Single Test Research Articles

Variations in Incidence and Prognosis of Stage 4 CKD Among Adults Identified Using Different Algorithms: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Rationale & ObjectiveClinical guidelines define chronic kidney disease (CKD) as abnormalities of kidney structure or function for >3 months. Assessment of the duration criterion may be implemented in different ways, potentially impacting estimates of disease incidence or prevalence in the population, individual diagnosis, and treatment decisions, especially for more severe cases. We investigated differences in incidence and prognosis of CKD G4 identified by one of four algorithms. Study DesignPopulation-based cohort study in Alberta, Canada. Setting & ParticipantsResidents >18 years old with incident CKD G4 (eGFR 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m2) diagnosed between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2018, based on administrative and laboratory data. ExposuresFour outpatient eGFR-based algorithms, increasing in stringency, for defining cohorts with CKD G4 were evaluated: (1) a single test, (2) first eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and a second eGFR 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m2 >90 days apart (two tests), (3) ≥2 eGFR measurements <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 sustained for >90 days (qualifying period) and the last eGFR in the qualifying period of 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m2 (relaxed sustained), (4) ≥2 consecutive measurements 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m2 for >90 days (rigorous sustained). OutcomesTime to the earliest of death, eGFR improvement (a sustained increase in eGFR to ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2 for >90 days and >25% increase from the index eGFR), or kidney failure. Analytical ApproachFor each of the 4 cohorts, incidence rates and event-specific cumulative incidence functions at 1 year from cohort entry were estimated. ResultsThe incidence rates of CKD G4 decreased as algorithms became more stringent, from 190.7 (single test) to 79.9 (rigorous sustained) per 100,000 person-years. The two cohorts based on sustained reductions in eGFR were of comparable size and 1-year event-specific probabilities. The two cohorts based on a single test and a two-test sequence were larger and experienced higher probabilities of eGFR improvement. LimitationsA short follow-up period of 1 year and a predominantly White population. ConclusionsThe use of more stringent algorithms for defining CKD G4 results in substantially lower estimates of disease incidence, the identification of a group with a lower probability of eGFR improvement, and a higher risk of kidney failure. These findings can inform implementation decisions of disease definitions in clinical reporting systems and research studies.

PDDA coating method on surface of catalyst to form carbon shell for enhancing durability of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

Construction of a physical protective layer on the catalyst surface of platinum-based catalysts in fuel cells to increase their durability has attracted attention of researchers. In particular, the carbon shell is suitable as a coating material because it covers relatively few active sites of Pt compared to other coating materials. However, the conventional carbon shell formation method is complex, time-consuming, and does not form a uniform layer easily. In this study, a new method for attaching a poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride)(PDDA) polymer to the catalyst surface and forming a carbon shell through heat treatment was proposed. This method can easily forms a thin and uniform carbon shell with a thickness of ≤1 nm, minimizes performance reduction, and maintains superior durability of catalyst. For the 120-h single cell durability test, the current density at 0.6 V and maximum power density of Pt/C without carbon shell decreased by 32.3 % and 26.5 %, respectively, compared to the initial performance, whereas it was confirmed that 5.9 % and 9.0 % were reduced, respectively, in the case of carbon-shelled Pt/C manufactured in this study. This new method of carbon shell formation is expected to be easily applicable to various nanoparticle-based catalysts that require a physical protective layer to ensure durability.

Study on the influence of water ingress on the interface of high strength zinc coated steels and epoxy adhesives

