Results Of Day Research Articles

Stochastic Green’s Function Method Considering Non-Uniform Rise Time Distribution to Simulate 3D Broadband Ground Motion

The stochastic Green’s function method has been widely used in the field of ground motion simulation in recent years. It is generally assumed that the rise time of each subfault is the same in this method. Since the rise time significantly influences the amplitude of simulation results in the intermediate frequency band, to improve the accuracy of stochastic Green’s function method for near-fault broadband ground motion simulation, referring to the numerical simulation results of Day, the rise time is assumed to be non-uniformly distributed on the fault, and an improved approximate expression of rise time on a rectangular fault considering that the rupture starting point may be at any position and the aspect ratio may be arbitrary is proposed. Additionally, the contributions of P, SV and SH wave are considered, respectively, and an improved stochastic Green’s function method is proposed for 3D broadband ground motion simulation. Taking the 1994 Northridge earthquake in America and 2013 Lushan earthquake in China as examples, under different subfault division numbers, the synthesized source spectra are compared with the omega-squared theoretical source spectra of the large earthquake, and the simulated ground motions at observation points are compared with observed records to verify the effectiveness of the improved method. The results show that when the Northridge earthquake fault and Lushan earthquake fault are divided into 9 × 10 subfaults and 11 × 7 subfaults, respectively, the simulation results obtained using the improved method are close to the observed records in the broadband frequency range. Therefore, the improved method can effectively simulate the 3D ground motion in near-fault regions.

CSM-CROPGRO model to simulate safflower phenological development and yield.

Crop simulation models are valuable tools for decision making regarding evaluation and crop improvement under different field conditions. CSM-CROPGRO model integrates genotype, environment and crop management portfolios to simulate growth, development and yield. Modeling the safflower response to varied climate regimes are needed to strengthen its productivity dynamics. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of DSSAT-CSM-CROPGRO-Safflower (Version 4.8.2) under diverse climatic conditions. The model was calibrated using the field observations for phenology, biomass and safflower grain yield (SGY) of the year 2016-17. Estimation of genetic coefficients was performed using GLUE (Genetic Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation) program. Simulated results for days to flowering, maturity, biomass at flowering and maturity and SGY were predicted reasonably with good statistical indices. Model evaluation results elucidate phenological events with low root mean square error (6.32 and 6.52) and high d-index (0.95 and 0.96) for days to flowering and maturity respectively for all genotypes and climate conditions. Fair prediction of safflower biomass at flowering and maturity showed low RMSE (887.3 and 564.3kgha-1) and high d-index (0.67 and 0.93) for the studied genotypes across the environments. RMSE for validated safflower grain yield (101.8kgha-1) and d-index (0.95) depicted that model outperformed for all genotypes and growing conditions. Longer appropriate growing conditions at NARC-Islamabad took optimal duration to assimilate photosynthetic products lead to higher grain yield. Safflower resilience to different environments showed that it can be used as an alternate crop for different agroecological regions. Furthermore, CROPGRO-Safflower model can be used as tool to further evaluate inclusion of safflower in the existing cropping systems of studied regions.

Which transfer day results in the highest live birth rate for PCOS patients undergoing in vitro fertilization?

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has unusual levels of hormones. The hormone receptors in the endometrium have a hostile effect and make the microenvironment unfavorable for embryo implantation. The use of gonadotropin stimulation during in vitro fertilization (IVF) may have an impact on embryo implantation and live birth rate. According to recent data, the clinical results of day 4 embryo transfer (D4 transfer) were on par with those of day 5 embryo transfer (D5 transfer) in IVF-ET. There are few studies comparing the outcomes of transplants with various etiologies and days. The purpose of this study was to determine which transfer day had the best result for PCOS patients undergoing IVF.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Xingtai Infertility Specialist Hospital between January 2017 and November 2021. A total of 1,664 fresh ART cycles met inclusion criteria, including 242 PCOS transfers and 1422 tubal factor infertility transfers.ConclusionsPCOS individuals had the highest live birth rate on D4 transferred. It was not need to culture embryos to blastocysts to optimize embryo transfer for PCOS women. This could be a novel approach to transplantation for PCOS.

