Association between ABO blood/rhesus grouping and hepatitis B and C: a case-control study.

PubMed

Pourhassan, Abolfazl

2014-06-01

During past decades, a connection between hepatitis and the host ABO/Rh blood groups has been always under dispute, with no appropriately designed study yet. This study aimed to investigate possible association between ABO blood/Rh groups with both hepatitis B and C. In this case-control setting, 200 healthy individuals (controls), 200 patients with chronic Hepatitis-B infection (HB) and 200 patients with chronic Hepatitis-C infection (HC) were recruited from 2010 to 2013 in Tabriz Sina Hospital. ABO blood and Rh grouping was performed and the results were compared between the case and control groups. Both pair of the control and HB groups and the control and HC groups were matched for their subjects' age and sex. In the control group, 178 subjects (89%) were Rh+ and 22 subjects (11%) were Rh-. In the HB group, there were 180 Rh+ (90%) and 20 Rh- (10%) patients. In the HC group there were 168 Rh+ (84%) and 32 Rh-negative (16%) patients. Both pair of the control and HB groups (p = 0.74), as well as the control and HC groups (p = 0.14) were comparable for the status of Rh. In the control group there were 84 (42%), 32 (16%), 66 (33%) and 18 (9%) subjects with A, B, O and AB blood groups, respectively. The corresponding figures were 84 (42%), 34 (17%), 58 (29%) and 24 (12%) for the HB patients; and 80 (40%), 29 (14.5%), 85 (42.5%) and 6 (3%) for the HC patients. Comparing between the control and HB groups showed no significant difference in terms of the frequency of ABO blood groups (p = 0.70). However, with comparing the control and HC groups, the rate of O blood group was significantly higher in the HC group and concomitantly, the rate of AB blood group was significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.04). Although, there is not a significant association between ABO blood groups and HB, this association is significant between certain ABO blood groups and HC.

Awake craniotomy may further improve neurological outcome of intraoperative MRI-guided brain tumor surgery.

PubMed

Tuominen, Juho; Yrjänä, Sanna; Ukkonen, Anssi; Koivukangas, John

2013-10-01

Results of awake craniotomy are compared to results of resections done under general anesthesia in patients operated with IMRI control. We hypothesized that stimulation of the cortex and white matter during awake surgery supplements IMRI control allowing for safer resection of eloquent brain area tumors. The study group consisted of 20 consecutive patients undergoing awake craniotomy with IMRI control. Resection outcome of these patients was compared to a control group of 20 patients operated in the same IMRI suite but under general anesthesia without cortical stimulation. The control group was composed of those patients whose age, sex, tumor location, recurrence and histology best matched to patients in study group. Cortical stimulation identified functional cortex in eight patients (40 %). Postoperatively the neurological condition in 16 patients (80 %) in the study group was unchanged or improved compared with 13 patients (65 %) in the control group. In both groups, three patients (15 %) had transient impairment symptoms. There was one patient (5 %) with permanent neurological impairment in the study group compared to four patients (20 %) in the control group. These differences between groups were not statistically significant. There was no surgical mortality in either group and the overall infection rate was 5 %. Mean operation time was 4 h 45 min in the study group and 3 h 15 min in the control group. The study consisted of a limited patient series, but it implies that awake craniotomy with bipolar cortical stimulation may help to reduce the risk of postoperative impairment following resection of tumors located in or near speech and motor areas also under IMRI control.

Effects of intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy on social cognition in major depression.

PubMed

Ajilchi, Bita; Kisely, Steve; Nejati, Vahid; Frederickson, Jon

2018-05-23

Social cognition is commonly affected in psychiatric disorders and is a determinant of quality of life. However, there are few studies of treatment. To investigate the efficacy of intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy on social cognition in major depression. This study used a parallel group randomized control design to compare pre-test and post-test social cognition scores between depressed participants receiving ISTDP and those allocated to a wait-list control group. Participants were adults (19-40 years of age) who were diagnosed with depression. We recruited 32 individuals, with 16 participants allocated to the ISTDP and control groups, respectively. Both groups were similar in terms of age, sex and educational level. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) demonstrated that the intervention was effective in terms of the total score of social cognition: the experimental group had a significant increase in the post-test compared to the control group. In addition, the experimental group showed a significant reduction in the negative subjective score compared to the control group as well as an improvement in response to positive neutral and negative states. Depressed patients receiving ISTDP show a significant improvement in social cognition post treatment compared to a wait-list control group.

[The Effects of a Health Mentoring Program in Community-dwelling Vulnerable Elderly Individuals with Diabetes].

PubMed

Sung, Ki Wol; Kang, Hye Seung; Nam, Ji Ran; Park, Mi Kyung; Park, Ji Hyeon

2018-04-01

This study aimed to estimate the effects of a health mentoring program on fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, triglyceride, physical activity, self care behavior and social support changes among community-dwelling vulnerable elderly individuals with diabetes. A non-equivalent control group pre-post-test design was used. Participants were 70 community-dwelling vulnerable elderly individuals with diabetes. They were assigned to the experimental (n=30) or comparative (n=30) or control group (n=28). The experimental group participated in the health mentoring program, while the comparative group participated in health education program, the control group did not participate in any program. Data analyses involved a chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, a generalized linear model, and the Bonferroni correction, using SPSS 23.0. Compared to the control group, the experimental and comparative groups showed a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, and triglyceride. Compared to the comparative and control groups, the experimental group showed significant improvement in self care behavior. However, there were no statistical differences in physical activity or social support among the three groups. These findings indicate that the health mentoring program is an effective intervention for community-dwelling vulnerable elderly individuals with diabetes. This program can be used as an efficient strategy for diabetes self-management within this population. © 2018 Korean Society of Nursing Science.

Effect of Dietary Processed Sulfur Supplementation on Texture Quality, Color and Mineral Status of Dry-cured Ham

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

This study was performed to investigate the chemical composition, mineral status, oxidative stability, and texture attributes of dry-cured ham from pigs fed processed sulfur (S, 1 g/kg feed), and from those fed a basal diet (CON), during the period from weaning to slaughter (174 d). Total collagen content and soluble collagen of the S group was significantly higher than that of the control group (p<0.05). The pH of the S group was significantly higher than that of the control group, whereas the S group had a lower expressible drip compared to the control group. The S group also showed the lower lightness compared to the control group (p<0.05). In regard to the mineral status, the S group had significantly lower Fe2+ and Ca2+ content than the control group (p<0.05), whereas the proteolysis index of the S group was significantly increased compared to the control group (p<0.05). The feeding of processed sulfur to pigs led to increased oxidative stability, related to lipids and pigments, in the dry-cured ham (p<0.05). Compared to the dry-cured ham from the control group, that from the S group exhibited lower springiness and gumminess; these results suggest that feeding processed sulfur to pigs can improve the quality of the texture and enhance the oxidative stability of dry-cured ham. PMID:26761895

Fetal growth, cognitive function, and brain volumes in childhood and adolescence.

PubMed

Rogne, Tormod; Engstrøm, Andreas Aass; Jacobsen, Geir Wenberg; Skranes, Jon; Østgård, Heidi Furre; Martinussen, Marit

2015-03-01

To evaluate the association between fetal growth pattern and cognitive function at 5 and 9 years and regional brain volumes at 15 years. Eighty-three term-born small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates and 105 non-SGA neonates in a control group were available for follow-up. Based on serial fetal ultrasound measurements from gestational weeks 25-37, SGA neonates were classified with fetal growth restriction (n=13) or non-fetal growth restriction (n=36). Cognitive function was assessed at 5 and 9 years, and brain volumes were estimated with cerebral magnetic resonance imaging at 15 years. Small-for-gestational-age children had lower performance intelligence quotient at 5 years compared with those in a control group (107.3 compared with 112.5, P<.05). Although there were no differences between the SGA non-fetal growth restriction and control groups, the SGA fetal growth restriction group had significantly lower performance intelligence quotient at 5 years (103.5 compared with 112.5, P<.05) and 9 years (96.2 compared with 107.5, P<.05) compared with those in the control group. There were some brain volume differences at 15 years between SGA children and those in the control group, but after adjustment for total intracranial volume, age at examination, and sex, there were only significant differences between the SGA fetal growth restriction and control groups for thalamic (17.4 compared with 18.6 cm, P<.01) and cerebellar white matter volumes (21.5 compared with 24.3 cm, P<.01). Small-for-gestational-age children had lower intelligence quotient scores at 5 and 9 years and smaller brain volumes at 15 years compared with those in the control group, but these findings were only found in those with fetal growth restriction, indicating a possible relationship to decelerated fetal growth. II.

The physiological and biochemical effects of salicylic acid on sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) exposed to flurochloridone.

PubMed

Kaya, Armagan; Yigit, Emel

2014-08-01

In this study, we comparatively evaluated the effects of the flurochloridone as well as flurochloridone and exogenously applied salicylic acid (SA) on Helianthus annuus L. to find out herbicide-induced toxicity reducing influence of SA. We examined and compared the physiological and biochemical effects of different concentrations of flurochloridone (11, 32 and 72 mM) in both the SA pre-treated and non-treated plants. The plants treated with flurochloridone exhibited reduced total chlorophyll, carotenoid, and relative water content compared to the control group, whereas the plants that were pre-treated with SA exhibited relatively higher values for the same physiological parameters. In the SA non-treated plants, the superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase activities were increased in the treatment groups compared to the control group. In the treatment groups, these enzyme activities were decreased in the SA-pre-treated plants compared to the non-treated plants. Ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activities decreased in the flurochloridone-treated plants compared to the control plants. The ascorbate peroxidase activity increased in the control groups but decreased in the treatment groups in the SA pre-treated plants compared to the non-treated plants. However, SA treatment decreased the activity of catalase in the control and treatment groups compared to the plants that were not treated with SA. Flurochloridone treatment increased the malondialdehyde content in the treated groups compared to the control groups, whereas SA-pretreatment decreased malondialdehyde content compared to plants that were not treated with SA. Flurochloridone treatment increased endogenous SA content compared to the control. Although the residual levels of herbicide in the plants increased proportionately with increasing herbicide concentrations, the SA-pre-treated plants exhibited reduced residual herbicide levels compared to the plants that were not treated with SA. These results indicate that the flurochloridone induces various physiological and biochemical responses in non-target plants and that treatment with exogenous SA can increase stress resistance by altering these responses. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Interpersonal Problem-Solving Deficits in Self-Poisoning Patients.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLeavey, Breda C.; And Others

1987-01-01

Compared self-poisoning patients with psychiatric patients and nonpatient controls on problem-solving skills and locus of control. The psychiatric and self-poisoning groups showed deficits on interpersonal problem solving compared with nonpatient controls. The self-poisoning group performed below or at the level of the psychiatric group. Locus of…

Microstructural effects of Ramadan fasting on the brain: a diffusion tensor imaging study.

PubMed

Bakan, Ayse Ahsen; Yıldız, Seyma; Alkan, Alpay; Yetis, Huseyin; Kurtcan, Serpil; Ilhan, Mahmut Muzaffer

2015-01-01

We aimed to examine whether the brain displays any microstructural changes after a three-week Ramadan fasting period using diffusion tenson imaging. This study included a study and a control group of 25 volunteers each. In the study group, we examined and compared apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values of the participants during (phase 1) and after (phase 2) a period of fasting. The control group included individuals who did not fast. ADC and FA values obtained in phase 1 and phase 2 were compared between the study and control groups. In the study group, ADC values of hypothalamus and, to a lesser extent, of insula were lower in phase 1 compared with phase 2 and the control group. The FA values of amygdala, middle temporal cortex, thalamus and, to a lesser extent, of medial prefrontal cortex were lower in phase 1 compared with phase 2 and the control group. Phase 2 ADC and FA values of the study group were not significantly different compared with the control group at any brain location. A three-week Ramadan fasting period can cause microstructural changes in the brain, and diffusion tensor imaging enables the visualization of these changes. The identification of brain locations where changes occurred in ADC and FA values during fasting can be helpful in diagnostic imaging and understanding the pathophysiology of eating disorders.

Microstructural effects of Ramadan fasting on the brain: a diffusion tensor imaging study

PubMed Central

Bakan, Ayse Ahsen; Yıldız, Seyma; Alkan, Alpay; Yetis, Huseyin; Kurtcan, Serpil; Ilhan, Mahmut Muzaffer

2015-01-01

PURPOSE We aimed to examine whether the brain displays any microstructural changes after a three-week Ramadan fasting period using diffusion tenson imaging. METHODS This study included a study and a control group of 25 volunteers each. In the study group, we examined and compared apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values of the participants during (phase 1) and after (phase 2) a period of fasting. The control group included individuals who did not fast. ADC and FA values obtained in phase 1 and phase 2 were compared between the study and control groups. RESULTS In the study group, ADC values of hypothalamus and, to a lesser extent, of insula were lower in phase 1 compared with phase 2 and the control group. The FA values of amygdala, middle temporal cortex, thalamus and, to a lesser extent, of medial prefrontal cortex were lower in phase 1 compared with phase 2 and the control group. Phase 2 ADC and FA values of the study group were not significantly different compared with the control group at any brain location. CONCLUSION A three-week Ramadan fasting period can cause microstructural changes in the brain, and diffusion tensor imaging enables the visualization of these changes. The identification of brain locations where changes occurred in ADC and FA values during fasting can be helpful in diagnostic imaging and understanding the pathophysiology of eating disorders. PMID:25835077

Evaluation of the effects of fulvestrant and micronized progesterone on the post-operative adhesion formation and ovarian reserve in rat model with immunohistochemical and biochemical analysis.

PubMed

Oner, Gokalp; Ulug, Pasa; Demirci, Elif; Kumtepe, Yakup; Gündogdu, Cemal

2015-01-01

To evaluate the effects of fulvestrant and micronized progesterone on post-operative adhesion formation and ovarian reserve in a rat uterine horn adhesion. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, 32 female Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups including control group (Group 1), the control adhesion group (Group 2), 1 mg/kg daily intramuscular fulvestrant received group (Group 3) and 1 mg/kg daily oral micronized progesterone received group (Group 4). The extent and severity of adhesions were scored and samples were taken from adhesion areas to investigate the grades of adhesions according to the immunohistochemical scoring system. Ovarian reserves were measured with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and histological ovarian follicles count. The extent, severity and total adhesion scores were reduced in all treatment groups compared to control adhesion group (Group 2). Similarly, immunohistochemical adhesion scores were lower in the treatment groups. AMH and follicle count were significantly found lower in adhesion groups compared with control group. However, treatment groups were found to have higher ovarian reserve compared to control adhesion group (Group 2). Fulvestrant and micronized progesterone were found to reduce post-operative adhesion formations and have decreased detrimental effects of adhesion formation on ovarian reserve.

Effect of Oral Administration of Bromelain on Postoperative Discomfort After Third Molar Surgery.

PubMed

Ghensi, Paolo; Cucchi, Alessandro; Creminelli, Luca; Tomasi, Cristiano; Zavan, Barbara; Maiorana, Carlo

2017-03-01

The purpose of this prospective randomized controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of oral administration of bromelain on discomfort after mandibular third molar surgery. Eighty-four consecutive patients requiring surgical removal of a single mandibular impacted third molar under local anesthesia were randomly assigned to receiving no drug (control group, Group A), postoperative 40 mg bromelain every 6 hours for 6 days (Group B), preoperative 4 mg dexamethasone sodium phosphate as a submucosal injection (Group C), and preoperative 4 mg dexamethasone sodium phosphate as a submucosal injection plus postoperative 40 mg bromelain every 6 hours for 6 days (Group D). Standardized surgical and analgesic protocols were adopted. Maximum interincisal distance and facial contours were measured at baseline and on postoperative days 2 and 7. Pain was measured objectively by counting the number of analgesic tablets required. Patient perception of the severity of symptoms was assessed with a follow-up questionnaire (PoSSe scale). On postoperative day 2, there was a statistically significant reduction in facial edema in both Groups C and D compared with the control group, but no statistically significant differences were observed between Group B and the control group. At evaluation on postoperative day 7, Group D showed a statistically significant reduction in postoperative swelling compared with the control group. The combined use of bromelain and dexamethasone (Group D) induced a statistically significant reduction in the total number of analgesic tablets taken after surgery compared with the control group. The treatment groups had a limited, nonsignificant effect on trismus when compared with the control group. Bromelain used singly showed moderate anti-inflammatory efficacy, reducing postoperative swelling, albeit not to any significant extent compared with no drug administration. The combined use of bromelain and dexamethasone sodium phosphate yielded the best results in terms of control of postoperative discomfort.

Hip strength and star excursion balance test deficits of patients with chronic ankle instability.

PubMed

McCann, Ryan S; Crossett, Ian D; Terada, Masafumi; Kosik, Kyle B; Bolding, Brenn A; Gribble, Phillip A

2017-11-01

To examine isometric hip strength in those with and without CAI, and determine the degree of Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) variance explained by isometric hip strength. Single-blinded, cross-sectional, case-control study. Thirty individuals with CAI, 29 lateral ankle sprain (LAS) copers, and 26 healthy controls participated. We assessed dynamic postural control with the SEBT anterior (SEBT-ANT), posteromedial (SEBT-PM), and posterolateral (SEBT-PL) reaches, and isometric hip extension (EXT), abduction (ABD) and external rotation (ER) strength with hand-held dynamometry. The CAI and LAS coper groups' involved limbs and randomly selected limbs in controls were tested. Separate Kruskal-Wallis tests compared SEBT scores and isometric hip strength between groups. Backwards linear regression models determined the degree of SEBT variance explained by isometric hip strength. Statistical significance was set a priori at P<0.05. The CAI group had lower SEBT-ANT scores compared to LAS copers (P=0.03) and controls (P=0.03). The CAI group had lower ABD compared to LAS copers (P=0.03) and controls (P=0.02). The CAI group had lower ER compared to LAS copers (P=0.01) and controls (P=0.01). ER (R 2 =0.25, P=0.01) and ABD (R 2 =0.25, P=0.01) explained 25% of the CAI group's SEBT-PM and SEBT-PL variances, respectively. The CAI group had deficient dynamic postural control and isometric hip strength compared to LAS copers and controls. Additionally, the CAI group's isometric hip strength significantly influenced dynamic postural control performance. Future CAI rehabilitation strategies should consider hip muscular strengthening to facilitate improvements in dynamic postural control. Copyright © 2017 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Long-term effect of tobacco on unstimulated salivary pH.

PubMed

Grover, Neeraj; Sharma, Jyoti; Sengupta, Shamindra; Singh, Sanjeet; Singh, Nishant; Kaur, Harjeet

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the effects of tobacco on salivary pH between tobacco chewers, smokers and controls. A total of 60 subjects (males and females) aged 25-40 years, were divided equally into three groups: Tobacco smokers (Group A), chewers (Group B) and controls (Group C). Saliva of each subject was collected under resting condition. Salivary pH was determined using the specific salivary pH meter. The mean (±standard deviation) pH for Group A was 6.75 (±0.11), Group B was 6.5 (±0.29) and Group C was 7.00 (±0.28) after comparison. The significant results showed lower salivary pH in Groups A and B as compared to controls. Salivary pH was lowest in Group B compared to Group A and Group C. This study indicates that a lower (acidic) salivary pH was observed in tobacco users as compared with control. These alterations in pH due to the long-term effect of tobacco use can render oral mucosa vulnerable to various oral and dental diseases.

Subjective and Quantitative Measurement of Wavefront Aberrations in Nuclear Cataracts – A Retrospective Case Controlled Study

PubMed Central

Wali, Upender K.; Bialasiewicz, Alexander A.; Al-Kharousi, Nadia; Rizvi, Syed G.; Baloushi, Habiba

2009-01-01

Purpose: To measure, quantify and compare Ocular Aberrations due to nuclear cataracts. Setting: Department of ophthalmology and school for ophthalmic technicians, college of medicine and health sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. Design: Retrospective case controlled study. Methods: 113 eyes of 77 patients with nuclear cataract (NC) were recruited from outpatient clinic of a major tertiary referral center for Ophthalmology. Patients having NC with no co-existing ocular pathologies were selected. All patients were subjected to wavefront aberrometry (make) using Hartmann-Shack (HS) aberrometer. Consents were taken from all patients. Higher order Aberrations (HOA) were calculated with Zernike polynomials up to the fourth order. For comparison 28 eyes of 15 subjects with no lenticular opacities (control group) were recruited and evaluated in an identical manner. No pupillary mydriasis was done in both groups. Results: Total aberrations were almost six times higher in NC group compared to control (normal) subjects. The HOA were 21 times higher in NC group, and coma was significantly higher in NC eyes compared to normal (control) group. The pupillary diameter was significantly larger in control group (5.48mm ± 1.0024, p<.001) compared to NC (3.05mm ± 1.9145) subjects (probably due to younger control age group). Amongst Zernike coefficients up to fourth order, two polynomials, defocus (Z20) and spherical aberration (Z42) were found to be significantly greater amongst NC group, compared to normal control group. Conclusion: Nuclear cataracts predominantly produce increased defocus and spherical aberrations. This could explain visual symptoms like image deterioration in spite of normal Visual acuity. PMID:20142953

Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation from cell phone causes defective testicular function in male Wistar rats.

PubMed

Oyewopo, A O; Olaniyi, S K; Oyewopo, C I; Jimoh, A T

2017-12-01

Cell phones have become an integral part of everyday life. As cell phone usage has become more widespread, concerns have increased regarding the harmful effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation from these devices. The current study was undertaken to investigate the effects of the emitted radiation by cell phones on testicular histomorphometry and biochemical analyses. Adult male Wistar rats weighing 180-200 g were randomly allotted to control, group A (switched off mode exposure), group B (1-hr exposure), group C (2-hr exposure) and group D (3-hr exposure). The animals were exposed to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation of cell phone for a period of 28 days. Histomorphometry, biochemical and histological investigations were carried out. The histomorphometric parameters showed no significant change (p < .05) in the levels of germinal epithelial diameter in all the experimental groups compared with the control group. There was no significant change (p < .05) in cross-sectional diameter of all the experimental groups compared with the control group. Group D rats showed a significant decrease (p ˂ .05) in lumen diameter compared with group B rats. There was an uneven distribution of germinal epithelial cells in groups B, C and D. However, there was degeneration of the epithelia cells in group D when compared to the control and group B rats. Sera levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), which are markers of reactive oxygen species, significantly increased (MDA) and decreased (SOD), respectively, in all the experimental groups compared with the control group. Also sera levels of gonadotropic hormones (FSH, LH and testosterone) significantly decreased (p < .05) in groups C and D compared with the control group. The study demonstrates that chronic exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation of cell phone leads to defective testicular function that is associated with increased oxidative stress and decreased gonadotropic hormonal profile. © 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Detection of autoantibodies and increased concentrations of interleukins in plasma from patients with Tourette's syndrome.

PubMed

Cheng, Yu-hang; Zheng, Yi; He, Fan; Yang, Jian-hong; Li, Wen-biao; Wang, Min-ling; Cui, De-yan; Chen, Ying

2012-09-01

The aim of this study was to assess levels of autoantibodies and cytokines in patients with Tourette's syndrome (TS, n = 40) and healthy control individuals (n = 40). Plasma interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17, and soluble gp130 concentrations were significantly higher in the TS group compared with the control group (P < 0.001); whereas the soluble IL-6 receptor concentration was significantly decreased in the TS group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Significantly more patients in the TS group were positive for antibrain and antinuclear antibodies, and antistreptolysin compared with the control group (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that immune activity is altered in patients with TS.

Protective effects of Tualang honey on bone structure in experimental postmenopausal rats

PubMed Central

Zaid, Siti Sarah Mohamad; Sulaiman, Siti Amrah; Othman, Nor Hayati; Soelaiman, Ima-Nirwana; Shuid, Ahmad Nazrun; Mohamad, Norazlina; Muhamad, Norliza

2012-01-01

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Tualang honey on trabecular structure and compare these effects with those of calcium supplementation in ovariectomized rats. METHODS: Forty female, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8): four controls and one test arm. The control arm comprised a baseline control, sham-operated control, ovariectomized control, and ovariectomized calcium-treated rats (receiving 1% calcium in drinking water ad libitum). The test arm was composed of ovariectomized, Tualang honey-treated rats (received 0.2 g/kg body weight of Tualang honey). Both the sham-operated control and ovariectomized control groups received vehicle treatment (deionized water), and the baseline control group was sacrificed without treatment. RESULTS: All rats were orally gavaged daily for six weeks after day one post-surgery. The bone structural analysis of rats in the test arm group showed a significant increase in the bone volume per tissue volume (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) and trabecular number (Tb.N) and a significant decrease in inter-trabecular space (Tb.Sp) compared with the ovariectomized control group. The trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) in the test arm group was significantly higher compared with the ovariectomized-calcium treated group, and the inter-trabecular space (Tb.Sp) in the test arm group was significantly narrower compared with the ovariectomized-calcium treated group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, ovariectomized rats that received Tualang honey showed more improvements in trabecular bone structure than the rats that received calcium. PMID:22892923

Protective effects of Tualang honey on bone structure in experimental postmenopausal rats.

PubMed

Zaid, Siti Sarah Mohamad; Sulaiman, Siti Amrah; Othman, Nor Hayati; Soelaiman, Ima-Nirwana; Shuid, Ahmad Nazrun; Mohamad, Norazlina; Muhamad, Norliza

2012-07-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Tualang honey on trabecular structure and compare these effects with those of calcium supplementation in ovariectomized rats. Forty female, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n =8): four controls and one test arm. The control arm comprised a baseline control, sham-operated control, ovariectomized control, and ovariectomized calcium-treated rats (receiving 1% calcium in drinking water ad libitum). The test arm was composed of ovariectomized, Tualang honey-treated rats (received 0.2 g/kg body weight of Tualang honey). Both the sham-operated control and ovariectomized control groups received vehicle treatment (deionized water), and the baseline control group was sacrificed without treatment. All rats were orally gavaged daily for six weeks after day one post-surgery. The bone structural analysis of rats in the test arm group showed a significant increase in the bone volume per tissue volume (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) and trabecular number (Tb.N) and a significant decrease in inter-trabecular space (Tb.Sp) compared with the ovariectomized control group. The trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) in the test arm group was significantly higher compared with the ovariectomized-calcium treated group, and the inter-trabecular space (Tb.Sp) in the test arm group was significantly narrower compared with the ovariectomized-calcium treated group. In conclusion, ovariectomized rats that received Tualang honey showed more improvements in trabecular bone structure than the rats that received calcium.

Sleep pattern and locomotor activity are impaired by doxorubicin in non-tumor-bearing rats.

PubMed

Lira, Fabio Santos; Esteves, Andrea Maculano; Pimentel, Gustavo Duarte; Rosa, José Cesar; Frank, Miriam Kannebley; Mariano, Melise Oliveira; Budni, Josiane; Quevedo, João; Santos, Ronaldo Vagner Dos; de Mello, Marco Túlio

2016-01-01

We sought explore the effects of doxorubicin on sleep patterns and locomotor activity. To investigate these effects, two groups were formed: a control group and a Doxorubicin (DOXO) group. Sixteen rats were randomly assigned to either the control or DOXO groups. The sleep patterns were examined by polysomnographic recording and locomotor activity was evaluated in an open-field test. In the light period, the total sleep time and slow wave sleep were decreased, while the wake after sleep onset and arousal were increased in the DOXO group compared with the control group (p<0.05). In the dark period, the total sleep time, arousal, and slow wave sleep were increased, while the wake after sleep onset was decreased in the DOXO group compared with the control group (p<0.05). Moreover, DOXO induced a decrease of crossing and rearing numbers when compared control group (p<0.05). Therefore, our results suggest that doxorubicin induces sleep pattern impairments and reduction of locomotor activity.

Impact of Targeted Preoperative Optimization on Clinical Outcome in Emergency Abdominal Surgeries: A Prospective Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Sethi, Ashish; Debbarma, Miltan; Narang, Neeraj; Saxena, Anudeep; Mahobia, Mamta; Tomar, Gaurav Singh

2018-01-01

Perforation peritonitis continues to be one of the most common surgical emergencies that need a surgical intervention most of the times. Anesthesiologists are invariably involved in managing such cases efficiently in perioperative period. The assessment and evaluation of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score at presentation and 24 h after goal-directed optimization, administration of empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics, and definitive source control postoperatively. Outcome assessment in terms of duration of hospital stay and mortality in with or without optimization was also measured. It is a prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled study in hospital setting. One hundred and one patients aged ≥18 years, of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical Status I and II (E) with clinical diagnosis of perforation peritonitis posted for surgery were enrolled. Enrolled patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group A is optimized by goal-directed optimization protocol in the preoperative holding room by anesthesiology residents whereas in Group S, managed by surgery residents in the surgical wards without any fixed algorithm. The assessment of APACHE II score was done as a first step on admission and 24 h postoperatively. Duration of hospital stay and mortality in both the groups were also measured and compared. Categorical data are presented as frequency counts (percent) and compared using the Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. The statistical significance for categorical variables was determined by Chi-square analysis. For continuous variables, a two-sample t -test was applied. The mean APACHE II score on admission in case and control groups was comparable. Significant lowering of serial scores in case group was observed as compared to control group ( P = 0.02). There was a significant lowering of mean duration of hospital stay seen in case group (9.8 ± 1.7 days) as compared to control group ( P = 0.007). Furthermore, a significant decline in death rate was noted in case group as compared to control group ( P = 0.03). Goal-directed optimized patients with perforation peritonitis were discharged early as compared to control group with significantly lesser mortality as compared with randomly optimized patients in the perioperative period.

Heterogenic control groups in randomized, controlled, analgesic trials of total hip and knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Karlsen, Anders P; Mathiesen, Ole; Dahl, Jørgen B

2018-03-01

Postoperative analgesic interventions are often tested adjunct to basic non-opioid analgesics in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Consequently, treatment in control groups, and possible assay sensitivity, differs between trials. We hypothesized that postoperative opioid requirements and pain intensities vary between different control groups in analgesic trials. Control groups from RCTs investigating analgesic interventions after total hip and knee arthroplasty were categorized based on standardized basic analgesic treatment. Morphine consumption 0 to 24 hours postoperatively, and resting pain scores at 6 and 24 hours for subgroups of basic treatments, were compared with ANOVA. In an additional analysis, we compared pain and opioid requirements in trials where a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) was administered as an intervention with trial where NSAID was administered in a control group. We included 171 RCTs employing 28 different control groups with large variability in pain scores and opioid requirements. Four types of control groups (comprising 78 trials) were eligible for subgroup comparisons. These subgroups received "opioid" alone, "NSAID + opioid", "acetaminophen + opioid", or "NSAID + acetaminophen + opioid", respectively. Morphine consumption and pain scores varied substantially between these groups, with no consistent superior efficacy in any subgroup. Additionally, trials administering NSAID as an intervention demonstrated lower pain scores and opioid requirements than trials where NSAID was administered in a control group. Analgesic treatment in RCT control groups varies considerably. Control groups receiving various combinations of opioid, NSAID and acetaminophen did not differ consistently in pain and opioid requirements. Pain and opioid requirements were lower in trials administering NSAID as an intervention compared with trials administering NSAID in a control group.

Does hydrotherapy improve strength and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis--a randomised controlled trial comparing a gym based and a hydrotherapy based strengthening programme.

PubMed

Foley, A; Halbert, J; Hewitt, T; Crotty, M

2003-12-01

To compare the effects of a hydrotherapy resistance exercise programme with a gym based resistance exercise programme on strength and function in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). Single blind, three arm, randomised controlled trial. 105 community living participants aged 50 years and over with clinical OA of the hip or knee. Participants were randomised into one of three groups: hydrotherapy (n = 35), gym (n = 35), or control (n = 35). The two exercising groups had three exercise sessions a week for six weeks. At six weeks an independent physiotherapist unaware of the treatment allocation performed all outcome assessments (muscle strength dynamometry, six minute walk test, WOMAC OA Index, total drugs, SF-12 quality of life, Adelaide Activities Profile, and the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale). In the gym group both left and right quadriceps significantly increased in strength compared with the control group, and right quadriceps strength was also significantly better than in the hydrotherapy group. The hydrotherapy group increased left quadriceps strength only at follow up, and this was significantly different from the control group. The hydrotherapy group was significantly different from the control group for distance walked and the physical component of the SF-12. The gym group was significantly different from the control group for walk speed and self efficacy satisfaction. Compliance rates were similar for both exercise groups, with 84% of hydrotherapy and 75% of gym sessions attended. There were no differences in drug use between groups over the study period. Functional gains were achieved with both exercise programmes compared with the control group.

Does hydrotherapy improve strength and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis—a randomised controlled trial comparing a gym based and a hydrotherapy based strengthening programme

PubMed Central

Foley, A; Halbert, J; Hewitt, T; Crotty, M

2003-01-01

Objective: To compare the effects of a hydrotherapy resistance exercise programme with a gym based resistance exercise programme on strength and function in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). Design: Single blind, three arm, randomised controlled trial. Subjects: 105 community living participants aged 50 years and over with clinical OA of the hip or knee. Methods: Participants were randomised into one of three groups: hydrotherapy (n = 35), gym (n = 35), or control (n = 35). The two exercising groups had three exercise sessions a week for six weeks. At six weeks an independent physiotherapist unaware of the treatment allocation performed all outcome assessments (muscle strength dynamometry, six minute walk test, WOMAC OA Index, total drugs, SF-12 quality of life, Adelaide Activities Profile, and the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale). Results: In the gym group both left and right quadriceps significantly increased in strength compared with the control group, and right quadriceps strength was also significantly better than in the hydrotherapy group. The hydrotherapy group increased left quadriceps strength only at follow up, and this was significantly different from the control group. The hydrotherapy group was significantly different from the control group for distance walked and the physical component of the SF-12. The gym group was significantly different from the control group for walk speed and self efficacy satisfaction. Compliance rates were similar for both exercise groups, with 84% of hydrotherapy and 75% of gym sessions attended. There were no differences in drug use between groups over the study period. Conclusion: Functional gains were achieved with both exercise programmes compared with the control group. PMID:14644853

Maternal Voice and Short-Term Outcomes in Preterm Infants

PubMed Central

Krueger, Charlene; Parker, Leslie; Chiu, Sheau-Huey; Theriaque, Douglas

2013-01-01

This study explored effects of exposure to maternal voice on short-term outcomes in very low birth weight preterm infants cared for within an neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) without an ongoing program of developmental care. Using a comparative design, 53 infants born during their 27th to 28th postmenstrual week were sampled by convenience. Experimental groups were exposed to maternal voice during two developmental time periods. Group 1 listened to a recording of their mothers reciting a rhyme from 28 to 34 postmenstrual weeks. Group 2 waited 4 weeks and heard the recording from 32 to 34 weeks. The control group received routine care. The primary analysis of combined experimental groups compared to the control group revealed that the experimental infants experienced significantly fewer episodes of feeding intolerance and achieved full enteral feeds quicker compared to the control group. Further, in an analysis evaluating all three groups separately, it was noted that Group 1 experienced significantly fewer episodes of feeding intolerance compared to the control group. Study findings warrant further investigation of exposure to maternal voice and the developmental timing at which exposure is begun. PMID:20112262

Assessment of clinical biochemical parameters in Roma minority residing in eastern Slovakia compared with the majority population.

PubMed

Hubková, Beáta; Maslanková, Jana; Stupák, Marek; Guzy, Juraj; Kovácová, Anna; Pella, Daniel; Jarcuska, Peter; Mareková, Mária

2014-03-01

Roma constitute the largest ethnic minority in Europe and the second largest minority in Slovakia. Their health problems originate mainly from their low socioeconomic status, certain cultural aspects and their health-threatening lifestyle as well as the psycho-social burden arising from poverty and frequent migration. Evaluation of glucose, albumin, triacylglycerol (TAG) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations did not reveal any clue about the presumed deteriorated health of the Roma population. Higher proportions of subjects with elevated serum total cholesterol were found in Roma women as compared to both control groups of women (p = 0.027, p = 0.006) and in Roma men as compared to the male control group living in standard conditions. Only the low level of HDL-cholesterol gives a glimpse of their deteriorated health. Significantly lower levels of serum HDL-C were reported in Roma men and women compared to the respondents in both control groups with a p value of p < 0.001. Comparing the ratio of LDL-C/HDL-C yielded significant differences between the number of physiological values in Roma men and men from the control group 1 (p = 0.022) in favour of the control group. When comparing the number of people with physiological values of cholesterols and with worsening TAG parameters at the same time, the increased risk of Roma men compared with men from the control group 1 became evident, with a level of significance of p = 0.023. Evaluation of urine samples pointed to significantly higher concentrations of urinary protein in Roma women compared with women in the control group 1 (p = 0.012).

Effectiveness of an Online Graduate Preparation Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brucato, Brittany; Neimeyer, Greg J.

2011-01-01

The present study reports the results of a controlled examination of the effectiveness of an online graduate preparation program, the Virtual Advisor. The effects of the Virtual Advisor were compared to a website preparation group and a wait-list control group. Results indicated that, compared to the control group, students who utilized the…

Association between suicidal ideation and behavior, and depression, anxiety, and perceived social support in cancer patients.

PubMed

Balcı Şengül, Melike Ceyhan; Kaya, Vildan; Şen, Cenk Ahmet; Kaya, Kemal

2014-02-27

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between suicidal behavior and associated factors such as depression, anxiety, and perceived social support level in cancer patients. The study group included 102 patients who were under treatment in the oncology department and the control group included 100 individuals with similar sociodemographic features. A sociodemographic information form, Beck depression inventory, Beck anxiety inventory, suicidal behavior inventory, suicidal ideation inventory, and multidimensional inventory of perceived social support were used. The mean Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. Thirteen patients in the study group attempted suicide, whereas 3 individuals attempted suicide in the control group. Similarly, the mean suicide behavior and ideation scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. The mean total multidimensional inventories of perceived social support score, as well as the mean family and friend sub-inventory scores in the control group were significantly higher compared to the study group. This study revealed that depression and anxiety occur frequently in cancer patients. Suicide attempts and ideation are higher in cancer patients compared to the control group. Social support perceived from family and friends is lower in cancer patients. Suicide attempts are correlated with depression, anxiety, low level of perceived social support, and advanced disease stage.

Endothelial function and its relationship to leptin, homocysteine, and insulin resistance in lean and overweight eumenorrheic women and PCOS patients: a pilot study.

PubMed

Mancini, Fulvia; Cianciosi, Arianna; Reggiani, Giulio Marchesini; Facchinetti, Fabio; Battaglia, Cesare; de Aloysio, Domenico

2009-06-01

To verify if patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), have an increased cardiovascular risk compared with healthy controls. Prospective case-control study. University-based practice. Twenty eumenorrheic controls (ten lean [group A] and ten overweight [group B]) and 24 PCOS women (14 lean [group C] and ten overweight [group D]). Cardiovascular risk markers and hormonal parameters were assessed. Androgens, fasting glucose, insulin, leptin, fibrinogen, homocysteine, endothelin-1 and flow-mediated dilatation of the brachial artery were measured to investigate their relationship to weight and to PCOS. The brachial artery diameter and the pulsatility index, after the reactive hyperemia, showed in group A the most intense vasodilatation compared with the other groups. Homocysteine levels did not differ among the groups. Endothelin-1 was significantly higher in group A compared with groups B and D. Leptin was significantly lower in groups A and C compared with groups B and D. Insulin resistance was higher in groups B and D. Group A had significantly higher glucose-insulin ratio compared with all of the other groups; group C had significantly higher glucose-insulin ratio only compared with group D. Weight and PCOS are two independent variables affecting the endothelial function.

An investigation of the general, reproductive and postnatal developmental toxicity of Betapol, a human milk fat equivalent.

PubMed

Spurgeon, M J; Palmer, A K; Hepburn, P A

2003-10-01

Betapol consists of triglyceride fatty acids commonly found in vegetable and animal fats. A similarity to human milk fat indicated a potential use in infant formulae as well as for food use in general. To test the potential for substantial equivalence with a related food grade oil, palm oil, Betapol was fed to rats at 15% content in the diet using an augmented two-generation study, in order to obtain information on general (6 months), reproductive and postnatal developmental toxicity in a single study rather than separate studies. For comparison there were two control groups, namely a comparative control fed a diet containing 15% of food grade oil and a negative, or laboratory standard control fed a commercial rodent breeding diet (LAD), containing 2.3-4.7% fat. It was reasoned that if Betapol fed groups showed differences from the comparative control in the direction of the negative control these would reflect differences in the nutritional value of the high fat diets. Presence of a toxicant might be indicated by differences from the comparative control group opposite to the negative control group. The group fed 15% Betapol showed occasional, statistically significant differences from the comparative control group but the direction of difference was towards the negative control group and did not indicate the presence of an unexpected toxicant.

Effects of Fermented Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale) and Fenu Greek (Trigonella foenum-graceum) Supplements on Oxidative stress and Lipid Peroxidation Biomarkers in Poloxamer-407 Induced -Hyperlipidemic Wistar Rats.

PubMed

Tanko, Y; Kabiru, A; Abdulrasak, A; Mohammed, K A; Salisu, A I; Jimoh, A; Gidado, N M; Sada, N M

2017-12-30

This research was aimed at investigating the Effects of Fermented Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale) and Fenu Greek (Trigonella foenum-graceum) on Oxidative stress and Lipid Peroxidation Biomarkers in Poloxamer 407Induced-Hyperlipidemic Wistar Rats. Hyperlipidaemia was induced with poloxamer P407 (1.5 g/kg   b.w. i.p.) The Animals were grouped into six of five animals each group. Group 1 normal control, Group 2 served as the hyperlipidemic control, Group 3 administered 0.26 g/kg cholestyramine, Group 4 fed on Fenugreek 25% supplement. Group 5 fed on 25% fermented ginger supplement, while group 6 were fed on 25% ginger and fenu greek combined   respectively. All treatments were given for a period of four week. Serum antioxidant activities such as catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Malondialdehyde were evaluated.  As regards to the catalase activity there was a significant decrease in the groups' fed on 25% fenugreek and 25% fermented ginger supplements respectively. However, co-fed with both supplements significantly increase the catalase activity as compared with the hyperlipidaemic control untreated. Comparism with the positive control cholestyramine, there was also a significant increase. Also in relation to the SOD activity there was a significant increase in the activity as compared with the hyperlipidemic control. Furthermore, the Gpx activity there was a significant increase in the as compared with the hyperlipidemic control. oxidative stress biomarker activities SOD) there was significant increase (p<0.05) when compared with hyperlipidemic control. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the Malondialdehyde levels in the groups fed with the supplement when compared with hyperlipidemic control. In conclusion supplements of Fenugreek and Ginger improved antioxidant status and reduced Malondialdehyde in Poloxamer-407 Induced-Hyperlipidemic Wistar Rats.

Psychosocial consequences in the Danish randomised controlled lung cancer screening trial (DLCST).

PubMed

Rasmussen, Jakob F; Siersma, V; Pedersen, J H; Brodersen, J

2015-01-01

To measure the psychosocial consequences in the Danish lung cancer screening trial (DLCST) and compare those between the computed tomography (CT) group and the control group. This study was a single centre randomised controlled trial with five annual screening rounds. Healthy current or former heavy smokers aged 50-70 years (men and women) were randomised 1:1 to a CT group and a control group. Heavy smokers were defined by having smoked ≥20 pack years and former smokers by being abstinent ≤10 years. Both groups were invited annually to the screening clinic to complete the validated lung-cancer-specific questionnaire consequences of screening lung cancer (COS-LC). The CT group was also offered a low dose CT scan of the lungs. The COS-LC measures nine scales with psychosocial properties: Anxiety, Behaviour, Dejection, Negative impact on sleep, Self-blame, Focus on Airway Symptoms, Stigmatisation, Introvert, and Harm of Smoking. 4104 participants were randomised to the DLCST and the COS-LC completion rates for the CT group and the control group were 95.5% and 73.6%, respectively. There was a significant increase in negative psychosocial consequences from baseline through rounds 2-5 for both the CT group and the control group (mean increase >0, p<.0001 for 3 of 4 possible scales). During rounds 2-5 the control group experienced significantly more negative psychosocial consequences in seven of nine scales compared with the CT group (mean Δ score >0 and p<.033). Lung cancer CT-screening trials induced more negative psychosocial reactions in both the CT group and the control group compared with the baseline psychosocial profile. The CT group experienced less negative psychosocial consequences compared with the control group, which might be explained by reassurance among those with normal screening results. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00496977. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hyperbaric treatment for children with autism: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

PubMed Central

Rossignol, Daniel A; Rossignol, Lanier W; Smith, Scott; Schneider, Cindy; Logerquist, Sally; Usman, Anju; Neubrander, Jim; Madren, Eric M; Hintz, Gregg; Grushkin, Barry; Mumper, Elizabeth A

2009-01-01

Background Several uncontrolled studies of hyperbaric treatment in children with autism have reported clinical improvements; however, this treatment has not been evaluated to date with a controlled study. We performed a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial to assess the efficacy of hyperbaric treatment in children with autism. Methods 62 children with autism recruited from 6 centers, ages 2–7 years (mean 4.92 ± 1.21), were randomly assigned to 40 hourly treatments of either hyperbaric treatment at 1.3 atmosphere (atm) and 24% oxygen ("treatment group", n = 33) or slightly pressurized room air at 1.03 atm and 21% oxygen ("control group", n = 29). Outcome measures included Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale, Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC). Results After 40 sessions, mean physician CGI scores significantly improved in the treatment group compared to controls in overall functioning (p = 0.0008), receptive language (p < 0.0001), social interaction (p = 0.0473), and eye contact (p = 0.0102); 9/30 children (30%) in the treatment group were rated as "very much improved" or "much improved" compared to 2/26 (8%) of controls (p = 0.0471); 24/30 (80%) in the treatment group improved compared to 10/26 (38%) of controls (p = 0.0024). Mean parental CGI scores significantly improved in the treatment group compared to controls in overall functioning (p = 0.0336), receptive language (p = 0.0168), and eye contact (p = 0.0322). On the ABC, significant improvements were observed in the treatment group in total score, irritability, stereotypy, hyperactivity, and speech (p < 0.03 for each), but not in the control group. In the treatment group compared to the control group, mean changes on the ABC total score and subscales were similar except a greater number of children improved in irritability (p = 0.0311). On the ATEC, sensory/cognitive awareness significantly improved (p = 0.0367) in the treatment group compared to the control group. Post-hoc analysis indicated that children over age 5 and children with lower initial autism severity had the most robust improvements. Hyperbaric treatment was safe and well-tolerated. Conclusion Children with autism who received hyperbaric treatment at 1.3 atm and 24% oxygen for 40 hourly sessions had significant improvements in overall functioning, receptive language, social interaction, eye contact, and sensory/cognitive awareness compared to children who received slightly pressurized room air. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT00335790 PMID:19284641

The effects of two workplace weight management programs and weight loss on health care utilization and costs

PubMed Central

Østbye, Truls; Stroo, Marissa; Eisenstein, Eric L.; Dement, John M.

2015-01-01

Objectives Compare the impact of two worksite weight management programs, WM (education) and WM+ (education plus counseling), on health care utilization and costs. Secondarily, compare the intervention groups to an observational control group of obese workers. Finally, evaluate the impact of actual weight loss on these outcomes. Methods Estimate the change in the WM and WM+ intervention groups. Using propensity score adjustment compare the two intervention groups with the observational control group; and compare those who lost weight with those who did not. Results No significant differences between the two intervention groups, or between these intervention groups and the observational control group. Those who lost weight reduced their overall health care costs. Conclusion To achieve weight loss and associated morbidity reductions, more extensive and intensive interventions, with more attention to motivation and compliance, are required. PMID:26849260

Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis: a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Li, Ying; Zheng, Hui; Witt, Claudia M.; Roll, Stephanie; Yu, Shu-guang; Yan, Jie; Sun, Guo-jie; Zhao, Ling; Huang, Wen-jing; Chang, Xiao-rong; Zhang, Hong-xing; Wang, De-jun; Lan, Lei; Zou, Ran; Liang, Fan-rong

2012-01-01

Background: Acupuncture is commonly used to treat migraine. We assessed the efficacy of acupuncture at migraine-specific acupuncture points compared with other acupuncture points and sham acupuncture. Methods: We performed a multicentre, single-blind randomized controlled trial. In total, 480 patients with migraine were randomly assigned to one of four groups (Shaoyang-specific acupuncture, Shaoyang-nonspecific acupuncture, Yangming-specific acupuncture or sham acupuncture [control]). All groups received 20 treatments, which included electrical stimulation, over a period of four weeks. The primary outcome was the number of days with a migraine experienced during weeks 5–8 after randomization. Our secondary outcomes included the frequency of migraine attack, migraine intensity and migraine-specific quality of life. Results: Compared with patients in the control group, patients in the acupuncture groups reported fewer days with a migraine during weeks 5–8, however the differences between treatments were not significant (p > 0.05). There was a significant reduction in the number of days with a migraine during weeks 13–16 in all acupuncture groups compared with control (Shaoyang-specific acupuncture v. control: difference –1.06 [95% confidence interval (CI) –1.77 to –0.5], p = 0.003; Shaoyang-nonspecific acupuncture v. control: difference –1.22 [95% CI –1.92 to –0.52], p < 0.001; Yangming-specific acupuncture v. control: difference –0.91 [95% CI –1.61 to –0.21], p = 0.011). We found that there was a significant, but not clinically relevant, benefit for almost all secondary outcomes in the three acupuncture groups compared with the control group. We found no relevant differences between the three acupuncture groups. Interpretation: Acupuncture tested appeared to have a clinically minor effect on migraine prophylaxis compared with sham acupuncture. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00599586 PMID:22231691

Long-term efficacy of a rural community-based integrated intervention for prevention and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cluster randomized controlled trial in China's rural areas.

PubMed

Yuan, X; Tao, Y; Zhao, J P; Liu, X S; Xiong, W N; Xie, J G; Ni, W; Xu, Y J; Liu, H G

2015-11-01

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a rural community-based integrated intervention for early prevention and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in China. This 18-year cluster-randomized controlled trial encompassing 15 villages included 1008 patients (454 men and 40 women in the intervention group [mean age, 54 ± 10 years]; 482 men and 32 women in the control group [mean age, 53 ± 10 years]) with confirmed COPD or at risk for COPD. Villages were randomly assigned to the intervention or the control group, and study participants residing within the villages received treatment accordingly. Intervention group patients took part in a program that included systematic health education, smoking cessation counseling, and education on management of COPD. Control group patients received usual care. The groups were compared after 18 years regarding the incidence of COPD, decline in lung function, and mortality of COPD. COPD incidence was lower in the intervention group than in the control group (10% vs 16%, <0.05). A decline in lung function was also significantly delayed in the intervention group compared to the control group of COPD and high-risk patients. The intervention group showed significant improvement in smoking cessation compared with the control group, and smokers in the intervention group had lower smoking indices than in the control group (350 vs 450, <0.05). The intervention group also had a significantly lower cumulative COPD-related death rate than the control group (37% vs 47%, <0.05). A rural community-based integrated intervention is effective in reducing the incidence of COPD among those at risk, delaying a decline in lung function in COPD patients and those at risk, and reducing mortality of COPD.

The effectiveness of treatment for Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) delivered by community health workers compared to a traditional facility based model.

PubMed

Alvarez Morán, J L; Alé, G B Franck; Charle, P; Sessions, N; Doumbia, S; Guerrero, S

2018-03-27

In most health systems, Community Health Workers (CHWs) identify and screen for severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in the community. This study aimed to investigate the potential of integrating SAM identification and treatment delivered by CHWs, in order to improve the coverage of SAM treatment services. This multicentre, randomised intervention study was conducted in Kita, Southwest Mali between February 2015 and February 2016. Treatment for uncomplicated SAM was provided in health facilities in the control area, and by Community Health Workers and health facilities in the intervention area. Clinical outcomes (cure, death and defaulter ratios), treatment coverage and quality of care were examined in both the control and intervention group. Six hundred ninety nine children were admitted to the intervention group and 235 children to the control group. The intervention group reported cure ratios of 94.2% compared to 88.6% in the control group (risk ratio 1.07 [95% CI 1.01; 1.13]). Defaulter ratios were twice as high in the control group compared to the intervention group (10.8% vs 4.5%; RR 0.42 [95% CI 0.25; 0.71]). Differences in mortality ratios were not statistically significant (0.9% in the intervention group compared to 0.8% in the control group). Coverage rates in December 2015 were 86.7% in intervention group compared to 41.6% in the control (p < 0.0001). With minimal training, CHWs are able to appropriately treat SAM in the community. Allowing CHWs to treat SAM reduces defaulter ratios without compromising treatment outcomes and can lead to improved access to treatment. Retrospectively registered in ISRCTN Register with ISRCTN33578874 on March 7th 2018.

The effects of Internet-based exercise compared with supervised group exercise in people with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Akinci, Buket; Yeldan, Ipek; Satman, Ilhan; Dirican, Ahmet; Ozdincler, Arzu Razak

2018-06-01

To compare the effects of Internet-based exercise on glycaemic control, blood lipids, body composition, physical activity level, functional capacity, and quality of life with supervised group exercise in patients with type 2 diabetes. Single-blind, randomized controlled study. A Faculty of Health Sciences. A total of 65 patients with type 2 diabetes (47 women, 18 men). Group A ( n = 22), control group - physical activity counselling once with a brochure. Group B ( n = 22), supervised group-based exercise, three days per week for eight weeks. Group C ( n = 21), Internet-based exercise following the same programme via a website. Primary outcomes - glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, high-density and low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, and cholesterol. Secondary outcomes - waist and hip circumferences, body mass index, number of steps, six-minute walking test, and Euro-Quality of Life-5 Dimension. After treatment, glycaemic control (mean change for Group B; Group C; -0.80%, -0.91%, P = 0.003), waist circumference (-4.23 cm, 5.64 cm, P = 0.006), and quality of life (0.26, 0.15, P = 0.013) significantly improved in both training groups compared with the control group. Fasting blood glucose (-46.86 mg/dL, P = 0.009) and hip circumference (-2.7 cm, P = 0.011) were significantly decreased in Group B and total cholesterol (-16.4 mg/dL, P = 0.028), six-minute walking distance (30.5 m, P = 0.01), and number of steps (1258.05, P = 0.023) significantly improved in Group C compared with control group. Group B and Group C changed with equal magnitude. In type 2 diabetes, supervised group-based and Internet-based exercise can improve equally glycaemic control, waist circumference, and quality of life, and both are better than simply counselling.

Effect of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Along With Myo-Inositol on High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Insulin Resistance in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Deepti; Tewari, Shikha; Narula, Satish Chander; Singhal, Savita Rani; Sharma, Rajinder Kumar

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy and medical treatment on the level of a serologic marker of inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hsCRP]) and insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment [HOMA]) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and chronic periodontitis (CP). Women with PCOS and CP (n = 60) were randomly divided into two groups. The test group was treated with scaling and root planing (SRP) and myo-inositol (MI). The control group was treated with MI and given oral hygiene instructions. Anthropometric, metabolic, and periodontal parameters were assessed at baseline and re-evaluated at 3 and 6 months. All parameters of both groups at 6 months were compared with 25 systemically and periodontally healthy females (group A). Periodontal parameters were significantly improved in the test group compared with the control group at 3- and 6-month follow-up (P <0.001). A statistically significant reduction was observed in hsCRP and HOMA in both groups at 3- and 6-month follow-up (P <0.05). However, significantly more improvement in hsCRP (P <0.05) and a statistically comparable reduction in HOMA (P >0.05) was observed in the test group compared with the control group at 3 and 6 months. Both the test and control group showed significant consistent improvement in metabolic parameters at 3- and 6-month follow-up, which was further comparable to group A. SRP together with medical treatment results in a greater reduction of systemic inflammatory burden compared with medical treatment alone in management of women with PCOS and CP.

To Compare the Effect of Vibration Therapy and Massage in Prevention of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS).

PubMed

Imtiyaz, Shagufta; Veqar, Zubia; Shareef, M Y

2014-01-01

To compare the effects of vibration therapy and massage in prevention of DOMS. Pre-test and Post-test Control-Group Design was used, 45 healthy female non athletic Subjects were recruited and randomly distributed to the three groups (15 subject in each group). After the subject's initial status was measured experimental groups received vibration therapy (50 Hz vibration for five minutes) or massage therapy (15 minutes) intervention and control group received no treatment, just prior to the eccentric exercise. Subjects were undergoing the following measurements to evaluate the changes in the muscle condition: muscle soreness (pain perception), Range of Motion (ROM), Maximum Isometric Force (MIF), Repetition maximum (RM), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and Cretain Kinase (CK) level. All the parameters except LDH, CK and 1RM were measured before, immediately post intervention, immediately post exercise, 24 hours post exercise, 48 hours post exercise and 72 hours post exercise. LDH, CK and 1 RM were measured before and 48 hours post exercise. Muscle soreness was reported to be significantly less for experimental (vibration and massage) group (p=0.000) as compared to control group at 24, 48, and 72 hours of post-exercise. Experimental and control group did not show any significant difference in MIF immediate (p=0.2898), 24 hours (p=0.4173), 48 hours (p=0.752) and 72 hours (p=0.5297) of post-exercise. Range of motion demonstrated significant recovery in experimental groups in 48 hours (p=0.0016) and 72 hours (p=0.0463). Massage therapy showed significant recovery in 1RM (p=0.000) compared to control group and vibration therapy shows significantly less LDH level (p=0.000) 48 hours of post exercise compare to control group. CK at 48 hours of post exercise in vibration group (p=0.000) and massage group showed (p=0.002) significant difference as compared to control group. Vibration therapy and massage are equally effective in prevention of DOMS. Massage is effective in restoration of concentric strength (1 RM). Yet vibration therapy shows clinically early reduction of pain and is effective in decreasing the level of LDH in 48 hours post exercise periods.

Intrathecal Midazolam as an Adjuvant in Pregnancy-Induced Hypertensive Patients Undergoing an Elective Caesarean Section: A Clinical Comparative Study

PubMed Central

Dodawad, Ravichandra; G. B., Sumalatha; Pandarpurkar, Sandeep; Jajee, Parashuram

2016-01-01

Background A pain-free postoperative period is essential following a caesarean section so new mothers may care for and bond with their neonates. Intrathecal adjuvants are often administered during this procedure to provide significant analgesia, but they may also have bothersome side effects. Intrathecal midazolam produces effective postoperative analgesia with no significant side effects. Objectives This prospective, randomized, double-blind study was designed to compare the analgesic efficacy and safety of intrathecal midazolam vs. plain bupivacaine as an adjunct to bupivacaine in pregnancy-induced hypertension patients scheduled for elective caesarean section. Methods Sixty patients diagnosed with pregnancy-induced hypertension on regular treatment who were scheduled for a caesarean section were randomly allocated into two groups: a control group (Group BC, n = 30) and a midazolam group (Group BM, n = 30). Both groups received 10 mg (2 mL) of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine. Group BC received 0.4 mL of distilled water, while group BM received 0.4 mL (2 mg) of midazolam intrathecally. The duration of postoperative analgesia, analgesic requirements during the first 24 hours after surgery, onset times and durations of sensory and motor blocks, incidence of hypotension, vasopressor requirements, and side effects were recorded. Results Postoperative analgesia was significantly longer in the midazolam group compared to the control group (201.5 minutes vs. 357.6 minutes). The mean onset times of the sensory and motor blocks were significantly faster (P < 0.01) in the midazolam group compared to the control group. The mean times to attain the maximum sensory level and motor blocks were also significantly faster in the midazolam group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of hypotension was 6.6% in the midazolam group and 36.6% in the control group, which was highly significant. In addition, the number of patients with side effects was significantly lower in the midazolam group compared to the control group. Conclusions Intrathecal midazolam 2 mg provides significantly longer and effective postoperative analgesia with no side effects. PMID:27847698

Evaluation of early cardiac dysfunction in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with or without anticardiolipin antibodies.

PubMed

Barutcu, A; Aksu, F; Ozcelik, F; Barutcu, C A E; Umit, G E; Pamuk, O N; Altun, A

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to use transthoracic Doppler echocardiographic (TTE) imaging methods to identify cardiac dysfunction, an indicator of subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in terms of cardiac effects. This study involved 80 patients: a study group (n = 50) and control group (n = 30). They were categorized into four subgroups: anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) (+) (n = 14) and aCL (-) (n = 36); systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI) ≥ 6 (n = 15) and SLEDAI < 6 (n = 35); disease period ≥ 5 years (n = 21) and disease period < 5 years (n = 29); major organ involvement (+) (n = 19), major organ involvement (-) (n = 31). The ratio of mitral peak velocity of early filling to early diastolic mitral annular velocity (E/E') for the study group was found to be higher than the control (p < 0.01). Systolic septal motion velocity (Ssm) was lower in the study group compared with the control (p < 0.01). Left atrium (LA) dimension was greater in the study group than the control (p < 0.01). Ssm was found to be lower in the aCL (+) patients compared with the control and aCL (-) groups (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively). LA dimension was greater in the aCL (+) and (-) groups compared with the control, (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively) and aCL groups compared with each other (p < 0.05). The E/E' ratio for the aCL (+) and (-) groups was found to be greater than the control (p < 0.05). In the study, both the Ssm and the late diastolic septal velocity (sA') was found to be lower in the SLEDAI ≥ 6 group compared with SLEDAI<6 group, (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively). LA dimension was statistically greater in the SLEDAI ≥ 6 group compared with the SLEDAI <6 group (p < 0.001). E' and early diastolic septal velocity (sE') were statistically lower in the disease period >5 years group compared with the disease period <5 years group (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively). Carrying out regular scans with TTE image of SLE patients is important in order to identify early cardiac involvement during monitoring and treatment. Identifying early cardiac involvement in SLE may lead to a reduction in mortality and morbidity rates. © The Author(s) 2015.

Effect of a puzzle on the process of students' learning about cardiac physiology.

PubMed

Cardozo, Lais Tono; Miranda, Aline Soares; Moura, Maria José Costa Sampaio; Marcondes, Fernanda Klein

2016-09-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of using a puzzle to learn about cardiac physiology. Students were divided into control and game groups. In class 1, the control group had a 2-h theoretical class about cardiac physiology, including a detailed description of the phases of the cardiac cycle, whereas the game group had a 50-min theoretical class without the description of the cardiac cycle. In class 2, the control group did an assessment exercise before an activity with the cardiac puzzle and the game group answered questions after the above-mentioned activity. While solving the puzzle, the students had to describe the cardiac cycle by relating the concepts of heart morphology and physiology. To evaluate short-term learning, the number of wrong answers and grades in the assessment exercise were compared between the control and game groups. To evaluate medium-term learning, we compared the grades obtained by students of the control and game groups in questions about cardiac physiology that formed part of the academic exam. In the assessment exercise, the game group presented a lower number of errors and higher score compared with the control group. In the academic exam, applied after both groups had used the puzzle, there was no difference in the scores obtained by the control and game groups in questions about cardiac physiology. These results showed a positive effect of the puzzle on students' learning about cardiac physiology compared with those not using the puzzle. Copyright © 2016 The American Physiological Society.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Interleukin 6 in Human Periapical Lesions

PubMed Central

Pršo, Ivana Brekalo; Kocjan, Willy; Šimić, Hrvoje; Brumini, Gordana; Pezelj-Ribarić, Sonja; Borčić, Josipa; Ferreri, Silvio; Karlović, Ivana Miletić

2007-01-01

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in human periapical lesions. Subjects and methods. Samples were obtained from three groups of teeth: symptomatic teeth, asymptomatic lesions, and uninflamed periradicular tissues as a control. Results. TNF-alpha levels were significantly increased in symptomatic lesions compared to control. Group with asymptomatic lesions had significantly higher concentrations compared to control. There were no significant differences in TNF-alpha levels between symptomatic and asymptomatic lesions. In group with symptomatic lesions, IL-6 levels were significantly higher than in group with asymptomatic lesions. The IL-6 levels in symptomatic group also showed significantly higher concentration in comparison with control group. In asymptomatic group, the IL-6 level had significantly higher concentrations compared to control. Conclusion. These results indicate that symptomatic lesions represent an immunologically active stage of disease, and asymptomatic lesions are the point from which the process advances toward healing. PMID:17497030

Association between suicidal ideation and behavior, and depression, anxiety, and perceived social support in cancer patients

PubMed Central

Şengül, Melike Ceyhan Balcı; Kaya, Vildan; Şen, Cenk Ahmet; Kaya, Kemal

2014-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between suicidal behavior and associated factors such as depression, anxiety, and perceived social support level in cancer patients. Material/Methods The study group included 102 patients who were under treatment in the oncology department and the control group included 100 individuals with similar sociodemographic features. A sociodemographic information form, Beck depression inventory, Beck anxiety inventory, suicidal behavior inventory, suicidal ideation inventory, and multidimensional inventory of perceived social support were used. Results The mean Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. Thirteen patients in the study group attempted suicide, whereas 3 individuals attempted suicide in the control group. Similarly, the mean suicide behavior and ideation scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. The mean total multidimensional inventories of perceived social support score, as well as the mean family and friend sub-inventory scores in the control group were significantly higher compared to the study group. Conclusions This study revealed that depression and anxiety occur frequently in cancer patients. Suicide attempts and ideation are higher in cancer patients compared to the control group. Social support perceived from family and friends is lower in cancer patients. Suicide attempts are correlated with depression, anxiety, low level of perceived social support, and advanced disease stage. PMID:24584172

Change in the antioxidative capacity of extraocular muscles in patients with exotropia.

PubMed

Jung, Su Kyung; Choi, Jun Sob; Shin, Sun Young

2015-04-01

We compared the oxidative stress and antioxidant capacities of the medial rectus muscles (MRMs) between the patients with constant exotropia and control subjects. A total of 40 MRMs from patients with constant exotropia and 40 MRMs from normal donor eyes (controls) were assessed. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase levels were compared between the two groups using western blot analysis. In addition, the lipofuscin accumulation level was compared between the exotropic and control groups. According to western blot analysis, the nNOS level was significantly higher in the exotropic group than in the control group (P < 0.05). On the other hand, a catalase expression level was higher in the control group than in the exotropic group (P < 0.05). The SOD1 level did not show a significant difference between the two groups. The relative lipofuscin fluorescence intensity was higher in the exotropic group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Based on these findings, the MRMs of patients with exotropia had a redox imbalance status. Further study is needed to investigate whether this imbalance in antioxidant capacity is present in the extraocular muscles of patients with other strabismus.

Essential considerations in developing attention control groups in behavioral research.

PubMed

Aycock, Dawn M; Hayat, Matthew J; Helvig, Ashley; Dunbar, Sandra B; Clark, Patricia C

2018-06-01

Attention control groups strengthen randomized controlled trials of behavioral interventions, but researchers need to give careful consideration to the attention control activities. A comparative effectiveness research framework provides an ideal opportunity for an attention control group as a supplement to standard care, so participants potentially receive benefit regardless of group assignment. The anticipated benefit of the control condition must be independent of the study outcome. Resources needed for attention control activities need to be carefully considered and ethical considerations carefully weighed. In this paper we address nine considerations for the design and implementation of attention control groups: (1) ensure attention control activities are not associated with the outcome; (2) avoid contamination of the intervention or control group; (3) design comparable control and intervention activities; (4) ensure researcher training to adequately administer both treatment arms; (5) design control activities to be interesting and acceptable to participants; (6) evaluate attention control activities; (7) consider additional resources needed to implement attention control activities; (8) quantifying the effects of attention control and intervention groups; and (9) ethical considerations with attention control groups. Examples from the literature and ongoing research are presented. Careful planning for the attention control group is as important as for the intervention group. Researchers can use the considerations presented here to assist in planning for the best attention control group for their study. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Comparative effects of red and white grapes on oxidative markers and lipidemic parameters in adult hypercholesterolemic humans.

PubMed

Rahbar, Ali Reza; Mahmoudabadi, Mohammad Mehdi Shakouri; Islam, Md Shahidul

2015-06-01

The present study compared the effects of consuming red versus white whole grapes on oxidative and lipidemic indices in people with hypercholesterolemia. Sixty nine patients were randomized into three groups. The two treatment groups consumed 500 g of either Condori red grapes or Shahroodi white grapes daily for 8 weeks, and the third group served as a control. Plasma glucose, triacylglycerol (TG), cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined by colorimetric methods at baseline and at the end of the study. In addition, the polyphenol and fiber content of the two grape varieties was measured. TBARS was reduced in both study groups compared to the control group, and the reduction was greater in the group that consumed red grapes compared to the white grapes. TAC was increased significantly in both red and white grape consuming groups compared to the control group. Total cholesterol and LDL-C were decreased in the red grape group compared to the control group. No significant changes in fasting blood glucose, TG or HDL-C were observed among the groups. The results of this study suggest that consumption of the whole fruit of red grapes has more potent anti-oxidative and hypolipidemic effects compared to the white grapes in hyperlipidemic adult humans. Hence, the whole fruit of red grapes may be an excellent fruit choice not only to prevent oxidative stress related metabolic disorders but also cholesterol related cardiovascular diseases, particularly in hyperlipidemic adult humans.

Protective effects of SGLT2 inhibitor luseogliflozin on pancreatic β-cells in obese type 2 diabetic db/db mice

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Okauchi, Seizo, E-mail: okauchi@med.kawasaki-m.ac.jp; Shimoda, Masashi; Obata, Atsushi

It is well known that Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, new hypoglycemic agents, improve glycemic control by increasing urine glucose excretion, but it remained unclear how they exert protective effects on pancreatic β-cells. In this study, we examined the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor luseogliflozin on β-cell function and mass using obese type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Ten-week-old male diabetic db/db mice were treated with luseogliflozin 0.0025% or 0.01% in chow (Luse 0.0025% or Luse 0.01%) or vehicle (control) for 4 weeks. Urinary glucose excretion was increased in Luse groups (0.0025% and 0.01%) compared to control mice 3 days after themore » intervention. Fasting blood glucose levels were significantly lower in mice treated with Luse compared to control mice. Fasting serum insulin concentrations were significantly higher in mice treated with Luse compared to control mice. Triglyceride levels tended to be lower in Luse groups compared to control mice. In immunohistochemical study using pancreas tissues, β-cell mass was larger in Luse groups compared to control group which was due to the increase of β-cell proliferation and decrease of β-cell apoptosis. Furthermore, in gene analysis using isolated islets, insulin 1, insulin 2, MafA, PDX-1 and GLUT2 gene expression levels were significantly higher in Luse groups compared to control group. In contrast, expression levels of fibrosis-related gene such as TGFβ, fibronectin, collagen I and collagen III were significantly lower in Luse groups. In conclusion, SGLT2 inhibitor luseogliflozin ameliorates glycemic control and thus exerts protective effects on pancreatic β-cell mass and function. - Highlights: • SGLT2 inhibitor luseogliflozin ameliorates glycemic control in db/db mice. • Luseogliflozin increases β-cell proliferation and decreases β-cell apoptosis. • Luseogliflozin preserves various β-cell-specific gene expression. • Luseogliflozin decreases various fibrosis-related factors in db/db mice.« less

Donkey milk kefir induces apoptosis and suppresses proliferation of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma by decreasing iNOS in mice.

PubMed

Esener, Obb; Balkan, B M; Armutak, E I; Uvez, A; Yildiz, G; Hafizoglu, M; Yilmazer, N; Gurel-Gurevin, E

2018-04-12

Donkey milk and donkey milk kefir exhibit antiproliferative, antimutagenic and antibacterial effects. We investigated the effects of donkey milk and donkey milk kefir on oxidative stress, apoptosis and proliferation in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) in mice. Thirty-four adult male Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups as follows: group 1, administered 0.5 ml water; group 2, administered 0.5 ml water + EAC cells; group 3, administered 0.5 ml donkey milk + EAC cells; group 4, administered 0.5 ml donkey milk kefir + EAC cells. We introduced 2.5 x 10 6 EAC cells into each animal by subcutaneous injection. Tap water, donkey milk and donkey milk kefir were administered by gavage for 10 days. Animals were sacrificed on day 11. After measuring the short and long diameters of the tumors, tissues were processed for histology. To determine oxidative stress, cell death and proliferation iNOS and eNOS, active caspase-3 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen were assessed using immunohistochemistry. A TUNEL assay also was used to detect apoptosis. Tumor volume decreased in the donkey milk kefir group compared to the control and donkey milk groups. Tumor volume increased in the donkey milk group compared to the control group. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen levels were higher in the donkey milk kefir group compared to the control and donkey milk groups. The number of apoptotic cells was less in the donkey milk group, compared to the control, whereas it was highest in the donkey milk kefir group. Donkey milk administration increased eNOS levels and decreased iNOS levels, compared to the control group. In the donkey milk kefir group, iNOS levels were significantly lower than those of the control and donkey milk groups, while eNOS levels were similar to the control group. Donkey milk kefir induced apoptosis, suppressed proliferation and decreased co-expression of iNOS and eNOS. Donkey milk promoted development of the tumors. Therefore, donkey milk kefir appears to be more beneficial for treating breast cancer than donkey milk.

Psychosocial consequences of allocation to lung cancer screening: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Aggestrup, Louise Mosborg; Hestbech, Mie Sara; Siersma, Volkert; Pedersen, Jesper Holst; Brodersen, John

2012-01-01

To examine the psychosocial consequences of being allocated to the control group as compared with the screen group in a randomised lung cancer screening trial. The Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial, a randomised controlled trial, ran from 2004 to 2010 with the purpose of investigating the benefits and harms of lung cancer screening. The participants in Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial were randomised to either the control group or the screen group and were asked to complete the questionnaires Consequences Of Screening and Consequences Of Screening in Lung Cancer (COS-LC). The Consequences Of Screening and the COS-LC were used to examine the psychosocial consequences of participating in the study, by comparing the control and the screen groups' responses at the prevalence and at the incidence round. There was no statistically significant difference in socio-demographic characteristics or smoking habits between the two groups. Responses to the COS-LC collected before the incidence round were statistically significantly different on the scales 'anxiety', 'behaviour', 'dejection', 'self-blame', 'focus on airway symptoms' and 'introvert', with the control group reporting higher negative psychosocial consequences. Furthermore, the participants in both the control and the screen groups exhibited a mean increase in negative psychosocial consequences when their responses from the prevalence round were compared with their responses from the first incidence round. Participation in a randomised controlled trial on lung cancer screening has negative psychosocial consequences for the apparently healthy participants-both the participants in the screen group and the control group. This negative impact was greatest for the control group.

Effect of Kangaroo Mother Care on physical growth, breastfeeding and its acceptability.

PubMed

Gathwala, Geeta; Singh, Bir; Singh, Jagjit

2010-10-01

The aim of this study was to determine whether the implementation of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) to low birth weight infants would improve physical growth, breastfeeding and its acceptability. A randomized controlled trial was performed over 16 months in which 110 neonates were randomized into a KMC group and a control group using a random number table. The KMC group was subjected to KMC for at least 6 h per day. The babies also received KMC after moving from the neonatal intensive care unit and at home. The control group received standard care (incubator or open care system). Weight, length and occipitofrontal circumference (OFC) were measured weekly for three months. The acceptability of KMC by mothers and nursing staff was assessed on day 7 after the start of KMC using a questionnaire incorporating the Likert scale. Breastfeeding rates were calculated based on history at end of three months. The mean gestational age was 35.48 ± 1.20 weeks in the KMC group and 35.04 ± 1.09 weeks in the control group (P > 0.05). KMC was initiated at a mean age of 1.72 ± 0.45 days and the duration of KMC was 9.74 ± 1.48 h/day. The mean birth weight was 1.69 ± 0.11 kg in the KMC group compared to 1.69 ± 0.12 kg in the control group (P > 0.05). The mean weight gain in gm/day in the KMC group was 21.92 ± 1.44 compared to 18.61 ± 1.28 in the control group (P < 0.05). The mean length gain in cm/week was 1.03 ± 0.5 in the KMC group compared to 0.74 ± 0.05 in the control group (P < 0.05). The mean OFC gain in cm/week was 0.59 ± 0.04 in the KMC group compared to 0.47 ± 0.03 in the control group (P < 0.05). The exclusive breast-feeding rate at end of three months was 88% in the KMC group compared to 72% in the control group (P < 0.05). KMC improved physical growth, breastfeeding rates and was well accepted by both mothers and nursing staff.

Carnitine supplementation to obese Zucker rats prevents obesity-induced type II to type I muscle fiber transition and favors an oxidative phenotype of skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that carnitine supplementation counteracts obesity-induced muscle fiber transition from type I to type II. Methods 24 obese Zucker rats were randomly divided into two groups of 12 rats each (obese control, obese carnitine) and 12 lean Zucker rats were selected for lean control group. A control diet was given to both control groups and a carnitine supplemented diet (3 g/kg diet) was given to obese carnitine group for 4 wk. Components of the muscle fiber transformation in skeletal muscle were examined. Results The plasma level of carnitine were lower in the obese control group compared to the lean control group and higher in the obese carnitine group than in the other groups (P < 0.05). Plasma concentrations of triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids were increased in obese animals compared to lean animals and the obese carnitine group had lower level compared to the obese control group (P < 0.05). The obese carnitine group had an increased number of type I muscle fibers and higher mRNA levels of type I fiber-specific myosin heavy chain, regulators of muscle fiber transition and of genes involved in carnitine uptake, fatty acid transport, β-oxidation, angiogenesis, tricarboxylic acid cycle and thermo genesis in M. rectus femoris compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion The results demonstrate that carnitine supplementation to obese Zucker a rat counteracts the obesity-induced muscle fiber transition and restores the muscle oxidative metabolic phenotype. Carnitine supplementation is supposed to be beneficial for the treatment of elevated levels of plasma lipids during obesity or diabetes. PMID:23842456

Cumulative live-birth rate in women with polycystic ovary syndrome or isolated polycystic ovaries undergoing in-vitro fertilisation treatment.

PubMed

Li, Hang Wun Raymond; Lee, Vivian Chi Yan; Lau, Estella Yee Lan; Yeung, William Shu Biu; Ho, Pak Chung; Ng, Ernest Hung Yu

2014-02-01

This retrospective cohort study evaluated the cumulative live birth rate in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and isolated polycystic ovaries (PCO) undergoing in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. We studied 104 women with PCOS, 184 with PCO and 576 age-matched controls undergoing the first IVF treatment cycle between 2002 and 2009. The main outcome measure was cumulative live birth in the fresh plus all the frozen embryo transfers combined after the same stimulation cycle. Women in both the PCOS (n = 104) and isolated PCO groups (n = 184) had higher ovarian response parameters compared to age-matched controls (n = 576), and higher rates of withholding fresh embryo transfer for risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). The actual incidence of moderate to severe OHSS was significantly higher in the PCOS (11.5 %) but not the isolated PCO group (8.2%) compared to controls (4.9%). The live birth rates in the fresh cycle were comparable among the 3 groups, but the PCOS group had a significantly higher miscarriage rate compared to the other 2 groups. Cumulative live birth rate was significantly higher in the isolated PCO group (60.3%), but not the PCOS group (50.0%), compared to controls (47.5%). Women in the isolated PCO group, but not the PCOS group, had a significantly higher cumulative live birth rate compared to controls. This could be explained by the quantitative effect of the higher number of transferable embryos obtained per stimulation cycle, which is uncompromised by the unfavourable embryo competence otherwise observed in PCOS.

Melasma and its association with different types of nevi in women: A case-control study

PubMed Central

Adalatkhah, Hassan; Sadeghi-bazargani, Homayoun; Amini-sani, Nayereh; Zeynizadeh, Somayeh

2008-01-01

Background Very little is known about possible association of nevi and melasma. The study objective was to determine if there is an association between melasma and existence of different kinds of nevi. Methods In a case-control study, 120 female melasma patients referred to dermatology clinic of Ardabil and 120 patients referred to other specialty clinics who lacked melasma were enrolled after matching for age. Number of different types of nevi including lentigines and melanocytic nevi were compared between case and control group patients. Data were entered into the computer and analyzed by SPSS 13 statistical software. Results Mean number of lentigines was 25.5 in melasma group compared to 8 in control group(P < 0.01). Mean number of melanocytic nevi was 13.2 in cases compared to 2.8 in control group(P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that existence of freckles, lentigines and more than three melanocytic nevi were positively related to developing melasma. The chance of melasma increased up to 23 times for patients having more than three melanocytic nevi. Congenital nevi were observed among 10% both in case and control groups. Campbell de morgan angiomas were seen among 26 patients(21.8%) in case group compared to 6 patients(5%) in control group. Conclusion Existence of lentigines and melanocytic nevi increases chance of having melasma PMID:18680608

Effect of renal sympathetic denervation on the progression of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in canines with long-term intermittent atrial pacing.

PubMed

Wang, Xule; Huang, Congxin; Zhao, Qingyan; Huang, He; Tang, Yanhong; Dai, Zixuan; Wang, Xiaozhan; Guo, Zongwen; Xiao, Jinping

2015-04-01

The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) on the progression of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) in canines with long-term intermittent atrial pacing. Nineteen beagles were randomly divided into sham-operated group (six dogs), control group (six dogs), and RSD group (seven dogs). Sham-operated group were implanted with pacemakers without pacing; control group were implanted with pacemakers with long-term intermittent atrial pacing; and RSD group underwent catheter-based RSD bilaterally and were simultaneously implanted with pacemakers. Atrial pacing was maintained for 8 h a day and a total of 12 weeks in the control group and RSD group. Echocardiography showed that the left atrial structure and function were significantly improved in the RSD group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the RSD group had fewer incidences of AF and a shorter duration of AF (P < 0.05) after long-term intermittent atrial pacing. In addition to increased atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and AF cycle length, AERP dispersion and P-wave duration and dispersion were significantly decreased in the RSD group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Atrial morphological evaluation suggested that fibrosis and ultrastructural changes induced by long-term intermittent atrial pacing were markedly suppressed in the RSD dogs compared with controls (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry results showed that connexin 43 distribution in RSD mid-myocardial was significantly fewer heterogeneous than that in control mid-myocardial (P < 0.05). Renal denervation inhibits the progression of paroxysmal AF, which might be related to the suppression of atrial electrophysiology and structural heterogeneity. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2014. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Virgin Coconut Oil Prevents Blood Pressure Elevation and Improves Endothelial Functions in Rats Fed with Repeatedly Heated Palm Oil

PubMed Central

Nurul-Iman, Badlishah Sham; Kamisah, Yusof; Jaarin, Kamsiah; Qodriyah, Hj Mohd Saad

2013-01-01

This study was performed to explore the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) in male rats that were fed with repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, plasma nitric oxide level, and vascular reactivity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (i) control (basal diet), (ii) VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral), (iii) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) (5HPO), and (iv) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) and VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral) (5HPO + VCO). Blood pressure was significantly increased in the group that was given the 5HPO diet compared to the control group. Blood pressure in the 5HPO + VCO group was significantly lower than the 5HPO group. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) level in the 5HPO group was significantly lower compared to the control group, whereas in the 5HPO + VCO group, the plasma NO level was significantly higher compared to the 5HPO group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO group exhibited attenuated relaxation in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside as well as increased vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the control group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO + VCO group showed only attenuated vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the 5HPO group. In conclusion, VCO prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil. PMID:23861707

Virgin coconut oil prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

PubMed

Nurul-Iman, Badlishah Sham; Kamisah, Yusof; Jaarin, Kamsiah; Qodriyah, Hj Mohd Saad

2013-01-01

This study was performed to explore the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) in male rats that were fed with repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, plasma nitric oxide level, and vascular reactivity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (i) control (basal diet), (ii) VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral), (iii) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) (5HPO), and (iv) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) and VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral) (5HPO + VCO). Blood pressure was significantly increased in the group that was given the 5HPO diet compared to the control group. Blood pressure in the 5HPO + VCO group was significantly lower than the 5HPO group. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) level in the 5HPO group was significantly lower compared to the control group, whereas in the 5HPO + VCO group, the plasma NO level was significantly higher compared to the 5HPO group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO group exhibited attenuated relaxation in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside as well as increased vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the control group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO + VCO group showed only attenuated vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the 5HPO group. In conclusion, VCO prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

Difference in postural control between patients with functional and mechanical ankle instability.

PubMed

Chen, Henry; Li, Hong-Yun; Zhang, Jian; Hua, Ying-Hui; Chen, Shi-Yi

2014-10-01

Lateral ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries. Since the structural and pathological differences in mechanical ankle instability (MAI) and functional ankle instability (FAI) may not be the same, it may be better to treat these as separate groups. The purpose of this study was to compare the difference in postural sway between MAI and FAI in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Twenty-six patients with CAI and 14 healthy control participants were included in the study. The CAI patients were subdivided into MAI (15 patients) and FAI (11 patients) groups. Patients who were diagnosed with lateral ankle ligaments rupture by magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography were assigned to the MAI group. All participants performed single-limb postural sway tests 3 times on each leg with eyes closed and open. The average distances from the mean center of pressure position in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions were recorded and compared among the 3 groups. The unstable ankles in the MAI group showed significantly greater postural sway in the anterior, posterior, and medial directions compared with those in the control group with eyes closed. With eyes open, significantly greater postural sway was found in the anterior direction. In the FAI group, no difference was found in postural sway compared with those in the control group. The MAI group showed significantly greater postural sway in the anterior direction compared with the FAI group with eyes closed and open. No significant difference in postural sway was found between the unstable and stable ankles in the MAI or FAI groups, with or without vision. Patients with MAI have deficits in postural control, especially in anterior-posterior directions. However, no difference was found in postural sway in patients with FAI compared with healthy people. As MAI patients suffer from deficits in postural control, balance training should be applied in those patients. In addition, special training should also include the contralateral side after a unilateral ankle ligament injured. © The Author(s) 2014.

The Association between the Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness and Oxidative Stress Parameters in Isolated Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Multimarker Approach

PubMed Central

Demir, Bulent; Demir, Esra; Acıksarı, Gonul; Uygun, Turgut; Utku, Irem Kırac; Gedikbasi, Asuman; Caglar, Ilker Murat; Pirhan, Osman; Tureli, Hande Oktay; Oflar, Ersan; Ungan, İsmail; Ciftci, Serkan; Karakaya, Osman

2014-01-01

The risk for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly increases in the patient population with metabolic syndrome (MeS). The present study aimed to investigate the association between the epicardial adipose tissue thickness (EATT) and the oxidative stress parameters in MeS patients. The study included 181 patients as a patient group of 92 consecutive patients with MeS and a control group of 89 consecutive patients with similar age and gender. EATT was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography. Serum levels of total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidative capacity (TAS), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), and arylesterase activities were measured. EATT was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (6.0 ± 2.0 mm and 4.0 ± 1.0 mm, resp.; P < 0.001). The level of TOS was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Additionally, the TAS level was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the serum levels of PON-1 and arylesterase were lower in the MeS group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). EAT may cause an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases by leading to increased oxidative stress in patients with MeS. PMID:25530760

The behaviour of fatigue-induced microdamage in compact bone samples from control and ovariectomised sheep.

PubMed

Kennedy, Oran D; Brennan, Orlaith; Mauer, Peter; O'Brien, Fergal J; Rackard, Susan M; Taylor, David; Lee, T Clive

2008-01-01

This study investigates the effect of microdamage on bone quality in osteoporosis using an ovariectomised (OVX) sheep model of osteoporosis. Thirty-four sheep were divided into an OVX group (n=16) and a control group (n=18). Fluorochromes were administered intravenously at 3 monthly intervals after surgery to label bone turnover. After sacrifice, beams were removed from the metatarsal and tested in three-point bending. Following failure, microcracks were identified and quantified in terms of region, location and interaction with osteons. Number of cycles to failure (Nf) was lower in the OVX group relative to controls by approximately 7%. Crack density (CrDn) was higher in the OVX group compared to controls. CrDn was 2.5 and 3.5 times greater in the compressive region compared to tensile in control and OVX bone respectively. Combined results from both groups showed that 91% of cracks remained in interstitial bone, approximately 8% of cracks penetrated unlabelled osteons and less than 1% penetrated into labelled osteons. All cases of labelled osteon penetration occurred in controls. Crack surface density (CrSDn), was 25% higher in the control group compared to OVX. It is known that crack behaviour on meeting microstructural features such as osteons will depend on crack length. We have shown that osteon age also affects crack propagation. Long cracks penetrated unlabelled osteons but not labelled ones. Some cracks in the control group did penetrate labelled osteons. This may be due the fact that control bone is more highly mineralized. CrSDn was increased by 25% in the control group compared to OVX. Further study of these fracture mechanisms will help determine the effect of microdamage on bone quality and how this contributes to bone fragility.

Presence of chronic diabetic foot ulcers is associated with more frequent and more advanced retinopathy.

PubMed

Sellman, A; Katzman, P; Andreasson, S; Löndahl, M

2018-05-23

To clarify the frequency and severity of diabetic retinopathy in a group of people with Type 2 diabetes and chronic diabetic foot ulcers, and to compare visual acuity, levels of retinopathy and clinical significant macular oedema with a matched control group of people with Type 2 diabetes without a history of chronic diabetic foot ulcers. Visual acuity and fundus imaging were evaluated in 90 white people with at least 3 months' duration of full-thickness diabetic foot ulcers below the ankle and the results compared with those in 180 white people with Type 2 diabetes without a history of chronic diabetic foot ulcers (control group). Controls were matched for age, sex and duration of diabetes. Despite similar age and diabetes duration, severe non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy was present in 41% of the people in the diabetic foot ulcer group as compared to 15% in the control group (P<0.001). Only 6% in the diabetic foot ulcer group was without any diabetic retinopathy as compared to 34% among controls. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy was more common in the diabetic foot ulcer group (31% vs 8%; P<0.001), but time-to-proliferative diabetic retinopathy did not differ between groups. Clinically significant macular oedema was more frequently present, and the diabetic foot ulcer group exhibited significantly worse results in best and worst eye visual acuity testing. In this northern European setting almost all people with Type 2 diabetes and chronic diabetic foot ulcers had diabetic retinopathy. Almost one-third had proliferative diabetic retinopathy as compared to <10% in our matched control group. More advanced diabetic retinopathy was linked to worse visual acuity. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Post-operative pain control after tonsillectomy: dexametasone vs tramadol.

