Slight Weight Research Articles

Workout Logging Through an mHealth App for Weight Reduction Among Different Generations: Secondary Analysis of the MED PSU×ThaiSook Healthier Challenge.

Being overweight or obese presents a major risk factor for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders. These problems are preventable and solvable via weight reduction and increased physical activity and exercise. The number of adults who are overweight or affected by obesity has tripled in the last 4 decades. Using mobile health (mHealth) apps can help users with health issues, including reducing their weight by restricting their daily calorie intake, which can be recorded along with other parameters, such as physical activity and exercise. These features could further enhance health and prevent NCDs. ThaiSook, a ThaimHealth app developed by the National Science and Technology Development Agency, aims to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce the risk behaviors of NCDs. This study aimed to determine whetherThaiSookusers were successful in 1-month weight reduction and identify which demographic factors or logging functions were associated with significant weight reduction. A secondary data analysis was performed using data collected from the "MEDPSU×ThaiSook Healthier Challenge," a month-long challenge to encourage a healthy lifestyle. We enrolled 376 participants to evaluate the study outcomes. The variables, comprising demographic characteristics (ie, sex, generation, group size, and BMI), were classified into 4 groups: normal (18.5-22.9 kg/m2), overweight (23-24.9 kg/m2), obese I (25-29.9 kg/m2), and obese II (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Logging functions (ie, water, fruit and vegetables, sleep, workout, step, and run) were classified into 2 groups: consistent (≥80%) and inconsistent (<80%) users. Weight reduction was categorized into 3 groups: no weight reduction, slight weight reduction (0%-3%), and significant weight reduction (>3%). Of 376 participants, most were female (n=346, 92%), had normal BMI (n=178, 47.3%), belonged to Generation Y (n=147, 46.7%), and had a medium group size (6-10 members; n=250, 66.5%). The results showed that 56 (14.9%) participants had 1-month significant weight loss, and the median weight reduction of the group was -3.85% (IQR -3.40% to -4.50%). Most participants (264/376, 70.2%) experienced weight loss, with an overall median weight loss of -1.08% (IQR -2.40% to 0.00%). The factors associated with significant weight reduction were consistently logging workouts (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.69, 95% CI 1.07-2.68), being Generation Z (AOR 3.06, 95% CI 1.01-9.33), and being overweight or being obese compared to those with normal BMI (AOR 2.66, 95% CI 1.41-5.07; AOR 1.76, 95% CI 1.08-2.87, respectively). More than half of the "MEDPSU×ThaiSook Healthier Challenge" participants achieved a slight weight reduction, and 14.9% (56/376) of users lost significant weight. Factors including workout logging, being Generation Z, being overweight, and being obese were associated with significant weight reduction.

Corrosion characteristics of monolithic SiC materials in beryllium-bearing molten fluoride salt

Chemical vapor deposited SiC single crystal and polycrystals were exposed to a static beryllium-bearing molten fluoride salt, 2LiF–BeF2 for 500 and 1000 h at 750 °C. Overall, the single crystal and polycrystalline SiC materials experienced slight weight loss and nominal surface etching regardless of the material type. Localized pitting and nonuniform Si removal from surface regions were associated with trace metal impurities and oxygen. Cross-sectional observation revealed minimal subsurface changes in the microstructure. The corrosion damage processes were similar to those reported for molten LiF–KF–NaF salt with trace impurities, indicating that the impurities significantly affect SiC corrosion.

Improving the properties of nickel/graphene oxide coated copper plate by changing the electroplating process conditions

One of the attractive ways to improve the mechanical properties and prevent damage to the surface of the copper plate is to create a nickel/graphene coating on it. In this work, the effect of bath type and process conditions on mechanical and wettability properties of nickel/graphene oxide coated copper plate via electroplating, has been investigated. Ultrasonic stirring of the bath with a power of 200 W increased the hardness of the coating to 747 Vickers and the wetting angle with molten steel to 125° by uniformly distributing the graphene oxide layers among the nickel grains and preventing the growth of the grains. By using a chloride bath instead of a Watts bath, due to the adhesion and delamination mechanism, a slight weight loss occurred in the pin-on-disk wear test. The coating obtained by electroplating in a chloride bath containing 20 cc of colloidal graphene oxide had a structure with a thickness of 12–15 μm consisting of large and compact masses of cauliflower with a uniform distribution of graphene layers. This sample shown a contact angle of 130° with the surface tension of 25 × 10−6 N/m to the aluminum melt drop and a 135° and 120 × 10−6 N/m to the steel melt drop.