Enhanced Phytoremediation and Physicochemical Parameters of Crude Oil Polluted Soil Using Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus substilis

There have been worry over the Niger Delta's environmental contamination. Bacteria and other microorganisms have shown to be very helpful in the breakdown of hydrocarbons generated from petroleum. The goal of this research is to use elbow bufallow grass and sedge plants for phytoremediation of soil affected by crude oil. Standard microbiological techniques were applied to the contaminated soil once it was gathered. Using a hand auger, contaminated soil samples were taken twice a month for three months from two separate locations in Rivers State at two distinct depths: 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm. The following physicochemical parameters of samples were analysed using Standard Laboratory Procedures: pH, Temperature, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium available in the polluted soil and the total hydrocarbon content (THC). Two plant species common in the Ogoni region of Rivers state, i.e. Sedge plant (Schoenoplectus), Elbow buffalo grass (Panicum subalbidum) were used for phytoremediation monitoring. A combination of treatment consisting of the application of Pseudomonas fluorescens Bacillus substilis, Panicum subalbidum and Schoenoplectus senegalensis was evaluated during 28 days of remediation. Each pot contained crude oil mixture in the soil as a sole source of carbon and energy. THB counts ranged from 2.35 to 4.15 cfu/g. The statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the total heterotrophic bacteria counts between the samples. HUB counts range from 0.7 to 1.45cfu/g. The total bacterial population counts obtained from soil sample during bioremediation monitoring ranged from 17+1.41 (CS+PAN) to 40+1.412cfu/g (CS+PSE+BAC+PAN) in Day 1. Results of Day 14 range from 13+1.41 (CS+PAN) to 35.5+3.542cfu/g (CS+BAC+SCH). Results of Day 28 ranged from 8.5+0.71 (CS+PAN) to 27+1.412cfu/g (CS+PSE+BAC+PAN). The presence of microbial activity was determined by the enumeration and isolation of total heterotrophic and hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria. The results of physicochemical parameters before bioremediation is as follows: pH (5.43), Temperature (27oC), Electrical conductivity (9), Moisture content (7.80%), Total organic carbon (0.93%), Soil organic matter (1.60%), Nitrogen (56.695mg/kg), Phosphorus (0.621mg/kg), Potassium (7.125mg/kg) and Total Hydrocarbon content (700mg/kg). Results revealed amount of soil hydrocarbon removed and percentage (%) Bioremediation remediated after 28 days of monitoring to be higher in set up with CS+PSE+SCH (3454mg/kg; 85.28%) and lowest in set up with US+SCH (434mg/kg: 62%) and the amount of root hydrocarbon content removed and percentage (%) Bioremediation remediated after 28 days of monitoring to be higher in set up with CS+BAC+SCH (632Mg/kg; 15.6%) and lowest in set up with US+SCH (12.2mg/kg; 1.74%).
 Three (3) most occurring hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial isolates were isolated and identified culturally and phenotypically from the soil samples these bacteria isolates were confirmed to be Peudomonas, Priestia megaterium and Bacillus spp molecularly via sequencing of the 16SrRNA gene. The most common bacteria isolated were Bacillus spp at a dilution of 104. This research revealed and recommend that Panicum subalbidum as a suitable plant species for phytoremediation of crude oil-contaminated soil.

Daunorubicin/Cytarabine Liposome +/- Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin for Adult Patients with Newly Diagnosed, Low-Intermediate Risk, FLT3-Wild Type, AML: A Pilot Study