PubMed

Topal, Kubra; Aktan, Bulent; Sakat, Muhammed Sedat; Kilic, Korhan; Gozeler, Mustafa Sitki

2017-06-01

Tramadol was found to be more effective than dexamethasone in post-operative pain control, with long-lasting relief of pain. This study aimed to compare the effects of pre-operative local injections of tramadol and dexamethasone on post-operative pain, nausea and vomiting in patients who underwent tonsillectomy. Sixty patients between 3-13 years of age who were planned for tonsillectomy were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 was the control group. Patients in Group 2 received 0.3 mg/kg Dexamethasone and Group 3 received 0.1 mg/kg Tramadol injection to the peritonsillary space just before the operation. Patients were evaluated for nausea, vomiting, and pain. When the control and the dexamethasone groups were compared; there were statistically significant differences in pain scores at post-operative 15 and 30 min, whereas there was no statistically significant difference in pain scores at other hours. When the control and tramadol groups were compared, there was a statistically significant difference in pain scores at all intervals. When tramadol and dexamethasone groups were compared, there was no statistically significant difference in pain scores at post-operative 15 and 30 min, 1 and 2 h, whereas there was a statistically significant difference in pain scores at post-operative 6 and 24 h.

Experiential versus rational training: a comparison of student attitudes toward homosexuality.

PubMed

Guth, Lorraine J; Lopez, David F; Rojas, Julio; Clements, Kimberly D; Tyler, J Michael

2004-01-01

Based on Epstein's (1994a) cognitive-experiential self-theory, two new training interventions were designed to teach students about gay, lesbian and bisexual issues. The efficacy of these theoretically based interventions was assessed in a short-term (7-week, three occasion) longitudinal study. Fifty undergraduate psychology students were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: Rational Training, Experiential Training, or Control Group. A residualized change score procedure was used to analyze change in levels of sexual prejudice and affect across the three types of measurement (pre-test, post-test, and follow-up). A 3 (Rational Training, Experiential Training, Control Group) x 2 (Low Sexual Prejudice, High Sexual Prejudice) MANOVA revealed that after the training, participants in the Experiential Group (affective training) had more accepting attitudes toward homosexuality compared to the Control Group. In addition, participants in the Experiential Group experienced more positive affect compared to the Rational and Control Groups and experienced more negative affect compared to the Rational Group. Findings are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided.

Fracture prevention by prophylactic femoroplasty of the proximal femur--metallic compared with cemented augmentation.

PubMed

Springorum, Hans-Robert; Gebauer, Matthias; Mehrl, Alexander; Stark, Olaf; Craiovan, Benjamin; Püschel, Klaus; Amling, Michael; Grifka, Joachim; Beckmann, Johannes

2014-07-01

To compare 2 different femoral neck augmentation techniques at improving the mechanical strength of the femoral neck. Twenty pairs of human cadaveric femora were randomly divided into 2 groups. In 1 group, the femora were augmented with a steel spiral; the other group with the cemented technique. The untreated contralateral side served as an intraindividual control. Fracture strength was evaluated using an established biomechanical testing scenario mimicking a fall on the greater trochanter (Hayes fall). The peak load to failure was significantly higher in the steel spiral group (P = 0.0024) and in the cemented group (P = 0.001) compared with the intraindividual controls. The peak load to failure showed a median of 3167 N (1825-5230 N) in the spiral group and 2485 N (1066-4395 N) in the spiral control group. The peak load to failure in the cemented group was 3698 N (SD ± 1249 N) compared with 2763 N (SD ± 1335 N) in the cement control group. Furthermore, fracture displacement was clearly reduced in the steel spiral group. Femoral augmentations using steel spirals or cement-based femoroplasty are technically feasible procedures. Our results demonstrate that a prophylactic reinforced proximal femur has higher strength when compared with the untreated contralateral limb. Prophylactic augmentation has potential to become an auxiliary treatment option to protect the osteoporotic proximal femur against fracture.

Incentive spirometry with expiratory positive airway pressure reduces pulmonary complications, improves pulmonary function and 6-minute walk distance in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

PubMed

Haeffener, Mauren Porto; Ferreira, Glória Menz; Barreto, Sérgio Saldanha Menna; Arena, Ross; Dall'Ago, Pedro

2008-11-01

The use of the incentive spirometry (IS) with expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications (PPC) after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is not well established. This study sought to determine the effects of IS+EPAP after CABG. Thirty-four patients undergoing CABG were randomly assigned to a control group or IS+EPAP group. Maximal respiratory pressures, pulmonary function test, 6-minute walk test and chest x-ray were performed at baseline as well as 1 week and 1 month after CABG. Maximal inspiratory pressure was significantly higher in the IS+EPAP group compared to controls at both 1 week and 1 month (P<.001). Maximal expiratory pressure was significantly higher at 1 month compared to 1 week in IS+EPAP group (P<.01). At 1 month, forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 second was significantly higher in IS+EPAP compared to controls (P<.05). Inspiratory capacity was higher at 1 month in IS+EPAP group compared to controls (P<.05). The distance walked in 6-minute walk test was higher at 1 month in IS+EPAP group (P<.001) compared to controls. Lastly, radiological injury score at 1 week was lower in IS+EPAP compared to controls (P<.004). In patients undergoing CABG, IS+EPAP results in improved pulmonary function and 6-minute walk distance as well as a reduction in PPC.

Pregnancy outcomes in type 2 diabetic patients as compared with type 1 diabetic patients and nondiabetic controls.

PubMed

Knight, Kristin M; Thornburg, Loralei L; Pressman, Eva K

2012-01-01

To characterize the neonatal and maternal outcomes of type 2 diabetic patients as compared with type 1 diabetic patients and nondiabetic controls. We performed a retrospective cohort study reviewing perinatal outcomes of type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients and nondiabetic controls from July 2000 to August 2006. Analysis of variance, t testing and chi2 analysis were used to compare groups. Post hoc power analysis indicated 80% power was necessary to detect a 15% difference in composite poor neonatal outcomes. A total of 64 type 2 and 64 type 1 diabetic patients were compared with 256 controls. Type 1 diabetic patients had higher incidences of composite poor neonatal outcome and congenital anomalies than did type 2 diabetic and control patients. Both diabetic groups had similarly higher incidences of cesarean delivery, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, polyhydramnios and macrosomia than did controls. Type 2 diabetic patients have a decreased incidence of adverse neonatal outcomes when compared with that of type 1 diabetic patients. No difference was observed between the diabetic groups in the incidence of a majority of the adverse maternal outcomes examined, however both diabetic groups had overall worse outcomes that did nondiabetic controls.

Boron supplementation improves bone health of non-obese diabetic mice.

PubMed

Dessordi, Renata; Spirlandeli, Adriano Levi; Zamarioli, Ariane; Volpon, José Batista; Navarro, Anderson Marliere

2017-01-01

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that predisposes a higher risk for the development of osteoporosis. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of boron supplementation on bone microstructure and strength in control and non-obese diabetic mice for 30days. The animals were supplemented with 40μg/0,5ml of boron solution and controls received 0,5ml of distilled water daily. We evaluated the biochemical parameters: total calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and boron; bone analysis: bone computed microtomography, and biomechanical assay with a three point test on the femur. This study consisted of 28 animals divided into four groups: Group water control - Ctrl (n=10), Group boron control - Ctrl±B (n=8), Group diabetic water - Diab (n=5) and Group diabetic boron - Diab±B (n=5). The results showed that cortical bone volume and the trabecular bone volume fraction were higher for Diab±B and Ctrl±B compared to the Diab and Ctrl groups (p≤0,05). The trabecular specific bone surface was greater for the Diab±B group, and the trabecular thickness and structure model index had the worst values for the Diab group. The boron serum concentrations were higher for the Diab±B group compared to non-supplemented groups. The magnesium concentration was lower for Diab and Diab±B compared with controls. The biomechanical test on the femur revealed maintenance of parameters of the bone strength in animals Diab±B compared to the Diab group and controls. The results suggest that boron supplementation improves parameters related to bone strength and microstructure of cortical and trabecular bone in diabetic animals and the controls that were supplemented. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Enhanced wound contraction in fresh wounds dressed with honey in Wistar rats (Rattus Novergicus).

PubMed

Osuagwu, F C; Oladejo, O W; Imosemi, I O; Aiku, A; Ekpos, O E; Salami, A A; Oyedele, O O; Akang, E U

2004-01-01

Due to reports that honey accelerates wound healing, an investigation on its role in wound contraction in fresh wounds inflicted on wistar rats was carried out. Twenty adult male wistar rats had 2cm by 2cm square wound inflicted on their right dorsolateral trunk. They were divided into two groups. The experimental group had their wounds dressed with honey while the control group had normal saline dressing. Wound dressing was done every five days and measurements taken at each dressing. Wound morphology was also assessed. Dressing with honey significantly enhanced percentage wound contraction on day 10 with value of 79.20+/-2.94 compared to control value of 53.50+/-4.32. p=0.0. The mean wound measurement on day 10 reduced significantly in honey group, 1.15+/-0.18 compared to control group 2.38+/-0.28. p=0.002. However, there was no significant difference in fibroblast count per high power field in honey group 68.0+/-2.59 compared to control 90.2+/-17.40, p=0.242. Honey dressing increased mean blood vessel count per high power field, 18.8+/-3.77 albeit non significantly when compared to control value of 13.4+/-2.44, p=0.264. Also honey dressing caused increased granulation tissue formation in wounds dressed with honey compared to control group. Our study suggests that honey dressing enhances wound contraction in fresh wounds which is one of the key features of wound healing.

Randomized controlled trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia: differential effects on blood pressure in female patients with urinary incontinence undergoing urodynamic examination.

PubMed

Seol, Geun Hee; Lee, Yun Hee; Kang, Purum; You, Ji Hye; Park, Mira; Min, Sun Seek

2013-07-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of inhalation of Salvia sclarea (clary sage; clary) or Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) essential oil vapors on autonomic nervous system activity in female patients with urinary incontinence undergoing urodynamic assessment. STUDY DESIGN, LOCATION, AND SUBJECTS: This study was a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial carried out in 34 female patients with urinary incontinence. The subjects were randomized to inhale lavender, clary, or almond (control) oil at concentrations of 5% (vol/vol) each. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and salivary cortisol were measured before and after inhalation of these odors for 60 minutes. The clary oil group experienced a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure compared with the control (p=0.048) and lavender oil (p=0.026) groups, a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure compared with the lavender oil group (p=0.034) and a significant decrease in respiratory rate compared with the control group (p<0.001). In contrast, the lavender oil group tended to increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with the control group. Compared with the control group, inhalation of lavender oil (p=0.045) and clary oil (p<0.001) resulted in statistically significant reductions in respiratory rate. These results suggest that lavender oil inhalation may be inappropriate in lowering stress during urodynamic examinations, despite its antistress effects, while clary oil inhalation may be useful in inducing relaxation in female urinary incontinence patients undergoing urodynamic assessments.

Randomized Controlled Trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia: Differential Effects on Blood Pressure in Female Patients with Urinary Incontinence Undergoing Urodynamic Examination

PubMed Central

Lee, Yun Hee; Kang, Purum; You, Ji Hye; Park, Mira; Min, Sun Seek

2013-01-01

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of inhalation of Salvia sclarea (clary sage; clary) or Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) essential oil vapors on autonomic nervous system activity in female patients with urinary incontinence undergoing urodynamic assessment. Study design, location, and subjects This study was a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial carried out in 34 female patients with urinary incontinence. Outcome measure The subjects were randomized to inhale lavender, clary, or almond (control) oil at concentrations of 5% (vol/vol) each. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and salivary cortisol were measured before and after inhalation of these odors for 60 minutes. Results The clary oil group experienced a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure compared with the control (p=0.048) and lavender oil (p=0.026) groups, a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure compared with the lavender oil group (p=0.034) and a significant decrease in respiratory rate compared with the control group (p<0.001). In contrast, the lavender oil group tended to increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with the control group. Compared with the control group, inhalation of lavender oil (p=0.045) and clary oil (p<0.001) resulted in statistically significant reductions in respiratory rate. Conclusions These results suggest that lavender oil inhalation may be inappropriate in lowering stress during urodynamic examinations, despite its antistress effects, while clary oil inhalation may be useful in inducing relaxation in female urinary incontinence patients undergoing urodynamic assessments. PMID:23360656

[Health economics analysis of specific immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis accompanied with asthma].

PubMed

Chen, Jianjun; Xiang, Jisheng; Wang, Yanjun; Shi, Qiumei; Tan, Huifang; Kong, Weijia

2013-09-01

To investigate the cost-effectiveness of standardized specific immunotherapy (SIT) for allergic rhinitis patients accompanied with asthma (ARAS) in China. Forty ARAS patients sensitized with house dust mite (HDM) were administered with SIT (SIT group) or merely medicine treatment (control group). Alutard dermatophagoides pteronyssinus vaccine from ALK company was used for immunotherapy. The usage of symptom control medicine was according to the ARIA and GINA guideline. Cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) and Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio(ICER) analysis was conducted. The effectiveness was measured in terms of symptom scores, quality of life, objective improvement of rhinitis and asthma. Sensitive analysis was conducted to verify the stability of the results. The cost of SIT group for 1 year (6578 yuan) was higher than that of control group (1733.3 yuan), while the cost-effectiveness ratio and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of SIT group were significant better than that of control group in all items. CER was 1686.7 yuan in SIT group compared with 3466.6 yuan in control group for nasal symptom scores, 4698.6 yuan in SIT group compared with 5777.8 yuan in control group for asthma symptom scores, 3462.1 yuan in SIT group compared with 8666.7 yuan in control group. The sensitive analysis of the price 10 percent higher or lower showed the same results. The cost-effectiveness of specific immunotherapy (SIT) for mite sensitized ARAS patients was better than that of merely medicine treatment.

The effect of triiodothyronine on maturation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells during remyelination following induced demyelination in male albino rat.

PubMed

El-Tahry, H; Marei, H; Shams, A; El-Shahat, M; Abdelaziz, H; Abd El-Kader, M

2016-06-01

Demyelination was induced by two weeks cuprizone treatment. Rats of +ve control and triiodothyronine (T3) then received three subcutaneous injections of either saline or T3 day after day and sacrificed at the end of the third and fifth weeks. Animals in -ve control group received only standard rodent chow. After one week of cuprizone withdrawal the corpus callosum in +ve control and T3 treated rats was still demyelinated as revealed by MBP immunohistochemistry. The assay of PLP gene showed significant increase of T3 treated group compared to both the -ve control and +ve control groups. After three weeks, significant improvement in myelination was detected in T3-treated group compared to +ve control as detected by both MBP immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. After one week of cuprizone withdrawal, PDGFRα positive cells and gene expression showed significant increase in +ve control and T3-treated groups as compared to -ve control with insignificant difference in between the former two groups. After three weeks of cuprizone withdrawal, PDGFRα positive cells in T3-treated and +ve control groups decreased to the control levels. These results suggest that T3 was effective in improving remyelination when administered during acute phase and might direct progenitor lineage toward oligodendrocytes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of vernal keratoconjunctivitis on vitreous depth in patients with keratoconus.

PubMed

Cingü, Abdullah Kürşat; Kaya, Savaş; Çınar, Yasin; Şahin, Muhammed; Türkçü, Fatih Mehmet; Yüksel, Harun; Murat, Mehmet; Çaça, İhsan

2015-05-01

The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the vitreous depth (VD) of keratoconic eyes in patients with or without vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Eighty eyes of 80 consecutive keratoconus (KC) patients and 40 emmetropic control subjects were enrolled. KC patients were divided into two groups according to accompanying VKC (VKC-KC group and KC group). Mean outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), mean keratometry (Km), intraocular pressure (IOP), and axial length (AL) and its components. The eyes with the highest Km were selected for statistical analysis for each participant. There were 50, 30, and 40 patients in the VKC-KC group, KC group, and control group respectively. The KC group and VKC-KC group were similar in BCVA, SE, Km, CCT, ACD, LT, and IOP (p>0.05). The mean ACD was significantly lower in the control group when compared with the KC group and VKC-KC group. The mean AL and VD were significantly higher in VKC-KC group than those of KC group and the control group, whereas similar in KC and control groups (p>0.05). In the current study we showed that VKC-associated KC patients have significantly longer AL and VD when compared with KC patients without VKC. Posterior segment elongation in VKC-KC group may be associated with the type IV collagen destruction due to chronic longstanding inflammation in VKC patients.

The effect of cannabinoid receptor 1 blockade on hepatic free fatty acid profile in mice with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

PubMed

Jorgačević, Bojan; Vučević, Danijela; Đuričić, Ivana; Šobajić, Slađana; Mladenović, Dušan; Vesković, Milena; Vukićević, Rada Ješić; Radosavljević, Tatjana

2017-04-01

We used rimonabant to investigate the role of CB1 receptor on hepatic FFAs profile during NAFLD. Male mice C57BL/6 were divided into: control group fed with control diet 20 weeks (C; n=6); group fed with HFD 20 weeks (HF; n=6); group fed with control diet and treated with rimonabant after 18 weeks (R; n=9); group fed with HFD and treated with rimonabant after 18 weeks (HFR; n=10). Rimonabant (10mg/kg) was administered daily to HFR and R group by oral gavage. Rimonabant decreased liver palmitic acid proportion in HFR group compared to HF group (p<0.05). Liver stearic and oleic acid proportions were decreased in R group compared to control (p<0.01 respectively). Rimonabant increased liver linoleic and arachidonic acid proportions in HFR group compared to HF group (p<0.01 respectively). CB1 blockade may be useful in the treatment of HFD-induced NAFLD due to modulation of plasma lipid and hepatic FFA profile. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of deep shoulder infections on patient outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a retrospective comparative study.

PubMed

Atesok, Kivanc; MacDonald, Peter; Leiter, Jeff; McRae, Sheila; Singh, Mandip; Stranges, Greg; Old, Jason

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of deep shoulder infections after RCR on patient outcomes. A retrospective chart review was conducted involving all patients with deep shoulder infections after arthroscopic RCR (study group). Another group of patients who were matched with the study group by age, gender and rotator cuff tear size, and did not develop deep shoulder infections after arthroscopic RCR were randomly identified (control group). The two groups were compared in terms of time to start physiotherapy, shoulder function, and delay in return to work. There were 10 patients in each group. The mean time to start physiotherapy after surgery was 145.3 (SD=158.8) days for the study group and 40.0 (SD=13.7) days for the control group (p=.051). The average forward elevation of the operated shoulder was 133 (SD=33.4) degrees for the study group, and 172 (SD=12.0) degrees for the control group (p=0.003). The average time to return to work at preoperative level was 5.6 months for the study group and 3 months for the control group. Deep shoulder infections after RCR significantly impedes time to start physiotherapy, shoulder function, and patients' ability to return to work. III b [retrospective comparative (case-control) study].

Sirolimus in kidney transplant donors and clinical and histologic improvement in recipients: rat model.

PubMed

Cicora, F; Lausada, N; Vasquez, D N; Cicora, P; Zalazar, G; Gonzalez, P; Palti, G; Raimondi, C

2010-01-01

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is one of the risk factors for delayed graft function, acute rejection episodes, and impaired long-term allograft survival after kidney transplantation. This antigen-independent inflammatory process produces tissue damage. Isogeneic transplantation in a rat model is a useful method for study of nonimmunologic risk factors for kidney damage. To study the effect of sirolimus on I/R injury using only 1 dose of the drug in the donor. Eighteen rats were allocated to 3 groups of 6 rats each: sham group, control group, and rapamycin group. Improved renal function and systemic inflammatory response were observed in the rapamycin group compared with the control group (Deltaurea, Deltacreatinine, and DeltaC3, all P < .01). The number of apoptotic nuclei in the renal medulla in the control group was higher than in the rapamycin group (P < .01). Tubular damage was less severe in the rapamycin group compared with the control group (P < .01). Complement 3 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha expression in the kidney samples were significantly decreased when rapamycin was given to the donor rats (P > .01). Bcl-2 protein was upregulated in the rapamycin group compared with the control group (P < .01). Administration of rapamycin in donors attenuates the I/R injury process after kidney transplantation in a rat model.

Does platelet-rich plasma have a favorable effect in the early stages of steroid-associated femoral head osteonecrosis in a rabbit model?

PubMed

Karakaplan, Mustafa; Gülabi, Deniz; Topgül, Haldun; Elmalı, Nurzat

2017-08-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on femoral head osteonecrosis and compare it with bone marrow injection and core decompression. A total of 30 healthy, adult, male New Zealand white rabbits (mean weight 2.25±0.15 kg; range 2.0 to 2.5 kg) were used in the study. To create experimental osteonecrosis in all rabbits, 40 mg/kg methylprednisolone acetate was applied intramuscularly. Rabbits were randomly allocated into three groups with 10 rabbits in each: drilling group, PRP group, and bone marrow group. The non-drilled hips of the drilling group were identified as the control group. Rate of necrotic bone was lower in the PRP group compared to other groups. Highest rate of necrotic bone was detected in the control group. New bone formation rate was higher in the PRP group compared to other groups. Lowest new bone formation rate was determined in the control group. Inflammatory reaction rate was higher in the PRP group compared to other groups. Platelet-rich plasma injection may play a positive role in the treatment of steroid-associated osteonecrosis in a rabbit model.

Protective effect of Naringin on experimental hindlimb ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

PubMed

Gürsul, Cebrail; Ekinci Akdemir, Fazile Nur; Akkoyun, Turan; Can, İsmail; Gül, Mustafa; Gülçin, İlhami

2016-01-01

This study was designed to investigate the antioxidant effects of Naringin, in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced skeletal muscle injury in rats. The rats were randomly allocated into three groups including control, I/R and I/R + Naringin groups. Muscle tissues of I/R groups revealed significantly higher antioxidant enzyme activities, and increased levels of malondialdehyde, as specific a marker of the lipid peroxidation and tissue damage, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Levels of these parameters in muscle revealed significant reductions in the I/R + Naringin group compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination of ischemia muscles in the I/R group showed significant degeneration and inflammation compared to the control group, whereas ischemic muscles of Naringin-administered group showed significant reduction in degeneration and inflammation compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). We suggest that the protective effect of Naringin may reduce the I/R injury in cases of extremity injuries with acute vascular complications, extremity surgery with prolonged tourniquet application.

25G compared with 20G vitrectomy under Resight non-contact wide-angle lenses for Terson syndrome.

PubMed

Mao, Xinbang; You, Zhipeng

2017-08-01

The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of 25G vitrectomy to standard 20G vitrectomy for treatment of Terson syndrome under Resight non-contact wide-angle lenses. This was a case-control study of 20 patients with Terson syndrome (study group) that underwent 25G vitrectomy under Resight non-contact wide-angle lenses, with those of 20 matched patients that underwent 20G vitrectomy (control group). Medical records were reviewed from between July 2011 and October 2013. Data included results of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study examination, ophthalmology B-scan ultrasonography and fundus photography. The mean age, follow-up time, the preoperative visual acuity of LogMAR and the preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) were all comparable in the two groups (all P>0.05). There were statistically significant differences in postoperative visual acuity of LogMAR compared with preoperative visual acuity (P<0.001) in both groups, but no difference between the groups (P=0.845). However, the operative times (13.5 min in study group vs. 42 min in control group) and post-operative IOP at day 1 (13.5 vs. 20 mmHg) were significantly reduced in the study group compared to the control group (P<0.001). Therefore, the present findings suggest that 25G Vitrectomy for Terson syndrome under Resight non-contact wide-angle lenses can achieve a significantly shorter operative time and lower post-operative IOP compared with 20G Vitrectomy.

Effects of microwaves (950 MHZ mobile phone) on morphometric and apoptotic changes of rabbit epididymis.

PubMed

Azadi Oskouyi, E; Rajaei, F; Safari Variani, A; Sarokhani, M R; Javadi, A

2015-08-01

The effect of mobile phone radiation on human reproduction system is still a matter of debate. In this study, 18 male rabbits were randomly divided into two experimental groups and one control group. Experimental groups received simulated microwaves with the frequency of 950 MHz and the output power of 3 and 6 watts for 2 weeks, 2 h a day. After a week of rest, the microscopic slides from the quada of the excised epididymis were prepared. Then, the diameter of epididymis, the height of epithelium and the number of apoptotic cells in epithelium in study groups were determined. The data were compared using spss software and one-way anova test. The epithelial height and diameter of the epididymis in 3 watt and 6 watt groups had a significant decrease compared to the control group (P < 0.001), while the testosterone level only in 6 watt group was significantly decreased compared to control group. The rate of apoptosis in the epithelial cells of the epididymis had a significant increase only in 6 watt group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). This study showed that the microwaves with the frequency of 950 MHz can have negative impacts on morphometric and apoptotic changes of rabbit epididymis. © 2014 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

The comparative effects of chronic consumption of kola nut (Cola nitida) and caffeine diets on locomotor behaviour and body weights in mice.

PubMed

Umoren, E B; Osim, E E; Udoh, P B

2009-06-01

The comparative effects of chronic [28 days] consumption of kola nut and its active constituent, caffeine diets on locomotor behaviour and body weights in mice were investigated. Thirty adult Swiss white mice [15-30 g body weight], were used for the study. The open field-maze was employed for the evaluation of locomotor behaviour. Mice in the control group [n=10] were fed normal rodent chow, mice in the kola nut-fed group [n=10] were fed kola diet [25 % wt/wt of rodent chow] while those in the caffeine-fed group [n=10] were fed caffeine diet [0.66% wt/wt of rodent chow] for 4 weeks. All animals were allowed free access to clean drinking water. Daily food intake, water intake and body weight change were also measured. Daily food intake in the kola nut and caffeine-fed group of mice was significantly [P<0.001 respectively] lower than the control. There was also a significant [P<0.001] decrease in daily water intake in the caffeine-fed group compared to the control whereas, the apparent decrease of water intake in the kola nut-fed group was not significantly different from the control. Body weight change was also significantly [P<0.001 and P<0.05 respectively] lower in the kola nut and caffeine-fed groups of mice when compared to the control. The frequency of rearing in the open field was significantly [P<0.01] lower in the caffeine-fed group of mice when compared to the control. The frequency of grooming was also significantly [P<0.05] lower in the caffeine-fed group of mice when compared to the control. There was also a significant [P<0.05] decrease in the frequency of light-dark transitions in the light/dark transition box for the caffeine-fed group when compared to the control. The results showed that chronic consumption of kola nut and caffeine diets caused decrease in food intake and body weight. Consumption of caffeine-diet also significantly decreased water intake and locomotor activity. The effect of kola nut-diets on water intake and locomotor activity was not significant. Hence, the effect of kola nut on locomotor behaviour and water intake may not be due to caffeine only.

Psychosocial consequences of allocation to lung cancer screening: a randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

Aggestrup, Louise Mosborg; Hestbech, Mie Sara; Siersma, Volkert; Pedersen, Jesper Holst

2012-01-01

Objective To examine the psychosocial consequences of being allocated to the control group as compared with the screen group in a randomised lung cancer screening trial. Method The Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial, a randomised controlled trial, ran from 2004 to 2010 with the purpose of investigating the benefits and harms of lung cancer screening. The participants in Danish Lung Cancer Screening Trial were randomised to either the control group or the screen group and were asked to complete the questionnaires Consequences Of Screening and Consequences Of Screening in Lung Cancer (COS-LC). The Consequences Of Screening and the COS-LC were used to examine the psychosocial consequences of participating in the study, by comparing the control and the screen groups' responses at the prevalence and at the incidence round. Results There was no statistically significant difference in socio-demographic characteristics or smoking habits between the two groups. Responses to the COS-LC collected before the incidence round were statistically significantly different on the scales ‘anxiety’, ‘behaviour’, ‘dejection’, ‘self-blame’, ‘focus on airway symptoms’ and ‘introvert’, with the control group reporting higher negative psychosocial consequences. Furthermore, the participants in both the control and the screen groups exhibited a mean increase in negative psychosocial consequences when their responses from the prevalence round were compared with their responses from the first incidence round. Conclusions Participation in a randomised controlled trial on lung cancer screening has negative psychosocial consequences for the apparently healthy participants—both the participants in the screen group and the control group. This negative impact was greatest for the control group. PMID:22382119

Effect of p27 gene combined with Pientzehuang ([characters: see text]) on tumor growth in osteosarcoma-bearing nude mice.

PubMed

Ren, Shou-song; Yuan, Fang; Liu, Ying-hong; Zhou, Le-tian; Li, Jun

2015-11-01

To observe the effect of p27 gene recombinant adenovirus combined with Chinese medicine Pientzehuang ([characters: see text]) on the growth of xenografted human osteosarcoma in nude mice. Tissue transplantation was used to construct the orthotopic model of human osteosarcoma Saos-2 cell in nude mice. Thirty tumor-bearing nude mice were randomly divided into 5 groups with 6 mice in each group: blank control group (model of osteosarcoma), empty vector group (recombinant adeno-associated virus-multiple cloning site), Pientzehuang group, p27 gene group and combined treatment group (p27 gene combined with Pientzehuang). The effect of combined treatment on human osteosarcoma was analyzed through the tumor formation, tumor volume and inhibition rate of tumor growth. The expression of p27 was measured by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot. The orthotopic model of osteosarcoma in nude mice was successfully constructed. The general appearance of tumor-bearing nude mice in Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups was markedly improved compared with the blank control group; and in the combined treatment group it was significantly improved compared with the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups. The tumor growth in the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups was significantly inhibited compared with the blank control group P<0.05); while in the combined treatment group it was markedly inhibited compared with the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups (P<0.05). The rates of tumor growth inhibition were 34.1%, 56.5% and 63.8% in the Pientzehuang, p27 gene and combined treatment groups, respectively. Meanwhile, the protein expression of p27 gene in the p27 gene group was significantly increased compared with the blank control group (P<0.05); and it was significantly increased in the combined treatment group compared with the p27 gene and Pientzehuang groups (P<0.05). p27 gene introduced by adenovirus combined with Pientzehuang can inhibit the growth of human osteosarcoma cell Saos-2 in nude mice.

[Effect of Jianpi Yangzheng Xiaozheng Recipe on Apoptosis and Autophagy of Subcutaneous Transplanted Tumor in Nude Mice: an Experimental Study on Mechanism].

PubMed

Wu, Jian; Liu, Shen-lin; Zhang, Xing-xing; Chen, Min; Zou, Xi

2015-09-01

To observe the effect of Jianpi Yangzheng Xiaozheng Recipe (JYXR) on the tumor inhibition rate of subcutaneous transplanted tumor gastric cancer cell line MGC-803 in BALB/c nude mice, and to study its molecular mechanism of apoptosis and autophagy. Gastric cancer cell line MGC-803 was subcutaneously inoculated to nude mice for preparing transplanted gastric cancer models. Totally 32 BALB/c nude mice were randomly divided into 4 groups according to random digit table, i.e., the negative control group, the positive control group, the high dose JYXR group, the low dose JYXR group, 8 in each group. Normal saline was administered to mice in the negative control group by gastrogavage. 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) at 2. 5 mg/kg was administered to mice in the positive control group by gastrogavage. JYXR at 85 and 43 g/kg was administered to mice in the high dose JYXR group and the low dose JYXR group by gastrogavage, once per day for 10 successive days. The effect of JYXR on the tumor inhibition rate of subcutaneous transplanted tumor was observed. Effects of JYXR on gene expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2, Fas, Cyclin D1, Cyclin D2, and Cyclin D3 in transplanted tumor were observed by real-time PCR. Effects of JYXR on protein expression levels of Procaspase-3, Procaspase-8, Procaspase-9, cleaved-PARP, Beclin-1, and LC3B were detected using Western blot. (1) Compared with the negative control group, the tumor weight was obviously reduced in the rest three groups (P <0. 05). The tumor weight was higher in the high dose JYXR group and the low dose JYXR group than in the positive control group (P <0. 05). (2) Results of RT-PCR indicated that, compared with the negative control group, expression levels of Bax were up-regulated, but expression levels of Bcl-2, Cyclin D1, Cyclin D2, and Cyclin D3 were down-regulated in the positive control group and JYXR groups (P <0. 05). The expression level of Fas was up-regulated in the positive control group and the high dose JYXR group (P <0. 05). Compared with the positive control group, expression levels of Fas, and Bax were all down-regulated, but expression levels of Bcl-2, Cyclin D2, and Cyclin D3 were all up-regulated in the high dose JYXR group and the low dose JYXR group (all P <0. 05). The expression level of Cyclin D1 was down-regulated in the high dose JYXR group, but it was up-regulated in the low dose JYXR group ( both P <0. 05). (3) Results of Western blot showed, compared with the negative control group, expression levels of Procaspase-3, Procaspase-8, and Procaspase-9 were down-regulated, but expression levels of cleaved-PARP, Beclin-1, and LC3B II were up-regulated in the high dose JYXR group and the low dose JYXR group (all P <0.05). Compared with the negative control group, expression levels of Procaspase-3, Procaspase-8, Procaspase-9, and LC3B II were down-regulated, but expression levels of cleaved-PARP, Beclin-1, and LC3B I were up-regulated in the positive control group (all P <0. 05). JYXR showed significant inhibition on subcutaneous transplanted tumor gastric cancer cell line MGC-803 in BALB/c nude mice. Its mechanism might be associated with activating apoptosis and autophagy correlated factors.

Preliminary Clinical Evaluation of Acupuncture Therapy in Patients With Postpartum Sciatica.

PubMed

He, Bing-Shu; Li, Yang; Gui, Tong

2018-03-01

This study evaluated clinical outcomes following acupuncture treatment of postpartum sciatica. One hundred eleven women with postpartum sciatica were enrolled in an acupuncture group (n = 86) or a control group (n = 25), according to their preference. Participants in the acupuncture group attended acupuncture therapy sessions 3 times a week for 4 weeks, while participants in the control group were assigned to bed rest. Outcome measures included the Roland Disability Questionnaire for sciatica, a visual analog scale for leg pain, and patient-reported perceived recovery. In addition, participants were surveyed after treatment to assess the acceptability of acupuncture therapy. The outcome scores for disability and leg pain were significantly lower in the acupuncture group compared with the control group (P < .05). All 86 women in the treatment group stated that acupuncture improved their well-being after treatment. At one month after treatment, 98% of participants in the treatment group reported recovery compared with 24% of the control group participants (P < .001). After treatment, 95% of lactating women in the acupuncture group believed that acupuncture had no significant interference with breast milk production. No adverse effects of acupuncture were reported. All participants in the acupuncture group stated they would choose acupuncture in case of relapse. However, the recurrence rate of sciatica in the acupuncture group (32%) was comparable to that of the control group (35%) at the one-year follow-up interview. Compared with bed rest, acupuncture might be an effective and acceptable strategy to relieve symptoms of postpartum sciatica. © 2018 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

Comparison of 24-hour cardiovascular and autonomic function in paraplegia, tetraplegia, and control groups: implications for cardiovascular risk.

PubMed

Rosado-Rivera, Dwindally; Radulovic, M; Handrakis, John P; Cirnigliaro, Christopher M; Jensen, A Marley; Kirshblum, Steve; Bauman, William A; Wecht, Jill Maria

2011-01-01

Fluctuations in 24-hour cardiovascular hemodynamics, specifically heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP), are thought to reflect autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. Persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) represent a model of ANS dysfunction, which may affect 24-hour hemodynamics and predispose these individuals to increased cardiovascular disease risk. To determine 24-hour cardiovascular and ANS function among individuals with tetraplegia (n=20; TETRA: C4-C8), high paraplegia (n=10; HP: T2-T5), low paraplegia (n=9; LP: T7-T12), and non-SCI controls (n=10). Twenty-four-hour ANS function was assessed by time domain parameters of heart rate variability (HRV); the standard deviation of the 5-minute average R-R intervals (SDANN; milliseconds/ms), and the root-mean square of the standard deviation of the R-R intervals (rMSSD; ms). Subjects wore 24-hour ambulatory monitors to record HR, HRV, and BP. Mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significantly lower 24-hour BP in the tetraplegic group; however, BP did not differ between the HP, LP, and control groups. Mixed ANOVA suggested significantly elevated 24-hour HR in the HP and LP groups compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.05); daytime HR was higher in both paraplegic groups compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.01) and nighttime HR was significantly elevated in the LP group compared to the TETRA and control groups (P<0.01). Twenty-four-hour SDANN was significantly increased in the HP group compared to the LP and TETRA groups (P<0.05) and rMSSD was significantly lower in the LP compared to the other three groups (P<0.05). Elevated 24-hour HR in persons with paraplegia, in concert with altered HRV dynamics, may impart significant adverse cardiovascular consequences, which are currently unappreciated.

Astaxanthin from shrimp by-products ameliorates nephropathy in diabetic rats.

PubMed

Sila, Assaâd; Ghlissi, Zohra; Kamoun, Zeineb; Makni, Mohamed; Nasri, Moncef; Bougatef, Ali; Sahnoun, Zouheir

2015-03-01

This study investigated the hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects of shrimp astaxanthin on the kidney of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Animals were distributed into four groups of six rats each: a control group (C), a diabetic group (D), a diabetic group supplemented with Astaxanthin (D+As) dissolved in olive oil and a diabetic group supplemented with olive oil (D+OO). In vitro antidiabetic effect was tested in plasma and kidney tissue. The group D of rats showed significant (P < 0.05) increase of glycemia, creatinine, urea and uric acid levels compared to those of the control group (C). Moreover, plasma and kidney malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PCO) levels for the rats of the group D were significantly increased compared to the control group. Contrariwise, antioxidant enzyme activities, such as catalase (EC 1.11.1.6), superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1) and non-enzymatic levels of reduced glutathione, were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the plasma and kidney of diabetic rats compared to the control ones. The astaxanthin supplementation in rats diet improved the antioxidant enzyme activities and significantly decreased the MDA and PCO levels compared to diabetic rats. Indeed, no significant (P ≥ 0.05) improvement was observed for the fourth group (D+OO) compared to the control group (C). Histological analysis of kidney showed glomerular hypertrophy and tubular dilatation for the diabetic rats. For D+As rats, these histopathological changes were less prominent. Our results suggest that shrimp astaxanthin may play an important role in reduction of oxidative damage and could prevent pathological changes in diabetic rats suggesting promising application of shrimp astaxanthin in diabet treatment.

Remineralization Property of an Orthodontic Primer Containing a Bioactive Glass with Silver and Zinc

PubMed Central

Lee, Seung-Min; Kim, In-Ryoung; Park, Bong-Soo; Ko, Ching-Chang; Son, Woo-Sung; Kim, Yong-Il

2017-01-01

White spot lesions (WSLs) are irreversible damages in orthodontic treatment due to excessive etching or demineralization by microorganisms. In this study, we conducted a mechanical and cell viability test to examine the antibacterial properties of 0.2% and 1% bioactive glass (BAG) and silver-doped and zinc-doped BAGs in a primer and evaluated their clinical applicability to prevent WSLs. The microhardness statistically significantly increased in the adhesive-containing BAG, while the other samples showed no statistically significant difference compared with the control group. The shear bond strength of all samples increased compared with that of the control group. The cell viability of the control and sample groups was similar within 24 h, but decreased slightly over 48 h. All samples showed antibacterial properties. Regarding remineralization property, the group containing 0.2% of the samples showed remineralization properties compared with the control group, but was not statistically significant; further, the group containing 1% of the samples showed a significant difference compared with the control group. Among them, the orthodontic bonding primer containing 1% silver-doped BAG showed the highest remineralization property. The new orthodontic bonding primer used in this study showed an antimicrobial effect, chemical remineralization effect, and WSL prevention as well as clinically applicable properties, both physically and biologically. PMID:29088092

Infrasound-induced hemodynamics, ultrastructure, and molecular changes in the rat myocardium.

PubMed

Pei, Zhaohui; Sang, Hanfei; Li, Ruiman; Xiao, Pingxi; He, Jiangui; Zhuang, Zhiqiang; Zhu, Miaozhang; Chen, Jingzao; Ma, Hong

2007-04-01

Recent interest in adverse effects of infrasound on organisms arises from health concerns. We assessed the association between infrasound exposure of 5 Hz at 130 dB and changes of cardiac ultrastructure and function in rats. Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into control, 1, 7, and 14 days groups for 2 h of infrasound once daily according to planned schedules. Changes of cardiac ultrastructure, hemodynamics indices, intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)](i)), and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase 2 (SERCA2) were detected. Heart rates in 1 day group were significantly increased compared with control group and no significant changes in other groups. Left ventricular systolic pressures were significantly increased with time. Left ventricular diastolic end pressure and maximum rising rates of left ventricular pressure (+dl/dt) were significantly increased in 7 and 14 days groups and not changed in 1 day group, compared with control group. Maximum dropping rates of left ventricular pressure (-dl/dt) were significantly decreased in 7 and 14 days groups and not changed in 1 day group, compared with control group. In heart cells, there were several swelled mitochondria in 1 day group, more swelled mitochondria in 7 days group, platelet aggregation in the intercellular substance in 14 days group. [Ca(2+)](i) were significantly increased with time. There was a significant increase in SERCA2 in 1 day group, while a significant decrease in 7 and 14 days groups, compared with control group. Infrasound of 5 Hz at 130 dB can damage cardiac ultrastructure and function. Changes of [Ca(2+)](i) and SERCA2 play an important role in the secondary cardiac damage. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effects of inhaled particulate matter on the central nervous system in mice.

PubMed

Kim, So Young; Kim, Jin Ki; Park, So Hyeon; Kim, Byeong-Gon; Jang, An-Soo; Oh, Seung Ha; Lee, Jun Ho; Suh, Myung-Whan; Park, Moo Kyun

2018-06-04

Little is known regarding the adverse effects of chronic particulate matter (PM) inhalation on the central nervous system (CNS). The present study aimed to examine how PM exposure impacts on oxidative stress and inflammatory processes, as well as the expression of interneurons and perineuronal nets (PNNs) in the CNS. BALB/c mice (6-week-old females, n = 32) were exposed to 1 to 5 μm size diesel-extracted particles (DEPs) (100 μg/m 3 , 5 d/week, 5 h/day) and categorized into the following four groups: 1) 4-week DEP (n = 8); 2) 4-week control (n = 8), 3) 8-week DEP (n = 8); and 4) 8-week control (n = 8). The olfactory bulb, prefrontal cortex, temporal cortex, striatum, and cerebellum were harvested from the animals in each group. The expression of antioxidants (heme oxygenase 1 [HO-1] and superoxide dismutase 2 [SOD-2]), and markers of the unfolded protein response (X-box binding protein [XBP]-1S), inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]), and proliferation (neurotrophin-3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF]) were measured using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting. The expression levels of HO-1, SOD-2, XBP-1S, TNF-α, neurotrophin-3, and BDNF were compared among groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. The temporal cortex was immunostained for parvalbumin (PV) and Wisteria floribunda agglutinin (WFA). The numbers of PV- and WFA-positive cells were counted using a confocal microscope and analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test. HO-1 expression was elevated in the prefrontal cortex, temporal cortex, striatum, and cerebellum of mice in the 8-week DEP group compared with the control group. Expression of SOD-2 and XBP-1S was elevated in the prefrontal cortex and striatum of the 8-week DEP group compared with the control group. TNF-α expression was elevated in the prefrontal cortex, temporal cortex, striatum, and cerebellum in the 4- and 8-week DEP groups compared with the control group. Neurotrophin-3 expression was decreased in the olfactory bulb and striatum of the 8-week DEP group compared with the control group. WFA density was increased in the 8-week DEP group compared with the control group. The PV and PV + WFA densities were decreased in the 4-week DEP group compared with the control group. Chronic DEP inhalation activated oxidative stress and inflammation in multiple brain regions. Chronic DEP inhalation increased PNNs and decreased the number of interneurons, which may contribute to PM exposure-related CNS dysfunction. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A comparision of Twin-block and Forsus (FRD) functional appliance--a cephalometric study.

PubMed

Mahamad, Irfanulla Khan; Neela, Praveen Kumar; Mascarenhas, Rohan; Husain, Akhter

2012-01-01

The aim was to compare the effects of Twin-block & Forsus (FRD) functional appliances in the correction of Angles Class II division 1 malocclusions. Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who underwent treatment with twin block for the correction of class II div 1 were compared with 25 patients who underwent treatment with Forsus appliance. These were again compared with the pre follow up and post follow up lateral cephalograms of 25 patients who have not undergone any treatment during this period. All the 3 group patients were compared for skeletal, dental and soft tissue parameters. Cephalometric analysis revealed that both Twin-block & Forsus Fatigue Resistant Device (FRD) appliances stimulated mandibular growth. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were found. Twin-block patients showed statistically very high significant (p < 0.001) increase in mandibular length (6.02 mm) whereas Forsus appliance patients showed significant (p < 0.05) increase in mandibular length (1.6 mm) when compared with control group (0.3 mm). No significant restriction of maxillary growth was found in either of the two experimental groups when compared to control group. Significant increase in lower anterior facial height & posterior facial height was observed in both experimental groups in relation to control group. Significant reduction of overjet and overbite was observed in both experimental groups. Class I molar relationship and improvement in the soft tissue profile were achieved in both treatment groups compared with control group. Both Twin Block and Forsus were effective in the treatment of Class II Div 1 malocclusion. Class II correction with Twin-block is more due to mandibular skeletal and dentoalveolar changes whereas in Forsus, it is more due to dentoalveolar changes and less skeletal changes.

Grape seed extract has superior beneficial effects than vitamin E on oxidative stress and apoptosis in the hippocampus of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Yonguc, Goksin Nilufer; Dodurga, Yavuz; Adiguzel, Esat; Gundogdu, Gulsah; Kucukatay, Vural; Ozbal, Seda; Yilmaz, Ismail; Cankurt, Ulker; Yilmaz, Yusuf; Akdogan, Ilgaz

2015-01-25

We aimed to investigate the effects of grape seed extract (GSE) and vitamin E (Vit E) on oxidative stress and apoptosis in the hippocampus of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In Control, Diabetic, and Diabetic treated with GSE (Diabetic+GSE) and vitamin E (Diabetic+Vit E) groups, oxidative stress index (OSI), TUNEL staining and Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, Bax, caspase-3, -9, and -8, Cyt-c, TNF-α, and NF-κB gene expressions were evaluated. OSI was significantly increased in the plasma and hippocampus of the Diabetic compared to Control group and decreased in Diabetic+GSE and Diabetic+Vit E groups compared to Diabetic. TUNEL positive neurons significantly increased in the hippocampus of the Diabetic group compared to Control and decreased in Diabetic+GSE (more prominently) and Diabetic+Vit E groups compared to Diabetic. In the hippocampus of the Diabetic group, Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL gene expressions were significantly decreased; Bax, caspase-3, -9, and -8, Cyt-c, TNF-α, and NF-κB gene expressions were significantly increased compared to Control. In Diabetic+GSE and Diabetic+Vit E groups, Bcl-2 gene expressions were significantly increased; Bcl-XL gene expressions did not differ compared to the Diabetic group. The expression of Bax, caspase-3, -9, and -8, Cyt-c, TNF-α, and NF-κB genes in the Diabetic+GSE group and the expression of caspase-3 and -9, TNF-α, and NF-κB genes in the Diabetic+Vit E group were significantly decreased compared to Diabetic. In conclusion, GSE (more prominently) and vitamin E decreased oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis occurring in the hippocampus of diabetic rats. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Risk factors of teenage pregnancies, deliveries and post-partum in the department of Loiret].

PubMed

Alouini, S; Randriambololona, D; Randriamboavonjy, R

2015-05-01

To evaluate the obstetric outcome of teenage pregnancies compared to adult women in the department of Loiret. A retrospective study of adolescents (10-19 years) delivered after 22 weeks compared to adult women aged 20-35 years (controls) from the first January to the 31 December 2012 in a maternity level 3. The two groups were compared by the Chi(2) test or the exact test of Fisher. A P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Adolescent had less prenatal consultations than controls (4 versus 7). They used more tobacco during pregnancy than adult controls. Urinary infections and preterm threat and births were more frequent in the adolescent group compared to the controls (P=0.04 and 0.018). However, the gestational diabetes was less frequent in the adolescent group versus controls (P=0.0005, OR: 0.16 [IC95%: 0.03-0.54]). The adolescent group represented 2.38 of total deliveries. The rate of vaginal deliveries and caesarean section was similar in the two groups. Vaginal tears were significantly more frequent among adolescents than controls (P=0.0019). The adolescents were more likely to preterm delivery and to have urinary infections than the adult women (controls). They are less likely to have gestational diabetes than older women. The rates of vaginal deliveries are comparable; however, the adolescents are more likely to experience vaginal tears than controls. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Shear Bond Strength of Superficial, Intermediate and Deep Dentin In Vitro with Recent Generation Self-etching Primers and Single Nano Composite Resin.

PubMed

Singh, Kulshrest; Naik, Rajaram; Hegde, Srinidhi; Damda, Aftab

2015-01-01

This in vitro study is intended to compare the shear bond strength of recent self-etching primers to superficial, intermediate, and deep dentin levels. All teeth were sectioned at various levels and grouped randomly into two experimental groups and two control groups having three subgroups. The experimental groups consisted of two different dentin bonding system. The positive control group consisted of All Bond 2 and the negative control group was without the bonding agent. Finally, the specimens were subjected to shear bond strength study under Instron machine. The maximum shear bond strengths were noted at the time of fracture. The results were statistically analyzed. Comparing the shear bond strength values, All Bond 2 (Group III) demonstrated fairly higher bond strength values at different levels of dentin. Generally comparing All Bond 2 with the other two experimental groups revealed highly significant statistical results. In the present investigation with the fourth generation, higher mean shear bond strength values were recorded compared with the self-etching primers. When intermediate dentin shear bond strength was compared with deep dentin shear bond strength statistically significant results were found with Clearfil Liner Bond 2V, All Bond 2 and the negative control. There was a statistically significant difference in shear bond strength values both with self-etching primers and control groups (fourth generation bonding system and without bonding system) at superficial, intermediate, and deep dentin. There was a significant fall in bond strength values as one reaches deeper levels of dentin from superficial to intermediate to deep.

Utilization of a Cloud-Based Diabetes Management Program for Insulin Initiation and Titration Enables Collaborative Decision Making Between Healthcare Providers and Patients.

PubMed

Hsu, William C; Lau, Ka Hei Karen; Huang, Ruyi; Ghiloni, Suzanne; Le, Hung; Gilroy, Scott; Abrahamson, Martin; Moore, John

2016-02-01

Overseeing proper insulin initiation and titration remains a challenging task in diabetes care. Recent advances in mobile technology have enabled new models of collaborative care between patients and healthcare providers (HCPs). We hypothesized that the adoption of such technology could help individuals starting basal insulin achieve better glycemic control compared with standard clinical practice. This was a 12 ± 2-week randomized controlled study with 40 individuals with type 2 diabetes who were starting basal insulin due to poor glycemic control. The control group (n = 20) received standard face-to-face care and phone follow-up as needed in a tertiary center, whereas the intervention group (n = 20) received care through the cloud-based diabetes management program where regular communications about glycemic control and insulin doses were conducted via patient self-tracking tools, shared decision-making interfaces, secure text messages, and virtual visits (audio, video, and shared screen control) instead of office visits. By intention-to-treat analysis, the intervention group achieved a greater hemoglobin A1c decline compared with the control group (3.2 ± 1.5% vs. 2.0% ± 2.0%; P = 0.048). The Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire showed a significant improvement in the intervention group compared with the control group (an increase of 10.1 ± 11.7 vs. 2.1 ± 6.5 points; P = 0.01). HCPs spent less time with patients in the intervention group compared with those in the control group (65.9 min per subject vs. 81.6 min per subject). However, the intervention group required additional training time to use the mobile device. Mobile health technology could be an effective tool in sharing data, enhancing communication, and improving glycemic control while enabling collaborative decision making in diabetes care.

Cognitive-behavioral group depression prevention compared to bibliotherapy and brochure control: nonsignificant effects in pilot effectiveness trial with college students.

PubMed

Rohde, Paul; Stice, Eric; Shaw, Heather; Gau, Jeff M

2014-04-01

Conduct a pilot trial testing whether a brief cognitive-behavioral (CB) group reduced depressive symptoms and secondary outcomes relative to bibliotherapy and brochure controls in college students with elevated depressive symptoms. 82 college students (M age=19.0, SD=0.9; 70% female, 80% White) with elevated self-assessed depressive symptoms were randomized to a 6-session CB group, bibliotherapy, or educational brochure control condition, completing assessments at pretest, posttest, and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Planned contrasts found no significant effects for CB group on depressive symptoms compared to either bibliotherapy or brochure controls at posttest (d=-.08 and .06, respectively) or over follow-up (d=-.04 and -.10, respectively). There were no intervention effects for social adjustment and substance use, though CB group participants had improved knowledge of CB concepts at posttest, versus brochure controls. Condition differences in major depression onset were nonsignificant but suggested support for CB interventions (CB group=7.4%, bibliotherapy=4.5%, brochure control=15.2%). Unexpectedly modest support was found for a brief CB group depression prevention intervention, compared to bibliotherapy or brochure control, when provided to self-selected college students, suggesting that alternative screening or interventions approaches are needed for this population. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of education type on common misconceptions of traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

De Iorio, Monica L; Nolan, Susan A; Teague, Susan

2017-11-01

In the current study, we investigated the effects of existing education materials-either a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) factsheet or personal stories of people with TBI-on undergraduate students' misconceptions and attributions about the causes of TBI-related behavior. Undergraduate students (N = 164) were recruited through the university participant pool. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either a factsheet about TBI, personal stories of people with TBI, or a control reading. Groups were compared on the number of TBI misconceptions endorsed, scores on an attribution measure, and their willingness to interact with people who have TBIs. Both the TBI factsheet group and the personal stories group endorsed fewer misconceptions, on average, than the control group (p = .02). Additionally, those who read either the personal stories or the factsheet had significantly lower attribution scores, on average, than the control group (p = .001; p = .03). That is, those who read either of the educational materials were more likely to endorse a TBI explanation over an adolescent explanation, compared to those who read a control reading. The groups did not significantly differ on their willingness for social interaction. Results suggest that, on average, factsheets and personal stories are effective for increasing knowledge about moderate-to-severe TBI as compared to a control group. Personal stories and factsheets may also be useful, on average, for addressing tendencies to discount TBIs as explanations for behavioral change, as compared to a control group. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Meditation or Exercise May Help Acute Respiratory Infections

MedlinePlus

... group, an exercise group, or a wait-list control group. Participants in the meditation group received training in ... significant. They also found that compared to the control group, there were 48 percent fewer days of work ...

Changing smokers' risk perceptions--for better or worse?

PubMed

Myers, Lynn B

2014-03-01

This study investigated the effect of a smoking health message on smokers' comparative optimism. Two groups watched an anti-smoking scenario, with one group imagining being part of the scenario. Participants, including controls, completed comparative optimism ratings for four smoking-related illnesses. The intervention had negative consequences with both intervention groups reporting significantly higher comparative optimism versus the control group for all four smoking-related illnesses. It is concluded that media health messages can be powerful tools in changing comparative optimism but are influenced by peoples' prior perceptions. Health messages need to be systematically assessed to understand prior beliefs of the target audience.

Comparative evaluation of fracture resistance of root canals obturated with four different obturating systems

PubMed Central

Punjabi, Mansi; Dewan, Ruchika Gupta; Kochhar, Rohit

2017-01-01

Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of root canals obturated with four different obturating systems in endodontically treated teeth. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty single-rooted teeth were selected and decoronated at cementoenamel junction. Instrumentation of teeth (except control group) was done with Mtwo rotary files up to size 25/0.06 using a step-back technique. All teeth were divided into four experimental groups (n = 25) and two control groups (n = 10). In Group I (negative control), teeth were neither instrumented nor obturated, in Group II (positive control), instrumentation was done, but no obturation was performed, in Group III, obturation was done with cold lateral compaction technique, in Group IV, obturation was done with cold free-flow compaction technique, in Group V, obturation was done with warm vertical compaction technique, and in Group VI, obturation was done with injection-molded thermoplasticized technique. All prepared teeth were embedded in an acrylic resin block, and their fracture strength was measured using Universal Testing Machine. Statistical data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's honestly significant difference test. Results: Negative control Group I showed highest fracture resistance and positive control Group II had lowest fracture resistance. Among experimental groups, cold free-flow compaction technique with GuttaFlow2 (Group IV) showed higher fracture resistance as compared to the Group III, Group V, and Group VI. Conclusion: GuttaFlow2 has the potential to strengthen the endodontically treated roots to a level that is similar to that of intact teeth. PMID:29430099

Comparative evaluation of fracture resistance of root canals obturated with four different obturating systems.

PubMed

Punjabi, Mansi; Dewan, Ruchika Gupta; Kochhar, Rohit

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of root canals obturated with four different obturating systems in endodontically treated teeth. One hundred and twenty single-rooted teeth were selected and decoronated at cementoenamel junction. Instrumentation of teeth (except control group) was done with Mtwo rotary files up to size 25/0.06 using a step-back technique. All teeth were divided into four experimental groups ( n = 25) and two control groups ( n = 10). In Group I (negative control), teeth were neither instrumented nor obturated, in Group II (positive control), instrumentation was done, but no obturation was performed, in Group III, obturation was done with cold lateral compaction technique, in Group IV, obturation was done with cold free-flow compaction technique, in Group V, obturation was done with warm vertical compaction technique, and in Group VI, obturation was done with injection-molded thermoplasticized technique. All prepared teeth were embedded in an acrylic resin block, and their fracture strength was measured using Universal Testing Machine. Statistical data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's honestly significant difference test. Negative control Group I showed highest fracture resistance and positive control Group II had lowest fracture resistance. Among experimental groups, cold free-flow compaction technique with GuttaFlow2 (Group IV) showed higher fracture resistance as compared to the Group III, Group V, and Group VI. GuttaFlow2 has the potential to strengthen the endodontically treated roots to a level that is similar to that of intact teeth.

Inhibition of the expression of aquaporin‑1 by RNA interference in pulmonary epithelial cells and its effects on water transport.

PubMed

Zhang, Qiuyue; Fu, Jianhua; Xue, Xindong

2016-01-01

In the present study, the effect of aquaporin‑1 (AQP1) on fluid transportation in pulmonary epithelial cells, and the role of AQP1 in alveolar fluid clearance were investigated to provide an experimental foundation to elucidate the pathogenesis of hyperoxic lung edema. An siRNA transfection technique was used to silence AQP1 in the A549 cell line. The transfected cells were randomized into a hyperoxia exposure and an air control group, with a negative control group set for each group. Cell volume was determined using flow cytometry, and Pf values were used to determine osmotic water permeability. Cell volume was found to be reduced in the AQP1‑silenced A549 cells, compared with the negative control group 72 h following air exposure. In addition, cell volume was reduced in the AQP1‑silenced A549 cells, compared with the negative control group 48 and 72 h following hyperoxia exposure. The osmotic water permeability of the AQP1‑silenced cells was reduced in the air control and hyperoxia exposure groups, compared with the negative control group 48 and 72 h following exposure. The volume and cell membrane osmotic water permeability of the A549 cells were reduced, compared with those in the control group following AQP1‑silencing, which indicated that the downregulation of AQP1 impedes extracellular to intracellular fluid transportation. Therefore, the disturbance in alveolar fluid clearance resulting from the downregulation of AQP1 following hyperoxia exposure may be one of the key mechanisms responsible for hyperoxic lung edema.

Beneficial effects of oral chromium picolinate supplementation on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized clinical study.

PubMed

Paiva, Ana N; Lima, Josivan G de; Medeiros, Anna C Q de; Figueiredo, Heverton A O; Andrade, Raiana L de; Ururahy, Marcela A G; Rezende, Adriana A; Brandão-Neto, José; Almeida, Maria das G

2015-10-01

Chromium is an essential mineral that contributes to normal glucose function and lipid metabolism. This study evaluated the effect of chromium picolinate (CrPic) supplementation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A four month controlled, single blind, randomized trial was performed with 71 patients with poorly controlled (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]>7%) T2DM divided into 2 groups: Control (n=39, using placebo), and supplemented (n=32, using 600μg/day CrPic). All patients received nutritional guidance according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), and kept using prescribed medications. Fasting and postprandial glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides and serum ferritin were evaluated. CrPic supplementation significantly reduced the fasting glucose concentration (-31.0mg/dL supplemented group; -14.0mg/dL control group; p<0.05, post- vs. pre-treatment, in each group) and postprandial glucose concentration (-37.0mg/dL in the supplemented group; -11.5 mg/dL in the control group; p<0.05). HbA1c values were also significantly reduced in both groups (p<0.001, comparing post- vs. pre-treatment groups). Post-treatment HbA1c values in supplemented patients were significantly lower than those of control patients. HbA1c lowering in the supplemented group (-1.90), and in the control group (-1.00), was also significant, comparing pre- and post-treatment values, for each group (p<0.001 and p<0.05, respectively). CrPic increased serum chromium concentrations (p<0.001), when comparing the supplemented group before and after supplementation. No significant difference in lipid profile was observed in the supplemented group; however, total cholesterol, HDL-c and LDL-c were significantly lowered, comparing pre- and post-treatment period, in the control group (p<0.05). CrPic supplementation had a beneficial effect on glycemic control in patients with poorly controlled T2DM, without affecting the lipid profile. Additional studies are necessary to investigate the effect of long-term CrPic supplementation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treatment and Prophylaxis of Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis in Patients Receiving Radiotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Wang, Cong; Wang, Peiguo; Ouyang, Huaqiang; Wang, Jing; Sun, Lining; Li, Yanwei; Liu, Dongying; Jiang, Zhansheng; Wang, Bin; Pan, Zhanyu

2018-06-01

To estimate the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (Chining decoction, CHIN) for radiation-induced oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer. From May 2014 to December 2015, 70 consecutive patients were randomly assigned to receive CHIN (treatment group) or recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) spray (control group) at a 1:1 ratio. CHIN was administered to treatment group from the first day of radiotherapy until the completion of radiotherapy. Simultaneously, the rhEGF spray was administered to control group on the oral mucosa of irradiated area. The clinical benefit was determined by gradation of mucositis (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0), oral pain, and xerostomia (visual analysis scale) for each week during radiotherapy. Body mass index was evaluated before and after radiotherapy. Patients in the treatment group had prominent remission of oral pain and grade of mucositis on each observing point compared with those in control group ( P < .01). Xerostomia was decreased notably in treatment group compared with control group ( P < .01). Body mass index in the treatment group exhibited advantage over control group after radiotherapy, but there was no statistical significance (19.8 ± 3.26 vs 18.8 ± 2.5 kg/m 2 , P = .153, >.05). CHIN presented an obvious advantage in preventing radiation-induced oral mucositis compared with rhEGF spray.

Oestrual Phase at first exposure to Predator-induced Stress Determines Pattern of Alterations in Oestrous Cycle and Endocrine Response in the Rat.

PubMed

Medubi, O O; Iranloye, B O; Adegoke, O A

2017-06-30

Stress has been acknowledged as one of the aetiologies of female reproductive dysfunction, yet the mechanismsinvolved are not totally elucidated. Based on the paucity of information on how predator-induced stress (PS) affects oestrouscycle in rats, this study was designed to investigate the effect of PS on the oestrous cycle in rats. Forty-eight (48) SpragueDawley rats were used for this study. They were randomly divided into Control and PS group. Each group was divided intofour subgroups (n=6/group) according to the phases of oestrous cycle. Stress was induced by exposing rats to cat (predator)for 60 minutes/day for 14 consecutive days. PS caused significant disruption of the oestrous cycle. In animals subjected toPS at proestrus (PS-proestrus) and oestrus (PS-oestrus), percentage occurrence of proestrus, oestrus and metestrus phaseswere significantly reduced compared with control. In animals subjected to PS at metestrus (PS-metestrus) and diestrus (PSdiestrus), percentage occurrence of oestrus phase was not significantly affected. In all animals exposed to PS, percentageoccurrence of diestrus was significantly increased regardless of the phase of first exposure compared with control.Corticosterone and prolactin levels were significantly elevated in PS groups compared with control. Progesterone wassignificantly increased in animals at diestrus phase compared with oestrus phase and respective phases in control. Oestradiolwas significantly reduced in PS group compared with control at oestrus phase but not significantly different at diestrus phase.Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were significantly lower in PS groups at oestrusphase compared with diestrus phase. This study shows that PS disrupts the oestrous cycle secondary to perturbation ofhormonal control of female reproduction and is influenced by the phase at first exposure to stress.

Attentional orienting and executive control are affected by different types of meditation practice.

PubMed

Tsai, Min-Hui; Chou, Wei-Lun

2016-11-01

Several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of meditation on attention. The present study investigated the relationship between focused attention (FA) and open monitoring (OM) meditation skills and the various functions of attention. In Experiment 1, we executed the attention network test and compared the performance of experts on dandao meditation with that of ordinary people on this test. The results indicated that the experts specializing in OM meditation demonstrated greater attentional orienting ability compared with those specializing in FA meditation and the control group. In addition, both expert groups registered improvements in their executive control abilities compared with the control group. In Experiment 2, we trained beginners in FA meditation for 3months. The results showed that the experimental group exhibited significantly enhanced executive control ability. We infer that FA meditation skills promote executive control function and OM meditation skills promote both executive control and attentional orienting functions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Diffusion tensor imaging and 1H-MRS study on radiation-induced brain injury after nasopharyngeal carcinoma radiotherapy.

PubMed

Wang, H-Z; Qiu, S-J; Lv, X-F; Wang, Y-Y; Liang, Y; Xiong, W-F; Ouyang, Z-B

2012-04-01

To investigate the metabolic characteristics of the temporal lobes following radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS). DTI and (1)H-MRS were performed in 48 patients after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma and in 24 healthy, age-matched controls. All patients and controls had normal findings on conventional MRI. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA), three eigenvalues λ1, λ2, λ3, N-acetylaspartic acid (NAA)/choline (Cho), NAA/creatinine (Cr), and Cho/Cr were measured in both temporal lobes. Patients were divided into three groups according to time after completion of radiotherapy: group 1, less than 6 months; group 2, 6-12 months; group 3, more than 12 months. Mean values for each parameter were compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Mean FA in group 1 was significantly lower compared to group 3 and the control group (p < 0.05). Group-wise comparisons of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values among all the groups were not significantly different. Eigenvalue λ1 was significantly lower in groups 1 and 3 compared to the control group (p < 0.05). NAA/Cho and NAA/Cr were significantly lower in each group compared to the control group (p < 0.01 for both). The decrease in NAA/Cho was greatest in group 1. There were no significant between-group differences regarding Cho/Cr. A combination of DTI and (1)H-MRS can be used to detect radiation-induced brain injury, in patients treated for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Copyright © 2011 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 799.9380 - TSCA reproduction and fertility effects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... nonpregnant. (iv) Number of animals. Each control group shall contain a sufficient number of mating pairs to... should be randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups, in a manner which results in comparable... group. (A) A concurrent control group shall be used. This group shall be an untreated or sham treated...

40 CFR 799.9380 - TSCA reproduction and fertility effects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... nonpregnant. (iv) Number of animals. Each control group shall contain a sufficient number of mating pairs to... should be randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups, in a manner which results in comparable... group. (A) A concurrent control group shall be used. This group shall be an untreated or sham treated...

40 CFR 799.9380 - TSCA reproduction and fertility effects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... nonpregnant. (iv) Number of animals. Each control group shall contain a sufficient number of mating pairs to... should be randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups, in a manner which results in comparable... group. (A) A concurrent control group shall be used. This group shall be an untreated or sham treated...

40 CFR 799.9380 - TSCA reproduction and fertility effects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... nonpregnant. (iv) Number of animals. Each control group shall contain a sufficient number of mating pairs to... should be randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups, in a manner which results in comparable... group. (A) A concurrent control group shall be used. This group shall be an untreated or sham treated...

Application of Early Nutrition Support in Neurosurgical Coma Patients.

PubMed

Ren, Guoqin

2015-12-01

The present study was conducted to investigate the clinical efficacy of early parenteral and enteral nutrition (PN + EN) support in neurosurgical coma patients. Eighty cases of neurosurgical coma patients were randomly divided into intervention group and control group. The intervention group received early PN + EN support, and the control group received only total enteral nutritional (TEN) support. The levels of hemoglobin (HGB), serum albumin (ALB), prealbumin (PA), and retinol-binding protein (RBP) in two groups on days 1, 10, and 20 were observed. The incidences of pneumonia, stress ulcer, abnormal liver function, abdominal distension, and diarrhea between two groups were also compared. Results found that, on day 10, compared with the control group, the levels of HGB, PA, and RBP in the intervention group were significantly increased (P < 0.05). On day 20, ALB in the intervention group significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the incidences of pneumonia, abdominal distension, and diarrhea in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with only TEN support, early PN + EN support can obviously improve the nutritional status of neurosurgical coma patients and reduce the occurrence of complications.

The effects of visual control whole body vibration exercise on balance and gait function of stroke patients.

PubMed

Choi, Eon-Tak; Kim, Yong-Nam; Cho, Woon-Soo; Lee, Dong-Kyu

2016-11-01

[Purpose] This study aims to verify the effects of visual control whole body vibration exercise on balance and gait function of stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 22 stroke patients were randomly assigned to two groups; 11 to the experimental group and 11 to the control group. Both groups received 30 minutes of Neuro-developmental treatment 5 times per week for 4 weeks. The experimental group additionally performed 10 minutes of visual control whole body vibration exercise 5 times per week during the 4 weeks. Balance was measured using the Functional Reach Test. Gait was measured using the Timed Up and Go Test. [Results] An in-group comparison in the experimental group showed significant differences in the Functional Reach Test and Timed Up and Go Test. In comparing the groups, the Functional Reach Test and Timed Up and Go Test of the experimental group were more significantly different compared to the control group. [Conclusion] These results suggest that visual control whole body vibration exercise has a positive effect on the balance and gait function of stroke patients.

A case-control study of the effectiveness of tissue plasminogen activator on 6 month patients--reported outcomes and health care utilization.

PubMed

Lang, Catherine E; Bland, Marghuretta D; Cheng, Nuo; Corbetta, Maurizio; Lee, Jin-Moo

2014-01-01

We examined the benefit of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), delivered as part of usual stroke management, on patient-reported outcomes and health care utilization. Using a case control design, patients who received tPA as part of usual stroke management were compared with patients who would have received tPA had they arrived to the hospital within the therapeutic time window. Data were collected from surveys 6 months after stroke using standardized patient-reported outcome measures and questions about health care utilization. Demographic and medical data were acquired from hospital records. Patients were matched on stroke severity, age, race, and gender. Matching was done with 1:2 ratio of tPA to controls. Results were compared between groups with 1-tailed tests because of a directionally specific hypothesis in favor of the tPA group. The tPA (n = 78) and control (n = 156) groups were matched across variables, except for stroke severity, which was better in the control group; subsequent analyses controlled for this mismatch. The tPA group reported better physical function, communication, cognitive ability, depressive symptomatology, and quality of life/participation compared with the control group. Fewer people in the tPA group reported skilled nursing facility stays, emergency department visits, and rehospitalizations after their stroke compared with controls. Reports of other postacute services were not different between groups. Although it is known that tPA reduces disability, this is the first study to demonstrate the effectiveness of tPA in improving meaningful, patient-reported outcomes. Thus, use of tPA provides a large benefit to the daily lives of people with ischemic stroke. Copyright © 2014 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of vitamin E (Tri E®) on antioxidant enzymes and DNA damage in rats following eight weeks exercise

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Exercise is beneficial to health, but during exercise the body generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are known to result in oxidative stress. The present study analysed the effects of vitamin E (Tri E®) on antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (Cat) activity and DNA damage in rats undergoing eight weeks exercise. Methods Twenty four Sprague-Dawley rats (weighing 320-370 gm) were divided into four groups; a control group of sedentary rats which were given a normal diet, second group of sedentary rats with oral supplementation of 30 mg/kg/d of Tri E®, third group comprised of exercised rats on a normal diet, and the fourth group of exercised rats with oral supplementation of 30 mg/kg/d of Tri E®. The exercising rats were trained on a treadmill for 30 minutes per day for 8 weeks. Blood samples were taken before and after 8 weeks of the study to determine SOD, GPx, Cat activities and DNA damage. Results SOD activity decreased significantly in all the groups compared to baseline, however both exercised groups showed significant reduction in SOD activity as compared to the sedentary groups. Sedentary control groups showed significantly higher GPx and Cat activity compared to baseline and exercised groups. The supplemented groups, both exercised and non exercised groups, showed significant decrease in Cat activity as compared to their control groups with normal diet. DNA damage was significantly higher in exercising rats as compared to sedentary control. However in exercising groups, the DNA damage in supplemented group is significantly lower as compared to the non-supplemented group. Conclusions In conclusion, antioxidant enzymes activity were generally reduced in rats supplemented with Tri E® probably due to its synergistic anti-oxidative defence, as evidenced by the decrease in DNA damage in Tri E® supplemented exercise group. PMID:21513540

Effect of vitamin E (Tri E®) on antioxidant enzymes and DNA damage in rats following eight weeks exercise.

PubMed

Abd Hamid, Noor Aini; Hasrul, Mohd A; Ruzanna, Rusdiah J; Ibrahim, Ibrahim A; Baruah, Prasamit S; Mazlan, Musalmah; Yusof, Yasmin Anum Mohd; Ngah, Wan Zurinah Wan

2011-04-23

Exercise is beneficial to health, but during exercise the body generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are known to result in oxidative stress. The present study analysed the effects of vitamin E (Tri E®) on antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (Cat) activity and DNA damage in rats undergoing eight weeks exercise. Twenty four Sprague-Dawley rats (weighing 320-370 gm) were divided into four groups; a control group of sedentary rats which were given a normal diet, second group of sedentary rats with oral supplementation of 30 mg/kg/d of Tri E®, third group comprised of exercised rats on a normal diet, and the fourth group of exercised rats with oral supplementation of 30 mg/kg/d of Tri E®. The exercising rats were trained on a treadmill for 30 minutes per day for 8 weeks. Blood samples were taken before and after 8 weeks of the study to determine SOD, GPx, Cat activities and DNA damage. SOD activity decreased significantly in all the groups compared to baseline, however both exercised groups showed significant reduction in SOD activity as compared to the sedentary groups. Sedentary control groups showed significantly higher GPx and Cat activity compared to baseline and exercised groups. The supplemented groups, both exercised and non exercised groups, showed significant decrease in Cat activity as compared to their control groups with normal diet. DNA damage was significantly higher in exercising rats as compared to sedentary control. However in exercising groups, the DNA damage in supplemented group is significantly lower as compared to the non-supplemented group. In conclusion, antioxidant enzymes activity were generally reduced in rats supplemented with Tri E® probably due to its synergistic anti-oxidative defence, as evidenced by the decrease in DNA damage in Tri E® supplemented exercise group.

Glycemic control protects against trabecular bone microarchitectural damage in a juvenile male rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes.

PubMed

de Oliveira, Guilherme José Pimentel Lopes; Basso, Túlio Luiz Durigan; Fontanari, Lucas Amaral; Faloni, Ana Paula de Souza; Marcantonio, Élcio; Orrico, Silvana Regina Perez

2017-08-01

To determine which features of the bone microarchitecture are affected by established diabetes mellitus (DM) and the effectiveness of glycemic control in the protection of bone tissue. Sixty juvenile Wistar male rats were divided into three groups of 20 animals: a control group (C) that included healthy animals, a diabetic group (D) that included animals with induced diabetes, and a controlled diabetic group (CD) that included animals with induced diabetes that were treated with insulin. The animals were euthanized at the periods of 6 and 8 weeks after the induction of diabetes (10 animals per group/period). Vertebral L4 specimens were submitted to μCT analysis to assess the following parameters of the bone microarchitecture: bone volume fraction (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), trabecular number (Tb.N), and trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp). The D group exhibited lower values of BV/TV (%) and numbers of trabeculae compared with the C group at 6 and 8 weeks and compared with the CD group at 8 weeks. The CD group exhibited higher trabecular thickness values compared with the D group at 8 weeks. There were no differences between the groups regarding the spaces between the trabeculae. Induced diabetes affected the microarchitecture of the trabecular bone of the vertebrae by reducing the values of the majority of the parameters in relation to those of the control group. Glycemic control with insulin appears to protect bones from the effects of the hyperglycemia.

Girls Thrive Emotionally, Boys Falter After Move to Better Neighborhood

MedlinePlus

... averaging 34 percent, compared to 50 percent for control group families. Mental illness is more prevalent among youth ... compared to 3.5 percent among boys in control group families who did not receive vouchers. Rates of ...

[Clinical study of post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia treated with jingou diaoyu needling technique and Bobath therapy].

PubMed

Sun, Runjie; Tian, Liang; Fang, Xiaoli; Du, Xiaozheng; Zhu, Bowen; Song, Zhongyang; Xu, Xuan; Qin, Xiaoguang

2017-04-12

To compare the difference in the clinical efficacy on post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia between the combined therapy of jingou diaoyu needling technique and Bobath technology and simple Bobath technology. Sixty patients were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each one. The usual medication of neurological internal medicine was used in the two groups. In the control group, Bobath facilitation technology was applied to the rehabilitation training. In the observation group, on the basis of the treatment as the control group, jingou diaoyu needling technique was used to stimulate Zhongfu (LU 1), Tianfu (LU 3), Chize (LU 5), Quchi (LI 11), Jianshi (PC 5) and Daling (PC 7). The treatment was given once a day; 5 treatments made one session and totally 4-week treatment was required in the two groups. The modified Ashworth scale, the modified Fugle-Meyer assessment (FMA) and the Barthel index (BI) were adopted to evaluate the muscular tension, the upper limb motor function and the activities of daily living (ADL) before and after treatment in the two groups. The clinical efficacy was compared between the two groups. Compared with those before treatment, the modified Ashworth scale, Fugl-Meyer score and BI score were all improved after treatment in the two groups (all P <0.01). The results in the observation group were better than those in the control group (all P <0.01). The total clinical effective rate was 93.3% (28/30) in the observation group and was 80.0% (24/30) in the control group. The efficacy in the observation group was better than that in the control group ( P <0.05). The jingou diaoyu needling technique combined with Bobath therapy achieve the superior efficacy on post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia as compared with the simple application Bobath therapy. This combined treatment effectively relieve spasmodic state and improve the upper limb motor function and the activities of daily living.

Working with a fixed operating room team on consecutive similar cases and the effect on case duration and turnover time.

PubMed

Stepaniak, Pieter S; Vrijland, Wietske W; de Quelerij, Marcel; de Vries, Guus; Heij, Christiaan

2010-12-01

If variation in procedure times could be controlled or better predicted, the cost of surgeries could be reduced through improved scheduling of surgical resources. This study on the impact of similar consecutive cases on the turnover, surgical, and procedure times tests the perception that repeating the same manual tasks reduces the duration of these tasks. We hypothesize that when a fixed team works on similar consecutive cases the result will be shorter turnover and procedure duration as well as less variation as compared with the situation without a fixed team. Case-control study. St Franciscus Hospital, a large general teaching hospital in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Two procedures, inguinal hernia repair and laparoscopic cholecystectomy, were selected and divided across a control group and a study group. Patients were randomly assigned to the study or control group. Preparation time, surgical time, procedure time, and turnover time. For inguinal hernia repair, we found a significantly lower preparation time and 10 minutes less procedure time in the study group, as compared with the control group. Variation in the study group was lower, as compared with the control group. For laparoscopic cholecystectomy, preparation time was significantly lower in the study group, as compared with the control group. For both procedures, there was a significant decrease in turnover time. Scheduling similar consecutive cases and performing with a fixed team results in lower turnover times and preparation times. The procedure time of the inguinal hernia repair decreased significantly and has practical scheduling implications. For more complex surgery, like laparoscopic cholecystectomy, there is no effect on procedure time.

The effect of inquiry based science instruction on student understanding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nail, Jessica Lynette

According to the TIMSS Study (2007), the United States is falling behind in the subjects of math and science. In order for the students in the United States to develop scientific literacy and remain competitive globally, inquiry must be the priority when teaching science (NRC, 1996; AAAS, 1990). The main purpose of this research was to see if inquiry-based instruction in the science classroom had a significant effect on student understanding and retention of information in a rural school in Virginia. The effect of inquiry-based science instruction on gender was also examined. The researcher implemented a four-week, inquiry-based unit on Virginia Sol 6.7, written in the 5 E learning style to 358 sixth-grade students and compared their posttest gains and delayed posttest scores to a control group consisting of 268 students. The control group received traditional teaching methods. The results for the posttest gains produced a p = 0.01. Therefore, there was a significant difference in the experimental group, which received the treatment, when compared to the control group, which did not receive treatment. A t test was also used to compare the delayed test scores of the experimental group to the control group. The results showed a p < 0.0001 when comparing the experimental group, which received the four-week inquiry-based science instruction treatment, to the control, which did not receive the treatment. This t test showed a very highly significant difference between the experimental group and the control group. Based on these results, it is imperative that Virginia begin implementing inquiry-based instruction in the science classroom.

A randomized controlled trial of qigong for fibromyalgia

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Introduction Fibromyalgia is difficult to treat and requires the use of multiple approaches. This study is a randomized controlled trial of qigong compared with a wait-list control group in fibromyalgia. Methods One hundred participants were randomly assigned to immediate or delayed practice groups, with the delayed group receiving training at the end of the control period. Qigong training (level 1 Chaoyi Fanhuan Qigong, CFQ), given over three half-days, was followed by weekly review/practice sessions for eight weeks; participants were also asked to practice at home for 45 to 60 minutes per day for this interval. Outcomes were pain, impact, sleep, physical function and mental function, and these were recorded at baseline, eight weeks, four months and six months. Immediate and delayed practice groups were analyzed individually compared to the control group, and as a combination group. Results In both the immediate and delayed treatment groups, CFQ demonstrated significant improvements in pain, impact, sleep, physical function and mental function when compared to the wait-list/usual care control group at eight weeks, with benefits extending beyond this time. Analysis of combined data indicated significant changes for all measures at all times for six months, with only one exception. Post-hoc analysis based on self-reported practice times indicated greater benefit with the per protocol group compared to minimal practice. Conclusions This study demonstrates that CFQ, a particular form of qigong, provides long-term benefits in several core domains in fibromyalgia. CFQ may be a useful adjuvant self-care treatment for fibromyalgia. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT00938834. PMID:22863206

Viability of randomized skin flaps-an experimental study in rats.

PubMed

António, Nsingi N; Monte Alto Costa, Andréa; Marques, Ruy G

2017-01-01

Randomized skin flaps are extensively used in plastic surgery, but the possibility of necrosis has challenged their use. Several studies have been conducted aiming to find ways to reduce the occurrence of necrosis. We evaluated the effects of pentoxifylline (PTX) and hyaluronidase (HLD), each alone or combined, on randomized rat skin flaps. Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups of 10 animals each: control I, control II, PTX, HLD, PTX-HLD. Substances were administered from the first to the 14th postoperative day. The necrotic area was measured on the seventh and 14th postoperative day; the animals were killed on the 14th day, when samples were collected for histologic and immunohistochemical examination. On the seventh day, percentage of the necrotic area was significantly reduced in PTX, HLD, and PTX-HLD animals compared with control groups. On 14th day, percentage of the necrotic area in PTX, HDL, and PTX-HLD groups was also significantly reduced compared with control groups. PTX and PTX-HLD showed a significant reduction in dermis cellularity, V V of macrophages, and myofibroblasts compared with control groups; PTX showed a significant enhancement of L V of blood vessels compared with all other groups. The use of each substance alone or combined increased flap viability compared with control groups. On the seventh day, PTX exhibited lower viability than HLD, whereas on the 14th day there was no difference between treated groups. PTX alone enhanced the L V of blood vessels, whereas PTX-HLD did not. However, PTX-HLD was more effective in decreasing the dermis cellularity and macrophage V V than HLD alone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Supplementation with imuno-2865® in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata Linnaeus, 1758): Effects on hematological and antioxidant parameters.

PubMed

Župan, Ivan; Tkalčić, Suzana; Šarić, Tomislav; Čož-Rakovac, Rozalindra; Strunjak-Perović, Ivančica; Topić-Popović, Natalija; Kardum, Matko; Kanski, Danijel; Ljubić, Blanka Beer; Matijatko, Vesna; Poljičak-Milas, Nina

2015-11-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of IMUNO-2865(®) on hematological and antioxidative parameters in sea bream. Total of 640 sea bream were fed with diets containing 0 (Group 1), 1 (Group 2), 10 (Group 3) and 25 (Group 4) g of IMUNO-2865(®) kg(-1) feed during 90 days. Samples were taken each month and three months after the supplementation. A significant heterophils increase was observed in group 4 compared to group 1 after two months, and an increase in monocytes number was observed in group 4 compared to the other groups after one month. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) were significantly increased in groups 3 and 4 compared to the control group three months into the experiment. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was increased in group 4 compared to the control group from day 60 until the end of the experiment, and in groups 2 and 3 compared to the control after three months. Based on the differences in the cellular immunity and oxidative stress parameters, with an overall absence of mortality, the results of this study suggest that the use of IMUNO-2865(®) in aquaculture is safe and possess a cumulative immunostimulatory effect on sea bream. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Effects of Aloe Vera on TNF-a Levels, the Percentage of Nk Cells and Th 17 Cells in Rat That Received Izoniazid and Rifampycin.

PubMed

Mawarti, Herin; Rajin, Mukhamad; Asumta, Zulfikar

2017-10-01

The present study was undertaken to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Aloe vera against side effect of antituberculosis drug. Twenty-five rats will be divided into five groups, namely the control group (without any treatment), the group of rats treated with anti-tuberculosis drugs, and a group of rats were treated antituberculosis drugs and got Aloe vera extract at a dose of 40; 80; and 120 mg/kg body weight. Antituberculosis drugs are isoniazid and rifampicin a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. Antituberculosis treated group showed significantly increase levels of TNF-a, the percentage of NK cells and the number of Th17 cells compared with the control group ( p < 0.05). All doses of Aloe vera reduce levels of TNF-a compared with the antituberculosis group ( p < 0.05), although it has not yet reached levels comparable to the control group ( p > 0.05). Aloe vera at first and the third dose lower the number of NK cells compared to the antituberculosis group, although it has not yet reached a significant difference ( p > 0.05). The first dose of Aloe vera was significantly decreased the percentage of Th17 cells compared to the antituberculosis drug group ( p < 0.05), although it has not yet reached levels comparable to the control group ( p > 0.05). It was concluded that administration of Aloe vera can suppress the production of TNF-a and the percentage of Th17 cells as a result of antituberculosis drug administration. Thus, Aloe vera can be a useful alternative to natural materials in the successful treatment of tuberculosis through the inhibition of side effect.

Effects of chronic treatment with valproate and oxcarbazepine on testicular development in rats.

PubMed

Cansu, Ali; Ekinci, Ozgür; Serdaroglu, Ayse; Gürgen, Seren Gulsen; Ekinci, Ozalp; Erdogan, Deniz; Coskun, Zafer Kutay; Tunc, Lutfi

2011-04-01

The aim of this study was to examine the potential effects of valproate (VPA) and oxcarbazepine (OXC) on testicular development in rats. Forty-two Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of 14 rats each. Each group received the following via gavage over 90 days: group 1, tap water (control group); group 2, VPA (300mg/kg/day); group 3, OXC (100mg/kg/day). After sacrifice, body, testicular and epididymidis weights were measured. Testes were sampled, fixed and processed, and quantitative morphometric analysis of Sertoli cells, spermatocytes and spermatids was performed in stages II, V and XII by histopathological examination. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to transform growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) and p53, and the apoptotic index was assessed using the TUNEL method. Testis and relative testis weights were significantly lower in the VPA group compared to the control group (p<0.05). Spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocyte and round spermatocyte numbers decreased in all stages in both the VPA and OXC groups compared to the control group, though this was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Apoptotic cell counts and p53 immunoreaction were significantly high and TGF-β1 expression was significantly lower in the VPA group compared to that of the control group (p<0.05). In the OXC group, p53 immunoreaction and TGF-β1 expression decreased compared to the control group, but this difference did not attain statistical significance (p>0.05). Our results show that VPA treatment from prepuberty to adulthood significantly negatively affects spermatogenesis, not only by reducing testicular weight, but also by increasing apoptotic death and p53 and decreasing TGF-β1 activation. OXC has a minimal side effect on testicular development. Copyright © 2010 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of different doses of nandrolone decanoate on lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, sperm abnormality and histopathology of testes of male Wister rats.

PubMed

Mohamed, Hanaa Mahmoud; Mohamed, Manal Abdul-Hamid

2015-01-01

The present study aims of to investigate the effects of low and high doses of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on histopathology and apoptosis of the spermatogenic cells as well as lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme activities, sperm abnormality and DNA fragmentation. Eighteen animals were divided into three groups each group contain six animals. The rats were divided into three groups as following: Group 1 was administered saline (control). Group 2, received nandrolone decanoate (3 mg/kg/weekly) (low dose) with intramuscular injection. Group 3, received intramuscular injection dose of nandrolone decanoate (10 mg/kg/weekly) (high dose). After 8 weeks, caspase-3 assay was used to determine the apoptotic cells. The sperm parameters, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme activities and testosterone concentration were also investigated in the experimental groups of both low and high dose compared to the control groups. Treated group with high dose showed degenerated germinal epithelial cells sloughed in the lumina of seminiferous tubules, where almost seminiferous tubules were devoid of spermatids and spermatozoa compared to control and group treated with low dose. Also, a significant increase of lipid peroxidation levels and heat shock proteins was observed in two groups administrated with two different doses of ND while, antioxidant enzyme activities, and testosterone concentration was significantly decreased in two treated group when compared with control. Administration of ND at high and low doses leads to deteriorated sperm parameters, DNA fragmentation and testicular apoptosis. In conclusion, the administration ND at high doses more effective on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme activities, sperm abnormality, histopathology, apoptotic and DNA changes compared to low dose group and to control group. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Impaired synthesis and antioxidant defense of glutathione in the cerebellum of autistic subjects: alterations in the activities and protein expression of glutathione-related enzymes.

