Test Variables Research Articles

Key factors influencing cycling performance and overall race time in the Ironman 70.3 for amateur athletes

Abstract Purpose Previous study has shown that cycling is the most predictive modality in the Ironman 70.3 triathlon distance. As a result, understanding the physiological and anthropometric variables that are mostly closely related to cycling performance can help coaches and athletes to direct their training programs. This study aimed to investigate the physiological, anthropometric, and general training characteristics influencing overall race time and cycling split time in Ironman 70.3. The present study also investigated the significance of body composition as a performance-related variable. Methods A questionnaire was used to assess training characteristics in 12 athletes (six men and six women), body composition in dual X-ray absorptiometry, and physiological variables in an incremental cardiopulmonary test. Ironman 70.3 São Paulo–Brazil 2023 was completed by all participants. The relationship between performance and the variables measured were investigated, and a multiple regression model for cycling split time and overall race time was developed. Results Functional threshold power (FTP) can predict cycling split time in Ironman 70.3 (r2 = 0.638, p = 0.002). Maximal oxygen uptake ($$\dot{\text{V}}$$ V ˙ O2max) (r2 = 0.667, p = 0.001) can predict overall race time. FTP and $$\dot{\text{V}}$$ V ˙ O2max are also strongly related to lean mass and fat mass percentage. Conclusion While FTP is the most important predictor of cycling split time, $$\dot{\text{V}}$$ V ˙ O2max is the most important predictor of overall race time in an Ironman 70.3. Furthermore, because body composition (fat mass %) and muscle mass (kg) are variables strongly related to FTP and $$\dot{\text{V}}$$ V ˙ O2max, we recommend that coaches and athletes consider to conduct a body composition assessment.

Multi-algorithm for predicting the level accuracy of fault output in software

Software fault output refers to software errors found by testers during the software testing process. Software testing is an overly critical stage in software development; hence, a software testing model is required to systematically classify software errors. For the process of classifying software fault output, accuracy measurements are needed to predict manual fault outputs compared to algorithm-generated fault outputs. Algorithmic methods can be used to measure the accuracy of fault output. The main objective of this research was to compare different algorithms for predicting the accuracy of fault output on a dataset derived from past software testing. The findings indicate that the neural network algorithm outperforms SVM, MLP, RF, and MNB algorithms, achieving 98% accuracy when using 10 software testing variables (function, interface, structure, performance, requirement, documentation, positive, negative, basis path, and times) to predict expected fault outputs.

Prediction of Major Adverse Coronary Events Using the Coronary Risk Score in Women.

Purpose To establish a COronary Risk Score in WOmen (CORSWO) to predict major adverse coronary events (MACE). Materials and Methods This retrospective analysis included 2226 female individuals (mean age, 66.7 years ± 11.6 [SD]) from a cohort of 25 943 consecutive patients referred for clinical gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (gSPECT MPI). During the follow-up (mean, 4 years ± 2.7) after gSPECT MPI, occurrence of MACE (unstable angina requiring hospitalization, nonfatal myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, cardiac death) was assessed. The patients were divided into training (n = 1460) and validation (n = 766) groups. To obtain the predictor model, multiple Cox regression analyses were performed. Results In the training group, 148 female individuals had MACE (2.6% per year). The best model (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]: 0.80 [95% CI: 0.74, 0.83]; Brier score: 0.08) to predict MACE in female individuals included the following variables: age older than 69 years (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.58, P = .01), diabetes mellitus (HR: 1.47, P = .03), pharmacologic test (HR: 1.63, P = .01), ST-segment depression (≥1 mm) (HR: 2.02, P < .001), myocardial ischemia greater than 5% (HR: 2.21, P < .001), perfusion defect at rest greater than 9% (HR: 1.96, P = .009), perfusion defect at stress greater than 6% (HR: 1.63, P = .03), and end-systolic volume index greater than 15 mL (HR: 2.04, P < .001). During validation, the model achieved moderate performance (AUC: 0.78 [95% CI: 0.70, 0.83]). CORSWO obtained from these variables allowed for stratification of female individuals into four risk levels: low (score: 0-3, HR: 1), moderate (score: 4-6, HR: 1.58), high (score: 7-11, HR: 4.13), and very high (score: >11, HR: 13.87). The high and very high risk levels (HR: 5.29) predicted MACE in female individuals, with excellent performance (AUC: 0.78 [95% CI: 0.72, 0.80]). Conclusion With clinical, stress test, and gSPECT MPI variables, CORSWO effectively stratified female individuals according to coronary risk and was able to detect those with high and very high risk. Keywords: SPECT, Cardiac, Coronary Arteries, Women, Risk Stratification, Cardiac Event, CORSWO, MACE, Gated SPECT Supplemental material is available for this article. ©RSNA, 2024.

