Total AP Research Articles

Intercropping fruit trees in tea plantation improves soil properties and the formation of tea quality components

Intercropping has been recommended as a beneficial cropping practice for improving soil characteristic and tea quality. However, there is limited research on the effects of intercropping fruit trees on soil chemical properties, soil aggregate structure, and tea quality components. In this study, intercropping fruit trees, specifically loquats and citrus, had a significant impact on the total available nutrients, AMN, and AP in soil. During spring and autumn seasons, the soil large-macroaggregates (>2 mm) proportion increased by 5.93% and 19.03%, as well as 29.23% and 19.14%, respectively, when intercropping loquats and citrus. Similarly, intercropping waxberry resulted in a highest small-macroaggregates (0.25 mm–2 mm) proportion at 54.89% and 77.32%. Soil aggregate stability parameters of the R0.25, MWD, and GMD were generally considered better soil aggregate stability indicators, and significantly improved in intercropping systems. Intercropping waxberry with higher values for those aggregate stability parameters and lower D values, showed a better soil aggregate distribution, while intercropping loquats and citrus at higher levels of AMN and AP in different soil aggregate sizes. As the soil aggregate sizes increased, the AMN and AP contents gradually decreased. Furthermore, the enhanced levels of amino acids were observed under loquat, waxberry, and citrus intercropping in spring, which increased by 27.98%, 27.35%, and 26.21%, respectively. The contents of tea polyphenol and caffeine were lower under loquat and citrus intercropping in spring. These findings indicated that intercropping fruit trees, specifically loquat and citrus, have immense potential in promoting the green and sustainable development of tea plantations.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the lead, chromium, and cadmium removal from water through electrocoagulation

Presence of lead, chromium, and cadmium metals in drinking water poses serious health risks to living beings around the world. Hence, the simultaneous treatment of these pollutants from water using electrocoagulation (EC) technology is a promising development. The current study is focus to evaluate the environmental impact of EC and its sludge management by conducting Life Cycle Assessment using Gabi software. The electricity consumption in EC-reactor (Global warming potential, GWP: ∼46% and Acidification potential, AP: ∼41%) and sintering of bricks (GWP:∼35% and AP:∼31%) are found major contributor to total environmental impacts. The total GWP and AP are found to be 62.8 Kg.CO2.eq. and 0.0966 kg.SO2.eq.

Subjective Vs Objective Clinical Tools for Balance Assessment in Healthy Population

Background: The clinicians prefer subjective tools for balance assessment that are easily available and multiple researches have proved them reliable and valid for balance assessment. The force plate measures do the same postural analysis as we expect the other subjective tools to perform. Objectives: To determine the correlation between subjective and objective standard tools of balance assessment in healthy population Material and method: It was cross sectional observational study carried out at National institute of rehabilitation medicine (NIRM) Islamabad and Riphah international university Islamabad from January 2019 to June 2019.The sample size was calculated by using G power analysis graph, came out to be 64 for every age group. In this study non-probability purposive sampling technique was used. The inclusion criterion includes healthy individuals with 18-70 years of age (young (18-25 years), adult (25 -50 years), elderly (50-70 years) and both genders. Tools used in this research were BBS (Berg Balance Scale), POMA (The Performance-Oriented Mobility), TUG (Time Up and Go test), FRT (Functional Reach Test), Romberg test, SLS (Single Leg Stance), YBT (Y Balance Test) and Force plate. Results: 192 total respondents were divided in equal distribution of 64 in three age groups of elderly, adults and young. In elderly group males were 49and females were 15. In adult group males were 27 while females were 37.In young category total number of males were 27while females were 37. Mean age and SD for elderly, adults and young were 57.3±5.51, 35.4±6.97 and 22.6±1.62 respectively. This study results were affirming the fact that force plate variables has significant correlations with subjective tools of balance. (YBT, r=0.3 and SLS, r=0.8). Conclusion: This study concludes that force plate can replace or validate the subjective tools of balance that we use for different age groups. SLS (Single Leg Stance) is strongly and positively correlates with total AP sway on force plate, and shows strong negative correlation with AP standard deviation. YBT (Y-balance test) can also be validated or replaced for Total ML sway of force plate as it shows moderate correlation. On the other hand POMA, TUG, FRT shows weak and negative correlations with most of the force plate variables. Keywords: BBS (berg balance scale), ML (mediolateral), SD (standard deviation), YBT (Y-balance test)

EFFECTIVENESS OF LIMBERG FLAP AND KARYDAKIS PROCEDURE IN PILONIDAL SINUS DISEASE – A COMPARATIVE INTERVENTIONAL STUDY IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE OF EASTERN INDIA.

