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Background: Entrepreneurial leadership is the becoming concept in health, social sciences, business, management, and education that can influence and direct the performance and achievement of either staff or organizations. Unfortunately, entrepreneurial leadership has received limited attention in healthcare fields, especially nursing.Purpose: This cross-sectional study aimed to explore entrepreneurial leadership and examine its associated factors among undergraduate nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 410 nursing students who were recruited using a simple random sampling strategy. The data were collected using an online self-reporting survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: This study’s results revealed that most nursing students generally have entrepreneurial leadership at a high level (Mean=4.04, SD=0.49). The factors significantly associated with entrepreneurial leadership among the undergraduate nursing students were the level of study year class and parental income (p

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the falling incidence density and examine the potential risk factors associated with falling among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy. Methods One hundred and twenty-three women with breast cancers were participated in this study. The fall incidence density, taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN) symptoms, and physical performance tests were evaluated at five time points throughout chemotherapy treatment. A fall diary was used to record fall incidence density during treatment. The fall incidence density was calculated by the number of first fall occurrence divide by person-time at risk. The risk factors associated with falls incidence density were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard model. The Kaplan-Meier curve illustrated the probability to survive from fall during chemotherapy treatment. RESULTS Over the course of taxane-based chemotherapy, 29 (23.58%) women with breast cancer reported falls. In addition, the fall incidence density was 3 per 1000 person-day. This study discovered a significant link between age (HR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.01-1.11), BMI (HR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.01-1.20), and a 30-s chair stand test (HR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.79-0.97) and falling. CONCLUSIONS As evidenced by the findings, the initial fall occurred after the first cycle of chemotherapy treatment and was found throughout the course of treatment. Furthermore, falls were associated with age, BMI, and a 30-second chair stand test. Early detection of TIPN symptoms and lower limb muscular weakness, particularly among older persons and those with a high BMI, may be essential to prevent falls.

The figure of eight walk test (F8W) is a measurement tool that examines the ability to walk on a curved path. Adding secondary tasks to the F8W test may increase its ability to predict falls in older adults.This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of the F8W test and the F8W test with a dual-tasking in predicting future falls in older adults.Eighty older adults between the ages of 60 and 80 were recruited. At the beginning of the study, participants completed the standard F8W test, F8W test with a cognitive task, and F8W test with a motor task. The number of falls was documented during a six-month follow-up. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to compare the accuracy for predicting falls. The cut-off points and the psychometric properties of the tests were computed.The F8W test with a motor task had the highest accuracy for predicting falls in older adults, with an AUC of 0.74 (95%CI = 0.63-0.83). The F8W with a motor task's optimal cut-off score was12 s, with a sensitivity of 76.5% and a specificity of 65.0%.The F8W with a motor task was a more potent tool for detecting fall risk than the standard F8W or the F8W with a cognitive task. Clinicians may utilize the F8W with a motor task as preliminary guidelines when making clinical judgments concerning older adults who are at risk of falling.

To evaluate the effects of textured insole socks on balance, gait parameters, and fall risk in older adults at risk of falling.Thirty older adults at risk of falls participated and were randomly al...

This study sought to investigate the effects of foam pad balance exercises on balance, physical performance, peripheral neuropathy symptoms, and quality of life in cancer patients undergoing taxane-based chemotherapy.Thirty cancer patients receiving chemotherapy were randomly divided into 2 groups (n = 15/group): control group (CG) and balance exercise group (BG). The BG were asked to perform foam pad balance exercises 60 min/day, twice/week for 6 weeks, along with conventional therapy. The CG only received conventional therapy. The Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) Score, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Michigan Diabetic Neuropathy Score (MDNS), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane (FACT-Taxane) were used to assess balance, physical performance, peripheral neuropathy symptoms, and quality of life, respectively, at baseline and after 4 and 6 weeks of treatment.At 4 and/or 6 weeks, the CG showed a decline in FAB and SPPB Scores, while the BG maintained their baseline levels. There were significant differences in the FAB Scores between the groups at the 4th and 6th week (p = 0.04 and p 0.01, respectively) and significant differences in SPPB Scores at only the 6th week (p = 0.03). MDNS showed no significant changes between or within groups. For FACT-Taxane between groups, the CG and BG showed significant decreases (p 0.01) and increases (p 0.01), respectively, at 6th week.Foam pad balance exercises during chemotherapy can be used to alleviate declining balance and enhance physical performance and quality of life of cancer patients.