This study aimed to assess the impact of humidity on adhesive joints comprising four different Zn-coated high strength steel substrates (SA, SB, SC, and SD) and two epoxy adhesives (EA and EB) at 70 °C. Several tests were conducted to analyse the effects of humidity on adhesive properties, under both dry and saturated conditions. Gravimetric tests were used to measure water absorption by the adhesives, while mechanical properties were evaluated through bulk tensile tests. Chemical structure changes were examined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the glass transition temperature was determined using a DMA-like test. The water immersion behaviour of the substrates was studied through gravimetric tests and surface energy was analysed using contact angle measurements. The overall joint performance was assessed through gravimetric tests, and the mechanical impact of water was evaluated using single lap joint tests on both dry and aged joints, for one week and one month. The findings indicated that EB adhesive absorbed more water compared to EA, which did not reach saturation. FTIR analysis revealed significant chemical degradation in the EB adhesive after ageing, leading to greater deterioration in mechanical properties compared to EA. The bulk substrate tests showed similar surface energy among the substrates, with SA being the only substrate that did not corrode during water immersion. In terms of joint behaviour, cohesive failure was predominant in dry conditions, but as the joints aged, those with EB adhesive experienced a decrease in failure load due to adhesive degradation, while the interface remained strong. Joints with EA adhesive exhibited increasing interfacial failure, indicating weaker interfaces that allowed water ingress between the adhesive and substrate. Consequently, water uptake in the joints was higher for EA adhesive than for EB adhesive, contrary to the behaviour observed at the bulk level. SA and SD substrates demonstrated stronger interfaces with EA, likely due to their higher developed interfacial area ratio, which facilitated mechanical interlocking.

Effects of Lower Extremity Functional Training (LIFT) on Gross Motor Function and Gait in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Background: Children with spastic cerebral palsy face challenges in mobility due to impairments in gross motor function and gait. Lower Extremity Functional Training (LIFT) is posited as a potential intervention to ameliorate these difficulties. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LIFT on enhancing gross motor function and gait in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Methods: Employing a Randomized Controlled Trial design, the study recruited 22 participants and allocated them into intervention and control groups. Over six weeks, the intervention group received LIFT along with baseline treatment, while the control group received only baseline treatment. Outcomes were measured using the 2-minute Walk Test, Single Leg Stance Test, and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Results: Post-intervention, the intervention group exhibited a statistically significant improvement in the Single Leg Stance Test (p=0.032). However, no significant differences were observed in the 2 Minute Walk Test (p=0.448) and GMFM (p=0.289) between the intervention and control groups. Within-group comparisons showed significant improvements from pre- to post-intervention in both the Single Leg Stance Test (p=0.006) and the 2 Minute Walk Test (p=0.012) for the intervention group, and in the 2 Minute Walk Test (p=0.003) and GMFM (p=0.004) for the control group. Conclusion: While LIFT resulted in significant within-group improvements in single-leg balance, it did not demonstrate a significant advantage over baseline treatment alone in improving overall gait and gross motor function in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention durations may be necessary to ascertain the full impact of LIFT in this population.

Amyloid consults do not have to be vexing.

Diagnosing amyloidosis can be challenging due to its clinical heterogeneity, need for multiple specialists to make a diagnosis, and lack of a single diagnostic test for the disease. Patients are often diagnosed late, in advanced stage, and after exhibiting multiple symptoms and signs for a long period. It is important to develop a clinical suspicion of amyloidosis, particularly in those with multisystemic symptoms and high-risk patient populations such as those with precursor hematologic conditions. A systematic approach to the workup of suspected amyloidosis is key, including a comprehensive clinical assessment, laboratory tests to assess organ involvement, advanced imaging studies, screening for plasma cell disorder, and tissue biopsy when necessary. After making a diagnosis of amyloidosis, accurate typing of amyloid deposits, differentiating between localized and systemic amyloidosis, and appropriately staging the disease is important. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life in light chain amyloidosis.

