Generation of Functional Lentoid Bodies from Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells.

The pathological mechanisms of cataract remain largely unknown due to the lack of appropriate in vitro cellular models. We developed a stable in vitro system, namely, a "fried egg" differentiation method to generate functional lentoid bodies (LBs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The iPSCs-derived LBs exhibited crystalline lens-like morphology and a transparent structure, and expressed lens-specific markers. TEM examination and optical analysis further demonstrated that it has the same cell arrangement structure and magnifying ability as lens.

Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) carries significant morbidity and mortality. Management of the HCC requires a multidisciplinary approach. Surgical resection and liver transplantation are the gold standard options for the appropriate settings. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has emerged as a promising treatment modality in managing HCC; its use is more studied and well-established in advanced HCC (aHCC). Current clinical guidelines universally endorse SBRT as a viable alternative to radiofrequency ablation (RFA), transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE), and transarterial radioembolisation (TARE), a recommendation substantiated by literature demonstrating comparable efficacy among these modalities. In early-stage HCC, SBRT primarily manages unresectable tumours unsuitable for ablative procedures such as microwave ablation and RFA. SBRT has been incorporated as a modality to downstage tumours or as a bridge to transplant. In the case of intermediate or advanced HCC, SBRT offers excellent results either as a single modality or adjunct to other locoregional modalities such as TACE/TARE. Recent data from late-stage HCC patients illustrate the effectiveness of SBRT in achieving local tumour control while minimising damage to surrounding healthy liver tissue. It has promising local control of approximately 80-90% in managing HCC. Additional prospective data comparing the efficacy of SBRT with the first-line recommended therapies such as RFA, TACE, and surgery are essential. The standard of care for patients with advanced/metastatic disease is systemic therapy (immunotherapy/tyrosine kinase inhibitors). SBRT, in combination with immune-checkpoint inhibitors, has an immune-modulatory effect that results in a synergistic effect. Recent findings indicate that the combination of immunotherapy and SBRT in HCC is well-tolerated and exhibits synergistic effects. Further exploration of diverse immunotherapy and radiotherapy strategies is essential to identify the appropriate time for combination treatments and to optimise dose and fraction regimens. Prospective, randomised studies are imperative to establish SBRT as the primary treatment for HCC.

Uncommon cause of chest pain: Case report of esophageal foreign body diagnosed by chest computed tomography scan.

A 44-year-old man with a history of epilepsy presented with mild, persistent chest pain lasting 3 days, despite normal cardiac evaluations. A chest computed tomography scan revealed 3 artificial dental prostheses lodged in his esophagus, which the patient had inadvertently swallowed during a recent seizure. Endoscopic removal of the foreign bodies resolved his chest pain without complications. This case emphasizes the importance of considering esophageal foreign bodies as a differential diagnosis for persistent chest pain, particularly in patients with neurological conditions, and highlights the role of early imaging for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.

Blunted food conditioned place preference-like behavior in adolescent-stressed male hamsters.

Social stress during adolescence results in long lasting weight gain, obesity, and enhanced food hoarding behavior in hamsters. We wanted to determine whether stress also enhanced conditioned place preference-like behavior (CPP-like) for food reward, as would be expected from studies with substances like cocaine. Our experimental animals were exposed daily to aggressive adults for two weeks in early puberty, while also trained to explore a V-shaped maze containing a food reward at one end. They were tested for CPP-like behavior on the last day of social stress. Our results showed that while stress enhanced weight gain, food intake, food efficiency, and body fat, it caused a reduction of Place Preference as compared to controls. In fact, the correlated relationship between Place Preference and body fat was inverted by stress exposure: while it was positively correlated in controls, it was mildly negatively correlated in stressed hamsters. These unexpected data illustrate the extent of adaptive behavior in foraging animals once a resource has become untrustworthy.

The role of oleosins and phosphatidylcholines on the membrane mechanics of oleosomes.