Objective: Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a common disease of natal cleft in Sacro- coccygeal region. It is more common in young male and may recur over time with surgery. We compared the effectiveness, outcomes and recurrence rates of Limberg ap and Karydakis procedure techniques in PSD. This is a comparative interventional study among 32 enrolled patients Materials And Methods: with pilonidal sinus disease. Patients were divided into two groups 16 patients (group KD) were treated with Karydakis procedure and 16 patients (group LF) were treated with Limberg ap technique. Seroma collection, wound infection, ap edema, hematoma, partial wound separation, pain score, return to normal activities, complete healing time, painless seating and patient satisfaction were compared between 2 groups (group KD and LF). the development rates of Results: seroma collection, wound infection, ap edema, hematoma, partial wound separation were 12.5%,18.75%,6.25%, 18.75%,18.75% in KD group as compared to 25%, 12.5%,12.5%, 0%, 0% in LF group respectively. Total ap necrosis was not observed in any patient (p<0.001). During the average follow up period of 12months, 2 (12.5%) of KD pts developed recurrence. In this study, the u Conclusion: se of Limberg ap was associated with lower complication rates, shorter length of hospital stays, early return to work, low pain score, high patient satisfaction, better complete healing. Therefore, we recommend Limberg ap for treatment of pilonidal sinus

Effect of plant–plant interactions and drought stress on the response of soil nutrient contents, enzyme activities and microbial metabolic limitations

Plant–plant interactions are dynamic and complicated processes that strongly influence soil nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Climate warming-induced drought stress and the duration of plant interactions may reshape or complicate this ecological process. However, little is known about how plant–plant interaction time (co-growth duration) combined with drought stress affect soil chemical properties and enzyme activities. In this study, Stipa bungeana and Bothriochloa ischaemum, which were the main plant species during the later stages of secondary succession in an abandoned cropland on the Loess Plateau of China, were planted as a single plant or in combination, in a plastic pot with two water regimes (ample water, 80 % of field capacity (FC); drought stress, 60 % of FC) for two consecutive years. The rhizosphere soil was collected each year to determine the nutrient contents and enzyme activities, and the microbial metabolic limitations were calculated. We found that plant–plant interactions, drought stress, and sampling year had a significant influence on most rhizosphere soil nutrient contents and enzyme activities. Redundancy analysis showed that soil pH, available phosphorus (aP), and total phosphorus had significant effects on soil enzyme activities in the first year, and soil total nitrogen and aP had significant effects on soil enzyme activities in the second year. Vector analysis indicated that drought stress increased microbial carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) limitation under each planting pattern, and these metabolic limitations showed a decreasing trend in the second year. An structural equation model demonstrated that plant–plant interactions on microbial C and P limitation were larger than drought stress in the first year. Conversely, in the second year, the plant–plant interactions on microbial C and P limitation were lower than that of drought stress. Our findings highlighted that the duration of plant–plant interactions had a significant influence on C flows and nutrient cycling in plant–soil systems, and improved the understanding of plant–plant interactions and drought stress on soil nutrient cycling and microbial metabolic limitations in vegetation restoration ecosystems.

Morphometric study of tibial condylar area in Rajasthan population

Background: Indians are the part of Asian-pacific population and they have a smaller build and stature in comparison of western population. The prosthesis for knee replacement surgeries which are presently being used are best suited for the western population therefore leading to implant size incompatibility with the resected bony surfaces. Aim of the study: To perform morphometric study of tibial condylar area in Rajasthan population. Materials and methods: The present study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, S.M.S. Medical College, Jaipur. The study period was from approval of plan till 15th December 2019. The study is a descriptive type of observational study. 120 dry tibiae (60 right sided and 60 left sided) were required as sample size. The ethical clearance for the study was approved from the ethical committee of the hospital. Results: The mean AP diameter of the total tibial condyle was 45.28±2.93 mm on the right side and 44.68±4.29 mm on the left side and the total mean AP diameter of total tibial condyle was 44.98±3.67 mm. The difference in the mean AP diameter values between right and left side was found to be statistically not significant.

Maximum movement and cumulative movement (travel) to inform our understanding of secondary spinal cord injury and its application to collar use in self-extrication