P401 A CASE OF CORTICO–DEPENDENT AND COLCHICINE–RESISTANT RECURRENT IDIOPATHIC PERICARDITIS: THE ROLE OF ANAKINRA

Abstract 68–year–old female. Arterial hypertension. Diabetes. Hyperthyroidism. History of Polyserositis: 2019 massive right pleural effusion subjected to 2 thoracentesis a few days apart. Also finding of ascitic effusion. Negative etiological investigations On 3/2022 Admission to Cardiology for dyspnea and finding of pericardial effusion. CRP 10.55. On CT chest and abdomen significant pericardial effusion, mild bilateral pleural and peritoneal effusion with liver congestion. Pericardiocentesis was performed due to the absence of improvement in the pericardial effusion and persistence of sinus tachycardia despite therapy (ASA 750 mg x 3 + colchicine). Procedure complicated by Tako Tsubo syndrome. Intra–hospitalization recurrence of pericardial effusion despite NSAID therapy. Prednisone 25 mg per day was associated to therapy on board with improvement of pericardial effusion (maximum of 8 mm). At discharge WBC: 10.8, CRP: 2 (NV &amp;lt; 0.5 mg/dl) 04/26/22 CRP 0.73. Pericardial effusion Resolution. Cortisone tapering continued. 5/24/2022 Dyspnea and tachycardia with recurrence of significant pericardial effusion. Diagnosis of recurrent cortico–dependent and colchicine–resistant idiopathic pericarditis. New Hospitalization. Reverted to prednisone 25 mg (previous effective dose) with no effusion reduction. Anakinra introduction. At discharge: WBC 9500, CRP 0.6. Echo: maximum pericardial effusion of 20 mm. 6/10 Boosted for 3 days prednisone (50 mg/day), reduced ASA to 250 mg x 3 6/17 WBC 11.2; PCR 0.63. echo: pericardial effusion persistence max about 2.5 cm. No signs of cardiac tamponade. Boosting prednisone for a few days is ineffective. 6/24 stop ASA 6/20 stable. Start corticosteroid tapering. 7/20 asymptomatic, stable effusion. CRP 0.87. taperig prednisone again, stop colchicine. 8/18/22 Eco: slight effusion reduction. Stable CRP. Slight weight gain and slight increase in blood pressure probably caused by cortisone intake. –&amp;gt; prednisone reduction. 9/18 stop prednisone 10/18/2022 WBC 8.12 CRP 0.23; +2kg since last visit in August. Perimalleolar succulence. Eco: Stable effusion 2cm max. furosemide 25 mg 1 cp is added in the morning. 06/12/2022 WBC 7.5; CRP 0.52 Eco: stable effusion. Anakinra is reduced to 6 administrations per week. Conclusions Anakinra proved to be valid in stabilizing the pericardial effusion allowing to suspend corticosteroids, colchicine and ASA.

Study of the kinetics of the process of intramolecular moisture removal from wheat grain by DSC thermal analysis

The article presents the results of a DSC study of the kinetics of the process of removing intramolecular moisture from wheat grains. For the experiments, four samples of wheat of the 3rd class of the 2021 harvest diff ering in technological indicators, including the “Mass of 1,000 grains” indicator, were selected. The studies were carried out on a DSC 204 F1 Phoenix diff erential scanning calorimeter. The data on the change in the mass of wheat samples when they are heated to critical temperatures of +200 and 250 °С are presented. It has been shown that a slight weight loss at 200 °С generally corresponds to a larger weight loss at 250 °С. This led to the assumption that the degree of intramolecular water retention depends on the individual characteristics of the variety. The kinetics of the process of dehumidifi cation of four samples of wheat, determined by the method of diff erential scanning calorimetry, is presented.

Forage Supplementation Feeding of Lactating Merino Ewes in Dry Season at the Foothills Agro-ecological Zone in Lesotho

A farmer-participatory research, which lasted for seven weeks, was carried out at Machache, in the Foothills Agro-Ecological Zone of Lesotho to examine the effect of forage based diets supplementary feeding on the performance response and milk quality of lactating ewes during dry lambing season. A total of 270 lactating merino ewes were randomly distributed among four dietary treatments: basal diet (T1) which was the range land pasture used as control, cereal forage based diet (T2), leguminous forage based diet (T3) and mixed forage based diet (T4). The feed value of the supplementary diets T2 (4.70% CP and 9.94MJ/kg ME), T3 (12.31% CP and 10.27 MJ/kg ME), T4 (11.90% CP and 10.47 MJ/kg ME)] was superior to that of the range land pasture T1 (2.80% CP and 8.61MJ/kg ME). Ewes on forage supplemented diets performed significantly (P&lt;0.05) better than the control group in feed intake, live body weight and live weight change. The milk quality evaluation showed that solids-non-fat (SNF), protein and lactose were highly significant (P&lt;0.05) for T3 and T4 than T1 and T2 which had high milk fat. The study revealed that diets T1 and T2 lacked the nutritional capacity to meet the nutrient requirements of lactating ewes as evidenced by slight body weight improvement. It is concluded that supplementary diets T3 (leguminous forage based diet) and T4 (mixed forage based diet) contained adequate nutrients that can meet the requirement of lactating ewes during dry lambing season. This was verified by high voluntary feed intake and good nutrients utilization as resulted by improving of body weight and high milk quality response of lactating ewes.

