Six-week Study Research Articles

Green means go: The effect of a visualization tool towards increased use of renewable energy in households

There is a need to further develop digital and hardware tools to support consumers in the adaptation of their energy use to, for example, integrate renewable sources into it and/or reduce expenses. This paper presents an evaluation study of a tool, including its hardware and software versions, that supports consumers in their electricity consumption optimization, most notably concerning renewable energies for specific devices. We conducted a six-week study in Oldenburg, Germany involving 43 participants divided into three groups: one hardware and one digital variant each of an energy visualization tool, as well as a control group. We furthermore collected quantitative data on energy usage patterns and qualitative insights through semi-structured interviews. Here the participants received information about the percentage of renewable energy currently in the grid, and were asked to document their washing machine and dishwasher use. This paper provides insights into the perception of the proposed visualization tools achieved through semi-structured interviews, comparing the digital and hardware versions, while outlining the challenges of and possibilities for changing energy use behavior, especially regarding the time of day of an appliance's use. Even though the measurable influences of the tool were limited due to thresholds being reached too easily as a result of e.g. high wind levels generating higher-than-anticipated amounts of renewable energy, in terms of the amount of renewable energy use, slight improvements in the two test groups were observed compared to the control group. Regarding consumer behavior, changes in the appliances' use time show slightly higher improvement compared to the control group.

The fault in our nature: Error rates in a human observation study on surgical instrument errors in the OR

BackgroundErrors in sterile processing of surgical instruments result in wasted chargeable operating room minutes. Data delineating this problem have been generated primarily through human observation and reporting. Given the inherent error rate in human tasks, we hypothesized that the observed rate of surgical instrument errors per case per day would increase over a six-week longitudinal study as observers became more familiar with their environment and more comfortable identifying errors. MethodsA previously published dataset on surgical instrument errors was analyzed for the average errors per case per day over six weeks. Errors per case per day were compared to the percentage of inpatient cases for each respective date since the error rate in inpatient cases is twice that of outpatient cases. ResultsWhile the average errors per case per day increases from 0.28 to 0.62, indicating a potential increase over time, no statistically significant trend was found (p = 0.157). A positive but modest correlation was observed between inpatient percentage and error rates (Pearson correlation = 0.344), nearing statistical significance (p = 0.068). The inpatient case percentage remained stable over time, with no significant trend detected (p = 0.284). ConclusionsHuman observation is a critical tool for defining waste arising from sterile processing errors. While the gradual increase in errors per case per day increases, the variability cannot be attributed to the initial adaptation the observer's environment. Future studies should assess inter-rated reliability and explore alternative automated observation methods to have a more accurate measurement of the number of errors observed.

Changes in Cyanobacterial Phytoplankton Communities in Lake-Water Mesocosms Treated with Either Glucose or Hydrogen Peroxide.

When cyanobacterial phytoplankton form harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCBs), the toxins they produce threaten freshwater ecosystems. Hydrogen peroxide is often used to control HCBs, but it is broadly toxic and dangerous to handle. Previously, we demonstrated that glucose addition to lake water could suppress the abundance of cyanobacteria. In this study, glucose was compared to hydrogen peroxide for the treatment of cyanobacterial phytoplankton communities. The six-week study was conducted in the large mesocosms facility at Grand Valley State University's Annis Water Resources Institute in Michigan. To 1000 L of Muskegon Lake water, glucose was added at either 150 mg or 30 mg glucose/L. Hydrogen peroxide was added at 3 mg/L to two 1000 L mesocosms. And two mesocosms were left untreated as controls. Triplicate 100 mL samples were collected weekly from each mesocosm, which were then filtered and frozen at -80 °C for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing results revealed that hydrogen peroxide treatment quickly reduced the relative abundance of the cyanobacteria compared to the control mesocosms, but the cyanobacteria population returned over the course of the 6-week study. On the other hand, both glucose concentrations caused a rapid proliferation of multiple low abundance proteobacterial and bacteroidotal taxa resulting in notable increases in taxonomic richness over the duration of the study and reducing the relative abundance of cyanobacteria. Although hydrogen peroxide quickly suppressed the cyanobacteria, the population later returned to near starting levels. The glucose suppressed the cyanobacterial phytoplankton apparently by promoting competitive heterotrophic bacteria.