BackgroundMotor vehicle collisions remain a common cause of spinal cord injury. Biomechanical studies of spinal movement often lack “real world” context and applicability. Additional data may enhance our understanding of the potential for secondary spinal cord injury. We propose the metric ‘travel’ (total movement) and suggest that our understanding of movement related risk of injury could be improved if travel was routinely reported. We report maximal movement and travel for collar application in vehicle and subsequent self-extrication.MethodsBiomechanical data on application of cervical collar with the volunteer sat in a vehicle were collected using Inertial Measurement Units on 6 healthy volunteers. Maximal movement and travel are reported. These data and a re-analysis of previously published work is used to demonstrate the utility of travel and maximal movement in the context of self-extrication.ResultsData from a total of 60 in-vehicle collar applications across three female and three male volunteers was successfully collected for analysis. The mean age across participants was 50.3 years (range 28–68) and the BMI was 27.7 (range 21.5–34.6). The mean maximal anterior–posterior movement associated with collar application was 2.3 mm with a total AP travel of 4.9 mm. Travel (total movement) for in-car application of collar and self-extrication was 9.5 mm compared to 9.4 mm travel for self-extrication without a collar.ConclusionWe have demonstrated the application of ‘travel’ in the context of self-extrication. Total travel is similar across self-extricating healthy volunteers with and without a collar. We suggest that where possible ‘travel’ is collected and reported in future biomechanical studies in this and related areas of research. It remains appropriate to apply a cervical collar to self-extricating casualties when the clinical target is that of movement minimisation.

Quantitative Romberg using a force plate: an objective measure for cervical myelopathy

Surgical decision making for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) relies on evaluation of symptoms and physical examination. The Romberg test is a clinical exam used to identify balance issues with CSM. However, the Romberg test has a subjective interpretation and has a binary (positive or negative) result. This study aims to compare force plate pressure readings during a standard Romberg test in patients with CSM to age-matched normal healthy volunteers. Prospective cross sectional observational comparative cohort from a single multi-surgeon spine center. Patients who were clinically diagnosed with CSM were compared to age-matched healthy volunteers without a clinical history of spine pathology. Quantitative Romberg Force Plate Measurements METHODS: Patients with CSM requiring surgery and healthy normal volunteers were asked to perform the Romberg test while on a force plate measuring the center of pressure (COP): standing up straight with arms extended for 30 seconds with eyes open, followed by 30 seconds with eyes closed. The change for total sway area, sway frequency and sway speed with eyes closed and eyes open were calculated and compared between patients with CSM and healthy volunteers. Thirty-four CSM patients were age-matched to 34 healthy volunteers. There was a larger change in quantitative Romberg measurements with eyes open versus eyes closed in CSM patients compared to normal volunteers for maximum lateral movement (10.79 cm vs. 0.94 cm, p=.003), maximum anterior-posterior movement (15.06 cm vs. 10.00 cm p=.201), total lateral CoP movement (89.82cm vs. 18.71cm, p=.007), total AP CoP movement (154.68 cm vs. 87.47 cm, p=.601), total CoP trace movement (199.79 cm vs. 88.44 cm, p=.014), sway area (284.74 cm2 vs. 57.76 cm2, p=.006), and average speed (7.00 cm/s vs. 2.91 cm/s, p=.006). Poor standing balance can be quantified in patients with CSM. Quantifying standing balance in patients with CSM shows significantly worse objective measures than age-matched healthy volunteers. The Romberg test on a force plate may help diagnose and evaluate patients with CSM, guide patient management and potentially grade the severity of spinal pathology. Further studies are needed to determine its utility in monitoring disease progression and measure treatment effectiveness.

101. Quantitative Romberg using a force plate: An objective measure for cervical myelopathy

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> Surgical decision-making for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) relies on evaluation of symptoms and physical examination. The Romberg test is a clinical exam used to identify balance issues with CSM. However, the Romberg test has a subjective interpretation and has a binary (positive or negative) result. While previous studies showed that force plate pressure readings provide quantitative measurements that objectively identify poor postural control in patients with CSM, the study compared an older CSM patient cohort with a significantly younger normal cohort, failing to account for regular aging changes. <h3>PURPOSE</h3> This study aims to compare force plate pressure readings during a standard Romberg test in patients with CSM to age-matched normal healthy volunteers. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> Longitudinal observational comparative cohort from a single multisurgeon spine center. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> Patients who were clinically diagnosed with CSM (mean age 54.8 years, N=27) were compared to age-matched healthy volunteers (mean age 54.4 years, N=27) without a clinical history of cervical pathology. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> Quantitative Romberg Force Plate Measurements. <h3>METHODS</h3> Patients with CSM requiring surgery and healthy normal volunteers were asked to perform the Romberg test while on a force plate measuring the center of pressure (COP): standing up straight with arms extended for 30 seconds with eyes open, followed by 30 seconds with eyes closed. The change for sway area, sway frequency and sway speed with eyes closed and eyes open were calculated and compared between patients with CSM and healthy volunteers. <h3>RESULTS</h3> Twenty-seven of 48 CSM patients were age-matched to 27 healthy volunteers. There was a larger change in Romberg measurements with eyes open vs eyes closed in CSM patients compared to normal volunteers for maximum lateral movement (12.1mm2 vs 4.1mm2, p<0.01), total lateral COP movement (97.2mm2 vs 32.6mm2 p<0.02), Total AP COP movement (165.8mm2 vs 78.1mm2, p<0.01), COP trace movement (211.5mm2 vs 87.8mm2, p<0.01), and total sway area (365.4mm2 vs 62.1mm2, p<0.01). Change in average speed with eyes open and eyes closed (7.0m/s vs 4.2m/s, p<0.09) and Anteroposterior movement (19.0 mm2 vs 10.8 mm2, p<0.07) were similar between the two groups. <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> Poor standing balance can be quantified in patients with CSM. Quantifying standing balance in patients with CSM shows significantly worse objective measures than age-matched healthy volunteers. The Romberg test on a force plate may help diagnose and evaluate patients with CSM, guide patient management, potentially grade the severity of spinal pathology, allow more timely surgical intervention, and improve surgical outcomes. Further studies are needed to determine its utility in monitoring disease progression and measure treatment effectiveness. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