HYPOTHESIS: Oilseeds use triacylglycerides as main energy source, and pack them into highly stable droplets (oleosomes) to facilitate the triacylglycerides' long-term storage in the aqueous cytosol. To prevent the coalescence of oleosomes, they are stabilized by a phospholipid monolayer and unique surfactant-shaped proteins, called oleosins. In this study, we use state-of-the-art interfacial techniques to reveal the function of each component at the oleosome interface. EXPERIMENTS: We created model oil-water interfaces with pure oleosins, phosphatidylcholines, or mixtures of both components (ratios of 3:1, 1:1, 1:3), and applied large oscillatory dilatational deformations (LAOD). The obtained rheological response was analyzed with general stress decomposition (GSD) to get insights into the role of phospholipids and oleosins on the mechanics of the interface. FINDINGS: Oleosins formed viscoelastic solid interfacial films due to network formation via in-plane interactions. Between adsorbed phosphatidylcholines, weak interactions were observed, suggesting the surface stress response upon dilatational deformations was dominated by density changes. In mixtures with 3:1 and 1:1 oleosin-to-phosphatidylcholine ratios, oleosins dominated the interfacial mechanics and formed a network, while phosphatidylcholines contributed to interfacial tension reduction. At higher phosphatidylcholine concentrations (1:3 oleosin-to-phosphatidylcholine), phosphatidylcholine dominated the interface, and no network formation occurred. Our findings improve the understanding of both components' role for oleosomes.

Association between the practice of fitness-related exercises and body image dissatisfaction in adolescents from Curitiba (PR), Brazil / Associação entre a prática de exercícios físicos relacionados ao fitness e insatisfação com a imagem corporal em adolescentes de Curitiba (PR), Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the association between participation in fitness-related exercises (FRE) and body image dissatisfaction (BID) in adolescents and evaluate the interaction between physical exercise and nutritional status in this association. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015 involving 799 adolescents (10-16 years old) from 14 public schools in Curitiba (PR), Brazil. BID was assessed using the Body Shape Questionnaire and the Silhouette Scale. The FRE was classified as "does not practice," "practices ≤300 min/week," and "practices >300 min/week" by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents. Poisson and multinomial logistic regressions, adjusted for sex, sexual maturation, and nutritional status analyzed the association of FRE and BID. Results: The BID prevalence was 28.3%; 52.4% of the adolescents wanted to reduce their silhouettes; and 48.7% did not practice FRE. Adolescents who practiced FRE >300 min/week had a 28% higher prevalence for some level of BID (PR 1.28; 95%CI 1.08-1.52) and a 46% lower chance of wanting to reduce silhouettes (OR 0.54; 95%CI 0.35-0.82), compared to nonpractitioners. There was no interaction between FRE and nutritional status in association with BID. Conclusions: The adolescents who practice FRE >300 min/week are likely to have some level of BID and are less likely to report the desire to increase their silhouettes, regardless of their nutritional status.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre a participação em exercícios físicos relacionados ao fitness (EFRF) e a insatisfação com a imagem corporal (IIC) em adolescentes e avaliar a interação entre os exercícios físicos e o estado nutricional nesta associação. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado em 2015 com 799 adolescentes (10 a 16 anos) de 14 escolas públicas de Curitiba (PR), Brasil. A IIC foi avaliada por meio do Body Shape Questionnaire e da Escala de Silhuetas. A participação em EFRF foi avaliada pelo Questionário de Atividade Física para Adolescentes e classificada em "não pratica", "pratica ≤300 minutos/semana" e "pratica >300 minutos/semana". As regressões de Poisson e logística multinomial, ajustadas por sexo, maturação sexual e estado nutricional, analisaram a associação entre EFRF e IIC. Resultados: A prevalência de IIC foi de 28,3%; 52,4% dos adolescentes queriam reduzir a silhueta e 48,7% não praticavam a EFRF. Adolescentes que praticavam EFRF >300 minutos/semana tiveram prevalência 28% maior para algum nível de IIC (razão de prevalência — RP 1,28; intervalo de confiança de 95% — IC95% 1,08-1,52) e chance 46% menor de querer reduzir silhuetas (OR 0,54; 95IC% 0,35-0,82), comparados aos não praticantes. Não houve interação entre os EFRF e o estado nutricional na associação com IIC. Conclusões: Os adolescentes que praticam EFRF >300 minutos/semana estão mais propensos a apresentar algum nível de IIC e têm menores chances de reportar o desejo de aumentar silhuetas, independentemente do estado nutricional.