Women with breast cancer who underwent taxane-based chemotherapy demonstrate diminished postural stability. However, the data concerning dynamic postural stability among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy remains insufficient.To investigate postural stability among women with breast cancer during taxane-based chemotherapy.Fifteen women with breast cancer participated in this study. Postural stabilities were assessed at five intervals during the course of chemotherapy treatment. Static postural stability was measured during single leg with eyes open (SEO) and eyes closed (SEC) conditions, while dynamic postural stability was measured during performance of the limit of stability test (LOS). Postural stability was described using 95% confidence ellipse area (EA), center of pressure (COP) path length (PL), and COP average velocity (AV).For static postural stability assessment, SEO condition was found to have significant increases in EA, PL, and AV (p = .001, p .001, and p = .02, respectively). For dynamic postural stability assessment, a significant difference in EA was observed in the forward, backward, right, and left directions (p = .02, p = .02, p .001, and p = .01, respectively). In addition, a significant difference in PL was found while performing in a backward direction (p = .02).The findings showed that women with breast cancer may have experienced decreased static and dynamic postural stability.

Background/Aims Balance training using unstable support surfaces is widely used in clinics and research and can reduce the risk of falls in older people. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an exercise programme using a foam bead bag on older adults' ability to balance and the strength of their lower extremities and compare the effect with no exercise and foam pad exercise using the same programme. Methods A total of 24 older adults were allocated into one of three groups: control (n=8), foam pad exercise (n=8) and foam bead bag exercise (n=8). The foam pad exercise and foam bead bag exercise groups carried out a programme consisting of 30 minutes of exercise performed twice a week for 5 weeks. The control group did not participate in an exercise programme. Participants' balance abilities were measured using the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale, the Timed Up and Go Test and the Single-Leg Stance Test. The strength of their lower extremities was measured using the 30-second sit-to-stand test. Results The Fullerton Advanced Balance scale and 30-second sit-to-stand scores significantly improved in the foam pad exercise and foam bead bag exercise groups. Both of these groups also demonstrated significant improvements in Timed Up and Go tests. The amount of time that participants were able to stand on one leg while unassisted significantly increased in the foam bead bag group only. No significant differences were found in balance ability or lower extremity strength in the control group. Conclusions A foam bead bag is a suitable alternative to a foam pad when performing exercises to improve balance and strength of the lower extremities in older adults.

Background Plantar fasciitis (PF) is the most common cause of heel pain. A calf stretching (CS) and a plantar fascia-specific stretching (PFSS) are two stretching techniques commonly administered by health care providers. Objective To evaluate the literature on the application of these two stretching techniques in the treatment of PF and investigate their effectiveness and efficacy. Method A search of PubMed, Web of Sciences, PEDro, CINHAL and Scopus was conducted. Studies that applied stretching as a co-intervention were excluded. The risk of bias was assessed to determine the internal validity of the included trials. The GRADE approach was adopted to determine the overall quality. Pooled analysis was performed to determine the treatment effects of CS and PFSS in terms of the mean difference in the visual analog scale pain score. Results Eight articles were found that represented randomized controlled trial and met the inclusion criteria. There was very low-quality evidence that the combined CS and PFSS was less effective in the short term than the other therapies. Comparison between CS and PFSS revealed moderate quality evidence for a larger effect of pain score reduction for PFSS treatment over CS, while very low-quality evidence supported that combined CS and PFSS or CS alone was superior to sham stretching. Conclusion There was moderate to very low-quality evidence of the effectiveness of stretching for PF. The treatment effect of stretching was large and comparable to other therapies. Future trials of higher quality are needed to clarify findings or to confirm findings.

Background Postural stability during sit-to-stand (STS) movements depends on visual and somatosensory information. A modification of the 30-sec chair-stand test (30s-CST) with visual and somatosensory alteration (m30CST) may improve the ability to identify fall status. Objective This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of the m30CST in predicting falls in older adults. Methods This prospective cohort study recruited a convenience sample of 73 individuals from Kao Kilo community, Chonburi, Thailand. Eligibility criteria were age ≥ 65 years and independent STS ability. All participants performed the 30s-CST and m30CSTs (i.e., eyes closed and a foam surface and eyes closed and a foam surface). The fall incidence during a 6-month follow-up was recorded. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated. Twenty participants were designated for reliability and validity analyses using the 30s-CST and the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) Scale, estimating intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results We included 37 fallers and 36 non-fallers. All tests showed excellent accuracy in classifying fallers (AUC = 0.77–0.91). The m30CST with eyes closed and a foam surface had the highest AUC (0.91), with a cutoff score of 9.25 repetitions, sensitivity 92%, and specificity 81%. The m30CSTs presented excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.93–0.96) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.90–0.96), good to excellent correlation with the 30s-CST (r = 0.90–0.98), and moderate to good correlation with the FAB Scale (r = 0.64–0.73). Conclusions The m30CST could be used as an alternative evaluation for predicting the risk of falls in community-dwelling older adults, with excellent accuracy.

