Non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA Research Articles

18F]DPA-714: Effect of co-medications, age, sex, BMI and TSPO polymorphism on the human plasma input function.

We aimed to assess the effect of concomitant medication, age, sex, body mass index and 18-kDa translocator protein (TSPO) binding affinity status on the metabolism and plasma pharmacokinetics of [18F]DPA-714 and their influence on the plasma input function in a large cohort of 201 subjects who underwent brain and whole-body PET imaging to investigate the role of neuroinflammation in neurological diseases. The non-metabolized fraction of [18F]DPA-714 was estimated in venous plasma of 138 patients and 63 healthy controls (HCs; including additional arterial sampling in 16 subjects) during the 90min brain PET acquisition using a direct solid-phase extraction method. The mean fraction between 70 and 90min post-injection ([18F]DPA-71470-90) and corresponding normalized plasma concentration (SUV70-90) were correlated with all factors using a multiple linear regression model. Differences between groups (arterial vs venous measurements; HCs vs patients; high- (HAB), mixed- (MAB) and low-affinity binders (LAB); subjects with vs without co-medications, females vs males were also assessed using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA tests. Finally, the impact of co-medications on the brain uptake of [18F]DPA-714 at equilibrium was investigated. As no significant differences were observed between arterial and venous [18F]DPA-71470-90 and SUV70-90, venous plasma was used for correlations. [18F]DPA-71470-90 was not significantly different between patients and HCS (59.7 ± 12.3% vs 60.2 ± 12.9%) despite high interindividual variability. However, 47 subjects exhibiting a huge increase or decrease of [18F]DPA-71470-90 (up to 88% or down to 23%) and SUV70-90 values (2-threefold) were found to receive co-medications identified as inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4, known to catalyse [18F]DPA-714 metabolism. Comparison between cortex-to-plasma ratios using individual input function (VTIND) or population-based input function derived from untreated HCs (VTPBIF) indicated that non-considering the individual metabolism rate led to a bias of about 30% in VT values. Multiple linear regression model analysis of subjects free of these co-medications suggested significant correlations between [18F]DPA-71470-90 and age, BMI and sex while TSPO polymorphism did not influence the metabolism of the radiotracer. [18F]DPA-714 metabolism fell with age and BMI and was significantly faster in females than in males. Whole-body PET/CT exhibited a high uptake of the tracer in TSPO-rich organs (heart wall, spleen, kidneys…) and those involved in metabolism and excretion pathways (liver, gallbladder) in HAB and MAB with a strong decrease in LAB (-89% and -85%) resulting in tracer accumulation in plasma (4.5 and 3.3-fold increase). Any co-medication that inhibits or induces CYP3A4 as well as TSPO genetic status, age, BMI and sex mostly contribute to interindividual variations of the radiotracer metabolism and/or concentration that may affect the input function of [18F]DPA-714 and consequently its human brain and peripheral uptake. INFLAPARK, NCT02319382, registered December 18, 2014, retrospectively registered; IMABIO 3, NCT01775696, registered January 25, 2013, retrospectively registered; INFLASEP, NCT02305264, registered December 2, 2014, retrospectively registered; EPI-TEP, EudraCT 2017-003381-27, registered September 24, 2018.

Analytical study of the dimensional stability of tropical brazilian wood species

Brazil owns a large vegetal covering and the best utilization of these materials requires physical and mechanical characterization procedures. Equations found in the literature make easier the wood properties determination. At this context, well known authors developed the equation βl = βt/23, being βl and βt the longitudinal and tangential shrinkage percentages, for βl estimation based on the βt value specially for wood species from the Northern hemisphere. This paper aims to investigate the accuracy of this equation for fifteen tropical Brazilian wood species covering the entire range of hardwood strength classes according to the Brazilian Normative ABNT NBR7190. The average experimental values of βl and βt were 7.71% (CV = 26,71%) and 0.73% (CV = 38,76%), respectively. The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA refuted the hypothesis of equivalence between theoretical and experimental βl values (p-value = 0.0000). A linear regression model fitted to experimental values provided βl = βt/9,84 as optimal solution (p-value = 0.0000, R2 = 47,23%). According to results it is possible to conclude that the value of longitudinal shrinkage percentage of tropical Brazilian wood species is statistically 2,34 times greater than the value found in the literature, which impacts the design of timber structures procedures increasing the internal stresses in timber structural elements.