Effect of Three Commercial Feeds on the Growth and Survival of Juvenile Jawfish (Chrysichthys Nigrodigitatus) Rered in Happas at the Layo Experimental Aquaculture Station (Dabou, Côte d’Ivoire)

A six-week study was carried out at the Layo experimental station (Dabou) to investigate the effect of three commercial feeds on the growth and survival of Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus juveniles in happas. To this purpose, 225 fish with an initial average weight of 22.80 ± 4.05 g and an initial average length of 141.00 ± 11.00 mm were used to form three batches (batch 1, batch 2, batch 3) in triplicate, in 50-liter happas, at a density of 0.5 individuals per liter. The fish were fed at 10% of their biomass with Biomar inicio plus (batch 1), Alimpoi (batch 2) and Koudijs (batch 3). Ten individuals, randomly sampled per week, were weighed and measured individually. The average values for temperature, dissolved oxygen and pH were 28.20 ±1.80°C, 5.80 ± 0.60 mg/L and 6.10 ± 0.30 respectively. At the end of the experiment, the results show that the highest values for weight growth, total average length, ADG and CI were recorded in individuals fed with Alimpoi feed, at 35.43 ± 0.98 g, 156.67 ± 0.76 mm, 0.30 ± 0.06 g/d and 3.00 ± 26.96 respectively. Survival rate and biomass were higher in individuals fed with Biomar. The respective values obtained were 69.33 ± 4.98% and 624.17 ± 36.52 g. It would be desirable to include the economic aspect in the study, in order to assess the production costs for each feed.

A Cross-Sectional Review of HIV Screening in High-Acuity Emergency Department Patients: A Missed Opportunity.

Emergency department (ED) patients requiring immediate treatment often bypass a triage process that includes HIV screening. In this study we aimed to investigate the potential missed opportunity to screen these patients for HIV. We conducted this cross-sectional study in a municipal ED over a six-week period between June-August 2019. The patient population in this study arrived in the ED as a pre-notification from prehospital services or designated by the ambulance or walk-in triage nurse as requiring immediate medical attention. Medical student researchers collected demographic data and categorized patients into three clinical groups (trauma, medical, psychiatric). They documented the patient's eligibility for HIV screening as determined by a physician and confirmed that the patient met criteria of clear mental status, controlled pain, stable vital signs, and ability to contribute to a medical history and physical examination. The student researchers did this at initial presentation and then again during the patient's ED stay of up to eight hours. The study outcomes measured the percentage of total patients within each clinical group (trauma, medical, psychiatric) able to engage in the HIV screening process upon arrival and during an eight-hour ED stay. On average, 700 patients per month are announced on arrival via overhead page, indicating that they require immediate medical attention. During the six-week study, 205 patients (approximately 20% of total) were enrolled: 114 trauma; 56 medical; and 35 psychiatric presentations. The average patient age was 53; 60% of patients were male. Niney-eight (48%) patients were eligible for HIV screening within an eight-hour ED stay; 63 (31%) were able to be screened upon initial presentation and 35 (17%) in the first eight hours of their ED visit. Within medical and trauma subgroups, there was no significant difference in the proportion (36%) of patients that could be screened upon presentation. Among the psychiatric presentations, only five (14%) were able to be screened during their hospital stay. Triage protocols for high-acuity medico-surgical patients resulted in a missed opportunity to screen 48% of patients for HIV. Acute psychiatric patients represented a particular missed opportunity. We advocate for universal HIV screening, facilitated through electronic best practice advisories and a modified triage tailored to higher acuity patients. Implementing these changes would ensure that HIV screening is not overlooked in high-acuity ED patients, leading to early detection and timely interventions.

