Significant Differences In Mean Values Research Articles

A clinical registry of multisystemic presentation of hypovitaminosis D in hospital attendees in Kolkata

Background: Vitamin D (Vit D) is a steroid hormone essential for maintaining functional homeostasis in the body. Hypovitaminosis D has been a recognized worldwide problem affecting all age groups and sex. Its prevalence is very high in South Asia. Aims and Objectives: Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the spectrum of presentation of biochemical levels of hypovitaminosis D in Indian population in terms of age, sex, and multisystemic disorders. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on selective study population attending a tertiary care hospital from July 2019 to December 2020 with clinical presentations suspected to arise due to Vit D deficiency. Serum 25OH Vit D level was estimated by chemiluminescence method. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8. Results: Of the study population (n = 685), average serum 25(OH)D level in females and males was 24.13 ng/ml and 28.59 ng/ml, respectively. Significant difference in mean value of Vit D existed in males and females in the 21–40 years age group (p = 0.0048). Females in the Vit D deficient group (Vit D level<20) mostly presented with mastalgia (20.45%), low back pain (17.61%), and joint pain (11.36%). Common clinical presentation in males with Vit D levels less than 20 ng/ml was diabetes mellitus without CKD (18.34%), non-diabetic CKD (19.27%), and low back pain (16.51%). Conclusion: Low Vit D levels manifest itself as signs and symptoms involving various multisystemic disorders involving different age groups in both sexes. Early recognition and replacement can prevent the progress of complications which Vit D deficiency makes us prone to develop.

Sealing Ability of Obturation with Different Sealers Applied Over Apically Separated Rotary File - Retrograde Bacterial Leakage Study.

Background and Aims. Retrieval of separated rotary file may not be possible many times. Then sealing of coronal root canal system depends on sealing ability of root canal sealers. The type of seal to be obtained should be bacterial-tight seal. Hence it is important to evaluate the sealing ability of obturation with different newer sealers with separated file in apical 3rd of root canals with bacterial penetration method using e.fecalis.Methods:Forty six human mandibular molars extracted for periodontal reasons were collected. After Decoronation of teeth Protaper rotary S1 files (Dentsply Maillefer) were intentionally separated in apical third of canal and obturated with gutta-percha (Prime Dental Products, India) along with zinc oxide eugenol sealer (Dental products of India-Mumbai) in Group I, Nano Zinc oxide eugenol (Nano Research Lab, Jharkand, India) in Group II and MTA sealer (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) in Group III. Samples were assessed for bacterial leakage with E fecalis for 48 hours. The number of colony forming units was assessed.Results:The values obtained were subjected to one way ANOVA test and significance level was set to 0.05. Group I scored the highest mean value of (6.58), followed by Group II (3.91). The lowest Mean value was with Group III (2.91). However there was no statistical significant difference in Mean values among groups with (p-value 0.05).Conclusion:The mean value of colony forming units in Group III was 2.91, in Group II 3.91 and 6.58 in Group I. None of the groups demonstrated complete bacteria-tight seal.

Effectiveness of Pilates exercises on non-specific low back pain to determine pain and disability

Introduction and Aim: Low back discomfort is one of the commonest musculoskeletal problems. The Pilates exercises are an approach to stretching and strengthening techniques and specifically train all the core muscles. The intend of the current study was to verify the influences of the Pilates exercises among pain and disability among patients with Non-specific Low Back Pain (NSLBP). Materials and Methods: A 100 non-specific low back pain subjects were randomly selected for this experimental study. The study includes of non-specific LBP age group between 25 to 40 years, both male and female patients with pain and disability and this study excludes spinal fractures and Pregnant Women. The estimations were taken utilizing Visual Analogue scale (VAS), Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) and Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (MODQ). Subjects are allotted in two groups, Group A (Pilates group) receives Pilate’s exercise and Group B (conventional group) receives conventional exercise. Exercises were given for 3 times a week for 12 weeks and a regular follow up was done for every 4 weeks. Results: Group A (Pilates group) were found to be more effective than Group B (conventional group). It shows a highly significant difference in mean values at P ? 0.001. This implies that Pilates exercise is more beneficial in decreasing pain and functional disability. Conclusion: On comparing the mean values, Group A (Pilates group) showed significant improvement at the end of the study when compared with Group B (conventional group).