Experimental and numerical investigation on layered UHPC beams incorporated with recycled macro fibers

The high cost of production is a major hindrance to the wider use of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). Recently, the authors’ group has proposed to replace expensive steel fibers in UHPC using macro fibers mechanically recycled from the solid waste of glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP). Such a concept has been justified by a series of tests, whose results indicate that the recycled macro fibers are effective in mitigating the development of cracks. However, a somewhat negative impact on UHPC strength would be generated by macro fibers. To lower the negative effect on concrete strength at the compression area and further increase the added value of macro fibers, this paper attempted to employ the layered UHPC structure, in which only the tension layer was reinforced with macro fibers. A total of 30 layered UHPC beam specimens were prepared and tested. The test variables comprised of the thickness of the bottom layer and the macro fiber volume fraction within the bottom layer. In addition, the fiber re-arrangement analysis was performed. The results revealed that, under the layer thickness of 50 mm, when the macro fiber volume fraction increased from 2 % to 6 %, the flexural toughness increased from 58.87 to 136.59 J (132.02 % enhancement). The maximum fiber efficiency was reached at the group with a fiber fraction of 2 % and a bottom layer thickness of 50 mm. Furthermore, numerical simulation was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the tensile constitutive relation of UHPMFRC in the layered structure. The results indicated that it could not be directly used as model input in the numerical simulation of layered UHPMFRC structures when a strong fiber alignment effect was exhibited.

Shear strengthening effects of core-filling method for hollow-core slabs considering relative slip

Core-filling method has been actively utilized to improve the shear capacity of hollow-core slabs (HCSs). However, when a high shear force is applied, slip may occur at the interface between HCS unit and core-filling concrete due to a poor bond condition, which can significantly reduce the shear strengthening effect of the core-filling method. Nevertheless, there has been no relevant research that quantitatively measured the slip between HCS unit and core-filling concrete and investigated its impact on the reduction of shear capacity. Therefore, in this study, shear tests were performed on a total of six HCS specimens reinforced with core-filling concrete, where the compressive strength of core-filling concrete and the number of filled cores were set as the key test variables. During shear testing, the slip between HCS unit and core-filling concrete was measured so that the effect of slip on the shear capacity was discussed in detail. In addition, the shear capacities of the specimens were evaluated based on the structural codes and the partial interaction shear capacity model (PISCM) proposed by the authors in previous research. The test and analysis results indicated that, as the compressive strength of core-filling concrete or the number of filled cores increased, the shear capacity of HCS tended to increase. However, when slip occurred at the interface of filled cores, the improvement of shear capacity was reduced, suggesting that the shear strengthening effect of the core-filling method cannot be fully expected unless the composite performance of the HCS unit and filled cores is secured.

Comparison between VO2 max and serum lactate levels of male body builders and non-body builders in Pakistan

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Volume oxygen maximum (VO2max) is a measure of physical fitness and athletic performance. Lactate accumulation during exercise occurs when anaerobic metabolism predominates. There is a difference of opinion among researchers on the intensity of exercise needed to cause this release and whether lactate levels play a role in it. The study aims to determine the effect of VO2max on the circulatory lactate levels and assess the comparison between the two parameters in male bodybuilders steroid non-users. METHODOLOGY: This study was conducted at the exercise physiology laboratory at the Postgraduate medical institute (PGMI) Lahore, Pakistan. The study involved 20 healthy male subjects within the age range of 20 to 35 years recruited through convenient non-probability sampling. Group I: non-bodybuilders, Group II: bodybuilders not using anabolic steroids. All participants underwent a graded exercise test on cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) equipment up till exhaustion for VO2max assessment. Blood sampling was done pre and post-exercise (80% of VO2max) to measure blood lactate levels. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 23. Mean ± SD was calculated for quantitative variables. Paired t-test was used for comparison for pre- and post-exercise test variables. p-value &lt;0.05 taken as statistically significant. RESULTS: Bodybuilders achieved a significantly higher VO2max as compared to non-bodybuilders (p &lt;0.001). Blood lactate levels increased significantly in all the study groups at an exercise intensity of 80% of VO2max (p &lt;0.001). CONCLUSION: Exercise intensity of 80% of VO2max is sufficient for the significant increase in blood lactate levels.