Comparing the effects of Pilates, corrective exercises, and Alexander’s technique on upper cross syndrome among adolescent girls student (ages 13–16): a six-week study

IntroductionUpper Cross Syndrome is a pattern of muscle imbalance and postural dysfunction that can cause discomfort and pain. This study’s objective was to compare the effects of Pilates exercises, corrective exercises, and Alexander’s technique on upper cross syndrome in adolescent girls aged 13–16 years: a six-week intervention study.MethodsThe present study was Quasi-experimental, and its statistical population consisted of 13 to 16-year-old female students. Forty-five students who were diagnosed with upper cross syndrome were purposefully selected as samples and randomly assigned to three groups: Pilates exercises (N = 15), corrective exercises (N = 15), and Alexander’s technique (N = 15). The participants performed exercises for 60 min per session, three sessions per week, and six weeks. This study’s objective was to compare the effects of Pilates exercises, corrective exercises, and Alexander’s technique on upper cross syndrome in adolescent girls aged 13–16 years: a six-week intervention study. This study was retrospectively registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) on 2023-09-19 to comply with the journal’s policies. The assigned trial registration number is IRCT20230810059106N1.ResultsThe results of the dependent t-test showed significant decreases in forward head angle (p = 0.0001), rounded shoulder (p = 0.001), and kyphosis (p = 0.0001) as a result of corrective exercises. There were also significant decreases in forward head angle (p = 0.0001), rounded shoulder (p = 0.002), and kyphosis (p = 0.001) after six weeks of practising Alexander’s technique. However, in the case of Pilates exercises, a significant decrease in forward head angle (p = 0.110), rounded shoulder (p = 0.598), and kyphosis (p = 0.371) was not observed. The one-way analysis of variance revealed a significant difference in the forward head angle (p = 0.012), rounded shoulders (p = 0.013), and kyphosis (p = 0.009).ConclusionsThe effect of Alexander’s technique and corrective exercises on forward head angle, rounded shoulder, and kyphosis abnormalities was almost similar and more effective than pilates exercises.

#2481 Reduction in ultra-processed food by providing medically tailored healthy food baskets to patients with CKD: the HELPFUL trial

Abstract Background and Aims Over the past decade, there has been a growing interest in classifying foods based on the extent and purpose of industrial processing according to the NOVA system, which outlines four main food categories: unprocessed and minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods, and ultra-processed foods (UPFs). The latter is characterized by industrial formulations with an elevated content of additives, sugar, unhealthy fat, and sodium. Increased consumption of UPFs can worsen metabolic derangements that develop as kidney function decreases in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We evaluated food intake according to the NOVA food classification system before and after a medically tailored meal intervention with plant-based food baskets for patients with CKD who had hyperkalemia at inclusion and received sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) to normalize plasma potassium. Additionally, we aimed to assess the diets’ environmental impact by evaluating the greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) associated with these dietary changes. Method Data were based on a six-week feasibility one-arm clinical study, the HELPFUL trial (identifier: NCT04207203), that enrolled 26 adult patients with CKD stages 4 and 5, not on dialysis and with plasma potassium 5.1-6.5 mmol/L at inclusion. In the first 3 weeks, patients were guided to adhere to a low-protein and low-potassium diet with concomitant use of SZC. The following 3 weeks, patients received food baskets containing fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and either white meat, fish or egg to provide a healthy low-protein high-potassium diet. To assess dietary changes, 24-hour food recalls were collected at weeks 0, 3 and 6 and subsequently classified according to the NOVA classification. The mean adequacy ratio to the dietary recommended intake (DRI) of 11 nutrients (MAR-11 score) was calculated to assess dietary quality. Furthermore, the 24-hour food recalls were linked to GHGE estimations for analysis of environmental impact using the RISE food climate database which is representative of Swedish food consumption. Statistical analyses using Friedman's test or ANOVA for repeated measures were employed to identify significant differences before and after the plant-based food basket intervention. This study was funded by Astra Zeneca. Results The plasma potassium (mmol/L) normalized after the use of SZC (week 0: 5.52 ± 0.3; week 3: 4.72 ± 0.4; week 6: 4.8 ± 0.4; P < 0.01). Figure 1 shows changes in energy intake according to the NOVA classification. A significant reduction in UPF consumption (P = 0.024) was observed. In the post-hoc analysis, the change between week 3 and 6 was borderline significant (P = 0.052) while that between week 0 and 6 was statistically significant (P = 0.008). The healthy food basket diet led to a significant increase in dietary fibers (P = 0.002) and servings of fruits (P < 0.01), vegetables (P = 0.04), nuts (P < 0.01), poultry (P = 0.02), and fish (P < 0.001) and reduced servings of red meat (P = 0.03). As a result, the MAR-11 score increased significantly (P = 0.021). The GHGE analysis of carbon dioxide equivalents revealed no differences between emissions (median and interquartile range) in week 0 [1.79 (1.24; 3.13)], week 3 [1.79 (1.47; 2.74)] and week 6 [1.87 (1.51; 2.61)]. Conclusion Delivering medically tailored healthy food baskets to patients with CKD with concomitant use of SZC led to increased dietary quality and decreased UPF intake. However, these beneficial changes were not aligned with a decrease in GHGE, highlighting the complex relationship between dietary choices and environmental impact.

