End Of The Study Research Articles

Theranova versus FX80: The impact on anemia management in hemodialysis.

Middle uremic toxins (MUTs) can cause anemia and erythropoietin hyporesponsiveness. Theranova dialyzers may improve anemia management by removing MUTs. Hence, the impact of Theranova dialyzers on erythropoietin responsiveness was studied. This exploratory single-center prospective observational study, encompassing 50 patients undergoing dialysis with either the Theranova-400 or FX80 membrane for 6 months, involved monthly tracking of hemoglobin levels, weight-adjusted erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (w-ESA) dosing, and erythropoietin resistance index (ERI), with ESA treatment decisions guided by a proprietary algorithm. The groups were similar in terms of demographics and baseline laboratory test results. The median hemoglobin levels, w-ESA and ERI, were found to be similar between FX80 and Theranova-400 groups at both baseline (11.06 vs 10.57, p = 0.808; 92.3 vs 105.2, p = 0.838; 8.1 vs 10.48, p = 0.876) and the end of the study (11.43 vs 11.03, p = 0.076; 48.7 vs 71.5; 4.48 vs 6.41, p = 0.310), respectively. There was a trend toward lower w-ESA and ERI at the end of the study compared to baseline in both groups, but the difference was non-significant. Based on this study of 50 patients undergoing high-flux dialysis with near-target hemoglobin levels, switching to Theranova 400 dialyzers compared to FX80 dialyzers did not show statistically significant differences in maintaining hemoglobin levels, reducing ESA dose, or lowering ERI. The non-randomized design and small sample size limit the study's power to detect true differences. Larger, randomized trials are needed to confirm findings and definitively assess Theranova 400's benefits.

Changes in oral functions and speech when using custom-fitted mouthguards: An uncontrolled before-and-after study.

Mouthguards are crucial for protecting athletes against orofacial injuries, yet concerns persist regarding their potential impact on oral functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sports mouthguards on oral functions and speech over time. Thirty national rugby players received custom-fitted mouthguards. Questionnaire responses and speech recordings were collected before mouthguard use and at various intervals after using mouthguards: immediately, 1 week, 2 month, and 6 months. Spectrographic analysis was performed to measure voice onset time (VOT) for /p, b, t, d/ phonemes. Questionnaire responses were assessed with Friedman's test, while VOT changes were examined using one-way repeated measure analysis of variance. Compliance with mouthguard use improved during training and competitions, with consistent wear reported during matches. Over time, speaking difficulties and lisping decreased significantly (p < .001). The perception of nausea improved (p < .001), stabilizing after 1 month (p = .414). Sensations of bulkiness declined (p < .001). Mouth dryness reduced steadily, with no occurrences reported by all players by the end of the study. None of the participants reported bad breath, ulcers, or redness in the mouth. VOT changed immediately after wearing mouthguards (p < .001), gradually regressing toward the baseline, although not completely reaching it. Players held a favorable view of mouthguard use, with comfort and support for mandatory use increasing over time. Custom-fitted mouthguards do not lead to significant long-term disruptions in oral functions. Athletes generally adapt to mouthguard use, reporting improved comfort and greater support for their use.

Investigation of treatment volume versus circulating blood volume during Rheocarna treatment.

Rheocarna's therapeutic effect is associated with fibrinogen (Fib) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) adsorptive removal. This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the association between treatment volume (TV) and circulating blood volume (CBV) and the Fib removal rate (Fib-RR) and LDL-C-RR. CBV and TV/CBV, cut-off value (CO value), and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) were calculated. The Fib-RR and LDL-C-RR at the midterm and end of treatment were compared. The groups were further categorized into three groups with TV/CBV lower than or higher than the CO value at the midterm and end (midterm/end; Group L: lower than/lower than CO; Group L/H: lower than/higher than CO; Group H: higher than/higher than CO), and the Fib-RR and LDL-RR of each group at the midterm and end were compared. ROC analysis revealed a TV of 1.480 times the BV as CO value, which showed a maximum Youden index predicting a Fib-RR of 20% (AUC: 0.828). Among the three groups, Group L and Group L/H demonstrated significantly higher Fib-RR and LDL-C-RR at the end of the study than in the midterm, while Group H exhibited no difference. The results reveal that a treatment volume of 1.5 times the circulating blood volume is a sufficient solute removal capacity in the Rheocarna-enabled cases.

The effects of a real-time temperature monitoring non-ablative monopolar radiofrequency technology on vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms in postmenopausal Chinese women.

