Test Parameters Research Articles

Study of Babak River water quality using physical and chemical parameters in Kebon Kongok landfill (Lombok, Indonesia)

The study has been conducted on the water quality level of the Babak River around Kebon Kongok landfill, Lombok. This research was conducted considering that water has many benefits in the daily lives of people. This research uses an experimental method by analyzing physical parameters (temperature, conductivity, pH, and total dissolved solids (TDS)), and chemical parameters in the form of heavy metal content lead (Pb), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu)). Analysis results were compared with quality standards based on Ministry of Health Regulation No. 32 of 2017 concerning water quality. Based on the study, it was found that the farther the distance of water measured from the source of pollution, the value of the physical and chemical parameters of water will be smaller. Most of the physical parameter test results show the Babak River water quality is still at the safe threshold limit but there is 1 point of river water that is polluted due to the distance that is too close to the active zone. Chemical parameters show the results of heavy metal content below the threshold limit. Analysis of the water quality shows that the water is still in good condition, which is below the threshold set by the Indonesian government.

Extending the CWM approach to intraspecific trait variation: how to deal with overly optimistic standard tests?

Community weighted means (CWMs) are widely used to study the relationship between community-level functional traits and environment. For certain null hypotheses, CWM-environment relationships assessed by linear regression or ANOVA and tested by standard parametric tests are prone to inflated Type I error rates. Previous research has found that this problem can be solved by permutation tests (i.e., the max test). A recent extension of the CWM approach allows the inclusion of intraspecific trait variation (ITV) by the separate calculation of fixed, site-specific, and intraspecific CWMs. The question is whether the same Type I error rate inflation exists for the relationship between environment and site-specific or intraspecific CWM. Using simulated and real-world community datasets, we show that site-specific CWM-environment relationships have also inflated Type I error rate, and this rate is negatively related to the relative ITV magnitude. In contrast, for intraspecific CWM-environment relationships, standard parametric tests have the correct Type I error rate, although somewhat reduced statistical power. We introduce an ITV-extended version of the max test, which can solve the inflation problem for site-specific CWM-environment relationships and, without considering ITV, becomes equivalent to the "original" max test used for the CWM approach. We show that this new ITV-extended max test works well across the full possible magnitude of ITV on both simulated and real-world data. Most real datasets probably do not have intraspecific trait variation large enough to alleviate the problem of inflated Type I error rate, and published studies possibly report overly optimistic significance results.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION TOWARDS ORGANISATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Diversity and inclusion in the workforce are thought to benefit organizations because they increase the breadth of perspectives and areas of expertise. The aim of this research is to consolidate the diverse literature on workforce diversity and inclusion and to provide insights into potential future directions for workforce diversity management research. The review of workforce diversity and inclusion in the paper makes use of secondary data that was collected. The evaluation made it quite evident what the modern period means for diversity and inclusion in the workforce. The review's conclusions indicate that a substantial amount of study has been done on diversity and its effects. Further Since inclusion is a relatively new area of study, more research is required to fully understand its consequences. This study looks at how well literature reviews work to expand on what is already known about a particular topic and help researchers come up with ideas for new research directions. Originality/value: This study offers a theoretical framework for managing important diversity and building diverse companies. Quantitative data was collected using the non probability, self administated questionnaire that consisted of influencing factors are identified and also using parametric test (ANOVA, correlation) and non parametric test (U test, correlation,Run test) analysis tools suitable interpretation was found it make positive change. Key words: Diversity and inclusion, dimension, environmental challenges, strategies adoption, inclusive practices, engagement.

Numerical simulation of axially loaded circular concrete-filled steel tubular short columns with localized corrosion

Concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns are widely utilized in structures owing to their cost-effectiveness, high strength, ductility, and proven fire resistance. Despite these advantages, concerns persist regarding the performance of CFST columns with locally corroded steel tubes, impeding their widespread adoption in offshore structures. This research employs three-dimensional finite element (FE) simulations for circular CFST stub columns subjected to axial compression, validated against experimental data. Verification includes full load-displacement histories, ultimate axial strengths, and failure modes. The validated FE models are then employed to assess and compare the structural behavior of CFST columns with various shapes of localized corrosion, analyzing overall load-deformation curves, interaction stress-deformation responses, and composite actions. To acquire critical data for understanding stub column behavior, 81 specimens underwent non-linear finite element analysis, with local corrosion represented by artificial notches in steel tubes. Test parameters, such as notch orientations, lengths, depths, widths, and concrete compressive strength, are varied. Results elucidate the impacts of these parameters on different aspects of stub column responses with corroded steel tubes. Furthermore, the accuracy of existing design models in predicting the ultimate axial strengths of CFST columns with corroded steel tubes is assessed. Finally, through parametric analysis of test results, a practical model is proposed and verified for computing the peak resistance of a CFST stub column with a locally corroded steel tube.