Investigation on bond behavior of GFRP bar embedded in ultra-high performance polyoxymethylene fiber reinforced concrete

The combination of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and polyoxymethylene (POM) fiber reinforced ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) can create a structural system with excellent service performance and exceptional durability. Bond is a critical factor affecting the service performance of structures constructed using GFRP bars and POM fiber reinforced UHPC. Therefore, this paper investigates the bond behavior between GFRP bar and POM fiber reinforced UHPC by using a direct pull-out test. The test variables were reinforcement type, volume fraction of POM fiber, embedment length, diameter of reinforcement, thickness of concrete cover, and compressive strength of concrete. The effects of these test variables on the failure mode, bond stress-slip curve and bond strength of GFRP bar with POM fiber reinforced UHPC were discussed. The test results revealed that the volume fraction of POM fibers and the reinforcement diameter have barely effect on the bond strength. The bond strength initially increases with increasing concrete cover thickness, and then plateaus after the concrete cover thickness reaches 3.35 times the reinforcement diameter. Furthermore, a predictive model for bond strength of GFRP reinforced UHPC specimens was proposed and validated using test data from other literature. A general bond-slip constitutive model was established to accurately describe the bond-slip relationship of GFRP bar and UHPC.

Software Quality Assessment Model: A New Approach for Software Testing Tools

The process of software testing is a crucial phase in determining the quality of software, and this phase requires significant costs and a considerable amount of time for testers. This paper discusses the development of a framework for software quality assessment, involving flexible choices of software testing methods and variables in the form of an application. The method used is experimental, developing a new framework based on previous research, where previous research was limited to specific methods and testing variables. The result of this research is the creation of a new framework for software quality assessment. It is hoped that this framework can serve as a reference for software companies in evaluating software quality. In terms of complexity, this framework has the advantage of allowing a tester to choose methods with more flexible or unlimited testing variables. Regarding the estimated time and costs, with [Formula: see text], the practical application complexity of the developed framework is estimated to have the best costs, time and human resources at IDR 254,240,000, with an estimated time of 3,178 work hours and 6,356 work hours with a team of 3 people.

Is Countermovement Jump an Indirect Marker of Neuromuscular Mechanism? Relationship with Isometric Knee Extension Test.

Several studies have shown that force application is influenced by different neuromuscular mechanisms depending on the time of force application analysis in isometric knee extension test (IKE), and a countermovement jump (CMJ) has contributions from knee extension, so some CMJ variables could be indicators of such mechanisms. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the level of relationship of variables of IKE and bilateral CMJ tests. Methods: Male college soccer players (n = 25; corporal mass = 72 ± 8 kg; height = 171 ± 5 cm; age = 22 ± 2 years) performed the IKE at two angles (60° and 75°) on an isokinetic machine and the CMJ on two uniaxial force platforms. To determine the level of relationship, Pearson's correlation coefficient was analyzed between the test variables. Results: Trivial to moderate correlations (r = -0.45 to 0.62; p < 0.05) were found between CMJ variables and IKE in both knee angles (60° and 75°); Conclusions: The variables of IKE have a trivial to moderate correlation with the variables of CMJ, so the variables of CMJ could not be considered interchangeably with those of IKE and therefore considered indicators of neuromuscular mechanisms isolated from the knee extensor function. Longitudinal design (fatigue or training protocols) should be realized to corroborate these results.

Impact of glucagon-Like peptide-1 agonists in optimizing abdominal wall Reconstruction patients.