PubMed

Gu, Feng; Chauhan, Ved; Chauhan, Abha

2013-12-01

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with social deficits and behavioral abnormalities. Recent evidence in autism suggests a deficit in glutathione (GSH), a major endogenous antioxidant. It is not known whether the synthesis, consumption, and/or regeneration of GSH is affected in autism. In the cerebellum tissues from autism (n=10) and age-matched control subjects (n=10), the activities of GSH-related enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) involved in antioxidant defense, detoxification, GSH regeneration, and synthesis, respectively, were analyzed. GCL is a rate-limiting enzyme for GSH synthesis, and the relationship between its activity and the protein expression of its catalytic subunit GCLC and its modulatory subunit GCLM was also compared between the autistic and the control groups. Results showed that the activities of GPx and GST were significantly decreased in autism compared to that of the control group (P<0.05). Although there was no significant difference in GR activity between autism and control groups, 40% of autistic subjects showed lower GR activity than 95% confidence interval (CI) of the control group. GCL activity was also significantly reduced by 38.7% in the autistic group compared to the control group (P=0.023), and 8 of 10 autistic subjects had values below 95% CI of the control group. The ratio of protein levels of GCLC to GCLM in the autism group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P=0.022), and GCLM protein levels were reduced by 37.3% in the autistic group compared to the control group. A positive strong correlation was observed between GCL activity and protein levels of GCLM (r=0.887) and GCLC (r=0.799) subunits in control subjects but not in autistic subjects, suggesting that regulation of GCL activity is affected in autism. These results suggest that enzymes involved in GSH homeostasis have impaired activities in the cerebellum in autism, and lower GCL activity in autism may be related to decreased protein expression of GCLM. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Effects of parecoxib sodium preemptive analgesia on perioperative cytokine responses and stress responses in patients undergoing ophthalmology surgery].

PubMed

Xu, Li-li; Shen, Jian-jun; Zhou, Hai-yan

2010-07-20

To investigate the effects of parecoxib sodium preemptive analgesia on perioperative cytokine responses and stress responses and postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing ophthalmology surgery. One hundred ASAI-II patients undergoing ophthalmology surgery were randomly divided into 2 groups of fifty: the parecoxib group received parecoxib 40 mg by muscle injection, the control group received an equal volume of 0.9% normal saline two ml. Venous blood samples were obtained at 10 minutes before parecoxib or 0.9% normal saline was injected (T1), 30 minutes (T2) and 60 minutes (T3) after surgery was initiated, the moment when surgery was finished (T4), 6 hours (T5), 12 hours (T6) and 24 hours (T7) after surgery was finished for determination of the plasma levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1RA, TNF and IL-1β. At the same time, the plasma levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone at T1-T6 were measured. VAS scores with patients were recorded at 1, 2, 6, 12, 24 h after surgery. The change of the plasma levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1RA, TNF, IL-1β in the two groups:in the parecoxib group the plasma levels of TNF and IL-1β did not decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P > 0.05). The plasma levels of IL-6, IL-8 at T4-T6 decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P < 0.01). The plasma levels of IL-1RA at T3-T6 decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P < 0.01). The change of the plasma levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone in the two groups:in the parecoxib group the plasma levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine at T2, T3 decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P < 0.01). In the parecoxib group the plasma levels of cortisol at T2-T4 decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P < 0.01). In the parecoxib group the plasma levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone at T2-T5 decreased significantly as compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Postoperation VAS scores:VAS scores of the parecoxib group were less than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Preoperatively-administered parecoxib during ophthalmology surgery can produce better analgesia effect, reduce the production of cytokines, decrease central nervous system sensitization so as to improve the quality of postoperative pain relief. At the same time, it can reduce perioperative stress hormone release so as to have a positive effect on post operative recovery.

Comparison of folic acid levels in schizophrenic patients and control groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arthy, C. C.; Amin, M. M.; Effendy, E.

2018-03-01

Folic acid deficiency is a risk factor for schizophrenia through epidemiology, biochemistry and gene-related studies. Compared with healthy people, schizophrenic patients may have high homocysteine plasma values and homocysteine or low levels of folic acid, which seems to correlate with extrapyramidal motor symptoms caused by neuroleptic therapy and with symptoms of schizophrenia. In this present study, we focus on the difference of folic acid level between schizophrenic patient and control group. The study sample consisted of schizophrenic patients and 14 people in the control group and performed blood sampling to obtain the results of folic acid levels. The folic acid level in both groups was within normal range, but the schizophrenic patient group had lower mean folic acid values of 5.00 ng/ml (sb 1.66), compared with the control group with mean folic acid values of 10.75 ng/ml (sb 4.33). there was the group of the control group had a higher value of folic acid than the schizophrenic group.

Comparison of effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Kinesio Taping added to exercises in patients with myofascial pain syndrome.

PubMed

Azatcam, Gokmen; Atalay, Nilgun Simsir; Akkaya, Nuray; Sahin, Fusun; Aksoy, Sibel; Zincir, Ozge; Topuz, Oya

2017-01-01

Although there are several studies of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and exercise in myofascial pain syndrome, there are no studies comparing the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping (KT) and TENS in myofascial pain syndrome patients. To compare the early and late effects of TENS and KT on pain, disability and range of motion in myofascial pain syndrome patients. Sixty-nine patients were divided into three groups randomly as TENS+Exercise, KT+Exercise and exercise groups. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), pain threshold, Neck Disability Index and cervical contralateral lateral flexion were employed in the evaluation of the patients performed before treatment, after treatment and 3rd month after treatment. The VAS, pain threshold, Neck Disability Index and contralateral lateral flexion values were improved in all groups both in after treatment and 3rd month after treatment (p< 0.01). In the comparison of after treatment vs. before treatment evaluations, VAS score was decreased in KT group compared to the TENS and control group (p= 0.001), in the TENS group compared to control group (p= 0.011). In the comparison of 3rd month and before treatment evaluations, VAS score was decreased in the TENS group compared to control group (p= 0.001) and in the KT group compared to the control group (p= 0.001). There was no significant difference between TENS and KT groups. All other parameters did not differ between the groups. TENS and KT added exercises can decrease pain severity and increase pain threshold, function and cervical range of motion in myofascial pain syndrome patients. Addition of TENS or KT to the exercise therapy resulted in more significant improvement compared to exercise therapy alone with a more pronounced improvement in KT group compared to the TENS group in the early period. Because KT was found to be more effective in decreasing the pain and had the advantage of being used in every 3 days, it seems to be beneficial in acute painful periods in myofascial pain syndrome patients.

Comparison of brain connectivity between Internet gambling disorder and Internet gaming disorder: A preliminary study.

PubMed

Bae, Sujin; Han, Doug Hyun; Jung, Jaebum; Nam, Ki Chun; Renshaw, Perry F

2017-12-01

Background and aims Given the similarities in clinical symptoms, Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is thought to be diagnostically similar to Internet-based gambling disorder (ibGD). However, cognitive enhancement and educational use of Internet gaming suggest that the two disorders derive from different neurobiological mechanisms. The goal of this study was to compare subjects with ibGD to those with IGD. Methods Fifteen patients with IGD, 14 patients with ibGD, and 15 healthy control subjects were included in this study. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data for all participants were acquired using a 3.0 Tesla MRI scanner (Philips, Eindhoven, The Netherlands). Seed-based analyses, the three brain networks of default mode, cognitive control, and reward circuitry, were performed. Results Both IGD and ibGD groups demonstrated decreased functional connectivity (FC) within the default-mode network (DMN) (family-wise error p < .001) compared with healthy control subjects. However, the IGD group demonstrated increased FC within the cognitive network compared with both the ibGD (p < .01) and healthy control groups (p < .01). In contrast, the ibGD group demonstrated increased FC within the reward circuitry compared with both IGD (p < .01) and healthy control subjects (p < .01). Discussion and conclusions The IGD and ibGD groups shared the characteristic of decreased FC in the DMN. However, the IGD group demonstrated increased FC within the cognitive network compared with both ibGD and healthy comparison groups.

Cytotoxic effects of polybasic acids, poly(alkenoic acid)s, and the monomers with various functional groups on human pulp fibroblasts.

PubMed

Kurata, Shigeaki; Morishita, Kumiko; Kawase, Toshio; Umemoto, Kozo

2011-01-01

This study evaluated the cytotoxicity of various polybasic acids, poly(alkenoic acid)s, and the monomers with various acidic functional groups such as carboxyl, phosphoryl, and sulfo group. The cell growth of fibroblasts cultivated in medium containing polybasic acids and polymers up to the concentration to 5 mmol/L was not significantly different compared with that of control without their acids. On the other hand, the cell growth fibroblasts cultivated in medium containing 1 mmol/L of the monomers with acryloyloxy and phosphoryl or carboxyl group decreased remarkably compared with that of the control and the cells were probably lifeless. Those exposed to the monomers with a ether bond and a carboxyl group or a amide bond and a sulfo group was not significantly different compared with that of control.

Screening colonoscopy in 40- to 50-year-old first-degree relatives of patients with colorectal cancer is efficient: a controlled multicentre study.

PubMed

Menges, Markus; Fischinger, Johannes; Gärtner, Barbara; Georg, Thomas; Woerdehoff, Dietrich; Maier, Matthias; Harloff, Matthias; Stegmaier, Christa; Raedle, Jochen; Zeitz, Martin

2006-05-01

Persons with a familial risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) account for about 25% of all CRC cases. The adenoma prevalence in relatives of CRC patients 50-60 years of age is 17-34%; data on younger individuals are scarce. Our aim was to prospectively define the adenoma prevalence in 40- to 50-year-old first-degree relatives of CRC patients compared to controls. CRC patients were identified via the regional cancer registry, and their 40- to 50-year-old first-degree relatives (risk group) were invited for screening colonoscopy. Additional probands and controls of the same age were recruited by newspaper articles and radio or television broadcastings. Using high-resolution video colonoscopy, each detected polyp was removed and histopathologically assessed. Each participant completed demographic and epidemiological questionnaires. Of 228 subjects in the risk group 36.4% had polypoid lesions compared to 20.9% of 220 controls (p<0.001). Forty-three (18.9%) subjects in the risk group had adenomas compared to 18 (8.2%) in the control group (p=0.001). High-risk adenomas (>10 mm and/or of villous type) were found in 12 persons in the risk group compared to 5 controls (not significant). In the risk group most lesions (52%) were located proximal to the sigmoid colon compared to 29% in controls. Subjects between 40-50 years with first-degree relatives with CRC demonstrate a significantly higher prevalence of adenomas than controls, with a tendency towards a more proximal location. These data support a screening colonoscopy in persons with familial risk already between 40 and 50 years.

Alterations of motor performance and brain cortex mitochondrial function during ethanol hangover.

PubMed

Bustamante, Juanita; Karadayian, Analia G; Lores-Arnaiz, Silvia; Cutrera, Rodolfo A

2012-08-01

Ethanol has been known to affect various behavioral parameters in experimental animals, even several hours after ethanol (EtOH) is absent from blood circulation, in the period known as hangover. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of acute ethanol hangover on motor performance in association with the brain cortex energetic metabolism. Evaluation of motor performance and brain cortex mitochondrial function during alcohol hangover was performed in mice 6 hours after a high ethanol dose (hangover onset). Animals were injected i.p. either with saline (control group) or with ethanol (3.8 g/kg BW) (hangover group). Ethanol hangover group showed a bad motor performance compared with control animals (p < .05). Oxygen uptake in brain cortex mitochondria from hangover animals showed a 34% decrease in the respiratory control rate as compared with the control group. Mitochondrial complex activities were decreased being the complex I-III the less affected by the hangover condition; complex II-III was markedly decreased by ethanol hangover showing 50% less activity than controls. Complex IV was 42% decreased as compared with control animals. Hydrogen peroxide production was 51% increased in brain cortex mitochondria from the hangover group, as compared with the control animals. Quantification of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential indicated that ethanol injected animals presented 17% less ability to maintain the polarized condition as compared with controls. These results indicate that a clear decrease in proton motive force occurs in brain cortex mitochondria during hangover conditions. We can conclude that a decreased motor performance observed in the hangover group of animals could be associated with brain cortex mitochondrial dysfunction and the resulting impairment of its energetic metabolism. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cytokine and growth factor concentration in cerebrospinal fluid from patients with hydrocephalus following endovascular embolization of unruptured aneurysms in comparison with other types of hydrocephalus.

PubMed

Killer, Monika; Arthur, Adam; Al-Schameri, Abdul Rahman; Barr, John; Elbert, Donald; Ladurner, Gunther; Shum, Julie; Cruise, Gregory

2010-10-01

To better understand the development of hydrocephalus of different origins, we evaluated cytokine and growth factor concentration in cerebrospinal fluid from patients with hydrocephalus. CSF was collected from patients developing hydrocephalus following hemorrhage (n = 15), patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (n = 10), and following the embolization of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (n = 9). Myelography patients (n = 15) served as controls. Quantification of 11 molecules relating angiogenesis, inflammation, and wound healing in the CSF was performed using ELISA. All three hydrocephalus groups had decreased concentration of TIMP-4 compared to the normal group. The hemorrhage group showed increased concentration of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 compared to the control group. The unruptured aneurysm group had increased concentration of IL-6 and decreased concentration of TIMP-2 compared to the control group. Compared to the normal patients, increased concentrations of wound healing molecules were evident in all three groups. Increased inflammation was evident in the hemorrhage and unruptured aneurysm groups.

Effects of Dietary Fermented Seaweed and Seaweed Fusiforme on Growth Performance, Carcass Parameters and Immunoglobulin Concentration in Broiler Chicks

PubMed Central

Choi, Y. J.; Lee, S. R.; Oh, J-W.

2014-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of brown seaweed (Undaria pinnatifida) by-product and seaweed fusiforme (Hizikia fusiformis) by-product supplementation on growth performance and blood profiles including serum immunoglobulin (Ig) in broilers. Fermentation of seaweeds was conducted by Bacillus subtilis and Aspergillus oryzae. In a 5-wk feeding trial, 750 one-d-old broiler chicks were divided into 5 groups, and were assigned to the control diet or experimental diets including control+0.5% brown seaweed (BS) by-product, control+0.5% seaweed fusiforme (SF) by-product, control+0.5% fermented brown seaweed (FBS) by-product, and control+0.5% fermented seaweed fusiforme (FSF) by-product. As a consequence, body weight gain (BWG) and gain:feed of seaweed by-product groups were clearly higher, when compared to those of control diet group from d 18 to 35 and the entire experimental period (p<0.05). In mortality rate, seaweed by-product groups were significantly lower when compared to control diet group during entire experimental period (p<0.05). However, Feed Intake of experimental diets group was not different from that of the control group during the entire experimental period. Whereas, Feed Intake of fermented seaweed by-product groups was lower than that of non-fermented seaweed groups (p<0.05). Total organ weights, lipids, and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) of all treatment groups were not different from those of control group. However, glutamic pyruvate transaminase (GPT) of all treatment groups was higher than that of control group at d 17 (p<0.05). In case of serum Igs concentration, the concentration of IgA antibody in BS, SF, FSF treatment groups was significantly higher than in control group at d 35 (p<0.01). IgA concentration in FBS supplementation groups was negligibly decreased when compared to the control group. IgM concentration in the serums of all treatment groups was significantly higher than in control group (p<0.05) and in fermented seaweed by-product groups were much higher than in non-fermented seaweed groups (p<0.05). On the other hand, IgG concentrations in all treatment groups were lower than in control group (p<0.05). Taken together, our results suggest that by-product dietary supplementation of BS, SF, FBS, and FSF in poultry may provide positive effects of growth performance and immune response. PMID:25050025

Anthropometric and Laboratory Variables Related to Weight Loss-Comparison of Heart Failure Patients with Tumor Patients and Control Population.

PubMed

Letilovic, Tomislav; Vrhovac, Radovan; Krznarić, Željko

2017-01-01

Body weight loss is an important feature of heart failure (HF) and tumors. It is related to both reduced survival and adverse reactions to therapy in both of these conditions. The mechanisms of body weight loss in patients with HF and tumors are considered to be similar. Yet, studies comparing those two populations are generally lacking. The aim of this study was to compare anthropometric and laboratory data, related to weight loss, between patients with chronic HF and patients with different tumors as well as control population. Laboratory and anthropometric data on 143 consecutive patients with chronic HF and malignant diseases as well as data for 20 controls were collected. Patients with HF had lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin compared to controls. Anthropometric measurements revealed lower body mass index (BMI), muscle strength, mid-arm circumference, and waist circumference in patients with HF compared to controls. Measurements of biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfolds were also lower in HF group. Compared to solid tumor group, HF patients had lower levels of CRP and higher levels of hemoglobin. Solid tumor patients had lower values of BMI and subscapular skinfold thickness, as well as higher muscle strength compared to HF group. Finally, compared to patients with solid hematological tumors, HF group had lower levels of albumin, lower muscle strength, as well as lower mid-arm circumference. We found differences in anthropometric and laboratory features, related to weight loss, in patients with HF compared to control population that were expected. On the other hand, observed differences in HF group compared to patients with various tumors could imply different pathophysiological mechanisms of weight loss between those groups. Such data could serve as a cornerstone for studies with larger numbers of patients and deeper pathophysiological insight.

The effect of captopril and losartan on the electrophysiology of myocardial cells of myocardial ischemia rats.

PubMed

Shi, Xiangmin; Shan, Zhaoling; Yuan, Hongtao; Guo, Hongyang; Wang, Yutang

2014-01-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of captopril and losartan on the electrophysiology of myocardial cells parameters in ventricular vulnerable period and effective refractory period of myocardial ischemia rats. 96 wistar rats were enrolled in the study and divided into six groups: Captopril myocardial ischemia group, losartan myocardial ischemia group, myocardial ischemia control group, captopril normal group, losartan normal group and normal control group (n=16). We observed morphological changes of myocardial tissue in each group. The cardiac electrophysiological parameters in effective refractory period of each group were measured. Creatine kinase (CK), alanine aminotransferase (GOT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), the expression of Cardiotrophin 1 (CT-1) and malonaldehyde (MDA) were detected. Compared the losartan and captopril group with the control group, (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril can shorten the ventricular vulnerable period of the normal group and ischemic group. There was no interaction effect between losartan and captopril group and the acute myocardial ischemia group. The effect of losartan and captopril on time window in ventricular vulnerable period showed that compared with the control group (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril had a significant effect on prolonged effective refractory period of normal and ischemic rats. There was no interaction effect between losartan and captopril group and the acute myocardial ischemia group. Compared with the myocardial ischemia control group, CK, GOT, LDH and MDA decreased in captopril and losartan myocardial ischemia groups (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril had a significant effect on prolonged effective refractory period and shorten ventricular vulnerable period, they can also effectively prevent arrhythmias.

Corticotomy-assisted retraction: an outcome assessment.

PubMed

Sakthi, S Vijayashri; Vikraman, B; Shobana, V R; Iyer, S Kavitha; Krishnaswamy, N R

2014-01-01

To assess the efficiency and treatment outcome of patients treated with corticotomy-assisted en-masse orthodontic retraction as compared with the en-masse retraction without corticotomy. Forty adult patients with bimaxillary protrusion requiring correction of bidental proclination constituted the sample. The study group consisted of 22 patients (male 11, female 11) willing to undergo surgery to reduce the duration of their orthodontic treatment and 18 patients (male 9, female 9) desirous of undergoing conventional orthodontic treatment without surgical intervention constituted the control group. Comparison of rate of retraction and anchor loss between the study and the control group was assessed. Average rate of space closure of 1.8 mm/month in the maxilla and 1.57 mm/month in the mandible was observed in the study group compared to 1.02 mm/month in the maxilla and 0.87 mm/month in the mandible in the control group. The rate of retraction accelerated during the first 2 months of retraction. Molar anchor loss of approximately 0.6 mm occurred in the study group, and 1.8 mm occurred in the control group during the 4 months. The rate of retraction with study group was twice as faster when compared to the control group, accelerating during the first 2 months of retraction. There was better anchorage control with the undecorticated molar segment during the retraction period but was found to increase as time advanced.

Hearing in Paget's disease of bone.

PubMed

Amilibia Cabeza, Emilio; Holgado Pérez, Susana; Pérez Grau, Marta; Moragues Pastor, Carme; Roca-Ribas Serdà, Francesc; Quer Agustí, Miquel

2018-06-04

Paget's disease of bone (PDB) may lead to hearing loss. The present study was conducted with the aim of measuring, characterizing and determining the risk factors for hearing loss in a group of subjects with PDB. An observational, transversal, case-control study was conducted, a cohort of 76 subjects diagnosed with PDB in the case group and a control group of 134 subjects were included. Clinical, demographic and audiometric data were analysed. The comparative analysis between the subjects in the PDB group and the control group found that the case group showed higher hearing thresholds (39,51dB) compared with the control group (37.28dB) (P=.069) and presented a greater rate of conductive hearing loss (22.76%) than the control group (12.05%) (P=.0062). The study of risk factors for hearing loss found that skull involvement in bone scintigraphy, age and high blood pressure were risk factors for higher impairment in PDB. The subjects with PDB showed more profound and a higher proportion of conductive hearing loss than the control group. The patients with PDB and skull involvement presented a more severe hearing loss compared with the subjects without skull involvement. Skull involvement and age were found to be risk factors for hearing loss. Copyright © 2018 Sociedad Española de Otorrinolaringología y Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Comparing health locus of control in patients with Spasmodic Dysphonia, Functional Dysphonia and Nonlaryngeal Dystonia.

PubMed

Haselden, Karen; Powell, Theresa; Drinnan, Mike; Carding, Paul

2009-11-01

Locus of Control (LoC) refers to an individuals' perception of whether they are in control of life events. Health Locus of Control refers to whether someone feels they have influence over their health. Health Locus of Control has not been studied in any depth in voice-disordered patients. The objective of this study was to examine Health Locus of Control in three patient groups: (1) Spasmodic Dysphonia, (2) Functional Dysphonia and (3) a nondysphonic group with Nonlaryngeal Dystonia. LoC was measured and compared in a total of 57 patients using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scales (diagnostic specific) Form C. Internal, Chance, and Powerful others LoC were measured and comparisons were made using one-way analysis of variance. Contrary to expectations Internal LoC was found to be significantly higher in the Functional Dysphonia group when compared to the other two groups. There was no significant difference between the groups in Chance or Powerful others LoC. The two organic groups, Spasmodic Dysphonia and Nonlaryngeal Dystonia, were more alike in Internal Health Locus of Control than the Functional Dysphonia group. The diagnostic nature of the groups was reflected in their LoC scores rather than their voice loss. These results contribute to the debate about the etiology of Spasmodic Dysphonia and will be of interest to those involved in the psychology of voice and those managing voice-disordered patients.

Concomitant use of FSH and low-dose recombinant hCG during the late follicular phase versus conventional controlled ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles.

PubMed

Iaconelli, Carla Andrade Rebello; Setti, Amanda Souza; Braga, Daniela Paes Almeida Ferreira; Maldonado, Luiz Guilherme Louzada; Iaconelli, Assumpto; Borges, Edson; Aoki, Tsutomu

2017-12-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of low-dose hCG supplementation on ICSI outcomes and controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cost. Three hundred and thirty patients undergoing ICSI were split into groups according to the COS protocol: (i) control group (n = 178), including patients undergoing conventional COS treatment; and (ii) low-dose hCG group (n = 152), including patients undergoing COS with low-dose hCG supplementation. Lower mean total doses of FSH administered and higher mean oestradiol level and mature oocyte rates were observed in the low-dose hCG group. A significantly higher fertilization rate, high-quality embryo rate and blastocyst formation rate were observed in the low-dose hCG group as compared to the control group. The miscarriage rate was significantly higher in the control group compared to the low-dose hCG group. A significantly lower incidence of OHSS was observed in the low-dose hCG group. There was also a significantly lower gonadotropin cost in the low-dose hCG group as compared to the control group ($1235.0 ± 239.0×$1763.0 ± 405.3, p < 0.001). The concomitant use of low-dose hCG and FSH results in a lower abortion rate and increased number of mature oocytes retrieved, as well as improved oocyte quality, embryo quality and blastocyst formation and reduced FSH requirements.

Voluntary Release Pilot Program: Effects on Attrition of General Detail Personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-07-01

compared to 45 percent for Great Lakes. Within the control group, the distribution of recruits in quality group B was nearly equivalent at all RTCs. Also...for the control group). Loss group data were related to educational level in the control group onlyi Holders of GED certificates and non -high school...within the control group, represent no greater an attri- tion, disciplinary, or desertion risk than non -DELTAs. No significant differences associated

[Effects of Electric Stimulation and Biofeedback for Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise in Women with Vaginal Rejuvenation Women].

PubMed

Lee, Jung Bok; Choi, So Young

2015-10-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback on maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, vaginal contraction duration and sexual function in women who have had vaginal rejuvenation. The research design was a non-equivalent control group non-synchronized design study. Participants in this study were women who had vaginal rejuvenation at C obstetrics and gynecology hospital. The 15 participants in the experimental group were given pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback and the 15 participants in the control group received self pelvic floor muscle exercise. For maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, the experimental group showed a statistically significant increase compared to than the control group (t=5.96, p<.001). For vaginal contraction duration, the experimental group also showed a statistically significant increase compared to the control group (t=3.23, p=.003). For women's sexual function, the experimental group showed a significant increase when compared to the control group in total sexual function scores (t=3.41, p=.002). The results indicate that pelvic floor muscle exercise with electric stimulation and biofeedback after vaginal rejuvenation is effective in strengthening vaginal contraction pressure, vaginal contraction and that it also positively functions to increase women's sexual function.

Relation between sex hormones and hepatocellular carcinoma.

PubMed

El Mahdy Korah, T; Abd Elfatah Badr, E; Mohamed Emara, M; Ahmed Samy Kohla, M; Gamal Saad Michael, G

2016-11-01

Males have higher incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than females. Sex hormones may be a risk factor. The aim was to determine the levels of sex hormones in male and female patients with HCC and cirrhosis versus controls and its possible relationship with HCC. This study was conducted on 90 subjects divided into 40 patients with HCC, 30 patients with liver cirrhosis and 20 apparently healthy subjects complete blood picture, liver function tests. Determination of AFP levels and hormonal assay of oestrogen, progesterone, total testosterone, prolactin, FSH and LH were performed on all subjects. Total testosterone levels were significantly decreased in the two patients groups compared with controls. While oestrogen levels were significantly decreased in the HCC group in comparison with other two groups, prolactin levels were significantly decreased in the HCC group compared with the liver cirrhosis group and increased in the liver cirrhosis group when compared to controls. FSH and LH levels were significantly increased in the HCC group when compared to controls. There is no significant correlation between sex hormones assay and both the size of HCC and degree of cirrhosis in both patient groups. It is concluded that there is no strong relation between sex hormones and HCC when the study was carried out on the levels of sex hormones in patients with HCC. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

lmplementing lifestyle change through phone-based motivational interviewing in rural-based women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Reinhardt, Judith A; van der Ploeg, Hidde P; Grzegrzulka, Richard; Timperley, Jennifer G

2012-04-01

Substantial numbers of women with past gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) develop type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In northern New South Wales 23% of women attending diabetes services between 2007 and 2010 with T2DM previously had GDM. This study investigated whether phone-based lifestyle education using motivational interviewing resulted in positive lifestyle change post GDM for women in a large rural area. Thirty-eight women were recruited to this pilot study following GDM diagnosis and randomly allocated to either the control or intervention group. Following baseline assessment, the intervention group received a 6-month phone-based motivational interviewing program, and access to usual care. The control group received usual care only. Measures were collected at baseline (6 weeks postnatal), and at 6 months follow-up. Outcome measures included body mass index, diet, and physical activity. At follow-up, the intervention group compared to the control group significantly reduced total fat intake by -19 g/d (95%CI: -37 to -1), total carbohydrate intake by -42 g/d (95%CI: -82 to -1), and glycaemic load by -26 units (95%CI: -48 to -4). These women also increased leisure physical activity compared to the control group by 11 min/d (95%CI: 1 to 22); no significant change in total physical activity levels occurred. At follow-up, body mass index in the intervention group improved by -1.5 kg/m2 (95%CI: -2.8 to -0.1) compared to the control group. The intervention group showed positive trends across lifestyle variables compared to the control group. Further large-scale research on the effectiveness of phone-based lifestyle counselling following GDM is warranted.

The comparison of perceived health-related quality of life between Australian children with severe specific language impairment to age and gender-matched peers.

PubMed

Nicola, Kristy; Watter, Pauline

2018-02-14

Children with specific language impairment often present with multiple comorbidities, which may adversely affect both participation in play and academic performance, potentially impacting a child's health-related quality of life. This study 1) explored the suitability of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ Version 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL™) for use with a typically developing Australian control group, and 2) compared the health-related quality of life between a control group and Australian children with severe specific language impairment. Health-related quality of life data collected as part of a broader study of 43 children with severe specific language impairment (males = 35, age range 5-16, mean age = 8.79+/- 2.92) enrolled at a special school were used to explore previously unreported findings. Typically developing gender and age matched (+/- 3 months) peers were recruited from local schools. The PedsQL™ child self-report and proxy-report were individually or interviewer-administered to the control group as required, and then compared to the group with specific language impairment. The PedsQL™ was reliable and feasible for use with the control group (N = 43, males = 35, age range = 5-16 years, mean age = 8.74+/- 2.94 years). Control group performance was as expected as per the manual. Parents of the control group scored their children significantly higher than did the children themselves on all scales except the emotional functioning scale. Both the control group children and their parents scored themselves significantly higher on all scales, compared to children with severe specific language impairment and their parents. The PedsQL™ was suitable for use with the control group. Further, the recruitment of a control group provided additional clarity on the extent a severe specific language impairment impacts on an Australian child's perceived health-related quality of life, compared to the manual cut-off scores. Severe specific language impairment significantly impacts negatively on the health-related quality of life of Australian children across all domains, particularly when compared to an age and gender-matched group of peers. These results warrant the inclusion of health-related quality of life evaluations in the assessment of these children along with a multidisciplinary approach.

Evaluation of plasma C-reactive protein levels in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease: A comparative study.

PubMed

Sharma, Anupriya; Ramesh, Amitha; Thomas, Biju

2009-09-01

Circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are a marker of systemic inflammation and are associated with periodontal disease, a chronic bacterial infection associated with elevation of proinflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. CRP has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm delivery, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Furthermore, periodontal disease has been associated with increased risk of preterm low birth weight, low birth weight, and preterm birth. The present study was conducted to assess plasma CRP levels in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease; to evaluate the effect of periodontal therapy on the incidence of preterm delivery; and to compare the incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease. A total of 90 pregnant women aged between 18-35 years with gestational age between 12-28 weeks were recruited and divided into three equal groups (control group, study group, treatment group) of 30 each. Blood samples were taken for estimation of C-reactive protein levels from all groups at 12-20 weeks of gestation, determined using ultrasensitive turbidimetric immunoassay (QUANTIA-CRP US). The treatment group comprised plaque control, scaling, and root planning and daily rinsing with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth before 28 weeks of gestation. The mean value of C-reactive protein levels in subjects with periodontal disease was higher compared to control group i.e., 1.20 +/- 0.247 mg/dl and 1.22 +/- 0.250 mg/dl, respectively, compared to 0.713 +/- 0.139 mg/ dl (P = 0.001). The mean value of CRP levels before treatment was greater than the mean value after treatment i.e., 1.22 +/- 0.25 compared to 0.84 +/- 0.189 (P < 0.001). The incidence of preterm delivery (< 37 weeks) was 31.7% in the periodontal disease group (study group) compared to 8.3% in the control group (P = 0.001). The incidence of preterm delivery in the treatment group was 15.0% compared to 31.7% in the nontreatment group (study group). The findings from the study suggest that periodontal disease in pregnant women is associated with increased C- reactive protein levels in early pregnancy, incidence of preterm delivery is higher in pregnant women with periodontal disease compared to healthy controls, periodontal therapy during pregnancy reduces plasma CRP levels and there is decrease in incidence of preterm delivery after periodontal therapy.

A randomised controlled trial of a self-management education program for osteoarthritis of the knee delivered by health care professionals.

PubMed

Coleman, Sophie; Briffa, N Kathryn; Carroll, Graeme; Inderjeeth, Charles; Cook, Nicola; McQuade, Jean

2012-01-27

Our aim in the present study was to determine whether a disease-specific self-management program for primary care patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee (the Osteoarthritis of the Knee Self-Management Program (OAK)) implemented by health care professionals would achieve and maintain clinically meaningful improvements in health-related outcomes compared with a control group. Medical practitioners referred 146 primary care patients with OA of the knee. Volunteers with coexistent inflammatory joint disease or serious comorbidities were excluded. Randomisation was to either a control group or the OAK group. The OAK group completed a 6-week self-management program. The control group had a 6-month waiting period before entering the OAK program. Assessments were taken at baseline, 8 weeks and 6 months. The primary outcomes were the results measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) Pain and Function subscales on the Short Form 36 version 1 questionnaire (SF-36) Secondary outcomes were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain, Timed Up & Go Test (TUG), knee range of motion and quadriceps and hamstring strength-isometric contraction. Responses to treatment (responders) and minimal clinically important improvements (MCIIs) were determined. In the OAK group, VAS pain improved from baseline to week 8 from mean (SEM) 5.21 (0.30) to 3.65 (0.29) (P ≤ 0.001). During this period, improvements in the OAK group compared with the control group and responses to treatment were demonstrated according to the following outcomes: WOMAC Pain, Physical Function and Total dimensions, as well as SF-36 Physical Function, Role Physical, Body Pain, Vitality and Social Functioning domains. In addition, from baseline to week 8, the proportion of MCIIs was greater among the OAK group than the control group for all outcomes. For the period between baseline and month 6, WOMAC Pain, Physical Function and Total dimensions significantly improved in the OAK group compared to the control group, as did the SF-36 Physical Function, Role Physical, Body Pain, Vitality and Social Functioning domains, as well as hamstring strength in both legs. During the same period, the TUG Test, range of motion extension and left-knee flexion improved compared with the control group, although these improvements had little clinical relevance. We recorded statistically significant improvements compared with a control group with regard to pain, quality of life and function for participants in the OAK program on the basis of WOMAC and SF-36 measures taken 8 weeks and 6 months from baseline.

Retrospective comparative analysis of cardiovascular implantable electronic device infections with and without the use of antibacterial envelopes.

PubMed

Hassoun, A; Thottacherry, E D; Raja, M; Scully, M; Azarbal, A

2017-03-01

Cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infections are associated with morbidity and mortality. Peri-operative systemic intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the rate of CIED infections. AIGIS Rx , a polymer envelope implanted with the CIED, releases minocycline and rifampin, and has been introduced to reduce infections. Retrospective review of 184 patients who underwent CIED implantation was conducted. Ninety-two patients were implanted with an AIGIS Rx envelope (AIGIS Rx group) and 92 patients were not implanted with an AIGIS Rx envelope (control group). Data were collected on demographics and risk factors for CIED infections (i.e. congestive heart failure, renal insufficiency, chronic kidney disease, oral anticoagulant use, chronic steroid use, need for lead replacement or revision, temporary pacing, early re-intervention, and having more than two leads in place). Rates of implantation success, major infections and mortality were compared between the AIGIS Rx group and the control group. The AIGIS Rx group had longer hospitalizations (6.8±10.7 days vs 3.1±5.2 days; P=0.001), higher chronic corticosteroid use, higher rates of replacement or revision (51.1% vs 8.7%; P=0.001), and a greater proportion of devices with more than two intracardiac leads (42.4% vs 29.3%; P=0.03) than the control group. Successful implantation occurred in 97% of patients in both groups. Major infection was seen in 5.4% of cases in the AIGIS Rx group and 1.1% of cases in the control group (P=0.048). Device removal was conducted in 3.3% of cases in the AIGIS Rx group compared with 1.1% of cases in the control group (P=0.16). There were two deaths in the AIGIS Rx group. Organisms cultured were meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, meticillin-susceptible S. aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. The AIGIS Rx group had higher rates of major infection but also higher risk factors compared with the control group. The rate of device extraction and CIED-related mortality was higher in the AIGIS Rx group than in the control group. Copyright © 2017 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Activation time analysis and electromyographic fatigue in patients with temporomandibular disorders during clenching.

PubMed

Pitta, Natássia Condilo; Nitsch, Gabriel Silva; Machado, Mariana Barcellos; de Oliveira, Anamaria Siriani

2015-08-01

The use of surface electromyography (SEMG) is controversial in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), although there is some evidence that the pattern of the masticatory muscles in TMD patients differs from controls. The aim of this study was to compare relative time of mandibular elevator muscle activation at different levels of activity and median frequency (MF) during sustained clenching. Twenty-two women, aged between 18 and 48years, volunteered to participate in the study. The TMD group had 14 participants diagnosed as group Ia muscle disorders (RDC/TMD). The control group had eight healthy individuals. SEMG records were obtained from masseter and temporal muscles during 10s of sustained clenching. Normalized SEMG amplitudes were classified as minimal, moderate and maximal and time of activation in each level of activity was calculated and compared using two-way ANOVA (groups versus time). A slope of the linear regression line that fits MF values over time was calculated as a fatigue index for elevator muscles. Only the temporal muscles of the TMD group showed longer activation time at moderate and minimal activity levels compared to controls. Fatigue indexes were greater for the TMD group compared to controls. Results showed motor control strategies during sustained clenching that differentiate controls from TMD patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ketorolac does not increase perioperative bleeding: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Gobble, Ryan M; Hoang, Han L T; Kachniarz, Bart; Orgill, Dennis P

2014-03-01

Postoperative pain control is essential for optimal patient outcomes. Ketorolac is an attractive alternative for achieving pain control postoperatively, but concerns over postoperative bleeding have limited its use. Computer searches of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were performed. Twenty-seven double-blind, randomized, controlled studies were reviewed by two independent investigators for the incidence of adverse events, including postoperative bleeding. Comprehensive meta-analysis software was used to evaluate the differences between ketorolac and control groups. Twenty-seven studies with 2314 patients were analyzed. Postoperative bleeding occurred in 33 of 1304 patients (2.5 percent) in the ketorolac group compared with 21 of 1010 (2.1 percent) in the control group (OR, 1.1; 95 percent CI, 0.61 to 2.06; p = 0.72). Adverse events were similar in the groups, 31.7 percent in the control group and 27.9 percent in the ketorolac group (OR, 0.64; 95 percent CI, 0.41 to 1.01; p = 0.06). There was a lower incidence of adverse effects with low-dose ketorolac (OR, 0.49; 95 percent CI, 0.27 to 0.91; p = 0.02). Pain control with ketorolac was superior to controls and equivalent to opioids. This is the first meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examining whether there is increased postoperative bleeding with ketorolac. Postoperative bleeding was not significantly increased with ketorolac compared with controls, and adverse effects were not statistically different between the groups. Pain control was found to be superior with ketorolac compared with controls. Ketorolac should be considered for postoperative pain control, especially to limit the use of opioid pain medications. Therapeutic, II.

Assessing Gait Impairments Based on Auto-Encoded Patterns of Mahalanobis Distances from Consecutive Steps.

PubMed

Muñoz-Organero, Mario; Davies, Richard; Mawson, Sue

2017-01-01

Insole pressure sensors capture the force distribution patterns during the stance phase while walking. By comparing patterns obtained from healthy individuals to patients suffering different medical conditions based on a given similarity measure, automatic impairment indexes can be computed in order to help in applications such as rehabilitation. This paper uses the data sensed from insole pressure sensors for a group of healthy controls to train an auto-encoder using patterns of stochastic distances in series of consecutive steps while walking at normal speeds. Two experiment groups are compared to the healthy control group: a group of patients suffering knee pain and a group of post-stroke survivors. The Mahalanobis distance is computed for every single step by each participant compared to the entire dataset sensed from healthy controls. The computed distances for consecutive steps are fed into the previously trained autoencoder and the average error is used to assess how close the walking segment is to the autogenerated model from healthy controls. The results show that automatic distortion indexes can be used to assess each participant as compared to normal patterns computed from healthy controls. The stochastic distances observed for the group of stroke survivors are bigger than those for the people with knee pain.

Cross-Linking Biomechanical Effect in Human Corneas by Same Energy, Different UV-A Fluence: An Enzymatic Digestion Comparative Evaluation.

PubMed

Kanellopoulos, Anastasios J; Loukas, Yannis L; Asimellis, George

2016-04-01

To evaluate ex vivo the possible difference in corneal cross-linking (CXL) biomechanical effect of different ultraviolet-A (UV-A) irradiances. The study involved 25 human donor corneas, randomly allocated to 5 groups (n = 5 each). CXL was applied with UV-A irradiances of 3, 9, 18, 30, and 45 mW/cm2, maintaining equal cumulative energy dose of 5.4 J/cm2. UV-A was delivered on half of the cornea. The nonirradiated halves served as controls. Specimens were subjected to collagenase-A enzymatic digestion. The time to complete dissolution in each specimen was recorded. Time to dissolution in group-A (3 mW/cm2 for 30 minutes) was 321 ± 13.4 minutes (range: 300-330) compared with 171 ± 8.2 (range: 165-180) for their control. In group-B (9 mW/cm2 for 10 minutes), it was 282 ± 19.6 minutes (range: 270-315) compared with 177 ± 6.7 (165-180) for their control. In group-C (18 mW/cm2 for 5 minutes), it was 267 ± 19.6 minutes (range: 240-285) compared with 177 ± 7.7 (range: 165-180) for their control. In group-D (30 mW/cm2 for 3 minutes), it was 252 ± 12.5 minutes (range: 240-270) compared with 180 ± 10.6 minutes (range: 165-195) for their control. In group-E (45 mW/cm2 for 2 minutes), it was 204 ± 17.1 minutes (range: 180-225) compared with 186 ± 8.2 minutes (range: 180-195) for their control. The data in this ex vivo human corneal study indicate that the biomechanical effect of CXL studied by resistance to enzymatic digestion in human corneas is comparable between irradiances of 9, 18 and 30 mW/cm and seems to be reduced at a fluence of 45 mW/cm2.

Impaired theory of mind in first-episode schizophrenia: comparison with community, university and depressed controls.

PubMed

Kettle, Jonathan W L; O'Brien-Simpson, Laurie; Allen, Nicholas B

2008-02-01

First order theory of mind, as measured by the 'Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test' Revised, is impaired in schizophrenia. However, no study has investigated whether this occurs in first-episode schizophrenia. Also, it is unclear whether such a deficit is specific to schizophrenia, and whether convenience control samples, particularly undergraduate university students, represent valid comparison groups. This study investigated theory of mind ability, measured by the 'Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test' Revised, in a group of first-episode schizophrenia outpatients (n=13) and three control groups: outpatients with non-psychotic major depression (n=14), individuals from the general community (n=16) and from an undergraduate university course (n=27). The schizophrenia group exhibited significant theory of mind impairments compared to both non-psychiatric control groups but not the depression group. Unexpectedly, the depression group was not significantly impaired compared to the community control group, and the university control group exhibited superior theory of mind ability relative to all three groups. The findings indicate theory of mind deficits in first episode schizophrenia and support the implementation of theory of mind interventions in first-episode schizophrenia treatment programs. Results also indicate that community rather than university control groups represent more valid comparison groups in first-episode schizophrenia research.

Randomized controlled comparative study on effect of training to improve lower limb motor paralysis in convalescent patients with post-stroke hemiplegia

PubMed Central

Kawakami, Kenji; Miyasaka, Hiroyuki; Nonoyama, Sayaka; Hayashi, Kazuya; Tonogai, Yusuke; Tanino, Genichi; Wada, Yosuke; Narukawa, Akihisa; Okuyama, Yuko; Tomita, Yutaka; Sonoda, Shigeru

2015-01-01

[Purpose] The motor paralysis-improving effect on the hemiplegic lower limb was compared among mirror therapy, integrated volitional-control electrical stimulation, therapeutic electrical stimulation, repetitive facilitative exercises, and the standard training method in post-stroke hemiplegia patients. [Subjects and Methods] Eighty one stroke patients admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward were randomly allocated to the above 5 treatment groups. Each patient performed functional training of the paralytic lower limb for 20 minutes a day for 4 weeks, and changes in the lower limb function were investigated using the Stroke Impairment Assessment Set. [Results] The hip and knee joint functions did not significantly improve in the standard training control group, but significant improvements were observed after 4 weeks in the other intervention groups. Significant improvement was noted in the ankle joint function in all groups. [Conclusion] Although the results were influenced by spontaneous recovery and the standard training in the control group, the hip and knee joints were more markedly improved by the interventions in the other 4 groups of patients with moderate paralysis, compared to the control group. PMID:26504331

Integrated Treatment to Achieve Functional Recovery for First-Episode Psychosis

PubMed Central

Valencia, Marcelo; Juarez, Francisco; Ortega, Hector

2012-01-01

This study describes an integrated treatment approach that was implemented to enhance functional recovery in first-episode psychotic patients. Patients were randomized to two treatment conditions: either to an integrated treatment approach: pharmacotherapy, psychosocial treatment, and psychoeducation (experimental group: N = 39) or to medication alone (control group: N = 34). Patients were evaluated at baseline and after one year of treatment. Functional recovery was assessed according to symptomatic and functional remission. At the end of treatment, experimental patients showed a 94.9% of symptomatic remission compared to 58.8% of the control group. Functional remission was 56.4% for the experimental group and 3.6% for the control group, while 56.4% of the experimental group met both symptomatic and functional remission criteria and were considered recovered compared to 2.9% of the control group. PMID:22970366

Locus of control and decision to abort.

PubMed

Dixon, P N; Strano, D A; Willingham, W

1984-04-01

The relationship of locus of control to deciding on an abortion was investigated by administering Rotter's Locus of Control Scale to 118 women immediately prior to abortion and 2 weeks and 3 months following abortion. Subjects' scores were compared across the 3 time periods, and the abortion group's pretest scores were compared with those of a nonpregnant control, group. As hypothesized, the aborting group scored significantly more internal than the general population but no differences in locus of control were found across the 3 time period. The length of delay in deciding to abort an unwanted pregnancy following confirmation was also assessed. Women seeking 1st trimester abortions were divided into internal and external groups on the Rotter Scale and the lengths of delay were compared. The hypothesis that external scores would delay the decision longer than internal ones was confirmed. The results confirm characteristics of the locus of control construct and add information about personality characteristics of women undergoing abortion.

Intraperitoneal ketorolac for post-cholecystectomy pain: a double-blind randomized-controlled trial.

PubMed

Murdoch, John; Ramsey, Gillian; Day, Andrew G; McMullen, Michael; Orr, Elizabeth; Phelan, Rachel; Jalink, Diederick

2016-06-01

Ketorolac is a parenterally active nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with localized anti-inflammatory properties. We examine the postoperative analgesic efficacy of locally administered intraperitoneal (IP) ketorolac compared with intravenous (IV) ketorolac during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. With institutional ethics approval, 120 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to receive intraoperative 1) IP ketorolac 30 mg + intravenous saline (IP group), 2) intraperitoneal saline + IV ketorolac 30 mg (IV group), or 3) intraperitoneal saline + intravenous saline (Control group) under standardized anesthesia. The primary and secondary outcomes were postoperative fentanyl requirements in the postanesthesia care unit and the time to first analgesic request, respectively. Other outcomes examined included abdominal pain (at rest and with coughing), shoulder pain, nausea, vomiting, and any other postoperative complications. On average, patients receiving IP ketorolac required less (mean difference, 29 μg; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2 to 56; P = 0.04) fentanyl than patients in the Control group but a similar (mean difference, 16 μg; 95% CI, 12 to 43; P = 0.27) amount compared to patients in the IV group. There was an increase in the median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to first request in the IP group (43[30-52] min) compared with the Control group (35 [27-49]min; P = 0.04) but no difference between the IP group compared with the IV group (47 [40-75] min; P = 0.22). Shoulder pain and resting pain were reduced with IP and IV ketorolac compared with Control, but there was no difference between the IP and IV groups. No differences were observed in any other outcomes, side effects, or complications attributable to opioids or ketorolac at any time points. This study did not demonstrate any advantage for the off-label topical intraperitoneal administration of ketorolac in this surgical population. Intraperitoneal and IV ketorolac showed comparable analgesic efficacy following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Growth performance and histological intestinal alterations in piglets fed dietary raw and heated pigeon pea seed meal.

PubMed

Mekbungwan, A; Yamauchi, K

2004-04-01

Histological intestinal villus alterations were studied in piglets fed raw (PM) or heated (HPM) pigeon pea seed meal. The trypsin inhibition rate was 99.15% in PM and 54.31% HPM. The PM and HPM were added into the basal diet (crude protein; 176.3 g/kg, gross energy; 4.15 kcal/g, control) at 20% and 40% levels, respectively. The diets were formulated in order to adjust protein to 180 g/kg and gross energy to about 4.20 kcal/g. The feed intake was not different among groups. The daily body weight gain and feed efficiency tended to decrease with the increasing PM level, and they decreased significantly in the 40% PM group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). However, HPM groups showed a growth performance similar to the control. The villus height, cell area and cell mitosis tended to decrease with the increasing PM level, and they decreased significantly in the 40% PM group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In HPM group, these villus height, cell area and cell mitosis were significantly higher than those of the 40% PM group (P < 0.05), and did not show a significant difference compared with the control. Compared with the duodenal villus surface of the control group, the PM groups had a smooth surface due to flat cells and the HPM group showed a rough surface due to protuberated cells. The current histological alterations of intestinal villi demonstrate that the villi might be atrophied in the piglets fed raw PM due to anti-nutritional factors, resulting in the decreased growth performance, and that heating PM might abolish such a harmful effect of the anti-nutritional factors on the villus function, resulting in a similar growth performance to the control. Raw PM could be incorporated under a level of 40%, but heated PM increases the incorporation rate up to the 40% level.

Asthma disease management: regression to the mean or better?

PubMed

Tinkelman, David; Wilson, Steve

2004-12-01

To assess the effectiveness of disease management as an adjunct to treatment for chronic illnesses, such as asthma, and to evaluate whether the statistical phenomenon of regression to the mean is responsible for many of the benefits commonly attributed to disease management. This study evaluated an asthma disease management intervention in a Colorado population covered by Medicaid. The outcomes are presented with the intervention group serving as its own control (baseline and postintervention measurements) and are compared with a matched control group during the same periods. In the intervention group, 388 asthmatics entered and 258 completed the 6-month program; 446 subjects participated in the control group. Facilities charges were compared for both groups during the baseline and program periods. Both groups were well matched demographically and for costs at baseline. Using the intervention group as its own control revealed a 49.1% savings. The control group savings were 30.7%. Therefore, the net savings were 18.4% (P < .001) for the intervention group vs controls. Although the demonstrated savings were less using a control group to correct for regression to the mean, they were statistically significant and clinically relevant. When using a control group to control for the statistical effects of regression to the mean, a disease management intervention for asthma in a population covered by Medicaid is effective in reducing healthcare costs.

A Randomized Study of Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) with the aid of a patented suctioning sheath in the treatment of renal calculus complicated by pyonephrosis by one surgery.

PubMed

Huang, Jianrong; Song, Leming; Xie, Donghua; Li, Monong; Deng, Xiaolin; Hu, Min; Peng, Zuofeng; Liu, Tairong; Du, Chuance; Yao, Lei; Liu, Shengfeng; Guo, Shulin; Zhong, Jiuqing

2016-12-08

Calculus pyonephrosis is difficult to manage. The aim of this study is to explore the value of a patented suctioning sheath assisted minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) in the treatment of calculus pyonephrosis. One hundred and eighty two patients with calculus pyonephrosis were randomizely divided into observation group (n = 91) and control group (n = 91). The control group was treated with MPCNL traditionally using peel-away sheath while the observation group was treated with MPCNL using the patented suctioning sheath. All the patients in the observation group underwent one stage surgical treatment, 14 patients in the control group underwent first-stage surgery with the rest of the group underwent one stage surgery. The complication rate was 12.1% in the observation group, significantly lower than the rate in the control group which was 51.6%; One surgery stone clearance in the observation group was 96.7% while it was 73.6% in the control group; operative time in the observation group was (54.5 ± 14.5) min, compared to (70.2 ± 11.7) min in the control group; the bleeding amount in the observation group was (126.4 ± 47.2) ml, compared to (321.6 ± 82.5) ml in the control group; the hospitalization duration for the observation group was (6.4 ± 2.3) days, compared to (10.6 ± 3.7) days in the control group. Comparison of the above indicators, the observation group was better than the control group with significant difference (p < 0.001 each). Minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy with the aid of the patented suctioning sheath in the treatment of calculus pyonephrosis in one surgery is economic, practical, and warrants clinical promotion. This study was registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on May 18, 2016 (retrospective registration) with a trial registration number of ChiCTR-IOR-16008490 .

A novel system for automated propofol sedation: hybrid sedation system (HSS).

PubMed

Zaouter, Cedrick; Taddei, Riccardo; Wehbe, Mohamad; Arbeid, Erik; Cyr, Shantale; Giunta, Francesco; Hemmerling, Thomas M

2017-04-01

Closed-loop systems for propofol have been demonstrated to be safe and reliable for general anesthesia. However, no study has been conducted using a closed-loop system specifically designed for sedation in patients under spinal anesthesia. We developed an automatic anesthesia sedation system that allows for closed-loop delivery of propofol for sedation integrating a decision support system, called the hybrid sedation system (HSS). The objective of this study is to compare this system with standard practice. One hundred fifty patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups: HSS-Group (N = 75), in which propofol was administered using a closed-loop system; Control Group (N = 75), in which propofol was delivered manually. The clinical performance of the propofol sedation control is defined as efficacy to maintain bispectral index (BIS) near 65. The clinical control was called 'Excellent', 'Good', 'Poor' and 'Inadequate' with BIS values within 10 %, from 11 to 20 %, 21 to 30 %, or greater than 30 % of the BIS target of 65, respectively. The controller performance was evaluated using Varvel's parameters. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation, groups were compared using t test or Chi square test, P < 0.05. Clinical performance of sedation showed 'Excellent' control in the HSS-group for a significantly longer period of time (49 vs. 26 % in the control group, P < 0.0001). 'Poor' and 'Inadequate' sedation was significantly shorter in the HSS Group compared to the Control Group (11 and 10 % vs. 20 and 18 %, respectively, P < 0.0001). The novel, closed-loop system for propofol sedation showed better maintenance of the target BIS value compared to manual administration.

MTHFR GENE C677T POLYMORPHISM AND LEVELS OF DNA METHYLTRASFERASES IN SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM.

PubMed

Kvaratskhelia, T; Kvaratskhelia, E; Kankava, K; Abzianidze, E

2017-04-01

The aim of our study was to investigate the link between MTHFR gene C677T polymorphism and DNMTs levels in patients with Subclinical Hypothyroidism (SCH). In this study 19 adult patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and 19 healthy controls (mean age 31±5.5 and 33±5.1 years respectively) were recruited. All patients were diagnosed based on serum levels of TSH, FT4, anti-TG and anti-TPO antibodies. Written informed consents were obtained from all study subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted using Quick-DNA Universal Kit (Zymo Research, USA). The MTHFR C677T polymorphism was genotyped by PCR-RFLP method. Levels of DNMT1 and 3a were measured in nuclear extracts of PBMC using DNMTs assay kits (Abcam). Our data indicates that the frequency of genotypes and alleles were different among the patient and the control group. There is a significant increase in CC genotype distribution in the control group when compared to the SCH patient group, while the CT as well as TT genotype distribution were not increased significantly in SCH group versus control group. However the C allele is significantly prevalent in the control group compared to the SCH group, while T allele is prevalent in patients compared to the control group with a statically significant difference. In addition, individuals with TT and CT genotypes and hypothyroidism showed elevated amount of DNMT3a in nuclear extracts of PBMC compared with controls, while no significant difference in DNMT1 levels was observed. This study indicates the MTHFR C677T variant may contribute in alteration of epigenetic regulation such as DNA methylation mediated by DNA methyltransferases in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and also, carriers of the T allele might have an increasing risk of developing SCH.

Efficacy and Safety of Cilostazol Therapy in Ischemic Stroke: A Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Tan, Liang; Margaret, Barnhart; Zhang, John H; Hu, Rong; Yin, Yi; Cao, Liu; Feng, Hua; Zhang, Yanqi

2015-05-01

Antiplatelet therapy is recommended for patients who have experienced ischemic stroke. We performed a meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of cilostazol with other antiplatelet therapies in patients with ischemic stroke. PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials published in English from May 1999 to May 2013. Clinical outcomes were compared by pooled and meta-regression analyses. Nine studies involving 6328 patients satisfied our inclusion criteria. Stroke recurrence (including hemorrhagic and ischemic) with cilostazol use was 5.3% (157) versus 8.3% (248) in control group (risk ratio .63 [.52-.76], 95% confidence interval [CI]). Poststroke intracranial hemorrhage was .5% (16) with cilostazol versus 1.6% (46) in control group (risk ratio .36 [.21-.63], 95% CI). Poststroke extracranial bleeding complications occurred in 2.4% (66) of the patients taking cilostazol versus 3.9% (108) in control group (risk ratio .62 [.46-.83], 95% CI). No significant difference in cerebrovascular events (nonfatal stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, and transient ischemic attack) was found between the cilostazol group (8.2%, 246) versus control group (12.0%, 360; risk ratio .71 [.50-1.01], 95% CI). In addition, the cilostazol therapy brought about a nonsignificant reduction of cardiac adverse events (heart failure, myocardial infarction, and angina pectoris) comparing with control groups, with 3.8% (99) of the cilostazol group versus 4.7% (123) of control group (risk ratio, .81 [.62-1.04], 95% CI). Cilostazol, alone or in combination with aspirin, significantly reduces stroke recurrence, poststroke intracranial hemorrhage, and extracranial bleeding in patients with a prior ischemic stroke as compared with other antiplatelet therapies. Copyright © 2015 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of bovine somatotropin (bST) administration on reproduction, progesterone concentration during lactation and LH secretion during estrus, in dairy ewes.

PubMed

Brozos, C N; Saratsis, P; Boscos, C; Kyriakis, S C; Alexopoulos, C

1999-08-16

Twenty-two polytocous lactating Chios ewes were used to test the effects of bovine somatotropin (bST) on reproduction, progesterone concentration and LH secretion during estrus. Half of the ewes were injected every second week with 160 mg bST in a prolonged release vehicle, from the fifth day post partum until the end of lactation, while the remaining ones were used as controls. All animals were fed the same amount of ration. Supplementation with bST resulted in an increase of milk production (P<0.05) and an insignificant trend for delayed resumption of normal estrous cycles. Although there were no differences between groups, there was also a tendency for the bST group to display lower progesterone concentrations during the first three fortnights after the onset of normal estrous cycles and higher ones during the last three fortnights of the experiment, compared with the control group. Duration of the first normal luteal phase after delivery of the bST group was found to be shorter compared with the control group (P<0.05). After estrous synchronization the bST group showed a shorter estrus compared with the control group (P<0.05). Average and baseline LH concentrations during synchronized estrous in the bST group was lower (P<0.001) compared with the control group. Additionally, the conception rate did not differ between the two groups. This study supports the concept that the beneficial effects of bST treatment on milk production outweigh the potential deleterious effects on reproduction.

Metabolomics study on model rats of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treated with Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi.

PubMed

Li, Jiansheng; Yang, Liping; Li, Ya; Tian, Yange; Li, Suyun; Jiang, Suli; Wang, Ying; Li, Xinmin

2015-02-01

The therapeutic effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been know for numerous years; however, the mechanism of action of the beneficial effects of TCM remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of COPD through metabolomic analysis as well as explore the targets and intervention mechanisms of TCM therapy using the common TCM granules Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi. COPD rat models were established using smoke inhalations and recurrent bacterial infections. Rats were then divided into three groups as follows: A1, control healthy rats; B1, COPD model; and D1, Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi‑treated COPD rats. Following administration of the medicine, the metabolomic profile of the lung tissue of rats in each group was assessed using high‑performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole‑time‑of‑flight mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated that there was a significanlty different spectrum of metabolites in the lung tissue of the model group compared to that of the control group as well as the Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi‑treated COPD group; in addition, following treatment with Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi, the metabolites of COPD rats were comparable with those of the control. Notable changes were observed in 31 metabolites between the Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi‑treated group and the model group; however, there were 13 comparable metabolites between the Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi and control groups as well as the model and control groups. Eleven metabolites showed a negative fold change in the Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi‑treated groups compared to concentrations in the model group; however, minimal changes were observed in phenylpyruvic acid and α‑D‑fucose expression. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi granules had beneficial effects on measured outcomes in a rat model of stable COPD, indicated by a significantly different spectrum of metabolites. This therefore indicated that the metabolites which had significantly altered expression in the model group compared with that of the control and Bu‑Fei Jian‑Pi‑treated groups may be potential biomarkers of COPD.

Efficacy of a Home-Based Exercise Program After Thyroidectomy for Thyroid Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Kim, Kyunghee; Gu, Mee Ock; Jung, Jung Hwa; Hahm, Jong Ryeal; Kim, Soo Kyoung; Kim, Jin Hyun; Woo, Seung Hoon

2018-02-01

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of a home-based exercise program on fatigue, anxiety, quality of life (QoL), and immune function of thyroid cancer patients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy. This quasi-experimental study with a non-equivalent control group included 43 outpatients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy (22 in the experimental group and 21 in the control group). After education about the home-based exercise program, subjects in the experimental group underwent 12 weeks of aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercise. A comparative analysis was conducted between the two groups. Patients in the experimental group were significantly less fatigued or anxious (p < 0.01). They reported significantly improved QoL (p < 0.05) compared to those in the control group. Natural killer cell activity was significantly higher in the exercise group compared to that in the control group (p < 0.05). A home-based exercise program is effective in reducing fatigue and anxiety, improving QoL, and increasing immune function in patients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy. Therefore, such a home-based exercise program can be used as an intervention for patients who are taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy.

Collagen degradation products and proinflammatory cytokines in systemic and localized scleroderma.

PubMed

Becvár, R; Hulejová, H; Braun, M; Stork, J

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the degradation of collagen type I and proinflammatory cytokines in systemic and localized scleroderma compared with psoriasis and healthy controls. Total 99 individuals were examined - 24 with SSc, 22 with LSc, 39 patients with PsV and 14 healthy controls. U-PD and U-DPD were measured using a sensitive isocratic HPLC method. Serum levels of IL-6 and soluble IL-2R were assayed using commercial ELISA kits. In the SSc group U-PD and U-DPD levels (nmol/mmol creatinine) were increased compared with controls (P = 0.001) and with PsV (P = 0.006). IL-6 levels were increased compared with controls (P = 0.004) and with PsV (P = 0.002). IL-2R concentrations were insignificantly increased in comparison with controls and were lower than in PsV, but the difference was not significant. In the LSc group excretion of U-PD and U-DPD did not differ from controls, but was insignificantly decreased compared with PsV. IL-6 levels were increased compared with controls (P = 0.001) and also with PsV (P = 0.03). IL-2R concentrations were significantly increased in comparison with controls only (P = 0.03). In patients with SSc our data have shown the most intensive collagen degradation and simultaneously an active inflammation, as documented by IL-6, which reflects the pathological processes in the skin and visceral organs compared with PsV patients and healthy individuals. In the LSc group collagen degradation was similar to that in control groups, but a certain inflammatory activity was observed.

Use of Vein Conduit and Isolated Nerve Graft in Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Comparative Study

PubMed Central

Ahmad, Imran; Akhtar, Md. Sohaib

2014-01-01

Aims and Objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of vein conduit in nerve repair compared with isolated nerve graft. Materials and Methods. This retrospective study was conducted at author's centre and included a total of 40 patients. All the patients had nerve defect of more than 3 cm and underwent nerve repair using nerve graft from sural nerve. In 20 cases, vein conduit (study group) was used whereas no conduit was used in other 20 cases. Patients were followed up for 2 years at the intervals of 3 months. Results. Patients had varying degree of recovery. Sensations reached to all the digits at 1 year in study groups compared to 18 months in control group. At the end of second year, 84% patients of the study group achieved 2-point discrimination of <10 mm compared to 60% only in control group. In terms of motor recovery, 82% patients achieved satisfactory hand function in study group compared to 56% in control group (P < .05). Conclusions. It was concluded that the use of vein conduit in peripheral nerve repair is more effective method than isolated nerve graft providing good sensory and motor recovery. PMID:25405029

Effects of pitamin on growth performance, carcass characteristics and cecal microflora of broiler chicken.

PubMed

Park, Byung-Sung

2011-09-01

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of dietary pitamin as an antibiotic replacement in broiler chicken. The treated groups were as follows: 1) the control, 2) the antibiotics (8 mg of avilamycin kg(-1) of diet) and 3) the pitamin (70 mg of pitamin kg(-1) of diet) groups. Body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency were significantly higher in the pitamin group than in the antibiotics and control groups (p<0.05). Carcass weight, dressing percentage, and the weight of breast and thigh muscle recorded significantly higher levels in the pitamin group as compared to the other groups (p<0.05). The addition of pitamin to the diets for broilers reduced abdominal fat by 23.35% and stimulated the growth of the thymus, the spleen, and the bursa of Fabricius. TAG levels of the pitamin group declined by 12.03 and 10.45% as compared to the control and antibiotics groups, and their TC levels were reduced by 15.17 and 14.39%, and LDL. C levels were reduced by 10.56 and 11.24%, respectively. Serum IgG was increased significantly by 137.43 and 36.80% in the pitamin group as compared to the control and antibiotics groups, respectively (p<0.05). The numbers of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus on the cecum digesta were significantly higher in the pitamin group than in the antibiotics and control groups and the numbers of Escherichia coli and Salmonella tended to be reduced (p<0.05). In conclusion, when Korean red pine bark extract, pitamin, was added to the broiler diets at a concentration of 70 mg of pitamin kg(-1) of diet, it resulted in better growth performance as compared to the antibiotics by improving immunity and the cecal beneficial microfloral population.

Liver resections in over-75-year-old patients: surgical hazard or current practice?

PubMed

Aldrighetti, Luca; Arru, Marcella; Catena, Marco; Finazzi, Renato; Ferla, Gianfranco

2006-03-01

To assess the safety of hepatic resections in the very old patient by comparing the outcome in patients younger and older than 75 years. Thirty-two resections in 31 patients > or =75 years (Over-75 Group) were compared with 164 resections in 162 patients <75 years (Control Group). Indications for resection, concomitant diseases, previous abdominal surgery, type of resection, associated surgical procedures, use/length of portal clamping, intra-operative blood losses and transfusions, and length of operation were preliminarily compared. The outcome was evaluated in terms of post-operative mortality, morbidity, transfusions, and postoperative hospitalization. Mean age was 76.0 +/- 2.3 years (range 75-83) in the Over-75 Group and 58.4 +/- 10.7 years (range 23-74) in the Control Group. The over-75 group included more hepatomas (43.8% vs. 26.8%, P = 0.09), chronic liver disease (31.3% vs. 28.7%, P = 0.03) and concomitant diseases (62.5% vs. 32.9%, P = 0.002). The two groups were comparable (P = n.s.) when evaluated for all other variables. The 30-day mortality rate was 3.6% in the Control Group and none in the Over-75 Group. Postoperative surgical complications occurred in 37 patients (22.6%) in the Control Group and 1 patient (3.1%) in the Over-75 Group, with statistically significant differences (P = 0.01), and incidence of medical complications was 13.4% in the Control Group and 3.1% in the Over-75 Group. Median postoperative hospitalization and transfusions were not statistically different. Hepatic resections in over-75-year-old patients are not a surgical hazard and may be carried out relatively safely as long as an accurate selection of the patient is performed.

Impact on learning of an e-learning module on leukaemia: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Morgulis, Yuri; Kumar, Rakesh K; Lindeman, Robert; Velan, Gary M

2012-05-28

e-learning resources may be beneficial for complex or conceptually difficult topics. Leukaemia is one such topic, yet there are no reports on the efficacy of e-learning for leukaemia. This study compared the learning impact on senior medical students of a purpose-built e-learning module on leukaemia, compared with existing online resources. A randomised controlled trial was performed utilising volunteer senior medical students. Participants were randomly allocated to Study and Control groups. Following a pre-test on leukaemia administered to both groups, the Study group was provided with access to the new e-learning module, while the Control group was directed to existing online resources. A post-test and an evaluation questionnaire were administered to both groups at the end of the trial period. Study and Control groups were equivalent in gender distribution, mean academic ability, pre-test performance and time studying leukaemia during the trial. The Study group performed significantly better than the Control group in the post-test, in which the group to which the students had been allocated was the only significant predictor of performance. The Study group's evaluation of the module was overwhelmingly positive. A targeted e-learning module on leukaemia had a significant effect on learning in this cohort, compared with existing online resources. We believe that the interactivity, dialogic feedback and integration with the curriculum offered by the e-learning module contributed to its impact. This has implications for e-learning design in medicine and other disciplines.

Autologous whole blood versus corticosteroid local injection in treatment of plantar fasciitis: A randomized, controlled multicenter clinical trial.

PubMed

Karimzadeh, Afshin; Raeissadat, Seyed Ahmad; Erfani Fam, Saleh; Sedighipour, Leyla; Babaei-Ghazani, Arash

2017-03-01

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Local injection modalities are among treatment options in patients with resistant pain. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of local autologous whole blood compared with corticosteroid local injection in treatment of plantar fasciitis. In this randomized controlled multicenter study, 36 patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were recruited. Patients were allocated randomly into three treatment groups: local autologous blood, local corticosteroid injection, and control groups receiving no injection. Patients were assessed with visual analog scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and plantar fasciitis pain/disability scale (PFPS) before treatment, as well as 4 and 12 weeks post therapy. Variables of pain and function improved significantly in both corticosteroid and autologous blood groups compared to control group. At 4 weeks following treatment, patients in corticosteroid group had significantly lower levels of pain than patients in autologous blood and control groups (higher PPT level, lower PFPS, and VAS). After 12 weeks of treatment, both corticosteroid and autologous blood groups had lower average levels of pain than control group. The corticosteroid group showed an early sharp and then more gradual improvement in pain scores, but autologous blood group had a steady gradual drop in pain. Autologous whole blood and corticosteroid local injection can both be considered as effective methods in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis. These treatments decrease pain and significantly improve function compared to no treatment.

Effects of topical oxygen therapy on ischemic wound healing.

PubMed

Rao, Congqiang; Xiao, Liling; Liu, Hongwei; Li, Shenghong; Lu, Jinqiang; Li, Jiangxuan; Gu, Shixing

2016-01-01

[Purpose] This study evaluated the effects of topical oxygen therapy on the hind limb wounds of rats under ischemic conditions. [Subjects and Methods] Twelve injured rats were treated with topical oxygen on skin wounds located on the hind limb and compared with twelve injured control rats. Indexes including gross morphology of the wound, wound healing time, wound healing rate, and histological and immunohistochemical staining of sections of wound tissue were examined at different time points after intervention. [Results] The wound healing time was shorter in the topical oxygen therapy group than the control group. The wound healing rate and granulation tissue formation in the topical oxygen therapy group showed significant improvement on days 3, 7, and 14. Through van Gieson staining, the accumulation of collagen fiber in the topical oxygen therapy group was found to have improved when compared with the control group on day 7. Through semiquantitative immunohistochemical staining, many more new vessels were found in the topical oxygen therapy group compared with the model control group on day 7. [Conclusion] The results of the experiment showed that topical oxygen therapy improved ischemic wound healing.

Laser acupuncture reduces pain in pediatric kidney biopsies: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Oates, Aris; Benedict, Kelly A; Sun, Karen; Brakeman, Paul R; Lim, Jessica; Kim, Cynthia

2017-01-01

Evaluate laser acupuncture (LA) as an adjuvant therapy in pain management during percutaneous kidney biopsy procedure in children and adolescents. This prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial enrolled patients aged 7 to 26 years admitted to a children's hospital for percutaneous kidney biopsy. Patients received LA to treatment points (acupuncture group) or sham points (control group) before the procedure. The laser delivered a dose of 42 J/cm over 10 acupoints. Patients and parents rated the pain during and after the biopsy, and change in pain scores were calculated for each patient. Anxiety, vital signs, sedation medication, and patient's biopsy experience were secondary outcomes. Sixty-nine treatments (33 in the acupuncture group and 36 in the control group) were eligible for analysis. Patients in the acupuncture group reported a significantly improved change in the pain score after the biopsy compared with the controls (0.8 vs -0.5, P = 0.044). Patients in the acupuncture group had a statistically significant decrease in procedure vital signs including heart rate (-1.8 vs 5.6, P = 0.043) and respiratory rate (-2.4 vs 0.4, P = 0.045) when compared with controls. Parents also perceived a correspondingly greater improvement in their child's pain for those in the acupuncture group compared with the controls (2.3 vs 0.3, P = 0.04). Adjunctive LA significantly improved pain after pediatric percutaneous kidney biopsies.

Correlation of Salivary pH, Incidence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Status in Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Cross-sectional Study.

PubMed

Seethalakshmi, C; Reddy, R C Jagat; Asifa, Nisha; Prabhu, S

2016-03-01

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease affecting many parts of the body. A number of oral diseases have been associated with diabetes mellitus with an increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the salivary pH and incidence of dental caries and periodontal status in diabetes mellitus compared to that of the normal subjects. The study population consisted of 40 patients divided into 2 groups with group I comprising of 20 known diabetes mellitus patients and group II comprising of 20 non diabetic subjects as control group. The pH of the saliva was determined using a digital pH meter. Dental caries and periodontal status were assessed by DMFT and PDI indices respectively. There was a decrease in the mean salivary pH of 6.51 in the study group, compared to the normal mean salivary pH of 7.88 in the control group. The mean DMFT index was higher in the study group (8.10) when compared to that of control group (1.15). The mean PDI score was also higher in the study group (4.0) as compared to that of the control group (0.45). The results of the present study concluded that there was a significant relationship between the diabetes mellitus and increased incidence of dental caries and periodontitis and there was also a significant reduction in the salivary pH in diabetes mellitus patients, compared to that of non diabetic subjects.

Correlation of Salivary pH, Incidence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Status in Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

PubMed Central

Reddy, R.C. Jagat; Asifa, Nisha; Prabhu, S.

2016-01-01

Introduction Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease affecting many parts of the body. A number of oral diseases have been associated with diabetes mellitus with an increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease. Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the salivary pH and incidence of dental caries and periodontal status in diabetes mellitus compared to that of the normal subjects. Materials and Methods The study population consisted of 40 patients divided into 2 groups with group I comprising of 20 known diabetes mellitus patients and group II comprising of 20 non diabetic subjects as control group. The pH of the saliva was determined using a digital pH meter. Dental caries and periodontal status were assessed by DMFT and PDI indices respectively. Results There was a decrease in the mean salivary pH of 6.51 in the study group, compared to the normal mean salivary pH of 7.88 in the control group. The mean DMFT index was higher in the study group (8.10) when compared to that of control group (1.15). The mean PDI score was also higher in the study group (4.0) as compared to that of the control group (0.45). Conclusion The results of the present study concluded that there was a significant relationship between the diabetes mellitus and increased incidence of dental caries and periodontitis and there was also a significant reduction in the salivary pH in diabetes mellitus patients, compared to that of non diabetic subjects. PMID:27134992

Surgical Membranes as Directional Delivery Devices to Generate Tissue: Testing in an Ovine Critical Sized Defect Model

PubMed Central

Knothe Tate, Melissa L.; Chang, Hana; Moore, Shannon R.; Knothe, Ulf R.

2011-01-01

Purpose Pluripotent cells residing in the periosteum, a bi-layered membrane enveloping all bones, exhibit a remarkable regenerative capacity to fill in critical sized defects of the ovine femur within two weeks of treatment. Harnessing the regenerative power of the periosteum appears to be limited only by the amount of healthy periosteum available. Here we use a substitute periosteum, a delivery device cum implant, to test the hypothesis that directional delivery of endogenous periosteal factors enhances bone defect healing. Methods Newly adapted surgical protocols were used to create critical sized, middiaphyseal femur defects in four groups of five skeletally mature Swiss alpine sheep. Each group was treated using a periosteum substitute for the controlled addition of periosteal factors including the presence of collagen in the periosteum (Group 1), periosteum derived cells (Group 2), and autogenic periosteal strips (Group 3). Control group animals were treated with an isotropic elastomer membrane alone. We hypothesized that periosteal substitute membranes incorporating the most periosteal factors would show superior defect infilling compared to substitute membranes integrating fewer factors (i.e. Group 3>Group 2>Group 1>Control). Results Based on micro-computed tomography data, bone defects enveloped by substitute periosteum enabling directional delivery of periosteal factors exhibit superior bony bridging compared to those sheathed with isotropic membrane controls (Group 3>Group 2>Group 1, Control). Quantitative histological analysis shows significantly increased de novo tissue generation with delivery of periosteal factors, compared to the substitute periosteum containing a collagen membrane alone (Group 1) as well as compared to the isotropic control membrane. Greatest tissue generation and maximal defect bridging was observed when autologous periosteal transplant strips were included in the periosteum substitute. Conclusion Periosteum-derived cells as well as other factors intrinsic to periosteum play a key role for infilling of critical sized defects. PMID:22174873

PixEye Virtual Reality Training has the Potential of Enhancing Proficiency of Laser Trabeculoplasty Performed by Medical Students: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Alwadani, Fahad; Morsi, Mohammed Saad

2012-01-01

To compare the surgical proficiency of medical students who underwent traditional training or virtual reality training for argon laser trabeculoplasty with the PixEye simulator. The cohort comprised of 47 fifth year male medical students from the College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia. The cohort was divided into two groups: students (n = 24), who received virtual reality training (VR Group) and students (n = 23), who underwent traditional training (Control Group). After training, the students performed the trabeculoplasty procedure. All trainings were included concurrent power point presentations describing the details of the procedure. Evaluation of surgical performance was based on the following variables: missing the exact location with the laser, overtreatment, undertreatment and inadvertent laser shots to iris and cornea. The target was missed by 8% of the VR Group compared to 55% in the Control Group. Overtreatment and undertreatment was observed in 7% of the VR Group compared to 46% of the Control Group. Inadvertent laser application to the cornea or iris was performed by 4.5% of the VR Group compared to 34% of the Control Group. Virtual reality training on PixEye simulator may enhance the proficiency of medical students and limit possible surgical errors during laser trabeculoplasty. The authors have no financial interest in the material mentioned in this study.

Self-Administered Vidoetape Therapy for Families With Conduct-Problem Children: Comparison With Two Cost-Effective Treatments and a Control Group.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webster-Stratton, Carolyn; And Others

1988-01-01

Assigned parents of 114 conduct-problem young children to either individually administered videotape modeling treatment, group discussion videotape modeling treatment, group discussion treatment, or waiting-list control. Compared with controls, all three treatment groups of mothers reported significantly fewer child behavior problems, more…

A comparison between DACC with chlorhexidine acetate-soaked paraffin gauze and foam dressing for skin graft donor sites.

PubMed

Lee, Jun Won; Park, Seong Hoon; Suh, In Suck; Jeong, Hii Sun

2018-01-02

Retrograde infections often occur with excessive or incomplete drainage of exudate, or as a result of adherence of dressings to wounds. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC) irreversibly binds to bacterial surfaces and physically removes bacteria when dressings are changed. Chlorhexidine acetate-soaked paraffin gauze provides a moist wound-healing environment. We hypothesise that when DACC is combined with chlorhexidine acetate-soaked paraffin gauze, wound healing times decrease. From January 2013 to June 2015, medical records were retrospectively evaluated in 60 patients who underwent split-thickness skin grafts (STSG). Patients were divided into two groups: a 'thick skin group' and a 'thin skin group'. These two groups were further subdivided into a control group, where conventional foam dressings were applied to wounds, and an experimental group, where chlorhexidine acetate-soaked paraffin gauze with DACC was applied (DACC group). We compared the wound healing time between these subgroups. Differences in infected wound healing times were also compared. The Mann-Whitney test was applied to compare wound healing times between groups. Epithelialisation duration was significantly shorter in the DACC group. The control group had longer wound healing times, regardless of wound size. In the thick skin group, the median healing duration was 12 days in the control subgroup, compared with 9.5 days in the DACC subgroup (p=0.049). In the thin skin subgroup, the median healing duration in the control group was 18 days, compared with 10 days in the DACC subgroup (p=0.013). Application of DACC and chlorhexidine acetate-soaked paraffin gauze to skin graft donor sites can shorten healing times and is effective in treating infected wounds.

Prevention of retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome: the Cambridge prophylactic cryotherapy protocol.

PubMed

Fincham, Gregory S; Pasea, Laura; Carroll, Christopher; McNinch, Annie M; Poulson, Arabella V; Richards, Allan J; Scott, John D; Snead, Martin P

2014-08-01

The Stickler syndromes are the most common causes of inherited and childhood retinal detachment; however, no consensus exists regarding the effectiveness of prophylactic intervention. We evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of the Cambridge prophylactic cryotherapy protocol, a standardized retinal prophylactic treatment developed to prevent retinal detachment arising from giant retinal tears in type 1 Stickler syndrome. Retrospective comparative case series. Four hundred eighty seven patients with type 1 Stickler syndrome. Time to retinal detachment was compared between patients who received bilateral prophylaxis and untreated controls, with and without individual patient matching. Patients receiving unilateral prophylaxis (after fellow eye retinal detachment) were similarly compared with an appropriate control subgroup. Individual patient matching ensured equal age and follow-up between groups and that an appropriate control (who had not suffered a retinal detachment before the age at which their individually matched treatment patient underwent prophylactic treatment) was selected. Matching was blinded to outcome events. Individual patient matching protocols purposely weighted bias against the effectiveness of treatment. All treatment side effects are reported. Time to retinal detachment and side effects occurring after prophylactic treatment. The bilateral control group (n = 194) had a 7.4-fold increased risk of retinal detachment compared to the bilateral prophylaxis group (n = 229) (hazard ratio [HR], 7.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.53-12.08; P<0.001); the matched bilateral control group (n = 165) had a 5.0-fold increased risk compared to the matched bilateral prophylaxis group (n = 165) (HR, 4.97; 95% CI, 2.82-8.78; P<0.001). The unilateral control group (n = 104) had a 10.3-fold increased risk of retinal detachment compared to the unilateral prophylaxis group (n = 64) (HR, 10.29; 95% CI, 4.96-21.36; P<0.001); the matched unilateral control group (n = 39) had a 8.4-fold increased risk compared to the matched unilateral prophylaxis group (n = 39) (HR, 8.36; 95% CI, 3.24-21.57; P<0.001). No significant long-term side effects occurred. In the largest global cohort of type 1 Stickler syndrome patients published, all analyses indicate that the Cambridge prophylactic cryotherapy protocol is safe and markedly reduces the risk of retinal detachment. Copyright © 2014 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Development and evaluation of individualized fluid therapy in the elderly patients with coronary heart disease undergoing gastrointestinal surgery: a randomized, controlled trial].

PubMed

Zheng, Hong; Guo, Hai; Ye, Jian-rong; Chen, Lin

2012-06-01

To develop and evaluate an individualized fluid therapy in the elderly patients with coronary heart disease undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. In this prospective study, 60 coronary heart disease patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery were included in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from March 2009 to March 2012. Patients were randomized into the intervention group and the control group with 30 patients in each group. Individualized fluid therapy was used during surgery and postoperative period in the ICU, which was determined based on target controlled fluid therapy according to cardiac index, stroke volume, and stroke volume variation. Traditional fluid therapy was used in the control group in the intraoperative and postoperative period. The two groups were compared in terms of postoperative hemodynamic parameters, total fluid volume, incidence of adverse cardiac events, and recovery of bowel function. Compared with the control group, mean arterial pressure was significantly increased at the commencement of the surgery. The cardiac index was significantly elevated during surgery and at the end of the surgery. Stroke volume was significantly increased after induction of anesthesia, during the surgery, and at the early stay of ICU period(all P<0.05). Serum lactic acid in the intervention group was significantly lower at the end of surgery and during ICU stay than that in the control group (all P<0.05). During surgery and 24-hour stay in ICU, the total fluid volume, crystal usage, and urine were significantly less, while colloidal fluid use was significantly more in the intervention group as compared to the control group(all P<0.05). The perioperative adverse cardiac event rate was 36.7%(11/30) in the intervention group, lower than 56.7%(17/30) in the control group, but the difference was no statistically significance(P>0.05). In the intervention group, defecation time, time to first flatus, resumption of liquid intake, length of ICU stay and hospital stay were significantly less compared with the control group(P<0.05). In the elderly patients with coronary arterial disease undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, individualized fluid therapy can effectively decrease adverse cardiac events, improve postoperative gastrointestinal function, and reduce length of hospital stay.

Comparison of the effectiveness of 0.5% tea, 2% neem and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwashes on oral health: a randomized control trial.

PubMed

Balappanavar, Aswini Y; Sardana, Varun; Singh, Malkeet

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of 0.5% tea, 2% neem, and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwashes on oral health. A randomized blinded controlled trial with 30 healthy human volunteers of age group 18-25 years was carried out. The subjects were randomly assigned to 3 groups i.e., group A - 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate (bench mark control), Group B - 2% neem, and group C - 0.5% tea of 10 subjects per group. Plaque accumulation and gingival condition were recorded using plaque index and gingival index. Oral hygiene was assessed by simplified oral hygiene index (OHIS). Salivary pH was assessed by indikrom pH strips. Plaque, gingival, and simplified OHI scores as well as salivary pH were recorded at baseline, immediately after 1 st rinse, after 1 week, 2 nd week, and 3 rd week. The 3 rd week was skipped for group A. Mean plaque and gingival scores were reduced over the 3 week trial period for experimental and control groups. Anti-plaque effectiveness was observed in all groups and the highest being in group C (P < 0.05). Neem and tea showed comparative effectiveness on gingiva better than chlorhexidine (P < 0.05). The salivary pH rise was sustained and significant in Group B and C compared to Group A. Oral hygiene improvement was better appreciated in Group B and Group C. The effectiveness of 0.5% tea was more compared to 2% neem and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth rinse.

Control Group Paradigms in Studies Investigating Acute Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Performance-An Experiment on Expectation-Driven Placebo Effects.

PubMed

Oberste, Max; Hartig, Philipp; Bloch, Wilhelm; Elsner, Benjamin; Predel, Hans-Georg; Ernst, Bernhard; Zimmer, Philipp

2017-01-01

Introduction: Many studies report improvements in cognitive performance following acute endurance exercise compared to control group treatment. These cognitive benefits are interpreted as a result of a physiological response to exercise. However, it was also hypothesized that expectation-driven placebo effects account for these positive effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between expectations for cognitive benefits toward acute endurance exercise and multiple control group treatments. Methods: Healthy individuals ( N = 247, 24.26 ± 3.88 years) were randomized to eight different groups watching videos of a moderate, a vigorous exercise treatment or one control group treatment (waiting, reading, video-watching, stretching, myofascial release workout, and very light exercise). Then, they were introduced to three commonly used cognitive test procedures in acute exercise-cognition research (Stroop-test, Trail-Making-test, Free-recall-task). Participants rated the effect they would expect on their performance in those tasks, if they had received the treatment shortly before the task, on an 11-point Likert scale. Results: No significantly different expectations for cognitive benefits toward acute moderate exercise and control group treatments could be revealed. Participants expected significantly worse performance following vigorous exercise compared to following waiting and stretching for all cognitive tests. Significantly worse performance after vigorous exercise compared to after very light exercise was expected for Stroop and Free-recall. For Free-recall, participants expected worse performance after vigorous exercise compared to myofascial release training as well. Conclusion: Our results indicate that expectation-driven placebo effects are unlikely to cause the reported greater cognitive improvements following acute moderate and vigorous endurance exercise compared to following common control group treatments.

Control Group Paradigms in Studies Investigating Acute Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Performance–An Experiment on Expectation-Driven Placebo Effects

PubMed Central

Oberste, Max; Hartig, Philipp; Bloch, Wilhelm; Elsner, Benjamin; Predel, Hans-Georg; Ernst, Bernhard; Zimmer, Philipp

2017-01-01

Introduction: Many studies report improvements in cognitive performance following acute endurance exercise compared to control group treatment. These cognitive benefits are interpreted as a result of a physiological response to exercise. However, it was also hypothesized that expectation-driven placebo effects account for these positive effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between expectations for cognitive benefits toward acute endurance exercise and multiple control group treatments. Methods: Healthy individuals (N = 247, 24.26 ± 3.88 years) were randomized to eight different groups watching videos of a moderate, a vigorous exercise treatment or one control group treatment (waiting, reading, video-watching, stretching, myofascial release workout, and very light exercise). Then, they were introduced to three commonly used cognitive test procedures in acute exercise-cognition research (Stroop-test, Trail-Making-test, Free-recall-task). Participants rated the effect they would expect on their performance in those tasks, if they had received the treatment shortly before the task, on an 11-point Likert scale. Results: No significantly different expectations for cognitive benefits toward acute moderate exercise and control group treatments could be revealed. Participants expected significantly worse performance following vigorous exercise compared to following waiting and stretching for all cognitive tests. Significantly worse performance after vigorous exercise compared to after very light exercise was expected for Stroop and Free-recall. For Free-recall, participants expected worse performance after vigorous exercise compared to myofascial release training as well. Conclusion: Our results indicate that expectation-driven placebo effects are unlikely to cause the reported greater cognitive improvements following acute moderate and vigorous endurance exercise compared to following common control group treatments. PMID:29276483

Efficacy of the device combining high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and thermotherapy for relieving primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Lee, Banghyun; Hong, Seung Hwa; Kim, Kidong; Kang, Wee Chang; No, Jae Hong; Lee, Jung Ryeol; Jee, Byung Chul; Yang, Eun Joo; Cha, Eun-Jong; Kim, Yong Beom

2015-11-01

To investigate the efficacy and safety of the combined therapy with high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (hf-TENS) and thermotherapy in relieving primary dysmenorrheal pain. In this randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled study, 115 women with moderate or severe primary dysmenorrhea were assigned to the study or control group at a ratio of 1:1. Subjects in the study group used an integrated hf-TENS/thermotherapy device, whereas control subjects used a sham device. A visual analog scale was used to measure pain intensity. Variables related to pain relief, including reduction rate of dysmenorrheal score, were compared between the groups. The dysmenorrheal score was significantly reduced in the study group compared to the control group following the use of the devices. The duration of pain relief was significantly increased in the study group compared to the control group. There were no differences between the groups in the brief pain inventory scores, numbers of ibuprofen tablets taken orally, and World Health Organization quality of life-BREF scores. No adverse events were observed related to the use of the study device. The combination of hf-TENS and thermotherapy was effective in relieving acute pain in women with moderate or severe primary dysmenorrhea. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electroacupuncture treatment for pancreatic cancer pain: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Chen, Hao; Liu, Tang-Yi; Kuai, Le; Zhu, Ji; Wu, Cai-Jun; Liu, Lu-Ming

2013-01-01

Pancreatic cancer is often accompanied by severe abdominal or back pain. It's the first study to evaluate the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture on pancreatic cancer pain. A randomized controlled trial compared electroacupuncture with control acupuncture using the placebo needle. Sixty patients with pancreatic cancer pain were randomly assigned to the electroacupuncture group (n = 30) and the placebo control group (n = 30). Patients were treated on Jiaji (Ex-B2) points T8-T12 bilaterally for 30 min once a day for 3 days. Pain intensity was assessed with numerical rated scales (NRS) before the treatment (Baseline), after 3 treatments, and 2 days follow-up. Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. After 3 treatment, pain intensity on NRS decreased compared with Baseline (-1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.46 to -1.87) in the electroacupuncture group; there was little change (-0.13, 95% CI 0.08 to -0.35) in control group; the difference between two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Follow-up also found a significant reduction in pain intensity in the electroacupuncture group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Electroacupuncture was an effective treatment for relieving pancreatic cancer pain. Copyright © 2013 IAP and EPC. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Effectiveness of Betamethasone gel Applied to the Tracheal Tube and IV Dexamethasone on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Tabari, Masumeh; Soltani, Ghasem; Zirak, Nahid; Alipour, Moammad; Khazaeni, Kamran

2013-09-01

Postoperative sore throat is a common complaint in patients with endotracheal intubation and has potentially dangerous complications. This randomized controlled trial study investigated the incidence of postoperative sore throat after general anesthesia when betamethasone gel is applied to a tracheal tube compared with when IV dexamethasone is prescribed. Two hundred and twenty five American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA)-class I and II patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery with tracheal intubation were randomly divided into three groups: betamethasone gel, intravenous (IV) dexamethasone, and control groups. In the post-anesthesia care unit, a blinded anesthesiologist interviewed all patients regarding postoperative sore throat at 1,6, and 24 hours after surgery. The incidence of sore throat was significantly lower in the betamethasone gel group compared with the IV dexamethasone and control groups, 1, 6, and 24 hours after surgery. In the first day after surgery 10.7% of the betamethasone group had sore throat whereas 26.7% of the IV dexamethasone group and 30.7% of the control group had sore throat. Bucking before extubation was observed in 14(18.4%), 8(10.4%), and 9(12.2%) patients, in the IV dexamethasone, betamethasone gel, and control group, respectively. We concluded that wide spread application of betamethasone gel over tracheal tubes effectively mitigates postoperative sore throat, compared with IV dexamethasone application.

