Weight Variation Research Articles

Pre-pregnancy obesity is associated with an altered maternal metabolome and reduced Flt3L expression in preterm birth

Mechanisms linking pre-pregnancy obesity to increased preterm birth risk are unclear. Here, we examined the impact of pre-pregnancy obesity on metabolites, Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3L), and proinflammatory cytokine profiles in preterm birth. We used cytokine bead array, ELISA and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine cytokine and metabolite profiles in maternal and cord blood samples from 124 pregnant women in Australia, who gave birth at term (n = 86) or preterm (n = 38). Besides the expected variations in birth weight and gestational age, all demographic characteristics, including pre-pregnancy body mass index, were similar between the term and preterm birth groups. Mothers in the preterm birth group had reduced Flt3L (P = 0.002) and elevated IL-6 (P = 0.002) compared with term birthing mothers. Among mothers who gave birth preterm, those with pre-pregnancy obesity had lower Flt3L levels (P = 0.02) compared with lean mothers. Flt3L and IL-6 were similar in cord blood across both groups, but TNFα levels (P = 0.02) were reduced in preterm newborns. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant shifts in essential metabolites in women with pre-pregnancy obesity, some of which were linked to preterm births. Our findings suggest that maternal pre-pregnancy obesity alters the metabolome and reduces Flt3L expression, potentially increasing risk of preterm birth.

Safety and Effectiveness of Glargine 300 U/ml After Switching from Basal Insulins in Patients with Type1 Diabetes: COMET-T Study.

Appropriate glycemic control is paramount for people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) by the effective delivery of exogenous insulin. However, glycemic variability and the risk of severe hypoglycemia must be reliably controlled. COMET-T is a prospective, multicenter, observational study conducted in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland during 2021-2022 to assess the effectiveness and safety of insulin glargine 300 U/ml (Gla-300) after switching from other basal insulins. Out of 135 PwT1D, data of 94 patients were analyzed. The primary endpoint was the change in time in range (TIR) approximately 12 and 24 weeks after switching to Gla-300. Secondary endpoints were: change in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), coefficient of variation (CV%) of plasma glucose, body weight (BW) and insulin dose. Patients had mean age of 48.6 ± 16.5 years, included 39.4% males and had 18.2 ± 15.5 years T1D duration. From baseline (54.3%), TIR changed at week 12 (mean change 0.3% [± 14.3]; p = 0.8383) and at week 24 (+ 4.5% [± 14.9], p = 0.078). At week 24, TIR significantly increased in patients with body mass index > 30kg/m2 (8.4% [± 12.8] p = 0.0057) and patients who previously received insulin detemir (10.5%; [± 12.93]; p = 0.0005). At week 24, there was a significant reduction in the HbA1c value (8.1 ± 0.6% vs. 7.7 ± 0.9%; p < 0.001), a reduction in the CV% of plasma glucose (36.1 ± 12.4% vs. 32.8 ± 9.6%, p = 0.056), and increase in bolus insulin dose (26.5 ± 16.3 vs. 27.9 ± 16.6 U/day; p = 0.042). FPG, BW, and basal insulin doses were not significantly changed. Although switching to Gla-300 in poorly controlled PwT1D did not significantly reduce TIR, it significantly decreased HbA1c values and glycemic variability without changes in BW and basal insulin dose.

Comprehensive analysis of the oligopeptide transporter gene family in maize: Genome-wide identification, structural characterization, and stress-responsive expression