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) includes a wide range of conditions affecting the reproductive and urinary systems, often requiring careful evaluation and management for optimal health. This study aims to evaluate the symptom management effects of a real time temperature-monitored non-ablative RF device for the treatment of postmenopausal Chinese women with VVA symptoms. This pilot study involved 24 postmenopausal Chinese women with one or more VVA symptoms, who wished to remain sexually active. VHIS, VAS, and FSFI were used to track and evaluate various aspects of the patient's condition. Analyses were conducted at the end of the study to verify the statistical significance of the treatment's results. All patients reported substantial, statistically significant, improvements on every VVA symptom tracked. Approximately 80% of the patients reported total symptom reversal at 12-week post-treatment follow-up. This pilot study demonstrated that non-ablative, monopolar RF technology equipped with real time temperature monitoring is feasible and safe in the treatment of postmenopausal women with VVA symptoms, and efficacious at up to 12 weeks post-treatment.

(091) Use of a Vibrating Device in the Management of Female Situational Anorgasmia: Prospective Case Series Study in Women from Southeastern Spain

Abstract Introduction Around 40 percent of women in Spain are unable to achieve orgasm during coital relations, although most can do so through other means. Many of these women do not seek treatment, even though this situation may affect their sexual and relational life. Female Orgasm Disorder (FOD) treatment has seen little innovation since the 1980s. The growing acceptance, technological development, and focus on diversity have contributed to the flourishing of the sex toy industry. This sector has enabled the development of therapeutic devices that have already demonstrated usefulness in addressing other female and male sexual dysfunctions, often making treatments more Accessible. However, more scientific studies are needed on this topic. Objective Present the results of the utility and safety of using a vibrating device in the management of situational female orgasm disorder (FOD) in a group of women from Spain. Methods A case report study of an observational, descriptive, prospective nature, involving 19 women undergoing treatment, that meet criteria for lifelong, situational FOD from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) was conducted in Murcia, Spain, from January 2022 to July 2023. Patients were 18 years or older, generally healthy as evidenced by medical history, were sexually active, in a current relationship of 3 months or longer, and participation was voluntary. Patients did not meet criteria for PTSD, psychosis or dissociative disorders, depression or bipolar disorders, were not pregnant or in menopause and did not use drugs known to interfere with sexual functioning. Main outcome measures were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) domain for orgasm at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks, as well as the success rate of achieving orgasm during coital relations. Treatment consisted of an educational session where a vibrating device called Crescendo II® and its accompanying resource of different positions, Play Book was provided, along with instructions for using the device during coital relations. Results Patients had a mean age of 31.19 years (range 27–53). An improvement was observed in the average scores at six and twelve weeks in FSFI orgasmic domain, (mean pre = 1.62 (SD) = 0.42, mean post six weeks = 3.47 (SD) = 1.26, mean post twelve weeks = 3.43 (SD) = 1.25). The success rate (orgasm achievement during intercourse) at the end of the study was 90.47%. Conclusions This case series suggests that the use of a vibration device could be an effective and safe therapeutic option for female situational anorgasmia in addition to reducing the length and cost of treatment. Future research with experimental designs should confirm the clear potential of the use of these devices in treating FOD and clarify issues related to the most appropriate amplitude and frequency of vibration, as well as the possible long-term effects of using these types of vibration devices in patients. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Mysteryvibe.

(108) Evaluation the Efficacy and Safety of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Sildenafil Citrate Non Responder Organic Erectile Dysfunction Patients: a Randomized Double Blinded Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract Introduction Although the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) are the first-line oral agents for erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment, there is growing number of PDE5i- non responder patients. Management of those patients is challenging and one of the new suggested regenerative therapies is the hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). HBOT is the application of oxygen under pressure to increase tissue oxygen levels. Few clinical reports were published about HBOT and ED. Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of HBOT in sildenafil citrate non- responder organic ED patients. Methods The current study included 30 sildenafil citrate non-responder ED patients. Patients were divided into two groups (randomly assigned and comparably cross-matched for age). Both patients and the investigators were blinded as regards the treatment until the end of the study. Group 1: Patients assigned to the HBOT group (20 patients) were treated with (30) sessions in 5 days/week (90 minutes of 100% oxygen at 2.2 ATA); Group 2: Patients assigned to the control group (10 patients) were exposed to (30) sessions of air oxygen tension at 1 ATA with room oxygen. Baseline laboratory investigations were done (random blood sugar, lipid profile, total &amp; free testosterone). All patients were evaluated with the sexual health inventory for men (SHIM), erection hardness score (EHS), the sexual health encounter profile (SEP), and penile color Doppler initially, at 1 &amp; 3 months after the end of treatment. Results The age mean ± SD in the HBOT group was 56.35±7.43 years and in the control group was 61.7±7.14 years. The current study showed that sildenafil citrate non-responders ED patients with 30 sessions of HBOT in 5 days/week, demonstrated a significant improvement of the total SHIM score, EHS, and SEP after 1 month of stoppage of treatment as compared to the control group. Also, penile color Doppler evaluation showed a significant improvement of 10 &amp;20 minutes peak systolic velocity (PSV) between patients receiving HBOT compared to the control after 1 month of stoppage of treatment. More interestingly, the improvement of the total SHIM score, EHS, and SEP continued after 3 months of stoppage of the HBOT treatment as compared to the baseline evaluation. In addition, 10 &amp;20 minutes PSV with penile color Doppler evaluation demonstrated maintained improvement after 3 months of stoppage of the HBOT treatment as compared to the baseline evaluation. In addition, the linear regression analysis was done for factors affecting SHIM score improvement (1 month/baseline) in the HBOT treatment group, revealing that hypertension was an independent predictor for SHIM score improvement. Hypertensive patients showed 4.6 times more SHIM score improvement as compared to non-hypertensive patients. As regards HBOT safety, there was no significant difference in adverse effects between the HBOT treatment group and the control group. Conclusions HBOT might be a potential therapeutic modality for sildenafil citrate non-responder ED patients especially in hypertensive patients with good safety profile. Further a multi-centric trial with a larger sample size and a longer follow-up period is recommended. Disclosure No.