VISFATIN AS A BIOMARKER FOR EARLY DETECTION OF GESTATIONAL DIABETESE MELLITUS

Background: The increased levels of visfatin in response to slowly developing resistance to insulin and impairment of glucose metabolism in human body is a well-documented process, beginning early in with uncontrolled diabetes and obesity The objective of present study was to determine the difference between levels of visfatin in the gestational diabetes mellitus cases and pregnancies with normal OGTT. Methods: It was a case control study conducted in Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad. Twenty-eight (n=28) diagnosed cases of gestational diabetes mellitus at various gestational ages (ranging from 11 weeks to 33weeks of pregnancy) were included in the Group I and their levels were compared with non-diabetic normal antenatal cases, Group II (n=32). Blood samples were collected for blood glucose and visfatin levels. Visfatin levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA). Statistical analysis was performed on SPSS-20, and p<0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Pregnant women (n=60) of different gestational age ranging from 4–36 weeks of pregnancy when subdivided into three categories (4–12 weeks, 13–24 weeks, 24–36 weeks respectively), showed statistically significant (p=0.003) differences of serum visfatin levels (10.11±2.982, 1.01±2.634, 1.17±3.102 ng/ml respectively). There were no significant differences in mean value of serum visfatin (p=0.763) according to parity of the patients (0.16±2.892, 0.19±2.883, 1.01±2.736 respectively) in the three trimesters of pregnancy. Conclusion: Visfatin levels were significantly raised in gestational diabetes mellitus as early as first trimester of pregnancy. Increased levels of visfatin can be used as a novel biomarker for early detection of gestational diabetes mellitus. Pak J Physiol 2021;17(4):11?4

A Comparison of Balance Performance of the Sensory Organization Test to the Head Shake Sensory Organization Test in Healthy Adults

To compare equilibrium scores between computerized dynamic posturography tests of the Sensory Organization Test (SOT) to the Head Shake-Sensory Organization Test (HS-SOT) in healthy adults. Approximately 50% of the brain's pathways are related to vision and many of these pathways are susceptible to injury in concussion. Visual-motor disruptions occur in 65%-90% of concussed patients. These disruptions impair balance and can be measured. The SOT is a computerized postural test that evaluates balance by altering visual, proprioceptive, and vestibular cues. The HS-SOT modifies 2 of the standard SOT conditions by including dynamic head motions that stimulate the semicircular canals within the vestibular system. Participants completed the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Activities of Balance Confidence Scale, SOT, and HS-SOT in one session. Twenty-five individuals (17 females, 8 males; mean age, 21.08 ± 4.10 years, range, 18-33 years) completed outcome measures and 3 trials of testing. There was a significant difference in mean values between the SOT and the HS-SOT for both condition 2 (t(16) = 3.034, p = 0.008) and 5 (t(16) = 5.706, p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant difference in mean values between the SOT and the foam HS-SOT for condition 2 (t(16) = 4.673, p < 0.001) and condition 5 (t(16) = 7.263, p < 0.001). There was not a significant difference in means between the foam and without foam for HS-SOT for condition 2 (t(16) = 1.77, p = 0.095) and condition 5 (t(16) = 1.825, p = 0.087). The HS-SOT may quantify subtle balance deficits and enhance the clinical standard use of the SOT. Unlike the SOT where the head is static, the HS-SOT requires head movements, as if saying no repeatedly at approximately 100°/second as measured by an accelerometer. The HS-SOT may quantify subtle balance deficits and enhance the clinical standard use of the SOT.

Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth Differentiation and Characterization in to Islet like Pancreatic Cell Lineages – An Ex-vivo and In-vitro Study

Background and Objectives: Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) have been demonstrated as a novel population of adult stem cells capable of multi-differentiation potential.&#x0D; Methods: Study samples comprise of 30 extracted exfoliating primary teeth collected from children aged 6 to 14 years. After attaining the required cell passage, flowcytometric analysis and trilineage differentiation was done to characterize SHEDs. Further SHEDs were differentiated into Islet like cell aggregates (ICAs) using Serum free media A,B&amp;C. Differentiated ICAs were characterized by RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry, DTZ stain and insulin assay.&#x0D; Results: Flowcytometric analysis of SHEDs showed expression of positive markers CD73, CD90 while no expression of negative markers CD34, CD45 and HLA-DR. Isolated SHEDs had the potential to differentiate into tri-lineages and ICAs. RT-PCR analysis of derived ICAs showed up-regulated expression of GAPDH, insulin, Glut2, PDX1 and PAX6. Immunofluorescence analysis gave expression of Ngn3, Isl-1, C-peptide, Glut2 and PDX1. DTZ stained positive on derived ICAs.Insulin secretion of SHED derived ICAs were measured 26 ± 6 MIU/L at basal glucose level, 128±3 MIU/L and 240 ±9 MIU/L at stimulated glucose level which gave a statistically significant difference in mean value of insulin secreted in different concentration of glucose (p&lt;0.001). The net insulin secretion value of SHED derived ICAs at different glucose concentration was less when compared with Min 6 cells used as positive control.&#x0D; Interpretation and Conclusion: Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous teeth are mesenchymal stem cells which has the unique potential to differentiate into islet like cell aggregates and serve as a promising source of insulin which under standardized protocols and experimentations can be used for stem cell based therapy for insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

Changes in Habitat Conditions of Invaded Forest Communities in Podunajská Nížina and the Impact of Non-Native Species on Biodiversity (SW Slovakia)

Abstract With the phytocenological research of riparian mixed forests and pannonic woods in the Podunajská nížina in 2018 and 2019, we obtained 113 phytocenological relevés of invaded and non-invaded stands. Using the Modified Permutation Test, we derived modified Ellenberg indication values (EIVs) in order to determine statistically significant differences and correlation relationships between diversity indices and EIVs. We recorded 15 invasive species in the stands, for example, Ailanthus altissima, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Asclepias syriaca, Aster lanceolatus, Helianthus tuberosus, Impatiens parviflora, Negundo aceroides, Solidago canadensis, S. gigantea and Robinia pseudoacacia. We also confirmed the occurrence of species important for conservation: Epipactis helleborine agg., E. voethii, Cephalanthera longifolia, Clematis integrifolia and the like. We tested the statistical significance of EIVs as explanatory variables by redundancy analysis and Monte Carlo permutation test (stepwise selection, number of permutations 499, p &lt; 0.05). In addition to the EIV continentality, the contribution of light, moisture, nutrients, soil reaction and temperature was higher than random. The model explains 20.21% of the variability pursuant to the coefficient of determination (R 2), with its adjusted (more accurate) variant (R 2 adj) capturing 15.70% of the variability of the model. Using the Kruskal–Wallis test, we confirmed the statistically significant differences (p*) in mean values between count of species, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson dominance index and taxonomic diversity of invaded and non-invaded vegetation. For EIVs, we found significant differences in the mean values for moisture and soil reaction factors. In our model, count of species, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson dominance index and taxonomic diversity index were positively correlated with invaded stands. Non-invaded stands showed statistically significant negative correlation with the EIVs moisture, soil reaction and nutrients. Biotic indices are appropriate and sensitive metrics for assessing the rate of community invasion. Lowland riparian forests are dynamic ecosystems through the structure of their stands and the dynamics of the nutrient and energy cycle of the river landscape. After disturbance (fire, wind, logging), the high degree of invasibility makes them vulnerable to the infiltration and spread of non-native species, which is a problem, especially in protected areas.