Structure of Assets and Liabilities of Non-financial Corporations by Selected NACE Sections

Experience from nations with established market economies demonstrates that small and medium-sized businesses are more inventive and able to respond to client demands and needs more quickly than giant businesses. Many publications produced by the EU institutions emphasize their crucial function. Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reflect a society's entrepreneurial spirit and a sign of healthy competition in every economy. However, these businesses have numerous growth constraints in a setting that is changing quickly. At first, it is not simple. Due to the higher risk that start-ups face compared to larger corporations, they have difficulty obtaining funding from traditional sources and SME enterprises experience an equity gap. As a result, having access to finance has become crucial to expanding and competing in a particular market. In accordance with the accepted legal norms, the receiver is required to comply with the conditions set forth by the capital donor-recipient to be able to access external sources.
 One of the most significant influences on a company's ability to fulfil current obligations in full and generate adequate financial results is adherence to the fundamentals of asset financing, which highlight, among other things, the structural relationships in a company's balance sheet. The purpose of the analysis presented in this text is to identify differences in the structure of assets and liabilities between selected NACE sections of non-financial corporations in 2021 year. All analysed assets and liabilities are characterized by very strong asymmetry. Therefore, the outlier effect has been standardized using Weber median. Further statistical analyses used Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA test to determine the similarity between assets and liabilities of selected NACE sections. The analysis showed that there are no significant differences in the assets and liabilities of the different NACE sections.
 The PROFIT analysis allowed for a graphical representation of the structure of the similarities between the NACE sections analysed and their arrangement due to the intensity of the assets and liabilities. As regards the NACE sections analysed, three homogeneous groups can be distinguished, of which industry and trade constitute two of them and the others - the third. It has been shown that the industry section is characterized by the highest intensity in both assets and liabilities.

Understanding the Treatment Preferences of Adults with Cancer

Introduction Patients’ preferences are crucial to formulate a personalized treatment plan for cancer. We conducted a prospective, observational study with a novel, self-reported questionnaire, Therapy Preference Scale (TPS), to examine the effects of efficacy and safety outcomes, therapy burden and toxicities, and overall goals of care on patients’ preferences for treatment of cancer. MethodsTherapy preference scale TPS has a total of 30 questions (Future Oncol 17 (01), 37-44). Nineteen questions measure patients’ rating of importance of safety and quality of life, effectiveness of cancer treatment, and other treatment characteristics on an ordinal scale of 1-10. Eight questions query the importance of treatment aspects with a 4-item Likert scale with choices of 'strongly disagree,’ 'disagree,’ 'agree,’ and 'strongly agree.’ Three questions identify patients’ preferences on intent of therapy (cure, extension of life, or relief of symptoms), acceptable maximum out-of-pocket expenses ($1000, $5000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000), and minimum life expectancy gain to accept cancer treatment (3, 6, 9, 12, or 15 months). Study design and participants We recruited 300 adults >18 years with any cancer type from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Data collection and analysis We collected patient-, cancer- and treatment-related data. Patients were categorized into 4 age-by-sex groups (younger men <60 years, older men ≥60 years, younger women <60 years, older women ≥60 years) for analysis. We compared responses to questions on a 10-point Likert scale across the 4 groups with the Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA method. Due to the ordinal nature of data, responses to questions on a 4-point Likert scale were recorded as 1 through 4, with strongly disagree=1, disagree=2, agree=3, and strongly agree=4. We compared responses across the groups with the Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA method. p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. ResultsPatient characteristics Patients with hematological malignancies comprised 38% of the total cohort- out of which 63% had myeloid malignancies. Among total patients, 59 were (19.7%) young men, 96 (32%) were older men, 58 were (19.3%) young women, and 87(29%) were older women. Safety and Quality of life All study participants prioritized cure over prolonging life or symptomatic treatment only (Table 1). However, relief of symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and shortness of breath without necessarily increasing life expectancy or achieving cure was valued. All participants preferred affordable out-of-pocket expenses and less burden on family or friends. There were significant differences in some responses among the 4 age-by-sex groups. Maintaining sex life was more important for younger men than for other groups. Compared to other groups, avoiding long-term impact on daily activities was more important for older women and less important for older men. Older men and older women preferred oral pills to intravenous therapy. Avoiding serious side effects was more important to older women than others. Avoiding short term impact on daily activity and avoiding long-term ability to think were less important to younger women. Treatment characteristics All participants would avoid life-threatening infection and poor quality of life than living longer. Among the 4 groups, financial debt was less important for younger men, and shorter travel distance was more important for older men (Table 2). Younger men and younger women valued more effective treatment than significant pain (e.g., mouth sores or stomach cramps). Living a shorter life than permanently losing ability to think, remember things, and make decisions was more important for older women than for other groups. Discussion Our study results indicate that all patients prioritized cure, but relief of symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and shortness of breath was important. Preferences differed in other aspects, such as short-term and long-term effects on daily activities and ability to think, remember and make decisions, oral therapy, financial burden, and sex life. Our findings highlight that understanding patients’ preferences depends on assessing how they view different aspects of treatment with the possible outcomes and goals of care. A multidimensional scale like TPS can help provide valuable insights regarding patients’ preferences to guide appropriate treatment plans. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Assessment of electrophysiological changes in the heart by analysing resting electrocardiografic recording and comparison with Seattle criteria in trained male 14-19 years aged volleyball players