Forensic evaluation of craniometric characteristics of the Kazakhstan population

BackgroundThe human skull is the part of the skeleton most frequently used in population studies, as it was more exposed to genetic factors and less exposed to environmental factors. The skull is an important component in human forensic identification. Materials and methodsThe craniometric characteristics of 186 male and 114 female skulls found on the territory of Kazakhstan were studied. Dimensions were measured using standard anthropometric methods and instruments. The results of measurements of 25 craniometric parameters are presented. Methods of descriptive and parametric statistics were used. ResultsStatistical analysis showed significant regional dimorphism, confirming theindividuality of the Kazakhstan population. Statistically significant deviations werefound in 6 male craniometric characteristics and 4 female craniometric characteristics(p<0.05). The most dimorphous variables for regional identification in Kazakhstanmales were the higher skull base and frontal chord width , full face height , condylarand bigonial width , and low mandibular body reference values (p<0.05). For females,significant statistical discrepancies were seen in the transverse diameter and skullbase width, mastoid and occipital aperture width (p<0.05). ConclusionThe recorded variations and changes in the morphology of the humanskull of the population of Kazakhstan indicate the need to develop and updateosteometric standards used in practice for specific populations. All this will significantlyimprove the accuracy of forensic identification and more fully study the biologicalpatterns of population formation, as well as evaluate the comparative effectiveness ofindividual features in the reconstruction of the population history of various populationgroups.

Rehabilitation of cardiological patients with post-COVID syndrome: morphofunctional data report

INTRODUCTION. Post-COVID is a common complication of COVID-19, occurring in more than a third of patients, and condition will persist for more than 3 months after infection with the SARS-CoV-2. AIM. To evaluate impact and potential effectiveness of a comprehensive physical rehabilitation program on health of cardiac patients with complications of a previously suffered new coronavirus infection SARS-CoV-2 COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study involved 128 cardiology patients with post-COVID syndrome. The study participants comprised three groups depending on the 12-week physical rehabilitation program. The effectiveness of rehabilitation was assessed through parameters of cardiopulmonary testing, as well as the 6-minute walk exercise test and the degree of dyspnea according to modified mMRC dyspnea questionnaire. RESULTS. The mMCR index in CPR group was 1.0 [0.0–1.0] point, compared with 2.0 [1.0–2.0] in control and comparative groups (p 0.05); exercise tolerance VO2max increased by 8.3 ± 3.8 % (p 0.05); normalization of heart rate and blood pressure in response to physical activity after 12 weeks in intervention group was 5.0 ± 2.1 % compared to comparative and control groups; 6MWT test results 688 m, in the intervention group, versus 490 m, for participants in control group (p 0.05). DISCUSSION. A comparative analysis of previously conducted studies confirmed pattern between the inclusion of combined cardiorespiratory training in the protocol for 12-week rehabilitation of post-COVID complications among cardiac patients, and a decrease in the degree of shortness of breath, as well as an increase in exercise tolerance. CONCLUSIONS. Based on experimental data obtained, it is advisable to analyze the effects of Cardiopulmonary Physical Rehabilitation program in the framework of larger randomized clinical trials. This will allow a more detailed assessment of the clinical consequences, as well as the ability to adjust mode and dose of physical activity of proposed rehabilitation program.