The effect of Tecar therapy on neurological disorders and nerve conduction velocity of lower limbs in peripheral neuropathy of type 2 diabetic patients: A six-week follow-up study.

The effect of Tecar therapy on neurological disorders and nerve conduction velocity of lower limbs in peripheral neuropathy of type 2 diabetic patients: A six-week follow-up study.

Response to Letter to the Editor: The effect of Tecar therapy on neurological disorders and nerve conduction velocity of lower limbs in peripheral neuropathy of type 2 diabetic patients: A six-week follow-up study.

Response to Letter to the Editor: The effect of Tecar therapy on neurological disorders and nerve conduction velocity of lower limbs in peripheral neuropathy of type 2 diabetic patients: A six-week follow-up study.

Induction of maturation of gold fish (Carassius auratus) using sesame seed extract (Sesamum indicum L. ) on feed as phytoestrogens

Gonad maturity in fish is essential in fish farming because it is related to seed production. Sesame oil is one of the ingredients as a feed supplement to stimulate fish gonad maturation. The research aimed to obtain the best dose of sesame seed extract (Sesamum indicum L.) in feed to increase the gonad maturity of comet fish (Carassius auratus). This research had four treatment levels and three repetitions. The treatment levels in this study were: P0 Without giving sesame seed extract (Control), P1 Giving sesame seed extract 5 mL/kg feed, P2 giving sesame seed extract 10 mL/kg feed, P3 Giving sesame seed extract 15 mL/kg. The results of the six-week study showed that at the beginning of maintenance, they were in TKG I, in the 3rd week, they entered TKG III, and in the 6th week, P1, P2, and P3 entered TKG IV while P0 were still in TKG III. The highest gonad maturity index at each observation time occurred in treatment P2 with feed containing 10 mL/kg of sesame seed extract. In the 1st week, the highest gonad maturity index occurred at P2 at 7.80. In the 3rd week, the highest gonad maturity index occurred in P2 at 9.26%. In the 6th week, the highest gonad maturity index occurred in P2 at 11.17%. Fecundity at week 6 showed the highest result of P2 4,290. The level of gonad maturity with treatment given sesame extract was faster, with a maintenance time of 6 weeks. The results of this study illustrate that sesame extract can be used as a supplement to increase comet fish gonad maturity.

The Impact Of Partial Substitution Of Date Palm Kernel Powder As An Alternative Energy Source For Grains In The Diet On The Productive Performance Of Broiler Chickens.

In this study, 160 unsexed day-old Cobb broiler chicks were utilized to investigate the impact of incorporating various levels of date palm kernel powder into broiler chicken diets on productive performance. The chicks were raised in a closed poultry barn in Ain Zara, Tripoli, Libya, from September 10, 2022, to October 23, 2022, using a floor-rearing system. The study comprised four different dietary treatments, in addition to a control treatment, with chicks randomly and replicatively distributed. Each treatment consisted of four replications, and each replication included ten chicks. Date palm kernel powder was added at levels of 0%, 3%, 5%, and 7% to the first (control), second, third, and fourth treatments, respectively, during the starter and grower phases. The experimental treatments were uniform in nitrogen (23%) and caloric content (3200 kcal/kg). A free-choice feeding system was implemented, providing feed and water to the chicks throughout the six-week study period, with temperature monitoring. The chicks were raised under consistent environmental conditions, including lighting, ventilation, bedding, labor, and a comprehensive therapeutic, preventive, and vaccination program throughout the experimental period. The study also encompassed evaluating average weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and mortality rate for 42-day-old birds. Results demonstrated a significant (P≤0.05) effect of adding date palm kernel powder to broiler chicken diets on weight gain and feed efficiency compared to the control treatment. Sequential addition of date palm kernel powder at levels of 3%, 5%, and 7% led to improvements in weight gain and feed efficiency. Additionally, higher levels of addition resulted in enhanced weight gain and feed efficiency, with the optimal weight gain observed at the 7% addition level, followed by the 5% addition level, and then the 3% addition level, in comparison to the control treatment (0%). Conversely, the best feed efficiency was recorded for the fourth (7%) and third (5%) treatments, respectively, compared to the control treatment (0%). No statistically significant differences were noted in feed consumption and mortality rate among all treatments, as mean values were similar. Based on the results, utilizing date palm kernel as an alternative energy source to grains could be significant, especially in regions where palm trees are cultivated, providing essential grains for human consumption. Keywords: Date kernel, productive performance, broiler, weight gain, feed efficiency.

