Group Sp Research Articles

The efficacy of sinus plication in aortic valvuloplasty for bicuspid aortic valve: experiments in a pulsatile flow simulation model.

Sinus plication has emerged as a promising tool that can lead to better stability in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) repair. However, the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of this technique are unclear. We evaluated the hydrodynamic effect of sinus plication using the experimental pulsatile flow simulator and our original BAV model in vitro. Based on the computed tomography data of a BAV patient who had undergone aortic valvuloplasty, a BAV model (group C, n = 6) was developed with bovine pericardium and vascular prosthesis (J-graft Shield Neo Valsalva 24 mm). We performed sinus plication (group SP, n = 6) in the BAV model and compared hydrodynamic data with the control model in the pulsatile flow simulator. Non-fused cusp angle, annulus diameter and effective height were measured by ultrasonography. The average flow was significantly increased in group SP compared to group C (4.24 ± 0.14 l/min vs 4.14 ± 0.15 l/min, respectively, P = 0.034). The mean transvalvular pressure gradient and regurgitant fraction were significantly decreased in group SP compared to group C (11.6 ± 4.3 mmHg vs 16.6 ± 5.0 mmHg, respectively, P = 0.009 and 14.1 ± 2.0% vs 17.4 ± 2.1%, respectively, P = 0.001). Ultrasound measurement indicated that non-fused cusp angle was significantly increased in group SP compared to group C (163.8° ± 9.2° vs 153.0° ± 4.6°, respectively, P = 0.012). Sinus plication in the BAV model significantly increased the commissural angle. It was effective in not only controlling regurgitation but also improving valve opening. These finding should be confirmed by evaluating cusp stress and/or long-term durability in the future studies.

Spirulina supplementation during gradual weight loss in competitive wrestlers.

We aimed to assess the effects of spirulina supplementation during gradual weight loss on serum concentrations of follistatin (FST), myostatin (MST), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and body composition in competitive wrestlers. Forty competitive wrestlers (age: 22 (sem 2) years) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: gradual weight loss + spirulina (SP; n 20) or gradual weight loss + placebo (PL; n 20). Subjects in both groups lost weight according to a designed diet over 12 d and were required to reduce baseline body mass (BM) by 4%. Subjects in the SP group received two tablets of spirulina, while subjects in the PL received two tablets of placebo before each meal. Concentrations of mentioned serum markers and body composition were measured before and after the interventions. BM (SP = -3·1 kg and PL = -2·9 kg), body fat percentage (BFP) (SP = -2·1 % and PL = -0·6 %), fat mass (FM) (SP = -2·2 kg and PL = -0·9 kg) and skeletal muscle mass (SP = -1·4 kg and PL = -1·5 kg) significantly decreased in both groups (P < 0·05). The changes in BFP and FM were significantly greater in SP compared with the PL group (P < 0·001). Additionally, MST (SP = -0·1 ng/ml), AST (SP = -2·1 u/l) and ALT (SP = -2·7 u/l) concentrations significantly diminished in SP group (P = 0·005), while FST (PL = -0·1 ng/ml) and IGF-1 (PL = -2·6 ng/ml) concentrations significantly decreased in PL group (P < 0·05). Spirulina supplementation during gradual weight loss is beneficial in reducing BFP, FM, MST and liver enzymes while maintaining IGF-1 and FST concentrations in competitive wrestlers.

Group constraint relations for five-point amplitudes in gauge theories with SO(N) and Sp(2N) groups

Linear constraint relations among loop-order five-point color-ordered amplitudes in SO(N) and Sp(2N) gauge theories are derived with the group-theoretic method. These constrains are derived up to four-loop order. It is found that in both theories, there are n=6,22,34,44,50 linear constraint relations at L=0,1,2,3,4 loop orders. Then the numbers of independent color-ordered five-point amplitudes under group-theoretic constraints are respectively nind.=6,12,22,34,50. We find that the number of independent color-ordered amplitudes begins to diverge from SU(N) at four-loop order. This provides an evidence on the argument that group-theoretic constraint relations depend on properties of group algebras. Some comments are given on future study along this direction.