Oligopeptide transporter (OPT) proteins are integral proteins in cell membranes that perform a crucial role in cellular metal homeostasis, mineral uptake, transport of small peptides and abiotic stress tolerance. Hence, in-depth evolutionary, structural, molecular and expression analysis could guide in exploring the mechanism of how these transporters contribute to nutrient balance and abiotic stress tolerance in maize. Following a series of bioinformatic analyses, eight OPTs in maize were identified. These transporters showed significant variations in molecular weight, and have one to five introns, 11 to 15 motifs, 11 to 18 transmembrane domains, multiple beta-strands, multiple alpha and transmembrane helices. ZmOPT1, 5, and 6 are plasma membranes and the rest are endoplasmic reticulum localized. All ZmOPTs are distributed in six different chromosomes having significant phytohormone-responsive cis-elements might be due to their great roles in hormonal regulation in maize. The significant transport activity of these transporters plays a great role in biological processes, cellular components and molecular functions in maize during gene ontology analysis. Co-expression of five genes among eight OPTs with 56 genes might be due to their great role in regulating other genes in multiple signaling pathways or vice-versa. Significant tissue-specific and drought, salinity, nitrogen starvation, and heat stress induced in silico expression following real time PCR validation of ZmOPT1, 7, and 8 genes might guide to elucidate the potential roles of these transporters in specific tissues and abiotic stress tolerance. Hence, the findings of the research might guide plant biologists to develop new varieties of maize having higher efficiency of peptide and metal ion transport, balance, and abiotic stress tolerance. Findings of these structural and expression analyzes might guide the plant biologist for single transgenesis, or developing and transforming programming-based synthetic genetic circuits in maize for advancing research in peptide transport, metal hemostasis, and increasing abiotic stress tolerance in maize.

A Comparative Study between Legally Imported and Smuggled Brands of Atenolol and Atorvastatin Drugs Marketed in Aden, Yemen

The purpose of this project was to compare the quality control parameters of both legally imported and smuggled products of Atenolol (Tenormin®) and Atorvastatin (Ateroz®) drugs marketed in Aden, Yemen. Hundred tablets from each studied product were taken from the market and were determined by the quality control parameters including weight variation, hardness, diameter, thickness, disintegration, leakage and assay tests as well as identification of drugs by Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectrophotometer. The result of this study showed that both legally imported and smuggled tested tablets of Atenolol (Tenormin®) in accordance with quality control specifications except the assay test of smuggled Tenormin where the result shows a value of 81% only and thickness test of smuggled Tenormin that show the values outside of the acceptable range. On the other hand, legally imported and smuggled tablet of Atorvastatin (Ateroz®) complied quality control specifications for the tested parameters. We concluded that the tested drugs complied most of quality control specifications with presence of a variation in some quality control tests between legally imported and smuggled products.

A Research on: Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release matrix Tablets

The study focused on developing a sustained release matrix tablet of Mosapride Citrate to achieve prolonged therapeutic effects, reduce side effects, and improve patient compliance by minimizing dosing frequency. Mosapride Citrate, with a half-life of 2-3 hours, was used as a model drug. Matrix tablets were prepared using different viscosity grades of Eudragit through direct compression and evaluated. Results indicated that polymer matrices alone were insufficient for 8-hour sustained release, whereas a combination of Eudragit RS 100, Eudragit RL 100, and Eudragit E 100 provided effective sustained release, primarily through diffusion. The study also aimed to identify and rectify manufacturing defects. Mosapride Citrate tablets displayed good dissolution and tableting behavior. Preformulation studies evaluated physical properties like bulk and tapped density, angle of repose, compressibility, and Housner’s ratio. Tablet formulations underwent evaluations for thickness, hardness, friability, weight variation, assay, dissolution, and stability, with optimized formulations compared to marketed samples.

Formulation and evaluation of sustained release matrix tablet of ketoprofen

The aim of the study was the formulation of the sustained release matrix tablet of Ketoprofen. The sustained release tablet was prepared by wet-granulation method. The tablets were formulated using hydrophilic polymer HPMC K4M and xanthan gum. Preformulation compatibility studies indicate that there is no interaction between the excipient and the drug. Total seven batches were prepared and powder blends before compression was subjected for evaluation of flow properties. All the parameter was found to be within the limit showing good flow property. After compression, the entire tablet batch was evaluated for thickness, hardness, friability, weight variation, drug content uniformity, swelling index, In-vitro release pattern. The thickness of tablet indicates that die fill was uniform in all the formulation and the formulation possessed sufficient hardness &amp; friability indicating a good mechanical strength of the development formulation. The weight of the all the formulation were found to be with in pharmacopeial limit. The In-Vitro dissolution profile of all the formulation of Ketoprofen was controlled over an extended period of time. The optimized formulation of F7 containing combination of HPMC K4M and xanthan gum was consider as the best formulation with respect to its sustained in vitro drug release for 12 hrs, total sustained release time &amp; improved bioavailability. The developed formulation was found to be stable during the stability studies of 3 month indicating good stability of the tablets.