Comparison of safety and effectiveness of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation and "slow cook" diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in patients with refractory open-angle glaucoma

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of intraocular pressure reduction between micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in patients with refractory primary open-angle glaucoma. Methods: We included patients with primary open angle glaucoma with at least 12 months of follow-up. We collected and analyzed data on the preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes. The primary outcomes were a reduction of ≥20% of the baseline value (criterion A) and/or intraocular pressure between 6 and 21 mmHg (criterion B). Results: We included 128 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma. The preoperative mean intraocular pressure was 25.53 ± 6.40 and 35.02 ± 12.57 mmHg in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups, respectively (p<0.001). The mean intraocular pressure was reduced significantly to 14.33 ± 3.40 and 15.37 ± 5.85 mmHg in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups at the last follow-up, respectively (p=0.110). The mean intraocular pressure reduction at 12 months was 11.20 ± 11.46 and 19.65 ± 13.22 mmHg in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups, respectively (p<0.001). The median preoperative logMAR visual acuity was 0.52 ± 0.69 and 1.75 ± 1.04 in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups, respectively (p<0.001). The mean visual acuity variation was −0.10 ± 0.35 and −0.074 ± 0.16 in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation, respectively (p=0.510). Preoperatively, the mean eye drops were 3.44 ± 1.38 and 2.89 ± 0.68 drugs in the micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups, respectively (p=0.017), but those were 2.06 ± 1.42 and 1.02 ± 1.46 at the end of the study in the "slow cook" and micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation groups, respectively (p<0.001). The success of criterion A was not significant between both groups. Compared with 11 eyes (17.74%) in the "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation group, 19 eyes (28.78%) in the micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation group showed complete success (p=0.171). For criterion B, 28 (42.42%) and 2 eyes (3.22%) showed complete success after micropulse- and "slow cook" transscleral cyclophotocoagulation, respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion: Both techniques reduced intraocular pressure effectively.

Escala de Preocupação com a Imagem Corporal Durante a Gravidez: Tradução e validação para a população portuguesa / Body Image Concerns During Pregnancy Scale: Translation and validation for the Portuguese population / Escala de Preocupação com a Imagem Corporal Durante a Gravidez: traducción y validación para la población portuguesa

Resumo Enquadramento: As preocupações com a imagem corporal durante a gravidez podem ter diversos problemas. A compreensão destas preocupações podem ajudar os profissionais de saúde a melhorarem os cuidados com a saúde das grávidas. Objetivo: Adaptar e validar para a população portuguesa a Body Image Concern Scale During Pregnancy, que foi traduzida Escala de Preocupação com a Imagem Corporal Durante a Gravidez (EPICDG). Metodologia: Estudo quantitativo e transversal, participaram 231 grávidas. A avaliação das propriedades métricas da EPICDG foi realizada com base na análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatória. Resultados: A versão portuguesa com 21 itens, apresentou índices de ajuste idênticos à escala original. O modelo com melhor qualidade, foi o modelo com as quatro subdimensões da escala original (X 2 (176) = 446,320; p < 0,001, X 2 df = 2,536; CFI = 0,91; TLI = 0,89; GFI = 0,86; RMSEA = 0,077, p < 0,001). Conclusão: Os resultados demonstram que a validação da escala para a língua portuguesa, tem propriedades psicométricas adequadas para a avaliação das preocupações com a imagem corporal durante a gravidez.

Abstract Background: Body image concerns during pregnancy can lead to a number of problems. Understanding these concerns can help health professionals improve health care for pregnant women. Objective: Translate, adapt, and validate the Body Image Concerns During Pregnancy Scale for the Portuguese population (Escala de Preocupação com a Imagem Corporal Durante a Gravidez - EPICDG). Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with 231 pregnant women. The psychometric properties of the EPICDG were assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The fit indices of the Portuguese 21-item version were identical to those of the original scale. The four-dimension model had the best fit (X 2 (176) = 446.320; p < 0.001, X 2 df = 2.536; CFI = 0.91; TLI = 0.89; GFI = 0.86; RMSEA = 0.077, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The results show that the EPICDG has adequate psychometric properties for assessing body image concerns during pregnancy in the Portuguese population.

