Sample Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test Research Articles

A comparison of aminoglycoside antibiotic serum concentrations collected by peripheral veins and peripherally inserted central catheters in adults with cystic fibrosis.

People with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) are frequently hospitalized for treatment of pulmonary exacerbation. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Pulmonary Guidelines support the use of intravenous aminoglycosides with therapeutic drug monitoring for the treatment of pulmonary exacerbation due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Serum intravenous tobramycin concentrations are commonly collected by peripheral venipuncture (PV). Discomfort associated with collection of samples by PV prompts collection via PICC, but the accuracy of intravenous tobramycin serum levels collected by PICC has not been documented in adult PwCF. The primary study objective was to evaluate the difference between intravenous tobramycin serum levels collected by PV and PICC in adult PwCF. The authors conducted a prospective case-control study of adult PwCF admitted to University of Utah Health for a pulmonary exacerbation receiving tobramycin by a single lumen PICC. The authors compared tobramycin peak and random serum levels collected by PV and PICC using a detailed flush and waste protocol. The authors analyzed a total of 19 patients with peripheral and PICC samples. The mean tobramycin peak collected by PV (27.2 mcg/mL) was similar to the mean peak collected by PICC (26.9 mcg/mL) (paired samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test, p = .94). The correlation coefficient was 0.88 (95% CI = 0.85-0.91, p < .001). Tobramycin serum samples collected by PICC appear to be similar in value to PV collections. Collecting aminoglycoside levels by PICC rather than PV may reduce patient discomfort and improve quality of life. Additional multicenter studies are needed to confirm these results.

[Clinical effect of superior oblique re-tucking for recurrent or residual compensatory head position].

Objective: To evaluate the effects of re-tucking the superior oblique muscle on recurrent or residual compensatory head position. Methods: A retrospective case series study was conducted. 12 recurrent or residual compensatory head position patients (12 eyes) with congenital superior oblique palsy who underwent superior oblique re-tucking in Tianjin Eye Hospital from March 2015 to February 2021 were included. All patients had a history of superior oblique tucking procedure and showed signs of superior oblique muscle palsy without inferior oblique muscle overaction. During surgery, the Guyton forced duction test is used to evaluate the relaxation of the superior oblique muscle tendon, which affects the re-tucking length of the muscle.Their head position, vertical deviation, eye movement, fovea-disa angle, and Bielschowsky head tilt test were assessed pre-and post-surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using ttest and paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: Out of the 12 patients, 8 were male and 4 were female, aged between 2 and 9 years. The initial surgery was done at age 6, with a superior oblique recession length of (7.17±1.03) mm. Recurrent head tilt occurred in 11 patients after (3.82±0.98) months postoperatively, and 1 patient had residual head tilt, with a followup period of six months or more. Ocular motility examination revealed underaction of the superior oblique muscle, positive Bielschowsky's head tilt test, and Guyton forced duction tese indicating relaxation of the paralyzed superior oblique muscle tendon. Scar adhesion was observed at the stop of the superior oblique muscle, as well as the previous sutures. The scar and the sutures around the stop of the superior oblique muscle were released, the mean re-tucking amount was(7.83±1.59)mm. Follow-up at 12 to 18 months postoperatively showed disappearance of compensatory head position, significant improvement in superior oblique muscle lag, normal ocular motility, and no occurrence of Brown syndrome. The results of Bielschowsky head tilt were negative in 9 cases and still positive in 3 cases after superior oblique re-tucking. The primary vertical deviation was 2.5 (2.0, 5.3) prism diopter pre-operatively and 1 (0, 1) prism diopter post-operatively, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (U=6.00, P<0.001). The total amount of FDA in both eyes was (-22.04±5.47)° and (-15.27±6.08)° pre-and post-operatively, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (t=2.87, P=0.009). All 12 patients have normal eye movement after superior oblique re-tucking procedure. All patients had no compensatory head position at last follow-up. Conclusions: Superior oblique re-tucking is suitable for patients with relaxation of the superior oblique muscle tendon and extrocular rotation as the main sign. It can effectively and safely correct the recurrent or residual compensatory head position after re-tucking the superior oblique muscle.