Introduction: Liposomal-encapsulated cytarabine and daunorubicin (CPX-351 or Vyxeos) has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of newly diagnosed therapy-related AML (tAML) and AML with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRCs). This was based on results of a phase III study conducted in patients with secondary AML (Lancet JE et al. JCO 2018). Despite data that highlighted the advantage of CPX-351 for sAML, it is intuitively likely that this powerful drug is also suitable for non-sAML. The mechanism of action is applicable for every AML. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of CPX-351 for patients with de novo low/ intermediate risk, FLT3-negative AML. While a definitive phase III study is planned, herein is described the pilot forerunner study. Methods: This pilot multi-center study is planned to recruit 20 patients, ages 18-70 years, with low-intermediate risk FLT3-negative AML. Induction therapy is with CPX-351 on days 1,3,5. One dose of gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) can be added on day 1, at the discretion of the treating physician. Re-induction with CPX-351 on day 1,3 is permitted based on the results of day 14 bone marrow examination and at the discretion of the treating physician. Post-induction therapy followed the practice of the participating institutions. The primary endpoint was response rate. A key secondary endpoint was MRD evaluation, after induction, by multi-parameter flow cytometry with a threshold of 0.1%. As the initial genetic evaluation at diagnosis takes time, it was assumed upfront that an adverse risk may only become apparent in some patients with AML after initiation of therapy. Such subjects would ultimately be excluded from the study analysis. Results: Between August 2022 and June 2023, 20 patients were recruited and received the CPX-351 but 4 were finally diagnosed as high-risk and were excluded. The median age of the 15 patients that were included in the analysis was 56 years (range: 21-70), 53.3% were females. Eight of 15 patients (53.3%) were categorized as intermediate risk, according to the 2016 ELN guidelines, and 46.6% as favorable. Four patients (26.6%) received GO in addition to the CPX-351. None of the patients needed to receive re-induction. 100% of the patients achieved CR. Five of 13 evaluable patients (38.4%) achieved MRD-negativity post induction. No unfamiliar or severe adverse events were reported, even among patients who received GO. One patient died from sepsis after hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The median time from day 1 of treatment to neutrophil recovery (ANC≥500/µL) and platelet recovery (≥50,000/µL) was 29 and 24 days, respectively, for the entire cohort and 27 and 24 days, respectively, for those who also received GO. Discussion: The hallmark of this study is reflected by the focus on patients with the low and intermediate-risk AML and not tAML and AML-MRCs, as was approved by the FDA. It includes also young patients (≥18 years), and not only those≥ 60 years. In addition, the CPX-351 was only given as induction therapy (with an option for re-induction) but not after achieving CR. The combination of CPX-351 with GO, although not previously reported, was based on current practice of adding GO to standard induction in some patients, allowing for a realistic future true comparator with standard 7+3 induction. In addition, MRD assessment post induction with CPX-351 has not been previously reported. The CR rate was 100% and the MRD results were a basis for subsequent studies. Finally, this is a pilot study that precedes a definitive planned phase III study that will compare standard induction with 7+3 versus CPX-351, with post-induction MRD monitoring and GO optional in both arms. Such a study may ultimately lead to a paradigm shift in the initial induction therapy of non-adverse risk patients with AML.

Stability studies of reconstituted oral amoxicillin suspension (125mg/5ml) under different temperature storage conditions

The research objective was to determine the physical stability and concentration of amoxicillin reconstituted oral suspension (125mg/5ml) stored under room temperature of 25°C and refrigeration temperature of 2-8°C days 1, 3, and 7. Three different brands of amoxicillin samples were used. Samples from the reconstituted amoxicillin suspension was assayed by HPLC to determine the concentration of the active and examined physically for taste, odour and colour change. The drug concentration for all three brands during the seven days ranged from 88.94 per cent - 102.17 per cent for refrigerated and 89.57-99.7 per cent for reconstituted amoxicillin at room temperature. The odour for days 1, 3 and 7 is fruity. The colour was pale yellow for days 1 and 3, while on day 7, it was creamy yellow. The taste was sweet on days 1 and 3, while on day 7, it was sweet/low bitter. The three brands maintained their potency and physical stability as required in the British pharmacopoeia. The reconstituted antibiotic suspensions must be stored at room temperature or in a refrigerator to maintain potency throughout their use. However, a good number of patients do not adhere to storage specifications resulting in the degradation of the product and subsequent loss of potency. The results for day one for all the drugs fall within the accepted range, drug K has its percent concentration the lowest, and microbiological studies should be done on this drug to ascertain microbial stability.

Combining effect of camellia oil and squalene on hyperlipidemia-induced reproductive damage in male rats.

Camellia oil (CO), a common edible oil in China, contains a variety of active ingredients. In this study, we explored the combining effect and optimal feeding time of CO and squalene on hyperlipemia-induced reproductive damage rats and probably provided supportive data for use of CO for health benefits. We established the hyperlipidaemia-induced reproductive damage model, and then the successfully modeled rats were randomly classified into four groups including a model control (MC) group, a camellia oil (CO) group, a camellia oil + squalene (COS) group, and a sildenafil (SN) group, which were feeding with different subjects during days 30 and 60. The normal (NC) group was fed under the same conditions. Our results showed that compared with the MC group, the CO, COS, and SN groups could significantly decline the serum TG, TC and LDL-C levels, increase the serum testosterone levels, the sperm counts in epididymidis and organ coefficients of penises, and no pathological change in penis and testis at days 30 and 60. Compared with the pure CO, the mixture of CO and squalene could significantly enhance the effect of decreasing the concentrations of TG, TC, and LDL-C and increasing the serum testosterone level and sperm count of epididymal tail, and the results of day 30 were better than those of day 60. CO and squalene have a combining effect on lowering blood lipid, improving the level of testosterone and the number of epididymal tail sperm, and promoting the recovery of erectile and sexual function on hyperlipidemia-induced reproductive damage rats on day 30.