Pyrolysis behavior of the nanoporous phenolic matrix and the resultant microstructure and property evolution in the composites

Phenolic pyrolysis greatly affects the thermal protection performance and structural strength of phenolic ablatives, but understanding the complex process remains a challenge. In this study, fast pyrolysis in a specially designed fixed reactor and an in situ TG-FTIR-MS experiment are proposed to elucidate the pyrolysis behavior of a nanoporous phenolic matrix (NPM). Furthermore, the resultant evolution of microstructures and properties in composites are illustrated. The fast pyrolysis experiments show that H2, CH4 and CO are the main components of the gas phase, while aromatic compounds are the main components of the condensed liquid phase. The analysis of in situ TG-FTIR-MS experiments reveals the slight weight loss of NPM at low temperature is mainly due to the escape of H2O and CO2, while the main weight loss of NPM at high temperature is caused by the escape of aromatic compounds. Moreover, the corresponding variations in the mechanical and thermal insulative performances of nanoporous phenolic composites (NPCs) are analyzed. This work would promote the development and application of porous phenolic composites in thermal protection system fields.

Assessment of anthropometric and hemodynamic parameters in young people in the cardiovascular system adaptation ability

The index of functional Changes (IFС) is a complex indicator based on the relationship between the heart rate of decrease and the associated risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies, as well as to study the state of vascular contractions, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, age, body weight and height. [2] The aim of the study is to compare the mechanisms of adaptation of the diseases of the cardiovascular system (CVS) in young men and women in the Russian Federation, to identify the main risk factors of the wall in young people depending on the functional reserves of the CVS. Materials and methods: The study includes 91 students aged 17 to 25 years. Heart rate (HR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), height, body weight, waist and hip circumference were measured noninvasively in all participants. The ratio of waist and hip circumferences (RW/RH), body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The main tool in the study of vascular wall stiffness was photoplethysmography. As a result of the research, an unequal distribution of IFC indicators between men and women was revealed. There were more women with a satisfactory level of adaptation, and men with the same level of IFC, therefore, less. These data indicate that men are most often at risk of developing CVS. The differences in the average values of the Kerdo index (IK). between men and women are statistically insignificant. Young people with a slight weight deficit and normal body weight have a greater potential for adaptation than people with excess body weight and obesity. According to photoplethysmography, the indicators of stiffness of vascular wall (VW) and the velocity of the pulse wave propagation through the vessels (VPWP) in young people with different adaptive reserves did not differ significantly.

Maternal Energy Depletion Is Buffered among Malnourished Women in Punjab, Pakistan ,

Women's nutritional status is believed to deteriorate with increasing reproductive stress (so-called maternal depletion). To evaluate this phenomenon, a new theoretical framework has been suggested that incorporates the concepts of a full reproductive cycle, relative lengths of potential depletion and repletion phases, and initial plane of nutrition. We developed the corresponding statistical model and tested predictions provided by the framework about the effect of reproductive pattern on maternal overall weight change (deltaW) during one reproductive cycle. Seventy-six Pakistani women were classified as well-nourished, marginally nourished or malnourished. The relationship between deltaW and length of all phases of the reproductive cycle, each of which is characterized by varying degrees of reproductive stress, was evaluated with multiple regression analysis. Across the reproductive cycle, well-nourished women had a slight weight increase. Surprisingly, malnourished women gained weight in contrast to marginally nourished women. Also surprisingly, for the latter two groups, periods of moderate reproductive stress were associated with weight loss but periods of high reproductive stress were associated with weight gain. Mechanisms such as efficiency and nutrient partitioning are discussed.

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: A Vicious Cycle?