Resumen Marco contextual: La preocupación por la imagen corporal durante el embarazo puede causar diversos problemas. Comprender estas preocupaciones puede ayudar a los profesionales sanitarios a mejorar los cuidados a las mujeres embarazadas. Objetivo: Adaptar y validar para la población portuguesa la Body Image Concerns During Pregnancy Scale, que fue traducida en la Escala de Preocupação com a Imagem Corporal Durante a Gravidez (EPICDG). Metodología: Estudio cuantitativo transversal en el que participaron 231 mujeres embarazadas. Las propiedades métricas de la EPICDG se evaluaron mediante análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio. Resultados: La versión portuguesa con 21 ítems mostró índices de ajuste idénticos a los de la escala original. El modelo con mejor calidad fue el que tenía las cuatro subdimensiones de la escala original (X 2 (176) = 446,320; p < 0,001, X 2 df = 2,536; CFI = 0,91; TLI = 0,89; GFI = 0,86; RMSEA = 0,077, p < 0,001). Conclusión: Los resultados muestran que la validación de la escala para el idioma portugués tiene propiedades psicométricas adecuadas para evaluar las preocupaciones sobre la imagen corporal durante el embarazo.

Are very thin patients at a higher risk of complications when submitted to percutaneous nephrolithotomy?

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the impact of thinness on the outcome of the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Materials and Methods: A matched case-control study was performed using a prospectively collected database of all patients who underwent PCNL between June 2011 and October 2021. The patients were stratified into two groups according to their phenotypic characteristics, arbitrarily defined according to their body mass index (BMI): <20 kg/m2 (Group 1, very thin patients, G<20) and ≥25 kg/m2 (Group 2, non-thin patients, G≥25). Patients were randomly matched based on Guy's Stone Score (GSS) according to case complexity at a ratio of 1:3. Results: A total of 204 patients were enrolled in this study: 51 patients (G<20) and 153 controls (G≥25). Complications occurred in 15.2% of the patients, with 5.4% of these complications classified as major complications (Clavien grade ≥ 3). According to complications there were no significant differences between the groups. The overall complication rates were 17.6% in the G<20 and 14.4% in the G≥25 (p = 0.653). The major complication rates were 3.9% in the G<20 and 5.8% in the G≥25 (p=0.429). No differences in transfusion or urinary fistula rates were found. Conclusions: In this study, very thin patients were not at a higher risk of complications when submitted to PCNL than in those with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2. Apparently, this technique can be used in these patients, just as it is used in any other type of patient, independently of their BMI.

(Dis)satisfaction With Body Image, Lifestyles and Life Satisfaction in Higher Education Students / (In)satisfacción con la imagen corporal, estilos de vida y satisfacción con la vida en estudiantes de enseñanza superior

Abstract Objective: Body image is a predictor of physical, psychological, and social health. Therefore, it can be an indicator for detecting health problems, to be used in the context of higher education. The aim of this study was to assess body image satisfaction in higher education students and to determine whether body image dissatisfaction is related to lifestyle behaviours and life satisfaction. Methodology: This study included 166 Portuguese higher education students. Body image was assessed using the Figure Rating Scale. Active choices during everyday life were assessed using the Active Choice Index. The questionnaire also included questions about sleep behaviour and tobacco and alcohol consumption. Satisfaction with Life was assessed using a five-item scale previously adapted for the Portuguese population. Results: There was a predominance of boys dissatisfied with thinness (26.10%), while the majority of girls revealed that they were dissatisfied due to being overweight (55.70%). The results indicate statistically significant differences between boys and girls in terms of body image categories (p<0.001). However, when we analysed the behaviours separately according to gender, there were no differences. Active behaviours, as well as the other health behaviours analysed (hours of sleep per week and alcohol and tobacco consumption) did not differ between the different levels of body image satisfaction (p>0.05). Conclusion: Most of the students are dissatisfied with their body image, with the majority of girls showing dissatisfaction due to being overweight. Lifestyles and life satisfaction do not differ between students who are satisfied and those who are dissatisfied with their body image.