Mid-term outcome of bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum after bisegmental transsacral stabilization versus spinopelvic fixation.

Minimally invasive fixation of pelvic fragility fractures is recommended to reduce pain and allow early mobilization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of two different stabilization techniques in bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum (BFFS). A non-randomized, prospective study was carried out in a level 1 trauma centre. BFFS in 61 patients (mean age 80 years (SD 10); four male, 57 female) were treated surgically with bisegmental transsacral stablization (BTS; n = 41) versus spinopelvic fixation (SP; n = 20). Postoperative full weightbearing was allowed. The outcome was evaluated at two timepoints: discharge from inpatient treatment (TP1; Fitbit tracking, Zebris stance analysis), and ≥ six months (TP2; Fitbit tracking, Zebris analysis, based on modified Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Majeed Score (MS), and the 12-Item Short Form Survey 12 (SF-12). Fracture healing was assessed by CT. The primary outcome parameter of functional recovery was the per-day step count; the secondary parameter was the subjective outcome assessed by questionnaires. Overall, no baseline differences were observed between the BTS and SP cohorts. In total, 58 (BTS = 19; SP = 39) and 37 patients (BTS = 14; SP = 23) could be recruited at TP1 and TP2, respectively. Mean steps per day at TP1 were median 308 (248 to 434) in the BTS group and 254 (196 to 446) in the SP group. At TP2, median steps per day were 3,759 (2,551 to 3,926) in the BTS group and 3,191 (2,872 to 3,679) in the SP group, each with no significant difference. A significant improvement was observed in each group (p < 0.001) between timepoints. BTS patients obtained better results than SP patients in ODI (p < 0.030), MS (p = 0.007), and SF-12 physical status (p = 0.006). In all cases, CT showed sufficient fracture healing of the posterior ring. Both groups showed significant outcome improvement and sufficient fracture healing. Both techniques can be recommended for BFFS, although BTS was superior with respect to subjective outcome. Step-count tracking represents a reliable method to evaluate the mobility level. Cite this article: Bone Joint J2021;103-B(3):462-468.

Confocal Raman spectroscopy as a tool to assess advanced glycation end products on solar-exposed human skin

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) consist of a complex and heterogeneous class of compounds frequently associated with the skin aging process. The formation of AGEs and its accumulation in the body have been related as the pathophysiological key to important age-related diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, AGEs are also related to skin aging as result of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure in both senescent and photo aged skin. Thus, establishing novel approaches for spatially assessing AGEs appears as a potentially useful strategy toward the investigation of the mechanistic role of these compounds in aging-related processes. Herein, we propose a direct and non-destructive approach to assess the biological changes on the human skin highly exposed to solar irradiation. Confocal Raman spectroscopy (CRS) was used to evaluate the presence and the differences in the AGEs content, by using reference spectra of the major AGEs present in human skin. Two different groups were considered from volunteers who had a daily history of high sun exposure: samples collected from the inner face of the arm (sun-protected or low direct sun exposure, SP) and samples from the forearm dorsum (sun-exposed or high direct sun exposure, SE). In this study, the main AGEs products were found to be carboxymethyl-lysine (CML), glucosepane (GLU) and pentosidine (PEN) for both groups; while CML were predominant at the stratum corneum and epidermis, GLU and PEN were found to be the main AGEs in dermis. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed a high discrimination rate in the stratum corneum region at around 93.8 %, while in the layers of the epidermis and dermis this value was found to be 68.8 %, according to the degree of discrimination of SP and SE groups. In sum, this investigation shows that CRS is able to assess AGEs in vivo and non-invasively on human skin and provided a better understanding on the effects and changes resulting from skin chronological aging caused by glycation under conditions of high exposure to UV irradiation.

Siegel modular flavor group and [formula omitted] from string theory

We derive the potential modular symmetries of heterotic string theory. For a toroidal compactification with Wilson line modulus, we obtain the Siegel modular group Sp(4,Z) that includes the modular symmetries SL(2,Z)T and SL(2,Z)U (of the “geometric” moduli T and U) as well as mirror symmetry. In addition, string theory provides a candidate for a CP -like symmetry that enhances the Siegel modular group to GSp(4,Z).