Background: Cardiovascular arrest among athletes is prevalent in today's competitive world. As a result, a thorough and routine assessment is advised. The Seattle Criteria are one of the most widely accepted standards in the electrophysiological diagnosis and can reveal possible aberrant findings based on ECG values. Aim of the study: This study aims to investigate the heart's electrophysiological adaptations in trained male volleyball players. This comparison study used the Seattle Criteria to evaluate whether training has a beneficial or negative impact on the heart. Material and methods: In this study, 41 trained male volleyball players aged 14 to 19 were divided into three groups (14–15, 16–17, and 18–19). Each player's resting ECG was recorded and compared to the Seattle criteria. The Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric ANOVA was used, followed by the Mann-Whitney U test for significant outcomes. Results: The Q-T interval differed significantly between the three groups (p &lt; 0.05). In Groups 2 and 3, ST depression was identified using ECG 23% and 8% of the time, respectively. In Groups 1, 2, and 3, ST elevation was detected in 60%, 62%, and 83% of ECGs, respectively. Group 1 had much longer ventricular depolarization and repolarization times. Sinus bradycardia, sinus arrhythmia, and early repolarization (ST elevation) are considered normal ECG findings in athletes, while a ST-segment depression (0.5 mm) is abnormal. Conclusions: It can be inferred that the adaptive aspects of the electrophysiological alterations in the heart as a result of training may help justify the effective workload and prevent cardiac failure in athletes.

Essential Anatomy for Required Clerkships: A Clinical Perspective

IntroductionRecent changes in undergraduate medical education (UME) include greater integration of basic and clinical sciences and a shorter preclinical curriculum. Kern’s six‐step approach to curriculum development first identifies a problem and then conducts a needs assessment. A problem identified in previous studies was a gap in anatomical knowledge as learners transitioned to clerkships. The purpose of this study was to focus solely on the perspective of clinical faculty in clerkships that are required by at least 50% of U.S. medical schools (AAMC, 2021) regarding the essential anatomy content for clinical practice. We hypothesized that clinicians in Family Medicine (FM), Emergency Medicine (EM), and General Surgery (GS) would rate anatomical structures in each region higher than Internal Medicine (IM), Pediatrics (PD), OBGYN (OB), Neurology (NU), and Psychiatry (PS).MethodsA survey was distributed to clinical faculty at 38 institutions in the U.S. and Canada. The survey asked participants to rank anatomical structures from seven body regions on a 1‐4 Likert‐scale (4=essential, 1=not important). The 3 and 4 rating response frequencies for each structure formed a basis for classifications of importance: structures rated 3 or 4 by ≥75.0% were essential, 50.0‐74.9% more important, 25.0‐49.9% less important, and 0.0‐24.9% not important. Kruskal‐Wallis non‐parametric 1‐way ANOVA determined if differences existed between clerkships.ResultsA total of 606 clinicians completed the survey: EM (N=40), FM (N=110), GS (N=85), IM (N=152), PD (N=80), OB (N=73), NU (N=47), PS (N=19). FM rated anatomical structures significantly higher than at least one other clerkship (p=0.006) in all regions. For all body regions, EM (p=0.005) and GS (p=0.002) rated anatomical structures higher than at least one other clerkship except for the back (EM and GS), and head and neck (GS). Combining the 606 responses, all anatomical structures were classified as essential or more important except the spinal meninges, neurovasculature of the thoracic wall, vessels of the face, the thymus, pelvic and cervical fascia, and lymphatics of the back, upper limb, and lower limb.ConclusionsClinicians within FM, EM, and GS consistently rated anatomical structures significantly higher than clinicians within other required clerkships. The majority of anatomical structures were considered essential or more important across all seven regions by respondents in the eight required clerkships.Significance/Implications: Devising a curriculum that explicitly addresses the gap in anatomical knowledge for learners transitioning to clerkships should be considered a priority for anatomy education. In this study, clinicians that teach within the required clerkships provided a curricular roadmap of the most essential anatomy for clinical practice. The data from this study can assist educators in focusing anatomical learning in the medical curriculum to the most essential content in order to best prepare their students for the required clerkships and future clinical practice.

Correlation between Salivary Levels of IGF-1, IGFBP-3, IGF-1/IGFBP3 Ratio with Skeletal Maturity Using Hand-Wrist Radiographs.