Pre-optimization of obese patients prior to abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is essential in mitigating their increased preoperative risks. Traditionally diet, exercising, bariatric surgery are the tools typically prescribed for weight loss. The advent of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1A) which stimulate insulin secretion and inhibit gastric emptying have improved the weight loss armamentarium. However, there is a limited amount of literature on GLP-1A effectiveness and postoperative outcomes in AWR patients. This study compares the efficacy of GLP-1A to Bariatric Surgery (BAS) in perioperative AWR patient. A prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed to identify all patients undergoing AWR at our institution between January 2021 and March 2024. We included patients who required GLP-1A or BAS for weight optimization prior to AWR. We excluded patients on GLP1-A or history BAS not performed for AWR preoptimization. Basic demographics such as age, sex, race, weight and BMI at initial clinic visit and at surgery were compared. Primary endpoints included time to surgery, time to bowel recovery and length of stay (LOS). Time to surgery was defined as the number of months between the initial clinic visit and AWR. Time to bowel recovery was defined as the number of days it took for the first postoperative bowel function. Secondary endpoints included standard 30-days postoperative variables. Nominal variables were analyzed using a Fisher exact test and continuous variables were analyzed with Student's T test. 35 patients were included in this study (GLP-1A: 17, BAS: 18). The GLP-1A cohort had a lesser BMI at the initial clinic visit (40.8 vs 43.4, p = 0.188). GLP-1A cohort made it to the operating room faster (9.1 months vs 13.5 months, p = 0.06) from the first clinic visit; and (7.9 months vs 9.7 months, p = 0.4) from initiation of weight loss intervention. Albeit losing less weight (14.9 kg vs 27.1 kg, p = 0.008) with a lesser reduction in the BMI (4.69 vs 9.23, p = 0.004). The GLP-1A cohort showed a non-significant elevated LOS (5.2 days vs 3.6 days, p = 0.25) and an increased ileus rate (17.6% vs 0%, p = 0.1). However, there were no differences noted in time to bowel recovery (2.9 days vs 3.1 days, p = 0.76). GLP-1A is effective in optimizing patients needing weight loss before AWR. They shorten the timeline to AWR intervention and have comparable peri-operative outcomes to BAS patients.

A Comparison of Clinical and Laboratory Features in Neonatal Proven Sepsis and COVID-19

Background: The clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in neonates are generally mild and commonly require only supportive treatment. However, it is important to note that they can sometimes present with symptoms like bacterial sepsis, which can lead to confusion in diagnosis. In this study, our objective was to compare laboratory data and clinical manifestations between 2 groups to identify opportunities for reducing the unnecessary use of antibiotics. Methods: The study was conducted as a cross-sectional study between January 2020 and 2023 on neonates who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit or the neonatal ward of Children’s Medical Center in Tehran, Iran. We specifically compared the laboratory data and clinical characteristics of neonates who tested positive for either a blood culture or a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for COVID-19. Results: Sixty-seven neonates in COVID-19 group and 68 neonates in the bacterial sepsis group entered. Prominent symptoms in the bacterial sepsis group include vomiting, seizure, apnea, mottling, increased need for ventilation and laboratory findings showing elevated levels of C-reactive protein and thrombocytopenia. In the COVID-19 group, patient exhibit symptoms such as cough, diarrhea, fever and laboratory findings that indicate neutropenia and leukopenia. Symptoms of nervous involvement were rare in this group. Conclusion: It is crucial to carefully assess the symptoms, laboratory results and overall condition of the patient before deciding on antibiotic initiation. By combining rapid COVID-19 testing and clinical variables, it is possible to identify low-risk infants who are unlikely to have bacterial infections.