Does dual plating clavicle fractures increase the risk of refracture after hardware removal? A biomechanical investigation.

Dual orthogonal plating of midshaft clavicle fractures is increasingly used for osteosynthesis. The risk of refracture after hardware removal remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the torsional and 3-point bending loads to failure of the clavicle following removal of single-plane, superior 3.5-mm plate fixation vs. dual orthogonal plating 2.7-mm constructs. This study used 12 pairs of clavicles (N = 24) harvested from cadaveric specimens with a mean age at death of 56.5 years (range, 46-65 years). One clavicle from each pair was randomly assigned to either superior plating (SP, n = 12) or double plating (DP, n = 12). For SP, a superior 3.5-mm plate was used as a template to drill 3 bicortical 2.8-mm holes medial and lateral to the center of the clavicle. For DP, two 2.7-mm plates were used as a template to drill 4 bicortical 2.0-mm holes medial and lateral to the center of the clavicle. Clavicle pairs were randomly and evenly distributed to undergo either 3-point bending (n = 12) or posterior torsional loading (n = 12). Cyclic loading was performed, followed by load-to-failure testing. Stiffness, displacement at failure, load to failure, and failure mode were assessed and compared between SP and DP constructs. No significant differences between the SP and DP groups were observed for stiffness (768.2 ± 281.3 N/mm vs. 785.5 ± 315.0 N/mm, P = .872), displacement at failure (8.1 ± 2.8 mm vs. 5.4 ± 1.2 mm, P = .150), and ultimate load at failure (1831.0 ± 229.6 N vs. 1842.0 ± 662.4 N, P = .964) under the condition of 3-point bending. Similarly, no significant differences between the SP and DP groups were observed for torsional stiffness (1.3 ± 0.8 N · m/° vs. 1.1 ± 0.4 N · m/°, P = .844), rotation at failure (17.3° ± 4.4° vs. 14.4° ± 1.2°, P = .205), and ultimate torque at failure (14.8 ± 6.5 N · m vs. 14.7 ± 6.9 N · m, P = .103) under the condition of posterior torsional loading. The most common mode of failure for 3-point bending testing was an oblique fracture (7 of 12 clavicles, 58.3%), with no significant difference between groups (3 of 6 in SP group [50%] vs. 4 of 6 in DP group [66.7%], P > .999). The most common mode of failure with posterior torsional loading was a spiral fracture (10 of 12 clavicles, 83.3%), with no significant difference between groups (4 of 6 in SP group [66.7%] vs. 6 of 6 in DP group [100%], P = .455). Following clavicle plate removal of either DP or SP, there is no statistically significant difference in the amount of force, under the condition of 3-point bending or torsional loading, required to fracture the diaphyseal clavicle invitro.

Effectiveness of cetuximab as preemptive postsurgical therapy for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients with major risk: a single\u2010center retrospective cohort study

SummaryA retrospective cohort study was performed to investigate the effectiveness of preemptive postsurgical therapy with cetuximab for patients with a major risk of recurrence or metastasis after clinical complete resection of primary oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The study period was from 2007 to 2019 for patients treated at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine. OSCC patients with major risk (n = 88) in the follow-up period were divided into groups with no postsurgical treatment (NP group), with standard postsurgical treatment (SP group), and with postsurgical treatment including cetuximab (CP group), and prognosis were compared among those groups. The 5-year overall survival rate was significantly higher in patients who received postsurgical treatment with cetuximab (CP) compared to that in the other two groups ((CP vs. NP, p = 0.028; CP vs. SP, p = 0.042). Furthermore, we performed multivariate analysis to evaluate the effects of the main components of the treatment. Among CDDP, radiotherapy, and cetuximab, only cetuximab significantly contributed to improved survival by univariate analysis (crude HR:0.228, 95%CI:0.05–0.968, p = 0.045). cetuximab also showed the same tendency in multivariate analysis, although p value did not reach significant level (Adjusted HR: 0.233, 95%CI: 0.053–1.028, p = 0.054). The results suggest that the postsurgical treatment with cetuximab as a preemptive postsurgical therapy after complete surgical resection of a visible tumor is considerably effective for OSCC patients with major risk, in other words, invisible dormant metastasis.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis on performance, immune system and gut in Salmonella-challenged broilers