The reliability and suitability of strength assessments in frail and pre-frail older adults: recommendations for strength testing in older populations

BackgroundLifelong strength is fundamental to physical function, health, and quality of life. Reliable appropriate strength assessment measures for older adults play an important role in effective evaluation of baseline ability and exercise prescription to counter disease and disuse. This study aimed to investigate the within-session reliability of maximal isometric knee extension and flexion, hip abduction and adduction, and handgrip strength measures in frail and pre-frail older adults.MethodThe study was conducted at a residential care home in Birmingham, UK. All care home residents aged ≥ 65 years; pre-frail or frail according to the Fried Frailty phenotype criteria; able to speak and read English; not currently involved in any other clinical trial; without severe sensory impairments; and with a predicted life expectancy greater than the trial length were eligible. Maximal isometric lower limb testing was performed using specialised resistance training equipment and a portable measurement device, and grip strength was assessed using a portable dynamometer. All eligible participants attended a single testing session and performed three trials per measure. Peak force measures were obtained for analysis. Within-session reliability for each measure was calculated from repeated-measures analysis of variance, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and coefficients of variation (CV) with 95% confidence intervals.ResultsEleven frail and eleven pre-frail older adults participated in the study. Within-session absolute and relative measures were found to be reliable with the highest overall repeatability indicated between trial 2 and trial 3 for knee extension, hip abduction, and handgrip (CV ≤ 4.65%, ICC ≥ 0.96) with variation evident across all measures, except knee extension, from trial 1 to 2.ConclusionsOverall, maximal isometric strength in frail and pre-frail older adults with no previous testing experience can be measured with good to high reliability within their first testing session. An initial two familiarisation trials followed by two measurement trials is recommended to achieve the highest level of overall repeatability.Trial registrationThe trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03141879 on 05/05/2017.

Plasma treatment on both adhesive tape and adherends for significantly enhanced CFRTP-related adhesive joints

Unlike existing literature that primarily concentrates on either the plasma treatment of adherends alone or solely on adhesive surfaces, this work leverages plasma modification of both adhesive in tape form and adherend surfaces to largely enhance the interfacial bonding between a thermoset-based adhesive tape and carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer (CFRTP) for structural bonding applications.By conducting single lap shear tests on adhesively-bonded AA6061-CFRPPA (carbon-fiber-reinforced polyphthalamide) dissimilar joints, it is shown that the plasma treatment of adherends alone can increase the lap shear strength (LSS) of the joints by 200% compared to non-treated counterparts. An additional plasma treatment of adhesive tape surfaces leads to even higher LSS improvement, reaching up to 315%, due to the formation of a denser cross-linked network of covalent bonds and a reduced area fraction of interfacial voids at the CFRPPA–adhesive interface.The highest plasma-enhanced LSS of the metal-CFRTP joints rivals that of metal–metal joints, which is typically stronger than the joints associated with fiber-reinforced polymers. This study is important for achieving strong CFRTP-related structural components bonded using adhesive tape, providing better compatibility with plasma treatment and other joining methods like riveting compared to adhesive paste or liquid.

Comprehensive molecular analysis of driver mutations in non-small cell lung carcinomas and its correlation with PD-L1 expression, An Indian perspective