Anterior lengthening in scoliosis occurs only in the disc and is similar in different types of scoliosis.

Relative anterior spinal overgrowth (RASO) was proposed as a generalized growth disturbance and a potential initiator of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, anterior lengthening was also observed in neuromuscular (NM) scoliosis, was shown to be restricted to the apical areas and to be located in the intervertebral discs, not in the bone. In this study the goal was to determine if other scoliotic curves of known origin exhibit the similar mechanism of anterior lengthening without changes in the vertebral body. Therefore CT-scans of 18 patients in whom a short segment congenital malformation had led to a long thoracic compensatory curve without bony abnormality were included. Of each vertebral body and intervertebral disc in the compensatory curve, the anterior and posterior length was measured on CT-scans in the exact mid-sagittal plane, corrected for deformity in all three planes. The total AP% of the compensatory curve in congenital scoliosis showed a lordosis (+1.8%) that differed from the kyphosis in non-scoliotic controls (-3.0%; p<0.001), and was comparable to AIS (+1.2%) and NM scoliosis (+0.5%). This anterior lengthening was not located in the bone; the vertebral body AP% showed a kyphosis (-3.2%), similar to non-scoliotic controls (-3.4%), as well as AIS (-2.5%) and NM scoliosis (-4.5%; p=1.000). However, the disc AP% showed a lordosis (+24.3%), which sharply contrasts to the kyphotic discs of controls (-1.5%; p<0.001), but was similar to AIS (+17.5%) and NM scoliosis (+20.5%). The results demonstrate that anterior lengthening is part of the three-dimensional deformity in different types of scoliosis and is exclusively located in the intervertebral discs. The bony vertebral bodies maintain their kyphotic shape, which indicates that there is no active bony overgrowth. Anterior lengthening appears to be a passive result of any scoliotic deformity, rather than being related to the specific cause of AIS.

The role of ursodeoxycholic acid in the treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnant women after ART

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (IHCP) is of significant practical interest as this pathology is a borderline case between obstetric, infectious and hepatic pathology. The issues of etiology, pathogenesis, risk factors triggering intrahepatic cholestasis, the principles of its treatment and prevention are still an object of debate. At present, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is considered to be the medicine of choice for the treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. The peculiarity of this medicine lies in its 4 mechanisms of action: replacement of toxic endogenous bile acids, cytoprotective action for hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, immunomodulation and choleretic action [3]. To test the efficiency of the suggested drug, we selected 71 women who got pregnant owing to ART and who presented a high risk of IHCP at the first prognostication stage. By way of randomization, they were divided into 2 groups: the basic group – 29 patients, who were treated with the recommended complex of therapy and prophylaxis, and the comparison group – 42 pregnant women, whose pregnancy was managed in accordance with the WHO guidelines. The recommended ursodeoxycholic acid has enabled a more effective normalization of biochemical indicators associated with IHCP (reduction of the levels of total bilirubin, bile acids, ALT, AP and total cholesterol in terms of the low-density and the very-low-density lipoprotein fraction) and a significant decrease in the incidence of complications of pregnancy.