Resumen Objetivo: La imagen corporal es un factor predictivo de la salud psicológica, física y social. Por lo tanto, puede ser un indicador para detectar problemas de salud, para utilizar en el contexto de la educación superior. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la satisfacción con la imagen corporal en estudiantes de enseñanza superior y determinar si la insatisfacción con la imagen corporal está relacionada con los comportamientos de estilo de vida y la satisfacción con la vida. Metodología: En este estudio participaron 166 estudiantes portugueses de enseñanza superior. La imagen corporal se evaluó mediante la escala Figure Rating Scale. Las elecciones activas durante la vida cotidiana se evaluaron mediante el Active Choice Index. El cuestionario también incluía preguntas sobre el comportamiento durante el sueño y el consumo de tabaco y alcohol. La satisfacción con la vida se evaluó mediante una escala de cinco ítems previamente adaptada a la población portuguesa. Resultados: Predominaron los chicos insatisfechos por delgadez (26.10%), mientras que la mayoría de las chicas revelaron estar insatisfechas por sobrepeso (55.70%). Los resultados indican diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre chicos y chicas en cuanto a las categorías de imagen corporal (p<0.001). Sin embargo, al analizar los comportamientos por separado en función del sexo, no se observaron diferencias. Las conductas activas, así como las demás conductas de salud analizadas (horas de sueño semanales y consumo de alcohol y tabaco) no difirieron entre los distintos niveles de satisfacción con la imagen corporal (p>0.05). Conclusiones: La mayoría de los estudiantes están insatisfechos con su imagen corporal, siendo mayoritaria la insatisfacción de las chicas por sobrepeso. Los estilos de vida y la satisfacción vital no difieren entre los alumnos satisfechos y los insatisfechos con su imagen corporal.

Barriers and enablers to effective weight management for people living with overweight and obesity: A rapid scoping review.

A scoping review was conducted to identify barriers and enablers to effective weight management in healthcare settings for people living with overweight and obesity in English-speaking high-income countries. Peer-reviewed and gray literature were systematically searched in June 2024. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Of the 15,684 unique articles identified and screened for relevance, 216 studies were included. Healthcare-related barriers and enablers to weight management were organized under three themes: a) healthcare provider-related factors, b) provision of care, and c) policy/funding. Prominent barriers included healthcare provider knowledge deficits and low prioritization of obesity management, mainly in the primary care setting. Weight management beyond the primary care setting was found to be especially challenging, with poor referral pathways, service fragmentation, lack of multidisciplinary practice, and restricted eligibility criteria, hindering the accessibility of services. Developing consistent policies and guidelines, improving the education of healthcare providers, and increasing funding to provide low-cost comprehensive care, were identified as enablers to access and uptake of weight management services. Considerable overlap in the identified barriers existed across healthcare providers and settings. A whole health system approach to minimize barriers and strengthen enablers to weight management services is needed, to address rising obesity rates.

Relationship between extracellular water to total body water ratio and severe diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes.

CONTEXT: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes, and identifying the risk factors for severe DR is important. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the relationship between severe DR and the extracellular water to total body water ratio (ET ratio). DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study. SETTING: Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes at Kyushu University Hospital. PATIENTS: A total of 205 adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) were included. The patients were divided into two groups: non-proliferative DR (non-PDR; n = 161, 126 with no DR and 35 with simple DR) and proliferative DR (PDR; n = 44, 18 with pre-proliferative DR and 26 with PDR). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The ET ratio was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. RESULTS: The ET ratio was significantly higher in the PDR group than in the non-PDR group (0.390 vs. 0.398; P < .0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the ET ratio was significantly associated with PDR, independent of known risk factors for DR progression. In the subgroup analysis by age, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between the ET ratio and PDR, independent of known risk factors for DR progression in patients younger than 60 years. However, in patients 60 years and older, only the urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) showed a significant association with PDR in a model using the UACR and the ET ratio. CONCLUSION: In patients with T2D younger than 60 years, the ET ratio may be a useful indicator for identifying severe DR.