An insight from homogeneity testing of long-term rainfall datasets over East Java, Indonesia

Robust, reliable, and trustworthy ground observation datasets are the preliminary requirement for assessing the impact of climate change over regions. Principal testing to assess the quality of ground observation rely on the missing data and homogeneity result. The study used 40 years of monthly rainfall documented from different topographical features in the monsoonal region of East Java, Indonesia. The test included annual rainfall, early rainy season (October-November-December), and primary rain season (January-February-March). The homogeneity of rainfall determined by absolute technique: Pettitt’s test, the Standard Normal Homogeneity Test, the Buishand Rank Test, and the von Neumann Ratio. Among the time series, October-November-December observation results in better homogeneity. However, the rainfall datasets during primary rainy season showed the worst homogeneity. By performing annual and seasonal homogeneity test from 67 rainfall stations: 5 stations out of data length required, 5% stations ‘rejected’, 11% ‘suspect’, 11% ‘doubtful’, and 73% were ‘trusted’. Therefore, a total of 45 stations can be used as metadata for relative comparison and 7 stations can be considered to be useful for analysis despite ‘doubtful’. The remaining 10 stations need careful consideration to be used for future water management. Change point detected particularly between the year of 1997 through 2000. Pettitt’s test has outstanding results in the case of extreme climatic anomaly, but less sensitive of continuous abrupt change. The von Neumann test could detect abnormal data, but was not suitable for datasets containing few extreme values. The insights from homogeneity testing were: a) it is important to remove any outliers in the datasets before conducting homogeneity testing, b) both parametric and nonparametric homogeneity tests should be performed, and c) comparisons should be made with surrounding rainfall stations. Comparison with trusted long-term rainfall data is valuable for stations labeled as ‘doubtful’ or ‘suspect’ to mitigate false detections in individual homogeneity tests. The identified ‘useful’ rainfall data can then serve as reference stations for relative homogeneity tests. These findings suggest that reference stations should be assessed within similar rainfall zones.

Wear debris analysis of Al-Si/MWCNT nanocomposite during dry sliding wear tests

This study demonstrates the enhancement of wear resistance achieved by incorporating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in LM6 aluminum alloy to form nanocomposites. Experiments on wear resistance study were performed at different test parameters for various compositions of MWCNT in LM6 alloy. The size and nature of debris obtained post experiments were significantly dependent on the MWCNT contents. Wear resistance was found to increase with increase in the MWCNT fraction in the nanocomposite. The worn surface and the shape as well as the size of the debris were studied under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis of the worn surfaces was used to detect and measure the constituents present in the debris. SEM micrographs of the nanocomposites show that the features of the wear debris are completely altered when MWCNT was added. Further the wear mechanism underwent a change from oxidative in LM6 to that of ploughing in LM6 nanocomposite. The recorded surface roughness values also confirm the above findings and show significantly reduced surface roughness (∼82%, 0.75 wt% MWCNT). These results clearly demonstrate the advantage of addition of MWCNT for enhancing resistance to wear in LM6 alloys.

Slow biological microplastics removal under ocean pollution phase-out trajectories

Microplastics are ubiquitous in marine environments and can be incorporated into biological aggregates including marine snows and faecal pellets. These aggregates are suspected to be a major removal mechanism for microplastics from the surface ocean, transporting them to deeper levels and the seafloor as they sink and remineralise. However, simple budget calculations, observations, and model parameter testing suggest that aggregation might also lead to retention of microplastics in the upper ocean, sustaining contamination in biologically-productive environments. The ability of the biological microplastic sink to reduce water column contamination has relevance to the setting of ocean plastics pollution reduction targets, as are currently under negotiation by the International Negotiating Committee of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). Here we apply eight idealised global pollution reduction trajectories, from 1%–100% per year, starting from the year 2026 and ending in the year 2100 to an Earth System Climate Model with a representation of ocean microplastics and their aggregation in biological particles. We find that the global ocean microplastic inventory and surface concentrations stabilize within this century for reduction rates exceeding 5% per year but the inventory does not substantially decrease under any trajectory. Furthermore, microplastics are retained by marine biology in the surface ocean, where concentrations stabilise to a non-zero value over decades. Lastly we find that irrespective of scenario, contamination of deeper ocean layers continues to increase for the duration of our simulations via the export of microplastics by biological aggregates. These results suggest that ambitious targets for pollution reduction exceeding 5% per year will be required to progress the resolution of the UNEA to ‘end plastic pollution’ in this century, and that ongoing microplastic contamination of the marine food web may be unavoidable.

Effect of simulated clinical use and sterilization on the cyclic fatigue resistance of nickel titanium files.