The goal of this study was to compare the effects of Bacillus subtilis and the antibiotic enrofloxacin on growth performance, immune response, intestinal histomorphometry and cecal Salmonella numbers in broilers challenged with S. gallinarum. Salmonella-free chicks (n = 240) were allocated to four groups, comprising six replicates (n = 10) each. Group NN was not infected and received no treatment. Group SN was infected with Salmonella and received no treatment. Group SE was infected with Salmonella and treated with the antibiotic enrofloxacin. Group SP was infected with Salmonella and treated orally with the probiotic B. subtilis. Initially the groups that were infected with Salmonella had reduced growth performance compared with NN. By the fourth week, SE and SP had recovered and weighed as much as or more than NN. The SP group had greater cellular immunity and relative weights of the bursa and thymus than the other groups. SN had the lowest villus height in all the segments of the small intestine and a larger Salmonella population in the ceca. Probiotic supplementation reduced the pathological outcomes more than enrofloxacin. Prophylactic use of B. subtilis-type probiotics had similar effects to the use of antibiotics, alleviated the stress related to infection of S. gallinarum, and improved the growth performance, immune function, and gut mucosal development in broilers.&#x0D; Keywords: growth promoters, immunity, probiotics, poultry villi length

Effects of statins on cytokines levels in gingival crevicular fluid and saliva and on clinical periodontal parameters of middle-aged and elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

ObjectiveTo analyze the effect of statins on cytokines levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva and on clinical periodontal parameters of middle-aged and elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsSystemically healthy controls (C group, n = 62), T2DM patients not taking statins (D group, n = 57) and T2DM patients taking statins (S group, n = 24) were recruited. In each group, subjects (40–85 years) were subclassified into the h (periodontal health)group, the g (gingivitis)group or the p (periodontitis) group according to different periodontal conditions. 17 cytokines in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva samples of each subject were measured utilizing the Luminex technology kit. Further, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), FPG (fasting plasma glucose), PD (probing depth), CAL (clinical attachment level), BOP (bleeding on probing), GI (gingival index) and PI (periodontal index) were recorded. Data distribution was tested through the Shapiro-Wilk test, upon which the Kruskal-Wallis test was applied followed by Mann-Whitney U test and Bonferroni’s correction.ResultsLevels of IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 in the saliva of the Dh group were significantly lower than those in the Ch group, while factor IL-4 was higher (p<0.05). Levels of MIP-3α, IL-7 and IL-2 in GCF of the Dh group were considerably higher than those in the Ch group (p<0.05), while that of IL-23 was considerably lower. Compared with the Cg group, levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-13 were significantly lower in the saliva of the Dg group (p<0.05). Lower levels of IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-10 were detected in the Sg group than those in the Cg group (p<0.05). At the same time, levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-7, IL-13, IL-17, IL-21 and MIP-3α in the gingival crevicular fluid of the Sg group were lower in comparison with the Dg group. In addition, lower levels of IL-4 and higher levels of IL-7 in GCF were identified in the Dg group than those in the Cg group, while in the Sg group, lower levels of IL-4, MIP-1αand MIP-3αwere observed than those in the Cg group (p<0.05). Lower levels of IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13 and I-TAC were found in the Sp group compared with those in the Cp group. The IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-10 levels were lower in the Dp group than those in the Cp group (p<0.05). Meanwhile, in the Sp group, lower levels of pro-inflammatory factors IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-21 and TNF-α, in addition to higher levels of anti-inflammatory factors IL-4 and IL-5 in gingival crevicular fluid, were identified than those in the Dp group. Higher levels of IFN-γ,IL-1β,IL-2,IL-7,IL-21 and TNF-α and a lower level of IL-5 in the Dp group were identified than those in the Cp group (p<0.05). Moreover, statins were able to substantially reduce PD in T2DM patients with periodontitis, indicating an obvious influence on the levels of cytokines secreted by Th1 cells, Th2 cells and Th17 cells, as revealed by PCA (principal component analysis).ConclusionStatins are associated with reduced PD and cytokines levels in the GCF and saliva of T2DM patients with periodontitis.