BackgroundThe understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) has revolutionized significantly in the recent years. These have helped to develop personalized management strategies by identifying specific molecular alterations such as mutations in EGFR, ROS1, BRAF, ERBB2, MET, ALK, and KRAS genes. These mutations are targetable ensuring a better clinical outcome. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodology is the recommended technique for the identification of driver mutations in the five hot-spot genes (EGFR, ALK, ROS1, MET, and BRAF) involved in the NSCLC. NGS has numerous advantages including multiplexing, tissue conservation, identification of rare and novel variants, and reduced cost over the sequential single gene testing. Herein, we sought to demonstrate the mutational profile in NSCLC and their clinicopathologic correlation in a contemporary cohort of Indian NSCLC patients. Additionally, we studied the correlation of oncogenic driver mutations with PD-L1 status in these patients. Materials and MethodsFive fifty-two stage IV NSCLC patients (adenocarcinoma=490; squamous cell carcinoma=51; adenosquamous carcinoma=5; large cell carcinoma=2; sarcomatoid carcinoma=3; spindle cell carcinoma=1) underwent broad molecular profiling by a custom-made, targeted DNA- and RNA-based five hot-spot genes lung cancer panel (EGFR, ALK, ROS1, BRAF, and MET), compatible with the NGS Ion S5 system. The mutations were correlated with the clinicopathologic characteristics. Additionally, PD-L1 expression status, available on 252 tumors, was correlated with the oncogenic drivers. ResultsValidation of the 5 gene panel yielded the following results: a) specificity of 99.74%; b) sensitivity of 100% for single nucleotide variants (SNVs) (>5% variant allele frequency, VAF), indels (>10% VAF) and fusions; c) 100% intra- and inter-run reproducibility; d) 88% inter-laboratory agreement. Validated panel was then used to analyze clinical samples. Sixty percentage tumors harbored either one (54.71%) or multiple (3.26%) mutations. EGFR and BRAF V600E mutations, ALK and ROS1 rearrangements, and MET exon 14 skipping mutation were observed in 38.41% (n = 212) and 2.72% (n = 15) patients, 12.14% (n = 67) and 3.62% (n = 20) patients, and 1.09% (n = 6) patients, respectively. EGFR exon 19 deletion accounted for 52.83% of all mutations, followed by L858R (35.85%), T790M (5.19%), exon 20 insertions (6.6%), and other rare mutations (G719X, L861Q, S768I) (9.91%). Concurrent EGFR with ALK, EGFR with ROS1, EGFR with MET, and EGFR with BRAF were observed in 10, 4, 1, and 3 patients, respectively. PD-L1 was expressed in 134 patients (53.2%). Exon 19 deletion was more prevalent in PD-L1 negative tumors whereas exon 21 substitution (L858R) was seen more in PD-L1 positive tumors. ConclusionsThis is one of the largest cohorts of NSCLC for comprehensive targeted mutational profiling and correlation with the PD-L1 expression. The mutations are more prevalent in non-smoker females for all genes, except ALK (non-smoker males). MET and BRAF mutations are more common in elderly population whereas EGFR mutations, and ALK and ROS1 genes rearrangements are more prevalent in younger population. The most common histopathologic subtype/feature associated with various mutations was as follows: acinar with EGFR, solid with ALK, macronucleoli with ROS1, signet ring with MET, and micropapillary with BRAF.

Enhancing properties and sustainability: Surface modified Cymbopogon flexuosus stem fiber for green composite materials

AbstractThe lignocellulosic fiber has distinct capacities and properties from diverse perspectives. As there is a crucial need for the development of green products, many industries are racing to identify potential fibers for their products. This work focuses first on the property enhancement using chemical modification techniques for Cymbopogon flexuosus stem fiber (CFS), which is extracted from the waste residue of an oil industry. The chemically treated fibers resulted in higher cellulose (77.35%) and lower hemicellulose‐lignin contents (8.36% and 14.5%), which favors composite manufacturing. Morphological analysis on the fiber surface through scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) evidenced the surface was rough, and a single fiber tensile test reveals an average tensile strength of 635 ± 4.5 MPa. Further x‐ray diffraction examination verified the existence of semi‐crystalline cellulose with a size of 14.32 nm and a higher crystallinity index of 55.17%. Secondly, to explore fiber prospective qualities against the commercially available bio‐composite, epoxy resin‐based composites were prepared by varying the weight and length of fiber reinforced. The surface‐modified CFS epoxy composite has the highest tensile strength (77.71 MPa), tensile modulus (5.26 Gpa), flexural strength (87.4 MPa), flexural modulus (1.85 GPa), hardness (64 HRRW), and impact strength (9.31 J/cm2). The thermogravimetric analyses were evaluated to assess their weight loss under heat influence. Tensile fractography was also investigated to establish the structure–property relationship between the composite and fiber. Thus, unique fiber was identified as an ecologically benign and economically viable raw material to build lightweight green materials for industrial applications.Highlights Studies explores the potential of CFSF, which is typically an industrial waste. Chemical modification reveals the enhancement of properties. Identifies optimum parameters that enhance composite properties. This aligns with the broader trend of sustainable and green manufacturing.

