two density treatments. Macro-fouling organisms (e.g., ascidians and bryozoans) invaded the settling plates one week after the start of the experiment. Their coverage percentage was significantly lower at high initial polyp density in A. coerulea in a year, but there was no significant difference between both treatments in N. nomurai polyps. Nudibranch predators were discovered in the biofouling communities during the summer, with no significant differences in their numbers between the two treatments for each polyp species. The results indicated that density-dependent effects may play an important role in regulating in situ polyp colony proliferation and combatting biofouling invasion in A. coerulea, but not in N. nomurai. High colony survival and low levels of biofouling invasion at high initial polyp densities in A. coerulea might favor their extensive colonization in natural environment over extended periods of time.

The Relationship between Myopia and Obesity in Adults.

To investigate the relationship between myopia and obesity through direct measurements of fat content. A cross-sectional study used a stratified, multistage survey, the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2008-2010). Subjects 19 years or older (n = 10,305) were included. Participants were divided into three groups according to refractive status: myopia (spherical equivalent [SE] ≤ -1.0 diopter [D]), emmetropia (-1.0 D &lt; SE ≤ 1.0 D), and hyperopia (SE &gt; 1.0 D). Obesity was investigated with assessment of fat mass and body mass index or waist circumference. Fat mass was measured with whole-body dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Body fat percentage was calculated as (total fat mass / body weight × 100). Higher obesity index was found in individuals with myopic eyes after adjustment for age, sex, education level, income status, physical activity, residence, and serum vitamin D level. The significant difference in total body fat percentages among myopia, emmetropia, and hyperopia was significant in the young age group (19-39 years, p &lt; 0.05) but not in the middle age group (40-64 years) and the old age group (≥65 years). Individuals with a higher percentage of total body fat had greater odds ratios for myopia (fourth quartile of body fat; odds ratio, 1.352; 95% confidence interval, 1.178-1.551). An association was found between adiposity and myopia in relatively young adults using direct measurements of fat mass.

Antibiotic resistance of ESKAPE group-microorganisms in health institutions from Hermosillo and Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, México.

Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp. are microorganisms referred as the ESKAPE group pathogens. These microorganisms have generated great concern in health institutions around the world since most of them have resistance to multiple antibiotics and cause most infections associated with healthcare, as well as community infections. The aim of this study was the analysis of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms of the ESKAPE group, recovered from clinical samples in 11 health institutions from Hermosillo and Ciudad Obregón in the State of Sonora, México, during the period from 2019 to 2020. A cross-sectional, descriptive, observational, and temporality epidemiological study was carried out. A comparative and statistical analysis of antibiotic resistance was carried out using the chi-square test, and small values were analyzed using Fisher's exact test p ≤ 0.05. All the ESKAPE group microorganisms showed significant differences in antibiotic resistance percentages between both cities. High resistance percentages for some antibiotics, like cephalosporins and ciprofloxacin were detected for Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii.

Evaluation of Preplant Seed Protectants for the Management of Root-Knot Nematode of Okra in Ghana

Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) poses a significant threat to okra production, resulting in substantial yield losses. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of biological seed protectants on the growth and establishment of okra plants and nematode population reduction in soil. Okra seeds were coated with 40% sesame oil, 50% neem oil, 100% citrus oil, velum at 3.8 ml/7l of water, and a control (sterilized distilled water) at different time intervals of 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, and 120 min to determine the germination percentages and vigor. The experimental setup was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD), with three replications, utilizing a Jacobson table for the germination test. The laboratory results demonstrated significant differences (P&lt;0.05) in germination percentage and vigor index across the different time intervals. Neem oil, citrus oil, and velum exhibited higher germination percentages and vigor indices at all time intervals. Notably, 30-minute time interval proved to be efficient with 100% citrus oil producing 80.33% germination and 965 vigor index and 50% neem oil producing 75% germination and 994 vigor index. Field evaluations revealed citrus at 100% concentrations as seed coating (T5) and neem at 50% concentrations as seed coating (T3), with the highest nematode reductions (90.1% and 90.4%) and least reproductive factors (RFs) of 0.05 and 0.04, respectively, at the Atomic farms. The study has revealed that treating okra seeds with 100% citrus oil and 50% neem oil has the efficacy of reducing nematode reproduction in soil, while enhancing germination and seedling vigor, together with an improvement in growth and yield. Sesame oil has a negative influence on seed germination and vigor and is therefore not recommended as a preplant protectant.