CASE REPORT Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a rare syndrome where the third part of the duodenum is compressed between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery (SMA).1 The loss of the intervening mesenteric fat pad causes the aortomesenteric angle to decrease from its normal value of 38°–65° to less than 25°, decreasing the aortomesenteric distance to less than 10 mm and causing duodenal compression. Its incidence in the general population is between 0.1% and 0.3% with a female predominance.2 A 22-year-old woman presented to the emergency department of our hospital with complaints of vomiting and a marked decrease in appetite for the past 4 months. The vomiting was nonbilious and nonprojectile and would only occur postprandially. She also reported past episodes of watery diarrhea associated with anorexia and experienced intermittent episodes of fever, documented at 101°F–102°F. Since the start of her symptoms, she had lost 27 kg. An upper abdominal computed tomography scan in both plain and contrast films revealed significant gastric distention, distention of the duodenum up to the second and third parts, and a relatively collapsed small bowel distal to the presumed crossing of SMA (Figure 1). The computed tomography scan displayed downward inclination of SMA and significant compression of the left renal vein between the abdominal aorta and SMA, confirming the existence of left renal vein entrapment syndrome in our case (Figure 2). In addition, there was a reduced aortomesenteric angle of 11.8°, and a distance of 8 mm was observed (Figure 3). In lieu of the above findings, SMAS was suspected. The patient initially received conservative treatment and was started on nasogastric feeding tube. Owing to intolerance, a total parenteral nutrition regimen was used to stabilize the patient's weight. Only 2 kg were gained by the patient over the course of 4 weeks. Her symptoms continued to worsen despite her slight weight gain. Having failed to achieve a satisfactory outcome with conservative management, an exploratory laparotomy was performed. The peritoneal cavity was exposed through a midline skin incision. There was gross distention of the second part of the duodenum, and the third part of the duodenum was compressed. Owing to grossly dilated duodenum, the decision was taken to perform gastrojejunostomy instead of duodenojejunostomy. Stapled posterior gastrojejunostomy was performed to bypass the compressed duodenum, and an anastomosis was made between the stomach and the proximal loop of the jejunum (Figure 4). The intraperitoneal drain was kept in place. An uneventful recovery followed the patient's extubation.Figure 1.: Computed tomography scan showing compression of the third part of the duodenum. Arrow is pointing toward the compressed duodenum.Figure 2.: Computed tomography scan showing compression of the left renal vein. Arrow is pointing towards the compressed left renal vein.Figure 3.: Computed tomography scan showing compression of the third part of the duodenum. Angle denoting a reduced aortomesenteric angle value of 11° (normally>38°).Figure 4.: Computed tomography scan after gastrojejunostomy displaying the anastomosis made between the stomach and the proximal loop of the jejunum. Arrow pointing towards the anastomotic site.This case report presents an early preoperative diagnosis of a rare disease entity based on its radiological presentations. When women with a low body mass index present with chronic, refractory symptoms of the upper digestive system, SMAS should be suspected. It can also often be confused with other etiologies of mega duodenum such as diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, amyloidosis, myotonic dystrophy, scleroderma, and chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. This necessitates the need of a multidisciplinary approach based on symptoms to diagnose SMAS by clinicians. DISCLOSURES Author contributions: A. Jawed collected patient information and followed up after discharge and wrote the manuscript. A. Jawed wrote the manuscript. ME Anis identified the case and treated the patient, revised the manuscript, and is the article guarantor. MA Qadeer and Z. Abbas revised the manuscript. Financial disclosure: None to report. Informed consent was obtained for this case report.

Editors' Note: Association of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Fibrosis With Incident Dementia and Cognition: The Rotterdam Study.