S0095 Acute Pancreatitis in Young Adults: Morbidity, Mortality, and Hospital Utilization

INTRODUCTION: Acute Pancreatitis is a common cause of gastrointestinal morbidity and mortality in the United States. Common etiologies include biliary disease, alcohol, post-ERCP, drug-related, and trauma. Varying demographics accompany the different etiologies, yet there is a paucity of data on outcomes of AP in YA. In this study, we aim to identify mortality, morbidity, hospital utilization, and prevalence of young adults with AP. METHODS: In the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database (years 2003–2014), adults >18 years old who were hospitalized for AP were identified. We divided cohort into young adults (18–55 year) and older adults (>55 years). Univariate analysis was performed by chi-sqare, t-test to find out demographic characteristics, length of stay (LOS), hospitalization cost, mortality, morbidity and complications. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate predictors of AP and complications among YA and odds of mortality, morbidity, and complications. Models were adjusted for race, sex, Charlson’s Comorbidity Index, payer, teaching hospital, size and teaching status. RESULTS: A total of 2,632,309 patients were admitted with AP between 2003 and 2014, 60.39% were in young adult category. The inpatient prevalence of AP in YA from 2003 to 2014 was 59.3% to 60.56% for total AP, 45.4% to 45.93% for biliary etiology, and 84.1% to 79.25% for alcohol related, respectively (pTrend< 0.001) (Graph 1). Young adults had decreased total charges ($29,004 vs 35,915, p < 0.0001) and LOS (4.86 vs 5.70 days, p < 0.0001). YA were associated with decreased prevalence of mortality (0.4% vs 1.85%, p < 0.0001), morbidity (1.96 vs 5.71, p < 0.0001), major/extreme disability (23.87% vs 38.76%, p < 0.0001). On regression analysis YA were associated with lower prevalence and odds of complications ie acute renal failure (10.4% vs 4.92%; aOR: 0.67; CI: 0.65–0.69), shock (1.07% vs 0.48%; aOR: 0.55; CI; 0.51–0.61), SIRS/sepsis (3.1% vs 2.2%; aOR: 0.75; CI: 0.72–0.79), pleural effusion (0.15% vs 0.09%; aOR: 0.64; CI: 0.52–0.79), and respiratory failure (4.26% vs 2.09%; aOR: 0.59; CI: 0.56–0.61) (Table 1). CONCLUSION: Young adults with AP were associated with decreased mortality, morbidity, and complication rate. Prevalence remained consistent among various etiologies over 2003–2014, however alcohol was an overwhelming etiology. Young adults were associated with decreased hospital costs and LOS. More research is needed to combat the high rates of AP due to alcohol abuse in this population.Figure 1.: Acute Pancreatitis Prevalence Trend in Young Adults.Table 1.: Multivariate Analysis of Young Adults with Acute Pancreatitis

Anterior lengthening in scoliosis occurs only in the disc and is similar in different types of scoliosis

BACKGROUND CONTEXTRelative anterior spinal overgrowth was proposed as a generalized growth disturbance and a potential initiator of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, anterior lengthening has also been observed in neuromuscular (NM) scoliosis and was shown to be restricted to the apical areas and located in the intervertebral discs, not in the bone. This suggests that relative anterior spinal overgrowth does not rightfully describe anterior lengthening in scoliosis, as it seems not a generalized active growth phenomenon, nor specific to AIS. PURPOSETo determine if compensatory curves in congenital scoliosis exhibit a mechanism of anterior lengthening without changes in the vertebral body, similar to curves in AIS and NM scoliosis. STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGCross-sectional. PATIENT SAMPLECT-scans were included of patients in whom a short segment congenital malformation had led to a long thoracic compensatory curve without bony abnormality. Based on data of other scoliosis types, the calculated required sample size was n=12 to detect equivalence of vertebral bodies as compared with nonscoliotic controls. Out of 143 congenital scoliosis patients, 18 fit the criteria and compared with 30 nonscoliotic controls, 30 AIS and 30 NM scoliosis patients. OUTCOME MEASURESThe anterior-posterior length discrepancy (AP%) of the total curve and for vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs separately. METHODSOf each vertebral body and intervertebral disc in the compensatory curve, the anterior and posterior length was measured on CT-scans in the exact mid-sagittal plane, corrected for deformity in all three planes. The AP% was calculated for the total compensatory curve (Cobb-to-Cobb) and for the vertebral bodies and the intervertebral discs separately. Positive AP% indicated that the anterior side was longer than the posterior side. RESULTSThe total AP% of the compensatory curve in congenital scoliosis showed lordosis (+1.8%) that differed from the kyphosis in nonscoliotic controls (−3.0%; p<.001) and was comparable to the major curve in AIS (+1.2%) and NM scoliosis (+0.5%). This anterior lengthening was not located in the bone; the vertebral body AP% showed kyphosis (−3.2%), similar to nonscoliotic controls (−3.4%) as well as AIS (−2.5%) and NM scoliosis (−4.5%; p=1.000). However, the disc AP% showed lordosis (+24.3%), which sharply contrasts to the kyphotic discs of controls (−1.5%; p<.001), but was similar to AIS (+17.5%) and NM scoliosis (+20.5%). CONCLUSIONSThe current study on compensatory curves in congenital scoliosis confirms that anterior lengthening is part of the three-dimensional deformity in different types of scoliosis and is exclusively located in the intervertebral discs. The bony vertebral bodies maintain their kyphotic shape, which indicates that there is no active anterior bony overgrowth. Anterior lengthening appears to be a passive result of any scoliotic deformity, rather than being related to the specific cause of AIS.