Optimization of Indonesian Youth Knowledge In Stunting Prevention Assistance

The prevalence rate of stunting in Indonesia in 2021 reached 24.4%, surpassing the WHO standard of 20%. As a result, Indonesia is categorized as having a high stunting issue and holds the 2nd position in Asia. Efforts to reduce stunting are closely related to the role of health cadres. Indonesian youth play a crucial role as agents of change, having a 39.8% influence in community involvement. Kader Muda Sehat training, as an innovative program, aims to train young individuals to become health cadres, enabling them to contribute in assisting the targeted individuals affected by stunting.The objective of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of the Kader Muda Sehat training program in enhancing the knowledge of youths as health cadres in the Banyuresmi Subdistrict, Garut Regency. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental approach with one-group pre-test-post-test design. Kader Muda Sehat training was conducted over 7 sessions from December 2022 to January 2023, using a hybrid approach, online through Zoom meetings and offline in the Karyasari Village, Banyuresmi Subdistrict, Garut Regency, West Java. The sampling technique used in this study was purposive sampling, consisting of 18 young cadres who met the established inclusion criteria. Data collection of young cadre characteristics and knowledge was carried out using pre-test-post-test questionnaires. The research data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate, specifically the related samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test, utilizing SPSS Statistics V25.0 software. The results showed a p-value of 0.000 (0.000 &lt; 0.05), indicating a positive influence of Kader Muda Sehat training on the level of knowledge of young cadres regarding stunting prevention assistance. Based on results, it was concluded that there was an improvement in the youths' knowledge after receiving Kader Muda Sehat training about stunting prevention assistance. Kader Muda Sehat training is effective in enhancing youths' knowledge of stunting prevention assistance.

(112) Efficacy and Safety of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections for Peyronie’s Disease: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Cross-Over Study

Abstract Introduction Peyronie's Disease (PD) is currently treated with intralesional collagenase injection, the only FDA-approved medical therapy. Platelet-derived therapies, such as autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP), have shown potential in tissue regeneration. We are investigating the safety and efficacy of PRP in PD with an ongoing randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment in Peyronie's Disease (PD) through a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Methods We analyzed data from an ongoing trial conducted between April 2021 and June 2023. Men with PD (write degrees/dorsal only etc) were randomly assigned to receive two 0.5 ml injections of PRP obtained using an autologous platelet separator (Arthrex Angel, Arthrex Inc.) or placebo directly into the dominant plaque, with a two-week interval between injections. Immediate post-procedure assessments included Visual Analogue Pain Scale, and follow-up evaluations focused on identifying complications. After three months, participants crossed over to the other treatment arm for two additional injections. Goniometer measurement assessments were performed prior to each crossover (NCT04512287). Related Samples Wilcoxon-Signed Rank test was used for dependent repeated groups, the serial measurements of degree of curvature at different time points for each patient within a specific group. Findings at p&amp;lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results The analysis includes data from 29 men who completed all injections and the 6-month follow-up. No minor or major adverse events, such as penile bruising, swelling, edema, allergy, or penile fracture, were reported. Regarding efficacy, we observed a significant reduction in curvature after six months compared to baseline. The pretreatment median curvature was 40.0 (IQR: 15), the median post-treatment curvature 30.0 (IQR: 30) (p=0.014). Furthermore, we did not observe worsening of curvature in subsequent evaluations. Conclusions Our findings from our ongoing clinical trial suggest that PRP treatment for Peyronie's Disease is safe, with minimal adverse events reported. The preliminary efficacy data indicates a significant reduction in curvature after 2 injections each of placebo and PRP treatment compared to baseline. Nevertheless, study completion is necessary prior to reporting true efficacy data comparing PRP vs placebo. Disclosure No.

Quality of Life After Early Clot Removal for Acute Iliofemoral Deep Vein Thrombosis

To evaluate patient reported outcome measures after early clot removal for acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT), using the Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Cross sectional design. Patients who underwent early clot removal between June 2012 and November 2021 were asked to complete the two questionnaires once. Lower CIVIQ-20 and higher SF-36 scores indicate better quality of life (QoL). Primary endpoints were the median scores. The one sample Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare SF-36 physical and mental component summary (PCS and MCS) to the normative and CIVIQ-20 to the minimum. Secondary, non-parametric independent t test or Fisher's exact test examined how age, sex, body mass index, stent placement, re-intervention, and time of questionnaire completion related to QoL. Multivariable linear regression tested whether various variables were associated with QoL. The response rate was 73.5% (n= 39). Median time of questionnaire completion was 1.8 years (interquartile range [IQR] 3.1) after clot removal. The median CIVIQ-20 of 29.0 (IQR 28.0) was slightly higher than the minimum value 20.0 (p < .001). The median PCS (50.5, IQR 16.6) and median MCS (50.2, IQR 14.2) did not differ from the normative of 50.0. However, wide IQRs indicated impairments for a subgroup of patients. None of the tested variables affected QoL except for the finding that re-interventions had a significantly negative impact on the SF-36 MCS (standardised β coefficient of-0.4, p= .030). Overall patient reported outcome measures were satisfactory after early clot removal, but impaired physical and mental functioning levels were present in a subgroup of patients. Re-interventions were found to have a negative impact on mental QoL. This finding was independent of time that had passed between the procedure and questionnaire completion. This study emphasises that mental functioning deserves attention, besides the widely recognised physical consequences after invasive acute iliofemoral DVT treatment.