Skin bacterial flora as a potential risk factor predisposing to late bacterial infection after cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel augmentation.

PubMed

Netsvyetayeva, Irina; Marusza, Wojciech; Olszanski, Romuald; Szyller, Kamila; Krolak-Ulinska, Aneta; Swoboda-Kopec, Ewa; Sierdzinski, Janusz; Szymonski, Zachary; Mlynarczyk, Grazyna

2018-01-01

Cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel is widely used in esthetic medicine. Late bacterial infection (LBI) is a rare, but severe complication after HA augmentation. The aim of this study was to determine whether patients who underwent the HA injection procedure and developed LBI had qualitatively different bacterial flora on the skin compared to patients who underwent the procedure without any complications. The study group comprised 10 previously healthy women with recently diagnosed, untreated LBI after HA augmentation. The control group comprised 17 healthy women who had a similar amount of HA injected with no complications. To assess the difference between the two groups, their skin flora was cultured from nasal swabs, both before and after antibiotic treatment in the study group. A significant increase in the incidence of Staphylococcus epidermidis was detected in the control group ( P =0.000) compared to the study group. The study group showed a significantly higher incidence of Staphylococcus aureus ( P =0.005), Klebsiella pneumoniae ( P =0.006), Klebsiella oxytoca ( P =0.048), and Staphylococcus haemolyticus ( P =0.048) compared to the control group. The bacterial flora on the skin differed in patients with LBI from the control group. The control group's bacterial skin flora was dominated by S. epidermidis . Patients with LBI had a bacterial skin flora dominated by potentially pathogenic bacteria.

Comparing the effects of relaxation technique and inhalation aromatherapy on fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

PubMed

Hassanzadeh, Mohammadali; Kiani, Fatemeh; Bouya, Salehoddin; Zarei, Mohammad

2018-05-01

This study aimed to compare the effects of relaxation techniques on fatigue in hemodialysis patients. This clinical trial study was conducted on 105 hemodialysis patients. The subjects were categorized into three groups as: relaxation, aromatherapy and control. In the relaxation group, Benson muscle relaxation techniques were employed; in the aromatherapy group, the inhalation of two drops of 5% lavender essential oil used and the control group only received regular healthcare actions. Data collected by using brief fatigue inventory, before and after the intervention. Results of the current study indicated significant differences in the mean of changes in fatigue scores before and after the intervention between the relaxation and aromatherapy groups, but the difference was insignificant in the control group. Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil can decrease the level of fatigue in the patients undergoing hemodialysis compared to Benson relaxation techniques. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Collagen/Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose/Silver to Standard of Care in the Management of Venous Leg Ulcers.

PubMed

Cullen, Breda M; Serena, Thomas E; Gibson, Molly C; Snyder, Robert J; Hanft, Jason R; Yaakov, Raphael A

2017-10-01

To assess healing outcomes in venous leg ulcers (VLUs) treated with a combination of collagen, oxidized regenerated cellulose, and silver in conjunction with standard of care (SOC; intervention group) compared with SOC alone (control group). Standard of care included ADAPTIC nonadhering dressing (Acelity, San Antonio, Texas) and compression. Randomized controlled trial that followed patients in 3 US facilities for 12 weeks or until complete healing. Forty-nine patients with VLUs were randomized to either the intervention group (n = 22) or the control group (n = 27). Wound healing over 12 weeks. Intent-to-treat analysis showed a mean percentage wound area reduction at 12 weeks of 85.6% (SD, 28.6%) for the intervention group and 72.5% (SD, 77.8%) for the control group. There was a higher healing rate in the intervention group compared with patients who received SOC only at both week 4 (23% vs 11%) and week 12 (64% vs 59%). There were no adverse events related to the study therapy. Although the results were not significant, there was a trend toward faster healing in the intervention group. The results of this study indicate that collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose/silver is a suitable and safe adjunctive intervention for use with SOC to manage VLUs.

Advertising for Demand Creation for Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision.

PubMed

Wilson, Nicholas; Frade, Sasha; Rech, Dino; Friedman, Willa

2016-08-15

To measure the effects of information, a challenge, and a conditional cash transfer on take-up of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC). A randomized, controlled experiment with 4000 postcard recipients in Soweto (Johannesburg), South Africa. We examined differences in take-up of several decisions in the VMMC cascade between the control arm and each of several intervention arms using logistic regression. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the group offered US $10 as compensation and the group challenged with "Are you tough enough?" had significantly higher take-up of the VMMC procedure than did the control group [odds ratios, respectively, 5.30 (CI: 2.20 to 12.76) and 2.70 (CI: 1.05 to 6.91)]. Similarly, the compensation group had significantly higher take-up of the VMMC counseling session than did the control group [odds ratio 3.76 (CI: 1.79 to 7.89)]. The analysis did not reveal significantly different take-up of either the VMMC counseling session or the procedure in the partner preference information group compared with the control group [odds ratios, respectively, 1.23 (CI: 0.51 to 2.97) and 1.67 (CI: 0.61 to 4.62)]. The analysis did not reveal significantly higher take-up of the VMMC nurse hotline in any intervention group compared with the control group [odds ratios for US $10, information, and challenge, respectively, 1.17 (CI: 0.67 to 2.07), 0.69 (CI: 0.36 to 1.32), and 0.60 (0.31 to 1.18)]. Among adult males in Soweto, South Africa, compensation of US $10 provided conditional on completing the VMMC counseling session compared with no compensation offer and a postcard with a challenge, "Are you tough enough?" compared with no challenge, resulted in moderate increases in take-up of circumcision.

Motilin and gastrin secretion and lipid profile in preterm neonates following prebiotics supplementation: a double-blind randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Dasopoulou, Maria; Briana, Despina D; Boutsikou, Theodora; Karakasidou, Eirini; Roma, Eleftheria; Costalos, Christos; Malamitsi-Puchner, Ariadne

2015-03-01

Gut hormones play an important role in the adaptation of the immature neonatal gut, and their secretion may be modulated by prebiotics. Furthermore, prebiotics are well known for their hypolipidemic potentials. We tested the hypothesis that prebiotics could alter motilin and gastrin secretion and reduce lipids in healthy preterms. A total of 167 newborns were randomized to either a prebiotics enriched formula containing dietary oligosaccharides (short-chain galacto-oligo-saccharides/long-chain fructo-oligo-saccharides [scGOS/lcFOS]), at a concentration of 0.8 g/100 ml, or a common preterm formula. Day 1 and 16 basal motilin, gastrin concentrations, and lipids were evaluated together with growth parameters, gastric residue, bowel habits, and feeding tolerance. Adverse events including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and septicemia were also recorded. Mean motilin increase and day 16 mean values were greater for the intervention, compared with the control group (P = .001, P = .005, respectively), while gastrin remained high in both groups. Mean cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) increase were significantly greater in the control, compared with the intervention (P = .037, and P = .001) group. Day 16 LDL levels were significantly higher in the control group. Mean weight was increased in the control group, while gastric residue was less and stool frequency was increased in the intervention group. NEC and septicemia were not statistically different between groups. A prebiotics enriched formula resulted in significant surge of motilin relating to reduced gastric residue, compared with a common preterm formula. Mean cholesterol change was lower, while LDL was not increased in the prebiotics group, compared with the control group. © 2013 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.

A study of renal function influence by integrating cloud-based manometers and physician order entry systems.

PubMed

Lin, Yuh-Feng; Sheng, Li-Huei; Wu, Mei-Yi; Zheng, Cai-Mei; Chang, Tian-Jong; Li, Yu-Chuan; Huang, Yu-Hui; Lu, Hsi-Peng

2014-12-01

No evidence exists from randomized trials to support using cloud-based manometers integrated with available physician order entry systems for tracking patient blood pressure (BP) to assist in the control of renal function deterioration. We investigated how integrating cloud-based manometers with physician order entry systems benefits our outpatient chronic kidney disease patients compared with typical BP tracking systems. We randomly assigned 36 chronic kidney disease patients to use cloud-based manometers integrated with physician order entry systems or typical BP recording sheets, and followed the patients for 6 months. The composite outcome was that the patients saw improvement both in BP and renal function. We compared the systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP), and renal function of our patients at 0 months, 3 months, and 6 months after using the integrated manometers and typical BP monitoring sheets. Nighttime SBP and DBP were significantly lower in the study group compared with the control group. Serum creatinine level in the study group improved significantly compared with the control group after the end of Month 6 (2.83 ± 2.0 vs. 4.38 ± 3.0, p = 0.018). Proteinuria improved nonsignificantly in Month 6 in the study group compared with the control group (1.05 ± 0.9 vs. 1.90 ± 1.3, p = 0.09). Both SBP and DBP during the nighttime hours improved significantly in the study group compared with the baseline. In pre-end-stage renal disease patients, regularly monitoring BP by integrating cloud-based manometers appears to result in a significant decrease in creatinine and improvement in nighttime BP control. Estimated glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria were found to be improved nonsignificantly, and thus, larger population and longer follow-up studies may be needed.

Fluoroquinolones impair tendon healing in a rat rotator cuff repair model: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Fox, Alice J S; Schär, Michael O; Wanivenhaus, Florian; Chen, Tony; Attia, Erik; Binder, Nikolaus B; Otero, Miguel; Gilbert, Susannah L; Nguyen, Joseph T; Chaudhury, Salma; Warren, Russell F; Rodeo, Scott A

2014-12-01

Recent studies suggest that fluoroquinolone antibiotics predispose tendons to tendinopathy and/or rupture. However, no investigations on the reparative capacity of tendons exposed to fluoroquinolones have been conducted. Fluoroquinolone-treated animals will have inferior biochemical, histological, and biomechanical properties at the healing tendon-bone enthesis compared with controls. Controlled laboratory study. Ninety-two rats underwent rotator cuff repair and were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (1) preoperative (Preop), whereby animals received fleroxacin for 1 week preoperatively; (2) pre- and postoperative (Pre/Postop), whereby animals received fleroxacin for 1 week preoperatively and for 2 weeks postoperatively; (3) postoperative (Postop), whereby animals received fleroxacin for 2 weeks postoperatively; and (4) control, whereby animals received vehicle for 1 week preoperatively and for 2 weeks postoperatively. Rats were euthanized at 2 weeks postoperatively for biochemical, histological, and biomechanical analysis. All data were expressed as mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). Statistical comparisons were performed using either 1-way or 2-way ANOVA, with P < .05 considered significant. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTqPCR) analysis revealed a 30-fold increase in expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, a 7-fold increase in MMP-13, and a 4-fold increase in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1 in the Pre/Postop group compared with the other groups. The appearance of the healing enthesis in all treated animals was qualitatively different than that in controls. The tendons were friable and atrophic. All 3 treated groups showed significantly less fibrocartilage and poorly organized collagen at the healing enthesis compared with control animals. There was a significant difference in the mode of failure, with treated animals demonstrating an intrasubstance failure of the supraspinatus tendon during testing. In contrast, only 1 of 10 control samples failed within the tendon substance. The healing enthesis of the Pre/Postop group displayed significantly reduced ultimate load to failure compared with the Preop, Postop, and control groups. There was no significant difference in load to failure in the Preop group compared with the Postop group. Pre/Postop animals demonstrated significantly reduced cross-sectional area compared with the Postop and control groups. There was also a significant reduction in area between the Preop and control groups. In this preliminary study, fluoroquinolone treatment negatively influenced tendon healing. These findings indicate that there was an active but inadequate repair response that has potential clinical implications for patients who are exposed to fluoroquinolones before tendon repair surgery. © 2014 The Author(s).

Joint hypermobility in patients with chondromalacia patellae.

PubMed

al-Rawi, Z; Nessan, A H

1997-12-01

The relationship between joint mobility and chondromalacia patellae was reported in a prospective study. A total of 115 patients with chondromalacia patellae were compared with 110 healthy individuals without chondromalacia patellae, matched for age and sex, who served as a control group. The degree of joint mobility was scored on a scale of 0-9. The number of individuals with hypermobile joints and the total mobility scores were significantly higher in patients with chondromalacia patellae when compared to the control group (P < 0.001). There were more hypermobile knees among knee joints with chondromalacia patellae when compared with the knees of the control group (P < 0.01). Chondromalacia patellae were bilateral in 57% of our patients. It occurred more frequently in the longer leg and was associated with quadriceps muscle wasting in 50% of patients. Flat feet and backache were reported significantly more often in patients compared with the control group (P < 0.05). It is concluded that hypermobility of the knee joint may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of chondromalacia patellae.

Efficacy and safety of losartan in treatment of hyperuricemia and posttransplantation erythrocytosis: results of a prospective, open, randomized, case-control study.

PubMed

Zhu, X; Chen, J; Han, F; Cheng, M; Xu, L; Zhang, L; Ding, X; Le, Y

2009-11-01

Hyperuricemia and posttransplantation erythrocytosis (PTE) are frequent complications after kidney transplantation and are important risk factors for cardiovascular events. Losartan decreases serum uric acid and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and may be a useful agent for treatment of hyperuricemia and PTE. To evaluate the influence of losartan on serum creatinine (SCr), serum uric acid, and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations in patients after kidney transplantation and to evaluate the safety profile of losartan in these patients. Sixty-six Han Chinese patients (43 men and 23 women; mean [SD] age, 40.45 [11.50] years) were enrolled in the study. All patients had undergone a first cadaveric donor kidney transplantation at least 3 months previously and had stable graft function with SCr concentration less than 176.8 micromol/L and Hb concentration greater than 110 g/L. The patients were divided into 2 groups (losartan group, n = 34; and control group, n = 32) according to the odevity of patient identification number. Patients in the losartan group received losartan, 50 mg/d; patients in the control group did not receive losartan. Each patient was followed up for 6 months. Nine patients in the losartan group and 5 patients in the control group dropped out because of acute renal insufficiency, anemia, acute rejection, or poor compliance. The serum uric acid concentration in the losartan group continuously decreased at months 1, 2, 3, and 6 (P = .12, P = .01, P = .04, and P = .005 compared with baseline, and P = .02, P = .003, P = .02, and P = .006 compared with control), especially in the patients with hyperuricemia (P = .02, P < .001, P = .003, and P < .001 compared with baseline, and P = .02, P = .002, P = .02, and P = .002 compared with control). The Hb level in the losartan group decreased significantly at months 1, 2, 3, and 6 (P = .003, P < .001, P = .004, and P = 0.02 compared with baseline, and P = .001, P < .001, P = .001, and P = .005 compared with control), especially in patients with PTE. In patients without PTE, there was no significant decline in Hb concentration in the losartan group compared with baseline. There was no significant decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate in the losartan group. Losartan may be an effective agent for treatment of hyperuricemia and PTE in Han Chinese patients after kidney transplantation. However, in some patients, losartan may not be safe.

Outcomes of Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Patients Who Are 70 Years of Age or Older Versus Under 70 Years of Age: A Sex- and Tear Size-Matched Case-Control Study.

PubMed

Gwark, Ji-Yong; Sung, Chang-Meen; Na, Jae-Boem; Park, Hyung Bin

2018-05-19

To compare the structural and clinical outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) of a case group aged 70 and above with those of a control group younger than 70, with the 2 groups matched for sex and tear size. The case group, comprising 53 patients 70 or older, and the control group, comprising 159 patients younger than 70, all received ARCR to 1 shoulder with symptomatic full-thickness rotator cuff tear. The case and the control subjects, who were matched for sex and tear size to minimize bias related to tendon healing, received ARCR during the same period. The mean age was 71.8 ± 2.6 years in the case group and 59.3 ± 7.1 years in the control group. The minimum follow-up period was 1 year in both groups. Cuff integrity was evaluated using ultrasonography. Structural and clinical outcomes of the 2 groups were compared. Regarding structural outcomes, the complete healing, partial-thickness retear, and full-thickness retear rates were 66% (35/53), 15% (8/53), and 19% (10/53) in the case group, and 68% (108/159), 19% (30/159), and 13% (21/159), respectively, in the control group. The 2 groups had no significantly different retear rates (P = .52). Regarding clinical outcomes, the mean improvements in range of motion, pain, muscle strength, and age- and sex-matched Constant scores were not significantly different between the 2 groups (P > .37). The preoperative tear size was significantly associated with retear in both studied groups (P = .02). The clinical and structural outcomes of ARCR in patients 70 or older with symptomatic full-thickness rotator cuff tear are comparable with those in patients younger than 70 with at least 1-year follow-up. Preoperative tear size, a biological factor, is a strong predictor for retear. Level III, a retrospective comparative (case-control) study. Copyright © 2018 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical research on intelligence seven needle therapy treated infants with brain damage syndrome.

PubMed

Liu, Zhen-Huan; Li, Ye-Rong; Lu, Yong-Lin; Chen, Jie-Kui

2016-06-01

To assess whether the intelligence seven needle therapy administered in infants with perinatal brain damage syndrome (BDS) as early intervention would improve patients' neural development. A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Sixty-four infants with BDS were randomly assigned to two groups: the comprehensive group and the control group. Both groups received routine early intervention; in addition, the comprehensive group received intelligence seven needle therapy. Before and after treatment, the Bayley Scale of Infant Development (BSID), Gesell Developmental Schedules, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), transcranial doppler ultrasound (TCD), and cranial imaging examination were tested for contrast. After treatment, the comprehensive group showed significant difference in the Mental Development Index (MDI) scores of BSID compared with the control group (P<0.05), however, no significant discrepancy in psychomotor development index (PDI,P>0.05) was observed. The children's development quotients (DQ) of the comprehensive group exhibited a significant superiority in improving the social adaptation DQ of Gesell Developmental Schedules compared with the control group (P<0.01), as well as GMFM and linguistic and social intercourse (P<0.05). Again, no discrepancy in the fine movement DQ was found (P>0.05). The total scores of GMFM in the comprehensive group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Comparing the two groups, the comprehensive group showed a significantly greater recovery rate than the control group on TCD after treatment (P<0.05). After 6-month follow-up, some recovery in both groups, specifically on broadening of brain outside space by cranial imaging examination were observed. The comprehensive group demonstrated a significantly greater recovery rate than the control group (P<0.05). The developmental level of intelligence, motion function, linguistic competence and social intercourse can be promoted for infants with perinatal BDS by treating with the intelligence seven needle therapy. This approach can improve the brain blood supply and promote the growth of frontal and parietal lobes.

Sinonasal anatomical variations: their relationship with chronic rhinosinusitis and effect on the severity of disease-a computerized tomography assisted anatomical and clinical study.

PubMed

Kaygusuz, Ahmet; Haksever, Mehmet; Akduman, Davut; Aslan, Sündüs; Sayar, Zeynep

2014-09-01

The anatomy of the sinonasal area has a very wide rage of anatomical variations. The significance of these anatomical variations in pathogenesis of rhinosinusitis, which is the commonest disease in the region, is still unclear. The aims of the study were to compare the rate of sinonasal anatomical variations with development and severity of chronic rhinosinusitis patients. CT scan of paranasal sinuses images of 99 individuals were retrospectively reviewed. 65 cases of chronic rhinosinusitis (study group) who had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery were compared with 34 cases without chronic rhinosinusitis (control group). Also in study group Lund-Mackay score of the sinus disease were calculated and compared to the rate of related anatomical variations. There were 74 (74.7 %) males and 25 (25.2 %) females with ages ranging from 13 to 70 years (mean 32.2 years). The anatomical variations recorded were: Septal deviation 47 (72.3) in study and 25 (73.5 %) in control group, concha bullosa 27 (41.5 %) in study and 18 (52.9 %) in control group, overpneumatized ethmoid bulla 17 (26.1 %) in study and 14 (41.1 %) in control group, pneumatized uncinate 3 (4.6 %) in study and 3 (8.8 %) in control group, agger nasi 42 (64.6 %) in study and 19 (55.8 %) in control group, paradoxical middle turbinates 9 (13.8 %) in study and 4 (11.7 %) in control group, Onodi cell 6 (9.2 %) in study and 2 (5.8 %) in control group, Haller's cells (infraorbital ethmoid cell) 9 (13.8 %) in study and 7 (20.5 %) in control group. None of these results were statistically significant between study and control group (p > 0.05). Lund-Mackay score (which was assumed to show the severity of the disease) of the maxillary, ethmoid and frontal sinus were calculated and compared to rate of septal deviation, concha bullosa, agger nasi cells. No significant correlation was conducted (p > 0.05). The results of study showed no statistically significant correlation between sinonasal anatomical variations and pathologies of the paranasal sinus. Also these anatomical variations did not increase the severity of pre-existing sinusitis significantly. This is a retrospective cohort study (2b).

Comparison of impact on seizure frequency and epileptiform discharges of children with epilepsy from topiramate and phenobarbital.

PubMed

Wang, Y-Y; Wang, M-G; Yao, D; Huang, X-X; Zhang, T; Deng, X-Q

2016-03-01

To study the impact on seizure frequency and epileptiform discharges of children with epilepsy from topiramate (TPM) and phenobarbital (PB). Two hundred cases children with epilepsy from August 2010 to August 2013 in our hospital were sampled and randomly divided into two groups. The observation group was treated with TPM while the control group with PB, and then comparing seizure frequency, efficiency, and adverse reactions of two groups. The reduced number of partial seizures, generalized seizures, and total seizures in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and the rate of cure, markedly effective and total efficiency in observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group. However, the adverse reactions in observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Thus, differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). Compared with PB, TPM showed a better effect on epilepsy treatment with less adverse reactions which were worthy of clinical recommendation.

Myocardial protection by glucose-insulin-potassium in acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing urgent multivessel off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery.

PubMed

Shim, J-K; Yang, S-Y; Yoo, Y-C; Yoo, K-J; Kwak, Y-L

2013-01-01

The aim of this randomized and controlled trial was to investigate the effect of a glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) solution on myocardial protection in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients undergoing urgent multivessel off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) surgery. Sixty-six patients were randomly allocated either to receive 0.3 ml kg(-1) h(-2) GIK solution (potassium 80 mEq and regular insulin 325 IU in 500 ml of 50% glucose) or equivalent volume of normal saline (control) upon anaesthetic induction until 6 h after reperfusion. The primary endpoints were to compare the concentrations of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and troponin-T between the groups after reperfusion. The secondary endpoints were to compare the incidences of postoperative troponin-T >0.8 ng ml(-1) and myocardial infarction (MI) between the groups. Highest CK-MB [8.7 (4.4) vs 13.1 (7.9) ng ml(-1), P=0.006] and troponin-T [0.20 (0.13-0.49) vs 0.48 (0.18-0.91) ng ml(-1), P<0.0001] values after reperfusion were significantly lower in the GIK group compared with the control group. The area under the curve of serially measured troponin-T was also significantly smaller in the GIK group compared with the control group [0.83 (0.43-1.81) vs 0.46 (0.31-1.00), P=0.036]. Significantly fewer patients in the GIK group showed troponin-T >0.8 ng ml(-1) after reperfusion compared with the control group (3 vs 11, P=0.033). The incidence of postoperative MI was similar between the groups. GIK administration in ACS patients undergoing urgent multivessel OPCAB significantly attenuated the degree of ensuing myocardial injury without complications related to glycaemic control. Clinical Trial Registry. URL: http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01384656?term=GIK+AND+OPCAB&rank=1. Unique identification number NCT01384656.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pasley, J.N.; Rice, R.L.; McCullough, S.S.

The role of gastrointestinal peptides in eating disorders has yet to be determined. Methods: In this study we examined plasma levels of gastrin (G), cholecystokinin (CCK), and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) in adolescent anorexic, and obese female subjects hospitalized for feeding behavior disorders. Six anorexic, six obese and six control young females (ages 13-26) were studied after an overnight fast and after consuming a liquid test meal. The liquid test meal (Ensure, Ross Laboratories; Columbus OH) consisted of 14% calories as protein, 31.5% calories as fat and 54.5% calories as carbohydrate in a 240ml volume. Plasma levels of gastrointestinal peptides, G,more » CCK and PP were determined by specific radioimmunoassay. The data were analyzed by one way analysis of variance and the Student's t-test. Results: show that fasting levels of G were greater in control and obese groups than the anorexic subjects. Postprandial G levels for controls were higher than the anorexic, and obese groups respectively. When fasting and postprandial G levels were compared among the same groups only the controls increased after eating. Fasting CCK levels were lower in control and anorexic groups than the obese group. Postprandial CCK levels were higher among control patients compared to anorexic and obese subjects. When fasting and postprandial CCK levels were compared among groups, only control levels increased after eating. Fasting and postprandial PP levels were not different between groups. Postprandial PP levels increased over fasting PP levels only in controls.« less

Health Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery after 6 Years

PubMed Central

Adams, Ted D.; Davidson, Lance E.; Litwin, Sheldon E.; Kolotkin, Ronette L.; LaMonte, Michael J.; Pendleton, Robert C.; Strong, Michael B.; Vinik, Russell; Wanner, Nathan A.; Hopkins, Paul N.; Gress, Richard E.; Walker, James M.; Cloward, Tom V.; Tom Nuttall, R.; Hammoud, Ahmad; Greenwood, Jessica L. J.; Crosby, Ross D.; McKinlay, Rodrick; Simper, Steven C.; Smith, Sherman C.; Hunt, Steven C.

2013-01-01

Context Extreme obesity is associated with health and cardiovascular disease risks. Although gastric bypass surgery induces rapid weight loss and ameliorates many of these risks in the short term, long-term outcomes are uncertain. Objective To examine the association of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) with weight loss, diabetes mellitus, and other health risks 6 years after surgery. Design, Setting, and Participants A prospective Utah-based study conducted between July 2000 and June 2011 of 1156 severely obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥35) participants aged 18–72 years (82% women; mean BMI 45.9; 95% CI, 31.2–60.6) who sought and received RYGB surgery (n=418), sought but did not have surgery (n=417; control group 1), or were randomly selected from a population-based sample not seeking weight loss surgery (n=321; control group 2). Main Outcome Measures Weight loss, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and health-related quality of life were compared between participants having RYGB surgery and control participants using propensity score adjustment. Results Six years after surgery, patients who received RYGB surgery (with 92.6% follow-up) lost 27.7% (95% CI, 26.6%–28.9%) of their initial body weight compared with 0.2% (95% CI, -1.1% to 1.4%) gain in control group 1 and 0% (95% CI, −1.2 to 1.2%) in control group 2. Weight loss maintenance was superior in patients who received RYGB surgery, with 94% (95% CI, 92%–96%) and 76% (95% CI, 72%–81%) of patients receiving RYGB surgery maintaining at least 20% weight loss 2 and 6 years after surgery, respectively. Diabetes remission rates 6 years after surgery were 62% (95% CI, 49%–75%) in the RYGB surgery group, 8% (95% CI, 0%–16%) in control group 1, and 6% (95% CI, 0%–13%) in control group 2, with remission odds ratios (ORs) of 16.5 (95% CI, 4.7–57.6; P<.001) vs control group 1 and 21.5 (95% CI, 5.4–85.6; P<.001) vs control group 2. The incidence of diabetes throughout the course of the study was reduced after RYGB surgery (2%; 95% CI, 0%–4%; versus 17%; 95% CI, 10%–24%; OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.04–0.34 compared with control group 1 and 15%; 95% CI, 9%–21%; OR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.06–0.67 compared with control group 2; both P<.001). The numbers of participants with bariatric surgery-related hospitalizations were 33 (7.9%), 13 (3.9%), and 6 (2.0%) for RYGB surgery group and 2 control groups, respectively. Conclusion Among severely obese patients, compared with nonsurgical control patients, the use of RYGB surgery was associated with higher rates of diabetes remission and lower risk of cardiovascular and other health outcomes over 6 years. PMID:22990271

Fenitrothion induced oxidative stress and morphological alterations of sperm and testes in male sprague-dawley rats

PubMed Central

Taib, Izatus Shima; Budin, Siti Balkis; Ghazali, Ahmad Rohi; Jayusman, Putri Ayu; Louis, Santhana Raj; Mohamed, Jamaludin

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE: Fenitrothion residue is found primarily in soil, water and food products and can lead to a variety of toxic effects on the immune, hepatobiliary and hematological systems. However, the effects of fenitrothion on the male reproductive system remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fenitrothion on the sperm and testes of male Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS: A 20 mg/kg dose of fenitrothion was administered orally by gavages for 28 consecutive days. Blood sample was obtained by cardiac puncture and dissection of the testes and cauda epididymis was performed to obtain sperm. The effects of fenitrothion on the body and organ weight, biochemical and oxidative stress, sperm characteristics, histology and ultrastructural changes in the testes were evaluated. RESULTS: Fenitrothion significantly decreased the body weight gain and weight of the epididymis compared with the control group. Fenitrothion also decreased plasma cholinesterase activity compared with the control group. Fenitrothion altered the sperm characteristics, such as sperm concentration, sperm viability and normal sperm morphology, compared with the control group. Oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, total glutathione and glutathione S-transferase, were significantly increased and superoxide dismutase activity was significantly decreased in the fenitrothion-treated group compared with the control group. The histopathological and ultrastructural examination of the testes of the fenitrothion-treated group revealed alterations corresponding with the biochemical changes compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: A 20 mg/kg dose of fenitrothion caused deleterious effects on the sperm and testes of Sprague-Dawley rats. PMID:23420164

Inhalation of diesel engine exhaust affects spermatogenesis in growing male rats.

PubMed

Watanabe, N; Oonuki, Y

1999-07-01

We conducted experiments to determine whether diesel engine exhaust affects reproductive endocrine function in growing rats. The rats were assigned to three groups: a group exposed to total diesel engine exhaust containing 5.63 mg/m3 particulate matter, 4.10 ppm nitrogen dioxide, and 8.10 ppm nitrogen oxide; a group exposed to filtered exhaust without particulate matter; and a group exposed to clean air. Dosing experiments were performed for 3 months beginning at birth (6 hr/day for 5 days/week). Serum levels of testosterone and estradiol were significantly higher in animals exposed to total diesel exhaust and filtered exhaust (p < 0.05 for each group) as compared to the controls. Follicle-stimulating hormone was significantly decreased in the two groups exposed to diesel exhaust as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Luteinizing hormone was significantly decreased in the total exhaust-exposed group as compared to the control and filtered groups (p < 0.05). Although testis weight did not show any significant difference among the groups, sperm production and activity of testicular hyaluronidase were significantly reduced in both exhaust-exposed groups as compared to the control group. Histological examination showed decreased numbers of step 18 and 19 spermatids in stage VI, VII, and VIII tubules in the testes of both diesel exhaust-exposed groups. This study suggests that diesel exhaust stimulates hormonal secretion of the adrenal cortex, depresses gonadotropin-releasing-hormone, and inhibits spermatogenesis in rats. Because these effects were not inhibited by filtration, the gaseous phase of the exhaust appears to be more responsible than particulate matter for disrupting the endocrine system.

The Effect of Taraxacum officinale Hydroalcoholic Extract on Blood Cells in Mice

PubMed Central

Modaresi, Mehrdad; Resalatpour, Narges

2012-01-01

Objectives. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a herbaceous perennial plant of the family Asteraceae and has medicinal and culinary uses. Dandelion has been used as a remedy for anemia, purifing the blood, and providing immune modulation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hydro alcoholic extract on blood cells in mice. Methods. Five groups each including ten adult female (Balb/C) mice weighing 30 ± 5 g were chosen. Normal saline was administered as placebo for group, and dandelion hydro alcoholic extract in doses of 50,100, and 200 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally for 20 days to test groups and the last group was control group.WBC, RBC, HB, HCT, platelet, and other cells were measured with automated cell counter. Main Results. The number of RBC and the rate of HB in three doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly increased (P < 0.05). As compared with control group, the number of WBC in three doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg increased, but it was significantly in 200 mg/kg dandelion treated group as compared with control group(P < 0.05). The rate of platelet in three doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly decreased as compared with control group (P < 0.01). 3 doses of dandelion increased lymphocyte numbers significantly compared with controls. Conclusion. The study indicates efficacy of dandelion extract on RBC and HB in doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg and in 200 mg/kg on WBC to achieve normal body balance. PMID:22844289

Hyperbaric oxygenation affects the mechanisms of acetylcholine-induced relaxation in diabetic rats.

PubMed

Unfirer, Sanela; Mihalj, Martina; Novak, Sanja; Kibel, Aleksandar; Cavka, Ava; Mijalevic, Zrinka; Gros, Mario; Brizic, Ivica; Budimir, Danijela; Cosic, Anita; Boban, Mladen; Drenjancevic, Ines

2016-01-01

The effects of hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO₂) on acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation (AChIR) were evaluated in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats randomized into four groups: healthy controls (Ctrl), diabetic rats (DM), and control and diabetic rats that underwent hyperbaric oxygenation (Ctrl+HBO₂ and DM+HBO₂). AChIR was measured in aortic rings, with L-NAME, indomethacin, or MS-PPOH and a combination of inhibitors. mRNA expression of eNOS, iNOS, COX-1 and COX-2 was assessed by qPCR, and protein expression of CYP4A(1-3) by Western blot. Plasma antioxidative capacity and systemic oxidative stress were determined with the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) assays, respectively. AChIR was preserved in all groups of rats, but mediated with different mechanisms. In all experimental groups of rats, AChIR was mediated mainly by NO, with the contribution of CYP450 vasodilator metabolites. This effect was the most prominent in the DM+HBO₂ group of rats. The TBARS was significantly higher in both DM and DM+HBO₂ groups compared to respective controls. eNOS expression was upregulated in the DM+HBO₂ group compared to other groups, COX-1 expression was upregulated in the DM+HBO₂ group compared to the control. CYP450-4A1 / A2/A3protein expression was significantly higher expressed in both hyperbaric groups compared to their respective controls. In conclusion, HBO₂ affected all three vasodilator pathways and shifted AChIR to CYP450 enzymes pathway. Copyright© Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.

Cataract surgery in eyes with low corneal endothelial cell density.

PubMed

Hayashi, Ken; Yoshida, Motoaki; Manabe, Shin-ichi; Hirata, Akira

2011-08-01

To compare corneal endothelial damage after cataract surgery in eyes with low endothelial cell density (ECD) and eyes with normal ECD. Hayashi Eye Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan. Case-control study. Cataract surgery was performed in eyes with a low ECD (500 to 1000 cells/mm(2)) (low-density group) and control eyes with a normal ECD. The ECD and central corneal thickness (CCT) were measured preoperatively and 1 and 3 months postoperatively, and the percentage cell loss and increase in CCT were compared. The low-density group and control group each comprised 50 eyes. In the low-density group, 39 eyes had nonprogressive endothelial pathology and 11 had Fuchs dystrophy. The mean ECD was significantly less and the CCT significantly greater in the low-density group than in the control group throughout the follow-up (P ≤.0066). However, no significant difference in the percentage of cell loss was found between groups at 1 or 3 months (5.1%, low-density group; 4.2%, control group) (P ≥.1477). The percentage increase in CCT was significantly greater in the low-density group than in the control group at 1 month (P<.0001), although there was no significant difference at 3 months (0.4% and -0.4%, respectively) (P=.2172). Corneal endothelial damage after cataract surgery in eyes with low ECD was slight and comparable to that in healthy eyes, which suggests that cataract surgery alone (without corneal transplantation) should be performed first. Copyright © 2011 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Clinical effect of Saccharomyces boulardii powder combined with azithromycin sequential therapy in treatment of children with diarrhea secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia].

PubMed

Chen, Qi-Fen; Zhang, Yi-Wei

2018-02-01

To investigate the clinical effect of Saccharomyces boulardii powder combined with azithromycin sequential therapy in the treatment of children with diarrhea secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. A total of 88 children with diarrhea secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia between June 2015 and March 2017 were divided into control group and study group using a random number table, with 44 children in each group. The children in the control group were given routine treatment combined with azithromycin sequential therapy, and those in the study group were given oral Saccharomyces boulardii powder in addition to the treatment in the control group until the end of azithromycin sequential therapy. After the treatment ended, the two groups were compared in terms of time to improvement of clinical symptoms, length of hospital stay, clinical outcome, defecation frequency before and after treatment, condition of intestinal dysbacteriosis, and incidence of adverse events. Compared with the control group, the study group had significantly shorter time to improvement of clinical symptoms and length of hospital stay (P<0.05). The study group had a significantly higher response rate than the control group (P<0.05). On days 3 and 5 of treatment, the study group had a significant reduction in defecation frequency compared with the control group (P<0.05). The study group had a significantly lower rate of intestinal dysbacteriosis than the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups (P>0.05). In the treatment of children with diarrhea secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia, Saccharomyces boulardii powder combined with azithromycin sequential therapy can improve clinical symptoms, shorten the length of hospital stay, reduce defecation frequency and the incidence of intestinal dysbacteriosis, and improve clinical outcomes, and does not increase the risk of adverse events.

Does dual task training improve walking performance of older adults with concern of falling?

PubMed

Wollesen, B; Schulz, S; Seydell, L; Delbaere, K

2017-09-11

Older adults with concerns of falling show decrements of gait stability under single (ST) and dual task (DT) conditions. To compare the effects of a DT training integrating task managing strategies for independent living older adults with and without concern about falling (CoF) to a non-training control group on walking performance under ST and DT conditions. Single center parallel group single blind randomized controlled trial with group-based interventions (DT-managing balance training) compared to a control group (Ninety-five independent living older adults; 71.5 ± 5.2 years). A progressive DT training (12 sessions; 60 min each; 12 weeks) including task-managing strategies was compared to a non-training control group. group based intervention for independent living elderly in a gym. ST and DT walking (visual verbal Stroop task) were measured on a treadmill. Gait parameters (step length, step width, and gait line) and cognitive performance while walking were compared with a 2x2x2 Repeated Measures Analyses of Variance. Participants in the intervention group showed an increased step length under ST and DT conditions following the intervention, for both people with and without CoF compared to their respective control groups. Foot rolling movement and cognitive performance while walking however only improved in participants without CoF. The results showed that DT managing training can improve walking performance under ST and DT conditions in people with and without CoF. Additional treatment to directly address CoF, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, should be considered to further improve the cautious gait pattern (as evidenced by reduced foot rolling movements). The study was retrospectively registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS; Identification number DRKS00012382 , 11.05.2017).

Compared with the intake of commercial vegetable juice, the intake of fresh fruit and komatsuna (Brassica rapa L. var. perviridis) juice mixture reduces serum cholesterol in middle-aged men: a randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Aiso, Izumi; Inoue, Hiroko; Seiyama, Yukiko; Kuwano, Toshiko

2014-06-24

Vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals and, dietary fiber and contribute to the prevention and improvement of obesity and metabolic syndrome. However, inadequate intake of vegetable and fruit is a concern in Japan.We therefore produced a juice mixture of fresh fruit and komatsuna (Brassica rapa L. var. perviridis: B. rapa) with the aim to investigate the effects of this juice mixture on anthropometric data, blood parameters, and dietary intake differences. This study was performed as a single blind and randomized controlled trial. Subjects were 16 men (mean age, 46.4 ± 7.1 years), and they were divided into two groups (control group and intervention group). The intervention group consumed the juice mixture of fresh fruit and B. rapa. The control group consumed commercial vegetable juice. Subjects consumed juice twice a day throughout the weekday, for 4 weeks. We prepared both juices with an equivalent energy balance. Weight and body mass index (BMI) of the control group after 4 weeks were significantly increased compared with baseline values. Serum total cholesterol (T-Chol) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-Chol) of the intervention group after 4 weeks were significantly reduced compared with baseline values. Furthermore, intake of total vegetables and fruits were significantly increased compared with baseline values in both groups. Both vegetable juices contributed to improved intake of total vegetables and fruit. Compared with the intake of commercial vegetable juice, the intake of fresh fruit and B. rapa juice is highly effective in reducing serum cholesterol. Short-term intake of fresh fruit and B. rapa juice was shown to enhance cholesterol metabolism.

False Memory in Adults With ADHD: A Comparison Between Subtypes and Normal Controls.

PubMed

Soliman, Abdrabo Moghazy; Elfar, Rania Mohamed

2017-10-01

To examine the performance on the Deese-Roediger-McDermott task of adults divided into ADHD subtypes and compares their performance to that of healthy controls to examine whether adults with ADHD are more susceptible to the production of false memories under experimental conditions. A total of 128 adults with ADHD (50% females), classified into three Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV-TR) subtypes, were compared with 48 controls. The results indicated that the ADHD participants recalled and recognized fewer studied words than the controls, the ADHD groups produced more false memories than the control group, no differences in either the false positives or the false negatives. The ADHD-combined (ADHD-CT) group recognized significantly more critical words than the control, ADHD-predominantly inattentive (ADHD-IA), and ADHD-predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (ADHD-HI) groups. The ADHD groups recalled and recognized more false positives, were more confident in their false responses, and displayed more knowledge corruption than the controls. The ADHD-CT group recalled and recognized more false positives than the other ADHD groups. The adults with ADHD have more false memories than the controls and that false memory formation varied with the ADHD subtypes.

Effects of in ovo injection with selenium on immune and antioxidant responses during experimental necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens.

PubMed

Lee, S H; Lillehoj, H S; Jang, S I; Jeong, M S; Xu, S Z; Kim, J B; Park, H J; Kim, H R; Lillehoj, E P; Bravo, D M

2014-05-01

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of in ovo injection of Se on modulating the immune system and antioxidant responses in broiler chickens with experimental necrotic enteritis. Broiler eggs were injected at 18 d of embryo age with either 100 μL of PBS alone or sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) in PBS, providing 0 (SS0), 10 (SS10), or 20 (SS20) μg of Se/egg. At 14 d posthatch, PBS-treated and uninfected chickens were kept as the control group, whereas the remaining chickens were orally infected with 1.0 × 10(4) sporulated oocysts of Eimeria maxima (SS0, SS10, SS20). At 18 d posthatch, E. maxima-infected chickens were orally infected with 1.0 × 10(9) cfu of Clostridium perfringens. Infected control SS0 group showed significantly decreased BW compared with the uninfected control. However, SS20 group showed significantly increased BW compared with the infected control SS0 group, whereas the BW were similar among uninfected control and infected SS10 and SS20 groups. The SS10 group showed significantly lower intestinal lesions compared with the SS0 group, and oocyst production was decreased in both SS10 and SS20 groups. Serum malondialdehyde level and catalase activity were also decreased in both SS10 and SS20 groups, whereas the superoxide dismutase level was significantly lower in the SS10 group compared with the SS0 group. The SS20 group showed significantly higher levels of transcripts for IL-1β and IL-6 in intestine, and SS10 and SS20 groups had higher levels of transcripts for IL-8 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and decreased glutathione peroxidase 7 mRNA levels compared with the SS0 group. The SS10 and SS20 groups also showed increased serum antibody levels to C. perfringens α-toxin and NetB toxin compared with the SS0 group. These collective results suggest that the injection of Se into the amniotic cavity of developing eggs may be beneficial for enhancing immune and antioxidant responses in the hatched chickens exposed to the necrotic enteritis-causing pathogens.

The Effects of Occupational Therapy and Psychosocial Interventions on Interpersonal Functioning and Personal and Social Performance Levels of Corresponding Patients.

PubMed

Çakmak, Soner; Süt, Hüzün; Öztürk, Sibel; Tamam, Lut; Bal, Ufuk

2016-09-01

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of occupational therapy and psychosocial interventions on the interpersonal functioning and individual and social performance levels of corresponding patients under the heading of psychosocial treatment approaches in psychiatry clinics as well as the attitudes of the patients in regard to those interventions. In 2013, out of psychotic (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder/mania) and nonpsychotic (depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol dependence) inpatients in our clinic, 48 patients who participated in occupational activities were included in the study group and 43 patients who did not participate in these activities were included in the control group. We prepared and implemented a 3-item questionnaire constructed by our team, which probed the patients' thoughts on these occupational activities. The Interpersonal Functioning Scale (IFS) and Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP) were applied to both groups on hospital admission and discharge; variations in scale scores were evaluated on par with sociodemographic variables, and the study and control groups were compared. In total, 91% of the study group provided positive feedback regarding the aforementioned interventions. When comparing the study and control groups, the IFS variance score of the study group did not show a significant difference with respect to that of the control group. A statistically significant difference (p<0.0001) was observed in the PSP scores. Evaluation of the PSP of the occupational activities, focusing on sociodemographics and diagnostic labels, revealed a significant improvement in nonpsychotic patients (p=0.002) compared with psychotic patients, in females (p=0.001) compared with males, in unemployed patients (p=0.0001) compared with employed patients, in single patients (p=0.002) compared with married patients, in less-educated patients (p=0.004) compared with high school graduates, and in patients younger than 45 years (p=0.002) compared with those older than 45 years. The findings of our study showed coherence with the literature regarding similar studies conducted on psychotic subgroups. The results demonstrated significantly positive repercussions, specifically in the treatment of nonpsychotic patients; both groups benefited from occupational activities, as shown by improvements in all psychiatric inpatients' PSP scores in comparison with scores of the control group. We concluded that the recruitment of psychosocial treatment approaches enhanced personal and social performance in the patient groups, thereby leading to additional clinical benefits.

[A study on vowel duration and word length of adductor spasmodic dysphonia].

PubMed

Chen, Zhipeng; Ge, Pingjiang

2016-03-01

To understand the vowel duration and statement reading of the adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD) patients compared with their normal controls, and provide ideas for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Twenty-nine ADSD patients were included in the research, with 31 normal controls. All subjects filled in form voice handicap index (VHI) by themselves. Maximum phonetic time (MPT) and maximum loudness phonetic time(MLPT) were tested on /a/ sound for all patients. Also, all the patients were required to read aloud a standard mandarin assay named , duration were measured with Praat5. 0 software after sounds were collected. A one-way t-test was performed to compare spasmodic group with control group on VHI, MPT, MLPT and duration for reading standard sentences. Pearson/Spearman correlation was tested. Result: The VHI of the 29 ADSD patients is 89±12, and their normal controls 15±16, indicating that the VHI in ADSD group is significantly higher than in the control group(P<0. 01). The MPT of the ADSD group is(16. 9±9. 8 s), and the control group is (25. 3±10.0)s, indicating that MPT in the ADSD group is significantly shorter than the control group(P<0. 01). The MLPT of the ADSD group is (15.7±7. 6)s, and the control group is (26. 5±11. 4)s, indicating that MLPT in the ADSD group is significantly shorter than the control group (P<0. 01). The duration of standard sentence reading of the ADSD group is (55.0±14. 2)s, and the control group is (37. 8±4. 8)s, indicating that the duration of standard sentence reading in the ADSD group is significantly longer than the control group (P<0. 01). Correlation analysis showed that MPT and MLPT are related within the ADSD group(r=0. 697,P< 0.01), other indexes being tested have no significant correlations. The voice disorder condition of the ADSD patients is significantly worse than normal people. Their pronunciations on continuous vowels are not lasting compared with normal people. In the meantime, their ability to read sentences is worse than normal people, needing longer time to complete the reading task. There is a significant correlation between MLPT and MPT, which can be used as an alternative to MPT.

Using inquiry-based instructional strategies in third-grade science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, Fanicia D.

The purpose of the study was to determine if the use of inquiry-based instructional strategies as compared to traditional instructional strategies would increase third-grade students' achievement in science, based on the pretest/posttest of the school system and the Georgia Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT). Inquiry-based instruction, presented students with a question, an observation, a data set, or a hypothesis for problem solving such as scientists use when working in real-world situations. This descriptive research employed a quantitative strategy using a pretest/posttest control group design. The research compared the science academic achievement levels of one Grade 3 class [N=14] exposed to a teacher's inquiry-based instructional strategies as compared to one Grade 3 class [ N=18] exposed to a teacher's traditional instructional strategies. The study compared the science academic performance levels of third-grade students as measured by pretest/posttest mean scores from the school system-based assessment and the Georgia CRCT. Four research hypotheses were examined. Based on the overall findings from this study, both the experimental group and the control group significantly increased their mean scores from the pretests to the posttests. The amount of gain from the pretest to the posttest was significantly greater for the experimental group than the control group for pretest/posttest 1 [t(12) = 8.79, p < .01] and pretest/posttest 2 [t(12) = 9.40, p < .01]. The experimental group significantly outperformed the control group with regard to their mean number of items answered correctly on the life sciences test [t(27) = -1.95, p = .06]. Finally, the control group did not outperform the experimental group on any of the comparisons made throughout this study. The results of this study provide empirical support for the effectiveness of the use of inquiry-based learning strategies, given that the experimental group outperformed the control group on all four posttests, on the science CRCT and on the individual Science portions on the test including earth, life and physical sciences. In fact, this study was able to detect significant differences between the experimental group and the control group with regard to the degree to which the students improved from the pretests to the posttests.

A Cycle Ergometer Exercise Program Improves Exercise Capacity and Inspiratory Muscle Function in Hospitalized Patients Awaiting Heart Transplantation: a Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Forestieri, Patrícia; Guizilini, Solange; Peres, Monique; Bublitz, Caroline; Bolzan, Douglas W.; Rocco, Isadora S.; Santos, Vinícius B.; Moreira, Rita Simone L.; Breda, João R.; de Almeida, Dirceu R.; Carvalho, Antonio Carlos de C.; Arena, Ross; Gomes, Walter J.

2016-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a cycle ergometer exercise program on exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle function in hospitalized patients with heart failure awaiting heart transplantation with intravenous inotropic support. Methods Patients awaiting heart transplantation were randomized and allocated prospectively into two groups: 1) Control Group (n=11) - conventional protocol; and 2) Intervention Group (n=7) - stationary cycle ergometer exercise training. Functional capacity was measured by the six-minute walk test and inspiratory muscle strength assessed by manovacuometry before and after the exercise protocols. Results Both groups demonstrated an increase in six-minute walk test distance after the experimental procedure compared to baseline; however, only the intervention group had a significant increase (P=0.08 and P=0.001 for the control and intervention groups, respectively). Intergroup comparison revealed a greater increase in the intervention group compared to the control (P<0.001). Regarding the inspiratory muscle strength evaluation, the intragroup analysis demonstrated increased strength after the protocols compared to baseline for both groups; statistical significance was only demonstrated for the intervention group, though (P=0.22 and P<0.01, respectively). Intergroup comparison showed a significant increase in the intervention group compared to the control (P<0.01). Conclusion Stationary cycle ergometer exercise training shows positive results on exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength in patients with heart failure awaiting cardiac transplantation while on intravenous inotropic support. PMID:27982348

Modic changes of the cervical spine: T1 slope and its impact on axial neck pain.

PubMed

Li, Jia; Qin, Shuhui; Li, Yongqian; Shen, Yong

2017-01-01

The purpose of the research was to evaluate cervical sagittal parameters on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with Modic changes and its impact on axial neck pain. This study consisted of 266 consecutive asymptomatic or symptomatic patients with Modic changes, whose average age was 50.9±12.6 years from January 2015 to December 2016. Cervical sagittal parameters included sagittal alignment of the cervical spine (SACS), T1 slope, thoracic inlet angle (TIA), and neck tilt (NT). The Modic changes group was compared with an asymptomatic control group of 338 age- and gender-matched adults. In the Modic changes group, T1 slope was significantly higher (25.8°±6.3°) compared with that in the control group (22.5°±6.8°) ( P =0.000). However, there was no significant difference of the NT, TIA, and SACS between the two groups. Patients in the Modic changes group were more likely to have experienced historical axial neck pain compared with the control group ( P =0.000). With regard to the disc degeneration, it indicated that the disc in the Modic changes group had more severe disc degeneration ( P =0.032). T1 slope in the Modic changes group was significantly higher compared to that of the control group. The findings suggested that a higher T1 slope with broken compensation of cervical sagittal mechanism may be associated with the development of Modic changes in the cervical spine.

Effect of Sleep Deprivation on the Male Reproductive System in Rats.

PubMed

Choi, Ji Ho; Lee, Seung Hoon; Bae, Jae Hyun; Shim, Ji Sung; Park, Hong Seok; Kim, Young Sik; Shin, Chol

2016-10-01

There has been no study reporting on the influence of sleep deprivation on the male reproductive system including sperm quality. In this study, we hypothesized that sleep deprivation could lead to adverse effect on the male reproductive system. The rats were divided into three groups: 1) control (home-cage, n = 10); 2) SD4 (sleep deprivation for 4 days, n = 10); and 3) SD7 (sleep deprivation for 7 days, n = 10). Sleep deprivation was performed by a modified multiple platform method. Sperm quality (sperm motion parameters and counts), hormone levels (corticosterone and testosterone), and the histopathology of testis were evaluated and compared between the three groups. A statistically significant reduction (P = 0.018) was observed in sperm motility in the SD7 group compared to those of the control group. However, there were no significant differences in other sperm motion parameters, or in sperm counts of the testis and cauda epididymis between three groups. Compared with the control group, the SD4 (P = 0.033) and SD7 (P = 0.002) groups exhibited significant increases of corticosterone levels, but significant decreases of testosterone levels were found in the SD4 (P = 0.001) and SD7 (P < 0.001) groups. Seminiferous tubular atrophy and/or spermatid retention was partially observed in the SD4 and SD7 groups, compared with the normal histopathology of the control group. Sleep deprivation may have an adverse effect on the male reproductive system in rats.

Heijiangdan ointment relieves oxidative stress from radiation dermatitis induced by (60)Co γ-ray in mice.

PubMed

Yang, Lin; Yu, Ming-wei; Wang, Xiao-min; Zhang, Yi; Yang, Guo-wang; Luo, Xiao-qin; Peng, Rui-yun; Gao, Ya-bing; Zhao, Li; Wang, Li-feng

2016-02-01

To investigate the effects of Heijiangdan Ointment ( HJD) on oxidative stress in (60)Co γ-ray radiation-induced dermatitis in mice. Female Wistar mice with grade 4 radiation dermatitis induced by (60)Co γ-rays were randomly divided into four groups (n=12 per group); the HJD-treated, recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF)-treated, Trolox-treated, and untreated groups, along with a negative control group. On the 11th and 21st days after treatment, 6 mice in each group were chosen for evaluation. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were detected using spectrophotometric methods. The fibroblast mitochondria were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The expressions of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) were analyzed by western blot. Compared with the untreated group, the levels of SOD, MDA and LDH, on the 11th and 21st days after treatment showed significant difference (P<0.05). TEM analysis indicated that fibroblast mitochondria in the untreated group exhibited swelling and the cristae appeared fractured, while in the HJD group, the swelling of mitochondria was limited and the rough endoplasmic reticulum appeared more relaxed. The expressions of FGF-2 and TGF-β1 increased in the untreated group compared with the negative control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the expression of FGF-2, rhEGF and Trolox in the HJD group were significantly increased compared with the untreated group (P<0.05), or compared with the negative control group (P<0.05). The expression of TGF-β1 showed significant difference between untreated and negative control groups (P<0.05). HJD and Trolox increased the level of TGF-β1 and the difference was marked as compared with the untreated and negative control groups (P<0.05). HJD relieves oxidative stress-induced injury, increases the antioxidant activity, mitigates the fibroblast mitochondrial damage, up-regulates the expression of growth factor, and promotes mitochondrial repair in mice.

[Glyburide prevents pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via inhibiting NLRP3 activation].

PubMed

Liu, Y F; Wang, W; Liu, T; Zhang, W; Liu, J; Wang, J

2017-06-12

Objective: To investigate whether glyburide prevents platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induced pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells(PASMCs) proliferation and migration via inhibiting nucleotide binding domain leucine-rich repeat-containing receptors protein 3(NLRP3) inflammasome activation. Methods: PASMCs were divided into 4 groups: control group, glyburide group, PDGF group and PDGF+ glyburide group. Cell proliferation and migration were assessed by MTT and Transwell respectively. The NLRP3 inflammasome activation was assessed by Western blot. Results: Compared with the control group, the protein expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β in PASMCs were increased to (1.38±0.09, t =3.998, P <0.001), (1.32±0.1, t =3.268, P <0.01)and(1.43±0.19) ( t =2.096, P <0.05) folds in the PDGF group. Glyburide had no effect on NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β expression as compared with the control group, while the NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β were decreased by(20.49±7.6)% ( t =2.862, P <0.01), (32.94±3.44)% ( t =4.154, P <0.001) and (24.67±5.29)% ( t =2.335, P <0.05) in the PDGF+ glyburide group, respectively, as compared with the PDGF group. Compared with the control group, the PASMCs proliferation and migration in the PDGF group were significantly increased to (1.74±0.23, t =4.717, P <0.001) and (3.12±0.8, t =5.249, P <0.001) folds, respectively. Compared with the control group, glyburide had no effect on PASMCs proliferation and migration. In PDGF+ glyburide group, cell proliferation was reduced by (50.5±4.27)% ( t =4.462, P <0.001) and cell migration count was lower than in the PDGF group (42.77±2.84)% ( t =3.716, P <0.001). Conclusion: Glyburide could ameliorate PDGF-induced PASMCs proliferation and migration by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

The impact of two workplace-based health risk appraisal interventions on employee lifestyle parameters, mental health and work ability: results of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Addley, K; Boyd, S; Kerr, R; McQuillan, P; Houdmont, J; McCrory, M

2014-04-01

Health risk appraisals (HRA) are a common type of workplace health promotion programme offered by American employers. In the United Kingdom, evidence of their effectiveness for promoting health behaviour change remains inconclusive. This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of two HRA interventions on lifestyle parameters, mental health and work ability in a UK context. A total of 180 employees were randomized into one of three groups: Group A (HRA augmented with health promotion and education activities), Group B (HRA only) and Group C (control, no intervention). After 12 months, changes in mean scoring in 10 lifestyle, mental health and work ability indices were compared, Groups A and B demonstrated non-significant improvements in 70% and 80%, respectively, compared with controls (40%). Odds ratios revealed that, compared with the control group, Group A was 29.2 (95% CI: 9.22-92.27) times more likely to report a perceived change in lifestyle behaviour; Group B 4.4 times (95% CI: 1.65-11.44). In conclusion, participation in the HRA was associated with a higher likelihood of perceived lifestyle behaviour change which was further increased in the augmented HRA group, thereby providing preliminary evidence that HRA and augmented HRA in particular may help UK employees make positive healthy lifestyle changes.

Isometric strength ratios of the hip musculature in females with patellofemoral pain: a comparison to pain-free controls.

PubMed

Magalhães, Eduardo; Silva, Ana Paula M C C; Sacramento, Sylvio N; Martin, RobRoy L; Fukuda, Thiago Y

2013-08-01

The purpose of the study was to compare hip agonist-antagonist isometric strength ratios between females with patellofemoral pain (PFP) syndrome and pain-free control group. One hundred and twenty females between 15 and 40 years of age (control group: n = 60; PFP group: n = 60) participated in the study. Hip adductor, abductor, medial rotator, lateral rotator, flexor, and extensor isometric strength were measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Comparisons in the hip adductor/abductor and medial/lateral rotator and flexor/extensor strength ratios were made between groups using independent t-tests. Group comparisons also were made between the anteromedial hip complex (adductor, medial rotator, and flexor musculature) and posterolateral hip complex (abductor, lateral rotator, and extensor musculature). On average, the hip adductor/abductor isometric strength ratio in the PFP group was 23% higher when compared with the control group (p = 0.01). The anteromedial/posterolateral complex ratio also was significantly higher in the PFP group (average 8%; p = 0.04). No significant group differences were found for the medial/lateral rotator ratio and flexor/extensor strength ratios. The results of this study demonstrate that females with PFP have altered hip strength ratios when compared with asymptomatic controls. These strength imbalances may explain the tendency of females with PFP to demonstrate kinematic tendencies that increase loading on the patellofemoral joint (i.e., dynamic knee valgus).

Suppression of oxidative stress by grape seed supplementation in rats

PubMed Central

Choi, Soo-Kyong; Zhang, Xian-Hua

2012-01-01

Polyphenol-rich grape seeds have a beneficial effect on human health. The present study was performed to investigate the effects of grape seeds on antioxidant activities in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a control diet group (C), a high-fat diet group (HF), a 5% grape seed-supplemented control diet group (G), and a 5% grape seed-supplemented high-fat diet group (HG). Dietary supplementation with grape seeds reduced serum concentrations of lipid peroxides compared with those in the C and HF groups. The hepatic level of lipid peroxides decreased significantly in the grape seed groups compared with that in the C and HF groups. Superoxide dismutase activity in the G group increased significantly compared with that in the C group. Catalase activity tended to be higher by feeding grape seeds. The grape seed diet increased glutathione peroxidase activity in the C group. Glutathione-S-transferase activity increased significantly in the G group compared with that in the C group. Hepatic content of total glutathione increased significantly in the HG group but decreased significantly in the HF group. The ratio of reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione increased by feeding the grape seed diet. Total vitamin A concentration was significantly higher in HG group than in other groups. Liver tocopherol content of the G and HG groups was significantly higher than that of the control groups. These results suggest that dietary supplementation with grape seeds is beneficial for suppressing lipid peroxidation in high fat-fed rats. PMID:22413034

Steroids and statins: an old and a new anti-inflammatory strategy compared.

PubMed

Vukovic, Petar M; Maravic-Stojkovic, Vera R; Peric, Miodrag S; Jovic, Miomir Dj; Cirkovic, Milan V; Gradinac, Sinisa Dj; Djukanovic, Bosko P; Milojevic, Predrag S

2011-01-01

This study compared the anti-inflammatory effects of methylprednisolone (MP) and atorvastatin and analysed their influences on clinical variables in patients undergoing coronary revascularization. Ninety patients with compromised left ventricular ejection fraction (≤30%) undergoing elective coronary surgery were equally randomized to one of three groups: statin group, treatment with atorvastatin (20 mg/day) 3 weeks before surgery; methylprednisolone group, a single shot of methylpredniosolone (10mg/kg); and control group. Postoperative IL-6 was higher in the control group when compared to the methylprednisolone and statin groups (p<0.01). IL-6 was higher in the statin-treated patients (p<0.05 versus methylprednisolone). Administration of methylprednisolone as well as statin treatment increased postoperative cardiac index, left ventricular stroke work index, decreased postoperative atrial fibrilation rate and reduced ICU stay (p<0.05 versus control). The number of patients requiring inotropic support was lower in the methylprednisolone group when compared with the other two groups (p<0.01). Tracheal intubation time was reduced in patients who received methylprednisolone (p<0.01 versus control). Preoperative administration of either methylprednisolone or atorvastatin reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine release, improved haemodynamics, decreased postoperative atrial fibrilation rate and reduced ICU stay in patients with significantly impaired cardiac function undergoing coronary revascularization. Treatment with methylprednisolone was associated with less inotropic support requirements and reduced mechanical ventilation time.

Group Music Intervention Reduces Aggression and Improves Self-esteem in Children with Highly Aggressive Behavior: A Pilot Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Lee, Myeong Soo; Lee, Jung-Sook

2010-01-01

We investigated the effects of group music intervention on aggression and self-esteem in children with highly aggressive behavior. Forty-eight children were allocated to either a music intervention group or an untreated control group. The music intervention group received 50 min of music intervention twice weekly for 15 consecutive weeks. The outcome measures were Child Behavior Checklist Aggression Problems Scale (Parents), Child Aggression Assessment Inventory (Teachers) and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale. After 15 weeks, the music intervention group showed significant reduction of aggression and improvement of self-esteem compared with the control group. All outcome measures were significantly lower in the music intervention group than prior to treatment, while there was no change in the control group. These findings suggest that music can reduce aggressive behavior and improve self-esteem in children with highly aggressive behavior. Music intervention is an easily accessible therapy for children and as such may be an effective intervention for aggressive behavior. Further more, objective and replicable measures are required from a randomized controlled trial with a larger sample size and active comparable control. PMID:18955314

Breath-holding spells may be associated with maturational delay in myelination of brain stem.

PubMed

Vurucu, Sebahattin; Karaoglu, Abdulbaki; Paksu, Sukru M; Oz, Oguzhan; Yaman, Halil; Gulgun, Mustafa; Babacan, Oguzhan; Unay, Bulent; Akin, Ridvan

2014-02-01

To evaluate possible contribution of maturational delay of brain stem in the etiology of breath-holding spells in children using brain stem auditory evoked potentials. The study group included children who experienced breath-holding spells. The control group consisted of healthy age- and sex-matched children. Age, gender, type and frequency of spell, hemoglobin, and ferritin levels in study group and brain stem auditory evoked potentials results in both groups were recorded. Study group was statistically compared with control group for brain stem auditory evoked potentials. The mean age of study and control groups was 26.3 ± 14.6 and 28.9 ± 13.9 months, respectively. The III-V and I-V interpeak latencies were significantly prolonged in the study group compared with the control group (2.07 ± 0.2 milliseconds; 1.92 ± 0.13 milliseconds and 4.00 ± 0.27 milliseconds; 3.83 ± 0.19 milliseconds; P = 0.009 and P = 0.03, respectively). At the same time, III-V and I-V interpeak latencies of patients without anemia in the study group compared with those of control group were significantly prolonged (2.09 ± 0.24 milliseconds; 1.92 ± 0.13 milliseconds and 4.04 ± 0.28 milliseconds; 3.83 ± 0.19 milliseconds; P = 0.007 and P = 0.01, respectively). Our results consider that maturational delay in myelination of brain stem may have a role in the etiology of breath-holding spells in children.

Gait Analysis of Symptomatic Flatfoot in Children: An Observational Study.

PubMed

Kim, Ha Yong; Shin, Hyuck Soo; Ko, Jun Hyuck; Cha, Yong Han; Ahn, Jae Hoon; Hwang, Jae Yeon

2017-09-01

Flatfoot deformity is a lever arm disease that incurs kinetic inefficiency during gait. The purpose of this study was to measure the degree of kinetic inefficiency by comparing the gait analysis data of a flatfoot group with a normal control group. The patient group consisted of 26 children (21 males and 5 females) with symptomatic flatfoot. They were examined with gait analysis between May 2005 and February 2014. Exclusion criteria were patients with secondary flatfoot caused by neuromuscular disorders, tarsal coalition, vertical talus, or others. Patients' mean age was 9.5 years (range, 7 to 13 years). The gait analysis data of the study group and the normal control group were compared. The mean vertical ground reaction force (GRF) in the push-off phase was 0.99 for the patient group and 1.15 for the control group ( p < 0.05). The mean ankle moment in the sagittal plane during the push-off phase was 0.89 for the patient group and 1.27 for the control group ( p < 0.05). The mean ankle power in the sagittal plane during the push-off phase was 1.38 for the patient group and 2.52 for the control group ( p < 0.05). The aforementioned results show that patients with pes planovalgus had a reduction of moment, power, and GRF in the push-off phase during gait. Symptomatic flatfeet had a moment inefficiency of 30% and power inefficiency of 45% during gait compared to feet with preserved medial longitudinal arches.

Effect of prenatal forced-swim stress and morphine co-administration on pentylentetrazol-induced epileptic behaviors in infant and prepubertal rats.

PubMed

Ebrahimi, Loghman; Saboory, Ehsan; Roshan-Milani, Shiva; Hashemi, Paria

2014-09-01

Prenatal exposure to stress and morphine has complicated effects on epileptic seizure. Many reports have shown an interaction between morphine- and stress-induced behavioral changes in adult rats. In the present study, effect of prenatal forced-swim stress and morphine co-administration on pentylentetrazole (PTZ)-induced epileptic behaviors was investigated in rat offspring to address effect of the interaction between morphine and stress. Pregnant rats were divided to four groups of control-saline, control-morphine, stressed-saline and stressed-morphine. In the stressed group, the rats were placed in 25 °C water on 17-19 days of pregnancy. In the morphine/saline group, the rats received morphine/saline on the same days. In the morphine/saline-stressed group, they were exposed to stress and received morphine/saline simultaneously. On postnatal day 15 (P15), blood samples were collected to determine corticosterone (COS) level. On P15 and P25, PTZ was injected to the rest of pups to induce seizure. Then, epileptic behaviors of each rat were individually observed. Latency of tonic-colonic seizures decreased in control-morphine and stressed-saline groups while increasing in stressed-morphine rats compared to control-saline group on P15. Duration of tonic-colonic seizures significantly increased in control-morphine and stressed-saline rats compared to stressed-morphine and control-saline rats on P15, but not P25. COS levels increased in stressed-saline group but decreased in control-morphine group compared to control-saline rats. Body weight was significantly higher in morphine groups than saline treated rats. Prenatal exposure to forced-swim stress potentiated PTZ-induced seizure in the offspring rats. Co-administration of morphine attenuated effect of stress on body weight, COS levels, and epileptic behaviors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effectiveness of a handwriting readiness program in head start: a two-group controlled trial.

PubMed

Lust, Carol A; Donica, Denise K

2011-01-01

This study measured skill improvement in prewriting skills, kindergarten readiness, first-name writing, and handwriting-nonspecific fine motor skills of students at Head Start who participated in Handwriting Without Tears-Get Set for School (HWT-GSS) programming. We conducted a two-group, nonrandomized controlled trial using a pretest-posttest design at a rural Head Start. The effectiveness of adding the HWT-GSS curriculum in one preschool classroom was compared with a control classroom. On posttesting, the experimental group made significant improvements compared with the control group in prewriting, kindergarten readiness, and fine motor skills. Both groups made significant improvements between pretesting and posttesting in prewriting, first name writing, and school readiness. Adding HWT-GSS to the Head Start program would be beneficial in improving handwriting readiness skills.

Higher cord blood levels of fatty acids in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Djelmis, Josip; Ivaniševic, Marina; Desoye, Gernot; van Poppel, Mireille; Berberovic, Edina; Soldo, Dragan; Oreskovic, Slavko

2018-05-01

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is associated with a disturbance of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. To determine whether type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) alters maternal and neonatal fatty acid levels. Observational study. Academic hospital. Sixty pregnant women (30 women with T1DM with good glycemic control and 30 healthy women) were included in the study. Maternal blood, umbilical vein and artery blood samples were collected immediately upon delivery. Following lipid extraction, the fatty acid profiles of the total fatty acid pool of maternal serum and umbilical vein and artery serum were determined by gas chromatography. Total fatty acid concentration in maternal serum did not differ between the study groups; it was significantly higher in umbilical vein serum of the T1DM group compared with that in the control group, median (interquartile range), T1DM: 2126.2 (1446.4 - 3181.3), control: 1073.8 (657.5 - 2226.0); (P<0.001) and in umbilical artery vein serum T1DM: 1805.7 (1393.1 - 2125.0), control: 990.0 (643.3 - 1668.0); (P<0.001). Composition of fatty acids in umbilical vein serum fatty acids showed significantly higher concentrations of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the T1DM group than in compared with those in the control group (P=0.001). Also cord blood levels of leptin (P<0.001), C-peptide (P<0.001), and insulin resistance (P=0.015) were higher in the T1DM group compared to controls. The neonates born to T1DM mothers had higher concentrations of total fatty acids, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids, compared to control group newborns.

Comparison of the effect of lavender and bitter orange on anxiety in postmenopausal women: A triple-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Farshbaf-Khalili, Azizeh; Kamalifard, Mahin; Namadian, Mahsa

2018-05-01

This trial compared the effects of lavender and bitter orange on anxiety in postmenopausal women. This trial was conducted in 2015. Eligible postmenopausal women were allocated into one of two intervention groups or a control group (n = 52 per group) in a 1:1:1 ratio using a randomized block design. Intervention groups received 500 mg capsules containing only bitter orange or lavender flower powder, and the control group received 500 mg capsules containing starch. The Spielberger's State -Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was used before and eight weeks after starting the intervention. Data analyses were based on intention to treat. A one-way ANOVA showed no significant difference in mean state anxiety (P = 0.254) and trait anxiety (p = 0.972) score among the three groups before the intervention. The general linear model, adjusted for baseline state and trait anxiety scores and confounding factors, showed significant differences among the groups in the mean state anxiety (P = 0.010) and trait anxiety (p = 0.041) score after eight weeks of treatment. Bitter orange significantly reduced the mean state-anxiety scores compared with the control group [Adjusted Mean Difference (aMD): -1.99 (95% Confidence Interval, -3.64 to -0.34)]. Lavender significantly reduced the mean state-anxiety scores compared with the control group as well [aMD: -2.45 (95% CI -4.13 to -0.77)] and Bitter orange significantly reduced the mean trait-anxiety scores compared with the control group [aMD: -1.76 (95% CI -3.45 to -0.06)]. Lavender significantly reduced the mean trait-anxiety scores compared with the control group as well [aMD: -2.05 (95% CI -3.76 to -0.33)]. There was no significant difference between bitter orange and lavender groups after intervention in the mean trait-anxiety (p = 0.731) or state-anxiety (p = 0.578) scores. The positive effect of bitter orange and lavender on anxiety in postmenopausal women suggests that they can be used to decrease anxiety in such women. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative study of hydroxyapatite from eggshells and synthetic hydroxyapatite for bone regeneration.

PubMed

Lee, Sang-Woon; Kim, Seong-Gon; Balázsi, Csaba; Chae, Weon-Sik; Lee, Hee-Ok

2012-03-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical properties of synthetic hydroxyapatite (sHA) and hydroxyapatite from eggshells (eHA) by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) and to compare the regenerative ability of the bone using sHA and eHA in a rabbit calvarial defect model. FT-IR and XRD were used to compare the physical properties of sHA and eHA. sHA was purchased from Sigma, and eHA was kindly donated from the Hungarian academy of science. Sixteen New Zealand white rabbits were used for the animal study. After the formation of a bilateral parietal bony defect (diameter 8.0 mm), either sHA or eHA was grafted into the defect. The defect in the control was left unfilled. Bone regeneration was evaluated by histomorphometry at 4 and 8 weeks after the operation. The peak broadening of the XRD experiments were in agreement with scanning electron microscope observation; the sHA had a smaller granule size than the eHA. The eHA had impurities phases of CaO (International Center for Diffraction Data (ICDD) 075-0264) and Ca(OH)(2) (ICDD 072-0156). Total new bone was 17.11 ± 10.24% in the control group, 28.81 ± 12.63% in sHA group, and 25.68 ± 10.89% in eHA group at 4 weeks after the operation. The difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Total new bone at 8 weeks after the operation was 27.50 ± 10.89% in the control group, 38.62 ± 17.42% in sHA group, and 41.99 ± 8.44% in the eHA group. When comparing the sHA group to the control group, the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). However, the eHA group was significantly different from the control group (P = .038). When comparing the eHA group to the sHA group, the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Both types of HA showed higher bone formation than the unfilled control. However, eHA had significantly higher bone formation than the unfilled control at 8 weeks after operation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial comparing two multimodal opioid-minimizing pain management regimens following transsphenoidal surgery.

PubMed

Shepherd, Deborah M; Jahnke, Heidi; White, William L; Little, Andrew S

2018-02-01

OBJECTIVE Pain control is an important clinical consideration and quality-of-care metric. No studies have examined postoperative pain control following transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary lesions. The study goals were to 1) report postoperative pain scores following transsphenoidal surgery, 2) determine if multimodal opioid-minimizing pain regimens yielded satisfactory postoperative pain control, and 3) determine if intravenous (IV) ibuprofen improved postoperative pain scores and reduced opioid use compared with placebo. METHODS This study was a single-center, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled intervention trial involving adult patients with planned transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary tumors randomized into 2 groups. Group 1 patients were treated with scheduled IV ibuprofen, scheduled oral acetaminophen, and rescue opioids. Group 2 patients were treated with IV placebo, scheduled oral acetaminophen, and rescue opioids. The primary end point was patient pain scores (visual analog scale [VAS], rated 0-10) for 48 hours after surgery. The secondary end point was opioid use as estimated by oral morphine equivalents (OMEs). RESULTS Of 136 patients screened, 62 were enrolled (28 in Group 1, 34 in Group 2). The study was terminated early because the primary and secondary end points were reached. Baseline characteristics between groups were well matched except for age (Group 1, 59.3 ± 14.4 years; Group 2, 49.8 ± 16.2 years; p = 0.02). Mean VAS pain scores were significantly different, with a 43% reduction in Group 1 (1.7 ± 2.2) compared with Group 2 (3.0 ± 2.8; p < 0.0001). Opioid use was significantly different, with a 58% reduction in Group 1 (26.3 ± 28.7 mg OME) compared with Group 2 (62.5 ± 63.8 mg OME; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Multimodal opioid-minimizing pain-management protocols resulted in acceptable pain control following transsphenoidal surgery. IV ibuprofen resulted in significantly improved pain scores and significantly decreased opioid use compared with placebo. Postoperative multimodal pain management, including a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medication, should be considered after surgery to improve patient comfort and to limit opioid use. Clinical trial registration no.: NCT02351700 (clinicaltrials.gov) ■ CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE Type of question: therapeutic; study design: randomized, controlled trial; evidence: Class III.

[The impact of preoperative stoma siting and stoma care education on patient's quality of life].

PubMed

Gulbiniene, Jurgita; Markelis, Rytis; Tamelis, Algimantas; Saladzinskas, Zilvinas

2004-01-01

The aim of study was to assess if preoperative stoma selection and adequate patient's teaching can affect the postoperative patient's quality of life. The study was performed in two university hospitals of Lithuania: Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital and Kaunas Oncology Hospital. Patients were divided into three groups. Patients were asked to answer the questionnaire the day before the stoma creation operation and two months after the operation. Questionnaires EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-CR38 and 10 supplementary questions were used. The results of the study show that following the stoma operation, when compared with preoperative results, general quality of life did not change significantly in groups I and II. Patients who received adequate education and preoperative stoma siting had better emotional functioning and less gastrointestinal problems. The financial problems of the patients in group I were significantly less than in the control group. Patients who received the adequate teaching without preoperative stoma selection experience better sexual satisfaction compared with control group. Stoma related problems were less in group I and II when comparing with the control group. The quality of the patients' teaching, adequacy and comfort of stoma site and satisfaction with the medical staff were significantly better in the group I and group II when compared to control group. Moreover, these results were significantly higher in the group I than in group II. CONCLUSIONS. The teaching the patients preoperatively and postoperative proceeding helps them to gain better experience in self stoma care hence reducing the psychological, physical, emotional, social and sexual problems.

Effects of Mind-Body Training on Personality and Behavioral Activation and Inhibition System According to BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism.

PubMed

Jung, Ye-Ha; Lee, Ul Soon; Jang, Joon Hwan; Kang, Do-Hyung

2016-05-01

It has been known that mind-body training (MBT) can affect personality and behavior system as well as emotional well-being, but different effects of MBT on them has not been reported according to BDNF genetic polymorphism. Healthy subjects consisted of 64 subjects and the MBT group who practiced meditation regularly consisted of 72 practitioners. Participants completed neuroticism-extraversion-openness (NEO) Five-Factor Inventory and Behavioral Activation System/Behavioral Inhibition System (BAS/BIS) scales. All subjects were genotyped for the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism. In the same genotypes of the BDNF Val/Val+Val/Met group, MBT group showed the increased Extraversion (p=0.033) and the increased Openness to Experience (p=0.004) compared to the control group. Also, in the same Met/Met carriers, MBT group exhibited the increase of Extraversion (p=0.008), the reduction of Neuroticism (p=0.002), and the increase of Openness to Experience (p=0.008) compared to the control group. In the same genotypes of the BDNF Val/Val+Val/Met group, MBT group showed the decreased BAS-Reward Responsiveness (p=0.016) and the decrease of BIS (p=0.004) compared to the control group. In the BDNF Met/Met group, MBT group increased BAS-Fun Seeking (p=0.045) and decreased BIS (p=0.013) compared to the control group. MBT would differently contribute to NEO personality and BAS/BIS according to BDNF genetic polymorphism, compensating for different vulnerable traits based on each genotype.

A Cognitive Behavioral Smoking Abstinence Intervention for Adults with Chronic Pain: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

PubMed Central

Hooten, W. Michael; Townsend, Cynthia O.; Hays, J. Taylor; Ebnet, Kaye L.; Gauvin, Thomas R.; Gehin, Jessica M.; Laures, Heidi J.; Patten, Christi A.; Warner, David O.

2015-01-01

Current evidence suggests it may be difficult for patients with chronic pain to quit smoking and, based on previous formative work, a 7-session individual and group-based cognitive behavioral (CB) intervention was developed. The primary aim of this randomized controlled pilot trial was to test the hypothesis that abstinence at month 6 would be greater among patients with chronic pain who received the CB intervention compared to a control condition. Upon admission to a 3-week interdisciplinary pain treatment (IPT) program, patients were randomized to receive the CB intervention (n = 30) or the control condition (n = 30). The 7-day point prevalence of self-reported smoking status was assessed at week 3 (upon completion of the 3-week IPT program) and at month 6 in an intent-to-treat analysis. At week 3, 30% (n=9) of patients in the CB condition were abstinent from smoking compared to 10% (n=3) in the control group (P=.104). At month 6, 20% (n=6) of patients who received the CB intervention were abstinent compared to none in the control group (P=.024). At week 3, a significant group by time interaction effect was found where the CB patients experienced greater improvements in self-efficacy from baseline compared to the control group (P=.002). A greater proportion of patients randomized to the CB group completed the IPT program (P=.052). The findings of this pilot trial suggest that integration of a CB-based smoking abstinence intervention into ongoing pain therapy may be an effective treatment for smokers with chronic pain. PMID:24333035

Respiratory protection during simulated emergency pediatric life support: a randomized, controlled, crossover study.

PubMed

Schumacher, Jan; Gray, Stuart A; Michel, Sophie; Alcock, Roger; Brinker, Andrea

2013-02-01

Emergency pediatric life support (EPLS) of children infected with transmissible respiratory diseases requires adequate respiratory protection for medical first responders. Conventional air-purifying respirators (APR) and modern loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirator-hoods (PAPR-hood) may have a different impact during pediatric resuscitation and therefore require evaluation. This study investigated the influence of APRs and PAPR-hoods during simulated pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Study design was a randomized, controlled, crossover study. Sixteen paramedics carried out a standardized EPLS scenario inside an ambulance, either unprotected (control) or wearing a conventional APR or a PAPR-hood. Treatment times and wearer comfort were determined and compared. All paramedics completed the treatment objectives of the study arms without adverse events. Study subjects reported that communication, dexterity and mobility were significantly better in the APR group, whereas the heat-build-up was significantly less in the PAPR-hood group. Treatment times compared to the control group did not significantly differ for the APR group but did with the PAPR-hood group (261±12 seconds for the controls, 275±9 seconds for the conventional APR and 286±13 seconds for the PAPR-hood group, P < .05. APRs showed a trend to better treatment times compared to PAPR-hoods during simulated pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Study participants rated mobility, ease of communication and dexterity with the tight-fitting APR system significantly better compared to the loose-fitting PAPR-hood.

An evaluation of neuropeptide Y status in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis patients.

PubMed

Abuhandan, M; Calik, M; Almaz, V; Taskın, A; Cakmak, A; Selek, S

2013-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the neuropeptide Y values of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. The study comprised 38 patients diagnosed with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis at our clinic, who were being routinely followed-up, together with a control group of 36. Using the Risk and Haddad classification for clinical staging, 16 patients were determined as Stage II and 22 patients as Stage III. Neuropeptide Y values were measured by Enzyme Immunoassay methods. The neuropeptide Y values of the all patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis were found to be significantly high compared to the control group (p<0.01). The neuropeptide Y values of the Stage III group were found to be significantly high compared to the Stage II and control groups (p<0.05). The neuropeptide Y values of the Stage II group were not determined to be significant compared to the control group (p≤0.05). Neuropeptide Y can be considered a useful parameter to confirm diagnosis at advanced stages and to establish differences between stages in patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

Protective effects of vitamin E against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

PubMed

Saleh, Nermine K; Saleh, Hanan A

2010-02-01

To clarify the cardioprotective effects of a short course of vitamin E treatment (vit E) as compared with a nitric oxide donor, nitroglycerin (GTN) against ischemia-reperfusion induced heart injury in rats. This randomized control study was conducted in the Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt from 1st June to 31 August 2009. This work was undertaken on 28 female Wistar rats weighing 150- 200 gm. Rats were allocated into 4 groups; control group (non-treated), GTN-treated group (rats received GTN intraperitoneally 25 minutes before sacrifice, in a dose of 120 ug/kg body weight), vit E-treated group (rat received vit E by oral tubal feeding 16-20 hours before sacrifice, in a dose of 250 mg/rat), and vit E and GTN-treated group (rats received vit E and GTN as in both GTN-treated group and vit E -treated group). After sacrifice, the hearts were excised and perfused in a Langendorff preparation and subjected to 30 minutes global ischemia and reperfused for 30 minutes. Following reperfusion, heart tissues were used for assessment of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+, and for histological examination. Vitamin E treatment resulted in an enhanced post-ischemic recovery of systolic function in vit E-treated groups (vit E-treated group, and vit E and GTN-treated group) compared to the control group. Post-ischemic recovery of coronary flow was enhanced in the vit E-treated group compared to the GTN-treated group. Post ischemic tissue degeneration indicators: MDA, and NAD+ indicated a cardioprotective effect of vit E. Histological study revealed marked improvement of myocytes and mitochondrial structure in the vit E-treated group as compared with the control group. Preconditioning with vit E treatment afforded substantial recovery of post-ischemic contractile, and vascular functions compared to GTN treatment, the mechanism might involve less opening of mitochondrial permeability transition during postischemic reperfusion.

Coordination of deep hip muscle activity is altered in symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement.

PubMed

Diamond, Laura E; Van den Hoorn, Wolbert; Bennell, Kim L; Wrigley, Tim V; Hinman, Rana S; O'Donnell, John; Hodges, Paul W

2017-07-01

Diagnosis of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasing, yet the associated physical impairments remain poorly defined. This morphological hip condition can cause joint pain, stiffness, impaired function, and eventually hip osteoarthritis. This exploratory study compared coordination of deep hip muscles between people with and without symptomatic FAI using analysis of muscle synergies (i.e., patterns of activity of groups of muscles activated in synchrony) during gait. Fifteen individuals (11 males) with symptomatic FAI (clinical examination and imaging) and 14 age- and sex-comparable controls without morphological FAI underwent testing. Intramuscular fine-wire and surface electrodes recorded electromyographic activity of selected deep and superficial hip muscles. A non-negative matrix factorization algorithm extracted three synergies which were compared between groups. Information regarding which muscles were activated together in the FAI group (FAI group synergy vector) was used to reconstruct individual electromyography patterns and compare groups. Variance accounted for (VAF) by three synergies was less for the control (94.8 [1.4]%) than FAI (96.0 [1.0]%) group (p = 0.03). VAF of obturator internus was significantly higher in the FAI group (p = 0.02). VAF of the reconstructed individual electromyography patterns with the FAI or control group vector were significantly higher for the FAI group (p < 0.01). Following reconstruction, VAF of quadratus femoris was significantly more reduced in controls (p = 0.04), indicating greater between-subject variability. Coordination of deep hip muscles in the synergy related to hip joint control during early swing differed between groups. This phase involves movement towards the impingement position, which has relevance for the interpretation of synergy differences and potential clinical importance. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:1494-1504, 2017. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Nesfatin-1 alleviates extrahepatic cholestatic damage of liver in rats

PubMed Central

Solmaz, Ali; Gülçiçek, Osman Bilgin; Erçetin, Candaş; Yiğitbaş, Hakan; Yavuz, Erkan; Arıcı, Sinan; Erzik, Can; Zengi, Oğuzhan; Demirtürk, Pelin; Çelik, Atilla; Çelebi, Fatih

2016-01-01

Obstructive jaundice (OJ) can be defined as cessation of bile flow into the small intestine due to benign or malignant changes. Nesfatin-1, recently discovered anorexigenic peptide derived from nucleobindin-2 in hypothalamic nuclei, was shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects. This study is aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of nesfatin-1 on OJ in rats. Twenty-four adult male Wistar-Hannover rats were randomly assigned to three groups: sham (n = 8), control (n = 8), and nesfatin (n = 8). After bile duct ligation, the study groups were treated with saline or nesfatin-1, for 10 days. Afterward, blood and liver tissue samples were obtained for biochemical analyses, measurement of cytokines, determination of the oxidative DNA damage, DNA fragmentation, and histopathologic analyses. Alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels were decreased after the nesfatin treatment; however, these drops were statistically non-significant compared to control group (p = 0.345, p = 0.114). Malondialdehyde levels decreased significantly in nesfatin group compared to control group (p = 0.032). Decreases in interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels from the liver tissue samples were not statistically significant in nesfatin group compared to control group. The level of oxidative DNA damage was lower in nesfatin group, however this result was not statistically significant (p = 0.75). DNA fragmentation results of all groups were similar. Histopathological examination revealed that there was less neutrophil infiltration, edema, bile duct proliferation, hepatocyte necrosis, basement membrane damage, and parenchymal necrosis in nesfatin compared to control group. The nesfatin-1 treatment could alleviate cholestatic liver damage caused by OJ due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. PMID:27524109

Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Group Therapy Compared to the Usual Opioid Dependence Treatment.