Dr. Xiao et al. investigated the association of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and fibrosis with incident dementia and cognition among participants in the Rotterdam Study, a prospective cohort study that included 3,975 patients with available fatty liver index (FLI), 4,577 patients with abdominal ultrasound, and 3,300 patients with liver stiffness assessments. NAFLD was defined as FLI ≥60 or steatosis on ultrasound and fibrosis as liver stiffness ≥8.0 kPa. Over 5 or more years of follow-up, NAFLD and liver fibrosis were not associated with an increased risk of incident dementia, and NAFLD was not associated with impaired cognitive function. Of interesting, NAFLD diagnosis was associated with a significantly decreased risk of incident dementia in the first 5 years of follow-up after FLI assessment. In response, Dr. Gupta notes the current lack of a biological model for linking NAFLD to protection from dementia, seeks evidence for weight loss–induced NAFLD regression, and wonders what phenomena might be occurring in these patients before vs after 5 years of follow-up to explain the study observations. Responding to these comments, the authors note that weight loss is the hallmark of NAFLD regressions, citing studies where regressions occurred even with slight weight reductions. They also note the interesting observation in several dementia cohorts (including theirs) of weight loss occurring in the years before dementia onset. By excluding the initial years of follow-up to address confounding by these intertwined mechanisms of weight loss and dementia, they note that the apparent beneficial effect of NAFLD disappeared. They posit that the presence of NAFLD may simply reflect the absence of weight loss rather than any true protective effect against dementia, but note the need for further studies to clarify these questions. This correspondence highlights the challenges of disentangling the complex interplay between weight loss and the natural history of NAFLD and dementia. Dr. Xiao et al. investigated the association of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and fibrosis with incident dementia and cognition among participants in the Rotterdam Study, a prospective cohort study that included 3,975 patients with available fatty liver index (FLI), 4,577 patients with abdominal ultrasound, and 3,300 patients with liver stiffness assessments. NAFLD was defined as FLI ≥60 or steatosis on ultrasound and fibrosis as liver stiffness ≥8.0 kPa. Over 5 or more years of follow-up, NAFLD and liver fibrosis were not associated with an increased risk of incident dementia, and NAFLD was not associated with impaired cognitive function. Of interesting, NAFLD diagnosis was associated with a significantly decreased risk of incident dementia in the first 5 years of follow-up after FLI assessment. In response, Dr. Gupta notes the current lack of a biological model for linking NAFLD to protection from dementia, seeks evidence for weight loss–induced NAFLD regression, and wonders what phenomena might be occurring in these patients before vs after 5 years of follow-up to explain the study observations. Responding to these comments, the authors note that weight loss is the hallmark of NAFLD regressions, citing studies where regressions occurred even with slight weight reductions. They also note the interesting observation in several dementia cohorts (including theirs) of weight loss occurring in the years before dementia onset. By excluding the initial years of follow-up to address confounding by these intertwined mechanisms of weight loss and dementia, they note that the apparent beneficial effect of NAFLD disappeared. They posit that the presence of NAFLD may simply reflect the absence of weight loss rather than any true protective effect against dementia, but note the need for further studies to clarify these questions. This correspondence highlights the challenges of disentangling the complex interplay between weight loss and the natural history of NAFLD and dementia.

Chemical bath deposition synthesis of Dy2(CO3)3, and their evolution to Dy2O3 transition

Dy2(CO3)3 (dysprosium carbonate) nanocrystals, are successfully prepared at 60 °C, applying Chemical Bath Deposition technique. The powders are thermal annealing temperature (TAT) of 300 °C, 500 °C, 700 °C and 900 °C in air atmosphere. By XRD patterns, Dy2(CO3)3 where identified in the orthorhombic-phase. Structural evolution is observed for Dy2(CO3)3→Dy2O3 transition by correlating interplanar distance and grain size and Urbach energy tails, is applied to extract information on crystalline defects. The DSC experimental curve, shows a weight loss and a slight weight loss before ∼450 ◦C, indicating the absence of absorbed water or other polutants. The optical study in the %T, %R, Absorbance and d(D.O)/dE are investigated, the following optical responses are recorded: The non-hypersensitive 4F9/2→6H15/2 electronic intra-transitions (4fs→4fs) in Dy3+ cation being a magnetic dipole transition is insensitive to environment. Intense absorption band: 6H15/2, 6H11/2→6H9/2 is recorded at UV-region. Dy2O3(s) show absorption bands located at ∼457 nm (∼2.71 eV), assigned to Dy3+ cation of 4F9/2⟶6H15/2 electronic intra-transition. The dOD/dE vs. Energy (eV) spectra shows absorption bands situated at ∼324 nm (∼3.82 eV), ∼348 nm (∼3.56 eV), ∼363 nm (∼3.41 eV), ∼386 nm (∼3.21 eV) and ∼399 nm (∼3.10 eV) to 6H15/2→4M17/2, 6H15/2→6P7/2, 6H15/2→6P5/2, 6H15/2→4K17/2 to 4fs→4fs electronic intra-transitions of Dy3+ cation. The PL emission band located at UV-Vis region, are overlapped with the 4fs→4fs electronic intratransitions, typical of the Dy3+ cation, which are deconvoluted and associated with intrinsic crystalline defects.

Can domestic dogs be considered a good reservoir of Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi in an endemic area of nonulcerated cutaneous leishmaniasis in Southern Honduras?