Reaksi Pasar atas Pergantian Nama Perusahaan yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Tahun 2012–2022

The aim of research is to analyze market reactions to changes in names of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2012-2022. The information content of a company name change is tested based on market reactions as proxied by cumulative abnormal returns. The event study approach is used with a window period of seven days with the event date being the date the company decides to change its name at the RUPS/RUPSLB. Sampling of 90 companies was carried out using the purposive sampling method. The hypothesis is tested with a one sample t-test or one sample Wilcoxon signed rank test. The results show that there was a negative market reaction to the change of name of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2012-2022 on the first to the third day after the announcement of the company name change. This research provides additional empirical information regarding how the market reacts to a company name change.

Evaluation of molecular receptors status in breast cancer using an mpMRI-based feature fusion radiomics model: mimicking radiologists’ diagnosis

ObjectiveTo investigate the performance of a novel feature fusion radiomics (RFF) model that incorporates features from multiparametric MRIs (mpMRI) in distinguishing different statuses of molecular receptors in breast cancer (BC) preoperatively.Methods460 patients with 466 pathology-confirmed BCs who underwent breast mpMRI at 1.5T in our center were retrospectively included hormone receptor (HR) positive (HR+) (n=336) and HR negative (HR-) (n=130). The HR- patients were further categorized into human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) enriched BC (HEBC) (n=76) and triple negative BC (TNBC) (n=54). All lesions were divided into a training/validation cohort (n=337) and a test cohort (n=129). Volumes of interest (VOIs) delineation, followed by radiomics feature extraction, was performed on T2WI, DWI600 (b=600 s/mm2), DWI800 (b=800 s/mm2), ADC map, and DCE1-6 (six continuous DCE-MRI) images of each lesion. Simulating a radiologist’s work pattern, 150 classification base models were constructed and analyzed to determine the top four optimum sequences for classifying HR+ vs. HR-, TNBC vs. HEBC, TNBC vs. non-TNBC in a random selected training cohort (n=337). Building upon these findings, the optimal single sequence models (Rss) and combined sequences models (RFF) were developed. The AUC, sensitivity, accuracy and specificity of each model for subtype differentiation were evaluated. The paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for performance comparison.ResultsDuring the three classification tasks, the optimal single sequence for classifying HR+ vs. HR- was DWI600, while the ADC map, derived from DWI800 performed the best in distinguishing TNBC vs. HEBC, as well as identifying TNBC vs. non-TNBC, with corresponding training AUC values of 0.787, 0.788, and 0.809, respectively. Furthermore, the integration of the top four sequences in RFF models yielded improved performance, achieving AUC values of 0.809, 0.805 and 0.847, respectively. Consistent results was observed in both the training/validation and testing cohorts, with AUC values of 0.778, 0.787, 0.818 and 0.726, 0.773, 0.773, respectively (all p &amp;lt; 0.05 except HR+ vs. HR-).ConclusionThe RFF model, integrating mpMRI radiomics features, demonstrated promising ability to mimic radiologists’ diagnosis for preoperative identification of molecular receptors of BC.

Comparative Analysis of Stock Prices, Abnormal Return, Cumulative Abnormal Return, and Trading Volume Activity in the Indonesia Stock Exchange: An Event Study of the Russia-Ukraine War