Evaluation of Bio-Rad D100 for HbA1c testing of dried blood spot samples

Abstract Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing is critical for diabetes diagnosis and monitoring. Although many studies have demonstrated the feasibility of measuring HbA1c from dried blood spots (DBS) using immunoassays, enzymatic assays, and certain high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assays, there is limited evidence supporting the use of the Bio-Rad D100 HPLC method. We evaluated the feasibility of testing HbA1c from DBS using Bio-Rad D100 to support the assessment of glycemic control for the growing field of telehealth. Deidentified residual EDTA whole blood samples were processed, and HbA1c was measured on the Bio-Rad D100 on day zero. Concurrently, DBS were prepared for each sample by spotting 50 µL of blood onto a Whatman® 903 filter paper. The samples were dried overnight and stored at room temperature for two days. On day 2, a DBS disc with a diameter of 3.2 mm was eluted with 4.5 mL of Bio-Rad diluent for 20 minutes. The supernatants of the DBS samples were then processed on the platform. HbA1c values from the DBS samples were compared to the EDTA whole blood results. Compared to the EDTA samples, the HbA1c concentrations of the corresponding DBS samples were elevated, especially for samples with original results less than 7.0%. Furthermore, the chromatograms of the DBS samples were significantly altered; we observed baseline elevation and the appearance of unknown minor peaks. This issue was investigated. First, blank DBS samples were created by directly spotting filter paper with diluent or adding diluent into an empty EDTA tube and then spotting the filter paper with the mixture of diluent and EDTA. The blank DBS samples were tested, and the lack of peaks suggested that the interference was not from the diluent, EDTA, or the filter paper. DBS samples were also prepared with sodium heparin whole blood, finger-stick capillary blood, and multiple brands of filter papers and tested using a different HPLC method. However, the interference was still present in those samples, indicating the interference is most likely due to the time-dependent degradation of the samples themselves. Of note, the alternate HPLC method showed less chromatogram alteration. To prevent possible adduct formation, DBS samples were eluted in the presence of various concentrations of cysteine (Jeppsson et al. 1986). However, the pretreatment did not eliminate the chromatogram changes. Finally, a multiple regression model was created using the results of day two A1c, A0, and F peaks, and a correction factor was generated. The corrected HbA1c concentrations were well within +/-6% of the initial HbA1c concentrations. In conclusion, the Bio-Rad D100 HPLC method appears particularly susceptible to stability changes in DBS samples, and further analysis is needed before employing a correction factor.

Use of Compartmental Modeling and Datasets for Theoretical Lactating Women to Determine Conditions under Which Vitamin A–Specific Activity in Breast Milk Provides Accurate Estimates of Vitamin A Total Body Stores by Retinol Isotope Dilution

Vitamin A concentrations in breast milk are related to maternal vitamin A intake and status. Our objective was to identify conditions under which vitamin A specific activity in breast milk (SAm) could be used instead of retinol specific activity in plasma (SAp) to predict vitamin A total body stores (TBS) by retinol isotope dilution (RID). We used 12 previously-studied theoretical lactating women with assigned values for TBS (219-1348μmol) and retinol kinetic parameters; we assumed subjects ingested a dose of stable isotope-labeled vitamin A. We expanded a 9-compartment steady state tracer model to include a parallel model for tracee (unlabeled retinol) and then adapted that model so vitamin A intake entered the system in 3 meals each day. Using compartmental analysis, we first simulated SAm and SAp after an overnight fast (as in actual RID experiments) and then with vitamin A intake also restricted in sequential meals on the day before sampling for RID. After an overnight fast, SAm at day 21 postdosing was lower than SAp. However, if vitamin A intake was also restricted in 1, 2, or 3 meals before sampling, SAm/SAp (mean±SD) was 0.92±0.042, 0.96±0.016, or 0.99±0.004, respectively; results for days 14 and 28 were similar. When either SAp or SAm was used to predict TBS by RID on day 21 after 1-d restriction, predictions for all subjects were within 25% of assigned TBS. Results indicate that, for theoretical lactating women with a wide range of vitamin A status, SAm will accurately predict TBS by RID at 2-4 wk postdosing if vitamin A intake is restricted for 1 d before sampling. If confirmed in community settings, results suggest that vitamin A status in lactating women can be determined without collecting blood.