Dogs are considered to be the main domestic reservoir associated with the transmission of Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi to humans in endemic areas of visceral leishmaniasis in America. However, little is known about the role of canines as a source of infection in endemic areas of nonulcerated cutaneous leishmaniasis (NUCL). Therefore, the objective of the present study was to investigate the role of dogs as a possible reservoir of the parasite in Southern Honduras. Dogs (n = 107) living with individuals affected by NUCL were clinically examined and biological material was collected for parasitological and immunological diagnosis. Most animals showed a healthy appearance and a few presented slight weight loss (64%), alopecia (7%), onychogryphosis (5%) and skin lesions (1%). The overall seroprevalence of Leishmania infection based on the DDP ® quick test and/or in-house ELISA serological test was 41%. The presence of the parasite's DNA was confirmed in 94% of the dogs; however, the average parasite load in the buffy coat was low at 6.09 parasites/µL, ranging between 0.221 and 50.2. The skin of seropositive dogs examined by histopathology using paraffin sections stained by hematoxylin and immunohistochemistry did not show cutaneous lesions or parasite amastigotes. Based on the absence of parasites in the skin and the low parasite load detected in the buffy coat, it seems that the dog does not represent a good source of infection for the vector in the endemic area of NUCL transmission in Southern Honduras. Other domestic and/or wild animals should be investigated.

Impact of Selected Processing Methods of High-Level Cyanide in Cassava on Optic Neuropathy in Wistar Albino Rats—An Experimental Study

Background: Cassava tuber crop is a staple food rich in carbohydrates and utilized in various forms by millions of Nigerians. The storage root of the cassava contains linamarin, a cyanogenic glycoside that is easily hydrolyzed to release cyanide salt compounds which is toxic to the nervous system especially the optic nerve, sometimes leading to optic neuropathy and visual impairment. Aim: The aim of this study is to find out the impact of selected processing methods of high-level cyanide in cassava on optic neuropathy in Wistar albino rats. Methodology: Twenty-four Wistar albino rats were fed with different concentration and duration of predetermined high-cyanide content cassava root cultivar which was processed using different processing methods adopted by various communities in Rivers State, Nigeria (for human consumption). A control group of 3 Wistar albino rats was fed with normal “Growth Mesh” meals. The pre and post weights of the animals and the fundoscopic optic nerve status of the rats were evaluated after 30 and 60 days. SPSS Version 25 was employed for descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The Cassava species available in Rivers State have high cyanide content (2336.79 mg CN-/kg dry weight of cassava). There was statistically significant reduction in the cyanide content (p = 0.000) depending on the various common processing methods (into garri for human consumption): 24 hours, 48 hours, fermentation; with and without red palm oil additive. The individual weights as well as the mean weight of the 24 rats in the experimental group increased gradually from the first week to the 9th week with a slight weight reduction on the third and fourth weeks which was not statistically significant (p = 0.092). However, there was a steady increase in the weights of the animals in the control group throughout the 9 weeks. Varying degrees of optic neuropathy occurred, worse with the rats that had 24-hour fermented cassava twice daily for 60 days. The intra and inter group differences in the optic disc changes was statistically significant (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Longer duration of processing cassava roots into garri for human consumption reduces its cyanide content and minimizes the adverse impact on the optic nerve.

Exploring women's preferences for attributes of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods: A discrete choice experiment

There is low LARC uptake in Nigeria and not much is documented about Nigerian women's preferences for these products and how these preferences affect women's choices. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide empirical evidence on the decision-making behavior of Nigerian women regarding LARCs. Three hypothetical LARCs were presented. Informed by results obtained from the review of relevant literature and focus group discussion held with selected family planning services providers, the identified attributes were effect on weight, cost, LARC effectiveness and effect on bleeding patterns, each at three levels. A d-optimal design was used to construct nine choice sets. An additional choice set was included to conduct the test-retest stability test. The choice sets and other socio-demographic questions formed the discrete choice experiment questionnaire. A random sample of 150 eligible women was selected from women who enrolled and attended family planning clinics in public healthcare facilities in Ibadan, Nigeria through a three-stage sampling technique. Mixed logit modeling was used to obtain estimates of the parameters and willingness to pay (WTP) for each attribute was calculated. The test-retest stability result showed that 76.7% of the respondents responded in a consistent and rational manner. The women preferred LARCs that have no effect on their weights compared to LARCs that cause either slight weight loss or gain. Also, they preferred LARCs that offer 1/1000 level of effectiveness in a year. The most preferred attribute level, ‘women experience infrequent bleeding’, increases WTP by NGN 13,984.584 (USD 33.68) while the least preferred level, ‘women experience frequent/prolonged bleeding’, has a negative mean WTP (-NGN 19,598.378 (-USD 47.20)) indicating dispreference for the level. Furthermore, women derived higher utilities from very cheap LARCs. Evidence-based information on women's preferences regarding LARC usage would help policymakers in the deployment of strategies that would ensure that preferred LARCs are procured and made readily available to women.