The Russia-Ukraine war has captured international attention and raised concerns about its potential implications on global financial markets. This study aimed to investigate the interplay between geopolitical events, market reactions within the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), and the market efficiency of the IDX. The study employed event study methodology and analyzed changes in stock prices, abnormal returns, cumulative abnormal returns, and trading volume activity. The sample comprised 53 companies in the energy sector and 57 companies in the food and beverage sector listed on the IDX. The analysis focused on data from 10 days before and after three Russia-Ukraine conflict-related events, namely (1) the announcement of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on the 24th of February 2022, (2) the announcement of an oil import embargo on Russia by the European Union on the 31st of May 2022, and (3) the announcement of the first wheat export ship’s departure from the port of Odesa on the 1st of August 2022. Both paired sample t-tests and paired sample Wilcoxon signed rank tests were conducted to assess the statistical significance of differences in the means of paired samples. The findings revealed significant differences in average stock prices before and after all three events in the energy sector. However, only events 2 and 3 displayed significant differences in average abnormal returns and cumulative abnormal returns. Moreover, events 1 and 3 exhibited significant differences in average trading volume activity. In the food and beverage sector, a significant difference in average stock prices was observed before and after event 2, while all three events presented significant differences in average abnormal returns and cumulative abnormal returns. Furthermore, event 3 showed a significant difference in average trading volume activity. These findings indicated that the IDX displayed varying reactions to different Russia-Ukraine conflict-related events. Notably, events involving multiple countries or entities exerted a greater impact on the energy and food and beverage sectors within the IDX, leading to more pronounced market reactions. Additionally, the findings suggested that the IDX exhibited a semi-strong form of market efficiency.

Cannabis knowledge gaps in nursing education: Pilot testing cannabis curriculum

Cannabis education is recommended for nursing programs; however, knowledge gaps persist. Key objectives of this study were to evaluate prior knowledge deficits, develop an innovative cannabis curriculum, and evaluate efficacy of the curriculum. This pilot study included a pre/postevaluation of 17 students using an online, synchronous educational session. National guidelines were used as a conceptual framework to develop an evidence-based educational intervention inclusive of cannabis pharmacology, the endocannabinoid system, and physiology. Using a paired samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test, a significant increase in both self-assessed (p < .001) and tested knowledge (p < .001) was observed. Students strongly agreed that cannabis education influenced clinical practice. Students strongly recommended that this content be formally integrated into the program curriculum. This study confirmed that cannabis knowledge gaps exist in a single advanced practice nursing program and indicates the benefits of an educational intervention. Further research is needed to validate and generalize these findings.

Evaluating ChatGPT's Ability to Solve Higher-Order Questions on the Competency-Based Medical Education Curriculum in Medical Biochemistry.

Background Healthcare-related artificial intelligence (AI) is developing. The capacity of the system to carry out sophisticated cognitive processes, such as problem-solving, decision-making, reasoning, and perceiving, is referred to as higher cognitive thinking in AI. This kind of thinking requires more than just processing facts; it also entails comprehending and working with abstract ideas, evaluating and applying data relevant to the context, and producing new insights based on prior learning and experience. ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence-based conversational software that can engage with people to answer questions and uses natural languageprocessing models. The platform has created a worldwide buzz and keeps setting an ongoing trend in solving many complex problems in various dimensions. Nevertheless, ChatGPT's capacity to correctly respond to queries requiring higher-level thinking in medical biochemistry has not yet been investigated. So, this research aimed to evaluate ChatGPT's aptitude for responding to higher-order questions on medical biochemistry. Objective In this study, our objective was to determine whether ChatGPT can address higher-order problems related to medical biochemistry.​​​​​​ Methods​​​ This cross-sectional study was done online by conversing with the current version of ChatGPT (14 March 2023, which is presently free for registered users).It was presented with 200 medical biochemistry reasoning questions that require higher-order thinking. These questions were randomly picked from the institution's question bank and classified according to the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum's competency modules. The responses were collected and archived for subsequent research. Two expert biochemistry academicians examined the replies on a zero to five scale. The score's accuracy was determined by a one-sample Wilcoxon signed rank test using hypothetical values. Result The AI software answered 200 questions requiring higher-order thinking with a median score of 4.0(Q1=3.50, Q3=4.50). Using a single sample Wilcoxon signed rank test, the result was less than the hypothetical maximum of five (p=0.001) and comparable to four (p=0.16). There was no difference in the replies to questions from different CBME modules in medical biochemistry (Kruskal-Wallis p=0.39). The inter-rater reliability of the scores scored by two biochemistry faculty members was outstanding (ICC=0.926 (95% CI: 0.814-0.971); F=19; p=0.001)​​​​​​ Conclusion The results of this research indicate that ChatGPT has the potential to be a successful tool for answering questions requiring higher-order thinking in medical biochemistry, with a median score of four out of five. However, continuous training and development with data of recent advances are essential to improve performance and make it functional for the ever-growing field of academic medical usage.

[Analysis on the clinical features of sarcoid uveitis].