Dynamic stretching versus plyometric push up training on upper body performance in cricketers

Background: The cricketers may enhance their upper-body performance through dynamic stretching and plyometric push-up training. For tasks specific to cricket, plyometric push-up training promotes explosive strength and power, while dynamic stretching enhances flexibility, muscle activation, and coordination. Objective: To compare the effects of dynamic stretching and plyometric push-ups on upper body performance tests in cricketers. Methodology: A randomized control trial was conducted in which initially n=22 cricketers were enrolled. Out of them, two participants dropped out of the study after two weeks due to which a total number of n=20 participants participated in the six-week study. Participants were divided into two groups, one group performed upper body dynamic stretching exercises along with their usual warm-up routine and the other group did plyometric push-ups along with some variation of exercises. They performed the exercises for three days a week on alternate days. Upper body fitness tests were performed, i.e. one arm tests, Upper quadrant Y- y-balance test, and Medicine ball throw tests every week to gather data regarding participants' upper body fitness. Results: there was no significant difference (p≥0.05) between the groups from the baseline to the 6th week in all variables except in upper quadrant Y balance tests left hand showed significant improvement (p=0.01) at the end of the 6th week. While in the one-arm hop test was not comparable at baseline due to a significant difference, so compared the mean of mean difference, which was also not statistically significant (4.18±0.79 vs 4.03±0.67, p=0.65). Conclusion: The study concludes that both dynamic stretching and plyometric push-up exercises showed equal effects upper body performance among cricketers. Keywords: dynamic stretching; plyometric push-up; upper body performance. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05516706

Effectiveness of PNF Pattern in Regular Physical Therapy Sessions on Functional Mobility in Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a musculoskeletal condition that presents with symptoms such as discomfort, nocturnal pain, and limited range of motion. Abduction and external rotation are significantly reduced. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of combining proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) patterns into routine physical therapy sessions for patients with frozen shoulder. Methods: A six-week quasi-experimental study was conducted on a total of 30 participants, divided into group A (n=15) and group B (n = 15), selected from the outpatient department (OPD). Pain, disability, and range of motion were evaluated as outcome measures. The group A received proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) patterns in addition to their usual physical therapy sessions, and group B only received conventional physical therapy sessions. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), VAS (Visual Analog Scale) and goniometer were used to assess pain, disability and range of motion (ROM). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Results: Both groups showed a significant reduction in DASH and VAS scores and an increase in ROMs, as group A showed a better result in terms of DASH score and abduction range (p<0.05). Conclusions: Both the experimental and control groups had statistically significant outcomes. The PNF pattern and Codman exercises both have a positive impact on rehabilitation. However, PNF is more advanced because it involves a combination of movements that are also useful in daily activities. Additionally, PNF helps develop memory for correct patterned movements. On the other hand, Codman exercises are only effective for retaining and improving shoulder ranges.