Body posture can modulate liver stiffness measured by transient elastography: a prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: Non-invasive measurement of liver stiffness (LS), traditionally performed in the supine position, has been established to assess liver fibrosis. However, fibrosis degree is not the sole determinant of LS, necessitating the identification of relevant confounders. One often-overlooked factor is body posture, and it remains unclear whether normal daily postures interfere with LS irrespective of fibrosis. A prospective two-group comparison study was conducted to investigate the relationship between posture and LS. METHODS: Sixty-two adults participated, divided into two groups: patients with chronic liver disease and healthy controls. Both groups were assessed using transient elastography (TE) under the supine, seated, and standing postures. Randomization was applied to the order of the two upright postures. A two-way mixed ANOVA was conducted to assess the posture-dependence of LS and its variations between two groups. RESULTS: Results showed that posture differentially affected LS depending on the presence of liver fibrosis. In 31 healthy individuals (baseline LS range: 3.5-6.8 kPa), a transition from the supine (5.0 ± 1.0 kPa) to seated (5.7 ± 1.4 kPa; p = 0.036) or standing (6.2 ± 1.7 kPa; p = 0.002) positions increased LS, indicating liver stiffening. Conversely, in 31 patients with varying fibrosis stages (baseline LS range: 8.8-38.2 kPa), posture decreased LS from the supine (15.9 ± 7.3 kPa) to seated (13.8 ± 6.2 kPa; p < 0.001) or standing (13.9 ± 6.2 kPa; p = 0.001) positions. No significant difference in LS was observed between the seated and standing positions in both groups (control group: 5.7 vs. 6.2 kPa, p = 0.305; patient group: 13.8 vs. 13.9 kPa, p = 1). Additionally, different postures did not elicit significant changes in the success rate (supine, 98.6 ± 4%; seated, 97.6 ± 6%; standing, 99.1 ± 3%; p = 0.258) and IQR/median value (supine, 25 ± 8%; seated, 29 ± 15%; standing, 29 ± 12%; p = 0.117), implying no impact on both measurement feasibility and reliability. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated, for the first time, the feasibility of utilizing upright postures as an alternative measurement protocol for TE. We further unravel a previously unrecognized role of transitioning between different postures to assist the diagnosis of cirrhosis. The findings suggested that daily physiological activity of postural changes suffices to alter LS. Therefore, body positioning should be standardized and carefully considered when interpreting LS.

Optimal duration of whole-body cryostimulation exposure to achieve target skin temperature: influence of body mass index-a randomized cross-over controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) may be influenced by individual characteristics. The aim of this study is to determine the optimal exposure time required to reach the analgesic threshold of 13.6 °C, which has been proposed to be a target temperature to be reached at skin level. Our objective is also to follow the skin temperature changes during and after WBC considering the participants body mass index (BMI). METHODS: Thirty healthy men were assigned into 2 groups based on their BMI [normal weight (n = 15; BMI = 21.53 ± 1.63 kg·m-2) and overweight (n = 15; BMI = 27.98 ± 1.16 kg·m-2)]. In a random order, each participant experienced a 4-min WBC exposure, as well as a control session with no cold exposure. Skin temperature was measured using a thermal imaging camera during and after cold exposure. RESULTS: Normal weight participants reached the threshold in 4 min, whereas overweight participants reached it in 3 min 30 s. Following WBC, a rapid mean skin temperature (MsT°) increase was observed for both groups, immediately after exposure. However, after 30 min, MsT° remained significantly lower than at baseline. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that appropriate WBC dosage may differ according to BMI. Understanding the impact of such variable on cold exposure outcomes can help to optimize WBC treatments and maximize potential benefits.

