Score Test Research Articles

Lactobacillus Helveticus Improves Controlled Cortical Impact Injury-Generated Neurological Aberrations by Remodeling of Gut-Brain Axis Mediators.

Considerable studies augured the potential of gut microbiota-based interventions in brain injury-associated complications. Based on our earlier study results, we envisaged the sex-specific neuroprotective effect of Lactobacillus helveticus by remodeling of gut-brain axis. In this study, we investigated the effect of L. helveticus on neurological complications in a mouse model of controlled cortical impact (CCI). Adult, male and female, C57BL/6 mice underwent CCI surgery and received L. helveticus treatment for six weeks. Sensorimotor function was evaluated via neurological severity score and rotarod test. Long-term effects on anxiety-like behavior and cognition were assessed using the elevated-zero maze (EZM) and novel object recognition test (NORT). Brain perilesional area, blood, colon, and fecal samples were collected post-CCI for molecular biology analysis. CCI-operated mice displayed significant neurological impairments at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 7-days post-injury (dpi) and exhibited altered behavior in EZM and NORT compared to sham-operated mice. However, these behavioral changes were ameliorated in mice receiving L. helveticus. GFAP, Iba-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β expressions and corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) levels were elevated in the perilesional cortex of CCI-operated male/female mice. These elevated biomarkers and decreased BDNF levels in both male/female mice were modified by L. helveticus treatment. Additionally, L. helveticus treatment restored altered short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels in fecal samples and improved intestinal integrity but did not affect decreased plasma levels of progesterone and testosterone in CCI mice. These results indicate that L. helveticus exerts beneficial effects in the CCI mouse model by mitigating inflammation and remodeling of gut microbiota-brain mediators.

Effectiveness of Kabat Technique versus Mirror Book Therapy on clinical and electrophysiological parameters in patients with Bell’s palsy: a comparative interventional study

Abstract Background Bell’s palsy significantly impacts facial function, aesthetics, and quality of life. Objective To compare the effects of the Kabat Technique (KT) and Mirror Book Therapy (MBT) on clinical and electrophysiological parameters in patients with Bell’s palsy. Methods This randomized controlled trial included 31 patients divided into two groups: KT (n = 16) and MBT (n = 15). Both groups received their respective interventions (6 days/week for 3 weeks) in addition to conventional physiotherapy. Sunnybrook Facial Grading Score and Nerve Conduction Test (amplitude and latency of frontalis, nasalis, and mentalis muscles) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results Statistical analysis (SPSS v20) revealed significant intragroup improvements in all outcome measures (p < 0.05). Intergroup comparison showed MBT had superior improvements in amplitude of frontalis and reduced latency of nasalis. Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in the Sunnybrook grade shift. Conclusion This study suggests that KT and MBT, combined with conventional physiotherapy, positively impact clinical and electrophysiological parameters in Bell's Palsy patients. MBT showed superior results in select Nerve Conduction Test parameters.

Effect of Missing Responses on the $$C(\alpha )$$ or Score Tests in One-way Layout of Count Data

Effect of Missing Responses on the $$C(\alpha )$$ or Score Tests in One-way Layout of Count Data