Objective: The relevance of growth determination in orthodontics is driving the search for the most precise and least invasive way of tracking the pubertal growth spurt. Our aim was to explore whether minimally invasive salivary estimation of biomarkers Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) could be used to estimate skeletal maturity for clinical convenience, especially in children and adolescent age groups. Materials and Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 participants (56 girls and 34 males) with ages ranging from 6 to 25 years. Each subject’s hand-wrist radiograph was categorized based on skeletal maturity, and saliva samples were estimated for IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 using the respective ELISA kits. Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric ANOVA was applied to compare different skeletal stages. Results: The study demonstrated low salivary IGF-1 levels at the prepubertal stage, with increase during pubertal onset and peak pubertal stage followed by a decline during pubertal deceleration to growth completion. Spearman’s correlation coefficient demonstrated a strong positive association (r = 0.98 p < 0.01) between salivary IGF/IGFBP-3 ratio and different stages of skeletal maturity. Conclusion: Salivary IGF-1, IGFBP-3, and IGF/IGFBP-3 ratio could serve as a potential biochemical marker for predicting the completion of skeletal maturity.

Elevated Angiopoietin-2 Levels Correlated with Sepsis Diagnosis in Patients with Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease

Introduction: Infection is the second most common cause of death among patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis (CKD5D). Sepsis, defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction due to dysregulated host response to infection, accounts for more than three-quarters of all such cases. Sepsis has implications in worsening morbidity and mortality rates for CKD5D patients. Even after sepsis resolution, there are residual pathological and biochemical irregularities caused by infection which result in a diminished quality of life for survivors.Circulating angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) levels has been reported to be upregulated in a variety of inflammatory conditions, including sepsis and CKD5D. Ang-2 is an angiogenic growth factor implicated in endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory processes. We hypothesize that elevated Ang-2 levels in CKD5D patients will be further amplified in those with a previous history of sepsis. Measuring Ang-2 levels in these conditions may lead to a broader understanding of the pathogenesis of sepsis and its long-term consequences in the CKD5D patient population.Methods: Plasma Ang-2 levels in CKD5D patients (n=97) and normal controls (n=50; George King Bio-Medical, Inc., Overland Park, KS) were measured using the Ang-2 sandwich ELISA (R&D Systems, Minneapolis, MN, USA) method. Of the 38 CKD5D patients who had a past medical history of sepsis, 6 had ongoing sepsis upon the blood draw date, 16 were diagnosed <1 year prior, and 26 were diagnosed <2 years prior. GraphPad Prism v7 was used to perform Mann-Whitney t-tests and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA to compare CKD5D patients with sepsis diagnosis to non-sepsis CKD5D patients.Results: Mean Ang-2 levels were markedly higher in CKD5D patients with a previous sepsis diagnosis at all time intervals (11.55 ± 3.29 ng/mL CKD5D (+)sepsis ongoing, 12.67 ± 2.34 ng/mL CKD5D (+)sepsis <1 year, 11.80 ± 1.51 ng/mL CKD5D (+)sepsis <2 years, 12.14 ± 1.22 ng/mL CKD5D (+)sepsis history) than in CKD5D patients with no sepsis history (9.38 ± 0.74 ng/mL). Mann-Whitney t-tests showed statistical significance when comparing CKD5D patients with no sepsis history to those diagnosed <2 years prior to the blood draw date (p=0.0432), as well as to those with a sepsis diagnosis at any time in their medical history (p=0.0138). In comparison to controls, ANOVA reported significantly elevated Ang-2 levels in CKD5D patients (-)sepsis (p<0.0001), CKD5D (+)sepsis ongoing (p=0.0014), CKD5D (+)sepsis <1 year (p<0.0001), CKD5D (+)sepsis <2 years (p<0.0001), and CKD5D (+)sepsis history (p<0.0001).Conclusion: Circulating Ang-2 levels are upregulated during sepsis and has been correlated to the severity of this disease, as well as mortality. Additionally, Ang-2 levels are raised in CKD5D. This study found a general trend demonstrating Ang-2 levels to be continually elevated in CKD5D patients following a past history of sepsis. Understanding the upregulation of Ang-2 in CKD5D may provide insight into the pathophysiology of sepsis within the CKD5D population, and may be of prognostic value in the management of these patients. [Display omitted] DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

The Concept of Sustainable Development in the Curriculum of the Medical Universities in Poland

Purpose: The purpose of the research was to obtain and process data pertaining to the elementary sustainable development (SD) knowledge medical university students in Poland possess in order to grasp their expectations relating to this field. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research employed the diagnostic poll method. The study was conducted between March and September 2020 among 636 students of medical universities in Poland. The comparative analysis of qualitative variables employed Pearson's χ2 test and contingency tables. The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and the Mann-Whitney U test were applied in the analysis of rank order scale responses. Findings: Findings of the research confirm the existence of an educational gap concerning education for sustainable development (ESD) at medical universities in Poland. The study confirmed that the students possess elementary knowledge of sustainable development. It ought to be noted that they associate SD primarily with environmental and economic aspects. The analysis of results also revealed that the students are aware of the impact an individual may exert upon sustainable development. The study indicated that men proved to be familiar with elementary SD terminology significantly more frequently than women. Practical Implications: The results of the study offer a basis for changes in educational curricula and in projects executed at medical universities concerning SD-associated matters. Originality/Value: Results concerning education, fundamental SD knowledge and familiarity with SD-related issues exhibited by medical university students in Poland. The results consider the impact of various variables such as gender, field of study, year of study, and grade point average.