Exploring the effects of social media on body dysmorphic disorder among citizens of Bahrain: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: This study assessed the relationship between social media use and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). We calculated the prevalence of BDD in our sample and explored factors that may be associated with BDD. Various factors that we explored include sociodemographic characteristics, body image perceptions, and specific social media platforms used. The key focus of our study is understanding the impact of social media on mental health, specifically in the context of BDD. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional online survey that included the standardized Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Data on social media use were collected through self-reported usage patterns. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify associations. RESULTS: Increased overall social media use was associated with BDD (p = 0.030). The prevalence of BDD in our sample was 1.8%. Age, being single and being a student were associated with BDD, with p values of 0.004, 0.023, and < 0.001, respectively. BDD was associated with comparing one's body image with that of people on social media (p = 0.001). BDD was associated with judging other people based on their appearance (p < 0.001). Using social media in the fields of celebrities (p = 0.020), fashion (p = 0.025), music and songs (p < 0.001) were associated with BDD. CONCLUSIONS: Increased social media use is associated with BDD, but different patterns of social media use may affect this relationship, indicating the need for further research in this field.

Comparative population genomics analysis for chicken body sizes using genome-wide SNPs.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the selection history, genome regions, and candidate genes associated with different chicken body sizes, thereby providing insights into the genetic basis of complex economic traits such as chicken body size and growth. Methods: In this study, a total of 217 individuals from eight breeds were selected. According to body size, they were divided into two groups: large chickens and bantam chickens, with four breeds in each group. Firstly, we investigate population structure by principal component analysis (PCA), phylogenetic tree, and ancestry component analysis. Next, we recognize runs of homozygosity (ROH) islands through calculating ROH. Finally, we carry out selection signatures analysis utilizing population differentiation index and nucleic acid diversity. Results: The population structure analysis show that large and bantam chickens are clearly separated. Large chickens are clustered together, the bantam chickens are relatively dispersed. The results of ROH island analysis show that 48 and 56 ROH islands were identified in large and bantam chickens respectively. Among the interesting ROH islands, a total of eight candidate genes were identified. In selection signatures analysis, a total of 322 selected genes were annotated in large chickens, such as POU1F1, BMP10, enrichment in 16 GO terms. In bantam chickens, a total of 447 selected genes were annotated, such as IGF1, GRB10, enrichment in 20 GO terms and 2 KEGG pathways. The haplotype analysis results show that GRB10 has differences in chickens of different body sizes. Conclusion: By population structure, ROH islands, and selection signatures analysis, we have identified multiple genes associated with chicken body size, growth, and development (such as BMP10, IGF1, GRB10, etc). This provides a theoretical reference for the subsequent development of molecular markers for chicken body size and the analysis of the genetic mechanism of chicken body size.

Effect of 1-Week Weight Loss While Maintaining Total Body Water on Jump Performance.

Jumping performance is influenced by body composition and excess fat mass impairs performance. Maintaining optimal fat mass and fat-free mass (FFM) is crucial for enhancing jump height. However, there is limited evidence on short-term weight loss programs that reduce fat mass without water restriction and their effects on muscle function and jumping performance. This study aimed to clarify the effects of a 1-week weight loss program on jumping height and muscle function of volleyball players. The weight loss group engaged in two 40 min slow-paced jogging sessions in addition to their daily training routine. Energy intake was restricted without limitations on water intake. Total body water and body composition using the deuterium dilution method, muscle strength, and jump height before and after 1 week were evaluated for those in the weight loss and control groups. Body mass was significantly reduced in the weight loss group (-2.7 ± 1.3%, p < 0.05) with a significant reduction in fat mass (-17.7 ± 10.7%, p < 0.05). Meanwhile, there were no significant changes in total body water or FFM. Muscle strength and power tests indicated no significant differences between the groups; no notable differences were observed in handgrip strength or knee extension torque. The height of a single vertical and continuous jump remained consistent pre- and postintervention in the control group. In the weight loss group, although the height of a single vertical jump exhibited a slight decline postintervention, the height of a continuous jump displayed no significant changes. The short-term weight loss program significantly reduced fat mass without compromising muscle function, which is crucial for sports performance. These findings may benefit other athletes who require fat mass reduction while maintaining muscle function and help create new programs during specific training phases.

Self-Inserted Knotted Wire Through the Urethra: A Case Report.