The aim of this research was to study the properties of cement reinforced with coconut fiber. The coconut fiber addition that uses in this research were 5, 10 and 15% by weight of cement. The cement paste and coconut fiber were mixed together and packed into an iron mold. Then, the specimens were kept at room temperature for 24 hours and were moist cured in the water bath at 3, 7 and 28 days. After that, the physical properties i.e. water absorption and density were examined. The microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed the surfaces of the coconut fibers were not smooth, spread with nodes and irregular stripes, which is covered with substances and other impurities. The compressive strength and flexural strength were also investigated. From the results, the mechanical properties were decreased with increasing coconut fiber content due to reducing density and higher porosity and water absorption compared to non-fiber cement paste and physical properties of fiber had been flexibility and smoother caused poor binding with cement. The best compressive strength and flexural strength results were obtained with the percentages of coconut fiber as 5% which value as 26.67 N/mm2 and 5.08 N/mm2 respectively.

Introduction Training with a slow and sustained mechanical load, such as standing on one leg, is an effective method for improving balance and increasing lower-extremity strength. Also, visual feedback during motor learning is important in facilitating efficient postural responses and balance skills. In this study, a custom-made visual feedback device was invented to provide the training modality and program based on single-leg standing combined with augmented visual feedback training. This study aimed to investigate the effects of visual feedback training using the custom-made visual feedback device on balance and functional lower-extremity strength in older adults. Methods Thirty-four independent older adults were randomly allocated to a training group (TG) and a control group (CG). The participants in the TG received training with the custom-made visual feedback device. The training duration was three sessions per week, for four weeks. The participants in the CG continued their routine activities. Balance (static and dynamic balances, and balance confidence) and functional lower-extremity strength were assessed pre- and post-training. Results Improvements in static balance (sway velocity and limit of balance during one-leg standing with eyes open) and dynamic balance (directional control of limits of stability in the backward direction) were found after training in the TG compared with the CG. No significant differences in balance confidence or functional lower-extremity strength were found between groups after training. Conclusion In older adults, training with a custom-made visual feedback device could be used to improve both static and dynamic balances, but not balance confidence and functional lower-extremity strength.

This work aimed to determine the incidence density of taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN) and its risk factors among women with breast cancer. One hundred and forty-one women with breast cancer participated in this cohort study. TIPN symptoms were evaluated with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer CIPN specific self-report questionnaire (EORTC QOL-CIPN20) at five-time points throughout chemotherapy treatment. Over three months, 125 (89%) and 59 (44.03%) women with breast cancer were identified with sensory and motor neuropathy, respectively. The sensory neuropathy incidence density was 21 per 1000 person-days. The motor neuropathy incidence density was 6 per 1000 person-days. This study discovered a significant link between age and the incidence density of sensory neuropathy (HR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.05) as well as motor neuropathy (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.08). These findings imply that screening may be necessary to detect early TIPN symptoms and provide appropriate rehabilitation programs, particularly for elderly persons.

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a lethal cancer with rapid progression and poor survival. Novel and more effective therapies than those currently available are, therefore, urgently needed. Our research group previously reported the combination of gemcitabine and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to be more effective than single-agent treatment for the elimination of CCA cells. However, gemcitabine treatment of CCA cells upregulates the expression of an immune checkpoint protein (programmed death-ligand 1 [PD-L1]) that consequently inhibits the cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes. To overcome this challenge and take advantage of PD-L1 upregulation upon gemcitabine treatment, we generated recombinant PD-L1xCD3 bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) to simultaneously block PD-1/PD-L1 signaling and recruit T lymphocytes to eliminate CCA cells. Two recombinant PD-L1xCD3 BiTEs (mBiTE and sBiTE contain anti-PD-L1 scFv region from atezolizumab and from a published sequence, respectively) were able to specifically bind to both CD3 on T lymphocytes, and to PD-L1 overexpressed after gemcitabine treatment on CCA (KKU213A, KKU055, and KKU100) cells. mBiTE and sBiTE significantly enhanced T lymphocyte cytotoxicity against CCA cells, especially after gemcitabine treatment, and their magnitudes of cytotoxicity were positively associated with the levels of PD-L1 expression. Our findings suggest combination gemcitabine and PD-L1xCD3 BiTE as a potential alternative therapy for CCA.

Background Sitting ability is critical for daily activities in individuals who have experienced a stroke. A combination of seated balance training on an unstable surface and real-time visual feedback via a simple mobile inclinometer application may improve trunk control in stroke survivors. Objective This randomized controlled trial aimed to determine the effects of home-based exercise utilizing a balance disc with input from a smartphone inclinometer application on sitting balance and activities of daily living in stroke survivors. Methods This trial enrolled 32 stroke survivors aged 30 to 75 years. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: intervention or control. Both groups underwent four weeks of traditional therapy. Additionally, the intervention group received four weeks of multidirectional lean training utilizing a balance disc and a smartphone application with an inclinometer. The Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS), the Function in Sitting Test (FIST), and the Barthel Index (BI) were used to assess the results. To compare between group effects, an ANCOVA analysis was performed using a baseline as a covariate. Results The PASS changing posture and BI were considerably greater in the intervention group compared to the control group. Other metrics revealed no statistically significant differences between the groups. Conclusion Home-based training with balance discs and input from a smartphone inclinometer application may improve postural control and daily activity in stroke patients. Trial registration Clinical trials registry number: TCTR20210617004.