Sequential Diagnostic Approach Using FIB-4 and ELF for Predicting Advanced Fibrosis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Background and Aims: Multiple non-invasive tests (NITs) for identifying advanced fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are available, but, due to the limitations of single NITs, the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) guidelines suggest a two-step strategy, combining the Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4) score with the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) test to improve diagnostic accuracy and minimize unnecessary liver biopsies. However, few real-world studies have used such a sequential approach. We here evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the ELF test in patients with recently established metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and assessed the clinical utility of applying a two-step strategy, including the ELF test following the FIB-4 score assessment, in patients with MASLD. Methods: We enrolled 153 patients diagnosed with MASLD who underwent liver biopsy at the Dong-A University Hospital between June 2018 and August 2023. The degree of fibrosis was determined based on liver biopsy results. Various NITs were used, including the Aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), FIB-4 score, NAFLD Fibrosis score (NFS) and ELF test. The diagnostic efficacy of these NITs was evaluated based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Additionally, the performance of each test was further examined both when applied individually and in a two-step approach, where FIB-4 was used followed by ELF testing. Key metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were used for this analysis. Results: Overall, 153 patients with MASLD (mean age: 46.62 years; 52.3% men; 28.1% with type 2 diabetes) were included. The performance of the NITs in identifying advanced fibrosis was as follows: the AUROC of the APRI, FIB-4, NFS, and ELF tests were 0.803 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.713–0.863), 0.769 (95% CI, 0.694–0.833), 0.699 (95% CI, 0.528–0.796), and 0.829 (95% CI, 0.760–0.885), respectively. The combination of the FIB-4 score ≥ 1.30 and the ELF score ≥ 9.8 showed 67.86% sensitivity, 90.40% specificity, a PPV of 75.18%, an NPV of 86.78%, an accuracy of 83.64%, and an AUROC of 0.791 for predicting the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis. This approach excluded 28 patients (71.8%) from unnecessary liver biopsies. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that ELF testing maintained diagnostic accuracy in assessing liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD in real-world practice. This test was used as a second step in the evaluation, reducing clinically unnecessary invasive liver biopsies and referrals to tertiary institutions. This approach allows assessment of MASLD severity in primary care settings without requiring additional equipment.

Galangin Regulates Astrocyte Phenotypes to Ameliorate Cerebral Ischemia-reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK/LIMK Pathway.

This study aimed to explore whether Galangin (Gal) could improve cerebral Ischemia- reperfusion (I/R) injury by regulating astrocytes, and clarify its potential molecular mechanism. An I/R injury model of rats was established using the Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion/Reperfusion (MCAO/R) method, followed by the administration of Gal (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) via gavage for 14 consecutive days. Besides, astrocytes were isolated from the rats to construct an Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Re-oxygenation (OGD/R) cell model, with treatments of Gal or the Ras homolog gene family member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated Coiled-coil containing protein Kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y-27632. Subsequently, the severity of nerve injury was assessed using the modified Neurological Severity Score (mNSS) test; behavioral disorders in I/R rats were observed through the open field and ladder-climbing tests. Pathological damages and neuron survival in the peri-infarct zone were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining and NeuN staining, respectively. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining was employed to determine astrocyte polarization and TUNEL staining was carried out to measure the level of cell apoptosis; also, western blot was performed to detect the expression of proteins related to the RhoA/ROCK/LIM domain Kinase (LIMK) pathway. Gal significantly ameliorated the neurological and motor dysfunctions caused by I/R in rats, reduced pathological damage in the peri-infarct zone, and promoted neuronal survival. Additionally, Gal increased the number of A2 astrocytes, while it decreased the number of A1 astrocytes. In vitro experiments revealed that the effect of Gal was consistent with that of Y-27632. Additionally, Gal significantly enhanced the survival of OGD/R cells, increased the number of A2 astrocytes, and inhibited the expression of proteins associated with the RhoA/ROCK pathway. Gal could reduce the level of apoptosis, promote the polarization of A2 astrocytes, and improve cerebral I/R injury, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the RhoA/ROCK pathway.

Empowering minds: An e-book blending contextual teaching learning with plant tissue exploration to boost argumentation and cognitive skills