Inter-observer and intra-observer agreement in drug-induced sedation endoscopy \u2014 a systematic approach

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of systematic observer training in drug-induced sedation endoscopy (DISE) interpretation.MethodsFifty DISE videos were randomly selected from a group of 200 videos of cohort of patients with OSA and/or snoring. The videos were assessed blindly and independently using a modified VOTE classification by an expert observer and by two novice observers starting their training. A systematic approach was initiated. Clusters of 10 videos were scored individually by each observer and then re-evaluated as the expert observer clarified the decision-making in plenum. Kappa coefficient (κ) was calculated as a measure of agreement.ResultsThe intra-observer variation for the total agreement and kappa values for the expert observer ranged between moderate to substantial agreement in VOTE classification, whereas the novices varied between “less than chance agreement” to “moderate agreement.” The inter-observer variation showed increased agreement and kappa values from day 1 to day 2 for both novice observers except at the velum level for observer C. The total agreement and kappa values for each site also improved compared to results of day 1, except at velum for observer C. The velum site seemed to be more difficult to evaluate. The learning curve varied during the study course for each site of the upper airways.ConclusionThis study shows that systematic intensive training is feasible, although expert level is not acquired after 100 evaluations. The learning curve for the expert observer showed “moderate to substantial agreement” but differed between the trainees.Level of evidence2

Exploring Yield Potential of Raphanussativus L. By Various Organic Matter Sources

An experiment was conducted in order evaluate the influence of various organic matter sources on radish crop at Vegetable Research Farm Singri, Bhimber Azad Kashmir, during October, 2018. The experiment was replicated three times with 4 treatments (control, chicken manure, FYM and leaf compost). The lowest non-significant results for days to germination (6.00) were observed in chicken manure and highest (8.33) in control treatment. The maximum significantly high yield was obtained where organic matter sources (chicken manure, FYM and leaf compost) were applied and significantly low yield was observed in control treatment. The non-significantly high yield (4541g, 4665g and 4599g) was obtained in chicken manure, FYM and leaf compost respectively which was significantly low (3953g) in control treatments related with vegetative growth (number of leaves and leaf length) that was more where organic fertilizer was applied. It was proved that chicken manure was best for vegetative growth of radish as well as its root growth development and FYM and leaf compost results for yield was almost same and highest under the agro-climatic conditions of district Bhimber, Azad Kashmir. Pakistan.

A Multiple Approach Combined with Portable Electronic Nose for Assessment of Post-harvest Sapota Contamination by Foodborne Pathogens

Sapota (Manilkara Zapota) belongs to the Sapotaceae family and is one of the sweetest, delicious, and popular tropical fruits with high nutritional benefits. Due to its high water content (78%), it is easily damaged, which in turn reduces its shelf life. Also, significant post-harvest losses occur due to insufficient storage, poor handling, and transportation conditions, which also increase the microbial or pathogenic contamination. In this context, we have deployed an electronic nose for the first time to rapidly discriminate fresh sapota from bacterial contaminated sapota samples. The electronic nose response was varied from 0.1 to 2.9 V for sapota samples studied from day 1 to day 6. Fourier transform infrared spectra showed a gradual increase in the intensities of OH and H-O-H peaks at 3320 cm−1 and 1636 cm−1for these samples. Also, Staphylococcus bacteria were detected for the same set of sapota samples. Headspace GC-MS results of day 2, day 4, and day 6 sapota samples revealed the increasing trend in bacterial volatiles, namely ethanol, acetaldehyde, and isopropyl alcohol. The sensor data were provided as input to principal component analysis (PCA), Ward’s method analysis, and response surface methodology (RSM) for distinguishing fresh, half-contaminated, and fully contaminated sapota samples.