(202) Comparative Study of the Efficacy of Avanafil and Atorvastatin Daily Dose in Management of Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the “consistent inability to attain or maintain a penile erection, or both, sufficient for adequate sexual relations”. ED is not only a medical problem but affects the marital relations and patient's self-esteem and causes the quality of life to decrease. which in turn causes the patient to go into depression or develop anxiety. In the past, erectile dysfunction was considered, in most cases, to be a purely psychogenic disorder, but current evidence suggests that more than 80% of cases have an organic aetiology. Causes of organic erectile dysfunction can now be broadly divided into nonendocrine and endocrine. Of the nonendocrine aetiologies, vasculogenic (affecting blood supply) is the most common and can involve arterial inflow disorders and abnormalities of venous outflow (corporeal veno-occlusion). Avanafil is a second-generation phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor approved for erectile dysfunction by the FDA on 2012 and by EMA in 2013. With a high selectivity for phosphodiesterase type 5 isoform AND faster onset of action compared with other PDE5 inhibitors, it offers more tolerability and less adverse events. Atorvastatin is 3-hydroxy-methylglutaryl (HMG)-CoA reductase inhibitor act on the rate-limiting step in cholesterol biosynthesis (the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate) and are effective in treating dyslipidemia. statins reverse endothelial dysfunction by decreasing the action of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) on endothelial cells, resulting in an increase of NO activity. Objective is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of avanafil and atorvastatin daily dose in management of patients with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. Methods A 60 adult heterosexual males complaining of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction proven by penile duplex were collected from outpatient andrology clinics of Al-Azhar University Hospitals. The patients were divided into two treatment groups: (Group A): 30 patients received daily dose of 100 mg avanafil. (Group B): 30 patients received daily dose of 40 mg atorvastatin, The main outcome measures and the difference in penile duplex ultrasound results and IIEF-EF scores between the two groups are evaluated and compared at the end of the study, Age of patients between 20 and 50 years, established diagnoses of Vasculogenic erectile dysfunction, Normal lipid profile, Normal Total and Free testosterone levels and No contraindications to the study medications were included criteria. However patients who failed to fulfill any of the inclusion criteria, psychogenic or neurogenic erectile dysfunction, dyslipidemia Patients with Renal or Hepatic insufficiency and Patients with advanced cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure and coronary artery disease on antianginal drugs especially nitrates were excluded. Results Our study revealed statistically significant improvement in Penile Doppler ultrasonography parameters (PSV, EDV&amp; RI) and IIEF-EF scores in avanafil group compared to atorvastatin group. Conclusions avanafil 100 mg daily dose leads to significant improvement in men with vasculogenic erectile, while atorvastatin 40 mg caused no significant differences, neither positively nor adversely. In summary, avanafil at dose of 100 mg can be a therapeutic appropriate choice in cases of vasculogenic ED. Disclosure No.

Abstract A032: Preliminary evaluation of sleep-related patient-reported outcomes (pros), morningness-eveningness chronotype, &amp; objective sleep measures using smart wearables in a primary brain tumor patient population