Influence of nano‐silica particles on fracture features of recycled aggregate concrete using boundary effect method: Experiments and prediction models

AbstractThe aim of this investigation is to assess the impact of using nano‐silica (Na) at varying weight percentages of 0%, 1.5%, 3%, 4.5%, and 6% as partial cement substitute on fracture parameters of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). A servo‐controlled testing system was employed to carry out three‐point flexure tests on 90 notched beams. Boundary effect method was used in order to interpret the fracture features. The results illustrate that adding Na increases the size‐independent fracture energy, fracture toughness and initial fracture energy of RAC by 29%, 32%, and 24% compared to that without Na, respectively. The maximum values of these parameters occur at 4.5% Na. The reference crack length () decreases from 6% to 22% by adding 1.5% to 6% Na. This shows that the RAC gets more brittle by the addition of Na. Moreover, the RAC behavior moves towards linear elastic fracture mechanics criteria by adding Na. Finally, according to the mechanical properties and test variables, multivariable models were suggested for prediction of the fracture parameters of the RAC containing Na. The models predictions were compared with experimental findings of the previous research.

PENGARUH KINERJA KEUANGAN TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN (Studi pada Perusahaan Sektor Properti dan Real Estate yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2022-2023)

The worth of a firm is a crucial element. This is because it can reflect how well a corporation performs. Company performance consists of various components, one of which is financial performance. Investors often use financial performance as a parameter when making stock investment decisions. This study aimed to prove whether financial performance affects the value of companies in the property and real estate sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2022-2023. The population observed in this study is all companies in the property and real estate sector listed on the Indonesia stock exchange for 2022-2023. The sample collection uses certain criteria better known as purposive sampling, so there are 60 sample companies, and the total research data is 120. The analysis method is done by applying the classical assumption test and multiple linear analysis, with a decision stating that the data is normally distributed and free from all symptoms of basic assumptions in regression analysis. Hypothesis testing reveals that partial results of liquidity, profitability, and activity variables can affect firm value, while solvency variables cannot affect firm value. For simultaneous testing, liquidity, solvency, profitability, and activity variables can affect firm value. The outcomes of this study are expected to participate in the development of financial theory which will certainly help enrich the understanding of how firm financial elements influence value and can accommodate financial analysts in making more informed decisions.

Oat polar lipids and sunflower lecithin similarly improve cardiometabolic risk markers and appetite controlling hormone responses after breakfast and a subsequent lunch. A randomized crossover study in healthy adults.

The alarming global increase in lifestyle-related disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased during the last several decades. Poor dietary choices significantly contribute to this increase and prevention measures are urgently needed. Dietary intake of bioactive compounds found in foods are linked to a decrease likelihood of these disorders. For this purpose, a randomized crossover meal study was performed to compare the postprandial metabolic effects of lecithin and oat polar lipids in healthy subjects. Eighteen young healthy subjects ingested test meals enriched with lecithin, oat polar lipids (PLs) or rapeseed oil. There were four test meals (i) 15 g oat polar lipids: OPL, (ii) 18 g sunflower lecithin (of which 15 g were polar lipids): LPL, (iii) 18 g rapeseed oil: RSO, and (iv) reference white wheat bread: WWB. Lipid-enriched test meals contained equivalent amounts of total fat (18 g), and all breakfast meals contained 50 g available carbohydrates. The meals were served as breakfast followed by a standardised lunch (white wheat bread and meat balls) after 3.5 h. Test variables were measured at fasting and repeatedly during 5.5 h after ingestion of the breakfast. Our study demonstrated that both LPL and OPL had beneficial effects on postprandial glucose and insulin responses, and appetite regulating gut hormones, as compared to RSO and WWB. Significant increase in GLP-1, GIP, and PYY concentrations were seen after consuming breakfast meals with LPL and OPL, and ghrelin concentration was reduced compared to meals with RSO and WWB (p < 0.05). Furthermore, triglycerides (TG) concentration was significantly reduced after OPL compared to RSO (p < 0.05). Our data show that there were no significant variations in glycaemic and insulin responses, TG, and gut hormone concentrations between LPL and OPL during breakfast (0-210 min) or over the whole study period (0-330 min). Our study revealed that the consumption of both lecithin and oat PLs included in breakfast meal may similarly enhance postprandial glucose tolerance, reduce TG, and enhance the secretion of incretins and appetite regulating hormones in healthy young adults. ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05139355.