Effect of silicon and gibberellic acid on growth and flowering of gladiolus

Effect of silicon and gibberellic acid on growth and flowering of gladiolus

Assimilating VLF Transmitter Observations With an LETKF for Spatial Estimates of the ${D}$ -Region Ionosphere

The ${D}$ -region ionosphere plays an important role in coupling the neutral atmosphere to denser ionospheric plasma above. Practically, it impacts long-range radio communications between extremely low frequencies (ELFs), where communications are enabled by the layer, and high frequencies (HFs), which are attenuated by the layer. A combination of its altitude and extremely low electron density means that it is difficult to make measurements of the region using typical ionospheric remote sensing techniques, and our knowledge of the ${D}$ -region is limited as a result. This article presents the development of an ensemble Kalman filter method to spatially map ${D}$ -region electron density profiles over the continental United States using an array of very low frequency (VLF) radio transmitters and receivers. Data assimilation has previously been used to estimate higher altitude regions of the ionosphere, but its application to VLF radio measurements and the ${D}$ -region is new. The technique has several favorable features, including statistical confidence measures with every estimate, the ability to localize the influence of measurements, inclusion of physically realistic spatial correlations, relatively fast convergence, and the ability to add observations to the estimate as they become available. We describe the filter and present results for day, night, and terminator ionospheres using simulated data. We also present a study on the robustness of the filter when initialized with a prior that is far from the true ionosphere. The method shows promise for application to real data in the near future, especially for estimating the characteristics of large-scale features in the ${D}$ -region.

Comparative study of day 01 spica cast versus skin traction followed by spica cast for treatment of closed femoral shaft fracture in children

Femoral shaft fractures are among the commonest fracture of lower extremity in children and commonly require hospital admission. There are various modalities of treatments both operative and non-operative. The aim of treatment is to secure union, in good alignment with length restored and early rehabilitation. objective of this study was to compare the results of day 1 spica cast and skin traction followed by spica cast in the treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children (6 months to 10 years). A total of 64 patients with fracture shaft femur of either sex aged 6 months – 10 years with closed , isolated diaphyseal femur fracture were included in this study. Case with clinical evidence of infection, pathological fractures and multiple injuries including neurovascular injuries were excluded from the study. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups, Group -1 ( n-32) patients who underwent early spica application while Group -2 ( n-32) patients underwent skin traction in followed by spica cast. Mean age in group A was 5.06 years and 5.12 years in group B (range 6 month – 10 years). Ratio of males and female in Group A and Group B was 19:13 and 20:12 respectively. Average duration of hospital stay was 1.65 days and 11.65 days in group A and group B respectively. Average total time of spica cast application was 45.13 days 49.41 days in group A and group B patients respectively. There were no significant differences between early and delayed spica regarding the complications of treatment and functional outcome. But immediate spica decreased the hospitalization time and the cost of treatment significantly with increased availability of beds while having similar result as achieved by delayed spica application.

Comparative study of day 01 spica cast versus skin traction followed by spica cast for treatment of closed femoral shaft fracture in children

Femoral shaft fractures are among the commonest fracture of lower extremity in children and commonly require hospital admission. There are various modalities of treatments both operative and non-operative. The aim of treatment is to secure union, in good alignment with length restored and early rehabilitation. objective of this study was to compare the results of day 1 spica cast and skin traction followed by spica cast in the treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children (6 months to 10 years). A total of 64 patients with fracture shaft femur of either sex aged 6 months – 10 years with closed , isolated diaphyseal femur fracture were included in this study. Case with clinical evidence of infection, pathological fractures and multiple injuries including neurovascular injuries were excluded from the study. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups, Group -1 ( n-32) patients who underwent early spica application while Group -2 ( n-32) patients underwent skin traction in followed by spica cast. Mean age in group A was 5.06 years and 5.12 years in group B (range 6 month – 10 years). Ratio of males and female in Group A and Group B was 19:13 and 20:12 respectively. Average duration of hospital stay was 1.65 days and 11.65 days in group A and group B respectively. Average total time of spica cast application was 45.13 days 49.41 days in group A and group B patients respectively. There were no significant differences between early and delayed spica regarding the complications of treatment and functional outcome. But immediate spica decreased the hospitalization time and the cost of treatment significantly with increased availability of beds while having similar result as achieved by delayed spica application.