Effect of Cognitive Dual Task Training Versus Motor Dual Task Training on Balance in Post Stroke Patients

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the effects of cognitive dual task training and motor dual task training on balance in post stroke patients. INTRODUCTION : Stroke is a disease caused by lack of blood supply to the brain following ischemia or haemorrhage. The reduced motility following stroke results in a body imbalance that appears as asymmetric posture, proprioception disorder and abnormal muscle tone that lead to the degeneration of balancing ability. Dual tasks training is a training in which two or more tasks are performed at the same time continuously. The motor dual tasks requires performance of a motor task and a postural control task at the same time and cognition dual tasks requires performance of a cognition task and postural control task simultaneously. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty participants fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected and divided into 2 groups with 15 participants each. Participants in CDTT or MDTT practiced the cognitive and motor dual tasks respectively while standing on wobble board. The intervention was for 45 minute / session, 5 days/week for 4 weeks Participants were tested before and after the intervention for balance function under cognitive and motor dual task conditions using berg balance scale, stroop test and standing balance test. RESULTS: Mean values of Group A and Group B on berg balance scale, were (49.47) and (47.40) respectively. Mean values of Group A and Group B on standing balance test were (30.07) and (28.80), and the mean values of Group A and Group B on stroop test were (16.73) and (11.47). On comparing pre test and post test values within Group A and Group B on berg balance scale, standing balance test and stroop test shows highly significant difference in mean values at p ≤ 0.001. CONCLUSION: This study concluded that cognitive dual task training is more effective in improving balance in acute stroke patients with balance impairment, when compared to motor dual task training.

A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Resistance Exercise and Concurrent Exercise Training on Power and Strength of Lower Limbs in Football Players

Background: Football players can sustain repeated muscular effort that requires adequate muscular strength and power and adequately conditioned cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Resistance training improves muscular strength and endurance. Concurrent training involves cardiovascular endurance and resistance training within the same session or closely together within the same day. Concurrent training was promoted as a way promoted to save time while multiple training goals. The study's objective is to compare the effectiveness of resistance exercise and concurrent exercise training on the power and strength of lower limbs in football players.Methods: This was an experimental study design with a convenient sampling method. This was conducted on subjects from the Faculty of physiotherapy, Dr.M.G.R. Educational, and Research Institute and took nearly one month to analyze the study. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 samples were selected and divided into Group A and Group B by convenient sampling method. Group A received Resistance training exercise, and Group B received Concurrent training for two sets of 15 repetitions/twice a week for four weeks. Pre and post-test were measured before and after the study for 1 month, using a vertical jump test. The data were compared and analyzed within and between groups.Result: Comparing the Pre and Post-test scores between Groups (A &amp; B) on maximum Isometric Voluntary Contraction (MIVC) &amp;Vertical Jump Test shows a significant difference in Mean values with P ≤ 0.001.Conclusion: Concurrent exercise training is more effective than resistance exercise on the power and strength of lower limbs.

Skin biomechanical and viscoelastic properties measured with MyotonPRO in different areas of human body.

There is still a lack of clinically practical device, which allows to perform rapid and accurate examination of the skin condition. For this reason, suitability of the MyotonPRO for the assessment of skin biomechanical and viscoelastic parameters was evaluated in this study. The aim of the study was to establish the reference values of five parameters measured by MyotonPRO various locations of human skin. Oscillation frequency, dynamic stiffness, logarithmic decrement, mechanical stress relaxation and creep were measured at three different skin locations (clavicula, volar forearm and shin), using L-shape short and medium arm probes in 32 young female volunteers. Mean values of obtained parameters recorded by both probes were compared among three skin locations while reliabilities of measurements were assessed. Additionally, relationships between all recorded parameters were examined RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the mean values of five measured parameters obtained with both probes in all investigated areas. However, statistically significant differences of mean values of almost all parameters measured among three places examined were found. Despite considerable differences in mean values of obtained parameters, there were visible strong correlations between some studied parameters in all three investigated areas of skin. It was demonstrated in all locations studied that the higher value of oscillation frequency corresponds to the higher value of dynamic stiffness, moreover such tissue recovers faster to its initial shape, and it was characterized by lower creep values. Such results indicate the existence of identical relationships between the same studied parameters in different areas of skin.

Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression in the Treatment of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A Prospective Study in Malaysia.

IntroductionShoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) is one of the common problems which lead to shoulder disabilities. This condition has been described as impingement to the rotator cuff by the anterior third of the acromion process and has been classified into three stages. Treatment option varies depending on the grade of the disease. Arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASAD) has become more popular in recent years and has shown to have a good outcome. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes following ASAD in terms of the functional, clinical, and radiological parameters in treating SIS in the ageing population in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.Materials and methodsThis was an observational study looking at the outcomes of patients with stage 2 and stage 3 (partial cuff tear) impingement syndrome who underwent ASAD in Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan and International Islamic University Malaysia Medical Centre from May 2018 to June 2019. The functional outcomes were evaluated using American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score taken at pre-operative, six weeks, three months, and six months post-operation. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Constant score (CS) taken at six months post-operation. Radiological outcomes were measured by comparing acromiohumeral distance pre- and post-operation on anteroposterior (AP) view radiograph of the affected shoulder.ResultsA total of 28 patients were selected for the study. On functional outcome, there was a significant effect of time on the ASES scoring system (p-value <0.05) from pre-operative to six months post-operation. On clinical outcome, the CS at six months showed 13 patients have excellent scores, 10 have good, and five have fair scores. There was a statistically significant difference in mean values of all categories (p-value <0.05). In terms of the radiological outcome, this study observed a significant increase in patients’ subacromial space on X-ray from the pre-operative and post-operative treatment stages. In this study, we also observed that there was no significant difference in outcomes between partial and intact rotator cuff (RC) tears at six-month post-operation.ConclusionIn this study, ASAD was found to be a beneficial intervention in the treatment of patients with shoulder impingement evidenced by the significant outcomes in terms of functional, clinical, and radiological parameters.

Accuracy of using diagonal measurements of maxillary canine, first premolar and first molar teeth in sex determination in a Pondicherry Cohort

Introduction: Sex may be determined from various parts of the human body like the skull remains, femur, humerus etc. However, in forensic cases, when human skeletal remains (such as skull, pelvis, femur, humerus, radius, clavicle, and ulnae etc.) are fragmented or incomplete, the teeth may be used for sex determination. The aim and objective of the present study: i) To assess the degree of sexual dimorphism in maxillary canines, first premolars and first molars using diagonal diameters of the crown (mesiobuccal-distolingual: MBDL, mesiolingual–distobuccal: MLDB/ DBML). ii) To determine the accuracy of maxillary canines, first premolars and first molars using diagonal measurements of the crown in sex determination. Materials and Methods: This study included 30 participants with equal gender ratio i.e 15 males:15 females and age ranged from 18 to 30 years. The participants were selected from Pondicherry population who visited to our department. Crown diagonal measurement of canines, first premolars and first molars were taken from right and left sides with the help of digital caliper (resolution of 0.1mm, accuracy of ±0.2mm). Data was analysed statistically usingdescriptive analysisand discriminant function analysis. Results: All crown diagonal dimensions in male revealed higher mean value than female except left premolar MBDL crown dimensions (male=7.8600, female=7.8733). There was significant difference in mean value of MBDL crown dimension of left canine, left first molar and right first molar between males than females. MBDL crown dimension of left maxillary canine exhibited the highest accuracy (66.7%) for sex determination with 60% in males and 73.3% in females. Conclusion: We conclude that diagonal crown (MBDL crown) dimension of left maxillary canine and first molar, right maxillary first molar can be used as an aid for gender determination where linear crown width (MD and BL) measurements cannot be taken or used as an aid along with other accepted procedu

Comparative assessment of odontometric parameters for gender determination: A hospital based cross-sectional study