Assess the effect of simulated clinical use and sterilization on the cyclic fatigue resistance of Race Evo and Tia Tornado Blue nickel titanium (NiTi) files. For this study, a total of sixty-four NiTi files were selected, with thirty-two files each from two different manufacturers. Files from each manufacturer were subdivided into four subgroups (n=8) based on the test parameters. The control groups included files that were neither used nor sterilized. Files from the test groups were used to prepare the root canals of extracted mandibular premolars and then sterilized. This procedure was repeated once, twice, or thrice, depending on the test group. All files were then subjected to a cyclic fatigue test. Data was statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. No significant difference was observed in the number of cycles to failure (NCF) among the subgroups for both types of files (P=0.869 for Tia Tornado Blue, P=0.626 for Race Evo). Tia Tornado Blue files displayed significantly higher NCF values in the control (P=0.021), once (P=0.027), and thrice (P=0.031) usage groups when compared to Race Evo files. Repeated clinical use and sterilization for up to three cycles did not affect the cyclic fatigue resistance of Race Evo and Tia Tornado Blue files.

#2287 Impact of renal reserve before donation in post-transplant renal function of donors and recipients

Abstract Background and Aims The influence of Renal Reserve (RR), i.e. its presence or absence, in post-transplant renal function both in living kidney donors and recipients is unknown. The presence of RR in donors may be beneficial in terms of better renal function both for the donor and recipient after transplantation. In the other hand, the absence of RR in donors might indicate a lower renal endowment and so predispose to lower GFR post-transplantation in donors and recipients. However, little evidence is available in this field. Method In a previous study (ERA Abstract 2023, #3737) we described in a group of 52 potential living kidney donors, the presence (24-46%), absence (13-25%) or use (15-29%) of RR before donation. The latter was defined as the lack of increase in GFR after stimulation in patients with basal GFR &amp;gt; 100 mL/min. GFR was measured before and after transplantation by the clearance of iohexol with dried blood spots. Presence of RR was defined as an increase &amp;gt;10% of basal GFR after IV amino acid infusion. GFR was unadjusted to body surface area (BSA). In this follow-up study we investigated the impact of the presence, absence or use of RR before donation in GFR 12 months after transplantation, both in donors and recipients. Results Of the 52 pairs of donors and recipients, renal transplantation was performed in 21 who also had 12 months of follow-up. Before transplantation 9 donors had RR, 4 did not and 8 had RR in use. Pre-transplant GFR was 95 ± 15 ml/min, 89 ± 6 ml/min and 127 ± 16 ml/min in donors with RR, without RR and with RR in use, respectively. At 12 months after kidney donation, GFR was higher in donors who had RR in use before donation: 79 ± 12 ml/min, compared with those with RR: 65 ± 9 ml/min (p = 0.048) and those without RR 59 ± 10 (p = 0.03). In recipients, GFR was comparable between those who had a donor with RR or RR in use: 72 ± 19 ml/min vs 68 ± 12 ml/min (p = ns), whereas both groups had higher GFR than those recipients whose donors had no RR before donation 53 ± 5 ml/min, although of borderline signification (p = 0.07). Non parametric tests were used. No major complications after transplantations such as rejections or surgical complications, etc, that could alter GFR were observed. Conclusion The presence or use of RR may determine a better renal function 12 months after donation both for donors and recipients. This is a preliminary study and we acknowledge that the low number of cases is a limitation and so, these results require further studies.

#1755 Cardio-protective effect of soy proteins during long-term consumption of Cynomolgus Monkeys high-saline diet