PubMed

Imani, Saeed; Atef Vahid, Mohammad Kazem; Gharraee, Banafsheh; Noroozi, Alireza; Habibi, Mojtaba; Bowen, Sarah

2015-06-01

This study investigated the effectiveness of mindfulness-based group therapy (MBGT) compared to the usual opioid dependence treatment (TAU).Thirty outpatients meeting the DSM-IV-TR criteria for opioid dependence from Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS) were randomly assigned into experimental (Mindfulness-Based Group Therapy) and control groups (the Usual Treatment).The experimental group undertook eight weeks of intervention, but the control group received the usual treatment according to the INCAS program. The Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and the Addiction Sevier Index (ASI) were administered at pre-treatment and post-treatment assessment periods. Thirteen patients from the experimental group and 15 from the control group completed post-test assessments. The results of MANCOVA revealed an increase in mean scores in observing, describing, acting with awareness, non-judging, non-reacting, and decrease in mean scores of alcohol and opium in MBGT patient group. The effectiveness of MBGT, compared to the usual treatment, was discussed in this paper as a selective protocol in the health care setting for substance use disorders.

Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Group Therapy Compared to the Usual Opioid Dependence Treatment

PubMed Central

Imani, Saeed; Atef Vahid, Mohammad Kazem; Gharraee, Banafsheh; Noroozi, Alireza; Habibi, Mojtaba; Bowen, Sarah

2015-01-01

Objective: This study investigated the effectiveness of mindfulness-based group therapy (MBGT) compared to the usual opioid dependence treatment (TAU).Thirty outpatients meeting the DSM-IV-TR criteria for opioid dependence from Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS) were randomly assigned into experimental (Mindfulness-Based Group Therapy) and control groups (the Usual Treatment).The experimental group undertook eight weeks of intervention, but the control group received the usual treatment according to the INCAS program. Methods: The Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and the Addiction Sevier Index (ASI) were administered at pre-treatment and post-treatment assessment periods. Thirteen patients from the experimental group and 15 from the control group completed post-test assessments. Results: The results of MANCOVA revealed an increase in mean scores in observing, describing, acting with awareness, non-judging, non-reacting, and decrease in mean scores of alcohol and opium in MBGT patient group. Conclusion: The effectiveness of MBGT, compared to the usual treatment, was discussed in this paper as a selective protocol in the health care setting for substance use disorders. PMID:26877751

Cortical Thickness and Episodic Memory Impairment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

PubMed

Bizzo, Bernardo Canedo; Sanchez, Tiago Arruda; Tukamoto, Gustavo; Zimmermann, Nicolle; Netto, Tania Maria; Gasparetto, Emerson Leandro

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in brain cortical thickness of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with and without episodic memory impairment and healthy controls. We studied 51 patients divided in 2 groups (SLE with episodic memory deficit, n = 17; SLE without episodic memory deficit, n = 34) by the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test and 34 healthy controls. Groups were paired based on sex, age, education, Mini-Mental State Examination score, and accumulation of disease burden. Cortical thickness from magnetic resonance imaging scans was determined using the FreeSurfer software package. SLE patients with episodic memory deficits presented reduced cortical thickness in the left supramarginal cortex and superior temporal gyrus when compared to the control group and in the right superior frontal, caudal, and rostral middle frontal and precentral gyri when compared to the SLE group without episodic memory impairment considering time since diagnosis of SLE as covaried. There were no significant differences in the cortical thickness between the SLE without episodic memory and control groups. Different memory-related cortical regions thinning were found in the episodic memory deficit group when individually compared to the groups of patients without memory impairment and healthy controls. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Neuroimaging.

A randomized controlled trial of mindfulness meditation versus relaxation training: effects on distress, positive states of mind, rumination, and distraction.

PubMed

Jain, Shamini; Shapiro, Shauna L; Swanick, Summer; Roesch, Scott C; Mills, Paul J; Bell, Iris; Schwartz, Gary E R

2007-02-01

Although mindfulness meditation interventions have recently shown benefits for reducing stress in various populations, little is known about their relative efficacy compared with relaxation interventions. This randomized controlled trial examines the effects of a 1-month mindfulness meditation versus somatic relaxation training as compared to a control group in 83 students (M age = 25; 16 men and 67 women) reporting distress. Psychological distress, positive states of mind, distractive and ruminative thoughts and behaviors, and spiritual experience were measured, while controlling for social desirability. Hierarchical linear modeling reveals that both meditation and relaxation groups experienced significant decreases in distress as well as increases in positive mood states over time, compared with the control group (p < .05 in all cases). There were no significant differences between meditation and relaxation on distress and positive mood states over time. Effect sizes for distress were large for both meditation and relaxation (Cohen's d = 1.36 and .91, respectively), whereas the meditation group showed a larger effect size for positive states of mind than relaxation (Cohen's d =.71 and .25, respectively). The meditation group also demonstrated significant pre-post decreases in both distractive and ruminative thoughts/behaviors compared with the control group (p < .04 in all cases; Cohen's d = .57 for rumination and .25 for distraction for the meditation group), with mediation models suggesting that mindfulness meditation's effects on reducing distress were partially mediated by reducing rumination. No significant effects were found for spiritual experience. The data suggest that compared with a no-treatment control, brief training in mindfulness meditation or somatic relaxation reduces distress and improves positive mood states. However, mindfulness meditation may be specific in its ability to reduce distractive and ruminative thoughts and behaviors, and this ability may provide a unique mechanism by which mindfulness meditation reduces distress.

Top-Down Network Effective Connectivity in Abstinent Substance Dependent Individuals

PubMed Central

Regner, Michael F.; Saenz, Naomi; Maharajh, Keeran; Yamamoto, Dorothy J.; Mohl, Brianne; Wylie, Korey; Tregellas, Jason; Tanabe, Jody

2016-01-01

Objective We hypothesized that compared to healthy controls, long-term abstinent substance dependent individuals (SDI) will differ in their effective connectivity between large-scale brain networks and demonstrate increased directional information from executive control to interoception-, reward-, and habit-related networks. In addition, using graph theory to compare network efficiencies we predicted decreased small-worldness in SDI compared to controls. Methods 50 SDI and 50 controls of similar sex and age completed psychological surveys and resting state fMRI. fMRI results were analyzed using group independent component analysis; 14 networks-of-interest (NOI) were selected using template matching to a canonical set of resting state networks. The number, direction, and strength of connections between NOI were analyzed with Granger Causality. Within-group thresholds were p<0.005 using a bootstrap permutation. Between group thresholds were p<0.05, FDR-corrected for multiple comparisons. NOI were correlated with behavioral measures, and group-level graph theory measures were compared. Results Compared to controls, SDI showed significantly greater Granger causal connectivity from right executive control network (RECN) to dorsal default mode network (dDMN) and from dDMN to basal ganglia network (BGN). RECN was negatively correlated with impulsivity, behavioral approach, and negative affect; dDMN was positively correlated with impulsivity. Among the 14 NOI, SDI showed greater bidirectional connectivity; controls showed more unidirectional connectivity. SDI demonstrated greater global efficiency and lower local efficiency. Conclusions Increased effective connectivity in long-term abstinent drug users may reflect improved cognitive control over habit and reward processes. Higher global and lower local efficiency across all networks in SDI compared to controls may reflect connectivity changes associated with drug dependence or remission and requires future, longitudinal studies to confirm. PMID:27776135

Erythrocyte deformability and oxidative stress in inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Akman, Tulay; Akarsu, Mesut; Akpinar, Hale; Resmi, Halil; Taylan, Ebru; Sezer, Ebru

2012-02-01

Oxidative stress and reduced microvascular flow are important factors in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The increased oxidative stress reduces the erythrocyte deformability. However, in IBD, there are no studies in the literature which evaluate erythrocyte deformability. In our study, we investigated the effect of oxidative stress and erythrocyte deformability in IBD. Forty-three patients with active IBD, 48 patients with inactive IBD and 45 healthy controls were included. The erytrocyte deformability, malonyldialdehyde levels, glutation peroxidase and sulfhydryl levels were measured in peripheral venous blood samples. Erytrocyte malonyldialdehyde levels in both active and inactive IBD were significantly increased compared with control groups. Plasma glutation peroxidase levels did not show statistically significant difference between all groups. The decreased plasma sulfhydryl levels in active IBD were statistically significant compared with both the inactive IBD and the control group, but plasma sulfhydryl levels in inactive IBD group did not show statistically significant differences when compared with the control group. Elongation index values in both active and inactive IBD increased significantly compared with the control group. Statistically significant correlations were not found between the elongation index and glutation peroxidase, malonyldialdehyde, sulfhydryl levels in all groups. Our study is the first to evaluate the erythrocyte deformability in IBD. In our study, increased erytrocyte malonyldialdehyde levels and decreased plasma sulfhydryl levels manifested the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of the disease. It is thought that the increased erythrocyte malonyldialdehyde values cause the reduction in erythrocyte deformability.

Trauma-informed Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): A Randomized Controlled Trial with a Two-Generation Impact.

PubMed

Booshehri, Layla G; Dugan, Jerome; Patel, Falguni; Bloom, Sandra; Chilton, Mariana

2018-01-01

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) has limited success in building self-sufficiency, and rarely addresses exposure to trauma as a barrier to employment. The objective of the Building Wealth and Health Network randomized controlled trial was to test effectiveness of financial empowerment combined with trauma-informed peer support against standard TANF programming. Through the method of single-blind randomization we assigned 103 caregivers of children under age six into three groups: control (standard TANF programming), partial (28-weeks financial education), and full (same as partial with simultaneous 28-weeks of trauma-informed peer support). Participants completed baseline and follow-up surveys every 3 months over 15 months. Group response rates were equivalent throughout. With mixed effects analysis we compared post-program outcomes at months 9, 12, and 15 to baseline. We modeled the impact of amount of participation in group classes on participant outcomes. Despite high exposure to trauma and adversity results demonstrate that, compared to the other groups, caregivers in the full intervention reported improved self-efficacy and depressive symptoms, and reduced economic hardship. Unlike the intervention groups, the control group reported increased developmental risk among their children. Although the control group showed higher levels of employment, the full intervention group reported greater earnings. The partial intervention group showed little to no differences compared with the control group. We conclude that financial empowerment education with trauma-informed peer support is more effective than standard TANF programming at improving behavioral health, reducing hardship, and increasing income. Policymakers may consider adapting TANF to include trauma-informed programming.

Effects of a predefined mini-trampoline training programme on balance, mobility and activities of daily living after stroke: a randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Miklitsch, Claudia; Krewer, Carmen; Freivogel, Susanna; Steube, Diethard

2013-10-01

To investigate the effects of a predefined mini-trampoline therapy programme for increasing postural control, mobility and the ability to perform activities of daily living after stroke. Randomized non-blinded controlled pilot study. Neurological rehabilitation hospital. First-time stroke; age 18-80 years; independent standing ability for a minimum of 2 minutes. Patients were randomized into two groups: the mini-trampoline group (n = 20) received 10 sessions of balance training using the mini-trampoline over three weeks. The patients of the control group (n =20) participated 10 times in a group balance training also over three weeks. Postural control (Berg Balance Scale, BBS), mobility and gait endurance (timed 'up and go' test, TUG; 6-minute walk test, 6MWT) and the ability to perform activities of daily living (Barthel Index, BI). Measurements were undertaken prior to and after the intervention period. Both groups were comparable before the study. The mini-trampoline group improved significantly more in the BBS (P = 0.003) compared to the control group. Mean or median differences of both groups showed improvements in the TUG 10.12 seconds/7.23 seconds, the 6MWT 135 m/75 m and the BI 20 points/13 points for the mini-trampoline and control group, respectively. These outcome measurements did not differ significantly between the two groups. A predefined mini-trampoline training programme resulted in significantly increased postural control in stroke patients compared to balance training in a group. Although not statistically significant, the mini-trampoline training group showed increased improvement in mobility and activities of daily living. These differences could have been statistically significant if we had investigated more patients (i.e. a total sample of 84 patients for the TUG, 98 patients for the 6MWT, and 186 patients for the BI).

Disordered eating behaviour in young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Keane, S; Clarke, M; Murphy, M; McGrath, D; Smith, D; Farrelly, N; MacHale, S

2018-01-01

The combination of eating disorders and diabetes is associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to compare the prevalence of disordered eating behaviour (DEB) in young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus to a sample of non-diabetic controls, and to examine the relationship of DEB to glycaemic control. The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) was administered to 51 individuals aged 18-30 years attending an outpatient diabetic clinic in a large university teaching hospital. Glycaemic control was assessed by the glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c). The control group comprised a consecutive sample of 236 male and female students aged 18-30 years attending a university primary health care service. The mean global EDE-Q score for the diabetes group was 0.82 ± 1.1 (mean ± SD) and the mean for the control group was 1.4 ± 1.3 (mean ± SD). The diabetes group was significantly more likely to have a lower global EDE-Q score compared to the control group. There was no association between the global EDE-Q score of the diabetes group and HbA1c level. We did not find increased levels of disordered eating behavior (DEB) in young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus compared to a non-diabetic control sample.

Effects of mothers involved in dental health program for their children.

PubMed

Choi, Hye Seon; Ahn, Hye Young

2012-12-01

The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of mothers' involvement in a dental health program for their elementary school children. This study was a non-equivalent control group pre-post test design in which knowledge and behaviors related to dental health, perceived benefits and barriers, self-efficacy and plaque control scores were compared between the experimental group (n=26) for whom the dental health program included the direct involvement of the mothers, and the control group (n=24) for whom knowledge related to dental health was provided through brochures. Scores for the experimental group in which the mothers were involved in the dental health program were significantly higher for knowledge, behaviors in dental health, self-efficacy and plaque control compared to the control group. Results of this study suggest that mothers involvement in the dental health program is effective in reinforcing dental health enhancing behavior in elementary school children.

Topical N-acetylcysteine improves wound healing comparable to dexpanthenol: an experimental study.

PubMed

Oguz, Abdullah; Uslukaya, Omer; Alabalık, Ulas; Turkoglu, Ahmet; Kapan, Murat; Bozdag, Zubeyir

2015-04-01

In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of dexpanthenol and N-acetylcysteine on wound healing. The wound healing process is a multifaceted sequence of activities associated with tissue restoration process. A number of investigations and clinical studies have been performed to determine new approaches for the improvement of wound healing. A total of 30 rats were divided into 3 equal groups. A linear 2-cm incision was made in the rats' skin. No treatment was administered in the first (control) group. Dexpanthenol cream was administered to the rats in the second group and 3% N-acetylcysteine cream was administered to the rats in the third group. The wound areas of all of the rats were measured on certain days. On the 21st day, all wounds were excised and histologically evaluated. The epithelialization and granulation rates between the groups were revealed to be similar in microscopic evaluations. Although the fibrosis was remarkable in the control group as compared with the other groups, it was similar in N-acetylcysteine and dexpanthenol groups. Angiogenesis rate was remarkable in the N-acetylcysteine group compared with the others. In multiple-comparison analysis, Dexpanthenol and N-acetylcysteine groups had similar results in terms of wound healing rates (P < 0.05), which were both higher than in the control group (P > 0.05). The efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in wound healing is comparable to dexpanthenol, and both substances can be used to improve wound healing.

Topical N-Acetylcysteine Improves Wound Healing Comparable to Dexpanthenol: An Experimental Study

PubMed Central

Oguz, Abdullah; Uslukaya, Omer; Alabalık, Ulas; Turkoglu, Ahmet; Kapan, Murat; Bozdag, Zubeyir

2015-01-01

In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of dexpanthenol and N-acetylcysteine on wound healing. The wound healing process is a multifaceted sequence of activities associated with tissue restoration process. A number of investigations and clinical studies have been performed to determine new approaches for the improvement of wound healing. A total of 30 rats were divided into 3 equal groups. A linear 2-cm incision was made in the rats' skin. No treatment was administered in the first (control) group. Dexpanthenol cream was administered to the rats in the second group and 3% N-acetylcysteine cream was administered to the rats in the third group. The wound areas of all of the rats were measured on certain days. On the 21st day, all wounds were excised and histologically evaluated. The epithelialization and granulation rates between the groups were revealed to be similar in microscopic evaluations. Although the fibrosis was remarkable in the control group as compared with the other groups, it was similar in N-acetylcysteine and dexpanthenol groups. Angiogenesis rate was remarkable in the N-acetylcysteine group compared with the others. In multiple-comparison analysis, Dexpanthenol and N-acetylcysteine groups had similar results in terms of wound healing rates (P < 0.05), which were both higher than in the control group (P > 0.05). The efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in wound healing is comparable to dexpanthenol, and both substances can be used to improve wound healing. PMID:25583306

Sepsis induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) alters nucleotidase activities in platelets of rats.

PubMed

Pereira, Renata S; Bertoncheli, Claudia M; Adefegha, Stephen A; Castilhos, Lívia G; Silveira, Karine L; Rezer, João Felipe P; Doleski, Pedro H; Abdalla, Fátima H; Santos, Karen F; Leal, Claudio A M; Santos, Roberto C V; Casali, Emerson A; Moritz, Cesar E J; Stainki, Daniel R; Leal, Daniela B R

2017-10-01

Sepsis is a potentially lethal condition, and it is associated with platelet alterations. The present study sought to investigate the activity of ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase), E-5'-nucleotidase, and ecto-adenosine deaminase (E-ADA) in the platelets of rats that were induced with sepsis. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups of ten animals each: a negative control group (normal; NC); a group that underwent surgical procedures (sham); and a group that underwent cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). The induction of sepsis was confirmed by bacteremia, and the causative pathogen identified was Escherichia coli. Hematological parameters showed leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia in animals in the septic group. The results also revealed that there were significant (p < 0.05) increases in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) hydrolyses, and in the deamination of adenosine in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Conversely, ADP hydrolysis was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Purine levels were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in serum samples from control, sham, and CLP groups. Increased concentrations of ATP, adenosine, and inosine were found in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Conversely, the concentrations of ADP and AMP in the CPL group were not significantly altered. We suggest that alterations in hematological parameters, nucleotide hydrolysis in platelets, and nucleotide concentrations in serum samples of rats with induced sepsis may be related to thromboembolic events. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effects of topical agent (kelo-cote or contractubex) massage on the thickness of post-burn scar tissue formed in rats.

PubMed

Ko, Won Jin; Na, Young Cheon; Suh, Bum Sin; Kim, Hyeon A; Heo, Woo Hoe; Choi, Gum Ha; Lee, Seo Ul

2013-11-01

We conducted an experimental study to compare the effect of massage using topical agents (Kelo-cote or Contractubex) on scar formation by massaging the healed burn wound on the dorsal area of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Four areas of second degree contact burn were made on the dorsal area of each of 15 SD rats, using a soldering iron 15 mm in diameter. After gross epithelialization in the defect, 15 SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: the Kelo-cote group, Contractubex group, Vaseline group, and control group. Rats in three of the groups (all but the Control group) were massaged twice per day for 5 minutes each day, while those in the Control group were left unattended. For histologic analysis, we performed a biopsy and evaluated the thickness of scar tissue. In the Kelo-cote and Contractubex groups, scar tissue thicknesses showed a significant decrease, compared with the Vaseline and control groups. However, no significant differences were observed between the Kelo-cote and Contractubex groups. In the Vaseline group, scar tissue thicknesses showed a significant decrease, compared with the control groups. The findings of this study suggest that massage using a topical agent is helpful in the prevention of scar formation and that massage only with lubricant (no use of a topical agent) also has a considerable effect, although not as much as the use of a topical agent. Thus, we recommend massage with a topical agent on the post-burn scar as an effective method for decreasing the scar thickness.

The role of motivation in distracting attention away from pain: an experimental study.

PubMed

Verhoeven, Katrien; Crombez, Geert; Eccleston, Christopher; Van Ryckeghem, Dimitri M L; Morley, Stephen; Van Damme, Stefaan

2010-05-01

Research on the effectiveness of distraction as a method of pain control is inconclusive. One mechanism pertains to the motivational relevance of distraction tasks. In this study the motivation to engage in a distraction task during pain was experimentally manipulated. Undergraduate students (N=73) participated in a cold pressor test (CPT) and were randomly assigned to three groups: a distraction-only group performed a tone-detection task during the CPT, a motivated-distraction group performed the same task and received a monetary reward for good task performance, and a control group did not perform the tone-detection task. Results indicated that engagement in the distraction task was better in the motivated-distraction group in comparison with the distraction-only group. Participants in both distraction groups experienced less pain compared to the control group. There were no overall differences in pain intensity between the two distraction groups. The effect of distraction was influenced by the level of catastrophic thinking about pain. For low catastrophizers, both distraction groups reported less pain as compared to the non-distracted control group. This was not the case for high catastrophizers. For high catastrophizers it mattered whether the distraction task was motivationally relevant: high catastrophizers reported less intense pain in the motivated-distraction group, as compared to the non-distracted control group. We conclude that increasing the motivational relevance of the distraction task may increase the effects of distraction, especially for those who catastrophize about pain. Copyright 2010 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Predictive value of hippocampal MR imaging-based high-dimensional mapping in mesial temporal epilepsy: preliminary findings.

PubMed

Hogan, R E; Wang, L; Bertrand, M E; Willmore, L J; Bucholz, R D; Nassif, A S; Csernansky, J G

2006-01-01

We objectively assessed surface structural changes of the hippocampus in mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) and assessed the ability of large-deformation high-dimensional mapping (HDM-LD) to demonstrate hippocampal surface symmetry and predict group classification of MTS in right and left MTS groups compared with control subjects. Using eigenvector field analysis of HDM-LD segmentations of the hippocampus, we compared the symmetry of changes in the right and left MTS groups with a group of 15 matched controls. To assess the ability of HDM-LD to predict group classification, eigenvectors were selected by a logistic regression procedure when comparing the MTS group with control subjects. Multivariate analysis of variance on the coefficients from the first 9 eigenvectors accounted for 75% of the total variance between groups. The first 3 eigenvectors showed the largest differences between the control group and each of the MTS groups, but with eigenvector 2 showing the greatest difference in the MTS groups. Reconstruction of the hippocampal deformation vector fields due solely to eigenvector 2 shows symmetrical patterns in the right and left MTS groups. A "leave-one-out" (jackknife) procedure correctly predicted group classification in 14 of 15 (93.3%) left MTS subjects and all 15 right MTS subjects. Analysis of principal dimensions of hippocampal shape change suggests that MTS, after accounting for normal right-left asymmetries, affects the right and left hippocampal surface structure very symmetrically. Preliminary analysis using HDM-LD shows it can predict group classification of MTS and control hippocampi in this well-defined population of patients with MTS and mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE).

The Effects of Two Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Bromfenac 0.1% and Ketorolac 0.45%, on Cataract Surgery.

PubMed

Jung, Ji Won; Chung, Byung Hoon; Kim, Eung Kweon; Seo, Kyoung Yul; Kim, Tae-im

2015-11-01

To compare the additive effects of two types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bromfenac 0.1% or ketorolac 0.45%, relative to topical steroid alone in cataract surgery. A total 91 subjects scheduled to undergo cataract operation were randomized into three groups: Group 1, pre/postoperative bromfenac 0.1%; Group 2, pre/postoperative preservative-free ketorolac 0.45%; and Group 3, postoperative steroid only, as a control. Outcome measures included intraoperative change in pupil size, postoperative anterior chamber inflammation control, change in macular thickness and volume, and ocular surface status after operation. Both NSAID groups had smaller intraoperative pupil diameter changes compared to the control group (p<0.05). There was significantly less ocular inflammation 1 week and 1 month postoperatively in both NSAID groups than the control group. The changes in central foveal subfield thickness measured before the operation and at postoperative 1 month were 4.30±4.25, 4.87±6.03, and 12.47±12.24 μm in groups 1 to 3, respectively. In the control group, macular thickness and volume increased more in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), compared to those without DM. In contrast, in both NSAID groups, NSAIDs significantly reduced macular changes in subgroups of patients with or without DM. Although three ocular surface parameters were worse in group 1 than in group 2, these differences were not significant. Adding preoperative and postoperative bromfenac 0.1% or ketorolac 0.45% to topical steroid can reduce intraoperative miosis, postoperative inflammation, and macular changes more effectively than postoperative steroid alone.

Evaluating the Specificity of Cognitive Control Deficits in Schizophrenia Using Antisaccades, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Healthy Individuals With Poor Cognitive Control.

PubMed

Rodrigue, Amanda L; Schaeffer, David J; Pierce, Jordan E; Clementz, Brett A; McDowell, Jennifer E

2018-01-01

Cognitive control impairments in schizophrenia (SZ) can be evaluated using antisaccade tasks and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Studies, however, often compare people with SZ to high performing healthy people, making it unclear if antisaccade-related disruptions are specific to the disease or due to generalized deficits in cognitive control. We included two healthy comparison groups in addition to people with SZ: healthy people with high cognitive control (HCC), who represent a more typical comparison group, and healthy people with low cognitive control (LCC), who perform similarly on antisaccade measures as people with SZ. Using two healthy comparison groups may help determine which antisaccade-related deficits are specific to SZ (distinguish SZ from LCC and HCC groups) and which are due to poor cognitive control (distinguish the LCC and SZ groups from the HCC group). People with SZ and healthy people with HCC or LCC performed an antisaccade task during fMRI acquisition. LCC and SZ groups showed under-activation of saccade circuitry. SZ-specific disruptions were observed in the left superior temporal gyrus and insula during error trials (suppression of activation in the SZ group compared to the LCC and HCC group). Differences related to antisaccade errors may distinguish people with SZ from healthy people with LCC.

Comparison between exclusively school teacher-based and mixed school teacher and healthcare provider-based programme on basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation for secondary schools.

PubMed

Jiménez-Fábrega, X; Escalada-Roig, X; Miró, O; Sanclemente, G; Díaz, N; Gómez, X; Villena, O; Rodríguez, E; Gaspar, A; Molina, J E; Salvador, J; Sánchez, M

2009-09-01

To compare two teaching methodologies for PROCES (a basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (b-CPR) programme for secondary school students): one exclusively performed by school teachers (study group) and another by a mixed team of school teachers and healthcare providers (control group). According to their preferences, teachers chose either method and students were consequently assigned to the control or study group. All participants took a 10 multiple-choice question exam regarding b-CPR skills twice: immediately after PROCES and one year later. Eight or more correct answers was considered satisfactory learning. Results between groups were compared. Associations between satisfactory learning and some student characteristics were analysed. Immediately after PROCES, 442 students (219 in the study group and 223 in the control group) took the exam. The percentage of satisfactory learning was not different: 67.1% in the study group and 64.6% in the control group. Immediate satisfactory learning was related to the absence of pending subjects in the control (odds ratio (OR) 2.31, 95% CI 1.16 to 4.64) and study (OR 5.87, 95% CI 1.22 to 28.20) groups. One year later, a greater percentage of retention of b-CRP skills was detected in the study group (57.1% vs 40.6%; p = 0.01). The absence of any pending subject (OR 6.86, 95% CI 1.83 to 25.66) was independently associated with better retention in the study group, but not the control group. Secondary school teachers, previously trained in b-CPR, can teach these skills effectively to 14-16-year-old students using PROCES. The retention of b-CPR skills is greater with this methodology compared with a more standardised programme.

Evaluation of plasma C-reactive protein levels in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease: A comparative study

PubMed Central

Sharma, Anupriya; Ramesh, Amitha; Thomas, Biju

2009-01-01

Background and Objectives: Circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are a marker of systemic inflammation and are associated with periodontal disease, a chronic bacterial infection associated with elevation of proinflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. CRP has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm delivery, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Furthermore, periodontal disease has been associated with increased risk of preterm low birth weight, low birth weight, and preterm birth. The present study was conducted to assess plasma CRP levels in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease; to evaluate the effect of periodontal therapy on the incidence of preterm delivery; and to compare the incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women with and without periodontal disease. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 pregnant women aged between 18-35 years with gestational age between 12-28 weeks were recruited and divided into three equal groups (control group, study group, treatment group) of 30 each. Blood samples were taken for estimation of C-reactive protein levels from all groups at 12-20 weeks of gestation, determined using ultrasensitive turbidimetric immunoassay (QUANTIA-CRP US). The treatment group comprised plaque control, scaling, and root planning and daily rinsing with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth before 28 weeks of gestation. Results: The mean value of C-reactive protein levels in subjects with periodontal disease was higher compared to control group i.e., 1.20 ± 0.247 mg/dl and 1.22 ± 0.250 mg/dl, respectively, compared to 0.713 ± 0.139 mg/ dl (P = 0.001). The mean value of CRP levels before treatment was greater than the mean value after treatment i.e., 1.22 ± 0.25 compared to 0.84 ± 0.189 (P < 0.001). The incidence of preterm delivery (< 37 weeks) was 31.7% in the periodontal disease group (study group) compared to 8.3% in the control group (P = 0.001). The incidence of preterm delivery in the treatment group was 15.0% compared to 31.7% in the nontreatment group (study group). Conclusion: The findings from the study suggest that periodontal disease in pregnant women is associated with increased C- reactive protein levels in early pregnancy, incidence of preterm delivery is higher in pregnant women with periodontal disease compared to healthy controls, periodontal therapy during pregnancy reduces plasma CRP levels and there is decrease in incidence of preterm delivery after periodontal therapy. PMID:20379412

Potent therapeutic effects of shouwu jiangqi decoction on polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance in rats.

PubMed

Wang, Li-hong; Wang, Xu; Yu, Xi-zhong; Xu, Wen-ting

2016-02-01

To investigate the effect of Shouwu Jiangqi Decoction (SJD) on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance (IR) in rats and to explore the underlining molecular mechanisms. A total of 51 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: control group (n=7), model group (n=8), SJD high-dose group (n=9), SJD medium-dose group (n=9), SJD low-dose group (n=9) and DMBG group (n=9). Radioimmunoassay was used to measure serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone concentrations and qRT-PCR and western blot were used to examine the expression levels of mRNA and protein respectively of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) p85α in different groups. FSH level significantly decreased in the model group compared with the normal control (P<0.01), and high-dose SJD and DMBG can significantly increase FSH level (P<0.01). LH level showed a mild increase without statistic significance in the model group compared with the control and different dosages of SJD had no significance effect on LH level, while DMBG can significantly decrease LH level (P<0.01). Testosterone level significantly increased in the model group compared with the control group (P<0.01), and high-dose SJD and DMBG can significantly decrease testosterone level (P<0.01). The expression of IRS-1 as well as PI3Kp85α were significantly decreased in the model group compared with the normal control group at both mRNA (P<0.001) and protein (P<0.01) level, and both high-dose SJD and DMBG can enhance IRS-1 and PI3K expression (P<0.05). SJD has potent therapeutic effects on PCOS with IR in rats. The therapeutic effects of SJD on IR and ovulatory dysfunction are probably achieved through correcting the defective insulin signaling transduction.

Biochemical and hemato-immunological parameters in juvenile beluga (Huso huso) following the diet supplemented with nettle (Urtica dioica).

PubMed

Binaii, Mohammad; Ghiasi, Maryam; Farabi, Seyed Mohammad Vahid; Pourgholam, Reza; Fazli, Hasan; Safari, Reza; Alavi, Seyed Eshagh; Taghavi, Mohammad Javad; Bankehsaz, Zahra

2014-01-01

The present study investigated the effects of different dietary nettle (Urtica dioica) levels on biochemical, hematological and immunological parameters in beluga (Huso huso). Fish were divided into 4 groups before being fed for 8 weeks with 0%, 3%, 6% and 12% of nettle. The blood samples were collected on week 4 and 8. The use of nettle did not significantly change the mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin, lymphocytes, eosinophils, albumin, glucose, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activity on week 4 and 8. After 4 weeks, the total red blood cell (RBC) and hematocrit (Ht) showed a significant increase in 12% nettle group compared to the 3% nettle and control groups but haemoglobin (Hb) had a significant change in 12% nettle compared to the control. At the same time was not found a significant change in the mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), total white blood cell (WBC), neutrophils, respiratory burst activity (RB), total immunoglobulin (Ig) and total protein (TP), triglyceride (Tri) and cholesterol (Chol). After 8 weeks, the fish treated with nettle exhibited significantly increase in neutrophil and Hb levels compared to the control and between treatment groups, 12% nettle group shown the highest Hb while RBC and Hct values significantly rose in fish fed by 12% compared to the control. Supplementing 6% and 12% nettle increased the WBC and MCHC compared to the other groups. The group fed 12% showed a highly significant difference in RB, TP and Ig after 8 weeks. However, Tri and Chol were significantly decreased in the juvenile beluga fed by the 6% and 12% nettle diet compared to the other groups. The results suggest that by using this herb there will be an improvement in hemato-biochemical parameters and immune function of juvenile beluga.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids Promote Macrophage Reverse Cholesterol Transport in Hamster Fed High Fat Diet

PubMed Central

Kasbi Chadli, Fatima; Nazih, Hassane; Krempf, Michel; Nguyen, Patrick; Ouguerram, Khadija

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate macrophage reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in hamster, a CETP-expressing species, fed omega 3 fatty acids (ω3PUFA) supplemented high fat diet (HFD). Three groups of hamsters (n = 6/group) were studied for 20 weeks: 1) control diet: Control, 2) HFD group: HF and 3) HFD group supplemented with ω3PUFA (EPA and DHA): HFω3. In vivo macrophage-to-feces RCT was assessed after an intraperitoneal injection of 3H-cholesterol-labelled hamster primary macrophages. Compared to Control, HF presented significant (p<0.05) increase in body weight, plasma TG (p<0.01) and cholesterol (p<0.001) with an increase in VLDL TG and in VLDL and LDL cholesterol (p<0.001). Compared to HF, HFω3 presented significant decrease in body weight. HFω3 showed less plasma TG (p<0.001) and cholesterol (p<0.001) related to a decrease in VLDL TG and HDL cholesterol respectively and higher LCAT activity (p<0.05) compared to HF. HFω3 showed a higher fecal bile acid excretion (p<0.05) compared to Control and HF groups and higher fecal cholesterol excretion (p<0.05) compared to HF. This increase was related to higher gene expression of ABCG5, ABCA1 and SR-B1 in HFω3 compared to Control and HF groups (<0.05) and in ABCG1 and CYP7A1 compared to HF group (p<0.05). A higher plasma efflux capacity was also measured in HFω3 using 3H- cholesterol labeled Fu5AH cells. In conclusion, EPA and DHA supplementation improved macrophage to feces reverse cholesterol transport in hamster fed HFD. This change was related to the higher cholesterol and fecal bile acids excretion and to the activation of major genes involved in RCT. PMID:23613796

Oral administration of eicosapentaenoic acid or docosahexaenoic acid modifies cardiac function and ameliorates congestive heart failure in male rats.

PubMed

Yamanushi, Tomoko T; Kabuto, Hideaki; Hirakawa, Eiichiro; Janjua, Najma; Takayama, Fusako; Mankura, Mitsumasa

2014-04-01

This study assessed the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on normal cardiac function (part 1) and congestive heart failure (CHF) (part 2) through electrocardiogram analysis and determination of EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid (AA) concentrations in rat hearts. In part 2, pathologic assessments were also performed. For part 1 of this study, 4-wk-old male rats were divided into a control group and 2 experimental groups. The rats daily were orally administered (1 g/kg body weight) saline, EPA-ethyl ester (EPA-Et; E group), or DHA-ethyl ester (DHA-Et; D group), respectively, for 28 d. ECGs revealed that QT intervals were significantly shorter for groups E and D compared with the control group (P ≤ 0.05). Relative to the control group, the concentration of EPA was higher in the E group and concentrations of EPA and DHA were higher in the D group, although AA concentrations were lower (P ≤ 0.05). In part 2, CHF was produced by subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline into 5-wk-old rats. At 3 d before monocrotaline injection, rats were administered either saline, EPA-Et, or DHA-Et as mentioned above and then killed at 21 d. The study groups were as follows: normal + saline (control), CHF + saline (H group), CHF + EPA-Et (HE group), and CHF + DHA-Et (HD group). QT intervals were significantly shorter (P ≤ 0.05) in the control and HD groups compared with the H and HE groups. Relative to the H group, concentrations of EPA were higher in the HE group and those of DHA were higher in the control and HD groups (P ≤ 0.05). There was less mononuclear cell infiltration in the myocytes of the HD group than in the H group (P = 0.06). The right ventricles in the H, HE, and HD groups showed significantly increased weights (P ≤ 0.05) compared with controls. The administration of EPA-Et or DHA-Et may affect cardiac function by modification of heart fatty acid composition, and the administration of DHA-Et may ameliorate CHF.

Effect of prophylactic topical hypotensive medications in reducing the incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension after phacoemulsification in dogs.

PubMed

Dees, D Dustin; Spahn, Kate J; Wagner, Lynsey Smith; Greller, Andrew; Paglia, Danielle; Armour, Micki D; Madsen, Richard

2017-11-01

To determine whether topical hypotensive medications prevent postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) after phacoemulsification. 52 client-owned dogs (88 eyes). Diabetic and nondiabetic dogs having undergone phacoemulsification were included in this retrospective study. The control group received no ocular hypotensive medications. The treatment groups received latanoprost, dorzolamide, or dorzolamide/timolol, beginning immediately after surgery, for 2-week duration. IOPs were obtained at initial examination followed by 4 h, 24 h, 7 days, and 14 days postoperatively. POH was defined as an IOP above 20 mmHg (POH20) or 25 mmHg (POH25). POH20 occurred in 33 of 87 eyes (37.93%), including 11 of 21 eyes (52.38%) in the control group, three of 23 eyes (13.04%) in the latanoprost group, eight of 15 eyes (53.33%) in the dorzolamide group, and 11 of 28 eyes (39.29%) in the dorzolamide/timolol group. Active treatment groups were compared to the control group, and the overall group effect was not significant (P = 0.11). POH25 occurred in 22 of 86 eyes (25.58%), including seven of 21 eyes (33.33%) in the control group, two of 23 eyes (8.70%) in the latanoprost group, five of 15 eyes (33.33%) in the dorzolamide group, and eight of 27 eyes (29.63%) in the dorzolamide/timolol group. Active treatment groups were compared to the control group, and the overall group effect was not significant (P = 0.31). Intraoperative use of intracameral tissue plasminogen activator significantly decreased the chances of POH25 (P = 0.0063). The latanoprost group had a substantially lower percentage of POH 20 and POH25 compared to the control and other active treatment groups, although statistical significance was not achieved. Intraoperative intracameral tissue plasminogen activator decreased the incidence of POH25. © 2017 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Children of mentally ill parents-a pilot study of a group intervention program.

PubMed

Christiansen, Hanna; Anding, Jana; Schrott, Bastian; Röhrle, Bernd

2015-01-01

The transgenerational transmission of mental disorders is one of the most prominent risk factors for the development of psychological disorders. Children of mentally ill parents are a vulnerable high risk group with overall impaired development and high rates of psychological disorders. To date there are only a few evidence based intervention programs for this group overall and hardly any in Germany. We translated the evidence based Family Talk Intervention by Beardslee (2009) and adapted it for groups. First results of this pilot study are presented. This investigation evaluates a preventive group intervention for children of mentally ill parents. In a quasi-experimental design three groups are compared: an intervention group (Family Talk Intervention group: n = 28), a Wait Control group (n = 9), and a control group of healthy children (n = 40). Mean age of children was 10.41 years and parental disorders were mostly depressive/affective disorders (n = 30), but a small number also presented with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (n = 7). Children of mentally ill parents showed higher rates of internalizing/externalizing disorders before and after the intervention compared to children of parents with no disorders. Post intervention children's knowledge on mental disorders was significantly enhanced in the Family Talk Intervention group compared to the Wait Control group and the healthy control group. Parental ratings of externalizing symptoms in the children were reduced to normal levels after the intervention in the Family Talk Intervention group, but not in the Wait Control group. This pilot study of a group intervention for children of mentally ill parents highlights the importance of psycho-education on parental mental disorders for children. Long-term effects of children's enhanced knowledge about parental psychopathology need to be explored in future studies.

Children of mentally ill parents—a pilot study of a group intervention program

PubMed Central

Christiansen, Hanna; Anding, Jana; Schrott, Bastian; Röhrle, Bernd

2015-01-01

Objective: The transgenerational transmission of mental disorders is one of the most prominent risk factors for the development of psychological disorders. Children of mentally ill parents are a vulnerable high risk group with overall impaired development and high rates of psychological disorders. To date there are only a few evidence based intervention programs for this group overall and hardly any in Germany. We translated the evidence based Family Talk Intervention by Beardslee (2009) and adapted it for groups. First results of this pilot study are presented. Method: This investigation evaluates a preventive group intervention for children of mentally ill parents. In a quasi-experimental design three groups are compared: an intervention group (Family Talk Intervention group: n = 28), a Wait Control group (n = 9), and a control group of healthy children (n = 40). Mean age of children was 10.41 years and parental disorders were mostly depressive/affective disorders (n = 30), but a small number also presented with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (n = 7). Results: Children of mentally ill parents showed higher rates of internalizing/externalizing disorders before and after the intervention compared to children of parents with no disorders. Post intervention children's knowledge on mental disorders was significantly enhanced in the Family Talk Intervention group compared to the Wait Control group and the healthy control group. Parental ratings of externalizing symptoms in the children were reduced to normal levels after the intervention in the Family Talk Intervention group, but not in the Wait Control group. Discussion: This pilot study of a group intervention for children of mentally ill parents highlights the importance of psycho-education on parental mental disorders for children. Long-term effects of children's enhanced knowledge about parental psychopathology need to be explored in future studies. PMID:26539129

Abdominal Incision Injection of Liposomal Bupivacaine and Opioid Use After Laparotomy for Gynecologic Malignancies.

PubMed

Kalogera, Eleftheria; Bakkum-Gamez, Jamie N; Weaver, Amy L; Moriarty, James P; Borah, Bijan J; Langstraat, Carrie L; Jankowski, Christopher J; Lovely, Jenna K; Cliby, William A; Dowdy, Sean C

2016-11-01

To investigate opioid use and pain scores associated with incisional injection of liposomal bupivacaine compared with bupivacaine hydrochloride after laparotomy for gynecologic malignancies. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare abdominal incision infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine with bupivacaine hydrochloride after modification of a pre-existing enhanced recovery pathway. Patients undergoing staging laparotomy or complex cytoreductive surgery under the updated pathway were compared with patients treated under the original pathway (historic controls). Endpoints included cumulative opioid use (primary outcome) in oral morphine equivalents and cumulative pain score. In the complex cytoreductive cohort, median oral morphine equivalents were lower in the liposomal bupivacaine group through 24 hours (30 compared with 53.5 mg, P=.002), 48 hours (37.5 compared with 82.5 mg, P=.005), and the length of stay (62 compared with 100.5 mg, P=.006). Fewer liposomal bupivacaine patients required intravenous rescue opioids (28.9% compared with 55.6%, P<.001) or patient-controlled analgesia (4.1% compared with 33.3%, P<.001). Cumulative pain score was no different between groups through 48 hours (161 compared with 158, P=.69). Postoperative nausea and ileus were less frequent in patients receiving liposomal bupivacaine. Median hospital stay was 5 days in both groups. In the staging laparotomy cohort, cumulative opioids and cumulative pain score were no different between groups (through 48 hours: 162 compared with 161, P=.62; 38 compared with 38, P=.68, respectively). Intravenous rescue opioids (15.3% compared with 28.6%, P=.05) and patient-controlled analgesia (1.4% compared with 8.3%, P=.05) were used less frequently in the liposomal bupivacaine group. Median hospital stay was 4 days in both groups. Despite the higher cost of liposomal bupivacaine, total pharmacy costs did not differ between groups. Abdominal incision infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine was associated with less opioid and patient-controlled analgesia use with no change in pain scores compared with bupivacaine hydrochloride after complex cytoreductive surgery for gynecologic malignancies. Improvements were also seen in patients undergoing staging laparotomy.

Effectiveness of Long and Short Bout Walking on Increasing Physical Activity in Women

PubMed Central

Serwe, Katrina M.; Swartz, Ann M.; Hart, Teresa L.; Strath, Scott J.

2011-01-01

Abstract Background The accumulation of physical activity (PA) throughout the day has been suggested as a means to increase PA behavior. It is not known, however, if accumulated PA results in equivalent increases in PA behavior compared with one continuous session. The purpose of this investigation was to compare changes in PA between participants assigned to walk daily in accumulated shorter bouts vs. one continuous session. Methods In this 8-week randomized controlled trial, 60 inactive women were randomly assigned to one of the following: (1) control group, (2) 30 minutes a day of walking 5 days a week in one continuous long bout (LB), or (3) three short 10-minute bouts (SB) of walking a day, all at a prescribed heart rate intensity. Walking was assessed by pedometer and self-reported walking log. Before and after measures were taken of average steps/day, resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), resting heart rate (RHR), six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and hip and waist circumference. Results Both walking groups significantly increased PA measured as steps/day compared to controls (p < 0.001), and no significant differences were found between LB and SB groups. The LB group demonstrated significant decreases in hip circumference and significant increases in 6MWT distance compared to the control group. Conclusions Both walking groups significantly increased PA participation. LB group participants completed more walking at a higher intensity than the SB and control groups, which resulted in significant increases in health benefits. PMID:21314449

Real-time video communication improves provider performance in a simulated neonatal resuscitation.

PubMed

Fang, Jennifer L; Carey, William A; Lang, Tara R; Lohse, Christine M; Colby, Christopher E

2014-11-01

To determine if a real-time audiovisual link with a neonatologist, termed video-assisted resuscitation or VAR, improves provider performance during a simulated neonatal resuscitation scenario. Using high-fidelity simulation, 46 study participants were presented with a neonatal resuscitation scenario. The control group performed independently, while the intervention group utilized VAR. Time to effective ventilation was compared using Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Providers' use of the corrective steps for ineffective ventilation per the NRP algorithm was compared using Cochran-Armitage trend tests. The time needed to establish effective ventilation was significantly reduced in the intervention group when compared to the control group (mean time 2 min 42 s versus 4 min 11 s, p<0.001). In the setting of ineffective ventilation, only 35% of control subjects used three or more of the first five corrective steps and none of them used all five steps. Providers in the control group most frequently neglected to open the mouth and increase positive pressure. In contrast, all of those in the intervention group used all of the first five corrective steps, p<0.001. All participants in the control group decided to intubate the infant to establish effective ventilation, compared to none in the intervention group, p<0.001. Using VAR during a simulated neonatal resuscitation scenario significantly reduces the time to establish effective ventilation and improves provider adherence to NRP guidelines. This technology may be a means for regional centers to support local providers during a neonatal emergency to improve patient safety and improve neonatal outcomes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Memory and phonological awareness in children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy compared to a matched control group.

PubMed

Northcott, Ellen; Connolly, Anne M; Berroya, Anna; McIntyre, Jenny; Christie, Jane; Taylor, Alan; Bleasel, Andrew F; Lawson, John A; Bye, Ann M E

2007-06-01

In a previous study we demonstrated children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy have normal intelligence and language ability. However, difficulties in verbal and visual memory and aspects of phonological awareness were found compared to normative data. To address the methodological limitations related to the use of normative data, we compared the same cohort of children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy to a matched control group. Controls (n=40) matched on age and gender to the Benign Rolandic Epilepsy cohort underwent neuropsychological assessment. The life functioning of the control group was assessed using a modified version of the Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE). The study confirmed the previous findings of memory and phonological awareness difficulties. In addition, the children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy had significantly lower IQ scores than the matched control group. Paired sample t-tests showed that on 8 of 11 QOLCE scales, children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy were rated by parents as having poorer life functioning compared to matched controls, including lower parental ratings on the subscales of memory and language. Benign Rolandic Epilepsy has an excellent seizure prognosis, but this study further emphasizes potential cognitive difficulties. Using an age and gender matched control group, the previous findings of memory and phonological awareness difficulties were validated. These problems in cognition were also identified by parents of children with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy as problematic and impacting upon the child's quality of life.

Comparison of Effectiveness of Betamethasone gel Applied to the Tracheal Tube and IV Dexamethasone on Postoperative Sore Throat: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Tabari, Masoomeh; Soltani, Ghasem; Zirak, Nahid; Alipour, Mohammad; Khazaeni, Kamran

2013-01-01

Introduction: Postoperative sore throat is a common complaint in patients with endotracheal intubation and has potentially dangerous complications. This randomized controlled trial study investigated the incidence of postoperative sore throat after general anesthesia when betamethasone gel is applied to a tracheal tube compared with when IV dexamethasone is prescribed. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and twenty five American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA)-class I and II patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery with tracheal intubation were randomly divided into three groups: betamethasone gel, intravenous (IV) dexamethasone, and control groups. In the post-anesthesia care unit, a blinded anesthesiologist interviewed all patients regarding postoperative sore throat at 1,6, and 24 hours after surgery. Results: The incidence of sore throat was significantly lower in the betamethasone gel group compared with the IV dexamethasone and control groups, 1, 6, and 24 hours after surgery. In the first day after surgery 10.7% of the betamethasone group had sore throat whereas 26.7% of the IV dexamethasone group and 30.7% of the control group had sore throat. Bucking before extubation was observed in 14(18.4%), 8(10.4%), and 9(12.2%) patients, in the IV dexamethasone, betamethasone gel, and control group, respectively. Conclusion: We concluded that wide spread application of betamethasone gel over tracheal tubes effectively mitigates postoperative sore throat, compared with IV dexamethasone application. PMID:24303443

Statins Affect Skeletal Muscle Performance: Evidence for Disturbances in Energy Metabolism.

PubMed

Allard, Neeltje A E; Schirris, Tom J J; Verheggen, Rebecca J; Russel, Frans G M; Rodenburg, Richard J; Smeitink, Jan A M; Thompson, Paul D; Hopman, Maria T E; Timmers, Silvie

2018-01-01

Statin myopathy is linked to disturbances in mitochondrial function and exercise intolerance. To determine whether differences exist in exercise performance, muscle function, and muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity and content between symptomatic and asymptomatic statin users, and control subjects. Cross-sectional study. Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center. Long-term symptomatic and asymptomatic statin users, and control subjects (n = 10 per group). Maximal incremental cycling tests, involuntary electrically stimulated isometric quadriceps-muscle contractions, and biopsy of vastus lateralis muscle. Maximal exercise capacity, substrate use during exercise, muscle function, and mitochondrial energy metabolism. Peak oxygen uptake, maximal work load, and ventilatory efficiency were comparable between groups, but both statin groups had a depressed anaerobic threshold compared with the control group (P = 0.01). Muscle relaxation time was prolonged in both statin groups compared with the control group and rate of maximal force rise was decreased (Ptime×group < 0.001 for both measures). Mitochondrial activity of complexes II and IV was lower in symptomatic statin users than control subjects and tended to be lower for complex (C) III (CII: P = 0.03; CIII: P = 0.05; CIV: P = 0.04). Mitochondrial content tended to be lower in both statin groups than in control subjects. Statin use attenuated substrate use during maximal exercise performance, induced muscle fatigue during repeated muscle contractions, and decreased muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity. This suggests disturbances in mitochondrial oxidative capacity occur with statin use even in patients without statin-induced muscle complaints. Copyright © 2017 Endocrine Society

Isometric Exercise for the Cervical Extensors Can Help Restore Physiological Lordosis and Reduce Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Alpayci, Mahmut; İlter, Server

2017-09-01

The aim of this study was to investigate whether isometric neck extension exercise restores physiological cervical lordosis and reduces pain. Sixty-five patients with loss of cervical lordosis were randomly assigned to exercise (27 women, 7 men; mean age, 32.82 ± 8.83 yrs) and control (26 women, 5 men; mean age, 33.48 ± 9.67 yrs) groups. Both groups received nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for 10 days. The exercise group received additional therapy as a home exercise program, which consisted of isometric neck extension for 3 mos. Neck pain severity and cervical lordosis were measured at baseline and at 3 mos after baseline. Compared with baseline levels, cervical lordosis angle was significantly improved in the exercise group (P < 0.001) but not in the control group (P = 0.371) at the end of 3 mos. Moreover, the exercise group was significantly superior to the control group considering the number of patients in whom cervical lordosis angle returned to physiological conditions (85.2% vs. 22.5%; P < 0.001). At the end of 3 mos, pain intensity was significantly reduced in both groups compared with baseline levels (for all, P < 0.001). Nevertheless, considering the change from baseline to month 3, the reduction in pain was about twice in the exercise group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Isometric neck extension exercise improves cervical lordosis and pain.

Comparison of Control Group Generating Methods.

PubMed

Szekér, Szabolcs; Fogarassy, György; Vathy-Fogarassy, Ágnes

2017-01-01

Retrospective studies suffer from drawbacks such as selection bias. As the selection of the control group has a significant impact on the evaluation of the results, it is very important to find the proper method to generate the most appropriate control group. In this paper we suggest two nearest neighbors based control group selection methods that aim to achieve good matching between the individuals of case and control groups. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is evaluated by runtime and accuracy tests and the results are compared to the classical stratified sampling method.

Prolonged effect of a mother-child caries preventive program on dental caries in the permanent 1st molars in 9 to 10-year-old children.

PubMed

Gomez, Santiago S; Emilson, Claes-Göran; Weber, Adriana A; Uribe, Sergio

2007-10-01

To evaluate the prevalence of caries in the permanent 1st molars of a group of 9 to 10-year-old children, and to determine the long-term effect of a mother-child preventive dental program (PDP) that started when the women were pregnant and continued until the children were 6 years of age. The permanent 1st molars of 37 children in the PDP group were evaluated for caries, both clinically and radiographically, and compared with those of a control group of 42 children who had not participated in the PDP. Of children in the PDP group, 70% were caries free compared to 33% in the control group (p<0.001). Of permanent 1st molars in the PDP group, 87% were caries-free compared to 61% in the control group (p<0.001). The mean DFS of the PDP children 10 years of age was 0.519+/-0.93 versus 1.57+/-1.38 for the control children (p=0.002). Examination of children 4 years after discontinuation of a caries preventive program reflected a long-term reduction in the DFS score of permanent 1st molars.

[Effects on couples' communication, intimacy, conflict and quality of life by foot massage between immigrants].

PubMed

Uhm, Dong-choon

2010-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects on immigrant couples' communication, intimacy, conflict and quality of life when using foot massage. The research design consisted of pre-and-post test consecutive experimental design through a nonequivalent control group. Data were collected July 6, 2009 to February 27, 2010. The 36 couples were divided into two groups, experimental and control with 18 couples in each group. Foot massage was applied twice a week for 6 weeks by the couples in the experimental group. There were statistically significant increases in communication (p=.011), intimacy (p<.001), quality of life (p=.017) between the couples in the experimental group compared to the control group. There was also a statistically significant decrease in conflict (p=.003) between the couples in the experimental group compared to the control group. Foot massage can be applied as a nursing intervention for improvement of marital relationship in immigrant couples.

Effects of magnesium sulphate on coagulation after laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery, measured by rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM® ).

PubMed

Na, H S; Shin, H J; Kang, S B; Hwang, J W; Do, S H

2014-12-01

We investigated the effects of magnesium sulphate on blood coagulation profiles using rotational thromboelastometry in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. Patients were randomly allocated to the magnesium group (n = 22) or control group (n = 22). The magnesium group received intravenous magnesium sulphate (50 mg.kg(-1) followed by a continuous infusion of 15 mg.kg(-1) .h(-1) ), whereas the control group received the same volume of isotonic saline. Mean (SD) postoperative serum magnesium levels were 1.60 (0.13) mmol.l(-1) in the magnesium group compared with 0.98 (0.06) mmol.l(-1) in the control group (p < 0.001). All maximum clot firmness values of ROTEM analysis were significantly lower on the third postoperative day in the magnesium group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). We conclude that ROTEM analysis demonstrated that intra-operative administration of intravenous magnesium sulphate reduces blood hypercoagulability in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. © 2014 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

Circadian blood pressure rhythm in normotensive offspring of hypertensive parents.

PubMed

Toker, Rabia Tutuncu; Yildirim, Ali; Demir, Tevfik; Ucar, Birsen; Kilic, Zubeyir

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to explore the circadian blood pressure (BP) rhythm using ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) in normotensive children with a family history of essential hypertension. Group 1 consisted of children with hypertensive mothers and/or fathers (n = 20), Group 2 consisted of children with hypertensive grandparents (n = 20), and Group 3 consisted of children with normotensive parents (n = 20). All participating children underwent a 24-h ABPM and echocardiography. Significantly higher systolic burden was found in children with hypertensive parents (p < 0.05) and grandparents (p < 0.05) compared to controls. Ambulatory BP measurements had a higher daytime systolic BP in Group 1 compared to controls (p < 0.05). While left ventricular (LV) posterior wall thickness was similar in Group 1 and Group 2, it was significantly higher in both of these groups compared to the controls. The LV mass index (LVMI) was significantly higher in Group 1 than in controls (p < 0.05). However, diastolic BP was significantly higher in dippers compared to non-dippers (p < 0.05). LV posterior wall thickness, interventricular septum thickness and LVMI were significantly higher among non-dippers compared to dippers (p < 0.05). In children with a family history of hypertension, a positive correlation between nocturnal systolic BP and LVMI was found, and increasing nocturnal BP values were associated with increasing LVMI (p < 0.01). In children with a family history of hypertension, target-organ damage may precede the clinical detection of hypertension, and in those with a nocturnal non-dipper status, a more marked effect on LVMI may occur.

Selective impairment of decision making under ambiguity in alexithymia.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Wang, Xue; Zhu, Yu; Li, Hongchen; Zhu, Chunyan; Yu, Fengqiong; Wang, Kai

2017-11-28

Alexithymia is characterised by difficulties identifying and describing emotions. Few studies have investigated how alexithymia influences decision-making under different conditions (ambiguity and risk). This study aimed to examine whether alexithymia contributes to impairment in decision-making. This study included 42 participants with high scores in the Chinese version of Toronto Alexithymia Scale (alexithymia group), and 44 matched subjects with low scores (control group). Decision-making was measured using the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) and the Game of Dice Task (GDT). The main findings of this study revealed selective deficits in IGT performance for the alexithymia group, while GDT performance was unimpaired when compared with the control group. In IGT, total netscores were lower for the alexithymia group compared to the control group, particularly with regard to block 5. Moreover, the alexithymia individuals selected significantly more adverse cards than the controls, indicating significant decision-making impairments. Alexithymia selectively influences decision-making under ambiguity.

Efficacy of combination therapy using anorganic bovine bone graft with resorbable GTR membrane vs. open flap debridement alone in the management of grade II furcation defects in mandibular molars – A comparative study

PubMed Central

Kannan, Anitha Logaranjani; Bose, Buvaneshwari Birla; Muthu, Jananni; Perumalsamy, Rajapriya; Pushparajan, Saravanan; Namasivayam, Ambalavanan

2014-01-01

Context: Invasion of the bifurcation and trifurcation of the multi-rooted teeth resulting in furcation involvement is one of the serious complications of periodontitis. Aim: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of combination therapy using anorganic bovine bone graft and resorbable guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane versus open flap debridement alone in the management of Grade II furcation defects in mandibular molars. Materials and Methods: The study included a total number of 20 sites in 10 patients with bilateral mandibular furcation defects, out of which 10 sites were treated as test group and 10 as control group. The test group was treated with combination therapy and the control group with open flap debridement alone. The parameters were recorded on 0 day (baseline), 90th day, and 180th day, which included vertical probing depth and horizontal probing depth of the furcation defect, clinical attachment level, and defect fill. Statistical Analysis Used: Mean and standard deviation were calculated for different variables in each study group at different time points. Mean values were compared by using Wilcoxon signed ranks test, after adjusting the P values for multiple comparison by using Bonferroni correction method. Results: Both the test and control groups showed a definitive improvement in clinical parameters, which was statistically significant. On comparison, the vertical probing depth showed significant reduction in the test group with a mean reduction of 3.1 ± 0.7 mm, when compared to the control group which showed a mean reduction of 1.5 ± 0.5 mm. The horizontal probing depth of furcation defects was also significantly reduced in the test group with a mean reduction of 2.2 ± 0.6 mm, when compared to the control group in which the mean reduction was 0.9 ± 0.3 mm. There was also significant gain in attachment level in the test group which showed a mean gain of 3.2 ± 0.6 mm, when compared to the control group which showed a gain of 1.2 ± 0.6 mm. Radiographic defect fill was found to be more in the test group with a mean gain of 2.0 ± 0.1 mm, when compared to the control group which showed a defect fill of 0.2 ± 0.1 mm. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that the combined use of anorganic bovine bone graft and resorbable GTR membrane is effective than open flap debridement alone in the treatment of mandibular grade II furcation defects. PMID:25452926

Free fatty acid suppositories are as effective as docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas in treating constipation in children.

PubMed

Ormarsson, Orri Thor; Asgrimsdottir, Gudrun Marta; Loftsson, Thorsteinn; Stefansson, Einar; Lund, Sigrun Helga; Bjornsson, Einar Stefan

2016-06-01

A well-documented, clinically proven per rectum treatment for childhood constipation is needed. This phase two clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of suppositories containing free fatty acids (FFA) compared with Klyx docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas. A randomised, controlled, single-blind study was undertaken on 77 children aged between one and 17 who presented to an emergency department in Iceland and were diagnosed with constipation. In stage one, 23 patients were randomised to receive lower dose FFA suppositories or Klyx (n = 33). In stage two, 21 different patients were randomised to receive higher dose suppositories and compared with the same Klyx control subjects. The suppositories were effective at bowel emptying in 39% of the group who received the lower FFA doses and 81% of the group receiving higher doses, compared with 88% in the Klyx control group. Symptom relief was obtained in 30% of the group receiving the lower doses and 71% of the group receiving the higher doses, compared with 73% in the control group. The higher dose FFA suppositories were as effective as the Klyx enemas with regard to bowel emptying and symptom relief and might provide an important and less invasive alternative for childhood constipation. ©2016 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Different Doses of Tripterygium Glycosides in the Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy: Effects on Blood Lipids.

PubMed

Wang, Wei

2018-06-07

The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of different doses of tripterygium glycosides (TG) in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The effect of TG on blood lipids and safety were also evaluated. Sixty patients with type 2 DN were randomly divided into three groups (n=20 per group): low-dose (30 mg/day TG), double-dose (60 mg/day TG) and control (placebo) groups, all three times daily for 6 months. The levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, urinary protein, plasma albumin and serum tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α were compared between the three groups. After treatment, urinary protein and TNF-α level significantly decreased in patients in the treatment groups, compared with the control group. This decrease was significantly larger in the double-dose group than in the low-dose group. However, there was no significant decrease in triglycerides and total cholesterol in the two treatment groups. Furthermore, plasma albumin was lower in the treatment groups than in the control group. The double dose of TG has improved clinical efficacy, compared with the low dose, and the same safety profile. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

E-health empowers patients with ulcerative colitis: a randomised controlled trial of the web-guided 'Constant-care' approach.

PubMed

Elkjaer, Margarita; Shuhaibar, Mary; Burisch, Johan; Bailey, Yvonne; Scherfig, Hanne; Laugesen, Birgit; Avnstrøm, Søren; Langholz, Ebbe; O'Morain, Colm; Lynge, Elsebeth; Munkholm, Pia

2010-12-01

The natural history of ulcerative colitis requires continuous monitoring of medical treatment via frequent outpatient visits. The European health authorities' focus on e-health is increasing. Lack of easy access to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) clinics, patients' education and understanding of the importance of early treatment at relapse is leading to poor compliance. To overcome these limitations a randomised control trial 'Constant-care' was undertaken in Denmark and Ireland. 333 patients with mild/moderate ulcerative colitis and 5-aminosalicylate acid treatment were randomised to either a web-group receiving disease specific education and self-treatment via http://www.constant-care.dk or a control group continuing the usual care for 12 months. A historical control group was included to test the comparability with the control group. We investigated: feasibility of the approach, its influence on patients' compliance, knowledge, quality of life (QoL), disease outcomes, safety and health care costs. 88% of the web patients preferred using the new approach. Adherence to 4 weeks of acute treatment was increased by 31% in Denmark and 44% in Ireland compared to the control groups. In Denmark IBD knowledge and QoL were significantly improved in web patients. Median relapse duration was 18 days (95% CI 10 to 21) in the web versus 77 days (95% CI 46 to 108) in the control group. The number of acute and routine visits to the outpatient clinic was lower in the web than in the control group, resulting in a saving of 189 euro/patient/year. No difference in the relapse frequency, hospitalisation, surgery or adverse events was observed. The historical control group was comparable with the control group. The new web-guided approach on http://www.constant-care.dk is feasible, safe and cost effective. It empowers patients with ulcerative colitis without increasing their morbidity and depression. It has yet to be shown whether this strategy can change the natural disease course of ulcerative colitis in the long term.

Preoperative immunonutrition suppresses perioperative inflammatory response in patients with major abdominal surgery-a randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Giger, Urs; Büchler, Markus; Farhadi, Jian; Berger, Dieter; Hüsler, Jürg; Schneider, Heinz; Krähenbühl, Stephan; Krähenbühl, Lukas

2007-10-01

Perioperative administration of immunoenriched diets attenuates the perioperative inflammatory response and reduces postoperative infection complications. However, many questions still remain unresolved in this area, such as the length of diet administration, diet composition, and the mechanisms involved. We performed an open, randomized, triple-arm study comparing the effect of two perioperative feeding regimens with a postoperative one. 46 candidates for major elective surgery for malignancy in the upper gastrointestinal tract were randomized to drink preoperatively either 1 L of an immunoenriched formula (Impact) for 5 days (IEF group) or 1 L of Impact plus (Impact enriched with glycine) for 2 days (IEF plus group). The same product as the patient received preoperatively was given to both groups for 7 days postoperatively. In the control group (CON group), patients only received Impact for 7 days postoperatively; there was no preoperative treatment. The main outcome measures were postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels. In the two preoperatively supplemented groups (treatment groups), perioperative endotoxin levels, CRP (postoperative day 7), and TNF-alpha (postoperative days 1 and 3) levels were significantly lower compared to the CON group (p < .01). Furthermore, the length of postoperative IMU/ICU stay (Impact 1.9 +/- 1.3 days; Impact plus 2.2 +/- 1.1 days; control group 5.9 +/- 0.8 days) and length of hospital stay (Impact 19.7 +/- 2.3 days; Impact plus 20.1 +/- 1.3 days; control group 29.1 +/- 3.6 days) were both reduced in the treatment groups compared to the control group. Infectious complications (Impact 2/14 (14%); Impact plus 5/17 (29%); control group 10/15 (67%)) also showed a trend toward reduction in the treatment groups. Perioperative administration of an immunoenriched diet significantly reduces systemic perioperative inflammation and postoperative complications in patients undergoing major abdominal cancer surgery, when compared with postoperative diet administration alone. A shortened preoperative feeding regimen of 2 days with Impact enriched with glycine (Impact plus) was as effective as Impact administered for 5 days preoperatively.

Comparative effect of Citrus sinensis and carbimazole on serum T4, T3 and TSH levels.

PubMed

Uduak, Okon Akpan; Ani, Elemi John; Etoh, Emmauel Columba Inyang; Macstephen, Adienbo Ologbagno

2014-05-01

There are previous independent reports on the anti-thyroid property of Citrus sinensis. This isoflavones and phenolic acid-rich natural agent is widely consumed as dietary supplement, thus the need to investigate its comparative effect with a standard anti-thyroid drug on T4, T3 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. To compare the effect of Citrus sinensis and carbimazole (CARB) on blood levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) and TSH. Male wistar albino rats weighing 100-150 g were employed in this research. The rats were randomly assigned to four groups of seven rats per group. Group I served as control and were administered distilled water while groups II-IV were administered with 1500 mg/kg of Citrus sinensis (fresh orange juice; FOJ), 0.1 μg/g of levothyroxine (LVT) and 0.01 mg/g of CARB, respectively, per oral once daily for 28 days. The animals were sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia and blood sample collected by cardiac puncture and processed by standard method to obtain serum. TSH, T4 and T3 were assayed with the serum using ARIA II automated radioimmunoassay instrument. The results showed that TSH level was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in LVT treated group compared with the FOJ group. T4 was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the FOJ and CARB groups compared with the control and LVT groups. LVT significantly increased T4 when compared with FOJ group. T3 was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the CARB group compared with the control. These findings suggest that FOJ alters thyroid hormones metabolism to reduce their serum levels with a compensatory elevations of TSH level in a direction similar to CARB.

Comparative effect of Citrus sinensis and carbimazole on serum T4, T3 and TSH levels

PubMed Central

Uduak, Okon Akpan; Ani, Elemi John; Etoh, Emmauel Columba Inyang; Macstephen, Adienbo Ologbagno

2014-01-01

Background: There are previous independent reports on the anti-thyroid property of Citrus sinensis. This isoflavones and phenolic acid-rich natural agent is widely consumed as dietary supplement, thus the need to investigate its comparative effect with a standard anti-thyroid drug on T4, T3 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Objective: To compare the effect of Citrus sinensis and carbimazole (CARB) on blood levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) and TSH. Materials and Methods: Male wistar albino rats weighing 100-150 g were employed in this research. The rats were randomly assigned to four groups of seven rats per group. Group I served as control and were administered distilled water while groups II-IV were administered with 1500 mg/kg of Citrus sinensis (fresh orange juice; FOJ), 0.1 μg/g of levothyroxine (LVT) and 0.01 mg/g of CARB, respectively, per oral once daily for 28 days. The animals were sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia and blood sample collected by cardiac puncture and processed by standard method to obtain serum. TSH, T4 and T3 were assayed with the serum using ARIA II automated radioimmunoassay instrument. Results: The results showed that TSH level was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in LVT treated group compared with the FOJ group. T4 was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the FOJ and CARB groups compared with the control and LVT groups. LVT significantly increased T4 when compared with FOJ group. T3 was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the CARB group compared with the control. Conclusion: These findings suggest that FOJ alters thyroid hormones metabolism to reduce their serum levels with a compensatory elevations of TSH level in a direction similar to CARB. PMID:25013255

Effect of dexamethasone on the onset time and recovery profiles of cisatracurium

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Background The effect of dexamethasone injection on cisatracurium-induced neuromuscular block was compared according to different injection time points. Methods One hundred seventeen patients were randomly assigned to three groups: 8 mg of dexamethasone injected intravenously 2–3 h before anesthesia (group A), just before anesthesia induction (group B), and at the end of surgery (control group). Three minutes after anesthesia induction, intubation was performed without neuromuscular blockers, and acceleromyography was initiated. All patients received 0.05 mg/kg cisatracurium; the onset time and recovery profiles were recorded. Results Eighty patients were finally enrolled. The onset time (median [interquartile range], seconds) was significantly hastened in group A (520.0 [500.0–560.0], n = 30) compared to that in group B (562.5 [514.0–589.0], n = 22) (P = 0.008) and control group (586.5 [575.0–642.5], n = 28) (P < 0.001). The onset time in group B was faster than the control group (P = 0.015). The recovery time [mean (95% CI) minutes] was significantly hastened in group A [28.5 (27.3–29.6)] compared to that in group B [32.3 (31.0–33.6)] (P < 0.001) and control group [30.9 (29.9–31.8)] (P = 0.015). The total recovery time was significantly hastened more in group A [47.1 (45.5–48.6)] than group B [52.8 (51.6–54.0) minutes] (P < 0.001) and control group [50.5 (48.7–52.3) minutes] (P = 0.008). Conclusions A single dose of 8 mg of dexamethasone hastened the onset and total recovery times of cisatracurium-induced block by approximately 15 and 9%, respectively if administered 2–3 h prior to surgery. PMID:28367286

Clinical evaluation of salivary indices and levels of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in patients treated with Occlus-o-Guide.

PubMed

Mummolo, S; Tieri, M; Tecco, S; Mattei, A; Albani, F; Giuca, M R; Marzo, G

2014-12-01

The aim of this study was to assess the changes over time associated with salivary indices and the presence of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in patients treated with Occlus-o-Guide. Two groups of patients were evaluated: a test group of 20 patients treated with Occlus-o-Guide and a control group of 20 patients not subjected to orthodontic treatment. Both groups were homogeneous for age and sex. We examined the levels of S. Mutans and Lactobacillus, the salivary flow, the buffer capacity of saliva and the Sillness and Loe plaque index (PI). The samples were taken at baseline (T0), after 3 months (T1) and after 6 months of treatment (T2). All data were compared using Student's t test. The percentage of patients with a level of Streptococcus mutans able to cause caries was decreased in the test group (T0 = 10%, T1 = %, T2 = 0%) compared to the control group (T0 = 0%, T1 = 5%, T2 = 35%), whereas the amount of Lactobacilli was different (test group T0 = 15%, T1 = 0%, T2 = 10%; control group T0 = 0%, T1 = 5%, T2 = 35%). The total salivary flow was increased in the test group (T0 = 47, T1 = 61, T2 = 61) compared to the control group, in which it had remained almost constant (T0 = 44, T1 = 45, T2 = 45). The buffer capacity of saliva was unchanged in both groups over time; the sum of PI-plaque indices was reduced in the test group (T0 = 3, T1 = 0, T2 = 2) compared to the control group (T0 = 0, T1 = 14, T2 = 27). Despite the presence of the Occlus-o-Guide device, patients are able to maintain a good level of oral hygiene, showing improvements of the examinated parameters at follow-ups.

Effects of maropitant citrate or acepromazine on the incidence of adverse events associated with hydromorphone premedication in dogs.

PubMed

Claude, A K; Dedeaux, A; Chiavaccini, L; Hinz, S

2014-01-01

Vomiting is a common complication associated with the use of hydromorphine for pre-emptive analgesia in dogs. The ideal anti-emetic protocol for prevention of this complication has not been established. Maropitant administered concurrently or before hydromorphone would reduce the incidence of vomiting, signs of nausea, ptyalism, and increased panting compared to administration of acepromazine or a 0.9% saline control. Sixty mixed-breed female dogs scheduled for ovariohysterectomy. Randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled experimental study. Dogs were assigned to 4 experimental groups with 15 dogs per group. All groups received 0.2 mg/kg of hydromorphone IM. Group "Control" received 0.1 mL/kg saline SC 30-45 minutes before hydromorphone, group "Marop1" received 1 mg/kg maropitant SC 30-45 minutes before hydromorphone, group "Ace" received 0.02 mg/kg IM acepromazine 30-45 minutes before hydromorphone, and group "Marop2" received 1 mg/kg SC maropitant concurrently with hydromorphone. A trained and blinded observer documented adverse events from the time hydromorphone was administered until the time dogs were induced for surgery. Marop1 had significantly less vomiting (0%) compared to Control (87%; P < .01) and Ace (53%; P < .01). Marop2 had significantly less vomiting (27%) compared to Control (P < .01). Marop1 had significantly greater incidence of ptyalism (73%) compared to Ace (P < .01; 20%). Ace showed significantly less panting (33%) compared to Marop2 (93%; P < .01). In healthy dogs, maropitant citrate administered before hydromorphone significantly decreases the incidence of vomiting in dogs but does not improve signs of nausea, ptyalism, or increased panting. Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Efficacy, safety, tolerability and price of newly approved drugs in solid tumors.

PubMed

Barnes, Tristan A; Amir, Eitan; Templeton, Arnoud J; Gomez-Garcia, Susana; Navarro, Beatriz; Seruga, Bostjan; Ocana, Alberto

2017-05-01

New anti-cancer drugs utilize diverse mechanisms of action. Here we evaluate their differential efficacy, safety, tolerability and price. Drugs approved for solid tumor treatment between 2000 and 2015 were identified and analyzed in subgroups: agents targeting oncogenes (group 1), anti-angiogenics (group 2), immunotherapy (group 3), and chemotherapy (group 4). Hazard ratios (HRs) were extracted from the registration trials and pooled in a meta-analysis. Odds ratios for toxic death, treatment discontinuation and grade 3-4 toxicity were compared to control groups. The Micromedex Red Book was used to calculate the monthly price. Analysis included 74 studies comprising 48,527 patients. Progression-free survival (PFS) was improved to a greater degree with groups 1 and 2 than with groups 3 and 4, (pooled HR: 0.54, 0.56, 0.63, and 0.76 for groups 1-4 respectively, p for difference <0.001). Compared to PFS, there was a lower magnitude of improvement overall survival in all groups and the degree of benefit was less for group 4 than for other groups (pooled HR: 0.77, 0.78, 0.68, and 0.83 for groups 1-4 respectively, p for difference=0.007). Compared to control groups in individual trials, immunotherapy was associated with better safety and tolerability than other groups. Drug prices have increased over time with no significant difference between groups. There was no meaningful correlation between pricing and efficacy. Compared to control groups, immunotherapeutics and drugs targeting oncogenes or angiogenesis improve efficacy to a greater degree than chemotherapy. Immunotherapy appears to have better safety and tolerability profile compared to other cancer therapies. Market price of drugs is not related to efficacy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of Photodynamic Therapy with Posterior Sub-Tenon Triamcinolone Acetonide on Predominantly Classic Choroidal Neovascularization: One-Year Results

PubMed Central

Sertoz, Ayzin Deniz; Ates, Orhan; Keles, Sadullah; Kocer, Ibrahim; Kulacoglu, Destan Nil; Baykal, Orhan

2008-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the results of monotherapy (photodynamic therapy) and combined therapy (photo-dynamic therapy with posterior sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Materials and Methods: Forty eyes from forty patients with diagnosed neovascular AMD were enrolled in this study during March-2005 – October-2008. All patients were grouped in either the study or the control group. Both the study and control groups consisted of 20 eyes from 20 patients. The study group was treated with posterior sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) along with their initial photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment. The control group members were treated with PDT alone. All patients were examined at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Visual acuity (VA), lesion size and number of treatment sessions were recorded during each examination. Results: The mean difference between pre- and post-treatment VA using the Snellen chart was +0.6 ± 1.7 in study group and −1.4 ± 1.7 in control. The difference for VA was significant in the study group as compared to control (p<0.05). The decrease in lesion size in the study group was 680±1195.2 µm, and the decrease was 32.75 ± 809.9 µm in the control. The difference with regard to the decrease in lesion sizes was significant in the study group as compared to the control (p<0.05). Total PDT treatment sessions were applied 1.2 times per patient in the study group and 1.9 times per patient in the control group. The difference was not significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: Our study showed that PSTA with PDT significantly reduces CNV growth, and improves VA at the 12-month follow-up in patients with AMD. PMID:25610041

Influence of different calcium concentrations in the diet on bone metabolism in growing dairy goats and sheep.

PubMed

Liesegang, A; Risteli, J

2005-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate, if different Ca concentrations in diets have an influence on bone mineral metabolism in growing goats and sheep. Twelve growing goats and sheep were divided into two groups. The two control groups received 6.1 g calcium/day (nG) and 6.7 g calcium/day (nS) for goat and sheep respectively. The other two groups were fed 17.7 g calcium/day (hG) and 18.5 g calcium/day (hS). Blood samples were taken 2, 4, 5 and 6 weeks after the start of the experiment. In serum Ca and vitamin D were determined and bone metabolism was measured using crosslinked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP), crosslaps, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin (OC). Bone mineral density (BMD) was quantified using quantitative computed tomography. Bone resorption marker (ICTP) concentrations were significantly different between both groups control sheep/control goat and hS/hG, but no significant differences were evident in the different feeding groups within one species. OC concentrations showed a similar course to ICTP. The goats had significantly higher concentrations compared with sheep. The 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D (VITD) concentrations in both hCa groups were significantly lower than in the control groups. BMD increased in the hCa groups compared with the control groups with the time, but significant differences were only evident in sheep in week 2. The hCa diet did not induce differences between the groups within one species for all bone markers. The control Ca diet seems to improve the active Ca absorption via VITD whereas the hCa diet leads to a higher amount of Ca apparently digested. Higher BMD was only observed in group hS compared with nS.

Comparative study between laser and conventional techniques for class V cavity preparation in gamma-irradiated teeth (in vitro study).

PubMed

Rasmy, Amr H M; Harhash, Tarek A; Ghali, Rami M S; El Maghraby, Eman M F; El Rouby, Dalia H

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare laser with conventional techniques in class V cavity preparation in gamma-irradiated teeth. Forty extracted human teeth with no carious lesions were used for this study and were divided into two main groups: Group I (n = 20) was not subjected to gamma radiation (control) and Group II (n=20) was subjected to gamma radiation of 60 Gray. Standard class V preparation was performed in buccal and lingual sides of each tooth in both groups. Buccal surfaces were prepared by the Er,Cr:YSGG laser (Waterlase iPlus) 2780 nm, using the gold handpiece with MZ10 Tip in non-contact and the "H" mode, following parameters of cavity preparation - power 6 W, frequency 50 Hz, 90% water and 70% air, then shifting to surface treatment laser parameters - power 4.5 W, frequency 50 Hz, 80% water and 50% air. Lingual surfaces were prepared by the conventional high-speed turbine using round diamond bur. Teeth were then sectioned mesio-distally, resulting in 80 specimens: 40 of which were buccal laser-treated (20 control and 20 gamma-irradiated specimens) and 40 were lingual conventional high-speed bur specimens (20 control and 20 gamma-irradiated specimens). Microleakage analysis revealed higher scores in both gamma groups compared with control groups. Chi-square test revealed no significant difference between both control groups and gamma groups (p=1, 0.819, respectively). A significant difference was revealed between all 4 groups (p=0.00018). Both laser and conventional high-speed turbine bur show good bond strength in control (non-gamma) group, while microleakage is evident in gamma group, indicating that gamma radiation had a dramatic negative effect on the bond strength in both laser and bur-treated teeth.

Comparison of Aerobic Preservation by Venous Systemic Oxygen Persufflation or Oxygenated Machine Perfusion of Warm-Ischemia-Damaged Porcine Kidneys.

PubMed

Kalenski, Julia; Mancina, Elina; Paschenda, Pascal; Beckers, Christian; Bleilevens, Christian; Tóthová, Ľubomíra; Boor, Peter; Gross, Dominik; Tolba, René H; Doorschodt, Benedict M

2016-01-01

The global shortage of donor organs for transplantation has necessitated the expansion of the organ pool through increased use of organs from less ideal donors. Venous systemic oxygen persufflation (VSOP) and oxygenated machine perfusion (OMP) have previously demonstrated beneficial results compared to cold storage (CS) in the preservation of warm-ischemia-damaged kidney grafts. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of VSOP and OMP for the preservation of warm-ischemia-damaged porcine kidneys using the recently introduced Ecosol preservation solution compared to CS using Ecosol or histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate solution (HTK). Kidneys from German Landrace pigs (n = 5/group) were retrieved and washed out with either Ecosol or HTK after 45 min of clamping of the renal pedicle. As controls, kidneys without warm ischemia, cold stored for 24 h in HTK, were employed. Following 24 h of preservation by VSOP, OMP, CS-Ecosol, or CS-HTK, renal function and damage were assessed during 1 h using the isolated perfused porcine kidney model. During reperfusion, urine production was significantly higher in the VSOP and OMP groups than in the CS-HTK group; however, only VSOP could demonstrate lower urine protein concentrations and fractional excretion of sodium, which did not differ from the non-warm-ischemia-damaged control group. VSOP, CS-Ecosol, and controls showed better maintenance of the acid-base balance than CS-HTK. Reduced lipid peroxidation, as reflected in postreperfusion tissue thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance levels, was observed in the VSOP group compared to the OMP group, and the VSOP and CS-Ecosol groups had concentrations similar to the controls. The ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione was higher in the VSOP, OMP, and CS-Ecosol groups than in the CS-HTK group and controls, with a higher ratio in the VSOP than in the OMP group. VSOP was associated with mitigation of oxidative stress in comparison to OMP and CS. Preservation of warm-ischemia-damaged porcine kidneys by VSOP was improved compared to OMP and CS, and was comparable to preservation of non-warm-ischemia-damaged cold-stored kidneys. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Role of Tranexamic Acid in Reducing Blood Loss in Vaginal Delivery.

PubMed

Roy, Priyankur; Sujatha, M S; Bhandiwad, Ambarisha; Biswas, Bivas

2016-10-01

Anti-fibrinolytic agents are used to reduce obstetric blood loss as the fibrinolytic system is known to get activated after placental delivery. To evaluate the efficacy of parenteral tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss during normal labour and to compare it with the amount of blood loss in patients who received placebo in the third stage of labour. Patients with spontaneous labour or planned for induction of labour and fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. In each patient, the pre-delivery pulse rate, blood pressure, Hb gm% and PCV% were noted. Labour was monitored carefully using a partogram. The study group received Inj. Oxytocin and Inj. Tranexamic acid. The control group received Inj. Oxytocin and Placebo injection. Immediately after delivery of the baby, when all the liquor was drained, the patient was placed over a blood drape-a disposable conical, graduated plastic collection bag. The amount of blood collected in the blood drape was measured. Then the patient was given pre-weighed pads, which were weighed 2 h post-partum. The blood loss was measured by measuring the blood collected in the drape and by weighing the swabs before and after delivery. The total number of patients studied was 100-equally distributed in both the groups. The age group of the patients and BMI were comparable. There was a significant increase in the pulse rate and decrease in blood pressure in the control group as compared with the study group. The post-delivery haemoglobin and haematocrit were significantly reduced in the control group as compared to the study group. The mean blood loss at the end of 2 h was 105 ml in the study group and 252 ml in the control group. There was a significant increase in the usage of uterotonics and also in the need for blood transfusion in the control group; 12 % of the patients in the control group had to stay for more than 3 days compared to 2 % in the study group. Tranexamic acid injection, an antifibrinolytic agent when given prophylactically after the delivery of the baby, by intravenous route appears to reduce the blood loss and maternal morbidity during normal labour effectively.

Social anxiety in physical activity participation in patients with mental illness: a cross-sectional multicenter study.

PubMed

De Herdt, Amber; Knapen, Jan; Vancampfort, Davy; De Hert, Marc; Brunner, Emanuel; Probst, Michel

2013-08-01

Social anxiety (SA) is a frequent comorbid condition in patients with mental illness. However, no data exist regarding SA in physical activity (PA) situations. The aim of the present study was to measure the level of self-reported SA in PA participation in patients with mental illness compared to healthy controls. Six hundred ninety-three patients with mental illness and 2,888 controls aged between 18 and 65 years completed the Physical Activity and Sport Anxiety Scale (PASAS). Group and gender differences in PASAS scores were tested by ANOVA and Scheffé's post hoc test. After controlling for gender (P < .05), the patient group (men 40.2 ± 14.4; women 49.2 ± 17) scored higher on the PASAS compared to control group (men 30.6 ± 12.2; women 37.3 ± 13.7). Within both groups, women reported higher levels of SA compared to men. Our data indicate that patients with mental illness reported higher levels of SA in PA situations compared to healthy control subjects. Health professionals should consider SA when trying to improve outcome and adherence of patients with mental illness to PA interventions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Effect of CP Metronomic Chemotherapy on RPMI 8226 Cell Proli-feration and Notch1/NF-κB Signaling Pathway In Vitro].

PubMed

Guo, Lie-Ping; Zhou, Fan; Shi, Hao-Tian; Chen, Hai-Min; Lin, Chen-Hui; Chen, Xiao-Ling; Hou, Jian

2016-10-01

To investigate the effect of metronomic chemotherapy of low dose phosphoramide combined with prednisolone (CP metronomic chemotherapy) on proliferation and apoptosis of RPMI 8226 cells, and to explore its regulating effect on Notch1/NF-κB signaling pathways. Experiment was divided into the DMSO control group, and the phosphoramide mustard (PM) group, the prednisolone group, the phosphoramide mustard plus prednisolone group (the CP group). RPMI 8226 cells were treated with different drugs, CCK-8 method was used to detect cell proliferation, flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle and apoptosis, reverse transcription PCR was used to detect Notch1 and NF-κB mRNA expression level. Compared with DMSO control group, RPMI8226 cell proliferation inhibition rate in all the PM, prednisolone and CP groups increased significantly with prolonging of time (r of 0.994,0.996,0.999, respectively, P<0.001). And at the same time, the inhibitory rate of cell proliferation was significantly different; the cell inhibitory rate in PM group was lowest, that in CP group was highgest, that in prednissone group was intermediate (P<0.01). After 48 hours, compared with the DMSO control group, the G 1 /G 0 cell proportion in treatment group increased significantly, S phase cell proportion decreased significantly, especially in PM and CP groups. The G 2 /M phase cell proportion increased in PM group, while reduced in the prednisolone and the CP groups. After 48 hours, compared with the DMSO control group, RPMI 8226 cell apoptosis rate increased as follow: in PM, pre-dnisolone and CP group(P<0.01). After 48 hours, compared with the DMSO control group, Notch1 and NF-κB mRNA expression in the prednisolone, the PM and the CP group decreased significantly(P<0.001). CP metronomic chemotherapy can significantly reduce RPMI 8226 cell proliferation, promote RPMI 8226 cell apoptosis, arrest RPMI 8226 cells mainly in the G 1 /G 0 phase, and significantly reduce Notch1 and NF-κB expression levels. It is suggested that Notch1/NF-κB signaling pathways is involved in CP metronomic chemotherapy for MM.

Cost analysis of the Communication and Low Mood (CALM) randomised trial of behavioural therapy for stroke patients with aphasia.