This research was motivated by obstacles in implementing biology learning which resulted in the lack of training in argumentation skills and low cognitive learning outcomes. The current teaching materials does not yet support these skills optimally. The aim of this research is to develop an e-book blending contextual teaching learning that is feasible, practical and effective to boost high school student’s argumentation and cognitive skills. A research and development method was used using the ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) development model. The subjects of this research were 34 high school students in Sleman, Yogyakarta in limited trials and 62 students in field trials. The type of research used in the field test was quasi-experimental with a pretest-post-test control group design. Class XI MIPA 1 was used as the control class and class XII MIPA 2 as the experimental class. Data collection instruments used included product assessment questionnaires by experts, biology teachers and students, argumentation skills and cognitive learning outcomes test instruments. Data analysis used the paired sample t-test, independent sample t-test and n-gain score test. The research results show that e-books is suitable for use in learning according to material experts and media experts, e-books is practical for use in learning according to teacher and student assessments, and e-books is effective for improving students' argumentation skills and learning outcomes. The conclusion in this research is that e-books blending contextual teaching and learning are feasible, practical and effective to use to boost students' argumentation and cognitive skills.

Improving midwives' knowledge and attitudes in providing lactation education based on local wisdom of the Bugis ethnic in Indonesia

Background: The current rate of exclusive breastfeeding remains low due to several factors, including social and cultural changes, psychological factors, lack of education provided by healthcare workers, and the increasing promotion of formula milk as well as misinformation to the public. Therefore, it is necessary to have productive midwives who provide optimal healthcare services to improve the health status of infants. Currently, the healthcare services provided by midwives can also be carried out through independent practice. A midwife does not only provide obstetric services from a biological perspective but also addresses social, cultural, and spiritual needs. Purpose: To evaluate the impact of providing lactation education based on local wisdom in improving midwives' knowledge and attitudes in the Bugis ethnic in Indonesia. Method: A quasi-experiment method, specifically a pre-test and post-test with a control group design. The study population consists of midwives who have Independent Midwifery Practice in 15 districts of Makassar City. The sample obtained using purposive sampling. The sample size was 30 midwives, consisting of 15 midwives in the treatment group and 15 midwives in the control group. Results: The N-Gain Score test showed a value of 72.89% for the treatment group, while the control group scored 21.89%. The paired t-test showed an Asymp Sig (2-tailed) value of 0.000, which is less than the probability value of 0.05 for the treatment group. Conclusion: The use of printed and online pocketbooks for lactation education integrated with the cultural values of Sipakatau, Sipakalebbi, and Sipakainge in the exclusive breastfeeding program by independent midwives is more effective compared to counseling alone, which is less effective in the control group. Further testing concluded that there was a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores in the treatment group, indicating an increase in the midwives' knowledge.

Effect of Dapagliflozin on health-related quality of life in patients with heart failure: a meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract Introduction Dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, reduces the risk of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for heart failure among individuals with chronic heart failure with reduced (HFrEF) or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The effect of dapagliflozin on symptoms, physical capacity and quality of life is still unclear in this population. Purpose To investigate the effects of dapagliflozin on symptoms and health-related quality of life improvement in patients with chronic heart failure. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing dapagliflozin to placebo in patients with chronic heart failure. We pooled mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with a random-effects model for continuous outcomes. Subgroup analyses were performed by reduced or preserved ejection fraction (EF). The outcomes analyzed were change in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) score and six-minute walk test (6MWT). Results Five RCTs with 6,238 patients were included. Of these, 5,410 (86.7%) presented a reduced EF and 2,724 (43.65%) had diabetes. There was a statistical significant improvement in total symptoms score (KCCQ-TSS) (MD=3.08; 95% CI 2.14-4.02; p<0.00001; I2=0%; Fig.1A) and in physical limitation score (KCCQ-PLS) (MD=3.91; 95% CI 1.66-6.17; p=0.0007; I2=0%; Fig1B) when dapagliflozin was compared to placebo. Subgroup analyses showed that the KCCQ-TSS score were significant higher in patients treated with dapagliflozin when compared to placebo in HFrEF (MD= 2.98; 95% CI 1.96-.99; p<0.00001; I2=0%; Fig1A) and HFpEF group (MD=3.73; 95% CI 1.16-6.30; p=0.004; I2=0%; Fig1A). The KCCQ-PLS score had a significant increase after dapagliflozin treatment when compared to placebo in participants with HFrEF (MD=4.36; 95% CI 0.72-8.00; p=0.02; I2=0%; Fig1B) and HFpEF (MD=3.64; 95% CI 0.76-6.51; p=0.01; I2=0%; Fig1B). There was no significant difference in 6MWT in dapagliflozin versus placebo group (MD=5.78; 95% CI -0.48-12.03; p=0.07; I2=0%; Fig.2). Conclusions Dapagliflozin improves health-related quality of life by reducing symptoms and physical limitation in patients with HFrEF and HFpEF.