Exposure to PM10 generated by biomass burning may reduce lung function and induce cytogenetic effects, especially in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. This study investigated the frequency of DNA-damaged cells, cells with cytokinetic defect, and different types of cell death using a buccal micronucleus cytome assay. The correlations between each biomarker and lung function were investigated. The changes in these biomarkers associated with high pollutant levels (PM10 > 50 μg/m3) and low pollutant levels (PM10

Background: Functional impairment of the muscle-tendon unit is one of the most remarkable effects of aging. The function of the peroneus longus muscle is to stabilise the foot and ankle joint. A deterioration of the structural and mechanical properties of this muscle can potentially lead to foot problems in older adults. This study aimed to investigate the effects of age on structural, histological, and mechanical features in peroneus longus muscle samples taken from embalmed cadavers of two different age groups; young adult (30–60 years) and old adult (over 60 years). Materials and methods: The mechanical property was analysed through the results of cross-sectional area, tensile, tensile stress, and modulus of elasticity. The arran- gement of the collagen in the perimysium and tendon was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Fatty infiltration within the musculotendinous junction was evaluated by Masson’ trichrome stained muscle sections. Results: This study thus provides evidence that there are indeed age-induced mechanical property changes in the peroneus longus muscle, which include reductions in the tensile force, tensile stress, and modulus of elasticity, and is related to the malformation of collagen fibrils and the massive fat accumulation in the musculotendinous junction. Conclusions: These alterations may further result in a reduction of muscle strength and quality in an older person.

Purpose: To establish the proper smartphone placement between two positions (thoracic vs. lumbar) for balance assessment using an accelerometer (ACC)-based application.Methods: Eighteen young adult...

Objective To investigate the effects of Qigong practice, Guan Yin Zi Zai Gong level 1, compared with a waiting list control group among office workers with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP). Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted at offices in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. Seventy-two office workers with CNLBP were screened for inclusion/exclusion criteria (age 20–40 years; sitting period more than 4 h per day) and were allocated randomly into two groups: the Qigong and waiting list groups ( n = 36 each). The participants in the Qigong group took a Qigong practice class (Guan Yin Zi Zai Gong level 1) for one hour per week for six weeks at their workstation. The participants were encouraged to conduct the Qigong exercise at home every day. The waiting list group received general advice regarding low back pain management. The primary outcomes were pain intensity, measured by the visual analog scale, and back functional disability, measured by the Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire. The secondary outcomes were back range of motion, core stability performance index, heart rate, respiratory rate, the Srithanya Stress Scale (ST-5), and the global perceived effect (GPE) questionnaire. Results Compared to the baseline, participants in the Qigong group experienced significantly decreased pain intensity and back functional disability. No statistically significant difference in these parameters was found in the waiting list group. Comparing the two groups, Qigong exercise significantly improved pain intensity, back functional impairment, range of motion, core muscle strength, heart rate, respiratory rate, and mental status. The Qigong group also had a significantly higher global outcome satisfaction than the waiting list group. Conclusion Qigong practice is an option for treatment of CNLBP in office workers.

Iron-containing HZSM-5 zeolites are materials with important industrial applications as catalysts. Their characterization is difficult due to the various possible Fe-containing species which can exist in the pores of HZSM-5 zeolites and their dependence on the preparation technique. Three Fe–HZSM-5 samples were prepared by ion-exchange technique using different iron precursors: containing only Fe2+ or Fe3+ ions, and containing equimolar mixture of Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions. The samples were characterized by various experimental techniques (XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis spectroscopy and XANES/EXAFS) in order to clarify the type of the Fe-containing species existing in the samples. Periodic density functional calculations were also performed to help in elucidation of the obtained structural information with the EXAFS data and in clarification of the relative stability of the various Fe-containing species in the pores of the HZSM-5 zeolites. In the samples prepared with only Fe2+ or Fe3+ ions dominate isolated iron species but binuclear FeOFe2+ species and small iron oxide clusters are also present. In the third sample, prepared from a precursor containing iron ions in both oxidation states, most of the iron is included in the iron oxide clusters or small nanoparticles. The time-resolved XAS for the sample containing equimolar Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions revealed existence of two types of dominant iron oxide species—small oligonuclear clusters in the temperature region 100–300 °C and larger more oxidized moieties (nanoparticles) after heating the sample up to 400 and 500 °C.