PubMed

Humphreys, Ioan; Thomas, Shirley; Phillips, Ceri; Lincoln, Nadina

2015-01-01

To evaluate the cost effectiveness of a behavioural therapy intervention shown to be clinically effective in comparison with usual care for stroke patients with aphasia. Randomised controlled trial with comparison of costs and calculation of incremental cost effectiveness ratio. Community. Participants identified as having low mood on either the Visual Analog Mood Scale sad item (≥50) or Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire Hospital version 21 (SADQH21) (≥6) were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to behavioural therapy or usual care using internet-based randomisation generated in advance of the study by a clinical trials unit. Outcomes were assessed at six months after randomisation, blind to group allocation. The costs were assessed from a service use questionnaire. Effectiveness was defined as the change in SADQH21 scores and a cost-effectiveness analysis was performed comparing the behavioural group with the usual care control group. The cost analysis was undertaken from the perspective of the UK NHS and Social Services. The greatest difference was in home help costs where there was a saving of £56.20 in the intervention group compared to an increase of £61.40 in the control group. At six months the SADQH21 score for the intervention group was 17.3 compared to the control group value of 20.4. This resulted in a mean increase of 0.7 in the control group, compared to a mean significant different decrease of 6 in the intervention group (P = 0.003). The Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio indicated that the cost per point reduction on the SADQH21 was £263. Overall the behavioural therapy was found to improve mood and resulted in some encouraging savings in resource utilisation over the six months follow-up. © The Author(s) 2014.

Sarcoptic mange in dogs: Its effect on liver, oxidative stress, trace minerals and vitamins.

PubMed

Beigh, S A; Soodan, J S; Bhat, A M

2016-08-30

The present study was aimed to determine the effect on liver, associated oxidative stress, trace element and vitamin alteration in dogs with sarcoptic mange. A total of 24 dogs with clinically established diagnosis of sarcoptic mange, divided into two groups, severely infested group (n=9) and mild/moderately infested group (n=15), according to the extent of skin lesions caused by sarcoptic mange and 6 dogs as control group were included in the present study. In comparison to healthy control hemoglobin, PCV, and TEC were significantly (P<0.05) decreased in dogs with sarcoptic mange however, significant increase in TLC along with neutrophilia and lymphopenia was observed only in severely infested dogs. The albumin, glucose and cholesterol were significantly (P<0.05) decreased and globulin, ALT, AST and bilirubin were significantly (P<0.05) increased in severely infested dogs when compared to other two groups. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly (P<0.01) higher in dogs with sarcoptic mange, with levels highest in severely infested groups. Activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (P<0.05) and catalase were significantly (P<0.01) lower in sarcoptic infested dogs when compared with the healthy control group. Zinc and copper levels in dogs with sarcoptic mange were significantly (P<0.05) lower when compared with healthy control group with the levels lowest in severely infested group. Vitamin A and vitamin C levels were significantly (P<0.05) lower in sarcoptic infested dogs when compared to healthy control. From the present study, it was concluded that sarcoptic mange in dogs affects the liver and the infestation is associated with oxidant/anti-oxidant imbalance, significant alteration in trace elements and vitamins. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The relationship between complaints of night-time heartburn and sleep-related gastroesophageal reflux.

PubMed

Orr, W C; Goodrich, S; Estep, M E; Shepherd, K

2014-01-01

This study investigated whether the complaint of night-time heartburn (NHB) as opposed to daytime heartburn (DHB) is a reliable reflection of actual sleep-related reflux events. Three groups of individuals were studied: individuals with complaints of NHB at least twice per week (n = 24), individuals with complaints of DHB (n = 23), and normal participants without any complaints of regular heartburn during the day or night (n = 25). All three groups were studied on one occasion with combined pH monitoring and polysomnography, and subjective questionnaires about sleep disturbance and sleep quality were given to all participants. The NHB group had significantly more sleep-related reflux events compared with both DHB and control groups (P < 0.01). DHB subjects had significantly (P < 0.05) more sleep-related reflux events than normal controls. Total acid contact time (ACT) was significantly (P < 0.05) elevated in the NHB group compared with both the DHB and control group. Sleep-related ACT was also significantly (P < 0.05) elevated in the NHB group compared with the other two groups, while upright (daytime) ACT was not significantly different. The NHB group was significantly (P < 0.05) worse regarding measures of both objective and subjective sleep quality. Subjects with exclusively DHB do have sleep-related reflux that is greater than normal controls. Subjects with NHB have significantly more sleep-related reflux, and both objective and subjective sleep abnormalities compared with normal controls. Complaints of NHB reflect sleep-related reflux events and may be indicative of a more clinically significant condition. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Ketamine Patient Controlled Analgesia for Acute Pain in Trauma Patients: A Randomized, Active Comparator Controlled, Blinded, Pilot Trial

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-11

patient- controlled analgesia per the primary treating team. Four subjects in the ketamine group and one subject in the hydromorphone group withdrew...occurred more frequently in the ketamine group , although this was not statistically significant (40% vs. 0%, P=0.090). Ketamine patient- controlled ...breakthrough IV morphine equivalents between groups . 4.0 RESULTS 4.1 Participants Due to unanticipated barriers to enrollment, including a

Silymarin Ameliorates Oxidative Stress and Enhances Antioxidant Defense System Capacity in Cadmium-Treated Mice.

PubMed

Farjad, Elham; Momeni, Hamid Reza

2018-10-01

Cadmium is an environmental pollutant which induces oxidative stress while silymarin as an antioxidant is able to scavenge free radicals. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of silymarin on oxidative stress markers and antioxidant defense system capacity in mice treated with cadmium chloride. In this experimental study, adult mice were divided into four groups as follow: i. Control, ii. Cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg b.w., s.c.), iii. Silymarin+cadmium chloride, and iv. Silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w., i.p.). Mice were treated with cadmium chloride for 24 hours and silymarin was administered 24 hours before the cadmium. Blood samples were then collected from the experimental groups and their sera were prepared. To investigate oxidative stress markers in the serum, the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiol groups (-SH) were evaluated. To measure the total antioxidant power in the serum, Ferric Reducing/ Antioxidant Power (FRAP) method was used. In addition, the activity of enzymes including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was assessed to evaluate serum antioxidant defense power. In the cadmium-treated group, the amount of MDA significantly increased as compared to the control group. In silymarin+cadmium group, silymarin significantly ameliorated the level of MDA compared to the cadmium group. In addition, cadmium significantly reduced serum FRAP, the activity of antioxidant defense system enzymes and thiol groups compared to the control. In silymarin+cadmium group, silymarin could significantly reverse the reduction of these markers compared to the cadmium group. Administration of silymarin alone caused a significant increase in serum FRAP, the activity of antioxidant defense system enzymes and thiol groups compared to the control group. Silymarin as a powerful antioxidant reverses the toxic effect of cadmium on the serum levels of lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant power, antioxidant defense system enzymes activity and thiol groups. Copyright© by Royan Institute. All rights reserved.

Impact on learning of an e-learning module on leukaemia: a randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background e-learning resources may be beneficial for complex or conceptually difficult topics. Leukaemia is one such topic, yet there are no reports on the efficacy of e-learning for leukaemia. This study compared the learning impact on senior medical students of a purpose-built e-learning module on leukaemia, compared with existing online resources. Methods A randomised controlled trial was performed utilising volunteer senior medical students. Participants were randomly allocated to Study and Control groups. Following a pre-test on leukaemia administered to both groups, the Study group was provided with access to the new e-learning module, while the Control group was directed to existing online resources. A post-test and an evaluation questionnaire were administered to both groups at the end of the trial period. Results Study and Control groups were equivalent in gender distribution, mean academic ability, pre-test performance and time studying leukaemia during the trial. The Study group performed significantly better than the Control group in the post-test, in which the group to which the students had been allocated was the only significant predictor of performance. The Study group’s evaluation of the module was overwhelmingly positive. Conclusions A targeted e-learning module on leukaemia had a significant effect on learning in this cohort, compared with existing online resources. We believe that the interactivity, dialogic feedback and integration with the curriculum offered by the e-learning module contributed to its impact. This has implications for e-learning design in medicine and other disciplines. PMID:22640463

[Protective effect of emodin pretreatment in young rats with intrahepatic cholestasis].

PubMed

Xiong, Xiao-Li; Yan, Su-Qi; Qin, Huan; Zhou, Li-Shan; Zhang, Ling-Ling; Jiang, Zhi-Xia; Ding, Yan

2016-02-01

To investigate the protective effect of emodin in young rats with intrahepatic cholestasis. A total of 120 young Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, model, and high-, medium-, and low-dose emodin groups, with 24 rats in each group. The rats in the control and model groups were given sodium carboxymethyl cellulose solution by gavage, while the other groups were given different doses of emodin solution by gavage. On the 5th day of experiment, alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT, 50 mg/kg) was applied by gavage to establish the model of intrahepatic cholestasis in all groups except the control group. At 24, 48, and 72 hours after gavage, 8 rats in each group were sacrificed. Colorimetry was used to measure the serum levels of total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), total bile acid (TBA), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in each group, and hematoxylin-eosin staining was applied to observe the morphological changes of the liver under a light microscope at different time points. Compared with the control group, the model group had significantly increased serum levels of TBIL, DBIL, TBA, ALP, GGT, ALT, and AST at the 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour time points (P<0.01). In the model group, the serum levels of TBIL, DBIL, TBA, ALT, and AST showed varying degrees of increase at 48 hours after establishment of model, compared with the values at 24 and 72 hours (P<0.05). At 24, 48, and 72 hours, the high-, medium-, and low-dose emodin groups had varying degrees of reductions in the serum levels of TBIL and TBA compared with the model group (P<0.05); the high- and low-dose emodin groups had significantly increased serum levels of TBA compared with the medium-dose emodin group (P<0.05). The model group had the most severe pathological changes at 48 hours. Compared with the model group, the high-, medium-, and low-dose emodin groups showed certain improvement in pathological changes of the liver at each time point, and the medium-dose emodin group had better improvement compared with the high- and low-dose emodin groups. Emodin can effectively improve ANIT-induced intrahepatic cholestasis in young rats, and medium-dose emodin shows the best effect.

[Effect of low-energy 633 nm red light stimulation on proliferation and reactive oxygen species level of human epidermal cell line HaCaT].

PubMed

Chen, Z Y; Li, D L; Duan, X D; Peng, D Z

2016-09-20

To investigate the changes of proliferative activity and reactive oxygen species level of human epidermal cell line HaCaT after being irradiated with low-energy 633 nm red light. Irradiation distance was determined through preliminary experiment. HaCaT cells were conventionally sub-cultured with RPMI 1640 culture medium containing 10% fetal calf serum, 100 U/mL penicillin, and 100 μg/mL streptomycin. Cells of the third passage were used in the following experiments. (1) Cells were divided into blank control group and 0.082, 0.164, 0.245, 0.491, 1.472, 2.453, 4.910, and 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation groups according to the random number table, with 3 wells in each group. Cells in blank control group were not irradiated, while cells in the latter 8 irradiation groups were irradiated with 633 nm red light for 10, 20, 30, 60, 180, 300, 600, and 1 200 s in turn. Cells were reirradiated once every 8 hours. After being irradiated for 48 hours (6 times) in irradiation groups, the proliferative activity of cells in 9 groups was determined with cell counting kit 8 and microplate reader (denoted as absorbance value). (2) Another batch of cells were grouped and irradiated as in experiment (1). After being irradiated for once in irradiation groups, cells in 9 groups were conventionally cultured for 60 min with detection reagent of reactive oxygen species. At post culture minute (PCM) 0 (immediately), 30, 60, and 120, reactive oxygen species level of cells was determined with microplate reader (denoted as absorbance value). (3) Another batch of cells were divided into blank control group, 0.082, 0.491, 2.453, and 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation groups, and positive control group. Cells in blank control group and positive control group were not irradiated (positive control reagent of reactive oxygen species was added to cells in positive control group), and cells in irradiation groups were irradiated as in experiment (1) for once. The expression of reactive oxygen species in cells of each group was observed by confocal laser scanning microscope. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, and t test. (1) Irradiation distance was 10 cm. Proliferative activity of cells in blank control group and 0.082, 0.164, 0.245, 0.491, 1.472, 2.453, 4.910, and 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation groups was 1.000, 1.116±0.031, 1.146±0.016, 1.162±0.041, 1.179±0.016, 1.207±0.016, 1.247±0.040, 1.097±0.059, and 0.951±0.118, respectively. Compared with that in blank control group, proliferative activity of cells in 0.082-2.453 J/cm(2) irradiation groups was significantly higher (with t values from -22.803 to -6.779, P values below 0.05). Proliferative activity of cells in 4.910 and 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation groups was similar to that in blank control group (with t values respectively -2.854 and 0.711, P values above 0.05). (2) Compared with that in blank control group, reactive oxygen species level of cells was significantly enhanced at PCM 0 and 30 in 0.164-2.453 J/cm(2) irradiation groups (with t values from -12.453 to -4.684, P<0.05 or P<0.01), while that showed no significant change in 0.082, 4.910, and 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation groups (with t values from -3.925 to -0.672, P values above 0.05). Compared with that in blank control group, reactive oxygen species level of cells was significantly enhanced at PCM 60 in 0.082-2.453 J/cm(2) irradiation groups (with t values from -11.387 to -4.717, P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with that in blank control group, reactive oxygen species level of cells was significantly enhanced at PCM 120 in 0.491-2.453 J/cm(2) irradiation groups (with t values from -10.657 to -6.644, P<0.05 or P<0.01). (3) Compared with that in blank control group, the expression of reactive oxygen species of cells was increased in 0.082, 0.491, and 2.453 J/cm(2) irradiation groups and positive control group. The expression of reactive oxygen species of cells in 9.810 J/cm(2) irradiation group was attenuated when compared with the expressions in the other irradiation groups. Reactive oxygen species expressed in mitochondria of cells in each group. Low-energy 633 nm red light can enhance the proliferation of human epidermal cell line HaCaT, and the effect is closely related to the increase of reactive oxygen species produced by mitochondria after being stimulated by red light irradiation.

Clinical Evaluation of Insulin like Growth Factor-I and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor with Alloplastic Bone Graft Material in the Management of Human Two Wall Intra-Osseous Defects

PubMed Central

Dixit, Jaya

2016-01-01

Introduction In recent years, emphasis on the use of growth factors for periodontal healing is gaining great momentum. Several growth factors showed promising results in periodontal regeneration. Aim This study was designed to compare the clinical outcomes of 0.8μg recombinant human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (rh-VEGF) and 10μg recombinant human Insulin Like Growth Factor-I (rh-IGF-I) with β-Tricalcium Phosphate (β-TCP) and Polylactide-Polyglycolide Acid (PLGA) membrane in two wall intra-osseous defects. Materials and Methods A total of 29 intra-osseous defects in 27 subjects were randomly divided into 3 test and 1 control group. Test group I (n=8) received rh-VEGF+ rh-IGF-I, Test group II (n=7) rh-VEGF, Test group III (n=7) rh-IGF-I and control group (n=7) with no growth factor, β-TCP and PLGA membrane was used in all the groups. Baseline soft tissue parameters including Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL), and Gingival Recession (GR) at selected sites were recorded at baseline and at 6 months. Intrasurgically, intra-osseous component was calculated as a) Cemento-Enamel Junction to Bone Crest (CEJ to BC), b) Bone Crest to Base of the Defect (BC to BD) at baseline and at re-entry. The mean changes at baseline and after 6 months within each group were compared using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. The mean changes for each parameter between groups were compared using Mann-Whitney U test. Results After 6 months, maximum mean PPD reduction occurred in test group I followed by test group II, III and control group. Similar trend was observed in CAL gain. Non-significant GR was present in test group I and control group whereas in test group II and III GR was absent. The use of rh-VEGF+ rhIGF-I exhibited 95.8% osseous fill as compared to 54.8% in test group II, 52.7% in test group III and 41.1 % in the control group. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that, rh-IGF-I+rh-VEGF treated sites resulted in greater improvement in PPD reduction, CAL gain as well as in osseous fill after 6 months when compared with rh-VEGF, rh-IGF-I and control sites. PMID:27790578

Comparison of surgical conditions in 2 different anesthesia techniques of esmolol-induced controlled hypotension in breast reduction surgery

PubMed Central

Besir, Ahmet; Cekic, Bahanur; Kutanis, Dilek; Akdogan, Ali; Livaoglu, Murat

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: Breast reduction surgery is a common cosmetic surgery with a high incidence of blood loss and transfusion. In this surgery, the reduction of blood loss related to surgical manipulation and the volume of resected tissue is a target. In the present study, we compared the effects of esmolol-induced controlled hypotension on surgical visibility, surgical bleeding, and the duration of surgery in patients anesthetized with propofol/remifentanil (PR) or sevoflurane/remifentanil (SR). Methods: Patients in the American Society of Anesthesiologists I/II risk group undergoing breast reduction surgery were prospectively randomized into PR (n = 25) and SR (n = 25) groups. Controlled hypotension was induced with esmolol in both groups. During the intraoperative period, the heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), operation duration, volume of intraoperative blood loss, volume of blood received through postoperative drains, volume of resected tissues, and surgical area bleeding score were recorded. Results: The duration of operation in the incisional period was shorter in group PR compared to group SR (P = 0.04). The change in HR was lower in incision and hemostasis periods in the group PR compared to the group SR (P < 0.001). Total intraoperative intraoperative bleeding volume and volume of blood received through drains on postoperative postoperative day 1, day 2, and in total were found to be significantly lower in group PR compared to group SR. Surgical visibility scoring was more effective in group PR compared to SR. Conclusion: In the breast reduction surgery performed under esmolol-induced controlled hypotension, the effect of propofol + remifentanil anesthesia on the duration of incisional surgery, surgical visibility, and volume of surgical blood loss was more reliable and effective compared to that of sevoflurane + remifentanil, which seems to be an advantage. PMID:28272228

“Nomophobia”: Impact of Cell Phone Use Interfering with Symptoms and Emotions of Individuals with Panic Disorder Compared with a Control Group

PubMed Central

King, Anna Lucia Spear; Valença, Alexandre Martins; Silva, Adriana Cardoso; Sancassiani, Federica; Machado, Sergio; Nardi, Antonio Egidio

2014-01-01

Panic disorder refers to the frequent and recurring acute attacks of anxiety. Objective: This study describes the routine use of mobiles phones (MPs) and investigates the appearance of possible emotional alterations or symptoms related to their use in patients with panic disorder (PD). Background: We compared patients with PD and agoraphobia being treated at the Panic and Respiration Laboratory of The Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to a control group of healthy volunteers. Methods: An MP-use questionnaire was administered to a consecutive sample of 50 patients and 70 controls. Results: People with PD showed significant increases in anxiety, tachycardia, respiratory alterations, trembling, perspiration, panic, fear and depression related to the lack of an MP compared to the control group. Conclusions: Both groups exhibited dependence on and were comforted by having an MP; however, people with PD and agoraphobia showed significantly more emotional alterations as well as intense physical and psychological symptoms when they were apart from or unable to use an MP compared to healthy volunteers. PMID:24669231

"Nomophobia": impact of cell phone use interfering with symptoms and emotions of individuals with panic disorder compared with a control group.

PubMed

King, Anna Lucia Spear; Valença, Alexandre Martins; Silva, Adriana Cardoso; Sancassiani, Federica; Machado, Sergio; Nardi, Antonio Egidio

2014-01-01

Panic disorder refers to the frequent and recurring acute attacks of anxiety. This study describes the routine use of mobiles phones (MPs) and investigates the appearance of possible emotional alterations or symptoms related to their use in patients with panic disorder (PD). We compared patients with PD and agoraphobia being treated at the Panic and Respiration Laboratory of The Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to a control group of healthy volunteers. An MP-use questionnaire was administered to a consecutive sample of 50 patients and 70 controls. People with PD showed significant increases in anxiety, tachycardia, respiratory alterations, trembling, perspiration, panic, fear and depression related to the lack of an MP compared to the control group. Both groups exhibited dependence on and were comforted by having an MP; however, people with PD and agoraphobia showed significantly more emotional alterations as well as intense physical and psychological symptoms when they were apart from or unable to use an MP compared to healthy volunteers.

Comparing the effect of e-learning and educational booklet on the childbirth self-efficacy: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Abbasi, Parastoo; Mohammad-Alizadeh Charandabi, Sakineh; Mirghafourvand, Mojgan

2018-03-01

This study aimed to compare the effect of e-learning and educational booklet on the childbirth self-efficacy (CBSE). This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 153 pregnant women referred to health centers in the city of Miandoab, Iran in 2015-2016. Participants were assigned into two intervention groups (e-learning and educational booklet) and the control group. A single face-to-face session was held for intervention groups about the management of labor pain in 30-34 weeks of pregnancy and the booklet and software were provided. The CBSE questionnaire was filled out by the participants before intervention and active phase of labor at 4-5 cm dilatation of cervix. One-way ANOVA and ANCOVA test with adjusting the baseline scores were used to compare the mean score of self-efficacy among study groups respectively before and after the intervention. There was no significant difference between the three groups in terms of socio-demographic characteristics (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the mean score of the CBSE in the educational booklet group (adjusted mean difference: 113.4; confidence interval 95%: 100.7-126.1) and e-learning group (159.3; 146.5-172.0) was significantly higher than the control group. Also, the mean score of the CBSE in the e-learning group had a significant increase compared to the educational booklet group (45.9; 33.0-58.7). The results indicate that e-learning and educational booklet are effective in enhancing mothers' CBSE. Thus, the mothers are recommended to use these teaching methods.

Design and preliminary biomechanical analysis of artificial cervical joint complex.

PubMed

Jian, Yu; Lan-Tao, Liu; Zhao, Jian-ning; Jian-ning, Zhao

2013-06-01

To design an artificial cervical joint complex (ACJC) prosthesis for non-fusion reconstruction after cervical subtotal corpectomy, and to evaluate the biomechanical stability, preservation of segment movements and influence on adjacent inter-vertebral movements of this prosthesis. The prosthesis was composed of three parts: the upper/lower joint head and the middle artificial vertebrae made of Cobalt-Chromium-Molybdenum (Co-Cr-Mo) alloy and polyethylene with a ball-and-socket joint design resembling the multi-axial movement in normal inter-vertebral spaces. Biomechanical tests of intact spine (control), Orion locking plate system and ACJC prosthesis were performed on formalin-fixed cervical spine specimens from 21 healthy cadavers to compare stability, range of motion (ROM) of the surgical segment and ROM of adjacent inter-vertebral spaces. As for stability of the whole lower cervical spine, there was no significant difference of flexion, extension, lateral bending and torsion between intact spine group and ACJC prosthesis group. As for segment movements, difference in flexion, lateral bending or torsion between ACJC prosthesis group and control group was not statistically significant, while ACJC prosthesis group showed an increase in extension (P < 0.05) compared to that of the control group. In addition, ACJC prosthesis group demonstrated better flexion, extension and lateral bending compared to those of Orion plating system group (P < 0.05). Difference in adjacent inter-vertebral ROM of the ACJC prosthesis group was not statistically significant compared to that of the control group. After cervical subtotal corpectomy, reconstruction with ACJC prosthesis not only obtained instant stability, but also reserved segment motions effectively, without abnormal gain of mobility at adjacent inter-vertebral spaces.

Isoflurane: An Ideal Anesthetic for Rodent Orthotopic Liver Transplantation Surgery?

PubMed

Cao, D; Liu, Y; Li, J; Gong, J

2016-10-01

Because the choice of anesthetic affects the rodent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) model, we compared the effects of isoflurane, ketamine, chloral hydrate, and pentobarbital on the OLT model. OLT was performed using the two-cuff technique. Two hundred male rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, isoflurane, ketamine, chloral hydrate, and pentobarbital groups. Rectal temperatures, respiratory rates, arterial blood values (pH, PaCO 2 , PaO 2 , and SatO 2 ), liver function tests and histopathology, recovery times, and anhepatic stage mortality rates were assessed. Compared with controls, respiratory rates decreased by 20% in the isoflurane group, and decreased by 40%-50% in the ketamine, chloral hydrate, and pentobarbital groups. The PaO 2 , SatO 2 , and pH levels in the ketamine, chloral hydrate, and pentobarbital groups were significantly lower than those in the isoflurane and control groups (P < .05). Only the pentobarbital group displayed significant liver histopathologic changes along with significantly higher levels of serum alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin, but a significantly lower level of serum albumin, compared with the control group (P < .05). The isoflurane group had a 0% anhepatic stage mortality rate compared with rates of 30%-40% in the other anesthetic groups. Isoflurane should be the preferred anesthetic for rodent OLT surgery due to its minimal respiratory and hepatic physiological effects as well as its low anhepatic phase mortality rate. Secondary to isoflurane, ketamine and chloral hydrate may be administered as donor anesthetics. Pentobarbital use should be avoided entirely in rodent OLT surgery due to its significant hepatotoxic effects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Frequent Evaluation To Improve Compliance In Patients Treated With Occlusion For Amblyopia: A Randomized controlled Trial.

PubMed

Iturriaga, Hernan; Zanolli, Mario; Damm, Constanza; Oporto, Jorge; Acuna, Olga; Valenzuela, Felipe

2012-01-01

The benefits of occlusion treatment for amblyopia are well established.True compliance can be difficult to assess and is usually based on patient history. We hypothesize that more visits to the physician provides more chances to improve compliance. We conducted a prospective, comparative, blind trial in which 30 children with amblyopia were randomly assigned to be followed up more frequently (every 4 to 6 weeks) (study group) or as established on our standard regular basis (month intervals based on age in years) (control group). The primary outcome was to study differences in treatment compliance between these groups. The secondary outcome was to report compliance in a group of Chilean children and to compare survey results with adherence, to assess concordance between them. Baseline clinical characteristics were similar in the two groups. 30 patients were recruited. Mean compliance for all patients was 82%. Study group compliance was 83% versus 76% in control group (p = 0.5). Without epidemiology, intention to treat analysis (ITT), study group compliance was 97% compared to 76% in control group (p = 0.049). Pearson correlation between negative responses to a parental survey after treatment, of the percentage of adherence and compliance, was -0.57 and statistically significant (p = 0.013). There were no differences in patient compliance comparing more frequent evaluation versus a follow up evaluation based in an age according scheme. There is a high compliance to occlusion therapy in this group of Chilean children. If parents reported more negative adherence aspects in the survey, the worse the compliance.

[Effects of Cangfu Congxian Decoction on Oxidative Stress in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients].

PubMed

Liang, Ying; Tian, Qian-hua; Mu, Yu-xia; Du, Hui-lan

2016-06-01

To observe the effect of Cangfu Congxian Decoction (CCD) on oxidative stress in granulosa cells of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Forty PCOS patients underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) were assigned to the treatment group and the control group 1 according to random digit table, 20 in each group. Patients in the treatment group took CCD (200 mL, once in the morning and once in the afternoon) 2 months before IVF-ET, while those in the control group 1 took no Chinese medical decoction. Recruited were another 20 patients undergoing IVF-ET for tubal factors (as the control group 2). The clinical effect of IVF-ET were observed, including oocyte retrieval number, 2 pronuclear (2PN) fertilization rate, good quality embryo rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) induced transplantation cancel rate. The expression of relative oxygen species (ROS) in granulosa cells was detected using cell immunofluorescence combined with confocal microscopy and FCM. Compared with the control group 1, occyte retrieval number, 2PN fertilization rate, and good quality embryo rate increased in the control group 2 and the treatment group (P <0. 05). OHSS induced transplantation cancel rate decreased in the control group 2 (P < 0.05). Fluorescence intensity of ROS decreased in the treatment group and the control group 2, as compared with the control group 1 (P < 0.01). CCD increased good quality embryo rate by down-regulating the expression of ROS protein in ovarian granulosa cells, and correcting in vivo oxidative stress.

Effects of saxagliptin on glucose homeostasis and body composition of obese patients with newly diagnosed pre-diabetes.

PubMed

Wang, Zixuan; Xu, Dengcheng; Huang, Lanhui; Zhang, Tiantian; Wang, Junqiao; Chen, Qing; Kong, Lei; Zhou, Xinli

2017-08-01

To assess the effect of saxagliptin monotherapy on blood glucose and islet β-cell function in obese patients with newly diagnosed pre-diabetes and abnormal fat metabolism. A 24-week, randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 25 obese subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (mean age 45years) to receive lifestyle intervention only (control group) or combined with saxagliptin 2.5mg or 5mg daily (S2.5 or S5 group), metformin 1500mg daily (Met group). Anthropometrics, body fat and biochemical parameters were measured before and after 4, 12 and 24weeks intervention. S5 group and Met group showed a significant decrease in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c compared with the control group (all P<0.05) after 24-week intervention. However, the decrease in 2h postprandial plasma glucose levels (2hPPG) in S5 group were greater compared with control group (P<0.01). Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was reduced in S5 group, Met group and control group (P<0.05), and the β-cell function (HOMA-β) was improved in all groups (P<0.05). However, the changes in obesity-related indicators including waist circumference, hip circumference, weight, BMI, body fat, percentage of body fat and waist-to-hip fat ratio were greate in Met group (all P<0.05) compared with other groups (P>0.05). Saxagliptin monotherapy may prevent or delay the progression of IGT or IFG to type 2 diabetes mellitus in obese patients with newly diagnosed pre-diabetes. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01960205. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Homocysteine, endothelin-1 and nitric oxide in patients with hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy.

PubMed

Zeng, Yachang; Li, Mujun; Chen, Yue; Wang, Sumei

2015-01-01

To investigate the change of level of serum homocysteine (Hcy), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) and clinical significance in patients with HDCP. Two hundred and thirty nine patients with HDCP (137 patients with mild preeclampsia, 102 patients with severe preeclampsia) who were hospitalized between June 2012 and June 2015 and 200 normal pregnancy women in outpatient department were enrolled in our study were divided into HDCP group and control group. Serum Hcy concentration was measured by enzymatic cycling assay. ET-1 concentration was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. And no concentration was measured by nitrate reductase assay. Serum Hcy and ET-1 in HDCP group were significantly higher as compared to control group (P<0.05). Level of serum NO in HDCP group was significantly lower than in the control group (P<0.05). Level of serum Hcy and ET-1 in mild and severe preeclampsia group were significantly higher as compared to control group, respectively (P<0.05). Level of serum NO in mild and severe preeclampsia group were significantly lower than in the control group' respectively (P<0.05). Level of serum Hcy and ET-1 in severe preeclampsia group were significantly higher as compared to mild preclampsia group (P<0.05). Level of serum NO in severe preeclampsia group were significantly lower than in mild preeclampsia group (P<0.05). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that level of serum Hcy and ET-1 was positively correlated with severity of diseases (r=0.689, 0.718, P<0.05). Level of serum NO was negatively correlated with severity of diseases (r=-0.702, P<0.05). Serum Hcy, ET-1 and NO were associated with pathogenesis of HDCP. Comprehensively measurement of them could effectively evaluate the incidence and progress of HDCP.

Effect of fermented earthworm cast on egg production and egg quality as well as removal of odor in feces from egg laying hens.

PubMed

Yoon, Jae-Sung; Park, Byung-Sung

2016-07-01

The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of feeding fermented earthworm casts (EEC) to layers on egg-laying performance, blood lipid profiles, cecal microflora, and fecal odor removing performance. A total of 200 Hyline Brown layer chicks at 33-week-old were used in this study. They were randomly assigned to two numerically equal groups with 100 replications per treatment for 10 weeks. All the birds were caged individually. The control group was not treated with EEC. The EEC group was treated with top dressing containing 3.5% EEC. The present study revealed that egg production and egg weight were increased after feeding diet containing EEC at the top dressing level. Haugh unit, eggshell thickness, and eggshell breaking strength of EEC group were higher than those of control group. Egg yolk was determined for fatty acid profiling. It was found that EEC group had higher ratio of unsaturated- to saturated fatty acid as compared to control group. Lower ratios of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids were found in the egg yolk of EEC group. Plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol contents were lower in the EEC group. However, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol content was higher in the EEC group as compared to that in control group. The number of cecal Lactobacillus was increased while the population of Escherichia coli and coliform bacteria decreased in the EEC group. Fecal ammonia and hydrogen sulfide contents were lower in the EEC group as compared to those in control group. Taken together, these results suggested that EEC could improve egg production and egg quality. In addition, it could remove odour from laying-hen manure.

Reducing Anxiety in Gifted Children by Inducing Relaxation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roome, John R.; Romney, David M.

1985-01-01

Thirty gifted children (grades six to eight) were allocated to either progressive muscle relaxation or biofeedback treatment groups or to a no-treament, control group. Biofeedback Ss evinced a significant decrease in anxiety and both groups moved towards more internal locus of control compared with controls. There was no change in trait anxiety.…

Integrating life skills into a theory-based drug-use prevention program: effectiveness among junior high students in Taiwan.

PubMed

Huang, Chiu-Mieh; Chien, Li-Yin; Cheng, Chin-Feng; Guo, Jong-Long

2012-07-01

Drug use has been noted among students in Taiwan during the past decade and schools have a role in preventing or delaying students' drug use. We developed and evaluated a school-based, drug-use prevention program integrating the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and life skills for junior high school students. We recruited 441 seventh graders from randomly selected schools: N = 143 experimental groups, N = 142 conventional groups, and N = 156 control groups. The experimental group received ten 45-minute sessions of theory-based interventions. The conventional group got traditional didactic teaching and drug refusal skills. The control group received no intervention. Compared to the control group, experimental group students showed greater improvement in attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, life skills, and intention not to use drugs. Compared to the conventional group, the experimental group had significantly higher posttest scores for 4 of the 5 outcomes, including life skills (96.53 vs. 90.92, p < .001), attitude (27.43 vs. 24.40, p = .012), subjective norm (29.51 vs. 28.06, p = .002), and perceived behavioral control (18.59 vs. 16.81, p < .001). The conventional group scored significantly higher in behavioral intention than did the control group. Study results demonstrated the effectiveness of a drug-use prevention program integrating the TPB and life skills. © 2012, American School Health Association.

Effects of a high walnut and high cashew nut diet on selected markers of the metabolic syndrome: a controlled feeding trial.

PubMed

Mukuddem-Petersen, Janine; Stonehouse Oosthuizen, Welma; Jerling, Johann C; Hanekom, Susanna M; White, Zelda

2007-06-01

We investigated the effects of a high walnut diet and a high unsalted cashew nut diet on selected markers of the metabolic syndrome. In a randomized, parallel, controlled study design, sixty-four subjects having the metabolic syndrome (twenty-nine men, thirty-five women) with a mean age of 45 (sd 10) years and who met the selection criteria were all fed a 3-week run-in control diet. Hereafter, participants were grouped according to gender and age and then randomized into three groups receiving a controlled feeding diet including walnuts, or unsalted cashew nuts or no nuts for 8 weeks. Subjects were required to have lunch at the metabolic ward of the Nutrition Department of the North-West University (Potchefstroom Campus). Both the walnut and the unsalted cashew nut intervention diets had no significant effect on the HDL-cholesterol, TAG, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, serum fructosamine, serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, blood pressure and serum uric acid concentrations when compared to the control diet. Low baseline LDL-cholesterol concentrations in the cashew nut group may have masked a possible nut-related benefit. Plasma glucose concentrations increased significantly (P = 0.04) in the cashew nut group compared to the control group. By contrast, serum fructosamine was unchanged in the cashew nut group while the control group had significantly increased (P = 0.04) concentrations of this short-term marker of glycaemic control. Subjects displayed no improvement in the markers of the metabolic syndrome after following a walnut diet or a cashew nut diet compared to a control diet while maintaining body weight.

Glycemic control and high-density lipoprotein characteristics in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Medina-Bravo, Patricia; Medina-Urrutia, Aída; Juárez-Rojas, Juan Gabriel; Cardoso-Saldaña, Guillermo; Jorge-Galarza, Esteban; Posadas-Sánchez, Rosalinda; Coyote-Estrada, Ninel; Nishimura-Meguro, Elisa; Posadas-Romero, Carlos

2013-09-01

Recent evidence suggests that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) physicochemical characteristics and functional capacity may be more important that HDL-C levels in predicting coronary heart disease. There is little data regarding HDL subclasses distribution in youth with type 1 diabetes. To assess the relationships between glycemic control and HDL subclasses distribution, composition, and function in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. This cross-sectional study included 52 adolescents with type 1 diabetes aged 12-16 years and 43 age-matched non-diabetic controls. Patients were divided into two groups: one in fair control [hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) < 9.6%] and the second group with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 9.6%). In all participants, we determined HDL subclasses distribution, composition, and the ability of plasma and of isolated HDL to promote cellular cholesterol efflux. Levels of soluble adhesion molecules were also measured. Although both groups of patients and the control group had similar HDL-C levels, linear regression analyses showed that compared with non-diabetic subjects, the poor control group had a lower proportion of HDL2b subclass (p = 0.029), triglyceride enriched (p = 0.045), and cholesteryl ester depleted (p = 0.028) HDL particles. Despite these HDL changes, cholesterol efflux was comparable among the three groups. The poor control group also had significantly higher intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 plasma concentrations. In adolescents with type 1 diabetes, poor glycemic control is associated with abnormalities in HDL subclasses distribution and HDL lipid composition, however, in spite of these HDL changes, the ability of HDL to promote cholesterol efflux remains comparable to that of healthy subjects. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Surface developmental dyslexia is as prevalent as phonological dyslexia when appropriate control groups are employed.

PubMed

Wybrow, Dean P; Hanley, J Richard

2015-01-01

Previous investigations of the incidence of developmental surface and phonological dyslexia using reading-age-matched control groups have identified many more phonological dyslexics (poor nonword reading relative to irregular-word reading) than surface dyslexics (poor irregular-word reading relative to nonword reading). However, because the measures that have been used to estimate reading age include irregular-word reading ability, they appear inappropriate for assessing the incidence of surface dyslexia. The current study used a novel method for generating control groups whose reading ability was matched to that of the dyslexic sample. The incidence of surface dyslexia was assessed by comparing dyslexic performance with that of a control group who were matched with the dyslexics on a test of nonword reading. The incidence of phonological dyslexia was assessed with reference to a control group who were matched with the dyslexics at irregular-word reading. These control groups led to the identification of an approximately equal number of children with surface and phonological dyslexia. It appeared that selecting control participants who were matched with dyslexics for reading age led to the recruitment of individuals with relatively high nonword reading scores relative to their irregular-word reading scores compared with other types of control group. The theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.

Relationship between control beliefs, strategy use, and memory performance in amnestic mild cognitive impairment and healthy aging.

PubMed

Hutchens, Rachel L; Kinsella, Glynda J; Ong, Ben; Pike, Kerryn E; Clare, Linda; Ames, David; Saling, Michael M; Storey, Elsdon; Mullaly, Elizabeth; Rand, Elizabeth; Parsons, Samuel

2013-11-01

Little information is available regarding the extent of strategy use and factors that affect strategy use in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). This study aimed to compare spontaneous strategy use and beliefs about the controllability of memory between aMCI and healthy older adult (HOA) samples and to explore the relationships between beliefs, strategy use, and memory performance for both groups. The aMCI and HOA groups each composed of 60 individuals matched for age and education. The Memory Controllability Inventory was used to assess control beliefs, and the extent of semantic clustering on a list-learning task provided a measure of spontaneous strategy use. The aMCI group endorsed lower control beliefs and demonstrated poorer semantic clustering and memory performance compared with the HOA group. Although strategy use partially mediated the control beliefs-memory performance relationship for the HOA group, this was not replicated for the aMCI group. Despite the weak relationship between control beliefs and strategy use, and control beliefs and memory performance for the aMCI group, the strong relationship between strategy use and memory performance provides impetus for further research into factors that can be used as a means of enhancing strategy use in interventions for aMCI.

Impact of diabetes on gingival wound healing via oxidative stress

PubMed Central

Kido, Daisuke; Mizutani, Koji; Takeda, Kohei; Mikami, Risako; Matsuura, Takanori; Iwasaki, Kengo; Izumi, Yuichi

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanisms linking high glucose to gingival wound healing. Bilateral wounds were created in the palatal gingiva adjacent to maxillary molars of control rats and rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. After evaluating postsurgical wound closure by digital imaging, the maxillae including wounds were resected for histological examinations. mRNA expressions of angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress markers in the surgical sites were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Primary fibroblast culture from the gingiva of both rats was performed in high glucose and normal medium. In vitro wound healing and cell proliferation assays were performed. Oxidative stress marker mRNA expressions and reactive oxygen species production were measured. Insulin resistance was evaluated via PI3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling following insulin stimulation using Western blotting. To clarify oxidative stress involvement in high glucose culture and cells of diabetic rats, cells underwent N-acetyl-L-cysteine treatment; subsequent Akt activity was measured. Wound healing in diabetic rats was significantly delayed compared with that in control rats. Nox1, Nox2, Nox4, p-47, and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA levels were significantly higher at baseline in diabetic rats than in control rats. In vitro study showed that cell proliferation and migration significantly decreased in diabetic and high glucose culture groups compared with control groups. Nox1, Nox2, Nox4, and p47 expressions and reactive oxygen species production were significantly higher in diabetic and high glucose culture groups than in control groups. Akt phosphorylation decreased in the high glucose groups compared with the control groups. Erk1/2 phosphorylation increased in the high glucose groups, with or without insulin treatment, compared with the control groups. Impaired Akt phosphorylation partially normalized after antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine treatment. Thus, delayed gingival wound healing in diabetic rats occurred because of impaired fibroblast proliferation and migration. Fibroblast dysfunction may occur owing to high glucose-induced insulin resistance via oxidative stress. PMID:29267310

Impact of diabetes on gingival wound healing via oxidative stress.

PubMed

Kido, Daisuke; Mizutani, Koji; Takeda, Kohei; Mikami, Risako; Matsuura, Takanori; Iwasaki, Kengo; Izumi, Yuichi

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanisms linking high glucose to gingival wound healing. Bilateral wounds were created in the palatal gingiva adjacent to maxillary molars of control rats and rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. After evaluating postsurgical wound closure by digital imaging, the maxillae including wounds were resected for histological examinations. mRNA expressions of angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress markers in the surgical sites were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Primary fibroblast culture from the gingiva of both rats was performed in high glucose and normal medium. In vitro wound healing and cell proliferation assays were performed. Oxidative stress marker mRNA expressions and reactive oxygen species production were measured. Insulin resistance was evaluated via PI3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling following insulin stimulation using Western blotting. To clarify oxidative stress involvement in high glucose culture and cells of diabetic rats, cells underwent N-acetyl-L-cysteine treatment; subsequent Akt activity was measured. Wound healing in diabetic rats was significantly delayed compared with that in control rats. Nox1, Nox2, Nox4, p-47, and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA levels were significantly higher at baseline in diabetic rats than in control rats. In vitro study showed that cell proliferation and migration significantly decreased in diabetic and high glucose culture groups compared with control groups. Nox1, Nox2, Nox4, and p47 expressions and reactive oxygen species production were significantly higher in diabetic and high glucose culture groups than in control groups. Akt phosphorylation decreased in the high glucose groups compared with the control groups. Erk1/2 phosphorylation increased in the high glucose groups, with or without insulin treatment, compared with the control groups. Impaired Akt phosphorylation partially normalized after antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine treatment. Thus, delayed gingival wound healing in diabetic rats occurred because of impaired fibroblast proliferation and migration. Fibroblast dysfunction may occur owing to high glucose-induced insulin resistance via oxidative stress.

Neuroprotective effect of Annona glabra extract against ethanol-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration in neonatal rats.

PubMed

Ma, Hongru; Han, Jianfeng; Dong, Qinchuan

2018-04-01

The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of Annona glabra extract (AGE) against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration in neonatal rats. AGE is known to contain various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Phytochemical analysis of AGE was performed to understand the presence of vital therapeutic components. Neonatal rats were assigned to the following groups: group I (normal control rats receiving normal saline), group II (control rats receiving ethanol), and group III (treated rats receiving ethanol-AGE). The lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) levels were determined. Behavioral parameters, histological features, neuronal cell viability, and apoptosis were also investigated. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoid, glycosides, steroids, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones, and acidic compounds was noted in the AGE. Ethanol supplementation drastically increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content to 52.17 nmol/g in the control rats (group II). However, the MDA content was reduced to 27.34 nmol/g in ethanol-AGE-treated neonatal rats (group III) compared with control rats. The GSH content was substantially reduced, to 33.68 mg/g, in control rats compared with in normal control rats. However, the GSH content was significantly increased, to 59.32 mg/g, following ethanol-AGE supplementation. Gpx, SOD, catalase, and AChE enzyme activities were increased in treated neonatal rats compared with their respective controls. Locomotor activities, such as crossing, grooming, rearing, and sniffing, were increased in ethanol-AGE-treated neonatal rats compared with controls. Reduced levels of intact pyramidal cells and cells with degenerative alterations appeared in the control rats. However, ethanol-AGE supplementation reduced degenerative alterations and hippocampal damage. Reduced cultured hippocampal neuron cell viability and increased apoptosis were noted in the control rats, whereas these impacts were significantly recovered following ethanol-AGE supplementation. Based on all these data, we concluded that the supplementation of AGE was very effective against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration in neonatal rats. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pregnancy outcome and placental pathology in small for gestational age neonates in relation to the severity of their growth restriction.

PubMed

Gluck, Ohad; Schreiber, Letizia; Marciano, Adi; Mizrachi, Yossi; Bar, Jacob; Kovo, Michal

2017-12-03

To investigate neonatal outcome and placental pathology in pregnancies complicated with small for gestational age neonates (SGA), in relation to the severity of growth restriction. The medical records and placental histology reports of all neonates with a birth-weight (BW) ≤10th percentile, born between 24-42 weeks, during 2010-2015, were reviewed. Placental lesions were classified into maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion (MVM and FVM) lesions. Results were compared between neonates with BW <5th percentile (severe SGA group), neonates with BW between 5th-10th percentile (mild SGA group) and a control group of appropriate for gestational age (AGA) neonates. Composite neonatal outcome was defined as one or more of early complications. Overall, 753 neonates were included, 238 in the severe SGA group, 266 in the mild SGA group, and 249 in the control group. The severe SGA group had higher rates of composite adverse neonatal outcome as compared with the mild SGA and control groups (37.2 versus 17.6%, versus 24.5%, respectively, p < .001). The SGA group was characterized by higher rates of placental MVM and FVM lesions, compared with controls (p < .001 for both). After controlling for confounders, using a multivariate regression analysis, the likelihood of detecting placental MVM and FVM lesions was increased as neonatal birthweight decreased. Worse neonatal outcome and more placental MVM and FVM lesions correlate with the severity of neonatal growth restriction in a "dose-dependent" manner.

Outcome Evaluation of Family Eats.

PubMed

Cullen, Karen Weber; Thompson, Debbe; Chen, Tzu-An

2017-02-01

This article presents the results of a randomized clinical trial evaluating the eight-session Family Eats web-based intervention promoting healthy home food environments for African American families. African American families ( n = 126) with 8- to 12-year-old children completed online baseline questionnaires and were randomized into intervention or control groups. Data collection occurred at baseline, immediately postintervention (Post 1), and 4 months later (Post 2), for parents and children, separately. There were two group by time intervention effects: Control group parents reported a significantly greater frequency of drinking 100% fruit juice at Post 1 compared with intervention group parents. Parent menu planning skills were significantly higher at Post 2 for the intervention group compared with the control group. Significant positive changes overtime were noted for both groups for home fruit/vegetable availability, food preparation practices, and healthy restaurant selection. Intervention group children reported a significant increase in home juice availability at Post 1 compared with the control group; home fruit availability improved for both groups. There was no difference in log on rates by group: 84% and 86% for those who completed Post 1 and Post 2 measurements, respectively. Sixty-four participants completed the evaluation survey: 17 control (50%) and 47 intervention (51%) participants. All participants reported liking the program components; all but one gave it an A or B grade. An Internet-delivered nutrition intervention for families was successful in achieving change in some mediating variables, with good log on rates. Future research with Family Eats should include larger sample sizes, with longer follow-up and a more objective measure of diet.

Impact of environmental noise on growth and neuropsychological development of newborn rats.

PubMed

Zheng, Yanyan; Meng, Meng; Zhao, Congmin; Liao, Wei; Zhang, Yuping; Wang, Liyan; Wen, Enyi

2014-05-01

We aimed to investigate the effects of environmental noise exposure on the growth and neuropsychological development in neonatal rats. Twenty-four postnatal 7-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into control, high-noise and reduced noise groups. The rats in the high-noise group were exposed to 90 dB white noise, and those in the control group were grown under standard condition, while those in the reduced noise group were exposed to standard condition with sound-absorbing cotton. Ten, 15, and 20 days post noise exposure, both the body weight and length of the rats in high-noise group were lower than those in the control and reduced noise groups, respectively. The secretion of growth hormone was significantly decreased in the rats exposed to high noise environment, compared to those exposed to standard condition and reduced noise. More interestingly, the swimming distance was apparently increased and the swimming speed was significantly decreased in high-noise group compared with those in control and reduced noise groups. Importantly, the mRNA and protein levels of SYP in the rats hippocampus were significantly decreased in high-noise group compare with those in control and reduced noise groups. Similarly, the positive expression of SYP in the CA1 region of hippocampus was also significantly decreased in the high noise group rats. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that high noise exposure could decrease the production of growth hormone and SYP in neonatal rats, which may retard the growth of weight and length and the capability of learning and memory. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Animated video vs pamphlet: comparing the success of educating parents about proper antibiotic use.

PubMed

Schnellinger, Mark; Finkelstein, Marsha; Thygeson, Megan V; Vander Velden, Heidi; Karpas, Anna; Madhok, Manu

2010-05-01

The objective was to create an animated video to teach parents about the appropriate use of antibiotics and to compare their knowledge to parents who were provided with the American Academy of Pediatrics pamphlet. We hypothesized that the video format would result in improved comprehension and retention. This prospective randomized, controlled trial was conducted in an urban pediatric emergency department. Parent subjects were randomly assigned to a control group, a pamphlet group, and a video group and completed a survey at 3 time points. Analysis included the nonparametric matched Friedman test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Mann-Whitney U test. A 2-sided P value of < .05 was required for significance, and a Bonferroni-corrected P value of < .017 was required for paired comparisons. Postintervention survey scores improved significantly in the pamphlet and video groups compared with baseline. The video group's follow-up scores were not significantly different from the postintervention-survey scores (P = .32). The pamphlet-group scores at follow-up were significantly lower than the postintervention-survey scores (P = .002). The control group's scores were similar at all 3 time periods. The pamphlet group had significantly better scores than the control group after the intervention (P < .001). The video-group scores exceeded the control-group scores at all 3 time periods. An animated video is highly effective for educating parents about the appropriate use of antibiotics in the emergency department setting and results in long-term knowledge retention. The results of this study provide a foundation to further evaluate the use of animated video in additional populations.

Is superficial burn caused by ultraviolet radiation (sunburn) comparable to superficial burn caused by heat--a histomorphological comparison by in vivo Reflectance-Mode-Confocal Microscopy.

PubMed

Altintas, M A; Altintas, A A; Guggenheim, M; Busch, K H; Niederbichler, A D; Aust, M C; Vogt, P M

2009-12-01

Regardless of the underlying cause, both sunburn and superficial thermal injuries are classified as first-degree burns, since data on morphological differences are scarce. Reflectance-Mode-Confocal Microscopy (RMCM) enables high-resolution non-invasive investigation of the human skin. We studied in vivo histomorphological alterations in both sunburn and superficial thermal injuries using RMCM. Ten patients (6 female, 4 male; aged 28.4 +/- 10.6 years) with first-degree thermal-contact Injuries (TI group), and 9 sunburned patients (SB group; 7 female, 2 male; aged 30.2 +/- 16.4 years), to a maximum extent of 10% of the body surface were evaluated 24 h after burn injury using RMCM. The following parameters were obtained using RMCM: stratum corneum thickness, epidermal thickness, basal layer thickness, granular cell size. Compared to the controls (12.8 +/- 2.5 microm), stratum corneum thickness decreased significantly to 10.6 +/- 2.1 microm in the TI group, whereas it increased significantly to 16.4 +/- 3.1 microm in the SB group. The epidermal thickness did not differ significantly in the TI group (47.9 +/- 2.3 microm) and SB group (49.1 +/- 3.5 microm); however, both increased significantly compared to their respective controls (41.8 +/- 1.4 microm). The basal layer thickness increased more in the SB group compared to the TI group (17.9 +/- 1.4 microm vs. 15.6 +/- 1.1 microm). Both differed also significantly compared to their controls (13.8 +/- 0.9 microm). The granular cell size increased significantly in both groups compared to the controls (731 +/- 42 microm); however, a significantly higher increase was observed in the TI group (852 +/- 58 microm) compared to the SB group (784 +/- 61 microm). Ultraviolet radiation seems to influence predominantly deeper epidermal layers, whereas heat-induced burns affect more superficial epidermal layers. The term 'First-degree burn' should not be used synonymously for sunburn and superficial thermal burn injuries. Conflicts of interest None declared.

The effects of mind-body training on stress reduction, positive affect, and plasma catecholamines.

PubMed

Jung, Ye-Ha; Kang, Do-Hyung; Jang, Joon Hwan; Park, Hye Yoon; Byun, Min Soo; Kwon, Soo Jin; Jang, Go-Eun; Lee, Ul Soon; An, Seung Chan; Kwon, Jun Soo

2010-07-26

This study was designed to assess the association between stress, positive affect and catecholamine levels in meditation and control groups. The meditation group consisted of 67 subjects who regularly engaged in mind-body training of "Brain-Wave Vibration" and the control group consisted of 57 healthy subjects. Plasma catecholamine (norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), and dopamine (DA)) levels were measured, and a modified form of the Stress Response Inventory (SRI-MF) and the Positive Affect and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS) were administered. The meditation group showed higher scores on positive affect (p=.019) and lower scores on stress (p<.001) compared with the control group. Plasma DA levels were also higher in the meditation (p=.031) than in the control group. The control group demonstrated a negative correlation between stress and positive affects (r=-.408, p=.002), whereas this correlation was not observed in the meditation group. The control group showed positive correlations between somatization and NE/E (r=.267, p=.045) and DA/E (r=.271, p=.042) ratios, whereas these correlations did not emerge in the meditation group. In conclusion, these results suggest that meditation as mind-body training is associated with lower stress, higher positive affect and higher plasma DA levels when comparing the meditation group with the control group. Thus, mind-body training may influence stress, positive affect and the sympathetic nervous system including DA activity. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Neuromotor control of gluteal muscles in runners with achilles tendinopathy.

PubMed

Franettovich Smith, Melinda M; Honeywill, Conor; Wyndow, Narelle; Crossley, Kay M; Creaby, Mark W

2014-03-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the neuromotor control of the gluteus medius (GMED) and gluteus maximus (GMAX) muscles in runners with Achilles tendinopathy to that of healthy controls. Fourteen male runners with Achilles tendinopathy and 19 healthy male runners (control) ran overground while EMG of GMED and GMAX was recorded. Three temporal variables were identified via visual inspection of EMG data: (i) onset of muscle activity (onset), (ii) offset of muscle activity (offset), and (iii) duration of muscle activity (duration). A multivariate analysis of covariance with between-subject factor of group (Achilles tendinopathy, control) and variables of onset, offset, and duration was performed for each muscle. Age, weight, and height were included as covariates, and α level was set at 0.05. The Achilles tendinopathy group demonstrated a delay in the activation of the GMED relative to heel strike (P < 0.001) and a shorter duration of activation (P < 0.001) compared to that of the control group. GMED offset time relative to heel strike was not different between the groups (P = 0.063). For GMAX, the Achilles tendinopathy group demonstrated a delay in its onset (P = 0.008), a shorter duration of activation (P = 0.002), and earlier offset (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. This study provides preliminary evidence of altered neuromotor control of the GMED and GMAX muscles in male runners with Achilles tendinopathy. Although further prospective studies are required to discern the causal nature of this relationship, this study highlights the importance of considering neuromotor control of the gluteal muscles in the assessment and management of patients with Achilles tendinopathy.

Shenqi Fuzheng Injection Alleviates the Transient Worsening Caused by Steroids Pulse Therapy in Treating Myasthenia Gravis

PubMed Central

Qi, Guo-Yan; Liu, Peng

2013-01-01

Purpose. To evaluate the treatment effect and side effect of Shenqi Fuzheng Injection (SFI) on alleviating transient worsening of myasthenia gravis (MG) symptoms caused by high-dose steroids pulse therapy. Methods. Sixty-six consecutive patients with MG were randomly divided into two groups: the treatment group treated with SFI and methylprednisolone pulse therapy (MPT) and the control group treated with MPT alone. The severity of MG before, during, and after MPT and the duration of transient worsening (TW) were evaluated and compared with the clinical absolute scoring (AS) and relative scoring (RS) system. Results. Twenty-nine patients experienced TW in each group. At TW, the AS was significantly increased (P < 0.000) in both groups compared with baseline data, with the AS increase in the treatment group (16.8 ± 2) significantly smaller (P < 0.05) than in the control group (24.9 ± 2.5). At the end of the treatment course, the AS for the treatment group was significantly decreased (7.5 ± 0.9) compared with at TW, although no significant difference compared with the control (9.7 ± 1.1). The TW lasted 1–6 days (mean 3.7) for the treatment group, significantly shorter (P < 0.05) than 2–12 days (mean 7.8) for the control. The RS for the treatment group at the end of treatment was 43.8%–100% (mean 76.8% ± 2.6%), significantly better than the control group: 33.3%–100% (mean 67.2 ± 3.6%). Slight side effects (18.75%) included maldigestion and rash in the treatment group. Conclusion. SFI has a better treatment effect and few side effects and can alleviate the severity and shorten the duration of the transient worsening of MG during steroids pulse therapy. PMID:24348721

Adjunctive Aripiprazole Treatment for Risperidone-Induced Hyperprolactinemia: An 8-Week Randomized, Open-Label, Comparative Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Zhao, Jingyuan; Song, Xueqin; Ai, Xiaoqing; Gu, Xiaojing; Huang, Guangbiao; Li, Xue; Pang, Lijuan; Ding, Minli; Ding, Shuang; Lv, Luxian

2015-01-01

Objective The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adjunctive aripiprazole treatment in schizophrenia patients with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia. Methods One hundred and thirteen patients who were receiving a stable dose of risperidone were randomly assigned to either adjunctive aripiprazole treatment (10 mg/day) (aripiprazole group) or no additional treatment (control group) at a 1:1 ratio for 8 weeks. Schizophrenia symptoms were measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Rating scales and safety assessments (RSESE, BARS, UKU) were performed at baseline and at weeks 4 and 8. Serum levels of prolactin were determined at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, 6 and 8. Metabolic parameters were determined at baseline and again at weeks 4 and 8. Results One hundred and thirteen patients were enrolled in this study, and 107 patients completed the study (54 in the aripiprazole group, and 53 in the control group). PANSS-total scores in the aripiprazole group decreased significantly at week 4 (P = 0.003) and week 8 (P = 0.007) compared with the control group. PANSS-negative scores in the aripiprazole group also decreased significantly at week 4 (P = 0.005) and week 8 (P< 0.001) compared with the control group. Serum levels of prolactin in the aripiprazole group decreased significantly at week 2 (P< 0.001), week 4 (P< 0.001), week 6 (P< 0.001) and week 8 (P< 0.001) compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in changes of Fasting Plasma Glucose, Total cholesterol, Triglycerides and High Density Lipoprotein within each group at week 4 and 8 execpt low density lipoproteins. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups. Conclusions Adjunctive aripiprazole treatment may be beneficial in reducing serum levels of prolactin and improving negative symptoms in schizophrenia patients with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia. Trial Registration chictr.org ChiCTR-IOR-15006278 PMID:26448615

Bleeding pattern and cycle control of a low-dose transdermal contraceptive patch compared with a combined oral contraceptive: a randomized study.

PubMed

Merz, M; Kroll, R; Lynen, R; Bangerter, K

2015-02-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the bleeding pattern and cycle control of a contraceptive patch containing 0.55 mg ethinyl estradiol (EE) and 2.1 mg gestodene (GSD) compared with a combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing 0.02 mg EE and 0.1 mg levonorgestrel (LNG). In this phase III, randomized, controlled, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter trial, healthy women aged 18-45 years (smokers aged 18-35 years) received either the EE/GSD patch and a placebo tablet (n=171), or a placebo patch and the COC (n=175) for seven 28-day cycles. Bleeding control was assessed in two 90-day reference periods. Mean number of bleeding/spotting days was comparable across treatment groups in both reference periods (p>.05). Mean number of bleeding/spotting episodes was also comparable in reference period 1; however, there were fewer bleeding/spotting episodes for COC in reference period 2 (3.4 versus 3.1; p=.01). Mean length of bleeding/spotting episodes was comparable across treatment groups for both reference periods (p>.05). Withdrawal bleeding occurred consistently in both groups over the entire treatment period, but its absence was more common in the COC group in cycles 4 and 6 of reference period 2 (p<.01). Intracyclic bleeding was comparable between groups. Bleeding pattern and cycle control with the EE/GSD patch was comparable to an EE/LNG-containing COC. The findings suggest that bleeding patterns with the EE/GSD patch are similar to an EE/LNG-containing COC, except for absence of withdrawal bleeding, which was less common in patch users. The EE/GSD patch may constitute an additional contraceptive option for women. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Glyburide Versus Metformin and Their Combination for the Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Study.

PubMed

Nachum, Zohar; Zafran, Noah; Salim, Raed; Hissin, Noura; Hasanein, Jamal; Gam Ze Letova, Yifat; Suleiman, Abeer; Yefet, Enav

2017-03-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of glyburide versus metformin and their combination for the treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In this prospective randomized controlled study, we randomly assigned patients with GDM at 13-33 weeks gestation and whose blood glucose was poorly controlled by diet to receive either glyburide or metformin. If optimal glycemic control was not achieved, the other drug was added. If adverse effects occurred, the drug was replaced. If both failed, insulin was given. The primary outcomes were the rate of treatment failure and glycemic control after the first-line medication according to mean daily glucose charts. Glyburide was started in 53 patients and metformin in 51. In the glyburide group, the drug failed in 18 (34%) patients due to adverse effects (hypoglycemia) in 6 (11%) and lack of glycemic control in 12 (23%). In the metformin group, the drug failed in 15 (29%) patients, due to adverse effects (gastrointestinal) in 1 (2%) and lack of glycemic control in 14 (28%). Treatment success after second-line therapy was higher in the metformin group than in the glyburide group (13 of 15 [87%] vs. 9 of 18 [50%], respectively; P = 0.03). In the glyburide group, nine (17%) patients were eventually treated with insulin compared with two (4%) in the metformin group ( P = 0.03). The combination of the drugs reduced the need for insulin from 33 (32%) to 11 (11%) patients ( P = 0.0002). Mean daily blood glucose and other obstetrical and neonatal outcomes were comparable between groups, including macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and electrolyte imbalance. Glyburide and metformin are comparable oral treatments for GDM regarding glucose control and adverse effects. Their combination demonstrates a high efficacy rate with a significantly reduced need for insulin, with a possible advantage for metformin over glyburide as first-line therapy. © 2017 by the American Diabetes Association.

A retrospective comparative study of tunneled haemodialysis catheters inserted through occluded or collateral veins versus conventional methods.

PubMed

Powell, Steven; Chan, Tze Yuan; Bhat, Rammohan; Lam, Kimberly; Narlawar, Ranjeet S; Cullen, Nicola; Littler, Peter

2010-08-01

Tunneled hemodialysis catheters become essential in dialysis access when there is no possibility of using a functioning arteriovenous fistula. Collateral or occluded veins visible on ultrasound are used for puncture and passage of catheters into the central venous system. Chronically occluded veins are crossed with guidewires to allow dilatation and subsequent passage of hemodialysis catheters. We performed a retrospective analysis of patient demographics, comorbidities, procedural complications, functional survival, performance, and history of previous vascular access. The study group was compared with two control groups in which dialysis catheters were inserted either by radiologists in the interventional suite or by clinicians on the wards. Nineteen patients from the study group were compared with same number of patients in both control groups. The mean age of the study group was higher compared with the control groups. There was no significant difference in mean functional survival, infection rates, dialysis pump speeds in the first 2 weeks, and procedural complications between the study group and the controls. The study group had a significantly higher number of previous vascular access interventions, longer dialysis careers, and more comorbidities. Tunneled dialysis catheter placement by way of collateral or occluded veins appears safe and effective. These techniques give the operator further options when faced with patients possessing challenging vascular access. Indeed, there may be a case for preferential use of these veins to keep patent central veins in reserve.

Unconditional and conditional incentives differentially improved general practitioners' participation in an online survey: randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Young, Jane M; O'Halloran, Anna; McAulay, Claire; Pirotta, Marie; Forsdike, Kirsty; Stacey, Ingrid; Currow, David

2015-06-01

To compare the impact of unconditional and conditional financial incentives on response rates among Australian general practitioners invited by mail to participate in an online survey about cancer care and to investigate possible differential response bias between incentive groups. Australian general practitioners were randomly allocated to unconditional incentive (book voucher mailed with letter of invitation), conditional incentive (book voucher mailed on completion of the online survey), or control (no incentive). Nonresponders were asked to complete a small subset of questions from the online survey. Among 3,334 eligible general practitioners, significantly higher response rates were achieved in the unconditional group (167 of 1,101, 15%) compared with the conditional group (118 of 1,111, 11%) (P = 0.0014), and both were significantly higher than the control group (74 of 1,122, 7%; both P < 0.001). Although more positive opinions about cancer care were expressed by online responders compared with nonresponders, there was no evidence that the magnitude of difference varied by the incentive group. The incremental cost for each additional 1% increase above the control group response rate was substantially higher for the unconditional incentive group compared with the conditional incentive group. Both unconditional and conditional financial incentives significantly increased response with no evidence of differential response bias. Although unconditional incentives had the largest effect, the conditional approach was more cost-effective. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Glyburide as treatment option for gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Tempe, Anjali; Mayanglambam, Ronita Devi

2013-06-01

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of glyburide in the treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus and to compare the maternal and fetal outcome between two groups treated either with insulin or glyburide. Women with gestational diabetes not responding to diet control were randomized into two groups: (i) the control group receiving insulin (n = 32); and (ii) the study group receiving glyburide (n = 32). Primary outcome was assessed in terms of achievement of glycemic control and secondary outcome was assessed by the incidence of maternal and fetal complications in the insulin and glyburide treated groups. The achievement of glycemic control between the insulin and the glyburide treated groups showed no significant difference (97.1%, 93.8%). The occurrence of maternal complications (P = 0.87) and fetal complications (P = 0.32) were comparable between the insulin and glyburide treated groups. Glyburide was found to be as efficacious as insulin in achieving euglycemia in the treatment of gestational diabetic women who require treatment beyond diet control. © 2013 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2013 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

[The effects of carbogen inhalation on microvascular within lateral wall of cochlear following acute acoustic trauma].

PubMed

Zhao, Jing; Sun, Jianjun; Kong, Weijia

2008-11-01

To explore the influence of carbogen on lateral wall microvascular of cochlear after acute acoustic trauma. Forty guinea pigs were divided into 4 groups: group A (noise damage), group B (carbogen inhalation), group C (noise damage + carbogen inhalation), and the control group without any treatment. The diameter of the column of RBCs (RBC column diameter, RBCCD), blood flow velocity (BFV) and blood flow states(BFS) in microvasculature were measured and described under microscope. The microvascular in group A demonstrated a blood flow in contrary direction, granuliform flow, and granular slow flow. The erythrocytes aggregated in the microvascular of the cochlea. The RBCCD decreased 12.1% compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The blood flow in group B showed a laminar flow or laminar granular flow, and the RBCCD increased 20.7% compared with the control group. The blood condition in group C was the same as the control group-laminar granular blood flow; the blood flow with contrary direction was less than group A, and the RBCCD was 17.4% lager than that of group A. Carbogen can dilate the RBCCD and increase the BFV in stria vascular. So carbogen can alleviate the harm from noise.

Should Young Children with Traumatic Brain Injury Be Compared with Community or Orthopedic Control Participants?

PubMed

Beauchamp, Miriam H; Landry-Roy, Catherine; Gravel, Jocelyn; Beaudoin, Cindy; Bernier, Annie

2017-09-01

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) research depends on comparisons of profiles and outcomes between brain-injured individuals and groups consisting either of injured controls (e.g., orthopedic injuries, OI) or uninjured, typically developing children recruited from the community (community controls, CC). Children with OI are thought to provide optimal comparisons for individuals with TBI because they share injury-related experiences and pre-morbid characteristics; however, a study by Mathias and colleagues (2013) 1 in adults has called into question the added value of injury control groups in TBI research. The comparability of these control groups has not been established in young children. Seventy-two children with OI and 84 CC aged between 18 and 60 months were compared on a range of demographic variables, developmental and medical history, pre-injury behavioral and adaptive profiles, as well as on measures of adaptive functioning, behavior, family functioning, post-concussive symptoms, and cognition (intellectual functioning, verbal abilities, executive functioning, social cognition) 6 months after the OI. There were no statistically significant differences between the OI and CC groups on any of the variables tested, whether they related to pre-injury or post-injury characteristics. The findings are applicable to studies seeking to identify appropriate control groups in the context of preschool TBI research, and suggest no clear advantage in recruiting OI controls based on the variables studied and the methodology used. However, further work is necessary to verify additional factors and outcomes relevant to pediatric TBI research, as well as to compare outcomes between these two groups at more acute stages (i.e., prior to 6 months post-injury).

Improving oral hygiene in the long-term care of the elderly--a RCT.

PubMed

Zenthöfer, Andreas; Dieke, Reinhard; Dieke, Anke; Wege, Karl-Christian; Rammelsberg, Peter; Hassel, Alexander J

2013-06-01

Oral hygiene and health of the institutionalized elderly are frequently described as inadequate. This randomized and single-blinded (outcome evaluation) study compared three types of intervention for improving oral hygiene with a control. The purpose was to investigate whether there were any significant differences between the intervention and control groups. One hundred and six participants living in long-term care homes in South-West Germany were recruited and randomly divided into four groups-three therapy groups and one control group. For all three therapy groups, teeth and dentures were cleaned professionally and individual instruction was given. One of these groups was also re-instructed and remotivated by a dentist (n = 27). One also received help from, and was remotivation by, staff educated in dental hygiene (n = 26). The third therapy group was not remotivated after professional cleaning of teeth and dentures (n = 26). For the control group, there was no intervention (n = 23). The main target clinical data were mean plaque (plaque-control record, O'Leary), gingival bleeding (Ainamo/Bay), and denture hygiene indices. For assessment of the difference between being in an intervention group and in a control group, mixed-model analysis for repeated measurements was performed for each main target variable. In addition, target clinical data were evaluated in long-term follow-up after 3 years. Compared with controls, denture hygiene, plaque, and gingival bleeding indices were significantly lower in the intervention groups over a twelve-week period (mixed model for repeated measurements; P < 0.023). Estimates of effects between control and each treatment group were comparable among the three therapy groups; however, even though two of the groups received further help and instruction. Long-term follow-up showed that all indices were significantly worse than at the last study recall (P < 0.001). Professional cleaning of teeth and dentures, with individual instruction, can be recommended to improve oral hygiene. However, the effect decreases over time and renewal of the intervention is necessary. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A Randomized Comparative Study of Two Techniques to Optimize the Root Coverage Using a Porcine Collagen Matrix.

PubMed

Reino, Danilo Maeda; Maia, Luciana Prado; Fernandes, Patrícia Garani; Souza, Sergio Luis Scombatti de; Taba Junior, Mario; Palioto, Daniela Bazan; Grisi, Marcio Fermandes de Moraes; Novaes, Arthur Belém

2015-10-01

The aim of this randomized controlled clinical study was to compare the extended flap technique (EFT) with the coronally advanced flap technique (CAF) using a porcine collagen matrix (PCM) for root coverage. Twenty patients with two bilateral gingival recessions, Miller class I or II on non-molar teeth were treated with CAF+PCM (control group) or EFT+PCM (test group). Clinical measurements of probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), recession height (RH), keratinized tissue height (KTH), keratinized mucosa thickness (KMT) were determined at baseline, 3 and 6 months post-surgery. At 6 months, the mean root coverage for test group was 81.89%, and for control group it was 62.80% (p<0.01). The change of recession depth from baseline was statistically significant between test and control groups, with an mean of 2.21 mm gained at the control sites and 2.84 mm gained at the test sites (p=0.02). There were no statistically significant differences for KTH, PPD or CAL comparing the two therapies. The extended flap technique presented better root coverage than the coronally advanced flap technique when PCM was used.

Screening for Alzheimer's Disease: Cognitive Impairment in Self-Referred and Memory Clinic-Referred Patients.

PubMed

Kirsebom, Bjørn-Eivind; Espenes, Ragna; Waterloo, Knut; Hessen, Erik; Johnsen, Stein Harald; Bråthen, Geir; Aarsland, Dag; Fladby, Tormod

2017-01-01

Cognitive assessment is essential in tracking disease progression in AD. Presently, cohorts including preclinical at-risk participants are recruited by different means, which may bias cognitive and clinical features. We compared recruitment strategies to levels of cognitive functioning. We investigate recruitment source biases in self-referred and memory clinic-referred patient cohorts to reveal potential differences in cognitive performance and demographics among at-risk participants. We included 431 participants 40-80 years old. Participants were classified as controls (n = 132) or symptom group (n = 299). The symptom group comprised of subjective cognitive decline (SCD, n = 163) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 136). We compared cognitive performance and demographics in memory clinic-referrals (n = 86) to self-referred participants responding to advertisements and news bulletins (n = 179). Participants recruited by other means were excluded from analysis (n = 34). At symptom group level, we found significant reductions in cognitive performance in memory clinic-referrals compared to self-referrals. However, here reductions were only found within the MCI group. We found no differences in cognitive performance due to recruitment within the SCD group. The MCI group was significantly impaired compared to controls on all measures. Significant reductions in learning, and executive functions were also found for the SCD group. Regardless of recruitment method, both the SCD and MCI groups showed reductions in cognitive performance compared to controls. We found differences in cognitive impairment for memory clinic-referrals compared to self-referrals only within the MCI group, SCD-cases being equally affected irrespective of referral type.

[Micro-invasive embedding combined with montelukast sodium for children cough variant asthma:a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

Wang, Xiaoyan; Liu, Baoqin; Lu, Bin; Zhang, Yanmei; Wang, Liran; Li, Haijin; Han, Xue; Ding, Dan

2017-03-12

To observe the effects of micro-invasive embedding combined with montelukast sodium and simple montelukast sodium for children cough variant asthma (CVA). A total of 240 patients were randomly assigned into an observation group and a control group, 120 cases in each one. Considering of cases dropping, 101 patients in the observation group and 105 cases in the control group were included. Montelukast sodium chewable tablets were applied before sleep for 3 months in the control group, 5 mg a time, once a day. Based on the treatment as the control group, micro-invasive embedding was used for 3 months in the observation group, twice in the first month and once in the other two months. The acupoints were Feishu (BL 13), Danzhong (CV 17), Dingchuan (EX-B 1), and Zusanli (ST 36). Follow-up was conducted 9 months after treatment in the two groups. The cough score, serum immunoglobulin (IgE, IgG, IgA), platelet activating factor (PAF) were observed before and after treatment. The indices were compared before and after treatment and at follow-up, including pulmonary function indices[peak expiratory flow rate (PEF), forced expiratory volume at the 1st second (FEV1)], and small airway function indices[forced expiratory flow rate with remaining 25% vital capacity (MEF25%), forced expiratory flow rate with remaining 50% vital capacity (MEF50%), forced expiratory flow rate with remaining 75% vital capacity (MEF75%) and mid expiratory flow rate (MEF25%-75%)]. Also, the total effects were evaluated. ①The total effective rate in the observation group was 93.1% (94/101), which was better than 87.6% (92/105) in the control group ( P <0.05). The cough disappearance time of the cured children in the observation group was (10.38±2.64) d, and it was shorter than (10.72 ±2.60) d of those in the control group ( P <0.05). After treatment, the cough score apparently decreased compared with those before treatment in the two groups (both P <0.05), with better result in the observation group ( P <0.05). At follow-up, the recurrence frequency of the observation group was (1.43±1.20), and it was less than (1.91±1.71) in the control group ( P <0.05). ②The levels of serum IgA and IgG after treatment in the two groups increased, and those of serum IgE and PAF decreased, compared with those before treatment. There was statistically significance except IgG in the control group before and after treatment (all P <0.05), with better Results in the observation group after treatment (all P <0.05). ③ Compared with those before treatment, all the pulmonary function indices were improved obviously after treatment and at follow-up in the two groups (all P <0.05), without statistically significance between the two groups (both P >0.05). ④ There was no statistically significance before and after treatment on small airway function indices in the two groups (all P >0.05). The indices at follow-up increased compared with those before treatment in the two groups (all P <0.05), with better Results in the observation group (all P <0.05). Micro-invasive embedding combined with montelukast sodium achieved de-finite effect for children CVA, which can improve the body's immune and microcirculation. The effect is better than that of simple montelukast sodium on improving small airway function, etc.

Postural adjustments in young ballet dancers compared to age matched controls.

PubMed

Iunes, Denise H; Elias, Iara F; Carvalho, Leonardo C; Dionísio, Valdeci C

2016-01-01

The purpose of the study was to use photogrammetry to evaluate the posture of ballet practitioners compared to an age-matched control group. One hundred and eleven 7- to 24-year-old female volunteers were evaluated and were divided into two groups: the ballet practising group (n = 52) and the control group (n = 59), divided into three subgroups according to age and years of ballet experience. Dancers with 1-3 years experience compared to controls of the same age shows alterations in External Rotation Angle (P < 0.05). Dancers 4-9 years experience show alterations in Lumbar Lordosis, Pelvis Tilt Angle and Navicular Angle Right and Left (P < 0.05). Dancers with over 9 years experience show alterations in External Rotation and Navicular Angle Left (P < 0.05). Research shows there are differences between dancers and controls. In the groups 1-3 years and over 9 years of experience, the External Rotation Angle is greater. In the group 4-9 years of experience the Lumbar Lordosis Angle is greater and Pelvis Tilt, Navicular Angle Left and Right are smaller. In more than 9 years of ballet experience, the Navicular Angle Left is smaller. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rethinking sources of representative controls for the conduct of case-control studies in minority populations.

PubMed

Bandera, Elisa V; Chandran, Urmila; Zirpoli, Gary; McCann, Susan E; Ciupak, Gregory; Ambrosone, Christine B

2013-05-31

Recruitment of controls remains a challenge in case-control studies and particularly in studies involving minority populations. We compared characteristics of controls recruited through random digit dialing (RDD) to those of community controls enrolled through churches, health events and other outreach sources among women of African ancestry (AA) participating in the Women's Circle of Health Study, a case-control study of breast cancer. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were also computed using unconditional logistic regression to evaluate the impact of including the community controls for selected variables relevant to breast cancer and for which there were significant differences in distribution between the two control groups. Compared to community controls (n=347), RDD controls (n=207) had more years of education and higher income, lower body mass index, were more likely to have private insurance, and less likely to be single. While the percentage of nulliparous women in the two groups was similar, community controls tended to have more children, have their first child at a younger age, and were less likely to breastfeed their children. Dietary intake was similar in the two groups. Compared to census data, the combination of RDD and community controls seems to be more representative of the general population than RDD controls alone. Furthermore, the inclusion of the community group had little impact on the magnitude of risk estimates for most variables, while enhancing statistical power. Community-based recruitment was found to be an efficient and feasible method to recruit AA controls.

Effect of life-style modification on postmenopausal overweight and obese Indian women: A randomized controlled 24 weeks preliminary study.

PubMed

Tandon, Vishal R; Sharma, Sudhaa; Mahajan, Annil; Mahajan, Shagun

2014-01-01

The aim of the following study is to evaluate the effect of life-style modification on postmenopausal (PM) overweight and obese Indian women in a randomized controlled 24 week study. Two groups were formed Group I (n = 30) was designated as intervention (dietary and exercise group) and Group II (n = 24) served as control. Comparison of weight, waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI) were made and compared among two groups at 4, 8, 16 and 24 weeks. Mean age at menopause was 48.35 years versus 49.65 years; mean number of menopausal symptoms were 5.70 ± 1.76 versus 5.10 ± 1.56 and mean duration since menopause was 2.70 versus 2.90 years in Groups I and II respectively. When the effect of Group I and control on weight was compared at 4, 8, 16 and 24 weeks, there was no significant difference between them up to 8 week. At 8 weeks Group I caused a significant decrease in weight (P ≤ 0.05) when compared with control arm and which continued throughout the study period (P < 0.05) at both 16 and 24 weeks. Group I produced a significant reduction in WC from 8 weeks onwards up to 24 weeks (P ≤ 0.05). BMI was statistically significant in Group I and the effect started at 4(th) week (P ≤ 0.05) and the differences in BMI reduction were highly significant at 16(th) and 24(th) weeks (P ≤ 0.001). The results of the present study strongly recommend the life-style management to be incorporated in daily style of postmenopausal women under controlled supervision.

Effects of dietary zinc oxide nanoparticles on growth performance and antioxidative status in broilers.

PubMed

Zhao, Cui-Yan; Tan, Shu-Xian; Xiao, Xi-Yu; Qiu, Xian-Shuai; Pan, Jia-Qiang; Tang, Zhao-Xin

2014-09-01

Broilers in four groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 60 mg/kg zinc oxide (60-ZnO; control), or 20, 60, or 100 mg/kg ZnO nanoparticles (20-, 60-, and 100-nano-ZnO, respectively). Compared with the controls, after 14 days, birds in the 20- and 60-nano-ZnO groups had significantly greater weight gains and better feed conversion ratios. However, the body weight of birds in the 100-nano-ZnO group was dramatically reduced after 28 days. Relative to the control group, the total antioxidant capability (T-AOC) in serum and liver tissue was significantly higher in the 20-nano-ZnO group at all time points and also significantly higher in the 60- and 100-nano-ZnO groups in serum on days 28 and 35 and in liver tissues on days 21 and 28. Compared with the controls, the activity of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn-SOD) was significantly greater in the 60- and 100-nano-ZnO groups in serum on days 28 and 35 and in liver tissues after 21 days. Catalase activity in serum samples was significantly higher in the 20- and 60-nano-ZnO groups relative to the control and 100-nano-ZnO birds, but catalase activity in liver tissue was not affected by different nano-ZnO levels. Malondialdehyde content in serum and liver tissues was significantly reduced in the 20-, 60-, and 100-nano-ZnO groups compared with that in the control group at all time points except day 42. Taken together, our data indicate that appropriate concentration of dietary ZnO nanoparticles improves growth performance and antioxidative capabilities in broilers, and 20 mg/kg nano-ZnO is the optimal concentration.

[Predicative significance of HRV and HRT to premature beat on patients with coal worker's pneumoconiosis].

PubMed

Bao, Ying; Wang, Dejun; Du, Zhenlan; Liu, Shuhen

2014-07-01

To determine the predicative significance of HRV and HRT to premature beat on patients with coal-worker's pneumoconiosis. 100 coal-worker's pneumoconiosis patients with premature beat (including 44 cases of occasional ventricular premature contraction and 56 cases of frequent ventricular premature contraction) were chosen as CWP group, and 50 healthy coal workers were chosen as control group. 24 h DCG was used to monitor and analyze the change of premature beat and to calculate HRV. Index: SDNN, SDANN, HFLF, HRT: TO, TS, compare HRV of CWP group and control group and the changes of HRT of both occasional and frequent ventricular premature contraction. The incidence of CWP at night (66.1%, 37 cases) is higher than that during daytime (33.9%, 19 cases), and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.05. HRV (SDNN SDANN HF HL) indexes of CWP group are lower than control group, and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.05. HRV indexes of control group at night are higher than that during daytime, and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.05. Comparison of CWP group HRV indexes between day and night is statistically insignificant with P > 0.05. Compared with control group, TO of CWP group is higher while TS is lower, and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.05. Compared with occasional ventricular premature contraction patients in CWP group, TO of frequent ventricular premature contraction patients is higher while TS is lower, and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.05. Frequent ventricular premature contraction group in CWP group suffer from severe impaired autonomic nervous function injury, and abnormal HRV and HRT can be prognostic indicator of frequent ventricular premature contraction among coal-worker's pneumoconiosis patients.

Effectiveness of physical activity in reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia: a blinded randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Kayo, Andrea Harumi; Peccin, Maria Stella; Sanches, Carla Munhoz; Trevisani, Virgínia Fernandes Moça

2012-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of muscle-strengthening exercises (MS) and a walking program (WA) in reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia. Ninety women, 30-55 years of age, diagnosed with fibromyalgia according to the American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria, were randomized into 3 groups: WA Group, MS Group, and control group. Pain (visual analog scale) was evaluated as the primary outcome. Physical functioning (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, FIQ), health-related quality of life (Short-Form 36 Health Survey, SF-36), and use of medication were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Assessments were performed at baseline, 8, 16, and 28 weeks. Intention-to-treat and efficacy analyses were conducted. Sixty-eight patients completed the treatment protocol. All 3 groups showed improvement after the 16-week treatment compared to baseline. At the 28-week follow-up, pain reduction was similar for the WA and MS groups (P = 0.39), but different from the control group (P = 0.01). At the end of the treatment, 80% of subjects in the control group took pain medication, but only 46.7% in the WA and 41.4% in the MS groups. Mean FIQ total scores were lower for the WA and MS groups (P = 0.96) compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Patients in the WA and MS groups reported higher scores (better health status) than controls in almost all SF-36 subscales. MS was as effective as WA in reducing pain regarding all study variables; however, symptoms management during the follow-up period was more efficient in the WA group.

The protective effects of naringin against 5-fluorouracil-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats.

PubMed

Gelen, Volkan; Şengül, Emin; Yıldırım, Serkan; Atila, Gözde

2018-04-01

5-fluorouracil-induced (5-FU), an anticarcinogenic agent, is reported to have side-effects that include hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The study objective was to investigate the protective effects of naringin on 5-FU-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Thirty rodents were assigned to three groups. The control group received 1 ml of intragastric distilled water for 14 days. The 5-FU group received 1 ml of distilled water for 14 days as a placebo. On day 9, this same group received a 20 mg/kg dose of 5-FU administered intraperitoneally(IP) for a further five days. The naringin+5-FU group received a 100 mg/kg dose of naringin (IP) for 14 days. On day 9, 20 mg/kg of 5-FU was administered (IP) to this group for a further five days. On day 15, the rats were decapitated, and blood and renal and hepatic tissues were taken. It was determined that serum creatinine, BUN, AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH levels, as well as cytokine levels in the liver and kidney tissues were significantly elevated in the 5-FU group, compared to the control group. The comparative values were similar in the control and naringin+5-FU groups. When the liver tissue was examined histopathologically, in the control group it was found to be normal in structure. However, necrosis was observed in the hepatocytes of the pericentric region in the 5-FU group. 8-OHdG cell density was significantly elevated in the 5-FU group, compared to the control and naringin+5-FU groups. Naringin was observed to have a protective effect on 5-FU-induced liver and kidney damage.

The protective effects of naringin against 5-fluorouracil-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats

PubMed Central

Gelen, Volkan; Şengül, Emin; Yıldırım, Serkan; Atila, Gözde

2018-01-01

Objective(s): 5-fluorouracil-induced (5-FU), an anticarcinogenic agent, is reported to have side-effects that include hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The study objective was to investigate the protective effects of naringin on 5-FU-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Thirty rodents were assigned to three groups. The control group received 1 ml of intragastric distilled water for 14 days. The 5-FU group received 1 ml of distilled water for 14 days as a placebo. On day 9, this same group received a 20 mg/kg dose of 5-FU administered intraperitoneally(IP) for a further five days. The naringin+5-FU group received a 100 mg/kg dose of naringin (IP) for 14 days. On day 9, 20 mg/kg of 5-FU was administered (IP) to this group for a further five days. On day 15, the rats were decapitated, and blood and renal and hepatic tissues were taken. Results: It was determined that serum creatinine, BUN, AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH levels, as well as cytokine levels in the liver and kidney tissues were significantly elevated in the 5-FU group, compared to the control group. The comparative values were similar in the control and naringin+5-FU groups. When the liver tissue was examined histopathologically, in the control group it was found to be normal in structure. However, necrosis was observed in the hepatocytes of the pericentric region in the 5-FU group. 8-OHdG cell density was significantly elevated in the 5-FU group, compared to the control and naringin+5-FU groups. Conclusion: Naringin was observed to have a protective effect on 5-FU-induced liver and kidney damage. PMID:29796225

The Effects of Topical Agent (Kelo-Cote or Contractubex) Massage on the Thickness of Post-Burn Scar Tissue Formed in Rats

PubMed Central

Ko, Won Jin; Suh, Bum Sin; Kim, Hyeon A; Heo, Woo Hoe; Choi, Gum Ha; Lee, Seo Ul

2013-01-01

Background We conducted an experimental study to compare the effect of massage using topical agents (Kelo-cote or Contractubex) on scar formation by massaging the healed burn wound on the dorsal area of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Methods Four areas of second degree contact burn were made on the dorsal area of each of 15 SD rats, using a soldering iron 15 mm in diameter. After gross epithelialization in the defect, 15 SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: the Kelo-cote group, Contractubex group, Vaseline group, and control group. Rats in three of the groups (all but the Control group) were massaged twice per day for 5 minutes each day, while those in the Control group were left unattended. For histologic analysis, we performed a biopsy and evaluated the thickness of scar tissue. Results In the Kelo-cote and Contractubex groups, scar tissue thicknesses showed a significant decrease, compared with the Vaseline and control groups. However, no significant differences were observed between the Kelo-cote and Contractubex groups. In the Vaseline group, scar tissue thicknesses showed a significant decrease, compared with the control groups. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that massage using a topical agent is helpful in the prevention of scar formation and that massage only with lubricant (no use of a topical agent) also has a considerable effect, although not as much as the use of a topical agent. Thus, we recommend massage with a topical agent on the post-burn scar as an effective method for decreasing the scar thickness. PMID:24286041

The Effects of Two Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Bromfenac 0.1% and Ketorolac 0.45%, on Cataract Surgery

PubMed Central

Jung, Ji Won; Chung, Byung Hoon; Kim, Eung Kweon; Seo, Kyoung Yul

2015-01-01

Purpose To compare the additive effects of two types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bromfenac 0.1% or ketorolac 0.45%, relative to topical steroid alone in cataract surgery. Materials and Methods A total 91 subjects scheduled to undergo cataract operation were randomized into three groups: Group 1, pre/postoperative bromfenac 0.1%; Group 2, pre/postoperative preservative-free ketorolac 0.45%; and Group 3, postoperative steroid only, as a control. Outcome measures included intraoperative change in pupil size, postoperative anterior chamber inflammation control, change in macular thickness and volume, and ocular surface status after operation. Results Both NSAID groups had smaller intraoperative pupil diameter changes compared to the control group (p<0.05). There was significantly less ocular inflammation 1 week and 1 month postoperatively in both NSAID groups than the control group. The changes in central foveal subfield thickness measured before the operation and at postoperative 1 month were 4.30±4.25, 4.87±6.03, and 12.47±12.24 µm in groups 1 to 3, respectively. In the control group, macular thickness and volume increased more in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), compared to those without DM. In contrast, in both NSAID groups, NSAIDs significantly reduced macular changes in subgroups of patients with or without DM. Although three ocular surface parameters were worse in group 1 than in group 2, these differences were not significant. Conclusion Adding preoperative and postoperative bromfenac 0.1% or ketorolac 0.45% to topical steroid can reduce intraoperative miosis, postoperative inflammation, and macular changes more effectively than postoperative steroid alone. PMID:26446653

Percuflex Helical Ureteral Stents Significantly Reduce Patient Analgesic Requirements Compared to Control Stents.