Performance of thin Vivacit-E hip liners: no relevant wear during ex vivo testing at high acetabular inclination angle

There is concern among clinicians regarding the performance of thin, highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular liners at high inclination angles that cause edge contact and high contact stresses. We studiedex vivowear performance of thin, vitamin-E grafted, highly cross-linked polyethylene (Vivacit-E) liners in relation to high acetabular inclination angle. Wear of Vivacit-E acetabular liners (thickness 4.0-5.7 mm) was studied with a validated hip joint simulator at 2 different acetabular inclination angles, 40° (optimal) and 65° (high). The test simulated walking. Wear was evaluated gravimetrically and dimensionally. At the optimal inclination angle, slight weight gain occurred. At the high angle, the liners lost weight slightly. Due to the minimal weight loss, gravimetric wear rates were difficult to determine. Linear wear was below the detection limit of 0.01 mm. Even with the high acetabular inclination angle, the prostheses performed well in the present test conditions. The wear rates of the liners were estimated to be clearly below the osteolysis threshold of 0.05 mm/year, below which osteolysis is absent. Since the present hip joint simulator has been shown to produce clinically relevant wear, theseex vivoresults are likely to reflect thein vivobehavior of the design.

Ramadan fasting and weight change trajectories: Time-varying association of weight during and after Ramadan in low-income and refugee populations.

Obesity is a significant driver of the global burden of non-communicable diseases. Fasting is one approach that has been shown to improve health outcomes. However, the effects of Ramadan fasting differ in that the type, frequency, quantity, and time of food consumption vary. This phenomenon requires in-depth evaluation considering that 90% of Muslims (~2 billion people) fast during Ramadan. To address this issue, we evaluated the pattern of weight change during and following Ramadan for a total of 52 weeks. The study was conducted in Amman, Jordan. Between 2012 and 2015, 913 participants were recruited as part of a trial investigating the efficacy of a weight loss intervention among those with or at risk for diabetes. Weight was measured weekly starting at the beginning of Ramadan, and changes were analyzed using discrete and spline models adjusted for age, sex, and trial group. Results show slight weight gain within the first two weeks and weight loss in the subsequent weeks. During the first week of Ramadan, the estimate for a weight reduction was 0·427 kg, (95% CI: -0·007, 0·861), increasing to 1·567 kg, (95% CI: 2·547, 3·527) at week 26. There was clear evidence of gradual weight gain from about 4 to 15 weeks and a drop towards the end of the investigation at week 28 (-0·12kg, 95% CI: -0·89, 0·56). Our results show that weight changes occurred during and after Ramadan. Weight fluctuations may affect health risks, and thus, findings from this study can inform interventions. Public health agencies could leverage this period of dietary change to sustain some of the benefits of fasting. The authors (DEZ, EFD) acknowledge the Mulago Foundation, the Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the World Diabetes Foundation. TRIAL REGISTRATION. Clinicaltrials.gov registry identifier: NCT01596244.

Insights into the degradation of microplastics by Fenton oxidation: From surface modification to mineralization

This work aims at evaluating the fate of microplastics (MPs) along Fenton oxidation. For such goal, realistic MPs (150–250 μm) of five representative polymer types (PET, PE, PVC, PP and EPS) were obtained from commercial plastic products by cryogenic milling. Experiments (7.5 h) were performed under relatively severe operating conditions: T = 80 °C; pH0 = 3; [H2O2]0 = 1000 mgL−1 (15 doses, 1 every 0.5 h); [Fe3+]0 = 10 mgL−1 (5 doses, 1 every 1.5 h). Slight MPs weight losses (∼10%) were achieved after Fenton oxidation regardless the MP nature. Nevertheless, oxidation yield clearly increased with decreasing the particle size given their higher exposed surface area (up to 20% weight loss with 20–50 μm EPS MPs). Clearly, MPs suffered important changes in their surface due to the introduction of oxygenated groups, which made them more acidic and hydrophilic. Furthermore, MPs progressively reduced their size. In fact, they can be completely oxidized to CO2, as demonstrated in the oxidation of PS nanoplastics (140 nm), where 70% mineralization was achieved. The nature of the plastic particles had a relevant impact on its overall oxidation, being more prone to be oxidized those polymers which contain aromatic rings in their structures (EPS and PET) compared to those formed by alkane chains (PE, PP and PVC). In the latter, the presence of substituents also reduced their oxidation potential. Remarkably, possible leachates released along reaction were more quickly oxidized than the MPs/NPs, so it can be assumed that these dissolved compounds would be completely removed once the solid particles are eliminated. Notably, the leachates obtained upon MPs oxidation were more biodegradable than the released from the fresh solids. All this knowledge is crucial for the understanding of MPs oxidation by the Fenton process and opens the door for the design and optimization of this technology either for water treatment or for analytical purposes (MPs isolation).