Post-operative outcomes associated with posterolateral tibial plateau impaction fractures in the setting of primary ACL tear

Objectives:The primary objective was to assess the effect of impaction fractures of the posterolateral tibial plateau on patient reported post-operative outcomes following primary ACL surgery.Methods:Patients with available MRI images who underwent surgery for primary ACL tears by a single surgeon between April 2010 and September 2017 were identified. A prospectively and consecutively enrolled clinical outcomes database was queried for all patients within this cohort who had 2-year or greater post-operative patient reported outcomes available. Patient reported outcomes included the 12-item Short Form Health Survery (SF-12) Physical Composite Scale (PCS) and Mental Health Composite Scale (MCS), the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), International Knee Documentation Committee Questionnaire (IKDC), Lysholm Knee Questionnaire, Tegner Activity Scale and patient satisfaction. For patients without existing 2-year outcomes, additional inclusion criteria included English-speaking and current age greater than or equal to 18. Patients meeting these criteria were sent electronic surveys to collect patient reported outcomes. MRI images were reviewed for all patients with denotation of displaced posterolateral tibial impaction fractures. Posterolateral tibial impactions were classified based on morphology using the following classification: (Type I) posterior cortical buckle not involving the articular surface, (Type II) posterior impaction fracture involving the articular surface [(with subtype based on (A) tibial plateau depth bone loss <10% and (B) bone loss >10%)], and (III) displaced osteochondral fragment [(with subtypes for (A) shear or (B) depressed fragment)]. All tibial impaction fractures were measured to determine amount of tibial plateau bone loss in the sagittal plane. Pre-operative and 2-year or greater post-operative patient reported outcome scales were compared based on posterolateral tibial impaction fracture classification using Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA with Nemenyi post-hoc test. Pearson’s correlations were used to assess for correlations between post-operative patient reported outcomes and amount of tibial plateau sagittal plane bone loss present.Results:There were 638 knees identified with primary ACL tears who underwent surgery between April 2010 and September 2017. Thirty-nine patients met exclusion criteria, leaving 599 total patients. Of these, 2-year outcomes were available for 416 patients for a 69.4% follow-up rate at a mean time of 158 weeks (range: 90-422). There were statistically significant improvements in all PROs from pre-op to 2-year post-op (p < 0.001). Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA showed no difference in all PROs based upon posterolateral impaction fracture classification type, except for Tegner Activity Scale which showed difference in outcomes based on impaction fracture type (p < .002) (Table 1). Specifically, diminished post-operative activity level was observed in patients with type 2B, type 3A, and type 3B fractures. Pearson correlation testing showed weak but statistically significant correlations between tibial plateau impaction fracture sagittal bone loss amount and SF-12 PCS (PCC: -0.156, p = 0.023), WOMAC Total Score (PCC: 0.159, p = 0.02), Lysholm (PCC: -0.203, p = .003), and Tegner Activity Scale (PCC: -0.151, p = 0.032). Independent T-testing showed no difference in any patient reported outcome scores at 2-year follow-up when all posterolateral tibial impaction fractures were grouped together compared to those without impaction fracture.Conclusion:Displaced posterolateral tibial plateau impaction fractures occurring in the setting of ACL tear are associated with diminished 2-year post-operative outcomes after ACL reconstruction. When classified based on fracture morphology, posterolateral tibial plateau impaction fracture types 2B, 3A, and 3B are associated with decreased post-operative activity level as assessed by Tegner Activity Scale. When comparing patients with posterolateral impaction fractures, greater amounts sagittal plane tibial plateau bone loss at the posterior rim showed weak but significant correlations with worse scores on SF-12 PCS, WOMAC, Lysholm, and Tegner patient reported outcome measures.Figure 1.

Flora of the tram tracks of Bratislava

Tram and railway tracks represent specific urban habitats, which host a specific type of flora. This study aims to compile the information about species composition of flora of tram tracks in the city of Bratislava (Slovakia, Central Europe), to compare the representation of alien and native plant taxa growing both directly in the rail yard and at a greater distance from the tracks, and to analyse the differences among flora growing on various soil types of the tram tracks. Cluster analysis, the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA were used for the analyses. The majority of the recorded taxa (51.9%) were native, 28.9% were archaeophytes and 19.3% were neophytes. Among the alien species, 16 were invasive; the most abundant being Ailanthus altissima (juvenile), Amaranthus retroflexus, Conyza canadensis, and Echinochloa crus-galli. The most frequent taxa growing on tram tracks were Achillea millefolium agg., Cichorium intybus, Eragrostis minor, Plantago lanceolata, Polygonum arenastrum, Portulaca oleracea, and Taraxacum sect. Ruderalia. The endangered plant species Misopates orontium, Petrorhagia saxifraga, and Senecio vernalis were also recorded on the tram tracks of Bratislava. Analyses revealed statistically significant differences in the number of taxa among the different soil types and significant differences in flora found strictly within the rail yard and those growing at a greater distance from the tracks (i. e. tracksides). The number of alien species recorded directly in the rail yard was higher than on the tracksides.