PubMed

Chew, Ben H; Rebullar, Karla A; Harriman, David; McDougall, Elspeth; Paterson, Ryan F; Lange, Dirk

2017-12-01

Ureteral stent symptoms are experienced by the majority of patients with ureteral stents. No one stent or technology has shown a clear advantage. The Helical™ stent, a spirally cut stent made of proprietary Percuflex™ material, was designed to conform to the shape of the ureter and better accommodate patient movement. We prospectively sought to compare unscheduled visits, analgesic use, and pain scores in patients who received a Percuflex Helical ureteral stent following ureteroscopy compared to a historical control group. Fifteen (n = 15) patients undergoing ureteroscopy for the treatment of kidney stones were consented for study. A Percuflex Helical ureteral stent was inserted after treating the urinary stone. The historical control group consisted of 30 patients, from a previous (ketorolac eluting) ureteral stent study utilizing the same protocol and clinical monitoring forms, who received a regular Percuflex ureteral stent. The control patients were matched by age and sex. The primary study outcome was to compare unscheduled visits. Secondary outcomes included comparison of Visual Pain Analog Scale (VPAS) scores and analgesic use between the two groups. There were no differences in the gender, age, BMI, or stone characteristics between groups. Both groups underwent retrograde ureteroscopy using holmium:YAG laser lithotripsy and stone fragmentation. There was a significant reduction in the amount of analgesics required in the Helical stent group (4.4 ± 7.99 mg morphine equivalents) compared to controls (16.75 ± 18.31 mg, p = 0.0035) to achieve similar VPAS scores. There was no difference in unscheduled visits (20%) or VPAS scores (13.84 ± 13.68 helical vs 14.29 ± 11.58 control, p = 0.7910) between groups. Patients who received a Percuflex Helical ureteral stent required significantly fewer analgesics than those who received a Percuflex stent and both had equivalent pain scores.

The Value of Audio Devices in the Endoscopy Room (VADER) study: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Ardalan, Zaid Sm; Vasudevan, Abhinav; Hew, Simon; Schulberg, Julien; Lontos, Steve

2015-12-14

To evaluate the effect of Star Wars music (SWM) compared with endoscopist-selected popular music (PM) on quality outcomes in colonoscopy. A single-centre, prospective, randomised controlled trial conducted in an endoscopy suite within a quaternary-centre gastroenterology unit, Melbourne, Australia. The primary outcome measures were procedure time, polyp detection rate (PDR) and adenoma detection rate (ADR). The secondary outcome measure was adenomas per colonoscopy (APC). 103 colonoscopies were analysed: 58 in the SWM group and 45 in the PM group. Bowel preparation was assessed as good or excellent in 57% of the SWM group compared with 69% of the PM group (P < 0.01). The PDR was significantly higher in the SWM group than in the PM group (60% v 35%; P = 0.006). Similarly, the ADR was significantly higher in the SWM group than in the PM group (48% v 27%; P = 0.01). The APC in the SWM group was 84% compared with 35% in the PM group (P = 0.01). SWM compared with PM improves key quality outcomes in colonoscopy, despite poorer bowel preparation.

Low back pain in female elite football and handball players compared with an active control group.

PubMed

Tunås, Paula; Nilstad, Agnethe; Myklebust, Grethe

2015-09-01

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to compare the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) among female elite football and handball players to a matched non-professional active control group. The participants were requested to answer a questionnaire based on standardized Nordic questionnaires for musculoskeletal symptoms to assess the prevalence of LBP. Included participants were elite female football (n = 277) and handball players (n = 190), and a randomly selected control group from the Norwegian population (n = 167). Fifty-seven percentage of the football players, 59 % of the handball players and 60 % of the control group had experienced LBP the previous year. There were no significant group differences in the prevalence of LBP ever (p = 0.62), the previous year (p = 0.85) or the previous 7 days (p = 0.63). For both sports, there was a significant increase in prevalence of LBP from the resting period to the competitive periods of the season (p ≤ 0.001). Seventy percent of the goalkeepers in both football and handball had experienced LBP the previous year. There were no difference in LBP among female elite football and handball players compared with the control group. However, female elite athletes in football and handball reported a high prevalence of LBP compared to previous studies. The variations in LBP and playing positions indicate that specific field positions, in football and handball, is a risk factor for developing LBP.

Myelin protein zero and its antibody in serum as biomarkers of n-hexane-induced peripheral neuropathy and neurotoxicity effects.

PubMed

Jia, Xiaowei; Liu, Qingjun; Zhang, Yanshu; Dai, Yufei; Duan, Huawei; Bin, Ping; Niu, Yong; Liu, Jie; Zhong, Liuzhen; Guo, Jisheng; Liu, Xiaofeng; Zheng, Yuxin

2014-01-01

Chronic exposure to n-hexane can lead to peripheral neuropathy that no effective treatment regimen could be applied presently. This study investigated whether myelin protein zero (P0) protein and its antibody could be used to distinguish n-hexane intoxication and protect workers from peripheral neuropathy. We compared P0 protein and its antibody among three levels of n-hexane-exposed groups, which included 18 patients with n-hexane-induced peripheral neuropathy as case group, 120 n-hexane-exposed workers as n-hexaneexposed control group, and 147 non-hexane-exposed participants used as control group. ELISA method was applied to detect P0 protein and its antibody. P0 protein in serum was significantly higher in the case group and n-hexane-exposed control group in comparison with the control group (P < 0.01). Compared with the n-hexane-exposed control group, the case group also had significant increase of P0 protein (P < 0.01). After 6 months therapy, P0 protein was observed to decrease significantly in the case group (P < 0.01). The P0 antibody in serum was significantly higher in the n-hexane-exposed control group than in the control group (P < 0.01), but not significantly different between cases and controls. P0 antibodies in serum may be a short-term effect biomarker for n-hexane exposure. P0 protein in serum may be an early effective biomarker for peripheral nerve neuropathy and its biological limit value needs investigation in the future study.

The force required to fracture endodontically roots restored with various materials as intra-orifice barriers.

PubMed

Yasa, E; Arslan, H; Yasa, B; Akcay, M; Alsancak, M; Hatirli, H

2017-10-01

To evaluate the effect of various materials as intra-orifice barriers on the force required fracture roots. One hundred-thirty five mandibular premolars were decoronated and prepared up to size #40. The root canals were filled and randomly divided into two control and seven experimental groups (n = 15), as follows: Positive control group (the intra-orifice barrier cavity was not prepared), negative control group (the intra-orifice barrier cavity was prepared, but not filled), filling using glass ionomer cement, nano-hybrid composite resin, short fiber-reinforced composite, bulk-fill flowable composite, MTA Angelus, Micro Mega MTA or Biodentine. A fracture strength test was performed, and the data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests. Nano-hybrid composite, short fiber-reinforced composite, bulk-fill flow able composite, and glass ionomer cement increased the force required fracture the roots compared to the positive and negative control groups (P < 0.05). While MTA groups did not increase the force required fracture the roots compared to the control groups, Biodentine increased significantly. Within the limitations of the present study, the use of nano-hybrid composite, short fiber-reinforced composite, bulk-fill flowable composite, and glass ionomer cement as an intra-orifice barrier may be useful in reinforcing roots. MTA placement (MTA Angelus or Micro Mega MTA) did not significantly increase the fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots compared to the control groups, however Biodentine did.

Challenges to validity in single-group interrupted time series analysis.

PubMed

Linden, Ariel

2017-04-01

Single-group interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) is a popular evaluation methodology in which a single unit of observation is studied; the outcome variable is serially ordered as a time series, and the intervention is expected to "interrupt" the level and/or trend of the time series, subsequent to its introduction. The most common threat to validity is history-the possibility that some other event caused the observed effect in the time series. Although history limits the ability to draw causal inferences from single ITSA models, it can be controlled for by using a comparable control group to serve as the counterfactual. Time series data from 2 natural experiments (effect of Florida's 2000 repeal of its motorcycle helmet law on motorcycle fatalities and California's 1988 Proposition 99 to reduce cigarette sales) are used to illustrate how history biases results of single-group ITSA results-as opposed to when that group's results are contrasted to those of a comparable control group. In the first example, an external event occurring at the same time as the helmet repeal appeared to be the cause of a rise in motorcycle deaths, but was only revealed when Florida was contrasted with comparable control states. Conversely, in the second example, a decreasing trend in cigarette sales prior to the intervention raised question about a treatment effect attributed to Proposition 99, but was reinforced when California was contrasted with comparable control states. Results of single-group ITSA should be considered preliminary, and interpreted with caution, until a more robust study design can be implemented. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Syndrome Evaluation System (SES) versus Blood Culture (BACTEC) in the Diagnosis and Management of Neonatal Sepsis--A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Bhat, B Vishnu; Prasad, P; Ravi Kumar, Venkata Banda; Harish, B N; Krishnakumari, K; Rekha, Anand; Manjunath, G; Adhisivam, B; Shruthi, B

2016-05-01

To compare the clinical outcome of a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based molecular diagnostic method -- Syndrome Evaluation System (SES) directed treatment strategy vs. standard of care (blood culture) directed treatment strategy for neonatal sepsis. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) included 385 neonates with sepsis who were randomized into two groups -- SES and control (BACTEC). Both tests were performed for all the neonates. However, in the SES group, the results of SES test were revealed to the treating clinicians, while in the control group, SES results were withheld. Two ml of blood was drawn from each baby. One aliquot was sent for blood culture, whereas the remaining aliquot was sent for SES. Babies were then administered empirical IV antibiotics and given supportive care. Further antibiotic changes, if required were done in SES and control groups based on their respective reports. The microbiological profile, immediate outcome, duration of hospital stay, number of antibiotics used and readmission within a month in both groups were compared. SES was better than BACTEC in identifying the causative organism in both the groups (68 % vs. 18 % in SES group and 72 % vs. 18 % in control group). SES had 100 % concordance with blood culture by BACTEC. Detection of bacteria and fungi were four and ten-fold higher respectively with SES when compared to BACTEC culture. Microbiological diagnosis was rapid with SES compared to BACTEC (7 h vs. 72 h). Treatment based on SES resulted in significantly less mortality (3 % vs. 18 %). Readmission rate, duration of hospital stay and change in antibiotics were also significantly less in SES group. This new molecular based diagnostic system (SES) helps in rapid and accurate diagnosis of neonatal sepsis and reduces mortality and morbidity in affected neonates.

Chemopreventive evaluation of a Schiff base derived copper (II) complex against azoxymethane-induced colorectal cancer in rats.

PubMed

Hajrezaie, Maryam; Hassandarvish, Pouya; Moghadamtousi, Soheil Zorofchian; Gwaram, Nura Suleiman; Golbabapour, Shahram; Najihussien, Abdrabuh; Almagrami, Amel Abdullah; Zahedifard, Maryam; Rouhollahi, Elham; Karimian, Hamed; Fani, Somaye; Kamalidehghan, Behnam; Majid, Nazia Abdul; Ali, Hapipah Mohd; Abdulla, Mahmood Ameen

2014-01-01

Based on the potential of Schiff base compounds to act as sources for the development of cancer chemotherapeutic agents, this in vivo study was performed to investigate the inhibitory properties of the synthetic Schiff base compound Cu(BrHAP)2 on colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF). This study involved five groups of male rats. The negative control group was injected with normal saline once a week for 2 weeks and fed 10% Tween 20 for 10 weeks, the cancer control group was subcutaneously injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks, the positive control group was injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks and 35 mg/kg 5-fluorouracil (injected intra-peritoneally) for 4 weeks, and the experimental groups were first injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks and then fed 2.5 or 5 mg/kg of the Schiff base compound once a day for 10 weeks. Application of the Schiff base compound suppressed total colonic ACF formation by up to 72% to 74% (P<0.05) when compared with the cancer control group. Analysis of colorectal specimens revealed that treatments with the Schiff base compound decreased the mean crypt scores in azoxymethane-treated rats. Significant elevations of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities and a reduction in the level of malondialdehyde were also observed. Histologically, all treatment groups exhibited significant decreases in dysplasia compared to the cancer control group (P<0.05). Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated down-regulation of the PCNA protein. Comparative western blot analysis revealed that COX-2 and Bcl2 were up-regulated and Bax was down-regulated compared with the AOM control group. The current study demonstrated that the Cu(BrHAP)2 compound has promising chemoprotective activities that are evidenced by significant decreases in the numbers of ACFs in azoxymethane-induced colon cancer.

Chemopreventive Evaluation of a Schiff Base Derived Copper (II) Complex against Azoxymethane-Induced Colorectal Cancer in Rats

PubMed Central

Hajrezaie, Maryam; Hassandarvish, Pouya; Moghadamtousi, Soheil Zorofchian; Gwaram, Nura Suleiman; Golbabapour, Shahram; NajiHussien, Abdrabuh; Almagrami, Amel Abdullah; Zahedifard, Maryam; Rouhollahi, Elham; Karimian, Hamed; Fani, Somaye; Kamalidehghan, Behnam; Majid, Nazia Abdul; Ali, Hapipah Mohd; Abdulla, Mahmood Ameen

2014-01-01

Background Based on the potential of Schiff base compounds to act as sources for the development of cancer chemotherapeutic agents, this in vivo study was performed to investigate the inhibitory properties of the synthetic Schiff base compound Cu(BrHAP)2 on colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF). Methodology This study involved five groups of male rats. The negative control group was injected with normal saline once a week for 2 weeks and fed 10% Tween 20 for 10 weeks, the cancer control group was subcutaneously injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks, the positive control group was injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks and 35 mg/kg 5-fluorouracil (injected intra-peritoneally) for 4 weeks, and the experimental groups were first injected with 15 mg/kg azoxymethane once per week for two consecutive weeks and then fed 2.5 or 5 mg/kg of the Schiff base compound once a day for 10 weeks. Application of the Schiff base compound suppressed total colonic ACF formation by up to 72% to 74% (P<0.05) when compared with the cancer control group. Analysis of colorectal specimens revealed that treatments with the Schiff base compound decreased the mean crypt scores in azoxymethane-treated rats. Significant elevations of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities and a reduction in the level of malondialdehyde were also observed. Histologically, all treatment groups exhibited significant decreases in dysplasia compared to the cancer control group (P<0.05). Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated down-regulation of the PCNA protein. Comparative western blot analysis revealed that COX-2 and Bcl2 were up-regulated and Bax was down-regulated compared with the AOM control group. Conclusion The current study demonstrated that the Cu(BrHAP)2 compound has promising chemoprotective activities that are evidenced by significant decreases in the numbers of ACFs in azoxymethane-induced colon cancer. PMID:24618844

Dose titration of repaglinide in patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Kølendorf, Klaus; Eriksson, Johan; Birkeland, Kåre I; Kjellström, Thomas; Hreidarsson, Astradur B

2004-04-01

A total of 385 drug-therapy naïve patients, with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes, were randomised into a multinational, parallel-group study to compare two strategies for dose titration of the oral hypoglycaemic agent repaglinide. Patients were allocated to either a fasting blood glucose (FBG) monitoring group with titration target 4.4-6.1 mmol/l or to a post-prandial blood glucose (PPBG) monitoring group with titration target 4.4-8.0 mmol/l. An initial titration period of up to 8 weeks was followed by a 12-week treatment period. Glycaemic control and hypoglycaemic outcomes were compared for the respective groups. HbA(1c) decreased significantly more in the FBG monitoring group by a mean of 1.38% compared to the PPBG group by a mean of 1.22% (P=0.03). The glycaemic control targets were met by fewer patients in the FBG group than in the PPBG group (57% versus 86% (P<0.001)) despite a higher mean dose of repaglinide in the FBG group. The within-patient blood glucose variability was significantly lower in the FBG group than in the PPBG group (P<0.001). In conclusion, repaglinide lowered the HbA(1c) effectively and safely in both groups and self-monitored FBG is a suitable parameter for titration of repaglinide. Whether a lower PPBG target might be as good a guide as FBG for titration of repaglinide should be addressed in a future study.

Interventions for raising breast cancer awareness in women.

PubMed

O'Mahony, Máirín; Comber, Harry; Fitzgerald, Tony; Corrigan, Mark A; Fitzgerald, Eileen; Grunfeld, Elizabeth A; Flynn, Maura G; Hegarty, Josephine

2017-02-10

Breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women globally. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer are key to better outcomes. Since many women will discover a breast cancer symptom themselves, it is important that they are breast cancer aware i.e. have the knowledge, skills and confidence to detect breast changes and present promptly to a healthcare professional. To assess the effectiveness of interventions for raising breast cancer awareness in women. We searched the Cochrane Breast Cancer Group's Specialised Register (searched 25 January 2016), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2015, Issue 12) in the Cochrane Library (searched 27 January 2016), MEDLINE OvidSP (2008 to 27 January 2016), Embase (Embase.com, 2008 to 27 January 2016), the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) search portal and ClinicalTrials.gov (searched 27 Feburary 2016). We also searched the reference lists of identified articles and reviews and the grey literature for conference proceedings and published abstracts. No language restriction was applied. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on interventions for raising women's breast cancer awareness i.e. knowledge of potential breast cancer symptoms/changes and the confidence to look at and feel their breasts, using any means of delivery, i.e. one-to-one/group/mass media campaign(s). Two authors selected studies, independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We reported the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) and standard deviation (SD) for continuous outcomes. Since it was not possible to combine data from included studies due to their heterogeneity, we present a narrative synthesis. We assessed the quality of evidence using GRADE methods. We included two RCTs involving 997 women: one RCT (867 women) randomised women to receive either a written booklet and usual care (intervention group 1), a written booklet and usual care plus a verbal interaction with a radiographer or research psychologist (intervention group 2) or usual care (control group); and the second RCT (130 women) randomised women to either an educational programme (three sessions of 60 to 90 minutes) or no intervention (control group). Knowledge of breast cancer symptomsIn the first study, knowledge of non-lump symptoms increased in intervention group 1 compared to the control group at two years postintervention, but not significantly (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.6; P = 0.66; 449 women; moderate-quality evidence). Similarly, at two years postintervention, knowledge of symptoms increased in the intervention group 2 compared to the control group but not significantly (OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.9 to 2.1; P = 0.11; 434 women; moderate-quality evidence). In the second study, women's awareness of breast cancer symptoms had increased one month post intervention in the educational group (MD 3.45, SD 5.11; 65 women; low-quality evidence) compared to the control group (MD -0.68, SD 5.93; 65 women; P < 0.001), where there was a decrease in awareness. Knowledge of age-related riskIn the first study, women's knowledge of age-related risk of breast cancer increased, but not significantly, in intervention group 1 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 1.8; 95% CI 0.9 to 3.5; P < 0.08; 447 women; moderate-quality evidence). Women's knowledge of risk increased significantly in intervention group 2 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 4.8, 95% CI 2.6 to 9.0; P < 0.001; 431 women; moderate-quality evidence). In the second study, women's perceived susceptibility (how at risk they considered themselves) to breast cancer had increased significantly one month post intervention in the educational group (MD 1.31, SD 3.57; 65 women; low-quality evidence) compared to the control group (MD -0.55, SD 3.31; 65 women; P = 0.005), where a decrease in perceived susceptibility was noted. Frequency of Breast CheckingIn the first study, no significant change was noted for intervention group 1 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.6; P = 0.54; 457 women; moderate-quality evidence). Monthly breast checking increased, but not significantly, in intervention group 2 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 1.3, 95% CI 0.9 to 1.9; P = 0.14; 445 women; moderate-quality evidence). In the second study, women's breast cancer preventive behaviours increased significantly one month post intervention in the educational group (MD 1.21, SD 2.54; 65 women; low-quality evidence) compared to the control group (MD 0.15, SD 2.94; 65 women; P < 0.045). Breast Cancer AwarenessWomen's overall breast cancer awareness did not change in intervention group 1 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 1.8, 95% CI 0.6 to 5.30; P = 0.32; 435 women; moderate-quality evidence) while overall awareness increased in the intervention group 2 compared to control at two years postintervention (OR 8.1, 95% CI 2.7 to 25.0; P < 0.001; 420 women; moderate-quality evidence). In the second study, there was a significant increase in scores on the Health Belief Model (that included the constructs of awareness and perceived susceptibility) at one month postintervention in the educational group (mean 1.21, SD 2.54; 65 women) compared to the control group (mean 0.15, SD 2.94; 65 women; P = 0.045).Neither study reported outcomes relating to motivation to check their breasts, confidence to seek help, time from breast symptom discovery to presentation to a healthcare professional, intentions to seek help, quality of life, adverse effects of the interventions, stages of breast cancer, survival estimates or breast cancer mortality rates. Based on the results of two RCTs, a brief intervention has the potential to increase women's breast cancer awareness. However, findings of this review should be interpreted with caution, as GRADE assessment identified moderate-quality evidence in only one of the two studies reviewed. In addition, the included trials were heterogeneous in terms of the interventions, population studied and outcomes measured. Therefore, current evidence cannot be generalised to the wider context. Further studies including larger samples, validated outcome measures and longitudinal approaches are warranted.

[Study on the distribution of Chinese medical constitutions of hypertension complicated diabetes patients].

PubMed

Han, Shu-Hui; Li, Kang-Zeng; Zheng, Jian-Ming; Zheng, Zhi-Xiong; Lin, Miao-Chun; Xu, Ming-Yuan; Yue, Zeng-Chang

2013-02-01

To investigate the distribution features of Chinese medical constitutions in hypertension complicated diabetes patients. Recruited were 251 primary hypertension inpatients at the Department of Neurology and the Department of Cardiology, Mindong Hospital of Ningde City from October 2010 to March 2011. They were assigned to two groups according to whether they were complicated with diabetes, i.e., the primary hypertension complicated diabetes (as the case group, 78 cases) and the primary hypertension without complicated diabetes (as the control group, 173 cases). The constitution types were investigated by questionnaire. The constitution type distribution was compared between the two groups. The data including gender, age, and the distribution of the constitution type were compared between the two groups. The levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, Hb, FPG, and ALB were detected on the 2nd day after admission. The levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, Hb, and ALB were compared be- tween the two groups in patients of yin deficiency constitution, phlegm dampness constitution, and qi deficiency constitution. There was no statistical difference in the hypertension grading, the disease course, and chronic disease complications between the two groups (P > 0.05). The main constitution types were yin deficiency (accounting for 26.0%), phlegm dampness (accounting for 19.1%), and qi deficiency (accounting for 19.1%) in the control group. The main constitution types were yin deficiency (accounting for 32.1%), phlegm dampness (accounting for 30.8%), and qi deficiency (accounting for 17.9%) in the case group. The ratio of phlegm dampness type in the case group was higher than that in the control group with statistical difference (P = 0.041). There was no statistical difference in the constitution distribution in the same gender between the two groups (P > 0.05). There was no statistical difference in the constitution distribution in those younger than 80 years between the two groups (P > 0.05). Compared with those older than 80 years in the control group, the ratio of phlegm dampness was higher, and the ratios of yang deficiency, yin deficiency, qi deficiency, and dampness heat were lower in the case group with statistical difference (P = 0.020). There was no statistical difference in the constitution distribution among different age stages in the case group (P > 0. 05). But there was statistical difference in the constitution distribution among different age stages in the control group (P < 0.05). The yin deficiency and qi deficiency constitutions were dominated in thinner patients of the control group, while yin deficiency constitution was dominated in thinner patients of the case group, showing no statistical difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). There was no statistical difference in the distribution of constitution type in overweight patients between the two groups (P = 0.458). Compared with those of gentle type constitution in the same group, the levels of TC and LDL-C increased in those of phlegm dampness constitution in the two groups (P < 0.05). The level of TC increased in those of qi deficiency constitution in the case group. The level of Hb decreased in those of qi deficiency constitution in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with those of qi deficiency constitution in the same group, the levels of TC and Hb obviously increased in those of phlegm dampness constitution in the control group (P < 0.05). The level of ALB increased in those of yin deficiency constitution in the case group (P < 0. 05). Compared with the control group, the level of FPG of those of each constitution increased in the case group (P < 0.05) ,.and the level of TC increased in those of qi deficiency constitution (P = 0.007). The main constitution types of hypertension complicated diabetes patients were yin deficiency, phlegm dampness, and qi deficiency. The ratio of phlegm dampness was higher in hypertension complicated diabetes patients than hypertension without complicated diabetes patients. The levels of TC and LDL-C were higher in those of phlegm dampness constitution type. The level of TC was higher in hypertension complicated diabetes patients of qi deficiency constitution.

Does Nordic walking improves the postural control and gait parameters of women between the age 65 and 74: a randomized trial

PubMed Central

Kocur, Piotr; Wiernicka, Marzena; Wilski, Maciej; Kaminska, Ewa; Furmaniuk, Lech; Maslowska, Marta Flis; Lewandowski, Jacek

2015-01-01

[Purpose] To assess the effect of 12-weeks Nordic walking training on gait parameters and some elements of postural control. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty-seven women aged 65 to 74 years were enrolled in this study. The subjects were divided into a Nordic Walking group (12 weeks of Nordic walking training, 3 times a week for 75 minutes) and a control group. In both study groups, a set of functional tests were conducted at the beginning and at the end of the study: the Forward Reach Test (FRT) and the Upward Reach Test (URT) on a stabilometric platform, and the analysis of gait parameters on a treadmill. [Results] The NW group showed improvements in: the range of reach in the FRT test and the URT test in compared to the control group. The length of the gait cycle and gait cycle frequency also showed changes in the NW group compared to the control group. [Conclusion] A 12-week NW training program had a positive impact on selected gait parameters and may improve the postural control of women aged over 65 according to the results selected functional tests. PMID:26834341

Does Nordic walking improves the postural control and gait parameters of women between the age 65 and 74: a randomized trial.

PubMed

Kocur, Piotr; Wiernicka, Marzena; Wilski, Maciej; Kaminska, Ewa; Furmaniuk, Lech; Maslowska, Marta Flis; Lewandowski, Jacek

2015-12-01

[Purpose] To assess the effect of 12-weeks Nordic walking training on gait parameters and some elements of postural control. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty-seven women aged 65 to 74 years were enrolled in this study. The subjects were divided into a Nordic Walking group (12 weeks of Nordic walking training, 3 times a week for 75 minutes) and a control group. In both study groups, a set of functional tests were conducted at the beginning and at the end of the study: the Forward Reach Test (FRT) and the Upward Reach Test (URT) on a stabilometric platform, and the analysis of gait parameters on a treadmill. [Results] The NW group showed improvements in: the range of reach in the FRT test and the URT test in compared to the control group. The length of the gait cycle and gait cycle frequency also showed changes in the NW group compared to the control group. [Conclusion] A 12-week NW training program had a positive impact on selected gait parameters and may improve the postural control of women aged over 65 according to the results selected functional tests.

The Effect of Chlorpyrifos on Isolated Thoracic Aorta in Rats

PubMed Central

Yıldırım, Ebru; Baydan, Emine; Kanbur, Murat; Kul, Oğuz; Çınar, Miyase; Ekici, Hüsamettin; Atmaca, Nurgül

2013-01-01

This study investigated the effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta and on the level of NO in plasma and aorta. The effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta in organ bath was determined in 10 rats. Another 45 rats were assigned to 3 groups with 15 rats each: control group 1 received distilled water, control group 2 was given corn oil, and the last group was given 13.5 mg/kg chlorpyrifos dissolved in corn oil every other day for 8 weeks orally. Chlorpyrifos (10−10 M–10−5 M) showed no effect on isolated thoracic aorta. Plasma AChE activity was decreased, while LDH, ALT, GGT, and AST activities were increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. Plasma NO level was increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. iNOS expression was present in all groups in the cytoplasm of the endothelia and in the smooth muscle cells of aorta. According to semiquantitative histomorphological analysis, iNOS immunopositive reactions were seen in the decreasing order in chlorpyrifos, control 2, and control 1 groups. eNOS immunopositive reactions were observed in the endothelial cell cytoplasm, rarely in the subintimal layer, and the smooth muscle cells of aorta. There were no differences among the groups in terms of eNOS immunostaining. In conclusion, chlorpyrifos induced NO production in aorta following an increase in NOS expression. PMID:23878805

The effect of androstenedione/estrone supplementation on cortical and cancellous bone in the young intact female monkey: a model for the effects of polycystic ovarian disease on the skeleton?

PubMed

Lundon, K M; Jayo, M J; Register, T C; Dumitriu, M; Grynpas, M D

2000-01-01

The goal of this study was to determine the effects of chronically elevated blood androstenedione and estrone levels on the quality and quantity of both cancellous (trabecular) and cortical bone in a young (mean age 9.4 years) female primate model (M. fascicularis). Thirteen intact female monkeys received continuous androstenedione/estrone supplementation via subcutaneous implants over a 24-month period to simulate the human condition known as polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD). A group of 16 untreated intact age-matched female monkeys served as controls. Lumbar spine and whole body bone mineral density (BMD) status was determined mid-study by dual photon absorptiometry (DPA); subsequent analysis of the bone related to data obtained following the 2-year treatment period without further BMD measurement. Bone markers, including serum acid phosphatase, total bone alkaline phosphatase, bone gla protein and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase were measured at the end of the study. At necropsy, the lumbar vertebrae and femora were recovered in order to analyze the bone mineral quality and quantity of cancellous and cortical bone respectively and to compare these with the control group. Mineralization profiles of the vertebrae and femora were obtained using the density fractionation technique. Chemical analysis of the three largest fractions retrieved by density fractionation was performed to evaluate differences in %Ca, %P, Ca/P ratio and mineral content (%Ca + %PO4) between control and experimental groups. In addition, unfractionated bone powder was examined by X-ray diffraction to identify any changes in crystal size. Coronal sections of vertebrae were analyzed for structural parameters using histomorphometry and image analysis. Cross-sections taken at the midshaft diaphyseal femora were analyzed for structural macroscopic and intracortical parameters. There was a significant increase in BMD at the L2-L4 region in the treatment group compared with the control groups (p < 0.005) as measured at 1 year into the trial. Serum acid phosphatase was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the treatment group compared with the controls near study termination. A nonsignificant shift in the mineralization profile of the vertebrae towards less dense bone was observed in the treatment group, while there was a significant shift in the mineralization profile towards more dense bone in the treated femora compared with controls (p < 0.05) after a 2-year period. There was no difference between treatment and control groups in terms of size/strain of the cortical or cancellous bone crystal as detected by X-ray diffraction. There was a significant increase in cancellous bone area (B.Ar.) (p < 0.02) and a significant increase (p < 0.05) in mean trabecular width with a corresponding decrease in trabecular separation (p < 0.03) in the experimental group compared with the controls. There were no significant changes in osteoid parameters (perimeter, area or width) or eroded perimeter measurements in the experimental group compared with the controls. In the experimental group, trabecular strut analysis showed a significant increase in the number of nodes (p < 0.02) and in the total strut length (p < 0.003) compared with the controls. There was also a significant increase in the node to node (p < 0.04) and node to terminus (p < 0.004) strut length in the treatment group compared with the controls. A significant increase in B.Ar. without concurrent indices of ongoing remodelling differing from controls suggests that cancellous bone of the vertebral body in the treated young female primate had been receptive to the anabolic stimulus of androstenedione/estrone supplementation over the 2-year period. In contrast, macroscopic parameters of cortical bone such as perimeter, area and width were preserved over the 2-year course, while intracortical remodeling was evident with increased percent porosity (p < 0.001), osteonal bone (p < 0.01) and osteonal density (p < 0.01) observed in the treatment group compared with the controls. The endocrine profile of both elevated androstenedione and estrone levels in an intact female primate of reproductive age may identify differential effects of the condition known as polycystic ovarian disease on the skeletal compartments.

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 76 - Procedures and Methods for Estimating Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers B Appendix B to Part 76 Protection of... of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers 1. Purpose and Applicability This technical...; and which is comparable to the costs of nitrogen oxides controls set pursuant to subsection (b)(1) (of...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 76 - Procedures and Methods for Estimating Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers B Appendix B to Part 76 Protection of... of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers 1. Purpose and Applicability This technical...; and which is comparable to the costs of nitrogen oxides controls set pursuant to subsection (b)(1) (of...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 76 - Procedures and Methods for Estimating Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers B Appendix B to Part 76 Protection of... of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers 1. Purpose and Applicability This technical...; and which is comparable to the costs of nitrogen oxides controls set pursuant to subsection (b)(1) (of...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 76 - Procedures and Methods for Estimating Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers B Appendix B to Part 76 Protection of... of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers 1. Purpose and Applicability This technical...; and which is comparable to the costs of nitrogen oxides controls set pursuant to subsection (b)(1) (of...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 76 - Procedures and Methods for Estimating Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Costs of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers B Appendix B to Part 76 Protection of... of Nitrogen Oxides Controls Applied to Group 1, Boilers 1. Purpose and Applicability This technical...; and which is comparable to the costs of nitrogen oxides controls set pursuant to subsection (b)(1) (of...

Pregnancy Outcome in Women with Threatened Miscarriage: a Year Study

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Salah Roshdy; El-Sammani, Mohamed El-Khatem; Al-Sheeha, Muneera Al-Alaziz; Aitallah, Abdou Saeed; Jabin Khan, Farhat; Ahmed, Salah Roshdy

2012-01-01

Introduction: Patients with threatened miscarriage associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes because of associated pregnancy and labor complications. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of threatened miscarriage on early and late pregnancy outcome. Methods: A retrospective case–controlled study was performed on 89 women with threatened miscarriage (study group) at Maternity and Children Hospital Buraidah, KSA from January 2010 to December 2010. They were matched for age and parity to 45 cases (control group) attending route antenatal clinic at the same time. Data recorded included, demographic characteristics and detailed pregnancy outcome and ultrasound finding including gestational age, cardiac activity and subchorionic hematoma. Results: The overall adverse pregnancy outcome was significantly higher in the studied cases compared to the control group (p=015).The miscarriage rate was significantly higher in study group compared to the controls group, (16.9%vs 2.2%, p=0000). Preterm delivery, babies with low birth weight and premature rupture of membranes were significantly higher in the miscarriage group compared to the controls group, (15.7% vs 2.2%, p=0.001), (15.7% vs 2.2%), p=0.001) and (6.7%) vs 4.45), p=0.016). There were no significant differences in other pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion: threatened miscarriage is associated with increased incidence of adverse pregnancy outcome. The risk is specially increased in premature rupture of the membranes, preterm delivery and neonatal birth weight. PMID:23678307

EVALUATION OF THE CHELATING EFFECT OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CORIANDRUM SATIVUM AND ITS FRACTIONS ON WISTAR RATS POISONED WITH LEAD ACETATE.

PubMed

Téllez-López, Miguel Ángel; Mora-Tovar, Gabriela; Ceniceros-Méndez, Iromi Marlen; García-Lujan, Concepción; Puente-Valenzuela, Cristo Omar; Vega-Menchaca, María Del Carmen; Serrano-Gallardo, Luis Benjamín; Garza, Rubén García; Morán-Martínez, Javier

2017-01-01

The rate of lead poisoning has decreased in recent years due to increased health control in industries that use this metal. However, it is still a public health problem worldwide. The use of various plants with chelating properties has been a topic of research today. In traditional medicine, it is said that Coriandrum sativum has chelating properties, but there is no scientific evidence to support this fact. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the chelating effect of methanol extract of coriander and its fractions on Wistar rats intoxicated with lead. In this research, male Wistar rats were poisoned with 50 mg/kg of lead acetate and treated with 50 mg/kg of methanol extract and its fractions. The extract and its fractions were administered to four treatment groups. Positive and negative controls were established. Hemoglobin, hematocrit and lead concentrations were analyzed; liver was evaluated histologically in control and treatment groups. The methanol extract of coriander presented a LD 50 >1000 mg/dL. The group administered with the methanol extract showed significant difference in the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit compared to the negative control group. Lead concentration in treatment groups showed a decrease compared to the positive control. Histological evaluation of tissue showed less damage in groups administered with methanolic extract and its fractions compared to the positive control which presented structural alterations. Coriander extracts protect liver and lower lead concentration in rats intoxicated with lead in contrast to the positive control group.

EVALUATION OF THE CHELATING EFFECT OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CORIANDRUM SATIVUM AND ITS FRACTIONS ON WISTAR RATS POISONED WITH LEAD ACETATE

PubMed Central

Téllez-López, Miguel Ángel; Mora-Tovar, Gabriela; Ceniceros-Méndez, Iromi Marlen; García-Lujan, Concepción; Puente-Valenzuela, Cristo Omar; Vega-Menchaca, María del Carmen; Serrano-Gallardo, Luis Benjamín; Garza, Rubén García; Morán-Martínez, Javier

2017-01-01

Background: The rate of lead poisoning has decreased in recent years due to increased health control in industries that use this metal. However, it is still a public health problem worldwide. The use of various plants with chelating properties has been a topic of research today. In traditional medicine, it is said that Coriandrum sativum has chelating properties, but there is no scientific evidence to support this fact. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the chelating effect of methanol extract of coriander and its fractions on Wistar rats intoxicated with lead. Materials and Methods: In this research, male Wistar rats were poisoned with 50 mg/kg of lead acetate and treated with 50 mg/kg of methanol extract and its fractions. The extract and its fractions were administered to four treatment groups. Positive and negative controls were established. Hemoglobin, hematocrit and lead concentrations were analyzed; liver was evaluated histologically in control and treatment groups. Results: The methanol extract of coriander presented a LD50 >1000 mg/dL. The group administered with the methanol extract showed significant difference in the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit compared to the negative control group. Lead concentration in treatment groups showed a decrease compared to the positive control. Histological evaluation of tissue showed less damage in groups administered with methanolic extract and its fractions compared to the positive control which presented structural alterations. Conclusion: Coriander extracts protect liver and lower lead concentration in rats intoxicated with lead in contrast to the positive control group. PMID:28573226

Predictors of physical activity at 12 month follow-up after a supervised exercise intervention in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Aparicio-Ting, Fabiola E; Farris, Megan; Courneya, Kerry S; Schiller, Ashley; Friedenreich, Christine M

2015-05-05

Few studies have examined recreational physical activity (RPA) after participating in a structured exercise intervention. More specifically, little is known about the long-term effects of exercise interventions in post-menopausal women. This study had two objectives: 1) To compare RPA in postmenopausal women in the exercise group and the control group 12 months after the end of the Alberta Physical Activity and Breast Cancer Prevention (ALPHA) Trial; and 2) To apply the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to identify predictors of RPA 12 months post-intervention among women in the exercise group. Self-reported RPA 12-months post-intervention from a validated questionnaire was used to estimate RPA levels for control group (118/160, 74% response) and exercise group participants (126/160, 79% response). Bivariate analysis was used to compare RPA between exercise and control group participants and to identify TPB variables for multivariate analysis. Logistic regression was applied to TPB data collected from self- administered questionnaires at end of trial by exercise group participants (126/160, 79% response) to identify predictors of long-term RPA. At 12 months post-intervention, 62% of women in the exercise group were active compared to 58% of controls (p = 0.52). Of the TPB constructs examined, self-efficacy (OR =2.98 (1.08-8.20)) and behavioural beliefs (OR = 1.46 (1.03-2.06)) were identified as predictors of RPA for exercise group participants. Levels of RPA in the exercise and control groups were comparable 12 months post intervention, indicating that participation in the ALPHA trial was associated with increased physical activity in previously inactive women, regardless of randomization into either the exercise group or in the control group. Exercise interventions that promote self-efficacy and positive behavioural beliefs have the potential to have long-term impacts on physical activity behaviour, although further research is needed to examine additional psychological, social and environmental predictors of long-term RPA in post-menopausal women. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00522262.

Effect of vehicle and route of administration of letrozole on ovarian function in a bovine model.

PubMed

Yapura, M J; Mapletoft, R J; Pierson, R A; Singh, J; Adams, G P

2014-10-01

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of vehicle and route of administration of letrozole on ovarian function in sexually mature beef heifers. On Day 3 (Day 0=ovulation), heifers were assigned randomly to four treatment groups and given 1mgkg(-1) letrozole intravenously (iv, n=10) or intramuscularly (im, n=10) or given a placebo iv (control iv, n=5) or im (control im, n=5). The interwave interval was longer in heifers treated with letrozole im than in im and iv controls (11.7±0.30 vs 9.5±0.50 and 10±0.43, respectively; P<0.05). Corpus luteum diameter profiles and plasma progesterone concentrations were greater (P<0.03 and P<0.05, respectively) in heifers treated with letrozole im compared with control im. Plasma oestradiol concentrations were lower in both letrozole-treated groups compared with controls (P≤0.03). Plasma LH concentrations tended to be elevated at the time of wave emergence in heifers treated with letrozole im compared with other groups (group-by-day interaction, P=0.06) and plasma FSH concentrations tended to be greater (P<0.09) in heifers treated with letrozole by either route compared with a single control group. We conclude that intramuscular administration of letrozole in oil is a feasible route and vehicle for the development of a letrozole-based treatment protocol for herd synchronisation in cattle.

Social and monetary reward processing in autism spectrum disorders

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Social motivation theory suggests that deficits in social reward processing underlie social impairments in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, the extent to which abnormalities in reward processing generalize to other classes of stimuli remains unresolved. The aim of the current study was to examine if reward processing abnormalities in ASD are specific to social stimuli or can be generalized to other classes of reward. Additionally, we sought to examine the results in the light of behavioral impairments in ASD. Methods Participants performed adapted versions of the social and monetary incentive delay tasks. Data from 21 unmedicated right-handed male participants with ASD and 21 age- and IQ-matched controls were analyzed using a factorial design to examine the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) response during the anticipation and receipt of both reward types. Results Behaviorally, the ASD group showed less of a reduction in reaction time (RT) for rewarded compared to unrewarded trials than the control group. In terms of the fMRI results, there were no significant group differences in reward circuitry during reward anticipation. During the receipt of rewards, there was a significant interaction between group and reward type in the left dorsal striatum (DS). The ASD group showed reduced activity in the DS compared to controls for social rewards but not monetary rewards and decreased activation for social rewards compared to monetary rewards. Controls showed no significant difference between the two reward types. Increased activation in the DS during social reward processing was associated with faster response times for rewarded trials, compared to unrewarded trials, in both groups. This is in line with behavioral results indicating that the ASD group showed less of a reduction in RT for rewarded compared to unrewarded trials. Additionally, de-activation to social rewards was associated with increased repetitive behavior in ASD. Conclusions In line with social motivation theory, the ASD group showed reduced activation, compared to controls, during the receipt of social rewards in the DS. Groups did not differ significantly during the processing of monetary rewards. BOLD activation in the DS, during social reward processing, was associated with behavioral impairments in ASD. PMID:23014171

Social and monetary reward processing in autism spectrum disorders.

PubMed

Delmonte, Sonja; Balsters, Joshua H; McGrath, Jane; Fitzgerald, Jacqueline; Brennan, Sean; Fagan, Andrew J; Gallagher, Louise

2012-09-26

Social motivation theory suggests that deficits in social reward processing underlie social impairments in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, the extent to which abnormalities in reward processing generalize to other classes of stimuli remains unresolved. The aim of the current study was to examine if reward processing abnormalities in ASD are specific to social stimuli or can be generalized to other classes of reward. Additionally, we sought to examine the results in the light of behavioral impairments in ASD. Participants performed adapted versions of the social and monetary incentive delay tasks. Data from 21 unmedicated right-handed male participants with ASD and 21 age- and IQ-matched controls were analyzed using a factorial design to examine the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) response during the anticipation and receipt of both reward types. Behaviorally, the ASD group showed less of a reduction in reaction time (RT) for rewarded compared to unrewarded trials than the control group. In terms of the fMRI results, there were no significant group differences in reward circuitry during reward anticipation. During the receipt of rewards, there was a significant interaction between group and reward type in the left dorsal striatum (DS). The ASD group showed reduced activity in the DS compared to controls for social rewards but not monetary rewards and decreased activation for social rewards compared to monetary rewards. Controls showed no significant difference between the two reward types. Increased activation in the DS during social reward processing was associated with faster response times for rewarded trials, compared to unrewarded trials, in both groups. This is in line with behavioral results indicating that the ASD group showed less of a reduction in RT for rewarded compared to unrewarded trials. Additionally, de-activation to social rewards was associated with increased repetitive behavior in ASD. In line with social motivation theory, the ASD group showed reduced activation, compared to controls, during the receipt of social rewards in the DS. Groups did not differ significantly during the processing of monetary rewards. BOLD activation in the DS, during social reward processing, was associated with behavioral impairments in ASD.

Early Gut Microbiota Perturbations Following Intrapartum Antibiotic Prophylaxis to Prevent Group B Streptococcal Disease.

PubMed

Mazzola, Giuseppe; Murphy, Kiera; Ross, R Paul; Di Gioia, Diana; Biavati, Bruno; Corvaglia, Luigi T; Faldella, Giacomo; Stanton, Catherine

2016-01-01

The faecal microbiota composition of infants born to mothers receiving intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis with ampicillin against group B Streptococcus was compared with that of control infants, at day 7 and 30 of life. Recruited newborns were both exclusive breastfed and mixed fed, in order to also study the effect of dietary factors on the microbiota composition. Massive parallel sequencing of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and qPCR analysis were performed. Antibiotic prophylaxis caused the most marked changes on the microbiota in breastfed infants, mainly resulting in a higher relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae, compared with control infants (52% vs. 14%, p = 0.044) and mixed-fed infants (52% vs. 16%, p = 0.13 NS) at day 7 and in a lower bacterial diversity compared to mixed-fed infants and controls. Bifidobacteria were also particularly vulnerable and abundances were reduced in breastfed (p = 0.001) and mixed-fed antibiotic treated groups compared to non-treated groups. Reductions in bifidobacteria in antibiotic treated infants were also confirmed by qPCR. By day 30, the bifidobacterial population recovered and abundances significantly increased in both breastfed (p = 0.025) and mixed-fed (p = 0.013) antibiotic treated groups, whereas Enterobacteriaceae abundances remained highest in the breastfed antibiotic treated group (44%), compared with control infants (16%) and mixed-fed antibiotic treated group (28%). This study has therefore demonstrated the short term consequences of maternal intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis on the infant faecal microbial population, particularly in that of breastfed infants.

Interpersonal problem-solving deficits in self-poisoning patients.

PubMed

McLeavey, B C; Daly, R J; Murray, C M; O'Riordan, J; Taylor, M

1987-01-01

Self-poisoning patients (n = 40) were compared with psychiatric patients (n = 40) and nonpatient controls (n = 20) on measures of interpersonal problem-solving skills and locus of control in an effort to determine the importance of these cognitive and personality variables in self-poisoning behavior. The psychiatric and self-poisoning groups showed deficits on measures assessing interpersonal problem solving when compared with nonpatient controls. The self-poisoning group performed below the level of the psychiatric patients on all except one test, on which they performed at the level of the psychiatric group. Locus of control did not differentiate self-poisoning patients from nonpatient controls, and it was concluded that this variable is not an important factor in self-poisoning behavior.

Development and testing of Schisto and Ladders™, an innovative health educational game for control of schistosomiasis in schoolchildren.

PubMed

Ejike, Cynthia Uchechukwu; Oluwole, Akinola Stephen; Mogaji, Hammed Oladeji; Adeniran, Adebiyi Abdulhakeem; Alabi, Oladimeji Michael; Ekpo, Uwem Friday

2017-06-28

Schistosomiasis remains a public health problem in many regions of the world, including Nigeria. Current control strategy involves mass drug administration with praziquantel to the endemic population. To complement and sustain on-going preventive chemotherapy, we developed a health educational game named Schisto and Ladders™ and tested its potential for the control of schistosomiasis among schoolchildren living in Imala-Odo, a highly endemic community near Abeokuta, Nigeria. One hundred school children were randomly selected and divided into intervention and control groups through balloting. Their knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) concerning schistosomiasis transmission, control and prevention were assessed using structured questionnaires. Schisto and Ladders™ game were given to the intervention group and the popular Snake and Ladders™ game to the control group. Both games were played for 2 months under the supervision of their class teachers. A post-KAP assessment was carried out in both groups, including focus group discussions (FGDs) to investigate knowledge and the impact of the games. Knowledge about urinary schistosomiasis and its transmission significantly improved (P = 0.000) in the intervention group (68.0%) compared to the control group (8.0%). FGDs showed that the frequency of visits to dam water also significantly reduced (P = 0.048) in the intervention group (18.0%) compared to the control group (40.0%). There was a significant increase in knowledge regarding risk behaviours, prevention and control of schistosomiasis among the intervention group, but no new knowledge gained in the control group. This study demonstrates the potential of the health education game Schisto and Ladders™ for teaching basic health education and promoting behavioural changes among schoolchildren in endemic communities.

Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy on Hamstring Tightness in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Kim, Yong Wook; Chang, Won Hyuk; Kim, Na Young; Kwon, Jun Beom

2017-01-01

Purpose To assess the effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for healthy participants with hamstring tightness. Materials and Methods This study was performed at a university rehabilitation hospital. Twenty nine healthy adults with hamstring tightness were enrolled and randomly allocated into four groups (ESWT, stretching exercise, ESWT with stretching exercise, and control). The effects of individual treatments were compared by the finger-to-floor test and popliteal angle. Results The ESWT group, stretching exercise group and ESWT with stretching exercise group had decreased finger-to-floor distances and right popliteal angles immediately after intervention, compared with the control group (p<0.05). At 4 weeks after completion of the interventions, finger-to-floor distances and the right popliteal angle in only the ESWT with stretching exercise group showed a significant improvement, compared with the control group (p=0.008 and 0.023). Conclusion While ESWT and stretching both reduced hamstring tightness immediately after interventions, only ESWT with stretching exercise maintained the significantly improved relief of hamstring tightness significantly after 4 weeks. PMID:28332373

A randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of a 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste on gingivitis.

PubMed

Lomax, A; Patel, S; Wang, N; Kakar, K; Kakar, A; Bosma, M L

2017-11-01

In previous studies, toothpastes with high levels of sodium bicarbonate (>50%) have reduced gingival inflammation and oral malodour. This study compared the effects of brushing for 6 weeks with 67% (test group) or 0% (control group) sodium bicarbonate toothpaste on gingival health. This was a single-centre, single examiner-blind, randomized, controlled, two-treatment, parallel-group study. Eligible subjects (≥18 years) had ≥20 gradable teeth, mild-to-moderate gingivitis, a positive response to bleeding on brushing and ≥20 bleeding sites. The primary objective was to compare the number of bleeding sites following twice-daily use of 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste or 0% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste after 6 weeks. Secondary endpoints included Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Bleeding Index (BI) and volatile sulphur compounds (VSC), assessed after 6 weeks. Safety was assessed by treatment-emergent oral soft tissue abnormalities and adverse events. Of 148 patients randomized (74 to each treatment), 66 (89.2%) completed the study in the test group, compared with 69 (93.2%) in the control group. Compared with the control group, the test group had a significant reduction in the number of bleeding sites at Week 6 (absolute difference - 11.0 [-14.0, -8.0], P < 0.0001; relative difference - 25.4%), together with significant reductions in MGI and BI (both P < 0.0001). Although the median reductions from baseline for VSC were numerically greater in the test group, the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.9701). This 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste provided statistically significant improvements in gingival health and bleeding after 6 weeks of use. © 2016 The Authors. International Journal of Dental Hygiene Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Does treatment with an insulin pump improve glycaemic control in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes? A retrospective case-control study.

PubMed

Brorsson, Anna Lena; Viklund, Gunnel; Örtqvist, Eva; Lindholm Olinder, Anna

2015-11-01

To investigate long-term effects on glycaemic control, ketoacidosis, serious hypoglycaemic events, insulin requirements, and body mass index standard deviation scores (BMI-SDS) in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes starting on continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) compared with children and adolescents treated with multiple daily injections (MDI). This retrospective case-control study compares 216 patients starting CSII with a control group on MDI (n = 215), matched for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), sex, and age during a 2-yr period. Variables collected were gender, age, HbA1c, insulin requirement, BMI, BMI-SDS, ketoacidosis, and serious hypoglycaemic events. In the CSII group there was an improvement in HbA1c after 6 and 12 months compared with the MDI group. For boys and girls separately the same effect was detected after 6 months, but only for boys after 12 months. The incidence of ketoacidosis was higher in the CSII group compared with the MDI group (2.8 vs. 0.5/100 person-yr). The incidences of severe hypoglycaemic episodes per 100 person-yr were three in the CSII group and six in the MDI group (p < 0.05). After 6, 12, and 24 months, the insulin requirement was higher in the MDI group. This study shows that treatment with CSII resulted in an improvement in HbA1c levels up to 1 yr and decreased the number of severe hypoglycaemic events, but the frequency of ketoacidosis increased. The major challenge is to identify methods to maintain the HbA1c improvement, especially among older children and teenagers, and reduce the frequency of ketoacidosis. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Dropped head syndrome after cervical laminoplasty: A case control study.

PubMed

Koda, Masao; Furuya, Takeo; Kinoshita, Tomoaki; Miyashita, Tomohiro; Ota, Mitsutoshi; Maki, Satoshi; Ijima, Yasushi; Saito, Junya; Takahashi, Kazuhisa; Yamazaki, Masashi; Aramomi, Masaaki; Mannoji, Chikato

2016-10-01

Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is characterized by apparent neck extensor muscle weakness and difficulty extending the neck to raise the head against gravity. The aim of the present study was to elucidate possible risk factors for DHS after cervical laminoplasty. Five patients who developed DHS after cervical laminoplasty (DHS group) and twenty age-matched patients who underwent laminoplasty without DHS after surgery (control group) were compared. The surgical procedure was single-door laminoplasty with strut grafting using resected spinous processes or hydroxyapatite spacers from C3 to C6 or C7. Analyses of preoperative images including the C2-C7 angle, C7-T1 kyphosis, T1 tilt, center of gravity line from the head-C7 sagittal vertical axis (CGH-C7 SVA) were performed on lateral plain cervical spine radiographs. Preoperative T2-weighted MRI at the C5 vertebral level was used to measure the cross-sectional area of the deep extensor muscles. Widths of the lateral gutters were assessed postoperatively using CT scans of the C5 vertebral body. The average preoperative C2-C7 angle was significantly smaller in the DHS group compared with the control group. The average preoperative C7-T1 angle was significantly larger in the DHS group compared with the control group. The average preoperative CGH-C7 SVA was significantly larger in the DHS group compared with the control group. In conclusion, patients with more pronounced preoperative C2-C7 kyphosis, C7-T1 kyphosis, and CGH-C7 SVA are more likely to develop DHS following laminoplasty. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Influence of full mouth rehabilitation on oral health-related quality of life among disabled children.

PubMed

Al-Nowaiser, Abeer M; Al Suwyed, Abdulaziz S; Al Zoman, Khalid H; Robert, Asirvatham A; Al Brahim, Tarfa; Ciancio, Sebastian G; Al Mubarak, Sultan A; El Meligy, Omar A

2017-10-01

The efficacy of full mouth rehabilitation (FMR) on oral health-related quality of life of physically disabled children was assessed. This prospective study was performed at Dental Department of Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City, Riyadh, and King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, during May 2012 to September 2014. A total of 186 physically disabled children aged 11-14 years were assigned to a test group (n = 97) or a control group (n = 89). FMR was applied for test group children at baseline and 3 months' visits, whereas those in the control group did not receive FMR. Both group children received dental kits and oral hygiene instructions. Children were asked to complete the Child Perceptions Questionnaire, whereas Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire and Family Distress Domain questionnaire were completed by the parents/caregivers at baseline and 6 months' visits. Children in both groups showed positive trends in oral symptoms at 6 months compared with those at baseline. However, when they were compared to control, significant improvement in oral symptoms was observed in the test group at 6 months' visit (p < .05). Also when they were compared to control, significant improvements were observed in the functional limitation, emotional, and social well-being subscales of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire and on the Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire scales at the end of the study (p < .05). Compared to the parents/caregivers of the control children, the parents/caregivers of the test-group children reported insignificant but positive trends in Family Distress Domain at the end of the study (p < .05). FMR in children reduced oral-related problems subsequently to a better oral health-related quality of life.

Effects of dietary onion (Allium cepa) powder on growth, innate immune response and hemato-biochemical parameters of beluga (Huso huso Linnaeus, 1754) juvenile.

PubMed

Akrami, Raza; Gharaei, Ahmad; Mansour, Majid Razeghi; Galeshi, Ali

2015-08-01

The present study was aimed at determining the effects of dietary onion powder on growth, innate immune response and hemato-biochemical parameters of beluga juvenile (Huso huso). Basal diets containing onion powder 0 (control), 0.5 and 1% of feed were fed to beluga juvenile. At the end of the experiment, the highest weight gain (WG%) and specific growth rate (SGR) was observed in group fed with 1% onion (P < 0.05). There were no significant difference (P > 0.05) about feed conversion ratio (FCR) in treatment groups that fed diets containing various levels of onion powder. After 8 weeks, serum lysozyme activity, superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), respiratory burst activity and serum total immunoglobulin (Ig) showed a significant increase in treatment group with 1% onion powder compared to other groups (P < 0.05). The group fed 1% onion showed a significantly increases in the number of erythrocytes (RBC), leucocyte (WBC), haematocrit (Hct) levels compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Haemoglobin, monocyte, lymphocyte and neutrophil had no significant change (P > 0.05) in treatment groups and control. The analysis of AST and LDH levels showed a significant decrease in 1% onion compared to the control and 0.5% onion diet (P < 0.05), while ALT and ALP levels were not influenced (P > 0.05). The blood glucose, total protein, triglyceride, cholesterol, albumin and globulin levels were lower in treated groups compared with the control (P < 0.05). The results of this study demonstrated that dietary onion powder could be an improvement in growth, hematological parameters and immune function of beluga juvenile. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of nursing intervention models on social adaption capability development in preschool children with malignant tumors: a randomized control trial.

PubMed

Yu, Lu; Mo, Lin; Tang, Yan; Huang, Xiaoyan; Tan, Juan

2014-06-01

The objectives of this study are to compare the effects of two nursing intervention models on the ability of preschool children with malignant tumors to socialize and to determine if these interventions improved their social adaption capability (SAC) and quality of life. Inpatient preschool children with malignant tumors admitted to the hospital between December 2009 and March 2012 were recruited and randomized into either the experimental or control groups. The control group received routine nursing care, and the experimental group received family-centered nursing care, including physical, psychological, and social interventions. The Infants-Junior Middle School Student's Social-Life Abilities Scale was used to evaluate SAC development of participants. Participants (n = 240) were recruited and randomized into two groups. After the intervention, the excellent and normal SAC rates were 27.5% and 55% in the experimental group, respectively, compared with 2.5% and 32.5% in the control group (p < 0.001). After the intervention, SAC in experimental group was improved compared with before intervention (54.68 ± 10.85 vs 79.9 ± 22.3, p < 0.001). However, no differences in SAC were observed between baseline and after intervention in the control group (54.70 ± 11.47 vs. 52 ± 15.8, p = 0.38). The family-centered nursing care model that included physical, psychological, and social interventions improved the SAC of children with malignancies compared with children receiving routine nursing care. Establishing a standardized family-school-community-hospital hierarchical multi-management intervention model for children is important to the efficacy of long-term interventions and to the improvement of SAC of children with malignancies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Oral Health and Dentofacial Anomalies among β-THALASSEMIA Major in Erbil City, Iraq

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saeed, Lamya M.; Majeed, Vian O.

2010-04-01

Thalassemias are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by hypochromic microcytic anemia that caused by deficient synthesis of one or more of globin subunits of human hemoglobin. This study has been conducted in the Northern part of Iraq among 238 subjects having β-thalassemia major (BTM). To evaluate their oral health status, dentofacial anomalies of patients who attended the Thalassemic center in Erbil city, were compared to 258 subjects of a control group according to the criteria suggested by the WHO in 1997, which is used to assess permanent teeth. Only 8.51% of the total study group demonstrated crowding of anterior teeth in one or both segments compared to the control group. Spacing in the incisal segments was higher, namely 19.23% in BTM compared to13.6% in the control group with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). A higher percentage of both study and control groups were having an overbite grade (0.3-5.0 mm) of 49.59%, and 56.81%, respectively. It was found that the distal deviation from the normal anteroposterior molar relation in BTM was higher compared to the control group. Nearly similar percentages of patients were found to have an over jet grade(0.0-3.5 mm). Values of plaque and gingival health indices were recorded to be higher among the study group (plaque index = 1.570, ∓0.321 and gingival index = 1.205, ∓0.308). Differences were statistically highly significant for all indices (p<0.01). This may indicate that there is a negative attitude and poor dental knowledge of thalassemic subjects and their parents toward proper oral hygiene and dental health.

Cathinone, an active principle of Catha edulis, accelerates oxidative stress in the limbic area of swiss albino mice.

PubMed

Safhi, Mohammed M; Alam, Mohammad Firoz; Hussain, Sohail; Hakeem Siddiqui, Mohammed Abdul; Khuwaja, Gulrana; Jubran Khardali, Ibrahim Abdu; Al-Sanosi, Rashad Mohammed; Islam, Fakhrul

2014-10-28

Cathinone hydrochloride is an active principle of the khat plant (Catha edulis) that produces pleasurable and stimulating effects in khat chewers. To the best of our knowledge no data of cathinone on oxidative stress in limbic areas of mice is available. This is the first study of cathinone on oxidative stress in limbic areas of the brain in Swiss albino male mice. The animals were divided into four groups. Group-I was the control group and received vehicle, while groups-II to IV received (-)-cathinone hydrochloride (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg body wt., i.p.) once daily for 15 days. The level of lipid peroxidation (LPO) was elevated dose-dependently and was significant (p<0.05, p<0.01) with doses of 0.25 and 0.5mg/kg body wt. of cathinone as compared to control group. In contrast, the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) was decreased significantly (p<0.01, p<0.001) with doses of 0.25 and 0.5mg/kg body wt. of cathinone as compared to control group. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (GPx, GR, GST, CAT, and SOD) was also decreased dose-dependently: the decreased activity of GPx, GR, catalase and SOD was significant with doses of 0.25 and 0.5 mg of cathinone as compared to control group, while the activity of GST was decreased dose-dependently and was significant with 0.5mg of cathinone as compared to control group. The results indicate that the cathinone generated oxidative stress hampered antioxidant enzymes, glutathione and lipid peroxidation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Neck Pain, Preoperative Opioids, and Functionality After Cervical Fusion.

PubMed

Faour, Mhamad; Anderson, Joshua T; Haas, Arnold R; Percy, Rick; Woods, Stephen T; Ahn, Uri M; Ahn, Nicholas U

2017-01-01

The use of opioids among patients with workers' compensation claims is associated with tremendous costs, especially for patients who undergo spinal surgery. This study compared return-to-work rates after single-level cervical fusion for degenerative disk disease between patients who received opioids before surgery and patients who underwent fusion with no previous opioid use. All study subjects qualified for workers' compensation benefits for injuries sustained at work between 1993 and 2011. The study population included 281 subjects who underwent single-level cervical fusion for degenerative disk disease with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, and Current Procedural Terminology code algorithms. The opioid group included 77 subjects who received opioids preoperatively. The control group included 204 subjects who had surgery with no previous opioid use. The primary outcome was meeting return-to-work criteria within 3 years of follow-up after fusion. Secondary outcome measures after surgery, surgical details, and presurgical characteristics for each cohort also were collected. In 36.4% of the opioid group, return-to-work criteria were met compared with 56.4% of the control group. Patients who took opioids were less likely to meet return-to-work criteria compared with the control group (odds ratio, 0.44; 95% confidence interval, 0.26-0.76; P=.0028). Return-to-work rates within the first year after fusion were 24.7% for the opioid group and 45.6% for the control group (P=.0014). Patients who used opioids were absent from work for 255 more days compared with the control group (P=.0001). The use of opioids for management of diskogenic neck pain, with the possibility of surgical intervention, is a negative predictor of successful return to work after fusion in a workers' compensation population. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(1):25-32.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Auditory P300 event related potentials in acute and transient psychosis-Comparison with schizophrenia.

PubMed

Sahoo, Swapnajeet; Malhotra, Savita; Basu, Debasish; Modi, Manish

2016-10-01

Limited biological research data are available on acute and transient psychotic disorder (ATPD) vis-à-vis schizophrenia. P300 event related potentials (ERP) have been extensively studied as an important neurophysiological parameter in schizophrenia. However, no P300 ERP studies comparing the two disorders are available. We compared auditory P300 ERP in patients remitted from ATPD with schizophrenia in remission and biologically unrelated healthy controls. In this case-control study design, 25 subjects remitted from ATPD were age-/gender-matched with healthy controls and patients with schizophrenia in remission. Clinical assessment and auditory P300 ERP (amplitude and latencies at central and parietal sites, reaction time) were recorded. The ERP parameters were compared across the three groups. All three groups showed significant differences in P300 amplitudes and latencies at central and parietal sites. Schizophrenia group differed significantly (p<0.001) from the ATPD group in all the P300 parameters. The ATPD group was found to have lower Pz latency (p<0.05) and lower mean reaction time (p<0.001) as compared to healthy controls. The results suggest that P300 could easily distinguish between ATPD and schizophrenia in remission, thus neurophysiologically differentiating the two disorders. Lower P300 latency and reaction time, which indicate hyper-arousability, distinguished ATPD from normal controls, with implications for a better understanding of ATPD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Porous titanium construct cup compared to porous coated titanium cup in total hip arthroplasty. A randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Salemyr, Mats; Muren, Olle; Eisler, Thomas; Bodén, Henrik; Chammout, Ghazi; Stark, André; Sköldenberg, Olof

2015-05-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if a new titanium cup with increased porosity resulted in different periacetabular bone loss and migration compared to a porous coated cup. Fifty-one patients with primary hip osteoarthritis were randomized to either a cup with porous titanium construct backside (porous titanium group, n = 25) or a conventional porous coated titanium cup (control group, n = 26). The primary outcome variable was change in periacetabular bone mineral density two years after surgery measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Secondary outcomes were implant fixation measured with radiostereometry (RSA) and clinical outcome scores. The pattern of bone remodelling was similar in the two groups with almost complete restoration to baseline values. BMD diminished in the two proximal zones and increased in the two distal zones. After minimal migration up to six months all implants in both groups became stable. We found no difference between the two groups in clinical outcome scores. In this prospective, randomized, controlled trial on a new porous titanium cup we found, compared to the control group, no clinically relevant differences regarding periacetabular bone preservation, implant fixation or clinical outcome up to two years postoperatively.

Comparative Evaluation of Immediate Post-Operative Sequelae after Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molar with or without Tube Drain - Split-Mouth Study.

PubMed

Kumar, Barun; Bhate, Kalyani; Dolas, R S; Kumar, Sn Santhosh; Waknis, Pushkar

2016-12-01

Third molar surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in general dentistry. Post-operative variables such as pain, swelling and trismus are major concerns after impacted mandibular third molar surgery. Use of passive tube drain is supposed to help reduce these immediate post-operative sequelae. The current study was designed to compare the effect of tube drain on immediate post-operative sequelae following impacted mandibular third molar surgery. To compare the post-operative sequelae after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar surgery with or without tube drain. Thirty patients with bilateral impacted mandibular third molars were divided into two groups: Test (with tube drain) and control (without tube drain) group. In the test group, a tube drain was inserted through the releasing incision, and kept in place for three days. The control group was left without a tube drain. The post-operative variables like, pain, swelling, and trismus were calculated after 24 hours, 72 hours, 7 days, and 15 days in both the groups and analyzed statistically using chi-square and t-test analysis. The test group showed lesser swelling as compared to control group, with the swelling variable showing statistically significant difference at post-operative day 3 and 7 (p≤ 0.05) in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences in pain and trismus variables in both the groups. The use of tube drain helps to control swelling following impacted mandibular third molar surgery. However, it does not have much effect on pain or trismus.

[Changes of CD(4)(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells and CD(4)(+)IL-17(+)T cells in cigarette smoke-exposed rats].

PubMed

Meng, Jing-jing; Zhong, Xiao-ning; Bai, Jing; He, Zhi-yi; Zhang, Jian-quan; Huang, Qiu-pin

2012-01-01

To evaluate the changes of CD(4)(+)IL-17(+) T (Th17) and CD(4)(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells in peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and therefore to explore the role of Th17 and Treg in cigarette smoke-induced airway inflammation/COPD in rats. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: a 12 wk smoke-exposure group, a 24 wk smoke-exposure group, a 12 wk control group and a 24 wk control group (n = 10 each). Cells in BALF were collected and analyzed by absolute and differential cell counts. IL-17 and IL-6 levels in serum and BALF were tested by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proportion of CD(4)(+)IL-17(+) T and CD(4)(+)Foxp3(+) Treg in peripheral blood and BALF were determined by flow cytometry. The mRNA expressions of IL-17 and Foxp3 were measured by real-time PCR. Comparisons of the data between different groups were performed using one-way ANOVA, and SNK and Games-Howell test were used for comparison between 2 groups. Levels of IL-17 were remarkable increased in the 12 wk smoke-exposure group and the 24 wk smoke-exposure group in serum [(52.6 ± 1.8) ng/L, (75.4 ± 6.0) ng/L] and BALF [(78.1 ± 5.8) ng/L, (95.0 ± 6.8) ng/L] compared with the 12 wk control group [(40.0 ± 3.2)ng/L, (54.5 ± 4.6) ng/L] and the 24 wk control group [(36.7 ± 3.2) ng/L, (53.9 ± 3.7) ng/L], all P < 0.05. IL-6 in serum was significantly increased in the 24 wk smoke-exposure group [(31.4 ± 2.1) ng/L] compared with the 24 wk control group [(11.5 ± 0.5) ng/L], and it was increased in the 12 wk and the 24 wk smoke-exposure group [(33.3 ± 2.3) ng/L, (44.6 ± 3.0) ng/L] compared with the 12 wk and the 24 wk control group [(15.6 ± 1.8) ng/L, (18.0 ± 1.9) ng/L] in BALF. Ratio of Th17 was higher in the 12 wk and the 24 wk smoke-exposure groups in peripheral blood [(1.81 ± 0.19)%, (3.74 ± 0.55)%] and BALF [(7.84 ± 0.28)%, (8.01 ± 0.39)%] compared with the12 wk [(0.97 ± 0.08)%, (5.64 ± 0.54)%] and the 24 wk control group [(1.08 ± 0.10)%, (5.95 ± 0.48)%]. Ratio of Treg in BALF was higher in the smoke-exposure groups [(8.81 ± 0.49)%, (11.98 ± 0.72)%] compared with the control groups [(4.34 ± 0.28)%, (5.21 ± 0.42)%]. The level of IL-17 mRNA was increased in the 12 wk and the 24 wk smoke-exposure group in peripheral blood (25.7 ± 2.0, 33.9 ± 1.5) and in BALF (22.2 ± 1.8, 34.7 ± 4.2) compared with the 12 wk (11.3 ± 2.6, 11.6 ± 2.4) and the 24 wk (11.1 ± 2.0, 13.5 ± 3.4) control groups. Foxp3 mRNA was increased in the smoke-exposure groups (24.4 ± 2.7, 30.3 ± 2.7) compared with the control groups (12.7 ± 2.7, 14.6 ± 3.8). Th17 in smoke-exposure groups was positively correlated with counts of total cells and macrophages (r = 0.512, 0.543, all P < 0.05). An elevated expression of Th17 and Treg cells and an increase of inflammatory cytokines were evident in airway inflammation of cigarette smoke-exposed rats, suggesting that Treg was involved in the immunological regulation and Th17 was associated with the persistent inflammation in cigarette smoke-induced airway inflammation in rats.

Postural Effects of Vestibular Manipulation Depend on the Physical Activity Status

PubMed Central

Maitre, Julien; Paillard, Thierry

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) on postural control for participants of different physical activity status (i.e. active and non-active). Two groups of participants were recruited: one group of participants who regularly practised sports activities (active group, n = 17), and one group of participants who did not practise physical and/or sports activities (non-active group, n = 17). They were compared in a reference condition (i.e bipedal stance with eyes open) and four vestibular manipulation condition (i.e. GVS at 0.5 mA and 3 mA, in accordance with two designs) lasting 20 seconds. The centre of foot pressure displacement velocities were compared between the two groups. The main results indicate that the regular practice of sports activities counteracts postural control disruption caused by GVS. The active group demonstrated better postural control than the non-active group when subjected to higher vestibular manipulation. The active group may have developed their ability to reduce the influence of inaccurate vestibular signals. The active participants could identify the relevant sensory input, thought a better central integration, which enables them to switch faster between sensory inputs. PMID:27627441

Effects of Moderate and Vigorous Exercise on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Zhang, Hui-Jie; He, Jiang; Pan, Ling-Ling; Ma, Zhi-Min; Han, Cheng-Kun; Chen, Chung-Shiuan; Chen, Zheng; Han, Hai-Wei; Chen, Shi; Sun, Qian; Zhang, Jun-Feng; Li, Zhi-Bin; Yang, Shu-Yu; Li, Xue-Jun; Li, Xiao-Ying

2016-08-01

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent risk factor for chronic liver disease and cardiovascular disease. To compare the effects of moderate and vigorous exercise on intrahepatic triglyceride content and metabolic risk factors among patients with NAFLD. In this randomized clinical trial, participants with central obesity and NAFLD were recruited from community-based screening in Xiamen, China, from December 1, 2011, through December 25, 2013. Data analysis was performed from August 28, 2015, through December 15, 2015. Participants were randomly assigned to vigorous-moderate exercise (jogging 150 minutes per week at 65%-80% of maximum heart rate for 6 months and brisk walking 150 minutes per week at 45%-55% of maximum heart rate for another 6 months), moderate exercise (brisk walking 150 minutes per week for 12 months), or no exercise. Primary outcome, change in intrahepatic triglyceride content measured by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 6 and 12 months; secondary outcomes, changes in body weight, waist circumference, body fat, and metabolic risk factors. A total of 220 individuals (mean [SD] age, 53.9 [7.1] years; 149 woman [67.7%]) were randomly assigned to control (n = 74), moderate exercise (n = 73), and vigorous-moderate exercise (n = 73) groups. Of them, 211 (95.9%) completed the 6-month follow-up visit; 208 (94.5%) completed the 12-month follow-up visit. Intrahepatic triglyceride content was reduced by 5.0% (95% CI, -7.2% to 2.8%; P < .001) in the vigorous-moderate exercise group and 4.2% (95% CI, -6.3% to -2.0%; P < .001) in the moderate exercise group compared with the control group at the 6-month assessment. It was reduced by 3.9% (95% CI, -6.0% to -1.7%; P < .001) in the vigorous-moderate exercise group and 3.5% (95% CI, -5.6% to -1.3%; P = .002) in the moderate exercise group compared with the control group at the 12-month assessment. Changes in intrahepatic triglyceride content were not significantly different between vigorous-moderate and moderate exercise at the 6- or 12-month assessment. Body weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure were significantly reduced in the vigorous-moderate exercise group compared with the moderate exercise and control groups at the 6-month assessment and in the vigorous-moderate and moderate exercise groups compared with the control group at the 12-month assessment. In addition, body fat was significantly reduced in the vigorous-moderate exercise group compared with the moderate exercise and control groups at the 12-month assessment. After adjusting for weight loss, the net changes in intrahepatic triglyceride content were diminished and became nonsignificant between the exercise and control groups (except for the moderate exercise group at the 6-month assessment). Vigorous and moderate exercise were equally effective in reducing intrahepatic triglyceride content; the effect appeared to be largely mediated by weight loss. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01418027.

Early ovarian follicular development in prepubertal Wistar rats acutely exposed to androgens.

PubMed

Paixão, L; Velez, L M; Santos, B R; Tusset, C; Lecke, S B; Motta, A B; Spritzer, P M

2016-08-01

Androgens may directly modulate early ovarian follicular development in preantral stages and androgen excess before puberty may disrupt this physiological process. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the dynamics of follicular morphology and circulating androgen and estradiol levels in prepubertal Wistar rats acutely exposed to androgens. Prepubertal female Wistar rats were distributed into three groups: control, equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) intervention and eCG plus dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) intervention (eCG+DHEA). Serum DHEA, testosterone and estradiol levels were determined, and ovarian morphology and morphometry were assessed. The eCG+DHEA group presented increased serum estradiol and testosterone levels as compared with the control group (P<0.01), and higher serum DHEA concentration v. the eCG-only and control groups (P<0.01). In addition, the eCG+DHEA group had a higher number of, and larger-sized, primary and secondary follicles as compared with the control group (P<0.05). The eCG group presented intermediate values for number and size of primary and secondary follicles, without significant differences as compared with the other two groups. The number of antral follicles was higher in the eCG+DHEA and eCG groups v. controls (P<0.05). The number of primordial, atretic and cystic follicles were similar in all groups. In conclusion, the present experimental model using an acute eCG+DHEA intervention was useful to investigate events involved in initial follicular development under hyperandrogenic conditions, and could provide a reliable tool to study defective follicular development with possible deleterious reproductive consequences later in life.

[Efficacy on nervous tinnitus of kidney deficiency treated with Zhuang medicine at Qineihuan point and conventional acupuncture therapy].

PubMed

Li, Xiujuan; Li, Jie; Han, Haitao; Huang, Jinming; Li, Meikang; Lu Xuanlin; Song, Ning; Lin, Hua-sheng; Li, Xuemei; Huang, Guihua

2015-04-01

To compare the difference of the clinical efficacy in treatment of nervous tinnitus of kidney deficiency between the combined therapy of Zhuang medicine at Qineihuan point combined with the conventional acupuncture and simple conventional acupancture. Sixty patients were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each one. In the control group, the conventional acupuncture was applied to Taixi (KI 3), Zhaohai (KI 6), Tinggong (SI 19) and Waiguan (TE 5), etc. and the needles were retained for 30 min. In the observation group, on the basic treatment as the control group, Zhuang medicine acupuncture at Qineihuan point was added. The treatment was given once every day, 10 treatments made one session and there were 2 days of interval between the sessions. In 3 sessions of treatment, the changes of tinnitus were observed and the clinical efficacy was evaluated. After treatment, tinnitus score and tinnitus grade were all improved as compared with those before treatment in the two groups (all P<0. 05) and the results in the observation group were better than those in the control group (all P<0. 05). The curative and remarkably effective rate was 63. 3% (19/30) and the total effective rate was 93. 3% (28/30) in the observation group, better than 30. 0% (9/30) and 73. 3% (22/30) in the control group (both P<0. 05). The combined therapy of Zhuang medicine at Qineihuan point and conventional acupuncture achieves the better efficacy on nervous tinnitus of kidney deficiency as compared with the simple conventional acupuncture.

Weight six years after childbirth: a follow-up of obese women in a weight-gain restriction programmme.

PubMed

Claesson, Ing-Marie; Josefsson, Ann; Sydsjö, Gunilla

2014-05-01

to compare weight development in an intervention group and a control group, six years after participation in a gestational weight-gain restriction programme. follow-up of a prospective intervention study. antenatal care clinics. a total of 129 women (88.4%) from the original intervention group and 166 women (88.8%) from the original control group. the women answered a study specific questionnaire, covering socio-demographic data and health- and weight status. after adjusting for socio-demographic factors, the mean weight was lower (4.1kg) among the women in the intervention group, compared to the controls (p=0.028). Furthermore, the mean weight change, e.g. the weight at the six year assessment compared with the weight at the start of the intervention at the first antenatal care visit, was greater in the intervention group than in the control group. The women in the intervention group had a larger mean weight change (-5.2kg), e.g. weighed less than the women in the control group (-1.9kg) (p=0.046). Mean weight change expressed in 5kg classes also showed a significant difference between the two groups (p=0.030). the results indicate that attending a gestational weight-gain-restriction programme can have a positive effect on weight up to six years after the intervention. a restrictive gestational weight gain can result in a positive weight development during the first years after childbirth. It might provide both short- and long term medical health benefits for the mother as well as the child. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Effects of high +Gx during simulated spaceship emergency return on learning and memory in rats].

PubMed

Xu, Zhi-peng; Sun, Xi-qing; Liu, Ting-song; Wu, Bin; Zhang, Shu; Wu, Ping

2005-02-01

To observe the effects of high +Gx during simulated spaceship emergency return on learning and memory in rats. Thirty two male SD rats were randomly divided into control group, 7 d simulated weightlessness group, +15 Gx/180 s group and +15 Gx/180 s exposure after 7 d simulated weightlessness group, with 8 rats in each group. The changes of learning and memory in rats were measured after stresses by means of Y-maze test and step-through test. In Y-maze test, as compared with control group, percentage of correct reactions decreased significantly (P<0.01) and reaction time increased significantly (P<0.01) in hypergravity after simulated weightlessness group at all time after stress; as compared with +15 Gx group or simulated weightlessness group, percentage of correct reactions decreased significantly (P< 0.05) and reaction time increased significantly (P< 0.05) immediately after stress. In step-through test, as compared with control group, total time increased significantly (P<0.01) in hypergravity after simulated weightlessness group at 1 d after stress; latent time decreased significantly (P<0.01) and number of errors increased significantly (P< 0.01) at all the time after stress. As compared with +15 Gx group, total time increased significantly (P<0.05) immediately, 1 d after stress. As compared with simulated weightlessness group, total time and number of errors increased significantly (P<0.05) immediately after stress. It is suggested that +15 Gx/180 s and simulated weightlessness may affect the ability of learning and memory of rats. Simulated weightlessness for 7 d can aggravate the effect of +Gx on learning and memory ability in rats.

A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Epidural Clonidine vs Bupivacaine for Pain Control During and After Lower Abdominal Surgery

PubMed Central

Abd-Elsayed, Alaa A.; Guirguis, Maged; DeWood, Mark S.; Zaky, Sherif S.

2015-01-01

Background Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists produce safe and effective analgesia, but most investigations studying the analgesic effect of alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonists postoperatively included previous or concomitant administration of other analgesics. Because clonidine potentiates the effect of these drugs, its own intrinsic analgesic effect has been difficult to establish. This study was designed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative effects of epidural clonidine vs bupivacaine for patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery. Methods This randomized controlled trial included 40 patients aged 18-50 who were scheduled for elective lower abdominal surgery. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group I (n=20) received epidural clonidine; Group II (n=20) received epidural bupivacaine. Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamics, pain scores, and complications were monitored. Results Mean pain scores were significantly lower in Group I compared to Group II (1.5 ± 0.5 compared to 3.4 ± 1.0, respectively) in the first 12 hours after surgery. Sedation was more prominent in Group I until 9 hours after surgery. Opioid requirements were significantly lower in Group I. Respiratory rate was similar in the 2 groups. Group I had larger decreases from baseline in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure than Group II. Heart rate in Group I was reduced from baseline, while it was increased in Group II. Less postoperative nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, pruritus, and shivering were observed in Group I. Conclusion Compared to bupivacaine, epidural clonidine provided effective intraoperative and postoperative analgesia in selected patients, resulting in a decreased intravenous pain medication requirement and prolonged duration of analgesia after epidural infusion was discontinued. PMID:26130975

Group Lidcombe Program Treatment for Early Stuttering: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arnott, Simone; Onslow, Mark; O'Brian, Sue; Packman, Ann; Jones, Mark; Block, Susan

2014-01-01

Purpose: This study adds to the Lidcombe Program evidence base by comparing individual and group treatment of preschoolers who stutter. Method: A randomized controlled trial of 54 preschoolers was designed to establish whether group delivery outcomes were not inferior to the individual model. The group arm used a rolling group model, in which a…

[The role of physical training in patients after myocardial infarction].

PubMed

Lazović, Milica; Devecerski, Gordana; Lazović, Marko; Zivković, Vesna

2006-01-01

Physical training is an optimal method of rehabilitation of cardiovascular patients, especially in patients with myocardial infarction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of physical training in patients with myocardial infarction during the post-hospital phase and prolonged rehabilitation by determining the test exercise parameters. This prospective clinical study included 230 patients after myocardial infarction. Group A (180 patients) participated in organized forms of exercise (post-hospital rehabilitation and prolonged rehabilitation at home) for 48 +/- 6.4 months, while the control group was without physical training. The first clinical examination and the exercise test were performed in group A after post-hospital rehabilitation and after 191 +/- 16.4 days in the control group. In all patients the last control was performed 48 +/- 6.4 months after myocardial infarction. After the first control, the mean physical workload in group A was significantly higher compared with the control group (p < 0.05). After a 48 month follow-up period the physical workload was significantly higher in group A (p < 0.01), while in the control group a significant increase of workload was not observed (p > 0.05). Comparing the duration of exercise testing, significant differences were found after the first and last control (p < 0.05; p < 0.01, respectively). The double product was significantly higher in group A than in the control group after the first and last control (p < 0.05; p < 0.01, respectively). Prolonged physical training is beneficial for patients after myocardial infarction, because it improves cardiovascular functions and physical work capacity, improves angina threshold and the patient's general health.

Efficacy and Safety of Vildagliptin as an Add-On Therapy in Inadequately Controlled Type 2 Diabetes Patients Treated With Basal Insulin.

PubMed

Saito, Daisuke; Kanazawa, Akio; Shigihara, Nayumi; Sato, Fumihiko; Uchida, Toyoyoshi; Sato, Junko; Goto, Hiromasa; Miyatsuka, Takeshi; Ikeda, Fuki; Ogihara, Takeshi; Ohmura, Chie; Watada, Hirotaka

2017-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of vildagliptin as an add-on therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with basal insulin. Twenty-four patients treated with basal insulin and oral anti-diabetes drugs were randomly allocated into two groups: the control group (did not receive any add-on drugs) and vildagliptin group (received vildagliptin 100 mg/day for 6 months). The primary outcome was changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) from baseline to end of study. Treatment with vildagliptin significantly reduced HbA1c from 8.1±0.7% at baseline to 7.1±0.7% (P < 0.01), while there was no significant change of HbA1c in the control group. Vildagliptin group showed significant reduction of HbA1c compared with control group (-1.0±0.3% vs. 0.2±0.8%, P < 0.01). In addition, vildagliptin group showed a significant increase in 1,5-anhydroglucitol compared with the control group (4.5 ± 3.4 vs. 0.5 ± 4.1 μg/mL, P < 0.05). Mild hypoglycemia was reported in one patient of the vildagliptin group and two patients of the control group. Vildagliptin improved glycemic control without increasing hypoglycemia in Japanese type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with basal insulin treatment and other oral anti-diabetes drugs. This study was registered with UMIN (University Hospital Medical Information Network ID#000010849).

Four-month moxifloxacin-based regimens for drug-sensitive tuberculosis.

PubMed

Gillespie, Stephen H; Crook, Angela M; McHugh, Timothy D; Mendel, Carl M; Meredith, Sarah K; Murray, Stephen R; Pappas, Frances; Phillips, Patrick P J; Nunn, Andrew J

2014-10-23

Early-phase and preclinical studies suggest that moxifloxacin-containing regimens could allow for effective 4-month treatment of uncomplicated, smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial to test the noninferiority of two moxifloxacin-containing regimens as compared with a control regimen. One group of patients received isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol for 8 weeks, followed by 18 weeks of isoniazid and rifampin (control group). In the second group, we replaced ethambutol with moxifloxacin for 17 weeks, followed by 9 weeks of placebo (isoniazid group), and in the third group, we replaced isoniazid with moxifloxacin for 17 weeks, followed by 9 weeks of placebo (ethambutol group). The primary end point was treatment failure or relapse within 18 months after randomization. Of the 1931 patients who underwent randomization, in the per-protocol analysis, a favorable outcome was reported in fewer patients in the isoniazid group (85%) and the ethambutol group (80%) than in the control group (92%), for a difference favoring the control group of 6.1 percentage points (97.5% confidence interval [CI], 1.7 to 10.5) versus the isoniazid group and 11.4 percentage points (97.5% CI, 6.7 to 16.1) versus the ethambutol group. Results were consistent in the modified intention-to-treat analysis and all sensitivity analyses. The hazard ratios for the time to culture negativity in both solid and liquid mediums for the isoniazid and ethambutol groups, as compared with the control group, ranged from 1.17 to 1.25, indicating a shorter duration, with the lower bounds of the 95% confidence intervals exceeding 1.00 in all cases. There was no significant difference in the incidence of grade 3 or 4 adverse events, with events reported in 127 patients (19%) in the isoniazid group, 111 (17%) in the ethambutol group, and 123 (19%) in the control group. The two moxifloxacin-containing regimens produced a more rapid initial decline in bacterial load, as compared with the control group. However, noninferiority for these regimens was not shown, which indicates that shortening treatment to 4 months was not effective in this setting. (Funded by the Global Alliance for TB Drug Development and others; REMoxTB ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00864383.).

Reactive Balance in Individuals With Chronic Stroke: Biomechanical Factors Related to Perturbation-Induced Backward Falling.