Recovery after human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) treatment in post-MCAO rats requires repeated handling.

Rehabilitation is the only current intervention that improves sensorimotor function in ischemic stroke patients, similar to task-specific intensive training in animal models of stroke. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising in restoring brain damage and function in stroke models. Additionally, the non-invasive intranasal route allows EVs to reach the brain and target specific ischemic regions. Yet unclear is how handling might enhance recovery or influence other therapies such as EVs after stroke. We used the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model of stroke in rats to assess how intensive handling alone, in the form of sensorimotor behavioral tests, or in combination with an intranasal treatment of EVs restored neurological function and ischemic damage. Handled rats were exposed to a battery of sensorimotor tests, including the modified Neurological Severity Score (mNSS), beam balance, corner, grid walking, forelimb placement, and cylinder tests, together with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days post-stroke (dps). Handled MCAO rats were also exposed to an intranasal multidose or single dose of EVs. Non-handled rats were evaluated only by mNSS and MRI at 2, 28, and 56 dps and were treated with a single intranasal dose of EVs. Our results showed that handling animals after MCAO is necessary for EVs to work at the tested dose and frequency, and that a single cumulative dose of EVs further improves the neurological function recovered during handling. These results show the importance of rehabilitation in combination with other treatments such as EVs, and highlight how extensive behavioral testing might influence functional recovery after stroke.

A multi-model approach integrating whole-slide imaging and clinicopathologic features to predict breast cancer recurrence risk.

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women worldwide and is notable for its morphologic and biologic diversity, with varying risks of recurrence following treatment. The Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score test is an important predictive and prognostic genomic assay for estrogen receptor positive/HER2 negative breast cancer that guides therapeutic strategies; however, such tests can be expensive, delay care, and are not widely available. The aim of this study was to develop a multi-model approach integrating the analysis of whole-slide images and clinicopathologic data to predict their associated breast cancer recurrence risks and categorize these patients into two risk groups according to the predicted score: low-risk and high-risk. The proposed novel methodology uses convolutional neural networks for feature extraction and vision transformers for contextual aggregation, complemented by a logistic regression model that analyzes clinicopathologic data for classification into two risk categories. This method was trained and tested on 956 hematoxylin and eosin-stained whole-slide images of 950 ER+/HER2- breast cancer patients with corresponding clinicopathological features that had prior Oncotype DX testing. The model's performance was evaluated using an internal test set of 192 patients from Dartmouth Health and an external test set of 405 patients from the University of Chicago. The multi-model approach achieved an AUC of 0.91 (95% CI: 0.87-0.95) on the internal set and an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78-0.89) on the external cohort for predicting low- and high-breast cancer recurrence risk categories based on the Oncotype DX recurrence score. With further validation, the proposed methodology could provide an alternative to assist clinicians in personalizing treatment for breast cancer patients and potentially improving their outcomes.

Novel Biomarkers for Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Most patients present with late diagnosis, leading to poor prognosis. This narrative review explores novel biomarkers for early HCC detection. We conducted a comprehensive literature review analyzing protein, circulating nucleic acid, metabolite, and quantitative proteomics-based biomarkers, evaluating the advantages and limitations of each approach. While established markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin, and AFP-L3 remain relevant, promising candidates include circulating tumor DNA, microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, extracellular vesicle, and metabolomic biomarkers. Multi-biomarker panels like the GALAD score, Oncoguard, and Helio liver test show promise for improved diagnostic accuracy. Non-invasive approaches like urine and gut microbiome analysis are also emerging possibilities. Integrating these novel biomarkers with current screening protocols holds significant potential for earlier HCC detection and improved patient outcomes. Future research should explore multi-biomarker panels, omics technologies, and artificial intelligence to further enhance early HCC diagnosis and management.