Objective: To analyze the clinical features of patients with sarcoid uveitis. Methods: This was a retrospective case series study. The medical records of 19 086 patients with uveitis admitted to the Department of Ophtalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from April 2008 to December 2019 were collected. The general data, medical history, treatment, diagnosis, follow-up, ophthalmic and other auxiliary examinations were retrospectively analyzed. The paired sample Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of the affected eye at the first visit to the BCVA of the affected eye at the corresponding last visit. Results: A total of 51 patients (97 eyes) with sarcoid uveitis were included, including 15 males (29.4%) and 36 females (70.6%), with a male/female ratio of 1/2.4. There were 46 patients (88 eyes) with presumed sarcoidosis and 5 patients (9 eyes) with definite sarcoidosis. The age of onset was 48 (40, 55) years and 90.2% of patients (46 cases) were involved in both eyes, while 88.2% of the patients (45 cases) were chronic, and only 11.8% (6 cases) showed acute inflammatory response. Anterior uveitis was the most common type (50.5%, 49 eyes). Ophthalmoscopy revealed retinal vasculitis in only 2 eyes (2.1%) and fundus fluorescence angiography (FFA) revealed diffuse vascular leakage of fluorescein in 64 eyes (66.0%). Thirty-one patients (59 eyes) were followed up for≥3 months. Cataract was the most common ocular complication, accounting for 44.1% (26 eyes), and the inflammatory response was controlled in 45 eyes (76.3%) treated with combination of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. The patients were followed up for 21.5 (13.7, 29.3) months. Among 31 patients (59 eyes) followed up for≥3 months, BCVA was≥0.8 in 25 eyes (42.3%) and<0.3 in 15 eyes (25.4%) at the last follow-up, BCVA of 59 affected eyes of 31 patients was better than that at the first visit, the difference was statistically significant (Z=-2.76, P=0.006). Conclusions: Uveitis associated with sarcoidosis or presumed ocular sarcoidosis mainly manifests as a bilateral, chronic anterior uveitis with a subclinical retinal vasculitis. FFA shows subclinical retinal vasculitis in most patients. Glucocorticoid therapy in combination with other immunosuppressive agents can control inflammatory responses and improve visual acuity in most patients.

Character Changes Related to Sports Participation and Contextual Factors Among Secondary School Students

Sports participation is hailed as one of the effective ways of nurturing positive character among the youth. However, some studies have also indicated that sports may lead to undesirable behavior when conducted under certain uncontrolled conditions. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of selected contextual factors on character changes related to sports participation among secondary school students. The study focused on level of sports participation, gender, age, type of sport, school category, school status, school type, and class level of students as independent variables with potential to influence character changes related to sports participation. A Quasi-experimental research design was utilized, with the dependent variable of character traits assessed at the pre and post three months competitive games season. Purposive sampling was used to select 336 student-athletes from 24 (9.3%) of secondary schools in Nairobi city county. A close-ended questionnaire on character which was adapted from Individual and Team Character in Sport Questionnaire (ITCSQ) and Arizona Sport Summit Accord (ASSA) was utilized for data collection at the pre-and posttests. Matched Sample Wilcoxon Signed Rank test showed significant negative change in honest /integrity character component scores between pre-test and post-test (p=0.006). Multinomial Logistic Regression Analyses showed that boarding status, school category and type of sport can significantly (p&lt;0.05) influence character changes among competitive student-athletes. Therefore it is concluded that boarding status, school category and type of sport can influence outcomes of sports experiences leading to positive or negative character change. It is therefore recommended that curriculum developers and implementers should consider contextual factors to optimize sports experiences and outcomes to promote desirable character changes and development.

Variation of renal function in patients with urothelial carcinoma treated by tislelizumab-based immunochemotherapy.