Abstract Introduction: Sleep is vitally important for the improvement of cancer outcomes, but evaluation of sleep in the primary brain tumor (PBT) population is limited. This analysis aims to provide preliminary data on the consistency/reliability of sleep-related patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and to assess sleep symptom severity with both PROs and objective sleep measurements. Methods: PBT patients ³ 18 years wore a Fitbit smart-wearable device for 4 weeks, which captured objective sleep measures (total sleep time, sleep latency, nap odds/number/duration, and wake after sleep onset (WASO)). The Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) was completed at baseline, PROMIS Sleep-Related Impairment (SRI) and Sleep Disturbance (SD) Short-Forms were completed at baseline and at the end of the study, and daily sleep diaries were done during the final week. Descriptive statistics were used to describe patient demographics/clinical characteristics, Cronbach’s alpha to test consistency, McNemar’s tests for change in PRO severity, and Pearson’s correlations for relationships between PROs and objective sleep measures at week 1 and week 4. Results: 54 patients (median 46 years (24-71), 56% male, 85% white non-Hispanic, 81% KPS ≥ 90) completed the study. Most had anaplastic astrocytoma (20%) or glioblastoma (17%), had received radiation therapy (83%), had prior tumor recurrence (32%), and were not on active treatment (80%) during the study. PROMIS SRI/SD and MEQ were all consistent and reliable (Cronbach’s alpha 0.74-0.92). Fifty-six percent of patients had an intermediate sleep chronotype, 35% moderate-morning, 4% definite-morning, and only 6% moderate-evening (0% definite-evening). Moderate-severe SD and SRI were reported in 13% and 17% at baseline, and 4% (p=0.06) and 13% (p=0.69) at study exit. Co-occurrence of SD and SRI decreased from 11% to 2% (p=0.06). Fitbit-recorded measures showed a correlation at week 4 between WASO and SD (r=0.35, p=0.009), and a trend with SRI (r=0.24, p=0.08). Conclusions: This investigation shows initial evidence that sleep-related PROs are consistent and reliable in PBT patients, &amp;gt;10% of participants had significant SD and SRI, and the majority had intermediate and morningness chronotypes. Surprisingly, significant improvement in SD was reported during the study, which may be related to increased awareness of sleep patterns by the participants. Lack of sleep improvement (high SD/SRI) was associated with increased WASO, suggesting greater sleep fragmentation and potentially greater circadian vs. homeostatic sleep drive dysregulation in this population, warranting further investigation. Citation Format: Maeve M. Pascoe, Elizabeth Vera, Hope Miller, Alex Wollet, Dorela Shuboni-Mulligan, Amanda L. King, Terri S. Armstrong. Preliminary evaluation of sleep-related patient-reported outcomes (pros), morningness-eveningness chronotype, &amp; objective sleep measures using smart wearables in a primary brain tumor patient population [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Brain Cancer; 2023 Oct 19-22; Minneapolis, Minnesota. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(5 Suppl_1):Abstract nr A032.

(002) Evaluation of Efficacy of Sexual Novelty as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy to Treat Hypoactive Sexual Desire Dysfunction in Women in Monogamous Heterosexual Relationships Attributing Reduced Sexual Desire to Sexual Boredom: A Prospective Randomized Study

Abstract Introduction Hypoactive Sexual Desire Dysfunction (HSDD) in women is of multifactorial etiology with the best possible response on identifying modifiable factors and addressing them. With sexual boredom being one such factor in women with HSDD in a monogamous heterosexual relationship, the factors that improve boredom are expected to improve sexual desire in these women. Objective To evaluate sexual novelty as a therapeutic strategy to treat HSDD in women in monogamous heterosexual relationships using a prospective randomized study design. Methods The study was initiated following institutional review board approval. The participants, who expressed sexual boredom during our initial survey on sexual boredom in women in monogamous heterosexual relationships, female outpatients (in monogamous heterosexual relationships) with non-sexual complaints, and female partners of male patients with non-sexual complaints who agreed to participate in the study voluntarily were included. The exclusion was based on an evaluation of the participants by qualified medical specialists who diagnosed sexual, psychological, medical as well as gynecological conditions affecting sexual desire. Included participants attributing reduced sexual desire to sexual boredom on initial screening with Decreased Sexual Desire Screener (DSDS) were administered the Sexual Boredom Scale (SBS), to record the degree of sexual boredom in these women at the time of entry into the study. The participants were divided into two groups based on the computer-generated random numbers. The participants in group A received psychotherapy (included behavior therapy and/or cognitive behavior therapy and/or mindfulness) alone and group B received psychotherapy and a sexual novelty package (included any novelty related to sexuality other than trying a new sexual partner) as their planned intervention for a period of 6 months. The participants in both groups were administered the Elements of Desire Questionnaire (EDQ) at the beginning and at the end of the study to assess their sexual desire status. Mean and standard deviation was calculated for categorical variables, namely, age, period of monogamy, SBS score, and EDQ scores. The linear and multiple regression analysis was done to assess the effect of the age of the participant, and period of monogamy on boredom, and to know any influence of age, period of monogamy, and boredom level on the degree of improvement in sexual desire following treatment. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The study was conducted from January 2019 to May 2023 with a sample size of 398. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups as far as the age (36.5±10.8 years Vs 36.4±10.7 years), period of monogamy (10.9±7.7 years Vs 11.7.9±8.5 years), SBS score (71.8±30.8 Vs 73.1±43.9), and baseline EDQ score (1.5±0.6 Vs 1.4±0.6) were concerned. However, post-intervention, the sexual novelty group showed better improvement in EDQ score, which was statistically significant. The lower age of the participant and a longer period of monogamy were seen to impact sexual desire adversely on the multiple regression model. Conclusions Sexual novelty as a novel therapeutic strategy was successful in treating our study participants attributing reduced sexual desire to sexual boredom while being in a monogamous heterosexual relationship. Disclosure No.