Effect of Cryopreservation Time on the Activity of Ionotropic Glutamatergic Mechanisms: An in vitro Study

The effects of cryopreservation for different periods of time on the amplitudes of AMPA (α‑amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid) and NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) glutamatergic ionotropic mechanisms and the action potential of the lateral olfactory tract (AP LOT) at –20°C and subsequent warming to 37°C was studied. Experiments were performed on brain slices of 22 nonhibernating animals—Wistar rats. After cryopreservation, the glutamatergic ionotropic mechanisms were preserved and restored using electrophysiological recording of the AMPA and NMDA potentials and the total AP LOT. The AMPA-dependent mechanisms and the activity of conductive LOT fibers were restored to the normothermal values; the recovery of the NMDA-dependent mechanisms was incomplete and averaged 34% compared with the normothermal values; the long-term post-tetanic potentiation was not restored after cryopreservation.

CRYOPRESERVATION OF RAT BRAIN SLICES WITH DIFFERENT DURATION AND RESTORATION OF THEIR ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY

Effects of cryopreservation of male Wistar rat brain slices with different duration (4, 8, 10, 23, and 90 days) on changes in their electrical activity was investigated. The amplitudes of AMPA- and NMDA-dependent glutamatergic ionotropic mechanisms were measured, as well as the action potential of the lateral olfactory tract (AP LOT) at a temperature of –20°C and subsequent warming to +37°C. After cryopreservation, these mechanisms were preserved and restored. We used the method of electrophysiological registration of the AMPA and NMDA potentials and the total AP LOT. After cryopreservation, the AMPA-dependent mechanisms and the activity of conductive LOT fi bers were restored to normothermal values. On the contrary, the recovery of NMDA-dependent mechanisms was incomplete and averaged 34% compared with the normothermal values. The results indicate that, after cryopreservation, the activity of basic ionotropic glutamatergic mechanisms in rat brain slices is restored.

Relationships Between Concentrations of Biological Variables in Eye Fluids and Blood After Exercise in Lidia Cattle

Abstract Lidia cattle are a heterogeneous Iberian cattle population known for its natural aggressiveness and resistance to traditional handling procedures making in vivo blood sampling and biological fluid collections extremely difficult. Blood variables are influenced by physical exertion and stressful situations; consequently, post-mortem blood analysis does not reflect basal concentrations for this species. Nevertheless, ocular fluids (aqueous and vitreous humour) maintain their stable composition after death and maybe could be used to estimate ante-mortem blood concentrations. So, 15 bulls which had fought (for 15-20 minutes) and, subsequently after death, blood, aqueous and vitreous humour were sampled. Total protein, albumin, triglycerides, uric acid, urea, AST, ALT, GGT, AP, CK, LDH, cholesterol, creatinine, glucose and lactate were measured. Statistical analysis and correlation coefficients between the three fluids were carried out. All variables showed high plasma concentrations of glucose, uric acid, LDH and CK, compared with normal bovine concentrations. Apart from urea, all plasma concentrations were greater than those found in ocular fluids. The measured enzymes activities were higher in the vitreous than in the aqueous humour, but only marked differences in uric acid, lactate, AP and AST were found. There was a significant correlation between creatinine in the plasma and aqueous humour, and between albumin and GGT in the plasma and vitreous humour. Glucose, creatinine and urea exhibit a high correlation between ocular fluids. All plasma concentrations were clearly modified, however ocular fluids do not seem affected, thus establishing important correlations between the blood and intraocular fluids.

Intestinal Alkaline Phosphatase in Stool: A Novel Biomarker for Metabolic Diseases

