Application of nonparametric procedure for bioassay data to the evaluation of analgesics in man.

Parametric tests for bioassay data are commonly applied to scores of pain intensity and relief for the assessment of potency ratios of analgesic drugs. It has been demonstrated, however, that scores derived from semiquantitative scales often deviate from normal distribution. In addition, when scores decrease as a consequence of analgesic treatment, the variances may be nonhomogenous. Both parametric and nonparametric procedures have been employed in this study for the evaluation of results of a double-blind multicenter trial of the analgesic effect of indoprofen and ASA (both drugs at three dose levels) and placebo in episiotomy pain. There was a good agreement between potency ratios obtained with the two assays. Peak PID appeared a less efficient means of estimating potency ratio than other measurements such as SPID and TOTPAR. The nonparametric test for quantitative bioassay appears to be a valid statistical procedure for evaluating results of clinical trials, and it does not imply any assumptions as to the type of distribution of the data.

[Contraceptive practice and prevention as alternative to legitimization of indiscriminate abortion]. / La pratica contraccettiva e la profilassi come alternativa alla legittimazione dell'aborto indiscriminato

PIP: The problem of legalizing abortion in Italy and possible alternative measures that would limit the need to resort to abortion are discussed. Measures to reduce fetal abnormalities caused by diseases in pregnant women, a more supportive attitude on the part of families, society, and the state toward unmarried mothers, and especially proper education and the use of appropriate contraceptive methods, including free distribution of contraceptives if necessary, are regarded as the best means to reduce the incidence of abortion and to limit it to relatively exceptional, medically justified, cases. The ignorance of many physicians on the subject of contraceptives, which leads to unjustified fears, erroneous prescriptions, and subsequent failures or complications, is also emphasized. Available contraceptive methods, their efficacy, possible side effects, and contraindications, are reviewed and discussed, and amendments to the legislation in force are suggested for the purpose of limiting the number of unwanted pregnancies that prompt requests for abortion.^ieng