Foreign bodies in the lower urinary system are relatively uncommon. The foreign body can cause significant discomfort, hematuria, or infection of the urinary system. Diagnosis is usually made by clinical examination and pelvic X-ray. The case we present is interesting in that the foreign body, that is the wire, coiled and made a knot within the bladder. We report a case of a 25-year-old male who presented with a history of dysuria after the insertion of a foreign body into the urethra. Examination showed a wire protruding from the urethra with no bleeding or discharge. X-ray showed a wire from the meatus, coiled and tied in the bladder. Open cystostomy and extraction of the wire were done successfully. Foreign bodies are usually a result of psychological illness. Thereby, psychiatric evaluation is needed in such a presentation. Management should be started by a trial of retrieval or, if failed, endoscopically or by open cystostomy.

A Rare Case of a Child with Bended Scarf-Pin in Left Bronchus: Case Report with Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: In this report, we present the case of a 19-month-old female diagnosed with hijab pin aspiration after a week of persistent coughing, along with a meta analysis and systematic review of the relevant literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Ovid Medline, Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS, yielding 182 records until August 2024. A total of 7 published study and our case included to final analysis. The complication, morbidity, and mortality analysis has been performed using Jamovi software v2.4 MAJOR proportion analysis section. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 19-month-old female was admitted to another hospital with a persistent cough complaint. In X-ray left hijab pin has been detected. The patient underwent a succesfull removal with rigid broncoscopy (RB). A total of 71 patients included this meta analysis. The thoracotomy rate was 8%. The bleeding rate was reported as 1.4%. The reoperation rate was reported as 9.8%. The postoperative intubation rate was reported as 1.4%. The calculated complication rate was found to be 5.6% based on the existing literature. The postoperative hemoptysis incidence was calculated as 0%. Mortality was not reported across any included studies. However, the mortality incidence was calculated as 0% based on included studies. CONCLUSION: Effective and timely intervention is crucial for managing pediatric hijab pin aspiration. Multidisciplinary approaches ensure successful outcomes and prevent serious complications.

Effects of a novel synbiotics-enzyme complex as a replacement for antibiotics on growth performance, slaughter and meat characteristics, immune organ index, and intestinal morphology of broilers.

Introduction: Antibiotic use in broilers is being discouraged globally due to the challenges it poses. This study was conducted to assess the effects of supplementing broilers with a Symbiotic-Enzyme complex (SEC) containing prebiotics (mannose oligosaccharides), probiotics (Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus subtilis), and enzymes (glucose oxidase, and α-galactosidase) as an alternative to antibiotics on growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, mortality, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology and immune organ indexes. Method: A total of 864 mixed-sex 1-day-old arbor acres (AA+) broilers were allocated to 8 experimental groups replicated 9 times with 12 chickens per replicate. These included 6 treatment groups with SEC inclusion levels of 0.025, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10%, respectively, and two control groups: a negative control group containing a basal diet only and the positive control group (Antibiotics group) containing a basal diet and antibiotic oxytetracycline added at 0.2%. Growth performance was measured on day 21 and 42, and the mortality, carcass, meat quality traits, linear body measurements, intestinal morphology, and organ size indexes were measured on day 42. Results: The results indicated that supplementing broilers with 0.1% SEC resulted in insignificant (P > 0.05) increases in average daily feed intake (ADFI), significant (P < 0.05) increases in the average daily gains (ADG), and significant (P < 0.05) reduction in a feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in all the phases compared to the control and antibiotics groups. Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC inclusion levels also significantly (P < 0.05) increased the body slope length, chest width, chest depth, keel length, and shank circumference. Furthermore, broilers on diets containing 0.1% SEC inclusion level also had significantly (P < 0.05) higher dressed, semi-evisceration, evisceration, and breast muscle percentages. Including SEC at 0.1% also significantly (P < 0.05) increased villus height and villus-to-crypt ratio (V/C) but reduced crypt depth in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum compared to the control groups. SEC inclusion at 0.1% significantly (P < 0.05) increased the spleen, bursal, and thymus indexes, respectively. Conclusion: Supplementation of broilers with 0.1% SEC can be used as an antibiotic alternative because it increases the F/G, improves the carcass and meat quality, increases the body conformation, improves the small intestines' functions, and immune organ size.