The epidemic of metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity is observed in both developed and developing countries. It now affects all age categories and is often associated in the context of low physical activity with chronic intake of unbalanced (Western) diets characterized by high fat, sugars and low fiber. Western diets are invariably related to gut dysbiosis (e.g. as in obesity), and a higher intestinal translocation of pro-inflammatory microbial components like lipopolysaccharide into the systemic circulation is promoted, thus leading to chronic low-grade systemic inflammation and metabolic shifts towards higher body fat accumulation that ultimately results in the metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Many data indicate that intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP), an enzyme isoform uniquely secreted by enterocytes, consistently reduces inflammation in animal models and in diseases (e.g. in ulcerative colitis, peritonitis, sepsis and heart surgery) in man (Lalles, 2014). Malo and coworkers at Harvard University have previously demonstrated that endogenous, as well as exogenous (bovine) IAP taken orally can prevent, and treat, fat-diet induced metabolic syndrome and T2DM in mice (Kaliannan et al., 2013). This group has also published other decisive papers showing intimate cross-regulation between the gut microbiota and IAP in mice, clearly revealing this enzyme as a potent regulator of inflammation and gut microbiota homeostasis (Lalles, 2014). Data on IAP are scant in humans. In a paper recently published in EBioMedicine, Malo now reports for the first time that fecal IAP (fIAP) and T2DM status were independently and negatively associated, both in male and female adults, in a T2DM case–control study conducted in Bangladesh (Malo, 2015). Even more importantly, Malo noted that fIAP was low in 65% of control subjects and suggested fIAP as a possible biomarker for “incipient metabolic syndrome” including “incipient diabetes” in healthy subjects (Malo, 2015). Collectively, these new data perfectly fit with all that is now known on IAP and inflammation (Lalles, 2014). IAP is specifically inhibited by l-phenylalanine allowing it to be distinguished from microbial AP. fIAP and microbial AP account for 80 and 20%, respectively of total stool AP activity in humans and for 60 and 40% in rodents (Malo, 2015, Kim et al., 1986). IAP oral administration was shown to increase fIAP dose-dependently in mice (Lalles, 2014). This new study by Malo is potentially important as it proposes fIAP as a biomarker of T2DM (and metabolic diseases). However, caution should be taken in evaluating an individual value in the context of confounding factors that modulate IAP. fIAP was first characterized as a marker of intestinal epithelial damage (Thomas & Henton, 1985). In addition, changes in food intake per se could explain most of the effects assigned to other factors, and indeed, enteral feeding is recognized as a major driver of intestinal production and fecal release of IAP (Lalles, 2014, Thomas and Henton, 1985). Further, many dietary components (e.g. fat, the anti-inflammatory spice curcumin and minerals), and also antibiotics and other drugs (e.g. protease inhibitors), alcohol and laxatives are known to modulate fIAP (Lalles, 2014, Ghosh et al., 2014, Davis, 2003, Wu et al., 2010, Hufnagel et al., 1980, Tache et al., 2006). Thus, in the case of an individual, fIAP data needs to be interpreted in light of these dietary factors and treatments. In conclusion, these data by Malo showing an association between fIAP and T2DM, and also suggesting “incipient T2DM” in (apparently) healthy subjects based on fIAP values, are very interesting. However, any individual IAP value should be evaluated in the context of associated factors modulating fIAP.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Postpartum Changes in Bone Status in Indian Mothers.

Bone turnover is high during lactation. However, studies on bone status of Indian urban mothers are scarce. Hence, the objective was to conduct a cross-sectional study on the lactation-related changes in bone health status of Indian mothers postpartum using Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) at 3 time points: within a week of delivery, at 1- and 3-years postpartum. We also explored the association of dietary calcium intake, physical activity, serum vitamin D status, and dietary traditional food supplements (Dietary Food supplements) with bone health. A cross-sectional study was conducted; 300 full-term, healthy primiparous women (28.6±3.4year) were randomly selected and categorized into 3 groups: 128 mothers within 7 days of delivery (Group A), 88 with 1-year-old children (B), and 84 with 3-year-old children (C). Anthropometry, lactation history, physical activity, diet, biochemical tests (vitamin D, parathyroid hormone), body composition, areal bone mineral density (a-BMD) at total body (TB), AP spine (APS), and dual neck femur (DF) were assessed by DXA (GE-Lunar DPX). Significantly higher APS-BMD (mean±SD) was observed in Group C (1.107±0.098g/cm(2)) than that in A (1.045±0.131g/cm(2)) (p<0.05). When adjusted for breastfeeding practices, mean (±standard error) APS-BMD was lowest in women in Group A (1.024±0.013g/cm(2)), but was higher at 1-year (1.079±0.02g/cm(2)) and at 3-years postpartum (1.111±0.019g/cm(2)), though differences were significant only between groups A and C (p<0.05). Most mothers from all 3 groups consumed inadequate amount of nutrients except dietary fat and showed low physical activity. Multiple regression analysis indicated that dietary calcium, moderate physical activity, serum vitamin D, and consumption of dietary food supplements were not significant predictors of APS-BMD (p>0.1). Prevalence of nutrient and vitamin D deficiencies, low physical activity, and poor sunlight exposure were major concerns in Indian lactating mothers; improvement in bone mass at APS was observed at 3-years which was most likely due to physiologic changes.