The role of working memory capacity in implicit and explicit sequence learning of children: Differentiating movement speed and accuracy

This study investigated the role of working memory capacity on implicit and explicit motor sequence learning in young children. To this end, a task was utilized that required a gross motor response (flexing the elbow) and that could differentiate between movement speed (i.e., reaction time and movement time) and movement accuracy. Children aged 7–9 years practiced a serial reaction time task that involved the production of a fixed sequence of elbow flexions of prescribed magnitude across two consecutive days. Children in the explicit group were informed about the presence of the sequence and were shown this sequence, while children in the implicit group were not made aware of the sequence. Additionally, children's verbal and visuospatial working memory capacity was assessed. Results of day 1 regarding movement speed revealed no evidence of sequence learning for either group, but movement accuracy results suggested that sequence learning occurred for the implicit group. For both groups, only improvements in movement accuracy were consolidated on day 2, indicating both general and sequence specific learning. Working memory capacity did not correlate with learning in either of the groups. Children in the explicit group accumulated more sequence knowledge compared to children in the implicit group, but this knowledge did not translate to more or better sequence learning. The minimal differences found between the implicit and explicit condition and the absence of a role for working memory capacity add to the increasing evidence that the observed differences between implicit and explicit sequence learning in adults may be less distinct in children.

Abstract A070: A phase 1/2a, open-label, dose-escalation study of EC-18 in patients with metastatic breast cancer for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia

Abstract Background/Aim: Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (CIN) is the major dose-limiting toxicity of systemic cancer chemotherapy leading to dose reductions, treatment delays or treatment early termination, which may compromise treatment outcome. EC-18 is a synthetic, orally available and lipid-based small molecular compound (1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-acetyl-rac-glycerol). EC-18 prevents CIN by attenuating neutrophil extravasation via down-regulation of adhesion molecules, pro-inflammatory cytokines & chemokines (Cell & Bioscience 2019;9:4). The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and preliminary activity of EC-18 for CIN (NCT03104595). Methods: A standard 3+3 design was used. EC-18 (softgel capsule) was administered on Day 1 through Day 21 to patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving combined doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC regimen) in four dose-escalation cohorts (500mg/day, 1,000mg/day, 1,500mg/day, 2,000mg/day, respectively) with 3 subjects per each cohort. The first cohort was treated at a starting dose (500mg/day) and the subsequent cohorts were sequentially treated at increasing doses levels. PK was assessed on Day 1 and Day 15 in the first cycle of chemotherapy. Results: EC-18 was shown to be well tolerated in all participants and none of the subjects experienced drug-related severe adverse events or adverse events leading to discontinuation of treatment. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) did not occur and maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) was not determined accordingly. The baseline-adjusted absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of the patients showed a tendency to improve the neutrophil decline with increasing doses of EC-18 during the course of the study. With increasing dosage amount of EC-18, the time period (day) for the recovery of neutropenia from nadir to ANC > 500/mm3 showed a tendency to become shorter proportionally; 4.0 days in 500mg/day, 3.7 days in 1,000mg/day, 3.0 days in 1,500mg/day and 2.3 days in 2,000mg/day, respectively. In the PK outcomes, the plasma exposure on 500-2000 mg was observed in a dose-dependent manner. No plasma accumulation by the repeated dosing was observed based on the PK results of Day 1 and 15. The PK analysis and simulation suggested that the higher dose than 2000 mg would reach a systemic steady-state. Conclusion: EC-18 is safe and well tolerated. Studies in patients clearly demonstrated pharmacokinetics. Preliminary results suggest EC-18 has the potential to prevent and treat chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Further dose-expansion cohorts trial is planned to explore a maximum tolerated dose and determine an efficacious dose for phase 2 clinical trial. Citation Format: Sung-Bae Kim, Myung-Hwan Kim. A phase 1/2a, open-label, dose-escalation study of EC-18 in patients with metastatic breast cancer for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2019 Oct 26-30; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2019;18(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A070. doi:10.1158/1535-7163.TARG-19-A070

Association of Anti-Müllerian Hormone concentrations between the pregnancy rates and pregnancy continuity of cows in different age groups