On the orientation-dependent mechanical properties of interstitial solute-strengthened Fe49.5Mn30Co10Cr10C0.5 high entropy alloy produced by directed energy deposition

Interstitial solute-strengthened Fe49.5Mn30Cr10Co10C0.5 (at%) high entropy alloy was additively manufactured by directed energy deposition (DED) process in this work. While the as-deposited material exhibits an excellent combination of strength and ductility, the effect of anisotropy on the mechanical performance of the DED processed component was studied in detail. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the horizontal tensile sample with a main fiber texture of <111> // tensile direction (TD) went up to 1 GPa while maintaining a superb failure elongation of 36%. The vertical tensile sample, with a dominant <001> // TD texture, failed at an UTS of 750 MPa with an enhanced failure elongation of 52%. Microstructural analysis of the deformed samples showed that the horizontal samples were mainly deformed via the formation of mechanical twins, whereas the twining activity was less profound in the vertical samples. Single crystal micro-pillar compression testing revealed that the deformation mechanism complies well with the Schmid’s factor. In addition, a higher critical resolved shear stress for twining compared to slip was also confirmed in the micro-pillar compression testing.

Investigation on Friedel’s salt precipitation method for chloride removal from flue gas desulfurization wastewater

Flue gas desulfurization wastewater (FGDW) contained high concentration of chloride, which made it difficult to recycle or achieve zero liquid discharge (ZLD). Friedel’s salt precipitation (FSP) method could effectively dislodge chloride from FGDW and was expected to achieve ZLD of FGDW. Effects of reaction conditions, reagents dosage and types on chloride removal efficiency of FSP method were investigated systematically by single factor tests. Results showed that chloride removal by FSP method was fast and basically completed in 60 min. A higher stirring speed (≥90 rpm) would enhance the dispersion and dissolution of reagents, which was beneficial to improve the chloride removal efficiency. Moreover, the dosage and types of reagents had significant influence on chloride removal and should be selected according to actual need. A two-stage FSP method was applied to avoid the negative effect caused by the presence of sulfate, by which the sulfate and chloride removal efficiency reached 98% and 60%, respectively, in the real FGDW treatment. Through SEM and XRD analysis, precipitates formed in Stage I and II were proved to be CaSO4 and friedel’s salt, which belonged to Ca-Al-layered double hydroxides. The kinetics of FSP method removed chloride was attempted to study, and inferred the reaction as third order reaction. FSP method has enormous potential to be applied in industrial wastewater treatment.

Liver Stiffness Measurement and Risk Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After HCV Eradication in Veterans With Cirrhosis

Background & AimsPatients with cirrhosis secondary to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) are at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) despite a sustained virological response (SVR). We examined whether post-SVR liver stiffness measurement (LSM) could be used to stratify HCC risk. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of 1850 participants identified from the Veterans Health Administration, with HCV cirrhosis and SVR, followed up over 5099 person-years, from the time of post-SVR elastography until death, HCC, or the end of the study. ResultsThe risk of HCC increased by 3% with every 1-kPa increase in LSM (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.04; P < .001) and decreased with the number of years from SVR (aHR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70–0.90; P = .0003). The adjusted annual risk of HCC was 2.03% among participants with post-SVR LSM <10 kPa, 2.48% in LSM 10–14.9 kPa (aHR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.01–2.88; P = .046), 3.22% for LSM 15–19.9 kPa (aHR, 1.59; 95% CI, 0.78–3.20; P = .20), 5.07% among LSM 20–24.9 kPa (aHR, 2.55; 95% CI, 1.30–5.01; P = .01), and 5.44% in LSM ≥25 kPa (aHR, 3.03; 95% CI, 1.74–5.26; P < .0001). The adjusted annual risk of HCC was < 0.4% in participants with LSM <5 kPa and without diabetes mellitus. ConclusionsLSM predicts rates of HCC in patients with HCV cirrhosis after SVR at multiple cutoff levels and offers a single test to predict portal hypertension–related complications and HCC. Patients with LSM <5 kPa in the absence of diabetes mellitus had a low risk of HCC in which surveillance could be discontinued.