Impact of crown architecture on light availability, gas exchange, flowering and fruiting in jamun (Syzygium cumini [L.] Skeels)

Experiments were conducted to assess the impact of crown architecture on light availability beneath the trees, flowering, fruiting, yield and quality of jamun (Syzygium cumini [L.] Skeels). Trees were maintained as control, palmette and open centre crown. Impact was evaluated for three consecutive years, i.e. 2017–2019. Diffuse light beneath the trees ranged from 69.7 ± 2.22 to 45.9 ± 1.45%, whereas direct light varied from 30.4 ± 0.97 to 54.1 ± 1.78%. At flowering and fruit development stage (June), photosynthesis rate (A) in control trees was 12.5 ± 0.43 μmol CO2/m2/s; however, at fruit maturity and dormancy (August), it was only 9.5 ± 0.35 μmol CO2/m2/s. Similarly, in palmette and open centre trees, photosynthesis rate at flowering and fruit development stage was 13.5 ± 0.46 and 15.7 ± 0.54 μmol CO2/m2/s, respectively; whereas at fruit maturity and dormancy, photosynthesis rate dropped to 10.5 ± 0.39 and 11.7 ± 0.43 μmol CO2/m2/s, respectively. Substantial variation in stomatal conductance (gs), vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and transpiration rate (E) was also found. Days to start flowering ranged from 92 ± 0.33 to 98 ± 0.33. Similarly, days to end flowering varied from 99 ± 0.07 to 107 ± 0.36, days to fruit set 132 ± 0.33 to 139 ± 0.33 and days to fruit maturity 176 ± 0.48 to 184 ± 0.63. Significant variation in fruit length, fruit width and fruit weight was also found. Total soluble solids in fruit pulp varied from 9.0 ± 0.15 to 12.2 ± 0.149°Brix and fruit yield 62.3 ± 1.5 to 86.7 ± 1.33 kg per tree. Noteworthy variation in fruit quality traits was also recorded. This study illustrates that crown architecture has considerable impact on gas exchange parameters, flowering, fruiting, yield and quality of jamun.

Study on the biosafety and targeting efficiency of Escherichia coli outer membrane vesicles in breast tumor.

To seek out the targeting of Escherichia coli outer membrane vesicles (E. coli OMVs) in breast tumor-bearing mice and their biosafety in healthy mice. Ultrafiltration in conjunction with ultracentrifugation was utilized to concentrate E. coli OMVs, and characterize them. Subcutaneous breast tumors were induced in BALB/c mice to serve as an experimental model, and the biodistribution of E. coli OMVs in both tumor-bearing and healthy mice was monitored using an in vivo fluorescence imaging system. Utilizing frozen sections, the infiltration of E. coli OMVs in tumor tissues was appraised at the 24-hour post-injection. Healthy BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group and vesicles group. Following the intravenous injection of E. coli OMVs, monitoring encompassed variations in body weight, blood routine indices, serum levels of AST, ALT, and BUN, organ indices (heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney), along with tissue histopathology over a 14-day period. The spherical E. coli OMVs had a diameter of (155.8 ± 3.1) nm and exhibited the expression of outer membrane proteins OmpA and OmpC. Upon assessment, it was evident that the E. coli OMVs persisted in the tumor tissues even 24h post-injection. An evident decrease in the body weight of the vesicles group, distinct from the control group, was observed on the second day after injection (P < 0.001); in contrast, no considerable differences were noted at subsequent time points (P > 0.05). Following the injection, the vesicles group displayed notable reductions in WBC and PLT as relative to the control group (P < 0.0001) on the initial day, however, there were no noteworthy distinctions as opposed to the control group for other hematological indices; No notable variances in hematological indices between the two groups were observed on the seventh and fourteenth day (P > 0.05). Over the 14 days, no substantial differences were observed in the serum levels of BUN, AST, ALT, and organ indices within the vesicles group as opposed to the control group (P > 0.05). Furthermore, there were no obvious abnormal changes in tissue morphology. 0.5mg/kg of E. coli OMVs can safely and effectively target 4T1 breast tumor in mice.