Thermal Comfort in a Tropical Climate: Case Study of the Cafeteria in Student Residential College, UTHM Pagoh Branch Campus

Thermal comfort is important for buildings, especially in tropical climates. The issue of increasing indoor temperature is influenced by various factors that cause occupants to face thermal discomfort in cafeterias that uses both mechanical and natural ventilation systems. This study aims to determine the perception of occupants and evaluate parameter variations of thermal comfort in the cafeteria of Pagoh Campus Residential College, UTHM Pagoh Branch Campus. This study was conducted through the measurements of subjective and physical parameters. Data collection is carried out in two days, which are weekdays and weekends. This study uses some parameters variation which are thermal sensation vote index (TSV), predicted mean vote index (PMV), predicted percentage of dissatisfaction (PPD), operative temperature (To) and neutral operative temperature (Tneutop) to determine the thermal comfort conditions in the cafeteria. The results shows that the average values of air temperature, mean radiation temperature, relative humidity and air velocity from environmental measurements were 30.2 °C, 30.6 °C, 66% and 0.1 m/s respectively. In addition, PMV and PPD values were 2.0 and 76% from environmental measurements, while 1.36 and 43% from questionnaires. For To and Tneutop, the average values obtained are 30.4 °C and 28.6 °C. Furthermore, the findings showed that only the morning session was in the acceptable operative temperature range and complied with ASHRAE Standard 55 for both the 80% and 90% acceptability limits. At the end of the study, it was found that the values from the thermal environment measurements and surveys exceeded those recommended by ASHRAE Standard 55. This concluded that the quality of the occupants’ environment in the cafeteria is outside the satisfactory thermal comfort level. Therefore, the improvement through mechanical ventilation may very helpful in improving a good ventilation system as well as encouraging an increase in thermal comfort in the building.

92 Rearing system influenced the performance, GI-parasite burden, and immune profile of pregnant does during winter

Abstract Small ruminants in the Southeast are predominantly raised outdoors, regardless of seasons and associated weather conditions. Severe weather in winter can decline the performance of pregnant animals and compromise their performance and immunological states. Indoor raising of pregnant animals during winter may minimize the adverse effect of cold stress; however, such potential has not been evaluated. This study hypothesized that performance, GI-parasite burden, and immune response would differ between pregnant does raised outdoor and indoor during winter. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance, GI-parasite burden, and hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters of pregnant does raised outdoor and indoor in winter. The study was conducted from late January to early April 2023. Sixteen pregnant Kiko does were divided into outdoor and indoor groups. Outdoor group was kept in one grazing plot consisting of mobile shelters, mineral feeders, hay feeders, and watering troughs. Indoor group was kept in individual pens consisting of containers for water, minerals, hay, and grain. Both groups were given corn and soybean mixed in 3:2 ratio (0.8% of animal body weight), ad libitum hay, minerals, and water. Daily ambient temperature and relative humidity (RH) data were collected for both sites, and temperature-humidity index (THI) was calculated. Animal performance data [body weight, body condition score (BCS), and FAMACHA score] and fecal samples were collected on d 1, weekly during the study, and at the end of the study. Fecal samples were analyzed for the type and quantity of GI parasites using the McMaster technique, and parasite eggs per gram of animal feces (EPG) was calculated. Blood samples were collected on d 1, 34, and 69 and analyzed for hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters. Data on weather, animal performance, and hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters were analyzed using the GLM procedure and EPG data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test in SAS 9.4. Indoor temperature was higher (7%, P &amp;lt; 0.01), RH was lower (8%, P &amp;lt; 0.05), and THI was higher (5%, P &amp;lt; 0.01) vs. outdoor. Overall, indoor does had better FAMACHA by 9% (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and greater EPG by 35% (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Eosinophils were reduced by 73% (P &amp;lt; 0.05), calcium was increased by 11% (P &amp;lt; 0.01), and total bilirubin was greater by 86% (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in indoor does at the end of the study (P &amp;lt; 0.05) vs. outdoor does. Results showed that performance, GI-parasite burden, and biochemical and immunological parameters of pregnant does were influenced by the rearing system during winter.

Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in burn patients: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial

BackgroundBurn injuries are important medical problems that, aside from skin damage, cause a systemic response including inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine disorders, immune response, and hypermetabolic and catabolic responses which affect all the organs in the body. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, and clinical outcomes in burn patients.MethodsIn a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 60 burn patients were randomly assigned to receive 100 mg CoQ10 three times a day (total 300 mg/day) or a placebo for 10 days. Inflammatory markers including erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), oxidative stress markers including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, white blood cells (WBC), and body temperature were assessed as primary outcomes and albumin, prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), international normalized ratio (INR), other hematological parameters, blood pressure, O2 saturation, ICU duration, and 28-mortality rate were assessed as secondary outcomes.ResultsFifty-two participants completed the trial. CRP and ESR levels were not significantly different between CoQ10 and placebo groups at the end of the study (P = 0.550 and P = 0.306, respectively). No significant differences between groups were observed for TAC (P = 0.865), MDA (P = 0.692), and SOD activity (P = 0.633) as well. Administration of CoQ10 resulted in a significant increase in albumin levels compared to placebo (P = 0.031). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in other measured outcomes (P > 0.05).ConclusionResults showed that in patients with burn injury, CoQ10 administration had no effect on inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, although serum albumin levels were improved after supplementation. Further studies with albumin as the primary outcome are needed to confirm this finding.

Control of Rhipicephalus microplus on taurine cattle with fluralaner in a subtropical region

BackgroundIn Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, a region with a subtropical climate, Rhipicephalus microplus is present in taurine cattle raised for beef and milk. In addition, ticks resistant to multiple acaricides are present in this region. Recently, fluralaner (isoxazoline) was launched on the market. Thus, there is a need to evaluate the effects of fluralaner for the control of R. microplus on taurine cattle. In addition, occurrence of myiasis by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae after tick parasitism and weight gain of cattle during the experimental period were evaluated.MethodsThirty naturally infested cattle were divided into two experimental groups: T01, treated with fluralaner (2.5 mg/kg) pour-on; T02, control. T01 received fluralaner on Days 0 (early summer in January), 42 and 84 (early autumn), whereas T02, a control group, received palliative treatment with a spray formulation when the group mean was ≥ 30 ticks. Counts of R. microplus females and calculation of the efficacy of fluralaner were performed on Days 3, 7, 14, 28, 35, 42, 56, 70, 84, 98, 112 and 126. The occurrence of myiasis was assessed throughout the study period. In addition, the weight, weight gain and daily weight gain of the animals were evaluated.ResultsIn the 12 evaluations performed, the parasitic load of T01 was near zero. Fluralaner showed 99.5% efficacy on the 3rd day after the first treatment and 100% efficacy from Day 7 to Day 126. Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (n = 6; p = 0.0251) were found only in the control group (T02). At the end of the study, the animals subjected to treatments with fluralaner gained 32.8 kg more than the animals in the control group.ConclusionsApplication of fluralaner in summer and autumn, with 42-day intervals between treatments, was effective to control R. microplus on taurine cattle, which also gained more weight than control cattle. Additionally, no cases of myasis were documented in animals treated with fluralaner.Graphical

Short-Term Ingestion of Essential Amino Acid Based Nutritional Supplements or Whey Protein Improves the Physical Function of Older Adults Independently of Gut Microbiome.

Dietary proteins and essential amino acids (EAAs) are the major nutritional supplements that support the growth and activity of gut microbes contributing to the wellbeing of their host. This study hypothesizes that daily supplementation of the diet with either EAAs or whey protein for 12 weeks would improve the gut microbiome of older adults. The stool samples are processed and subjected to Illumina-based 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA)gene amplicon sequencing. In both groups, the most abundant families are found in order of relative abundance included: Bacteroidaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Prevotellaceae, Rikenellaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Tannerellaceae, and Akkermansiaceae, which indicate that these subjects are able to maintain a same healthy microbial diversity in their guts. A significant finding is a reduction of proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-18 (IL-18) in the EAAs group. It also uses the standard 6-min walking test (6MWT) as a measure of cardiopulmonary fitness. At the end of the study, the subjects in the EAAs group perform significantly better in the 6MWT as compared to the whey group. It seems plausible that the improved physical performance and reduced proinflammatory cytokine, IL-18 seen in the EAAs group, are independent of changes in gut microbiota.

Dynamics of modified cardiovascular risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis on the background of 5-year therapy with an interleukin 6 receptor inhibitor