Nutritional potential of marine and freshwater algae as dietary supplements for growing rabbits

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of including marine and freshwater algae in rabbit diets on their performance, digestibility, carcass characteristics, and blood metabolites. One hundred growing male rabbits, aged 30 d and weighing 783.5 ± 2.01 g initial body weight, were randomly assigned to five treatment groups (n = 20 rabbits). Five comparable dietary groups were formulated as follows: the control diet was a basal diet without aquatic plants inclusion, while the diets for the other four treatments included the basal diet plus 4% of marine algae (U. lactuca and P. capillacea) or freshwater algae (S. polyrrhiza and C. aegagropila). Compared with the control group, final body weight, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio improved significantly in UL group; followed by those in PC and SP groups (p < .05). Total digestible nutrients and digestible crude protein increased significantly in UL, PC and SP groups. Rabbits in the CA group had lower nitrogen intake, N digested, and N balance decreased than the other groups (p < .05). The UL group had dressing weight and meat protein significant increases, but the SP and CA groups had significant increases in liver, kidney, and spleen weights (p < .05). Including marine and freshwater algae reduced (p < .05) total lipids, total bilirubin, triglycerides, and cholesterol especially in the UL and PC groups, and similarly, HDL and LDL levels were lower in the UL, PC, and SP groups compared to the CA and control groups. In conclusion, the responses in performance, digestibility, and blood metabolites suggest that aquatic plants (with the exception of CA) have the potential to be a sustainable feedstock for growing rabbits' diets. Highlights Ulva lactuca, Pterocladia capillacea and Spirodela polyrrhiza improve rabbits' performance. Marine and freshwater algae inclusion showed no signs of disease. Marine and freshwater algae reduced total lipids, triglycerides, and cholesterol.

A comparison of perioperative outcomes between extraperitoneal robotic single-port and multiport radical prostatectomy with the da Vinci Si Surgical System.

To evaluate outcomes between extraperitoneal robotic single-port radical prostatectomy (epR-spRP) and extraperitoneal robotic multiport radical prostatectomy (epR-mpRP) performed with the da Vinci Si Surgical System, comparison was performed between 30 single-port (SP group) and 26 multiport (MP group) cases. Comparisons included operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), hospital stay, peritoneal violation, pain scores, scar satisfaction, continence, and erectile function. The median operation time and EBL were not different between the two groups. In the SP group, the median operation time of the first 10 patients was obviously longer than that of the latter 20 patients (P < 0.001). The median postoperative hospital stay in the SP group was shorter than that in the MP group (P < 0.001). The rate of peritoneal damage in the SP group was less than that in the MP group (P = 0.017). The pain score and overall need for pain medications in the SP group were lower than those in the MP group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.015, respectively). Patients in the SP group were more satisfied with their scars than those in the MP group 3 months postoperatively (P = 0.007). At 3 months, the cancer control, recovery of erectile function, and urinary continence rates were similar between the two groups. It is safe and feasible to perform epR-spRP using the da Vinci Si surgical system. Therefore, epR-spRP can be a treatment option for localized prostate cancer. Although epR-spRP still has a learning curve, it has advantages for postoperative pain and self-assessed cosmesis. In the absence of the single-port robotic surgery platform, we can still provide minimally invasive surgery for patients.