Background The increasing prevalence of broad-spectrum ampicillin-resistant and third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, particularly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, has become a global concern, with its clinical impacts on both human and veterinary medicine. This study examined the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and molecular genetic features of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates from 10 types of raw vegetables. Methods In total, 305 samples were collected from 9 markets in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, in 2020. Results ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates were found in 14 of the 305 samples obtained from 7 out of 10 types of vegetables (4.6% of the total). Further, 14 ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 5/14) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 9/14) (1.6% and 3.0%, respectively) were highly sensitive to β-lactam/carbapenem antibiotics (imipenem, 100%). ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 4) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 8) were also sensitive to non-β-lactam aminoglycosides (amikacin, 80.00% and 88.89%, respectively). ESBL producers were most resistant to β-lactam antibiotics, including ampicillin (85.71%) and the cephalosporins cefotaxime and ceftazidime (64.29%). The most frequently detected gene in ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae was blaSHV. However, two ESBL-producing E. coli isolates also carried three other ESBL-encoding variants, blaTEM, blaCTX-M1, blaGES and blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M9, which may be due to their association with food chains and humans. Discussion Indeed, our results suggest that raw vegetables are an important source of ESBL-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae, which are potentially transmittable to humans via raw vegetable intake.

Visual perception plays a role in balance control while performing a sit-to-stand movement (STS). The dynamic virtual environment could reduce effective neuromuscular regulation and instability. Nevertheless, virtual reality (VR) on the STS movement was not explored in any research.This study's aim was to investigate the effect of the VR of an optokinetic drum on the STS movement by using optokinetic drum VR scenes.This study used a repeated measurement research design. Ninety healthy subjects aged 18-23 years with no experience in virtual reality were recruited. Each participant was asked to stand as quickly as possible from a height-adjustable chair three times under five conditions: with eyes-open (EO), eyes-closed (EC), and three VR scenes: a limited field view of an optokinetic scene, a black and white striped scene, moving in horizontal direction (VRhori), vertical direction (VRvert), and roll (VRroll). VR scenes were generated using a mobile phone in a head-mounted display. The rising index (the upward force produced by the legs as a proportion of body weight), sway velocity, and weight transfer time were measured using a NeuroCom Balance Master.Only VRvert condition significantly reduced weight transfer time as compared to EO and the other two VR conditions. All three VR scenes significantly reduced the rising index as compared to EO. VRvert condition significantly increased sway velocity as compared to all conditions.These findings suggest that optokinetic environment scenes in virtual reality could be used as an alternative method to increase the challenge of maintaining the balance during STS.

Iron-containing HZSM-5 zeolite (Fen+-HZSM-5) are performed by ion exchange method with varying iron precursors of Fe2+, Fe3+ and equivalent molar of Fe2+/Fe3+. The Fen+-HZSM-5 materials are used as catalysts for phenol hydroxylation in the presence of H2O2. Bulk-iron oxides of α-Fe2O3 and α-FeOOH are synthesized via hydrothermal method for catalytic comparison to Fen+-HZSM-5. The iron structures on the Fen+-HZSM-5 catalysts are determined using UV–vis DRS and EXAFS techniques. The iron species found in the Fe2+-HZSM-5 and Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalysts is an isolated Fe3+ ion in tetrahedral geometry. Iron-oxo bonds with oxygen in zeolite framework (Fe-OF) are identified on both catalysts. On the other hand, Fe-O bond distances and coordination number on Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 exhibit the mixture of iron-oxo and iron-dioxo species (FO-Fe-OF) in octahedral geometry. The present iron species in the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst show a significant improvement of the turnover number (TON) for phenol hydroxylation in comparison to the bulk α-Fe2O3 and α-FeOOH catalysts. Moreover, the existent iron-dioxo species on the Fe2+/Fe3+-HZSM-5 catalyst enhances catalytic selectivity to catechol product.

In the present work, a new composite between β-tricalcium phosphate (a bioceramic material) and barium zirconium titanate (a ferroelectric material) were fabricated. Beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) powder was synthesized from egg shells while barium zirconium titanate powder was synthesized from metal oxide powders. The composites were fabricated by a solid-state reaction method. Effects of barium zirconium titanate on many properties of the composites were investigated. Barium zirconium titanate additive improves the electrical properties of the composites such as dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties. Furthermore, the mechanical properties, such as hardness are improved by the additive. In-vitro bioactivity test suggests that β-tricalcium phosphate has a higher apatite forming ability as compared to the BZT. The obtained results indicate that the composites are a promising biomaterial candidate.