The effect of an inhibitor of interleukin (IL) 6 receptors on the state of the cardiovascular system in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains poorly understood, especially with its long-term use.The aim – to study the effect of therapy with the IL-6 receptor inhibitor tocilizumab (TCZ) on the dynamics of modifiable risk factors (RF), total cardiovascular risk (CVR), structural changes in the carotid arteries (CA) and the incidence of cardiovascular complications (CVC) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis during the 260-week follow-up period.Material and methods. The study included 37 patients with active RA (32 women and 5 men) with ineffectiveness and/or intolerance to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs); median age was 56 [48; 68] years, disease duration was 92 [49; 158] months; DAS28 (Disease Activity Score 28) – 6.2 [5.5; 6.7] points; all patients were seropositive for rheumatoid factor (RF), 86% – for antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP). Patients received TCZ therapy 8 mg/kg intravenously every 4 weeks; after 192 [176; 210] weeks, 60% of patients switched to subcutaneous administration of the drug at a dose of 162 mg once a week. In 51% of patients with RA, TCZ monotherapy was performed, in 49% – combination therapy of TCZ with DMARDs. Statins were received by 17 (46%) patients, including 7 patients before and 10 after inclusion in the study. All patients underwent an assessment of traditional risk factors, the total cardiovascular risk was calculated using the mSCORE scale, atherosclerotic vascular lesions were assessed by the detection of atherosclerotic plaques (ASP) of CA. The observation period was 260.4 [251.5; 283.4] weeks.Results. After 260 weeks of TCZ therapy, RA remission was observed in 32 (86%) patients, low activity – in 5 (14%) patients. During the observation period, the frequency of modified RF and the total CVR did not change significantly, an increase in body mass index (BMI) by 11% was recorded, the number of patients with hypercholesterolemia and a reduced level of HDL cholesterol (C) decreased. In patients without statin therapy, there were no significant changes in the blood lipid spectrum. In the group of patients receiving statins, there was an increase in HDL-C by 43%, a decrease in cholesterol levels by 15%, atherogenic index (AI) by 56% (p&lt;0.01 in all cases) and associations between the dynamics of ∆cholesterol and ∆CRP (r=0.35; p=0.04), ∆LDL-C and ∆CRP (r=0.41; p=0.03). Significant structural changes in CA in RA patients by the end of 260 weeks of TCZ therapy were not identified. Initially, intima-media thickness (IMT) CA positively moderately correlated with age (r=0.7; p&lt;0.01), BMI (r=0.37; p&lt;0.01), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r=0.62; p&lt;0.01) and weakly with lipid spectrum parameters – cholesterol (r=0.29; p&lt;0.01), LDL-C (r=0.36; p&lt;0.01). No new associations of IMT CA by the end of the observation, as well as the relationship of the IMT CA value with the indicators of RA activity and the ongoing therapy, were identified. By the end of the study, the distribution of patients by mSCORE value and CVR level did not change significantly. The incidence of CVC was 0,54 per 100 patient-years over a 260-week period of TCZ use. Conclusion. Against the background of long-term TCZ therapy in RA patients, there was no increase in CVR and significant structural changes in CA. It is necessary to dynamically monitor the blood lipid profile and CVR in RA patients receiving TCZ therapy. Statin therapy can successfully control dyslipidemia in RA patients who receive long-term TCZ.

Teaching Sexual Abuse Prevention Skills to Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

Introduction: When individuals are not aware of the nature and scope of behaviors related to sexual abuse, they may face the risk of abuse. Individuals with intellectual disabilities may also experience abuse, just like other individuals. Raising awareness through education is the most important measure to prevent sexual abuse. The skills individuals use to prevent sexual abuse are very important and functional especially for individuals with special needs so that they can spend their lives independently and safely. Method: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the curriculum developed in line with the cognitive process approach in helping people with intellectual disabilities to acquire the skill of sexual abuse prevention. The study was designed with the multiple probe model across participants, one of the single-subject research methods, and baseline, instruction, probe, and generalization phases were used. Three 12–14-year-old female students with intellectual disability were included in the study. An instructional program based on the social decoding, social decision making/deciding, social performance, and social evaluation stages of the cognitive process approach was prepared to teach the target skill to the participants. The program made use of stories about sexual abuse situations and how to avoid these situations, as well as pictures depicting these stories. Participants were taught three prevention skills to avoid sexual abuse: "saying no", "getting out of the environment", and "telling what occurred to someone they trusted”. Findings: At the end of the study, it was concluded that the developed instructional program was effective in helping three female students in acquiring the sexual abuse prevention skills. This effect can be explained both by the increase in the data collected during the teaching process and by the fact that the probe data collected at the end of the instruction were higher than the probe data collected before the instruction. Discussion: The findings obtained from the research were discussed in the light of the studies in the literature and suggestions were made for further studies.

Exploring the relationship between usage of social networking sites, cyberbullying and academic performance: Evidence from the higher education sector of Saudi Arabia

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the use of social networking sites (SNS), cyberbullying (CB) and academic performance (AP). Firstly, we investigate the direct relationship between the use of social networking sites (Instagram, Facebook and TikTok) and academic performance. Secondly, the relationship between the use of social networking sites (Instagram, Facebook and TikTok) and cyberbullying is explored. Thirdly, linkages between cyberbullying and academic performance are examined. Lastly, the mediating effect of cyberbullying in the relationship between the use of social networking sites and academic performance is tested. In this study, we used quantitative survey analysis. We collect data using the research questionnaire from the graduate and postgraduate students enrolled in the universities located in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The data were analyzed using the structural equation modeling through SmartPLS 3.2.2. The findings demonstrate that in direct relationships, Facebook and TikTok have a significant relationship with academic performance. However, in the direct relationship, Instagram has an insignificant relationship with academic performance. Similarly, the outcomes confirmed that Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have a significant relationship with cyberbullying. Furthermore, the outcomes indicate that cyberbullying has a negative impact on academic performance. Finally, the results of this study indicate that cyberbullying negatively mediates the relationship between the use of social networking sites and academic performance. At the end of the study, we have toughly discussed the conclusion, limitations and future research directions.