Abstract TP411: Biomarker Profiling of Neurovascular Diseases in Patients With Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease

Introduction: Patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD5D) have a higher risk for developing neurocognitive deficits. Stroke, cervical carotid artery disease (CCAD), and intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAD), are causes of such deficits in CKD5D. Chronic inflammation from renal failure elevates risk for these diseases through oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction. The adverse impact on the carotid and intracranial vasculatures contributes to the multifactorial pathophysiology of stroke. Objective: Profile levels of inflammatory and hemostatic biomarkers in CKD5D plasma, and relate measurements to neurovascular diagnoses. Methods: Eleven plasma biomarker levels in CKD5D patients (n=97) and healthy controls (n=17-50) were measured using sandwich ELISA method. Of the 97 CKD5D patients, 24 had CCAD, 19 had ICAD, and 23 had acute stroke. Data were collected in Microsoft Excel, and analyzed using GraphPad Prism. Statistics were performed with Mann-Whitney t-tests, Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA, and non-parametric Spearman correlations. Results: Every biomarker was elevated in CKD5D plasma, except for plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1; p=0.9764), compared to controls. Statistical significance was only found between CKD5D (+) and (-)CCAD inflammasomes (NALP3; p=0.0299), and between (+) and (-)stroke D-dimer (p=0.0258). Ages between each (+) and (-) disease groups were also significant (p=0.0002 CCAD; p&lt;0.0001 ICAD; p=0.0157 stroke). D-dimer was correlated with age in CKD5D (r=0.2115, p=0.0375). Discussion: Lack of difference in PAI-1 levels between CKD5D and controls could be due to anticoagulants. Elevated D-dimer levels in CKD5D stroke patients could be due to increased age instead of stroke. NALP3 is known to be connected to the stability of atherosclerotic plaques in CCAD. NALP3 elevates IL-1β and IL-18, which subsequently increases risk of CCAD and stroke. Lack of more significant differences in biomarker levels between (+) and (-) disease groups could due to the BBB, which might filter out the biomarkers of our study. Conclusion: Profiling biomarker levels of this study may not be useful in the risk stratification of neurovascular diseases in the CKD5D population, with the possible exception of NALP3 for CCAD.

Muscular activity patterns of female and male athletes during the flat bench press.

The bench press (BP) is a complex upper body exercise in which substantial external loads can be used, demanding high neuromuscular activity. The aim of this study was to compare electromyographic (EMG) activity between female and male athletes during the flat bench press. Five male and five female athletes participated in this study. The main session included four sets of one repetition of the flat bench press with the load of 55, 70, 85 and 100% of the one-repetition maximum (1RM). The activity of four muscles was analysed: the pectoralis major (PM), the anterior deltoid (AD), the lateral head of the triceps brachii (TBlat) and the long head of the triceps brachii (TBlong). The main finding of the study was that the muscle activity pattern differed between women and men during the bench press depending on the external load. The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA for males showed differences between the TLpeak values recorded for different loads (55%-100% 1RM) during the bench press (chi-square = 15.3, p = 0.009) and ADpeak (chi-square = 19.5, p = 0.001). The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA for females showed differences between the ADpeak values recorded for different loads (55%-100% 1RM) during the bench press (chi-square = 12.1, p = 0.018).

Behavioral effects of antiepileptic drugs in rats: Are the effects on mood and behavior detectable in open-field test?

PurposeBehavioral side effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are common including both positive and negative effects on mood, anxiety, depression, and psychosis. We aimed to evaluate behavioral patterns in rats after administration of lamotrigine, levetiracetam, phenytoin, topiramate, carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin, and zonisamide. MethodsThe open-field test was performed and locomotion, rearing, grooming, central latency and defecation were recorded over a 5min interval for each rat (8 rats in each group receiving AED and 16 controls). Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test or ANOVA were used to assess differences among the groups. ResultsThe experimental groups did not differ in latency to enter the center compartment, neither in the decline of locomotor activity in the 1st and the 5th minute of the observation, nor in number of rears. Significant differences among groups were observed in the total number of lines crossed, grooming, as well in the number of fecal pellets. Locomotor activity was significantly increased in lamotrigine, if compared with gabapentin and pregabalin (ANOVA; p <0.05). Rats exposed to topiramate displayed a significantly increased number of grooming (when compared to pregabalin: p<0.01). Defecation (the number of fecal pellets) significantly increased in the gabapentin and carbamazepine group. ConclusionThere are significant differences between AEDs in terms of their behavioral profile. It is of great importance to evaluate these effects in clinical practice to bring more clear insight into these positive or negative side effects of AEDs.