Determining gender is one of the most important procedure in forensics. Teeth are made of the most enduring mineralized tissues in the body, as such, they have an extraordinary resistance to putrefaction and the effects of external agents (physical, thermal, mechanical, chemical or biological) which makes them invaluable material for anthropological, genetic, odontologic and forensic examinations.i)To assess the degree of sexual dimorphism in maxillary canine using maxillary canine index, maxillary first molar and central incisor using mesiodistal (MD) and buccolingual/buccopalatal (BL) dimensions of the crown. ii) To determine the accuracy of maxillary canine index, first molar and central incisor dimensions (mesiodistal and buccolingual/buccopalatal) in determining sex.This study consisted of total 30 participants (males=15, females=15) of age group ranging from 20 to 35 yrs. Measurement of dimensions of selected teeth were performed on maxillary cast using digital Vernier caliper, resolution 0.01mm. Data thus obtained were analyzed statistically.The mean values of all the measurements in males were greater than females. There was statistical significant difference in mean value of bucco-lingual width of molar, mesiodistal width of canine (on left side, right side and average) and the inter-canine distance between males and females. The buccolingual width of molar showed the highest % of sexual dimorphism (5.33%) and the mesiodistal width of molar showed the least % of dimorphism (0.7%). Bucco-lingual width of molar posed the highest prediction accuracy for gender determination. We conclude that buccolingual width of maxillary first molar can be used to predict the gender when only teeth of maxillary arch are available for forensic examination.

A study to analyze the effectiveness of Swiss ball exercise versus resistance training in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Introduction and Aim: Diabetes is a disease rising all over the world affecting larger number of populations. In India largest number of diabetic patients are reported. Lack of physical activity, dietary pattern change, and sedentary life style are the major causes for concern. Aneffective lifestyle intervention including changes in dietary pattern, regular exercises would enhance in preventing or postponing the onset of diabetes. The aim of the study is to analyse the effectiveness of Swiss ball exercise and resistance training in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.&#x0D; &#x0D; Materials and Methods:The study design is comparative type. The study was conducted in Faculty of Physiotherapy, Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai. The study sample of 30 subjects both male and female were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects were sorted into two groups.Inclusion criteria were patients with clear history of Type 2 diabetes, clinically diagnosed, an inactive lifestyle, age between 30-60 years. Exclusion criteria were uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, advanced retinopathy, neuropathy, severe orthopedic conditions. 30 subjects between the age group of 30-60 years were divided into two groups, group A and group B. Individuals in the group A (n=15) received the Swiss ball exercise and group B (n=15) received resistance training exercise for 5 session/ week for 12 weeks for 30 minutes.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: On comparing pre-test and post-test within group A andgroup B on fasting, post prandial blood sugar level and diabetes distress screening scale show highly significant difference in mean values at P ? 0.001.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion:The study concluded that both the groupshad substantial effect. On comparing Swiss ball exercise and resistance training, both the exercise programs were found to be equally effective.

Quality of Life among Post-Mastectomy with and without Reconstruction Breast Cancer Patients in Onkologi Surabaya Hospital

Background: The quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer (BCa) patients is an outcome of therapy that is often overlooked. In real life, postoperative breast cancer patients experience deep trauma in view that breasts are a symbol of femininity, which are very valuable for any female. This study aims to compare the QoL in patients who received mastectomy only and mastectomy with reconstruction.Methods: A retrospective comparative study of 25 post-mastectomy to 25 post-mastectomy with reconstruction BCa patients in Onkologi Surabaya Hospital. The subjects are patients who visited between July 2019 until March 2020, as many as 50 samples in accord with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The assessment was performed using 3 instruments, including the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), body image scale (BIS), and female sexual function index (FSFI). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 15.0 for Windows.Results: A significant difference in mean values was seen in body image and sexual function. Post-mastectomy BCa patients presented more body image disturbance (p &lt; 0.05). Better sexual function is claimed by post-mastectomy with reconstruction BCa patients in Onkologi Surabaya Hospital (p &lt; 0.05). Meanwhile, the depression and anxiety values did not differ significantly in both groups (p &gt; 0.05).Conclusions: Patients who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction have a better QoL in comparison with patients who received mastectomy only, in the domains of body image and sexuality function.