Effect of Different Parts of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Kigelia africana&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Fruit Aqueous Extracts on Sperm Parameters and Testis

Kigelia africana is a plant of ivoirian pharmocopae commonly used in infertility treatment. The Kigelia africanawhole fruit extracts are known to improve sperm parameters like density, morphologie and mobility. However, data related to efficiency of different parts of the fruit are lack. The aim of this study was to know the effects of aqueous extracts of the whole Kigelia africana fruit (AP) and of the fruit without the peel (SP) on the sperm parameters and testicular tissue of mice. The phytochemical composition analysis of the SP and AP aqueous extracts of Kigelia africana fruit reveals several secondary metabolites in variable abundance. The sperm densities (Figure 1) of the SP (~78.106 spz/ml ± 2.60) and AP (~96.15 × 106 spz/ml ± 2.44) groups were higher than that of the control (~63.95.106 spz/ml ± 2.93) with a highly significant difference (p Figure 2). However, the percentage of motile spermatozoa was much higher in SP group (~76% ± 5.48%), at least twice as high compared to the control and AP group with a highly significant difference (p s preserve the gonad and enhance spermatogenesis. All together, our data revealed that AP and SP aqueous extracts of Kigelia africana stimulated spermatogenesis, sperm mobility and didn’t affect the gonads. There is however a difference in the effects of the two extracts with better efficacy of AP extracts for increasing sperm number while SP more significantly improves sperm mobility and morphology.

Typical gut indigenous bacteria in ICR mice fed a soy protein-based normal or low-protein diet

For patients with inflammatory bowel disease, cow’s milk allergy, and lactose intolerance, soymilk is a potential alternative to cow’s milk. In this study, we aimed to identify the effects of a soy protein-based low-protein diet on the body and organ weights and the gut microbiome of six-week-old mice fed a diet containing 20% (SP) or 5% (LP) soy protein for 14 days via 16S rRNA (V4) amplicon sequencing. Body weight gain (growth) and liver, spleen, and fat tissue weight were significantly suppressed by the LP diet. Operational taxonomic unit numbers and α-diversity were lower in the LP group than in the SP group. A principal coordinate analysis revealed differences in the gut microbiome compositions of SP and LP mice. The abundances of caecal Roseburia sp., Alistipes sp., and bacteria from the family Muribaculaceae were lower in the LP group than in the SP group. In contrast, the abundance of Desulfovibrionaceae, which is positively correlated with inflammation, was higher in the LP group than in the SP group. These results differed from the effects of a milk casein-based low-protein diet (reported previously). Based on these findings, we conclude that the undesirable effects of a low-protein diet and/or protein deficiency are related to changes in the gut microbiome composition and may differ depending on the kind of proteins used.

Assessment of novel probiotic strains on growth, hematobiochemical parameters, and production costs of commercial broilers in Bangladesh.

Background and Aim:The use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in the poultry industry has raised concern because of their potential harm to human health. Emerging evidence suggests that probiotics are a safer substitute, although little research has explored this in Bangladesh. We recently isolated local bacterial strains with probiotic properties. We aimed to determine their impact on the growth, hematobiochemical parameters, and production costs of broiler chicks relative to that of a commercial probiotic (CP) and AGP.Materials and Methods:Day-old male broiler chicks (Cobb 500, n=63) were divided equally into three experimental groups (three replicates per group and seven chicks per replicate). First group was fed a basal diet supplemented with the AGP, ciprofloxacin (CTL group), second group was fed a basal diet supplemented with the CP, Protexin® (CP group), and the third group was fed a basal diet supplemented with our isolated bacterial strains (study probiotic [SP] group) for 36 days. Body weight was recorded daily, and relative growth rate (RGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and organ weights and carcass yields were calculated at the study’s end. Blood obtained on day 36 was used to determine the number of red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, packed cell volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as levels of serum glucose, total and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides (TGs). Total production costs were estimated by summing the variable and fixed costs.Results:Chicks in both the CP and SP groups experienced significant decreases in blood glucose levels and significant increases in BW, RGR, FCR, levels of RBC and WBC, Hb concentration, and packed cell volume compared with those in the CTL group (p<0.05 for all). Our data suggested a numerical reduction (p>0.05) in levels of total cholesterol, TGs, and HDL in the SP and CP groups when compared to the CTL group. In addition, both CP and SP treatments resulted in significant (p<0.05) gains in net profit compared with the treatment given to the CTL group.Conclusion:Administration of probiotics, either from a commercialized or local source, led to greater improvements in growth, hematological parameters, and net profits of broiler chicks when compared with that of an AGP. This suggests that they are suitable alternatives to the AGPs used in poultry feed and that our isolated strains, in particular, are an ideal option for farmers in Bangladesh.