Background The increasing prevalence of broad-spectrum ampicillin-resistant and third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, particularly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, has become a global concern, with its clinical impacts on both human and veterinary medicine. This study examined the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and molecular genetic features of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates from 10 types of raw vegetables. Methods In total, 305 samples were collected from 9 markets in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, in 2020. Results ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates were found in 14 of the 305 samples obtained from 7 out of 10 types of vegetables (4.6% of the total). Further, 14 ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 5/14) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 9/14) (1.6% and 3.0%, respectively) were highly sensitive to β-lactam/carbapenem antibiotics (imipenem, 100%). ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 4) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 8) were also sensitive to non-β-lactam aminoglycosides (amikacin, 80.00% and 88.89%, respectively). ESBL producers were most resistant to β-lactam antibiotics, including ampicillin (85.71%) and the cephalosporins cefotaxime and ceftazidime (64.29%). The most frequently detected gene in ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae was blaSHV. However, two ESBL-producing E. coli isolates also carried three other ESBL-encoding variants, blaTEM, blaCTX-M1, blaGES and blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M9, which may be due to their association with food chains and humans. Discussion Indeed, our results suggest that raw vegetables are an important source of ESBL-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae, which are potentially transmittable to humans via raw vegetable intake.

The essential oil constituents of the Kaempferia species, specifically K. angustiflora, K. marginata and the three varieties of K. galanga, i.e., K. galanga 1, K. galanga 2 and K. galanga 3 from Ch...

Objective: The aim was to compare the use of the four square step test (FSST) and the FSST with foam surface (FSST + foam) scores for discriminating between adults, faller older adults, and nonfaller older adults. Methods: Fifty-four participants (18 for each group) were assessed using the FSST and FSST + foam. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated and used to compare the accuracy of the tests. Results: The FSST + foam was more accurate than FSST for discriminating between faller and nonfaller older adults (area under the curves were 0.765 and 0.725, respectively) and between nonfaller older adults and adults (area under the curves were 0.99 and 0.95, respectively). The cutoff score for discriminating between faller and nonfaller older adults was 11.21, with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.889 and 0.611, respectively. Conclusion: FSST + foam could be used as an alternative assessment for discriminating between adults, faller, and nonfaller older adults.

[Purpose] The potential health benefits of the Nintendo Wii balance board exercise have been widely investigated. However, no study has been conducted to examine the benefits of Wii exercise for overweight young adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exercise performed on a Nintendo Wii balance board on the balance and lower limb muscle strength in overweight young adults. [Subjects and Methods] Within-subject repeated measures analysis was used. Sixteen young adults (aged 21.87±1.13 years, body mass index 24.15 ± 0.50 kg/m(2)) were recruited. All subjects performed an exercise program on a Wii balance board for 8 weeks (30 min/session, twice a week for 8 weeks). A NeuroCom Balance Master and a hand-held dynamometer were used to measure balance performance and lower limb muscle strength. [Results] According to the comparison of pre- and post-intervention measurements, the Wii balance board exercise program significantly improved the limit of stability parameters. There was also a significant increase in strength of four lower-limb muscle groups: the hip flexor, knee flexor, ankle dorsiflexor and ankle plantarflexor. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that a Wii balance board exercise program can be used to improve the balance and lower limb muscle strength of overweight young adults.

[Purpose] It is well known that vision is an important factor contributing to postural control. However, there has been little discussion about the effect of vision on sit-to-stand movement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of constrained vision on sit-to-stand movement. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-three healthy subjects (11 males, 12 females) aged 18–23 years with normal body mass indices were recruited for this study. Each participant was asked to stand as quickly as possible from a height-adjustable chair 3 times under 2 conditions: with eyes closed (EC) and eyes open (EO). The weight transfer time, rising index, and center of gravity sway velocity were measured using a NeuroCom Balance Master. [Results] The results show there were significant differences between the EC and EO conditions in the weight transfer time and the centre of gravity sway velocity. No significant difference was found between the EC and EO conditions in the rising index. These findings suggest that visual perception may play a role in balance control while performing sit-to-stand movement.

Background and purpose Previous studies suggested that limits of stability (LOS) training with visual feedback using commercial equipment could be used to improve balance ability in individuals with stroke. However, this system is expensive. In this study, we created a new tool from inexpensive elements based on LOS training using visual feedback. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of training using a new multidirectional reach tool on balance in individuals with stroke. Methods A single-blind randomized control trial was conducted. Individuals with stroke (n = 16; age range 38-72 years) were recruited. Participants in the experimental group were trained with the multidirectional reach training for 30 min and conventional physical therapy for 30 min per day, 3 days a week for 4 weeks. Participants in the control group received conventional physical therapy for 30 min per day, 3 days a week for 4 weeks. The outcomes were LOS, weight-bearing squat, and Fullerton Advanced Balance scale. All of the outcome measures were measured at pretraining, post-training, and 1 month follow-up. Results At post-training and 1-month follow-up, the participants in the experimental group had an improvement of dynamic balance than the control group. Furthermore, the activity assessment by Fullerton Advanced Balance scale was more improved at 1 month follow-up in the experimental group than control group. Conclusion The results of this study provide evidence that training using a new multidirectional reach tool is effective for improving balance in individuals with stroke.