Developing and Validating Monosyllabic Speech Materials with Psychometric Homogeneity for Young Adult Turkish-Azeri Speakers in Iran and Compiling the Equivalent Word Lists

Background and Aim: For the Word Recognition Score (WRS) test, homogenous lists of words with similar difficulty levels are needed. This study aimed to develop and validate Turkish-Azeri monosyllabic words with phonetic balance and psychometric homogeneity for the WRS test in young adult Turkish-Azeri speakers in Iran and to compile four 25-item word lists. Methods: In this cross-sectional/comparative study, four lists of 25 monosyllabic words with phonetic balance were created by extracting common words from Turkish-Azeri dialects and assessing them in terms of ease of use, familiarity, and relevance. Then, the lists were tested on 40 young adult Azari speakers aged 18–25 years to determine the validity and reliability. Results: All four lists showed adequate face and content validity. Cronbach’s alpha and split-half values for all four lists were above 0.9, indicating acceptable internal consistency and reliability. Construct validity was confirmed the factor analysis with one-dimensional variance of 77.9%, 80.0%, 79.9%, and 88% for the word lists 1 to 4, respectively, and reported the single-factor solution of the index in all four lists. Also, test-retest reliability with a two-week interval with Pearson correlation coefficients of the lists were 0.94, 0.97, 0.97, and 0.96, respectively. Conclusion: The four developed Turkish-Azeri word lists have phonetic balance and psychometric homogeneity with a high level of validity and reliability, which makes them suitable for evaluating the recognition of monosyllabic words by young adults in hearing centers of Azeri cities in Iran. Keywords: Speech audiometry; speech discrimination test; Azeri; monosyllabic; validity and reliability; psychometric function

Score test for marks in Hawkes processes

AbstractA score statistic for detecting the impact of marks in a linear Hawkes self-exciting point process is proposed, with its asymptotic properties, finite sample performance, power properties using simulation and application to real data presented. A major advantage of the proposed inference procedure is that the Hawkes process can be fitted under the null hypothesis that marks do not impact the intensity process. Hence, for a given record of a point process, the intensity process is estimated once only and then assessed against any number of potential marks without refitting the joint likelihood each time. Marks can be multivariate and serially dependent. The score function for any given set of marks is easily constructed as the covariance of functions of future intensities fits the unmarked process with functions of the marks under assessment. The asymptotic distribution of the score statistic is a Chi-squared distribution, with degrees of freedom equal to the number of parameters required to specify the boost function. Model-based or nonparametric estimation of required features of the mark’s marginal moments and serial dependence can be used. Using sample moments of the marks in the test statistic construction does not impact the size and power properties.

6733 Bone Turnover Markers Predict Bone Mineral Density Increases With Abaloparatide In Men Similarly To Women: Results From ATOM