The use of symptomatic slow-acting drugs for osteoarthritis of the joints of the hands: Accent on microcirculation parameters

The aim of the study – to evaluate the effectiveness of the drug Alflutop (bioactive concentrate of small marine fish), as well as its effect on microcirculation parameters in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of small joints of the hands.Patients and methods. The study included 80 patients aged 35 to 65 years with OA of small joints of the hands, stage I– II according to Kellgren – Lawrence, with pain ≥40 mm and ≤90 mm on a visual analogue scale (VAS). Subjects were distributed in 1:1 ratio. In the study group (combined therapy) patients received Alflutop according to the standard scheme: 2 ml intramuscularly every other day N 10 and meloxicam 7.5–15 mg per day in the “on demand” mode. The second group (monotherapy) received meloxicam 7.5–15 mg per day N 20. During the observation, the dynamics of joint pain on the VAS scale, the dynamics of the disease on the VAS scale by the patient and the doctor, the functional Dreiser index and AUSCAN (Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index), nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) with an assessment of the number of capillaries and the number of alterations per 1 mm of the distal row of capillaries were evaluated. The duration of the study was 6 weeks.Results and discussion. By the 35th day of treatment with Alflutop in combination with meloxicam, a statistically significant decrease in pain and functional activity of the disease was found according to the VAS indices, the AUSCAN index (p&lt;0.05) compared with the meloxicam monotherapy group. Microcirculation parameters according to NFC data in the Alflutop and meloxicam group remained stable by the end of the study (p&gt;0.05). In meloxicam monotherapy group, by the 35th day of follow-up, there was a significant increase in the number of altered capillaries by 1 mm of the distal row of the nail (p&lt;0.001).Thus, Alflutop demonstrates clinical efficacy in OA of the joints of the hands (reduces pain, stiffness, improves joint function). In addition, the effect of Alflutop with respect to slowing down microcirculatory disorders is not excluded.

Effect of psychological intervention in cushioning work-induced stress among secondary school home economics teachers: Implications for policy and administration.

Work demands in the contemporary Nigerian work environment are a critical concern to many including occupational stress researchers. This informed the current study to investigate the effect of psychological intervention in cushioning teachers' stress in public secondary schools in Nigeria. A randomized control design was applied. The participants were 80 secondary school home economics teachers. They were randomized into 2 groups, that is, treatment and waitlisted arms. The former was designed as a 12-session cognitive behavior intervention while the latter was waitlisted and the members received theirs at the end of the study. Both group members were evaluated at the pretest, posttest, and follow-up test to understand the baseline of the problem, treatment outcome, and sustainability respectively. Perceived Stress Scale and Teacher irrational belief scale were used as test tools. Data from the 3-time tests were analyzed using multivariate statistic. The main effect results showed a significant reduction in teachers' stress and irrational beliefs due to cognitive behavior intervention. The follow-up test results also indicate that the impactful benefit of cognitive behavioral intervention on job stress reduction was significantly sustained over time. Regarding the influence of gender, the result shows no significant influence of gender on teachers' job stress in schools. This study suggests that cognitive behavior intervention can decrease work-induced stress among secondary school home economics teachers. Therefore, the management of schools is enjoined to deploy the services of cognitive behavior therapists to monitor the mood and mental health of teachers.

Caloric restriction reduces proteinuria in male rats with established nephropathy.

Reducing proteinuria is a crucial approach in preventing kidney function loss. Previous preclinical studies indicated that caloric restriction (CR) imposed at a young age protects against age-related proteinuria. However, these studies have not explored CR in established renal disease. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of CR on established proteinuria. Rats, aged 12 ± 2 weeks, were administered 2.1 mg/kg of Adriamycin. Six weeks after injection, protein excretion was measured, and a [13 N]ammonia positron emission tomography (PET) scan was conducted to assess kidney perfusion. After 7 weeks rats were divided into four groups: adlibitum (AL) and CR groups fed either a 12% or a 20% protein diet. All groups were treated for 12 weeks. Blood pressure was measured and a second PET scan was acquired at the end of the study. The animals subjected to CR exhibited a 20.3% decrease in protein excretion (p = 0.003) compared to those in the AL groups. Additionally, blood pressure in the CR group was 21.2% lower (p < 0.001) than in the AL groups. While kidney function declined over time in all groups, the 20% CR group demonstrated the smallest decline. Thus CR effectively reduces urinary protein excretion and lowers blood pressure in rats with established proteinuria.