Abstract Background and Aims High salt intake is accompanied by the development of cardiovascular disorders, not always associated with an increase in blood pressure (BP). Recently, it has been found that the introduction of soy protein into the diet can have some nephroprotective and cardioprotective effects in chronic kidney disease. Considering the cardioprotective effect of soy proteins in chronic kidney disease, the question arose about the possibility of using soy proteins to neutralize the damaging effect of a high-salt diet on the cardiovascular system. This work aims to study the effect of long-term use of a diet high in NaCl and soy protein on myocardial remodeling in monkeys. Method The study was performed on male Macaca fascicularis. The animals were divided into three groups (6 animals each), comparable in weight and age (6-8 years, body weight - 5.15-9.7 kg). The control group received a standard diet (2 g NaCl/kg feed). The second was a high salt diet (8 g NaCl/kg feed), and the third was a high salt diet and SUPRO760 soy protein (200 g/kg feed). Echocardiography (EchoCG), registration of BP and heart rate were performed at baseline, after 4 and 12 months. EchoCG was performed with a sector transducer with a frequency of 3–5 MHz on the Chison SonoTouch 60 ultrasound system (China). EchoCG was performed in B_mode (two-dimensional scanning), M_mode (one-dimensional scanning), as well as in pulse and tissue Doppler modes. Statistical analysis was performed using parametric statistics: mixed ANOVA in comparing data from 3 study groups (with post hoc analysis using Tukey criterion) and single factor variance analysis for related samples in studying the dynamics of one or another index in each group during the 12-month follow-up. Differences were considered significant at p &amp;lt; 0.05. Results In animals of all three groups for 12 months, blood pressure (BPsis-109±10.09, BPdias – 60 ± 7.42 mm Hg) and heart rate (77 ± 12.61 min-1) did not change significantly (p&amp;gt;0. 05). However, in macaques on a high-salt diet, deterioration in left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function was noted by the end of the study. Macaques of this group had a decrease in the LV shortening fraction (27.9±2.69%) and an increase in the thickness of the posterior wall of the LV in systole (0.69±0.039 cm), LV mass (19.60±2.83 g), compared with animals additionally receiving soy proteins (34.9±6.57%; 0.57 0.0559 cm; 14.86±2.94 g, respectively; all p &amp;lt; 0.05). In addition, the monkeys receiving soy isolate did not differ from the control in these parameters. By the time the study was completed, the animals in this group had significantly increased the magnitude of systolic excursion of the mitral annulus plane, and signs of improvement in LV diastolic function appeared in the form of an increase in the maximum rate of excursion of the mitral valve fibrous annulus in early diastole, as well as a decrease in the E/e' ratio. The thickness of the interventricular septum also decreased (0.42±0.04 cm; in the high-salt group - 0.51±0.08 cm), which can be interpreted as a sign of positive myocardial remodeling. Conclusion Thus, high salt intake leads to adverse structural and functional disorders of the heart in cynomolgus monkeys, not associated with an increase in blood pressure. The inclusion of soy isolate in the diet reduces the negative effects of a high-salt diet on the cardiovascular system.

Morphometric Study of Lumbar Vertebral Pedicles by Using Computed Tomography among Adults in Kano, Nigeria

Abstract Context: Precise anatomical knowledge of lumbar pedicle dimensions is necessary to make a clinical diagnosis of lower back pain, and any structural deviation of the pedicles may result in interference with the weight transmission mechanism and compression of neural structures. Aim: To evaluate the morphometric dimensions of lumbar vertebral pedicles among normal adults in Kano by using computerized tomography scan images. Materials and Method: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study that was conducted in the radiology department of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). This study was conducted over 1 year and included 110 adults aged 18–75 years involving both sexes in Kano, using their CT scan images from L1 to L5, following IRB ethics approval. Each vertebral pedicle was measured in transverse and sagittal planes. The measurements included the pedicle width (PW), sagittal pedicle height (SPH), and the pedicle chord length (PCL) of individual pedicles. The mean and standard deviations for each measurement parameter were determined, and parametric correlation tests were performed to determine the relationships between age, sex, and ethnicity. Statistical Analysis Used: Data analysis was performed using the statistical software package IBM SPSS Statistics version-23 for Windows. The significance level was considered at P &lt; 0.05. Results: Mean PW size increased craniocaudally along the lumbar spine from L1 (7.49 ± 1.52 mm) to L5 (14.31 ± 1.93 mm). A gradual decrease in mean SPH sizes from L1 (14.53 ± 1.32 mm) to L5 (11.73 ± 1.38 mm) was noted, while mean PCL showed an irregular “U” pattern, with the smallest size at L4 (44.63 ± 3.42 mm) and highest at L2 (46.80 ± 3.85 mm). All measured dimensions were significantly higher in the right pedicles and among male subjects (P &lt; 0.05). Age and ethnicity did not consistently affect pedicle dimensions (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: This study observed right pedicle dimensions and male subjects as having significantly larger pedicle diameters, with age and ethnicity not having a significant effect on pedicle sizes across all vertebral levels.