Abstract Disclosure: J.P. Brown: Advisory Board Member; Self; Amgen Inc. Consulting Fee; Self; Amgen Inc, Gilead, Paladin, Pfizer, Inc., Servier. Research Investigator; Self; Mereo BioPharma, Radius Health, Inc, Servier. Speaker; Self; Amgen Inc. Other; Self; Ultragenyx. R.A. Adler: Grant Recipient; Self; Radius Health, Inc. E.M. Lewiecki: Consulting Fee; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc, Kyowa Kirin, Angitia, Ascendis. Research Investigator; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc, Ultragenyx. Speaker; Self; Amgen Inc, Kyowa Kirin. N. Binkley: Consulting Fee; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc. Research Investigator; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc. E.S. Orwoll: Consulting Fee; Self; Amgen Inc, Angitia, Biocon, Radius Health, Inc, Ultragenyx. Y. Wang: Employee; Self; Radius Health, Inc. D.L. Kendler: Consulting Fee; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc. Grant Recipient; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc. Speaker; Self; Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc. B.H. Mitlak: Employee; Self; Radius Health, Inc. R. Eastell: Consulting Fee; Self; Immunodiagnostic Systems, Sandoz, Samsung, CL Bio, Biocon, Takeda, UCB. Grant Recipient; Self; Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.. Speaker; Self; Pharmacosmos, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., UCB, Amgen Inc. Background: Early serum procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) increases correlate with 18-month lumbar spine (LS) bone mineral density (BMD) increases in postmenopausal women; however, this relationship has not been assessed in men. The Abaloparatide for the Treatment of Men with Osteoporosis (ATOM; NCT03512262) study demonstrated that abaloparatide (ABL) treatment in men with osteoporosis rapidly increased BMD at the LS, total hip (TH), and femoral neck (FN) compared with placebo (PBO). Bone turnover markers (BTMs), PINP and serum carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), were measured during the study. In this analysis, the correlation of early increases in BTMs and increases in BMD at 12 months between the ABL and PBO groups were determined and the results in men were compared to 12-month results in women from the ACTIVE study. Methods: ATOM was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter phase 3 study. A total of 228 men aged 40 to 85 years with osteoporosis or osteoporosis associated with hypogonadism were randomized 2:1 to receive 80 µg subcutaneous daily ABL or PBO for 12 months (ABL, n=149; PBO, n=79). Blood samples were collected under fasting conditions at baseline and post-dose at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, and PINP and CTX measured. The correlation of increase from baseline in PINP and CTX concentrations, measured by log ratio over baseline, was compared with percentage increase from baseline BMD at 12 months using Spearman’s rank correlation. To compare between men and women, Pearson correlation coefficients were assessed using the z score test after Fischer’s Z transformation. Results: In the ABL group, median PINP level was 48.2 ng/mL at baseline, peaked at month 1 (109.0 ng/mL) and was 85.7 ng/mL at month 12. Median CTX level was 0.327 ng/mL at baseline, peaked at month 6 (0.476 ng/mL) and was 0.448 ng/mL at month 12. The increase in BTMs relative to baseline were significantly greater at all time points compared to PBO (P<0.0001). Median levels of PINP and CTX in men and women were similar over 12 months. Early PINP increases and subsequent LS BMD increases were significantly correlated for ABL in men starting at month 1, with the strongest correlations observed between 3 and 6 months. The correlation at 3 months was considered more clinically relevant, and the correlation coefficient in men receiving ABL (r=0.6138; P<0.0001) and women receiving ABL (r=0.561; P<0.0001) at 3 months are similar. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between the 1-month log ratio of PINP and TH BMD in men receiving ABL (r=0.1903; P<0.05). Conclusion: In the ATOM study, there was a significant correlation between early increases of BTMs (1 and 3 months) and BMD increases at 12 months. The correlation between early increases in PINP and percentage increase in LS BMD after 12 months of treatment with ABL in men is similar to that reported in women. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Digital twin technology (DTT) in a developing construction industry: evaluation of the awareness and usage among professionals in Nigeria

Technological innovations play a crucial role in project delivery across all sectors of the economy. This research seeks to assess the awareness of digital twin technology (DTT) among construction industry professionals to promote the sustainable completion of construction projects. A quantitative approach was adopted by using a survey questionnaire with convenience sampling. Questionnaires were self-administered to gather information about the industry professionals’ awareness and utilization of DTT in construction projects. Mean Item Score (MIS), Standard Deviation (SD), Spearman, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze the collected data. Professionals within the construction industry have demonstrated a high level of familiarity with various technological advancements with computer systems, Wi-Fi, 2D Graphics, Vertex Digital twin platform, and GPS identified as the most commonly utilized tools in the field. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between DTT awareness and usage levels. The study provided valuable information on the present awareness and DTT utilization within the construction sector. It proposed methods through which professionals can familiarize themselves with empowering tools to enhance productivity and performance within the industry.