Efficiency and Transparency in Village Fund Budget for Buluh Perindu BUMDes Management at Baru Semerah Village

This research was conducted to determine the effect of Efficiency and Transparency in the Village Fund Budget on Managing the Village's Economic Potential. This research is quantitative with a descriptive approach. The techniques applied in the data collection process include observation, documentation, and questionnaires. The technique in determining respondents used the Slovin formula with 223 respondents. This research used SmartPLS 3.2.9 software, Partial Least Square systems, and Structural Equation Modeling (PLS/SEM) in data processing procedures to explain the relationship between variables and perform an analysis of a single test. In this study, Village Economic Potential, represented by a Symbol (Y), is the only dependent variable, and Efficiency with a symbol (X1) and Transparency with a Symbol (X2) are two independent variables. The results indicated that efficiency had a positive and significant effect on managing Village Economic Potential because the P-value was less than 0.05 with the original sample value of the Path coefficient of 0.276 or an effect of 27.6% on Village Economic Potential. Transparency also positively and significantly influenced the management of Village Economic Potential because the P-value was less than 0.05 with the original sample value of the Path coefficient of 0.455 or 45.5% on Village Economic Potential.

Do magnesium and chloride ameliorate high sodium bicarbonate concentrations? A comparison between laboratory and mesocosm toxicity experiments

Increasing salinity is a concern for biodiversity in many freshwater ecosystems globally. Single species laboratory toxicity tests show major differences in freshwater organism survival depending on the specific ions that comprise salinity types and/or their ion ratios. Toxicity has been shown to be reduced by altering ionic composition, despite increasing (total) salinity. For insistence, single species tests show the toxicity of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3, which commonly is a large proportion of the salts from coalbeds) to freshwater invertebrates is reduced by adding magnesium (Mg2+) or chloride (Cl−). However, it is uncertain whether reductions in mortality observed in single-species laboratory tests predict effects within populations, communities and to ecosystem processes in more complex multi-species systems both natural and semi-natural. Here we report the results of an outdoor multi-species mesocosm experiment to determine if the effects of NaHCO3 are reduced by increasing the concentrations of Mg2+ or Cl− on: a) stream macroinvertebrate populations and communities; b) benthic chlorophyll-a and; c) the ecosystem process of leaf litter decomposition. We found a large effect of a high NaHCO3 concentration (≈4.45 mS/cm) with reduced abundances of multiple taxa, reduced emergence of adult insects and reduced species richness, altered community structure and increased leaf litter breakdown rates but no effect on benthic chlorophyll-a. However, despite predictions based on laboratory findings, we found no evidence that the addition of either Mg2+ or Cl− altered the effect of NaHCO3. In semi-natural environments such as mesocosms, and natural environments, organisms are subject to varying temperature and habitat factors, while also interacting with other species and trophic levels (e.g. predation, competition, facilitation), which are absent in single species laboratory tests. Thus, it should not be assumed single-species tests are good predictors of the effects of changing ionic compositions on stream biota in more natural environments.

Association between single leg hop tests and patient reported outcome measures and patellar instability in patients with recurrent patellar dislocations

ObjectivesTo assess the associations between the single leg hop tests at two premises; baseline and the change after 12 months, and change in patient reported outcome measures and persistent instability...

Experimental and Model Investigation of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Operated Under Low Fuel Flow Rate

A state-of-the-art anode-supported Ni-YSZ/YSZ/GSC/LSC SOFC with 16 cm2 cathode area was tested at low anodic flow rate (6.25 Ncc min−1 cm−2) and large excess of air (93.75 Ncm3 min−1 cm−2). These conditions are typical of stacks, where high H2 utilization is targeted, but are uncommon in single cell testing. H2-based mixtures were supplied between 550 °C and 750 °C, varying the partial pressure of H2 (between 93% and 21% with 7% H2O mol/mol) and H2O (between 10% and 50% H2O with 50% H2). I/V and EIS measurements were collected and analyzed with a 1D+1D model of a SOFC with rectangular duct interconnectors. At 750 °C and 93% H2, 58% fuel utilization was obtained, which raised to 81% at 21% H2, driving the SOFC under internal diffusion control. The model analysis confirmed that nearly-isothermal conditions were retained thanks to efficient heat dissipation, and that air acted as a coolant. During testing, the contact resistance grew to 0.16 Ω cm2 at 750 °C, limiting the SOFC’s performance to a maximum power density of 340 W cm−2 with 7% humidified H2. The kinetic parameters of the anodic reaction were derived by fitting, finding a positive order for H2 (+0.9), and a negative order for H2O (−0.58).