Comparing postoperative pain in various pressure pneumoperitoneum of laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a double-blind randomized controlled study.

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the effect of different pneumoperitoneum pressures on postoperative pain, especially by subcategorizing the pressures into 3 groups during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).MethodsWe conducted a prospective randomized, double-blinded study of 150 patients with benign and uncomplicated gallbladder disease. They were categorized into 3 groups. Each group (50 patients) underwent LC with different pneumoperitoneum methods: group VLP, very-low pressure (6–8 mmHg); group LP, low pressure (9–11 mmHg); and group SP, standard pressure (12–14 mmHg). The 3 groups were compared for pain intensity, duration, analgesic requirement, and complications.ResultsThe characteristics of the patients were similar among all groups. Postoperative pain scores at each time point (1, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours) were not significantly different among the 3 groups. Further, operation time, hospital stay, the number of analgesic consumption doses, and postoperative complications were not significantly different among the 3 groups.ConclusionThis study demonstrates no difference in postoperative pain among various pneumoperitoneum pressures during LC. Therefore, routine use of lower-pressure pneumoperitoneum is not recommended unless in selected patients who require low-pressure pneumoperitoneum surgery.

Biometric and reproductive characteristics of the King Tiger Plecos Hypancistrus sp. “L-333” (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) endemic to the lower Xingu River (Pará, Brasil)

This research analyzed the biometrics and reproductive characteristics of a group of Hypancistrus sp. L-333 (King Tiger Plecos) in order to gather biological information and aid the rearing of the species in captivity, thus supporting its natural conservation. This species has a natural distribution that is restricted to the lower Xingu River, and is currently threatened by the hydroelectric projects in the region. The acquired specimens were measured, weighed and classified according to sex based on morphometric characteristics (evidence of secondary sexual characteristics) that were later confirmed by dissection. A total of 32 individuals, 16 males and 16 females were identified. Although the length-weight ratio did not present significant differences, the results revealed that the species has secondary sexual dimorphism. The odontodes were more developed in the mid-lateral region of the body, post-dorsal region, caudal peduncle and in the first ray (ossified) of the pectoral fin in males. Histological analyses of the gonads confirmed that all of the fish were adult individuals. The diameter of the oocytes ranged from 0.14 to 2.0 mm, presented three distinct modes, and were synchronous in more than two groups, which evidences batch spawning. Fecundity was low, between 35 and 54 oocytes in the largest batch. This information is novel and important for the identification of reproductive groups, and is aimed at breeding in captivity so that these resources can be exploited in a sustainable way, without harming the already threatened natural stocks.

Study of Abelian dominance in Sp(N) QCD in the de Sitter background

We propose the effective theory based on the compact symplectic group Sp(N) in the new quadratic gauge on the 4-dimensional de Sitter spacetime (dS 4) with a view to investigate the infrared regime in it. Abelian dominance is characterized by off-diagonal gluons acquiring dynamical masses and it hints at existence of confinement. We do observe Abelian dominance in the ghost condensed vacuum of this theory in the de Sitter background. Along with this observation, we find an unusual result that the mass of an off-diagonal gluon on dS 4 is position dependent as a consequence of the curved geometry. In our previous papers, we have shown that Abelian dominance is strongly indicated in the Minkowski spacetime too. Therefore, the present observation suggests that the curvature of the dS 4 does not change the infrared behaviour of the present theory on dS 4 from that of the quadratic gauge fixed theory in Minkowski spacetime, but it causes the mass of an off-diagonal gluon on the dS 4 to be position dependent.

Efficacy of Low-Pressure Inflation of Oversized Drug-Coated Balloon for Coronary Artery Disease.