The application of production-oriented approach research teaching method in medical academic English course.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficiency of the production-oriented approach research (POA-R) teaching approach on academic English courses. The six-week study involved thirty-nine postgraduate students from Guilin Medical University studying medical technology. These students were randomly divided into POA-R (19 participants) and non-POA-R (20 participants) groups. The process of study in the POA-R group was divided into three stages, motivating, enabling, and assisting. The instructor gave the class a task at the motivational stage that involved taking the academic IELTS exam, writing a review article and giving an oral presentation about their research topic. At this stage, students are challenged to find relevant information searching PubMed and other literature databases. The teacher served as a facilitator of learning and would not offer information related to the tasks. During the enabling phase, students were encouraged to ask their supervisor for help and guidance. Students ask questions in class, and the instructor discusses the questions with the students and guides them to solve the questions independently. During the assessment stage, students take the academic IELTS exam, finish the review article, given an oral presentation related their research project, and complete an instructional questionnaire. The non-POA-R group was instructed by the teacher lecture method, comprising six lectures and an oral presentation in addition to the completion of a review article. The final grades of course include a review article, an oral presentation, and an academic IELTS test. The results revealed that the students in the POA-R group outperformed the non-POA-R group in terms of mean scores on the IELTS exam, oral presentation, and review article. To further support and demonstrate the advantages of the POA-R teaching approach, an instructional questionnaire using Likert scales and the attitudes of their supervisors was employed. In conclusion, the POA-R teaching approach is a highly successful strategy for enhancing postgraduate students' academic English proficiency. It greatly enhanced the participants' academic knowledge, learning interest, and active learning.

The Effects of Chromebook Use on Student Engagement

This action research project is intended to determine the effects of Chromebook technology on student engagement in the secondary classroom. The study involved a classroom of first-year students enrolled in a health course. These students used Chromebooks for the first time as part of the one-to-one (1:1) initiative. Chromebooks were utilized as a part of the curriculum, incorporating daily lessons, teaching tools, applications, and various activities for student learning. Data collection methods included observations, teacher journals, and field notes. On-task and off-task behaviors were noted, and the results of the data analysis showed the level of engagement involved when using Chromebooks in the classroom. Levels of engagement were explored through a six-week study in a 9th-grade classroom comprised of 28 students using Chromebook one-to-one. Engagement included focus, interest, participation in the lesson and activity, and positive social interactions between the teacher and classmates. This action research investigation indicated that incorporating Chromebook technology into lessons effectively increased student engagement and motivation.

Developing Chinese Prospective EFL Teachers' NCA: A Qualitative Approach

Improving the Native Cultural Awareness (NCA) of EFL teachers is one of the important challenges facing higher education institutions in China. To give insights in this problem, based on the Intercultural Communication Competence (ICC) theory, this study investigated and analyzed how to develop prospective English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers' NCA. Specifically, this paper recruited 70 Prospective EFL teachers from a university in China to conduct a six-week qualitative study. Non-numerical data related to semi-structured interviews and topic writing were collected and qualitatively analyzed using the qualitative analysis software NVivo. The results show that “Native Cultural Sensitivity” and “Key Native Cultural Awareness” play an important role in prospective EFL teachers' NCA. This paper uncovers specific changes in cultural critical awareness due to the training, providing valuable guidance for enhancing the cultural critical competence of prospective EFL teachers. Moreover, this paper also provides crucial insights for fostering a more sensitive understanding and response to native culture among prospective EFL teachers.

Impact of ImarsilTM Adsorption on Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) Levels in Cow's Milk: Analyzing Hematological Parameters and Histopathological Alterations

The efficacy of ImarsilTM in mitigating the effects of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in cow's milk on hematological and histopathological parameters was investigated in this study. Seventy-two albino rats were randomly allocated to four treatment groups A - D in a six-week study. Rats in all groups were fed standard ration. In addition, 2 mL of clean distilled water, 2 mL of milk, 2 mL of AFM1 contaminated milk (456 ng/L), and 2 mL of AFM1 contaminated milk (456 ng/L) treated with ImarsilTM at 2% dosage rate were added to the ration of animals in groups A, B, C, and D respectively. The results of the investigation showed that rats in Group C developed a significant (p<0.05) lower weight. Packed Cell Volume (%), Hemoglobin (g/dL), Red Blood Cell (106/mm3), Mean Corpuscular Volume (fL), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (pg), and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (g/dL) were not significantly different (p>0.05) among the different groups. In group C, a significant reduction (p<0.05) occurred in the white blood cell (103/mm3) (12.90 - 8.63), and lymphocytes (87.00 - 74.33%) counts while the neutrophils (%) increased from 13.00 to 25.67. In contrast to those in Group C, tissue sections from Group D showed no histological lesions. Therefore, ImarsilTM represents an effective and safe adsorbent for the remediation of AFM1-contaminated milk.