#1860 Oral semaglutide in diabetic kidney transplant recipients: Evaluating effectiveness and safety

Abstract Background and Aims Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) have demonstrated cardiovascular and renal benefits in obese diabetic patients. However, the evidence for oral semaglutide in kidney transplant (KT) patients is very limited. Our study aims to analyze the effectiveness and safety of oral semaglutide in diabetic KT patients. Method Retrospective cohort study of KT with diabetes who started oral semaglutide in 3 Spanish hospitals (Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Jerez de la Frontera University Hospital and Puerto Real University Hospital) between December 2021 and December 2023. None of them had previously received subcutaneous GLP1-RA. Clinical and demographic variables were analyzed. Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), proteinuria, and weight were collected at the start of the treatment and after 6 and 12 months. We analyze glycemic control, blood pressure, lipid profile and trough level, dose and C/D ratio of tacrolimus. Acute rejections (AR), de novo donor-specific antibodies (dnDSA) and adverse effects were documented. Parametric and non-parametric tests were performed according to the normality of the sample. Results In this period, 22 KT with DM started treatment with oral Semaglutide, of which 16 patients completed follow-up for 6 months and 11 patients for 1 year. Fourteen (63.6%) had developed post-transplant DM. The mean age was 61 years, and 77% were men. The mean baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 46.1 ml/min/1.73 m2, the baseline body mass index was 34.7 kg/m2 and the median KT vintage was 45 months. Three patients were on treatment with SGLT2i at the start of the drug. Variables compared during the follow-up are shown in Table 1. Four patients (18%) suffered gastrointestinal side effects. No dnDSA were documented during follow-up. One episode of AR was documented after drug initiation. Conclusions We show the longest series of oral semaglutide in KT patients. Our results support that it can be a good option for managing DM in KT, especially in obese patients.

Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of acne treatment with systemic isotretinoin in monotherapy and together with combined oral contraceptives in women

Objective. To give a comparative evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of acne treatment with systemic isotretinoin in monotherapy and together with combined oral contraceptives in women. Materials and methods. 65 women with severe papulo-pustular acne took part in the study. They were divided into two groups: group I consisted of 35 women who used systemic isotretinoin for acne in monotherapy; group II included 30 women who took systemic isotretinoin together with combined oral contraceptives. A comprehensive clinical and laboratory study was conducted. The study included a biochemical blood test to determine the lipid profile, liver transaminases, and hormonal homeostasis. The obtained results were analyzed using the methods of parametric and nonparametric statistics, the standard error (m) was used in the calculations, the level of statistical significance was noted at p 0.05. Results. In women treated for acne with systemic isotretinoin in monotherapy relief occurs in 4 weeks, and complete clinical recovery in 24 weeks after the beginning of therapy; when using systemic isotretinoin together with combined oral contraceptives, relief is determined in 2 weeks, and complete clinical recovery in 16 weeks of treatment. The main side effects of systemic isotretinoin were cheilitis, skin xerosis, retinoic dermatitis and telogen alopecia. Cheilitis was revealed in the majority of patients in both groups equally. Xerosis of the skin, retinoic dermatitis and telogen alopecia were more often observed in the 1st group. In women of the 1st group, the level of progesterone was significantly higher and the level of estradiol was lower than in women of the 2nd group. Conclusions. Systemic isotretinoin has shown high efficacy and safety in treatment for acne in women. Combined oral contraceptives normalize hormonal homeostasis, which helps to eliminate acne. When using systemic isotretinoin in combination with combined oral contraceptives, the main clinical effect occurs earlier, and adverse reactions are less frequent and less severe than in monotherapy. The combined use of systemic isotretinoin and combined oral contraceptives is the optimal method of acne treatment in women.