Analysing the impact of age, wealth, mother's education, area of residence, and gender on child weight: a regression approach

Abstract The purpose of this article is to analyse the impact of age, wealth, mother's education, area of residence, and gender all together on child weight using multiple linear regression model. Previous studies have examined the effects of these factors on child weight singly or in pairs but not all together. The various factors affecting child weight that contribute to the broader issues of malnutrition and obesity need to be examined. This study addresses this issue with the aim of identifying the most significant predictors of healthy child weight. The data were collected from a secondary source for a sample size of 760 children aged 0-59 months. The data were analysed using multiple linear regression with SPSS software. The correlation coefficient (0.861) between the observed and predicted values of the dependent variable (child weight) suggests a strong positive correlation. 74.2 per cent of the variability in child weight is explained by the predictors in this model, indicating a good fit. The model also explains 74per cent of the variance, suggesting a robust fit. Age, gender, wealth, and mother's education are significant predictors of child weight, whilst area of residence is not statistically significant, though location-specific strategies may still be beneficial for child health outcomes. Based on the findings of this study, public health programs should prioritise age-appropriate nutrition, gender-sensitive interventions, and enhanced maternal education to improve child weight outcomes.

Effects of Fermented Soybean Hulls on Reproductive Performance, Blood Physiology and Immune Parameters Along with Fecal Microbiota in Sows

This study aims to investigate the effects of fermented soybean hulls (FSHS) on reproductive performance, plasma biochemical profiles, immune parameters, and fecal microbiota in sows. A total of 325 sows were randomized into five groups, each fed a diet with varying FSHS proportions: 0% (control), 2% (FSHS2), 4% (FSHS4), 6% (FSHS6), and 8% (FSHS8). Diets were prepared by replacing conventional soybean hulls with FSHS in equal amounts. The study lasted from day 30 to day 110 of gestation. The results indicated the following: (1) Reproductive Performance: The number of live piglets per litter, newborn litter weight, and individual piglet weight increased linearly with the increase in FSHS addition in the diet (PLinear &lt; 0.05). A trend toward reduced farrowing duration was observed when FSHS was added to the diet (PLinear = 0.076). FSHS improved newborn weight and weight variation compared to the control when FSHS was added to the diet (PAnova &lt; 0.05). Replacing soybean hulls with FSHS also increased fecal scores, enhancing fecal consistency and alleviating constipation (p &lt; 0.01). (2) Plasma Biochemical Indicators: Plasma urea concentration on day 60 decreased linearly with increasing FSHS (PLinear &lt; 0.05). Plasma total protein and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities showed quadratic effects (PQuadratic &lt; 0.05) on day 60 and 90 of gestation, while alkaline phosphatase activity on day 90 showed a quadratic trend (PQuadratic = 0.082). (3) Hormone Levels: Plasma insulin and adrenaline levels exhibited quadratic effects on day 60 and 90 of gestation, respectively (PQuadratic &lt; 0.05). (4) Immune Parameters: Plasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) and M (IgM) levels increased linearly with FSHS proportion on day 60 (PLinear &lt; 0.05), but no significant changes were observed on day 90 (p &gt; 0.05). (5) Fecal Microbiota: On day 90, the abundance of actinobacteriota increased quadratically with FSHS levels (PQuadratic &lt; 0.05), while bacteroidota decreased linearly (PLinear &lt; 0.05). During parturition, actinobacteriota abundance continued to increase linearly (PLinear &lt; 0.05). Notably, the FSHS8 group had higher actinobacteriota abundance compared to the control group (p = 0.05). At the genus level, terrisporobacter showed a quadratic increase and then decrease (PQuadratic &lt; 0.05), while ruminococcus showed a quadratic decrease and then increased (PQuadratic &lt; 0.05). Both terrisporobacter in the FSHS2 and FSHS6 groups and ruminococcus in the FSHS8 group were more abundant compared to the control (p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with FSHS increased fecal microbial diversity, alleviated the incidence of constipation, and ultimately improved sow reproductive performance. The recommended optimal addition of FSHS to the sow diet is 6%.