Experimental study to assess the impact of different connection types on the fire resistance of composite concrete-topped CLT slabs

This paper summarizes the results of an experimental study of fire resistance of composite concrete-topped cross-laminated timber (CT-CLT) slabs exposed to fire at their soffit. Six composite CT-CLT slabs and one untopped CLT slab were tested under ISO 834 standard fire exposure while subject to an applied load equal to 20 % of the slab ultimate capacity. Test variables included the type and configuration of shear connection between the topping and CLT. Large bending deflections were observed as the slabs reached their fire resistance. Although the untopped CLT slab exhibited a fire resistance of only 16 min, all CT-CLT exhibited fire resistance greater than 1 h. The improved behavior is attributed to the stiffer CT-CLT behavior. CT-CLT slabs exhibited delamination of the lowermost layer of the CLT following through-layer charring. Observed charring rates were approximately 46 mm/h. Observed charring depths were well-predicted by existing design standard-recommended equations. Importantly, the interface between the concrete topping and CLT remained close to 30 °C and never exceeded 65 °C in any test. This is a promising result for employing adhesive systems to affect composite behavior between the topping and CLT.

Utilization finite element and machine learning methods to investigation the axial compressive behavior of elliptical FRP-confined concrete columns

Nowadays, elliptical sections are among the geometric shapes that are becoming more and more popular in the architecture world. Finite element analysis (FEA) software, such as ABAQUS, is used to simulate elliptical concrete columns confined with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) jackets based on experimental data published in the literature. The validity of the finite element modeling (FEM) approach was confirmed by comparing it to experimental data obtained from 45 specimens in existing studies, demonstrating a favorable agreement. Additionally, a parametric study was also carried out, which included simulating 40 more specimens, resulting in a total of 85 specimens for analysis. The effect of various test variables such as sectional aspect ratio, the amount of FRP layers, and concrete strength on the elliptical column’s behavior is investigated. The axial compressive strength is predicted using current models from the literature. The outcomes revealed that the higher unconfined concrete strength decreased FRP confinement efficacy. Insufficient confinement with post-peak softening is more likely in FRP-confined high strength concrete columns, especially if the confinement was not stiff enough. Also, by adding more FRP layers, the stress and strain capabilities of elliptical concrete columns confined with FRP composites are improved. Physical experiments require a significant investment of time and resources, but they can produce valuable results. Finite element analysis, on the other hand, depends heavily on the modeler's competence and can minimize the number of experiments required by employing computer simulation, but it also requires high computer settings. In recent years, there has been a major advancement in the usage of machine learning (ML) algorithms in the applications of FRP composites with different concrete components. Taking this into consideration, this investigation is extended to estimate the compressive strength of elliptical FRP-confined columns using four tree-based ML algorithms including Decision Tree, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting and XGBoost. The XGBoost model achieved the highest predictive accuracy with the R2 values of 0.95 for both the compressive strength and axial strain targets.

Targeted Reinnervation During Gender-Affirming Mastectomy and Restoration of Sensation