Effects of subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises on temporomandibular disability index score in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders

Background : The patients with temporomandibular joint disorders will be likely to benefit from combination of subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises. Aim of the study- To study effects of subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. Methods: A randomized control trial, in which 120 patients were selected using block randomisation method, was carried out. They were divided into 3 groups of 40 each, Group A- subcranial myofascial distraction, Group B- combination of subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises, Group C- condylar remodeling exercises alone. These patients were assessed for outcome measure i.e. temporomandibular disability index score. The frequency of therapeutic protocol for subcranial myofascial distraction was 3 repetitions of 90 seconds hold period each, rest period of 60 seconds between two repetitions. This intervention was given for 6 days/week for 2 weeks. Every exercise in condylar remodeling exercises was performed 6 times in one session under the supervision of physiotherapist and same session was performed at home by the patient preferably in evening for 6 days/week for 2 weeks. Results: The data was analyzed using one way ANOVA, repeated measure ANOVA, Kruskal Wallis Non parametric ANOVA test. Patients receiving a combination of subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises (Group B) showed greater improvement compared to other two groups (Group C and A ). Conclusion: Subcranial myofascial distraction and condylar remodeling exercises help in decreasing disability associated with temporomandibular joint disorder.

Antimicrobial Effect and Surface Tension of Some Chelating Solutions with Added Surfactants.

This study assessed the antimicrobial efficacy and surface tension of established irrigating solutions with a new experimental chelating solution in infected dentin tubes. Twenty-five specimens were randomly assigned to each of the irrigating solutions. Twenty specimens were used as negative and positive controls. After 21 days of contamination with E. faecalis, the irrigating solutions MTAD, QMiX and Tetraclean NA were delivered into each infected root canal. The solutions were removed and dentin samples were withdrawn from the root canals with sterile low-speed round burs with increasing ISO diameters. The dentin powder samples obtained with each bur were immediately collected in separate test tubes containing 3 mL of BHI broth. After that, 100 μL from each test tube was cultured on blood agar. The grown colonies were counted and recorded as colony-forming units (CFU). The surface tension of the irrigants was measured using a Cahn DCA-322 Dynamic Contact Angle Analyzer. A Kruskal Wallis nonparametric ANOVA and a Friedman test were used (p<0.05). Tetraclean NA showed lower surface tension and CFU values than MTAD and QMiX. Better antibacterial action and low surface tension were observed for Tetraclean NA, probably due to the improved penetration into the root canal and dentinal tubes.

A cross-sectional observation on habitual non-alcoholic beverage consumption among adolescents from four Irish post-primary schools.

No up-to-date data on the dietary intake of Irish adolescents are available. The aim of the present pilot study was to obtain and compare cross-sectional information on habitual adolescent beverage consumption between four distinct post-primary schools in the Republic of Ireland, in 2014-2015. A cross-sectional observation study. A beverage consumption questionnaire was used to obtain data on beverage intake and influences on consumption. Four post-primary mixed-sex schools in Ireland representing the following school classifications were selected for the study: urban fee-paying, urban disadvantaged, rural fee-paying and rural disadvantaged. Students (n 761) aged 12-18 years. Data were analysed by Kruskal-Wallis (non-parametric) ANOVA to compare the distribution of beverage consumption across the schools. Water was the most highly consumed beverage among students from all four schools (median 1425 ml/d). Students from urban and rural disadvantaged schools reported a significantly higher volume of carbonated beverage intake than students from fee-paying schools. Students from an urban disadvantaged school also reported a significantly higher volume of carbonated beverage and energy drink intake compared with the other three schools. Students from an urban fee-paying school reported the highest consumption of water, while rural disadvantaged school students were the biggest consumers of tea and milk. Significant differences in beverage consumption (ml/d) were reported by adolescents from four schools in Ireland. Surveillance on current beverage consumption trends among adolescents is vital to guide policies and interventions, and for appropriate targeting of resources.