Formulation and Evaluation of Paracetamol Tablet Using Konjac Glucomannan as Natural Halal Binder

Introduction: Discovery and development of novel halal excipients in tablet formulation have led to continuous interest in drug delivery research. In this study, Konjac Glucomannan, a polysaccharide derived from the tuber of Amorphophallus konjac, was used as a halal binder in the formulation of paracetamol tablets. Objective: This study aims to formulate and evaluate paracetamol tablets using konjac glucomannan as a halal binder. Methodology: Paracetamol tablets were formulated with different concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) of KGM using the wet granulation method. The formulated paracetamol granules and tablets were subjected to different quality control tests. Results: All four formulation granules passed the pre-compression test, indicating good to passable powder flowability. The weight variation, hardness, thickness, and disintegration test results for all four formulations were within the USP limit except for the friability test. Only tablets with 20% KGM passed the test. Conclusion: 20% KGM shows good tablet binding properties compared to 5%, 10%, and 15% KGM. Hence, paracetamol tablets formulated with higher KGM as a binder produce paracetamol tablets with good physical and mechanical properties.

Modulation of Proinflammatory Cytokines by Parmotrema reticulatum Derived Dioxepine Derivative and Benzoic Methyl Ester in Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis.

The present investigation aims to study the therapeutic effect and to identify the lead molecules from lichen Parmotrema reticulatum (Pr) that can solve the complications associated with arthritis. Purification of Pr extract led to isolation of two lead molecules i.e. Compound A (a Dioxepine derivative) as 3-Hydroxy-9-hydroxymethyl-1,8-dimethyl-11-oxo-11H-dibenzo[b,e][1,4]dioxepine-4,7 dicarboxylic acid 7-methyl ester with molecular formula C19H16O9; molecular weight 388.34. Compound B as 3-Hydroxy-5-methoxy-4-methyl-benzoic acid (a Benzoic methyl ester) with molecular formula C9H10O4; molecular weight 182.2. In-silico investigation specific for inflammation revealed good binding affinity of both the compounds with the targeted proteins. Further continuous administration of Pr and novel compound A & B to CFA (Freund's complete adjuvant) induced arthritis rat revealed reduction in arthritis complication possibly by inhibiting the formation of edema. The variations in relative body weight along with paw swelling and arthritic scores were identified. Inhibition of expressions of RA markers like RF, CRP, TNF-𝛼, IL-1𝛽, IL-6, ALP, AST, ALT and LDH were observed there by inhibiting inflammation of synovial cavity and cartilage damage effectively. Hence from our results it is evident that Pr, Compound A & B has down regulated the inflammatory cytokines and can be a potential candidate to treat arthritis.

In vitro comparative quality evaluation of different brands of Amlodipine Tablets Commercially available in Jimma Town, South-western Ethiopia.

The incidence of hypertension in persons 25 years of age and older is estimated to be 46% in Africa, where it is still very common. This concerning rate could be explained by the pharmaceutical markets' accessibility to poor quality antihypertensive drugs. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the quality different brands of Amlodipine Tablets Commercially available in Jimma Town, South-western Ethiopia. The quality control test was conducted from August 30, 2019 to February 27, 2020 at Jimma University in the Laboratory of Drug Quality Control (JuLaDQ). The laboratory test was carried out in accordance with WHO inspection guidelines and United States Pharmacopeia. A statistically significant was considered when P<0.05. For further comparison of the in-vitro dissolution profiles of amlodipine tablets, model-independent model-dependent parameters and statistical Dunnetts tests for ensuring bioequivalence were used to further compare the in-vitro dissolution profiles. With the exception of brand AMD-5 (1/10), the remaining nine (n = 9) brands were within WHO visual inspection criteria. The quality control parameters such as friability, weight variation, identity, assay, and dissolution test were within the United States Pharmacopeia. The model independent parameters (f1, and f2) confirmed that, all generic products were bio-equivalence, and interchangeable with comparator product. The model dependent approaches revealed the Weibull model (AMD-10), the Zero order (AMD-3), and the Korsemeyer-Peppas models were the most effective predictions for the release of the pharmaceutical substance from the dosage form. The Korsemeyer-Peppas model (r2 ≥0.9695) was the best descriptive model for determining the amlodipine drug kinetics from the point of view of all brands examined. The evaluated amlodipine brand tablets were in line with quality standards. The model independent methods confirmed that the generic brand tablets were interchangeable in clinical practice. The tested products follow more than two drug release kinetics. The study revealed a manifest discrepancy in the dissolution profiles' releases. Therefore, it is strongly advised to use appropriately designed dissolution profile evaluation methods with various pH values in the dissolution media, as well as to do comprehensive visual inspections. This will make it easier to do a thorough investigation of any potential quality issues that might be related to various generic products available in the pharmaceutical market.