Objectives This study sought to assess the efficacy of oversized drug-coated balloon (DCB) inflation at low pressure for the prevention of acute dissections and late restenosis. Background The major limitation of DCB coronary angioplasty is the occurrence of severe dissection after inflation of DCB. Methods Between 2014 and 2018, 273 consecutive patients were retrospectively studied. 191 lesions (154 patients) treated by oversized DCB inflation at low pressure (<4 atm, 2.4 ± 1.2 atm, DCB/artery ratio 1.14 ± 0.22; LP group) were compared with 135 lesions (119 patients) treated by the standard DCB technique (7.1 ± 2.2 atm, DCB/artery ratio 1.03 ± 0.16; SP group). Results Although the lesions in the LP group were more complex than those in the SP group (smaller reference diameter (2.38 mm vs. 2.57 mm, P=0.011), longer lesions (11.7 mm vs. 10.5 mm, P=0.10), and more frequent use of rotational atherectomy (45.0% vs. 28.1%, P=0.003), there was no significant difference in the NHLBI type of dissections between the two groups (11.5%, 12.0%, 5.2% vs. 12.6%, 12.6%, 2.2% in type A, B, and C, P=0.61), and no bailout stenting was required. In 125 well-matched lesion pairs after propensity score analysis, the cumulative incidence of target lesion revascularization at 3 years was 4.5% vs. 7.0%, respectively (P=0.60). Late lumen loss (−0.00 mm vs. −0.01 mm, P=0.94) and restenosis rates (7.4% vs. 7.1%, P=1.0) were similar in both of the groups. Conclusion The application of oversized DCB at low pressure is effective and feasible for preventing late restenosis comparative to the standard technique of DCB.

Comparing the Approach to Radical Prostatectomy Using the Multiport da Vinci Xi and da Vinci SP Robots: A Propensity Score Analysis of Perioperative Outcomes

BackgroundUse of the single-port da Vinci SP robotic platform for various urological procedures has been described by several groups. However, the comparative performance of the SP robot in relation to earlier models such as the da Vinci Xi is still unclear. ObjectiveTo compare intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes between the da Vinci Xi and SP robots for patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) in a referral center. Design, setting, and participantsData were prospectively collected for patients undergoing RP from June 2019 to April 2020 in a single center. The da Vinci SP was used for 71 patients and the da Vinci Xi for 875 patients. After propensity score (PS) matching, two groups of 71 patients were selected for the comparative study. InterventionRP via a transperitoneal approach using the same technique steps and anatomy access with both robot consoles. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisA PS analysis was performed using the covariates age, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, Sexual Health Inventory for Men score, American Urological Association symptom score, prostate size, prostate-specific antigen levels, Gleason score, D’Amico risk group, and degree of nerve-sparing. Intraoperative performance and short-term functional (continence and potency) and oncological outcomes were compared between the groups. Results and limitationsMedian follow-up was 4.4 mo (interquartile range [IQR] 1.6–7.2) for the SP group and 3.2 mo (IQR 1.6–4.8) for the Xi group (p = 0.2). The median total operative time and median console time were both significantly higher in the SP group, with median differences of 14 min (95% confidence interval [CI] 9–19) and 5 min (95% CI 0–5), respectively. The proportion of patients with blood loss of >100 ml was significantly lower in the SP group (difference of 27%, 95% CI 12–42%). No intra- or postoperative complications were reported in either group. There were no significant differences in pain scores at 6, 12, and 18 h or in positive surgical margin rates between the groups. The SP group had a significantly higher percentage of extraprostatic extension than the Xi group (difference of 16%, 95% CI 4.6–27%). None of the patients experienced biochemical recurrence during follow-up. The difference in continence rates at 45 d between the SP and Xi groups was 11% (95% CI −5.6% to 28%) and the difference in potency rates at 45 d was −7.3% (95% CI −21% to 6.2%). The short-term follow-up for comparison of functional and oncological outcomes is a limitation. ConclusionsDespite differences in trocar placement and technology between the two da Vinci consoles, the SP has satisfactory intraoperative performance compared to the Xi. SP surgery can be performed safely and effectively during the initial learning phase. However, longer-term follow-up is needed to provide further evidence on the impact of SP implementation on functional and oncological outcomes. Patient summaryWe compared intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes for patients who underwent radical prostatectomy using two different robots, the da Vinci Xi and the single-port da Vinci SP. We found that operative time was longer for the Single Port console. Studies with long-term follow-up are needed to compare the functional and oncological outcomes.