Small-scale regional engineering geological study of the Czech Republic evaluating the relationship between slope gradients and engineering geological zones

The aim of the small-scale regional engineering geological study of the Czech Republic was to evaluate the relationship between slope gradient and engineering geological zones. The research motivation was to determine the average slope gradient, 25%, 50% (median) and 75% quantiles related to the different engineering geological zones. This scientific information is critical from the perspectives of engineering geology, geotechnical engineering, and foundation engineering because an increasing slope gradient evokes the need to create a cut respectively foundation excavation or another excavation in the geological structure, which increases the probability of occurrence of the problem in terms of differential settlement and bearing capacity of the structures. The research was carried out in the territory of the Czech Republic in 8 Quaternary zones with soil foundation ground and 10 pre-Quaternary zones with rocks and semi-rocks and their eluvia. A significant difference in the statistical characteristics of slope gradients was found in the group of Quaternary engineering geological zones (evaluated group I) compared to the group of pre-Quaternary zones (evaluated group II). The value range of the average slope gradient was 1.65° (16.9%) to 5.89° (60.3%) for the Quaternary engineering geological zones (soil foundation ground), representing 43.4% difference. Whereas for the over-quaternary engineering geological zones (rocks, semi-rocks and their eluvia), the difference was much higher, 3.59° (36.8%) to 9.76° (100%—value determined as a referential because it was the maximum), which is also reflected in a more significant percentage difference of 63.2%.

The Investigation of the Effects of Short-Term Body Weight Loss on Elite Wrestlers on Anaerobic Performance and Reaction Time in Tournament Conditions

Athletes, who engage in wrestling, perform weight adjustment before the competitions like all weight loss category sports. For this reason, weight management is a very important factor prior to matches. When the studies on weight loss are examined, it is seen that athletes lose weight in a short time close to the competition. This study aimed to investigate the effects of short-term body weight loss in elite wrestlers on anaerobic performance and reaction time during tournament conditions. Ten experienced international level male wrestlers participated as a volunteer in this study. Participants lost 5% of their body weight within 48 hours, in 72 hours; 1 kg tolerance was given over 5% of body weight. During this process, body composition measurement, Wingate anaerobic performance test (WAnT), Countermovement Jump (CMJ), and visual and auditory reaction tests were conducted. In this study, a randomized crossover design was used and applications lasted four days. Two-way ANOVA with repeated measures was used for statistical analysis. Due to short-term body weight loss in body composition, total body water (TBW) and fat-free mass (FFM) were significantly reduced. In contrast, there was no statistically significant difference in body fat percentage (BF %), visual and auditory reaction time, CMJ and average power (AP). However, there was a significant increase was seen in Peak power (PP) and fatigue index (FI). The results indicate that 5% loss of body weight within 48 hours caused significant changes in body composition and negatively affected the fatigue index. For this reason, athletes who lose weight should avoid rapid weight-loss practices that will cause sudden changes in body composition in order to maintain their athletic performance.

Prevalence of falls and comparison of health-related physical fitness factors between different faller categories among institutionalized older adults in Kandy District of Sri Lanka.