Genetic Variation in Yield and Fruit Weight Among Strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) Cultivars and the Interaction With Year and Location Effect

ABSTRACTStrawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) is an important crop in the United States. In this study, we analysed strawberry trials established across 7 years and two locations. Our objective was to estimate genetic parameters and predict breeding values for yield. Linear mixed models were used for unbalanced data across years and locations and study the genotype by year and location interactions. The results suggested significant differences between cultivars for fruit weight but not for total and marketable yield. Fruit weight was controlled by genetic factors, shown by the high heritability of cultivar means (0.93), whereas marketable yield and total yield showed lower heritability estimates (0.48 and 0.63, respectively), indicating a substantial environmental influence. For fruit weight, cultivars exhibited stability across years and locations, supported by the high additive genetic correlations observed for cultivar‐by‐year (r = 0.90) and cultivar‐by‐location interactions (r = 0.98). Fruit weight and total yield were genetically independent as suggested near zero additive genetic correlation (−0.06 ± 0.416) between two traits, and they should be considered for an index selection in the strawberry breeding strategy.

Formulation and Evaluation of Mucoadhesive Buccal Tablets of Carvedilol

The aim of the study was to formulate and evaluate the carvedilol buccal tablets using HPMC K4M and xanthan gum as polymer. Buccal tablets of carvedilol were prepared by direct compression technique by using polymer in combination at different concentration. Drug excipient compatibility study indicates that there is no interaction between the excipient and the drug. Total seven batches were prepared and subjected to evaluation parameters. Pre-compression parameters for all batches showed excellent flow propertied of powder bled. Prepared buccal tablets were evaluated for various post compression parameters like hardness, thickness, weight variation, drug content, and friability, % swelling index, muco-adhesive strength and in vitro drug release. The harness of all batches was optimum showed good mechanical strength; thickness of tablets was uniform in all formulations the weight variation test of all the formulation was found to be within the limits of pharmacopoeial standard. % swelling index for all the batch formulation was optimum and seen to increase with increase in polymer concentration. Mucoadhesive strength was also showed acceptable results for all batch formulations which satisfy the need of mucoadhesive tablets. The in vitro dissolution profile of all the formulation showed sustained release of drug, for extended periods of time. The optimized formulation of F4 prepared with was consider as the optimized formulation with respect to drug content, % swelling index, Mucoadhesive strength and in vitro drug release pattern for 8 hrs. Formulation F4 showed highest 98.32±1.55 % drug release at the end of 8 hrs. Optimized formulation F4 was found to be stable during the stability studies for 3 month indicating good stability of the formulation. Keywords: carvedilol, Mucoadhesive strength, Optimized formulation, buccal tablets.

Short-term weight variability in infants and toddlers: an observational study

AimsTo explore short-term weight variability in young children; (1) how it relates to expected weight gain and (2) how it is affected by age, time of day and dietary intakes...

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Analysis of Body Weight Variations and Their Implications for Daily Habits.

Assessing changes in lifestyle, dietary habits, eating behaviors, and stress during the pandemic and their impact on weight is crucial for developing effective interventions. This study investigated weight variations among Brazilians and associated habit changes over nine months during the COVID-19 pandemic. An online questionnaire was applied (T0/T1, T2). Weight variation classifications were determined from T0 to T1 and evaluated longitudinally for changes in lifestyle, dietary habits, food consumption, eating behavior, and perceived stress using generalized estimating equations (p < 0.05). Out of 453 participants, 23.6% lost weight, 18.1% maintained their weight, 26.0% gained up to 2.4 kg, and 32.2% gained ≥ 2.5 kg. Weight loss was associated with decreased food consumption and increased stress at T2. The group that gained up to 2.4 kg reported reduced food intake, snacking, meal preparation, and candy consumption but increased stress at T2. Those gaining ≥ 2.5 kg initially increased food consumption, snacking, meal preparation, hamburgers/canned products, sugary drinks, instant meals/snacks, candies, and fast food consumption at T1, all of which were reduced at T2, along with a decrease in uncontrolled and emotional eating. Although the pandemic initially affected daily habits differently based on weight changes, participants-especially those who gained more weight-tended to revert to pre-pandemic habits.