To study the immediate effects of interferential current stimulation (IFC) on shoulder pain and pain-free passive range of motion (PROM) of the shoulder in people with hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP).Double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Institutional physical therapy clinic, neurologic rehabilitation center.A population-based sample of people with HSP (N=30) was recruited.Participants were divided into 2 groups--an IFC group and a placebo group--by using a match-paired method (age, sex, and Brunnstrom motor recovery stage). In the IFC group, participants received IFC for 20 minutes with an amplitude-modulated frequency at 100 Hz in vector mode. The current intensity was increased until the participants felt a strong tingling sensation.Pain intensity and pain-free PROM of the shoulder until the onset of pain were measured at baseline and immediately after treatment.Participants reported a greater reduction in pain during the most painful movement after treatment with IFC than with placebo (P.05). The IFC group showed a greater improvement in posttreatment pain-free PROM than the placebo group in shoulder flexion (P.01), abduction (P.01), internal rotation (P.01), and external rotation (P.01).This study provides evidence that IFC is effective for the relief of pain during movement and also increases the pain-free PROM of the shoulder in people with HSP.

Immobilized Spirulina mat was co-cultured with Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) postlarvae for water quality control in a closed re-circulating system. During the culture period, the experimental Spirulina mat system showed total ammonia nitrogen and nitrate accumulation rates lower by 32.92 and 32.26 %, respectively, compared with the system without the mat. The water exchange rate in the system with the mat was comparatively reduced by 40 %. Moreover, survival rate, growth rate, and size (length) of the co-cultured shrimp larvae were greater than those of the control (P

Sensors based on clay-modified electrode have been studied extensively. They have been made from different intercalation compounds to determine both organic and inorganic species. Various analytical techniques have been applied for clay-modified electrodes. In this work, we used ZnS-montmorillonite as a sensor to construct an electrochemical electrode or potentiometric electrode by mixing ZnS-montmorillonite with graphite, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) in an appropriate ratio. It was found that, the electrode gave best response to sulfide ion compared with other ions. The graph plotted between potential in mV against log[S2-] gave slope near 29.5 due to Nernst equation. The pH studied showed that the potential was almost constant at pH 4-11 and pH 4-9 in 0.01 M and 0.001 M of S2- solutions, respectively. This implied that the sensor could be used at a wide range of pH. The electrode also gave good precision.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise using a mung bean bag (MB) for balance ability. Thirty-nine healthy female young adults (aged 18-25 years with normal body mass index) were randomly assigned into three groups (n for each group = 13): control group, firm surface (FS) exercise group, and MB exercise group. The FS and MB groups were trained with static and dynamic balance exercises (20 minutes × 3 times/week × 6 weeks). Participants' balance abilities were measured using a Balance Master 4 times: at pre-training (baseline) and at the second, fourth, and sixth weeks post-training. Three tests were assessed: unilateral stance test, modified clinical test for sensory integrations on balance (mCTSIB), and limits of stability (LOS) test. The MB group significantly improved unilateral stance balance in both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions, whereas the FS group improved only in the eyes-closed condition. No significant difference was found across groups in the mCTSIB parameters. Only the FS group significantly improved LOS parameters. These results suggest the MB exercise could be used to improve unilateral stance balance, but not the LOS or mCTSIB, in healthy young adults.

Schwann cell (SC) transplantation is a promising repair strategy after spinal cord injury (SCI); however, a large number of SCs do not survive following transplantation. Previous studies have shown that 17β-estradiol (E2) protects several cell types against cytotoxicity. Thus, this study evaluated the protective potential of E2 on SCs in vitro and investigated the effect of E2 on transplanted SC survival in a rat model of SCI. Primary SC cultures were found to robustly express estrogen receptors (ER) and incubation with E2 protected SCs against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death. This protection was not inhibited by the ER antagonist ICI 182,780, suggesting that genomic signaling is not necessary for protection. In a subsequent experiment, cervical hemicontusion SCI was induced in male rats followed by sustained administration of E2 or placebo. Eight days after SCI, SCs were transplanted into the injury epicenter. E2 treatment significantly increased the number of surviving labeled transplanted SCs evaluated 7 days after transplantation. These data demonstrate that E2 protects SCs against oxidative stress and improves transplanted SC survival, which suggests that E2 administration may be an intervention of choice for enhancing survival of transplanted SCs after SCI.