In vivo photoprotective potential evaluation and in vitro genoprotective of red propolis from Apis mellifera in Rio Grande do Norte (semiarid region), Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of phenols, total flavonoids, as well as the antioxidant, genoprotective, and photoprotective activities of the red propolis ethanolic extract produced by Apis mellifera. Different concentrations of the extract were analyzed In vitro by spectrophotometry. The photoprotective effect of the extract was evaluated In vivo in 30 Wistar rats divided into three groups: Group 1 - the skin received no topical application of the extract and was not subjected to ultraviolet irradiation; Group 2 - the skin was not subjected to topical application of the extract and was irradiated; Group 3 – the skin underwent topical application of the extract and was irradiated. The skin was evaluated macroscopically, and the density of inflammatory cells, mast cells, necrotic cells, and collagen fibers were quantified. The extract contained high levels of phenols and flavonoids, with antioxidant and genoprotective capacity, protecting the skin from irradiation. In group II, erythemas, blisters, and superficial crusting were observed. No significant differences in mean values of mast cell density and collagen fibers were observed between groups I and III. It was concluded that the ethanolic extract of red propolis exerted genoprotective and photoprotective effects by promoting satisfactory absorbance of ultraviolet radiation and was able to protect the skin from lesions induced by UVB irradiation.

Fractional Flow Reserve Derived from Computer Tomography in Asymptomatic Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Albuminuria without Significant Coronary Artery Stenosis—A Surrogate for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction?

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients with albuminuria have coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). Fractional flow reserve assessed by coronary computed tomography angiography (FFRct) is dependent on the structure and function of the microcirculation and is likely influenced by CMD. We aimed to evaluate if asymptomatic patients with T2D who had no significant coronary artery stenosis but had been diagnosed with albuminuria had lower value of nadir FFRct compared to asymptomatic patients with T2D and no albuminuria. Methods and results: This was a cross-sectional study which compared the mean nadir FFRct values in coronary arteries in patients with T2D who had no symptoms of angina. The T2D patients were divided into two groups (albuminuria and no albuminuria) with albuminuria being defined as albumin–creatinine-ratio (ACR) ≥30 milligram per gram. The nadir FFRct values were compared between the two groups for left anterior descendent artery (FFRct-LAD), circumflex artery (FFRct-CX), and right coronary artery (FFRct-RCA) by using a two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum (Mann–Whitney) test. Ninety-eight patients without albuminuria and 26 patients with albuminuria were included. No significant differences in mean values were detected for FFRct-CX 0.86 ± 0.07 and 0.88 ± 0.0, FFRct-RCA 0.88 ± 0.05 and 0.88 ± 0.07, or for FFRct-LAD 0.82 ± 0.07 and 0.82 ± 0.07 in patients with albuminuria and without albuminuria, respectively. Conclusion: In this observational study, we did not find that FFRct was affected by CMD. Therefore, it is not a surrogate for microvascular dysfunction in asymptomatic T2D patients with albuminuria.

KARYOTYPAL VARIABILITY OF CARPATHIAN BROWN COWS

Brown Carpathian breed of cattle bred in Transcarpathia at the end of the XIX century. and belongs to the breeds of dairy and meat productivity. Animals of the modern breed are direct descendants of the ancient Brown Carpathian cattle, common at one time throughout Central Europe. The main advantage of the Brown Carpathian breed is that it can be effectively grown on natural pastures – both in the lowlands and in the mountains. The genetics of these animals are resistant to acute infectious diseases, they are well adapted to local conditions, sensitive to improved housing and feeding conditions, and cows produce special milk, which is used in the manufacture of high quality hard cheeses and baby food. Animals of the Brown Carpathian breed belong to the local small domestic breeds and are in a state of significant risk. The uterine population is bred only in households.&#x0D; The aim of our work was to study the karyotype variability of Brown Carpathian cows, which is quite relevant today. Cytogenetic analysis, which was aimed at establishing the karyotypic variability of Brown Carpathian cows, was performed in the village. Nyzhni Vorota, Volovets district, Zakarpattia region, in households. Purebred cows of Brown Carpathian breed – (16 heads) and local animals – (11 heads) were studied.&#x0D; According to the results of cytogenetic analysis, genomic disorders, aneuploidy, were found in purebred cows of Brown Carpathian breed, which was 1.6% and was expressed mainly by hypoploid cells 2n = 56–58. For domestic animals, the frequency of metaphase plates with aneuploidy was 3.3%, which corresponds to a spontaneous level of cytogenetic variability.&#x0D; Structural chromosome abnormalities, chromosomal breaks, in purebred cows were equal to 0.76%, which does not exceed the spontaneous level of chromosomal variability. In local animals, this variability did not manifest itsel.&#x0D; The indicators of the micronucleus test (the proportion of lymphocytes with a micronucleus of 1.7–2.0‰, dinuclear lymphocytes 1.5–2.7‰, and the mitotic index of 4.8–5.5‰, respectively) in domestic animals are higher compared to purebred animals, however, do not exceed those of the species Bos taurus.&#x0D; According to the results of the cytogenetic analysis, it was established that purebred cows of Brown Carpathian breed and their crossbreeds were characterized by quantitative and structural chromosome disorders.&#x0D; Genomic disorders, aneuploidy, in local animals are 2 times higher (3.3%) compared to purebred cows of Brown Carpathian breed with a statistically significant difference in mean values (P &gt; 0.99).&#x0D; Low level or absence of structural disorders of chromosomes in purebred animals and their crossbreeds indicates a low degree of somatic mutagenesis.&#x0D; The indicators of the micronucleus test, as an indicator of the effect of the total mutagenic load on the body of the studied cows, in domestic animals are higher compared to purebred animals, however, do not exceed those characteristic of the species Bos taurus.&#x0D; It was established that the level of somatic mutagenesis is lower and the karyotype is more stable in purebred animals of the Brown Carpathian breed in comparison with the local ones.