Airway Stents for Excessive Central Airway Collapse: A Randomized Controlled Open-label Trial.

Short-term airway stent placement (stent evaluation) has been employed to evaluate whether patients with excessive central airway collapse (ECAC) will benefit from tracheobronchoplasty. Although retrospective studies have explored the impact of stent placement on ECAC, prospective randomized controlled trials are absent. This was a randomized open-label trial comparing patients receiving airway stent placement and standard medical treatment (intervention group) versus standard medical treatment alone (control group) for ECAC. At baseline, patients' respiratory symptoms, self-reported measures, and functional capabilities were assessed. Follow-up evaluations occurred 7 to 14 days postintervention, with an option for the control group to crossover to stent placement. Follow-up evaluations were repeated in the crossover patients. The study enrolled 17 patients in the control group [medical management (MM)] and 14 patients in the intervention group. At follow-up, 15 patients in the MM crossed over to the stent group, resulting in a total of 29 patients in the combined stent group (CSG). Subjectively (shortness of breath and cough), 45% of the CSG exhibited improvement with the intervention compared with just 12% in the MM. The modified St. George Respiratory Questionnaire score in the CSG improved significantly from 61.2 at baseline to 52.5 after stent placement (-8.7, P = 0.04). With intervention, the 6-minute walk test in CSG improved significantly from 364 meters to 398 meters (34 m, P < 0.01). The MM did not show a significant change in the St. George Respiratory Questionnaire score or 6-minute walk test distance. Short-term airway stent placement in patients with ECAC significantly improves respiratory symptoms, quality of life, and exercise capacity.

Cultural adaptation and validation of the French version of the Antwerp pelvic floor knowledge questionnaire

AimsThe Antwerp Pelvic Floor Knowledge Questionnaire (APFK-Q) is a self-administered tool used for assessing women’s knowledge of the pelvic floor, an essential element of pelvic health education initiatives. The aim of this study was to validate the French version of the APFK-Q and to assess its psychometric properties. MethodsAcceptability of the cultural adaptation of APFK-Q in French (translation/back-translation) was assessed in two groups of women: one group not working in the healthcare sector (non-healthworkers, n = 112), and another of student midwives (n = 29). Twenty-three of the non-healthworkers agreed to take part in a test–retest step to assess reproducibility. Agreement of responses was measured for each question using Cohen’s kappa coefficient. Sensitivity to change was assessed before and after a pelvic-floor health education workshop. The proportion of correct answers was compared before and after the workshop using McNemar’s Chi2 test. Readability and the reading level required for optimal comprehension were assessed using the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES) and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level test, respectively. ResultsSeventy percent (n = 72) of the non-healthworkers and 72 % (n = 21) of the students reported no comprehension difficulties. Agreement was very good (k > 0.8) for 46 % of the items and good (0.6–0.8) for 25 %. The proportion of correct answers was significantly higher for 72 % of the items after the pelvic-floor health education workshop. The French version of the APFK-Q was judged to be easy to understand according to the FRES test, with a score of 60.6. The school level required for optimal comprehension was estimated at 8th grade. ConclusionThe French version of the APFK-Q is an acceptable, reproducible, and easily understandable questionnaire that provides a broad description of women’s knowledge of the pelvic-floor sphere. Sensitivity to change was confirmed for most items, making it a useful tool for assessing the impact of pelvic-floor health education initiatives.