Correlations between the activities of microbial communities and water quality in an earthen pond were investigated monthly during the shrimp growing period. The TAN gradually decreased compared to the beginning time, thereby resulting in an overall decrease of 81.3%. In contrast, the overall nitrate concentration increased 46.3% over this same period. Microbial community analysis using PCR-DGGE showed that changes in community dynamics that occurred during the shrimp growing period might be correlated to water quality. Overall, there were 3 groups of microbial dynamics. The 1 st

Most experimental models of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rodents induce damage in the thoracic cord and subsequently examine hindlimb function as an indicator of recovery. In these models, functional recovery is most attributable to white-matter preservation and is less influenced by grey-matter sparing. In contrast, most clinical cases of SCI occur at the lower cervical levels, a region in which both grey-matter and white-matter sparing contribute to functional motor recovery. Thus experimental cervical SCI models are beginning to be developed and used to assess protective and pharmacological interventions following SCI. The objective of this study was to characterize a model of graded cervical hemicontusion SCI with regard to several histological and behavioral outcome measures, including novel forelimb behavioral tasks. Using a commercially available rodent spinal cord impactor, adult male rats received hemicontusion SCI at vertebral level C5 at 100, 200, or 300 kdyn force, to produce mild, moderate, or severe injury severities. Tests of skilled and unskilled forelimb and locomotor function were employed to assess functional recovery, and spinal cord tissue was collected to assess lesion severity. Deficits in skilled and unskilled forelimb function and locomotion relating to injury severity were observed, as well as decreases in neuronal numbers, white-matter area, and white-matter gliosis. Significant correlations were observed between behavioral and histological data. Taken together, these data suggest that the forelimb functional and locomotor assessments employed here are sensitive enough to measure functional changes, and that this hemicontusion model can be used to evaluate potential protective and regenerative therapeutic strategies.

Schwann cell (SC) transplantation is a promising repair strategy after spinal cord injury (SCI); however, a large number of SCs do not survive following transplantation. Previous studies have shown that 17β-estradiol (E2) protects several cell types against cytotoxicity. Thus, this study evaluated the protective potential of E2 on SCs in vitro and investigated the effect of E2 on transplanted SC survival in a rat model of SCI. Primary SC cultures were found to robustly express estrogen receptors (ER) and incubation with E2 protected SCs against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death. This protection was not inhibited by the ER antagonist ICI 182,780, suggesting that genomic signaling is not necessary for protection. In a subsequent experiment, cervical hemicontusion SCI was induced in male rats followed by sustained administration of E2 or placebo. Eight days after SCI, SCs were transplanted into the injury epicenter. E2 treatment significantly increased the number of surviving labeled transplanted SCs evaluated 7 days after transplantation. These data demonstrate that E2 protects SCs against oxidative stress and improves transplanted SC survival, which suggests that E2 administration may be an intervention of choice for enhancing survival of transplanted SCs after SCI.

The effects of salicylic acid (SA) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant defence system of mango fruits cv. Nam Dok Mai No. 4 in cold storage were evaluated. Mature mangos were dipped in 1 mM SA and distilled water (as control) for 10 min and stored at 5 1 °C with 90 2% RH for 42 days. Chilling injury (CI) and ROS levels including superoxide radical (O · - 2 ), hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) and hydroxyl radical (HO · ) in the exocarp were measured every 7 days. The level of antioxidant system components, viz., enzymatic antioxidants: enzyme activity and gene expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX); and non- enzymatic antioxidants: ascorbic acid, total glutathione and total phenolic contents, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined. In the control fruits, the levels of O · - 2 , H 2 O 2 and HO · increased during storage with a decrease in ascorbic acid and total glutathione contents, while total phenolic content, TAC, enzyme activities, and gene expression of SOD, CAT, and APX increased during the first 21 days of storage but thereafter gradually decreased. CI symptoms appeared in the control fruits on day 21 and rapidly increased thereafter. During storage, SA-treated mango fruits exhibited significantly higher activities of SOD, CAT, and APX; and increased levels of ascorbic acid, total glutathione, total phenolic compounds, and TAC compared to that of the control fruits. High activities of antioxidant enzymes were associated with higher gene expression, which was correlated with the reduction of CI in SA-treated fruits. We conclude that during cold storage, the SA-treatment strengthens the antioxidant defence system reducing CI in mango fruits cv. Nam Dok Mai No. 4 during cold storage.

[Purpose] The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of unstable support surfaces, i.e. foam pad, mung bean bag, and plastic bead bag, on postural stability disturbance. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-two healthy young adults (11 male and 11 female; aged 21.09 ± 1.44 years; BMI 20.40 ± 1.40 kg/m(2)) participated in the study. The Balance Master™ was used to evaluate the limit of stability and the unilateral stance performance. Each participant was assessed while standing on the following surfaces: 1) a firm surface, 2) a foam pad, 3) a mung bean bag, and 4) a plastic bead bag. The order of surfaces was randomly assigned. [Results] The mung bean bag and plastic bead bag showed greater disturbances in limit of stability and unilateral stance than the foam pad. There was no significant difference in postural stability disturbance between the mung bean bag and plastic bead bag. [Conclusion] These results suggested that both the mung bean bag and plastic bead bag could be used as a low-cost tool for balance assessment instead of a foam pad in healthy young adults.