494 Background: Treatment based on PD-1 ICIs brings advances to the treatment of urothelial carcinoma (UC). Although acute renal insufficiency is not common in iRAEs, the safety of immunotherapy in patients with renal impairment is still unknown. Consequently, we intend to investigate the effect of immunochemotherapy on nephritic function in the short term. Methods: Between July 2019 and September 2022, data of patients (pts) with UC that underwent tislelizumab based immunochemotherapy, including demographic information (age, gender), and creatinine level in baseline, after the first, second and third cycle (C1, C2 and C3) of immunotherapy in the Second Hospital of Tianjin medical University was collected and analyzed retrospectively. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is calculated according to CKD-EPI formula 2009, while pts were subdivided into different groups according to baseline eGFR, referencing to CKD categories in the K-DIGO 2012 guidelines for CKD classes. Data analyses were conducted using paired samples Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Results: 163 pts have been included in our analyse totally. The median age was 67 years (IQR 61-74) and 128 (78.5%) were male. 135 (82%) pts received ICIs as perioperative treatment, while 19 (12%) pts were treated after radical operation. Metastasis is found in 9 (6%) pts before firstly received immunotherapy. Median creatinine (Cr) in baseline was 80.2umol/L (IQR 68.3-95.8), while median EGFR was 82.6 (IQR 64.3-93.8) mL/min/1. 73m2 in all pts. According to CKD categories in the K-DIGO 2012 guidelines, at baseline, 57 pts are classified as G1 (eGFR≥90 mL/min/1.73m2), 74 pts as G2(eGFR &lt;90 mL/min/1.73 m2 and≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2), 30 as G3 (eGFR &lt;60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2), and 2 as G4 (eGFR &lt;30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and≥15 mL/min/1.73 m2). No significant difference in eGFR between pts with CKD G1-2 in comparison to baseline and after the first (C1), second (C2) or third cycle(C3) of tislelizumab based immunotherapy (All p &gt;0.05). Notably, we found that eGFR improved in pts with CKD G3-4 when the first, second and third cycle completed, in comparison to the baseline.(p&lt;0.001, &lt;0.001, =0.002). Conclusions: Despite renal impairment is common in pts with UC, no evidence suggests that it is contraindicated for tislelizumab based treatment. More importantly, PD-1 immunotherapy may provide better nephritic benefits in patients with renal insufficiency. [Table: see text]

Impact of COVID-19 on the productivity of ornamental fish farmers: A case of ornamental fish farms in Colombo district in Sri Lanka

Ornamental fish production in Sri Lanka has become a valuable foreign exchange earner during recent past years. However, COVID-19 pandemic has been explored worldwide and it has affected the world trade and economy from different perspectives. This study was conducted to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ornamental fish production. , Moreover, study on present status of ornamental fish farmers’ major constraints and suggestions to overcome those constraints of ornamental fish farmers were also conducted. In Colombo district, four important Divisional Secretariat (DS) divisions were purposely selected for the study, as they are the main ornamental fish production areas of the district. The data was collected from a randomly selected 60 farmers using a field survey from July to October 2020. Descriptive statistics, two sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test and chi-square test were used to analyses the data. Results revealed that, there are both negative and positive impacts on ornamental fish production due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ornamental fish farmers have to face mainly production and marketing problems. Some of them have engaged in coping strategies and resilience methods during COVID-19 period. Coping strategies have shown a significant association with the income and the production capacity of the farms. However, the majority of ornamental fish farmers haven’t engaged in resilience methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other than the COVID-19 pandemic, the major constraints of ornamental fish production were lack of market information about the changes in the overseas markets and demand, the low price given for the product and lack of communication between farmers and exporters. Ideal “ORNAFISBIZ” model is suggested for overcome those constraints in order to protect the ornamental fish farmers in this area.

Changes in Food Security Status During Undergraduate Enrollment

ObjectiveTo explore changes in student food security status (FSS) during college enrollment and correlates of those changes. DesignTwo cross-sectional surveys (2016 and 2019). ParticipantsUndergraduates (n = 338) at a public university who completed both surveys. Variables MeasuredFood security status (US Department of Agriculture 10- and 18-item measures), demographics, and grade point average (GPA). AnalysisChi-square tests of goodness of fit for representativeness, McNemar-Bowker and paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test for within-student FSS differences over time, logistic regression for the relationship between demographics and FSS over time, and ANCOVA for the relationship between FSS and GPA. Critical P ≤ 0.05 unless otherwise noted. ResultsThe prevalence of food insecurity was 22.4% in 2016 and 41.0% in 2019, and the McNemar-Bowker test indicated a significant asymmetrical relationship in FSS over time (P < 0.001). Almost half of the respondents (47.0%) reported experiencing food insecurity at least once. In multivariate analyses controlling for other demographic variables, first-generation students had the most consistent risk of food insecurity with lower FSS in 2016 (P < 0.001) and 2019 (P < 0.001), and they were more likely to have worsened FSS over time (P = 0.05). Food insecurity at either time was related to a lower 2019 GPA (P < 0.001). Conclusions and ImplicationsFood security status measured cross-sectionally cannot capture changes in student FSS, which many students may experience. Longitudinal research is needed to better understand the role of demographic and student factors in FSS changes over time. Food resources should be offered to all students, as many will need them at some point.