#3029 Vitamin D-binding protein: a candidate biomarker for CKD progression

Abstract Background and Aims The toxic effects of filtered proteins on the tubules cause a more rapid progression of disease in individuals with higher levels of proteinuria, suggesting the presence of “high-risk candidate” proteins that could contribute to CKD progression. In our previous cross-sectional proteomic study, vitamin D-binding protein (VTDB) showed a significant association with kidney function. However, its persistent expression as a urinary protein in CKD patients remains unknown. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the persistent expression of VTDB in CKD patients and healthy controls during the follow-up period. Method The urinary proteomics was investigated using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in 18 follow-up CKD patients with stages 1-3 and 15 follow-up healthy individuals. Data analysis was performed by Mascot-SwissProt and STATA software. Parametric and nonparametric statistics were used to analyze results and the relationship between baseline characteristics and proteomic profile. Exponentially Modified Protein Abundance Index (emPAI) was used to estimate peptide count of proteins. Results The participant's baseline characteristics are presented in Table 1. The median (IQR) follow-up time for all participants was 368 (250-472) days. A statistically significant difference was found in the initial emPAI of VTDB between the HC and CKD groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the follow-up emPAI of VTDB between the two groups. Notably, emPAI values of VTDP decreased over the follow-up period compared to the initial values. Correlation analysis (Table 2) showed that the elevated levels of urinary VTDB emPAI are associated with decreased levels of initial and follow-up eGFR. A higher negative percentage change (a decline in eGFR over time) was also associated with elevated levels of VTDB protein over the follow-up period. Also, urinary VTDP protein has demonstrated a significant positive correlation with 24 h proteinuria. Conclusion In this proteomics study cohort, we observed persistent expression of urinary VTDB protein during the follow-up period in CKD patients compared to healthy controls. Additionally, a statistically significant negative correlation between VTDB protein and eGFR was observed. These findings need further validation using different measurement tools for urinary VTDB assessments and in a larger cohort of CKD patients. Declaration We have no conflict of interest to disclose.

Safety and Effectiveness of Liv.52 DS in Patients With Varied Hepatic Disorders: An Open-Label, Multi-centre, Phase IV Study.

Background The hepatoprotective function of polyherbal formulation Liv.52 in chronic liver diseases is well recognized in published literature. The objective of this open-label, phase IV study was to further strengthen and validate its safety and effectiveness using a large patient pool in a real-world scenario and provide scientific data on symptomatic improvement and supportive treatment in liver function with improvement in quality of life. Methods Adult patients of either sex with one or more clinical symptoms like fatigue, nausea, anorexia, abdominal pain or discomfort, muscle cramps, jaundice, or any other signs and symptoms with a history suggestive of mild-to-moderate hepatic disorders like alcoholic liver disease (ALD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), drug-induced hepatotoxicity, or hepatitis were treated with two Liv.52 DS tablets (oral) twice daily for 12 weeks. Results Out of the 1000 enrolled patients, 962 (96%) completed the study with the following subgroups ALD: 375 (38.9%), NAFLD: 379 (39.3%), drug-induced hepatotoxicity: 78 (8.1%), hepatitis: 130 (13.5%). The mean age of enrolled patients was 37.7 years, and the majority of them, 785 (78.5%) were men. The common adverse events observed (with >1.5% incidence) in the study were abdominal pain: 26 (2.6%) and headache: 17 (1.7%). Liv.52 showed statistically significant improvement (P<0.0001) in various clinical signs and symptoms in the majority of patients namely, fatigue: 357/723 (49%), anorexia: 485/620 (78.2%), jaundice: 48/52 (92%). Majority of the patients showed significant improvements from baseline to end of 12 weeks in the liver function test parameters namely, aspartate aminotransferase: 633/840 (75.36%), alanine aminotransferase: 592/729 (81.21%), serum bilirubin: 244/347 (70.32%), alkaline phosphatase: 279/355 (78.59%) with P<0.0001 for all parameters. Statistically significant improvement (P<0.005) was also seen in all the components of the chronic liver disease questionnaire (CLDQ) scores from baseline to 12 weeks. Conclusions The study demonstrated that Liv.52 was hepatoprotective and well tolerated in the study population after treatment for 12 weeks. Significant improvements were seen in clinical signs and symptoms, laboratory parameters of liver function, and CLDQ scores from baseline to 12 weeks. No significant or new safety signals emerged from this study.

Factors associated with improved outcomes in the first psychotic episode at a specialized outpatient clinic in northeastern Brazil.

The present study aimed to evaluate data from patients admitted to the first-episode psychotic (FEP) outpatient clinic at the Hospital of Clinics of the Federal University of Pernambuco from July 2018 to July 2021, seeking to identify factors related to better clinical outcomes. This study was conducted using a convenience sample, including all patients between 15 and 65 years of age who were admitted to the FEP outpatient clinic from July 2018 to July 2021. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using mean and standard deviation or median and interquartile range for continuous quantitative variables, and absolute number/percentage for qualitative variables. Paired T-test, a parametric test, was used to compare PANSS scores upon admission and after 6 months. Spearman's correlation test was employed to assess the correlation between duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) and treatment response with other variables. The sample consisted of 85.3% male individuals, with 50% of patients aged between 19 and 30 years, and 82% residing in the metropolitan area of Recife. Seventy percent of patients responded to the treatment implemented by the outpatient clinic, and only 30% required psychiatric hospitalization within 6 months of follow-up. The majority of patients had a history of psychoactive substance use (82.4%); however, the use of these substances did not impact the prognosis within the analysed sample. The median DUP was 4 weeks, and a shorter DUP was associated with a lower probability of psychiatric hospitalization and a greater treatment response (reduction >50% in PANSS). A shorter DUP was associated with a lower likelihood of psychiatric hospitalization and a greater treatment response. Furthermore, the specialized early psychosis outpatient clinic itself appears to yield positive outcomes, as 70% of the treated patients exhibited a positive treatment response.