Class participation points and postgraduate business students’ engagement: the case of a UK university

ABSTRACT This article seeks to demonstrate how class participation points enhance students’ engagement in response to the increasing quest for pedagogic practices to enhance engagement. This investigation is based on a six-week field study of three tutorial classes of postgraduate business management students and six semi-structured interviews with two students from each tutorial class in a UK university. The findings suggest that class participation points are useful for enhancing student engagement. Additionally, the study uncovers the role of inclusive learning strategies and autonomous support in complementing class participation points for enhancing students’ behavioural, cognitive, and emotional engagement. In particular, while the methods of class participation points, inclusive learning strategies, and autonomous support facilitate students’ behavioural and cognitive engagement, a supportive climate is considered to enhance students’ emotional engagement. The study also identifies other relevant stakeholders who can work with lecturers to facilitate engagement rather than operating in silos.

Sleep, alcohol, and caffeine in financial traders.

Alcohol and caffeine are two of the most commonly used substances for altering human consciousness. While their adverse effects on sleep have been separately examined in the laboratory and epidemiological levels, how they impact real-world night-to-night sleep, in isolation or together, remains unclear. This is especially true in occupations wherein the use of alcohol and caffeine is high (e.g., financial services sector). Using a six-week micro-longitudinal study, here we examined the real-world impact of alcohol, caffeine, and their combined consumption in a cohort of financial traders. We demonstrate that alcohol consumption significantly degrades the subjective quality of sleep (p < 0.001). Caffeine consumption led to a different phenotype of sleep impairment, resulting in a detrimental reduction in sleep quantity (p = 0.019), rather than a marked alteration in sleep quality. Contrary to our hypothesis, when consumed in combination, evening alcohol consumption interacted with ongoing caffeine consumption such that alcohol partially mitigated the impairments in sleep quantity associated with caffeine (p = 0.032). This finding suggests the sedating effects of alcohol and the psychoactive stimulant effects of caffeine obscure each other's impact on sleep quantity and sleep quality, respectively-potentially explaining their interdependent use in this cohort (i.e., "self-medication" of evening sedation with alcohol to combat the prior daytime ingestion of caffeine and vice versa). More generally, these results contribute to a unique understanding of the singular and combinatory impacts of two of the most commonly used substances for augmenting human consciousness under free-living, real-world conditions, the performance-impairing (and thus economic-cost) consequences of which may be important to the business sector and the society.

The effect of Tecar therapy on neurological disorders and nerve conduction velocity of lower limbs in peripheral neuropathy of type 2 diabetic patients: A six-week follow-up study.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Tecar therapy on neuropathy symptoms and tibial nerve conduction velocity in individuals with diabetes. The single-blind, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial was conducted between January 2019 and October 2019. Twenty-four type 2 diabetics (8 males, 16 females; mean age: 60.4±8.9 years; range, 40 to 78 years) with peripheral neuropathy were randomly allocated to control (n=12) and study (n=12) groups. The study group received the capacitive Tecar therapy with 10 to 30% intensity and infrared radiation in 10 sessions. The controls received the same protocol with zero intensity. The neuropathy symptoms and nerve conduction velocity were evaluated at baseline, after 10 sessions, and six weeks after the end of sessions. There were no significant differences in variables (p>0.05). In this way, the homogeneity of the data variables was confirmed. Moreover, the results of two-way mixed analysis of variance showed that improvement of neuropathy symptoms in the study group was significantly more than controls in all stages (p<0.001). After 10 sessions, the results of post hoc analysis showed that the neuropathy symptoms and tibial nerve conduction velocity were significantly improved in both groups (p<0.05). However, there was no change in these outcomes after six weeks in the control group (p>0.05). Tecar therapy could improve neuropathy symptoms and tibial nerve conduction velocity in diabetic individuals with peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, the use of this method to control the symptoms of diabetic patients can be recommended.