The Effects of Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting on Cognitive Performance in Middle‐Aged and Older Adults: Dose Response Analysis of a Randomized Crossover Trial

AbstractBackgroundSedentary behavior (SED) is highly prevalent and associated with poor health outcomes and cognitive decline, independent of physical activity (PA). Studies have established the harmful effects on cognition and information processing, and while PA guidelines endorse reducing SED, they fail to address how often SED should be broken up, and for how long. The purpose of this study is to assess how frequently and for how long SED should be disrupted with light‐intensity physical activity (PA) to offset the effects on cognitive performance.MethodA randomized crossover study of n = 11 middle and older aged adults (&gt;45 years) completed five 8‐hour visits: a sedentary (control) condition and four experimental conditions with varied walking (1.9 mph, 0% grade) frequency and durations: every 30 minutes for 1 minute, every 30 minutes for 5 minutes, every 60 minutes for 1 minute, and every 60 minutes for 5 minutes. Cognition was assessed at baseline, 4 hours, and 6 hours via the Single Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), a validated cognitive performance measure that assesses information processing speed and accuracy.ResultCompared with control, there was significant improvement in SDMT score for the every 30 minutes for 5 minutes dose (net difference compared to control: 3.1 [SE: 1.4], p‐value = 0.034), every 60 minutes for 1 minute dose (net difference compared to control: 3.4 [SE: 1.4], p‐value = 0.016), and every 60 minutes for 5 minutes dose (net difference compared to control: 3.3 [SE: 1.4], p‐value = 0.017). The effect on SDMT was not statistically significant for the every 30 minutes for 1 minute dose, but a positive trend was observed (net difference compared to control: 2.6 [SE: 1.4], p‐value = 0.069).ConclusionThere was a significant effect of breaking up SED on SDMT scores with light intensity walking for both low frequency breaks (1 minute every 60 minutes and for 5 minutes every 60 minutes) and high frequency breaks (5 minutes every 60 minutes). This suggests that even brief breaks in SED may offset harmful effects on cognitive performance. This result provides a specific and achievable mechanism for offsetting the harm caused by SED on cognitive performance.

Concordance between APOE genotyping and proteotyping using the novel Lumipulse G Pan‐ApoE and Lumipulse G ApoE4 RUO assays

AbstractBackgroundThe APOE gene has three different alleles that encode for three different ApoE protein isoforms (APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4), resulting in 6 different phenotypes. Nucleic acid amplification test remains the gold standard for APOE genotyping, however quantification of the ApoE proteins using immunoassays could provide another piece of information, related to the expression levels of the proteins. In this regard, ApoE as a protein biomarker can be used in research to determine its value alone or as part of a panel of plasma biomarkers.MethodThe LUMIPULSE G System is a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay platform enabling fully automated processing of samples using ready‐to‐use immunoreaction cartridges. Time to result in these single use test cartridges takes about 30 minutes. The analytical performance of the newly developed Lumipulse G Pan‐ApoE and Lumipulse G ApoE4 RUO assays was determined. Parameters analyzed were precision, sensitivity, linearity, prozone and potential impact of interfering substances. Proof of concept of these novel assays was verified with a set of 230 genotyped plasma samples.ResultThe total within‐lab variability of both assays was ≤8% CV confirming high precision of the LUMIPULSE G system. Using low ApoE concentrated plasma samples, the observed LoD and LoQ (@20% CV) was 0.072 µg/mL (Pan‐ApoE) and 0.152 µg/mL (ApoE4). Linearity was shown across the assay range (0 – 100 µg/mL) for both assays. Neither prozone effect nor significant impact (recovery within 100±10%) of commonly tested endogenous substances (bilirubin, haemoglobin, low and high Protein content, and human anti‐mouse antibodies (HAMA)) was observed. Potential interference was observed for triglycerides and rheumatoid factor (RF) with observed recovery within 100±20%. ApoE proteotyping based on the novel assays resulted in a 99.8% concordance with APOE genotyping (1 discordant result). Moreover, applying the ratio ApoE4/Pan‐ApoE with the measurement values of respective assays, classified correctly between hetero‐ and homozygous E4 carrier status.ConclusionThe analytical performance studies demonstrate low variability and high sensitivity enabling measurement of pan‐ApoE and ApoE4 in plasma. Pan‐apoE and apoE4 quantification can offer relevant insights into the assessment of subjects at risk for AD or adverse events following anti‐amyloid treatments and should be studied further.