The potential relationships between Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) concentrations and fertility were investigated by examining pregnancy rates and early pregnancy loss in different age groups of cows. Holstein heifers (17.35 ± 1.35 months, n = 20), young cows (3.25 ± 1.02 years, n = 20), and old cows (6.7 ± 0.80 years, n = 20) were synchronised and time fixed inseminated. A single blood sample per animal was taken during oestrus just before artificial insemination (AI), (Day 0) for the AMH analysis. The highest plasma AMH concentrations were determined in the heifer group (149.01 ± 12.62 pg/ml, P < 0.001) in the study. The AMH concentrations and conception rates decreased with age. The Day-0-AMH concentrations were higher in the pregnant animals at Day 20 after AI than in the non-pregnant animals (P < 0.05) in each group. The mean Day-0-AMH concentrations in the pregnant animals at Day 60 after AI was higher (P < 0.001) than the AMH concentrations in those with a detected pregnancy loss between D<sub>20</sub> and D<sub>60</sub>, and also in those with a pregnancy loss and not being pregnant by Day 20 considered together. When each group was assessed on its own, based on the pregnancy results of Day 60, the Day-0-AMH concentrations were found to be significantly higher in the pregnant heifers than in the non-pregnant heifers and heifers with a pregnancy loss (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the AMH analysis might provide valuable information on the reproductive efficiency of the animals in a herd.

Vitrification of In Vitro Produced Porcine Blastocysts: Influence of Cryoprotectants Toxicity and Embryo Age

Background: Porcine embryos are sensible to all assisted reproduction manipulations, especially the ones that involve cryopreservation. Despite the high cryoprotectant concentrations routinely applied, vitrification is the most effective technique to date. These substances toxicity can also play a negative role in embryo viability. During in vitro porcine embryo production, the speed of development is often unevenly distributed. It is possible that their development speed, affects embryo tolerance to cryoprotectants. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of porcine embryos of days 5 or 6 of culture to cryoprotectant agents; as well as to assess embryo survival to vitrification.Material, Methods & Results: Parthenogenetic porcine blastocysts and expanded blastocysts of days 5 and 6 of culture were exposed to toxicity tests (experiments 1 and 2) and vitrification (experiment 3) using different protocols. In the first experiment, three different cryoprotectants were used (Dimethyl sulfoxide - DMSO, Ethylene glycol – EG, and Sucrose - SUC), combined in three different associations (G1: 15% EG + 15% DMSO with 0.5M SUC; G2: 16% EG + 16% DMSO with 0.4M SUC; G3: 18% EG + 18% DMSO with 0.5M SUC). In the fresh Control, embryos of day 6 are more sensible than the ones of day 5, whom showed a lower hatching rate (39.7 vs. 60.8%). After the toxicity (Experiment 1) test, the G1 showed better expansion rates in day 6 (50.0 vs 31.0 and 3.6% for G2 and G3) and higher hatching of day 6 compared to G2 and G3 (23.2, vs. 8.6 and 0.0% for G2 and G3). The fresh non hatched embryos at day 8, derived at day 6, had a lower percentage of cells with cleaved caspase-3 (20.2%) compared with the G1 (30.5%), G2 (31.4%) and G3 (30.5%). The hatched embryos of day 5 from G2 had lower total cell number (TCN) compared with the day 6 hatched embryos, whereas in G1 the TCN was not affected. The second experiment compared EG combined to one of these three extracellular cryoprotectants: Polyvinylpyrrolidone/sucrose/trehalose (respectively groups: PVP, SUC, TRE). The group SUC has raised the best results for day 5 embryos, whereas for day 6 embryos SUC and TRE were both best. The third experiment tested four vitrification protocols, being P1: EG+DMSO+TRE/warming with SUC; P2: EG+DMSO+TRE/warming TRE; P3: EG+TRE/ warming SUC; P4: EG+TRE/warming TRE. The expansion of vitrified day 5 embryos was higher in the P1 (20.0%) in comparison with the other three groups (4.3, 4.3 and 4.4% for P2, P3 and P4, respectively), with no difference for their hatching rates, been it lower comparing to the Control. Day 6 embryos showed no difference in expansion and hatching for the vitrified groups, been them lower than the Control.Discussion: Embryos obtained on day 6 are more sensible than the ones of day 5, fact observed when the embryos were exposed to cryoprotectant solution, as well by the behavior of the no treated Control embryos. The toxicity increases as it does the concentration of intracellular cryoprotectant, where over 16% of the intracellular cryoprotectors already affected the day 6 embryos development. For the day 5 embryos however, 15 or 16% of the intracellular cryoptrotectors, had similar behavior to the embryos. For the extracellular solutions, however, it is variable according the embryos development speed. Indeed, it is necessary to adjust the cryoprotectors to be used to cryopreserve porcine in vitro produced embryos obtained at days 5 and 6 of culture.