Efficacy of Infliximab Biosimilar for Maintenance Therapy in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Following Infliximab Originator.

Single-center, retrospective chart review of 25 children with inflammatory bowel disease who transitioned from Remicade (IFX-O) to the biosimilar agent Inflectra (IFX-B) for maintenance therapy. Analysis included demographics and various biochemical markers of disease control. The nonparametric-related samples Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare mean ranks of these markers (C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hemoglobin, platelet count, albumin, body mass index z score) between the last 12 months on IFX-O and the first 12 months on IFX-B. Between March 2018 and June 2018, the majority of patients with pediatric inflammatory bowel disease on maintenance therapy with IFX-O at our institution were transitioned to maintenance therapy with IFX-B. Of the 25 children included, 17 were diagnosed with Crohn disease and 8 with ulcerative colitis. The results of all, except albumin value, supported retention of the null hypothesis that there would not be a statistically significant difference in the biochemical markers of disease activity between the 2 medications. IFX-B is as effective as IFX-O for maintenance therapy in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease when comparing biochemical markers of disease activity.

A Shorter Time to Drug Reaction With Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS): Redefining Beta-Lactam-Associated DRESS.

To the editor—Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction (SCAR) that can occur with medication exposure, including antibiotics [1]. DRESS is characterized by diffuse rash, eosinophilia, and organ dysfunction. However, clinical presentation can be heterogenous [2], making standardized diagnostic criteria proposed by the RegiSCAR group critical to identification of DRESS [3]. Presentation is typically delayed with traditional teaching, suggesting symptom onset occurs 2–6 weeks following medication exposure [4]. Recent studies suggest a potentially shorter drug latency with antibiotic-associated DRESS [5]. However, the latency of confirmed beta-lactam DRESS in direct comparison with other antibiotic groups remains unknown. Using 2 previously published prospective multicenter cohorts of antibiotic hypersensitivity–tested patients from Melbourne, Australia, we identified patients with antibiotic-associated DRESS between April 2015 and June 2022 and compared patients with beta-lactam DRESS and vancomycin DRESS [6–8]. Adult (aged ≥18 years) patients who reported beta-lactam or vancomycin-associated DRESS, had a RegiSCAR score [3] of >2 (possible, probable, or definite DRESS), and had positive testing to the implicated antibiotic via a previously published ex vivo T-cell assay (enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot) or skin testing (ST; intradermal or patch test using previously deployed nonirritant concentrations of antibiotic) [7] were included. Patients with vancomycin DRESS also underwent human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing for HLA-A*32:01, a known pharmacogenomic association [9]. DRESS patients positive to both vancomycin and a beta-lactam on any testing were excluded. Drug latency was defined as time from drug commencement until onset of DRESS. One sample Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare latency of beta-lactam DRESS with reported latency of 14 days, while linear regression was used for comparison with vancomycin latency.

Risk Prediction of Maxillary Canine Impaction among 9-10-Year-Old Malaysian Children: A Radiographic Study.

Background Early diagnosis and interceptive treatment of the maxillary canine impaction is crucial as it reduces treatment complexity and decreases complications and adverse outcomes. Aim and Objectives. To determine the mean maxillary canine position among 9-10-year-old children and predict the risk of impaction of the maxillary canines. Methodology. Panoramic radiographs (PANs) of 289 healthy children aged between 9 and 10 years were observed where the average position of maxillary canines was related to the lateral incisor, sector locations, and angulations to the bicondylar line were traced. The average position was obtained by using descriptive statistics. One sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test is done to predict the risk of canine impaction by comparing the data obtained to the average position from prior studies. Results A total of 289 PANs (126 males and 163 females) were utilized for the analysis. The findings showed that the average position of the maxillary canines in our population was statistically different from the average position of nonimpacted canines in previous studies. However, on average, more than 85% of canines in our population were still located within the safe range of satisfactory position, with females showing slight predominance outside of the acceptable range. The mean scores of the angles between the right canine and lateral incisor were significantly higher among females than males (p = 0.001). Similarly, females had a significantly higher mean angle of the left canine than males (p < 0.001). In regard to the angles between the bicondylar line and permanent maxillary canine, the mean scores were not significantly different (p > 0.05) on both the left and right side. Conclusion There is a low risk of impaction of maxillary canines in the Malaysian population. However, more retrospective studies using more radiographic and clinical indicators need to be done to confirm the risk of impaction further.