Keefektifan Pembelajaran Proyek Sains terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah dan Sosial Emosional di TK Kenanga Kelompok B

The inability of group B children at Kenanga Kindergarten to solve problems and it is known that their social and emotional abilities are still low is the problem of this research. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of science project-based learning on the problem-solving and socio-emotional abilities of children aged 5-6 years at Kenanga Kindergarten, Karanganyar Village. The research approach is quantitative with a quasi-experimental type. The research sample consisted of 30 people and was divided into two sample classes (experimental samples and control samples). The research results show that the results of the t test for problem solving ability show a value of Sig. (2-tiled) 0.001 &lt; 0.005, which means there is a significant difference in the average value of the pretest and posttest problem solving ability variables. The N-Gain Score test is 78.23%, meaning that science project learning is effective in improving children's problem solving abilities. Meanwhile, the results of the social ability t test show the significance value of the t test Sig. (2-tiled) 0.015 &lt; 0.05, meaning there is a significant difference in the average pre-test and post-test scores for science project learning on children's social-emotional abilities. The n-gain score test results were 76.48%, this means that science project learning is effective in improving children's social emotional abilities.

PENGARUH MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE SNOWBALL THROWING DENGAN MEDIA KONTEKSTUAL TERHADAP KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS DAN KETERAMPILAN SOSIAL SISWA KELAS V PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPS

This research aims to describe the impact of implementing the snowball throwing cooperative learning model with contextual media on the critical thinking skills and social skills of fifth-grade students. The study was conducted at SDN Sawaran Kulon 02 in Kecamatan Kedungjajang Kabupaten Lumajang. This research employs a quantitative approach using quasi-experimental research with a nonequivalent control group design. Two classes were involved class VA served as the experimental group, while class VB served as the control group. The research instruments used were social skills observation sheets and learning outcome tests. The analysis techniques included descriptive analysis, normality tests, paired sample t-tests, homogeneity tests, independent samples t-tests, N-Gain score tests, and independent t-tests for N-Gain scores. The results from the independent samples test yielded a significance value (2-tailed) of 0.000, which is less than 0.05, indicating a significant difference in the average learning outcomes between the experimental and control classes. It can be concluded that the implementation of the snowball throwing cooperative learning model with contextual media has a significant effect on students' critical thinking skills and social skills.

Gut microbiota biodiversity indices as markers of hyperandrogenemia in women of reproductive age

Introduction. Previously, it was shown that the “classic” phenotypes of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are associated with significant decrease in gut microbiota alpha diversity as compared with healthy women.The aim of the study. To establish cut-off points for alpha diversity indices, significant in polycystic ovarian syndrome with hyperandrogenism.Material and methods. The manuscript presents a sub-study of Eastern Siberia PCOS Epidemiology and Phenotype Study, conducted in Eastern Siberia (Russia) from 2016 to 2019. All participants (175 women of reproductive age: 26 women with PCOS (according to Rotterdam criteria (2003)) and hyperandrogenemia (increased levels of total testosterone (TT) and/or free androgenindex(FAI), and/ordehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS)), 149 – without hyperandrogenemia) were recruited during the annual employment medical assessment. Methods included a questionnaire survey, anthropometry and modified Ferriman – Gallwey score, gynecological examination, pelvic ultrasound, and blood serum tests for TT, DHEAS, sex hormone-binding globulin, FAI, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. Five indices of alpha diversity (amplicon sequencing variant, Shannon index, Simpson index, Chao index, and abundance-based coverage Index) were estimated for the gut microbiota using amplicon metasequencing. Statistical analysis included ROC-analysis for development of cut-off points for the indices, associated with hyperandrogenism in women of reproductive age with PCOS. Results. According to results of ROC-analysis, the greatest sensitivity with moderate specificity, with a high area under the curve was established for the Shannon and Simpson indices with cut-off points classifying women with or without hyperandrogenemia – 5.84 and 0.97, respectively.Conclusions. The developed criteria for assessing alpha diversity using cut-off points for the most significant indices can be useful for monitoring the results of different therapeutic interventions (prebiotics, probiotics, etc.) in hyperandrogenic phenotypes of PCOS.