PubMed

Salot, Pooja; Patel, Prakruti; Bhatt, Tanvi

2016-03-01

An effective compensatory stepping response is the first line of defense for preventing a fall during sudden large external perturbations. The biomechanical factors that contribute to heightened fall risk in survivors of stroke, however, are not clearly understood. It is known that impending sensorimotor and balance deficits poststroke predispose these individuals to a risk of fall during sudden external perturbations. The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanism of fall risk in survivors of chronic stroke when exposed to sudden, slip-like forward perturbations in stance. This was a cross-sectional study. Fourteen individuals with stroke, 14 age-matched controls (AC group), and 14 young controls (YC group) were exposed to large-magnitude forward stance perturbations. Postural stability was computed as center of mass (COM) position (XCOM/BOS) and velocity (ẊCOM/BOS) relative to the base of support (BOS) at first step lift-off (LO) and touch-down (TD) and at second step TD. Limb support was quantified as vertical hip descent (Zhip) from baseline after perturbation onset. All participants showed a backward balance loss, with 71% of the stroke group experiencing a fall compared with no falls in the control groups (AC and YC groups). At first step LO, no between-group differences in XCOM/BOS and ẊCOM/BOS were noted. At first step TD, however, the stroke group had a significantly posterior XCOM/BOS and backward ẊCOM/BOS compared with the control groups. At second step TD, individuals with stroke were still more unstable (more posterior XCOM/BOS and backward ẊCOM/BOS) compared with the AC group. Individuals with stroke also showed greater peak Zhip compared with the control groups. Furthermore, the stroke group took a larger number of steps with shorter step length and delayed step initiation compared with the control groups. Although the study highlights the reactive balance deficits increasing fall risk in survivors of stroke compared with healthy adults, the study was restricted to individuals with chronic stroke only. It is likely that comparing compensatory stepping responses across different stages of recovery would enable clinicians to identify reactive balance deficits related to a specific stage of recovery. These findings suggest the inability of the survivors of stroke to regain postural stability with one or more compensatory steps, unlike their healthy counterparts. Such a response may expose them to a greater fall risk resulting from inefficient compensatory stepping and reduced vertical limb support. Therapeutic interventions for fall prevention, therefore, should focus on improving both reactive stepping and limb support. © 2016 American Physical Therapy Association.

[Effects of autologous blood injection at Zusanli (ST 36) on ovarian function in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency].

PubMed

Jiang, Renjian; Zou, Yu

2017-11-12

To observe the effects of autologous blood injection and 0.9% NaCl at Zusanli (ST 36) on ovarian function in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency. Sixty patients with primary ovarian insufficiency were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each one. The patients in the observation group were treated with injection of autologous blood at Zusanli (ST 36); the patients in the control group were treated with 0.9% NaCl with identical volume at Zusanli (ST 36). Both the treatments were given once a week for 3 months. The ovarian function, including follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol (E 2 ) were tested before treatment, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months after first acupoint injection; the endometrial thickness before and after treatment and clinical efficacy were compared in the two groups. Compared before treatment, FSH was lowered in the observation group after 1-month treatment ( P <0.05), while FSH and LH were lowered and E 2 was increased after 2-month treatment and 3-month treatment (all P <0.05). Compared with 1-month treatment, FSH and LH were lowered and E 2 was increased in the observation group after 2-month treatment and 3-month treatment (all P <0.05). Compared with 2-month treatment, FSH was lowered and E 2 was increased in the observation group after 3-month treatment (both P <0.05). The differences of all serum tests before and after treatment were insignificant in the control group (all P >0.05). The FSH after 1-month treatment, and FSH, LH and E 2 after 2-month treatment and 3-month treatment in the observation group were significantly different from those in the control group (all P <0.05). The endometrial thickness after treatment in the observation group was higher than that before treatment ( P <0.05), while the endometrial thickness after treatment in the control group was similar to that before treatment ( P >0.05); the difference of endometrial thickness before and after treatment in the observation group was higher than that in the control group ( P <0.05). The clinical effective rate was 83.3% (25/30) in the observation group, which was superior to 46.7% (14/30) in the control group ( P <0.05). The autologous blood injection at Zusanli (ST 36) can significantly improve ovarian function, promote endometrial growth in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency.

The protective effect of EGB761 on vessels of denervated gastrocnemius in rats and its mechanism.

PubMed

Zhang, Dongyi; Wu, Rui; Kang, Hao; Hong, Guangxiang; Kang, Shensong; Zhang, Zhengwen

2011-12-01

This study investigated the protective effect of EGB761 on blood vessels of denervated gastrocnemius of rat and its possible mechanism. Fifteen male adult SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group (n=3), control group (n=6) and EGB761-treated group (n=6). The rats in the control and EGB761-treated group underwent a neurotomy to bilateral sciatic nerves. Then, they were administered EGB761 [100 mg/(kg·d)] and isovolumic normal saline, respectively by gavage everyday. No treatment was given to the rats in the normal control group. Gastrocnemius was harvested at 1 and 3 week(s) postoperatively in each group. Immunohistochemical method was used to detect the ratio of capillary/fiber (CFR) of denervated gastrocnemius and the expression of VEGF, fetal liver kinase -1(Flk-1) receptor and HSP70 in the vascular wall. The results showed that in the normal control group, VEGF, Flk-1 and HSP70 were expressed in the vessel wall of gastrocnemius, with Flk-1 expressed only in the endothelial cell of vessels. CFR in the EGB761-treated group was significantly higher than that in the control group at 1 week and 3 week(s) after neurotomy. The expression of VEGF and Flk-1 in the vessel wall of both control and EGB761-treated group was much lower than that in the normal control group, and the expression of these proteins in the EGB761-treated group was decreased as compared with that in the control group. The expression of HSP70 in the vessel wall of both control and EGB761-treated groups was enhanced when compared with that in the normal control group, and it was substantially augmented in the EGB761-treated group in comparison to the control group. It was concluded that EGB761 has a protective effect on blood vessels of denervated gastrocnemius, which is related to the increased HSP70 expression but not the expression of VEGF and its receptor Flk-1.

Efficacy of bladder neck incision on urodynamic abnormalities in patients with posterior urethral valves.

PubMed

Sarin, Yogesh K; Sinha, Shalini

2013-04-01

This study aims to study the efficacy of simultaneous endoscopic bladder neck incision (BNI) and primary endoscopic valve incision (PEVI) in patients with posterior urethral valves (PUV). Nine PUV patients underwent PEVI and BNI over a year. They were compared to nine comparable historical controls that had undergone only PEVI. Trends in renal function tests, urodynamics and changes in the upper urinary tracts were evaluated after 3 months during which no pharmacotherapy was given. The incidence of bladder dysfunction in the two groups was similar-55.5 % in case group and 66.6 % in control group. Hypocompliant, high-pressure bladder was the predominant cystometric finding in both groups. Three patients in the case group and two patients in the control group had high end infusion pressure (EIP) with poor compliance. Detrusor overactivity (DOA) was seen in 23.1 % patients in the case group as compared to 55.5 % patients in the control group (P = 0.3348). Five patients in both groups were later started on anticholinergics due to raised EIP, small capacity bladder and/or DOA. Although BNI should theoretically improve the outcome of PUV patients, the current pilot study failed to demonstrate any significant difference. A larger sample size and longer follow-up are required to prove or disprove its efficacy.

Therapeutic Effect of Losartan, an Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Antagonist, on CCl₄-Induced Skeletal Muscle Injury.

PubMed

Hwang, Ok-Kyung; Park, Jin-Kyu; Lee, Eun-Joo; Lee, Eun-Mi; Kim, Ah-Young; Jeong, Kyu-Shik

2016-02-08

TGF-β1 is known to inhibit muscle regeneration after muscle injury. However, it is unknown if high systemic levels of TGF-β can affect the muscle regeneration process. In the present study, we demonstrated the effect of a CCl₄ intra-peritoneal injection and losartan (an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist) on skeletal muscle (gastrocnemius muscle) injury and regeneration. Male C57BL/6 mice were grouped randomly as follows: control (n = 7), CCl₄-treatment group (n = 7), and CCl₄ + losartan treatment group (n = 7). After CCl₄ treatment for a 16-week period, the animals were sacrificed and analyzed. The expression of dystrophin significantly decreased in the muscle tissues of the control group, as compared with that of the CCl₄ + losartan group (p < 0.01). p(phospho)-Smad2/3 expression significantly increased in the muscles of the control group compared to that in the CCl₄ + losartan group (p < 0.01). The expressions of Pax7, MyoD, and myogenin increased in skeletal muscles of the CCl₄ + losartan group compared to the corresponding levels in the control group (p < 0.01). We hypothesize that systemically elevated TGF-β1 as a result of CCl₄-induced liver injury causes skeletal muscle injury, while losartan promotes muscle repair from injury via blockade of TGF-β1 signaling.

Information without Implementation: A Practical Example for Developing a Best Practice Education Control Group.

PubMed

Balderson, Benjamin H; McCurry, Susan M; Vitiello, Michael V; Shortreed, Susan M; Rybarczyk, Bruce D; Keefe, Francis J; Korff, Michael Von

2016-01-01

This article considers methodology for developing an education-only control group and proposes a simple approach to designing rigorous and well-accepted control groups. This approach is demonstrated in a large randomized trial. The Lifestyles trial (n = 367) compared three group interventions: (a) cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) for osteoarthritis pain, (b) CBT for osteoarthritis pain and insomnia, and (c) education-only control (EOC). EOC emulated the interventions excluding hypothesized treatment components and controlling for nonspecific treatment effects. Results showed this approach resulted in a control group that was highly credible and acceptable to patients. This approach can be an effective and practical guide for developing high-quality control groups in trials of behavioral interventions.

Finding a Comparison Group: Is Online Crowdsourcing a Viable Option?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Azzam, Tarek; Jacobson, Miriam R.

2013-01-01

This article explores the viability of online crowdsourcing for creating matched-comparison groups. This exploratory study compares survey results from a randomized control group to survey results from a matched-comparison group created from Amazon.com's MTurk crowdsourcing service to determine their comparability. Study findings indicate…

Combining synthetic controls and interrupted time series analysis to improve causal inference in program evaluation.

PubMed

Linden, Ariel

2018-04-01

Interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) is an evaluation methodology in which a single treatment unit's outcome is studied over time and the intervention is expected to "interrupt" the level and/or trend of the outcome. The internal validity is strengthened considerably when the treated unit is contrasted with a comparable control group. In this paper, we introduce a robust evaluation framework that combines the synthetic controls method (SYNTH) to generate a comparable control group and ITSA regression to assess covariate balance and estimate treatment effects. We evaluate the effect of California's Proposition 99 for reducing cigarette sales, by comparing California to other states not exposed to smoking reduction initiatives. SYNTH is used to reweight nontreated units to make them comparable to the treated unit. These weights are then used in ITSA regression models to assess covariate balance and estimate treatment effects. Covariate balance was achieved for all but one covariate. While California experienced a significant decrease in the annual trend of cigarette sales after Proposition 99, there was no statistically significant treatment effect when compared to synthetic controls. The advantage of using this framework over regression alone is that it ensures that a comparable control group is generated. Additionally, it offers a common set of statistical measures familiar to investigators, the capability for assessing covariate balance, and enhancement of the evaluation with a comprehensive set of postestimation measures. Therefore, this robust framework should be considered as a primary approach for evaluating treatment effects in multiple group time series analysis. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Are temporomandibular disorders associated with habitual sleeping body posture or nasal septal deviation?

PubMed

Yalçınkaya, Esin; Cingi, Cemal; Bayar Muluk, Nuray; Ulusoy, Seçkin; Hanci, Deniz

2016-01-01

Numerous factors can be considered for the etiology of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the presence of both nasal septal deviation (NSD) and habitual prone sleeping posture (HPSP) predisposes TMD. We evaluated 200 subjects in 4 groups. Group I (NSD-, HPSP-/control group), Group II (NSD+, HPSP-), Group III (NSD-, HPSP+), Group IV (NSD+, HPSP+). All patients were examined according to the research diagnostic criteria to determine the presence of TMD. Group IV had the highest value for TMD incidence (44 %). Thus, we found that the presence of both NSD and HPSP parameters increased TMD incidence in Group IV compared to the control group (p = 0.000). Additionally, Group IV showed significantly higher values than Group II (p = 0.012) and Group III (p = 0.039). For Group III (NSD-, HPSP+), TMD was determined higher compared to the control group (p = 0.009). A statistically higher value of presence of TMD was determined in Group II (NSD+, HPSP-) than control group (p = 0.029). The incidence of TMD was significantly higher in women than men (p = 0.020). We concluded that one having an unilateral obstructive nasal septal deviation in addition to a habit of sleeping in prone position must be alert for potential TMD.

Hypolipidaemic Effect of Hericium erinaceum Grown in Artemisia capillaris on Obese Rats

PubMed Central

Choi, Won-Sik; Kim, Young-Sun; Park, Byeoung-Soo; Kim, Jang-Eok

2013-01-01

In this study, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum cultivated with Artemisia capillaris (HEAC) were assessed for their ability to lower the cholesterol levels of male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat diet. Rats were randomly subdivided into seven test groups. Each group contained eight rats fed a high-fat diet during a growth period lasting 4 wk. Supplementation with the extracts was performed once a day for 2 wk after the high-fat diet. The control group (rats fed a high-fat diet) showed a high efficiency ratio (feed efficiency ratio) value compared to the normal group. Biochemical parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglyceride (TG) levels dramatically increased in the control group compared to the normal group. High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) content in the control group was also significantly lower relative to the normal group. Two positive control groups, treated with simvastatin and atorvastatin, had lowered TC, LDL-c, and TG levels, and increased HDL-c content compared to the control group. Treatment with the tested extracts, including HEAC, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum, and ethanolic extracts from Artemisia capillaris reduced TC, LDL-c, and TG levels and elevated HDL-c content in the hyperlipidemia rats. The atherogenic index and cardiac risk factor values for the HEAC-treated group were 0.95 and 1.95, respectively. Simvastatin- and atorvastatin-treated groups showed atherogenic index values of 1.56 and 1.69, respectively, and cardiac risk factor values of 2.56 and 2.69, respectively. These results show HEAC possesses an ability to cure hyperlipidemia in rats and may serve as an effective natural medicine for treating hyperlipidemia in humans. PMID:23874132

Hypolipidaemic Effect of Hericium erinaceum Grown in Artemisia capillaris on Obese Rats.

PubMed

Choi, Won-Sik; Kim, Young-Sun; Park, Byeoung-Soo; Kim, Jang-Eok; Lee, Sung-Eun

2013-06-01

In this study, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum cultivated with Artemisia capillaris (HEAC) were assessed for their ability to lower the cholesterol levels of male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat diet. Rats were randomly subdivided into seven test groups. Each group contained eight rats fed a high-fat diet during a growth period lasting 4 wk. Supplementation with the extracts was performed once a day for 2 wk after the high-fat diet. The control group (rats fed a high-fat diet) showed a high efficiency ratio (feed efficiency ratio) value compared to the normal group. Biochemical parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglyceride (TG) levels dramatically increased in the control group compared to the normal group. High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) content in the control group was also significantly lower relative to the normal group. Two positive control groups, treated with simvastatin and atorvastatin, had lowered TC, LDL-c, and TG levels, and increased HDL-c content compared to the control group. Treatment with the tested extracts, including HEAC, ethanolic extracts from Hericium erinaceum, and ethanolic extracts from Artemisia capillaris reduced TC, LDL-c, and TG levels and elevated HDL-c content in the hyperlipidemia rats. The atherogenic index and cardiac risk factor values for the HEAC-treated group were 0.95 and 1.95, respectively. Simvastatin- and atorvastatin-treated groups showed atherogenic index values of 1.56 and 1.69, respectively, and cardiac risk factor values of 2.56 and 2.69, respectively. These results show HEAC possesses an ability to cure hyperlipidemia in rats and may serve as an effective natural medicine for treating hyperlipidemia in humans.

Consensus definitions and application guidelines for control groups in cerebrospinal fluid biomarker studies in multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Teunissen, Charlotte; Menge, Til; Altintas, Ayse; Álvarez-Cermeño, José C; Bertolotto, Antonio; Berven, Frode S; Brundin, Lou; Comabella, Manuel; Degn, Matilde; Deisenhammer, Florian; Fazekas, Franz; Franciotta, Diego; Frederiksen, Jette L; Galimberti, Daniela; Gnanapavan, Sharmilee; Hegen, Harald; Hemmer, Bernhard; Hintzen, Rogier; Hughes, Steve; Iacobaeus, Ellen; Kroksveen, Ann C; Kuhle, Jens; Richert, John; Tumani, Hayrettin; Villar, Luisa M; Drulovic, Jelena; Dujmovic, Irena; Khalil, Michael; Bartos, Ales

2013-11-01

The choice of appropriate control group(s) is critical in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker research in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is a lack of definitions and nomenclature of different control groups and a rationalized application of different control groups. We here propose consensus definitions and nomenclature for the following groups: healthy controls (HCs), spinal anesthesia subjects (SASs), inflammatory neurological disease controls (INDCs), peripheral inflammatory neurological disease controls (PINDCs), non-inflammatory neurological controls (NINDCs), symptomatic controls (SCs). Furthermore, we discuss the application of these control groups in specific study designs, such as for diagnostic biomarker studies, prognostic biomarker studies and therapeutic response studies. Application of these uniform definitions will lead to better comparability of biomarker studies and optimal use of available resources. This will lead to improved quality of CSF biomarker research in MS and related disorders.

Athletic performance outcomes following lumbar discectomy in professional basketball players.

PubMed

Anakwenze, Okechukwu A; Namdari, Surena; Auerbach, Joshua D; Baldwin, Keith; Weidner, Zachary D; Lonner, Baron S; Huffman, G R; Sennett, Brian J

2010-04-01

Retrospective case-control study. To quantify the athletic performance profiles after lumbar discectomy (LD) in a cohort of National Basketball Association (NBA) players in comparison with a control group of matched NBA players who did not undergo LD during the same study period. LD provides symptomatic relief and improved functional outcomes in the majority of patients as assessed by validated measures such as Oswestry Disability Index, Visual Analog Scale, and Short Form-36 (SF-36). Among professional athletes, however, the goal of lumbar HNP treated by discectomy is not only to improve functional status but also, ultimately, to return the player to preinjury athletic performance levels. No study to date has compared the athletic performance profiles before and after discectomy in professional athletes. An analysis of NBA games summaries, weekly injury reports, player profiles, and press releases was performed to identify 24 NBA players who underwent LD for symptomatic lumbar HNP between 1991 and 2007. A 1:2 case: control study was performed using players without history of lumbar HNP who were matched for age, position, experience, and body mass index as control subjects (n = 48). Paired t tests were conducted on the following parameters: games played, minutes per game, points per 40 minutes, rebounds per 40 minutes, assists per 40 minutes, steals per 40 minutes, blocks per 40 minutes, and shooting percentage. For each athletic performance outcome, between-group comparisons evaluating preindex to postindex season performance were done (index season = season of surgery). In the LD group, 18 of 24 players (75%) returned to play again in the NBA, compared with 42 of 48 players (88%, P = 0.31) in the control group. One year after surgery, between-group comparisons revealed statistically significant increase in blocked shots per 40 minutes in the LD (0.18) versus control group (-0.33; P = 0.008) and a smaller decrease in rebounds per 40 minutes in the LD (-0.25) versus control group (-1.42; P = 0.049). No other performance variable was found to be significantly different between the study and control group. Compared with a closely matched control cohort, we found that 75% of surgical patients returned to play again in the NBA, compared with 88% in control subjects who did not undergo surgery. For those players who returned, overall athletic performance was slightly improved or no worse than control subjects.

Effect of loss control service on reported injury incidence.

PubMed

Nave, Michael E; Veltri, Anthony

2004-01-01

A retrospective analysis evaluated the effectiveness of an insurance carrier's flexible loss control service strategy in reducing workers' compensation policyholders' reported injury and illness claims. To assess the effects of a loss control service strategy on workers' compensation claim frequency rates, on medical-only claim rates, on severity-claim rates, and on claim cost among a group of California employers. Eighty-two small- and medium-sized companies with workers' compensation policies expiring in 1999 were randomly selected from a population of policyholders assigned to loss control consultants for two or more years. Claim performance data were obtained for each company's first expired in-force policy year and its 1999 expired policy year. The retrospective design was combined with a control component based on a randomly selected comparison group of 45 companies whose first policy year with the insurer expired in 1999 and who received safety services from the loss control staff. The flexible loss control consultation service strategy was associated with lower average claim rates and costs. Companies assigned to a loss control consultant for two or more years (the "outcome group") had an average claim rate of 1.24 per $10,000 premium, compared with a rate of 1.62 in the "initial group" and a rate of 1.60 in the "comparison group." The average severity-claim rate of the outcome group was 0.32, compared with the initial-year and comparison-group means of 0.48 and 0.46, respectively. The average medical-only claim rate was 0.92, compared with the initial- and comparison-group means of 1.14 and 1.14. The outcome group's average loss ratio was over 10% lower than that of the initial and comparison groups. Statistical analysis indicated that differences among the groups' claim rates and severity-claim rates were [F=(2,206) 4.938, P=0.008] and [F=(2,206) 8.208, P<0.001], respectively. A loss control service strategy that provides service flexibility and develops partnership between employer and consultant can help reduce the frequency and severity of workers' compensation claims. Barriers to consultation service flexibility, both internal and external, should be identified and removed to enhance service efficacy.

Optimizing a Male Reproductive Aging Mouse Model by d-Galactose Injection

PubMed Central

Liao, Chun-Hou; Chen, Bing-Huei; Chiang, Han-Sun; Chen, Chiu-Wei; Chen, Mei-Feng; Ke, Chih-Chun; Wang, Ya-Yun; Lin, Wei-Ning; Wang, Chi-Chung; Lin, Ying-Hung

2016-01-01

The d-galactose (d-gal)-injected animal model, which is typically established by administering consecutive subcutaneous d-gal injections to animals for approximately six or eight weeks, has been frequently used for aging research. In addition, this animal model has been demonstrated to accelerate aging in the brain, kidneys, liver and blood cells. However, studies on aging in male reproductive organs that have used this animal model remain few. Therefore, the current study aimed to optimize a model of male reproductive aging by administering d-gal injections to male mice and to determine the possible mechanism expediting senescence processes during spermatogenesis. In this study, C57Bl/6 mice were randomized into five groups (each containing 8–10 mice according to the daily intraperitoneal injection of vehicle control or 100 or 200 mg/kg dosages of d-gal for a period of six or eight weeks). First, mice subjected to d-gal injections for six or eight weeks demonstrated considerably decreased superoxide dismutase activity in the serum and testis lysates compared to those in the control group. The lipid peroxidation in testis also increased in the d-gal-injected groups. Furthermore, the d-gal-injected groups exhibited a decreased ratio of testis weight/body weight and sperm count compared to the control group. The percentages of both immotile sperm and abnormal sperm increased considerably in the d-gal-injected groups compared to those of the control group. To determine the genes influenced by the d-gal injection during murine spermatogenesis, a c-DNA microarray was conducted to compare testicular RNA samples between the treated groups and the control group. The d-gal-injected groups exhibited RNA transcripts of nine spermatogenesis-related genes (Cycl2, Hk1, Pltp, Utp3, Cabyr, Zpbp2, Speer2, Csnka2ip and Katnb1) that were up- or down-regulated by at least two-fold compared to the control group. Several of these genes are critical for forming sperm-head morphologies or maintaining nuclear integration (e.g., cylicin, basic protein of sperm head cytoskeleton 2 (Cylc2), casein kinase 2, alpha prime interacting protein (Csnka2ip) and katanin p80 (WD40-containing) subunit B1 (Katnb1)). These results indicate that d-gal-injected mice are suitable for investigating male reproductive aging. PMID:26771610

One session of partial-body cryotherapy (-110 °C) improves muscle damage recovery.

PubMed

Ferreira-Junior, J B; Bottaro, M; Vieira, A; Siqueira, A F; Vieira, C A; Durigan, J L Q; Cadore, E L; Coelho, L G M; Simões, H G; Bemben, M G

2015-10-01

To evaluate the effects of a single session of partial-body cryotherapy (PBC) on muscle recovery, 26 young men performed a muscle-damaging protocol that consisted of five sets of 20 drop jumps with 2-min rest intervals between sets. After the exercise, the PBC group (n = 13) was exposed to 3 min of PBC at -110 °C, and the control group (n = 13) was exposed to 3 min at 21 °C. Anterior thigh muscle thickness, isometric peak torque, and muscle soreness of knee extensors were measured pre, post, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h following exercise. Peak torque did not return to baseline in control group (P < 0.05), whereas the PBC group recovered peak torques 96 h post exercise (P > 0.05). Peak torque was also higher after PBC at 72 and 96 h compared with control group (P < 0.05). Muscle thickness increased after 24 h in the control group (P < 0.05) and was significantly higher compared with the PBC group at 24 and 96 h (P < 0.05). Muscle soreness returned to baseline for the PBC group at 72 h compared with 96 h for controls. These results indicate that PBC after strenuous exercise may enhance recovery from muscle damage. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treated with scalp acupuncture and EEG biofeedback therapy in children: a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

He, Cai-Di; Lang, Bo-Xu; Jin, Ling-Qing; Li, Bing

2014-12-01

To compare the difference in clinical efficacy on children attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between the combined therapy of scalp acupuncture and EGG biofeedback and the simple EEG biofeedback therapy so as to search the better therapeutic method for ADHD. One hundred patients were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 50 cases in each one. In the control group, the simple EEG biofeedback therapy was adopted. In the observation group, on the basis of biofeedback therapy, scalp acupuncture was added and applied to Dingzhongxian (MS 5), Dingpangyixian (MS 8), Baihui (GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), etc. The ten treatments made one session. After four sessions of treatment, FIQ value in Wechsler intelligence scale, CIH score in Conners children behavior questionnaire, the ratio of 0 wave and p wave in EEG, FRCQ and FAQ in the integrated visual and auditory continuous performance test (IVA-CPT) and clinical comprehensive efficacy were observed before and after treatment in the two groups separately. Three cases were dropped out in the observation group and 2 cases were out in the control group. In the two groups, FIQ, FRCQ and FAQ were all increased after treatment (P < 0.01, P < 0.05); the increases in the observation group were much more significant than those in the control group after treatment (all P < 0.05). In the two groups, CIH score and the ratio of 0 wave and p wave were all reduced after treatment (P < 0.01, P < 0.05); the reduction in the observation group were much more apparent as compared with those in the control group (both P< 0.05). The total effective rate was 91.5% (43/47) in the observation group and better than 83. 3% (40/48, P < 0.01) in the control group. The combined therapy of scalp acupuncture and EEG biofeedback achieves the superior efficacy on children ADHD as compared with the simple biofeedback therapy. This combined therapy rapidly relieves the essential symptoms of ADHD and improves EEG waveform in children patients. Importantly, this therapy obtains and consolidates the significant efficacy.

Nonword repetition and nonword reading abilities in adults who do and do not stutter.

PubMed

Sasisekaran, Jayanthi

2013-09-01

In the present study a nonword repetition and a nonword reading task were used to investigate the behavioral (speech accuracy) and speech kinematic (movement variability measured as lip aperture variability index; speech duration) profiles of groups of young adults who do (AWS) and do not stutter (control). Participants were 9 AWS (8 males, Mean age=32.2, SD=14.7) and 9 age- and sex-matched control participants (Mean age=31.8, SD=14.6). For the nonword repetition task, participants were administered the Nonword Repetition Test (Dollaghan & Campbell, 1998). For the reading task, participants were required to read out target nonwords varying in length (6 vs. 11 syllables). Repeated measures analyses of variance were conducted to compare the groups in percent speech accuracy for both tasks; only for the nonword reading task, the groups were compared in movement variability and speech duration. The groups were comparable in percent accuracy in nonword repetition. Findings from nonword reading revealed a trend for the AWS to show a lower percent of accurate productions compared to the control group. AWS also showed significantly higher movement variability and longer speech durations compared to the control group in nonword reading. Some preliminary evidence for group differences in practice effect (seen as differences between the early vs. later 5 trials) was evident in speech duration. Findings suggest differences between AWS and control groups in phonemic encoding and/or speech motor planning and production. Findings from nonword repetition vs. reading highlight the need for careful consideration of nonword properties. At the end of this activity the reader will be able to: (a) summarize the literature on nonword repetition skills in adults who stutter, (b) describe processes underlying nonword repetition and nonword reading, (c) summarize whether or not adults who stutter differ from those who do not in the behavioral and kinematic markers of nonword reading performance, (d) discuss future directions for research. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Difference in time of bowel sounds and passing of gas in abdominal hysterectomy patients having San-Yin-Jia (SP-6) acupressure].

PubMed

Chang, Soon Bok; Kim, Young Ran; Yoon, Mi Hee; Shim, Joung Un; Ko, Eun Hui; Kim, Min Ok

2004-12-01

The purpose of this study was to compare differences in the time when bowel sounds were heard and gas was passed in women who had an abdominal hysterectomy and were treated for 5 minutes (experimental group A) or 10 minutes (experimental group B) with San-Yin-Jiao (SP-6) acupressure. The design of this study was a nonequivalent control group non-synchronized post test only design. The participants included 142 women, 39 in experimental group A, 30 in experimental group B, and 73 in the control group. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire which included items on general characteristics and a self report of time when gas was passed. Differences for the three groups as to time when bowel sounds were heard and gas was passed were analyzed using ANOVA. The time when bowel sounds were heard was statistically significantly shorter in both experimental groups compared to the control group(F=10.29, p=.000). The time when gas was passed was statistically significantly shorter in experimental group B(10 min) compared to the control group(F=4.68, p=.011). It could be concluded that SP-6 acupressure of 10 minutes was effective in shortening the time until bowel sounds were heard and gas was passed for women who had had an abdominal hysterectomy. Replication of the study with a larger number of participants is necessary in order to be able to generalize the results.

Biological control of horse cyathostomin (Nematoda: Cyathostominae) using the nematophagous fungus Duddingtonia flagrans in tropical southeastern Brazil.

PubMed

Braga, Fabio Ribeiro; Araújo, Jackson Victor; Silva, André Ricardo; Araujo, Juliana Milani; Carvalho, Rogério Oliva; Tavela, Alexandre Oliveira; Campos, Artur Kanadani; Carvalho, Giovanni Ribeiro

2009-08-26

The viability of a fungal formulation using the nematode-trapping fungus Duddingtonia flagrans was assessed for the biological control of horse cyathostomin. Two groups (fungus-treated and control without fungus treatment), consisting of eight crossbred mares (3-18 years of age) were fed on Cynodon sp. pasture naturally infected with equine cyathostome larvae. Each animal of the treated group received oral doses of sodium alginate mycelial pellets (1g/(10 kg live weight week)), during 6 months. Significant reduction (p<0.01) in the number of eggs per gram of feces and coprocultures was found for animals of the fungus-treated group compared with the control group. There was difference (p<0.01) of 78.5% reduction in herbage samples collected up to (0-20 cm) between the fungus-treated group and the control group, during the experimental period (May-October). Difference of 82.5% (p<0.01) was found between the fungus-treated group and the control group in the sampling distance (20-40 cm) from fecal pats. During the last 3 months of the experimental period (August, September and October), fungus-treated mares had significant weight gain (p<0.01) compared with the control group, an increment of 38 kg. The treatment with sodium alginate pellets containing the nematode-trapping fungus D. flagrans reduced cyathostomin in tropical southeastern Brazil and could be an effective tool for biological control of this parasitic nematode in horses.

Ratiometric analysis of optical coherence tomography-measured in vivo retinal layer thicknesses for the detection of early diabetic retinopathy.

PubMed

Bhaduri, Basanta; Shelton, Ryan L; Nolan, Ryan M; Hendren, Lucas; Almasov, Alexandra; Labriola, Leanne T; Boppart, Stephen A

2017-11-01

Influence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) on parafoveal retinal thicknesses and their ratios was evaluated. Six retinal layer boundaries were segmented from spectral-domain optical coherence tomography images using open-source software. Five study groups: (1) healthy control (HC) subjects, and subjects with (2) controlled DM, (3) uncontrolled DM, (4) controlled DR and (5) uncontrolled DR, were identified. The one-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) between adjacent study groups (i. e. 1 with 2, 2 with 3, etc) indicated differences in retinal thicknesses and ratios. Overall retinal thickness, ganglion cell layer (GCL) thickness, inner plexiform layer (IPL) thickness, and their combination (GCL+ IPL), appeared to be significantly less in the uncontrolled DM group when compared to controlled DM and controlled DR groups. Although the combination of nerve fiber layer (NFL) and GCL, and IPL thicknesses were not different, their ratio, (NFL+GCL)/IPL, was found to be significantly higher in the controlled DM group compared to the HC group. Comparisons of the controlled DR group with the controlled DM group, and with the uncontrolled DR group, do not show any differences in the layer thicknesses, though several significant ratios were obtained. Ratiometric analysis may provide more sensitive parameters for detecting changes in DR. Picture: A representative segmented OCT image of the human retina is shown. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Differences in kinematic control of ankle joint motions in people with chronic ankle instability.

PubMed

Kipp, Kristof; Palmieri-Smith, Riann M

2013-06-01

People with chronic ankle instability display different ankle joint motions compared to healthy people. The purpose of this study was to investigate the strategies used to control ankle joint motions between a group of people with chronic ankle instability and a group of healthy, matched controls. Kinematic data were collected from 11 people with chronic ankle instability and 11 matched control subjects as they performed a single-leg land-and-cut maneuver. Three-dimensional ankle joint angles were calculated from 100 ms before, to 200 ms after landing. Kinematic control of the three rotational ankle joint degrees of freedom was investigated by simultaneously examining the three-dimensional co-variation of plantarflexion/dorsiflexion, toe-in/toe-out rotation, and inversion/eversion motions with principal component analysis. Group differences in the variance proportions of the first two principal components indicated that the angular co-variation between ankle joint motions was more linear in the control group, but more planar in the chronic ankle instability group. Frontal and transverse plane motions, in particular, contributed to the group differences in the linearity and planarity of angular co-variation. People with chronic ankle instability use a different kinematic control strategy to coordinate ankle joint motions during a single-leg landing task. Compared to the healthy group, the chronic ankle instability group's control strategy appeared to be more complex and involved joint-specific contributions that would tend to predispose this group to recurring episodes of instability. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mandibular Third Molar Extraction Wound Healing With and Without Platelet Rich Plasma: A Comparative Prospective Study.

PubMed

Dutta, Shubha Ranjan; Singh, Purnima; Passi, Deepak; Patter, Pradeep

2015-09-01

To evaluate the efficacy of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) in regeneration of bone and to assess clinical compatibility of the material in mandibular third molar extraction socket. To compare the healing of mandibular third molar extraction wounds with and without PRP. Group A consists of the 30 patients where PRP will be placed in the extraction socket before closure of the socket. Group B consists of 30 patients who will be the control group where the extraction sockets will be closed without any intra socket medicaments. The patients would be allocated to the groups randomly. Soft tissue healing was better in study site compared to control site. The result of the study shows rapid bone regeneration in the extraction socket treated with PRP when compared with the socket without PRP. Evaluation for bone blending and trabecular bone formation started earlier in PRP site compared to control, non PRP site. Also there was less postoperative discomfort on the PRP treated side. Autologous PRP is biocompatible and has significant improved soft tissue healing, bone regeneration and increase in bone density in extraction sockets.

Combination effect naringin and pravastatin in lipid profile and glucose in obese rats.

PubMed

Raffoul-Orozco, Abdel K; Ávila-González, Ana E; Rodríguez-Razón, Christian M; García-Cobian, Teresa A; Pérez-Guerrero, Edsaul E; García-Iglesias, Trinidad; Rubio-Arellano, Edy David

2018-01-15

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of naringin 100mg/kg in combination with pravastatin 10mg/kg by gavage for 6weeks compared with monotherapy over lipid profiles, glucose levels and weight in murine model of obesity. The study design was planned with 5 groups of 6 male Wistar Albina rats: Group 1: control with balanced food and vehicle (C-); Group 2: control with Obesity and vehicle (C+); Group 3: Obesity+naringin (N); Group 4: Obesity+pravastatin (P); Group 5: Obesity+pravastatin+naringin (NP). Obesity was developed with a food model. The naringin groups showed a decrease in weight gain and low glucose values compared to the control group (weight NP:311.4 vs C+:348.6; glucose NP: 173.12 vs C+:235.56) (p<0.05); the group with naringin+pravastatin combination showed the total cholesterol (TC), LDL and triglycerides (TGs) to normal levels (TC NP:51.6 vs C+:83.4; LDL NP:9.32 vs C+:32.32; TGs NP:39.4 vs C+:89.4) (p<0.05); but was not statistically significant compared with monotherapy. The combination of naringin and pravastatin did not appear to be better than monotherapy on lipids, but its use could generate euglycemic and antiobesogenic effects, in addition to diminishing the adverse hepatic effects of pravastatin in rats. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparing Web, Group and Telehealth Formats of a Military Parenting Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

directed approaches. Comparative effectiveness will be tested by specifying a non - equivalence hypothesis for group -based and web-facilitated relative...Comparative effectiveness will be tested by specifying a non - equivalence hypothesis fro group based and individualized facilitated relative to self-directed...documents for review and approval. 1a. Finalize human subjects protocol and consent documents for pilot group (N=5 families), and randomized controlled

Evaluation of nanoselenium (Nano-Se) effect on hematological and serum biochemical parameters of rat in experimentally lead poisoning.

PubMed

Dehkordi, A Jafari; Mohebbi, A N; Aslani, M R; Ghoreyshi, S M

2017-04-01

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of nanoselenium (Nano-Se) on hematological and biochemical parameters of rats experimentally intoxicated with lead (Pb). Thirty male rats were randomly divided into six groups as follows: the control, selenite, Nano-Se, Pb group, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. After 35 days, blood was collected from rats and hematology and serum biochemical parameters of oxidative stress were measured. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level of Pb group was significantly higher than other groups. Also, TBARS level was significantly lower in the Pb + Nano-Se group than Pb + selenite group. The serum superoxide dismutase activities were significantly lower in Pb group than the control, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. The catalase activities in the Pb group showed no significant change when compared to other groups. In the Pb group, packed cell volume was lower than the control group. A significant difference was observed between the control group and the Pb, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. In the Pb group, the numbers of white blood cell (WBC) decreased in comparison with the control group. Also, there was significant increase in WBC counts in the Pb + Nano-Se and Pb + selenite groups in comparison with Pb group. The number of lymphocytes in the Pb group decreased in comparison with the control group. By comparing the means of the Pb + Nano-Se and Pb + selenite groups together, it was determined that there were significant differences in the lymphocytes and neutrophil counts. In conclusion, usage of selenium compounds particularly Nano-Se particles inhibits the adverse effects of Pb on antioxidant activity and immune system function in the Pb poisoning.

Tacrolimus for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus with pure class V nephritis.

PubMed

Szeto, C-C; Kwan, B C-H; Lai, F M-M; Tam, L-S; Li, E K-M; Chow, K-M; Gang, W; Li, P K-T

2008-11-01

The treatment of pure membranous (class V) lupus nephropathy remains unsatisfactory. We studied the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in the treatment of membranous nephritis secondary to SLE. We recruited 18 consecutive SLE patients (tacrolimus group) with recently confirmed biopsy-proven class V lupus nephritis. They were treated with a tailing dose of oral prednisolone and tacrolimus 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/day for 6 months, followed by maintenance prednisolone and AZA. The rate of resolution of proteinuria and SLEDAI were compared with 19 historical controls treated with oral cyclophosphamide or AZA (control group). All patients were followed for 12 months. Baseline clinical characteristics were comparable between the groups. For the tacrolimus group, the complete and partial remission rates were 27.8 and 50.0%, respectively at 12 weeks; for the control group, they were 15.8 and 47.4%, respectively (overall chi-square test, P = 0.5). However, tacrolimus group had faster resolution of proteinuria than the control group by the general linear model with repeated measures (P = 0.032). At 12 weeks, proteinuria was reduced by 76.2 +/- 17.0% for the tacrolimus group and 47.1 +/- 51.1% for the control group (P = 0.028). Serial change in renal function and SLEDAI score did not differ between the groups. During the study period, four patients of the tacrolimus group, and 11 of the control group, developed lupus flare (P = 0.027). There was no serious adverse effect in the tacrolimus group. A 6-month course of tacrolimus is a safe and effective treatment of pure class V (membranous) lupus nephritis. As compared with conventional cytotoxic treatment, tacrolimus possibly results in a faster resolution of proteinuria, and a lower risk of lupus flare within 1 yr. The long-term effect and optimal regimen of tacrolimus require further study.

Prevention of Pulmonary Fibrosis via Trichostatin A (TSA) in Bleomycin Induced Rats.

PubMed

Ye, Qing; Li, Yanqin; Jiang, Handong; Xiong, Jianfei; Xu, Jiabo; Qin, Hui; Liu, Bin

2014-10-20

To investigate the effects of non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors Trichostatin A (TSA)on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. To investigate the effects of non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors Trichostatin A ( TSA ) on HDAC2, p-SMAD2, HDAC2 mRNA, SMAD2mRNA in pulmonary fibrosis rats and investigate impossible mechanism. 46 SPF level male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: ten for normal control group, fourteen for model control group I, twelve for model control group II and ten for treatment group. Rat pulmonary fibrosis was induced by bleomycin(5mg/kg) via single intratracheal perfusion in the two model control groups and treatment group. Normal control mice were instilled with a corresponding volume of 0.9% saline intratracheally. Treatment group was treated by the dilution of TSA 2mg/kg DMSO 60ul and0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day ,once a day for three days. Model control group II was treated by the dilution of DMSO 60ul and0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day once a day for three days. Model control group I and normal control group were treated by 0.9% saline 1.2ml intraperitoneal injection from the next day once a day for three days. All the animals were sacrificed on the 21 day after modeling. The pathological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin(HE)stain and masson trichrome stain. The expression of HDAC2 mRNA,SMAD2 mRNA were measured by real-time PCR. The protein level of HDAC2 and p-SMAD2 in serum was measured by Western blot. The pulmonary fibrosis in treatment group were significantly alleviated compared to the two model control groups (P<0.05). Real-time PCR showed that the treatment group had lower expression of lung tissue HDAC2 mRNA than the two model control groups and normal control group (P<0.05). The expression of lung tissue SMAD2 mRNA increased in the two model control groups and treatment group (P<0.05),but there were no significant differences among the three groups(P>0.05). Western blot indicated that the protein level of HDAC2 and p-SMAD2 in serum increased in the two model control groups compared with normal control group(P<0.05).But treatment group had lower protein level of HDAC2 (P<0.05) and no significant difference in the protein level of p-SMAD2 compared to the two model control groups (P>0.05). Non selective histone deacetylase inhibitors of Trichostatin A (TSA) can reduce the bleomycin induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. TSA attenuates pulmonary fibrosis and it can inhibit HDAC2 expression at the gene and protein level. Bleomycin induced fibrosis has the relationship with p-SMAD2 in gene and protein levels, but TSA inhibit bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis effect with no relation with SMAD2 phosphorylation pathways.

Gram-Negative Bacterial Wound Infections

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-01

shows an effect with increasing concentration, however survival analysis does not show a significant difference between treatment groups and controls ...with 3 dead larvae in the 25 mM group compared to a single dead larva in the control group (Fig. 7). Probit analysis estimates the lethal...statistically differ- ent from that of the control group . The levels (CFU/g) of bacteria in lung tissue correlated with the survival curves. The median

Effects of a culturally adapted lifestyle intervention on cardio-metabolic outcomes: a randomized controlled trial in Iraqi immigrants to Sweden at high risk for Type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Siddiqui, Faiza; Kurbasic, Azra; Lindblad, Ulf; Nilsson, Peter M; Bennet, Louise

2017-01-01

Middle-Eastern immigrants constitute a growing proportion of the Swedish population and are at high risk for Type 2 diabetes. This calls for a more proactive preventive approach for dealing with diabetes risk in this target group. The aim was to test the effect of a culturally adapted lifestyle intervention programme on changes in lifestyle habits and cardio-metabolic outcomes comparing an intervention group with a control group receiving usual care. Citizens of Malmö, Sweden born in Iraq and at high risk for Type 2 diabetes (n=636) were invited. Participation rate was 15.1%. In all, 96 participants were randomized to the intervention group (n=50) or to the control group (n=46). The intervention group was offered seven group sessions addressing healthy diet and physical activity including one cooking class. Changes in body weight, physical activity levels and cardio-metabolic outcomes were evaluated using linear mixed-effects models. The mean follow-up time was 3.9 and 3.5months in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The drop-out rate from baseline to the last visit was 30.0% in the intervention group (n=15) and 30.4% in the control group (n=14). The mean insulin sensitivity index increased significantly at follow-up in the intervention group compared to the control group (10.9% per month, p=0.005). The intervention group also reached a significant reduction in body weight (0.4% per month, p=0.004), body mass index (0.4% per month, p=0.004) and LDL-cholesterol (2.1% per month, p=0.036) compared to the control group. In total, 14.3% in the intervention group reached the goal to lose ≥5% of body weight versus none in the control group. This culturally adapted lifestyle intervention programme shows a beneficial effect on insulin action, body weight reduction, as well as LDL-cholesterol reduction, in Middle-Eastern immigrants. The programme adapted to resources in primary health care provides tools for improved primary prevention and reduced cardio-metabolic risk in this high-risk group for Type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Case-control study on T-shaped locking internal fixation and external fixation for the treatment of dorsal Barton's fracture].

PubMed

Chen, Huan-qing; Wen, Xi-le; Li, Yang-ming; Wen, Cong-you

2015-06-01

To compare clinical effect of T-shaped locking internal fixation and external fixation in treating dorsal Barton's fracture,and investigate selective strategy of internal fixation. From January 2008 to January 2013, 100 patients with dorsal Barton's fracture were randomly divided into two groups. In treatment group, there were 30 males and 20 females with an average age of (33.8±3.6) years old;30 cases were type B, 20 cases were type C;and treated with T-shaped locking internal fixation. In control group, there were 32 male and 18 females with an average age of (32.9±3.4) years old; 29 cases were type B, 21 cases were type C; and treated with external fixation. Volar tilt, ulnar deviation and radial height at 3 months after operation were detected and compared between two groups. Mechara functional evaluation were used to evaluate postoperative clinical effects. Clinical cure time, postoperative complications,joint mobility and function score were recorded and compared between two groups. In treatment group,volar tilt was (11.9±2.7)°, ulnar deviation was (20.8+ 2.9)°,and radial height was (10.9±1.8) mm; while volar tilt was (9.1±1.6)°, ulnar deviation was (17.1±2.9)°, and radial height was (8.1±1.5) mm in control group. Treatment group was better than control group in volar tilt, ulnar deviation and radial height. Clinical cure time in treatment group was(12.0±2.3) weeks, shorter than control group (18.0±4.1) weeks. The incidence of complications in treatment group was lower than control group. According to Mehara functional evaluation,20 cases got excellent results, 25 good, 3 moderate and 2 poor in treatment group; 16 cases got excellent results, 14 good, 10 moderate and 10 poor in control group. Treatment group was better than control group in clinical effects. T-shaped locking internal fixation with postoperative functional exercise for the treatment of dorsal Barton's fracture fits for biomechanics demands,and has advantages of stable fixation,rapid recovery, less complications and good functional recovery, it has better clinical effects.

Effects of grape seed polyphenols on oxidative damage in liver tissue of acutely and chronically exercised rats.

PubMed

Belviranlı, Muaz; Gökbel, Hakkı; Okudan, Nilsel; Büyükbaş, Sadık

2013-05-01

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of grape seed extract (GSE) supplementation on oxidative stress and antioxidant defense markers in liver tissue of acutely and chronically exercised rats. Rats were randomly assigned to six groups: Control (C), Control Chronic Exercise (CE), Control Acute Exercise (AE), GSE-supplemented Control (GC), GSE-supplemented Chronic Exercise(GCE) and GSE-supplemented Acute Exercise (GAE). Rats in the chronic exercise groups were subjected to a six-week treadmill running and in the acute exercise groups performed an exhaustive running. Rats in the GSE supplemented groups received GSE (100 mg.kg(-1) .day(-1) ) in drinking water for 6 weeks. Liver tissues of the rats were taken for the analysis of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) levels and total antioxidant activity (AOA) and xanthine oxidase (XO) activities. MDA levels decreased with GSE supplementation in control groups but increased in acute and chronic exercise groups compared to their non-supplemented control. NO levels increased with GSE supplementation. XO activities were higher in AE group compared to the CE group. AOA decreased with GSE supplementation. In conclusion, while acute exercise triggers oxidative stress, chronic exercise has protective role against oxidative stress. GSE has a limited antioxidant effect on exercise-induced oxidative stress in liver tissue.

Pain and efficacy rating of a microprocessor-controlled metered injection system for local anaesthesia in minor hand surgery.

PubMed

Nimigan, André S; Gan, Bing Siang

2011-01-01

Purpose. Little attention has been given to syringe design and local anaesthetic administration methods. A microprocessor-controlled anaesthetic delivery device has become available that may minimize discomfort during injection. The purpose of this study was to document the pain experience associated with the use of this system and to compare it with use of a conventional syringe. Methods. A prospective, randomized clinical trial was designed. 40 patients undergoing carpal tunnel release were block randomized according to sex into a two groups: a traditional syringe group and a microprocessor-controlled device group. The primary outcome measure was surgical pain and local anaesthetic administration pain. Secondary outcomes included volume of anaesthetic used and injection time. Results. Analysis showed that equivalent anaesthesia was achieved in the microprocessor-controlled group despite using a significantly lower volume of local anaesthetic (P = .0002). This same group, however, has significantly longer injection times (P < .0001). Pain during the injection process or during surgery was not different between the two groups. Conclusions. This RCT comparing traditional and microprocessor controlled methods of administering local anaesthetic showed similar levels of discomfort in both groups. While the microprocessor-controlled group used less volume, the total time for the administration was significantly greater.

Biosocial and other characteristics of the large bowel cancer patients in Belgrade (Yugoslavia).

PubMed

Jarebinski, M; Vlajinac, H; Adanja, B

1988-01-01

This paper presents the results of a comparative biosocial study between 186 patients with large bowel cancer and two groups of matched controls, each with 186 persons. One of these groups was from hospitalized patients, the other from the neighbourhood of the cancer patients. Bowel cancer patients and their controls were compared with regard to level of education, profession, physical activity in job, smoking habits, alcohol and coffee consumption and previous illnesses. The only parameters that were statistically different between cancer patients and both controls were haemorrhoids and use of laxatives, that were found to be increased in the cancer group. Higher education level, coffee consumption, polyposis, appendectomia were significantly more presented in bowel cancer patients but only in comparison to one control group. Out of the other diseases of the digestive tract, cases and controls differed with respect to cholecystitis, cholecystectomy and to diabetes.

Less fat reduction per unit weight loss in type 2 diabetic compared with nondiabetic obese individuals completing a very-low-calorie diet program.

PubMed

Baker, Scott T; Jerums, George; Prendergast, Luke A; Panagiotopoulos, Sianna; Strauss, Boyd J; Proietto, Joseph

2012-06-01

The objective was to compare weight loss and change in body composition in obese subjects with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus during a very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) program. Seventy weight-matched subjects with diabetes or normal fasting glucose (controls) participated in a 24-week VLCD study. Primary end points were changes in anthropometry, body composition, and fasting plasma insulin and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Fifty-one subjects (24 with diabetes) completed the study. No difference in weight loss between the 2 groups at 24 weeks was found by intention-to-treat analysis. Both groups completing the study per protocol had near-identical weight change during the program, with similar weight loss at 24 weeks (diabetes: 8.5 ± 1.3 kg vs control: 9.4 ± 1.2 kg, P = .64). Change in fat mass index correlated with change in body mass index (BMI) in both groups (diabetes: r = 0.878, control: r = 0.920, both P < .001); but change in fat mass index per unit change in BMI was less in the diabetic group compared with controls (0.574 vs 0.905 decrease, P = .003), which persisted after adjusting for age, sex, and baseline BMI (P = .008). Insulin concentrations remained higher and peak β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations were lower in the diabetic compared with the control group. While following a 24-week VLCD program, obese subjects with and without diabetes achieved comparable weight loss; but the decrease in adiposity per unit weight loss was attenuated in diabetic subjects. Hyperinsulinemia may have inhibited lipolysis in the diabetic group; however, further investigation into other factors is needed. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Right Ventricular versus Biventricular Pacing on Electrical Remodeling in the Normal Heart

PubMed Central

Saba, Samir; Mehdi, Haider; Mathier, Michael A.; Islam, M. Zahadul; Salama, Guy; London, Barry

2010-01-01

Background Biventricular (BIV) pacing can improve cardiac function in heart failure by altering the mechanical and electrical substrates. We investigated the effect of BIV versus right ventricular (RV) pacing on the normal heart. Methods and Results Male New Zealand White rabbits (n=33) were divided into 3 groups: sham-operated (control), RV pacing, and BIV pacing groups. Four weeks after surgery, the native QT (p=0.004) interval was significantly shorter in the BIV group compared to the RV or sham-operated groups. Also, compared to rabbits in the RV group, rabbits in the BIV group had shorter RV ventricular effective refractory period (VERP) at all cycle lengths, and shorter LV paced QT interval during the drive train of stimuli and close to refractoriness (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Protein expression of the KVLQT1 was significantly increased in the BIV group compared to the RV and control groups, while protein expression of SCN5A and connexin43 was significantly decreased in the RV compared to the other study groups. Erg protein expression was significantly increased in both pacing groups compared to the controls. Conclusions In this rabbit model, we demonstrate a direct effect of BIV but not RV pacing on shortening the native QT interval as well as the paced QT interval during burst pacing and close to the VERP. These findings underscore the fact that the effect of BIV pacing is partially mediated through direct electrical remodeling and may have implications as to the effect of BIV pacing on arrhythmia incidence and burden. PMID:20042767

Effects of Tailored and ACT-Influenced Internet-Based CBT for Eating Disorders and the Relation Between Knowledge Acquisition and Outcome: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Strandskov, Sandra Weineland; Ghaderi, Ata; Andersson, Hedvig; Parmskog, Nicole; Hjort, Emelie; Wärn, Anna Svanberg; Jannert, Maria; Andersson, Gerhard

2017-09-01

This is the first trial to investigate the outcome of tailored and ACT-influenced, cognitive behavioral Internet treatment for eating disorder psychopathology, and the relation between knowledge acquisition and outcome. This study utilized a randomized controlled design, with computer-based allocation to treatment or waiting list control group. Participants were recruited via advertisements in social media and newspapers in Sweden. Participants fulfilling the criteria for bulimia nervosa (BN), or Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS), with a BMI above 17.5, were enrolled in the study (N = 92). The treatment group received an Internet-based, ACT-influenced CBT intervention, developed by the authors, for eating disorders. The treatment lasted 8 weeks, and was adapted to the participant's individual needs. A clinician provided support. The main outcome measures were eating disorder symptoms and body shape dissatisfaction. Intent-to-treat analysis showed that the treatment group (n = 46) improved significantly on eating disorder symptoms and body dissatisfaction, compared with the waiting list control group (n = 46), with small to moderate effect sizes (between group effects, d = 0.35-0.64). More than a third of the participants in the treatment group (36.6%), compared to 7.1% in the waiting list control condition, made clinically significant improvements. Results showed a significant increase in knowledge in the treatment group compared to the waiting list control group (between group effect, d = 1.12), but we found no significant correlations between knowledge acquisition and outcome (r= -0.27 to -r = 0.23). The results provide preliminary support for Internet-based, tailored, and ACT-influenced treatment, based on CBT for participants with eating disorder psychopathology. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Blood Loss and Blood Transfusion Reduction after Total Knee Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Seol, Young-Jun; Seon, Jong-Keun; Lee, Seung-Hun; Jin, Cheng; Prakash, Jatin; Park, Yong-Jin; Song, Eun-Kyoo

2016-09-01

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) accompanies the risk of bleeding and need for transfusion. There are several methods to reduce postoperative blood loss and blood transfusion. One such method is using tranexamic acid during TKA. The purpose of this study was to confirm whether tranexamic acid reduces postoperative blood loss and blood transfusion after TKA. A total of 100 TKA patients were included in the study. The tranexamic acid group consisted of 50 patients who received an intravenous injection of tranexamic acid. The control included 50 patients who received a placebo injection. The amounts of drainage, postoperative hemoglobin, and transfusion were compared between the groups. The mean amount of drainage was lower in the tranexamic acid group (580.6±355.0 mL) than the control group (886.0±375.5 mL). There was a reduction in the transfusion rate in the tranexamic acid group (48%) compared with the control group (64%). The hemoglobin level was higher in the tranexamic acid group than in the control group at 24 hours postoperatively. The mean units of transfusion were smaller in the tranexamic acid group (0.76 units) than in the control group (1.28 units). Our data suggest that intravenous injection of tranexamic acid decreases the total blood loss and transfusion after TKA.

Mechanisms of inhibition of growth of human pancreatic carcinoma implanted in nude mice by somatostatin receptor subtype 2.

PubMed

Kumar, Manoj; Liu, Zheng-Ren; Thapa, Laxmi; Wang, Da-Yu; Tian, Rui; Qin, Ren-Yi

2004-08-01

Several studies reported that somatostatin receptor subtypes, especially subtype 2 (SSTR2), exerted their cytostatic and/or cytotoxic effects on various types of tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the antitumor effect of SSTR2 gene transfer to the pancreatic cancer cell line PC-3 and the mechanisms involved in this effect. The full-length human SSTR2 cDNA was introduced into pancreatic cancer cell line PC-3 by lipofectamine-mediated transfection; positive clones were screened by G418, and stable expression of SSTR2 was detected by the immunohistochemical SABC method and RT-PCR. Athymic mice were separately xenografted with SSTR2-expressing cells (experimental group), vector control, and mock control cells. TUNEL assay was used to determine the apoptotic index (AI) in the tumors of these groups. The immunohistochemical SP method was used to determine expression of apoptosis-regulating genes Bcl-2 and Bax and re-expression of SSTR2 and to assess intratumoral microvessel density (MVD). Moreover, tumor volume and weight were compared among these 3 groups. Restoration of SSTR2 was observed in the experimental group both in vitro and in vivo. The AI was significantly higher in the experimental group (3.39 +/- 0.84%) compared with that in the vector control (0.69 +/- 0.08%) and mock control (0.68 +/- 0.09%) (P < 0.05). MVD was significantly lower in the experimental group (6.30 +/- 1.71) than that in the vector control (12.64 +/- 1.69) and mock control (13.50 +/- 1.86) (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant decrease in Bcl-2 and increase in Bax protein expression were detected in the experimental group compared with the vector control and mock control (P < 0.05). A significant negative correlation of protein expression between Bcl-2/Bax ratio and SSTR2 was observed in these tumors (P < 0.05). Tumor volume and weight were significantly decreased in the experimental group compared with the vector control and mock control (P < 0.05) groups. However, no significant differences were observed between the vector control and mock control (P > 0.05). Re-expression of the SSTR2 gene, the expression of which is frequently lost in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, induces apoptosis, which may be mediated via down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax (alteration of Bcl-2/Bax ratio) and inhibits tumor angiogenesis in pancreatic carcinoma, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth.

Functional brain response to food images in successful adolescent weight losers compared with normal-weight and overweight controls.

PubMed

Jensen, Chad D; Kirwan, C Brock

2015-03-01

Research conducted with adults suggests that successful weight losers demonstrate greater activation in brain regions associated with executive control in response to viewing high-energy foods. No previous studies have examined these associations in adolescents. Functional neuroimaging was used to assess brain response to food images among groups of overweight (OW), normal-weight (NW), and successful weight-losing (SWL) adolescents. Eleven SWL, 12 NW, and 11 OW participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while viewing images of high- and low-energy foods. When viewing high-energy food images, SWLs demonstrated greater activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) compared with OW and NW controls. Compared with NW and SWL groups, OW individuals demonstrated greater activation in the ventral striatum and anterior cingulate in response to food images. Adolescent SWLs demonstrated greater neural activation in the DLPFC compared with OW/NW controls when viewing high-energy food stimuli, which may indicate enhanced executive control. OW individuals' brain responses to food stimuli may indicate greater reward incentive processes than either SWL or NW groups. © 2015 The Obesity Society.

A comparison of the effects of Portulaca oleracea seeds hydro-alcoholic extract and Vitamin C on biochemical, hemodynamic and functional parameters in cardiac tissue of rats with subclinical hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Khodadadi, Hadi; Pakdel, Roghayeh; Khazaei, Majid; Niazmand, Said; Bavarsad, Kowsar; Hadjzadeh, Mousa Al-Reza

2018-01-01

The present study was performed to evaluate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of Portulaca oleracea ( P. oleracea ) seeds and Vitamin C on biochemical and hemodynamic parameters in cardiac tissue of rats with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Forty eight male rats were divided into six groups of 8 and treated for 4 weeks. T4 group received daily injection of levothyroxine sodium (20 μg/kg) and control group was given daily injection of saline. T4-Po groups were given T4 plus 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of P. oleracea seeds extract in drinking water daily. T4-Vit C group received T4 plus daily injection of Vitamin C (100 mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, body weight, serum free T4 level, left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), malondialdehyde (MDA) and total thiol levels were measured. Free T4 levels were increased in all groups that were treated with T4. Weight gain was decreased in T4 and T4-Po100 groups compared to control group (p<0.001 and p<0.05). However, body weight was increased in T4-Po (200 and 400) and T4-Vit C groups compared to T4 group. LVDP was increased in T4 group compared to control group but, LVDP was decreased in T4-Po and T4-Vit C groups. Malondialdehyde was decreased in T4-Po groups and T4-Vit C group compared to T4 group. Total thiol groups were increased in T4-Po (200 and 400) and T4-Vit C groups compared to T4 group. The results showed that P. oleracea extract has a protective effect on cardiac dysfunction due to subclinical hyperthyroidism induced by levothyroxine sodium in rats.

Effect of Feitai Capsule () on quality of life and progression-free survival of patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Yu, Zong-Yang; Liu, Zhi-Zhen; Ouyang, Xue-Nong; Du, Jian; Dai, Xi-Hu; Chen, Xi; Zhao, Zhong-Quan; Wang, Wen-Wu; Li, Jie

2012-02-01

To examine the effect of a Chinese medicinal herbal formula (Feitai Capsule, ) on the quality of life (QOL) and progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Sixty-two patients were randomly divided into the treatment group (31 cases) and the control group (31 cases). For the treatment group, 4 capsules (1.2 g/capsule) of Feitai Capsule were administered 3 times a day after meals for 3 weeks; then no drug was administered for 1 week. This schedule was continued for at least 3 more cycles (12 weeks totally). If there were no obvious toxic reactions, the treatment was extended. The patients were evaluated at least once every 8 weeks until progressive disease (PD). For the control group, the regular follow-up and evaluation were performed at least once every 8 weeks until PD. Clinical symptoms, objective response, physical constitution and energy, QOL, and PFS were evaluated regularly. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), a non-parametric test, and analysis of covariance were used to compare clinical features, amelioration of clinical symptoms, physical constitution and energy, and QOL. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare the two-group PFS. Sixty patients finished the final evaluation, with 30 patients in each group. Baseline characters between groups were not significantly different (P>0.05). The control group had a 36.7% improvement in clinical symptoms, while the treatment group had a 73.3% improvement. This difference was statistically significant (Z= -2.632, P=0.008). The control group had a 26.7% improvement in the Karnofsky performance status (KPS), while the treatment group had a 53.4% improvement. This was also significantly different (Z=-2.182, P=0.029). A comparative analysis indicated a positive correlation (r=0.917, P<0.001). Compared with the control group, QOL in the treatment group was significantly improved, except in the social/family condition and doctor-patient relationship indicators. The PFS of the treatment group and control group were 6.23 months and 4.67 months, respectively (P=0.048). Feitai Capsule, a Chinese medicinal herbal treatment could improve the QOL and extend the PFS of the unresectable NSCLC patients.

Effects of lifestyle intervention on dietary intake, physical activity level, and gestational weight gain in pregnant women with different pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index in a randomized control trial.

PubMed

Hui, Amy Leung; Back, Lisa; Ludwig, Sora; Gardiner, Phillip; Sevenhuysen, Gustaaf; Dean, Heather J; Sellers, Elisabeth; McGavock, Jonathan; Morris, Margaret; Jiang, Depeng; Shen, Garry X

2014-09-24

The objectives of this study were to assess the efficacy of lifestyle intervention on gestational weight gain in pregnant women with normal and above normal body mass index (BMI) in a randomized controlled trial. A total of 116 pregnant women (<20 weeks of pregnancy) without diabetes were enrolled and 113 pregnant women completed the program. Participants were randomized into intervention and control groups. Women in the intervention group received weekly trainer-led group exercise sessions, instructed home exercise for 3-5-times/week during 20-36 weeks of gestation, and dietary counseling twice during pregnancy. Participants in the control group did not receive the intervention. All participants completed a physical activity questionnaire and a 3-day food record at enrolment and 2 months after enrolment. The participants in the intervention group with normal pre-pregnancy BMI (≤24.9 kg/M2, n = 30) had lower gestational weight gain (GWG), offspring birth weight and excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) on pregnancy weight gain compared to the control group (n = 27, p < 0.05). Those weight related-changes were not detected between the intervention (n = 27) and control group (n = 29) in the above normal pre-pregnancy BMI participants. Intervention reduced total calorie, total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol intake were detected in women with normal or above normal pre-pregnancy BMI compared to the control group (p < 0.05 or 0.01). Increased physical activity and reduced carbohydrate intake were detected in women with normal (p < 0.05), but not above normal, pre-pregnancy BMI at 2 months after the onset of the intervention compared to the control group. The results of the present study demonstrated that the lifestyle intervention program decreased EGWG, GWG, offspring birth weight in pregnant women with normal, but not above normal, pre-pregnancy BMI, which was associated with increased physical activity and decreased carbohydrate intake. NCT00486629.

Immunomodulating and Antiprotozoal Effects of Different Extracts of the Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (Higher Basidiomycetes) Against Coccidiosis in Broiler.

PubMed

Ullah, Muhammad Irfan; Akhtar, Masood; Iqbal, Zafar; Shahid, Muhammad; Awais, Mian Muhammad

2015-01-01

The culinary-medicinal oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus, procured from local sources, was processed for hot water and methanolic extraction. Extracts obtained were subjected to proximate analysis to determine the amount of crude protein, crude fiber, ash, ether, and nitrogen-free extracts. These extracts were evaluated for immunomodulating and antiprotozoal effects against coccidiosis in a broiler. Cellular immune investigation revealed significantly higher (P < 0.05) lymphoproliferative response to phytohemagglutinin-P in groups administered P. ostreatus extracts compared with controls. Humoral immune investigation revealed higher immunoglobulin (total Ig, IgG, and IgM) titers against sheep red blood cells in treated groups compared with controls. However, nonsignificant (P > 0.05) findings were observed in investigations of lymphoid organs. Antiprotozoal studies revealed a significantly higher (P < 0.05) percentage of protection against coccidiosis in groups administered P. ostreatus extracts when compared with controls. Moreover, lesion scoring and oocysts per gram of droppings observed in the control group were significantly higher (P < 0.05) compared with those in groups administered hot water and methanolic extracts of P. ostreatus. Results concluded that hot water and methanolic extracts of P. ostreatus had strong immune-enhancing activities. Further, these extracts also had excellent antiprotozoal activities against coccidiosis in a broiler.

Tear analysis in contact lens wearers.

PubMed Central

Farris, R L

1985-01-01

Tear analysis in contact lens wearers was compared with tear analysis in aphakics without contact lens wear and normal phakic patients. Subjects were divided into five groups: group 1, aphakic without contact lens; group 2, phakic with daily-wear hard contact lens; group 3, phakic with daily-wear soft contact lens; group 4, phakic with extended-wear soft contact lens; and group 5, aphakic with extended-wear soft contact lens. The experimental groups were compared with age- and sex-matched control groups for statistical analysis of tear variables by means of the Student's t-test. The variables measured were tear osmolarity, tear albumin, and lysozyme and lactoferrin concentrations in basal and reflex tears. Highly significant elevations of tear osmolarity were found in aphakic subjects without contact lenses. Less significant differences in tear osmolarity were found in phakic subjects with hard daily-wear lenses or with extended-wear soft lenses. Tear albumin, lysozyme, and lactoferrin in basal and reflex tears were not significantly different in the different groups of contact lens wearers or in the group of aphakic subjects without contact lenses compared with their control groups. Individual variations in tear albumin, lysozyme, and lactoferrin appeared to be responsible for the inability to demonstrate significant differences in tear composition in association with the wearing of different types of contact lenses. Older and aphakic patients demonstrated a tendency to have increased concentrations of proteins in the tears compared with younger, phakic contact lens wearers and normal controls without contact lenses. PMID:3914131

The therapeutic effect of negative pressure in treating femoral head necrosis in rabbits.

PubMed

Zhang, Yin-gang; Wang, Xuezhi; Yang, Zhi; Zhang, Hong; Liu, Miao; Qiu, Yushen; Guo, Xiong

2013-01-01

Because negative pressure can stimulate vascular proliferation, improve blood circulation and promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells, we investigated the therapeutic effect of negative pressure on femoral head necrosis (FHN) in a rabbit model. Animals were divided into four groups (n = 60/group): [1] model control, [2] core decompression, [3] negative pressure and [4] normal control groups. Histological investigation revealed that at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively, improvements were observed in trabecular bone shape, empty lacunae and numbers of bone marrow hematopoietic cells and fat cells in the negative pressure group compared to the core decompression group. At week 8, there were no significant differences between the negative pressure and normal control groups. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed higher expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in the femoral heads in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that cell organelles were further developed in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. Microvascular ink staining revealed an increased number of bone marrow ink-stained blood vessels, a thicker vascular lumen and increased microvascular density in the negative pressure group relative to the core decompression group. Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that expression levels of both VEGF and BMP-2 were higher in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. In summary, negative pressure has a therapeutic effect on FHN. This effect is superior to core decompression, indicating that negative pressure is a potentially valuable method for treating early FHN.

The Therapeutic Effect of Negative Pressure in Treating Femoral Head Necrosis in Rabbits

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yin-gang; Wang, Xuezhi; Yang, Zhi; Zhang, Hong; Liu, Miao; Qiu, Yushen; Guo, Xiong

2013-01-01

Because negative pressure can stimulate vascular proliferation, improve blood circulation and promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells, we investigated the therapeutic effect of negative pressure on femoral head necrosis (FHN) in a rabbit model. Animals were divided into four groups (n = 60/group): [1] model control, [2] core decompression, [3] negative pressure and [4] normal control groups. Histological investigation revealed that at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively, improvements were observed in trabecular bone shape, empty lacunae and numbers of bone marrow hematopoietic cells and fat cells in the negative pressure group compared to the core decompression group. At week 8, there were no significant differences between the negative pressure and normal control groups. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed higher expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in the femoral heads in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that cell organelles were further developed in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. Microvascular ink staining revealed an increased number of bone marrow ink-stained blood vessels, a thicker vascular lumen and increased microvascular density in the negative pressure group relative to the core decompression group. Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that expression levels of both VEGF and BMP-2 were higher in the negative pressure group compared with the core decompression group. In summary, negative pressure has a therapeutic effect on FHN. This effect is superior to core decompression, indicating that negative pressure is a potentially valuable method for treating early FHN. PMID:23383276

Effect of Ultrasonography on Student Learning of Shoulder Anatomy and Landmarks.

PubMed

de Vries, Kristen D; Brown, Rebecca; Mazzie, Joseph; Jung, Min-Kyung; Yao, Sheldon C; Terzella, Michael J

2018-01-01

Ultrasonography is becoming more common in clinical use, and it has been shown to have promising results when introduced into medical school curricula. To determine whether the use of ultrasonography as an educational supplement can improve osteopathic medical students' confidence and ability to locate 4 specific shoulder anatomical landmarks: the coracoid process, the transverse process of T1, the long head of the biceps within the bicipital groove, and the supraspinatus tendon. In this randomized controlled study, first-year osteopathic medical students aged 18 years or older were recruited and randomly assigned to a group with exposure (ultrasonography group) or without exposure (control group) to an ultrasonography machine. First, a survey was administered to measure students' baseline knowledge of shoulder anatomy, confidence in palpation skills, and opinion on anatomical landmark identification teaching methods. Next, students were shown presentations on shoulder anatomy and allowed to practice locating and palpating the specified landmarks. Students in the ultrasonography group were also given instruction on the use of ultrasonography. All students were asked to locate each of the 4 specified anatomical landmarks and then given a follow-up survey. A Mann Whitney U test was used to compare the confidence of the students before and after the intervention. A secondary analysis was performed to compare the degree of deviance from the correct position of the specified anatomical landmark between the ultrasonography and control groups. P values less than .05 were considered statistically significant. Sixty-four students participated. Compared with the control group, students in the ultrasonography group had a greater increase in confidence after the session in their ability to locate the coracoid process, bicipital tendon, and supraspinatus tendon (P=.022, P=.029, P=.44, respectively). Students in the ultrasonography group were also able to more accurately palpate the landmarks than those in the control group, with a significant difference in accurate palpation of the bicipital tendon (P=.024). The ultrasonography group showed less deviation with palpation of the other 3 landmarks compared with the control group, but these results were not significant (P=.50, P=.82, P=.29, respectively). Ultrasonography in the preclinical curriculum may improve medical students' confidence in and accuracy of palpation.

[Effects of quercetin on the learning and memory ability of neonatal rats with hypoxic-ischemic brain damage].

PubMed

Huang, Jing-Jing; Liu, Xuan; Wang, Xing-Qi; Yang, Li-Hua; Qi, Da-Shi; Yao, Rui-Qin

2012-06-01

To study the effects of quercetin, a flavonoid, on the learning and memory ability of 3-day-old neonatal rats with hypoxic-ischemic brain white matter damage (WMD). Sixty 3-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, WMD model,and quercetin treatment groups (20 and 40 mg/kg). There were 15 rats in each group. Rats in the WMD model and the two quercetin treatment groups were subjected to right common carotid artery ligation followed by 2 hrs of exposure to 8% O2 to induce periventricular white matter injury. After the operation quercetin was administered daily in the two quercetin treatment groups for 6 weeks. Six weeks later, Morris water maze and open-field tests were carried out to test memory and learning ability as well as behavior and cognition. From the second day of training, escape latency in the Morris water maze test was more prolonged in the WMD model group than in the control group (P<0.01). The escape latency in the two quercetin treatment groups was shortened significantly compared with the WMD model group (P<0.05). The WMD model group crossed the original platform fewer times compared with the control and quercetin treatment groups (P<0.05). The open-field test indicated that the number of rearings increased and time spent in the centre was extended in the WMD model group compared with the control group. Compared with the WMD model group, the number of rearings was significantly reduced (P<0.05) and time spent in the centre was significantly shortened in the quercetin treatment groups (P<0.05). Quercetin treatment can improve memory and learning ability as well as cognitive ability in neonates with WMD, suggesting that quercetin protects against WMD resulting from hypoxia-ischemia.

Tight Diabetes Control

MedlinePlus

... results? Here's what they found in the tight-control group as compared with the standard-treatment group: Diabetic ... where you stand. sticky en -- Chef Ronaldo's Sabores de Cuba - 2016-08-book-sabores-de-cuba.html ...

Patient Expectancy as a Mediator of Placebo Effects in Antidepressant Clinical Trials.

PubMed

Rutherford, Bret R; Wall, Melanie M; Brown, Patrick J; Choo, Tse-Hwei; Wager, Tor D; Peterson, Bradley S; Chung, Sarah; Kirsch, Irving; Roose, Steven P

2017-02-01

Causes of placebo effects in antidepressant trials have been inferred from observational studies and meta-analyses, but their mechanisms have not been directly established. The goal of this study was to examine in a prospective, randomized controlled trial whether patient expectancy mediates placebo effects in antidepressant studies. Adult outpatients with major depressive disorder were randomly assigned to open or placebo-controlled citalopram treatment. Following measurement of pre- and postrandomization expectancy, participants were treated with citalopram or placebo for 8 weeks. Independent samples t tests determined whether patient expectancy differed between the open and placebo-controlled groups, and mixed-effects models assessed group effects on Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) scores over time while controlling for treatment assignment. Finally, mediation analyses tested whether between-group differences in patient expectancy mediated the group effect on HAM-D scores. Postrandomization expectancy scores were significantly higher in the open group (mean=12.1 [SD=2.1]) compared with the placebo-controlled group (mean=11.0 [SD=2.0]). Mixed-effects modeling revealed a significant week-by-group interaction, indicating that HAM-D scores for citalopram-treated participants declined at a faster rate in the open group compared with the placebo-controlled group. Patient expectations postrandomization partially mediated group effects on week 8 HAM-D. Patient expectancy is a significant mediator of placebo effects in antidepressant trials. Expectancy-related interventions should be investigated as a means of controlling placebo responses in antidepressant clinical trials and improving patient outcome in clinical treatment.

Attributional Biases in Psychiatric Patients, a Religious, and a Control Group in the Assessment of a Hallucinatory Experience: The "White Christmas Test".

PubMed

Parra, Alejandro; Maschi, Gianina

The aim of this study was to evaluate the auditory hallucinatory experience in a clinical sample of patients with psychiatric symptoms (e.g. Schizophrenia), a religious group (eg. Christians) and a "control" group (with no mental disorder and non-religious). The sample consisted of individuals of both sexes. The patient sample was recruited in two psychiatric hospitals of Buenos Aires City, the religious from an evangelical cult, and people with no religious beliefs or previous psychiatric symptoms (control group). The Hallucinatory Experiences Questionnaire and the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory Feelings and Experiences were the measurement tools used. The White Christmas Test was also administered in order to assess the degree of vivid imagery hearing based on a version of signal detection paradigm in which the subjects think that they hear a song in the background of white noise. The results showed that patients showed greater attributional bias (compared with evangelicals and the control group), but the religious group also tended to show greater bias (although less) than the control group. In addition, patients tended to show greater schizotypal and hallucinatory experiences compared with the evangelicals and the control group, but surprisingly, the control group showed higher negative schizotypy than the religious group, which indicates that religious practices could help reduce the negative effects of schizotypy. Copyright © 2017 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Comparative Evaluation of Antiplaque Efficacy of Coconut Oil Pulling and a Placebo, Among Dental College Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Kulkarni, Suhas; Madupu, Padma Reddy; Doshi, Dolar; Bandari, Srikanth Reddy; Srilatha, Adepu

2017-01-01

Introduction Oil pulling, has been extensively used as traditional Indian folk remedy since many years to prevent dental diseases and for strengthening teeth and gums. Aim To compare and evaluate antiplaque efficacy of coconut oil pulling with a placebo among dental students, in Hyderabad city of India. Materials and Methods A randomized controlled study was carried out among 40 dental students. Out of 40, 20 subjects were randomly assigned to study group and other 20 to control group. Subjects in the study group were given the coconut oil and control group a placebo, and advised to rinse for 10 minutes, once daily in the morning for a period of seven days. Plaque levels were assessed on day zero, third and seventh day using Turesky-Gilmore-Glickman Modification of the Quigley-Hein Plaque Index (1970) for both the groups. Results The mean plaque scores showed a significant difference at baseline, third day and seventh day among both study (p<0.001) and control groups (p<0.001). Group wise comparison revealed, though the mean plaque scores were low among study group on third day and seventh day on comparison with the control group, significant difference was noticed only on the seventh day. Furthermore, the mean percentage reduction of plaque scores were also significant only on the seventh day with a high mean plaque reduction among study groups (p<0.001). Conclusion Oil pulling is effective in controlling plaque levels. PMID:29207824

Efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure and incentive spirometry on respiratory functions during the postoperative period following supratentorial craniotomy: A prospective randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Sah, Hulya Kahraman; Akcil, Eren Fatma; Tunali, Yusuf; Vehid, Hayriye; Dilmen, Ozlem Korkmaz

2017-11-01

Volume controlled ventilation with low PEEP is used in neuro-anesthesia to provide constant PaCO 2 levels and prevent raised intracranial pressure. Therefore, neurosurgery patients prone to atelectasis formation, however, we could not find any study that evaluates prevention of postoperative pulmonary complications in neurosurgery. A prospective, randomized controlled study. Intensive care unit in a university hospital in Istanbul. Seventy-nine ASAI-II patients aged between 18 and 70years scheduled for elective supratentorial craniotomy were included in the study. Patients randomized into 3 groups after surgery. The Group IS (n=20) was treated with incentive spirometry 5 times in 1min and 5min per hour, the Group CPAP (n=20) with continuous positive airway pressure 10 cmH 2 O pressure and 0.4 F i O 2 via an oronasal mask 5min per hour, and the Group Control (n=20) 4L·min -1 O 2 via mask; all during the first 6h postoperatively. Respiratory functions tests and arterial blood gases analysis were performed before the induction of anesthesia (Baseline), 30min, 6h, 24h postoperatively. The IS and CPAP applications have similar effects with respect to FVC values. The postoperative 30min FEV 1 values were statistically significantly reduced compared to the Baseline in all groups (p<0.0001). FEV 1 values were statistically significantly increased at the postoperative 24h compared to the postoperative 30min in the Groups IS and CPAP (p<0.0001). This increase, however, was not observed in the Group Control, and the postoperative 24h FEV 1 values were statistically significantly lower in the Group Control compared to the Group IS (p=0.015). Although this study is underpowered to detect differences in FEV 1 values, the postoperative 24h FEV 1 values were significantly higher in the IS group than the Control group and this difference was not observed between the CPAP and Control groups. It might be evaluate a favorable effect of IS in neurosurgery patients. But larger studies are needed to make a certain conclusion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Whole body vibration exercise improves body balance and walking velocity in postmenopausal osteoporotic women treated with alendronate: Galileo and Alendronate Intervention Trail (GAIT).

PubMed

Iwamoto, J; Sato, Y; Takeda, T; Matsumoto, H

2012-09-01

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to determine the effect of 6 months of whole body vibration (WBV) exercise on physical function in postmenopausal osteoporotic women treated with alendronate. Fifty-two ambulatory postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (mean age: 74.2 years, range: 51-91 years) were randomly divided into two groups: an exercise group and a control group. A four-minute WBV exercise was performed two days per week only in the exercise group. No exercise was performed in the control group. All the women were treated with alendronate. After 6 months of the WBV exercise, the indices for flexibility, body balance, and walking velocity were significantly improved in the exercise group compared with the control group. The exercise was safe and well tolerated. The reductions in serum alkaline phosphatase and urinary cross-linked N-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen during the 6-month period were comparable between the two groups. The present study showed the benefit and safety of WBV exercise for improving physical function in postmenopausal osteoporotic women treated with alendronate.

Efficacy of curcumin in the treatment for oral submucous fibrosis - A randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Hazarey, Vinay K; Sakrikar, Aditee R; Ganvir, Sindhu M

2015-01-01

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic, insidious disease that is associated with significant functional morbidity and an increased risk for malignancy. Turmeric and its active ingredient "curcumin" are being studied upon as chemopreventive agents in various diseases. The present study aims to determine the efficacy of curcumin in the treatment of OSF. Thirty clinically diagnosed OSF patients were divided into two groups, 15 patients in each group from the Outpatient Department. Test group patients were treated with Longvida (curcumin) lozenges and control group with Tenovate ointment (clobetasol propionate (0.05%). The treatment was given for 3 months duration and follow-up was done for 6 months. Both the groups were advised for physiotherapy exercises by mouth exercise device. The baseline and follow-up results were compared for IIO (interincisal distance on maximum mouth opening), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for normal food and VAS for spicy food. The test group showed 5.93 (±2.37) mm increase in mouth opening compared to 2.66 (±1.76) mm of the control group. In relation to VAS scale with spicy and normal food the average reduction was 64 (42-73) and 77 (70.5-82) as compared to 34 (14.5-64.5) and 64 (46-75.5) respectively in control group. The test group results achieved in the treatment span was sustained in the follow-up (P < 0.05) compared to control group which showed statistically significant (P < 0.05) relapse. It can be concluded that combination strategies for the management of OSF which include the stoppage of causative ill habits, appropriate medicinal and physiotherapy management is more efficient than single therapeutic modality. It is evident from the study that curcumin holds good promise in the treatment of OSF in future.

The research on the influences of hyperthermal perfusion chemotherapy combined with immunologic therapy on the immunologic function and levels of circulating tumor cells of the advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastasis.

PubMed

Sun, J-J; Fan, G-L; Wang, X-G; Xu, K

2017-07-01

To investigated the influence of hyperthermal perfusion chemotherapy combined with immunologic therapy on the immunologic function and levels of circulating tumor cells of the advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastasis. We enrolled 98 advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastasis that were admitted to this hospital for treatment and were randomly divided into two groups, the observation group (n = 49) and the control group (n = 49). We administered systemic vein chemotherapy for patients in the control group, and hyperthermal perfusion chemotherapy for the patients in the observation group in order to compare the subgroup levels of T lymphocytes, NK cells and immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, and IgM) in the immune system of patients in both groups. We also assayed the circulating tumor cells (CTC) in the peripheral blood of patients in both groups using the cell search method, and compared the efficacy using response evaluation criteria in solid tumors and the survival rates of patients in both groups using the Kaplan-Meier method. After two treatment courses, the levels of CD3+, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ of the patients in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group, but the levels of CD8+ of patients in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (p< 0.05). The levels of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, and IgM) in the observation group were higher than the control group (p < 0.05). The levels of NK cell cells were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05). The objective response rate, as well as the disease control rate of the observation group, were remarkably higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Compared to the control group, the observation group enjoyed a prolonged survival time, higher survival rate and significantly lower positive rate of CTC (p < 0.05). Better efficacy and tolerance, fewer toxic and side effects, improvement in the immunologic functions of patients for the indirect anti-tumor effect, a significant decrease in CTC of patients, and a higher long-term survival rate have been achieved in the treatment with hyperthermal perfusion chemotherapy combined with immunologic therapy for the advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastasis. Thus, it can serve as the preferable drug for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer with liver metastasis.

Subliminal trauma reminders impact neural processing of cognitive control in adults with developmental earthquake trauma: a preliminary report.

PubMed

Du, Xue; Li, Yu; Ran, Qian; Kim, Pilyoung; Ganzel, Barbara L; Liang, GuangSheng; Hao, Lei; Zhang, Qinglin; Meng, Huaqing; Qiu, Jiang

2016-03-01

Little is known about the effects of developmental trauma on the neural basis of cognitive control among adults who do not have posttraumatic stress disorder. To examine this question, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to compare the effect of subliminal priming with earthquake-related images on attentional control during a Stroop task in survivors of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China (survivor group, survivors were adolescents at the time of the earthquake) and in matched controls (control group). We found that the survivor group showed greater activation in the left ventral anterior cingulate cortex (vACC) and the bilateral parahippocampal gyrus during the congruent versus incongruent condition, as compared to the control group. Depressive symptoms were positively correlated with left vACC activation during the congruent condition. Moreover, psychophysiological interaction results showed that the survivor group had stronger functional connectivity between the left parahippocampal gyrus and the left vACC than the control group under the congruent-incongruent condition. These results suggested that trauma-related information was linked to abnormal activity in brain networks associated with cognitive control (e.g., vACC-parahippocampal gyrus). This may be a potential biomarker for depression following developmental trauma, and it may also provide a mechanism linking trauma reminders with depression.

Cervical Spinal Cord Dimensions and Clinical Outcomes in Adults with Klippel-Feil Syndrome: A Comparison with Matched Controls

PubMed Central

Cho, Woojin; Lee, Dong-Ho; Auerbach, Joshua D.; Sehn, Jennifer K.; Nabb, Colin E.; Riew, K. Daniel

2014-01-01

Study Design Retrospective case–control study. Objectives To confirm the fact that spinal cord dimensions are smaller in adults with Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) than in pediatric patients with KFS and to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of neurologic complications in patients with KFS with matched controls. Methods We performed an independent 1:2 case–control retrospective radiographic and chart review of a consecutive series of adults with KFS who underwent surgical intervention. The control group consisted of consecutive non-KFS surgical patients. Patients were matched in 1:2 case–control manner. Their charts were reviewed and the clinical characteristics were compared. Axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to measure the anteroposterior and mediolateral axial spinal cord and spinal canal at the operative levels and measurements were compared. Results A total of 22 patients with KFS and 44 controls were identified. The KFS group had a tendency of more myeloradiculopathy, and the control group had a tendency toward more radiculopathy. Both tendencies, however, were not significantly different. MRIs of 10 patients from the KFS group and 22 controls were available. There was no difference in the area of both spinal cord and canal at the operative levels. Conclusion Contrary to the finding in previous reports on pediatric patients, there were no differences between KFS and well-matched control groups in terms of age of onset, presentation, revision rate, complication rate, surgical outcome, and cross-sectional spinal cord and canal dimensions at the operative level. PMID:25396101

A Phase III randomized, double-blind, clinical trial of an investigational hexavalent vaccine given at 2, 4, and 11-12 months.

PubMed

Silfverdal, Sven-Arne; Icardi, Giancarlo; Vesikari, Timo; Flores, Sheryl A; Pagnoni, Marco F; Xu, Jin; Liu, G Frank; Stek, Jon E; Boisnard, Florence; Thomas, Stéphane; Ziani, Eddy; Lee, Andrew W

2016-07-19

Combination vaccines simplify vaccination visits and improve coverage and timeliness. DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib is a new investigational, fully-liquid, combination vaccine designed to protect against 6 infectious diseases, including 5 pertussis antigens and OMPC instead of PT as conjugated protein for Hib component. In this multicenter, double-blind, comparator-controlled, Phase III study (NCT01480258) conducted in Sweden, Italy, and Finland, healthy infants were randomized 1:1 to receive one two immunization regimens. The DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group received the investigational hexavalent vaccine (DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib) and the Control Group received Infanrix-hexa (DTPa3-HBV-IPV/Hib) at 2, 4 and 11-12months of age. Both groups received concomitantly Prevnar 13 (PCV13) and Rotateq (RV5) or Rotarix (RV1) at 2, 4months of age and PCV13 at 11-12months. Subjects administered RV5 received a 3rd dose at 5months of age. A total of 656 subjects were randomized to the DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group and 659 subjects to Control Group. Immune responses to all vaccine antigens post-toddler dose were non-inferior in the DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group as compared to the Control Group. Additionally, the post-dose 2 and pre-toddler DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib anti-PRP responses were superior. The DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group responses to concomitant RV1 were non-inferior compared to the Control Group. Solicited adverse event rates after any dose were similar in both groups, except for higher rates of pyrexia (6.4% difference; 95% CI: 1.5,11.3) and somnolence (5.8% difference; 95% CI: 1.7,9.8) in the DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group. Vaccine-related serious adverse events occurred infrequently in the DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib Group (0.3%) and the Control Group (0.5%). The safety and immunogenicity of DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib is generally comparable to Control when administered in the 2, 4, 11-12month schedule. Early Hib responses were superior versus Control. DTaP5-HB-IPV-Hib could provide a new hexavalent option for pediatric combination vaccines, aligned with recommended immunizations in Europe. V419-008 CLINICALTRIALS.GOV identifier: NCT01480258. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.