During gender-affirming mastectomy, nerves are transected, resulting in sensory loss. Nerve preservation using targeted nipple-areola complex (NAC) reinnervation (TNR) may restore sensation. To determine the quantitative and patient-reported sensory outcomes of TNR. Prospective matched cohort study of patients undergoing gender-affirming mastectomy from August 2021 to December 2022 at Weill Cornell Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital. Data were analyzed from January to March 2023. Patients who underwent TNR and matched patients who did not. Mechanical detection measured with monofilaments and patient-reported outcome questionnaires were completed preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively. Additional quantitative sensory testing was performed preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was mechanical detection while secondary outcomes were the additional quantitative sensory testing variables and patient-reported outcomes. Exclusion criteria included peripheral nerve disorders, unmatched patients, and incomplete follow-up. A total of 25 patients who underwent TNR and 25 matched patients who did not were included. The mean (SD) age was 24.9 (5.5) years, BMI was 26.6 (5.2), and mastectomy weight was 608.9 (326.5) g; 6 patients (12.0%) were Asian, 5 patients (10.0%) were Black or African American, and 33 patients (66.0%) were White. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the outcomes of TNR on improving mechanical detection over time was significant at the NAC (F = 35.2; P < .001) and chest (F = 4.2; P = .045). At 12 months, mean quantitative sensory values in patients who underwent TNR reached baseline and were improved compared with patients who did not undergo TNR for monofilaments (mean [SD] NAC, 3.7 [0.5] vs 4.9 [0.9]; [data]; P < .001; chest, 3.3 [0.4] vs 3.6 [0.6]; [data]; P = .002), vibration (mean [SD] NAC, 7.7 [ 0.4] vs 7.3 [0.4]; t96 = 6.3; P < .001; chest, 7.8 [0.3] vs 7.5 [0.3]; t96 = 5.1; P < .001), 2-point discrimination (NAC, 40% vs 0%; r = 20; P = .02); chest, 4.1 [1.2] cm vs 5.7 [1.8] cm; P < .001), pinprick (mean [SD] NAC, 24.9 [21.2] mN vs 82.6 [96.7] mN; t98 = 4.1; P < .001; chest, 22.5 [25.6] mN vs 54.1 [45.4] mN; t98 = 4.6; P < .001), cold (mean [SD] NAC, 23.1 [4.7] °C vs 12.0 [7.6] °C; t98 = 8.8; P < .001; chest, 23.6 [3.1] °C vs 19.7 [5.6] °C; t98 = 4.4; P < .001), warm (mean [SD] NAC, 39.9 [5.0] °C vs 45.8 [4.2] °C; t98 = 6.3; P < .001; chest, 39.4 [3.1] °C vs 42.9 [4.0] °C; t98 = 4.9; P < .001), and pressure pain detection (mean [SD] NAC, 89.9 [45.6] kPa vs 130.5 [68.9] kPa; t86 = 3.9; P < .001; chest, 128.5 [38.0] kPa vs 175.5 [49.3] kPa; t96 = 4.0; P = .001). ANOVA demonstrated that TNR significantly improved patient-reported nipple sensation (F = 60.5; P < .001), chest light touch (F = 8.1; P = .01) and erogenous sensation (F = 8.3; P = .01). Significantly more patients who underwent TNR than those who did not reported nipple hypersensitivity until 3 months postoperatively (8% vs 4% at 12 months). In this prospective matched cohort study, TNR was associated with improved quantitative and patient-reported sensation. Patients should be counseled about the risk of transient NAC hypersensitivity.

Left atrial strain differences between hypertensive and sarcomeric left ventricular hypertrophy: a sign of sarcomeric auricular myopathy?

Abstract Introduction In clinical practice, left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a common finding that can be caused by physiologic or pathologic conditions. An etiologic diagnosis is extremely important because it may change the prognosis and management of the patient and his family. Left atrial (LA) dysfunction is common due to diastolic dysfunction but, in patients with sarcomeric LV hypertrophy, primary cardiomyopathy disease could also be present. Purpose To evaluate if there are differences in LA function between arterial hypertension (HT) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients. Methods 73 patients with HCM (according to ESC guidelines criteria) and 82 patients with HT (under treatment with ≥1 hypertensive drug for ≥3 months) and ≥13mm of LV hypertrophy underwent an echocardiography to assess LA function with strain analysis and LV diastolic function. Continuous normally distributed variables were compared with T-student test and categoric variables with square-chi or exact Fisher test if required, accepting as significant a p-value &amp;lt;0.05. Results Globally, HCM patients showed thicker LV walls and larger LA indexed volumes (18.7±4.7 vs. 13.3±0,8 mm and 44.9±20.7 vs. 30.7±8.8 ml/m2, p&amp;lt;0.000 for both). Also, HCM patients presented diastolic dysfunction and atrial fibrillation history in a higher frequency (31 vs. 7.6% and 16.4% vs. 0%, p&amp;lt;0.000 for both). LA strain was significantly lower in HCM patients as compared to the HT group (LA contractile 11.5±5.8 vs. 17.2±4.4, p&amp;lt;0.000; LA conduit 12.2±5.4 vs. 13.3±3.8, p=0.041; and LA reservoir 23.9±8.7 vs. 31.1±5.9, p&amp;lt;0.000). In the subgroup of patients with moderate-severe LV hypertrophy (&amp;lt;17mm) and no significant mitral regurgitation (n=103; HCM=21, HT=82), LA contractile strain remained lower in HCM as compared to HT patients (13.2±4.8% vs. 17.2±4.4%, p&amp;lt;0.000) (figure 1); without differences in diastolic dysfunction, LA volumes, significant mitral regurgitation or atrial fibrillation history. Conclusions Our results show that LA strain is more impaired in HCM patients as compared to HT patients. Specifically, contractile LA strain remained lower even in those patients with moderate-severe LV hypertrophy, despite having similar LV diastolic function, LA indexed volumes, significant mitral regurgitation, or atrial fibrillation history. These findings could be caused by HCM involvement of the LA myocytes. In the context of moderate-severe hypertrophy of unknown origin with non-significant mitral regurgitation, the detection of abnormally reduced LA strain could indicate the presence of an HCM.Figure 1