Dental Arch Relationship Outcomes Following 2-Stage Palatoplasty for Japanese Patients With Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate: A 3-Center Study

To compare dental arch relationship outcomes following 3 different 2-stage palatal repair protocols. Retrospective, cross sectional. Three cleft palate centers (A, B, C) in Japan. Ninety (A: 39, B: 26, C: 25) consecutively treated Japanese patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate. In A, the soft palate and the posterior half of the hard palate were repaired at a mean age of 1 year 7 months. In B, the soft palate and hard palate were closed separately at a mean age of 1 year 6 months and 5 years 8 months, respectively. In C, the soft palate and hard palate were closed at a mean age of 1 year and 1 year 5 months, respectively. Dental arch relationships were assessed using the 5-Year-Olds' (5-Y) index by 5 raters and the Huddart/Bodenham (HB) index by 2 raters. Intra- and inter-rater reliabilities showed substantial or almost perfect agreement for the 5-Y and HB ratings. No significant differences in mean values and distributions of 5-Y scores were found among the 3 centers. The mean HB index scores of molars on the minor segment were significantly smaller in C than those in A and B (P < .05). There were no significant differences in dental arch relationships at 5 years among the times and techniques of hard palate closure. However, further analysis of the possible influence of infant cleft size as a covariable on a larger sample size is needed.

An appraisal of flexibility and agility in Indian Basketball, Volleyball and Handball players and its comparison among them

Swiftness of ball games is one of the biggest reasons for its popularity. All ball games are very versatile and are played very recently in India. Thus, current study is undertaken to identify lacunae in technical skills of Indian Players and compare the skill related fitness. The study was carried out in ninety Male Indian players. Basketball players (n=30), volleyball players (n=30) and handball players (n=30) aged between 16 to 25yrs after obtaining institutional ethics committee clearance. Flexibility was assessed using Modified Sit and Reach test and Goniometry. Agility was assessed using burpee’s squat test, shuttle run and quadrant Jump test using standardized procedure recommended by established literature. Data was analyzed using SPSS v20.0. Our study revealed that, there is a statistically significant difference of mean values among all parameters (p&amp;#60;0.0001) except modified sit and reach test (p=0.06). Further analysis revealed that all groups shows statistically significant difference (p&amp;#60;0.05) except between HBP and BBP (p&amp;#62;0.05) for shoulder flexion, shoulder extension, knee flexion, knee extension and quadrant jump, between HBP and VBP for burpee’s squat test, shuttle run and quadrant jump (p&amp;#62;0.05).Our also revealed that shoulder flexibility was significantly more in Volleyball players while knee flexibility was significantly higher in Basketball players. Handball players had intermediate values of flexibility. Agility was significant higher in Basketball players, intermediate Handball player while least in Volleyball players. However, these players lag far behind when compared with international players and standards.