Infiltration performance evaluation of a 15-year-old concrete grid paver parking area (Italy)

Abstract The management of urban stormwater needs a wide array of environmentally friendly solutions to safeguard water resources and improve the quality of the urban environment. In that, permeable pavements, a type of sustainable drainage system, are designed to reduce the volume and peak flow of stormwater on-site, improve infiltrating water quality, and combat the urban heat island phenomena. In this study, we tested the infiltration capacity of 15-year-old concrete grid pavers (CGPs) using single ring infiltrometer tests. We investigated how various factors, including location within the parking space, affect infiltration rates. Despite no maintenance and 15 years of operation, the infiltration capacity of the CGPs still exceeds the minimum infiltration capacity of 1.62 mm/min as required in many European regions. This may be due to the presence of soil cracks and the development of plant roots and insect/microorganism activities within the pavement voids. Indeed, this ‘living soil system’ continuously develops and counteracts the formation of clogging, interacting with the compaction process. Our study demonstrates that incorporating CGPs is effective in addressing emerging challenges associated with urban hydrology. Due to effectiveness and limited maintenance requirements, CGPs could be successfully included in long term climate adaptation measures.

#32 : Female Genital Tuberculosis with Primary Subfertility — A Case Report

Background and Aims: Tuberculosis is a major health problem with worldwide incidence of about 10.4 million people TB in 2015, out of which more than 60% were in Asia. There is no single diagnostic test for female genital tuberculosis so diagnosis is made after considering various factors such as family history, general physical examination, culture and PCR tests and also the diagnostic hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. Here we report a case of asymptomatic female genital tuberculosis in which diagnosis was made on the basis of laparoscopic findings as well as histopathology. Method: Patient 30 years with no symptom, planned to have laparoscopy and proceed as workup for primary subfertility and ultrasound showing 44 * 22 mm cyst with internal echoes in right adnexal region, with impression of right endometriotic cyst. Results: Laparoscopy showed normal uterus. There was 0.5 * 0.6 cm granuloma on surface fundus of uterus, adhesions in Pouch of Doughlas. Right tube had gross hydrosalpinx with fimbrial phymosis, and golf stick appearance. Right ovary was buried under right tube and had cyst of size 4 * 5 cm, on drainage caseous material. Left tube had moderate hydrosalpinx and left ovary was completely buried in adhesions. No fill and spill of dye on dyes test. Adhesiolysis was done and anatomy restored. Right tubo ovarian mass drained and caseous material removed. Uterine fundal caseous material removed and collected for histopathology which confirmed the diagnosis. Giant cell with granuloma and caseous necrosis was confirmed on histopathology. Conclusion: Female genital tuberculosis is associated with late presentation due to asymptomatic nature of disease. Hysteroscopy and laparoscopy with microbiological tests on samples taken during laparoscopy has made the diagnosis near to confirmatory. Correct and complete medical treatment gives good results.