The impact of ethnicity on luxury perception: the case of Singapore’s Generation Y

PurposeThis study investigates Singaporean millennials’ attitudes toward luxury brands. The research focuses on the financial, functional, individual, and social dimensions of luxury value perception and whether ethnicity influences these dimensions.Design/methodology/approachThe research measures luxury value perception among millennials of the three main ethnic groups in Singapore (Chinese, Indians, and Malays) via more than 200 questionnaires. Data were analyzed through Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric ANOVA and cluster analysis.FindingsLuxury value perception does not vary across ethnicity, with the exception of the financial value dimension. Four market segments of young luxury consumers in Singapore are identified and profiled. These segments do not differ in terms of ethnicity.Research limitations/implicationsMillennials are an evolving and moving population segment, and thus longitudinal analyses would be useful to develop a more comprehensive understanding of this segment.Practical implicationsEthnicity does not affect luxury value perception. The results of the cluster analysis suggest that luxury companies should address the millennials as a global target sharing the same luxury value perception. At the same time, luxury companies can emphasize some different aspects (i.e., the financial dimension) of their value offer.Originality/valueThe research studies the most interesting market for luxury brands—millennials—in a fast-growing luxury market. It adds knowledge to the previous literature on luxury value perception. This research can guide managers to devise suitable marketing strategies addressing the millennials segment as a global market that has the same set of luxury values worldwide.

P08.02 Chlamydia trachomatiscauses mitochondrial damage in keratinocytes

Introduction Chlamydia trachomatis causes two different sexually transmitted diseases: genital discharge (GD) and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). Apart from differences in tissue tropisms, little is known about differences in pathogenicity to the cells they infect, especially keratinocytes, the primary target of infection for LGV chlamydia. Methods Human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells), one LGV (serovar L2) and one GD (serovar E) isolate were used for all experiments with uninfected cells as the negative control. Experiments were performed at 37 and 33°C. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM) cells grown on Thermanox coverslips within 24-well plates were infected (MOI = 0.25) and incubated for various time-points over 48 h. The diameter of 15 mitochondria were measured in uninfected and infected cells at 1, 36 and 48 h post-infection using image analysis software. For the MTT assay cells grown in 96-well plates were infected (MOI = 0.25) and incubated for various time-points over 48 h. Median mitochondrial diameter was compared using Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric ANOVA with Dunn’s post-test. Percentage mitochondrial activity was compared using two-tailed paired T test. P ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results The GD isolate alone caused mitochondrial swelling, cristae rearrangement and a pale mitochondrial matrix at 1, 36 and 48 h post-infection at 37°C but not 33°C. Median mitochondrial diameter was 430 nm in uninfected cells; 477 nm, 470 nm and 1221 nm after 1, 36 and 48 h post-infection respectively for serovar E; and 343 nm, 420 nm and 392 nm after 1, 36 and 48 h respectively for L2. Mitochondrial diameter was significantly larger in serovar E-infected cells 48 h post-infection compared to uninfected cells (P Conclusion C. trachomatis of the GD biovar but not the LGV biovar causes transient mitochondrial swelling and a decrease in mitochondrial activity in infected keratinocytes at 37°C. Disclosure of interest statement This study is supported by the National Research Foundation of South Africa. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

Differential hepatic avoidance radiation therapy: Proof of concept in hepatocellular carcinoma patients

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility of a novel planning concept that differentially redistributes RT dose away from functional liver regions as defined by 99mTc-sulphur colloid (SC) uptake on patient SPECT/CT images. Materials and methodsTen HCC patients with different Child–Turcotte–Pugh scores (A5-B9) underwent SC SPECT/CT scans in treatment position prior to RT that were registered to planning CT scans. Proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) therapy plans were optimized to deliver 37.5–60.0Gy (RBE) over 5–15 fractions using single field uniform dose technique robust to range and setup uncertainty. Photon volumetrically modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans were optimized to the same prescribed dose and minimum target coverage. For both treatment modalities, differential hepatic avoidance RT (DHART) plans were generated to decrease dose to functional liver volumes (FLV) defined by a range of thresholds relative to maximum SC uptake (43–90%) in the tumor-subtracted liver. Radiation dose was redistributed away from regions of increased SC uptake in each FLV by linearly scaling mean dose objectives during PBS or VMAT optimization. DHART planning feasibility was assessed by a significantly negative Spearman’s rank correlation (RS) between dose difference and SC uptake. Patient, tumor, and treatment planning characteristics were tested for association to DHART planning feasibility using non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA. ResultsCompared to conventional plans, DHART plans achieved a 3% FLV dose reduction for every 10% SC uptake increase. DHART planning was feasible in the majority of patients with 60% of patients having RS<−0.5 (p<0.01, range −1.0 to 0.2) and was particularly effective in 30% of patients (RS<−0.9). Mean dose to FLV was reduced by up to 20% in these patients. Only fractionation regimen was associated with DHART planning feasibility: 15 fraction courses were more feasible than 5–6 fraction courses (RS<−0.93 vs. RS>−0.60, p<0.02). ConclusionDifferential avoidance of functional liver regions defined on sulphur colloid SPECT/CT is achievable with either photon VMAT or proton PBS therapy. Further investigation with phantom studies and in a larger cohort of patients may validate the utility of DHART planning for HCC radiotherapy.