The effects of different anticoagulants on biochemical parameters in blood of dairy cows

Routine analysis of blood parameters requires high precision. Therefore a significant number of methods and recommendations has been developed to ensure the obtaining of precise results. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the type of anticoagulant affects the values of biochemical parameters in the blood of dairy cows in relation to the values obtained from the serum. The study was carried out on 20 healthy cows of Holstein- Friesian breed in the second month of lactation. The blood was taken by venipuncture from v.coccigea. There were used five types of vacutainers as follows: for the serum separation, with heparin, EDTA, citrate, and fluoride. Samples from each cow were taken in all five types of vacutainers respectively. There was determined the concentration of: albumin, total protein, glucose, Ca, P, BHB, NEFA, urea, cholesterol, triglycerides, ALT, AST, AP, GGT and bilirubin. The results of the analysis of samples that contained anticoagulants were compared statistically with analysis in serum that was considered to be the control one. It was also calculated the percentage of deviation in average values of concentration of metabolites obtained from samples with different anticoagulants in regard to the serum value. The results of the investigation show that anticoagulants influence the values of biochemical parameters in the blood of cows. In the samples where heparin was used as anticoagulant there was found higher albumin level (deviation 4.1%) as well as total protein (1.4%), but lower value of alkaline phosphatase activity relative to the serum (-33%). In the samples in which EDTA was used there were significantly lower levels of total protein (-5.8%), Ca (-49.6%), P (-17.7%), AP (-32%) and higher value AST (10.6%) compared to serum. In the samples where citrate or fluoride were used as anticoagulants there were found lower values of total protein, albumin, glucose (only citrate), Ca, P, BHB, NEFA, urea (only citrate), cholesterol, AP and GGT (only fluoride) and lower bilirubin when using citrate or higher when using fluoride, in comparison to the serum. Deviations of biochemical parameters measured from blood samples that were in citrate or fluoride were as follows: total protein (-5.3%, -5.2%), albumin (-7%, -5.7%), glucose (only citrate -6.2%), Ca (-55%, -82%), P (-29%, -24%), BHB (-53%, -80%), NEFA (-62.1%, -79 , 4%), urea (only citrate, -25.5%), cholesterol (-28.6%, -28.4%), AP (-38%, -32%), and GGT (only -17 fluoride, 8%) and higher bilirubin (-22.8%, 64.4%). For routine clinical biochemical analysis of blood of cows it is the most reliable to use the samples with heparin as an anticoagulant, because the use of other anticoagulants gives large variations in the values of biochemical parameters in relation to serum.

Jaundice in Adult in-Patients at a Tertiary General Hospital

Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the “new-onset jaundice” incidence, map of causes, approaching method, and risk factors for treatment failure in adult in-patients at a tertiary general hospital as Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. Method: Retrospective study was done on 416 jaundice patients administered over 38 continuous days. Laboratory tests investigated were total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, AST, ALT, AST/ALT ratio, GGT, AP, bilirubin and urobilinogen in urine. Jaundice was defined as total bilirubin ≥ 2.5 mg/dL, direct bilirubin jaundice defined as direct bilirubin > 2 mg/dL and D/T percentage > 60%, the severity of AST, ALT evaluated according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, AST/ALT ratio, and bilirubin, urobilinogen in urine. Outcome of treatment were classified in two groups: failure (dead or discharge due to worse status) and success. Descriptive statistics and analytic statistics were applied, mono-variable analysis and multinomial logistic regression to find out the independent risk factors for treatment failure. Results: The incidence of “new-onset” jaundice in adult patients was 11 ± 5 person/day. The map of jaundice included 3 phases as pre-heaptic 13.7%, in-hepatic 58.2%, and post-hepatic 22.8%. Pancreatic and biliary tract diseases accounted 17.1%, then cirrhosis 16.3%, liver tumor 14.7%, hepatitis 8.9%, sepsis 8.9%, hematology diseases 7.9%, and cardiac diseases 7.5%. A guide for approaching causes of jaundice basing on 7 parameters as total bilirubin, D/T percentage, severity of ALT, AST/ALT ratio, severity of GGT, and bilirubin and urobilinogen in urine was established. The overall mortality was 7.5% (31/416), sepsis had highest death rate of 37.8% (14/37). Sepsis and AST/ALT ratio > 2 were the two independent risk factors of mortality. Conclusion: At tertiary hospital, jaundice is common sign in adult patient, diverse enormously in many clinical wards. The map of causes of jaundice completed all 3 phases: pre-hepatic, intra-hepatic and post-hepatic phase. Drug hepatitis jaundice was an important cause in hepatitis. Sepsis had highest mortality in adult jaundice patients. Combination of 7 criteria as total bilirubin, the D/T percentage, ALT severity, AST/ALT ratio, GGT, bilirubin and urobilinogen in urine gave the guide for approaching to jaundice. Sepsis and AST/ALT ratio > 2 were independent risk factors of treatment failure. The survey of jaundice in adult in-patients in a tertiary general government hospital gave the full picture for this common pathological sign.