Retention, Fasting Patterns, and Weight Loss With an Intermittent Fasting App: Large-Scale, 52-Week Observational Study

BackgroundIntermittent fasting (IF) is an increasingly popular approach to dietary control that focuses on the timing of eating rather than the quantity and content of caloric intake. IF practitioners typically seek to improve their weight and other health factors. Millions of practitioners have turned to purpose-built mobile apps to help them track and adhere to their fasts and monitor changes in their weight and other biometrics.ObjectiveThis study aimed to quantify user retention, fasting patterns, and weight loss by users of 2 IF mobile apps. We also sought to describe and model starting BMI, amount of fasting, frequency of weight tracking, and other demographics as correlates of retention and weight change.MethodsWe assembled height, weight, fasting, and demographic data of adult users (ages 18-100 years) of the LIFE Fasting Tracker and LIFE Extend apps from 2018 to 2020. Retention for up to 52 weeks was quantified based on recorded fasts and correlated with user demographics. Users who provided height and at least 2 readings of weight and whose first fast and weight records were contemporaneous were included in the weight loss analysis. Fasting was quantified as extended fasting hours (EFH; hours beyond 12 in a fast) averaged per day (EFH per day). Retention was modeled using a Cox proportional hazards regression. Weight loss was analyzed using linear regression.ResultsA total of 792,692 users were followed for retention based on 26 million recorded fasts. Of these, 132,775 (16.7%) users were retained at 13 weeks, 54,881 (6.9%) at 26 weeks, and 16,478 (2.1%) at 52 weeks, allowing 4 consecutive weeks of inactivity. The survival analysis using Cox regression indicated that retention was positively associated with age and exercise and negatively associated with stress and smoking. Weight loss in the qualifying cohort (n=161,346) was strongly correlated with starting BMI and EFH per day, which displayed a positive interaction. Users with a BMI ≥40 kg/m2 lost 13.9% of their starting weight by 52 weeks versus a slight weight gain on average for users with starting BMI <23 kg/m2. EFH per day was an approximately linear predictor of weight loss. By week 26, users lost over 1% of their starting weight per EFH per day on average. The regression analysis using all variables was highly predictive of weight change at 26 weeks (R2=0.334) with starting BMI and EFH per day as the most significant predictors.ConclusionsIF with LIFE mobile apps appears to be a sustainable approach to weight reduction in the overweight and obese population. Healthy weight and underweight individuals do not lose much weight on average, even with extensive fasting. Users who are obese lose substantial weight over time, with more weight loss in those who fast more.

DEVELOPMENT AND RESEARCH OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS WITH DACARBAZINE OF MEDICAL USING BASED ON POLYURETHANE FOAM UREAS

Developed a new composite material with Dacarbazine based on polyurethane foam (PPUS) The content of the drug substance Dacarbazine (DAC) in the composition was 0.5 wt. % and 1.0 wt.%. PPUS was obtained on the basis of a mixture of oligourethane diisocyanates (OUDIC) synthesized on the basis of 2,4-;2,6-toluene diisocyanate and polyoxypropylene glycols (POPG) MM 1002 and MM 2002 in a ratio of 1:1. Comparative physical and mechanical tests were performed. According to the obtained results, PPUS with DAC in the amount of 1 wt.% have physical and mechanical parameters (σ = 7.8, MPa, ε = 100% and σadhesion = 4.5 MPa), that will meet the requirements for replacement implants for ophthalmology. According to the results of IR spectroscopy, the possibility of chemical immobilization of Dacarbazine on the selected polymeric carrier was established. The thermophysical properties of the synthesized PPUS with Dacarbazine by DSC and TGA methods were studied. It was found that the glass transition temperature (Tg) is practically independent of the content of DAC. Tg PPUS with 0.5 wt.% DAC - (minus) 49.70 °C, Tg PPUS with 1.0 wt.% DAC - (minus) 50.09 °C. According to TGA, the obtained materials are characterized by the same heat resistance characteristics and practically do not depend on the content of DAC. The onset temperature of thermal decomposition (To) is in the range (290,96–298,61) °C and is accompanied by a slight weight loss (0.02–0.04 %). The temperature of maximum decomposition rate (Tmax ) is in the range (331.93–333.95) °C. According to the results of the dynamics of Dacarbazine release study from PPUS samples with a DAC content in the composition of 0.5 and 1.0 wt. % found that the composition of PPUS with a content of DAC 1 wt. % have a higher percentage of medicine, which on day 14 is ~ 64 %. The developed PPUS with Dacarbazine are promising materials for use as implants for ophthalmological surgery.