Parametric Study of Rainfall-Induced Instability in Fine-Grained Sandy Soil

This study investigates the stability of fine-grained sandy soil slopes under varying rainfall intensities, durations, and geotechnical properties using a parametric analysis within GeoStudio. A total of 4416 unique parameter combinations were analyzed, incorporating variations in unit weight, cohesion, friction angle, slope inclination, slope height, rainfall intensity, and duration. Results reveal that rainfall intensity is the most influential variable on the factor of safety (FS), with higher intensities (e.g., 360 mm/h) on steeper slopes (e.g., 45°) leading to critical FS values below 1, indicating an imminent risk of failure. Under moderate conditions (e.g., 9 mm/h rainfall on slopes of 26.6°), the FS remains above 2. This dataset provides a valuable foundation for training machine learning models to predict slope stability under diverse environmental conditions, contributing to the development of early warning systems for rainfall-induced landslides.

Antimicrobial and acaricide sanitizer tablets produced by wet granulation of spray-dried soap and clove oil-loaded microemulsion.

A novel sanitizer tablet containing clove essential oil (CO) microemulsion was developed. A preformulation study using nuclear magnetic resonance and thermal analyses showed component compatibility. The main components of the samples remained intact despite a color change, probably due to a strong acid-base interaction between eugenol and diethanolamine. The CO microemulsion showed acaricidal and larvicidal activities superior to the commercial product, with product efficacy of 99.9% and larvae mortality of 94%. Optimal spray-drying conditions were achieved with inlet and outlet temperatures of 50°C and 40°C, respectively, an aspiration rate of 1 m3 min⁻1, and a 0.25 L h⁻1 injection flow. The feed suspension comprised 50% (v/v) liquid soap, 37.5% (v/v) water, 12.5% (v/v) ethanol, and 5.0% (w/v) silica. This formulation and processing parameters allowed for successful free-flow powder formation, providing a suitable matrix for incorporating the CO microemulsion via wet granulation without heating. Finally, sanitizer tablets produced from such granules resulted in a uniform product with low weight variation (coefficient of variation of 0.15%), eugenol content of 95.5% ± 3.3, and friability of 0.58%. Furthermore, the tablets showed rapid aqueous dispersion, forming a colloidal system with particle sizes of 221 nm and a zeta potential of -17.2 mV. Antimicrobial activity tests demonstrated the effectiveness of the sanitizer tablet against bacteria and fungi, exhibiting comparable antimicrobial potency to isolated CO. Hence, the sanitizer tablet developed represents a promising candidate as a practical and efficient solution for pest control, offering strong antimicrobial and acaricidal activity.

Assessment of Perceived Effort Through On-Field Hydration Monitoring: A Case Analysis.

This case report examines the correlation between hydration, weight variation, and perceived effort in a 43-year-old amateur athlete during a self-supported 81.5 km crossing of Death Valley, completed over 3 days with significant elevation changes. Studies have shown that a body mass loss greater than 2-3% can lead to an increased perception of effort and a decline in performance. Specifically, during passive and active heat exposures, the average body mass loss was found to be 1.4 ± 0.3% and 4.1 ± 0.7%, respectively. Salivary osmolarity has demonstrated a sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 91% in diagnosing dehydration of ≥ 2%, suggesting its potential as a non-invasive indicator of hydration status. The subject monitored their own body weight, hydration (via salivary osmolarity), and perceived effort using a rate of perceived exertion (RPE) scale. Nutritional intake included isocaloric meals and nutritional bars, and hydration was managed using water and a hydroelectrolytic solution. Key bioimpedance parameters were measured to assess body composition and hydration status. A progressive decrease in body weight correlated with an increase in perceived effort (RPE score) and salivary osmolarity. Resistance (Rx) remained stable, while reactance (Xc) showed a biphasic trend and was inversely correlated with the sodium/potassium ratio (NAK). There were significant linear correlations between perceived effort and both weight loss and salivary osmolarity, indicating that salivary osmolarity is a potential early predictor of these changes. The findings highlight a linear correlation between weight loss, perceived effort, and salivary osmolarity, suggesting that monitoring salivary osmolarity would be useful for the field assessment of hydration and exertion. Further research with larger populations is necessary to validate these observations.