SCALE FOR PRE-SERVICE SCIENCE TEACHERS’ KNOWLEDGE IN DESIGNING INCLUSIVE LEARNING: CONSTRUCTION, VALIDATION, AND RELIABILITY

Scale development is essential in testing constructs and variables in social research, including education. Scales that meet the rules of validity and reliability are developed using standardized procedures. This research focuses on scale production to create reliable and valid construct measures to assess teacher knowledge in designing inclusive learning, using three frameworks, namely Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge, Backward Design, and Universal Design for Learning. Research on this issue involves measuring organizational and psychological constructs, which present unique challenges because they are generally unobservable, very abstract, often complex, and may consist of several different components. As a result of this complexity, developing this scale was challenging. The production of this scale followed Boateng et al., and the field test involved 259 pre-service teachers. The Rasch Rating Scale Model analysis was used to test the scale and produced 18 items that have high reliability (0.96). This scale can be used nationally to assess teachers' ability to implement inclusive education. The scale also applies as a teacher self-assessment tool for developing their competence.

Nutritional management, skipping breakfast, glycemic control, and cardiovascular risk on type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract Background Meal timing is an emerging field that investigates the influence of eating patterns on circadian rhythm and general health. There is still disagreement in the literature as to whether eating windows could impact weight gain and biochemical markers. Purpose 1- Evaluate the impact of nutritional interventions on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), fasting blood glucose (FG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), between 0th and 12th month in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D); 2-Observe breakfast skipping and sleep disorders, and also analyze the influence of these data with possible changes in anthropometric and biochemical markers. Methods This experimental and observational study recruited 44 participants with T2D. The assessments were carried out in October 2022 and 2023. The nutritional assessment consisted of prescribing a personalized eating plan (Mediterranean diet and DASH). Statistical analysis: For the variables "breakfast habits", "nocturnal awakenings", and "sleep duration", the numbers of participants were converted into percentages of the total number of individuals. Parametric variables were compared using the paired t-test and non-parametric variables were compared by the Wilcoxon test. To evaluate the influence of the habit of eating breakfast and sleep disorders on quantitative variables, variations were calculated between the 0th and 12th month between participants who had or did not have the habit of eating breakfast and had or did not have sleep disorders. Parametric variables were compared using the unpaired t test and non-parametric variables using the Mann-Whitney test. Parametric data were presented as mean ± standard deviation and non-parametric data as median ± interquartile range, both accompanied by the dispersion of all repetitions. α&amp;lt;0.05 and P&amp;lt;0.05 were adopted. Results Significant reductions were found between the 0th and 12th month of FG, HbA1c, LDL-C, triglycerides, SBP, DBP, BMI, WC, and weight (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Regarding breakfast habits, in the 1st month, 77.3% of participants skipped this meal, reducing to 13.6% in the 12th month. For sleep duration, in the 1st month, 90.9% of participants slept less than 6 hours, reducing to 40.9% in the 12th month. For nocturnal awakenings, 70.5% of participants had at least 1 awakening in the 1st month, reducing to 54.5% in the 12th month. For influence analysis, no significant differences were found between changes in FG, HbA1c, LDL-C, triglycerides, SBP, DBP, BMI, WC, and weight on breakfast habit or sleep disorders, except for HDL-C and sleep disorders (p&amp;lt;0.005). Conclusion Nutritional management improved biochemical markers, reduced anthropometric data, regulated the eating window, reduced nocturnal awakenings, and optimized sleep duration in patients with T2D.