The profile of steroid hormones in human fetal and adult ovaries.

Reproduction in women is at risk due to exposure to chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system during different windows of sensitivity throughout life. Steroid hormone levels are fundamental for the normal development and function of the human reproductive system, including the ovary. This study aims to elucidate steroidogenesis at different life-stages in human ovaries. We have developed a sensitive and specific LC-MS/MS method for 21 important steroid hormones and measured them at different life stages: in media from cultures of human fetal ovaries collected from elective terminations of normally progressing pregnancy and in media from adult ovaries from Caesarean section patients, and follicular fluid from women undergoing infertility treatment. Statistically significant differences in steroid hormone levels and their ratios were calculated with parametric tests. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to explore clustering of the ovarian-derived steroidogenic profiles. Comparison of the 21 steroid hormones revealed clear differences between the various ovarian-derived steroid profiles. Interestingly, we found biosynthesis of both canonical and "backdoor" pathway steroid hormones and corticosteroids in first and second trimester fetal and adult ovarian tissue cultures. 17α-estradiol, a less potent naturally occurring isomer of 17β-estradiol, was detected only in follicular fluid. PCA of the ovarian-derived profiles revealed clusters from: adult ovarian tissue cultures with relatively high levels of androgens; first trimester and second trimester fetal ovarian tissue cultures with relatively low estrogen levels; follicular fluid with the lowest androgens, but highest corticosteroid, progestogen and estradiol levels. Furthermore, ratios of specific steroid hormones showed higher estradiol/ testosterone and estrone/androstenedione (indicating higher CYP19A1 activity, p < 0.01) and higher 17-hydroxyprogesterone/progesterone and dehydroepiandrosterone /androstenedione (indicating higher CYP17A1 activity, p < 0.01) in fetal compared to adult ovarian tissue cultures. Human ovaries demonstrate de novo synthesis of non-canonical and "backdoor" pathway steroid hormones and corticosteroids. Elucidating the steroid profiles in human ovaries improves our understanding of physiological, life-stage dependent, steroidogenic capacity of ovaries and will inform mechanistic studies to identify endocrine disrupting chemicals that affect female reproduction.

Normality Analysis of Numeric Rating Scale Scores in Patients with Chronic Axial Spine Pain Before and After Medial Branch Blocks: a Multicenter Study.

The statistical analysis typically employed to compare pain both before and after interventions assumes scores are normally distributed. The present study evaluates whether Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), specifically the NRS-11, scores are indeed normally distributed in a clinically-relevant cohort of adults with chronic axial spine pain pre- and post-analgesic intervention. Retrospective review from four academic medical centers of prospectively collected data from a uniform pain diary administered to consecutive patients after undergoing medial branch blocks. The pain diary assessed NRS-11 scores immediately pre-injection and at 12 different time points post-injection up to 48 hours. D'Agostino-Pearson tests were used to test normality at all time points. One hundred fifty pain diaries were reviewed and despite normally distributed pre-injection NRS-11 scores (K2 = 0.655, p = 0.72), all post-injection NRS-11 data was not normally distributed (K2 = 9.70- 17.62, p = 0.0001-0.008). Although the results of parametric analyses of NRS-11 scores are commonly reported in pain research, some properties of NRS-11 do not satisfy the assumptions required for these analyses. The data demonstrate non-normal distributions in post-intervention NRS-11 scores, thereby violating a key requisite for parametric analysis. We urge pain researchers to consider appropriate statistical analysis and reporting for non-normally distributed NRS-11 scores to ensure accurate interpretation and communication of these data. Practicing pain physicians should similarly recognize that parametric post-intervention pain score statistics may not accurately describe the data and should expect manuscripts to utilize measures of normality to justify the selected statistical methods.