P-014 Thermal Male Contraception: A Study Of Users’ Motivation, Experience And Satisfaction

Abstract Study question What are the motivations, experience, and acceptability of thermal male contraception (TMC) in men using TMC as the only couple contraceptive ? Summary answer Men wished to share the role of providing contraception in a couple and to avoid the use of hormones. Sexual satisfaction was significantly improved. What is known already Two male contraceptive methods inducing spermatogenesis suppression have achieved contraceptive efficacy, on a large population for hormonal contraception and a smaller one for thermal contraception (TC). The suppression of sperm counts to below 1 million/mL results in fertility rates commensurate with female pills. TC is obtained by wearing 15 hours/day a contraceptive underwear (CU) inducing a 2°C increase in testicular temperature (Mieusset &amp; Bujan 1994). As no commercially available male thermal contraceptive exists, little information regarding the acceptability of this approach to men has been reported and only one publication analysed the hypothetical acceptability of TMC (Amouroux et al. 2018). Study design, size, duration We contacted 72 men who had started the CU testing phase between June 2011 and September 2019. The participants completed an anonymous online survey of 93 questions exploring population characteristics, contraceptive histories, motivations for choosing TC, patient experience at the successive phases of use, relations with partner and environment, and satisfaction with TC. Sexual life was evaluated by rating (1 to 4): frequency and pleasure of sexual intercourse, sexual desire, morning and intercourse erections. Participants/materials, setting, methods Among men who had reached the contraception use phase, the quality ratings of sexual life were compared over time, from the contraceptive method used before TC (“N-1” method) to the 2 previous methods (“N-2” and “N-3”)): “N-3” versus “contraception use phase”, “N-3” versus “CU testing phase,” and “CU testing phase” versus “contraception use phase.” These comparisons were made for all 5 sexual life parameters by a paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test. Main results and the role of chance Sixty-seven men responded (93% response rate);63 participated in the survey (94% participation rate). The median age was 31 [21-52], 30 men (48%) had a Master’s degree or more, 49 (78%) had no child and 24 (38%) no parental project. Among the men whose couple's contraception method immediately before TC (N-1) was a female method (n = 36/63, 57%), the 2 main reasons for switching to a male method were the wish to share the role of providing contraception in a couple (n = 31/36, 86%) and the willingness to take responsibility for contraception (n = 21/36, 58%). The main motivations for choosing TC were “not using hormones” (n = 59/63, 94%) and using a method regarded as “natural” (n = 49/63, 78%). Most of men (68%) adopted the method in less than 2 weeks. During the contraception use phase (n = 59 men), they described: i) significantly improved sexual satisfaction (3,49±0,29/4) compared to that experienced with previous contraceptive methods (3,27±0,58/4;p&amp;lt;0,01); ii) high female partner confidence (100% rather/totally confident partner) and support (88% rather/totally supporting partner); iii) improved self-esteem (n = 35/59, 59%). The main negative point was discomfort, reported by 24% of the men. The overall satisfaction score of using TC was 3.78±0.46/4, and 100% would recommend TC to other men. Limitations, reasons for caution The study population may seem small (63 men). However, it is not different from that of the previously pubished studies on men using hormonal contraception, which included 20, 38, 79 and 57 men, respectively. Our study also lacked a similar questionnaire for the female partners. Wider implications of the findings Men using TC successfully assumed the responsibility for and performed a daily task to provide couple contraception. This positive evaluation of TC together with its previously published contraceptive efficacy and reversibility on a small population, should encourage the development of this method. Trial registration number IRB No. 2020-09-10-005

School leader development with action learning

ABSTRACT This case study measures the impact on elements of schools’ professional environment after school leaders participated in eight action learning (AL) sessions over one summer. The guiding research question asks, What, if any, impact on a building level administrator’s leadership practices result after their participation in an Action Learning program? Data collection and analysis were structured to focus on the impact collaborative environmental factors perceived by teachers following their respective administrator’s participation in the AL program. Outcomes measured include Perceived School-Leader Support (PSLS), Actual Participation in Decision Making, Satisfaction with Participation in Decision Making, and Formalization of Participation in Decision Making. These factors were measured with a survey before summer and four months after the last AL session. Additional analyses of two more factors include Teacher’s Orientation Toward Student Performance and Teacher Collaboration. Using Kirkpatrick and Kirkpatrick’s (2016) model for program evaluation, these measures serve as leading indicators toward desired results. Findings of the Related Samples Wilcoxon Signed Rank test only found a significant, positive difference from pre to post survey for PSLS.