Falls can be identified as one of the main issues in elderly population which can lead to serious consequences. Elderly population can be subdivided as community dwelling older adults and institutionalized older adults. The components of health-related physical fitness factors play an important role in the perspective of healthy ageing. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of falls and to compare health-related physical fitness factors between different fall categories among institutionalized older adults. This descriptive cross-sectional study comprised of one hundred and seventy-two elders above 60 years of age, living in registered elder's homes in Kandy District. The prevalence of falls was determined by the number of falls reported by the subjects. They were further categorized as non-fallers, fallers, and frequent fallers depending on the number of falls. Body Mass Index (BMI) for body composition, 2-minute walk test for cardiovascular endurance, 30 second sit to stand test for muscle strength and endurance, hand grip strength for upper body strength, chair sit and reach test for lower body flexibility and back scratch test for upper body flexibility were the measures used to assess health-related physical fitness factors. The prevalence of falls is presented as percentage and the health-related factors were compared between the three faller categories using one-way ANOVA and pairwise comparison was performed using Scheffe test. The prevalence of falls was 47.1%. There was a significant difference in BMI, cardiovascular endurance, and lower body flexibility between the three categories of fallers. Higher BMI, lower cardiovascular endurance and lower flexibility in the lower body were associated with increased prevalence of falls (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in body fat percentage, hand grip strength, lower body muscle strength and endurance and upper body flexibility (p>0.05). The findings suggest that, BMI, cardiovascular endurance, and lower body flexibility must be addressed and managed, while designing intervention programs for falls prevention among institutionalized older adults.

Mortality Analysis in Geriatric Patients With Acute Kidney Injury Admitted in the Intensive Care Unit: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an abrupt reduction in kidney function that causes nitrogenous waste and other waste products to be retained. Methods This cross-sectional study wasconducted from February 2015 to January 2016. The study received approval from the Independent Ethics Committee, which included patients over 60 with AKI.The study duration was 12 consecutive months to ascertain the etiology, severity, and hospital outcomes of AKI. Results The common etiologies of AKI included drug-induced (25%), age-related (21.67%), cardiac (13.33%), respiratory (20%), tropical (15%), and pancreatitis (15%) cases. Another predominant etiology observed was obstructive nephropathy (55%), with the highest (37.5%) mortality rate. The distribution of patients based on KDIGO criteria showed no significant difference in mortality percentages among classes (p=0.177). Conservative management without renal replacement therapy was the most common approach to treat AKI, with a 39% mortality rate. Conclusion Among different causes of AKI in the geriatric age group, drug-induced AKI, and obstructive nephropathywere predominantly associated with hospital mortality.

The significance of initial lactate levels in emergency department presentations of abdominal wall hernia.

Abdominal wall hernias are a frequent cause of abdominal pain-related emergency department visits. Our study aimed to establish the connection between lactate levels and patient outcomes in those with abdominal pain due to abdominal wall hernias. Our research followed a retrospective, observational, and descriptive approach and two center. We included patients who visited the emergency department for abdominal pain and were confirmed to have abdominal wall hernias through ultrasound. We enrolled 493 patients meeting the criteria. Median age was 65years, with 54% (n=266) being male. Regarding outcomes, 40.5% (n=200) were hospitalized, 27.7% (n=137) underwent surgery, and 7.9% (n=39) underwent bowel resection. Mortality rate during hernia-related hospital admission was 0.6% (n=3). For hospitalized patients, there were significant differences in white blood cell count, neutrophil count and percentage, platelet count, lymphocyte count, and percentage (p<0.05). Patients undergoing resection showed significant differences in neutrophil count, neutrophil percentage, lymphocyte count, and lymphocyte percentage (p<0.05). Lactate levels were statistically significant in all patient groups requiring hospitalization, surgery, and resection (p<0.05). Sensitivity and specificity of lactate test results indicated in patients undergoing bowel resection, lactate values ≥1.96mmol/L had a specificity of 64%, sensitivity of 71%, and a negative predictive value of 96% (p<0.05). Low lactate levels in patients presenting to the emergency department with abdominal pain caused by abdominal wall hernias have a high negative predictive value for excluding strangulation and the need for bowel resection. Therefore, we recommend the use of lactate as an additional diagnostic tool in emergency department presentations related to abdominal wall hernias.